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
2,314 rows where state = "FL" and year = 2014 sorted by date descending
This data as json, CSV (advanced)
party 2
- Republican 1,709
- Democrat 605
year 1
- 2014 · 2,314 ✖
state 1
- FL · 2,314 ✖
chamber 1
- House 2,314
| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/all-us-funds-palestinian-authority-must-be-immediately-suspended-after-pa-signs-rome | All U.S. Funds to the Palestinian Authority Must Be Immediately Suspended After the PA Signs Rome Treaty, Says Ros-Lehtinen | 2014-12-31 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | All U.S. Funds to the Palestinian Authority Must Be Immediately Suspended After the PA Signs Rome Treaty, Says Ros-Lehtinen Dec 31, 2014 All U.S. Funds to the Palestinian Authority Must Be Immediately Suspended After the PA Signs Rome Treaty, Says Ros-Lehtinen “Congress must do everything in its power to block funds to the PA to make it clear to Abu Mazen that there will be consequences to his schemes at the United Nations and other international organizations like the International Criminal Court.” (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement after the Palestinian Authority signed the Rome Statue, the founding treaty to join the International Criminal Court. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “The latest destructive actions by Abu Mazen and the Palestinian Authority reaffirms, once again, that Abu Mazen is not a real partner for peace. By attempting to bring a flawed resolution to the UN Security Council and by signing the Rome Treaty, Abu Mazen only reiterates that he is not willing to return to direct peace negotiations with Israel without pre-conditions. It's time for the Obama administration to show Abu Mazen and the PA that there will be consequences for their irresponsible behavior and continued efforts to undermine the peace process. Congress must do everything in its power to block funds to the PA and to any UN entity that recognizes a non-existent State of Palestine to make it clear to Abu Mazen that there will be consequences to his schemes at the United Nations and other international organizations like the International Criminal Court.” ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=ba07fa5f-e344-47f4-9c56-c51235887893 | Rubio Comments On Castro Regime's Latest Wave Of Repression | 2014-12-30 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) issued the following statement today regarding news reports of the Castro regime's efforts to suppress Cuban activists and independent journalists attempting to attend a rally in Havana: "The Castro regime's latest acts of repression against political dissidents in Cuba make a mockery of President Obama's new U.S.-Cuba policy. The fact that the regime continues to violate the human rights of Cubans like this shows that it has even less incentive to change its ways since President Obama intends to give the Castros numerous unilateral concessions in exchange for zero steps towards more political freedom. "This is the real human tragedy of the President's new Cuba policy. President Obama should be ashamed of legitimizing and empowering the Castros while abandoning courageous Cuban dissidents like the ones who have been on the receiving end of the regime's repressive tactics in recent days." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398353 | Hastings Commends U.S. Supreme Courts Refusal to Block Same-Sex Marriage in Florida | 2014-12-22 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement applauding the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to deny the extension of a stay on Florida’s same-sex marriage ban, found unconstitutional by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida: “I am pleased and heartened by the U.S. Supreme Court’s denial of Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s request that Justice Clarence Thomas, who oversees emergency appeals from Florida, extend a stay preventing the state from recognizing the marriages of gay and lesbian couples. Beginning January 6, 2015, Florida may issue same-sex marriage licenses and must recognize all same-sex marriages performed out of state. This is truly an exciting and long awaited day for all Americans. “Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s failed appeals to the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals and to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to extend the January 5, 2015 stay on U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle’s August ruling serve as evidence that her view is not shared by a majority of Americans and represents an affront to equality for all of our nation’s citizens. “The Court’s refusal to keep the stay in place is a historic victory for gay and lesbian Americans who have endured discrimination and have, along with their families, been denied critical rights and benefits under the law for far too long. We have a responsibility to ensure that that our laws recognize the equal rights of all Americans, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. I celebrate the Court’s decision and hope that our nation as a whole will continue to recognize the equal rights of all Americans and reflect this in our laws at the federal, state, and local levels. Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397830 | U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor announces Tampa/Cuba Forum in 2015 and Posts New, Important Info on Impending Legal Changes | 2014-12-22 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Kathy Castor | C001066 | castor.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor announced today that she will host a Community Forum early in 2015 with the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce and Tampa International Airport to educate Tampa Bay families and businesses on the evolving landscape tied to President Barack Obama’ historic announcement to normalize relations with Cuba last week. share: f t U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor announced today that she will host a Community Forum early in 2015 with the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce and Tampa International Airport to educate Tampa Bay families and businesses on the evolving landscape tied to President Barack Obama’ historic announcement to normalize relations with Cuba last week. “We will engage the entire community work toward positive change that America’s policy shift will provide - whether it is travel, trade or cultural exchange opportunities,” U.S. Rep. Castor said. “This community is about building opportunities and we do that best when we come together proactively to pave a pathway towards that,” said Bob Rohrlack, President of the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce. “We’ve seen steady, continued growth in the number of people traveling to Cuba even in a restricted environment,” said Tampa International Airport CEO Joe Lopano. “I anticipate those numbers will be even stronger when it’s easier to travel to Cuba. There’s clearly a demand for the flights.” U.S. Rep. Castor continued: “At the turn of the 20th Century Tampa was central to the Cuban independence movement. Similarly, Tampa will lead the way in the coming years on the new opening for normalization of relations with Cuba. We have already made much progress, especially with establishing direct flights from Tampa to Cuba and our numerous arts and cultural exchanges to build business and cooperative ties with Cuba. Now, we must continue working together to ensure the type of positive change that benefits our all of our community, including our local small businesses, travel and tourism ind… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397831 | Tampa plays vital role in enlightened approach toward Cuba | 2014-12-21 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Kathy Castor | C001066 | castor.house.gov | legacy | Once again the people of Tampa were central to a historic, positive change for the Western Hemisphere. share: f t By U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, published in the Tampa Bay Times on Dec. 21, 2014. Once again the people of Tampa were central to a historic, positive change for the Western Hemisphere. Tampa's ties with Cuba are centuries old. José Martí called upon the people of Tampa in the late 1800s to support Cuba's independence from Spain, and Tampa changed history. Near Martí's statue in Ybor City is a marker, "La Casa de Pedroso," which commemorates where he stayed — at Paulina Pedroso's home. It is said that she would shine every light in the house on José Martí to keep him safe. President Barack Obama's historic announcement last week once again was spurred on by Tampa's advocacy for change and normalization. Our community has continued to shine a light on the ideals of José Martí and keep them safe for the benefit of our country and Cuba. Our Cuban-American neighbors called for family reunification and the ability to support their relatives in Cuba. Many have lived in Tampa for generations and been frustrated by governments that have kept them apart and from sending financial support. Together we pressed then President-elect Obama to make significant changes early in his first term. Tampa's cultural and business leaders also led the charge for change as they capitalized on the Obama administration's reforms of 2011, including flights from Tampa International Airport and cultural exchanges. The Florida Orchestra's multi-year exchange, University of Tampa's baseball game with the Cuban National team, the Florida Aquarium discussions, and Ybor business leaders' Sol Y Son concert series demonstrated the desire to turn the page on outdated Cold War policies. St. Lawrence Catholic Church's mission to build the first Catholic church since 1959 also gained national attention. The Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce and local officials traveled to Cuba t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=19e6b3ff-cdff-4e3c-8f1b-f805fab5fad1 | Rubio Comments On Police Officers Killed In Tarpon Springs And New York | 2014-12-21 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio issued the following statement regarding the killing of police officers in Tarpon Springs, Florida and New York City: “Earlier today my wife and I were saddened to hear of the killing of Tarpon Springs police officer Charles Kondek, just hours after the nation was shocked by the horrific murder of two NYPD officers. These killings are stark and somber reminders of the risks our men and women in law enforcement take each and every day to keep us and our families safe. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen, the men and women of the Tarpon Springs and New York Police Departments, and with the brave men and women of law enforcement across the country who continue their work today undaunted and undeterred. As we should every day, I thank them for the courage and sacrifices they and their families make in the service of our communities.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://dennisross.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398242 | How Did You Achieve Your Goals? | 2014-12-19 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Dennis Ross | R000593 | dennisross.house.gov | legacy | There are a number of names that come to mind when we think of individuals with inspiring success stories. Many people came from modest means and turned difficult circumstances into extraordinary outcomes. Bill Gates, Sandra Day O’Conner, Steve Jobs and Condoleezza Rice are amongst the most well-known, but there are many others across Central Florida and the Tampa Bay Region who have overcome significant roadblocks to create their own success. I’d like to hear your story. How did you venture out and find success? There are a number of hardships you must have overcome and I’d like to know how you, or someone you know, overcame an obstacle and achieved a goal despite the odds. Entrepreneurs, small startups, and those who managed their own success do not allow hurdles to keep them from achieving their goal; not a lack of education, immigrating to another country or even a lack of funds. Remember if your dream comes to a crossroad, it doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road. By working hard and taking action you will find you are on a road to success. Please write to me and tell me about your success story at SuccessStoriesFL15@gmail.com. I’d like to use your story to show others the American Dream is still achievable. Please include your first name, last name, and the county you currently live in. I would like to create an anthology of modern-day success stories that I hope will motivate others in achieving their own goals. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/french-palestinian-un-security-council-resolution-irresponsible-will-undermine-any | French-Palestinian UN Security Council Resolution is Irresponsible, Will Undermine Any Prospect of Peace, Says Ros-Lehtinen | 2014-12-19 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | French-Palestinian UN Security Council Resolution is Irresponsible, Will Undermine Any Prospect of Peace, Says Ros-Lehtinen “If the resolution comes up for a vote, the U.S. must veto this measure and it must make it painfully clear to Abu Mazen that there will be severe consequences if he continues to pursue his scheme to achieve unilateral recognition at the UN or join other UN bodies, like the International Criminal Court.” (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement regarding the joint French-Palestinian draft UN Security Council Resolution. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “By helping to draft this resolution for the Palestinians to introduce at the UN Security Council, France is now part of the problem and not the solution when it comes to achieving peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Being anti-Israel is now becoming the new anti-Semitism, and this latest effort by France and the Palestinians to delegitimize Israel comes on the heels of the French National Assembly vote to recognize the non-existent State of Palestine. “Anti-Semitism is on the rise in France and across Europe, with a record number of Jews having fled France for the one place they can truly feel safe – Israel. This resolution also comes on the heels of the European Union court making a grave mistake and removing Hamas from their terrorism list at a time when reports indicate that Hamas, which is designated in the U.S. as a terrorist organization, is currently reconstructing tunnels in preparation to launch more indiscriminate rockets against Israel. By introducing this resolution, France is adding fuel to the efforts to delegitimize Israel and is effectively undermining any prospects for peace and security in the region. “Introducing this resolution also reaffirms the epic failure of American leadership and diplomacy, as Secretary Kerry and the Obama administration have been unsuccessful in preventing the Palestinians from introducing this r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-declara-que-firma-del-united-states-israel-strategic-partnership-act | Ros-Lehtinen Declara que Firma del United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act Reafirma Fuerte Apoyo Bipartidista para Israel | 2014-12-19 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen Declara que Firma del United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act Reafirma Fuerte Apoyo Bipartidista para Israel Dec 19, 2014 Ros-Lehtinen Declara que Firma del United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act Reafirma Fuerte Apoyo Bipartidista para Israel “Con la promulgación de esta ley, le entregamos al Estado de Israel un estatus único como gran aliado estratégico” (WASHINGTON) – La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Presidenta del Subcomité del Medio Oriente y África del Norte, hizo la siguiente declaración referente a la promulgación por parte del Presidente del United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act. Destacó Ros-Lehtinen: “Con la promulgación de esta ley, le entregamos al Estado democrático Judío de Israel un estatus único como gran aliado estratégico y reafirmamos nuestro apoyo a aumentar la ventaja cualitativa militar de Israel. El Estado de Israel se enfrenta a implacable amenazas existenciales no solo de Irán, sino también de sus grupos asociados como Hamas y Hezbollah que continuamente han hecho llamados para erradicar de la tierra a nuestro más cercano aliado en el Medio Oriente. Me gustaría agradecer a mis colegas en ambas cámaras del Congreso por su apoyo bipartidista al derecho de Israel a defenderse a sí mismo y a sus ciudadanos y espero que esta ley sea implementada inmediatamente.” NOTA: La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen y el Congresista Ted Deutch son autores del proyecto de ley HR – 938 - Israel Strategic Partnership Act of 2013. El proyecto fue aprobado por la Cámara de Representantes el 5 de Marzo de 2014, por un voto de 410-1. Los Senadores Barbara Boxer y Roy Blunt fueron los patrocinadores del proyecto de ley S. S.2673 que fue el 3 de Diciembre de 2014. ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-says-united-states-israel-strategic-partnership-act-becoming-law | Ros-Lehtinen Says United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act Becoming Law Reaffirms Bipartisan Strong US Support for Israel. | 2014-12-19 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen Says United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act Becoming Law Reaffirms Bipartisan Strong US Support for Israel. “With the signature of this bill into law, we afford the democratic Jewish State of Israel a unique status as a major strategic partner” (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement after the President signed into law the United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “With the signature of this bill into law, we afford the democratic Jewish State of Israel a unique status as a major strategic partner, and reaffirm our support to enhance Israel’s qualitative military edge. Israel faces relentless existential threats not only from Iran but also its proxy terror groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah, who continuously have called for our closest ally in the Middle East to be erased from the face of the earth. I would like to thank my colleagues in both houses of Congress for their bipartisan support of Israel’s right to defend itself and its citizens and look forward to ensuring that this law gets implemented immediately." NOTE: Chairman Ros-Lehtinen and Ranking Member Deutch are the authors of HR – 938, the United States – Israel Strategic Partnership Act of 2013. The bill was passed by the House of Representatives on March 5, 2014 by a vote of 410-1. Senators Barbara Boxer and Roy Blount were the Senate sponsors of the bill S. 2673 which was passed on December 3, 2014. ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://yoho.house.gov//media-center/in-the-news/ted-yoho-bill-prevents-another-shutdown | Ted Yoho: Bill prevents another shutdown | 2014-12-19 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | When I first ran for Congress, I promised the people who elected me that I would represent them, and that I would not vote on what was politically popular, but I would vote on principle. Ever since that day, I have committed myself to solving the problems facing America head on instead of kicking the can down the road. Last week, I voted to fund the government and keep discretionary spending at its lowest level since 2007. This funding bill, while not perfect, provides funding for 11 of the 12 regular appropriations bills through fiscal year 2015 and provides roughly $1.013 trillion in discretionary spending; this is below the Murray/Ryan Budget of $1.015 trillion, passed in October 2013. This bill puts the country on a path to save taxpayers $2.1 trillion over the next 10 years and it balances the budget. Had I voted for a Continuing Resolution (CR), it would have negated 60 percent of the work Congress had accomplished in the last year through the appropriations process. Voting for a CR is nothing more than kicking the can down the road and it is no way to govern. With the passage of this funding bill, our troops have the assurance that they will receive their paychecks while in harm's way, veterans' services can continue to improve, and our seniors will have security knowing their checks won't stop. This bill also prevents the threat of another government shutdown, which ensures economic stability for our small businesses and allows them to plan for expansion and provide for job creation. More importantly, this legislation contains no new funding for Obamacare. For President Obama to have to sign that provision into law is a huge win and the beginning to the dismantling of Obamacare. In addition, this bill does not fund the Race to the Top fund, which coerces cash-strapped states into adopting questionable Common Core federal standards. By funding the government through Sept. 30, we have cleared the way for important legislative work to be done that concentrates our efforts on common-sense reforms, rather than… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=fd4526de-675d-4ab7-acd7-f2f6ac28ca24 | Rubio Comments On North Korea Cyber-Attack Against Sony | 2014-12-19 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), the Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, today issued the following statement regarding North Korea’s cyber-attack against Sony Pictures: “The fact that North Korea was willing to conduct a flagrant cyber-attack against a major corporation and even threaten violence against Americans attending movie theaters across the country is another example of the devastating consequences that result when America projects weakness. I call on the President to respond swiftly to undo the damage to freedom of speech and expression caused by Sony’s decision to not release ‘The Interview.’ I also look forward to hearing from administration officials what the United States’ response to this blatant violation of America’s sovereignty and security will be. “I have long argued that the Bush administration’s decision to delist North Korea as a state sponsor of terrorism was the wrong one. I urge the administration to relist North Korea immediately. North Korea continues to threaten its neighbors, develop its nuclear weapons program, and imprison thousands of its civilians in modern day gulags. It is also important to remember that just last year, Panama intercepted a North Korean ship that was involved in transferring weapons between North Korea and Cuba and that Cuba has been a staunch defender of Pyongyang at the United Nations. “When rogue regimes attack and threaten America and pay no consequences, it only makes us less safe. The events of the past week should serve as a reminder that, from East Asia to our own hemisphere, this President’s foreign policy is a disaster. We need an immediate course correction before more damage is done to America’s credibility as well as our security.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398352 | Hastings Urges Florida AG Pam Bondi to Withdraw Support of States Gay Marriage Ban | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) sent the following letter to Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, urging her to immediately withdraw her support of the State’s ban on marriage between same-sex couples (letter attached): December 18, 2014 The Honorable Pam Bondi Attorney General State of Florida The Capitol PL-01 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1050 Dear Attorney General Bondi: Both as a citizen and a Member of Congress, I write to oppose your misguided decision to defend Florida’s ban on marriage between same-sex couples. I find it shameful that you insist on spending taxpayer money to argue on the wrong side of history, while the State of Florida continues to discriminate against gay and lesbian Americans and deny them and their families critical rights and benefits under the law. It has become increasingly clear that your view, and that of the State of Florida, is not shared by the majority of Americans. Since the historic June 26, 2013 Supreme Court decisions dismissing California’s Proposition 8 and ruling as unconstitutional Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), 35 states across our great nation, as well as the District of Columbia, have recognized the freedom of committed same-sex couples to marry. Furthermore, in 10 additional states, judges have also ruled in favor of marriage equality. They include Chief Circuit Judge Luis M. Garcia of Florida’s 16th Judicial Circuit, Judge Sarah Zabel of Florida’s 11th Judicial Circuit, and U.S. District Judge Robert L. Hinkle of the Northern District of Florida, who have all ruled the State’s same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional. Your failed appeal to the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals and subsequent appeal to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to extend the January 5, 2015 stay on Judge Hinkle’s ruling serve only to delay justice, and represent an affront to equality for all Americans. Our country faces many pressing challenges, and I fail to see how denying committed same-sex couples and their families the rights an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/aviso-de-prensa-rubio-ros-lehtinen-diaz-balart-convocan-conferencia-de-prensa-sobre-la | AVISO DE PRENSA: Rubio, Ros-Lehtinen, Diaz-Balart Convocan Conferencia de Prensa Sobre la Liberacin de Alan Gross y Cambios a Poltica Entre Estados Unidos y Cuba | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | AVISO DE PRENSA: Rubio, Ros-Lehtinen, Diaz-Balart Convocan Conferencia de Prensa Sobre la Liberación de Alan Gross y Cambios a Política Entre Estados Unidos y Cuba Miami, FL – El Senador Marco Rubio (FL), la Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL-27), y el Congresista Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) van a convocar una conferencia de prensa sobre la liberación de Alan Gross y cambios unilaterales a la política entre Estados Unidos y Cuba. QUE: Una conferencia de prensa sobre la liberación de Alan Gross y cambios unilaterales a la política entre Estados Unidos y Cuba. QUIEN: El Senador Marco Rubio (FL), la Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL-27), y el Congresista Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) DONDE: La Oficina de la Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, 4960 SW 72 Ave, Suite 208, Miami CUANDO: Jueves, Diciembre 18, 2014 a las 2:15pm Para confirmar su presencia: brooke_sammon@rubio.senate.gov (Rubio), keith.fernandez@mail.house.gov (Ros-Lehtinen), o katrina.valdes@mail.house.gov (Diaz-Balart). | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/declaraciones-de-ros-lehtinen-por-la-promulgaci%C3%B3n-de-ley-venezuela-defense-human | Declaraciones de Ros-Lehtinen Por La Promulgacin de Ley Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Declaraciones de Ros-Lehtinen Por La Promulgación de Ley Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act “Hago un llamado al Presidente, al Departamento de Estado y del Tesoro a hacer cumplir vigorosamente estas sanciones contra esos funcionarios acusados de violar los derechos humanos en Venezuela” (WASHINGTON) – La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Presidenta del Subcomité del Medio Oriente y África del Norte, hizo la siguiente declaración referente a la promulgación, por parte del Presidente, de la ley Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act en la Cámara de Representantes. Destacó Ros-Lehtinen: “Me gustaría agradecer a mis colegas congresionales bipartidistas y a la activa comunidad venezolana en los Estados Unidos que ayudaron a que esta legislación se convirtiera en ley. Hago un llamado al Presidente, al Departamento de Estado y del Tesoro a hacer cumplir vigorosa e inmediatamente estas sanciones contra esos funcionarios acusados de violar los derechos humanos en Venezuela. A todos estos violadores de derechos humanos negarles visas, congelar sus activos y bloquear sus propiedades en los Estados Unidos. La firma en ley de esta legislación ilustra que el Congreso de los Estados Unidos apoya solidariamente a quienes buscan libertad, justicia y democracia, a pesar de que la Administración Obama busca acercarse con los opresores que pisotean a los derechos humanos y las libertades básicas fundamentales. Nota: La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen es la autora del proyecto de ley H.R. 4587, Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection Act, que fue aprobado por la Cámara de Representantes el 28 de Mayo de 2014. Los Senadores Bob Menéndez y Marco Rubio fueron los autores del S. 2142 que fue aprobado el lunes 8 de diciembre. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/press-advisory-rubio-ros-lehtinen-diaz-balart-hold-press-conference-alan-gross-release | PRESS ADVISORY: Rubio, Ros-Lehtinen, Diaz-Balart To Hold Press Conference on Alan Gross' Release and Changes To US-Cuba Policy | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | PRESS ADVISORY: Rubio, Ros-Lehtinen, Diaz-Balart To Hold Press Conference on Alan Gross' Release and Changes To US-Cuba Policy Miami, FL - Senator Marco Rubio (FL), Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL-27), and Congressman Diaz-Balart (FL-25) will host a press conference on Alan Gross' release and unilateral changes to US-Cuba policy by the Obama administration. WHAT: Press conference on Alan Gross' release and unilateral changes to US-Cuba policy by the Obama administration. WHO: U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio and U.S. Reps. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Mario Diaz-Balart WHERE: Rep. Ros-Lehtinen's District Office, 4960 SW 72 Ave, Suite 208, Miami WHEN: Thursday, December 18 at 2:15pm Please RSVP to brooke_sammon@rubio.senate.gov (Rubio), keith.fernandez@mail.house.gov (Ros-Lehtinen), or katrina.valdes@mail.house.gov (Diaz-Balart). ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-statement-regarding-venezuela-defense-human-rights-and-civil-society-act | Ros-Lehtinen Statement Regarding the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act Becoming Law | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen Statement Regarding the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act Becoming Law “I call on the President, the State Department and Treasury to vigorously enforce these sanctions against those officials accused of violating human rights in Venezuela” (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement regarding the President’s signature into law of the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “I’d like to thank my bipartisan congressional colleagues and the active Venezuelan community throughout the United States that helped this bill become law. I call on the President, the State Department and Treasury to vigorously enforce these sanctions immediately against those officials accused of violating human rights in Venezuela by denying visas of human rights violators, freezing their assets and blocking their property in the United States. This bill becoming law illustrates that the U.S. Congress will stand in solidarity with those who seek freedom, justice, and democracy even though the Obama administration wishes to canoodle with the oppressors who trample on human rights and basic fundamental freedoms.” NOTE: Chairman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen is the author of H.R. 4587 – the Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection. The bill passed the House of Representatives on May 28, 2014. Senators Bob Menendez and Marco Rubio were the Senate authors of S. 2142, which passed Monday December 8th. ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-legislation-reauthorize-brand-usa-signed-law | Bilirakis Legislation to Reauthorize Brand USA Signed Into Law | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Gus Bilirakis | B001257 | bilirakis.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) released the following statement following H.R. 83 being signed into law, which included H.R. 4450, the Travel Promotion, Enhancement, and Modernization Act, Bilirakis' legislation to reauthorize Brand USA: Tourism is an integral part of our economy especially in Florida. Increased tourism means more American and Floridian jobs. My bill means job growth without utilizing a cent of taxpayer money. In fact, it lowers the deficit. Millions of Americans across the country are still struggling, and Brand USA reauthorization is a jobs bill with a proven track record of success, Bilirakis declared. I am pleased my initiative has become law. It is a big win for all Americans in the service and tourism industries, and Floridians all across the state, including the Tampa Bay area. Common sense solutions like these to boost the economy and create jobs will spur our slow economic recovery, Bilirakis continued. Congressman Welch, original cosponsor of the Travel Promotion, Enhancement, and Modernization Act, said of H.R. 4450's passage: Representative Bilirakis has been a tremendous partner in securing the reauthorization of Brand USA. This program has made a tremendous contribution to the tourism sector of the American economy, including in Vermont and I'm very pleased that it will continue for another 5 years under the bipartisan Bilirakis-Welch legislation. At no cost to the taxpayer, the marketing initiatives of this program are boosting international visits and supporting tourism jobs in Vermont and across the country. Congressman Farr, who Co-Chairs the Travel and Tourism Caucus with Congressman Bilirakis, said: Marketing our tourism industry globally creates jobs locally. Travel is our nation's number one export, supporting one in nine jobs here in the United States. Bringing in more visitors will not only help strengthen our national economy but it will help create jobs in every single community throughout the country. The renewal of Brand USA is a huge… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-congressmen-community-converse-about-mental-health-care-reform | ICYMI: Congressmen, community converse about mental health care reform | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Gus Bilirakis | B001257 | bilirakis.house.gov | legacy | Roy Gifford thought he would be this way for the rest of his life: weighed down by schizoaffective disorder, working his way down a long list of medications, all hope extinguished. He grew up in foster care and institutions, only to graduate as an adult to assisted living facilities, jail and the streets. But, nearing 40, Gifford finally got help in Pasco County: counseling, medication compliance and an understanding of how to grow. "I know it can be done. I am living proof," he said from his seat on a mental health panel hosted Tuesday by Rep. Gus Bilirakis of Florida's 12th Congressional District. "There is hope and recovery." About 100 people attended the panel at Rasmussen College in Land O'Lakes, where Bilirakis and Rep. Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania discussed what they called a broken mental health system and fielded ideas from community panelists and audience members. Murphy, a clinical psychologist, wrote a bipartisan bill, the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, that would overhaul much of the federal government's approach to mental health. "Oftentimes, we throw a little bit of funding in programs and we'll dust off our hands and walk away and say, 'Well, we did something,' " Murphy said. "It hasn't made a difference." He rattled off a list of statistics to illustrate the nation's failure to support the mentally ill, citing high unemployment rates, a shortage of hospital beds, tens of thousands of suicides and overwhelming incarceration rates. "How is it that we think severe mental illness is best treated in jail?" he asked. "We make it the most difficult for the people most vulnerable to get the care most necessary, and we make it in the most expensive way. ... And no wonder they don't get care." Panelists highlighted helpful programs. Brian Anderson, a veteran advocate, said yoga can help veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, making up for sleep lost to nightmares. Christopher Wittmann of Trinity Pain Center said putting a mental health counselor in the same clinic as pain pat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=89c1a552-fe17-4499-9a7a-d5fba957a58c | Rubio Welcomes Signing Of Venezuela Sanctions Bill Into Law | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) welcomed today’s signing of S. 2142, the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014, into law by President Obama. Rubio, one of the bill’s sponsors, issued the following statement: “After almost a year of trying to achieve this important measure as a response to Nicolas Maduro’s violent crackdown on innocent Venezuelans, I'm glad these sanctions against corrupt human rights violators in Venezuela are finally the law. Now it’s important that the sanctions be swiftly implemented to help send a message to the Venezuelan people that the American people are on their side as they seek democracy, freedom and respect for human rights.” Background S. 2142 directs the President to apply targeted visa and financial sanctions against individuals, including members of the government, public security forces, and armed civilian groups, who have perpetrated, ordered or directed acts of violence or human rights abuses against peaceful demonstrators in Venezuela, or have directed or ordered the arrest or prosecution of a person primarily because of the person’s legitimate exercise of freedom of expression or assembly. S. 2142 also calls for a report on obstacles to access objective media content in Venezuela, current efforts by the U.S. government to address these challenges, and a strategy for expanding existing programs. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=d00f9def-e1f5-47f1-b993-3219551c7d31 | MEDIA ADVISORY: Rubio, Ros-Lehtinen, Diaz-Balart To Hold Press Conference On Alan Gross Release, Changes To U.S.-Cuba Policy | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Today, at 2:15pm EST, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL-27), and Congressman Diaz-Balart (FL-25) will host a press conference on Alan Gross’ release and unilateral changes to U.S.-Cuba policy by the Obama administration. Media wishing to attend the following event must RSVP to Brooke_Sammon@rubio.senate.gov. Thursday, December 18, 2014 2:15pm EST Rubio, Ros-Lehtinen, Diaz-Balart To Hold Press Conference Rep. Ros-Lehtinen’s District Office 4960 SW 72 Avenue Suite 208 Miami, FL 33155 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=e51c85c1-a704-4983-b211-590cc053d60b | ICYMI: Rubio: New Cuba Policy Is A Victory For Oppression | 2014-12-18 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | A Victory for Oppression By Senator Marco Rubio The Wall Street Journal December 18, 2014 http://www.wsj.com/articles/marco-rubio-the-turning-point-in-relations-with-cuba-1418862936?KEYWORDS=rubio The announcement by President Obama on Wednesday giving the Castro regime diplomatic legitimacy and access to American dollars isn’t just bad for the oppressed Cuban people, or for the millions who live in exile and lost everything at the hands of the dictatorship. Mr. Obama’s new Cuba policy is a victory for oppressive governments the world over and will have real, negative consequences for the American people. Since the U.S. severed diplomatic relations in 1961, the Castro family has controlled the country and the economy with an iron fist that punishes Cubans who speak out in opposition and demand a better future. Under the Castros, Cuba has also been a central figure in terrorism, narco-trafficking and all manner of misery and mayhem in our hemisphere. As a result, it has been the policy and law of the U.S. to make clear that re-establishing diplomatic and economic relations with Cuba is possible—but only once the Cuban government stops jailing political opponents, protects free speech, and allows independent political parties to be formed and to participate in free and fair elections. The opportunity for Cuba to normalize relations with the U.S. has always been there, but the Castro regime has never been interested in changing its ways. Now, thanks to President Obama’s concessions, the regime in Cuba won’t have to change. The entire policy shift is based on the illusion—in fact, on the lie—that more commerce and access to money and goods will translate to political freedom for the Cuban people. Cuba already enjoys access to commerce, money and goods from other nations, and yet the Cuban people are still not free. They are not free because the regime—just as it does with every aspect of life—manipulates and controls to its own advantage all currency that flows into the island… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398350 | Hastings Statement on Release of Alan Gross from Cuba | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement regarding the release of Alan Gross, an American aid worker imprisoned in Cuba since 2009 for working to expand internet access for the Cuban people: “After spending five long years in a Cuban prison, Alan Gross is now free to return home to his family. Both he and his family have paid an enormous personal price, and I am pleased that his unjust detainment has finally come to an end. I would like to commend my colleagues in Congress and all those who have fought tirelessly for Mr. Gross’ release in making today possible.” Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397825 | U.S. Representative Kathy Castor Statement on Historic Change in U.S./Cuba Polic | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Kathy Castor | C001066 | castor.house.gov | legacy | Today, U.S. Representative Kathy Castor announced strong support for historic changes in U.S. policy towards Cuba. President Obama detailed the changes which include reestablishing diplomatic relations, expanding travel opportunities and support for the Cuban people. U.S. Rep. Castor has been working for years to encourage the changes announced by the President today. share: f t Today, U.S. Representative Kathy Castor announced strong support for historic changes in U.S. policy towards Cuba. President Obama detailed the changes which include reestablishing diplomatic relations, expanding travel opportunities and support for the Cuban people. U.S. Rep. Castor has been working for years to encourage the changes announced by the President today. “Tampa Bay area families and businesses played an important role in the normalization of relations with Cuba announced today. For years, I have advocated engaging, modernizing diplomatic relations and promoting economic reforms in Cuba, especially after traveling there on a fact-finding mission in 2013. President Obama has again answered the calls for change from this community. Thanks to the President, the State of Florida and the Tampa Bay area can seize the opportunity to lead on engagement and encourage human rights and economic reforms in Cuba,” U.S. Rep. Castor said. “As Americans, we fought two wars with Germany, experienced a terrible conflict with Vietnam and have been able to move forward each time based on concerns for the people of those countries. It is long past time that we do the same for the people of Cuba.” In 2013, upon her return from Cuba, U.S. Rep. Castor sent the following detailed letter to President Obama and Secretary Kerry outlining the changes, challenges, and opportunities she saw for modernizing relations with the island (see letter). The President’s announcement addresses all of what Castor advocated for in her letter. Earlier this year, Castor brought the Cuban Ambassador Jos… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://dennisross.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398239 | Ross Statement on the Release of Alan Gross | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Dennis Ross | R000593 | dennisross.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. --U.S. Rep. Dennis A. Ross (R-FL-15), Senior Deputy Majority Whip, today released the following statement after Alan Gross, an American contractor, was released from a Cuban prison where he had been held for five years. “After five years of wrongful imprisonment in Cuba, I am pleased Alan Gross has been reunited with his family and returned home to the United States. While Alan’s freedom is welcome, we must not forget about the lack of freedom today that exists for the 11 million citizens of Cuba. “I am concerned about the commitments made by President Obama’s administration during this negotiation, including his release of three convicted Cuban spies. “As we celebrate the release of this American, it is important to remember the Castro regime has oppressed, imprisoned, and murdered countless friends and relatives of Cuban-Americans across the State of Florida. We must not excuse or forget about the decades of human rights violations committed by this oppressive regime.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mariodiazbalart.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/declaraciones-de-d-az-balart-sobre-liberaci-n-de-alan-gross-y-las | Declaraciones de Daz-Balart sobre liberacin de Alan Gross y las concesiones del presidente Obama | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON DC - El Congresista Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL) hizo la siguiente declaración después de que el régimen cubano liberara al estadounidense Alan Gross, que llevaba más de cinco años preso en Cuba. A cambio de la liberación de Gross, el presidente Obama soltará a tres espías cubanos condenados y hará concesiones sin precedentes dentro de un marco de cambios radicales de la política estadounidense hacia Cuba. "Alan Gross nunca debió pasar ni un día en prisión y me alegro que por fin se reunirá con su familia. Sin embargo, la forma en que se logró su liberación es indignante y demuestra que, una vez más, el presidente Obama no duda en apaciguar y ofrecer concesiones a una dictadura brutal que se opone a los intereses de los EEUU en cada oportunidad. "Los tres espías cubanos que soltará el presidente Obama fueron condenados por espionaje en instalaciones militares y uno fue condenado por su papel en el derribo de un avión civil estadounidense en el espacio aéreo internacional que asesinó a tres estadounidenses inocentes y un residente de los EE.UU. Su puesta en libertad anticipada es algo atroz para la justicia. Además, reestablecer relaciones diplomáticas y debilitar aún más las sanciones sólo sirven para legitimar al peor violador de los derechos humanos en nuestro hemisferio y proporcionarle divisas. Las acciones del presidente Obama son una traición inconcebible de los valores fundamentales de Estados Unidos y un profundo insulto al pueblo oprimido de Cuba. "El injusto encarcelamiento y trato inhumano de Alan Gross son muestras de la total depravación del régimen de Castro, así como de la fuerte represión que ha sufrido el pueblo cubano desde hace décadas. La decisión del presidente Obama de claudicar ante el chantaje castrista y abandonar nuestros principios democráticos es un ultraje. Estos cambios en la política hacia Cuba envalentonarán aún más a la dictadura cubana así como a otros dictaduras y organizaciones terroristas antiamericanas." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mariodiazbalart.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-on-release-of-alan-gross-and-concessions-by-president-obama | Diaz-Balart on Release of Alan Gross and Concessions by President Obama | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON D.C. –Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) offered the following statement after the Cuban regime released U.S. humanitarian aid worker Alan Gross from prison. In return for Gross’ release, President Obama is releasing three convicted Cuban spies, and providing numerous concessions in the form of sweeping changes to U.S.-Cuba policy. "Alan Gross should never have spent one day in prison and we are glad that he will finally be reunited with his family. However, the way that his release was achieved is outrageous and proves that once again, President Obama is the Appeaser-in-Chief who is willing to provide unprecedented concessions to a brutal dictatorship that opposes U.S. interests at every opportunity. “The three remaining Cuban spies who President Obama is releasing were convicted for spying on U.S. military installations, and one was convicted for his role in the shoot-down of an American civilian aircraft in international airspace, which murdered three innocent Americans and one U.S. resident. Their early release is an egregious miscarriage of justice. In addition, providing diplomatic relations and further weakening sanctions attempt to legitimize and provide hard currency to our hemisphere's worst human rights abuser. President Obama's actions are an unconscionable betrayal of America's fundamental values and a profound insult to the oppressed Cuban people. “The unjust imprisonment and inhumane treatment of Alan Gross demonstrates the utter depravity of the Castro regime, as well as the severe repression that has afflicted the Cuban people for decades. President Obama's decision to allow the Castro regime to blackmail the United States and abandon our pro-democracy principles is an outrage. These changes to policy will further embolden the Cuban dictatorship to continue brutalizing and oppressing its own people as well as other Anti-American dictatorship and terrorist organizations” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/declaraciones-de-d-az-balart-sobre-liberaci-n-de-alan-gross-y-las | Declaraciones de Daz-Balart sobre liberacin de Alan Gross y las concesiones del presidente Obama | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON DC - El Congresista Mario Daz-Balart (R-FL) hizo la siguiente declaracin despus de que el rgimen cubano liberara al estadounidense Alan Gross, que llevaba ms de cinco aos preso en Cuba. A cambio de la liberacin de Gross, el presidente Obama soltar a tres espas cubanos condenados y har concesiones sin precedentes dentro de un marco de cambios radicales de la poltica estadounidense hacia Cuba. "Alan Gross nunca debi pasar ni un da en prisin y me alegro que por fin se reunir con su familia. Sin embargo, la forma en que se logr su liberacin es indignante y demuestra que, una vez ms, el presidente Obama no duda en apaciguar y ofrecer concesiones a una dictadura brutal que se opone a los intereses de los EEUU en cada oportunidad. "Los tres espas cubanos que soltar el presidente Obama fueron condenados por espionaje en instalaciones militares y uno fue condenado por su papel en el derribo de un avin civil estadounidense en el espacio areo internacional que asesin a tres estadounidenses inocentes y un residente de los EE.UU. Su puesta en libertad anticipada es algo atroz para la justicia. Adems, reestablecer relaciones diplomticas y debilitar an ms las sanciones slo sirven para legitimar al peor violador de los derechos humanos en nuestro hemisferio y proporcionarle divisas. Las acciones del presidente Obama son una traicin inconcebible de los valores fundamentales de Estados Unidos y un profundo insulto al pueblo oprimido de Cuba. "El injusto encarcelamiento y trato inhumano de Alan Gross son muestras de la total depravacin del rgimen de Castro, as como de la fuerte represin que ha sufrido el pueblo cubano desde hace dcadas. La decisin del presidente Obama de claudicar ante el chantaje castrista y abandonar nuestros principios democrticos es un ultraje. Estos cambios en la poltica hacia Cuba envalentonarn an ms a la dictadura cubana as como a otros dictaduras y organizaciones terroristas antiamericanas." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/declaraciones-de-ros-lehtinen-sobre-la-liberaci%C3%B3n-de-alan-gross | Declaraciones de Ros-Lehtinen Sobre la Liberacin de Alan Gross | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Declaraciones de Ros-Lehtinen Sobre la Liberación de Alan Gross (WASHINGTON, DC) – La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Presidenta del Subcomité del Medio Oriente y África del Norte, hizo la siguiente declaración referente a la liberación de Alan Gross. Destacó Ros-Lehtinen: “Aunque la liberación de Alan Gross es buena noticia, es importante recordar en primer lugar que el Sr. Gross nunca debió ser encarcelado en Cuba por el régimen de Castro. La manera en que la Casa Blanca ha negociado este intercambio de prisioneros es una bofetada a las familias de Hermanos al Rescate y posa una amenaza a nuestra seguridad nacional. El Presidente Obama ha liberado de forma unilateral a tres espías cubanos convictos, cuya responsabilidad por las muertes de tres ciudadanos americanos y un residente de los Estados Unidos: Carlos Costa, Armando Alejandre, Mario de la Peña y Pablo Morales, cuyos aviones fueron injustamente derribados sobre aguas internacionales bajo órdenes directas de los hermanos Castro. Desde el encarcelamiento injusto de Gross, varios funcionarios de alto rango de la Administración le han reiterado al Congreso y al pueblo americano que no existía equivalencia entre los cinco espías cubanos y Alan Gross, reafirmando que no podía existir un intercambio. Este acuerdo entre Obama y Castro deja fuera un importante aspecto: El pueblo cubano. La realidad es que desde que la administración Obama suavizó las restricciones, la situación en la isla ha empeorado con un incremento en las detenciones arbitrarias. La dictadura de los Castro debe responder a su propio pueblo, a quien le ha negado los derechos básicos por más de cinco décadas. “La liberalización de políticas destinadas a suavizar el comercio y remesas a Cuba es otro golpe de propaganda para los hermanos Castro que ahora llenarán sus cofres con más dinero, a costas del pueblo cubano. Es muy posible que esta acción unilateral por el Presidente, sin consulta Congresional es una violación de las siguientes leyes norteamericanas: El Cuban Liberty and Democr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-statement-release-alan-gross | Ros-Lehtinen Statement on the Release of Alan Gross | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen Statement on the Release of Alan Gross (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement regarding the release of Alan Gross. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “Although the freedom of Alan Gross is welcome news, it’s important to remember that Mr. Gross should have never been imprisoned in Cuba by the Castro regime in the first place. The manner in which the White House has negotiated this prisoner swap is a slap in the face to the families of the Brothers to the Rescue and poses a threat to our national security. President Obama has unilaterally released three convicted Cuban spies who were responsible for the deaths of three American citizens and one U.S. resident: Carlos Costa, Armando Alejandre, Mario de la Peña, and Pablo Morales, whose planes were unjustly shot down over international waters on direct orders of the Castro brothers. “Ever since Gross had been unjustly imprisoned, several high ranking Administration officials reiterated to Congress and to the American people that there was no equivalency between the Cuban Five and Alan Gross and reaffirmed that no swap would take place. Furthermore, this agreement between Obama and Castro leaves out one important aspect: the Cuban people. The reality is that since the Obama administration first eased restrictions, the situation on the island has gotten worse with an increased level of arbitrary detainments. The Castro dictatorship should be answering to its own people to whom it has denied basic rights for over five decades. “The liberalization policies aimed at easing trade and remittances to Cuba is another propaganda coup for the Castro brothers, who will now fill their coffers with more money at the expense of the Cuban people. It is quite possible that this unilateral action by the President without Congressional consultation is in violation of the following U.S. laws: Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996, Cuban Democracy Act of… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398353 | Deutch Statement on Release of Alan Gross from Cuba | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Deutch Statement on Release of Alan Gross from Cuba f t # e Boca Raton, FL, December 17, 2014 | Ashley Mushnick (202-225-3001) Congressman Ted Deutch (FL-21), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued this statement on the release of Alan Gross, an American development worker jailed in Cuba since 2009: “For five years, Alan Gross has been unjustly imprisoned by the Cuban government simply for working to expand Internet access and promote freedom of information for the people of Cuba. In those five years, not a day has gone by where the Gross family gave up hope for Alan’s safe return home. Having worked with my colleagues and all those throughout America who fought for Alan and pressed for his release, I am overjoyed that after five harrowing years held captive in Cuba, Alan Gross will be spending this holiday season at home with his wife and children and all those who love him.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398354 | Statement by Rep. Ted Deutch on Cuba Policy | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Ted Deutch (FL-21), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued this statement in reaction to the President Obama's remarks on Cuba: “While I am overjoyed that Alan Gross and 53 additional political prisoners have finally been freed by the Cuban government, this regime does not deserve any humanitarian awards for releasing individuals who should never have been imprisoned in the first place. The Cuban regime continues to brutally imprison political dissidents, block access to the Internet and the free flow of information, and deny the people of Cuba free and fair elections. As Congress reviews the President’s proposals in the weeks and months ahead, I will do everything I can to make sure these critical human rights issues remain front and center in this debate.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://yoho.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-yoho-statement-on-cuba-prisoner-exchange-and-policy-changes | Rep. Yoho Statement on Cuba Prisoner Exchange and Policy Changes | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | Gainesville, FL– Congressman Ted S. Yoho (FL-03), a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, issued the following statement in response to the release of Alan Gross and a United States intelligence agent for three Cuban spies, as well as the Obama Administration’s reversal of 50 plus years of US-Cuban policies: “While I am pleased Mr. Gross has been returned to his family, I do not support the Administration’s actions in reaching this outcome. Unilaterally reversing 50 plus years of foreign policy needs to be debated and discussed in Congress – with input from the American people. Ignoring the concerns and ideas of both, is not the right course of action. The Administration should place the interest of America first while negotiating terms that seek to end the oppression of the Cuban people. “President Obama has a history of unilaterally giving up the farm in exchange for nothing in foreign policy negotiations. This weakens our global stance when he should be doing everything he can to strengthen our country. The deal that was struck today benefits Cuba more than it benefits the United States. If relations between our two countries are going to be reestablished, the liberty and freedom of the Cuban people needs to be respected. “In regards to the release of three Cuban spies, who were imprisoned for conspiring to harm Americans, this sends a dangerous precedent for any regime wanting leverage over the United States. That is unacceptable. I cannot stress this enough: the priority of this President should be to serve the best interest of America and the security of the American people.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://desantis.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A2DAD405-2769-4EB9-A8EB-2F6DB22C1B8E | DeSantis Statement on Cuba Prisoner Exchange and Pro-Castro Policy Changes | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ron DeSantis | D000621 | desantis.house.gov | legacy | St. Augustine, FL – Rep. Ron DeSantis (FL-06), a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, issued the following statement in response to the exchange of American Alan Gross for three Cuban spies as well as reports that the Obama administration will be implementing pro-Castro policy changes: "Alan Gross was unjustly imprisoned by the Castro dictatorship and his return is long overdue. I am happy for him and his family. I am dismayed that, in exchange for the release of Gross, the Obama administration agreed to release imprisoned Cuban spies who conspired to kill Americans, as such an action legitimizes the Castro regime's coercive tactics. This prisoner swap sends a signal to rogue regimes and actors that taking an American hostage can be leveraged into scoring policy concessions. This makes America less safe and emboldens the dictatorship in Cuba. Reports suggest that the Obama administration will also unilaterally relax sanctions on Cuba, even though 11 million Cubans still chafe under Castro's tyranny. The goal of U.S. policy should be to liberate these hostages from the oppressive Castro regime, not to reward the regime with relaxed sanctions.”? | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1090 | Wasserman Schultz Statement on Updated U.S. Policy Toward Cuba | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | legacy | Wasserman Schultz Statement on Updated U.S. Policy Toward Cuba f t # e Washington, DC, December 17, 2014 Like the President, I too envision a bright future for the Cuban people where their basic human rights are respected and they can access information freely. While I have always been opposed to unearned changes in the status of our relationship with Cuba, I will continue to work with the Administration, my colleagues, and community activists to support policies that benefit the Cuban people and do not further entrench the Castro regime." share: f t U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement today after President Obama announced the United States will update its policy approach to Cuba: Like the President, I too envision a bright future for the Cuban people where their basic human rights are respected and they can access information freely. While I have always been opposed to unearned changes in the status of our relationship with Cuba, I will continue to work with the Administration, my colleagues, and community activists to support policies that benefit the Cuban people and do not further entrench the Castro regime. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=869 | Wasserman Schultz Statement on Alan Gross Release | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | legacy | Wasserman Schultz Statement on Alan Gross Release f t # e Washington, DC, December 17, 2014 I am thrilled that Alan Gross is coming home today after five long, difficult years for him and his family. The Castro regime's detention of Alan put his health and life at unnecessary risk for shameful political purposes. I thank everyone who has worked tirelessly on his release, and I am particularly moved by the fact that Alan will be home to celebrate Chanukah and the New Year with his family. share: f t U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement today after the Obama Administration announced the release of Alan Gross from a Cuban prison: I am thrilled that Alan Gross is coming home today after five long, difficult years for him and his family. The Castro regime's detention of Alan put his health and life at unnecessary risk for shameful political purposes. I thank everyone who has worked tirelessly on his release, and I am particularly moved by the fact that Alan will be home to celebrate Chanukah and the New Year with his family. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=2891e1a5-2354-4ebe-abdd-f1ef69f368bf | MEDIA ADVISORY: Rubio To Hold Press Conference On Changes In U.S. Policy Toward Cuba At 12:30 P.M. | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Today, at 12:30pm EST, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will hold a press conference in the Senate Radio-Television Gallery Studio to discuss President Obama’s announcement to initiate dramatic change in U.S. policy toward Cuba. Wednesday, December 17, 2014 12:30pm EST Rubio To Discuss Changes In U.S. Policy Toward Cuba U.S. Capitol Senate Radio-Television Gallery Studio, S-325 Washington, D.C. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=d6c39dd4-8d06-4de3-8065-5cb27d865f1f | Rubio Comments On Reports Of Change In U.S. Policy Toward Cuba, Release Of Alan Gross | 2014-12-17 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) today issued the following statement regarding reports that President Obama is set to dramatically change U.S. policy toward Cuba following the release of Alan Gross, an American who was held hostage by the Castro regime in Cuba for five years: “Today’s announcement initiating a dramatic change in U.S. policy toward Cuba is just the latest in a long line of failed attempts by President Obama to appease rogue regimes at all cost. “Like all Americans, I rejoice at the fact that Alan Gross will be able to return to his family after five years in captivity. Although he is supposedly being released on humanitarian grounds, his inclusion in a swap involving intelligence agents furthers the Cuban narrative about his work in Cuba. In contrast, the Cuban Five were spies operating against our nation on American soil. They were indicted and prosecuted in a court of law for the crimes of espionage and were linked to the murder of the humanitarian pilots of Brothers to the Rescue. There should be no equivalence between the two, and Gross should have been released unconditionally. “The President’s decision to reward the Castro regime and begin the path toward the normalization of relations with Cuba is inexplicable. Cuba’s record is clear. Just as when President Eisenhower severed diplomatic relations with Cuba, the Castro family still controls the country, the economy and all levers of power. This administration’s attempts to loosen restrictions on travel in recent years have only served to benefit the regime. While business interests seeking to line their pockets, aided by the editorial page of The New York Times, have begun a significant campaign to paper over the facts about the regime in Havana, the reality is clear. Cuba, like Syria, Iran, and Sudan, remains a state sponsor of terrorism. It continues to actively work with regimes like North Korea to illegally traffic weapons in our hemisphere in violation of several United Nations Security Council Resol… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-calls-ssa-stop-harassment-innocent-taxpayers | Buchanan Calls for SSA to Stop Harassment of Innocent Taxpayers | 2014-12-16 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Vern Buchanan | B001260 | buchanan.house.gov | legacy | CONTACT: MAX GOODMAN 202.225.5015 WASHINGTON U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, Floridas only member of the House Ways & Means Committee and its subcommittee on Social Security, sent a letter today to Commissioner Carolyn Colvin expressing deep concern over reports that the Social Security Administration is continuing to punish innocent taxpayers for their parents decades-old debt. Buchanan is the author of the Stop Punishing Innocent Taxpayers Act (H.R. 4491), legislation to bar the Social Security Administration from seizing tax refunds to settle debts that are more than 10 years old. Letter text below: December 16, 2014 The Honorable Carolyn Colvin Acting Commissioner Social Security Administration 6401 Security Boulevard Baltimore, MD 21235-0001 Dear Commissioner Colvin: I am writing to express my deep concern regarding reports that the Social Security Administration is continuing to punish innocent taxpayers whose parents may have received overpayments of government benefits decades ago. Penalizing people for the governments failure to correctly calculate their parents benefits is outrageous. In April of this year, press reports revealed that the Social Security Administration was targeting the tax refunds of more than 400,000 individuals for seizure due to overpayment of federal benefits. In some instances, the overpayment claims related to funds received long ago in some cases 50 years earlier by now-deceased individuals. To settle these debts, your administration seized tax refunds from the children of these individuals through a so-called administrative offset. Days after these reports were published, you stated that the Social Security Administration would cease this practice immediately. Yet just this week, the Washington Post revealed that your agency has continued to pursue the children of Social Security beneficiaries. I am shocked your agency has apparently continued this practice irrespective of your pledge to end it. Seizing funds from people for decades-old overpayments to their pa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://dennisross.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398244 | Ross Welcomes New Staff Members | 2014-12-16 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Dennis Ross | R000593 | dennisross.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. --U.S. Rep. Dennis A. Ross (R-FL-15), Senior Deputy Majority Whip and member of the House Committee on Financial Services, today announced a staff change and welcomes two new staff members. Ross formally promotes Kyle Glenn to Deputy Chief of Staff, welcomes Stephen Gately as his Field Representative and Tim Cummings as a Legislative Analyst. “Kyle has done an outstanding job in his position as Legislative Director and I am proud to promote him to Deputy Chief of Staff. In his time as LD, Kyle has smoothly managed our legislative staff, and while he will continue to assist with our legislative goals and priorities, I look forward to his growth in this new position. “I am thrilled Stephen is returning to my office as our Field Representative. He is dedicated to establishing and maintaining a strong professional relationship with constituents across Florida’s 15th Congressional District. “Tim’s breadth of experience will serve Central Florida and the Tampa Bay Region well. He has a great deal of legislative knowledge and is familiar with House rules. I am grateful he accepted this position.” Gately recently served as a District Aide to Fla. State Representative Mike La Rosa. He also previously served as Ross’ Field Representative during the 112th Congress. Cummings recently served for Majority Leader Eric Cantor as his Legislative Analyst. Cummings was also a Legislative Correspondent for Cantor. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://desantis.house.gov/press-releases?ID=BDAB57B5-B84A-4685-9273-4DD20ED04714 | DeSantis Named Chairman of National Security Subcommittee | 2014-12-16 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ron DeSantis | D000621 | desantis.house.gov | legacy | St. Augustine, FL – Chairman-elect of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Rep. Jason Chaffetz (UT-03), has named Rep. Ron DeSantis (FL-06) Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security for the 114th Congress. "The federal government's core responsibility is to protect the security of our nation and the American people,”? DeSantis said. “ Yet, from the release of terrorist detainees by the Defense Department to habitual failures of the Department of Homeland Security regarding border security, the bureaucracy has fallen short of what the American people expect. I am thankful to Chairman-elect Jason Chaffetz for tapping me to lead this subcommittee, and I look forward to working with him and the rest of the committee's members to hold our national security agencies accountable on behalf of the American people." “Congressman DeSantis– military experience and leadership will help ensure effective oversight and accountability on some of the biggest issues facing national security,”? Chaffetz said. “I look forward to working with him in his new role.”? | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=253 | Frankel Wishes for a Happy Hanukkah | 2014-12-16 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Lois Frankel | F000462 | frankel.house.gov | legacy | Frankel Wishes for a Happy Hanukkah f t # e Washington, DC, December 16, 2014 Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-22) today released the following statement on Hanukkah, which begins tonight at sundown: Jewish families across South Florida and the world will gather together to celebrate eight nights of Hanukkah, when we recall the powerful story of the Maccabees who liberated the Jewish people from persecution and rededicated the holy Temple. During this Jewish Festival of Lights, we celebrate miracles and appreciate the blessings in our lives, while keeping in mind all those still suffering at the hands of oppression. Wishing all a Hanukkah sameach, happy hanukkah. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1117 | Wasserman Schultz Wishes Families Happy Chanukah | 2014-12-16 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | legacy | Wasserman Schultz Wishes Families Happy Chanukah f t # e Washington, DC, December 16, 2014 Along with Jewish families across the country and the world, my family will gather tonight to light the first Chanukah candle. We will recall the great miracle that happened in Jerusalem more than two thousand years ago, and the power of a few against many. As we light another candle each night, we will think about the ways in which we, too, can be shining examples of hope and righteousness in the face of tumult and darkness. share: f t Along with Jewish families across the country and the world, my family will gather tonight to light the first Chanukah candle. We will recall the great miracle that happened in Jerusalem more than two thousand years ago, and the power of a few against many. As we light another candle each night, we will think about the ways in which we, too, can be shining examples of hope and righteousness in the face of tumult and darkness. During this holiday season, we will reflect on the blessings of the past year, and keep in mind those less fortunate than we are. We will recommit ourselves to our values and continuing to work to make the world around us a better place. Along with my family, I wish you and yours a happy Chanukah and a meaningful holiday season. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=543 | Campaign to Educate Young Women About Breast Cancer Risks Reauthorized by Senate heads to President Obama's desk. | 2014-12-16 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON The Breast Health Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young Act, or the EARLY Act, was reauthorized for five years today by the Senate by Unanimous Consent. H.R. 5185 was introduced by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) and Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-N.C.) in the House and Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and David Vitter (R-LA). share: f t The Breast Health Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young Act, or the EARLY Act, was reauthorized for five years today by the Senate by Unanimous Consent. H.R. 5185 was introduced by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) and Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-N.C.) in the House and Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and David Vitter (R-LA). Authored by Rep. Wasserman Schultz and originally signed into law in 2010, the EARLY Act created an education and outreach campaign administered by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to highlight the breast cancer risks facing young women and women of higher-risk ethnic and racial backgrounds, while empowering them with the tools they need to fight the disease. The EARLY Act also targets health care providers with education and information to ensure they are better equipped to catch breast cancer in young women, as well as providing a grant program for organizations doing work targeting the unique challenges faced by young breast cancer survivors. Reauthorizing the EARLY Act means the important work the CDC has done educating young women about the breast cancer risks they face will continue. We will continue supporting state-led initiatives helping identify high-risk women, collecting family histories and educating doctors, saidWasserman Schultz, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 41 and learned she was at high risk as a carrier of the BRCA2 genetic mutation. After undergoing seven surgeries during that year, she is now seven years cancer-free. My deepest thanks go toCongresswoman Renee Ellmers and my colleagues in the House for their support. "… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://yoho.house.gov//media-center/in-the-news/rand-paul-pushes-against-obamas-immigration-executive-action | Rand Paul pushes against Obama's immigration executive action | 2014-12-15 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | Sen. Rand Paul has introduced legislature to overturn President’ Obama’s immigration executive order. The bill, called “Preventing Executive Overreach on Immigration Act,” points out that Obama has said at least 22 times before that he cannot ignore existing immigration law, nor can he create his own. "I believe that the Constitution is clear that the legislative power resides in Congress. The President is not a king and he does not have the power to enact laws then execute his own laws. Our Constitution is being violated by this executive order and other actions by the Obama Administration to govern by executive fiat," the Kentucky Republican said in a statement Friday. “President Obama’s grant of deferred action […] is without any constitution or statutory basis," the bill says. Obama announced in November — after months of hinting he would do so — an executive action that would protect up to five million undocumented immigrants from deportation. In his prime-time speech announcing the major immigration system overhaul, Obama made sure to point out that his actions were lawful. Paul disputes Obama's claim. “His actions blatantly ignore the separations of powers and the principles our country was founded on. I will not sit idly by and let the president bypass Congress and our Constitution,” he said after the speech. Rep. Ted Yoho, R-Fla., also sponsored a companion bill in the House that passed by a vote of 219-197 on Dec. 4. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://yoho.house.gov//media-center/in-the-news/yoho-educators-business-leaders-talk-stem-growth | Yoho, educators, business leaders talk STEM growth | 2014-12-15 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | If the United States wants its students to succeed in highly skilled careers, it needs to change the way it teaches them, an expert told a local education-minded group Monday. About 40 educators, business leaders and other professionals met at the Santa Fe College Perry Center for Emerging Technologies in Alachua to talk about education in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and why it’s important. Other countries are fast outstripping the United States in STEM fields, said U.S. Rep. Ted Yoho, who coordinated the seminar with Cindy Moss, director of global STEM initiatives for Discovery Education. “We’ve seen a decline in our competitiveness, and it’s not acceptable,” Yoho said. The percentage of innovations produced by the U.S. has dipped significantly over the past several decades, due in part, Yoho said, to high corporate tax rates and federal regulations. But it’s also because we’re not pushing STEM hard enough, he said. STEM is different things to different people, Moss said, but it needs to be involved with every student at every level. According to a report by Change the Equation, a nonprofit organization focusing on improving STEM learning, students in every state in the country get less science instruction compared with 20 years ago. Only 1 percent of college graduates earned science degrees, and 0.1 percent earned math degrees, Moss said, adding that 84 percent of students who drop out of high school say they quit because they couldn’t pass Algebra 1. “We have to show kids the cool things you can do with math,” she said. “It’s not sitting down and solving problems all day.” Engaging kids early with hands-on learning and problem-solving is key, she said, particularly for girls. In the U.S., on average, women earn 77 cents for every dollar men earn at work. But in STEM fields, Moss said women earn 95 cents on the dollar or more. The reason STEM isn’t attracting women and other underrepresented groups is lack of exposure, Moss said. To fix the problem, the whole community needs to get on board… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://yoho.house.gov//media-center/in-the-news/sen-paul-introduces-bill-to-prevent-president-obama-s-executive-amnesty | Sen. Paul Introduces Bill to Prevent President Obamas Executive Amnesty | 2014-12-12 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | Senator Rand Paul today introduced the Preventing Executive Overreach on Immigration Act. This is companion legislation to Congressman Ted Yoho's bill (H.R. 5759) that passed the House of Representatives on December 4, 2014 on a 219-197 vote. This legislation would end President Obama's executive action on immigration and restore the Congress' constitutional role as the body to craft legislation. Article I of the Constitution places the legislative powers in Congress. The President does not have the power under the Constitution to rewrite immigration laws to exempt classes of people from a law that was passed by Congress and signed into law. "I believe that the Constitution is clear that the legislative power resides in Congress. The President is not a king and he does not have the power to enact laws then execute his own laws. Our Constitution is being violated by this executive order and other actions by the Obama Administration to govern by executive fiat," Sen. Paul stated. A copy of the legislation can be found HERE. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=897 | Wasserman Schultz Statement on Cromnibus Vote | 2014-12-12 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | legacy | Wasserman Schultz Statement on Cromnibus Vote f t # e Washington, DC, December 12, 2014 As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I know that House and Senate appropriators worked hard on a spending package to fund our government for the rest of the fiscal year. As in any difficult compromise, the parties involved will find some items hard to accept, but I am proud of Democratic efforts to keep dozens of additional extreme GOP measures out of this bill. Faced with the alternative of a government shutdown and the reality of a Republican majority in the next Congress, I voted to ensure that the values of my constituents are more fully reflected in this budget that passed with Democratic input. share: f t U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement this evening regarding her yea' vote on the cromnibus bill: As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I know that House and Senate appropriators worked hard on a spending package to fund our government for the rest of the fiscal year. As in any difficult compromise, the parties involved will find some items hard to accept, but I am proud of Democratic efforts to keep dozens of additional extreme GOP measures out of this bill. Faced with the alternative of a government shutdown and the reality of a Republican majority in the next Congress, I voted to ensure that the values of my constituents are more fully reflected in this budget that passed with Democratic input." ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=cf0c779e-62dd-496d-9b70-186a9b50ace8 | ICYMI: Rubio: Congress Must Enable The President To Stop The Islamic State | 2014-12-12 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Congress must enable the president to stop the Islamic State By Senator Marco Rubio The Washington Post December 12, 2014 http://wapo.st/1shIl8w It is clear that our efforts to defeat the Islamic State have been inadequate. Half-measures will not work against a growing threat from radical Islamists that are uniting fractured terrorist groups around the world under one banner. Over the past six months, as the Obama administration has continued to develop its strategy for defeating the group, our enemies have not been standing still. The Islamic State now reaches from North Africa through the Middle East, Pakistan and South Asia and into Southeast Asia. Libya, with its absence of government control and its vast stocks of weapons, has become a particularly deadly terrorist haven that is allowing the Islamic State to broaden its map, gain strength and plot attacks against Europe and the United States. This week, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee debated an authorization to use military force against the Islamic State. But instead of giving the president what he needs to win this struggle, many in the Senate seem more focused on telling him what he should not do. They argue that we need to place conditions on the types of force that can be used or impose a timeline by which victory must be achieved. Yet the threat is growing by the day. Beyond the Americans who have already been brutally slaughtered at its members’ hands, the Islamic State is actively developing its ability to target civilians in “lone wolf” attacks in Europe and the United States. Its continued spread across the Middle East is alarming. It is imperative that the United States and our European and Arab partners join together to stop this threat before it advances farther. While the current front lines are in Iraq and Syria, the Islamic State is exploiting vast, ungoverned spaces in Libya and elsewhere in North Africa to conduct training, add to its ranks and unite sympathetic, disparate terrorist groups under its… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=f1647b19-f22a-4c79-8452-4bad72e1e528 | MEDIA ADVISORY: Rubios Office To Host Mobile Office Hours | 2014-12-12 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – The office of U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) today released a list of upcoming Mobile Office Hours throughout Florida. Each week, Rubio’s staff offers a variety of constituent services, assisting people with a wide range of issues, including problems with Social Security, Medicare, Veterans Affairs, and more. Rubio’s office recently published a “Constituent Service Report” highlighting the types of cases it has helped resolve. A list of upcoming Mobile Office Hours is below: Monday, December 15, 2014 Collier County 12:00pm – 1:00pm Everglades City Hall 102 Broadway Avenue East Everglades City, FL 34139 Wakulla County 1:30pm – 3:00pm Sopchoppy City Hall 105 Municipal Avenue Sopchoppy, FL 32358 Tuesday, December 16, 2014 Miami-Dade County 9:00am – 11:00am Stephen P. Clark Government Center 111 NW 1st Street Miami, FL 33128 *Representatives from USCIS and the General Consulate of Mexico will be available to meet with constituents. Wednesday, December 17, 2014 Orange County 10:00am – 12:00pm Renaissance Senior Community Center Orange County Parks & Recreation 3800 S. Econlockhatchee Trail Orlando, FL 32829 Volusia County 10:00am – 2:00pm City of Daytona Beach City Hall Lobby 301 S. Ridgewood Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Duval County 2:00pm – 4:00pm Five STAR Veterans Center 40 Acme Street Jacksonville, FL 32211 Osceola County 4:00pm – 7:00pm Poinciana Community Center 395 Marigold Ave. Kissimmee, FL 34759 Thursday, December 18, 2014 Lee County 10:00am – 11:00am Lehigh Acres Chamber of Commerce 25 Homestead Road North Lehigh Acres, FL 33936 Hendry County 11:30am – 12:30pm LaBelle City Hall 481 W. Hickpochee Avenue LaBella, FL 33935 Miami-Dade County 12:00pm – 2:00pm Miami-Dade Public Library West Flagler Branch 5050 West Flagler Street Miami, FL 33134 *Representatives from SSA and U… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397824 | U.S. Rep. Castor's statement on the House Republican Spending Bill | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Kathy Castor | C001066 | castor.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Castor's statement on the House Republican Spending Bill f t # e Washington, December 11, 2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL) issued the following statement regarding the House Republican Spending Bill: share: f t Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL) issued the following statement regarding the House Republican Spending Bill: “Buried in the 1,600 pages of the House Republican spending bill is a provision that would put American taxpayers back on the hook for the risky behavior of Wall Street. The provision would repeal an important section of the Wall Street Reform law entitled, ‘PROHIBITION AGAINST FEDERAL GOVERNMENT BAILOUTS OF SWAPS ENTITIES.’ This special interest power grab at the end of the dysfunctional 113th Congress does not meet the smell test and puts America squarely in the same spot that led to the meltdown of America’s economy. Instead, I sided with American middle-class families, small businesses and all those who do not want to put America’s economy and its recovery at risk.” f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://dennisross.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398231 | Ross Statement on the Passage of Omnibus | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Dennis Ross | R000593 | dennisross.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. --U.S. Rep. Dennis A. Ross (R-FL-15), Senior Deputy Majority Whip and member of the House Committee on Financial Services, today released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 83, the Consideration and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015. “As promised, my colleagues and I fulfilled our Constitutional duty by passing a budget and not allowing a government shutdown this year. This bill reflects conservative priorities with the lowest discretionary spending levels in nearly a decade. The result is an overall decrease of $176 billion in discretionary spending since FY 2010. When I ran for office, I made a promise I would cut spending. Among other priorities, it was vital we allow the continuation of funding to our troops. Also, the omnibus only funds the Department of Homeland Security until February 27, 2015. This will provide Republicans the best opportunity to challenge President Obama’s executive order on immigration when we have a majority in both the House and the Senate. I welcome this fight to hold the president accountable, not only to the laws of our land, but also to the American people. “This package also includes provisions that will hold agencies accountable by putting the brakes on harmful federal regulations. It will also prioritize funding for important programs that will strengthen American innovation, bolster job creation, and allow our businesses to thrive. “This legislation is crucial to our State’s agricultural industries. It provides an additional $4.5 million to combat citrus greening – which is decimating the Florida citrus industry. It also includes a restriction on the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration from implementing regulations harmful to the livestock and poultry industry. This is important because Florida is home to four of the ten largest beef cow-calf operations in the U.S. In addition, there is language amending a Dodd-Frank requirement that will protect farmers from having to put down excessive collateral to get a l… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mariodiazbalart.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/fy15-appropriations-cuts-wasteful-irs-spending-to-prioritize-everglades | FY15 Appropriations Cuts Wasteful IRS Spending to Prioritize Everglades Restoration, Support for Veterans and Troops | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON —Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) released the following statement after the passage of H.R. 83, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act. “The legislation passed today continues House Republicans commitment to reign in wasteful spending and provides strong oversight over federal agencies. Washington’s out of control spending needs to be addressed, and this legislation does just that. By reducing wasteful spending on programs and agencies like the problematic IRS we are able to fund the areas of government that matter most – like helping our veterans, combating citrus greening, and continuing the much needed restoration of the Everglades. “I want to commend the full committee chairman, Mr. Rogers, and the subcommittee chairs and their staffs for their tireless work and commitment to finalizing this legislation.” Congressman Diaz-Balart, member of the House Appropriations Committee and Vice Chair of its Subcommittee on Financial Services, was successful in getting the following items included in the Appropriations Package: Slashes funding for the problem-ridden IRS by $345.6 million to prohibit waste and abuse like expensive conferences, inappropriate videos, or political targeting of groups $3.1 billion to keep our commitment to Israel Includes additional funding for democracy promotion in Venezuela, Nicaragua, Bolivia, and Ecuador Provides an additional $4.5 million for the Citrus Health Response Program to help address the damaging effects of citrus greening disease Funding for the ongoing South Florida Everglades restoration, including $65.5 million for construction projects and $19.5 million for operation and maintenance $75 million for continued improvements to the aging Herbert Hoover Dike $30 million towards spinal cord injury (SCI) research for competitive grant funding for institutions such as The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://posey.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394151 | Posey: Omnibus Bill Product of Broken Budget Process | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Bill Posey | P000599 | posey.house.gov | legacy | Posey: Omnibus Bill Product of Broken Budget Process Washington, December 11, 2014 - Congressman Bill Posey (R-Rockledge) released the following statement concerning todayâs vote on H.R. 83, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015: âWashington needs to get serious real fast about fixing our broken budget process,â said Congressman Posey. âLast week our national debt climbed past $18 trillion dollars, a major milestone that went virtually unnoticed and under-reported by the major media. âEvery year the Administration has submitted its budget late â almost two months beyond the legal deadline. And every year for the past four years the House has passed a budget plan with a pathway to balance along with appropriations bills while the Senate has refused to act. So once again we are stuck here at the eleventh hour rushing to pass another âtoo big to readâ spending bill to keep the federal government funded. This is an irresponsible way to manage our nationâs finances and my hope is that the new Congress will return Washington to better fiscal ways. âAdditionally, the omnibus bill makes no attempt to address the Presidentâs unilateral and unconstitutional action to grant amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants. Congress should not fund the Presidentâs efforts to circumvent Congress and rewrite the law. I strongly believe that the first step in reforming our immigration system is to secure our borders and achieve operational control over them as called for by the 9-11 Commission. Anything else will continue to bring chaos to our borders and jeopardize the security of our nation.â | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://yoho.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-yoho-votes-to-keep-discretionary-spending-at-lowest-level-since-2005 | Rep. Yoho Votes To Keep Discretionary Spending at Lowest Level Since 2007 | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Ted S. Yoho (R-FL-03) voted in favor of H.R. 83 — Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015. The bipartisan/bicameral year-end funding agreement provides full appropriations for Fiscal Year 2015 for 11 of the 12 regular appropriations bills. The agreement keeps discretionary spending at the lowest level since 2007 and puts the country on a path to save taxpayers $2.1 trillion over the next 10 years. Funding for the Department of Homeland Security is limited until February 27, 2015, when the President’s executive order will go into effect. Congressman Yoho gave the following statement after the vote: “When I was elected, I told my constituents that I would vote not on what was politically popular, but on principle. The bill today is far from perfect. But as with any large spending bill, there are things that you want to fund and there are things that you don’t. Funding our troops, veterans’ services, social security, and ensuring economic stability for our small businesses is the right thing to do. “I do not agree with the President’s Executive Order, which is why I introduced – and the House passed – legislation to stop it. I also joined my colleagues in offering an amendment to this spending bill that would guarantee that no funds could be used for his illegal amnesty. I’m disappointed that the amendment was not accepted, but I’m happy that the bill only temporarily funds the Department of Homeland Security until February 27, 2015, when the President’s executive order will go into effect. This will enable us to add the proper limits when we have control of the Senate in January. Additionally, this legislation contains no new funding for Obamacare. For President Obama to have to sign that into law is a win in itself. “The House passed 11 of the 12 appropriations bills out of their respective committees and sent 7 of them to the Senate for a vote. The situation today is entirely a product of Harry Reid’s do-nothing-Senate. Tonight’s vote made sure all the hard … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/participants-announced-bilirakis-hosts-conversation-about-mental | PARTICIPANTS ANNOUNCED: Bilirakis Hosts Conversation about Mental Health/Substance Abuse Issues, Featuring Special Guest Rep. Tim Murphy | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Gus Bilirakis | B001257 | bilirakis.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), member of the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, is honored to host a conversation about Mental Health and Substance Abuse issues, featuring Representative Tim Murphy, clinical psychologist and author of the bipartisan H.R. 3717, Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act. The goal of this event is to facilitate dialogue among health care professionals, policymakers, and family members of those struggling with these problems. We will discuss the needs that exist within our community, and the steps that can be taken to improve access to quality treatments. Our solution-oriented discussion will focus on how to fix a broken system and ensure better outcomes. One important aspect of this conversation are the treatment options available to our nation's Veterans as they grapple with Post Traumatic Stress and other invisible wounds. One size does not fit all, especially when it comes to an issue as sensitive as mental health, Bilirakis said. I am honored to have Representative Murphy joining me he is the undisputed leader in Congress on this issue. The good work he is doing will undoubtedly offer substantial improvements in the way this important issue is viewed and the treatment options available to those with mental illness. I thank Representative Bilirakis for taking up this legislative cause and for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with me to help those who, for far too long, have been in the shadows of ignorance and despair. We will continue working to bring them into that bright light of hope, and it starts with the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, Representative Murphy said. The event is open to the public and the media. When:December 16, 2014, starting at 1:00 pm Where:Rasmussen College, 18600 Fernview St. Land O' Lakes, FL 34638, Rooms 102 and 103. Participants The Honorable Chris Nocco, Pasco County Sheriff The Honorable Bob Dillinger, Public Defender, Pasco/Pinellas Judicial Circuit Nancy Hamilton, CEO of Operation PAR Doug Leonardo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=251 | Frankel Calls on Congress to Debate ISIL Mission | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Lois Frankel | F000462 | frankel.house.gov | legacy | Frankel Calls on Congress to Debate ISIL Mission f t # e Washington, DC, December 11, 2014 strongCongresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-22) called on the House to debate the mission against ISIL. The following remarks are as prepared for delivery and to watch Frankel's speech on the House floor click here. Mr. Speaker, on August 8th we went to war with ISIL. Since that day we have launched over 1,700 airstrikes. We have put thousands of our men and women in harm's way. We have committed BILLIONS of dollars. And the President has said this effort will take YEARS. Many of my colleagues and I have waited patiently for Congress to deliberate on the authorization of this military force. And yet, all these months later we have still not had a single debate. We recessed in the summer without debate. We passed a defense bill last week without debate. And now, once again, we are leaving town without debate. Mr. Speaker, it is the duty of Congress to make determinations of war and peace. And we have shamefully ducked this responsibility. America deserves better. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=252 | Frankel Opposes CRomnibus | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Lois Frankel | F000462 | frankel.house.gov | legacy | Frankel Opposes CRomnibus f t # e Washington, DC, December 11, 2014 Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-22) today voted against a spending bill that allows the return of risky financial activity that led to the country's recent economic recession. This spending bill puts hard working taxpayers on the hook for Wall Street's riskiest behavior, said Congresswoman Frankel. Big bank gambling caused Americans to lose their homes, their jobs, and retirement funds." The $1.01 trillion omnibus spending bill repeals a critical provision of the DoddFrank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act that prohibited financial institutions from engaging in derivatives trading that allowed banks to push out risky trades to institutions not covered by insurance. That practice was a precursor to the collapse of the housing market, crushing Florida's homeowners and economy. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4579b7f1-e991-4d01-9ea2-489c569b6d9f | MEDIA ADVISORY: Rubios Office To Host Veterans Resource Expo At FIU | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Tomorrow, December 12, the office of U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will host a Veterans Resource Expo at Florida International University (FIU) in Miami. Rubio’s staff has partnered with State Representative Michael Bileca and Miami-Dade County Commissioners Esteban Bovo, Jr. and Jose “Pepé” Diaz for the event. Over 50 federal, state and local agencies will be on site to offer assistance to veterans and their families in areas such as education, financial services, housing, and legal services, among others. Last week, Rubio’s staff hosted Veterans Resource Expos in Tampa and Orlando. Watch coverage from Orlando’s News 13 here. Media wishing to attend the following events must RSVP to Brooke_Sammon@rubio.senate.gov. Friday, December 12, 2014 9:00am – 4:00pm EST Rubio’s Office To Host Veterans Resource Expo Florida International University - Stadium Club 11200 SW 8 Street Miami, Florida 33199 NOTE: Due to Senate votes, Rubio will be unable to attend the event. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=5176fe19-948e-4d2b-9c01-a39d37551f08 | Rubio Comments On National Defense Authorization Act | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) issued the following statement regarding today’s votes on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Once again the Senate was asked to vote on a conference report and final National Defense Authorization Act that was never considered by the full Senate. It is inexcusable that Senator Harry Reid and the Democratic leadership prohibits the Senate from having any input on the annual National Defense Authorization Act, which authorizes funding for our troops and Pentagon operations and is one of the most important pieces of legislation Congress considers each year. “Senate Democrats refused to consider amendments that I offered to increase base pay for our servicemen and women, to direct lethal aid to Ukraine, to encourage greater utilization of modeling and simulation technology for training efficiencies and to study ways to improve the eastern range complex at Cape Canaveral. I will fight to pass all these important measures when Republicans take over the Senate in January. “While this legislation could be vastly improved, I supported final passage because it provides the Department of Defense the authorizations needed to continue the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL) and other critical national security and military spending. This bill also contains important reforms to combat sexual assault in the military, an issue that requires our continued vigilance. It would be an understatement to say this take-it-or-leave-it bill is far from perfect, and the way in which it was handled is truly outrageous. Our men and women in uniform deserve better from congressional leaders, and I hope a new Congress means this is the last time something as important as the funding of our troops and security of our nation is developed in this manner.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=51e7c955-5ac2-4526-b529-05d6ad1d4ee8 | ICYMI: Miami Herald: Rubio Welcomes End Of Baseless U.S. Department Of Education Investigation Into Florida Bright Futures Scholarship | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Feds: Florida scholarship program does not violate anti-discrimination laws By Kathleen McGrory The Miami Herald December 11, 2014 http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/education/article4430296.html Florida did not violate anti-discrimination laws by using standardized test scores to award Bright Futures scholarships, the U.S. Department of Education has found. The department’s Office for Civil Rights had been investigating the Bright Futures program, which awards college scholarships based on grade point average and SAT or ACT scores. The probe was based on allegations that the eligibility criteria had the effect of discriminating against Hispanic and African-American students. But federal authorities found “insufficient evidence of a legal violation” and concluded the investigation Wednesday, according to a memo addressed to Florida Education Commissioner Pam Stewart and obtained by the Herald/Times. U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican who opposed the probe, said he was glad federal authorities had ended the “baseless investigation.” “The Bright Futures program has helped thousands of Florida’s top students finance their college educations and given them the foundation for successful careers,” Rubio said in a statement. … Dropping the requirement and funding scholarships for all eligible students would cost Florida too much money, federal authorities wrote in the report. And dropping the requirement and increasing other academic eligibility requirement, such as the minimum GPA, might also eliminate significant portions of black and Hispanic students. Responding to Wednesday’s report, Rubio, a former speaker of the Florida House, stressed that every decision about Bright Futures had been made “entirely on setting priorities in the face of budgetary constraints, not with any regard to race or with any intent to include or exclude students of any particular background as this federal investigation suggested.” Rubio said he hoped future decisions … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=bdb2bde8-bfcc-4afd-8f23-7018718864a9 | Rubio Opposes Nominee To Be Deputy Secretary Of State For Failure To Answer Key Questions About Cuba Policy | 2014-12-11 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today announced his opposition to President Obama’s nomination of Antony Blinken to be deputy secretary of state. During Blinken’s confirmation hearing in November, Rubio questioned Blinken about any future unilateral changes to U.S.-Cuba policy absent democratic reforms, as required by law, on the oppressed island nation. When given several opportunities – during the hearing and in follow-up written testimony – to categorically rule out the possibility of unilateral changes to Cuba policy, Blinken demurred. In making this announcement, Rubio issued the following statement: “As I said after Mr. Blinken’s confirmation hearing, I am very concerned that President Obama’s nominee to be John Kerry’s deputy at the Department of State passed up several opportunities to categorically rule out the possibility of unilateral changes to U.S. policy towards Cuba. Unless Cuba begins an irreversible democratic transformation, the U.S. should not reward the Castro regime with unilateral concessions from us that enrich the regime and help it repress millions of Cubans. “One can disagree with U.S. policy with respect to Cuba and believe that our laws must be changed, but if you’re going to serve at the U.S. Department of State, especially in such a high ranking leadership position, you must faithfully execute existing laws. Mr. Blinken has been afforded numerous opportunities to make clear that he will abide by U.S.-Cuba policy that has been codified into law, and he declined to do so each time. “Unless Mr. Blinken makes such assurances that he will faithfully execute the laws that currently exist with respect to U.S.-Cuba policy, I will continue to oppose his nomination.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398349 | Hastings Introduces African Descent Affairs Act on Occasion of UN Human Rights Day | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) introduced the African Descent Affairs Act on the occasion of the United Nations’ Human Rights Day and beginning of the International Decade for People of African Descent (Legislation Attached): “The Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948 was a clarion call to the world that inspired, and continues to inspire, all of us to work together in order to establish and maintain an international standard of human rights. On the occasion of the United Nations’ Human Rights Day, I am proud to recognize the beginning of the International Decade for People of African Descent by introducing the African Descent Affairs Act. “The International Decade provides an opportunity to join efforts with countries around the globe to, over the next 10 years, develop and implement national strategies honoring the vast contributions of people of African Descent and to combat continuing issues of prejudice and discrimination such as those currently gripping our nation. My legislation seeks to improve the situation of people of African descent around the world by establishing within our State Department a Global Office of African Descent Affairs in order to establish global foreign policy and assistance strategies for people of African descent. Furthermore, it creates a fund to support anti-discrimination and empowerment efforts by African descent-led civil society organizations, and requires annual State Department human rights reports to include a section on discrimination faced by people of African descent. “As we reflect on the progress made in the promotion of human rights around the globe, we are also reminded of the work that remains to be done to ensure that fundamental rights and freedoms are protected both at home and abroad. It is my strong belief that the United States must continue to demonstrate leadership in the advancement of human rights. In doing so, we must also be honest with ourselves and acknowledge the ongoing challenges we face as a nation in upholding the human r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-votes-prevent-veteran-suicides | Buchanan Votes to Prevent Veteran Suicides | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Vern Buchanan | B001260 | buchanan.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-FL, last night supported bipartisan legislation to help combat veteran suicide in the United States a serious epidemic responsible for one out of every four suicides in the state of Florida. The measure passed the House and now goes to the Senate for consideration. The Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act (H.R. 5059) was named in honor of Marine Cpl. Clay Hunt, a veteran who fell victim to suicide while awaiting PTSD treatment from the VA. Clay was a Purple Heart recipient who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Clays story details the urgency needed in addressing this issue, Clays mother recently said in testimony before Congress. Not one more veteran should have to go through what Clay went through with the VA after returning home from war. Buchanan, who represents more than 66,000 veterans in Southwest Florida, said passage of the House bill is a critical first step toward reversing an epidemic that has been ignored for far too long. The growing prevalence of veteran suicide is a tragedy that must be stopped, said Buchanan, noting that 22 veterans commit suicide every day in the U.S. Every soldier returning from battle deserves access to the best mental health services our nation has to offer. Specifically, the bill would improve the VAs suicide-prevention efforts by: - Increasing veterans access to mental health services by creating active duty transition networks that offer community oriented peer support and outreach - Requiring annual third-party evaluation of mental health care programs provided by the VA and Department of Defense - Providing readily available, regularly updated information on the VAs mental health care services to veterans online - Boosting recruitment of qualified doctors to treat veterans by offering repayment of loan debt for potential VA psychiatrists Buchanan served six years in the Air National Guard and four years on the House Veterans Affairs Committee. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mariodiazbalart.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-congress-reaffirms-solidarity-with-people-of-venezuela | Diaz-Balart: Congress Reaffirms Solidarity with People of Venezuela | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON— Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) released the following statement after the House unanimously passed S. 2142, the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014. The bill passed in the Senate earlier this week, is on its way to the President’s desk. “The Venezuelan people continue to suffer through the escalating repression and rampant corruption of the Chavez-Maduro regime. As students and other activists peacefully protest against oppressive acts, food shortages, soaring crime rates, more than 4,000 people have been arrested, 1,000 injured, and dozens killed. The Maduro regime has attempted to silence courageous democracy leaders like the imprisoned opposition leader Leopoldo López and María Corina Machado, who was stripped of her elected position and intimidated with bogus charges. “The House voted in favor of supporting the Venezuelan people earlier this year with passage of H.R. 4587. Tonight, it continues to show solidarity by again voting in favor of strong sanctions and support of the Venezuelan people. Passage of S. 2142 reveals strong bicameral and bipartisan support for the democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people, and is a powerful condemnation of the Maduro regime’s oppression. I thank Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen and Senators Rubio and Menendez for their leadership and unwavering dedication to human rights and democracy in our hemisphere. I urge President Obama to join in solidarity with the people of Venezuela by signing this critically important legislation.” On May 28, 2014, the House unanimously passed H.R. 4587, the Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection Act, authored by Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen and sponsored by Congressman Diaz-Balart. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/aviso-de-prensa-venezuela-defense-human-rights-and-civil-society-act-ser%C3%A1-debatido-y | AVISO DE PRENSA: Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act Ser Debatido y Considerado en el Pleno de la Cmara de Representantes HOY, 10 de diciembre a las 6pm | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | AVISO DE PRENSA: Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act Será Debatido y Considerado en el Pleno de la Cámara de Representantes HOY, 10 de diciembre a las 6pm (Washington, DC) – La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Presidenta del Subcomité del Medio Oriente y África del Norte, dio a conocer el siguiente aviso de prensa sobre el debate y consideración de S. 2142 – the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014 en la Cámara de Representantes. QUIEN: La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Presidenta del Subcomité del Medio Oriente y África del Norte, y otros miembros del Congreso QUE: Debate y consideración de S. 2142 – the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014 en la Cámara de Representantes CUANDO: Miércoles, 10 de diciembre a aproximadamente a las 6pm (por favor esté al tanto de C-SPAN hasta una hora antes del planificado debate y consideración debido a cambios en los horarios de la Cámara) NOTA: Nota: La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen es autora del H.R. 4587- the Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection Act, que sanciona a funcionarios del régimen de Nicolás Maduro responsables por cometer abusos a los derechos humanos. Esa legislación fue aprobada por la Cámara de Representantes por consenso unánime el 28 de Mayo de 2014. Los Senadores Bob Menéndez y Marco Rubio fueron los autores del S. 2142 que fue aprobado el lunes 8 de diciembre. Para ver el horario del pleno de la Camara de Representantes, por favor haga clic aquí. ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/congress-approves-legislation-sanction-human-rights-violators-venezuela | Congress Approves Legislation to Sanction Human Rights Violators in Venezuela | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Congress Approves Legislation to Sanction Human Rights Violators in Venezuela “It is fitting and appropriate that today, international human rights day, the House of Representatives sends President Obama this important legislation that sanctions officials of the Venezuelan regime accused of committing human rights abuse” (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement after the passage of S. 2142 – the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “It is fitting and appropriate that today, International Human Rights Day, the House of Representatives sends to President Obama this important legislation that sanctions officials of the Venezuelan regime accused of committing human rights abuses. I’d like to thank Senators Menendez and Rubio for working with me to garner Congressional approval for legislation that seeks to deny visas of human right violators, freeze their assets and block their properties in the United States. Congress has acted in a unified and bipartisan manner to send a clear and unequivocal message that the we will not continue tolerate impunity of violations of human rights in Venezuela and we support the calls of democracy and freedom by the people of Venezuela. I call on President Obama and the State Department to vigorously enforce the sanctions against Venezuelan officials swiftly.” NOTE: Chairman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen is the author of H.R. 4587 – the Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection. The bill passed the House of Representatives on May 28, 2014. Senators Bob Menendez and Marco Rubio were the Senate authors of S. 2142, which passed Monday December 8th. ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/congress-delivers-condemnation-hamas%E2%80%99-despicable-use-human-shields-stand-united | Congress Delivers Condemnation of Hamas Despicable Use of Human Shields, Stand United in Support of Israels Right to Defend Itself With Passage of Ros-Lehtinen, Deutch Resolution | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Congress Delivers Condemnation of Hamas’ Despicable Use of Human Shields, Stand United in Support of Israel’s Right to Defend Itself With Passage of Ros-Lehtinen, Deutch Resolution Dec 10, 2014 Congress Delivers Condemnation of Hamas’ Despicable Use of Human Shields, Stand United in Support of Israel’s Right to Defend Itself With Passage of Ros-Lehtinen, Deutch Resolution (WASHINGTON) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, and Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL), Ranking Member of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement today upon the passage by Congress of their H.Con.Res. 107 - Denouncing the use of civilians as human shields by Hamas and other terrorist organizations in violation of international humanitarian law. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen and Deutch: “Today, the United States Congress stood resolved in condemnation of the despicable actions of the terrorist group, Hamas, and its use of children, women and men as human shields. While Israel went to extraordinary lengths this summer in Gaza to protect innocent civilian lives, Hamas placed the Palestinian people directly in harm’s way by using them as human shields and placing its rockets near densely populated areas and near schools, hospitals and mosques. We cannot allow the false moral equivalency between Israel and Hamas to be used by those who seek to delegitimize Israel. It is time for other responsible nations to join the U.S. in condemning Hamas’ terror and urging the Palestinian leadership to get serious about negotiating peace with Israel.” ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/el-congreso-aprueba-legislaci%C3%B3n-sancionando-violadores-de-derechos-humanos-en | El Congreso Aprueba Legislacin Sancionando a Violadores de Derechos Humanos en Venezuela | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | El Congreso Aprueba Legislación Sancionando a Violadores de Derechos Humanos en Venezuela “Es oportuno y apropiado que hoy, Día Internacional de los Derechos Humanos la Cámara de Representantes envíe al Presidente Obama esta importante legislación que sanciona a funcionarios del régimen venezolano acusados de cometer abusos a los derechos humanos.” (WASHINGTON) – La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Presidenta del Subcomité del Medio Oriente y África del Norte, hizo la siguiente declaración referente a la aprobación del Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act en la Cámara de Representantes. Destacó Ros-Lehtinen: “Es oportuno y apropiado que hoy, Día Internacional de los Derechos Humanos, la Cámara de Representantes envíe al Presidente Obama esta importante legislación que sanciona a funcionarios del régimen venezolano acusados de cometer abusos a los derechos humanos. Me gustaría agradecer a los Senadores Menéndez y Rubio por trabajar conmigo para conseguir apoyo Congresional para la legislación que busca negar visas a los violadores de derechos humanos, congelar sus bienes y bloquear sus propiedades en los Estados Unidos. El Congreso ha actuado de manera unificada y bipartidista para enviar un mensaje inequívoco de que no continuaremos tolerando la impunidad en violaciones de los derechos humanos en Venezuela y que apoyaremos los llamados de democracia y libertad por el pueblo de Venezuela. Urjo al Presidente Obama y al Departamento de Estado a cumplir vigorosamente y con rapidez las sanciones contra los funcionarios Venezolanos” Nota: La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen es la autora del proyecto de ley H.R. 4587, Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection Act, que fue aprobado por la Cámara de Representantes el 28 de Mayo de 2014. Los Senadores Bob Menéndez y Marco Rubio fueron los autores del S. 2142 que fue aprobado el lunes 8 de diciembre. ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/press-advisory-venezuela-defense-human-rights-and-civil-society-act-be-debated-and | PRESS ADVISORY: Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act To Be Debated and Voted on By House of Representatives at 6pm TODAY, December 10 | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | PRESS ADVISORY: Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act To Be Debated and Brought to the Floor for Consideration By House of Representatives at 6pm TODAY, December 10 (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, issued the following advisory regarding the planned debate and consideration of S. 2142 – the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014 in the House of Representatives. WHO: Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, and other Members of Congress WHAT: Debate and Consideration of S. 2142 – the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014 in the U.S. House of Representatives WHEN: Wednesday, December 10, 2014 at approximately 6pm (please stay tuned to C-SPAN up to an hour before the planned debate and consideration due to shifting schedules in the House) NOTE: Chairman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen is the author of H.R. 4587 – the Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection Act, which sanctions officials in the regime of Nicolas Maduro who are responsible for committing human rights violations. The bill passed the House of Representatives by unanimous consent on May 28, 2014. Senators Bob Menendez and Marco Rubio were the Senate authors of S. 2142, which passed on Monday, December 8, 2014. To view the House of Representatives Floor Schedule, please click here. ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/stakes-are-even-higher-afghanistan-iraq-we-cannot-allow-taliban-reestablish-terrorist | Stakes are Even Higher in Afghanistan than Iraq; We Cannot Allow Taliban to Reestablish a Terrorist Safe Haven in Afghanistan, Says Ros-Lehtinen | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Stakes are Even Higher in Afghanistan than Iraq; We Cannot Allow Taliban to Reestablish a Terrorist Safe Haven in Afghanistan, Says Ros-Lehtinen (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement at a joint subcommittee hearing entitled “After the Withdrawal: The Way Forward in Afghanistan and Pakistan (Part III).” Statement by Ros-Lehtinen (as prepared for delivery): “This is the third and final hearing this session in a series of hearings these two subcommittees have had aimed at examining the way forward in Afghanistan and Pakistan after the US withdrawal. In addition, the Middle East and North Africa subcommittee has held hearings on how our counternarcotics efforts will be impacted by the withdrawal, and on our relief and reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan and what needs to be done to address the waste, fraud and abuse that the Special Investigator General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) and the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) have found over the years. As of Monday, the U.S. and NATO coalition has officially closed their Afghanistan combat command and we have transitioned from a military to a civilian led presence. A maximum 10,800 U.S. troops will remain in Afghanistan for the first three months of 2015, with that number dropping to 5,500 by the end of next year and down to just a few hundred by the end of 2016. But we must ponder: has the Administration made the decision to withdraw from Afghanistan by the end of 2016 based on a political decision or a strategic decision; and are we leaving the security of Afghanistan and our own national interests in the hands of a capable and trustworthy government and security forces? As we take a back seat to the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) and leave in its hands the fate of Afghanistan’s security, we have many reasons for concern. This past year, with the ANSF taking the lead and conducting many of its own operations, we witnessed the bloodie… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398352 | PRESS RELEASE: Deutch Leads Fight Against Massive Erosion of Campaign Finance Limits Included in Omnibus Bill | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Reps. Ted Deutch (FL-21), Alcee L. Hastings (FL-20), Donna Edwards (MD-4), Jim McGovern (MA-2), Jared Polis (CO-2), and John Sarbanes (MD-3) have submitted an amendment to the House Rules Committee striking language included in the Omnibus Appropriations bill that drastically increases how much money America’s wealthiest donors can give to political party committees. If Division N, Section 101 of H.R. 83 were to become law, a single individual could donate over $777,000 a year or $1.5 million per federal election cycle to the three Democratic and Republican party committees, directly undermining the McCain-Feingold reforms passed by Congress in the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002. “It is downright appalling that congressional negotiators, without public debate or even fair warning, tucked language into the Omnibus Appropriations bill that gives more influence to wealthy donors and special interests who have more than plenty already,” said Congressman Deutch. “Americans overwhelmingly want their leaders to fight efforts to gut laws limiting the influence of big money in politics. They do not want Congress to be complicit in the dismantling of our campaign finance system.” “I find it unconscionable that House Republicans have sought to bury this incredibly damaging provision among a 1,600 page spending bill. We must limit the power of wealthy political donors and special interests in our elections, not render ineffective laws that were rightfully enacted to place checks on their influence,” said Congressman Alcee Hastings. “Almost $4 billion was spent on the 2014 midterms, making them the most expensive in our nation’s history,” said Congresswoman Donna Edwards. “Now, under a deadline to keep the federal government open and at a time when our political system is already overwhelmed by outside money, we cannot allow even more access for the superrich at the expense of working families. I urge the Rules Committee and colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this amendment and join the overwhelm… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=250 | Frankel and Deutch Congratulate Congressional Gold Medal Recipient from Boca Raton | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Lois Frankel | F000462 | frankel.house.gov | legacy | strongRepresentatives Lois Frankel (FL-22) and Ted Deutch (FL-21) today congratulated WWII Veteran Col. Buddy Harris of Boca Raton on receiving the Congressional Gold Medal. Col. Harris was one of the founding members of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. It is with pride that we honor Col. Harris for his outstanding service and dedication to our country, said Congresswoman Frankel. The Civil Air Patrol helped our country in a time of great need and they served with unwavering dedication. It was a great honor to meet Col. Harris today and join all of my colleagues in Congress in recognizing the service and sacrifice of the men and women who volunteered as members of the Civil Air Patrol, said Congressman Deutch. Volunteering to serve at their own peril, the Civil Air Patrol saved countless American lives and bravely defended our nation. In 1942, at the age of 15, Col. Harris joined the volunteer service, along with over 120,000 others, in order to support the military effort and keep our nation secure. He and his fellow members of the Civil Air Patrol defended our coastlines, provided combat services, and flew dangerous humanitarian missions often in their own planes. Col. Harris remains an active member of the Civil Air Patrol, on call for a search-and-rescue mission should the need arise. He also volunteers at Boca Helping Hands, where he leads computer training for the food pantry and soup kitchen's job-training program. In May, Congress passed legislation to award the founding members of the CAP a Congressional Gold Medal for their valiant service during WWII. Frankel and Deutch were cosponsors of this legislation. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor our nation can bestow. It is awarded as a national expression of gratitude to men and women who perform outstanding acts of service that advance the security, prosperity, and national interest of the United States of America. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=858 | Wasserman Schultz Statement in Support of Venezuela Sanctions Bill | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | legacy | Through our action here today, we signify the determination of the American people to stand for freedom and democracy and this bill reinforces the sentiments and actions of the U.S. Congress and the Obama Administration. Along with my colleagues, I stand in solidarity with those brave Venezuelans continuing to advocate for their rights. I look forward to this measure's passage, and working with the Obama Administration and our allies to hold these perpetrators of injustice accountable for their crimes. share: f t U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) delivered the following statement on the House floor this evening in support of the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014. The bill has now passed both the House and the Senate: Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014. As a representative of one of the largest communities of Venezuelans and Venezuelan Americans in the United States, I am proud to speak out against the continued, unconscionable abuses of the Maduro government against innocent citizens. Earlier this year, facing a repressive government and crushing economic conditions, thousands of Venezuelans peacefully protested to demand their basic human rights and dignity. In response, President Maduro and his security forces brutally suppressed their own citizens in the streets and used the judiciary to squash voices championing freedom of expression and democracy. Although President Maduro has tried to further silence these voices by limiting media coverage of the ongoing repression and terrible economic conditions of his country, we can still hear the demands for justice and for dignity. This bill would impose sanctions on those individuals in Maduro's regime who have ordered the arrest or prosecution of anyone exercising their right to peacefully assemble or protest, or those who supported those actions. Through our action here today, we signify the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/fighting-for-florida?ContentRecord_id=7730e629-9a20-4d9c-b6b9-6d74f048d4b4 | Commemorating International Human Rights Day | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Today we commemorate International Human Rights Day. It’s a day to be thankful for our God-given rights but also to remember that there are millions of people around the world who are denied their most basic human rights every day. This includes Saeed Abedini, an Iranian-American pastor who has been imprisoned in Iran since September 2012 for being a Christian. Unfortunately the story of Pastor Abedini is an all too common occurrence around the world where governments frequently harass and unjustly imprison foreign nationals as well as their own citizens for their religious beliefs. One of the most egregious violations of human rights occurring across the globe and even in my home state of Florida is human trafficking. Just this past week, 61 people were charged with human trafficking in a sting operation in Polk County. I applaud the work of law enforcement that caught these perpetrators of modern day slavery and pray for the victims of this horrendous crime. We, however, must remain vigilant and continue to work to combat this terrible crime which plagues our society. Today we honor Saeed Abedini, and all other prisoners of consciences who are struggling to exercise their human rights, as well as the millions of people who are trapped in modern day slavery. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=04578079-7586-42d3-b770-a84a14edfa2f | Rubio Comments On Obamacare Bailout Provisions | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), the original sponsor of S.2214, the Obamacare Taxpayer Bailout Protection Act, today issued the following statement regarding the Obamacare bailout provisions in the omnibus spending bill released last night: “For over a year, I’ve fought to protect Americans from having to fund massive bailouts to protect the profits of the insurance companies that helped write Obamacare. While there is much in this massive spending measure that is simply bad for America, at least the provisions protecting against a taxpayer-funded bailout of insurance companies are a step in the right direction. While the Obama administration can still administer the risk-corridor program, for one year at least, they won’t be able to use taxpayer funds to bail out insurance companies. When Congress returns next year, I will fight to permanently repeal the risk corridor provisions to protect taxpayers after the current legislation expires.” In October, Rubio and his colleagues sent a letter to Speaker Boehner urging him to protect Congress’ power of the purse and prohibit the Obama administration from dispersing unlawful risk corridor payments that expose taxpayers to an Obamacare bailout. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=68099ab7-8375-4972-a2bf-eb20934032ec | Rubio Comments On Senates Passage Of Coast Guard Reauthorization | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | 2 major Rubio provisions on veterans, small commercial vessels included Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), the Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and the Coast Guard, today welcomed the Senate’s unanimous passage of legislation to reauthorize the U.S. Coast Guard through FY 2015. Among the legislation’s measures are two provisions Rubio championed that would make it easier for veterans to be hired in the maritime industry, as well as a three year exemption for small commercial vessels from unnecessary regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “Florida's maritime industry is a national leader in economic opportunity and job creation, and we need to do all we can to eliminate unnecessary job obstacles that veterans face when transitioning back to civilian careers in this sector,” said Rubio. “Including this pro-veterans policy in this legislation is something that will make a real difference to our returning heroes. “We should also act to make sure small commercial fishing vessels have some relief for the coming year that the EPA won’t crush their businesses with burdensome regulations,” added Rubio. “I remain committed to passing broader legislation that addresses more of the problems the EPA is unnecessarily causing commercial vessel owners, but this at least provides some temporary relief until we can pass a permanent solution next year.” More specifically, the legislation includes a Rubio-championed provision that will streamline the mariner certification process for veterans by allowing for relevant military experience to count towards the certification. It also requires the Cabinet secretary overseeing the Coast Guard to maximize the extent to which U.S. Armed Forces service, training and qualifications are creditable toward meeting internal seafarer standards. On November 19, Rubio introduced legislation to provide one year regulatory relief to small commercial vessels and then worked to succ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=cfd3b620-dea3-4ca7-875e-e9d647813163 | In Video Statements, Rubio Comments After House Passage Of Venezuela Sanctions Bill (English & Espaol) | 2014-12-10 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Bill now awaits President’s signature to become law Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) welcomed today’s passage by the U.S. House of Representatives of S. 2142, The Venezuela Human Rights and Defense of Civil Society Act. Having also passed in the Senate on Monday evening, the bill now awaits the President’s signature to become law. View Rubio’s remarks here in English and here in Spanish. For TV stations interested in airing a broadcast quality version of Rubio’s statements, downloads are available here in English and here in Spanish. For radio stations interested in airing audio, mp3 downloads are available here in English and in Spanish. Rubio issued the following statement: “With these sanctions, we can end the days of Venezuelan regime officials and thugs repressing innocent Venezuelans in their day jobs and then coming to Florida to live in the lap of luxury and splurge Venezuela’s wealth. This is the first step to address human rights violations in Venezuela, and it will be a blow to the hypocrites in Nicolás Maduro’s regime who talk a lot about socialist sacrifice but who themselves are immune from its failures and live in a fantasy world of gold-plated iPads and fancy cars, even though most Venezuelans can’t even find basic necessities like food and toilet paper. “Although passing this sanctions legislation is important, it’s only the first step in our work supporting the human rights and democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people. As Venezuela’s economy and society further deteriorates under the weight of an incompetent, unaccountable and repressive government, failed socialist economic system and dropping oil prices, I believe we are going to see even more repression from Maduro’s regime.” S. 2142 was sponsored by Rubio and Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Menendez (D-NJ). The House effort to pass Venezuela sanctions legislation was led by Representatives Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Mario Diaz-Balart. S. 2142 directs the Pr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/c%C3%A1mara-de-representantes-votar%C3%A1-el-venezuela-defense-human-rights-and-civil-society | Cmara de Representantes Votar el Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act Esta Semana; Ros-Lehtinen Pide Su Aprobacin | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Cámara de Representantes Votará el Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act Esta Semana; Ros-Lehtinen Pide Su Aprobación Dec 9, 2014 Cámara de Representantes Votará el Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act Esta Semana; Ros-Lehtinen Pide Su Aprobación “Me complace ver que la Cámara de Representantes someterá a votación esta semana la legislación del Senado que busca sancionar al régimen de Maduro por sus violaciones de los derechos humanos contra el pueblo de Venezuela” (Washington, DC) – La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) Presidenta del Comité de Medio Oriente y África del Norte hizo las siguientes declaraciones tras conocer que el S 2142 – El Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act será sometido a voto en la Cámara de Representantes esta semana. Destacó Ros-Lehtinen: “Me complace ver que la Cámara de Representantes someterá a votación esta semana la legislación del Senado que busca sancionar al régimen de Maduro por sus violaciones de los derechos humanos contra el pueblo de Venezuela. De aprobarse esta legislación, enviaríamos un mensaje inequívoco que nosotros no permitiremos que las acciones del régimen de Maduro queden impunes y reafirma que el Congreso apoya solidariamente al pueblo de Venezuela. Nota: La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen es autora del H.R. 4587- the Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection Act, que sanciona a funcionarios del régimen de Nicolás Maduro responsables por cometer abusos a los derechos humanos. Esa legislación fue aprobada por la Cámara de Representantes por consenso unánime el 28 de Mayo de 2014. Los Senadores Bob Menéndez y Marco Rubio fueron los autores del S. 2142 que fue aprobado el lunes 8 de diciembre. Por favor, haga click aquí para ver los proyectos de ley considerados bajo suspensión de l… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/house-representatives-vote-venezuela-defense-human-rights-and-civil-society-act-week | House of Representatives to Vote on Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act This Week; Ros-Lehtinen Urges Passage | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | House of Representatives to Vote on Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act This Week; Ros-Lehtinen Urges Passage “I’m pleased that the U.S. House of Representatives will vote on sanctions legislation to punish the Maduro regime for its violations of the Venezuelan people’s human rights.” (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement after learning that S. 2142 – the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014 will come to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives this week. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “I’m pleased that the U.S. House of Representatives will bring to the floor this week the Senate legislation aimed at sanctioning the Maduro regime for its violations of human rights against the people of Venezuela. By passing this legislation, we send a unequivocal message that we will not allow the actions of the Maduro regime to go unpunished and reaffirms that Congress stands in solidarity with the Venezuelan people.” NOTE: Chairman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen is the author of H.R. 4587 – the Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection Act, which sanctions officials in the regime of Nicolas Maduro who are responsible for committing human rights violations. The bill passed the House of Representatives by unanimous consent on May 28, 2014. Senators Bob Menendez and Marco Rubio were the Senate authors of S. 2142, which passed on Monday, December 8. Please click here to see bills that may be considered under suspension of the rules for the week of December 8, 2014. ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/proyecto-de-ley-de-ros-lehtinen-que-honra-h%C3%A9roe-local-fallecido-en-combate-mientras | Proyecto de Ley de Ros-Lehtinen Que Honra Hroe Local Fallecido En Combate Mientras Serva a Nuestra Nacin Lo Aprob el Senado y Pasa Al Escritorio Del Presidente Obama | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Proyecto de Ley de Ros-Lehtinen Que Honra Héroe Local Fallecido En Combate Mientras Servía a Nuestra Nación Lo Aprobó el Senado y Pasa Al Escritorio Del Presidente Obama “Es un orgullo para mí que el Congreso de los Estados Unidos reconoció servicio verdadero a nuestra nación y dedicó una oficina de correos en nombre de nuestro héroe local, Christian A. Guzman Rivera, quien hizo el mayor sacrificio por nosotros. La dedicación de Christian a nuestro país, sin pensar en sí mismo, muestra el compromiso que él tenía para asegurar que vivamos en libertad y siempre estaremos en deuda por su servicio.” (WASHINGTON) – El proyecto de ley de la Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen honrando a nuestro héroe local el Cabo de la Marina Christian A. Guzman Rivera, quien valientemente sacrificó su vida por nuestra nación, designando la oficina de correo de South Dade localizada en 13500 SW 250 Street en Princeton, Florida como Corporal Christian A. Guzman Rivera Post Office Building, fue aprobado hoy por el Senado por consenso unánime después que fuera aprobado por la Cámara de Representates gracias al liderazgo de Ros-Lehtinen el 8 de septiembre 2014. El proyecto ahora va al escritorio del Presidente Obama para su firma. Guzmán Rivera, Cabo de la Marina, fue un residente del condado Miami-Dade, quien se presentó voluntariamente para el servicio de combate y murió en acción, mientras servía a nuestro país en Afganistán como Ingeniero de Combate en el 2do Batallón, 3er Regimiento de la Marina. Durante su tiempo en Afganistán, Guzmán Rivera asumió el cargo de líder de equipo sin pensar en sí mismo cuando el líder de su equipo fue herido y hospitalizado. Él asistió a escuelas locales y participó en el programa de bomberos de Miami Dade College, porque su sueño era ser bombero, antes de presentarse para el servicio en la Marina debido a su dedicación a nuestra nación. Guzmán Rivera recibió los premios Medalla de Honor de los Cuerpos Naval y de la Marina, Medalla Corazón Púrpura y Listón por Acción en Combate. Su querida madre Velma, una… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-aplaude-aprobaci%C3%B3n-de-legislaci%C3%B3n-imponiendo-sanciones-venezuela-en-el | Ros-Lehtinen Aplaude Aprobacin de Legislacin Imponiendo Sanciones a Venezuela en el Senado | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen Aplaude Aprobación de Legislación Imponiendo Sanciones a Venezuela en el Senado “Me gustaría aplaudir al Senado por aprobar legislación de sentido común que castigara al régimen de Maduro y sus secuaces por los rampantes abusos a los derechos humanos que han sido cometidos en Venezuela” (Washington, DC) – La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) Presidenta del Comité de Medio Oriente y África del Norte hizo las siguientes declaraciones sobre la aprobación del S 2142 – the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014. Destacó Ros-Lehtinen: “Me gustaría aplaudir al Senado por aprobar legislación de sentido común que castigara al régimen de Maduro y sus secuaces por los rampantes abusos a los derechos humanos que han sido cometidos en Venezuela. De las protestas en las calles de Caracas, a las farsas judiciales contra Leopoldo López y María Corina Machado por las cortes sometidas de Maduro, el régimen sólo ha demostrado interés en su auto preservación, destruyendo los principios democráticos y socavando las libertades fundamentales de los venezolanos. Es mi aspiración que la Cámara de Representantes tome y apruebe esta importante legislación de inmediato de manera que cuente con la firma del Presidente Obama. Los opresores venezolanos serán negados visas para entrar a los Estados Unidos y sus propiedades junto con sus bienes serán congelados. Nota: La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen es autora del H.R. 4587- the Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection Act, que sanciona funcionarios del régimen de Nicolás Maduro responsables por cometer abusos a los derechos humanos. Esa legislación fue aprobada por la Cámara de Representantes por consenso unánime el 28 de Mayo de 2014. Los Senadores Bob Menéndez y Marco Rubio fueron los autores del S. 2142 que fue aprobado hoy. Para ver el discurso hoy de la Congresista Ros-Lehtinen en el pleno de la Cámara de Representantes concerniendo la situación en Venezuela y la legislación sobre las sanciones, haga click aquí. ####### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-applauds-senate-passage-venezuela-sanctions-bill | Ros-Lehtinen Applauds Senate Passage of Venezuela Sanctions Bill | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen Applauds Senate Passage of Venezuela Sanctions Bill “I would like to applaud the Senate for passing commonsense legislation which will punish the Maduro regime and its cronies for the rampant human rights abuses they have committed in Venezuela.” (Washington, DC) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement regarding the passage of S. 2142 – the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “I would like to applaud the Senate for passing commonsense legislation which will punish the Maduro regime and its cronies for the rampant human rights abuses they have committed in Venezuela. From the protests in the streets of Caracas to the farcical judicial proceedings against Leopoldo Lopez and Maria Corina Machado by Maduro’s own kangaroo courts, we have seen that the regime is only interested in self-preservation, trampling on democratic principles, and undermining the fundamental freedoms of the Venezuelan people. It is my hope that the House will take up and pass this legislation immediately so that with President Obama’s signature, Venezuela’s oppressors will be denied visas to enter the United States and their properties along with their assets will be frozen.” NOTE: Chairman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen is the author of H.R. 4587 – the Venezuelan Human Rights and Democracy Protection Act, which sanctions officials in the regime of Nicolas Maduro who are responsible for committing human rights violations. The bill passed the House of Representatives by unanimous consent on May 28, 2014. Senators Bob Menendez and Marco Rubio were the Senate authors of S. 2142, which passed today. To view Rep. Ros-Lehtinen’s remarks today on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives regarding the situation in Venezuela and the sanctions legislation, click here. ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-bill-honors-local-hero-killed-afghanistan-while-serving-our-country | Ros-Lehtinen Bill That Honors Local Hero Killed in Afghanistan While Serving Our Country Passes U.S. Senate; Will Go to President Obamas Desk | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen Bill That Honors Local Hero Killed in Afghanistan While Serving Our Country Passes U.S. Senate; Will Go to President Obama’s Desk “I am proud that the United States Congress recognized true service to our nation and dedicated a post office for our local hero, Christian A. Guzman Rivera, who made the ultimate sacrifice for us all. Christian’s selfless dedication to our country shows the commitment that he had to ensuring we live in freedom and we will forever be indebted to him for his service.” (WASHINGTON) -- U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen’s bill honoring our local hero Marine Corporal Christian A. Guzman Rivera, who valiantly sacrificed his life for our country, designating the South Dade post office at 13500 SW 250 Street in Princeton, Florida as the Corporal Christian A. Guzman Rivera Post Office Building passed the United States Senate today by unanimous consent following passage of the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives by Ros-Lehtinen on September 8, 2014. The bill will now go to President Obama’s desk for signature. Guzman Rivera, a Marine Corporal, was a Miami-Dade County resident who volunteered for active duty service and was killed in action while serving our nation in Afghanistan as a combat engineer for the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment. During his time in Afghanistan, Guzman Rivera selflessly assumed his squad leader’s leadership position when his squad leader was wounded and hospitalized. He attended Gulfstream Elementary School, Florida Centennial Middle School, and Homestead Senior High School. He went on to participate in Miami Dade College’s firefighter program, as his dream had been to be a firefighter, before volunteering for duty in the Marine Corps due to his dedication to our country. Guzman Rivera was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Purple Heart Medal, and Combat Action Ribbon. His loving mother Velma, a dedicated postal worker, and his brother Jonathan have lived in South Florida since 1989. His step-father, Felix Torres, has been a strong s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-deutch-poe-and-sherman-lead-bipartisan-letter-treasury-department-seeking | Ros-Lehtinen, Deutch, Poe, and Sherman Lead Bipartisan Letter to Treasury Department Seeking Action Against Hamas Supporters In Turkey and Qatar | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen, Deutch, Poe, and Sherman Lead Bipartisan Letter to Treasury Department Seeking Action Against Hamas Supporters In Turkey and Qatar (WASHINGTON) – Today U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, was joined by Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL), Ranking Member of the Middle East and North Africa subcommittee, and Reps. Ted Poe (R-TX) and Brad Sherman (D-CA), Chairman and Ranking Member respectively of the Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade Subcommittee in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Treasury urging it to do more to designate and sanction individuals and entities that provide financial, political or material support for Hamas - a U.S. designated foreign terrorist organization. The letter was cosigned by 20 additional Members of the two subcommittees. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “It’s no secret that Turkey and Qatar provide refuge to many Hamas operatives, and that both of these supposed American allies have become major terror financial hubs. While the Treasury Department has taken significant action against Hamas and its supporters, more can be done to halt support for this terrorist group. Both Turkey and Qatar have thus far been extremely lax in enforcing their terror financing laws and taking action against U.S. designated individuals or entities. By going after those individuals and entities tied to support for Hamas, Treasury can send a strong message to both governments that they need to get on board and sanction entities that are supporting terrorism or risk further isolation from America and our financial sector.” NOTE: Cosigners are: Reps. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Ted Poe (R-TX), Brad Sherman (D-CA), Steve Chabot (R-OH), Joseph Kennedy III (D-MA), Ron DeSantis (R-FL), Grace Meng (D-NY), Randy Weber (R-TX), Brian Higgins (D-NY), Scott Perry (R-PA), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Paul Cook (R-CA), Alan Lowenthal (D-CA), Joe Wilson (R-SC), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Bradley Schneider (D-IL), Ted Yoho (R-FL), A… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-deutch-poe-y-sherman-dirigen-carta-al-departamento-del-tesoro-pidiendo | Ros-Lehtinen, Deutch, Poe, y Sherman Dirigen Carta al Departamento del Tesoro Pidiendo Accin Contra Promotores de Hamas en Turqua y Qatar | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen, Deutch, Poe, y Sherman Dirigen Carta al Departamento del Tesoro Pidiendo Acción Contra Promotores de Hamas en Turquía y Qatar (Washington, DC) – La Congresista Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Presidenta del Subcomité del Medio Oriente y África del Norte junto al Congresista Ted Deutch (R-FL) Miembro de Alto Rango del Subcomité del Medio Oriente y África del Norte y los Congresistas Ted Poe (R-TX) y Brad Sherman (D-CA) Presidente y Miembro de Alto Rango del Subcomité Contra el Terrorismo, No-Proliferación y Comercio enviaron una carta al Departamento del Tesoro urgiéndole que haga más para designar y sancionar a individuos y entidades que proveen apoyo financiero, político o material a Hamas, una organización designada por los EEUU como organización de terrorismo internacional. La carta fue co-firmada por 20 miembros adicionales de los dos subcomités. Destacó Ros-Lehtinen: “No es un secreto que Turquía y Qatar proveen refugio a muchos operativos de Hamas y que ambos presuntos aliados de Estados Unidos se han convertido en importantes centros financieros del terror. Mientras el Departamento del Tesoro ha tomado acción significativa contra Hamas y sus patrocinadores, más puede hacerse para detener el apoyo a este grupo terrorista. Tanto Turquía como Qatar han sido extremadamente leves en el cumplimiento de sus leyes contra el financiamiento del terrorismo y tomado acciones contra los individuos y las organizaciones designadas por los EEUU como patrocinadores del terrorismo internacional. Al atacar a estos individuos y entidades conectadas por su apoyo a Hamas, el Departamento del Tesoro enviaría un mensaje fuerte a estos gobiernos de que necesitan sancionar a las entidades que apoyan al terrorismo o se arriesgan a mayor aislación por parte de los Estados Unidos y nuestro sector financiero. NOTA: Los co-firmantes son: Congresistas Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Ted Poe (R-TX), Brad Sherman (D-CA), Steve Chabot (R-OH), Joseph Kennedy III (D-MA), Ron DeSantis (R-FL), Grace Meng (D-NY), Ran… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/working-improve-health-care-south-florida-ros-lehtinen-supports-two-important-bills | Working to Improve Health Care in South Florida, Ros-Lehtinen Supports Two Important Bills | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Working to Improve Health Care in South Florida, Ros-Lehtinen Supports Two Important Bills “Our nation should work to ensure that those who have sacrificed so much are taken care of, and that we re-double our efforts to prevent breast cancer, which has already negatively impacted too many families.” (WASHINGTON) – Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen announced her support of two important bills which will help improve health care in South Florida. The bills are: · the EARLY Act Reauthorization, which would support efforts to educate young women and health care professionals about breast cancer, and enhance research, patient support, and disease prevention programs; and · the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act, which would evaluate Department of Defense mental health and suicide prevention programs to ensure they are effectively serving our veterans. Ros-Lehtinen has a long record of working to ensure our veterans receive the care they deserve. She understands the needs of veterans because her husband, Dexter, is a combat veteran who volunteered for service and sustained serious injuries while serving our country in Vietnam. Currently Marine Reservists, her step-son, Doug, and daughter-in-law, Lindsay, served our nation as Marine officers in Iraq and Lindsay also served in Afghanistan. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “Our nation should work to ensure that those who have sacrificed so much are taken care of, and that we re-double our efforts to prevent breast cancer, which has already negatively impacted too many families. Only with the proper programs in place can we make our country a healthier, happier, and more productive place to live for all Americans. ” ##### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=542 | Campaign to Educate Young Women About Breast Cancer Risks Reauthorized by House | 2014-12-09 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | legacy | The fact remains that too many young women are unaware of their breast cancer risks. I was once one of them. I thank Congresswoman Ellmers and my colleagues for their support today, which allows the EARLY Act to build on its successful track record of reaching and serving more women and health practitioners with the tools and information necessary to detect and fight the disease early. share: f t The Breast Health Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young Act, or the EARLY Act, was reauthorized for five years today by the House of Representatives. H.R. 5185 was introduced by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) and Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-N.C.). Authored by Rep. Wasserman Schultz and originally signed into law in 2010, the EARLY Act created an education and outreach campaign administered by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to highlight the breast cancer risks facing young women and women of higher-risk ethnic and racial backgrounds, while empowering them with the tools they need to fight the disease. The EARLY Act also targets health care providers with education and information to ensure they are better equipped to catch breast cancer in young women. The fact remains that too many young women are unaware of their breast cancer risks. I was once one of them, said Rep. Wasserman Schultz, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 41 and after seven surgeries is now seven years cancer-free. I thank Congresswoman Ellmers and my colleagues for their support today, which allows the EARLY Act to build on its successful track record of reaching and serving more women and health practitioners with the tools and information necessary to detect and fight the disease early. I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of the bipartisan EARLY Act and thrilled to see this reauthorization pass in the House of Representatives. The EARLY Act has a proven record of successsaving countless lives through both preventive and early detection measu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398347 | Hastings Statement on Extension of Iran Nuclear Negotiations | 2014-12-08 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement in response to a seven-month extension through July 1, 2015 on nuclear talks with Iran, after negotiations to reach a comprehensive deal on the country’s nuclear program by the P5+1 surpassed the self-imposed deadline of November 24, 2014: “While I agree that all efforts to secure a diplomatic solution must be continued, providing sanctions relief without considerable progress and assurances sets a dangerous precedent and threatens to eliminate the very leverage that brought Iran to the negotiating table to begin with. Moreover, as talks remain ongoing, Tehran continues to support international terrorism around the globe, most notably against the State of Israel. “I have remained committed to supporting a wide range of efforts in Congress to prevent a nuclear Iran, as well as strengthen Israel’s enduring partnership with the United States and ability to protect itself. These include the Iran Counter-Proliferation Act, Iran Sanctions Enabling Act, Iran Threat Reduction Act, Iran Refined Petroleum Sanctions Act, Iran Diplomatic Enhancement Act, and Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010, among many other pieces of legislation. “The United States must work with its allies around the world and partners in the region to hold a firm line against Iran’s acquisition of these dangerous, destabilizing weapons, while simultaneously continuing to support the Iranian people’s efforts to reform their government and uphold the rights of all citizens. And, should any further sanctions relief be on the table during the course of these continued negotiations, Congress has a duty to weigh in. I urge members of the international community to support every effort to keep pressure on the Iranian regime to dismantle its nuclear weapons program in compliance with international law.” Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-announces-holiday-open-house | Bilirakis Announces Holiday Open House | 2014-12-08 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Gus Bilirakis | B001257 | bilirakis.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), today announced a Holiday Open House in his Tarpon Springs District Office. To RSVP please call (727) 940-5860. I hope my constituents and their families will be able to attend and celebrate the Holiday season with us. There will be refreshments, and my staff and I look forward to greeting you, Bilirakis said. Tarpon Springs Holiday Open House Where:38500 U.S. Highway 19 North Room BB-038 of the Michael & Evelyn Bilirakis Building Tarpon Springs Campus of St. Petersburg College When:December 17, 2:00 P.M. 3:30 P.M. RSVP:(727) 940-5860 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-gus-bilirakis-boosting-floridas-economy-through-brand-usa | ICYMI: Gus Bilirakis: Boosting Florida's economy through Brand USA | 2014-12-08 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Gus Bilirakis | B001257 | bilirakis.house.gov | legacy | Florida the Sunshine State is one of America's best destinations for tourists. Florida's Twelfth Congressional District which I have the distinct pleasure of representing is no different. From the growing Sunwest Harbourtowne in Hudson and sponge diving in Tarpon Springs, to the Suncoast Primate Sanctuary in Palm Harbor and the famous BMX track in Oldsmar, my district and the Tampa Bay area at large boast significant tourism destinations. Tourism and travel are vital to our economy, employing over 1 million Floridians. On Nov. 17, an editorial published in The Tampa Tribune underscored that fact (Boosts from record tourism, Our Views). Visit Tampa Bay is the promotion engine to draw visitors to the Tampa Bay area. Visit Tampa Bay reports that hotel revenues in Hillsborough County climbed to $524 million in fiscal year 2014, a 13 percent jump over the previous year. Visit Florida, Florida's version of Visit Tampa Bay, boasts similar successes. From January-July 2013 to January-July 2014, travel and tourism expenditures increased by over 7 percent, to the tune of $49.3 billion. These programs are clearly working, on the state and local level. I am the only Florida member of Congress on the Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade, which oversees travel and tourism. I am in a unique position to boost travel and tourism to Florida. The national version of Visit Florida is the Corporation for Travel Promotion, better known as Brand USA. Brand USA is a public-private partnership that serves as the nation's first cooperative destination marketing organization. The organization is charged with growing America's share of the global travel market. Through a combination of voluntary private sector contributions and a nominal fee on foreign visitors, Brand USA's activities are aimed at influencing increased global visitation to and spending in the United States, without a cost to U.S. taxpayers. Additionally, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) expects this bill to cut the defic… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=933 | Wasserman Schultz Statement on French Rail Holocaust Settlement | 2014-12-08 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | legacy | While no amount of money can bring back loved ones lost to the murderous Nazi regime nor erase the horrific memories of such hardship for survivors, the settlement reached late last week is a very welcome milestone in the never-ending quest for justice, reconciliation, and accountability. The extent of Nazi persecution knew no boundary, and survivors and their descendants as well as the families of victims have struggled for decades to reclaim what was lost. share: f t U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement today after the U.S. and French governments announced an agreement late last week to compensate American citizens who were transported to Nazi death camps aboard SNCF, the French national railway, during the Holocaust: While no amount of money can bring back loved ones lost to the murderous Nazi regime nor erase the horrific memories of such hardship for survivors, the settlement reached late last week is a very welcome milestone in the never-ending quest for justice, reconciliation, and accountability. The extent of Nazi persecution knew no boundary, and survivors and their descendants as well as the families of victims have struggled for decades to reclaim what was lost. At a time when alarming anti-Semitic acts are on the rise in Europe and the U.S., but particularly in France, their government's support for education programs, memorials, and financial arrangements are essential to righting the wrongs of the past and to promoting tolerance and understanding among current and future generations. I am honored to represent one of the largest Jewish communities in the United States, and I have worked to address the unique quality-of-life needs of Holocaust survivors throughout my career. I thank my colleagues who have joined me in such legislative efforts, particularly Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney for her outspoken push for this agreement, and the many survivors, advocates, and government representatives who have … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3772740a-7848-4a63-b792-524692a1ac29 | Rubio, Risch Statement On Senate Intelligence Committee Release Of Interrogation Study | 2014-12-08 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Jim Risch (R-ID) issued the following statement regarding the impending declassification of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence release of a partisan report on CIA interrogation and detention programs: “The one-sided report that will be released by Democrats on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence cost U.S. tax-payers over $40 million dollars to produce, and its authors never interviewed a single CIA official. “It is unconscionable that the Committee and the White House would support releasing this report despite warnings from our allies, the U.S. State Department, and a new coordinated Intelligence Community document assessing the increased risk to the United States the release of this report poses. We are concerned that this release could endanger the lives of Americans overseas, jeopardize U.S. relations with foreign partners, potentially incite violence, create political problems for our allies, and be used as a recruitment tool for our enemies. Simply put, this release is reckless and irresponsible. We have written to the administration reminding them of these concerns. “Congress has a legitimate and necessary role to play in conducting serious and constructive oversight of our intelligence agencies and capabilities. This report does not qualify as either serious or constructive. This was a partisan effort that divided members of the committee, and the committee against the people of the CIA. We voted against this report because it is flawed, and voted against declassifying this report because we believed that its release could put American lives at risk, be used to contribute to propaganda against the United States by our enemies, and damage U.S. foreign policy and counterterrorism efforts. “The American civilian and uniformed personnel who worked tirelessly in the days and months after the September 11, 2001 attacks on our nation to keep us safe and prevent another mass casualty event deserve our eternal gratitu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3ba7250b-411b-47f9-a648-3ca42ef11ef1 | Rubio Delivers Remarks Honoring Floridas Pearl Harbor Veterans | 2014-12-08 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) today delivered remarks on the floor of the U.S. Senate to commemorate yesterday’s 73rd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Today marks the 73rd anniversary of the U.S. entering World War II. According to official estimates, there are approximately 140 Pearl Harbor veterans currently residing in Florida. Rubio highlighted three of these Pearl Harbor veterans and their stories. They included: Sergeant Major William Braddock of Pensacola, who was honored on Friday at a World War II/Pearl Harbor commemoration event at the National Naval Aviation Museum Foundation in Pensacola. Chief Machinist’s Mate Wayne Myrick of Palm Beach County, who will be featured in the Star Spangled Heroes exhibition at Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach through January 31. Commander Hal Sullivan of Jacksonville, who was honored on Thursday at a Jacksonville Navy League Luncheon at the River Club Downtown. Video of the speech is available here, and the complete transcript is below: U.S. Senator Marco Rubio Rubio Delivers Remarks Honoring Florida’s Pearl Harbor Veterans U.S. Senate Floor Washington, D.C. December 8, 2014 VIDEO: http://youtu.be/kHd_0qu5VVk Yesterday, at events all around Florida and across the country, America marked the 73rd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor – a day known for its tragedy, but also for its role in shaping the destiny of what has come to be called The Greatest Generation. It’s a generation that faced challenges unlike any seen before or since. It saw a decade of widespread prosperity crumble into the deepest depression in American history, and it saw the deepest depression in American history give way to the deadliest war in human history. The scope of hardship, destruction, and wickedness they faced was exceeded only by the strength and valor with which they responded. Theirs is a generation that truly saved the world. I don’t think any other generati… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=e25abb79-7a2b-4fb6-a840-899103159be2 | Rubio Comments After U.S. Senate Passes Venezuela Sanctions Legislation | 2014-12-08 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio tonight issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed by voice vote the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014, which is sponsored by Rubio and Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Menendez (D-NJ): “The U.S. stands with the Venezuelan people and against their oppressors in the regime of Nicolás Maduro. This is a long overdue but important step to demonstrate America’s commitment to the human rights and democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people in both words and actions. These sanctions will go after Maduro regime officials and thugs who have spent all of 2014 authorizing and carrying out assassinations, beatings, unjustified incarcerations, kangaroo court trials and absurd indictments of its political opponents and innocent Venezuelans demanding a better future. “I congratulate my House colleagues, particularly Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Mario Diaz-Balart, for their work in passing Venezuela sanctions legislation earlier this year. Before this Congress adjourns, I am hopeful that, for all the challenges the Venezuelan people have faced this year, we can at least end it on a positive note by turning these sanctions into a law signed by the President and implemented by the administration.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-named-social-security-subcommittee-ways-means | Buchanan Named to Social Security Subcommittee on Ways & Means | 2014-12-05 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Vern Buchanan | B001260 | buchanan.house.gov | legacy | Protecting Seniors Retirement Security Top Priority WASHINGTON U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-FL, has been named to the Social Security Subcommittee of Ways & Means, giving him a key role in preserving the vital retirement program for todays seniors and future generations. Buchanan, a senior member of the committee, also serves on the Trade and Health subcommittees. I am honored to be named to such an important subcommittee, Buchanan said after incoming Chairman Paul Ryan, R-WI, announced his selection. Protecting Social Security has always been one of my highest priorities. Seniors have worked their entire lives with the promise of a safe retirement. Thats a promise we must always keep. The Subcommittee on Social Security has jurisdiction over Social Security retirement, survivors and disability programs and oversees the operations of the Social Security Administration. The U.S. House passed legislation this week (H.R. 5739), co-sponsored by Buchanan, denying Social Security benefits to Nazi war criminals. The bill was originally introduced by Congressman Sam Johnson, a former POW in Vietnam and chairman of the Social Security Subcommittee. The Ways and Means Committee is the chief tax-writing body in the House of Representatives. The U.S. Constitution give it sole power in Congress to initiate tax bills, making it even more powerful than its counterpart in the Senate, the Finance Committee. Buchanan is the only member from Florida to serve on the Committee. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://dennisross.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398227 | Ross Statement on the Lakeland World War II Memorial Dedication | 2014-12-05 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Dennis Ross | R000593 | dennisross.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. --U.S. Rep. Dennis A. Ross (R-FL-15), Senior Deputy Majority Whip and member of the House Committee on Financial Services today released the following statement as phase one of the World War II Memorial Plaza is being dedicated in Veterans Park located in Lakeland, Florida. “Today’s dedication ceremony is very special to our community, our community service members and those who served throughout America. Phase one of the World War II Memorial unveils the Pearl Harbor is honorably being dedicated on the anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attacks on December 7th, 1941. It is fitting that the first portion of the memorial to be placed will honor the casualties of Pearl Harbor. “December 7, 1941, is still a day that lives in infamy. The War in the Pacific was a hard-fought, slow, and deadly campaign that tested the very resolve of the American military. And yet, through the valor and heroism of our service men and women, we were victorious. “My own father served in the Navy in the Pacific theater, and the stories he told me growing up made me appreciate not only his patriotism and courage, but that of his brothers in arms. I am thankful that these brave heroes will be honored in Lakeland this weekend for their courage and sacrifice during one of the most important military campaigns in our nation’s history” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/us-french-holocaust-agreement-step-right-direction-more-must-be-done-ensure-all | US-French Holocaust Agreement A Step In The Right Direction; More Must Be Done To Ensure All Survivors Receive Their Justice | 2014-12-05 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | US-French Holocaust Agreement A Step In The Right Direction; More Must Be Done To Ensure All Survivors Receive Their Justice Dec 5, 2014 US-French Holocaust Agreement A Step In The Right Direction; More Must Be Done To Ensure All Survivors Receive Their Justice (WASHINGTON) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement regarding today’s announcement that the U.S. and France have come to an agreement on compensation for victims of Holocaust-related deportation from France by the SNCF railway company. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: “This agreement is a step in the right direction toward getting many Holocaust victims, and their families, the justice that has evaded them for nearly seventy years. The fact that the French government has acknowledged its culpability in humanity’s darkest period is a victory for those whose lives were torn asunder by the Nazi regime and its collaborators. This agreement serves as a grim reminder of the urgency with which we need to press to ensure that all Holocaust survivors receive their day of justice, including the recovery of billions of unpaid insurance policies and providing resources for all the needs of tens of thousands of survivors who are living in poverty across the world. I will continue to work in Congress with my colleagues in a bipartisan manner to ensure that the voices of all Holocaust survivors are heard and justice is served.” ##### NOTE: Ros-Lehtinen had joined Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) in introducing the Holocaust Rail Justice Act every Congress since 2009, which would have given survivors and their family members a forum to bring claims against the SNCF for its role in transporting tens of thousands of Jews and others to Nazi death camps. Ros-Lehtinen has championed… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://desantis.house.gov/press-releases?ID=22747F42-3820-4025-B86D-2E2BC83F5FD4 | DeSantis Named Vice-Chairman of Constitution Subcommittee | 2014-12-05 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ron DeSantis | D000621 | desantis.house.gov | legacy | St. Augustine, FL – Chairman of the House Committee on the Judiciary, Rep. Bob Goodlatte (VA-06), has named Rep. Ron DeSantis (FL-06) Vice-Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice for the 114th Congress. DeSantis will be serving with Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Trent Franks (AZ-08). “It is an honor to have been named Vice- Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, and I look forward to working with Subcommittee Chairman Franks and Chairman Goodlatte to continue to advance legislation that protects our Constitution,”? DeSantis said. “We in Congress take an oath to support and defend the Constitution and we have a duty to discharge this important responsibility with great care. Having taken the oath to support the Constitution as an officer in the Navy, the preservation of our constitution order is something I have been committed to for quite some time." “Congressman Ron DeSantis has been a tremendous asset to the House Judiciary Committee over the past two years,”? Goodlatte said. “His expertise on many of the issues facing our nation and the Committee make him well-suited to serve as Vice Chairman of the Constitution and Civil Justice Subcommittee. I look forward to working with him as we seek to safeguard Americans– liberties, promote an efficient and just legal system, and fight against President Obama–s pattern of executive overreach.”? “Congressman DeSantis will be an invaluable Vice-Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice,”? Franks said. “He brings a rigorous intellectual understanding of civil justice issues and has substantial expertise in federal claims reform and Constitutional rights. This background will effectively complement our subcommittee–s focus on President Obama–s gross executive overreach. I look forward to serving with Congressman DeSantis as we protect the liberties enshrined in our Constitution for all U.S. citizens.”? | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-frederica-s-wilson-s-statement-on-grand-jury-decision-in-0 | Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilsons Statement on Grand Jury Decision in the Eric Garner Case | 2014-12-05 | 2014 | 2014-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Frederica Wilson | W000808 | wilson.house.gov | legacy | Miami, FL Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) released the following statement following the grand jury's decision in the Eric Garner case: I am truly disappointed and stunned by the Staten Island grand jury's decision not to return an indictment in the death of Eric Garner, who died after being placed in a chokehold by police officer Daniel Pantaleo. Again, the justice system has failed yet another unarmed Black man and in this case whose violent death was videotaped, leaving no doubt that this was a clear-cut case of use of excessive force. I expose children on a daily basis to techniques on how to resolve conflict without resorting to violence through the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project that I founded 22-years-ago. This program teaches boys how to interact with law enforcement and has paid huge dividends in the salvation of human life. We must break this tragic pattern of predictability. We cannot afford a repeat of the past. As we pray for the Garner family, let us continue to wage a peaceful battle to put an end to injustice and racial profiling. ### Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson is a second-term Congresswoman from Florida representing parts of Northern Miami-Dade and Southeast Broward counties. A former state legislator and school principal, she is the founder of the 5000 Role Models for Excellence Project, a mentoring program for young males at risk of dropping out of school. Congresswoman Wilson also founded the Florida Ports Caucus, a bipartisan taskforce that coordinates federal action in support of Florida's harbors and waterways. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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]);