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Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press

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741 rows where state = "MD" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending

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  • 2016 · 741 ✖

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url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-white-house-announcement-of-russia-sanctions-following-us-cyber-attacks Cardin Statement on White House Announcement of Russia Sanctions Following U.S. Cyber Attacks 2016-12-29 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 29, 2016 Cardin Statement on White House Announcement of Russia Sanctions Following U.S. Cyber Attacks Senator continues to ready two pieces of legislation, says “Now is not the ‘time to get on with our lives,’ but to take an appropriate response in line with the ongoing threat that Russia poses to our democracy and global security interests.” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement Thursday after the White House announced an extension of Executive Order 13964 to include Russian individuals and entities, following a new FBI/DHS report and the Intelligence Community’s assessment in October that senior Russian government officials authorized cyberattacks in the United States related to the 2016 election and our democratic institutions: “The Russian attack on our democratic institutions is a wake-up call, a political Pearl Harbor as others have noted.  I encourage my colleagues in the Senate, the incoming administration and the American people to view it as such. Now is not the “time to get on with our lives,” but to take an appropriate response in line with the ongoing threat that Russia poses to our democracy and global security interests.  I welcome and support the new sanctions announced by the administration today – it is a good start.  Sanctions have been and will remain an important tool in the United States’ diplomatic arsenal to respond to attacks on our country and our allies and national security interests around the world. “It is not, however, sufficient.  The executive branch has acted, but it is imperative the legislative branch now pick up the ball and move it forward.  Congressional sanctions can complement and strengthen these new executive sanctions. Therefore because of Russia’s attack on us, their destabilizing and murderous role in Syria, and their illegal annexation of Crim… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://harris.house.gov/press-release/congressman-andy-harris%E2%80%99-statement-united-nations-anti-israel-resolution Congressman Andy Harris Statement on United Nations Anti-Israel Resolution 2016-12-28 2016 2016-12 Republican House MD Andy Harris H001052 harris.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC: Congressman Andy Harris released the following statement in response to the United Nations Security Council's Anti-Israel resolution:   “Senators Lindsay Graham and Ted Cruz have called for the U.S. to end its financial support for the U.N. until the Security Council abrogates Resolution 2334. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I stand with Senators Graham and Cruz in supporting de-funding the U.N. until the resolution is rescinded.   “The U.N. Resolution is a tool used to legitimize Palestinian claims against Israel. It serves to criminalize Israel and its people and to undermine Israel’s right to exist.   “It is shameful that President Obama failed to oppose this resolution, and it appears the Administration may have even helped orchestrate the effort. With just days left in office, President Obama should stop undermining our best ally and allow President-elect Trump to fix eight years of disastrous foreign policy. The Middle East will be more peaceful when Israel’s right to exist is unchallenged.”   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-following-secretary-kerrys-speech-on-israeli-palestinian-peace Cardin Statement Following Secretary Kerry’s Speech on Israeli-Palestinian Peace 2016-12-28 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 28, 2016 Cardin Statement Following Secretary Kerry’s Speech on Israeli-Palestinian Peace "Secretary of State John Kerry’s personal commitment to Middle East peace is well-known and admirable.  During his tenure at the State Department, his dedication to facilitating direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians for a two-state solution was evidenced in his investment of time, travel, resources, and creative proposals. “I welcome Secretary Kerry’s articulation of six principles that should guide direct negotiations between the parties for a secure, just, and realistic two-state solution.  He rightly stated that there cannot be two states living side by side in peace and security without recognition of Israel as a Jewish state, and that Israel’s security needs must be satisfied.  Fundamental issues like borders and Jerusalem can only come from direct negotiations and cannot be dictated by any outside entity, and there must be recognition of the Jewish people’s historic ties to Jerusalem and its holy sites.  I am open to considering U.S. contributions to an international effort that would provide options for permanent homes for Palestinian refugees without affecting the fundamental character of Israel.  “Though I share Secretary Kerry’s concerns with the lack of forward progress on a two-state solution, I remain disappointed by the Obama Administration’s decision not to veto UN Security Resolution 2334 last week.  The Resolution did not come close to the condemnation we heard from Secretary Kerry today regarding Palestinian leaders’ responsibility for the past year’s violence and terror.  More can be done to enable the viability of a Palestinian state, but the Palestinians are not willing and ready partners at this time.  Last week’s Resolution makes direct negotiations more, not less, challenging. “I agree with Secretary Kerry that resolving the Israeli-Palestinian dispute could unlock broader peace between Israel and its Arab neighbors.  There are opportunities for colla… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-praises-cms-waiver-for-streamlining-treatment-of-substance-abuse-patients Cardin Praises CMS Waiver for Streamlining Treatment of Substance Abuse Patients 2016-12-27 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 27, 2016 Cardin Praises CMS Waiver for Streamlining Treatment of Substance Abuse Patients BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, praised action by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) granting Maryland's 1115 waiver to implement initiatives to address substance use disorders. The waiver also makes dental services available to former foster youth, continues the evidence based home visiting program for at risk pregnant women and children, and implements the Assistance in Community Integration services pilot program. As noted by Medicaid.gov, “Section 1115 of the Social Security Act gives the Secretary of Health and Human Services authority to approve experimental, pilot, or demonstration projects that promote the objectives of the Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) programs.” “This is great news for the state of Maryland and a first step to addressing prescription opioid abuse and heroin use. Now individuals enrolled in Medicaid will have access to residential treatment for substance use disorders. This type of treatment is essential to individuals seeking recovery,” said Senator Cardin.  “There is no one-size-fits-all approach to overcoming addiction and expanding opportunities for treatment will help us tackle this urgent problem. Addiction is a disease and now we have one of the necessary tools to help individuals with recovery. Those suffering from substance use disorders also need access to mental health services. That is why I will continue to push for access to mental health services.”  Senator Cardin added: “Our goal has long been to ensure that individuals in crisis are treated like patients, and not warehoused or -- as is too often the case -- ignored. By working with the states, the federal government remains a partner in saving lives and scarce resources. “I am also pleased that CMS is allowing Maryland to expand available children’s dental services and assistance for pregnant women and … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cummings.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cummings-commemorates-2016-holiday-season Cummings Commemorates 2016 Holiday Season 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Elijah Cummings C000984 cummings.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. (Dec. 23, 2016) — Today, Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD) issued the following statement commemorating the 2016 holiday season: “In the coming days, millions of American families will come together to celebrate the holiday season and the end of another calendar year.  I am grateful to have spent another year serving my constituents in Maryland’s Seventh Congressional District.  “2016 was a difficult year for our nation. There have been more than 1,000 bias-related incidents in the weeks following the election, and many Americans are uncertain about the future.  In the face of these trials, I am reminded of the great progress our nation has made in my lifetime, and I promise to continue fighting to protect that progress. “I wish every American a safe, happy and healthy holiday season.  Let us all come together to create a more fair, more just society for generations yet unborn.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-statement-on-un-security-council-resolution-regarding-israel Sarbanes Statement on U.N. Security Council Resolution Regarding Israel 2016-12-22 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) released the following statement concerning the prospect of an Egyptian-sponsored Security Council resolution regarding Israel: "The longstanding policy of the United States is to exercise its veto power in the Security Council when members of the United Nations seek to unfairly target our ally Israel or circumvent the framework of direct, bilateral negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians concerning a two-state solution. The proposed Egyptian resolution – which for the moment has been withdrawn – would have fallen squarely into that category, thereby warranting a U.S. veto.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-updates-colleagues-on-tillerson-hearing-issues Cardin Updates Colleagues on Tillerson Hearing Issues 2016-12-22 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 22, 2016 Cardin Updates Colleagues on Tillerson Hearing Issues WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Foreign Relations Committee, wrote to his Democratic Committee colleagues Thursday updating them on his communications with Chairman Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) regarding Secretary of State nominee Rex Tillerson’s hearing date, financial disclosure and ethics agreement documents, and tax returns:   December 22, 2016                          Dear Senate Foreign Relations Committee Democratic Members, I have heard from a number of you regarding the nomination of Mr. Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State, so I wanted to give you an update on where Senator Corker and I are in the process.  Senator Corker and I have talked about the nomination several times.  I am pleased to report that we expect to receive standard financial disclosure forms and ethics compliance information later this week.  Once received, staff will immediately review the documents submitted and advise us whether the information is complete and in compliance with committee practice.  I have not yet received 3 years’ worth of the nominee’s tax returns, which I have formally requested the Presidential Transition Team make available for review.  Senator Corker and I have a disagreement about the need to review the nominee’s tax returns.  I think it is an important part of vetting this candidate because he has never made public disclosures of this type, as he has worked at ExxonMobil for his entire career and has never been in public service.  Mr. Tillerson was actively engaged with many foreign governments that could become relevant if confirmed as Secretary of State.  The Senate has a responsibility to review all relevant documents during the confirmation process. Our standard questionnaire for all nominees appearing before our Committee, which has been used by the Committee for years, very clearly contemplates a request of this kind being made.  In his response to the tax return question in t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-urges-veto-on-draft-israeli-settlements-resolution Cardin Urges Veto on Draft Israeli Settlements Resolution 2016-12-22 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 22, 2016 Cardin Urges Veto on Draft Israeli Settlements Resolution WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement Thursday on the United Nations Security Council resolution that unfairly targets Israel: “The Security Council resolution offered yesterday by the Egyptian delegation on behalf of the Palestinians does nothing to move forward the shared goal of two states living side-by-side in peace and security. This resolution is one-sided and unfairly calls out Israel without assigning any blame for the Palestinian role in the current impasse. “I support policies and actions working toward a two-state solution through direct negotiations between the parties, but this resolution does nothing to reinforce direct talks. Worse, by introducing the resolution yesterday and scheduling a vote this week, other members of the Security Council have not had sufficient time to consider the text. “I therefore call on the administration to veto this resolution.” ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/enewsletters/looking-ahead Looking Ahead 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy Dear Friend,As we wrap up 2016 and look back on our accomplishments and what remains to be done, I know there are many major issues that Congress must still address in a meaningful way: the economy, climate change, the cost of health care, comprehensive immigration reform and big money in politics, to name a few.But I am proud to be a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, one of the few committees that successfully worked in a bipartisan manner to pass several major bills and dozens of smaller bills. Among other things, these efforts preserved seniors’ access to their doctors and ended the perennial uncertainty over cuts to provider payments, updated our chemical safety laws and addressed the opioid epidemic. A complete list of bipartisan bills that passed out of our committee can be viewed here. This record of success demonstrates that Democrats and Republicans can work collaboratively to tackle the issues that matter to the American people.This month, I was particularly pleased to see the 21st Century Cures Act signed into law by President Barack Obama. This landmark piece of legislation will provide more than $6 billion to the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration – two crucial Maryland institutions that not only drive our nation’s medical research and innovation, but also make a considerable impact on Maryland’s economy. Funding contained in the 21st Century Cures Act will allow both agencies to modernize clinical trials, support the development of new drugs and devices, speed up drug and device approvals, invest in new science like precision medicine and help young scientists begin their careers in research. It will also kick start Vice President Joe Biden’s Cancer Moonshot Initiative and increase funding for the prevention and treatment of brain disorders. In all, these improvements will help expand access to life-saving treatments, especially for patients with rare diseases.Importantly, this bill will also provide $1 billion to combat the opioid epidemic, which has… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/the-future-of-campaign-finance-reform-is-at-the-state-and-local-level The Future of Campaign Finance Reform Is at the State and Local Level 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy Action at the federal level may be a long way off, but Rep. John Sarbanes (D-Md.), a leading advocate in Congress for public financing and other campaign finance reforms, said he believes success at the state and local level makes it easier to sell his colleagues on federal legislation. Aside from leading the push for public financing in Congress, Sarbanes has supported reforms in Montgomery County and Howard County in his home state of Maryland. He also travels the country to campaign for state and local reforms…. “The efforts at the state and local level now just adds to the list of examples that I can point to, and others can point to, to say here’s a better way,” Sarbanes said…. The creation of more public financing systems at the state and local level would also mean that more politicians would use them as they move forward. Public financing will move into Congress as city councilors become state legislators who become congressmen. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-lauds-effort-to-permanently-block-oil-and-gas-drilling-on-the-atlantic-coast Cardin Lauds Effort to Permanently Block Oil and Gas Drilling on the Atlantic Coast 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 20, 2016 Cardin Lauds Effort to Permanently Block Oil and Gas Drilling on the Atlantic Coast “Drilling anywhere on the Atlantic Coast is a threat everywhere on the Atlantic Coast.” BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), a senior member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, praised President Barack Obama’s action to permanently protect the Atlantic Coast from the threats of oil and gas drilling. The action under Section 12(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) comes shortly after Senator Cardin and a dozen of his colleagues urged the president to take this necessary step to preserve the fragile ecosystem and the economy of the Atlantic Coast. “For years, I have strongly opposed plans to expand drilling operations off the Atlantic Coast. This final act should permanently end any and all misguided attempts to endanger the economic viability and environmental health of the region. Oil spills and the damage associated with seismic exploration do not respect state boundaries, making drilling anywhere on the Atlantic Coast a threat everywhere on the Atlantic Coast,” said Senator Cardin. “I thank President Obama for recognizing that repeated short-term measures to protect the Atlantic were not sufficient because the risks simply outweigh any potential benefits associated with drilling off the Atlantic Coast.” A copy of the Senators’ letter recent to President Obama can he found here. In the letter, the Senators argue that the environment and economies of the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans would be threatened if offshore oil drilling were allowed. Fishing and tourism on the East Coast generates hundreds of billions of dollars in economic activity and supports hundreds of thousands of jobs. The oil industry’s attempts to drill offshore in the Arctic have been riddled with safety lapses and mishaps, leading it to relinquish the bulk of the drilling leases that were held in t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-van-hollen-cummings-laud-federal-recommendation-of-1-million-to-remove-bloede-dam-on-patapsco-river Cardin, Van Hollen, Cummings Laud Federal Recommendation of $1 Million to Remove Bloede Dam on Patapsco River 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 20, 2016 Cardin, Van Hollen, Cummings Laud Federal Recommendation of $1 Million to Remove Bloede Dam on Patapsco River Maryland officials celebrate major step forward on NOAA grant to enable the removal of a persistent detriment to public safety and healthy Chesapeake Bay WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin and Senator-elect Chris Van Hollen, along with Representative Elijah E. Cummings (all D-Md.), today lauded the announcement of a $1 million funding recommendation through the NOAA Fisheries Coastal Ecosystem Resiliency Grants program to remove the obsolete Bloede Dam on the Patapsco River. When finalized, an action expected soon, the funding will enable the non-profit organization American Rivers, working in partnership with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, NOAA, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Friends of the Patapsco Valley State Park and many others, to restore the natural resiliency of the Patapsco River Valley through the removal of Bloede Dam, which was built in 1907. The 34-foot-high by 220-foot-long, state-owned dam currently serves no purpose and presents both a human health hazard (multiple deaths have occurred at the site) and a major barrier to migratory aquatic species. Removal of the Bloede Dam is the linchpin of a larger effort to remove four main-stem dams on the Patapsco and open more than 65 miles of spawning habitat for blueback herring, alewife, American shad and hickory shad, along with more than 183 miles for American eel. “Removal of the obsolete Bloede Dam means the elimination of a hazard that has needlessly cost several human lives and prevented countless fish and eels from reaching their historic spawning areas, so this grant will mean both enhanced public safety and healthier aquatic populations,” said Senator Cardin, a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “This funding also means a number of good-paying constructi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-announces-new-senate-staff Van Hollen Announces New Senate Staff 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov     legacy December 20, 2016 Van Hollen Announces New Senate Staff Washington, DC- Today Maryland Senator-elect Chris Van Hollen announced the hiring of new senior staff in his Capitol Hill office. Karen Robb will serve as Chief of Staff, Yvette Lewis will serve as Director of External Relations and Community Outreach, and BillDausterwill serve as Director of Policy. "I am pleased to announce three top staff members of our Capitol Hill team,"said Senator-elect Van Hollen."They will help support my efforts to serve the people of Maryland in the United States Senate." "It's been an honor to work with Senator-elect Van Hollen for over a decade, and I look forward to continuing that work in the U.S. Senate,"said Robb."He is committed to moving Maryland -- and the entire country -- forward, and I'm proud to be a part of this team." "Senator-elect Van Hollen knows that the health of our entire state depends on the success of all of our communities, and he's committed to reaching out and engaging every Marylander as he takes on his new role in the U.S. Senate,"said Lewis."I've seen his commitment to the people he represents first hand, and I'm honored to join his team." "As a constituent and a Senate staffer, I've known Senator-elect Van Hollen since he joined the Maryland legislature and I've seen him fighting for Maryland and all Americans,"Daustersaid."I'm looking forward to joining his team." Karen Robb has served Congressman Van Hollen for 11 years as his Chief of Staff, Policy Director of his Office as Assistant to the Speaker, and Counsel on the House Budget Committee. Prior to that, she was Deputy Assistant to President Clinton in the Office of Legislative Affairs, Chief of Staff to Senator John Edwards, Democratic Staff Director for the Senate Judiciary Committee under Senator Joe Biden, and Chief Counsel to Senator Dennis DeConcini. Robb graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and received a J.D from the Duquesne University School of Law. Yvette Lewis has served as Chair and Vice Chair of the Maryla… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-democrats-seek-new-ways-to-take-on-trump House Democrats Seek New Ways to Take on Trump 2016-12-19 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy Republican members of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform were invited to the forum, but none attended. The idea that Trump’s potential conflicts should not be a partisan issue was stressed multiple times, but Rep. John Sarbanes argued that Republicans’ lack of attendance forced the conversation to have an air of partisanship…. “If Republicans want his administration to be successful, I’m going to assume that most of them do, then they should have an appetite for his addressing these conflicts of interest,” Sarbanes told BuzzFeed News after the forum. “I think the public is going to play a very important role here because as people begin to focus on these conflicts and start to process it… then they’re going to start to put pressure on the president and Republicans and they may realize, hey this is something that we’ve got to pay some real attention to.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-on-the-assassination-of-russian-ambassador-to-turkey-andrei-karlov Cardin on the Assassination of Russian Ambassador to Turkey Andrei Karlov 2016-12-19 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 19, 2016 Cardin on the Assassination of Russian Ambassador to Turkey Andrei Karlov WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on the killing of the Russian Ambassador to Turkey in Ankara early Monday. “My thoughts and condolences are with the Russian people and the family of Ambassador Andrei Karlov, who was serving his country on the front lines of diplomacy in Ankara when he was killed. Such an attack on a member of the diplomatic corps is wholly unacceptable. Diplomacy is a noble calling that can bring forward the hope of stability and peace; violence only will bring more violence, more loss and more suffering.” ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-announces-senate-committee-assignments Van Hollen Announces Senate Committee Assignments 2016-12-18 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov     legacy December 18, 2016 Van Hollen Announces Senate Committee Assignments Will Serve on Appropriations, Banking, Agriculture, and Budget Committees Washington, DC -Today Maryland Senator-elect Chris Van Hollen issued the following statement oncommitteeassignments. He will be serving on four committees in the U.S. Senate: the AppropriationsCommittee, the Banking, Housing, and Urban AffairsCommittee, the Agriculture, Nutrition, and ForestryCommittee, and the BudgetCommittee. "As Maryland's next U.S. Senator, I will work every day to help the people of our great state achieve our goals of economic and educational opportunity, retirement security, and social justice for all. I'm pleased to announce that I will serve on four committees that will allow me to work with Marylanders to achieve these goals. "By taking up Senator Mikulski's mantle on the AppropriationsCommittee, I will be able to fight for important investments for Maryland. Our state is home to many federal facilities and critical military installations. From the work being done to keep our nation safe at the Cyber Command and NSA at Fort Meade, to the life-saving research happening at NIH, these facilities are central to America's future and Maryland's economy. "My work on both the BankingCommitteeand the AgricultureCommitteewill allow me to ensure that the diverse needs of our state are being met. Whether it's the challenges and opportunities facing great cities like Baltimore or the special concerns facing farmers on the Eastern Shore and in Western Maryland, I look forward to working with all Marylanders to make sure we reach our full potential. A seat on the BankingCommitteewill also allow me to continue my work to ensure that Wall Street is held accountable and that Marylanders never again face the huge financial disruptions that we saw with the Great Recession in 2008. "And as I've said many times, budgets are not just dollars and cents -- they are a statement of our nation's priorities. I've been honored to serve on the House BudgetCommi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2700 Hoyer Statement on the Discovery of Nooses at the Dominion Cove Point Construction Site 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after a fifth hangman’s noose was discovered at the Dominion Cove Point construction site:  “I am horrified to learn that hangman’s nooses continue to be discovered at the Dominion Cove Point construction site, despite efforts by Dominion and the Kiewit firm to cooperate with law enforcement and find the culprits. These disturbing and on-going hateful acts will not be tolerated, and I offer my full support to Calvert County Sheriff Mike Evans and Calvert County NAACP President-Elect Michael Kent as they continue to investigate these occurrences. Those responsible for these acts of hateful harassment must be brought to justice, and I will continue to monitor this situation closely.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2701 Hoyer Congratulates Bowie State University Winter Graduates 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC –Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after he delivered remarks at the Bowie State University winter commencement ceremony, where Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden delivered the commencement address: “I was honored to join Dr. Carla Hayden today at the Bowie State University winter commencement ceremony. As our 14th Librarian of Congress, and the first woman and African American to hold the post, Dr. Hayden is not only an outstanding leader, but a true role model for the class of 2016. “When I was first elected to the Maryland State Senate fifty years ago, supporting Bowie State University was one of my top priorities. Over the years, I’ve been exceptionally proud of the progress the university has made, and I am continually impressed by the extremely talented students who have attended and graduated from Bowie State. “Today I see a class of bright, eager graduates who are poised to help us navigate the new challenges facing our world today. I join in congratulating the class of 2016 graduates and wish them the best of luck as they embark on their next journey.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/senators-call-for-investigation-after-trump-transition-waves-off-reported-attempts-to-discriminate-against-federal-employees Senators Call for Investigation After Trump Transition Waves Off Reported Attempts to Discriminate Against Federal Employees 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 16, 2016 Senators Call for Investigation After Trump Transition Waves Off Reported Attempts to Discriminate Against Federal Employees WASHINGTON – Following reports that transition officials for President-elect Donald Trump requested information about civil service employees who have worked on certain climate change policies, prompting widespread outcry, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and eight of his colleagues are calling on the Office of Special Counsel to investigate the apparent attempt to retaliate or discriminate against federal employees. As the Senators wrote, “These requests appear to have violated long-standing federal laws designed to protect civil servants against coercion for partisan purposes.” Reports last week showed that the Trump transition team had submitted a questionnaire to the Department of Energy requesting “…a list of all Department of Energy employees or contractors who have attended any Interagency Working Group on the Social Cost of Carbon meetings” as well as a list of “Department employees or contractors who attended any of the Conference of the Parties (under the UNFCCC) in the last five years.” Another question demands “a list of the top twenty salaried employees” at National Laboratories.  The Trump transition team’s opaque response to concerns regarding the questionnaire – indicating only that the staff member who made the request had been “properly counseled” – only increases the need for an independent investigation to ensure that appropriate action is taken in response to any violations of federal law. “We urge you to investigate whether this questionnaire, or any similar questionnaire being circulated by transition officials, violates federal law and to hold accountable those responsible,” the Senators wrote. “We also ask that you publicly communicate to Congress clear guidance on the circumstances under which the Office of Special Counsel will investigate instances of retaliation or discrimination against career civil servants for implement… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-democrats-convene-their-own-hearing-to-talk-about-donald-trump-s House Democrats Convene Their Own Hearing to Talk About Donald Trumps Conflicts of Interest 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy Even though they hold no committee gavels in their hands and no subpoena power to command witnesses to testify, House Democrats are going to try and provide oversight of the Trump administration whether Republicans want to or not…. On Wednesday, Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), ranking member on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, showed what that would look like. In a meeting room in the Capitol Visitor Center, Cummings and four other Democrats ― Reps. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), John Sarbanes (D-Md.) and Del. Stacey Plaskett (D-V.I.) ― convened a hearing with three ethics experts to examine President-elect Donald Trump’s conflicts of interest. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-as-evacuation-of-eastern-aleppo-syria-continues Cardin Statement As Evacuation of Eastern Aleppo, Syria Continues 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 15, 2016 Cardin Statement As Evacuation of Eastern Aleppo, Syria Continues WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement Thursday as the evacuation of civilians from Eastern Aleppo, Syria was underway: “I welcome the news that some civilians have been evacuated from eastern Aleppo. This evacuation operation is complex and will take time – it is absolutely critical that the ceasefire remains in place and humanitarian access continue to allow for safe and secure evacuation operations.  I implore the international community to maintain pressure on Assad, Russia, and Iran so that they comply with the terms of the ceasefire in order to save lives and protect civilians. “Whether civilians remain or evacuate, they deserve dignity and they deserve protection from grievous harm. “The world is watching the conduct of Bashar al-Assad, Russia, and Iran.  I am highly disturbed by reports that Iran-backed militias fired on evacuation vehicles – these atrocities must be prevented and when they cannot, the international community must unify in our condemnation and in our effort to hold the perpetrators accountable. “I whole-heartedly reject Assad’s assertions today that the evacuation is a triumphal event.  No one is fooled:  Assad and his backers are guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity, and have inflicted a gross campaign of torture, starvation, and violence on the people of Syria.  He has no legitimacy to lead Syria.” Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/senate-democrats-to-introduce-bill-to-require-president-and-vice-president-to-fully-divest-personal-financial-conflicts-of-interest Senate Democrats to Introduce Bill to Require President and Vice President to Fully Divest Personal Financial Conflicts of Interest 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 15, 2016 Senate Democrats to Introduce Bill to Require President and Vice President to Fully Divest Personal Financial Conflicts of Interest Senators Also Reiterate Their Demand for Trump to Comply with Constitution's Emoluments Clause Washington, D.C. - On the day President-elect Donald Trump was supposed to inform the American people about his future with the Trump Organization, a group of Democratic U.S. senators announced they will introduce a bill in January that would require the President and Vice President to disclose and divest any potential financial conflicts of interest. It also would require presidential appointees to recuse themselves from any specific matters involving the President's financial conflicts of interest that come before their agencies. The co-sponsors of this legislation include Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.). The senators have consistently asked for more transparency and accountability from President-elect Trump. In November, the lawmakers filed a Resolution stating the Senate's expectation that President-elect Trump needs to decisively and transparently divest all of his business interests and holdings and completely sever his affiliation with the Trump Organization to avoid any actual or perceived conflicts with the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution, which prohibits the President from accepting gifts or benefits from foreign governmental actors. "The American people do not want the President encumbered by conflicts of interest that put him in violation of the Constitution or US law," said Senator Cardin. "He shouldn't want such conflicts either. Through legislation, resolutions, and advocacy we will continue to uphold the Constitution and current law and require the President-elect to take serious steps to give the American people the transparency they deserv… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-crisis-in-aleppo-syria Cardin Statement on Crisis in Aleppo, Syria 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 14, 2016 Cardin Statement on Crisis in Aleppo, Syria U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement Wednesday: “Not 24 hours after reports of civilians in Aleppo being slaughtered by the Assad regime and their Russian and Iranian backers, and a necessary but weak ceasefire was supposed to allow for evacuations, the aerial bombardment, shelling and killing have started again. The utter disregard for innocent human life in Syria is a stain on all of us. I join the international calls for the violence to cease and for the UN to be allowed access to Eastern Aleppo to deliver humanitarian emergency assistance. “I want the people of Syria to know that I will continue to use my position as Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to push for accountability for war crimes or crimes against humanity in the Syrian conflict through fair and independent investigations and prosecutions at the domestic or international level.” Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-deteriorating-situation-in-aleppo-syria Cardin Statement on Deteriorating Situation in Aleppo, Syria 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 09, 2016 Cardin Statement on Deteriorating Situation in Aleppo, Syria “Assad’s war crimes are a stain on our collective humanity; We cannot allow Russia…a veneer of legitimacy.” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, released the following statement Friday as the situation in Aleppo, Syria continues to deteriorate: “The late Elie Weisel said ‘I don’t want my past to become anyone else’s future.’  “For more than 70 years now, civilized people have carried forward the charge to ‘Never Forget’.  That charge has been decimated on the streets of eastern Aleppo.  The shame of the international community is piercing as countless innocent Syrian men, women, and children starve and bleed and are bombed to death.  No one can escape the chilling images of the 24/7 media cycle that compel us to bear witness to barrel bombs falling on Aleppo’s residents. “According to the United Nations, around 100,000 civilians are currently in areas under the control of armed opposition groups in eastern Aleppo.  There are also roughly 500 medical cases involving men, women and children who desperately need to be evacuated, especially after the regime intentionally destroyed hospitals and clinics, and targeted doctors and other health workers. “Bashar al-Assad’s war crimes and crimes against humanity are a stain on our collective humanity and a threat to the security of the United States and its allies and partners across the globe.  Assad’s regime forces are under-resourced and over-burdened; but he has been buttressed on the ground and in the air by Russia, Iran and Hezbollah.  Assad has violated Syria’s obligations under the Convention on Chemical Weapons as confirmed by the Joint Implementation Mechanism of the UN and the Organization for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons; but he is protected by Russia.  Assad has lost legitimacy to govern and i… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-statement-on-21st-century-cures-act Sarbanes Statement on 21st Century Cures Act 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) issued the below statement after President Barack Obama signed the 21st Century Cures Act into law. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives – with Congressman Sarbanes’ support – on November 30 by a vote of 392 to 26 and passed the U.S. Senate on December 7 by a vote of 94 to 5. “The 21st Century Cures Act is landmark legislation that will provide critical funding to the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration – two Maryland-based institutions that drive our nation’s medical research and innovation. Funding contained in this bill will allow both agencies to modernize clinical trials, support the development of new drugs and devices, speed up drug and device approvals, invest in new science like precision medicine and help young scientists begin their careers in research. “In all, these improvements will help expand access to life-saving treatments, especially for patients with rare diseases. “With that said, the 21st Century Cures Act is not a perfect bill. Along with my colleagues on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, we have worked two years to craft the final version of this legislation. However, I am deeply concerned that the final product does not contain guaranteed funding. Moving forward, I will do everything possible to encourage the Republican-led Appropriations Committee to live up to the funding promises contained in this bill. Doing so will ensure that Congress does its part to improve the discovery, development, and delivery of new treatments and cures for all Americans.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-statement-on-russian-interference-in-us-elections Sarbanes Statement on Russian Interference in U.S. Elections 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) released the following statement after the CIA determined that Russia interfered with the 2016 presidential election in an effort to sway its outcome: “I am deeply alarmed by the intelligence community’s findings that Russia interfered in our elections with the intent of helping elect Donald J. Trump as President of the United States. I am equally troubled by President-elect Trump’s dismissal of the CIA’s conclusions and his apparent determination to undermine the work of American intelligence analysts and agencies. The integrity and transparency of the election process is fundamental to our democracy, and we must closely examine the state-sponsored hacking and misinformation campaign deployed by Russia in order to prevent it from happening again in the future. “I am encouraged by the bipartisan support for further investigation into Russia’s activities. In particular, I want to commend the efforts of Congressman Elijah Cummings, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and Congressman Eric Swalwell, a member of the House Intelligence Committee, who have introduced a bill that will establish a bipartisan, independent commission to examine Russia’s attempt to shape the 2016 election’s outcome. I also welcome President Obama's decision to order a comprehensive report on Russia’s activities and the bipartisan request for investigation in the Senate led by Republicans John McCain and Lindsey Graham, and Democrats Charles Schumer and Jack Reed. I call on my Republican colleagues in the House to support these investigations in order to restore the public’s confidence in our electoral process.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-rex-tillersons-nomination-as-secretary-of-state Cardin Statement on Rex Tillerson’s Nomination as Secretary of State 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 13, 2016 Cardin Statement on Rex Tillerson’s Nomination as Secretary of State WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement Tuesday after President-elect Donald Trump announced he will nominate Rex W. Tillerson, the president and CEO of Exxon Mobil, to be the 69th Secretary of State of the United States of America: “The President-elect deserves to nominate individuals he believes will best carry out his agenda and serve our country. But as a separate and co-equal branch of government, the Senate has a Constitutional responsibility to provide advice and consent to the president-elect on this most important Cabinet position, America’s diplomat to the world. “I am deeply troubled by Mr. Tillerson’s vocal opposition to U.S. sanctions on Russia following its illegal invasion, occupation and annexation of Crimea, Ukraine, and his close personal relationship with Vladimir Putin. Exxon Mobil also has a troubling history with climate science and the environment. Mr. Tillerson has demonstrated he knows the corporate world and can put his shareholders’ interests first, but can he be a respected Secretary of State that puts the national security interests of the American people first? It remains to be seen. “I also want to know more about Mr. Tillerson’s worldview, because I found many of President-elect Trump’s foreign policy statements as a candidate, and now as the next President of the United States, to be disturbing at best and frightening at worst.  And I know many of our allies did and do as well. “As the Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, I look forward to meeting with Mr. Tillerson as I lead my Democratic colleagues through a thorough, thoughtful confirmation process where we will scrutinize his record, experience and qualifications for the job. “In a world increasingly wracked by gross human rights violations, endemic corruption, brutal conflicts and shifting alliances… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://delaney.house.gov/news/press-releases/financial-services-members-move-the-needle-forward-on-housing-finance-reform Financial Services Members Move the Needle Forward on Housing Finance Reform 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Delaney D000620 delaney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON -  Thursday, two bills were introduced by a bipartisan group of members on the House Financial Services Committee to lay the groundwork for housing finance reform next Congress -- H.R. 6500, the Moving Housing Forward Act, introduced by Congressmen John K. Delaney (D-MD), John Carney (D-DE), and Jim Himes (D-CT) and H.R. 6487, the Taxpayer Protections and Market Access for Mortgage Finance Act introduced by Congressman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Congresswoman Gwen Moore (D-WI). Both proposals seek to address issues in housing finance through pilot programs at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. “An all-of-the-above approach to credit risk transfers by the GSEs is critical, as we look for ways to decrease taxpayer exposure to future losses and maintain a stable housing market. Members of both sides of the aisle agree that the status quo of a housing market dominated by the federal government is unsustainable,” said Congressman Royce. “Owning a home has long been a key part of the American Dream. If Congress isn’t ensuring access to affordable housing and a stable housing market, we are failing millions of middle class families,” said Congressman Delaney. “With the current difficulty millions of Americans face getting mortgages, it’s time for Congress to end the gridlock on housing finance reform and start advancing reasonable bipartisan ideas like these innovative pilot programs that will help Congress finalize larger reforms. I’m proud to work with Congressman Himes and Congressman Carney on our bill and I’m grateful for Congressman Royce and Congresswoman Moore’s efforts to also advance housing reform. In these two bills, we advance reform efforts that combine the strengths of the private sector and public sector to keep an affordable fixed-rate thirty-year mortgage alive and preserve a government guarantee, while introducing greater fiscal responsibility and stability to the housing finance system. I look forward to working with my colleagues in both parties next Congress.” “Ensuring the stability of our housing ma… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://ruppersberger.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ruppersberger-issues-statement-on-alleged-russian-interference-into-us Ruppersberger Issues Statement on Alleged Russian Interference Into U.S. Elections 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger R000576 ruppersberger.house.gov     legacy (Washington, DC) — Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, former Ranking Member of the House Intelligence Committee, today issued the following statement on alleged Russian interference into U.S. elections: “Today, I am calling for a bipartisan Congressional investigation into conclusions by the U.S. intelligence community that Russia interfered with our Presidential election. We must determine the facts to protect the validity of future elections. I also support the declassification of as much information surrounding the investigation into Russia’s activities as possible. This isn’t about who won this year’s election. It’s about the possibility of another country – Russia or otherwise – compromising the integrity of our democracy. I would feel the same if Hillary Clinton had won in November. No one is accusing the President-elect or his campaign of wrongdoing and his derogatory comments about our intelligence agencies are unhelpful. Our country’s intelligence workers are in dangerous and remote hotspots around the globe, fighting to keep us safe just as our men and women in uniform are doing. I can think of few issues more important than protecting the credibility of the checks and balances that make our country great.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2699 Hoyer: Trump Transition Questionnaire Raises Serious Concerns about Motivation, Possible Retribution 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today: "I am alarmed by the questionnaire sent by the Trump transition team to the Department of Energy seeking the names of career civil servants who have worked on climate change policy. This raises serious concerns as to the motivation of such a request and raises questions of possible retribution for following President Obama's policies.  "Civil servants are directed to implement the policies of the President, and they do so with distinction. We expect them to do so with fidelity to policy and to apply their expertise on behalf of those policies.  "To conduct an inquiry targeting individuals for the work they were directed to carry out, based on the latest and most rigorous scientific research, is troubling. It also raises questions as to whether or not the Trump Administration intends to pursue their policy objectives without considering the substantive work and opinions of those who are charged with the responsibility of developing and implementing energy policy.  "I will be following this issue closely and will fight for the rights of federal employees to be respected and protected in doing their duties properly. I hope leaders from both parties will respect our nation's nonpartisan career civil servants who have served administrations of both political parties professionally and ably." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/senators-cardin-feinstein-leahy-call-for-independent-nonpartisan-commission-to-investigate-russian-interference-in-election Senators Cardin, Feinstein, Leahy Call for Independent Nonpartisan Commission to Investigate Russian Interference in Election 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 12, 2016 Senators Cardin, Feinstein, Leahy Call for Independent Nonpartisan Commission to Investigate Russian Interference in Election WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), and Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) called Monday for the creation of an independent, nonpartisan commission to comprehensively investigate alleged Russian interference in the 2016 election. The commission would fully investigate alleged Russian cyberattacks on U.S. political entities and election infrastructure, seek to identify those responsible, and recommend a response as well as actions the U.S. can take to defend itself in the future.  Modeled on other independent commissions, this body would compile all available classified intelligence and open source information, conduct hearings and interviews, with subpoena power, and report its findings to Congress within 18 months from being formed. The membership of the commission would be individuals appointed by the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional leadership. After the White House announced it was conducting its own review into alleged Russian interference in the election late last week, reporting in The Washington Post raised serious further questions about this matter. And in October, the Director of National Intelligence confirmed that senior-level Russian officials were involved in the hacks of the emails of the Democratic National Committee and the Hillary Clinton presidential campaign. The Senators’ announcement today complements the call by bipartisan leadership in the Senate for Congressional investigations as well as support in the House of Representatives for an independent commission. “We’ve seen what Russia can do with a MiG, but they can be equally destructive with a mouse. The American people deserve a nonpartisan, transparent, public investigation into this insidious attack on our democratic institutions,” said Senator Cardin, ranking member of the Foreign Relations Committee. “Elections and the peaceful transfer o… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-the-passage-of-the-water-resources-development-act Cardin Statement on the Passage of the Water Resources Development Act 2016-12-10 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 10, 2016 Cardin Statement on the Passage of the Water Resources Development Act WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), a senior member of the Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW), issued the following statement on the Conference Report on the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which was approved by the Senate 78-21 early Saturday. “The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) is one bill that truly impacts every single person in our country. Every community— urban, rural and suburban neighborhoods — has a right to expect that water coming from their tap is safe to drink and that Congress will do everything within its power to ensure that happens. Clean water means good jobs and better health,” said Senator Cardin. “This bill is too important to have been left until the 11th hour to finalize where it was susceptible to last-minute provisions that could have derailed the whole hard-fought package. “I am proud of the concrete achievements in this WRDA, many sections taken from legislation that I authored such as improving testing in schools for lead, replacing lead pipes and revising financing programs so communities can replace their crumbling water infrastructure. Long before Flint was seared into the national consciousness, I have been fighting year after year to upgrade our hidden water infrastructure. The bill authorizes $300 million over 5 years for lead pipe replacement, $300 million over 5 years for underserved communities to do what they need to comply with the Safe Drinking Water Act, $100 million over 5 years for testing specifically in schools. There is also a requirement that the EPA, state, and local governments notify residents immediately when lead is found in their water, something that would have stopped years of exposure and needless suffering in Flint and countless cities across America. “The heart of WRDA provides for the conservation and development of water resources. The high quality jobs associated with maintaining and building our water inf… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://ruppersberger.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ruppersberger-issues-statement-on-passage-of-bill-greenlighting-critical Ruppersberger Issues Statement on Passage of Bill Greenlighting Critical Port, Harbor Projects 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger R000576 ruppersberger.house.gov     legacy (Timonium, MD) — The U.S. House of Representatives yesterday passed bipartisan legislation that authorizes funding for our nation’s ports, harbors and waterways, including the Port of Baltimore. The “Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act” passed in a 360-61 vote and is now under consideration by the U.S. Senate. Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger issued the following statement: “I applaud yesterday’s passage of bipartisan legislation, which includes investments that are absolutely critical to keeping the Port of Baltimore competitive and protecting the 122,000 jobs it supports. This bill makes it easier to deepen port berths – allowing some of the largest container ships in the world to call on the Port of Baltimore – and increases funding for fish and wildlife habitat projects in the Chesapeake Bay from $60 million to $100 million. These provisions will support a local effort to use dredged material to restore Chesapeake Bay islands. I am also pleased that the bill will continue to prevent raids of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund to offset other federal spending. This funding belongs with our ports and our ports alone. I am also happy to see that Congress is getting back into the habit of passing 2-year authorizations. This helps both our public and private-sector partners in long-term planning, which means projects stand a better chance at coming in on-time and under-budget. This is ultimately a jobs bill and I hope that we can continue working together on common sense investments in infrastructure to get Americans back to work. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to quickly follow suit and send this bill to the President’s desk.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2698 Hoyer Statement on Pay Parity for 2017 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement after the Obama Administration announced that all federal employees will receive a 2.1% pay increase in 2017, which establishes parity with military personnel:   “I’m glad that President Obama has responded to the letter that I and other Democratic Members sent this week asking for civilian-military pay parity by announcing that all federal employees will be receiving a 2.1% pay increase next year.  This is a major victory for those who serve our nation as federal employees and who constitute a critical national asset whose contributions should not be diminished.  The hardworking men and women of our federal civilian workforce support our national defense, ensure that equal protection and equal opportunity rules are enforced, keep our highways safe and waterways clean, and oversee grants that fund education and public health.  They guard our food supply from contamination and keep dangerous drugs out of our schools and neighborhoods.  It is just as critical to recruit and retain talented Americans for our federal civilian workforce as it is to do so for our military.  “It is disturbing that President-Elect Trump has promised to reduce the size of our federal workforce at a time when we are facing such enormous challenges.  Federal hiring freezes, pay freezes, and reductions in pensions and benefits only make us weaker as a nation and would make only a marginal difference when it comes to reducing deficits.  The best way to ensure fiscal sustainability and cut waste in government is to ensure that we are hiring and retaining the best possible workforce to serve the taxpayers.  I will continue to advocate strongly for that approach as well as for the pay parity between military and civilian personnel that recognizes the monumental contributions to our country made by both.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/as-tax-reform-talks-loom-in-2017-cardin-reintroduces-a-comprehensive-progressive-pro-growth-approach As Tax Reform Talks Loom in 2017, Cardin Reintroduces a Comprehensive, Progressive, Pro-Growth Approach 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 09, 2016 As Tax Reform Talks Loom in 2017, Cardin Reintroduces a Comprehensive, Progressive, Pro-Growth Approach WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, has reintroduced groundbreaking legislation that would eliminate income tax liability for most Americans and reduce corporate income tax rate to one of the lowest among industrialized nations. Cardin’s bill, S. 3529, the Progressive Consumption Tax Act (PCTA), changes the way the federal government raises revenue. Rather than taxing income, the Progressive Consumption Tax (PCT) generates reasonable revenue by taxing the purchase of goods and services. Designed to be at least as progressive as today’s tax system, low- and middle-income families would be protected from unfair consumption taxation through a rebate, and important benefits would be retained in a much simpler income tax code. A revenue circuit breaker, tied to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), is built into the Cardin system to set reasonable limits on the amount of income generated by the new progressive consumption tax. The text of S. 3529 can be found here. More details are available at cardin.senate.gov/pct. Since the original introduction of the Progressive Consumption Tax Act in 2014, many policymakers, including in Congress, have become increasingly interested in moving to a border-adjustable consumption tax base. “Our tax code should be fair for families and employers. It should help make American-based businesses more competitive and our Nation’s economy stronger. And it should provide a way to responsibly and reliably collect reasonable revenues. Our current, 1980s-style tax code simply cannot accomplish these goals,” said Senator Cardin. “Credible tax reform is critical to America’s economic competitiveness. Every other developed country in the world, including all other Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries, have a consumption tax. The Progressive Consumption Tax Act puts this cou… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-passage-of-yet-another-short-term-continuing-resolution Cardin Statement on Passage of Yet Another Short-Term Continuing Resolution 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 09, 2016 Cardin Statement on Passage of Yet Another Short-Term Continuing Resolution “Continuing resolutions keep the federal government running, which is good news for all Americans, but it is no way to run a government.” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and a member of the Senate Finance Committee, expressed his frustration that House and Senate Republicans insisted on yet another continuing resolution (CR) rather than completing the appropriations bills that passed out of committee. “Continuing resolutions keep the federal government running, which is good news for all Americans, but it is no way to run a government, especially not for years at a time, which is what Congress has been doing. Two years ago we passed a bipartisan budget that was supposed to get us off this track of governing from missed deadline to missed deadline. This year, most appropriations bills passed out of committee with overwhelming margins. There was absolutely no logical reason that we could not pass all or most of the regular appropriations bills instead of yet another CR. Americans are counting on Congress to do its job in a fiscally responsible way; a CR is not the responsible way. It inherently undercuts key priorities. “Governing responsibly requires actual governing, not kicking the can down the road because you don’t like the other players. We all need to move on to the current business of paying our bills, keeping our country safe, and boosting the economy rather than playing partisan games with the economic security of the United States of America.” Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-van-hollen-urge-usda-to-prioritize-chesapeake-bay-watershed-when-reallocating-unspent-nrcs-funding Cardin, Van Hollen Urge USDA to Prioritize Chesapeake Bay Watershed When Reallocating Unspent NRCS Funding 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 09, 2016 Cardin, Van Hollen Urge USDA to Prioritize Chesapeake Bay Watershed When Reallocating Unspent NRCS Funding Maryland officials call for immediate assistance to help farmers comply with pollution reduction requirements, agency to make good on promises to nation’s largest estuary WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin and Senator-elect Chris Van Hollen (both D-Md.) today released the text of Senate and House letters sent to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Thomas Vilsack calling for additional resources for family farmers in the Chesapeake Bay watershed who are working to stop runoff pollution. When completed projects across the country have extra, unspent funding, they send it back to the USDA, where it can be reallocated. By investing that funding in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, the USDA could contribute meaningfully to the cleanup goals in the Bay states and the protection of our vital national treasure. Senator Cardin and Senator-elect Van Hollen write: … Significant progress has been made to reduce pollution from the 64,000-mile watershed, according to a recent assessment by EPA’s Chesapeake Bay Program. Commitment and collaboration from the six watershed states and the District of Columbia has been strong. Yet, there is still significant work to do, and federal funding is more important than ever. With the remarkable participation of the agriculture sector, several states have made significant reductions in nutrient and soil run-off. It is apparent that American farmers want what is good for their land and the supporting waterways. However, when farm incomes are strained and matching funds are limited or even eliminated, federal leadership is incredibly important to support continued investments in conservation. We know that we still face a major challenge in reducing pollution from agriculture, particularly in resource-strained regions of the Chesapeake waters… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2695 Hoyer Joins Maryland and Virginia Lawmakers In Urging Fair Pay for Civilian Federal Workers Nationwide 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC –Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) joined Maryland and Virginia lawmakers in writing to President Obama in an effort to maintain pay parity between America’s civilian and military public servants. Congressman Hoyer joined U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-MD), Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA), and Congressman Chris Van Hollen (MD-08) in calling on President Obama to update his recent executive order affirming a 1.6 percent pay increase for civilians to match the 2.1 percent pay increase for military personnel included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “Our federal workforce is a critical national asset we should not take for granted,” the lawmakers wrote. “While we support the biggest pay increase possible for our military members, with very few exceptions we have had parity with respect to pay raises for the military and for civilian federal employees.” The text of the letter is below and here.                       December 7, 2016   The Honorable Barack H. Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President:   We anticipate that Congress will send you the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with a 2.1 percent pay increase for our servicemen and women.  While we support the biggest pay increase possible for our military members, with very few exceptions we have had parity with respect to pay raises for the military and for civilian federal employees. The 2017 pay raise you have requested for civilian employees is 1.6 percent.  We respectfully request, therefore, that you issue a new Executive Order seeking a 2.1 percent pay increase for all federal workers, including civilian workers. Our federal workforce is a critical national asset we should not take for granted.  Federal workers are constantly being denigrated even as they carry out critical missions under difficult circumstances. Since 2011, federal workers have “contributed” over… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2696 Hoyer Statement on Evergreen Health 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after the Maryland Insurance Administration announced that Evergreen Health will not offer health plans on the individual market in 2017: “I am deeply concerned that Republican efforts at the national level to undermine the Affordable Care Act have led to the instability of co-ops, including Evergreen Health in Maryland. This instability creates disruption in the marketplace and can potentially threaten access to health coverage for many Marylanders. I am focused on ensuring that Evergreen’s current customers can continue to access affordable health coverage through the Maryland Health Connection, and I will be working closely with the Maryland Delegation, Maryland Insurance Commissioner Al Redmer, and other stakeholders to protect and strengthen Maryland’s marketplace in the months and years to come. I will also strongly oppose continued efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act, which would take away coverage from nearly half a million Marylanders.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2697 Hoyer Floor Remarks Paying Tribute to Senator Barbara Mikulski 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) spoke on the House Floor to pay tribute to Senator Barbara Mikulski’s service in the United States Congress. Below is a transcript of his remarks and a link to the video: Click here to watch the video. “Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to someone who I have known and called a friend for many, many years, over three decades and, perhaps, four. “Barbara Mikulski is the tallest short person I have ever met. She fills a room, everybody knows when Barbara Mikulski is in the chamber or in the room or in the auditorium. “Barbara Mikulski, as you’ve heard,  will retire at the end of this Congress after having served Maryland in the House and Senate since 1977. I had the opportunity to serve with her in this House for six years. “For forty years, she has been a voice for the people of our state. Not just a voice for all the people, but – in particular – for those people whose voices needed amplifying: the poor, the sick, the overworked, and the underpaid. “The Baltimore dock workers worried for their jobs. The women earning less than their male colleagues for the same work. The children in foster care or homeless shelters. All of them have come to see Barbara Mikulski as their champion. “In many ways, she began her career as a social worker and brought that work to Congress. She [retires] as one of the most successful social workers in history. “She’s worked hard to clean up the Chesapeake Bay, support America’s first responders, broaden our exploration of space and science—what a giant she has been for NASA—help seniors afford health care, and keep America’s promise to its veterans. “She passed the Lilly Ledbetter Equal Pay Act, introduced the Paycheck Fairness Act to end the wage-gap once and for all, and has fought continuously to raise the minimum wage. “Senator Mikulski blazed a trail as the longest-serving woman in the history of Congress, the first woman to be elected without a relative as a predecessor, and the f… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-calls-ndaa-an-imperfect-but-important-bill-that-supports-americas-warriors-and-their-families Cardin Calls NDAA an Imperfect but Important Bill that Supports America’s Warriors and Their Families 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 08, 2016 Cardin Calls NDAA an Imperfect but Important Bill that Supports America’s Warriors and Their Families “Congress perpetuates the wasteful and unnecessary use of the detention facility at Guantánamo Bay.” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that was approved by the Senate 92-7 today “still has many flaws but is important for our national security and the men and women of our armed forces.” Senator Cardin’s comments on passage of the included Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act can be found at this link. He released the following statement on the overall bill, which is now headed to President Obama for signature. “Congress has sent a clear message to the men and women of our military that we have their backs on the battlefield and when they return home to their families. I’m proud to say that the NDAA invests in our Active duty, National Guard and Reserves and ensures they have the tools and resources needed to carry out their mission. This bill is important for the quality of life of our all-volunteer force and their families through fair compensation, policies and benefits, including first rate health care, and addressing the needs of the wounded, ill, and injured service members. NDAA also streamlines rules for contractors, helping Maryland businesses – large and small – compete on a more level playing field for defense acquisitions and assistance. Maryland is home to over 40,000 active and reserve service members who defend our nation against all enemies foreign and domestic. They deserve the very best we can provide. “I regret that once again Congress perpetuates the wasteful and unnecessary use of the detention facility at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, with counterproductive restrictions on the transfer of detainees. GTMO has been a blight on America’s hu… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-mccain-hail-watershed-moment-in-global-human-rights-accountability-fight-against-corruption Cardin, McCain Hail Watershed Moment in Global Human Rights Accountability, Fight Against Corruption 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 08, 2016 Cardin, McCain Hail Watershed Moment in Global Human Rights Accountability, Fight Against Corruption WASHINGTON – Senate and House passage of the FY 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is a watershed moment in global human rights accountability and the fight against corruption. The Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, part of the NDAA, now heads to President Obama for signature into law. Championed by U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Foreign Relations Committee, and John McCain (R-Ariz.), Chairman of the Armed Services Committee, the bill gives the President of the United States the authority to deny human rights abusers and corrupt officials entry into the United States and access to our financial institutions. The bipartisan legislation builds on the Russia-specific Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act of 2013 to apply sanctions globally, and makes significant acts of corruption sanctionable offenses.   “Addressing human rights violations and corruption around the globe remains one of the most challenging aspects of U.S. foreign policy,” said Senator Cardin. “With today’s passage of the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, the United States has added a critical tool to our diplomatic toolbox, making clear that gross violators of human rights and those who engage in serious acts of corruption cannot escape the consequences of their actions even when their home country fails to act. Visiting the United States and using our financial institutions are privileges that should not be extended to the worst actors in the international system. But perhaps most importantly, passage of this legislation is a reminder to all those around the world who have the courage to stand up against corruption and human rights abuses, that the United States stands with them in solidarity.” “Last month marked the seventh anniversary of the murder of Sergei Magnitsky at the hands of Vladimir Putin’s Russia. Sergei’s torture and… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-sens-ben-cardin-and-dianne-feinstein-in-usa-today-trump-could-threaten-us-superpower-status ICYMI: Sens. Ben Cardin and Dianne Feinstein in USA TODAY: Trump could threaten U.S. superpower status 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 08, 2016 ICYMI: Sens. Ben Cardin and Dianne Feinstein in USA TODAY: Trump could threaten U.S. superpower status Trump is treating the Secretary of State nomination like a reality television show By Ben Cardin and Dianne Feinstein | December 8th, 2016 President Obama is right — if President-elect Donald Trump succeeds, America succeeds. But the opposite is equally true. The costs of a failed Trump presidency would be profound for the security of the United States and countries around the world. With each passing day, we grow increasingly concerned that President-elect Trump fails to grasp the solemn, serious responsibilities that come with being our nation’s commander in chief. Protecting and advancing our national security interests is arguably the president’s most important duty. As elected representatives of a separate and co-equal branch of government, we are honor-bound by our oaths to protect and defend the Constitution. We will also offer our advice and opinions to the president and share these views with the American people, particularly when it concerns our national security. And there is much to be concerned about. First, Donald J. Trump will pledge to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States when he takes the oath of office on Jan. 20. But by any objective measure, the president-elect is on a collision course with the Constitution, which states that federal office holders cannot receive monetary gifts or otherwise financially benefit from foreign governments or affiliates. But Trump’s company and its many dealings stand in direct conflict with this prohibition. Trump has announced he will address his future with his business empire next week, and we expect nothing less than an utterly clear, concrete, black-and-white decision that prevents any actual or perceived conflict with the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution. Second, Trump is treating the Secretary … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://harris.house.gov/press-release/congressman-harris-federal-immigration-law-must-be-enforced Congressman Harris: Federal Immigration Law Must be Enforced 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Republican House MD Andy Harris H001052 harris.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC: Today, Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01) introduced the Federal Immigration Law Compliance Act of 2016 (FILCA) in the House, with co-sponsors from California to New York to Florida. FILCA requires any entity receiving federal funds, including institutions of higher learning, to comply with all lawful requests made by federal immigration enforcement authorities. Should the entity refuse to comply with federal immigration enforcement requests that entity will be subject to a withholding of all federal funding. “Congress has the responsibility to protect the rule of law in our country and provide for the safety of our citizens. We need to focus on protecting American citizens and those who are in this country legally, instead of providing shelter for those who have violated our immigration law and entered this country illegally. If any entity refuses to comply with federal immigration law, they should be denied federal money until they come into compliance,” said Congressman Harris. FILCA also explicitly authorizes federal immigration authorities to make requests for information regarding illegal immigrants of any institution or entity receiving federal funds. Additionally, in the case of state or local law enforcement in custody of an illegal alien, the bill explicitly authorizes federal officials to request that the state or local authority retain custody until the federal authorities can assume custody of that illegal alien. “The American people have spoken loudly in this past election that they want federal immigration law enforced,” added Congressman Harris.   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2694 Hoyer Statement on Resolution Authorizing a New, Fully-Consolidated FBI Headquarters 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement after the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed a resolution authorizing a new, fully-consolidated FBI headquarters: “Today’s Committee passage of a resolution to authorize the FBI project is an important step in providing a new, fully consolidated headquarters to the hardworking employees of the FBI.  The resolution authorizes the project so it can move forward once the funding is appropriated. “I’m pleased the resolution requires that the General Services Administration, which is charged with awarding the project, consider the National Capital Planning Commission’s parking recommendations and proximity to Metro. In addition, the resolution requires GSA to consider the significant cost of relocation and site preparation of the Springfield site, which ought to be a serious concern for taxpayers. I advocated strongly for these provisions, and their inclusion ensures that the resolution is favorable for Maryland. “Now that the project is authorized, Congress must turn to the task of appropriating the funding necessary to complete the project. While House Republicans’ continuing resolution does not contain full funding for the project, I will continue to work in the coming months to ensure that the necessary resources are provided for a new, fully-consolidated headquarters that FBI employees need and deserve.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-nomination-of-scott-pruitt-as-epa-administrator Cardin Statement on Nomination of Scott Pruitt as EPA Administrator 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 07, 2016 Cardin Statement on Nomination of Scott Pruitt as EPA Administrator WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) made the following remarks in response to the announcement that President-elect Trump would nominate Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt to be the next Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “I believe strongly in the cabinet confirmation process – including giving every nominee a fair and timely hearing. To that end, as a senior member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, I will listen to what Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt has to say about his vision for the EPA. “However I am concerned about this nomination. Mr. Pruitt has made a name for himself out of denying the very existence of climate change. Now President-Elect Trump has selected him to lead the agency charged with addressing it. Mr. Pruitt has made a career out of suing the EPA. Now he wants to run the agency. “I find Mr. Pruitt’s selection for EPA Administrator troubling, both for the future of environmental justice in this country, as well as for what it signals more generally about President-Elect Trump’s relationship with science and established fact. “I will strongly dispute any nominee who denies the sum of empirical science and the very existence of climate change.” Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/maryland-and-virginia-lawmakers-write-to-president-obama-urging-fair-pay-for-civilian-federal-workers-nationwide Maryland and Virginia Lawmakers Write to President Obama Urging Fair Pay for Civilian Federal Workers Nationwide 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 07, 2016 Maryland and Virginia Lawmakers Write to President Obama Urging Fair Pay for Civilian Federal Workers Nationwide WASHINGTON – Maryland and Virginia lawmakers have written to President Obama in an effort to maintain pay parity between America’s civilian and military public servants. U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-Md.), Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-Va.), Congressman Steny H. Hoyer and Senator-elect Chris Van Hollen (both D-Md.) have called on President Obama to update his recent executive order affirming a 1.6 percent pay increase for civilians to match the 2.1 percent pay increase for military personnel included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “Our federal workforce is a critical national asset we should not take for granted,” the lawmakers write. “While we support the biggest pay increase possible for our military members, with very few exceptions we have had parity with respect to pay raises for the military and for civilian federal employees.” The text of the letter is below and at this link.                         December 7, 2016 The Honorable Barack H. Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500   Dear Mr. President: We anticipate that Congress will send you the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with a 2.1 percent pay increase for our servicemen and women.  While we support the biggest pay increase possible for our military members, with very few exceptions we have had parity with respect to pay raises for the military and for civilian federal employees. The 2017 pay raise you have requested for civilian employees is 1.6 percent.  We respectfully request, therefore, that you issue a new Executive Order seeking a 2.1 percent pay increase for all federal workers, including civilian workers. Our federal workforce is a critical national asset we should not take for granted.  Federal workers are constantly being denigrated even as they carry out cri… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://ruppersberger.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ruppersberger-team-maryland-announce-15-million-ito-expand-preschool Ruppersberger, Team Maryland Announce $15 Million To Expand Preschool 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger R000576 ruppersberger.house.gov     legacy (Washington, DC) – Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, along with U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski, as well as U.S. Representatives Steny H. Hoyer, Elijah Cummings, Chris Van Hollen, John Sarbanes, Donna F. Edwards and John Delaney (all D-Md.), announced Tuesday that Maryland has been awarded $15 million through the Preschool Development Grants program to provide high-quality preschool programs in 19 school districts across Maryland. In the past three years, Maryland has been awarded more than $45 million in federal funds to expand proven-beneficial preschool programs throughout the state. “This is the type of common sense investment Americans expect during these tough times,” said Congressman Ruppersberger. “Research suggests that Pre-K can improve a child’s chance of success in school and in life – children who attend Pre-K are more likely to graduate from high school and earn more as adults. It is an investment in our future.” Maryland school districts receiving grant funding include: Allegany County Public Schools, Anne Arundel County Public Schools, Baltimore City Public Schools, Baltimore County Public Schools, Caroline County Public Schools, Carroll County Public Schools, Charles County Public Schools, Dorchester County Public Schools, Frederick County Public Schools, Garrett County Public Schools, Harford County Public Schools, Howard County Public Schools, Montgomery County Public Schools, Prince George’s County Public Schools, Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, Somerset County Public Schools, St. Mary’s County Public Schools, Washington County Public Schools and Wicomico County Public Schools, in addition to many community-based programs. Through these Preschool Development Grant awards, more than 35,000 additional children across 18 states will be served in preschool programs that meet high-quality standards in the third year of the program, an increase from 28,000 in the first award year in 2014. States receiving grants will develop or expand high-quality preschool programs in regio… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2693 Hoyer Joins Team Maryland to Announce $15 Million in Federal Funding To Expand High-Quality Preschool Programs 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) joined U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski and U.S. Representatives Elijah Cummings, Chris Van Hollen, C.A. “Dutch” Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Donna F. Edwards and John Delaney (all D-MD) to announce that Maryland has been awarded $15 million through the Preschool Development Grants program to provide high-quality preschool programs in 19 school districts across Maryland. In the past three years, Maryland has been awarded more than $45 million in federal funds to expand proven-beneficial preschool programs throughout the state. “I’m glad we were able to secure $15 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Education to support early childhood education in Maryland,” said Congressman Hoyer. “In the first two years of this four year grant, this funding has enabled our state to nearly double the number of Judith P. Hoyer Early Child Care and Family Education Centers, known as 'Judy Centers,' named for my wife who spent her career as an early childhood education administrator in Prince George’s County. Judy Centers help prepare children from low-income families for kindergarten and elementary school by providing early education and comprehensive health and social services under one roof, helping the child prepare for school and ensuring their family can support learning. I'm proud to be a champion of Judy Centers, which have delivered proven results and serve as a model for the country.  All of our children deserve an opportunity to succeed and enter school prepared to learn and achieve.” “We never get do-overs when it comes to our children’s early development, which makes this continued federal investment in Maryland to strengthen and expand our preschool programs incredibly important,” said Senator Cardin. “Our goal is to ensure that early learners have the chance to acquire the skills they need to be successful throughout their lives. With this federal investment, we will be able to provide additional opportunities to meet that g… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/team-maryland-announces-15-million-in-federal-funding-to-expand-high Team Maryland Announces $15 Million in Federal Funding to Expand High-Quality Preschool Programs 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski, together with U.S. Representatives Steny H. Hoyer, Elijah Cummings, Chris Van Hollen, C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Donna F. Edwards and John Delaney (all D-Md.), announced Tuesday that Maryland has been awarded $15 million through the Preschool Development Grants program to provide high-quality preschool programs in 19 school districts across Maryland. In the past three years, Maryland has been awarded more than $45 million in federal funds to expand proven-beneficial preschool programs throughout the state. “We never get do-overs when it comes to our children’s early development, which makes this continued federal investment in Maryland to strengthen and expand our preschool programs incredibly important,” said Senator Cardin. “Our goal is to ensure that early learners have the chance to acquire the skills they need to be successful throughout their lives. With this federal investment, we will be able to provide additional opportunities to meet that goal, as well as meet growing demand to expand access to high-quality preschool programs.” “Education is the opportunity ladder of this nation. Every child deserves their chance to get a foothold on that ladder,” said Senator Mikulski, senior member of the Senate House, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. “These funds in the federal checkbook will help ensure children across Maryland get the care and education they need and deserve so they and their families can have a better, brighter future.” “For our economy to succeed, we need to invest in education from day one,” said Senator-Elect Van Hollen. “Maryland’s workforce is second to none, because we are committed to making sure our children have the best schools – from preschool through college and job training. Federal grants like this are key to this effort, as we fight every day to make sure our state has a strong education system and a strong economy.” “I’m glad we were able to secure $15 million in grant funding from the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-the-75th-anniversary-of-pearl-harbor-attack Cardin Statement on the 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor Attack 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 06, 2016 Cardin Statement on the 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor Attack WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, issued the following statement to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii. “December 7, 1941 was a day that will live in infamy for the brutal and deadly attack by the Japanese against our nation at Pearl Harbor. But it also is the day that launched America into World War II and solidified our collective resolve to turn anger into action and revenge into redemption. On this 75th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, we celebrate the honor and bravery of America’s ‘Greatest Generation’ that was borne from the sacrifices of war and imprinted on every family that sent their sons and fathers to fight on a distant shore or stood watch on the home front. On this day, we remind ourselves and the world that ‘American values’ still stands for freedom and a determination to use our unmatched strength to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. We also take time to honor the brave men and women who currently serve in our military, and their families. We pray for their safe return as they continue to serve in harm’s way.”  ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://delaney.house.gov/news/blogs/on-the-house-floor-this-week-12516 On the House Floor This Week - 12/5/16 2016-12-05 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Delaney D000620 delaney.house.gov     legacy The House of Representatives will be in session this week. The legislative schedule, including which bills are brought to the floor for a vote, is set by the Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and the Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy. To contact my office about the legislation we’re considering this week, please contact my office at 202-225-2721 or by clicking here.   MONDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2016 On Monday, the House will meet at 12:00 p.m. for Morning Hour debate and 2:00 p.m. for legislative business, with votes postponed until 6:30 p.m. Suspensions (6 bills) H.R. 2726 – Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act, as amended (Rep. Posey – Financial Services) H.R. 6427 – Creating Financial Prosperity for Businesses and Investors Act (Rep. Garrett – Financial Services) S. 795 – To enhance whistleblower protection for contractor and grantee employees (Sen. McCaskill – Oversight and Government Reform) H.R. 5015 – Combat-Injured Veterans Tax Fairness Act of 2016, as amended (Rep. Rouzer – Ways and Means) S. 3395 – Prescribed Burn Approval Act of 2016 (Sen. Thune – Agriculture) House Amendment to S. 1635 – Department of State Authorities Act, Fiscal Year 2017, as amendment (Sen. Corker – Foreign Affairs) TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2016 On Tuesday, the House will meet at 10:00 a.m. for Morning Hour debate and 12:00 p.m. for legislative business. Suspensions (21 bills) H.R. 756 – Streamlining Energy Efficiency for Schools Act of 2015 (Rep. Cartwright – Energy and Commerce) H.R. 6375 – Power And Security Systems (PASS) Act (Rep. Pompeo – Energy and Commerce) H.R. 3381 – Childhood Cancer STAR Act, as amended (Rep. McCaul – Energy and Commerce) H.Res. ___ – Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that all students should have access to the digital tools necessary to further their education and compete in the 21st century economy (Rep. Welch – Energy and Commerce) H.R. 6394 – Improving Broadband Access for Veterans Act of 2016 (Rep. McNerney – Energy and Commerce) H.Res. 932 – Expressing the sense … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/democracy-hero-rep-john-sarbanes-part-two Democracy Hero: Rep. John Sarbanes (Part Two) 2016-12-05 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy Although virtually ignored by corporate media, some in Congress did hear our voices—most notably Representative John Sarbanes (D-MD) who immediately collected roughly 100 Congressional signatures on a petition to hold hearings on our demands.... John Sarbanes is a hero to many, shining the light on the mother of all issues: democracy itself. Recently we felt honored to chat with him. Below is the second half of our conversation (see Part One here). 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-leads-maryland-delegation-in-urging-federal-funding-for Sarbanes Leads Maryland Delegation in Urging Federal Funding for Baltimore Highway Improvements 2016-12-05 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) today led a Maryland Delegation letter to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Fox in an effort to secure federal funding for highway improvements on Interstate-95, better linking local communities with new development in South Baltimore planned by Sagamore Development. The Members wrote, “The project will transform an industrial brownfields site into a vibrant hub for a thriving mixed-use live-work-play community, anchored by a corporate headquarters, existing and new manufacturing, restaurants, shops, parks, athletic fields, and over 40 acres of accessible public waterfront.” A full copy of the letter is below. December 2, 2016 The Honorable Anthony R. Foxx Secretary United States Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Foxx: We are writing to offer our strong support for the City of Baltimore and the Maryland Transportation Authority’s (MDTA) application to the US Department of Transportation for the Access I-95: Driving Baltimore’s City’s Growth (Access I-95) FASTLANE grant application.  State and private funds are already committed to this project. Federal funding, through the FASTLANE grant program, will allow the project to become a reality. As we stated in our previous letter, this grant will facilitate the redevelopment of Port Covington and ensure safe and efficient access to this waterfront complex at the southern end of the South Baltimore Peninsula bordering Interstate-95 (I-95).  The Access I-95 package improves freight and human movement to and from Port Covington and on I-95 in Baltimore City.  The project will transform an industrial brownfields site into a vibrant hub for a thriving mixed-use live-work-play community, anchored by a corporate headquarters, existing and new manufacturing, restaurants, shops, parks, athletic fields, and over 40 acres of accessible public waterfront. The highway improvements associated with this project will generate more than $5.5 bill… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-praises-army-corps-response-halting-dakota-pipeline-to-protect-drinking-water-sources-for-standing-rock-sioux-reservation Cardin Praises Army Corps Response Halting Dakota Pipeline to Protect Drinking Water Sources for Standing Rock Sioux Reservation 2016-12-05 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 05, 2016 Cardin Praises Army Corps Response Halting Dakota Pipeline to Protect Drinking Water Sources for Standing Rock Sioux Reservation WASHINGTON – Weeks after U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and his colleagues sent a letter to President Barack Obama requesting the administration halt construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline until affected tribes are consulted and a full environmental review is conducted, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced that such a review will indeed need to be completed prior to any additional work. “In order to protect the drinking water sources for the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation and to protect public health in the region, I voiced my solidarity with those asking the federal government to follow its own procedures before allowing such an enormous threat to the drinking water of the Native American tribe. I am pleased to see the Army Corps of Engineers has listened to lawmakers and the very people who would be impacted by a potential breach or spill from the proposed pipeline,” said Senator Cardin, a senior member of the Environment and Public Works Committee. “After a thorough environmental review, officials should seek an alternate route for the Dakota Access Pipeline. A risk too great for the people of Bismarck, N.D., and their drinking water certainly should be too great a risk for the nearby people of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation.” ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://ruppersberger.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ruppersberger-supportive-of-nomination-of-general-james-mattis-as-secretary Ruppersberger Supportive of Nomination of General James Mattis as Secretary of Defense 2016-12-03 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger R000576 ruppersberger.house.gov     legacy (Washington, DC) – Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger today issued the following statement on President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of General James Mattis as Secretary of Defense: “General James Mattis is a strong choice as our next Secretary of Defense and I urge my colleagues in Congress to work together to adopt a waiver to allow President-elect Trump’s nomination to move forward. In my longtime role on the House Intelligence Committee and, now, as a Defense Appropriator, co-chair of the House Army Caucus, Naval Academy Board Member and Congressional Representative for the National Security Agency, US Cyber Command and two Army bases, I have had the opportunity to meet with many military leaders. General Mattis has been among the best. Our Armed Forces are the strongest in the world under the leadership of the most capable military commanders like General Mattis, who can help us maintain our dominance on land, at sea, in the skies and throughout cyberspace.  I respect his unwavering patriotism and his candor and I share his distaste for partisan politics –we both believe that there is no room for politics when it comes to the safety of American citizens. I look forward to working with General Mattis in this new role.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://delaney.house.gov/news/press-releases/entire-maryland-delegation-voices-support-for-i-81-fastlane-grant Entire Maryland Delegation Voices Support for I-81 FASTLANE Grant 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Delaney D000620 delaney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – All ten members of the Maryland congressional delegation have signed onto a bipartisan letter organized by Congressman John K. Delaney (D-MD-6) on behalf of Maryland’s request for FASTLANE grant funding for the I-81 Corridor Widening project. U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD), U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), Senator-Elect Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD-5), Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-MD-7), Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD-2), Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD-3), Rep. Donna F. Edwards (D-MD-4), Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD-1) and Rep. Delaney signed the letter, which was sent to the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx on December 2 . The FASTLANE program was established in the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act to fund critical freight and highway projects nationwide. The text of the letter is below:   The Honorable Anthony Foxx Secretary of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590   Subject:      I-81 Corridor Widening: Improving Safety, Capacity, and Reliability in Western Maryland Fostering Advancements in Shipping and Transportation for the Long-term Achievement of National Efficiencies (FASTLANE) 2017 Grant Request   Dear Secretary Foxx:   We are writing to express our strong support for the request from the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) for FASTLANE grant funding to support the I-81 Corridor Widening project. To improve safety for local drivers, regional and national freight movement, and traffic operations, I-81 will be widened from four lanes to six lanes through a comprehensive four-phase project. With Phase 1 of the project having commenced in October 2016, MDOT is requesting FASTLANE funding, which will be utilized for Phase 2 construction and will leverage MDOT’s ability to move forward with Phase 3 and 4.   These upgrades are important both nationally and locally. I-81 is a strategic transportation asset that promotes and supports global and national commerce in the United Sta… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-statement-on-dakota-access-pipeline Sarbanes Statement on Dakota Access Pipeline 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) released the following statement regarding the Dakota Access Pipeline protests near the Standing Rock Sioux reservation in North Dakota: “As tensions continue to rise over the Dakota Access Pipeline, I urge law enforcement personnel to de-escalate the situation and respect the right of Native American tribe members and other citizens to engage in peaceful protest. Members of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe have raised serious questions about the construction of the pipeline so close to their sacred sites and those questions must be fully answered before the project proceeds any further. “Each and every citizen in this nation is entitled to clean water and air, and petitions to the government seeking to protect the integrity of our environment must be given a fair and open hearing. Native American tribes and communities have a particular legacy of stewardship when it comes to our natural resources and their voices deserve to be heard and respected on a project that carries such consequence.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-meets-with-charles-county-economic-development-team-on-boosting-local-economy Cardin Meets with Charles County Economic Development Team on Boosting Local Economy 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 02, 2016 Cardin Meets with Charles County Economic Development Team on Boosting Local Economy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), a member of the Senate’s Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, visited with officials from the Charles County Department of Economic Development and local small business leaders in Waldorf, Md., on Monday to discuss ongoing initiatives to expand the local economy and address the challenges faced by small businesses. The roundtable discussion featured presentations on how business leaders and government can work together to bring added mass transit options to local communities and commuters.  Senator Ben Cardin meets with Darrell Brown, Director of the Charles County Department of Economic Development; Marcia Keeth, Deputy Director of the Charles County Department of Economic Development; Peter Murphy, President of the Charles County Board of Commissioners; and small business leaders from across Southern Maryland. “Southern Maryland has become one of the fastest-growing economic engines in the state,” said Senator Cardin. “I’m going to continue working hard to make sure the region has every resource to keep expanding and fostering the growth of Southern Maryland’s vibrant small business community. Rapid transit, infrastructure expansion, regulation reform – these are all critical elements to modernizing Southern Maryland and helping its businesses stay competitive. My meeting with local business owners and Charles County’s economic development team was tremendously productive toward these ends. They were forthright about the challenges they face and came prepared with solutions. I look forward to working with them in the coming years to bring those solutions and our shared goals for Southern Maryland to fruition.”   # # # Print Email Tweet Next Article … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/entire-maryland-delegation-voices-support-for-i-81-fastlane-grant Entire Maryland Delegation Voices Support for I-81 FASTLANE Grant 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 02, 2016 Entire Maryland Delegation Voices Support for I-81 FASTLANE Grant WASHINGTON – All ten members of the Maryland congressional delegation have signed onto a bipartisan letter organized by Congressman John K. Delaney (D-MD-6) on behalf of Maryland’s request for FASTLANE grant funding for the I-81 Corridor Widening project. U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD), Senator-Elect Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD-5), Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-MD-7), Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD-2), Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD-3), Rep. Donna F. Edwards (D-MD-4), Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD-1) and Rep. Delaney signed the letter, which was sent to the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx on December 2 . The FASTLANE program was established in the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act to fund critical freight and highway projects nationwide. The text of the letter is below: The Honorable Anthony Foxx Secretary of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590   Subject:      I-81 Corridor Widening: Improving Safety, Capacity, and Reliability in Western Maryland Fostering Advancements in Shipping and Transportation for the Long-term Achievement of National Efficiencies (FASTLANE) 2017 Grant Request Dear Secretary Foxx: We are writing to express our strong support for the request from the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) for FASTLANE grant funding to support the I-81 Corridor Widening project. To improve safety for local drivers, regional and national freight movement, and traffic operations, I-81 will be widened from four lanes to six lanes through a comprehensive four-phase project. With Phase 1 of the project having commenced in October 2016, MDOT is requesting FASTLANE funding, which will be utilized for Phase 2 construction and will leverage MDOT’s ability to move forward with Phase 3 and 4. These upgrades are important both nationally and locally. I… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-statement-on-more-gop-giveaways-to-wall-street Sarbanes Statement on More G.O.P. Giveaways to Wall Street 2016-12-01 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) released the following statement after the Republican-controlled Congress passed the Systemic Risk Designation Improvement Act of 2016 (H.R. 6392), a bill that further erodes Wall Street oversight, and after President-elect Donald J. Trump announced the nomination of former Goldman Sachs partner and hedge fund manager Steven Mnuchin for Treasury Secretary: “If one thing is clear from the recent election, it’s that Americans of all stripes are fed up with business as usual in Washington. Most Americans want to create an economy that works for everyone and a democracy where every voice is heard. The G.O.P.’s consistent attempts to strip away the safeguards put in place to prevent another financial crisis and President-elect Trump’s appointment of Steven Mnuchin to be our nation’s chief financial watchdog shows that the message hasn’t been received. “For years, the Republican Party has sought to tear down effective oversight of Wall Street. And today, the Republican-controlled House voted to suspend critical risk controls for some of the nation’s largest financial institutions – making the prospect of another taxpayer bank bailout more likely. “In addition, President-elect Trump has nominated Steven Mnuchin – an elite Wall Street insider who personally profited from the financial ruin of hardworking Americans during the financial crisis of 2008. The nomination of Steven Mnuchin is a blatant departure from President-Elect Trump’s promise to “drain the swamp” and should offend President-elect Trump’s supporters and detractors alike. “Unfortunately, the nomination of Mr. Mnuchin and the passage of H.R. 6392 should come as no surprise – giveaways to Wall Street are par for the course in the Republican Party.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-world-aids-day-2016 Cardin Statement on World AIDS Day 2016 2016-12-01 2016 2016-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 01, 2016 Cardin Statement on World AIDS Day 2016 Senator calls for continued bipartisan commitment to PEPFAR; investments to combat transmission in Maryland, across U.S. WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, released the following statement Thursday in recognition of World AIDS Day: “Thirty years ago the National Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Medicine issued a report calling for a ‘massive media, educational and public health campaign to curb the spread of the HIV infection.’ The global community heeded that call, and today, on World AIDS Day, we celebrate progress that we have made in treating and preventing HIV/AIDS both at home and abroad, and recommit ourselves to creating an AIDS-free generation. “Earlier this year I had the opportunity to visit an HIV/AIDS clinic in Namibia supported by PEPFAR and The Global Fund. While there I met a 30-year-old man named Simon who said he would not be alive without the international community’s HIV/AIDS assistance. While the individual stories of people like Simon are a testament to the hard-fought progress this global response has achieved, the aggregate impact of our efforts cannot be understated. PEPFAR has been a bipartisan success story that began with a strong commitment by President George W. Bush and grew under President Obama. It must continue to have broad-based support in a Trump Administration and in the 115th Congress so we can keep making inroads against this pernicious disease. Since 2005, AIDS-related deaths have fallen by 45 percent globally. In Africa, new HIV infections have declined 14 percent since 2010, including a 66 percent reduction in new infections in children in the region. And today, 18.2 million men, women, and children worldwide are on anti-retroviral therapy, double the number that had access just five years ago. “Nevertheless, there remains mo… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://ruppersberger.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ruppersberger-issues-statement-on-dakota-access-pipeline-and-treatment-of Ruppersberger Issues Statement on Dakota Access Pipeline and Treatment of Protestors 2016-11-30 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger R000576 ruppersberger.house.gov     legacy (Washington, DC) — Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger today issued the following statement regarding the treatment of protesters and the controversy over the Dakota Access Pipeline: “Peaceful protest is a vital part of our Constitutional rights, and the reports of intimidation and injuries to unarmed protesters of the Dakota Access Pipeline are alarming. Army Corps of Engineers leaders have said they will not engage in forcible removal of protestors and I urge them to honor this commitment and take steps necessary to ensure protestors can continue to exercise their rights. After 17 years of experience in local government, I know that public involvement and transparency are critical to the success of any development project. In addition to environmental concerns associated with this project, any potential threat to sacred Native American land and cultural sites must be taken seriously. Army Corps officials earlier this month said additional analysis and consultation with the Standing Rock Sioux are warranted and that they will withhold a final permit while they engage further with the tribe. This is the right course of action. Construction should not begin until all of the tribe’s legitimate concerns are adequately addressed.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://delaney.house.gov/news/press-releases/baltimore-sun-editorial-urges-president-elect-trump-to-adopt-delaney Baltimore Sun Editorial Urges President-Elect Trump to Adopt Delaney Infrastructure Plan 2016-11-29 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Delaney D000620 delaney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – An editorial published today in the Baltimore Sun urges President-Elect Trump to adopt Congressman John K. Delaney’s (MD-6) proposal to use revenues from international tax reform as part of a bipartisan plan to rebuild America’s infrastructure and create good jobs.   Congressman Delaney has authored two bills that create a new national infrastructure fund for state and local projects; The Partnership to Build America Act (H.R. 413) and The Infrastructure 2.0 Act (H.R. 625) and over the past four years Congressman Delaney’s framework has generated significant bipartisan support. The possibility of the President-Elect adopting Delaney’s framework was also mentioned today in coverage by the Washington Post.   The op-ed is available online here and is copied below: Don, the builder Editorial Board, Baltimore Sun, 11/29/16 Can Trump boost jobs and demonstrate leadership? A bipartisan infrastructure bill offers his best shot If President-Elect Donald J. Trump is the dealmaker that he claims to be, sometime between now and Jan. 20, he ought to stop by the Longworth House Office Building's Room 1632 and ask for John. The two men might find they have a few things to talk about.   That's because Maryland's 6th District Rep. John K. Delaney, a Democrat, has been a leading voice in his party for leveraging greater private investment in the nation's failing infrastructure — its roads, bridges, airports, water and sewer systems, rail lines, schools and the like. During the campaign, Mr. Trump touted his own plan to increase such spending by $1 trillion over the next 10 years, chiefly through tax incentives.   Both plans have their flaws. But at their core, they also have something, if readers can pardon the expression, to build upon. Encouraging greater private sector investment in infrastructure — building privately-owned toll roads, for example — can be a net positive, and encouraging such projects through appropriate changes in tax law can work as well. Maryland's best examples of this are the public-private… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://harris.house.gov/press-release/congressman-harris-defying-federal-immigration-law-risky-gambit Congressman Harris: Defying Federal Immigration Law is a Risky Gambit 2016-11-29 2016 2016-11 Republican House MD Andy Harris H001052 harris.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC: In a letter sent today, Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01) urged Baltimore County Executive, Kevin Kamenetz to reconsider his stance on refusing to comply with federal law enforcement on the issue of illegal immigration.  Recently, County Executive Kamenetz penned a letter to the county’s higher education leaders, in which he urged schools to defy federal immigration law, and indicated that he instructed Baltimore County Police to do likewise. “In short, I am concerned that your letter demonstrates a lack of understanding that federal immigration law is the supreme law of the land, and that defiance of it represents a potential dereliction of duty for a sworn elected official or law enforcement officer,” wrote Dr. Harris. “As a steward of the Baltimore County budget, you are surely aware of efforts in Congress (that I fully support) to withhold all federal funding from ‘sanctuary’ jurisdictions.  Tens of millions of dollars in federal funds flow to Baltimore County, and tens of millions of federal dollars and loan subsidies also flow to the benefit of those educational institutions to which you wrote. Yours is a risky gambit.” The full text of the letter can be found here.   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2692 Hoyer: I Am Deeply Disappointed the Administration Did Not Use Its Authority to Establish Pay Parity 2016-11-29 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement expressing disappointment that the Administration did not use its authority to establish pay parity for military personnel and federal civilian employees in Fiscal Year 2017: “I am disappointed that the Administration did not use its authority to provide for an average 2.1% pay raise in 2017 for federal civilian employees, which would establish parity with the 2017 raise for military personnel serving in non-combat areas that Congress is expected to include in the FY2017 defense authorization bill.  The principle of parity, which the Administration supported in its 2017 budget proposal when it proposed a 1.6% raise for both military personnel and federal civilian employees, is critical because it recognizes the essential services that both uniformed military personnel and federal civilian employees provide to the American people, whether they wear a uniform, conduct research in a federal lab, or provide medical services to our veterans.  I will continue to fight for the pay and benefits that our federal employees earn through their outstanding service to our country.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-statement-in-support-of-leader-pelosi Sarbanes Statement in Support of Leader Pelosi 2016-11-29 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) released the following statement in support of Nancy Pelosi's bid for Democratic Leader. “I look forward to Nancy Pelosi's continued leadership of the House Democratic Caucus. During my time in Congress, she has consistently and forcefully decried the outsized influence that money has in Washington. Those of us who have made this issue a key focus of our efforts in Congress know that Leader Pelosi is committed to empowering everyday Americans to take back their government from special interests. “We hear President-Elect Trump talking tough about ‘draining the swamp,’ but along with the Republican-controlled Congress and a legion of high-priced lobbyists, he is poised to unleash a torrent of policies that put special interests ahead of the interests of hardworking families. “It is Leader Pelosi and the Democratic Caucus that have actually proposed real reforms to protect our democracy. Safeguarding the ballot box, disclosing secret money, building small donor matching systems to fund campaigns, curbing the influence of Super PACs and ending partisan gerrymandering. On all of these issues, Democrats are leading the way.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://delaney.house.gov/news/blogs/on-the-house-floor-this-week-112816 On the House Floor This Week - 11/28/16 2016-11-28 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Delaney D000620 delaney.house.gov     legacy This week the House of Representatives will be in session Tuesday through Friday. The legislative schedule and agenda, including which bills are brought to the floor for a vote, is set by the Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and the Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy. To contact my office about the legislation we’re considering this week, please contact my office at 202-225-2721 or by clicking here.   TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016 On Tuesday, the House will meet at 12:00 p.m. for Morning Hour debate and 2:00 p.m. for legislative business, with votes postponed until 6:30 p.m. Suspensions (16 bills) H.R. 5458 – Veterans TRICARE Choice Act (Rep. Stewart – Ways and Means) H.R. 6135 – To designate the Federal building and United States courthouse located at 719 Church Street in Nashville, Tennessee, as the "Fred D. Thompson Federal Building and United States Courthouse" (Rep. Blackburn – Transportation and Infrastructure) House Amendment S. 546 – RESPONSE Act of 2016 (Sen. Heitkamp – Transportation and Infrastructure) House Amendment to S. 2577 – Justice for All Reauthorization Act of 2016 (Sen. Cornyn – Judiciary) H.R. 5422 – To ensure funding for the National Human Trafficking Hotline, and for other purposes (Rep. Poe – Judiciary) H.R. 5877 – United States-Israel Advanced Research Partnership Act of 2016, as amended (Rep. Ratcliffe – Homeland Security) H.R. 5843 – United States-Israel Cybersecurity Cooperation Enhancement Act of 2016, as amended (Rep. Langevin – Homeland Security) H.R. 4757 – To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the eligibility for headstones, markers, and medallions furnished by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for deceased individuals who were awarded the Medal of Honor and are buried in private cemeteries, as amended (Rep. Miller (FL) – Veterans’ Affairs) H.R. 5399 – Ethical Patient Care for Veterans Act of 2016 (Rep. Roe – Veterans’ Affairs) H.R. 5047 – Protecting Veterans' Educational Choice Act of 2016 (Rep. Hice – Veterans’ Affairs) H.R. 5166 – WINGMAN Act, as amended (Rep… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cummings.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cummings-announces-winners-2016-congressional-app-challenge Cummings Announces Winners of 2016 Congressional App Challenge 2016-11-28 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Elijah Cummings C000984 cummings.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. (Nov. 28, 2016) — Today, Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD) announced the winners of his 2016 Congressional App Challenge, Mr. Will Cervi, Ms. Priyanka Kargupta and Mr. Rees Draminski, all students at Mount Hebron High School.  The students won for creating an app called Foodspin, which allows users to locate local restaurants. “I look forward to hosting the Congressional App Challenge every year because it inspires many students my district to be creative and build an application on the platform of their choice,” Cummings said.  “I was very impressed by Priyanka, Rees and Will’s demonstration video.  I look forward to seeing the great careers they will undoubtedly have.”  The contest was open to high school students in the Seventh Congressional District of Maryland and is designed to promote innovation and engagement in coding and computer science.  Students competed against their peers by creating an application or “app,” for mobile, tablet or computer devices.Submissions were judged on the following criteria: quality of the idea, including creativity and originality; implementation of the idea, including user experience and design; and demonstrated excellence of coding and programming skills.The four judges who helped pick the winners were Ms. Sharon Kramer, Career and Technology Coordinator with Howard County Public Schools, Dr. Jayfus Doswell, Chief Executive Officer of Juxtopia, LLC and Ms. Lindsey Jones and Mr. Jordan Snyder, both Distance Learning Specialists with the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.        A video of the students demonstrating their app is available here. Foodspin will be featured on the House of Representatives website and will be displayed at the U.S. Capitol alongside winning applications from Congressional districts nationwide. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/leggett-pushes-brt-in-eastern-montgomery Leggett Pushes BRT in Eastern Montgomery 2016-11-25 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy In July, Sarbanes helped the County secure a $10 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to help fund the proposed 14-mile BRT along U.S. 29, which is estimated to cost $67 million…. “You know, it is not easy to get these TIGER grants, because a $10 million TIGER grant for this kind of a project represents a real win for Montgomery County and demonstrates the strength of the application,” Sarbanes said…. Sarbanes said he lobbied Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx to pledge the TIGER grant to the County for the BRT…. “I even called Secretary Foxx right in the final minutes of these decision and said, ‘You got to do this, this is a very competitive grant,’’ Sarbanes said. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cummings.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cummings-statement-thanksgiving-holiday Cummings Statement on Thanksgiving Holiday 2016-11-23 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Elijah Cummings C000984 cummings.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. (Nov. 23, 2016)—Today, Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD) issued the following statement to commemorate Thanksgiving: “The Thanksgiving holiday allows us to reflect on the things that matter most. The holiday season draws us closer to family and friends as we share a Thanksgiving meal and give thanks for the blessings in our lives.  “Today, I thank my neighbors in the 7th district of Maryland for granting me the honor of representing them; I am honored to have their trust.” “As we give thanks for our blessings in life, it is imperative that we think of others—those who are displaced and recovering from economic hardships, veterans still seeking work, and the children who will shape our future.  We must always extend our support to those who are too often unheard.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-the-nomination-of-gov-nikki-haley-to-un-ambassador-post Cardin Statement on the Nomination of Gov. Nikki Haley to UN Ambassador Post 2016-11-23 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy November 23, 2016 Cardin Statement on the Nomination of Gov. Nikki Haley to UN Ambassador Post WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, released the following statement Wednesday after President-elect Donald Trump nominated South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley to be U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations: “I want to acknowledge Governor Haley’s nomination to be our next ambassador to the United Nations. I look forward to leading my Democratic colleagues on the Foreign Relations Committee in a thorough hearing of her qualifications, her foreign policy experience, and world view. The UN can be an indispensable force for a better world and America’s ambassador to the UN is on the front lines of international diplomacy every day, doing crucial work to build coalitions, stand up for our values, and call out wrongs when they arise. A strong and capable US Ambassador to the United Nations is critical for American leadership in the world and to safeguard and extend our interests and values. “The UN must continue to improve its operations, but through United States leadership it can play a vital role in achieving key American foreign policy goals, helping to resolve international conflicts, confront terrorism, and deliver humanitarian aid to desperately vulnerable men, women and children. America’s leadership at the UN has also advocated for sustainable development goals that promote economic development, support civil society, strengthen governance, combat corruption, and advance international efforts to protect against climate change. “Our Ambassador at the United Nations must also lead the fight for American values at the United Nations by standing up against violations of international law, against war crimes, against human rights violations, and by speaking up for democracy and freedom of speech. These core values must be at the forefront of America’s foreign policy agenda. We must continue to be there for our allies and stand firm ag… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://ruppersberger.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/baltimore-congressional-delegation-inquires-on-status-of-police-consent Baltimore Congressional Delegation Inquires on Status of Police Consent Decree 2016-11-22 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger R000576 ruppersberger.house.gov     legacy (Washington, DC)  — Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger along with U.S. Senators Barbara Mikulski and Ben Cardin, Senator-Elect Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Elijah E. Cummings and John Sarbanes (all D-MD) sent a letter yesterday to Attorney General Loretta Lynch, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Mayor-Elect Catherine Pugh to inquire on the status of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the City of Baltimore’s consent decree negotiations. The Members wrote, “We appreciate that it is no small task to ensure the decree fully addresses the DOJ recommendations and includes workable implementation steps.  However, we are hearing growing concern from the community about the status of and delay in drafting the decree.  We share those concerns.  It is absolutely imperative that decisive, steady, urgent progress toward crafting a meaningful consent decree be made a top priority by all involved.”  Following the release of the DOJ Civil Rights Division’s report on the “pattern or practice” investigation into the Baltimore City Police Department in August, the DOJ and the City began negotiating a consent decree with a goal of having the decree completed by November 1, 2016. The Members continued, “We are writing to request: (1) an update on the status of the consent decree; and (2) an updated timeline for its completion.  We also write to strongly urge you to redouble your efforts to ensure that a meaningful decree is completed and approved as soon as possible.”  The full text of the letter follows: The Honorable Loretta Lynch             Attorney General United States Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20530 The Honorable Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Office of the Mayor 250 City Hall, 100 N. Holliday Street Baltimore, MD 21202 The Honorable Catherine Pugh 2901 Druid Park Drive, Suite 200C Baltimore, MD 21215 Dear Attorney General Lynch, Mayor Rawlings-Blake, and Mayor-Elect Pugh, We thank you for your ongoing commitment to ensuring that the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the City of Balti… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cummings.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/baltimore-congressional-delegation-inquires-status-consent-decree Baltimore Congressional Delegation Inquires on Status of Consent Decree 2016-11-22 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Elijah Cummings C000984 cummings.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. (Nov. 22, 2016) — U.S. Senators Barbara Mikulski and Ben Cardin, Senator-Elect Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Elijah E. Cummings, Dutch Ruppersberger and John Sarbanes (all D-MD) sent a letter yesterday to Attorney General Loretta Lynch, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Mayor-Elect Catherine Pugh to inquire on the status of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the City of Baltimore’s consent decree negotiations.The Members wrote, “We appreciate that it is no small task to ensure the decree fully addresses the DOJ recommendations and includes workable implementation steps.  However, we are hearing growing concern from the community about the status of and delay in drafting the decree.  We share those concerns.  It is absolutely imperative that decisive, steady, urgent progress toward crafting a meaningful consent decree be made a top priority by all involved.” Following the release of the DOJ Civil Rights Division’s report on the “pattern or practice” investigation into the Baltimore City Police Department in August, the DOJ and the City began negotiating a consent decree with a goal of having the decree completed by November 1, 2016.The Members continued, “We are writing to request: (1) an update on the status of the consent decree; and (2) an updated timeline for its completion.  We also write to strongly urge you to redouble your efforts to ensure that a meaningful decree is completed and approved as soon as possible.” Click here for PDF of the letter, the full text follows:The Honorable Loretta Lynch             Attorney General United States Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20530The Honorable Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Office of the Mayor 250 City Hall, 100 N. Holliday Street Baltimore, MD 21202The Honorable Catherine Pugh 2901 Druid Park Drive, Suite 200C Baltimore, MD 21215Dear Attorney General Lynch, Mayor Rawlings-Blake, and Mayor-Elect Pugh,We thank you for your ongoing commitment to ensuring that the Department of Justice (DOJ)… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/baltimore-congressional-delegation-inquires-on-status-of-consent-decree Baltimore Congressional Delegation Inquires on Status of Consent Decree 2016-11-22 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Barbara Mikulski and Ben Cardin, Senator-Elect Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Elijah E. Cummings, Dutch Ruppersberger and John Sarbanes (all D-MD) sent a letter yesterday to Attorney General Loretta Lynch, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Mayor-Elect Catherine Pugh to inquire on the status of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the City of Baltimore’s consent decree negotiations. The Members wrote, “We appreciate that it is no small task to ensure the decree fully addresses the DOJ recommendations and includes workable implementation steps. However, we are hearing growing concern from the community about the status of and delay in drafting the decree. We share those concerns. It is absolutely imperative that decisive, steady, urgent progress toward crafting a meaningful consent decree be made a top priority by all involved.” Following the release of the DOJ Civil Rights Division’s report on the “pattern or practice” investigation into the Baltimore City Police Department in August, the DOJ and the City began negotiating a consent decree with a goal of having the decree completed by November 1, 2016. The Members continued, “We are writing to request: (1) an update on the status of the consent decree; and (2) an updated timeline for its completion. We also write to strongly urge you to redouble your efforts to ensure that a meaningful decree is completed and approved as soon as possible.” Click here for PDF of the letter, the full text follows: * * * The Honorable Loretta Lynch            Attorney General United States Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20530 The Honorable Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Office of the Mayor 250 City Hall, 100 N. Holliday Street Baltimore, MD 21202 The Honorable Catherine Pugh 2901 Druid Park Drive, Suite 200C Baltimore, MD 21215 Dear Attorney General Lynch, Mayor Rawlings-Blake, and Mayor-Elect Pugh, We thank you for your ongoing commitment to ensuring that the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-to-introduce-senate-resolution-asking-trump-to-ensure-foreign-dealings-do-not-violate-us-constitution Cardin to Introduce Senate Resolution Asking Trump to Ensure Foreign Dealings do not Violate U.S. Constitution 2016-11-22 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy November 22, 2016 Cardin to Introduce Senate Resolution Asking Trump to Ensure Foreign Dealings do not Violate U.S. Constitution Senator cites Constitution’s language recognizing inherent danger of foreign financial influence WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and a senior Member of the Senate Finance Committee, announced today he will introduce a resolution next week stating the sense of Congress that President-elect Trump should convert his assets to simple, conflict-free holdings, adopt blind trusts, or take other equivalent measures, in order to ensure compliance with the Emoluments Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The resolution will note that in the absence of such actions by the President-elect before he assumes office or specific authorization by Congress, Congress will regard dealings by Trump-owned companies with any entity owned by a foreign government as potential violations of the Constitution. It will also give the President the opportunity to affirmatively prove his dealings are arms-length transactions, where all parties are independent and on an equal footing. Article I, Section 9, Clause 8 of the U.S. Constitution provides that “no Person holding any Office of Profit or Trust under [the United States], shall, without the Consent of the Congress, accept of any present, Emolument, Office, or Title, of any kind whatever, from any King, Prince, or foreign State.” “The Founding Fathers were clear in their belief that any federal office holder of the United States must never be put in a position where they can be monetarily or otherwise influenced by a foreign governmental actor.  This resolution is intended to prevent a crisis or any misunderstanding regarding the consistency of the President’s actions with the U.S. Constitution.  Unless he takes appropriate action, Mr. Trump’s many international financial interes… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/donald-trump-s-potential-conflicts-of-interest-continue-to-mount Donald Trumps Potential Conflicts of Interest Continue to Mount 2016-11-19 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy You can’t have conflicts of interest that are that significant, present those to the public and have a straight face about it,” Rep. John Sarbanes (D-Md.) said.... Sarbanes says to expect Democrats to continue to demand that these conflicts of interest be resolved.... “I think Trump’s going to give us endless examples or instances of things that on their face are offensive to people’s sense of what’s proper,” he said. “He’s already doing it.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-announces-320-million-in-new-tax-credits-for-maryland-companies Sarbanes Announces $320 Million in New Tax Credits for Maryland Companies 2016-11-18 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) today announced that the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will provide Maryland companies with $320 million in tax credits to spur economic growth and investment in low-income communities. The tax credits come from the CDFI Fund’s New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) awards, which will provide 120 organizations around the country with a total of $7 billion in tax credits to invest in community projects that improve public facilities, good and services – and create more jobs. This year’s NMTC award is the single largest investment since the program’s inception in 2001. “This program helps stimulate local distressed communities,” said Congressman Sarbanes. “By making these kinds of investments, we’re not only creating more job opportunities and improving goods and services. We’re also signaling our deep commitment to residents by making a concerted effort to revitalize neighborhoods, enrich communities and improve lives.” Maryland awardees include: ESIC New Markets Partners LP (Columbia, Maryland): $80,000,000 Harbor Bankshares Corporation (Baltimore, Maryland): $70,000,000 Mid-City Community CDE, LLC (Bethesda, Maryland): $45,000,000 Urban Action Community Development LLC (Baltimore, Maryland): $45,000,000 Urban Research Park CDE, LLC (Hunt Valley, Maryland): $80,000,000 To learn more about the NTMC awards, see the NMTC Fact Sheet or visit www.cdfifund.gov/nmtc. For more information about this year’s awardees, see the 2015-2016 NMTC Program Award Book. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-joins-white-house-officials-energy-secretary-moniz-labor Sarbanes Joins White House Officials, Energy Secretary Moniz, Labor Secretary Perez to Bring More Solar Energy to Baltimore 2016-11-18 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) today joined several Obama Administration officials, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Mayor-Elect Catherine Pugh to highlight a new public-private initiative between the City of Baltimore, the Department of Energy and the Maryland Clean Energy Center that will enhance home weatherization and install solar panels on at least 1,000 low-income homes throughout the city. “By helping Baltimore residents finance home weatherization upgrades and install solar panels, we can lower energy bills, improve indoor health and increase the city’s renewable energy capacity,” said Congressman Sarbanes. “Creating a strong market for solar installation also spurs new job opportunities across the city. To that end, this public-private partnership will create job-training programs in Baltimore that help residents acquire the skills needed to join the solar-energy workforce.” In July, Congressman Sarbanes announced a new agreement between the U.S. Department of Energy, the Maryland Clean Energy Center and the City of Baltimore to help homeowners in Baltimore install solar panels and improve the weatherization of their homes. The program will also support job training for unemployed or underemployed community members to become a part of the renewable energy industry workforce. Today, the new initiative is in full swing and leaders at the federal, state and local levels announced solar energy and workforce goals, as well as new tools to provide sustainable financing for low-income solar installations. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-general-mike-flynn-selection-as-national-security-adviser Cardin Statement on General Mike Flynn Selection as National Security Adviser 2016-11-18 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy November 18, 2016 Cardin Statement on General Mike Flynn Selection as National Security Adviser “The United States of America deserves a National Security Adviser who can bring precision and focus to the national security threats facing the United States, not biases and baggage from the darkest corners of American political discourse.” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, released the following statement Friday after President-elect Donald Trump announced Ret. Lt. Gen. Mike Flynn would serve as his national security advisor:  “I honor General Mike Flynn’s three decades of service to the United States as part of our Armed Forces. Unfortunately, I have serious concerns regarding General Flynn’s temperament, worldview, and potential conflicts of interest should he serve in one of the highest national security positions in our federal government. “As a staunch critic of Russia’s approach to the liberal democratic process, human rights, sovereignty and the rule of law, I am disturbed by General Flynn’s relationships and ties with Russian actors.  I am concerned about General Flynn’s relationship with RT, a television network funded by the Russian government and well-known for promoting the Kremlin’s political agenda, but which Flynn has characterized as no different than CNN or MSNBC.  General Flynn was paid to attend RT’s 10-year anniversary gala in Russia, where he gave a talk on world affairs and was photographed sitting next to Russian President Vladimir Putin – a photograph Mr. Putin has used repeatedly to promote his own causes. “My concerns with General Flynn are not limited to Russia. I have serious questions about the fact that while General Flynn was sitting in on the classified national security briefings given to Donald Trump since August 2016, his lobbying firm, the Flynn Intel Group, was providing foreign government cl… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-trump-national-security-positions Cardin Statement on Trump National Security Positions 2016-11-18 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy November 18, 2016 Cardin Statement on Trump National Security Positions "Individuals not willing to support and defend the civil rights and civil liberties of all Americans should have no place in our government." BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Special Representative on Anti-Semitism, Racism, and Intolerance for the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Parliamentary Assembly, issued the following statement on the announcement of members of President-elect Trump’s national security team. “I did not support Donald Trump for President because we disagree on nearly every issue of concern to the American people. However, as president, I believe he generally has a right to have a team around him that he trusts and supports him. As a United States Senator, I take seriously the Constitutional responsibility to provide Advice and Consent for those nominees. Unlike my Republican colleagues who have failed in their duty to provide a timely confirmation hearing for President Obama’s Supreme Court nominee, I will do my best not to prejudge any individual before a proper hearing. I will, however, freely raise what issues I think need to be a priority for the incoming administration. “I urge Mr. Trump to understand that if he truly wants to be a president for all the people, he must renounce the ugly rhetoric of the campaign and surround himself with men and women of the highest character who want to bring communities together rather than tear one another apart. His nominees – men and women – should support and defend the full Constitution – not only their interpretation of the Second Amendment. Of utmost importance is the First Amendment: ‘Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cummings.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cummings-lauds-obama-administration-allocating-more-250-million-tax Cummings Lauds Obama Administration for Allocating More Than $250 Million in Tax Credits to Baltimore-Area Community Development Organizations 2016-11-17 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Elijah Cummings C000984 cummings.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. (Nov. 17, 2016)— Today, Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD) lauded the Department of Treasury Community Development Financial Institutions Fund for providing four organizations in his district $275 million in tax credits.  The tax credits were awarded under the New Markets Tax Credit Program to Harbor Bankshares Corporation and Urban Action Community Development, LLC, both in Baltimore, Urban Research Park CDE, LLC in Hunt Valley, and ESIC New Markets Partners LC in Columbia.“I applaud the Obama Administration for awarding tax credits to these organizations so they can invest in jobs, community facilities and affordable housing for struggling families in Maryland and throughout the country,” Cummings said. The New Markets Tax Credit Program, established by Congress in December 2000, permits individual and corporate taxpayers to receive a non-refundable tax credit against federal income taxes for making equity investments in vehicles known as Community Development Entities (CDEs). CDEs that receive the tax credit allocation authority under the program are domestic corporations or partnerships that provide loans, investments, or financial counseling in low-income urban and rural communities. The tax credit provided to the investor totals 39 percent of the cost of the investment and is claimed over a seven-year period. The CDEs in turn use the capital raised to make investments in low-income communities.   CDEs must apply annually to the CDFI Fund to compete for New Markets Tax Credit Program allocation authority. The 120 organizations receiving awards nationally were selected from a pool of 238 applicants that requested approximately $17.6 billion in allocation authority. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/sarbanes-targets-trump-transition-team-with-new-bill-to-ban-lobbyists Sarbanes Targets Trump Transition Team with New Bill to Ban Lobbyists 2016-11-17 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy Rep. John Sarbanes has introduced a bill to ban lobbyists from Presidential transition teams in response to reports President-elect Donald Trump's team includes several people who have lobbied on behalf of major corporations…. Titled the "No Lobbyists on Presidential Transition Teams Act," the bill would amend the Presidential Transition Act of 1963 to ban President-elects and Vice President-elects from paying registered lobbyists to be a part of Presidential transition teams. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://delaney.house.gov/news/press-releases/delaney-next-administration-s-interest-in-infrastructure-bank-encouraging Delaney: Next Administrations Interest in Infrastructure Bank Encouraging, Bipartisan Solution Ready 2016-11-16 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Delaney D000620 delaney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – Steve Mnuchin, a member of the next Administration’s executive committee and transition team told reporters Thursday that they are “looking at the creation of an infrastructure bank to fund infrastructure investments.” Congressman John K. Delaney (MD-6) is the leading champion in Congress on using revenues from international tax reform to rebuild America’s infrastructure and Congressman Delaney’s framework has generated significant bipartisan support. Congressman Delaney has authored two bills that create a new national infrastructure fund for state and local projects; The Partnership to Build America Act (H.R. 413) and The Infrastructure 2.0 Act (H.R. 625). Over the last two Congresses, over 50 Democrats and 50 Republicans have cosponsored one of Congressman Delaney’s proposals in the House or Senate. Delaney’s framework was also included in President Obama’s budget. “We have a big bipartisan coalition in Congress that is ready to work on rebuilding America using revenues from international tax reform, and we are encouraged that Mr. Mnuchin has indicated that the next Administration is moving in this direction,” said Congressman Delaney. “We’ve built a bipartisan framework and developed the legislation that shows you can bring Republicans and Democrats together around a really good idea; if they are serious about a real solution, this is where they should look. We worked with the last Administration on this issue and look forward to continuing the effort. Conservatives, moderates and progressives understand that by combining international tax reform and infrastructure we can create good jobs, encourage more domestic investment and improve our business climate for decades to come.” The Partnership to Build America Act sells $50 billion of bonds to private companies to capitalize an infrastructure fund that can provide $750 billion of financing for projects. In exchange for purchasing these bonds, the companies will be able to bring back a portion of their overseas earnings, one-time, tax free. The In… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://ruppersberger.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ruppersberger-issues-statement-on-appointment-of-steve-bannon-to-senior Ruppersberger Issues Statement on Appointment of Steve Bannon to Senior White House Position 2016-11-16 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger R000576 ruppersberger.house.gov     legacy (Washington, DC) — Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger issued the following statement today on president-elect Donald Trump’s appointment of Steve Bannon as his Chief Strategist:  “I am deeply troubled by President-elect Trump’s choice to appoint Steve Bannon as his Chief Strategist and Senior Counselor. Under Mr. Bannon’s leadership, Breitbart News has published offensive comments about women, the LGBTQ community and minorities including the Jewish community. I always say, “you’re only as good as your team,” and I understand President-elect Trump’s desire to create a team of advisors he can trust. But Trump has pledged to bring this country together after a long and divisive campaign season. The appointment of Steve Bannon achieves the opposite, alienating and offending huge segments of our population. As President Obama has said, if Trump succeeds, we all succeed. I am committed to working with the President-elect and finding common ground wherever we can – on strengthening our national security, rebuilding our infrastructure, and defeating ISIS, for examples. My record reflects my willingness to put politics aside for the good of our country and I wish my first statement since Trump’s election was one of support and encouragement, and not alarm. That said, I am respectfully asking President-elect Trump to reconsider his choice of Steve Bannon as his chief strategist. If the President-elect truly wants to move our country forward, he needs to surround himself with people who believe our country is better off united, regardless of our differences.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cummings.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cummings-cicilline-168-house-democrats-urge-president-elect-trump Cummings, Cicilline, 168 House Democrats Urge President-Elect Trump to Reverse Bannon Appointment 2016-11-16 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Elijah Cummings C000984 cummings.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD) joined Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI) and 168 House Members to send a letter asking President-elect Donald Trump to rescind alt-right leader Steve Bannon’s appointment as White House Chief Strategist. Although Republican members of the House were invited to sign Cicilline’s letter, none did so. “We strongly believe that Mr. Bannon’s appointment will not allow the country to heal and come together as one. As one of your top advisors, the White House chief strategist will help set the tone for your administration. The person in this role must be prepared to serve the interests of all Americans, not those of a select few,” the Members wrote. Click here for a PDF of the letter. The full text and list of signers follows:  Dear President-elect Trump: Immediately following your victory, many Americans were optimistic and hopeful that you would take the steps necessary to unify our country following the divisive and contentious election.  In your election night speech you said, “Now it’s time for America to bind the wounds of division.  It is time for us to come together as one united people.”  Unfortunately, your appointment of Stephen Bannon, whose ties to the White Nationalist movement have been well-documented, directly undermines your ability to unite the country.  As elected representatives of millions of Americans from diverse backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities, we strongly urge you to reconsider your decision to appoint Mr. Bannon to White House Chief Strategist.  Since the election there have been a number of incidents across the country in which minorities, including Muslim Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Jewish Americans, have been the targets of violence, harassment and intimidation. Mr. Bannon’s appointment sends the wrong message to people who have engaged in those types of activities, indicating that they will not only be tolerated, but endorsed by your Administration.  Millions of Americans have expressed fea… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/bill-would-bar-lobbyists-from-presidential-transition-teams Bill Would Bar Lobbyists from Presidential Transition Teams 2016-11-16 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy A bill introduced Wednesday in Congress by a Maryland representative would prevent President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect Mike Pence from using taxpayer dollars to hire lobbyists onto the presidential transition teams…. Rep. John Sarbanes introduced the No Lobbyists on Presidential Transition Teams Act (H.R. 6324)…. "On the campaign trail, President-elect Trump promised to 'drain the swamp' in Washington," Sarbanes said in a statement. "But he’s not living up to that promise by stocking his transition team with corporate lobbyists. This bill is a meaningful step toward reducing the undue influence of wealthy and entrenched special interests in Washington." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-calls-on-president-elect-trump-to-withdraw-bannon-appointment Sarbanes Calls on President-Elect Trump to Withdraw Bannon Appointment to White House 2016-11-16 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) joined 169 Members of Congress in urging President-elect Donald Trump to rescind his appointment of "alt-right" leader Steve Bannon as White House Chief Strategist. In a letter to President-elect Trump, the Members wrote: “In your election night speech you said, ‘Now it’s time for America to bind the wounds of division.  It is time for us to come together as one united people.' Unfortunately, your appointment of Stephen Bannon, whose ties to the White Nationalist movement have been well-documented, directly undermines your ability to unite the country. As elected representatives of millions of Americans from diverse backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities, we strongly urge you to reconsider your decision to appoint Mr. Bannon to White House Chief Strategist.” A full copy of the letter is below. * * * Dear President-elect Trump: Immediately following your victory, many Americans were optimistic and hopeful that you would take the steps necessary to unify our country following the divisive and contentious election. In your election night speech you said, “Now it’s time for America to bind the wounds of division.  It is time for us to come together as one united people.” Unfortunately, your appointment of Stephen Bannon, whose ties to the White Nationalist movement have been well-documented, directly undermines your ability to unite the country. As elected representatives of millions of Americans from diverse backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities, we strongly urge you to reconsider your decision to appoint Mr. Bannon to White House Chief Strategist. Since the election there have been a number of incidents across the country in which minorities, including Muslim Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Jewish Americans, have been the targets of violence, harassment and intimidation. Mr. Bannon’s appointment sends the wrong message to people who have engaged in those types of activities, indicating that they will not only be tolerated, but endorsed by… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-introduces-bill-to-bar-lobbyists-from-presidential-transition Sarbanes Introduces Bill to Bar Lobbyists from Presidential Transition Teams 2016-11-16 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) today introduced the No Lobbyists on Presidential Transition Teams Act (H.R. 6324), a bill to prevent the President-elect and Vice President-elect from using taxpayer dollars to hire lobbyists onto the Presidential transition teams. The bill comes after several public sources reported that President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team includes top special-interest lobbyists from Wall Street and corporate America. “On the campaign trail, President-elect Trump promised to ‘drain the swamp’ in Washington," said Congressman Sarbanes. “But he’s not living up to that promise by stocking his transition team with corporate lobbyists. This bill is a meaningful step toward reducing the undue influence of wealthy and entrenched special interests in Washington.” For more information about the No Lobbyists on Presidential Transition Teams Act, see here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-portman-join-with-tiberi-neal-for-bicameral-effort-to-protect-retirement-security-for-working-families Cardin, Portman Join with Tiberi, Neal for Bicameral Effort to Protect Retirement Security for Working Families 2016-11-16 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy November 16, 2016 Cardin, Portman Join with Tiberi, Neal for Bicameral Effort to Protect Retirement Security for Working Families WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Rob Portman (R-Ohio), both members of the Senate Finance Committee, and U.S. Representatives Pat Tiberi (R-Ohio) and Richard E. Neal (D-Mass.), both members of the House Ways & Means Committee, introduced updated legislation Wednesday designed to protect the retirement security of many American workers.  The Retirement Security Preservation Act of 2016 (RSPA) amends the nondiscrimination rules that apply to qualified retirement plans to protect older, longer-service participants whose defined benefit plans have been closed or frozen. The bill builds on previous legislation and regulatory work to address this issue, and was approved unanimously by the Senate Finance Committee as part of a retirement-related legislative package in September. “Older workers who have been saving for their retirement should not be penalized playing by the rules and planning ahead,” said Senator Cardin. “We need to get back to the original intent of the regulations, which was to encourage greater participation in retirement savings programs.” “This measure will help safeguard the retirement security of hundreds of thousands of working families who are counting on their pension benefits in their retirement,” Senator Portman said. “There is strong bipartisan support for this measure in both the House and Senate, and both chambers should pass it quickly so it can be signed into law.” “This common sense fix will go a long way to protect retirement and pension plans for older Americans,” said Congressman Tiberi. “The Retirement Security Preservation Act would give certainty to employers and prevent their longer-service employees from unfairly losing their pension benefits due to the IRS’s nondiscrimination rules.” “I have always believed that helping Americans achieve retirement security in their golden years should not be a partisan i… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://delaney.house.gov/news/in-the-news/delaney-uns-anti-israel-resolutions-are-unjust Delaney: UN's Anti-Israel Resolutions Are Unjust 2016-11-15 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Delaney D000620 delaney.house.gov     legacy Congressman John K. Delaney (MD-6) published the following op-ed in Washington Jewish Week on November 9, 2016: UN's Anti-Israel Resolutions Are Unjust By Congressman John K. Delaney (MD-6) World War II taught the international community that more needed to be done to protect at-risk cultures, especially since the war targeted the Jewish population and attempted to dissolve the Jewish identity. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, established in 1945 in response to World War II, seeks to preserve history and culture around the world. The UNESCO constitution states: “The purpose of the Organization is to contribute to peace and security by promoting collaboration among the nations.” This history makes it all the more baffling as to why UNESCO and other agencies under the United Nations have considered inflammatory and one-sided resolutions that deny Israel’s right to existence and to its history. While there is much to be done to pursue peace and stability, the consideration and adoption of one-sided resolutions contradict the United Nations’ work to contribute to peace and security. Last month, UNESCO’s executive board approved a resolution that is fundamentally flawed and a threat to the delicate Israel-Palestine peace process, seeking to rewrite Jerusalem’s diverse and complex history. Jerusalem is among the holiest cities in the world for millions of people from many backgrounds. The resolution, offered by Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, and Sudan, ignores the Jewish and Christian connection to both the Temple Mount and the Western Wall, only referring to the historical holy sites by Muslim names. The resolution is counterproductive; the city of Jerusalem is sacred to the three main monotheistic religions in the world: Islam, Christianity and Judaism, and efforts to erase these connections are dangerous. It is reckless to use an international body to de-legitimize Israel and rewrite the region’s history by disregarding historical facts. While the resolution wa… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://delaney.house.gov/news/blogs/on-the-house-floor-this-week-111416 On the House Floor This Week - 11/14/16 2016-11-14 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Delaney D000620 delaney.house.gov     legacy The House of Representatives will be in session this week. The legislative schedule and agenda, including which bills are brought to the floor for a vote, is set by the Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and the Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy. To contact my office about the legislation we’re considering this week, please contact my office at 202-225-2721 or by clicking here.   MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2016 On Monday, the House will meet at 2:00 p.m. for legislative business, with votes postponed until 6:30 p.m. Suspensions (8 bills) 1) H.R. 1192 – National Clinical Care Commission Act (Sponsored by Rep. Pete Olson / Energy and Commerce Committee) 2) H.R. 1209 – Improving Access to Maternity Care Act (Sponsored by Rep. Michael Burgess / Energy and Commerce Committee) 3) H.R. 2713 – Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2016 (Sponsored by Rep. Lois Capps / Energy and Commerce Committee) 4) H.R. 4365 – Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medications Act of 2016, as amended (Sponsored by Rep. Richard Hudson / Energy and Commerce Committee) 5) H.R. 985 – Concrete Masonry Products Research, Education, and Promotion Act of 2015, as amended (Sponsored by Rep. Brett Guthrie / Energy and Commerce Committee) 6) H.R. 4665 – Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act of 2016, as amended (Sponsored by Rep. Don Beyer / Energy and Commerce Committee) 7) H.R. 2566 – Improving Rural Call Quality and Reliability Act of 2016 (Sponsored by Rep. David Young / Energy and Commerce Committee) 8) H.R. 2669 – Anti-Spoofing Act of 2016 (Sponsored by Rep. Grace Meng / Energy and Commerce Committee) TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH On Tuesday, the House will meet at 12:00 p.m. for legislative business. Legislation Considered Under Suspension of the Rules: 1) H.R. 5732 – Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2016, as amended (Sponsored by Rep. Eliot Engel / Foreign Affairs Committee) 2) H.R. ___ – Iran Sanctions Extension Act (Sponsored by Rep. Ed Royce / Foreign Affairs Committee) 3) H.R. 5332 – Women, Peace, and Security Act of … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://delaney.house.gov/news/press-releases/delaney-statement-on-veterans-day-1 Delaney Statement on Veterans Day 2016-11-11 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Delaney D000620 delaney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – Friday November 11 is Veterans Day. Congressman John K. Delaney (MD-6) releases the following statement: “First, as an American, I would like to personally thank our veterans and their families for their service. Veterans Day is a reminder of the gratitude and appreciation that we should carry with us on all days, in all seasons, in all communities across the country, for the men and women who have served our country and defended our values in a dangerous world. We must also remember those who did not return home and that this most total sacrifice for others is something all veterans have been willing to make. I am proud to represent tens of thousands of Maryland veterans in Congress and believe that supporting veterans should be one of Washington’s top priorities. We have real work to do to improve VA services, expand and update benefits to reflect changing needs and make sure that veterans and military families can thrive. I encourage any veteran who needs help to contact my office immediately and we will do everything we can to assist them.” Rep. Delaney is the author of bipartisan legislation to protect veterans from having their credit score negatively impacted by delayed VA payments and bipartisan legislation to expedite access to protected medical leave for working disabled veterans. Local veterans who need help receiving their benefits can call Rep. Delaney’s office at 301-926-0300.   ## 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-statement-on-veterans-day Sarbanes Statement on Veterans Day 2016-11-11 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) issued the following statement in observance of Veterans Day: “Today we come together as a nation to share our deep and longstanding appreciation for the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans and their families. We may never be able to fully repay the debt we owe our veterans, but we must do anything and everything we can to fulfill our commitments to them.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-welcomes-federal-decision-to-keep-hagerstown-regional-airport-hgr-in-essential-air-service-program Cardin Welcomes Federal Decision to Keep Hagerstown Regional Airport (HGR) in Essential Air Service Program 2016-11-10 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy November 10, 2016 Cardin Welcomes Federal Decision to Keep Hagerstown Regional Airport (HGR) in Essential Air Service Program WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) today praised the U.S. Department of Transportation for approving a waiver that will allow Hagerstown Regional Airport (HGR) to remain part of the Essential Air Service program, which was created to guarantee that small communities served by certificated air carriers before airline deregulation maintain commercial service. Under the terms of the FAA Modernization Act of 2012, in order to maintain federal subsidies, communities must maintain an average of 10 enplanements or more per service day. HGR averaged more than 10 enplanements for most of the last decade with Cape Air providing service. The number dipped in 2013 during the transition to Sun Air, but the number has risen steadily since. In approving the one-year waivers allowing HGR and 21 other communities to remain part of the EAS, the FAA acknowledged that the decrease was temporary. “Regional airports that service Maryland’s rural communities provide vital connections for our travelers and local economies, so I have worked for years to ensure that they receive essential and warranted federal support to continue achieving their critical missions,” said Senator Cardin, a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee. “Hagerstown and HGR alike are making considerable strides in growth and economic expansion, and this decisions helps maintain that momentum. I applaud the DOT for continually engaging in productive conversations about how we can best ensure quality air service to communities throughout Maryland, and applaud this decision to maintain HGR’s role in the Essential Air Service.” ### Print Email Tweet Next Article P… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cummings.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cummings-statement-election-results Cummings Statement on Election Results 2016-11-09 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Elijah Cummings C000984 cummings.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. (Nov. 9, 2016)— Today, Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD) issued the following statement on the results of the 2016 presidential election:“I congratulate President-elect Trump on winning the electoral college, and I thank Hillary Clinton for her decades of service to the American people.   “I have always believed that we as a nation fare best when our eyes are focused on the road in front of us, rather than looking in the rear-view mirror. The campaign was difficult and hard-fought, but now is the time for us to look forward, not back. Now is the time to work together as a nation, not as two parties  competing against another. Now is the time to unite as Americans not merely to find common ground, but to aspire to lift our nation to higher ground. “President-elect Trump said last night that he wants to unite our country; I take him at his word.  It is now more important than ever that Congress does the very important business that the American people sent us to Washington to do: passing laws that uplift all Americans.“The President-elect and I may not agree on all things, but we both are determined to grow our economy and create more jobs to lift up America's working families. I am especially encouraged about Mr. Trump's expressed desire to increase infrastructure spending and begin repairing our roads, bridges, train stations and airports. I look forward to working with him on these issues and all matters that protect our rights and improve our lives.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sarbanes-announces-17-million-grant-to-baltimore-based-green-healthy Sarbanes Announces $1.7 Million Grant to Baltimore-Based Green & Healthy Homes Initiative 2016-11-03 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) today announced that the Green & Health Homes Initiative (GHHI) will receive a $1.7 million grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). Grant funding will help the Baltimore-based nonprofit enhance health conditions and energy efficiency in homes around the country. Funding for GHHI comes from CNCS’s Social Innovation Fund, a program that brings together public- and private-sector resources to create economic opportunity, strengthen youth development and boost health outcomes in communities across the country. “Every child in every family should have the opportunity to grow up in a safe and healthy home,” said Congressman Sarbanes. “By continuing to make investments in community-based nonprofits – like the one that CNCS is making in GHHI – we can continue improving health and life outcomes for residents in our most vulnerable and underserved communities.” Congressman Sarbanes has been a steadfast and longstanding advocate for CNCS. During this year’s appropriations process, he joined a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, HHS, Education & Related Agencies, encouraging the committee to fund CNCS at the level recommended by the national service community. To learn more about GHHI, visit www.ghhi.org or follow the organization on Twitter @HealthyHousing. For more information about CNCS’s Social Innovation Fund, see: https://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/sicp/initiatives/social-innovation-fund. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-frosh-alsobrooks-urge-marylanders-to-know-your-rights-resist-all-efforts-to-intimidate-voters Cardin, Frosh, Alsobrooks Urge Marylanders to Know Your Rights, Resist All Efforts to Intimidate Voters 2016-11-02 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy November 02, 2016 Cardin, Frosh, Alsobrooks Urge Marylanders to “Know Your Rights,” Resist All Efforts to Intimidate Voters Early voting ends in Maryland on Thursday, November 3 at 8 PM LANDOVER, Md. – During Maryland’s early voting this week, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh, Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Angela D. Alsobrooks and fellow leaders gathered outside the Prince George’s County Sports and Learning Complex, an Early Voting site, to underscore the important rights of voters as they head to the polls. Voters will have support through 1-866-OUR-VOTE or one of the other hotlines set up by the Justice Department, Attorney General, or State’s Attorney if they feel they are being unnecessarily challenged or harassed at the polls. “Casting a vote is one of the most fundamental rights in a democracy and we must staunchly reject any and all efforts to make it harder to exercise that right – in Maryland and across the country,” said Senator Cardin. “In this first election since the U.S. Supreme Court weakened the Voting Rights Act, we want to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to vote free from intimidation or delay. The tactics we have seen in Maryland and across America in previous elections are not new. We have a moral obligation to stop these reprehensible activities that are aimed at keeping minorities from exercising their inalienable right to vote.” “Every registered voter has a right to cast a ballot, free of unlawful intimidation, discrimination or obstruction,” said Attorney General Frosh. “Voter fraud, voter intimidation and voter suppression are illegal.  Our office will do everything it can to ensure that our right to vote is respected and protected.” “The right to vote is not only a sacred one, but it is also a sacred obligation,” said State’s Attorney Alsobrooks. “Our parents and grandparents stood in front of dogs and wate… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hoyer.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=2691 Hoyer Encourages Marylanders to Sign Up for Health Coverage As Open Enrollment Begins 2016-11-01 2016 2016-11 Democrat House MD Steny Hoyer H000874 hoyer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05)encouraged Marylanders to review and sign up for health coverage through the Maryland Health Connection as open enrollment begins today and runs through January 31. “Beginning today, consumers throughout Maryland will be able to sign up for health coverage through the Maryland Health Connection and check their eligibility for tax credits to lower the cost of coverage,” said Congressman Hoyer. “I’m proud that the Affordable Care Act has significantly lowered the uninsured rate in Maryland and is providing patient protections to millions of Marylanders. Young people can stay on their parents' insurance, seniors have saved millions on prescription drugs, and people with pre-existing conditions can no longer be discriminated against by insurance companies. However, Congress must do more to ensure that every Marylander continues to have access to affordable coverage, and I will be working with stakeholders to strengthen the Affordable Care Act.” “As enrollment gets underway, Marylanders have a number of options for signing up for coverage, including a redesigned website, a new mobile app, over the phone, or in person,” Congressman Hoyer continued. “I encourage all Marylanders to review their options and find the plan that best meets their needs.” Maryland consumers can apply for coverage online at MarylandHealthConnection.gov, which was recently redesigned based on consumer testing. A new app, “Enroll MHC,” recently launched so consumers can shop and apply for coverage on a mobile device. The app is available free in the App Store (iOS) and the Google Play Store (Android). Free in-person help to enroll is also available, and Marylanders can find assistance close to home by clicking here. Assistance is also available over the phone by calling toll-free 1-855-642-8572 (TTY: 1-855-642-8573) to reach the consumer support center. The deadline to sign up for coverage that begins January 1 is December 15. January 31 is the last day to enroll for coverage … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/vote-yes-on-howard-countys-question-a Vote 'Yes' on Howard County's Question A 2016-10-31 2016 2016-10 Democrat House MD John Sarbanes S001168 sarbanes.house.gov     legacy Change is coming to Howard County. In this era where big money dominates politics at all levels, Howard County residents have a chance to move Maryland and our country in a different direction — toward a government truly of, by and for the people…. A "yes" vote on Question A will send a powerful message that citizen-owned elections are the new standard of good government in Howard County. This transformative ballot initiative gives small donors a way of competing against the big-money interests that too often exercise undue influence over public policy…. Proposed by council members Jon Weinstein and Jen Terassa — alongside a diverse coalition of organizations, including Maryland PIRG, Common Cause Maryland, the Maryland League of Conservation Voters, NAACP and the Howard County League of Women Voters — Question A will authorize the Howard County Council to establish a small-donor driven system of financing campaigns. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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