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647 rows where state = "WI" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending

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  • 2016 · 647 ✖

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https://grothman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=241 Grothman Condemns American Inaction Regarding U.N. Israel Resolution 2016-12-30 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Glenn Grothman G000576 grothman.house.gov     legacy Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) today released the following statement condemning American inaction regarding the U.N.'s Israel resolution. Once again the U.N. has passed an anti-Israel resolution. This is not an isolated incident as the General Assembly passed six anti-Israel resolutions earlier this year. These resolutions show a disproportionate obsession against Israel - particularly in a world filled with brutal dictators providing ample opportunities for endless resolutions. To make matters worse, the U.S., who usually vetoes, decided to sit on the sidelines. The Obama administration's failure to veto the resolution, and Secretary Kerry's speech on the matter Wednesday, shows its real opinion regarding Israel. The only bright spot is that we only have one month left until the Trump administration is installed, and America can once again become a reliable ally of Israel. However, this vote should be a wake-up call to Israel's friends in the U.S. The fact that the U.S. would so boldly allow such a resolution to pass shows how close we are to taking a European view of Israel. Work must be done to educate our citizens on facts involving Israel, or America's foreign policy will permanently move in a European direction. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=D41918DA-3670-4C90-950A-FD1DA8CC7D84 Johnson Statement on Sanctions Against Russia 2016-12-30 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy OSHKOSH — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said this following the Obama administration’s announcement of measures against Russia: “Post-Cold War Russia has taken a dark turn under Vladimir Putin. He is emboldened by weakness and inaction. The United States must begin to deal with Russia from a position of strength, which the outgoing administration has failed to do for the past eight years. While today’s actions may be a step in the right direction, they cannot undo the harm caused by this administration’s weakness and its feckless foreign policy.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-russia-sanctions Statement on Russia Sanctions 2016-12-29 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy "Russia does not share America’s interests. In fact, it has consistently sought to undermine them, sowing dangerous instability around the world. While today’s action by the administration is overdue, it is an appropriate way to end eight years of failed policy with Russia. And it serves as a prime example of this administration's ineffective foreign policy that has left America weaker in the eyes of the world." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/video/these-things-are-making-difference These Things Are Making a Difference 2016-12-29 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Good news tends to travel slow, especially when it is coming out of Washington. But in this new video, we’ve looked back at things you may not have heard about this year. And—more good news—it’ll take less than two minutes of your time. Here is how some of the work of the 114th Congress is already making a difference in people's lives. Thanks to the Clay Hunt SAV Act, there are now more outreach services available for veterans at risk of suicide.  After an overhaul of our education system, states are now taking the lead on plans to improve schools and close achievement gaps. Following an end to the 40-year ban on exporting crude oil, “record U.S. shipments are heading overseas.” A historic bill of rights for the survivors of sexual assault is now law. Amanda Nguyen, a 24-year old rape survivor who advocated for the bill, says, “This [bill] becoming law means so much, not just for the 25 million estimated rape survivors across America, but to me personally.” 9/11 first responders are signing up for health benefits after the Zadroga Act was extended. The wife of a former FDNY first responder says, “It’s a life-changer for me and our three children.” A new law to help fight the opioid epidemic and support recovery is taking effect. A father who lost his son to an overdose says, “I believe that will save lives, and it’s critically important to me as a parent, because my son faced a number of obstacles in gaining access to good treatment.” Patients across the country are celebrating a new law that will accelerate cures for rare and chronic illnesses. A paralegal in Denver suffering from lupus says, “This is exactly what we need to move forwards. My dream is that we’re the last generation who has to deal with this.” Experts are calling it “a new day for mental health” after the recent passage of reforms that will put the focus on early intervention and treatment. And, just in time for the holidays, the president signed a new defense law “giving troops their largest pay raise since 2010.” Of course, there is much m… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://duffy.house.gov/press-release/duffy-receives-award-from-wisconsin-state-cranberry-growers-association Duffy Receives Award From Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association 2016-12-28 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Sean Duffy D000614 duffy.house.gov     legacy Wausau, WI – U.S. Representative Sean Duffy (WI-07) today was awarded the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association (WSCGA) Board of Directors’ [WSCGA] Service To Industry Award. The award is the highest recognition provided by WSCGA.   Congressman Duffy released the following statement regarding the award:  “I’m honored to receive WSCGA’s Service to Industry award because cranberries are not only delicious, but they are also a critical part of Wisconsin’s economy. Wisconsin is the number one cranberry producer in America, and I will continue to work in a bipartisan fashion to ensure that it remains on top for years to come.” Background: The award will be presented during the 2017 Wisconsin Cranberry School at the WSCGA Winter Meeting and Trade Show, which will be held January 18-19 at the Holiday Inn in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Congressman Duffy attended and delivered remarks at the opening of the CranGrow Cranberry Growers Cooperative in Warrens, Wisconsin this August. Click HERE and HERE to view coverage of the event. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/it-s-official-biggest-pay-raise-our-troops-six-years It’s Official: The Biggest Pay Raise For Our Troops in Six Years 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on enactment of the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes the largest pay raise for our troops in six years: “We can all be glad that our troops will finally receive their largest pay raise in six years. It is certainly well-deserved, and long overdue. This new law also takes important steps to rebuild our fighting force, streamline the defense acquisition process, and combat military sexual assault. Moreover, this ensures that, right up until his last hour in office, President Obama will not be able to transfer Guantanamo Bay detainees to the United States. During this holiday season, let us all give thanks for the brave men and women who serve our country in uniform.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-administrations-refusal-veto-anti-israel-un-resolution Statement on Administration's Refusal to Veto Anti-Israel UN Resolution 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on the Obama administration’s refusal to veto an anti-Israel resolution at the UN: “This is absolutely shameful. Today's vote is a blow to peace that sets a dangerous precedent for further diplomatic efforts to isolate and demonize Israel. Our unified Republican government will work to reverse the damage done by this administration, and rebuild our alliance with Israel." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kind.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kind-announces-grant-university-wisconsin-platteville Rep. Kind Announces Grant for University of Wisconsin-Platteville 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Ron Kind K000188 kind.house.gov     legacy U.S. Rep. Ron Kind announced that the University of Wisconsin-Platteville would be receiving a grant from the US Department of Agriculture and National Institute of Food Agriculture. The grant will aid in the establishment of a Hydrologic Observatory and supports long-term agro-ecosystem research, education, and outreach in the Upper Mississippi River Basin. “As Wisconsinites, we are fortunate to have abundant natural resources in our own backyard. We must do our part to ensure they are taken care of for future generations. I am proud of the work UW-Platteville has done to research how to best preserve and understand the Upper Mississippi River Basin, and this grant allows them to expand the work they do,” said Rep. Kind.  "The funding provided through the USDA NIFA grant will support the establishment of UW-Platteville's Hydrologic Observatory on the Fever River. This observatory will be one of several established across the country for the purpose of improving our understanding of water and nutrient cycling, and developing national data sets to support large-scale modeling efforts within the USDA Agricultural Research Service's Long Term Agroecosystems Research Program. We are grateful for the support of USDA NIFA and look forward to completing the project with our collaborators within the Agricultural Research Service and UW-Stevens Point," said Dennis Busch of UW-Platteville. Rep. Kind has continually worked to make sure that researchers have access to USDA Capacity Building Grants. He supported funding for the grants in the 2016 budget bill. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=F9656FAD-5ADE-4065-AC31-8F9BD13116DB Johnson Statement on Obama Administration Conduct at United Nations Concerning Israel 2016-12-23 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) had this to say Friday after the United States failed to veto a United Nations Security Council resolution on Israeli settlements, breaking a long tradition of standing with Israel before the international body:   “It is shameful that the Obama administration would allow this anti-Israel resolution to pass.  We should be helping our friends and allies, not weakening them.  Inauguration Day cannot come soon enough so that we can begin to repair the damage done during the last eight years.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-anti-israel-un-resolution Statement on Anti-Israel UN Resolution 2016-12-22 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on the upcoming UN Security Council vote on an anti-Israel resolution: “These stunts at the UN serve only one purpose—to defame and delegitimize the democratic State of Israel. This resolution will undermine peace and mutual cooperation by pushing the parties further away from direct negotiations. The administration should veto it.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/weekly-republican-address-sandy-hook-mental-health Weekly Republican Address: Sandy Hook and the Story of Mental Health Reform 2016-12-22 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—In this week’s Republican address, Rep. Tim Murphy (R-PA) discusses a new law that will bring the most significant reforms to our mental health system in more than a generation. “As a practicing psychologist, I have seen firsthand how difficult it is for families to navigate our broken mental health system. Outdated laws prevent the families and caregivers from being a part of the treatment team—too often this has fatal consequences. We need treatment before tragedy, and care before crisis,” said. Rep. Murphy. He continued, “With this new law, we are finally breaking down the wall between physical health and mental health. Now federal agencies will be moving from vague feel-good programs to ones that emphasize evidence-based care for those at the highest risk.” NOTE: The audio of the weekly address is available here. Remarks of Representative Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania Weekly Republican Address Thursday, December 22, 2016 Washington, DC “This picture means so much to me. I keep it on my desk in my congressional office. It was given to me by a proud parent. This is Daniel. Daniel—just seven years old—was at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012, when a troubled young man took his life and those of 25 others, and ultimately his own. “You know, if there’s one thing we cherish at Christmas, it is the comfort and joy of being surrounded by the people we love. But every day, 959 lives are taken—directly or indirectly—by mental illness. Last year alone, 350,000 lives were lost because our broken mental health system continues to fail American families. Rather than getting those who need help most into treatment, we leave them out on the streets or throw them in jail. This is heartbreaking—and it’s unacceptable. “As a practicing psychologist, I have seen firsthand how difficult it is for families to navigate our broken mental health system. Outdated laws prevent the families and caregivers from being a part of the treatment team—too often this has fatal consequences. We need treatment before tra… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/video/speaker-ryans-favorite-christmas-movie Speaker Ryan's Favorite Christmas Movie 2016-12-22 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy In the 35-second video below, Speaker Ryan reveals both his personal favorite and his family's favorite Christmas movies of all time. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/stable-transition-better-health-care-system A stable transition to a better health care system 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Obamacare is hurting families, and before things get worse, we will act to repeal it so that we can bring relief as soon as possible. Once Obamacare is repealed, we will make sure there is a stable transition period so that people don’t have the rug pulled out from under them. One key to ensuring a smooth transition is getting House Budget Committee Chairman Tom Price, M.D. (R-GA) confirmed as Secretary of Health and Human Services. Working together, we will focus on delivering relief and a better system for people struggling under Obamacare. Instead of a government-centered system like Obamacare, our goal is a patient-centered system that gives every American access to quality, affordable health care. What does that look like? Well, last spring, as part of the Better Way agenda, House Republicans offered a unified health care plan to show the American people what we would do differently. It included a number of common-sense ideas and principles, such as: Moving health care decisions away from Washington to patients, families, and doctors, Giving patients the right tools, like Health Savings Accounts, to make health insurance more portable and affordable, Breaking down barriers that restrict choices and prevent Americans from picking the plan that is best for them and their family, Real protections and peace of mind—regardless of age, income, medical conditions, or circumstances, Empowering small businesses to provide the kind of affordable health coverage that meets your needs. Here’s what some experts and editorial boards had to say about these ideas when we put them forward earlier in the year: “The overriding theme of the plan’s many reforms is consumer-directed health care. The ACA moved substantial power and authority over the insurance marketplace and the care delivery process to the federal government. The House GOP wants to reverse this shift of authority by giving consumers and states more control over important decisions in the health sector.” (James Capretta and Joseph Antos, AEI)  “…shows that… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/rep-tim-murphy-deliver-weekly-republican-address Rep. Tim Murphy to Deliver Weekly Republican Address 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—Today, House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) announced that Rep. Tim Murphy (R-PA) will deliver the Weekly Republican Address on Thursday, December 22. In the address, Rep. Murphy will discuss a new law that will bring the most significant reforms to our mental health system in more than a generation. The National Alliance on Mental Illness calls this new law "a milestone in mental health history."  “I can’t think of a better way to end the year than with signing the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act into law. By bringing research, treatments, and cures into the 21st century, we are finally breaking down the wall between physical health and mental health and focusing on delivering treatment before tragedy,” said Rep. Murphy. “This Christmas, as we gather with our family and loved ones, we can rejoice knowing that hope is on the way to so many families who for too long have lived in the shadows.” “Tim has led the charge on bringing attention and resources to mental health issues, and I can’t think of a better time than Christmas to talk about the importance of giving families the help they need,” said Speaker Ryan. ”As part of the Cures law, this bill will be one of the first steps we take toward a stronger health care system.”  Earlier this week, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette highlighted the years-long journey to the enactment of mental health reform:   “U.S. Rep. Tim Murphy’s crusade to change the nation’s mental health care system began in the days following Adam Lanza’s slaughter of the innocents at Sandy Hook Elementary School. The 20-year-old gunman, who had been diagnosed with multiple psychiatric and physical ailments that went mostly untreated, killed 20 children, his mother and six other adults on Dec. 14, 2012. On Dec. 12, 2013, after a year of research and hearings, Mr. Murphy, R-Upper St. Clair, introduced the ‘Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act.’ Three more years of hearings, meetings and negotiations ensued. Although the bill garnered impressive bipartisan praise and finally … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pocan-dingell-lead-letter-urging-congressional-leadership-to-expand Pocan, Dingell Lead Letter Urging Congressional Leadership to Expand Economic Opportunities in Communities Harmed by Outsourcing 2016-12-21 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Mark Pocan P000607 pocan.house.gov pocan https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) and Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) led a letter with 23 House Democrats to Majority Leader McConnell, Leader-elect Schumer, Speaker Ryan, and Leader Pelosi urging immediate action in the upcoming Congress to expand economic opportunities in communities harmed by the outsourcing of American jobs. "The frustration and despair felt by workers in our region is palpable, and the discourse during the year's election detailing the lack of opportunity for the working class underscores the need for solutions to these challenges. Congress has a responsibility to address their concerns and work together to strengthen the economic stability of these communities," the letter states. "Too many working class families in our districts have been left behind because of the outsourcing of American jobs. It is critical Congress takes immediate action to jumpstart the economic prosperity of these communities." The letter to Congressional Leadership was signed by Reps. Mark Pocan (D-WI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Brendan F. Boyle (D-PA), Cheri Bustos (D-IL), André Carson (D-IN), Matt Cartwright (D-PA), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Mike Doyle (D-PA), Keith Ellison (D-MN), Bill Foster (D-IL), Luis V. Gutiérrez (D-IL), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Robin L. Kelly (D-IL), Brenda L. Lawrence (D-MI), Daniel Lipinski (D-IL), Dave Loebsack (D-IA), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Gwen S. Moore (D-WI), Richard M. Nolan (D-MN), Tim Ryan (D-OH), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Pete Visclosky (D-IN), and Sander M. Levin (D-MI). The text of the letter is below and an electronic copy can be found here. Dear Majority Leader McConnell, Leader-elect Schumer, Speaker Ryan, and Leader Pelosi: We write today to urge immediate action in the 115th Congress to expand economic opportunity in communities harmed by the outsourcing of American jobs. Our states encompass communities that once served as thriving hubs for manufacturing and development, providing the opportunity for working class families to achieve the American Dream. In recent decades, th… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T21:09:43Z
http://gwenmoore.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1437 In Letter to Trump, House Democrats Draw Line on Women's Right to Choose 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Gwen Moore M001160 gwenmoore.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. – This week, 105 Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives sent a letter to President-elect Trump urging the elimination of the Hyde Amendment. Federal restrictions prevent millions of women, including low-income women, servicewomen, federal employees, Native American women and residents of Washington, D.C. from exercising their constitutional right to abortion care. The letter was led by Congresswoman Barbara Lee, Congresswoman Gwen Moore, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro.   “For far too long, low-income, particularly women of color, have been disproportionately affected by the implementation of Hyde. Such blatant discrimination not only limits critical access to reproductive health services, but can also have a crushing impact on a woman’s economic mobility,” said Congresswoman Moore. “If President-elect Trump is serious about creating economic opportunities for the most vulnerable among us, it is imperative that we end this archaic policy and stop those who continue to restrict women from making their own personal reproductive decisions.”    “It’s past time for Congress to end the discriminatory Hyde Amendment once and for all. With this letter, House Democrats are sending a clear message: we will not back down from defending women’s constitutional rights,” said Congresswoman Lee. “No woman should ever be denied reproductive health care because of how much she earns or the type of her insurance. The EACH Woman Act would end this discrimination and ensure that all women, including low-income women and women of color, can make the health care decisions that are best for them and their family.”   Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky said, “The Hyde Amendment denies crucial health care coverage to women who serve in our military, work in our federal government, and join the Peace Corps, as well as those who depend on Medicaid and the Indian Health Service. All women, no matter their income level, zip … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/tools-it-takes-repeal-obamacare The Tools It Takes to Repeal Obamacare 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Obamacare has failed the American people—and things are only getting worse. When Congress reconvenes in January, we will begin the process of reversing the damage caused by Obamacare by passing the legislative tools necessary to repeal it. To achieve a stronger, more patient-centered health care system, we first have to fix what isn’t working. Keeping a Promise  As part of our Better Way agenda, Republicans proposed a plan to repeal this disastrous law—and in 2017, we’ll keep our word. Given the dire situation facing our country, the time to act is now to deliver immediate relief for the American people.  A Repeal Resolution  The first step is the repeal resolution—a simple budget resolution that will set the stage for repeal and a stable transition period toward a better health care system. This repeal resolution will include what are called reconciliation instructions. In short, reconciliation is a tool that allows designated committees to produce legislation that can later be passed with a simple majority in the Senate. To get this reconciliation tool, however, the House and Senate must first both pass this repeal resolution. Once they do, we’ll move to step two: the reconciliation process.  Committees Get to Work In January 2016, we demonstrated that we can repeal Obamacare and send it to the president’s desk without being filibustered in the Senate. This is what makes reconciliation so important (see step one.) So the next step in the process is for certain committees to produce actual legislation to repeal the parts of Obamacare in their jurisdiction.  Once the various committees produce and pass their pieces, they are sent to the Budget Committee, which will compile the text into one complete, straightforward piece of legislation to repeal Obamacare. After the Budget Committee passes that bill, it's ready for consideration by the full House. And once it’s passed by the House, the reconciliation package will then be considered under expedited procedures through the Senate—and ultimately be delivere… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/photo/5-photos-put-you-christmas-spirit 5 Photos to Put You in the Christmas Spirit 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy A little—OK, a lot of—rain didn't stop Speaker Ryan and hundreds of others from around the country from kicking off the Christmas season. From the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, the 2016 Capitol Christmas Tree lit up the sky, where it will continue to do so every evening through Christmas night. 1. Toys for Tots // Speaker Ryan presents a Packers toy to the Marine Corps Liaisons to the House of Representatives for their 6th annual Toys for Tots Collection Day. 2. Wisconsin Proud // These Marines, who all hail from Speaker Ryan's home state of Wisconsin, enjoyed the tree lighting ceremony from the Speaker's balcony at the U.S. Capitol. 3. A Student's Poem // Isabella Gerard, a fifth-grader from the same state as the tree itself (Idaho), reads a poem to highlight the importance of our national forests. 4. All Lit Up // Speaker Ryan and Isabella marvel at the beauty of the Capitol Christmas Tree with the backdrop of the newly restored Capitol dome. 5. The People's Tree // Just as Congress is the People's House, so too is the Capitol Christmas Tree the people's tree.   Click here to watch the full lighting ceremony on YouTube. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/video/reminder-president-obama A Reminder for President Obama 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy President Obama is in office for only one more month, and he’s already rolling out his last-ditch regulations. In fact, in just the last two days, he has unilaterally issued rules that will hurt coal country and take away areas of enormous energy potential for America. So here is a final reminder for our outgoing president: Presidents don't write laws. Congress does. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://duffy.house.gov/press-release/duffy-comments-on-release-of-report-by-bipartisan-congressional-task-force-on-economic Duffy Comments on Release of Report by Bipartisan Congressional Task Force on Economic Growth in Puerto Rico 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Sean Duffy D000614 duffy.house.gov     legacy Washington D.C. – U.S. Representative Sean Duffy (WI-07) offered the following comments after the bipartisan Congressional Task Force on Economic Growth in Puerto Rico, which Rep. Duffy is a member, today released its final report with policy recommendations that aim to promote economic growth and long-term prosperity in the territory. The full release from the Task Force is below the following quote from Rep. Duffy:    “As the author of PROMESA, I care deeply about Puerto Rico’s success and the bipartisan structure that the law created to address the island’s debt crisis.  However, I am also acutely aware that while PROMESA takes important steps to help improve the short-term financial stability of the territory, more needs to be done to spur economic growth, job creation and investment in Puerto Rico.  That was the purpose of the creation of the Congressional Task Force on Economic Growth in Puerto Rico.  I am proud that the Task Force has worked on a strong bipartisan basis and I believe our report is a down payment on future actions that Congress and the Trump Administration should take to improve federal programs on the island and treat Puerto Ricans more equitably under the law.     “Congress should give serious consideration to providing the island with equal treatment under all federal laws and programs.  At the same time, there is no federal substitute for good governance on the island.  In order for Puerto Rico to reemerge from its current situation, its leaders must make the hard choices that they have been unwilling to make and work cooperatively with the Oversight Board to balance budgets and grow its economy, starting with a five-year fiscal plan.    “As 2016 comes to an end, I am optimistic that next year will be better for Puerto Rico.  I look forward to working with the island’s newly elected leaders to assist in any way I can to make 2017 the year when Puerto Rican families and businesses turn a corner and emerge stronger than before.”       Release from Bipartisan Congressional Task Force on Ec… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gwenmoore.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2050 In Letter to Trump, House Democrats Draw Line on Women's Right to Choose 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Gwen Moore M001160 gwenmoore.house.gov     legacy For far too long, low-income, particularly women of color, have been disproportionately affected by the implementation of Hyde. Such blatant discrimination not only limits critical access to reproductive health services, but can also have a crushing impact on a woman's economic mobility. share: f t Washington, D.C. This week, 105 Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives sent a letter to President-elect Trump urging the elimination of the Hyde Amendment. Federal restrictions prevent millions of women, including low-income women, servicewomen, federal employees, Native American women and residents of Washington, D.C. from exercising their constitutional right to abortion care. The letter was led by Congresswoman Barbara Lee, Congresswoman Gwen Moore, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. For far too long, low-income, particularly women of color, have been disproportionately affected by the implementation of Hyde. Such blatant discrimination not only limits critical access to reproductive health services, but can also have a crushing impact on a woman's economic mobility, said Congresswoman Moore. If President-elect Trump is serious about creating economic opportunities for the most vulnerable among us, it is imperative that we end this archaic policy and stop those who continue to restrict women from making their own personal reproductive decisions. It's past time for Congress to end the discriminatory Hyde Amendment once and for all. With this letter, House Democrats are sending a clear message: we will not back down from defending women's constitutional rights, said Congresswoman Lee. No woman should ever be denied reproductive health care because of how much she earns or the type of her insurance. The EACH Woman Act would end this discrimination and ensure that all women, including low-income women and women of color, can make the health care decisions that are best for the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/committee-appointments-115th U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Announces Committee Appointments for New Senate 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Announces Committee Appointments for New Senate Senator Baldwin will continue to serve on Appropriations and Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP), will join Commerce Committee in January WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin today announced that in January she will continue to serve on the Senate Appropriations Committee and the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP), and that she will join the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. “I am proud to continue serving on Senate Appropriations and HELP Committees and I look forward to joining the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. Working on behalf of the people of Wisconsin on these committees will provide me with a great opportunity to continue focusing on issues important to our state,” said Senator Baldwin.  “My top priority is working to build a strong Made in Wisconsin economy that works for everyone. So I will continue to focus on investing in job training and workforce readiness; making higher education more affordable; strengthening our manufacturing economy; and growing small business start-ups by supporting innovation, science and research. I will also continue my fight to provide affordable health care for all Americans and work to protect Medicare and Social Security for today’s seniors and future generations. Joining the Commerce Committee will also allow me an opportunity to work on two issues that can help create stronger economic growth in Wisconsin. We need to make better investments in rural broadband and I look forward to working on behalf of Wisconsin’s agriculture, timber and manufacturing industries to make sure they have strong transportation infrastructure to ship their goods to market.” Print Email Tweet … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/letter-walker-opioid-funding In Letter to Governor Scott Walker, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Encourages Action on Newly Available Federal Funding to Address Opioid Epidemic 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.20.16 In Letter to Governor Scott Walker, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Encourages Action on Newly Available Federal Funding to Address Opioid Epidemic Major legislation signed into law this month includes $1 billion in funding championed by Senator Baldwin for states to address opioid epidemic WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a letter to Governor Scott Walker today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin encouraged the Governor to act and apply for newly available federal funding to help Wisconsin combat the opioid epidemic. Senator Baldwin led the effort to include $1 billion in investments to fight the opioid epidemic in bipartisan legislation that was signed into law this month. “This epidemic is not a partisan issue, and a strong partnership between the federal government and our state will be essential to an effective response. I led the effort calling on bipartisan leaders in Congress to include $1 billion in additional investments to address opioid abuse while the 21st Century Cures Act was being negotiated,” wrote Senator Baldwin. “Now that Congress has finally stepped up to be a stronger partner in fighting this epidemic, Wisconsin leaders must act immediately to put these investments to work. Applying for the new state grant funding made available last week will be a significant step in advancing local prevention, treatment and recovery efforts.” Last week, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced the availability of new funding for states to prevent and treat opioid abuse. The funding is provided through the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act, which was signed into law by President Obama last week. Senator Baldwin previously encouraged the Governor’s Task Force on Opioid Abuse to apply for the newly available federal grants as they met in La Crosse last Friday. The funds will be made available through the State Targeted Response to the Opioid Crisis Grants. Applications for the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=34E62224-1170-4ECB-BF87-AB6032F18022 Johnson Urges President-elect Trump to Work with Governor Walker on Wisconsin Priorities 2016-12-20 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said this Tuesday in support of Governor Walker’s letter to President-elect Trump on Wisconsin priorities and federal overreach:   "I urge President-elect Trump to work with Governor Walker on common sense reforms to increase flexibility and return authority to Wisconsin. I look forward to supporting these efforts by working with him, Speaker Paul Ryan and my colleagues in the United States Senate to reduce the federal footprint, streamline the coordination between federal and state agencies and roll back the federal regulatory burden that is crippling to Wisconsin families and businesses." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/how-obamacare-getting-worse How Obamacare Is Getting Worse 2016-12-19 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Obamacare has failed the American people, and things are only getting worse by the day: Even higher premiums. People who have signed up for the benchmark Obamacare plan will pay, on average, 25 percent more in premiums next year. That is more than three times the increase for 2016. On top of all that, the quality of the coverage is worse than expected. Americans are, in effect, paying more for less than what they were promised. Even higher deductibles. On one of the least expensive types of plans, deductibles for both individuals and families are going up by about 15 percent. Deductibles have gotten so high that it is essentially the equivalent of not even having health insurance. An even bigger bill for taxpayers. Because premiums have skyrocketed so much, so have the subsidies needed to prop up Obamacare. According to one independent study, taxpayers will pay nearly $10 billion more for subsidies in 2017. Even fewer choices. For 2016, only 2 percent of eligible customers had one insurer to choose from. For next year, that number has jumped to 17 percent.  All of these trends are heading in the wrong direction. The trajectory we are on points to the likely possibility that Obamacare is already in what experts call a “death spiral,” where there is such little competition that costs skyrocket and the market collapses. Here's what Doug Badger of the Galen Institute wrote earlier this month: “Obamacare already is in a death spiral that is fast approaching its terminal point. That is because, despite billions in individual and corporate subsidies, insurers are bleeding money. … And 2015 will be remembered as Obamacare’s good old days. Since then, four of the country’s five largest insurers — Aetna, Humana, Cigna and UnitedHealthcare — have all but abandoned the exchanges. The fifth, Anthem, saw its stock price spike upwards last month minutes after its CEO told investors that his company might pull out in 2018. ... The insurer exodus has left more than one in five Americans with an… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/obama-administration-fights-its-war-coal-bitter-end Obama Administration Fights Its War on Coal to the Bitter End 2016-12-19 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) today issued the following statement in response to the Obama administration's release of its final Stream Protection Rule, a rewrite of coal regulations:  "The Obama administration is fighting its war on coal to the bitter end. This one rule could have crushing consequences for coal miners, their families, and many communities. Yet despite my urging, the White House refused to give the states a chance to provide real input—another sad example of arrogant overreach. If we are going to get America back on track, job-crushing regulations like this must stop. Our unified Republican government will act to provide coal country with relief." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://duffy.house.gov/media-center/enewsletters/hope HOPE 2016-12-19 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Sean Duffy D000614 duffy.house.gov     legacy Dear friends, In this season of hope, 200 community and business leaders joined me for my 4th annual Hunger and Homelessness summit in an effort to pool our collective resources and ideas. It’s an effort to bring about more opportunities for the hundreds of people in our community who find themselves without a job, home or warm meal this Christmas - and throughout the year. It was our largest summit to date and we also had a wider cross-section of interested parties and organizations than ever before. It served as both a networking event as well as a great opportunity for me to solicit feedback about my forthcoming “Rural Revival” legislative initiative; which I look forward to sharing with you in the new year. Click on the image below for a re-cap of this year’s summit. Or, click here to watch the speakers from our Facebook Live coverage.  One month from tomorrow Donald J. Trump will be sworn-in as the 45th President of the United States. The peaceful transition of our government is an awesome event and reminds us of that which is truly special – and unique – about our country. Rachel and I were fortunate to talk about this great time in our nation’s history on Fox’s “Fox & Friends”. Click on the image below to watch: One more thing before you go: It was a very special #ThankACopThursday in honor of the newest members of the Capitol Police's K-9 unit! After 12 weeks of intense training, it was finally graduation day for Primi (shown below), eight of his 4-legged colleagues, and their handlers last Thursday. If you see one of these dogs on your visit to the U.S. Capitol, give them a tip of your hat (but no petting while they are working!) Thank you to all of our K-9 officers (and your handlers) for your service to our nation. Merry Christmas: The anticipation of the birth of our Savior later this week is palpable in the Duffy house. As we wait in joyful hope for His arrival, we offer prayers of gratitude for the many blessings we have received, and prayers of hope for our le… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kind.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kind-s-statement-la-crosse-becoming-first-city-wisconsin-end Rep. Kind’s Statement on La Crosse Becoming the First City in Wisconsin to End Homelessness among Veterans 2016-12-19 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Ron Kind K000188 kind.house.gov     legacy The La Crosse Collaborative to End Homelessness announced that it met the goal they set in September: to end homelessness for veterans. Below is U.S. Rep. Kind’s statement on the announcement: “I am incredibly proud that La Crosse has become the first city in Wisconsin to end homelessness among our veterans. I want to congratulate the over thirty La Crosse agencies, who worked collaboratively, to make sure that every local veteran has a roof over their head by Christmas day,” said Rep. Kind. “In the coming months I look forward to working with the La Crosse Collaborative to End Homelessness to find ways to build on this progress.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-selection-rep-mick-mulvaney-serve-omb-director Statement on Selection of Rep. Mick Mulvaney to Serve as OMB Director 2016-12-17 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement commending President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Congressman Mick Mulvaney (R-SC) to serve as Director of the Office of Management and Budget: “Mick Mulvaney is the absolute right choice. In Congress, he has been a conservative reformer from day one, proposing solutions to fix the budget process and our regulatory system. At OMB, he will lead the work he has started to improve the way government does the people's business. Mick is someone I have come to greatly respect and rely on, going back to our time serving together on the Budget Committee. I look forward to working with Mick in his new role, and I commend President-elect Trump on this excellent selection.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://gwenmoore.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1436 Trump Taps his Bankruptcy Lawyer for Ambassador to Israel 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Gwen Moore M001160 gwenmoore.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC — In response to President-elect Donald Trump’s decision to choose David Friedman as his nominee for ambassador to Israel, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) released the following statement:   “The ambassador to Israel plays a vital role in every administration. Before taking on the position, both James Cunningham and Daniel Shapiro shared a combined 35 years of foreign policy experience. In contrast, David Friedman, President-elect Trump’s choice for the position, was his bankruptcy lawyer and lacks any foreign policy experience.    “From his blind support for settlements in the West Bank and flagrant opposition to a two-state solution to his unconscionable and frighteningly casual use of holocaust imagery to vilify progressive American Jews, Mr. Friedman lacks the experience and temperament necessary to serve as our nation’s ambassador to Israel.    “Now, more than ever, we need to work together with our partners abroad and at home to ensure the protection and survival of the Jewish State. I urge the president-elect to reconsider this appointment and instead focus on a qualified candidate who can work with all sides to stabilize the region.”   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/top-5-moments-speaker-ryan-s-appearance-poverty-summit Top 5 Moments from Speaker Ryan’s Appearance at Poverty Summit 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy This week, Speaker Ryan participated in the Opportunity America #ThisWayUp16 Summit to discuss how a unified Republican government can tackle poverty, grow the economy, and get our country back to work. After his remarks, Speaker Ryan took questions from Wall Street Journal Washington Bureau Chief Gerald Seib. Here are the top five moments: Measure Success The war on #poverty has failed. We have a #BetterWay → Give power back to the states, and measure success based on results. pic.twitter.com/N0WUR4cYjP— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 16, 2016 Reward Work A one-sized-fits-all approach to #poverty simply doesn't work. We need to customize benefits and make it pay to work. pic.twitter.com/8xXpTzYCmX— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 15, 2016 Upward Mobility We need to close the skills gap in this country to get Americans back on the path to upward mobility. pic.twitter.com/3hTyetZkzx— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 16, 2016 Regulatory Relief Providing much-needed regulatory relief to American job-creators will help grow the economy and get our country back to work. pic.twitter.com/ja9U8YOwbY— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 16, 2016 2017 We're working with President-elect @realDonaldTrump on a bold, aggressive agenda to get things done for the American people in 2017. pic.twitter.com/NMGJHTMoVf— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 16, 2016 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gwenmoore.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2296 Trump Taps his Bankruptcy Lawyer for Ambassador to Israel 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Gwen Moore M001160 gwenmoore.house.gov     legacy From his blind support for settlements in the West Bank and flagrant opposition to a two-state solution to his unconscionable and frighteningly causal use of holocaust imagery to vilify progressive American Jews, Mr. Friedman lacks the experience and temperament necessary to serve as our nation's ambassador to Israel. share: f t Washington, DC In response to President-elect Donald Trump's decision to choose David Friedman as his nominee for ambassador to Israel, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) released the following statement: The ambassador to Israel plays a vital role in every administration. Before taking on the position, both James Cunningham and Daniel Shapiro shared a combined 35 years of foreign policy experience. In contrast, David Friedman, President-elect Trump's choice for the position, was his bankruptcy lawyer and lacks any foreign policy experience. From his blind support for settlements in the West Bank and flagrant opposition to a two-state solution to his unconscionable and frighteningly casual use of holocaust imagery to vilify progressive American Jews, Mr. Friedman lacks the experience and temperament necessaryto serve as our nation's ambassador to Israel. Now, more than ever, we need to work together with our partners abroad and at home to ensure the protection and survival of the Jewish State. I urge the president-elect to reconsider this appointment and instead focus on a qualified candidate who can work with all sides to stabilize the region. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/governors-task-force-new-funding-available U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Encourages Governor’s Task Force on Opioid Abuse to Act on Newly Available Federal Funding to Address Opioid Epidemic 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.16.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Encourages Governor’s Task Force on Opioid Abuse to Act on Newly Available Federal Funding to Address Opioid Epidemic Major legislation signed into law last week includes $1 billion in funding championed by Senator Baldwin to address opioid epidemic Governor’s Task Force on Opioid Abuse to meet in La Crosse today WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the Governor’s Task Force on Opioid Abuse is set to meet in La Crosse today, Senator Baldwin is encouraging them to act and apply for newly available federal funding to combat the opioid epidemic. Senator Baldwin led the effort to include $1 billion in investments to fight the opioid epidemic in bipartisan legislation. This week, the availability of new funding to combat the opioid crisis was announced by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The funding is provided through the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act, which was signed into law by President Obama this week. “Opioid abuse is an epidemic in our state. Now that Washington has finally stepped up to be a stronger partner for Wisconsin, we must act immediately to put these investments to work,” said Senator Baldwin. “As the Governor’s Task Force on Opioid Abuse meets in La Crosse today, I urge them to act on these federal investments that can help support our state’s prevention, treatment and recovery efforts.” The funds will be made available through the State Targeted Response to the Opioid Crisis Grants. Applications for the funds are due from states by February 17, 2017. For detailed information on how to apply for the grant, the Task Force on Opioid Abuse can visit: http://www.samhsa.gov/grants/grant-announcements/ti-17-014. Senator Baldwin has been a strong advocate in the fight to address the national opioid epidemic. In just this year, Senator Baldwin has traveled across Wisconsin to hold roundtable dialogues on the opioid and heroin epidemic in Green Bay, La Crosse, Wausau, Viroqua, Ashland, Superior, Eau Claire and Arlingt… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/statement-on-statement-on-russian-cyberattacks U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on Russian Cyberattacks 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.16.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on Russian Cyberattacks WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin today released the following statement on Facebook regarding Russian cyberattacks: “Yesterday, President Obama said that the United States will respond to Russian cyberattacks that the intelligence community has concluded were part of an effort to influence the 2016 presidential election. I support this response, as I do the order President Obama has given to the U.S. intelligence community to conduct a full review of Russian interference, including cyberattacks, before Inauguration Day. “Our intelligence community is highly confident that Russian President Vladimir Putin became personally involved in espionage meant to interfere with and impact our election, so it is important that their assessments are appropriately declassified and made public, so the American people know more about Russia’s online attacks. “In July, Donald Trump encouraged Russian interference in our elections and according to media reports he has known for the past 4 months, through intelligence community briefings, of direct links between Vladimir Putin's government and cyberattacks against America. “Russia’s interference in our elections cannot be dismissed or ignored. Congress has a responsibility to get to the bottom of this. That is why we need nonpartisan efforts in the Senate to investigate how Putin and the Russian government intervened in our election and sought to influence it.” Print Email Tweet Next Press Release Previous Press Release 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=0AABFC9E-6391-4400-B38D-17CADF276556 CIA Refuses to Brief Homeland Security Chairman on Russian Hacking 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, had this to say following news that the CIA refused to provide a briefing on the issue of Russian hacking in the United States. “The cyberattack capabilities of America's rivals and adversaries are significant and represent a real and growing threat to our security and world peace and stability.  As chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, I returned to Washington this week and requested the CIA to provide a briefing on Russia’s cyber capabilities and its involvement with the U.S. presidential election.  The CIA refused this request. It is disappointing that the CIA would provide information on this issue to the Washington Post and NBC but will not provide information to elected members of Congress.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=A8428032-6D18-4BC7-9453-7F4C995843BE Border and National Security Top Johnson Discussion with DHS Secretary Nominee General John Kelly 2016-12-16 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, met Thursday afternoon with President-elect Donald Trump’s designated nominee for Homeland Security secretary, Gen. John Kelly. After the meeting, Johnson said: “General Kelly’s military background, especially as commander of Southern Command, makes him ideally suited to address the security challenges facing America today. During our meeting, we discussed border security, cybersecurity, and protecting our critical infrastructure. “I also appreciate that General Kelly has a firm understanding of the threats facing the United States at home and abroad, including the threat from ISIS and other extremists. Leading the Department of Homeland Security is one of the most important jobs in government.  I look forward to working closely with General Kelly to expedite his confirmation and help make America safer and more secure.” The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee has legislative jurisdiction for the Department of Homeland Security, including nominations subject to Senate confirmation. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/iran-sanctions-extension-act-now-law-no-thanks-president-obama The Iran Sanctions Extension Act Is Now Law—No Thanks to President Obama 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy While you were (hopefully) sleeping at 12:52 this morning, the lights were on in the White House press office. Why? Because that’s when they sent out a statement announcing that extending the Iran Sanctions Act—one of the very laws that helped bring Iran to the negotiating table—is “unnecessary". Therefore, the White House explained, “the Iran Sanctions Act is becoming law without the President’s signature.” Ah yes, a true profile in courage. Here’s the real story. The administration not-so-privately opposed a ten-year renewal of the Iran Sanctions Act—a law that imposed strong economic sanctions on Tehran’s energy sector. Not only is this law necessary, it is critical to protecting America's interests. But that didn't stop Secretary John Kerry from launching a personal lobbying campaign with Senate Democrats to stop the bill. The result? A 99-0 vote in the Senate, which followed a 419-1 vote in the House. This put President Obama in a bind. On one hand, he feared Iranian warnings that an extension would void the nuclear agreement. At the same time, he faced veto-proof majorities in both chambers of Congress. And that brings us to last night. By allowing the bill to become law without his signature, President Obama once again signaled to the world that he won’t stand up to the mullahs. Moreover, he missed an important chance to bring Americans together in the face of Iranian aggression. Instead, a midnight press release that epitomized this administration’s legacy of going out of its way to appease our enemies at the expense of our allies. In any case, the Iran Sanctions Act is now law for another decade. As Speaker Ryan said after signing the bill earlier this month, “Congress must maintain the ability to immediately reinstate sanctions against Iran. Now President-elect Trump will have the opportunity to evaluate our policy towards Iran independent of additional interference from the outgoing administration.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/obamacare-has-failed-american-people Obamacare Has Failed the American People 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Six years after the enactment of Obamacare, here’s what we know: This law has failed the American people. Skyrocketing Premiums President Obama promised that Obamacare would help bring down premium costs for an average household. Families have instead seen their premiums skyrocket anywhere from 20 percent in some states to more than 50 percent in others. These double-digit premium hikes have already made health care unaffordable for many hardworking Americans, and it’s only going to get worse from here.  Soaring Deductibles Deductibles have soared under Obamacare to the point that many Americans feel like they don’t even have health insurance. People with silver plans have seen their deductibles rise to an average of $3,000, while those with bronze plans face deductibles of more than $5,500. To make matters worse, the increase of deductibles over the past several years has far outpaced the average worker’s wages. This means more Americans paying more out-of-pocket for more expensive health care coverage. Collapsing Markets Nearly 75 percent of state-run Obamacare CO-OPs have already collapsed—with more on the way—forcing more than 800,000 Americans to find new coverage. Following New Jersey’s announcement in September that it will close its CO-OP, kicking 35,000 consumers off their plans next year, only six of the original 23 CO-OPs are left standing. In total, the 17 failed CO-OPs have already cost taxpayers $1.8 billion. Fewer Choices As a result of major insurers withdrawing from marketplaces nationwide, families have been left with few, if any, options of carriers. Take Tennessee, for example, where a majority of counties offer coverage from only a single insurer. Or North Carolina, where more than a quarter million people are losing their plans as two of three existing insurers leave the marketplace. Or Alaska, where consumers are already down to a choice of just one carrier. This growing trend means less or no competition among insurers, which means higher costs and fewer choices for hardworking f… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/photo/conservative-conscience-people-s-house The Conservative Conscience of the People’s House 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Recently, Speaker Ryan took part in an event on Capitol Hill honoring Rep. Joe Pitts (R-PA), who is retiring at the end of this Congress. Rep. Pitts has given his life to public service. A teacher. An Air Force captain. Three tours in Vietnam. Ten terms in Congress. Founder of the Values Action Team. Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee. But more than any title or tenure, Joe Pitts’ greatest legacy may be his devotion to the principle that every life matters. He has spoken out for political prisoners and used his platform to fight human rights abuses. He has promoted religious freedom and helped start prayer breakfasts all around the world. And he has been a champion of the unborn, waging battle after battle to protect life and defend the conscience rights of taxpayers. At the event, Speaker Ryan called Rep. Pitts the conservative conscience of the people’s House. A man of faith and a leader of action, we are grateful for his service. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-selection-rep-ryan-zinke-serve-interior-secretary Statement on Selection of Rep. Ryan Zinke to Serve as Interior Secretary 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement commending President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Congressman Ryan Zinke (R-MT) to serve as Secretary of the Interior: “Ryan is a no-nonsense leader who has spent his entire life serving this country. He went above and beyond the call of duty as a Navy SEAL for more than two decades. After hanging up the uniform, he decided to continue his service by representing the people of Montana in the House. As a member of the Natural Resources Committee, he has been an ardent supporter of all-of-the-above energy policies and responsible land management. And as a Westerner with close to one third of his state owned by the federal government, he is intimately familiar with how Washington’s decisions affect people’s lives. Ryan’s experience and commitment to improving the lives of all Americans will make him an excellent Interior Secretary. I could not be happier for Ryan, Lola, and their entire family.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/us-capitol-receive-historic-visit-make-wish-superhero U.S. Capitol to Receive Historic Visit From Make-A-Wish Superhero 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—Tomorrow, Friday, December 16, the United States Capitol will receive a historic visit from a superhero on a special mission.By day, Kaheem is a 5-year old from Owings Mills, MD who is battling leukemia. But with the help of Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic, Kaheem will transform into a superhero on a mission to restore our capital city’s spirit.Kaheem’s mission will be broadcast on FOX5 DC, which previewed Kaheem’s wish come true: “While a lot of kids wish to go to Disney World or to some other place, all Kaheem wants to do is to help people. His room is filled with all types of superheroes, superheroes that he looks up to. They have always been a big part of his life, but especially now that he is battling such a tough battle.”Super Kaheem will make several stops throughout the city in his quest to save its citizens. At the Capitol, he will team up with Capitol Police and take on a mission in House Speaker Paul Ryan’s (R-WI) office. Follow @SpeakerRyan on Twitter and Facebook for #SuperKaheem updates.“We can’t thank Super Kaheem enough for coming to help us,” Speaker Ryan said. “But we don’t just need Super Kaheem’s help, we need his spirit, which reminds us that nothing is more rewarding than helping others, especially at this time of year. This will be a magical day, and we are truly honored to be part of it.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://duffy.house.gov/press-release/duffy-s-va-reform-legislation-signed-into-law Duffys VA Reform Legislation Signed Into Law 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Sean Duffy D000614 duffy.house.gov     legacy Veterans will now have more options for hearing healthcare services Washington D.C. – U.S. Representative Sean Duffy’s (WI-07) amendment to help Veterans receive better access to hearing healthcare was signed into law today. The language of Duffy’s hearing aid bill, H.R. 353, the Veterans’ Access To hearing Health Act, is included in H.R. 3471, the Veterans Safety Mobility Act. This law will provide veterans with better access to audiology services by allowing the VA to utilize hearing instrument specialists in addition to audiology doctors to service veterans’ hearing health needs, thereby decreasing wait times for veterans and freeing up the VA’s audiologists for more complex cases. The bill passed the House with a bipartisan majority, 310 to 116, and it passed the Senate by unanimous consent. Upon the bill becoming law, Congressman Duffy offered the following comments: “There’s no question, the VA is in dire need of reform, but this bill to expand hearing health options for veterans is an important step in the right direction,” said Congressman Duffy. “I’ve talked with veterans in my district who drive up to 90 miles to get hearing healthcare from a VA audiologist, but with this bill now signed into law, they can receive the same care from a local hearing aid specialist. Our men and women in uniform deserve options in healthcare when they return home.”  “Thank you to my colleagues in the House and Senate, who came together in a bipartisan fashion to enthusiastically support this bill, and to the President for signing it into law.”  Watch Congressman Duffy’s remarks from debate on the bill in September:       WI-7 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=7FE6CE04-8CCD-4CA0-BE1F-73174964AA5F Johnson Statement on Chairman Wheeler Stepping Down 2016-12-15 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) had this to say Thursday following the announcement that Federal Communications Commission Chairman Tom Wheeler will step down on Jan. 20, 2017, paving the way for a Republican majority on the FCC: “I am pleased to see that Chairman Wheeler will follow the long established tradition of stepping down at the end of the president’s term.  This is a commitment he should have made long ago, but better late than never.  I look forward to working with the new FCC on rolling back harmful, partisan regulations that choke investment and innovation in the communications sector.” ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://paulryan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398588 Ryan Nominates Students for Military Service Academies 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 paulryan.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — Today, Wisconsin’s First District congressman and speaker of the House, Paul Ryan, announced the 19 students in the First District who would be receiving nominations for appointments to the U.S. service academies. Young men and women who wish to attend a U.S. service academy must obtain a nomination from an authorized nominating source, like a member of Congress.Of this year’s nominees, Ryan said:“Military service is an honorable calling. America’s service academies have the highest standards of excellence, and I am proud to nominate these young students from Wisconsin’s First District. I am more than confident that they will rise to the challenge. Should they be accepted, they will represent their state and their nation with pride. Selecting these nominees was a very tough job, and for that reason, I want to thank the members of my Service Academy Nomination Advisory Board for their advice and hard work.”The Service Academy Nomination Advisory (SANA) Board interviewed and evaluated applicants from the First District in December 2016. Consisting of veterans, academy graduates, and educators, the SANA Board was appointed by Ryan to assist him with identifying the most qualified applicants. First District applicants are typically in the top tier of their class, are active in their communities, and demonstrate great potential for leadership.A list of the students nominated by Congressman Ryan follows:Kenosha CountyAndrew Burrow – attends St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Military AcademyAlexandra DuChene – attends George Nelson Tremper High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Air Force AcademyThomas Hamm – attends St. Joseph Catholic Academy, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Military Academy and U.S. Naval AcademyTyler Mortensen – attends Indian Trail High School and Academy, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Military AcademyEvan Taber – graduated Harborside Academy, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Military AcademyMilwaukee CountyNat… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/repeal-relief Repeal Is Relief 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy IT HAS FAILED Obamacare is a disaster. Insurance markets are collapsing. Premiums are soaring. Patients’ choices are dwindling. The law has failed to deliver on its core promises, hurting far more than it is helping. The country knows that the Obamacare status quo is unsustainable: Eight out of 10 Americans want to change the law significantly or replace it altogether, according to Gallup. THE WORST IS YET TO COME But the answer isn’t to ignore the problem. The situation is too dire and Obamacare is only getting worse by the day. It’s time to act.  REPEAL IS RELIEF When Congress reconvenes, we will begin repairing the damage by passing the legislative tools that are necessary to repeal Obamacare. We will deliver on our promise to the American people. STABLE TRANSITION Once enacted, there will be a stable transition period to a patient-centered health care system that gives Americans access to quality, affordable care. A BETTER WAY: more choices, lower costs, greater control over your health care   Moving health care decisions away from Washington and to where they belong: with patients, their families, and their doctors, Giving patients the right tools, like Health Savings Accounts, to make their health insurance more portable and affordable, Breaking down barriers that restrict choice and prevent Americans from picking the plan that is best for them and their family, Providing coverage protections and peace of mind for all Americans—regardless of age, income, medical conditions, or circumstances, Empowering small businesses to provide employees with the kind of affordable health coverage that meets their needs. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/speaker-ryan-names-jonathan-burks-chief-staff Speaker Ryan Names Jonathan Burks Chief of Staff 2016-12-14 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) today announced that he has promoted long-time aide Jonathan Burks to serve as chief of staff. Burks succeeds Capitol Hill veteran Dave Hoppe, who is departing the speaker’s office following the holidays to pursue a new opportunity.  Burks, a policy specialist with experience in the House, Senate, and White House, has worked for Ryan for most of the last six years, most recently as the speaker’s national security advisor. In addition, Burks has been serving as the speaker’s liaison to the transition team of the incoming administration. With this announcement, the speaker released the following statement: “I am eternally grateful to Dave Hoppe for returning to the Capitol to navigate this past year and help me make it such a success. When this job came at me unexpectedly, I asked Dave to take a year of his career and put together a speakership almost overnight. His invaluable experience, principled vision, and joyful demeanor made it truly seamless. He helped steer a conservative policy agenda and find critical common ground in divided government. I thank him for his friendship, and the whole House thanks him for his service. I wish Dave and his family all the best in his next adventure. “No one is better suited to step into this role at this time than Jonathan Burks. Simply put, he can do it all. Jonathan is whip-smart, determined, and just knows how to get things done. From helping me pass my first budget years ago to running our transition efforts today, there’s never been a job I couldn’t throw at him. Having held senior positions in the House, Senate, and executive branch, he understands how every lever of government works and enjoys the respect of his peers across the board. Now, as we work to enact a bold agenda with the new administration, Jonathan's broad and deep policy knowledge will be critical to delivering on our promises to the American people. I’m grateful that Jonathan has accepted this role and excited for him to get started.” About Jonathan Burks: B… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/video/21-good-things-congress-you-may-not-have-heard-about 21 Good Things From Congress You May Not Have Heard About 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Later today, President Obama will sign into law the 21st Century Cures Act, groundbreaking legislation to jumpstart medical innovation and treatment for rare diseases. It will help save lives. And if the president signs the national defense bill, our troops will see their biggest pay raise in six years. Sometimes good news like this gets missed, so Speaker Ryan made a list—yes yes, we checked it twice—and shared it at his last weekly press briefing of 2016:  “The holiday season is a time for making lists, so today I would like to offer one of my own. These are just some of the things that the 114th Congress has achieved for the American people: “My predecessor, John Boehner, was a big part of this work. He used to say that about 90 percent of what we do around here is bipartisan. It’s the other 10 percent that tends to get all the attention. Bipartisanship is not rare. It is just rarely noted.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pocan-tillerson-spent-career-putting-profits-of-exxon-over-country-s Pocan: Tillerson Spent Career Putting Profits of Exxon over Country’s National Interests 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Mark Pocan P000607 pocan.house.gov pocan https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Madison – U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02) released the following statement today after President-elect Trump nominated Rex Tillerson, the CEO of Exxon Mobil, as Secretary of State. “President-elect Trump’s nomination of Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson, as Secretary of State, signals that US diplomacy is now in the pockets of big oil. Tillerson has spent his entire career putting the profits of Exxon over our country’s national interests. “Not only does Tillerson have billions of dollars at stake with sanctions on Russia, his company has been under a formal investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for inaccurate accounting practices that affect global climate regulations. Our country needs a Secretary of State who will guide US foreign policy with a steady hand, not place profit margins ahead of diplomacy.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T21:09:43Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/call-on-trump-to-divest-holdings- After Trump Delays Announcement on Business Plans, Baldwin & Senate Democrats Call on President-elect to Divest Holdings 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.13.16 After Trump Delays Announcement on Business Plans, Baldwin & Senate Democrats Call on President-elect to Divest Holdings In new letter, 23 senators urge President-elect Trump to follow advice of Office of Government Ethics and allow independent party to control assets Senators: “Whether the President of the United States makes decisions about potential trade agreements or sending troops into war, the American people need to know that the President is acting in their best interest.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined Tom Carper (D-DE) and 21 Democratic senators, in sending a letter to President-elect Donald J. Trump urging him to follow the advice of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), an independent, nonpartisan ethics agency, and divest his business holdings in order to resolve potential conflicts of interest and deal with constitutional requirements before he assumes office. “As a businessman with interests in the United States and around the world, your holdings have the potential for serious conflicts between the national interest and your personal financial interests,” the lawmakers wrote. They continued, “Whether the President of the United States makes decisions about potential trade agreements or sending troops into war, the American people need to know that the President is acting in their best interest. Divestiture of your businesses and the establishment of a blind trust controlled by an independent party would provide assurances that you will put the interests of the American people first and are fully committed to the success of your presidency.” The letter was also signed by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Patrick Leahy (VT), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Deb… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/next-generation-researchers-signed-into-law U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin and Susan Collins Legislation Supporting Young Researchers Signed into Law 2016-12-13 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.13.16 U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin and Susan Collins Legislation Supporting Young Researchers Signed into Law Next Generation Researchers Act was included in major bipartisan health care innovation legislation passed by Congress last week. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today bipartisan legislation supporting young researchers authored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Susan Collins (R-ME) was signed into law by President Obama. At a time when America’s young researchers are facing a difficult funding environment, Senators Baldwin and Collins introduced the Next Generation Researchers Act to build opportunities for new researchers, address the debt burden that young researchers face today, and invest in the future of research, science, and innovation. The bipartisan legislation was included in the 21st Century Cures Act, which passed Congress last week. “In order for America to out-innovate the rest of the world and create an economy built to last, we must protect and strengthen our investments in research, science, and innovation,” said Senator Baldwin. “We can’t accomplish this without supporting and investing in the next generation of researchers. Our best and brightest minds deserve to know that our country stands with them. This new law will make a strong commitment to our young scientists, who are being held back by state and federal budget cuts and are in need of greater support to pursue life-saving research and discover the next medical breakthrough.” “Maintaining our nation’s competitive edge in both research and innovation depends greatly on the strength of our commitment to attracting, cultivating, and equipping world-class scientific minds,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan legislation strengthens our nation’s commitment to the next generation of cutting-edge researchers.  This critical investment will help to empower these young innovative researchers in Maine and across our country with t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-cyber-threats Statement on Cyber Threats 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on cyber threats: “We must condemn and push back forcefully against any state-sponsored cyberattacks on our democratic process. Throughout this Congress, Chairman Nunes and the Intelligence Committee have been working diligently on the cyber threats posed by foreign governments and terrorist organizations to the security and institutions of the United States. This important work will continue and has my support. As I’ve said before, any foreign intervention in our elections is entirely unacceptable. And any intervention by Russia is especially problematic because, under President Putin, Russia has been an aggressor that consistently undermines American interests. At the same time, exploiting the work of our intelligence community for partisan purposes does a grave disservice to those professionals and potentially jeopardizes our national security. As we work to protect our democracy from foreign influence, we should not cast doubt on the clear and decisive outcome of this election.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pocan-announces-2016-united-states-service-academy-nominations Rep. Pocan Announces 2016 United States Service Academy Nominations 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Mark Pocan P000607 pocan.house.gov pocan https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02) is pleased to announce the nomination of exemplary students from Wisconsin’s 2nd Congressional District to the Class of 2021 at the United States Service Academies. “I am proud and honored to nominate these outstanding young men and women as candidates to our nation’s service academies.” said Rep. Pocan. “All of these students have exhibited commendable academic achievement and perseverance to earn these nominations. They will surely become successful leaders, representing Wisconsin and our nation with virtue.” Rep. Pocan assembled a board of volunteers comprised of community leaders, as well as active and retired service members from south central Wisconsin, to assist with the evaluation of the applicants from the 2nd Congressional District. After the completion of the application process, the nomination board recommended the following students, who were then nominated by Rep. Pocan to the service academy classes of 2021. Final admission is determined by the respective academy. Air Force Academy Benjamin Hauser-Sun Prairie High School Benjamin Keegstra-Monona Grove High School Taylor Lyons-Madison West High School Jack Zocher-2016 Graduate of Middleton High School Military Academy at West Point Christian Arnett-New Glarus High School Gregory Driscoll-Middleton High School Michael Gerber-2016 Graduate of Stoughton High School Margaret Go-Middleton High School Kaleb Louis-Stoughton High School Nathan Smith-Sun Prairie High School Trevaun Turner-Middleton High School Naval Academy Collin Argue-Argyle High School* William Donohoe IV-St. Ambrose Academy Mitchell Jorgensen-Madison West High School Asa Pauls-Waunakee Community High School *Has been accepted to Service Academy 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T21:09:43Z
https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pocan-leads-letter-to-president-elect-trump-highlighting-republicans Rep. Pocan Leads Letter to President-elect Trump Highlighting Republicans’ Divisions Over Buy America Requirements 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Mark Pocan P000607 pocan.house.gov pocan https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) sent a letter to President-elect Trump asking him to enforce and expand the Buy America Act, and also highlighting Congressional Republican leadership’s opposition to requirements that American tax dollars go to companies that employ American workers. Rep. Pocan and his colleagues also expressed concern over current loopholes and lax enforcement of the Buy America Act, particularly those related to shipbuilding. “If President-elect Trump is concerned with livelihood of American workers, he should take steps to ensure the Buy America Act is strongly and meaningfully enforced,” said Rep. Pocan. “Last week, House Republican leadership removed a provision to permanently require American steel and iron be used in our country’s water infrastructure. It is unthinkable for House Republicans to eliminate these Buy America requirements after they were voted on and passed by the Senate. President-elect Trump can and should ensure that enforcement of the Act is strengthened. It is his duty to stand up to Congressional Republican leadership when the allow taxpayer dollars to go to companies that ship jobs overseas.” “Wisconsin has one of the highest percentages of its workforce employed in the manufacturing sector,” continued Rep. Pocan. “Foundries across the state are scratching their heads wondering why Republicans would want to send taxpayer dollars to companies that ship jobs overseas. House Republicans claim to care about keeping jobs here in America, yet consistently rally around legislation that costs our country jobs. I hope President-elect Trump will ensure what happened to the Water Resources bill doesn’t happen again- we need a firm commitment from both parties to buy American.” Rep. Pocan was joined by 20 of his colleagues on the letter; they were Reps. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL), Donald Payne, Jr. (D-NJ), Gwen S. Moore (D-WI), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), John Garamendi (D-CA), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Mark DeSauln… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T21:09:43Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=DC7DBAC0-EF97-4CE1-8579-CC6C663B8260 Johnson pleased to have played a key role in bringing new scheduled international air service to Milwaukee 2016-12-12 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy OSHKOSH — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) lauded the announcement Monday of year-round scheduled international flights from Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport by the Mexican carrier Volaris after having played a key role in helping move negotiations forward.   “I am always pleased to see more options for Wisconsinites traveling for business or pleasure,” said Johnson. “The cooperation between Mitchell International, Milwaukee County and U.S. Customs and Border Protection that enabled this development will serve Wisconsin well in any future expansions of international service from Milwaukee. Wisconsin businesses benefit from better access to customers in world markets. Customs agent staffing is crucial for providing foreign travelers with direct access to Wisconsin. I am pleased to have played a role in bringing that about.”   Johnson, who is chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, has oversight of Customs and Border Protection. He wrote to the agency’s commissioner, R. Gil Kerlikowske, in May 2016 urging that the agency cooperate with Milwaukee airport officials in arranging for customs agent staffing that would permit the flights.   In addition, Johnson was one of five cosponsors of the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act, which allows airports to reimburse Customs and Border Protection for its services, allowing cities without international air services to more readily attract it. The House version of the bill passed Congress on Saturday.   Johnson’s letter to Kerlikowske can be seen here.   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/trump-medicare-medicaid Senator Baldwin Urges President-Elect Trump to Live Up to Campaign Promises and Clarify Whether He Opposes Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid 2016-12-11 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.11.16 Senator Baldwin Urges President-Elect Trump to Live Up to Campaign Promises and Clarify Whether He Opposes Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid WASHINGTON, D.C. – United States Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Ron Wyden (D-OR), along with 18 fellow senators, in sending a letter calling on President-Elect Donald Trump to remind him of his campaign promises to reject cuts to Medicare and Medicaid and to ask that he clarify whether he still intends to do so. The letter was signed by Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Tom Udall (D-NM), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Gary Peters (D-MI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Robert P. Casey (D-PA), Al Franken (D-MN), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI). "During your campaign for President of the United States, you differentiated yourself from your 16 primary opponents by noting that you were the only Republican who would protect Medicare and Medicaid," the senators wrote. "After winning the election, you suddenly appear to be using language supporting policies that would gut the Medicare and Medicaid programs." The letter continues, "Over one hundred million Americans rely on these programs for health care. Low-income children and families and people with disabilities are the primary beneficiaries of Medicaid.  Millions of seniors and individuals with disabilities have earned and rely on their Medicare benefits.  Medicaid is the only assistance available to millions of low and middle-income families who have a loved one requiring nursing home care.  As you noted when you extolled their benefits on your campaign website, cutting these programs would be devastating." The senators' letter draws attention to differences between the President-Elect's statements during the campaign, which were highlighted on his campaign website, an… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/about-last-night-speaker-ryans-interview-sean-hannity About Last Night: Speaker Ryan's Interview With Sean Hannity 2016-12-10 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy After meeting with President-elect Trump earlier in the day, Speaker Ryan appeared on Hannity to discuss the priorities of the new unified Republican government. “We finally, finally have this great opportunity that’s been given to us by the American people to get this country back on track, to relimit our government, to honor the Constitution, to clean this mess up,” he said. Check out more excerpts below: Speaker Ryan on Obamacare: Repeal Is Relief  “It’s getting worse with Obamacare. … Double-digit premium increases. They’re making the deductibles so high, it’s not like you even have insurance in the first place. What we anticipate coming in 2017 is more of that.” “What we want to do is bring relief immediately. We are going to work on our repeal legislation immediately. And then we have to make sure that there’s that good transition period, so that people don’t have the rug pulled out from under them, and we can bring relief as quickly as possible.”  Speaker Ryan on Working Closely with President-Elect Trump “The conversations we have always revolve around just getting things done. How we’re going to replace Obamacare. What tax reform looks like. How we’re going to secure the border. How we’re going to get people from welfare to work. What does rebuilding the military look like. These are the things we’re talking about, and now we’re just talking about, how do we execute it.” “What I’m really impressed with is the Cabinet that he’s putting together. This is a very good Cabinet. He is picking very good people. This is something that those of us who have been fighting against this liberal progressive government really excited. … The way I look at it is, why don’t we all stop underestimating Donald Trump? I think that’d be a smart thing to do.” Speaker Ryan on Border Security, the VA, and Education “What President-elect Trump has asked us to focus on is enforcing current law… and getting the border secured. That’s what he says he wants us focused on, and that’s exactly what we’re working on.” “House Republica… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/chairman-upton-deliver-weekly-republican-address Chairman Upton to Deliver Weekly Republican Address 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—Today, House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) announced that this week’s Republican address will be delivered by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI). In the address, Chairman Upton will discuss the 21st Century Cures Act, groundbreaking medical innovation legislation signed by Speaker Ryan earlier this week. “We had an idea three years ago that patients deserved better—that medicine wasn't keeping pace with incredible advancements in science,” said Chairman Upton. “Patients needed an innovation game-changer, and we have it with 21st Century Cures. The landmark legislation will accelerate the discovery, development, and delivery of safe new cures and treatments. For families across the country, this legislation to help deliver #CuresNow marks a renewed dawn of hope.” “Fred Upton is one of the main reasons Americans will start to see improved medical care and healthier lives,” said Speaker Ryan. “The Cures Act will help researchers and doctors unlock the next generation of cures and treatments for their patients.” As he said at yesterday’s bill signing, “I could not think of a better way to end the year than by signing this bill.” Chairman Fred Upton represents the commonsense values of southwest Michigan with a district that stretches from the shores of Lake Michigan and includes key industries that range from automobile parts manufacturing to high-tech biomedical innovation centers. In 2010, Chairman Upton was selected by his House colleagues to serve as Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. In 2014, Chairman Upton unveiled the bipartisan 21st Century Cures initiative, a multi-year effort that aims to accelerate the pace of cures and medical breakthroughs in the United States. Learn more about Chairman Upton by visiting his website, following him on Twitter, or liking his Facebook page. Learn more about the Energy and Commerce Committee by visiting its website, following it on Twitter, or liking its Facebook page. NOTE: The Weekly Republican Address will be available sta… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/weekly-republican-address-21st-century-cures-we-will-do-better Weekly Republican Address: With 21st Century Cures, We Will Do Better 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—In this week’s Republican address, House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) discusses #CuresNow—legislation signed by Speaker Ryan this week to bring medical research and innovation into the 21st century. “The House and Senate have passed this bipartisan legislation which will ensure our health system can keep pace with incredible advances in science and technology,” said Chairman Upton. He continued, “A new day for medical research is on the horizon. A new day of hope for patients and their loved ones. We needed to do better. And with 21st Century Cures, we will.” NOTE: The audio of the weekly is address is available here, and the video will be available on speaker.gov. Remarks of Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton of Michigan Weekly Republican Address Washington, DC December 10, 2016 Hey there, I’m Fred Upton, Republican Congressman from Southwest Michigan who helped lead the successful, bipartisan effort to find faster cures for families and patients suffering from tragic illness. The holiday season is one of joy. But, it’s often a time for families to come together and reflect on loved ones lost—taken much too soon by disease. We’ve all said too many early good-byes to folks that we hold dear. Families robbed of a parent that will never get to see their kids’ milestones. A child born without the gift of a future. Every day, countless folks living vibrant lives are delivered unexpected diagnoses. It’s a cycle that repeats itself over and over and over. Life changes in an instant—and hope seems just out of reach. Whether it be Alzheimer’s, Lupus, MS, cancer… you name it. So, three years ago, we had an idea. That we could do better. That we needed to do something and transform our health and research system to effectively fight disease in the 21st century. But we knew the first step had to be doing something that Congress doesn’t do enough of: We had to first listen. And then we engaged. We solicited input. We drafted. We listened some more. It was an inclusive… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/senator-baldwin-silence-from-trump-tower-on-buy-america Senator Baldwin: Silence From Trump Tower On Buy America 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy Senator Baldwin spoke on the Senate floor to show that the time is now for Donald Trump to take a stand in support of American workers by calling on Republican leadership in Congress to support strong #BuyAmerica requirements in the water infrastructure legislation. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/letter-va-ecfa-compliance U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Bipartisan Effort Urging the VA to Comply with Law that Protects Veterans from Exorbitant ER Bills 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.09.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Bipartisan Effort Urging the VA to Comply with Law that Protects Veterans from Exorbitant ER Bills WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined a bipartisan group of 22 senators, led by Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), in writing to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert McDonald, urging him to comply with the Emergency Care Fairness Act (ECFA). The ECFA was enacted in 2010 and directs the VA to cover veterans non-VA emergency care bills when their private health insurance doesn’t cover the full amount of care. Yet since 2010, the VA has not complied with the law, denying hundreds of thousands of veterans’ reimbursement claims for emergency care. Earlier this year, a federal court ordered the VA to write regulations that comply with the ECFA.  In addition to urging the VA to comply with the law, the Senators also requested that the agency fix its mistake and re-open all previously-denied claims. “Congress’s clear intent in passing the ECFA was to expand veteran eligibility for reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished to veterans in non-department facilities,” wrote the senators. “Specifically, congressional intent was to require the VA to act as a secondary payer for emergency treatment costs not covered by the veteran’s third-party insurance. It is evident that the VA has ignored congressional intent. Most troubling is the fact that those who are most affected by the VA’s non-compliance with the ECFA are our elderly veterans, many of whom are living on fixed incomes and have limited resources to pay medical bills.” In addition to Baldwin, Rounds and Klobuchar, the letter was signed by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Jon Tester (D-MT), John Boozman (R-AK), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Steve Daines (R-MT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Joni Ernst (R-… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/no-windfalls-for-government-service-act- Baldwin, Whitehouse, Warren Introduce Bill to Limit Tax Windfalls for Billionaires in the Trump Administration 2016-12-09 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.09.16 Baldwin, Whitehouse, Warren Introduce Bill to Limit Tax Windfalls for Billionaires in the Trump Administration Legislation would curb little-known tax loophole that allows ultra-wealthy appointees to delay their tax bills WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) introduced legislation today to prevent President-elect Donald Trump’s enormously wealthy cabinet nominees – and possibly Trump himself – from ducking millions of dollars in taxes.  A little-known provision of the tax code currently allows executive branch and judicial appointees to defer paying taxes on profits from assets they sell to comply with ethics rules. The No Windfalls for Government Service Act would limit to $1 million the amount of capital gains that can be deferred under the program, stopping billionaires from reaping outsized tax write-offs. “When billionaires move through the revolving door from the private sector to public service they should not be rewarded with tax loopholes,” said Senator Baldwin. “President-elect Trump has every right to fill his cabinet with billionaires and he has, but these wealthy insiders should not be allowed to dodge paying their fair share of taxes.” “As Donald Trump prepares to nominate what could be the wealthiest cabinet in history, this bill would prevent billionaires from reaping enormous tax benefits from their new jobs,” said Senator Whitehouse.  “The ultra-wealthy do not need a financial incentive to enter public service.”  “Not only is Donald Trump giving a gang of billionaires control of our government, he’s offering them a special tax break just for signing up,” said Senator Warren. “This bill would stop billionaires from getting yet another special favor from Donald Trump.” Allowing government appointees to delay paying taxes can be a sensible policy to help middle-class individuals transition to government service.  H… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/speaker-ryan-signs-cures-act-sends-president-s-desk Speaker Ryan Signs Cures Act, Sends to President’s Desk 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Today, Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI)—joined by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI), Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and other members of the House and Senate—signed the 21st Century Cures Act, bipartisan legislation to reform our approach to medical research and innovation. With his signature, the bill now goes to the president's desk to become law. Below are Speaker Ryan's opening remarks for the enrollment ceremony: “What a day, and what a moment. I could not think of a better way to end the year than by signing this bill. This is exactly the kind of legislation that we need to be passing. This bill takes head on one of the big challenges we face: curing what today are considered incurable diseases. I don’t have to tell any of you that this moment was a very, very long time coming. And we would not be here if it were not for the tireless, relentless work by so many people that are standing here today like Fred Upton. And now, we have a lot to show for it. “I just want to say to all those legislators here, fantastic—you guys just did such a good job. Look what we have to show for it: More money for medical research; a streamlined process for approving new drugs and devices. That means millions of patients will get the treatments that they need. I’m talking about people like our good friend over here, Max Schill. Speeding up medical innovation could mean fewer surgeries and less hassle for Max. It could mean millions of Americans get to live longer, healthier lives. If that doesn’t convince you that we need this bill, then I don’t know what will. “I’d also be remiss if I did not recognize the good work of Congressman Tim Murphy. Tim Murphy, just like everybody else on Cures, worked so hard on getting mental health reform over the finish line—criss-crossing America, listening, doing hearings, talking to people about how to fix these issues. He’s led the charge to bring attention and the resources to mental health issues. “But all of you have wor… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-passage-water-resources-bill Statement on Passage of Water Resources Bill 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on House passage of S. 612, the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act: “This bill provides the resources necessary to ensure the safety and longevity of our water infrastructure, which is a part of everything from commutes to commerce. Importantly, we are fulfilling our commitment to help the people of Flint and communities affected by contaminated drinking water. In addition, we are taking steps to deliver much-needed water relief to Californians, who are experiencing their worst drought in a century. I applaud Chairman Shuster for his work on this important legislation, which we look forward to sending to the president’s desk.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-passing-john-glenn Statement on the Passing of John Glenn 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on the passing of John Glenn: “John Glenn was an American hero. As a military pilot, astronaut, and U.S. senator, he never lost his passion for exploration and public service. On behalf of the House, I extend my deepest sympathies to Annie and the entire Glenn family. May his memory live on every time we look up at the stars.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pocan-s-next-generation-researchers-act-passes-senate-heads-to-0 Rep. Pocan’s Next Generation Researchers Act Passes Senate, Heads to President’s Desk To Be Signed Into Law 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Mark Pocan P000607 pocan.house.gov pocan https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02) released the following statement after the Next Generation Researchers Act passed the House & Senate as part of the 21st Century Cures Act. The Next Generation Researchers Act directs the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to promote and provide new opportunities for new researchers and earlier research independence. “I was proud to see the Next Generation Researchers Act pass the House & Senate as part of the 21st Century Cures Act today,” Rep. Pocan said. “This bill reaffirms our commitment to help early career researchers and young innovators pursue their research and ensures the U.S. continues to be the global leader in science research and development. With one of the country’s greatest research universities in my own District, I have heard directly from graduate researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison about the need for investment, coordination and promotion of policies focused on the future of the research workforce in the United States. By providing our young scientists and researchers with more funding opportunities and focused policies they have the support necessary to tackling the challenges of tomorrow. I want to thank Senator Baldwin for her work on this initiative and the countless advocates who worked to get this legislation passed.” The legislation authorizes NIH to establish a “Next Generation of Researchers Initiative” within the NIH Office of the Director to develop and coordinate policies and programs related to young scientists, such as funding opportunities, training and mentorship programs, and policies to enhance workforce diversity. It also funds a study by the National Academies of Science to review career barriers for biomedical researchers, which the NIH will subsequently use to continue to focus and pursue effectively policies promoting the future of the research workforce. "We are deeply grateful to Congressman Pocan for his dedication and leadership in advancing the 21st Century Cures Act, which includes the Next Genera… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T21:09:43Z
https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pocan-sets-the-facts-straight-with-rep-duffy-after-he-refuses-to Rep. Pocan Sets the Facts Straight with Rep. Duffy After He Refuses to Apologize 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Mark Pocan P000607 pocan.house.gov pocan https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper December 8, 2016 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02) provided some facts for Rep. Sean Duffy (WI-07) after he dismissed Madison, WI, as a “communist” community on FOX News, got basic facts about the recount incorrect and refused to apologize for his alarming comments. Rep. Duffy claimed only Dane County was doing a hand recount, but the state Elections Commission says 47 counties are conducting hand recounts and another 13 are doing partial hand recounts. Communism is defined as an economic and political theory where all property and businesses are publically owned, but Dane County is responsible for 73% of the new jobs created in Wisconsin in the last decade. Monica Moorehead the 2016 Workers World Party presidential candidate received 175 votes out of the more than 300,000 cast in Dane County. Rep. Duffy has offered to send anyone in Madison who was offended by his comments a therapy dog to their “safe place” of choice. Yet he has not provided any details as to how his office plans to facilitate the transportation of so many dogs to the Madison area, nor has he specified what breed(s) of dog. “I understand Rep. Duffy doesn’t want to appear weak by apologizing, but I want to make sure he at least has some facts next time he decides to shoot his mouth off on Fox News. Facts sometimes even matter there,” said Rep. Pocan. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T21:09:43Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20161208160717/https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pocan-s-next-generation-researchers-act-passes-senate-heads-to Rep. Pocans Next Generation Researchers Act Passes Senate, Heads to Presidents Desk To Be Signed Into Law 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Mark Pocan P000607 web.archive.org     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02) released the following statement after the Next Generation Researchers Act passed the House & Senate as part of the 21st Century Cures Act today. The Next Generation Researchers Act directs the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to promote and provide new opportunities for new researchers and earlier research independence. I was proud to see the Next Generation Researchers Act pass the House & Senate as part of the 21st Century Cures Act today, Rep. Pocan said. This bill reaffirms our commitment to help early career researchers and young innovators pursue their research and ensures the U.S. continues to be the global leader in science research and development. With one of the countrys greatest research universities in my own District, I have heard directly from graduate researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison about the need for investment, coordination and promotion of policies focused on the future of the research workforce in the United States. By providing our young scientists and researchers with more funding opportunities and focused policies they have the support necessary to tackling the challenges of tomorrow. I want to thank Senator Baldwin for her work on this initiative and the countless advocates who worked to get this legislation passed. The legislation authorizes NIH to establish a Next Generation of Researchers Initiative within the NIH Office of the Director to develop and coordinate policies and programs related to young scientists, such as funding opportunities, training and mentorship programs, and policies to enhance workforce diversity. It also funds a study by the National Academies of Science to review career barriers for biomedical researchers, which the NIH will subsequently use to continue to focus and pursue effectively policies promoting the future of the research workforce. "We are deeply grateful to Congressman Pocan for his dedication and leadership in advancing the 21st Century Cures Act, which includes the Next Gen… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/house-passage-veterans-reform-bill- U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Applauds House Passage of Bipartisan, Bicameral Veterans Reform Bill 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.08.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Applauds House Passage of Bipartisan, Bicameral Veterans Reform Bill WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin applauded action by the U.S. House of Representatives to unanimously pass legislation that will improve veterans’ access to health care, disability benefits, education and homelessness assistance, among other important benefits for our nation’s veterans. “After two decade-long wars, our veterans and their families are facing many difficult challenges,” said Senator Baldwin. “This comprehensive, bipartisan, bicameral veterans package contains over 70 provisions that will reform and improve the services and benefits provided to our veterans. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this legislation as soon as possible so that we can bring much needed changes to the VA.”      The Jeff Miller and Richard Blumenthal Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2016 (H.R.6416) includes 76 provisions that address a variety of veterans’ services that are in need of reform or improvement. It incorporates language from a number of previously introduced House and Senate bills, including several provisions from the Veterans First Act, which unanimously passed the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs in May 2016. Following Tuesday’s unanimous House passage, the measure now comes to the Senate for a vote. Specifically, the H.R.6416 will: Streamline the disability compensation process for veterans and their families to more easily obtain benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); Expand the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims from seven judges to nine, in order to help address the large backlog of veterans’ appeals; Make changes to the VA’s burial benefits and interment policies, including expanding eligibility for presidential memorial certificates to certain individuals who served in reserve units of the Armed Forces, among others; Provide a much-needed extension of education benefits for surviving spouses who lost a lov… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/letter-house-leadership-to-delist-wolf U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls on House Leadership to Delist Gray Wolf Before They Leave Town 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.08.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls on House Leadership to Delist Gray Wolf Before They Leave Town Baldwin urges Congressional Leadership to act on legislation that would delist the Western Great Lakes population of the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List and pass management of the wolf back to the State of Wisconsin WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin is calling on House Leadership to act on legislation to delist the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List before they adjourn the congressional session for the year. Currently, the House is on track to adjourn for the year this week without acting to delist the Western Great Lakes population of the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List. In a letter to Congressional Leadership, Baldwin urges them to finish this important work and schedule time to act on legislation that would delist the Western Great Lakes population of the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List and pass management of the wolf back to the State of Wisconsin. Congress has been working to resolve differences between the Senate and House energy bills, which were passed earlier this year.  The House-passed bill included the provision to delist the wolf and the issue could be resolved with the passage of the final energy bill.   “Members of the House and Senate have been negotiating the Energy Bill with the goal of reaching a compromise that would pass and become law before Congress adjourned for the holidays,” wrote Senator Baldwin. “However, the House is on track to adjourn this week without finishing this legislation, leaving the business of delisting the Western Great Lakes population of the gray wolf unfinished. I would urge congressional leadership to finish this important work and schedule time needed to pass the bill prior to adjourning.  Senator Murkowski (R-AK), the author of the Senate Energy Bill, S. 2012, the Energy Policy Modernization Act, also … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/statement-on-ndaa-senate-passage U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on National Defense Authorization Act Senate Passage 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.08.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on National Defense Authorization Act Senate Passage WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin released the following statement after the Senate passed the compromise FY17 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) today by a vote of 92-7: “Today, I voted in favor of the defense authorization legislation, which, while an imperfect compromise, makes important investments to strengthen our national security, support our servicemembers and their families, and boost our Made in Wisconsin economy. “I’m proud to have championed and fought for many provisions in this legislation. My reform to direct the National Academies of Sciences to assist the military in using safer and more environmentally-friendly technologies to properly dispose of munitions will help prevent military sites around the country from being contaminated in the way the Badger Army Ammunition Plant was. I worked across party lines on the Manufacturing Universities Act, which is the basis for a provision included to strengthen engineering programs to better prepare students for our 21st century advanced manufacturing economy. Importantly, this legislation also authorizes more than $11 million for the construction of a new facility at Wisconsin’s Fort McCoy, which is one of the Army’s premier total force training centers. “I am also pleased that this bill authorizes funding for critical programs that are made in Wisconsin, like the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle produced by Oshkosh Defense. However, it also unfortunately includes misguided reductions to and constraints on the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) program. The NDAA is only a piece of the puzzle when it comes to the LCS, and I will continue my work as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee to fully fund and support this program, which is so critical to our national security and our Wisconsin economy.” Print Email Tweet … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=0BF55D93-043A-412A-AEA0-8BCC5FF72F5F Johnson Encouraged by Senate Effort to Pass Trickett Wendler Right to Try Act 2016-12-08 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said this Thursday following an attempt by the Senate Wednesday night to pass the Trickett Wendler Right to Try Act by unanimous consent: “There was an effort last night to pass the Trickett Wendler Right to Try Act by unanimous consent. I am disappointed that because of an objection unrelated to the bill, it was not allowed to pass. I am encouraged, however, by the growing list of co-sponsors (43 to date) that demonstrates strong bipartisan support for getting this bill passed on behalf of those with terminal illnesses who simply want the right to try to save their own lives. This momentum will move us into the next Congress where I look forward to working with Leader McConnell and Chairman Alexander to get this important piece of legislation passed.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/75th-anniversary-pearl-harbor The 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy It was 7:48am in #PearlHarbor, Hawaii when the planes arrived. https://t.co/r3xrCfwQNv— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 7, 2016 It was 7:48am in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii when the planes arrived. Our troops awoke to a barrage from hundreds of Japanese aircraft overhead. But they didn’t panic or hide—they fought back. We lost 2,403 Americans that day. These brave men and women died, like many before and after them, fighting to protect our freedoms. The attack may have sunk battleships and taken lives, but it did not sink our resolve. In the years that followed, resilience and strength born out of tragedy led the United States to victory in World War II. In that spirit, today we are sending to the president’s desk two bills honoring World War II heroes with the Congressional Gold Medal. It is the highest honor we can bestow. S. 1555 honors the Filipino veterans who fought, and in some cases gave their lives, alongside our troops on the battlefield. Tens of thousands of Filipinos played a pivotal role in securing the Allied victory in the Pacific, and they’ve gone without proper recognition for far too long. S. 2234 honors the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the intelligence agency tasked with executing some of the most dangerous covert missions of the war effort. Members of the OSS worked undercover and behind enemy lines to gather reconnaissance that led to the success of many critical operations, including D-Day. From a day of infamy came a generation of heroes. They remind us always of the values—and the people—we hold dear. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/speaker-ryan-squawk-box-obamacare-getting-much-worse Speaker Ryan on Squawk Box: Obamacare "Is Getting Much Worse" 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy This morning, Speaker Ryan joined CNBC’s Squawk Box to discuss how a unified Republican government will tackle issues ranging from tax reform to repealing and replacing Obamacare. Below are excerpts from their conversation: Obamacare Is Failing “This law is getting much worse. It is what actuaries say is entering a death spiral—high, high premium increases, high deductibles, no choices. So we have to fix this problem. . . . This law is just failing very, very quickly. We’ve got to replace this law. And we will have a transition period so that we don’t pull the rug out from people.” A More Competitive Tax Code “The plan that we wrote is revenue neutral. We now take into account economic effects of tax changes—they call it dynamic scoring, I call it reality-based scoring—and we will use that so that we make sure that we maximize the economic growth potential. The last thing we want to do is not write tax reform where we’re not thinking about how to maximize growth. So our tax reform is going to be focused on maximizing growth and competitiveness of American businesses, and we will do that in a way where we will make it revenue neutral. That means you have to plug loopholes—tax expenditures—so you can lower rates. And so it’s really going to come down to as to how low we can get [the corporate tax] rate. We believe we can do it at 20 percent right now. If we can squeeze the numbers and plug more loopholes and get us to 15 percent—great. The lower the better as far as I’m concerned.” We’re Going to Hit the Ground Running “We spent all of 2016 getting ready for the possible opportunity of having a unified government in 2017. The House went through the entire exercise—every committee working, every member of the House Republican conference working. . . . We’ve been working on our tax-reform legislation for over a year. We’ve been working on our welfare-reform legislation, on our health care legislation, on our regulatory agenda, on our energy policy. So it’s not just talking points and pablum. Our committees—what I … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pocan-calls-out-rep-duffy-for-saying-madison-is-a-communist Rep. Pocan Calls Out Rep. Duffy for Saying Madison is a Communist Community that does not Believe in Democracy, Demands Apology 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Mark Pocan P000607 pocan.house.gov pocan https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02) called out Rep. Sean Duffy (WI-07) for dismissing Madison, WI, as a “communist” community that does not believe in democracy or freedom during a disturbing exchange with Tucker Carlson on FOX News criticizing the recount in Wisconsin. “I represent more than 700,000 people in Wisconsin’s 2nd Congressional District. Madison, the heart of Dane County, is one of the leading economic drivers in our state and the county is responsible for 73% of the new jobs created in Wisconsin in the last decade. His insinuation that my constituents are somehow un-American for exercising their political views is extremely alarming. At a time when our country stands divided, Congressman Duffy’s ‘Trumpizing’ of Wisconsin is the wrong direction for our state. “The Wisconsin delegation has a reputation for cooperation and respect. For Rep. Duffy to try and drive divisions among Wisconsinites is unconscionable. On behalf of my constituents, I demand an apology from Rep. Duffy and hope the Wisconsin delegation will condemn his comments as they are far from the Wisconsin values we hold dear.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T21:09:43Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/21st-century-cures-act U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Votes for Major Bipartisan Health Care Innovation Legislation 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.07.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Votes for Major Bipartisan Health Care Innovation Legislation 21st Century Cures Act includes actions championed by Senator Baldwin, including $1 billion to fight opioid epidemic and strong support for next generation researchers WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin today voted for the 21st Century Cures Act. The bipartisan health care innovation legislation includes actions championed by Senator Baldwin, including $1 billion in funding to fight the opioid epidemic and stronger support for our next generation of researchers. Senator Baldwin released the following statement after the legislation passed the Senate by a vote of 94-5: “This bipartisan legislation includes many reforms I championed, including my efforts to invest in the fight against the opioid epidemic and strengthen medical research in Wisconsin. Opioid abuse is an epidemic that continues to grow at an alarming rate and Washington needs to be a stronger partner for states like Wisconsin. That is why I led the fight to include additional investments for opioid abuse prevention, treatment and recovery efforts in the 21st Century Cures Act. And by including my Next Generation Researchers Act, this bipartisan legislation makes a strong commitment to our young scientists, who are being held back by state budget cuts and are in need of greater support to pursue life-saving research and discover the next medical breakthrough.” “The 21st Century Cures Act is a compromise so it is not perfect and there is more work to be done. I am concerned that this legislation does not do more to strengthen patient safety, to improve oversight of medical products once they reach our families, and to ensure that the life-saving medications patients rely on are affordable. Advancing innovation must be balanced with protecting the public health, and I will continue my work to ensure that all Americans have access to the mo… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/statement-on-traux-field U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on U.S. Air Force Announcement of the Wisconsin Air National Guard's Truax Field as a Finalist for Deployment of New Fighter Jets 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.07.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on U.S. Air Force Announcement of the Wisconsin Air National Guard's Truax Field as a Finalist for Deployment of New Fighter Jets WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin released the following statement today in response to an announcement from the U.S. Air Force (USAF) that the Wisconsin Air National Guard's Truax Field has been named a finalist for the deployment of new fighter jets: “We are proving ourselves to be a very strong competitor and I am going to continue my work being a leading advocate for the 115th Fighter Wing at Truax,” said Senator Baldwin. “I have been proud to play a lead role with the Wisconsin Congressional delegation and be a part of a team effort on this.” This afternoon, the U.S. Air Force announced that the Wisconsin Air National Guard’s Truax Field is one of five bases—out of 18 that were considered—that has been selected as a candidate to host one of the next two units of F-35 fighter aircraft. Truax Field will now be the subject of a USAF site survey and a further senior level review over the winter, which will result in the USAF selection in the spring of the two preferred locations and the two reasonable alternative locations for the F-35 basing process. Senator Baldwin has played a leading role organizing the Wisconsin Congressional delegation’s support for the Truax effort. In June, Senator Baldwin sent two letters to the U.S. Air Force in support of the effort to base the F-35 mission at Truax Field. In addition to the contributions to our nation’s and Wisconsin’s security, basing the F-35 mission at Truax Field would maintain the more than 1,650 jobs to which the 115th currently contributes, as well as the continuity of services the unit provides to the city and state, while also benefiting regional retail, healthcare, real estate, food services and construction industries. Indeed, over the lifetime of the F-35 mission, there is an estimated economic impact of $4.8 billion. … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=2B399DC1-EE4E-48C0-9074-A72AF7EA87CA Johnson Comments on Passage of 21st Century Cures Act, Promises to Continue Fight for Trickett Wendler Right to Try Act 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said this Wednesday after voting in favor of the 21st Century Cures Act, which passed the Senate 94-5 and was sent to the president: “I am hopeful the reforms and resources authorized in this legislation will accelerate the development of treatments and modernize the federal approval process. These are critical goals in today’s era of medical innovation. I am pleased provisions addressing mental health and the nation’s opioid epidemic were included, but I am disappointed the Trickett Wendler Right to Try Act was not included or allowed a vote despite having 43 bipartisan co-sponsors in the U.S. Senate. I remain dedicated to working with Leader McConnell and Chairman Alexander on getting it passed on behalf of those with terminal illnesses who simply want the right to try to save their own lives.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=CC08ACCF-1475-4008-ABEA-79D5E1D6A3B9 Johnson Praises Truax Field Selection as Possible Host to New Fighter Squadron 2016-12-07 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) praised the inclusion of a Wisconsin site as a finalist for potentially hosting a new fighter squadron. The Air Force on Wednesday announced the Wisconsin Air National Guard 115th Fighter Wing was chosen as a finalist to potentially host a F-35A Lightning II squadron that would be based at Truax Field in Madison. The Air Force’s Strategic Basing Initiative will allow two Air National Guard bases to receive F-35 aircraft in 2022. Johnson said this after the news was announced: “The more than 1,200 civilian and military personnel of the 115th Fighter Wing provide vital support in the Global War on Terrorism and ensure a safe airspace above the Midwest," said Sen. Johnson. "F-35s based in Wisconsin would be a valuable asset not just for Wisconsin’s Air National Guard but for our nation’s security at home and abroad.  I look forward to working with the Air Force as it decides its path forward on the Strategic Basing Process.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://paulryan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398585 Ryan Outlines 2017 Congressional Priorities on WPR 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 paulryan.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC — Yesterday, Wisconsin’s First District congressman and speaker of the House, Paul Ryan, spoke with WPR’s Rob Ferrett on Central Time.The scandal at Tomah VA Medical Center:“Tomah has been under such a microscope and yet they still have these terrible problems. We see persistent management failures here. And what is frustrating to [me] and to Ron Johnson and others is lack of accountability at the VA at large, but especially at Tomah. They cannot have the kind of discipline and management restructuring that is necessary to get this place whipped in to shape. And that is why we think we need to have more wholesale reform at the Veterans Administration. . . . We need to hold people accountable. The bureaucracy is bloated, and it is inefficient and unaccountable, and we need to bring accountability to the VA so that our veterans get the care that they deserve.”Building a stronger economy:“Well, we’ve got a lot of number-one priorities, I guess I’d say. The first we’re going to do is start working on a budget. And in that budget we’re going to try and bring Obamacare relief.”*** “But also [cutting back] the regulatory state, which is really putting a chilling effect on jobs, and reforming the tax code to make American businesses, particularly our manufacturers, much more competitive globally so we can grow more jobs here at home and increase take home pay, and just get faster economic growth.”*** “What we ought to be doing is cleaning up our economic policy so that we’re the best . . . with a healthy economy, with strong companies that are in America, building, selling, exporting and engaging in the world, and pushing the values of freedom and free enterprise. That to me is what American leadership needs to look like.”Discussing health care reforms:“Right now, Medicare Advantage is a very popular program that seniors get to choose from among private plans for their comprehensive Medicare benefits. That’s something seniors today enjoy. The federal employees get to choose among competing comprehensive … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/speaker-ryan-2017-well-deliver-results Speaker Ryan: In 2017, We'll Deliver Results 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy 2016 was a busy—and productive—year for House Republicans. At a press conference with other Republican leaders, Speaker Ryan discussed 2016 and the #BetterWay that's on the horizon:   "At the start of this year, we as House Republicans made a number of commitments to the American people. "First, we pledged to open up the process—to find common ground for the good of the country. If you look at how we are wrapping up our work for the end of the year here, we’ve done just that: 21st Century Cures. The National Defense Authorization Bill. The water resources bill. "These initiatives all went through the committees. They are all bipartisan. And they are all House-Senate agreements. "That is how we should do things here. It’s important, because that’s exactly how things should work. "The most overarching thing we set out to do—going all the way back to our retreat in Baltimore almost a year ago—was that we would raise our gaze. We would go from being seen as simply being an opposition party to being a proposition party. And with 7 out of 10 Americans unhappy with the direction our country is headed, we felt we had a duty—a moral obligation—to offer our fellow citizens a better way forward. And that’s exactly what we did. "We did not just check the box to win an election, or we didn’t do this so I could just [promote] a website—better.gop—a thousand times with you. The idea was, if we actually won the election by campaigning on solutions and ideas, we would be ready to govern. "And here we are. We are ready to hit the ground running, and we need to hit the ground running. We gave the people a very clear choice, and now the people have given us very clear instructions: deliver results and deliver relief. "Relief from Obamacare—this law is hurting families and it’s only going to get worse. Relief from this broken tax code that is costing us jobs, competitiveness, and growth. Relief from overreach and needless regulations that are crushing livelihoods and industries across this country. "That is what a unified Republican … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/2016-us-capitol-christmas-tree-lit The 2016 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Is Lit 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—Tonight, the 2016 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree was lit for the first time, with House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and fifth-grader Isabella Gerard of Boise, Idaho doing the honors. This year’s tree—an 80-foot Engelmann spruce from Payette National Forest—will be lit every evening through Christmas night. Speaker Ryan made the following remarks prior to lighting the tree, as prepared for delivery:  Well, in the words of Yogi Berra, at least it’s a dry rain. Either way, this is a night to be grateful. Grateful for everyone who put this together: Stephen and his team, the forest service, the people of Idaho. And grateful for the chance to celebrate together. So I want to say to all of you—whatever you did to make this happen—thank you very, very much. Not to get too carried away, but I couldn’t feel more hopeful about our country than I do tonight. And by that I don’t mean just that I’m optimistic, though I certainly am. What I mean is, to see so many people work so hard for so long just to give our Capitol some Christmas cheer—well, it’s nothing short of inspiring. Hope is not the expectation of good fortune. It is the demonstration of good will. It is the determination to do good, whatever the consequences may be. That is the message of the Christmas story. Christ’s birth, like this tree, is a reminder that God is always with us. We may neglect him. We may reject him. But he never forsakes us. He always welcomes us back into his warm embrace. He lights our way. He makes straight our path. He fills every valley and brings every mountain low. We have only to accept the love he offers us. And tonight, we accept it with joy. Merry Christmas, everybody. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/wrda-buyamerica-amendment U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin, Sherrod Brown and Bob Casey Introducing ‘Buy America’ Amendment to Water Infrastructure Bill, Call on Republican Leaders to Take Action 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.06.16 U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin, Sherrod Brown and Bob Casey Introducing ‘Buy America’ Amendment to Water Infrastructure Bill, Call on Republican Leaders to Take Action Republican House leadership removed the Buy America reform, which previously passed the Senate by 95-3  Senators call on Republican leaders to reinsert provision or schedule immediate vote on amendment Baldwin: “Our American manufacturers and workers deserve a solid commitment from us and I’m not giving up this fight to build a made in America infrastructure.”   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Bob Casey (D-PA) today announced that they will introduce a ‘Buy America’ amendment to the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) in the Senate and are calling on Republican leaders to add the provision back into the final bill. Yesterday, Republican House leadership announced they removed the Buy America reform from the House-Senate compromise bill – even after the Senators led a letter demanding Buy America remain in the infrastructure bill. Stripping the Buy America provision will allow foreign companies to continue undercutting the American steel industry and its 1 million workers nationwide. The Buy America reform could be added back into WRDA before the House votes on the bill later this week. If this does not occur, the Senators are calling on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to schedule a vote on the amendment when WRDA gets to the Senate. “By removing my Buy America standard, Speaker Ryan and House Republicans embraced the status-quo in Washington,” said Senator Baldwin. “Our American manufacturers and workers deserve a solid commitment from us and I’m not giving up this fight to build a made in America infrastructure. The choice for the Republican establishment in Washington is clear: Do you stand with American workers or do you support spending taxpayer dollars on Chinese and Russian steel for American water infrastructure projects?” “American tax dollars should g… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=3B00442F-0B51-4824-8A15-E5EF96E0271A Committee Approves Johnson, Shaheen Measure to Expand NATO 2016-12-06 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Ron Johnson J000293 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — Legislation to expand the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), led by Senators Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), the chairman and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation, was approved by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Tuesday.  The resolution offers congressional support for the growth of the defensive alliance, reiterates the U.S. commitment to NATO and provides the president with the conditions necessary for the U.S. to formally approve Montenegro’s accession to NATO.  Johnson said, “I commend my colleagues on the Foreign Relations Committee for joining me in supporting Montenegro’s bid to join NATO and for reaffirming the United States’ commitment to our partners in Europe. Strengthening and expanding NATO is critical at a time when terrorism and Russian aggression continue to threaten our European allies.  I hope that this important resolution will pass the Senate before the end of this Congress.” “NATO remains indispensable to global security, and the United States must continue to build and strengthen the alliance,” said Shaheen. “Approving Montenegro’s accession will send the clear message that Congress will not bow to Russian threats and intimidation.  The United States must always stand on the side of freedom, security and democracy, and I urge the Senate to pass this treaty before Congress adjourns.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/7-reasons-were-excited-about-capitol-christmas-tree 7 Reasons We're Excited About The Capitol Christmas Tree 2016-12-05 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy This year's Capitol Christmas Tree is ready to be lit, and we for one are excited about it. (Heck, I started writing this post three months ago.) Rain or shine, the tree lighting ceremony gets underway tomorrow at 5:00 p.m. ET, and it will air on speaker.gov/live. The tree Every year, the Architect of the Capitol and the U.S. Forest Service work together to select a tree from one of our national forests. This year's edition—an 80-foot Engelmann spruce—comes from Payette National Forest in McCall, Idaho.  The truck After the tree was cut, it began the 2,500-mile journey to the Capitol, stopping for public events in cities and towns along the way. Gary Amoth, the trucker from Twin Falls, Idaho, who drove the tree to the Capitol before daybreak last week, said, “It’s awe-inspiring. If you’ve never been here, as I’ve not, it’s pretty awesome.” The tradition According to the House historian, the modern Capitol Christmas Tree tradition dates back to 1962, when Speaker John McCormack had a tree placed in National Statuary Hall, declaring it “most appropriate that a Christmas tree be placed in the Capitol, which is the heart of legislative activity of our country.” The practice of planting a tree on the West Front began a little later. The trimmings The Architect of the Capitol and his team have decorated the tree with ornaments handmade by Idahoans. All told, there are 18,000 ornaments to go on the big tree and 70 companion trees around Capitol Hill. The toys The tree lighting ceremony is surrounded by events that honor what the season is all about. Every year, we part in an annual toy collection drive organized by the Marine Corps Liaisons for the House of Representatives. The good tidings To flip the switch, Speaker Ryan will be joined by Boise fifth-grader Isabella Gerard, who submitted a poem as part of a statewide contest. Here is an excerpt from Isabella's poem: “Idaho is blessed with beautiful mountains and immense forests. In the winter the mountains and forests are covered with snow, making the … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/speaker-ryan-60-minutes-obamacare-first-priority-2017 Speaker Ryan on 60 Minutes: Obamacare Is First Priority in 2017 2016-12-05 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Last night, Speaker Ryan appeared on CBS’s 60 Minutes for a conversation with Scott Pelley, ranging from what Congress plans to tackle in 2017 to working with President-elect Trump. Below are excerpts from their conversation: Obamacare: “The first bill we’re going to be working on is our Obamacare legislation. . . . What we know is we have to make good on this promise. We have to bring relief as fast as possible to people who are struggling under Obamacare. . . . Patient-centered healthcare that gets everybody access to affordable healthcare coverage. So they can buy what they what they want to buy. . . . We will give everyone access to affordable healthcare coverage.” President-elect Trump: “He’s basically giving voice to a lot of people who have felt that they were voiceless. He’s communicating with people in this country who’ve felt like they have not been listened to. He’s going to be an unconventional president. I really think we have a great opportunity in front of us to fix problems, produce results, and improve people’s lives—that’s why we’re here in the first place. And so that’s what’s going to matter at the end of the day. Did we improve people’s lives? Did we solve the problems that the American people need solved? Are we addressing the concerns of people who are tired of being tired. . . . That’s just the way I look at this.” Poverty: “We feel very strongly about making work pay, about getting people transitioned from welfare to work. Get people skills they need, help they need, so they can get on the ladder of life.”    Economy: “We really want to focus on economic growth and growing the economy. There are a lot of regulations that are really just crushing jobs. Look at the coal miners in the Rust Belt that are getting out of work . . . the loggers and the timber workers and the paper mills on the West Coast . . . the ranchers or farmers in the Midwest . . . We’re talking about smarter regulations that actually help us grow jobs in this country. . . . We have a real economic growth problem in Americ… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://duffy.house.gov/media-center/enewsletters/so-much-to-tell-you So much to tell you! 2016-12-05 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Sean Duffy D000614 duffy.house.gov     legacy Dear Friends,As the subject line of this email suggests, a lot has happened since I last wrote. There are five items I'd like to update you on, specifically:  1) Register today! My 4th annual Hunger & Homelessness summit is exactly one week away and it looks as though it will be our largest event to date! However, it's not too late to register! We will have an announcement later this week regarding additional keynote speakers and, I can assure you, it is an event not to be missed. Click on the image to register!      2) Largest pay raise for our troops in six years: The House passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) last week which, among other things, gives our troops the largest pay raise in six years! As dictated by the Constitution, a top priority of Congress is to provide for our nation's defense; the NDAA is an important part of taking care of our warfighters and ensuring that they have the resources they need to complete their mission and provide for their families.  3) The VA MUST do more:  Unfortunately, this good news for our troops was overshadowed by another disturbing scandal at the Tomah VA. It was revealed last week that a dentist who practices at the medical facility used improperly sterilized equipment to treat nearly 600 patients. The Acting Director of the Tomah VA insists that the risk of infection is low, but I urged her to allow the patients to seek all blood tests and any necessary follow-up medical treatment at a medical provider of their choosing. I also requested further details on any plan to prevent Veterans from being subjected to future health risks. Click on the image below to read my full statement and letter to the Director: 4) #FollowTheRules Act: My bill to extend whistleblower protections for Federal employees who refuse to violate rules and regulations passed the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support last week. This bill comes on the heels of a landmark Federal cou… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/buy-america-removed U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on Removal of ‘Buy America’ Reform in Water Infrastructure Bill 2016-12-05 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.05.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on Removal of ‘Buy America’ Reform in Water Infrastructure Bill Baldwin’s ‘Buy America’ reform removed by Republican House Leadership  “By removing my Buy America standard, Speaker Ryan and House Republicans are embracing the status-quo in Washington.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin today released the following statement on the removal of her ‘Buy America’ reform from the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) by Republican House Leadership: “By removing my Buy America standard, Speaker Ryan and House Republicans are embracing the status-quo in Washington. This is a failure by House leadership to make a solid commitment to American manufacturers and workers,” said Senator Baldwin. “American workers should build our infrastructure with American products and taxpayers' money should not be spent on Chinese or Russian iron and steel. It’s disappointing that the President-elect is sitting silent in Trump Tower.” Senator Baldwin previously called on President-elect Donald Trump to take a stand against the effort being made by Speaker Paul Ryan and Congressional Republicans to pull her Buy America provision from the water infrastructure bill that passed the Senate in September.  Last Thursday night in Cincinnati, on the first stop of his "Thank You Tour," Trump said his infrastructure plan would follow two simple rules: "Buy American and hire American. We're going to do it ourselves." However, on Friday, the media reported that Speaker Ryan was leading a push to remove the Buy America reform from Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). Senator Baldwin joined a bipartisan a group of 25 Senators in sending a letter to House and Senate leaders calling for her Buy America provision to be put back into the final bill to support U.S. steel and iron workers and manufacturers. Senator Baldwin introduced Buy America legislation, the Made in America Water Infrastructure Act, to require American-made iron and steel is used in drinking water project… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/buy-america-water U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls on President-elect Trump to Take a Stand for ‘Buy America’ Reform in Water Infrastructure Bill 2016-12-05 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov     legacy 12.05.16 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls on President-elect Trump to Take a Stand for ‘Buy America’ Reform in Water Infrastructure Bill Baldwin’s ‘Buy America’ reform threatened by House Republicans  “American workers should build our infrastructure with American products, and taxpayers' money should not be spent on Chinese iron and steel.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin today called for President-elect Donald Trump to take a stand against an effort by Speaker Paul Ryan and Congressional Republicans to pull a ‘Buy America’ reform she included in a water infrastructure bill that passed the Senate in September.  “If President-elect Trump is serious about keeping his promise to build a made in America manufacturing economy, he needs to take a stand against this threat from Speaker Ryan and House Republicans,” said Senator Baldwin, “Stripping my ‘Buy America’ reform from the bipartisan water infrastructure legislation that passed the Senate will allow foreign companies to continue undercutting the American iron and steel industries and manufacturers in Wisconsin and across the country. American workers should build our infrastructure with American products, and taxpayers' money should not be spent on Chinese iron and steel.” Senator Baldwin worked to include the Buy America provision in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). The Buy America rule—which requires the use of American-made iron and steel for U.S. water infrastructure projects—already passed in the Senate version of the bill with broad bipartisan support. However, it has been pulled from the compromise package reached between leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives. As reported in the Wall Street Journal this weekend, Speaker Ryan and the House Republicans have taken a position on the Buy America provision that is at odds with Trump. Last Thursday night in Cincinnati, on the first stop of his "Thank You Tour," Trump said his infrastructure plan would follow two simple rules: "Buy American and hire… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/general/speaker-ryan-signs-several-bipartisan-initiatives Speaker Ryan Signs Several Bipartisan Initiatives 2016-12-03 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy Yesterday, before I headed home to WI, I signed a bunch of really good bills that are all now headed to the president's desk to become law.— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 3, 2016 The Veterans Mobility Safety Act reforms outdated VA policies to improve the quality and safety of equipment used by disabled veterans. pic.twitter.com/wi1FN7PCcF— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 3, 2016 The Northern Border Security Review Act requires the government to analyze & address current & potential threats along our northern border. pic.twitter.com/ENDIJIh0Fi— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 3, 2016 The Consumer Review Fairness Act protects the right to submit online feedback without fear of retribution. pic.twitter.com/GoYedDhqtH— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 3, 2016 The First Responder Preparedness Act makes the anthrax vaccine available to first responders in the event of an attack. pic.twitter.com/DjkC9Ix84r— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 3, 2016 The Iran Sanctions Act keeps a critical tool in place for Congress to hold the Iranian regime accountable. pic.twitter.com/f8PV3CLDgH— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 3, 2016 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://grothman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=230 Grothman Seeks to Restore Power of the Purse to Congress 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Glenn Grothman G000576 grothman.house.gov     legacy (Washington, D.C.) -- Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) yesterday questioned officials about the use of fines, fees, penalties and settlements to skirt Congress and fund agencies outside the appropriations process in a House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Government Operations hearing. Excerpts of Grothman’s remarks: “It kind of surprises me the amount of funds that are going around that we probably don’t even know the amount that’s being spent. Can you make suggestions how […]Congress can start to see more clearly how funds are collected and spent, and what requirements we should put on that budget request?” “Mr. Kosar, […] you mentioned the government collected $16 billion from the public last year, right? To what degree are these outside of the normal collection [dollars] included in that amount? “In other words when [agencies] have money coming in, even though that money is dedicated to a specific purpose, that’s not necessarily apparent from their budget? “You know it never ceases to amaze me how screwed up the federal government is. I was a state legislator for 20 years. Washington is so much more screwed up than Madison, Wis. I can’t believe it. “Are there agencies with funding streams outside the appropriations process? Which agencies in particular do you think could give us more transparent budgets?” Click here for Grothman’s full remarks. Background: Even though Congress is granted the power of the purse in the Constitution, federal agencies often engage in “backdoor spending” – or the use of fines, fees, penalties and settlements to fund their operations and unappropriated programs. This backdoor spending is an attempt to cut out Congress and allows agencies to act unilaterally with limited oversight. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://gwenmoore.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=1435 Concerns Grow Over Mistreatment of Dakota Access Pipeline Protesters 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Gwen Moore M001160 gwenmoore.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. — In response to concerns over the increasingly aggressive tactics being deployed against protestors of the Dakota Access Pipeline, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) sent the following letter to U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch:   The Honorable Loretta Lynch Attorney General U.S. Department of Justice   Dear Attorney General Lynch,   I write to share my concerns related to the ongoing protests of the Dakota Access Pipeline by the Standing Rock Tribe and its supporters. I am alarmed by the increasingly aggressive tactics being deployed against protestors including the use of armed vehicles, rubber bullets, and even water cannons in freezing temperatures. One media account noted that over 100 protestors were recently injured and other accounts have even higher numbers including one demonstrator who may have lost her arm according to credible media reports.     As you know, the federal government is currently examining concerns raised by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe about potential pipeline impacts on environmental and tribal resources. Many have joined the tribe to peacefully protest in North Dakota in the meantime.       The disturbing reports and images of actions taken against protestors for exercising such a basic right raise troubling memories of the terrible tactics used during the turbulent struggle for civil rights equality in our country. I urge you to step in and work with state and local authorities to quickly de-escalate the situation, while ensuring that peaceful protestors can freely exercise those rights without fear.     I cannot overemphasize the need for you to do everything in your power to work with both sides to ensure the situation does not get worse. Law enforcement should be able to maintain order without violence and without violating the rights of tribal members and other peaceful protestors. The Justice Department must help restore calm and ease tensions.       Please act to ease tensions, restore order, a… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/largest-pay-raise-our-troops-six-years The largest pay raise for our troops in six years 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on House passage of S. 2943, the Conference Report to accompany the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act: “Our Better Way agenda calls for building a 21st century military, and this defense bill delivers important reforms to get us there. In addition to boosting base funding to tackle this readiness gap and equip our troops with cutting-edge technology, it maintains strict prohibitions on transferring Guantanamo Bay detainees to American soil. I’m particularly proud that this NDAA includes the largest pay raise our troops have seen in six years—and it’s well-deserved. I want to commend Mac Thornberry and all the members of the Armed Services Committee for their work on this legislation." BREAKING → House passes bill to give our troops the largest pay raise in 6 years. #2017NDAA pic.twitter.com/LT7MnsdPNz— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 2, 2016 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/speaker-ryan-signs-iran-sanctions-extension-act Speaker Ryan Signs Iran Sanctions Extension Act 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy I just signed a 10-year extension of the Iran Sanctions Act. Next stop → The president's desk. pic.twitter.com/ucSF9k4Mvm— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 2, 2016 WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement after signing H.R. 6297, the Iran Sanctions Extension Act: “I am pleased that despite initial hesitation, the White House has heeded our call and indicated that it will sign this bipartisan legislation. As Tehran continues to sponsor terrorism, test-fire ballistic missiles, and violate the nuclear agreement, Congress must maintain the ability to immediately reinstate sanctions against Iran. Now President-elect Trump will have the opportunity to evaluate our policy towards Iran independent of additional interference from the outgoing administration.” NOTE: The House passed H.R. 6297, authored by House Foreign Affairs Comittee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA), by a vote of 419-1. The Senate passed identical legislation by a vote of 99-0. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-selection-general-james-mattis-serve-defense-secretary Statement on Selection of General James Mattis to Serve as Defense Secretary 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy General Mattis is exactly the right choice to lead the Pentagon after 8 years of fecklessness under President Obama. My full statement ↓ pic.twitter.com/TDaFGef7sU— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 2, 2016 WASHINGTON—House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement commending President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of General James Mattis to serve as Secretary of Defense: “General Mattis is exactly the right choice to lead the Pentagon after eight years of fecklessness under President Obama. With this selection, it’s clear President-elect Trump is serious about rebuilding our military, defeating ISIS, and keeping Americans safe. I applaud this decision, and look forward to working with General Mattis and the Trump administration to restore American leadership at home and abroad.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/sunday-speaker-ryan-appear-60-minutes SUNDAY: Speaker Ryan to Appear on 60 Minutes 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON — One year after their sit-down in Janesville, WI, this Sunday, House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) will appear on CBS's 60 Minutes for an interview with host Scott Pelley. Filmed in Speaker Ryan's Capitol office, the wide-ranging interview will air in full on December 4 at 7:00 p.m. ET.  Watch Pelley’s preview of the interview on CBS This Morning. Details: Speaker Ryan on CBS's 60 Minutes with Scott Pelley Sunday, December 4, at 7:00 p.m. ET Learn more about 60 Minutes here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.speaker.gov/speech/ryan-celebrates-restoration-capitol-dome Ryan Celebrates Restoration of Capitol Dome 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Paul Ryan R000570 www.speaker.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—Today, Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) congratulated Architect of the Capitol Stephen T. Ayers and his staff on completing the first comprehensive restoration of the Capitol Dome in more than 50 years. Ayers and his team have repaired more than 1,300 cracks and deficiencies in the dome’s cast iron. At a morning celebration marking the project’s successful completion, the speaker thanked everyone involved for all their hard work. Below are his remarks. All I can say is, I am very, very impressed. This was a huge, huge job, and you did it flawlessly. Look, I remember, Stephen, not too long ago, we were up climbing the scaffolding on the outside with ["The Today Show"], looking at the progress. On time, under budget, accident-free — it’s amazing; it really is. This is my 18th year in Congress. I just got elected, as Stephen said, to my tenth term. I was here as a staffer five years before that. So it has been a long time since I’ve heard the words "on time and under budget." And I don’t need any reminding, but I just want to stress to you, really, just how important your work is to all of us. I remember — because as you know, my office is right off the side of the Rotunda — I remember when they closed off the Rotunda just to take down the scaffolding. It was just a couple of weeks. But it was just, for a couple of weeks, a big loss. It was just this sense you couldn't go in the Rotunda, you couldn't take constituents, people couldn't go see their Rotunda. And even though it wasn’t very long, I was kind of bummed. Think if it was shut down forever. Think if the artwork wasn't preserved. What a disappointment and a loss that would be.  Winston Churchill — We just did a Churchill event because we have a bust in Freedom Foyer the other night. And there are so many great Churchill quotes. I'm a huge Churchill fan. He once said that we shape our buildings and then our buildings shape us. There is no place where that is not more true than the Rotunda and the U.S. Capitol. All the statues, all the chandeliers, the stair… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://duffy.house.gov/press-release/duffy-neugebauer-40-lawmakers-to-cfpb-proposed-rules-will-hurt-neediest-among-us Duffy, Neugebauer & 40+ Lawmakers to CFPB: Proposed Rules Will Hurt Neediest Among Us 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Sean Duffy D000614 duffy.house.gov     legacy Washington D.C. – House Financial Services Oversight & Investigations Subcommittee Chairman Sean Duffy and Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit Subcommittee Chairman Randy Neugebauer were joined by more than 40 of their colleagues in expressing concern to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Director, Richard Cordray, over the agency’s proposed rules regarding payday, vehicle title, and certain high-cost installment loans. In a letter to Director Cordray, the lawmakers said in part: “By the CFPB’s own admission, under these rules, lenders will lose up to 75 percent of their revenue which will put most out of business, yet does not suggest where consumers should turn to fulfill their short term credit needs.  As you are well aware, the need for credit does not simply disappear.  Access to credit has, and will continue to be, critical to millions of Americans.  In fact, the Federal Reserve reported last year that nearly 47 percent of all American consumers could not cover a $400 emergency. Consumers use short term credit to cover unexpected expenses, or to fill the gaps in irregular income.  To take what is often times the only lawful option available to make ends meet away from individuals without offering an alternative is irresponsible and is in direct conflict of the CFPB’s mission to ‘make consumer financial markets work for consumers, responsible providers, and the economy as a whole.’” To read the letter in its entirety, and to see a complete list of signees,  click here.      ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://duffy.house.gov/press-release/duffy-on-latest-tomah-va-scandal-more-must-be-done Duffy on Latest Tomah VA Scandal: More Must Be Done 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Sean Duffy D000614 duffy.house.gov     legacy Washington D.C. – Upon learning that nearly 600 veterans were exposed to possible infection due to violation of infection control procedures by a dentist practicing at the Tomah VA, U.S. Representative Sean Duffy (WI-07) urged the Acting Director of the Tomah VA Medical Center, Victoria Brahm, to do more to ensure that Veterans’ health is not subjected to future risk. The letter to Ms. Brahm reads in part: “I also urge you to conduct a thorough review of your sterilization procedure training regime.  If one VA employee purposefully and repeatedly violated the VA’s regulations, I fear that other medical professionals may be unclear or unaware of the consequences of improper sterilization, thereby putting more of our veterans at risk.  I also request more detailed information on your plan to discipline the dentist in question.  “Our veterans have served our country, and they deserve the best medical care we can offer them.  I have no doubt of the professionalism, competence, and dedication of the vast majority of Tomah VA’s employees.  However, I urge you to redouble your efforts to ensure that every veteran who seeks treatment at Tomah VA receives the highest level of medical care.” To read the letter in full, click here.   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://grothman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=230 Grothman Seeks to Restore Power of the Purse to Congress 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Republican House WI Glenn Grothman G000576 grothman.house.gov grothman https://grothman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper (Washington, D.C.) -- Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) yesterday questioned officials about the use of fines, fees, penalties and settlements to skirt Congress and fund agencies outside the appropriations process in a House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Government Operations hearing. Excerpts of Grothman’s remarks: “It kind of surprises me the amount of funds that are going around that we probably don’t even know the amount that’s being spent. Can you make suggestions how […]Congress can start to see more clearly how funds are collected and spent, and what requirements we should put on that budget request?” “Mr. Kosar, […] you mentioned the government collected $16 billion from the public last year, right? To what degree are these outside of the normal collection [dollars] included in that amount? “In other words when [agencies] have money coming in, even though that money is dedicated to a specific purpose, that’s not necessarily apparent from their budget? “You know it never ceases to amaze me how screwed up the federal government is. I was a state legislator for 20 years. Washington is so much more screwed up than Madison, Wis. I can’t believe it. “Are there agencies with funding streams outside the appropriations process? Which agencies in particular do you think could give us more transparent budgets?” Click here for Grothman’s full remarks. Background: Even though Congress is granted the power of the purse in the Constitution, federal agencies often engage in “backdoor spending” – or the use of fines, fees, penalties and settlements to fund their operations and unappropriated programs. This backdoor spending is an attempt to cut out Congress and allows agencies to act unilaterally with limited oversight. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T21:09:43Z
https://gwenmoore.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2051 Concerns Grow Over Mistreatment of Dakota Access Pipeline Protesters 2016-12-02 2016 2016-12 Democrat House WI Gwen Moore M001160 gwenmoore.house.gov     legacy Law enforcement should be able to maintain order without violence and without violating the rights of tribal members and other peaceful protestors. The Justice Department must help restore calm and ease tensions. share: f t Washington, D.C. In response to concerns over the increasingly aggressive tactics being deployed against protestors of the Dakota Access Pipeline, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) sent the following letter to U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch: The Honorable Loretta Lynch Attorney General U.S. Department of Justice Dear Attorney General Lynch, I write to share my concerns related to the ongoing protests of the Dakota Access Pipeline by the Standing Rock Tribe and its supporters. I am alarmed by the increasingly aggressive tactics being deployed against protestors including the use of armed vehicles, rubber bullets, and even water cannons in freezing temperatures. One media account noted that over 100 protestors were recently injured and other accounts have even higher numbers including one demonstrator who may have lost her arm according to credible media reports. As you know, the federal government is currently examining concerns raised by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe about potential pipeline impacts on environmental and tribal resources. Many have joined the tribe to peacefully protest in North Dakota in the meantime. The disturbing reports and images of actions taken against protestors for exercising such a basic right raise troubling memories of the terrible tactics used during the turbulent struggle for civil rights equality in our country. I urge you to step in and work with state and local authorities to quickly de-escalate the situation, while ensuring that peaceful protestors can freely exercise those rights without fear. I cannot overemphasize the need for you to do everything in your power to work with both sides to ensure the situation does not get worse. Law enforcement should be able to maintain order witho… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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