url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/looking-back,Looking Back,2016-12-31,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,FL,Ileana Ros-Lehtinen,R000435,ros-lehtinen.house.gov,,,legacy,"2016 is quickly coming to a close and it is time to reflect on the year that was.  Looking back, I am encouraged that 2016 was also a year of many bipartisan accomplishments. From the 21st Century Cures Act to facing the Zika threat, to the NICA Act, I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in Congress to help advance the interests of our South Florida community and our nation.   With my support, the 21st Century Cures Act, finally passed through Congress and was signed into law by the President.  This important bipartisan law will help hasten the pace of development of treatments, cut bureaucratic barriers in the delivery of cures, and allow for more cooperation between researchers; all of which will help improve the lives of patients.  In South Florida, the 21st Century Cures Act will directly benefit cancer patients by shielding cancer hospitals like Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center from Medicare cuts. This bill also includes the Anna Westin Act, a measure I introduced which will help men and women with eating disorders, and which marks the first time the federal government directly addresses eating disorders and its resultant harms.     This year, our community was forced to face the grave threat posed by the Zika virus to local families, businesses, visitors and our economy. The work of emergency responders and the efforts of an informed public, successfully limited the spread and impact of this epidemic. In fact, earlier this month, Gov. Scott terminated the travel warning over South Beach, ending the last active local transmission zone for the mosquito-borne disease in Miami-Dade County. At the national level, I was proud to lead our South Florida Congressional delegation’s relentless and months-long campaign to bring about federal aid and ensure that our community had all the needed resources to combat this threat.  I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that South Florida receives the federal support it requires to reimburse local governments for their Zika costs, support local small businesses impacted by travel warnings, and to further augment Zika detection and healthcare resources in Miami-Dade County.   Important progress in the fight for the advancement of human rights and democracy worldwide was also achieved in 2016.  This year, the House unanimously approved my NICA Act, a bill which will hold Ortega and his regime accountable for violating human rights and manipulating the electoral process for his own political gain.  By passing this bill, the House has taken action to prevent Ortega from accessing international funds until reforms are implemented that promote democracy, strengthen the rule of law, and respect human rights in Nicaragua.  We have shown that we will continue to support the people of Nicaragua and assist civil society in democracy and governance programs, and will not allow Ortega to continue down this dangerous path without any serious repercussions.  I also worked to ensure the extension of the Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act.  This law helps the embattled people of Venezuela and addresses the lack of human rights and democracy in the country by penalizing human rights violators, while also demonstrating that the U.S. will continue to stand firm in solidarity with those who seek freedom and justice.     2016 finally brought the end of the infamous life of Fidel Castro, whose half century of bloody rule destroyed the lives and prospects of generations of Cubans.  Although the island remains prisoner of the Castros, the message for the tyrant is now clearer than ever: No regime, regardless of its leader, will have any legitimacy if it has not been freely and democratically chosen by the people of Cuba. Now more than ever, I am committed to stand with and serve as a voice for those who yearn for freedom until the gulags are closed, elections are held, political prisoners are freed, and liberty is restored in Cuba.     Despite the many challenges, in 2016 Republicans and Democrats were able to come together, find common ground, and provide much needed solutions to many pressing issues.  We were able to reform the way we develop and deliver treatments and cures to Americans, while also helping cancer patients in South Florida and addressing the needs of those suffering from eating disorders.  We were able to combat the Zika virus and stand for freedom and democracy around the world.  Next year, I am committed to work in Congress and with the new administration to help South Florida families and improve our economy.  2016 was a testament that when people of good will come together, even if they have sharp political differences, they can still work for the good of all Americans.  I look forward to building on the successes and challenges of the year that was to make South Florida an even better place to live in 2017. My best wishes to all South Floridians in the coming year!seD",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walters.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/oc-register-op-ed-look-back-114th-congress,OC Register Op-Ed: A look back at the 114th Congress,2016-12-31,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,CA,Mimi Walters,W000820,walters.house.gov,,,legacy,"As 2016 comes to a close, so does the 114th Congress. Over the last two years, our country has faced great challenges, but we have also experienced tremendous success. I am honored to represent you this Congress and would like to share with you some of the landmark legislation we implemented to improve the lives of the American people. We passed, and the president signed, legislation that will prevent the Pentagon from unfairly revoking bonuses paid to California National Guard servicemembers. This bill also provides our troops with a well-deserved 2.1 percent raise and ensures our brave men and women in uniform have the resources they need to fight terrorism and protect our national security. We passed legislation to reform the Department of Veterans Affairs and ensure that our veterans receive the care they have earned. Among the reforms signed into law is the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act, which will reduce veteran suicides by improving access to quality mental health care. The Survivors’ Bill of Rights, which I introduced, will ensure survivors of sexual assault have full access to justice. This bill, which was signed into law in October 2016, guarantees sexual assault survivors commonsense legal protections, such as the right to receive a medical forensic exam and to have the evidence preserved. We also passed legislation to protect victims of human trafficking by providing law enforcement officers the tools they need to rescue survivors and prosecute traffickers. We took major steps to get the federal government out of the classroom and increase local control in our schools by passing the Every Student Succeeds Act, which was signed into law last December. The FAST Act, signed into law late last year, is the first long-term transportation bill in over a decade. This legislation reauthorizes and reforms federal highway, transit and safety programs. I secured language in the bill that requires the Department of Transportation to study the impact of driving under the influence of marijuana. We also worked to fix our broken tax code by implementing the PATH Act, which permanently codifies family and business tax credits. It is one of many reforms we need to make our tax code simpler, fairer and flatter. Earlier this month, we passed, and the president signed, the 21st Century Cures Act. This innovative legislation accelerates the discovery, development and delivery of life-saving cures and treatments. It also includes important provisions to combat the nationwide opioid epidemic and provides landmark reforms to our mental health care system. As we look ahead to the New Year, Congress has the opportunity to fulfill our duty to the American people by implementing even more solutions that will put our country back on the right path. I am excited to work as a unified Republican majority to implement our Better Way Agenda. This blueprint was carefully crafted after meeting with our constituents and hearing exactly what they need to make their American dream a reality. You can read our detailed policy proposals at better.gop. It is a privilege to represent you, and I encourage you to continue to contact me to share your thoughts and views because your input is important. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our office at walters.house.gov or at 949-263-8703 whenever we may be of service to you. I wish you all the best for a happy and safe new year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.isakson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/opinions-and-speeches?ContentRecord_id=1415E7F7-A65E-4281-B570-286F475E9FDB,Working on priorities for the 115th Congress,2016-12-31,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,GA,Johnny Isakson,I000055,www.isakson.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As published in the Newnan Times-Herald In November, the voters of Georgia and the nation made it clear that it is time for a change. Voters spoke out about the state of our health care system, our courts, our veterans and our national security, our tax system, and our economy – including the need for better jobs here in America. Addressing these priorities will be my first order of business in the 115th Congress. Repealing and replacing Obamacare with patient-focused, quality, affordable health care is a top priority for the incoming administration. Too many Georgians have been hurt by Obamacare’s rising costs, lack of choices and broken promises. One of President-elect Trump’s earliest decisions was to nominate Georgia’s 6th District congressman, Dr. Tom Price, to the position of secretary of Health and Human Services. As a former practicing physician, Dr. Price not only understands why Obamacare has failed – he’s also put years of thought and hard work into developing a plan that will actually make health care more affordable and accessible. With Tom Price at the helm, we can repeal Obamacare and begin implementing free-market principles that will increase choice and lower the cost of health care for families and businesses. Few positions will have the lasting impact of the person selected to fill the vacancy left by Justice Antonin Scalia on the U.S. Supreme Court. I look forward to working with the new administration to ensure that the next Supreme Court appointee shares Justice Scalia’s ironclad commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law. Another priority identified by this new administration is taking care of our nation’s veterans. I am extremely thankful for my time in uniform, and I am thankful to have the opportunity to serve all veterans as chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. I’m dedicated to ensuring the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has the tools it needs to deliver the best possible health care and services to our deserving veterans. I look forward to continuing to lead in the Senate to fix the problems that have plagued the VA for far too long. Working with the new administration, I look forward to reducing the amount of time reviewing appeals on veterans’ benefit claims and to bringing real accountability and a culture of service to the VA. Restoring our economy not only means rolling back the government regulations that have stifled job creation under the Obama administration and repealing Obamacare, but also repealing and repairing our broken tax system. Simplifying the individual income tax will reduce the heavy burden of tax filing on American taxpayers and small businesses, and reforming the corporate income tax will help keep more jobs and investment here in America. I look forward to continuing to fight for Georgia’s economic priorities, including the continued stewardship of the deepening of the Port of Savannah. Keeping this project on track has required a nonstop effort from countless leaders to ensure we are progressing, and I will see to it that this deepening is completed. Additionally, as Congress works with the new administration to strengthen our national security and defeat the Islamic State and other terrorist threats, I will keep advocating for Georgia’s military bases to have the resources they need to carry out their critical missions. While there are many debates and decisions ahead, one thing is certain: I heard the message from voters loud and clear, and I look forward to representing them as we build a great future for our country. (U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., was recently elected to his third term in the U.S. Senate for Georgia.)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=B63AC466-A576-474E-9DD1-3EA8D269654A,Portman Statement on China's Decision to Ban Ivory Trade,2016-12-31,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S Senator Rob Portman (R-OH), co-chair of the Senate International Conservation Caucus, today released the following statement applauding China’s decision to ban the ivory trade: “I applaud China’s decision to ban the processing and sale of ivory by the end of 2017. With the world’s largest ivory market, China’s ban will protect vulnerable elephant populations in Africa and will deal a blow to criminal and terror organizations that engage in poaching and trafficking of elephant ivory. As co-chair of the International Conservation Caucus, I will continue to work in Congress to raise awareness about the illicit ivory trade and I look forward to continuing our efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.” Portman’s 2014 op-ed “Elephants slaughtered for trinkets and terrorism” details the illicit ivory trade and its links to international terrorism as well as his efforts to put an end to the trafficking of ivory. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://coffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-coffman-statement-on-un-vote,Congressman Coffman Statement on UN Vote,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,CO,Mike Coffman,C001077,coffman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC -- U.S. Representative Mike Coffman (CO-06) released the following statement regarding the United Nations vote on Israeli settlements: ""The decision of the US to abstain from the UN vote last week in addition to the comments by Secretary Kerry today is one that directly contradicts the US-Israeli relationship of mutual trust and support. Mixed messages in foreign policy on behalf of this administration undermines US interests and jeopardizes our relationships around the globe.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-announces-mobile-office-hours-in-grafton-and-lakota-jan-9,Cramer Announces Mobile Office Hours in Grafton and Lakota Jan. 9,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer has scheduled Mobile Office Hours in Grafton and Lakota on Monday, Jan. 9. Mobile Office Hours allow constituents to receive assistance with casework from the Congressman’s staff. “Many issues are raised through various forms of contact with me and my offices. Having members of my staff in Grafton and Lakota will allow more time for those with concerns and questions to explore solutions with people in a position to help,” said Cramer. “I realize it's not always easy or even possible for people to get to my district offices. Mobile Office Hours brings these services closer to constituents.” Individuals from the Grafton and Lakota areas are encouraged to stop by the Mobile Office for help with veterans and Social Security benefits, Medicare billing problems, immigration issues, military records or medals, or for assistance with any other federal agency. Mobile Office Hours — Monday, Jan. 9 Carnegie Regional Library — 10 to 11:30 a.m.             630 Griggs Ave, Grafton, ND    Lakota Library — 1:30 to 3 p.m. 116 B Avenue West, Lakota, ND Contact Randy Richards, Cramer’s field representative, with any questions.  His email is randy.richards@mail.house.gov and his phone is 701-738-4880.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://dennisross.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398539,"Ross Introduces Resolution to Condemn President Obama, U.N. for Anti-Israel Actions",2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,FL,Dennis Ross,R000593,dennisross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 30, 2016 – U.S. Rep. Dennis A. Ross (FL-15), Senior Deputy Majority Whip, made the following statement after introducing a resolution today disapproving of President Obama and his administration’s refusal to veto the anti-Israel resolution adopted by the United Nations Security Council on December 23, 2016: ""President Obama's constant disdain and hostility toward our closest ally is completely unacceptable. The administration's recent refusal to veto the U.N.'s anti-Israel resolution is utterly shameful and flies in the face of the United States' longstanding relationship with Israel.  “The United States has historically opposed and vetoed U.N. resolutions that are one-sided and anti-Israel. However, when the U.N. Security Council adopted an anti-Israel resolution that threatens peace in the Middle East, the U.S. sat idly by and turned its back on Israel. Instead of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our closest ally and vetoing this dangerous resolution, the U.S., under the direction of President Obama, broke its strong and well-established commitment to Israel.  “Israel does not need another lecture and verbal assault from an administration that shows no evidence of comprehending the reality Israelis live in every day. I will continue to hold President Obama and the U.N. accountable for their anti-Israel actions. As Republicans and Democrats alike have expressed their contempt for this gross deviation from our foreign policy, I look forward to working with President-elect Trump in correcting President Obama’s anti-Israel tactics, forming a stronger-than-ever friendship with Israel, and promoting peace overseas.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://jasonsmith.house.gov/media-center/weekly-capitol-report/draining-the-international-swamp,Draining the International Swamp,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MO,Jason Smith,S001195,jasonsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Talk tough to your allies and ignore your enemies. That has become the foreign policy doctrine which will define our current President. President Obama’s decision to abstain from voting on an anti-Israel United Nations (UN) resolution this week is a clear betrayal of our strong alliance and our enduring commitment to support Israel. The nation of Israel serves as one of our most outspoken allies to combat radical Islamic terrorism and is our strongest voice in the Middle East. Nonetheless, President Obama and Secretary Kerry not only ignored our ally in a time of need – they even went one step further during a speech by Secretary Kerry in which they all but blamed Israel for the decades long conflict with Palestine. In his closing days in office, President Obama is revealing his global convictions that will come to define his presidency – a belief that a weaker America, one that doesn’t stand with its allies and one that doesn’t follow through on lines drawn in the sand with our enemies, somehow increases the safety and security of American families. As the threat of terror grows and is carried out around the world and here in the United States, this is the exact wrong message to send. While these actions may have taken place thousands of miles away, the safety and threat of terror impacting those of us in southeast and south central Missouri, or any part of our country for that matter, is a major concern. The result of this decision for Israel could potentially be devastating, but sadly this isn't the first time President Obama has turned his back on our allies. The legacy that President Obama will leave behind is a long list of foreign policy failures that have left the world and the United States less safe than it was 8 years ago. President Obama’s habit of alienating America’s allies while catering to our enemies has resulted in increased instability in the Middle East - like the genocide of over 400,000 people in Syria and a strengthening of ISIS, chaos in Libya that led to American casualties in Benghazi, and the disastrous Iran nuclear deal that has only strengthened the leading world sponsor of terrorism. Meanwhile the President seems more concerned with making excuses and sanctioning Russia for Hillary Clinton’s failed Presidential run than standing up to those who actually want to do physical harm to American soldiers and families. If anything, the actions of the last week have further confirmed my belief that the time has come to end the use of American taxpayer dollars to fund the ineffective and scandal plagued United Nations. America should not be governed by an outside entity like the UN that treats our freedom like property and does not have our country's best interests at heart. In fact, US taxpayers fund nearly 22% of the UN’s annual budget while at the same time they prioritize attempts to reduce our sovereignty and security instead of promoting peace and the principles of democracy. Simply put, the United States need not participate in an organization which diminishes our country’s place and standing in the world. In response this week President-elect Trump vowed to stop allowing Israel to ‘be treated with such total disdain and disrespect’ - a promising sign that we will restore our long-standing alliance with Israel. Of course, the response from the Obama Administration, was to chastise the President-elect for not abiding by ‘protocol’ and to refrain from ‘meddling’ in decisions until after the inauguration. That response could not have been more indicative of a tone deaf administration that not only fails to acknowledge their own mistakes, but shows a dangerous arrogance in their commitment to inflict liberal ideology that stands at odds with the American people. It also demonstrates how out-of-touch and unaware the Obama administration is for what is coming the next four years – a dismantling of its disastrous policies, real change to a broken system, and draining a swamp that now extends to an international level.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398829,Blaine's Bulletin: Looking Ahead to 2017,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MO,Blaine Luetkemeyer,L000569,luetkemeyer.house.gov,,,legacy,"2017 not only means the start of a new year but it also means the start of a new Congress. On January 3, the 115th Congress officially kicks off. I am ready to get to work with my colleagues and the Trump Administration to start passing an agenda that Americans want to see implemented and the next few months are going to be extremely busy doing just that. share: f t 2017 not only means the start of a new year but it also means the start of a new Congress. On January 3, the 115th Congress officially kicks off. I am ready to get to work with my colleagues and the Trump Administration to start passing an agenda that Americans want to see implemented and the next few months are going to be extremely busy doing just that. House Republicans are already at work to repeal and replace Obamacare, which will help Americans across the country. Eight out of every 10 Americans want to change the law or repeal it altogether and the situation is only going to get more dire the longer that Obamacare is in place. The time to act is now. In January, we will begin the transition to a patient-centered health system that puts American patients and doctors  back in control of their health-care choices. What does this mean? It means giving patients tools, like Health Savings Accounts, and breaking down barriers that are in place that prevent Americans from picking the plans that are best for them and their families. We must also empower small businesses so they are able to provide their employees with health coverage that doesn’t bankrupt the company or limit job opportunities. These are just a few items of a long list and I am looking forward to starting the process of making health-care accessible for each and every American. Another priority of the 115th Congress is to tackle our broken tax code and reform it once and for all. Our main goals are to have an IRS that is focused on customer service and works for its taxpayers, and we need a tax code that is simple, fair, and pro-growth for the American people. House Republicans have laid out a plan that would allow most Americans to be able to do their taxes on a form that is the same size as a postcard. To do this, all of the current brackets would be consolidated down to just three. To promote economic growth and job creation, we would cut taxes on small businesses, savings, and investments, and reform our corporate tax system so that American companies can be more competitive with the rest of the world.. Another issue that is on the forefront of our agenda is securing our nation’s borders. I’ve been a vocal proponent of securing our borders and an active member of the House Border Security Caucus. After all, securing our borders is part of our constitutional duty to provide for the common defense. I look forward to working with the Trump Administration to fulfill this obligation. This list just scratches the surface of the priorities of the new Congress. The three issues I have discussed this week are big-ticket items and reform is necessary in each of these key areas. While we are hard at work on these priorities, we will also be passing smaller, targeted bills to help Americans and reduce the regulatory burden. The new year provides Congress with a great opportunity to build on policies to make our country a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Please know that I believe this is a cooperative effort between me and the 3rd District. I am your liaison to your government. My offices in Washington, D.C. and throughout the district are poised to listen to your concerns, suggestions, and are available to answer your questions. I will continue to keep you updated with what is happening in Washington through meetings in the district, social media, local television and radio appearances, and telephone townhalls. By working together we can achieve our common goal of making 2017 a year of progress, growth, and prosperity. On behalf of myself, my family, and my staff, I wish you all a very Happy New Year!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://noem.house.gov/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=DCDFC60D-8AAE-483A-BBB5-20F3981B6976,"Weekly Column: Small State, Big Impact",2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,SD,Kristi Noem,N000184,noem.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Rep. Kristi Noem The swearing-in ceremony on January 3 marks the official start of the 115th Congress, but our work to prepare for these next two years has been ongoing for months. Last summer, House Republicans introduced a once-in-a-generation blueprint for the reforms we feel are necessary to move this country forward.  In late December after most of Congress had gone home for the holidays, I – along with just 23 other members of the House Ways and Means Committee – came back to Washington to hammer out two critical sections of this blueprint: tax reform and healthcare reform. On tax reform, we worked on a framework for a simpler, flatter and fairer tax code. Coming from a state that has zero income tax, I wanted to share a real-world example of the economic benefits of a lower tax rate.  As a busy mom, I wanted to speak to the importance of a simpler tax return – one that may even be simple enough to fit on a postcard. As an experienced small business owner, farmer and rancher, I wanted the tax code to incentivize growth in the American economy.  And as a taxpayer, I wanted the loopholes to be closed and the IRS to be held accountable.  Our work continues, but I’m glad we were able to communicate this vision from the onset. On healthcare reform, we plan to take immediate steps to repeal Obamacare.  While we’re still navigating the best legislative path from that point, we are committed to protecting the healthcare needs of all Americans. At our meeting in December, we worked through a number of ideas for creating a system that no longer relies on mandates, but instead ensures affordable access so families can choose what works best for them.  This plan would deliver unprecedented freedom, empowering Americans to purchase the healthcare plan of their choice, manage how they spend their healthcare dollars, and access their electronic health records.  Moreover, it would include tools that drive down the actual cost for delivering healthcare, an expense that is higher per person in the U.S. than almost any nation in the world. The only way health insurance is going to be affordable is if the delivery of healthcare becomes less expensive too. With so much at stake, it was important to get a seat at the table for South Dakota during these debates.  After all, there are challenges that come with having just one representative in the House.  Places like Texas, for instance, have dozens of congressmen who can represent the state’s interests on any given issue.  A state like South Dakota, however, occupies just one of 435 seats, so making our perspective known requires a deliberate effort.  Getting in on these types of conversations is one of the reasons I fought for a seat on the House Ways and Means Committee last Congress. Our state might be small, but we’ve already had a major impact on what’s expected to be an aggressive 2017 agenda.  What’s more, those contributions have helped establish the tone for the 115th Congress and set the legislative branch up to hit the ground running on Day 1.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/weekly-column?ContentRecord_id=3A5F8F09-5A39-4A3E-9774-018FAAC3D18D,Priorities for 2017,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Renacci,R000586,renacci.house.gov,,,legacy,"As this year draws to a close, I am already looking to the New Year. There is much to be done in Washington as the new Congress and new president are sworn in, and this is reflected in President-elect Trump's and the Republican leadership's ambitious agenda and busy calendar. We need to deliver what we have promised the American people for the last several years: lower taxes, a more fiscally responsible budget, and common sense solutions to affordable and quality health care. One of the early priorities is tax reform. I am looking forward to pursuing thoughtful, pro-growth tax reform in the next Congress. Our complex and outdated tax code hasn't been overhauled in 30 years, which has held back our country's true economic potential and reduced opportunities for all Americans. On the individual side, we must lower rates across the board to spur job growth, as well as dramatically simplify tax filings. On the business side, reforms must ensure that the U.S. becomes the most competitive country in the world to do business. Inextricable to tax issues are budgetary issues. The fiscal state of our nation is dire, and we have a $20 trillion national debt that will continue to grow -- unless we get serious about addressing our debts and deficits. To that end, I will be reintroducing my Fiscal State of the Nation Resolution, a bipartisan resolution to require both chambers of Congress to receive an annual presentation from the Comptroller General on the financial position and condition of the federal government. I also intend to reintroduce my Budget Enforcement Awareness Resolution to highlight the lack of fiscal responsibility in legislation and provide accountability for deviations from the budget. Another priority of mine is health care. We spend more on health care than any other nation in the world yet rank 37th in health care outcomes. Under the Affordable Care Act, the quality of care has decreased, and premiums have skyrocketed. In 2017, we must act quickly to set up the parameters for a repeal of Obamacare and act diligently to replace it in such a way that provides the safety net families deserve. By increasing competition with market-based solutions, we will be able to deliver the accessible, affordable, and quality care Obamacare has failed to deliver. In the first months of the next Congress, I intend to introduce the Hospital Quality Rating Transparency Act, which would improve transparency and accountability for both patients and providers. I also intend to introduce the Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act to reduce costs and remove barriers to health care services for our nation's seniors by eliminating the three-day inpatient hospital stay requirement for Medicare beneficiaries who are in need of skilled nursing facility services. I also share the President-elect's ambition to rebuild our infrastructure. As of 2014, there were 61,365 structurally deficient bridges in the United States, nearly 6,000 of which are on our National Highway System. I will be reintroducing my Bridge to Sustainable Infrastructure Act to create a bipartisan, bicameral commission within Congress to develop a long-term funding solution for the Highway Trust Fund. Last Congress, this legislation garnered the support of the Chamber of Commerce, AAA, AFL-CIO, the American Trucking Associations, and the mayors of numerous cities in Ohio. My priority in the coming months is to push legislation that will make meaningful changes for our nation but especially for the people of Ohio. The 16th District showed its confidence in me in November, and I intend to get to work for you as quickly as possible in the next Congress. Have a wonderful New Year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 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://katko.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-us-rep-john-katko-sanctions-against-russia,STATEMENT FROM U.S. REP. JOHN KATKO ON SANCTIONS AGAINST RUSSIA,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,John Katko,K000386,katko.house.gov,,,legacy,"SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) today released the below statement in response to the Obama administration’s announcement of sanctions against Russia:   “President Obama's approach towards Russia has failed to a large degree, and left us and the world vulnerable to its increasingly aggressive actions.  While President Obama's response is important, much more should have been done to bolster our cyber defenses and prevent Russian aggression globally.   “I look forward to reviewing the details of the Administration's action to sanction Russia.  It is important that our response is effective and consistent.  It is also critical that we ensure coordination between the Obama administration and the incoming President so U.S. policy is clear.   “When I return to Washington, my focus will be to improve our cyber defenses, combat global threats and develop a strategic and comprehensive policy to Russian relations.”             Congressman John Katko serves on the House Homeland Security Committee where he chairs the Transportation Security Subcommittee.  He represents the 24th Congressional District, which includes all of Onondaga,Cayuga, and Wayne Counties and the western portion of Oswego County.  For more information, please visit https://katko.house.gov or www.facebook.com/RepJohnKatko.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reed-cares-constituents,Reed Cares for Constituents in Chautauqua County,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. “We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That’s why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them,” said Reed. In the greater Chautauqua County area, Reed cited a number of accomplishments including a $1.7 million grant for the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, over $1.5 million impact aid, which provides tax relief for the communities of Silver Creek, Lake Shore and Gowanda, the passage of legislation that would green light studies aimed at evaluating and reducing the flooding risks around both Cattaraugus Creek and Silver Creek. “These projects are critical for our region. Be it public safety, jobs or keeping taxes in check, we are proud of the work we’ve done in the area. We came together to work with our partners in local and state government from across the region and hope to see even more success in the near future,” said Reed. Reed also highlighted efforts to move forward on the repowering of the NRG power plant in Dunkirk. A lawsuit, which stopped the repowering, was filed against the parent company of the plant. The suit was later dropped in November, after efforts of Reed and local officials. “Repowering the NRG plant will bring jobs to Dunkirk, protect local property tax payers, and provide electricity from natural gas,” Reed said. This is great news for our community and we are glad to see the positive outcome on this project following our collective efforts with Senator Cathy Young, Assemblyman Andy Goodell, Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan and Dunkirk Mayor Willie Rosas. We have worked tirelessly for the repowering of NRG, including personal meetings with Entergy officials, because we care about local jobs and taxpayers.  It’s only right that we remain committed to working with all the stakeholders on this initiative, including NRG, National Grid, the PSC and local and state officials to see this through to a successful victory.” Additionally, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. “We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues.” Since coming to office in 2010, Reed’s office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. “We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we’ll make in 2017,” Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reed-cares-constituents-0,"Reed Cares for Constituents in Chemung, Steuben and Tioga Counties",2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. “We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That’s why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them,” said Reed. In the Corning and Elmira area, Reed cited the advancement of the FedEx facility in Nichols. The project is slated for groundbreaking in early 2017, following Reed’s efforts cut government red tape, which threatened to derail the project. In early 2016, the project was on the verge of collapse after new bureaucratic regulations were issued from the Army Corp of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agencies. The regulations would have greatly expanded government control over previously unregulated waterways, like agricultural irrigation systems and puddles of rain water, costing FedEx an additional $400,000 for compliance. Added costs would have caused the project to relocate. With Reed’s assistance and cooperation from local government and economic development agencies, the project was able to move forward, saving a $12 million dollar investment in Tioga County and ensuring the creation of 75 jobs. “This project was a great success thanks to many hard-working officials including  Lee Ann Tinney,  Director of Economic Development and Planning in Tioga County, the late Ray Case, Tioga County Legislator, Martha Sauerbrey, Chairwoman of the Tioga County Legislature and my colleague, House Transportation Committee Chairman Bill Shuster, who joined me in this effort."" Reed continued. “I am committed to this kind of team effort and know many more positive improvements will come to our region as a result.""   Additionally, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. “We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues.” Since coming to office in 2010, Reed’s office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. “We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we’ll make in 2017,” Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reed-cares-constituents-1,Reed Cares for Constituents in Hornell,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. “We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That’s why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them,” said Reed. In the Hornell area, Reed cited the completion of the Alstom-Amtrak contract, a $2.5 billion contract which is expected to bring roughly 400 jobs to the region. The deal was announced in August after multi-year efforts by Reed and state and local officials. The contract is part of the Acela Express services program which aims to modernize Amtrak’s rail cars. Additionally, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. “We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues.” Since coming to office in 2010, Reed’s office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. “We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we’ll make in 2017,” Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reed-cares-constituents-finger-lakes,Reed Cares for Constituents in the Finger Lakes,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. “We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That’s why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them,” said Reed. Throughout the Finger Lakes region, Reed cited the accomplishments of bringing the Greenidge Power Plant in Dresden back online reducing the property tax burden for area residents and new funding for a study that looks for ways to reduce flooding in and around the Cayuga Inlet. Reed attended the repowering celebration in Dresden in October. “We care about creating quality, family sustaining jobs in our region, meeting the energy needs of families and small businesses and keeping local taxes in check. Reactivating this plant achieves these goals,” said Reed. “We came together with local, state and federal leaders to get this project off the ground because it was the right thing to do for the hard working men of women of our region.” Additionally, Congress passed a bill late this year which authorizes studies aimed at evaluating flooding in certain areas and looking for solutions to reduce this issue. The Cayuga Inlet was included in this proposal. The move is the first step in the federal process for flood control projects. Lastly, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. “We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues.” Since coming to office in 2010, Reed’s office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. “We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we’ll make in 2017,” Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reed-cares-constituents-olean-area,Reed Cares for Constituents in the Olean Area,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. “We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That’s why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them,” said Reed. In the Olean area, Reed cited roughly $4.3 million in federal grants for impact aid, which helps keep property taxes low. The funds are the first part of over $12 million over the next three years, In addition, Reed cited maintaining increased funding for the West Valley demonstration project, a nuclear clean-up facility in the region, which is often a target for federal budget cuts. Reed was able to increase the funding in previous years and has since prevented further reductions. The increased funding over time will allow for new clean up efforts at the site. “This is a great sign. The people in Washington who help set the funding levels for these critical projects are finally coming to understand just how needed this money is for our communities. We care about seeing this project through to completion, for the safety of the people that live near the site and the larger Great Lakes region,” said Reed. Reed also cited the passage of the long term highway funding bill which designates funding to states for large scale rural highway projects like Route 219. “We continue to work with our state and regional partners on this issue because Route 219 plays a critical role to the economy of our region, and to the state as a whole,” said Reed. Earlier in the year, Reed sent a letter requesting that New York State use a portion of its federal highway funding from the $305 billon transportation funding bill, which was enacted late last year, for the completion of the highway. In addition to the $1.8 that will go to New York annually, the bill also sets aside $4.5 billion to fund projects with national or regional importance, with a quarter of that amount specifically designated for rural areas. Lastly, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. “We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues.” Since coming to office in 2010, Reed’s office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. “We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we’ll make in 2017,” Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=142,Reed Cares for Constituents in Chautauqua County,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That's why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them, said Reed. In the greater Chautauqua County area, Reed cited a number of accomplishments including a $1.7 million grant for the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, over $1.5 million impact aid, which provides tax relief for the communities of Silver Creek, Lake Shore and Gowanda, the passage of legislation that would green light studies aimed at evaluating and reducing the flooding risks around both Cattaraugus Creek and Silver Creek. These projects are critical for our region. Be it public safety, jobs or keeping taxes in check, we are proud of the work we've done in the area. We came together to work with our partners in local and state government from across the region and hope to see even more success in the near future, said Reed. Reed also highlighted efforts to move forward on the repowering of the NRG power plant in Dunkirk. A lawsuit, which stopped the repowering, was filed against the parent company of the plant. The suit was later dropped in November, after efforts of Reed and local officials. Repowering the NRG plant will bring jobs to Dunkirk, protect local property tax payers, and provide electricity from natural gas, Reed said. This is great news for our community and we are glad to see the positive outcome on this project following our collective efforts with Senator Cathy Young, Assemblyman Andy Goodell, Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan and Dunkirk Mayor Willie Rosas. We have worked tirelessly for the repowering of NRG, including personal meetings with Entergy officials, because we care about local jobs and taxpayers. It's only right that we remain committed to working with all the stakeholders on this initiative, including NRG, National Grid, the PSC and local and state officials to see this through to a successful victory. Additionally, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues. Since coming to office in 2010, Reed's office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we'll make in 2017, Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=143,Reed Cares for Constituents in the Olean Area,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That's why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them, said Reed. In the Olean area, Reed cited roughly $4.3 million in federal grants for impact aid, which helps keep property taxes low. The funds are the first part of over $12 million over the next three years, In addition, Reed cited maintaining increased funding for the West Valley demonstration project, a nuclear clean-up facility in the region, which is often a target for federal budget cuts. Reed was able to increase the funding in previous years and has since prevented further reductions. The increased funding over time will allow for new clean up efforts at the site. This is a great sign. The people in Washington who help set the funding levels for these critical projects are finally coming to understand just how needed this money is for our communities. We care about seeing this project through to completion, for the safety of the people that live near the site and the larger Great Lakes region, said Reed. Reed also cited the passage of the long term highway funding bill which designates funding to states for large scale rural highway projects like Route 219. We continue to work with our state and regional partners on this issue because Route 219 plays a critical role to the economy of our region, and to the state as a whole, said Reed. Earlier in the year, Reed sent a letter requesting that New York State use a portion of its federal highway funding from the $305 billon transportation funding bill, which was enacted late last year, for the completion of the highway. In addition to the $1.8 that will go to New York annually, the bill also sets aside $4.5 billion to fund projects with national or regional importance, with a quarter of that amount specifically designated for rural areas. Lastly, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues. Since coming to office in 2010, Reed's office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we'll make in 2017, Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=144,Reed Cares for Constituents in the Finger Lakes,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That's why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them, said Reed. Throughout the Finger Lakes region, Reed cited the accomplishments of bringing the Greenidge Power Plant in Dresden back online reducing the property tax burden for area residents and new funding for a study that looks for ways to reduce flooding in and around the Cayuga Inlet. Reed attended the repowering celebration in Dresden in October. We care about creating quality, family sustaining jobs in our region, meeting the energy needs of families and small businesses and keeping local taxes in check. Reactivating this plant achieves these goals, said Reed. We came together with local, state and federal leaders to get this project off the ground because it was the right thing to do for the hard working men of women of our region. Additionally, Congress passed a bill late this year which authorizes studies aimed at evaluating flooding in certain areas and looking for solutions to reduce this issue. The Cayuga Inlet was included in this proposal. The move is the first step in the federal process for flood control projects. Lastly, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues. Since coming to office in 2010, Reed's office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we'll make in 2017, Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=145,"Reed Cares for Constituents in Chemung, Steuben and Tioga Counties",2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That's why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them, said Reed. In the Corning and Elmira area, Reed cited the advancement of the FedEx facility in Nichols. The project is slated for groundbreaking in early 2017, following Reed's efforts cut government red tape, which threatened to derail the project. In early 2016, the project was on the verge of collapse after new bureaucratic regulations were issued from the Army Corp of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agencies. The regulations would have greatly expanded government control over previously unregulated waterways, like agricultural irrigation systems and puddles of rain water, costing FedEx an additional $400,000 for compliance. Added costs would have caused the project to relocate. With Reed's assistance and cooperation from local government and economic development agencies, the project was able to move forward, saving a $12 million dollar investment in Tioga County and ensuring the creation of 75 jobs. This project was a great success thanks to many hard-working officials including Lee Ann Tinney, Director of Economic Development and Planning in Tioga County, the late Ray Case, Tioga County Legislator, Martha Sauerbrey, Chairwoman of the Tioga County Legislature and my colleague, House Transportation Committee Chairman Bill Shuster, who joined me in this effort."" Reed continued. I am committed to this kind of team effort and know many more positive improvements will come to our region as a result."" Additionally, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues. Since coming to office in 2010, Reed's office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we'll make in 2017, Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reed.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=146,Reed Cares for Constituents in Hornell,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Tom Reed,R000585,reed.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year comes to a close, Tom Reed took a moment to reflect on the successes from across the region. We care about the hard working men and women that call our district home. That's why we are fighting so hard to achieve progress on the issues that matter most to them, said Reed. In the Hornell area, Reed cited the completion of the Alstom-Amtrak contract, a $2.5 billion contract which is expected to bring roughly 400 jobs to the region. The deal was announced in August after multi-year efforts by Reed and state and local officials. The contract is part of the Acela Express services program which aims to modernize Amtrak's rail cars. Additionally, Reed touted his offices commitment to accessibility as a major success. We want to make sure that if you have a concern, your voice is heard. We take those concerns to Washington and work every day to bring solutions to these issues. Since coming to office in 2010, Reed's office has completed over 10,000 constituent assistance cases, which help area residents resolve disputes or conflicts with the federal government. In addition, Reed has held over 200 town hall meetings since taking office in 2010. We remain committed to standing with the people of our region and look forward to the progress we'll make in 2017, Reed concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/editorials?ContentRecord_id=24827AF9-45F7-4B35-98C9-0AE8DF0F7546,Looking ahead: What's in Store for 2017,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"by U.S. Sen. John Boozman For the first time since 2007, Republicans have control of Congress and the White House. We are excited about moving forward with an agenda that will improve the lives of citizens in Arkansas and across the country.  Congress is set to start working on a plan to deliver on the promises made during this past election season. I’ve received many questions about what our priorities will be and how we can accomplish them, so I wanted to take this opportunity to answer some of them.  One question that is frequently raised deals with the president-elect’s nominees to lead Cabinet-level departments and agencies such as the Department of Justice, Department of Defense, Department of State and others. It’s important to remember that certain nominees must be confirmed by the Senate as outlined in Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, while some of the president’s advisors, like the White House Chief of Staff, are not.  I welcome the opportunity to weigh in on the nominees that President-elect Trump will put forward for Senate confirmation. I anticipate that the men and women he chooses to help lead his administration will be highly qualified individuals of character with proven records of expertise, but I am eager to evaluate each nominee on the basis of his or her own merits. I look forward to carefully considering each nominee in accordance with my constitutional duty.  Another priority for Congress will be to repeal Obamacare and replace it with a free-market, patient-centered approach that will expand coverage and lower costs. I’ve heard from many Arkansans who have seen their deductibles rise and are now paying for what amounts to catastrophic coverage under Obamacare and they are wondering how we will solve these problems.  Republicans’ answer will be to pursue policies that will lower costs, including allowing Americans to shop across state lines for their health insurance, allowing small businesses to pool together to purchase group insurance and introduce portability to the market to ensure that hardworking Americans don’t have disruptions in their coverage when they change jobs. Congress may also consider an approach that would send hard-earned tax dollars back to the states in the form of block grants so state leaders can decide how best to offer affordable health insurance to as many citizens as possible.  Finally, one of the most pressing items on the agenda will be to undo many of the regulations created under the Obama administration that are harming the economy and stifling job creation. When President Obama was unwilling or unable to work with Congress, he often resorted to empowering executive agencies to unilaterally create rules and regulations without input from stakeholders.  New rules from the Environmental Protection Agency have threatened farmers, ranchers, private land owners and energy producers while simultaneously raising costs without delivering on promises of cleaner air and water in addition to taking control away from states and creating uncertainty. The Department of Labor has also created rules that are harmful to small businesses and will negatively impact job creators.  Reversing these regulations is going to be a top priority in Congress because it is critical to getting our economy moving in the right direction.  Those are just a few of the many items Congress will be addressing in 2017. I look forward to working in a bipartisan manner with my colleagues and the new administration to solve the problems facing our country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-nearly-200000-in-awards-for-rural-north-dakota-communities-to-attract-investment-create-jobs,"Hoeven Announces Nearly $200,000 in Awards for Rural North Dakota Communities to Attract Investment, Create Jobs",2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.30.16 Hoeven Announces Nearly $200,000 in Awards for Rural North Dakota Communities to Attract Investment, Create Jobs WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded two grants totaling $198,000 to the Lake Agassiz Regional Council, North Central Planning Council and the Souris Basin Planning Council. The investment awards will support the councils' work to develop and implement a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy to attract private capital investments and create job in the regions they serve. Lake Agassiz Regional Council $66,000 The council serves Cass, Ransom, Richland, Sargent, Steele and Traill counties. North Central Planning Council $66,000 The council serves Benson, Cavalier, Eddy, Ramsey, Rolette and Towner counties as well as the Spirit Lake Nation and Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa. Souris Basin Planning Council $66,000 The council serves Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, Mountrail, Pierce, Renville and Ward counties. Today's investment awards will help rural areas in North Dakota create an economic development framework to help create jobs and attract investments to these communities, Hoeven said. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",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://billjohnson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399121,Bill Johnson Statement on Russia Sanctions,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,OH,Bill Johnson,J000292,billjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representative Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) released the following statement regarding the Obama Administration’s announcement of new sanctions against Russia: share: f t Representative Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) released the following statement regarding the Obama Administration’s announcement of new sanctions against Russia: “The Obama Administration has turned a blind-eye to Russia’s global aggression over the last eight years, so I am left wondering why they only now decided to act.  Today's action is positive, but long overdue.  In 2014, President Obama warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that ‘there would be costs’ if Russia invaded Ukraine.  Shortly after that statement, Vladimir Putin thumbed his nose at President Obama and the world watched as the Russians invaded Ukraine.  America cannot afford to be a passive player to history.  I look forward to working with the Trump administration to once again see America lead from the front, not from behind.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://coffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/coffman-spends-christmas-with-troops-in-afghanistan,Coffman Spends Christmas with Troops in Afghanistan,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,CO,Mike Coffman,C001077,coffman.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Aurora, CO) – Today, U.S. Representative Mike Coffman (CO-06) returned from Afghanistan where he spent Christmas visiting some of our deployed troops.   “This Christmas, I had the honor of visiting with our troops deployed in Afghanistan,” said Coffman, a Marine Corps combat veteran. “Any opportunity I have to thank our deployed service members for their work, especially around the holidays, is very important to me. I also want to thank the families of those deployed who don’t have their loved one home for the holidays. I want them all to know that their service and sacrifice is appreciated.”   Coffman led a bi-partisan Congressional delegation to Afghanistan to meet with deployed U.S. service members and their leadership. Congressman Coffman met with Gen. John W. Nicholson Jr., who is in charge of Operation Resolution support in Afghanistan and also with the 1st Calvary Division commander, Major General John c. Thomson III. Site visits included the Al-Udeid Air Force Base, Bagram Airfield and the U.S. Embassy in Kabul.   Coffman has a combined 21 years of military service and serves on the House Armed Services Committee and House Veteran’s Affairs Committee, where he is the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. He is the only member of Congress to have served in both Iraq Wars. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://denham.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1522,Denham Announces January 2017 Mobile District Office Hours,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,CA,Jeffrey Denham,D000612,denham.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Jeff Denham (R-Turlock) today announced Mobile District Office Hours for the month of January 2017. Mobile District Office Hours are an opportunity for 10th district residents to meet with the congressman and staff to hear more about his work in Washington, D.C. and the Central Valley, have their questions answered or get help with specific casework. MDOs are hosted by staff and when possible by Rep. Denham. Staff members are available to assist 10th district residents with casework on matters including Medicare, Veteran’s Affairs, Social Security, the Internal Revenue Service and other federal legislation. Additional information is available through Rep. Denham’s website and the schedule for the month is provided below. Regular office hours are open to the public and no appointment is necessary. Schedule is subject to change throughout the year; any alterations will be posted online. For more information, please contact Rep. Denham’s Modesto district office at (209) 579-5458. Wednesday, Jan. 4 and 18 – Tracy 1-2 p.m. Tracy City Hall 333 Civic Center Plaza, Rm 216, Tracy, CA 95376 Friday, Jan. 6 and 20 – Manteca 10-11 a.m. Manteca Chamber of Commerce 183 W. North Street #6, Manteca, CA 95336 Friday, Jan. 6 – Waterford 2-3 p.m. City of Waterford 101 E Street, Waterford, CA 95386 *Held in conjunction with Senator Tom Berryhill’s office. Friday, Jan. 6 – Oakdale 3:30-4:30 p.m. State Senator Tom Berryhill's Office 102 Grove Avenue, Suite B, Oakdale, CA 95361 *Held in conjunction with Senator Tom Berryhill’s office. Tuesday, Jan. 10 – Escalon 10-11 a.m. Escalon City Hall 2060 McHenry Avenue, Escalon, CA 95320 *Held in conjunction with Senator Cathleen Galgiani’s office. Thursday, Jan. 12 – Hughson 11 a.m.-12 p.m. City of Hughson 7018 Pine Street, Hughson, CA 95326 *Held in conjunction with Senator Tom Berryhill’s office. Thursday, Jan. 12 – Modesto 2-3 p.m. Housing Authority of Stanislaus County 1701 Robertson Road, Modesto, CA 95351 Friday, Jan. 13 – Newman 9-10 a.m. City of Newman 938 Fresno Street, Newman, CA 95360 *Held in conjunction with Senator Anthony Cannella and Assemblyman Adam Gray’s offices. Friday, Jan. 13 – Patterson 10:30-11:30 a.m. City of Patterson 1 Plaza, Patterson, CA 95363 *Held in conjunction with Senator Anthony Cannella and Assemblyman Adam Gray’s offices. Thursday, Jan. 19 – Riverbank 4-5 p.m. Riverbank City Hall 6707 3rd Street, Riverbank, CA 95367 *Held in conjunction with Senator Cathleen Galgiani’s office. Friday, Jan. 20 – Ceres 1-2 p.m. State Senator Anthony Cannella's Office 2561 Third Street, Suite A, Ceres, CA 95307 *Held in conjunction with Senator Anthony Cannella and Assemblyman Adam Gray’s offices. Tuesday, Jan. 24 – Ripon 1-2 p.m. Ripon Chamber of Commerce 929 W Main Street, Ripon, CA *Held in conjunction with Senator Cathleen Galgiani’s office. Wednesday, Jan. 25 – Turlock 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Turlock Chamber of Commerce Conference Room 115 South Golden State Boulevard, Turlock, CA 95380 *Held in conjunction with Senator Tom Berryhill’s office. Thursday, Jan. 26 – Denair 10:30-11:30 a.m. Denair Community Services District 3850 North Gratton Road, Denair, CA 95316 *Held in conjunction with Senator Tom Berryhill’s office.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lance.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lance-statement-on-russia-sanctions,Lance Statement on Russia Sanctions,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NJ,Leonard Lance,L000567,lance.house.gov,,,legacy,"FLEMINGTON, N.J. --- Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) released the following statement on sanctions imposed against Russia: ""For too long the Obama Administration has let Russia dictate international politics.  Today's action brings consequences for Russian hacking of our political parties - which I have long called unacceptable.     ""This country is in serious need of a reevaluation of our standing on the world stage.  A delayed response to Russian hacking and betraying our ally Israel before the United Nations this week have affirmed the impression of a weakened United States. We must again act from a position of strength before we further embolden the world's bad actors.""",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 more to do to get our country back on the right track. In 2017, a unified Republican government will press ahead on a bold agenda to deliver results and relief for the American people.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hunter.house.gov/its-new-year,IT'S A NEW YEAR,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,CA,Duncan Hunter,H001048,hunter.house.gov,,,legacy,"HAPPY HOLIDAYS to you and your family…  2017 is almost here.  And the New Year will bring with it a new President and a new Administration, along with a reshaped Congress that is ready to act on behalf of American workers and taxpayers.   In the House of Representatives, there’s a full agenda already and Americans have good cause to be optimistic.   There’s high excitement for the commitments of the President-elect and his incoming Administration to prioritize tax reform, border enforcement, national defense and job creation.  Internationally, the President-elect is expected to act quickly to restore tattered relationships and strategic alliances—including America’s relationship with Israel.   No less important, the fight against Islamic terrorism and the threat it presents to the U.S. homeland, as well as our global partners, will receive renewed focus.  With the right leadership and strategic vision, it’s a fight that America can and will win. At the Department of Defense, the President-elect tapped former General James Mattis—a revered Marine Corps officer regarded as among the best of his generation.  At the Department of Homeland Security, the President-elect selected retired Marine General John Kelly, also considered to be among our military's finest.   I’ve had the great honor to serve with both John Kelly and James Mattis during my time in the Marine Corps.  I’ve observed both individuals operate and command forces during combat, and there’s no question that their experiences and insights will translate into meaningful and strong leadership at a time when America needs it most.  “Marines get stuff done,” as I told USA Today.   And an interesting note: I was first introduced to James Mattis during my first tour in Iraq after I and other Marines were ambushed.  From that point on, I’ve admired and respected him as a military officer and an individual.   The Department of Defense will be good in hands.  Trust me.  So too will the Department of Homeland Security.  The same goes for the other departments—including the Departments of Justice, Interior and Education. I’m encouraged.  And I’m especially eager to contribute to the aggressive agenda set for the weeks, months and year ahead. As always, I hope to hear from you throughout the course of the year as Congress does its legislative work, in addition to providing effective oversight.  HAPPY NEW YEAR!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hurd-statement-administration-s-response-russian-hacking,Hurd Statement on Administrations Response to Russian Hacking,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"San Antonio, TX – Texas Congressman Will Hurd issued the following statement regarding the new sanctions against Russia announced by the Obama administration: “Months ago I called for this administration to respond to Russia's malicious cyber-attacks on American organizations by showing their ambassador to the door. While these sanctions took too long to be put into place, they are an important step in showing Russia and other adversaries that we will not allow these kinds of attacks to go unanswered. There is more we can do to keep American organizations and agencies safe from these cyber-attacks and I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress and the new administration to ensure that our cyber domain is fortified."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mccaul.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mccaul-statement-on-obama-administration-russia-sanctions,McCaul Statement on Obama Administration Russia Sanctions,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael McCaul,M001157,mccaul.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX) issued the following statement regarding the Obama Administration's response to Russia's cyber interference and harassment: Chairman McCaul: I am pleased to see the Obama Administration is finally responding to Russian meddling, including by sanctioning key operatives and expelling Russian spies from the United States. But these actions are long overdue. For many months I have urged the Administration to respond to the election-related hacks, and for years I have pressed them to stand up to Russia and other cyber intruders. Instead, President Obama's look-the-other-way' foreign policy has emboldened Moscow time and again and opened us up to attack. I look forward to working with the incoming Trump Administration to make sure thatin the futureour response to such aggression is timely, decisive, and forceful enough to convince our adversaries not to do it again. See Chairman McCaul's recent op-ed on the issue, here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins%E2%80%99-statement-passing-md-harmon,Senator Collins Statement on Passing of M.D. Harmon,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ME,Susan Collins,C001035,www.collins.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Newsroom Senator Collins’ Statement on Passing of M.D. Harmon Posted Thu, 12/29/2016 - 17:25 Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement regarding the passing of M.D. Harmon: ""I was so saddened to learn of M.D. Harmon's tragic death. For four decades, M.D. Harmon was a dedicated editor and columnist. His passing is a loss to his family and friends, his colleagues, and to generations of readers across our state.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=567,Cotton Statement on President Obama's Response to Russian Attempts to Influence United States Political Process,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 29, 2016 Contact: Caroline Rabbitt (202) 224-2353 Washington, D.C.- Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement on the sanctioning of Russian entities and the expulsion of Russian personnel from the United States: ""The actions taken today by the Obama administration are just more of the same failed foreign policy of the last eight years: a series of too little too late, half measures designed to be appear tough, with minimal practical impact. Sanctioning Russian entities associated with the intrusion of the DNC sounds bold, but it's unclear what the practical impact will be on organizations that likely don't have holdings in the United States. ""While I applaud the expulsion of 35 Russian officials and the closure of two of their facilities, these steps should have taken place immediately after one of our diplomats was viciously assaulted by a Russian security guard on our Embassy soil in Moscow. The delay was undoubtedly another one of the many signs of weakness that led Putin to believe he could continue to target and harass the United States and that there would be no meaningful response from the Obama administration. If President Obama was serious about getting tough on Russia, he wouldn't have fought against-and threatened to veto legislation-designed to expose and thwart Russian intelligence operations, to include attempts to manipulate democratic processes.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-announces-renewal-of-skywest-airlines-for-west-yellowstone,Daines Announces Renewal of SkyWest Airlines for West Yellowstone,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.29.16 Daines Announces Renewal of SkyWest Airlines for West Yellowstone BOZEMAN, Mont.U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that SkyWest Airlines has been re-approved as the Essential Air Service (EAS) provider for West Yellowstone for the four-month summer seasons of 2017 and 2018. SkyWest Airlines provides a critical transportation service for the Greater Yellowstone Region and community,Daines stated.By maintaining their service and working with the West Yellowstone community, SkyWest has made it easier for folks to get to and from the region. I'm pleased that their contract has been renewed and that no disruptions will be made to their service. SkyWest will continue its service with 12 weekly nonstop round trips to Salt Lake City, as Delta Connection for the summer seasons, from June 1 through September 30, 2017 and 2018, utilizing 50-passenger Canadair Regional Jets (CRJ-200 LR) aircraft. The annual subsidy rate will be $580,957 for the next two summer seasons. Daines has been integral in renewing the contact. He serves on both the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations and the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, both the appropriating and authorizing committees. Daines also secured $150 for Fiscal Year 2017 to maintain the current level of service and execute current contracts. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.gardner.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/gardner-statement-on-russia-sanctions,Gardner Statement on Russia Sanctions,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,CO,Cory Gardner,G000562,www.gardner.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the below statement after the Obama Administration announced sanctions against Russia for its cyber activities and treatment of U.S. diplomats in Moscow: ""I welcome President Obama's eleventh hour effort to address Russia's growing aggression over the past eight years, however, the sanctions should have been announced and enforced sooner than the final days of his presidency. From Russia's dismemberment and occupation of Ukraine to its fecklessness in Syria that's led to horrific atrocities and indescribable suffering, Russia has a long history of provocative actions that have been met with years of failed U.S. policy instead of expedient strength. It has appeared as if the Administration turned a blind eye to Russian belligerence, including the mistreatment of U.S. diplomats in Moscow and Russia's attempt to influence our elections, until now."" Gardner immediately called for sweeping sanctions against Russia after the Administration publicly accused Russia of authorizing cyber attacks against the U.S. In July, Gardner joined his colleagues in introducing a bipartisan resolution that calls on Russia to cease provocative military maneuvers that endanger U.S. Forces and urges its European allies and the international community to continue to apply pressure on Moscow. Later that month, Gardner sent a letter to the Obama Administration questioning its silence on reports of Russia's harassment and violence toward U.S. diplomats. Gardner added, ""Following the enforcement of the newly announced sanctions against Russia, the best path forward is the establishment of a permanent select committee on cybersecurity to not only investigate cyber issues, but also lead the charge on federal policy to keep pace with the evolving threat. It's important that Congress has the most effective structure in place to provide oversight of the Administration's cyber activities and strategy to deter and mitigate the cyber threat."" Gardner recently renewed his call for the creation of a permanent Select Committee on Cybersecurity, and stated he intends to introduce legislation to establish the committee early in the 115th Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-judiciary-committee-progress-report-114th-congress,Senate Judiciary Committee Progress Report for the 114th Congress,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,IA,Charles Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley released the final progress report on the committee’s actions during the 114th Congress.  Upon becoming Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee at the start of this Congress, Grassley pledged that he would strive to be fair while restoring the committee’s role as a “true check on the massive and powerful federal bureaucracy.” In the following two years, the Senate Judiciary Committee has been working in a largely bipartisan fashion to meet these goals.  The committee, under Grassley’s leadership, has far surpassed its legislative productivity in the previous Congress.  The committee reported to the Senate 30 bills, all with bipartisan support, and 24 of the 30 bills reported out of committee have been passed by the full Senate with 17 of those bills becoming law.  Grassley’s longstanding focus on oversight has renewed the committee’s focus on ensuring accountability and transparency in government as mandated by the Constitution. The full report can be found here.  -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3C05BA48-BA87-44CF-8EC1-B82502787760,"Graham on the Passing of Chrissy Adams, 10th Judicial Circuit Solicitor",2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) made this statement today on the passing of Chrissy Adams, 10th Judicial Circuit Solicitor. “It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Chrissy Adams. She was a great friend, loving wife, and devoted mother. Professionally she did an outstanding job for the people of the 10th Judicial Circuit. She was a tough-minded prosecutor who worked hard for victims and stood by law enforcement. She was a role model for all young women and will be missed by her family and many friends.” ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=B7637882-14A5-49F9-AEB8-99CFD87262C1,Graham and McCain on New Sanctions Against Russia,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON ­– U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and John McCain (R-Arizona) released the following statement today on the Obama Administration’s announcement of new sanctions against Russia for its cyberattacks on the 2016 election: “The retaliatory measures announced by the Obama Administration today are long overdue. But ultimately, they are a small price for Russia to pay for its brazen attack on American democracy. We intend to lead the effort in the new Congress to impose stronger sanctions on Russia.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=DFAE6FFD-976A-468C-B53B-15D548E46BD7,McCAIN & GRAHAM ON NEW SANCTIONS AGAINST RUSSIA,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,AZ,John McCain,M000303,www.mccain.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. ­– U.S. Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) released the following statement today on the Obama Administration’s announcement of new sanctions against Russia for its cyberattacks on the 2016 election: “The retaliatory measures announced by the Obama Administration today are long overdue. But ultimately, they are a small price for Russia to pay for its brazen attack on American democracy. We intend to lead the effort in the new Congress to impose stronger sanctions on Russia.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-reacts-to-monument-designations-in-two-western-states,Murkowski Reacts to Monument Designations in Two Western States,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.29.16 Murkowski Reacts to Monument Designations in Two Western States U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, today released the following statement after President Obama created new National Monuments in Nevada and Utah despite significant local opposition. I am extremely disappointed that President Obama has chosen to lock up nearly two million acres of land in Nevada and Utah through these controversial designations, Murkowski said. This summer, our committee held a field hearing in Utah to examine this issue, and well over 1,000 local farmers, ranchers, and tribal members showed up to voice their opposition to the creation of the Bears Ears National Monument. As has been the case with his repeatedly harmful actions in Alaska, however, President Obama has again ignored local concerns and oppositionand given Congress even more reason to put an end to the abuses occurring under the Antiquities Act. One of many anti-monument signs brought by the overwhelmingly anti-monument crowd at the Energy and Natural Resources Committee's field hearing in Blanding, Utah, on July 27, 2016. Murkowski is chairman of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. In the 114th Congress, she sponsored S. 437, the Improving National Monuments Designation Process Act, which would require approval from Congress and relevant state legislatures before a National Monument or Marine National Monument is designated. Audio and background from the committee's hearing in Blanding, Utah, is availablehere. Related Issues: Energy Print Email Tweet",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/mcconnell-statement-on-sanctions-against-russia,McConnell Statement on Sanctions Against Russia,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,KY,Mitch McConnell,M000355,www.republicanleader.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.29.16 McConnell Statement on Sanctions Against Russia The Russians are not our friends. And clearly the Obama administration has not yet dissuaded them from attempting to breach our cybersecurity systems, or harass our diplomats in Moscow.' LOUISVILLE, KY U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell issued the following statement regarding the announcement of sanctions against Russia: For eight years the foreign policy of the Obama administration has rested upon an effort to drawdown America's conventional military capabilities, commitments and forward presence, and increased reliance upon international organizations and rhetoric. The inevitable consequence of this withdrawal from the globe has been an effort by dissatisfied powers such as Russia, Iran and China to expand their respectivespheres of influence. Countries unfriendly to the United States have employed cyberattacks, coercion, relied on proxy forces and have harassed American ships and aircraft. The Obama administration for eight years attempted to reset relations with Russia and sat passively while Russia expanded its sphere of influence, intervened in Crimea, eastern Ukraine, Syria and attempted to bully the Baltic countries. Aggressive behavior short of a military attack upon our country will only stop when it is deterred. The Russians are not our friends. And clearly the Obama administration has not yet dissuaded them from attempting to breach our cybersecurity systems, or harass our diplomats in Moscow. Sanctions against the Russian intelligence services are a good initial step, however late in coming. As the next Congress reviews Russian actions against networks associated with the U.S. election, we must also work to ensure that any attack against the United States is met with an overwhelming response. ### Print Email Tweet Next Previous",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=FD7AA721-0C56-41DF-A053-D5806B430BF8,Column: Successes of the 114th Congress,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,KS,Pat Roberts,R000307,www.roberts.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In preparing to hit the ground running in the next Congress with a Republican majority and a Republican president, I took the time to reflect on the successes of the 114th Congress and where we can go from here. We were able to accomplish real change for Kansans and hardworking Americans – and that will only continue in 2017. Here’s a quick recap: First, we settled a very contentious debate on food labeling with a bipartisan compromise to require food manufacturers to disclose more information about the foods we eat. At the same time, we protected the use of agriculture biotechnology, a critical science that helps producers meet the rising demand for food, keeps food affordable and uses less resources. Second, we ran out the clock on the president’s misguided intention to close the detention center at Guantanamo Bay and send the terrorists held there to the mainland at a prison like Ft. Leavenworth’s U.S. Disciplinary Barracks. I have fought this campaign promise since his first executive order in 2009, and this year, we again passed bipartisan legislation to block this move. I have used every tool available to me to ensure terrorists would not be moved to the heart of an American community and will continue to do so. Third, we corrected a longstanding lack of oversight on underground natural gas storage facilities. We passed a bill, now law, to ensure these sights are inspected to prevent natural gas leaks that caused major explosions like those that killed two Kansans in Hutchinson in 2001. Kansas’ tragedy ultimately led the way for national change. In agriculture, we repealed Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) preventing billions in tariffs from being levied on U.S. goods by Canada and Mexico. That’s a huge victory for farmers and ranchers. And, we saw the completion of the South Lawrence Trafficway, a project with federal, state and local efforts constructed, which I helped begin, to allow for safer and more efficient transportation from Johnson County to Manhattan – spurring development along the state’s high-tech corridor. Let me offer my thanks to all the Kansans who came out to my town hall meetings and stakeholder meetings this year. I have hosted what I like to call “industry roundtables,” where leaders in our economic sectors like healthcare, energy, communications, agriculture and education come together and advise me on their concerns, success and needs. Kansas leaders are helping me shape national policy. I also had the privilege of interviewing veterans from around Kansas to include their stories in the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project, where they will be preserved for future generations of Americans. It was an honor to hear their stories of patriotism and valor. As the Chairman of the Eisenhower Memorial Commission, I continue working to build a fitting tribute to Kansas’s favorite son President and General Dwight David Eisenhower on the National Mall. I am pleased to report we have a design approved by the Eisenhower family, and with the help of another Kansas favorite son, Senator Bob Dole, we are raising the funds to build it. Despite the drama of this election year, the Republican Senate was hard at work passing bipartisan legislation to combat the Zika virus, improve 21st Century Cures, address the opioid crisis, improve airport security and aviation safety, impose tighter sanctions on North Korea and extend them for Iran. All of which have now been signed into law. In addition, in the first part of this 114th Congress, we overhauled the nation’s highway and transit programs. We passed the first education reform since 2001 – which included my legislation to stop the federal government from forcing Common Core on states. We made commonsense reforms to the Veterans Administration and provided critical tax relief. We addressed Social Security Disability insurance, and we put an end to the Medicare “Doc-Fix” without tax hikes to pay for it. And that’s just to start. Next year we start work on the Farm Bill in my committee. We will repeal and replace Obamacare. And hopefully we will have meaningful tax reform to help our economy and put people back to work. I look forward to another aggressive agenda, and working hard on behalf of Kansas to get it done.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=BCA96D94-550F-46C2-BD5F-59D1F61600D9,Rubio Welcomes New Sanctions Against Russia,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,FL,Marco Rubio,R000595,www.rubio.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Miami, FL – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement today regarding the Obama Administration imposing new sanctions against Russian officials and the regime of Vladimir Putin: “After years of weakness that have invited and encouraged Russian aggression, today’s actions by President Obama are long overdue. Vladimir Putin has made it abundantly clear he is not an ally or partner of the United States, and that his interests are fundamentally not our interests. “From his repression of the Russian people and the assassination of his critics, to his dangerous invasion of Ukraine and occupation of Crimea, to his threats against our NATO allies in Central and Eastern Europe, to the war crimes committed by Russian forces and their Syrian and Iranian allies in Aleppo, Putin’s Russia is a threat to global stability. “‘Resets’ and engagement with Moscow by two administrations have clearly failed. Putin has become so emboldened that he authorized the harassment of U.S. personnel in Russia and attempted to undermine American democracy by meddling in our election. “I welcome the measures taken today to check Russian aggression and look forward to working with congressional leaders from both parties in the months ahead to strengthen these penalties, thoroughly investigate Russian efforts to undermine the U.S., and ensure that Putin and his cronies are held accountable for their actions.” Earlier this month, Rubio and Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced the Preventing Destabilization of Iraq and Syria Act, legislation mandating sanctions targeting Russian and Iranian officials who threaten the stability of Iraq or Syria. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3455E9F9-92A5-4587-A341-CFACCDBB7031,Sasse Statement on Administration's Response to Russian Hacks,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"US Senator Ben Sasse, an outspoken critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin and proponent for strong American cybersecurity, issued the following statement regarding the Obama Administration's response to Russian hacks.""Too little, too late: these meager steps will not decisively change Putin's calculation that his aggressions are worth the risk. A year ago, the Administration should have led a comprehensive review of our offensive and defensive cyber doctrines, instead of offering media-driven spin. We cannot afford to be in the same place a year from now -- our adversaries must be deterred by knowing that cyber attacks will be met with swift and decisive responses.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-zeldin-returns-congressional-delegation-visit-middle-east,Rep. Zeldin Returns from Congressional Delegation Visit to the Middle East,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement after traveling with a Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to the Middle East from Christmas Day, December 25, 2016, to December 29, 2016. Congressman Zeldin traveled to multiple countries, including Afghanistan, within the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of operations. Congressman Zeldin said, “It was an honor to again spend the holiday season with  our service members deployed to the Middle East, including many New Yorkers. The briefings with top military and diplomatic leadership were most informative, and I will spend the next few days reflecting on this trip and processing all of the detailed information that I received. The ongoing fight against ISIS, Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups is constantly evolving, and being able to speak with top officials who are on the forefront of these military operations is critical. It was also such an honor to personally thank many of our service members in Afghanistan and other locations in the region who are currently deployed and missing the holidays away from their families. Spending a holiday away from family is never easy and they deserve to know how grateful we all are for their service and sacrifice.” Some pictures from the CODEL were released in a media statement yesterday, which you can view here. Additional photographs are below: Congressman Zeldin is pictured below with New York service members within the CENTCOM area of operations.  Congressman Zeldin is pictured below in Kabul, Afghanistan, meeting with General John W. Nicholson Jr., Commander of Resolute Support and U.S. Forces Afghanistan. Congressman Zeldin is pictured below at the United States Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan, (from left to right) with Dennis Hearne, Deputy Chief of Mission in Afghanistan, Congressman David Valadao (R, CA-21), Congressman Coffman (R, CO-6), Hugo Llorens, U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, and Congressman David Cicilline (D, RI-1). In December 2015, Congressmen Zeldin, Valadao and Cicilline travelled to the Middle East on a CODEL that included time spent thanking troops in Iraq and Kuwait on Christmas Day.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://barletta.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/barletta-announces-nominees-to-us-service-academies,Barletta Announces Nominees to U.S. Service Academies,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,PA,Lou Barletta,B001269,barletta.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11) today announced the list of nominees from Pennsylvania’s 11th Congressional District to attend the United States service academies.  Students who expressed interest in attending a service academy were interviewed by an independent review board of community leaders and representatives of the military community, which made final recommendations.  Factors such as academic achievements, extra-curricular activities, leadership skills, physical aptitude, character, and motivation were taken into consideration and compared with other applicants.   The academies include the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.  The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a Congressional nomination.  “This group of bright, motivated young Americans represents the best of what our part of Pennsylvania has to offer, and they are to be commended for choosing to begin their adult lives in service to this nation,” Barletta said.  “We should all be proud of what these young people have already achieved, and await eagerly to see their future successes.  I wish them well as they continue through the rigorous process of seeking admission to our prestigious and elite service academies.” Students may be nominated by their member of Congress, both U.S. Senators, or by applying to the Vice President of the United States.  Securing a Congressional nomination is a vital step in the process, but does not guarantee admission.  Each service academy will make final determination of which students ultimately are admitted. Rep. Barletta’s list of nominees includes (listing is alphabetical and does not indicate standing or preference): U.S. Naval Academy •    Lauren Anderson, Wyoming Seminary, Kingston, PA •    Sarah Elizabeth Ebert, Carlisle High School, Carlisle, PA •    Elizabeth Kate Gergal, Central Dauphin High School, Harrisburg, PA •    Samuel John Haseman, Carlisle High School, Carlisle, PA •    Lexington N. McLellan, Currently with family stationed in Germany, originally from Wyoming County •    Riley Samantha Oremus, Dallas Senior High School, Dallas, PA •    Mason Medford Roadcap, Bishop McDevitt High School, Harrisburg, PA  •    Christian Roberts, Dallas High School, Dallas, PA •    Rachel Lynn Wentz, Trinity High School, Camp Hill, PA  •    Bartholomew Paul Winn, II, Carlisle High School, Carlisle, PA U.S. Military Academy •    Anah Jule Bozentka, Holy Redeemer High School, Wilkes-Barre, PA •    Grace Marie Echevarria, Carlisle High School, Carlisle, PA •    Nicholas Fricchione, Bishop McDevitt High School, Harrisburg, PA •    Justin Edward Groschek, Berwick Area Senior High School, Berwick, PA •    Samuel John Haseman, Carlisle High School, Carlisle, PA •    Leandra Ellen Ramos, Greater Nanticoke Area High School, Nanticoke, PA •    Jessica Rawls, Central Dauphin East High School, Harrisburg, PA •    Alyse Rawls, Central Dauphin East High School, Harrisburg, PA •    Jacob T. Rob. Boiling Springs High School, Boiling Springs, PA •    William Todd Webber, Boiling Springs High School, Boiling Springs, PA U.S. Air Force Academy •    Abel Shedwick Botterbusch, Middletown Area High School, Middletown, PA •    Anthony Joseph Roger Diminick, West Shore Christian Academy, Shiremanstown, PA •    Grace Marie Echevarria, Carlisle High School, Carlisle, PA •    Mitchell Fowler, Tunkhannock High School, Tunkhannock, PA •    Bartholomew Paul Winn, II, Carlisle High School, Carlisle, PA U.S. Merchant Marine Academy •    Samuel John Haseman, Carlisle High School, Carlisle, PA •    Kelly Bruce Holdren, Millville Area High School, Millville, PA •    Bartholomew Paul Winn, II, Carlisle High School, Carlisle, PA",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=398229,Burgess Releases 2016 Year-End Report,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade, released his 2016 Year-End Annual Report, a comprehensive review of a year’s work that showcases his legislative accomplishments, media presence, and constituent services and correspondence throughout 2016. Dr. Burgess notes that the annual report is part of his commitment to transparency with his constituents and a means of reflecting on and quantifying every function of both his Washington, D.C. and Lake Dallas district offices. “My top priority is to serve my constituents to the utmost of my ability. The people of the 26th District have entrusted me with the responsibility of this office  and I am honored to have that trust. An important part of this role is accountability. Six years of divided government have made it difficult, but still 2016 saw some successes and a significant number of priorities were achieved. This report acts as a vehicle to track my progress and identify areas of improvement as we look ahead to the 115th Congress.” Additionally, Dr. Burgess released an infographic that summarizes all his work during both sessions of the 114th Congress.Click here to view the 2016 report. Click here to view Dr. Burgess’ 114th Congress in review.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-presents-lost-medals-to-family-of-world-war-ii-pilot,Cramer Presents Lost Medals to Family of World War II Pilot,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"FARGO, N.D. – Congressman Kevin Cramer presented the family of the late Sgt. Robert Johnston six World War II military medals in a ceremony today at the Fargo Air Museum.  The medals were earned during Johnston’s service in the Army Air Corps from 1942 to 1945.  Records of the medals were lost and never awarded to Johnston, who died in 1996.  His grandson, Levi Otis of Fargo, contacted Cramer’s office for assistance in locating the lost records. In today’s ceremony, Cramer presented Johnston’s widow, Lila Johnston, with her husband’s medals, the Air Medal and Oak Leaf Cluster, the POW Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and Bronze Star Attachment, the World War II Victory Medal and the Honorable Service Lapel Button from World War II.  He also presented her with an American flag flown over the U.S. Capitol Building.  “It is my great honor to present these medals to you,” Cramer told Mrs. Johnston.  “As the service person serves, so does the spouse and the family.  Thank you for giving me the opportunity today to honor the memory of your husband and recognize this outstanding member of our Greatest Generation.” Johnston served in the Army Air Corps during World War II as an airplane mechanic gunner.  He took part in the massive Allied air offenses over German-controlled Europe, which included the Naples-Foggia Campaign that was vital in driving Italy from the war, and the Rome-Arno Campaign which not only liberated the city of Rome, but saved the lives of countless Italian citizens.  His airplane was shot down flying over enemy territory on Jan. 30, 1944.  Johnston was forced to parachute out of the plane, injuring his shoulder, where he was captured by German soldiers.  He was sent to a prisoner of war camp in East Prussia and then to Germany.  A POW for 16 months, Johnston stole a German officer’s car and escaped to Allied territory.  After World War II, Johnston returned to his home area of Henning, Minn., and later served in the Korean War. He was a self-employed heavy equipment operator, farmer and trucker.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://harris.house.gov/press-release/congressman-andy-harris%E2%80%99-statement-united-nations-anti-israel-resolution,Congressman Andy Harris Statement on United Nations Anti-Israel Resolution,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MD,Andy Harris,H001052,harris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC: Congressman Andy Harris released the following statement in response to the United Nations Security Council's Anti-Israel resolution:   “Senators Lindsay Graham and Ted Cruz have called for the U.S. to end its financial support for the U.N. until the Security Council abrogates Resolution 2334. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I stand with Senators Graham and Cruz in supporting de-funding the U.N. until the resolution is rescinded.   “The U.N. Resolution is a tool used to legitimize Palestinian claims against Israel. It serves to criminalize Israel and its people and to undermine Israel’s right to exist.   “It is shameful that President Obama failed to oppose this resolution, and it appears the Administration may have even helped orchestrate the effort. With just days left in office, President Obama should stop undermining our best ally and allow President-elect Trump to fix eight years of disastrous foreign policy. The Middle East will be more peaceful when Israel’s right to exist is unchallenged.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-reacts-to-secretary-kerrys-remarks,Wilson reacts to Secretary Kerry's Remarks,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) made the following statement in reaction to Secretary John Kerry's remarks today on the Middle East:  ""Secretary John Kerry’s disastrous speech today at the State Department reveals willful ignorance putting Israeli and American families at risk of more terrorist attacks. This confirms a legacy of failure.  ""If President Obama and Secretary Kerry wanted to promote peace they should have vetoed the UN Security Council Resolution. Their betrayal of our ally, Israel, undermines the peace process. There should be peace through strength--not appeasement. We must remember the murder in March of American student Taylor Force whose assassin was celebrated by the Palestinian Authority. ""Fortunately, positive change will come January 20th with President-elect Donald Trump. His selection of Governor Nikki Haley as UN ambassador is more important than ever to stand strong with Israel for peace and democracy.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-statement-on-appointment-of-thomas-bossert,Wilson Statement on Appointment of Thomas Bossert,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,,,legacy,"""I am thrilled by the appointment of Thomas Bossert to Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism. Mr. Bossert has been a long time advocate for a strong, national cyber security policy. I look forward to working with him to protect American families and to implement an effective, inter-agency cyber plan.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-pascrell-call-strengthened-police-community-relations-new-year,"Reichert, Pascrell Call for Strengthened Police-Community Relations in the New Year",2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – It has been a tough year for our nation’s law enforcement officers, their families, communities, and our country. To date, 138 law enforcement officers have lost their lives, representing a 20 percent increase over 2015. On behalf of the House Law Enforcement Caucus, Co-Chairs Reps. Dave Reichert (R-WA) and Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) released the following statement calling for all Americans, inside the law enforcement community and out, to reflect on our responsibilities and work together to build trust and positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve: ""Since the inception of the bipartisan Law Enforcement Caucus in the House of Representatives, it has been our goal to examine ways in which we can improve the safety of our law enforcement officers while simultaneously improving safety in our neighborhoods. With growing tensions between law enforcement and some of the communities they serve, this task has become increasingly urgent. Working to relieve these tensions and protect the safety of both those in and out of uniform must begin and end with rebuilding trust and respect within the communities where it has deteriorated or never existed in the first place. These changes must take place in our homes, classrooms, local diners, and on streets being patrolled, but change must also come from those with influence. Elected representatives, community leaders, and members of the press who hold this influence shoulder the burden to speak out. If we are truly committed to improving safety and preventing unnecessary deaths, then we must not seek to reaffirm our biases, but to widen the lens of our perspective and join the national conversation taking place. We believe the Law Enforcement Caucus has an important role to play in facilitating those conversations and working together to find common ground on solutions. Law enforcement deserves the respect of the communities they serve – and communities deserve the respect of law enforcement. We must also not forget that the power of police to fulfill their duties is dependent on public approval of their existence, actions and behavior, and on their ability to secure and maintain public respect. This respect must be earned, but it can only come about if community members work to understand the sacrifices law enforcement officers make on their behalf and law enforcement works to understand the communities and populations they serve. As we move into a new year, we must look to the future with optimism and the belief that every American, first and foremost, wants and deserves to feel safe and protected in their community. With the understanding that this shared goal is immune to differences in demographics and geography, we must remind ourselves that we are all Americans, working together on the same team. From there, guided by facts and grounded by common principles, we can work to strengthen and rebuild the police-community partnerships that are the foundation of civility and a functioning democracy.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://valadao.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398265,Valadao Spends Holidays with Troops,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,CA,David Valadao,V000129,valadao.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman David G. Valadao is currently traveling with a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to the Middle East, including Afghanistan and other nations. share: f t Washington – U.S. Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-21) is currently traveling with a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to the Middle East, including Afghanistan and other nations. In addition to Congressman Valadao, Congressmen Mike Coffman (CO-06), David Cicilline (RI-01), and Lee Zeldin (NY-01) are also travelling with the bipartisan delegation. Congressman Valadao stated, “Having the opportunity to thank our service members abroad first hand, especially during the holiday season, is a tremendous honor. It is the sacrifice of these brave men and women, and their entire families, that allows the United States to remain a pillar of democracy and freedom.” He continued, “As a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, it is important to see firsthand how our defense dollar are being spent abroad and meeting with top officials leading the fight against ISIS and other terrorirst organizations are an important part of that oversight.” Thus far, Congressman Valadao has had the opportunity to meet with U.S. Embassy personnel in Kabul, General John W. Nicholson, Jr., who is overseeing the Operation Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan, and Major General John C. Thomson III, commanding general for the 1st Calvary Division. In December 2015, Congressmen Valadao, Cicilline, and Zeldin travelled to the Middle East on a CODEL, making this Congressman Valadao’s second consecutive holiday spent with troops in the Middle East during the holiday season. Below, are photos of Congressman Valadao during his trip abroad.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399223,Adrian Daily Telegram: A look at 2016's accomplishments and some of 2017's opportunities,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,,,legacy,"As 2016 draws to a close, and we look expectantly to the New Year, I'd like to thank you for the opportunity to continue to serve Michigan's 7th District and pause to reflect on the previous 12 months. In the past year, we hosted more than 40 coffee hours and townhall meetings in every corner of the district to listen to the people's priorities. Here in Lenawee County, we held these public forums in places like the Lenawee ISD Tech Center, Family Kitchen in Adrian, Big Boy in Tecumseh, Karen's Uptown Kafe in Hudson and more locations.My office worked nonstop in 2016 to provide first-class constituent services. We organized multiple senior resource fairs, veterans fairs, and our sixth annual job fair - which, with more than 50 local employers and organizations in attendance, was our largest one to date.When constituents faced difficulties with federal agencies, my dedicated casework team was there to cut through red tape. In total, we assisted with more than 1,000 individual cases, helping to navigate Social Security, secure veteran benefits, resolve passport issues and more.In the House of Representatives, we advanced meaningful bipartisan initiatives to create good-paying jobs, combat the heroin epidemic, accelerate medical breakthroughs and keep the American people safe.To boost workforce development and manufacturing, I helped champion and pass the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act. This bipartisan bill would modernize and expand CTE programs to help more students obtain the in-demand skills and jobs of the future.In so many of our communities, opioid and heroin addiction is tearing families apart. Working alongside health care professionals, law enforcement and recovery groups, we passed, and President Obama signed into law, the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act to tackle this alarming epidemic from every angle.The life-saving 21st Century Cures Act also became law this year. It is a landmark initiative to invest in medical research, streamline outdated bureaucracy, and expedite the development of new cures and treatments. Significantly, the law included long-sought reforms to improve our nation's mental health care system.In 2016, we also enacted a series of measures to enhance care and resources for veterans, including my Medal of Honor Priority Care Act, and gave our troops their biggest pay raise in six years.The close of one year brings new opportunities for the next. As we look ahead to 2017, significant work remains:- The tax code is complex and unfair and needs to be overhauled to increase take-home pay and encourage economic growth.- Obamacare is unaffordable and unworkable and needs to be replaced with patient-centered solutions to lower costs and increase competition.- Excessive, overreaching regulations are stifling innovation and need to be reduced to help workers, farmers and small businesses succeed.With a new president and Congress, 2017 promises to be an exciting and productive year.The stage is set to focus on restoring the people's voice, providing relief from heavy-handed policies, and growing jobs and opportunity for a healthy economy here at home.The American people are ready for real change and real results, and in 2017, we are ready to deliver.U.S. House Rep. Tim Walberg, R-Tipton, represents Michigan's 7th Congressional District. This op-ed originally appeared in the December 28 edition of the Adrian Daily Telegram.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.blunt.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/in-the-news?ContentRecord_id=66C100A5-D0A0-4691-BB29-7AFAC2776211,Joplin Globe: Roy Blunt visits Joplin Boys and Girls Club,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MO,Roy Blunt,B000575,www.blunt.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Emily Younker Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Missouri, dropped by the Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Missouri on Wednesday to tour the building and meet with some of the children who are spending their Christmas break there. Blunt said he and his wife, Abby, every year make a point to visit organizations in the state that do good work and could benefit from some attention. ""It's a good time to realize that just because the holidays are over, the need to give isn't over, and the need to be helpful either as a volunteer or a contributor is still there,"" he said. With his wife and sixth-grade son, Charlie, in tow, Blunt first stopped by a classroom of 5- and 6-year-olds, where he read ""House Mouse, Senate Mouse."" The children's book tells the tale of a group of young mice who write to their legislative leaders to ask them to designate a national cheese. He also toured the craft room, the computer lab and the gymnasiums before talking briefly with a group of older students. They were full of questions for him: How many presidents has he met? What was his favorite subject in school? Why did he become a senator? And does he get free food? Blunt said he enjoyed his half-hour visit to the Joplin club. ""I like kids; it's always interesting to see what the kids are doing and what they're interested in,"" he said. ""A couple of areas I've been involved in as a former teacher would be looking at ways to get parents more involved in what's happening in their kids' lives, (and) the kinds of things we could do to be sure we're looking at mental health as well as physical health as far as what kids need and what their families need."" When asked whether he has plans to address those areas in Washington, Blunt pointed to the Excellence in Mental Health Act, which he helped introduce and pass into law in 2014. The act outlines a pilot program for eight states, including Missouri and Oklahoma, to be able to expand access to mental health services in community health clinics in 2017 and beyond. Rhonda Gorham, executive director of the Joplin Boys and Girls Club, said she was happy that Blunt made the organization a stop on his goodwill tour. ""Any time we can get the media in here and share our story, I think that's great,"" she said, adding that the senator's availability to talk to and answer questions from the children there also provided them a good learning opportunity. The organization hosts about 100 students during Christmas break at its Joplin location. At its peak, it serves nearly 400 students in kindergarten through 12th grade through its after-school programming at its Joplin and Webb City sites, with up to 200 additional children on a waiting list, Gorham said. Funding for the organization comes primarily from donors and grants. Gorham said she appreciated those who offered donations for Christmas, but she warned that January through March — the months before the Boys and Girls Club's next big fundraiser begins — can be financially stressful. ""We would love to see some monthly donors, and I know that's a huge ask,"" she said. ""And we could always use volunteers and mentors. I think people in the community have a lot to give."" Other stops In addition to the Joplin Boys and Girls Club, other stops on Sen. Roy Blunt's tour this week included the Boys and Girls Club in Columbia and the Ozarks Food Harvest in Springfield. Click here to read more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.blunt.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/in-the-news?ContentRecord_id=8045D2F7-06C3-4588-A195-978CCCF4B383,Springfield News-Leader: Sen. Blunt and family visit Ozarks Food Harvest,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MO,Roy Blunt,B000575,www.blunt.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Jackie Rehwald Sen. Roy Blunt and his family stopped by Ozarks Food Harvest on Wednesday to tour the facility and talk with volunteers and staff. Ozarks Food Harvest president and CEO Bart Brown said Blunt often stops by this time of year to help raise awareness about the continued need for donations after the holidays. ""Thanksgiving and Christmas are just two days of the year. But people need to eat 365 days a year,"" Brown said. ""In January and February, the need steps up because utility bills go up, heat bills go up and seasonal jobs discontinue."" As Brown led the Blunt family around the warehouse, the Republican senator complimented Ozarks Food Harvest's four-star rating from Charity Navigator, a nonprofit organization that bills itself as the nation's largest independent charity evaluator. Ozarks Food Harvest has received four stars — the highest possible — for the past four years in a row. Blunt's son Charlie gave Brown a check for $150. According to his mom Abby, Charlie's donation to Ozarks Food Harvest came from his allowance. Abby said the 12-year-old wanted to give $75 and she matched that amount. Click here to read more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-outlines-2017-priorities,Buchanan Outlines 2017 Priorities,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,,,legacy,"“We Stand at a Critical Crossroad” WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan today outlined his key legislative priorities for 2017, with job creation, protecting Medicare and Social Security and safeguarding America from terrorists topping the list.As Congress prepares to go back into session next week, Buchanan said reducing taxes for ordinary Americans, simplifying the tax code and eliminating unnecessary regulations will spur economic growth and create jobs. He said strengthening Social Security and Medicare will help current and future seniors live with dignity and independence.“We stand at a critical crossroad that will shape our nation for decades to come,” Buchanan said, adding, “I’m optimistic we will embrace this challenge and take the steps necessary to fortify the economy, restore the American dream and safeguard our people against the threat of radical Islamic terrorism.”Buchanan, entering his sixth term as a senior member of the powerful tax-cutting Ways and Means Committee, will play a central role in the critical debate over tax reform.He is focused on fixing the tax code by lowering individual tax rates, making it easier for businesses and individuals to file taxes and making sure that small businesses don’t pay more in taxes than large corporations. The world’s largest corporations face a maximum tax rate of 35 percent, while Florida’s 2.3 million small businesses can pay more than 42 percent of their income in taxes.The Ways and Means Committee will also be key in protecting Social Security and Medicare. Unless Congress acts, the trust funds from which these benefits are paid will be insolvent in fewer than 20 years. Rather than allowing massive benefits cuts to take effect, Buchanan has committed to protecting both Medicare and Social Security. In 2016, the President signed into law Buchanan’s proposal to preserve Medicare Advantage plans.“Medicare and Social Security are two of the most successful government programs and I’m committed to preserving them,” Buchanan said. “So many people depend on these programs. Medicare beneficiaries make up 17 percent of the U.S. population – and roughly 220,000 Americans rely on Medicare in just Sarasota and Manatee counties alone.”Buchanan also pointed to the recent terror attack by an asylum-seeker in Berlin as evidence that Congress needs to act swiftly to protect Americans.“I'm very concerned about ineffective screening of foreigners trying to enter the country,” Buchanan said. “Other countries with loose border security are seeing attacks by radical Islamic terrorists and we need to do everything we can to keep another tragedy from happening on our soil.”Buchanan will also continue his efforts to help veterans by pushing the Department of Veterans Affairs to implement his Veterans Identification Card Act, which was signed into law by President Obama. These cards will help reduce the threat of identity theft that veterans currently face.The Congressman, who serves as co-chair of the Florida congressional delegation, will introduce a package of legislative proposals in January, when the 115th Congress convenes, which includes: The Main Street Fairness Act, which ensures that small businesses – which employ more than 3 million Floridians – never pay a higher tax rate than large corporations.   The Social Media Screening for Terrorists Act, which directs the secretary of Homeland Security to vet all public records, including Facebook and other forms of social media, before admitting foreign travelers and visa applicants into the country.   The Emergency Citrus Disease Response Act, which aids Florida orange growers in their battle against the predatory citrus greening disease. The legislation provides tax incentives for farmers who cannot afford to replace trees affected by citrus greening. The bill passed the House in 2016, but did not pass the Senate before Congress adjourned.   The Retirement Security for American Workers Act, which makes it less costly for small businesses to offer retirement benefits, and could help the more than 76 million Americans who work for companies that do not offer the opportunity to save for a secure retirement.   An amendment to the Constitution of the United States that requires Congress to balance the federal budget. Balancing the budget is an urgent priority as the U.S. is nearing $20 trillion in federal debt.   The Thin Blue Line Act, which toughens penalties against anyone who murders police and other first responders. The bill would make the murder or attempted murder of a first responder an “aggravating” factor in death penalty determinations.   The SAFE Act, which permanently bans the killing of horses for human consumption in America. The bill also bans the export of live horses to Mexican and Canadian slaughterhouses where the animals are killed and then shipped overseas. “My job is to be a voice in Washington for the people of the Suncoast,” Buchanan said, adding his legislation would help seniors, veterans, taxpayers, among other people.Buchanan said he is looking forward to the new session of Congress after just completing his most successful term yet when it comes to passing legislation he wrote and introduced. He recently scored his fourth major legislative win of this past session with the adoption of his bill to save Medicare Advantage plans.Other Buchanan accomplishments passed in previous sessions of Congress included citrus greening research, job training for veterans, funding for Sarasota National Cemetery and veterans’ health care.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://chaffetz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=777,Chaffetz Outraged by Obama Decision to Impose Unwanted Midnight Monument in Utah,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,UT,Jason Chaffetz,C001076,chaffetz.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) released the following statement regarding President Obama’s imposition of a national monument designation at Bears Ears in San Juan County: “President Obama’s unilateral decision to invoke the Antiquities Act in Utah politicizes a long-simmering conflict. This unfortunate act threatens to further inflame controversies that were near resolution. The midnight monument is a slap in the face to the people of Utah, attempting to silence the voices of those who will bear the heavy burden it imposes. Furthermore, the decision is a major break with protocol previously followed by this administration. It does not have the support of the Governor, a single member of the state’s Congressional delegation, nor any local elected officials or state legislators who represent the area. ""After years of painstaking negotiations with a diverse coalition, Utah had a comprehensive bipartisan solution on the table that would have protected the Bears Ears and provided a balanced solution. Instead, the president's midnight monument cherry picked provisions of the Public Lands Initiative and disregarded the economic development and multi-use provisions necessary for a balanced compromise. In reality, a win-win solution never really had a chance as the very threat of the Antiquities Act prevented a serious negotiation with the stakeholders of PLI – many of whom never wanted a compromise to begin with. ""Finally, the so-called tribal coalition supporting the monument over the objections of their own Utah members will quickly find they have been misled. The president’s promise of co-management between the tribes and the federal government cannot be gained through executive action. Only Congress can authorize such agreements – and the administration made little effort to help facilitate legislation that would have done so. ""We look forward to working with President-elect Trump to follow through on his commitment to repeal midnight regulations. We will work to repeal this top-down decision and replace it with one that garners local support and creates a balanced, win-win solution.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://costello.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costello-statement-secretary-kerry-speech-regarding-israel,COSTELLO STATEMENT ON SECRETARY KERRY SPEECH REGARDING ISRAEL,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,PA,Ryan Costello,C001106,costello.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. -- Rep. Ryan Costello (PA-06) issued the following statement today on Secretary John Kerry's speech regarding Israel: ""The speech given by Secretary Kerry today builds on this administration's recent misguided policies towards one of our greatest allies. This type of action only hinders the path to peace and benefits Israel's enemies.""     ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dougcollins.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=812,"Collins to Introduce REINS Act, Lead in Regulatory Reform Efforts",2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,GA,Doug Collins,C001093,dougcollins.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON—The House Rules Committee has posted the Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act in preparation for its introduction on January 3. Congressman Collins (R- Ga.), who sits on both Judiciary and Rules Committees—which share jurisdiction over the REINS Act—is the lead sponsor of the bill that President-elect Donald Trump has called a “major step toward getting our government under control.” Previously shepherded by Congressman Todd Young (R- Ind.), the REINS Act aims to repair a flaw in the federal regulatory process by bringing effective legislative power under the oversight of Congress. Currently, federal agencies can pass major regulations—those with an economic impact of $100 million or more—without the approval of Congress or the signature of the president. The REINS Act would require both for all new major rules. The House has passed the regulatory reform bill before, but never with support from the executive office. “Our federal agencies are out of control, and Congress is partly to blame for that. We’ve ceded our legislative responsibility to agencies that were never intended to make laws, and the result has been redundant, counterproductive rules that have massive impacts on our economy. I’m introducing the REINS Act to bring accountability to these agencies through Congressional and presidential oversight,” said Congressman Collins. “Last year saw the implementation of 76 major rules with a cumulative economic effect of billions of dollars, so it’s easy to grasp that our country needs to rein in rogue federal rulemaking now more than ever. My colleagues in Congress and the incoming administration are united in our commitment to regulatory reform and want to make sure that executive agencies actually serve Americans rather than handicapping their economy—that’s what the REINS Act will help accomplish.” The House is expected to vote on the bill early in the new Congress.",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 https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-obama-administrations-failure-veto-anti-israel-un-resolution/,McMorris Rodgers on Obama Administration’s failure to veto Anti-Israel UN Resolution,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"SPOKANE, WASHINGTON (December 28, 2016) — Upon the Obama administration’s failure to veto the United Nations Security Council resolution that condemned Israeli settlement construction, Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) issued the following statement: “The Obama Administration’s failure to veto last week’s United Nations’ vote censuring Israel is a low point in the sixty-eight year history of diplomatic relations between the United States and Israel,” said Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05). “Fortunately, a new administration and bipartisan Congress will begin to rebuild trust and cooperation with Israel, and begin anew on the road to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perry.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398449,Rep. Perry Statement on Anti-Israel UN Resolution,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,PA,Scott Perry,P000605,perry.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Perry Statement on Anti-Israel UN Resolution f t # e Washington, December 28, 2016 York, PARepresentative Scott Perry (R-PA) issued the following statementafter FridaysUN Security Council vote on an anti-Israel resolution and todays explanation from Secretary of State John Kerry on the decision for the US to abstain from the vote: The United States for years regardless of what political party occupied the White House rightly has opposed one-sided or anti-Israel resolutions at the United Nations. Not only does President Obamas refusal to veto this resolution defy decades of bipartisan US policy, buthes allowing the UN to serve as an open forum to isolate and delegitimize Israel our closest and only democratic Ally in one of the worlds most unstable regions, said Congressman Perry. Likewise, his decision to allow Secretary Kerry to lay out a framework for an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal, knowing that hes out of office in less than a month and no longer in a position to negotiate any long-term deals, is insulting and serves no purpose except exposing Israel to unnecessary international pressure. Its mind-boggling to me that a false equivalence is being perpetuated in the UN between terrorist acts funded by the Palestinian Authority and Israeli settlement building. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walorski.house.gov/walorski-statement-on-secretary-kerry-speech/,Walorski Statement on Secretary Kerry Speech,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Wednesday, December 28, 2016 Walorski Statement on Secretary Kerry Speech Secretary Kerry's comments represent yet another blow to Israel in the final days of the Obama presidency. MISHAWAKA, Ind. U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (IN-02) today released the following statement after Secretary of State John Kerry in a speech defended the Obama administration's refusal to veto a United Nations Security Council resolution that condemned Israeli settlements: Secretary Kerry's comments today, coming on the heels of the Obama administration's abstention on the U.N. Security Council's disgraceful anti-Israel resolution, represent yet another blow to Israel in the final days of the Obama presidency. These comments show why we need new leadership in the White House, and I look forward to working with President-elect Trump to provide real, substantive support to our good friend and ally Israel. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, House Armed Services Committee and House Committee on Agriculture. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/weekly-columns?ContentRecord_id=6B9B49C8-CF2C-449B-85A1-70EDF3696CFB,Year in Review,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As the 114th Congress comes to an end and we turn the page on 2016 it’s time to reflect on the achievements that will make a difference in the lives of Arkansans and all Americans. Earlier this year, the Washington Examiner reported that the Republican-led Senate is “passing bills at a rate that has not been seen in decades.” This Congress, the Senate passed nearly 300 bills and nearly 200 of those became law. The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act had overwhelming support in Congress because heroin and prescription drug abuse is an epidemic impacting Americans from all walks of life in all 50 states. I was proud to support this when it came before the Senate because it provides a broad response to fight addiction by expanding prevention, education, treatment and recovery efforts. It was signed into law this summer and will help save lives and give families with loved ones struggling with addiction hope that recovery is possible. Congress continued its commitment to fight the opioid epidemic earlier this month with the passage of the 21st Century Cures Act which will provide grants to states to fight opioid abuse in addition to advancing medical research for cures for diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s. For the first time in four decades, Congress reformed our nation’s chemical safety laws because they were not effective. Signed into law in July, The Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act improves public confidence in the safety of chemicals, creates regulatory certainty for business and more uniform protections for American families. It allows us to take advantage of advances in technology and research to improve safety for consumers and the environment.  We also passed comprehensive veterans bills into law that included measures I helped introduce. Through these provisions, we were able to preserve successful programs for homeless veterans to help rebuild their lives, ensure that veterans who suffer service-ending combat-related injuries are not taxed on the severance payment they receive from the Department of Defense and give National Guard and Reserve retirees who served honorably for a minimum of 20 years but do not meet the active duty service requirement veteran status.  Congress also passed a resolution I authored to recognize the contributions of former Arkansas Senator J. William Fulbright as we celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Fulbright Program. This has become an important diplomatic tool that promotes peace throughout the world. Legislation that improves consumer protections and strengthens air traveler security passed as part of the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill. I was pleased to help write a provision in this legislation to reform general aviation medical standards for non-commercial pilots to allow them to fly many types of small, light aircraft without a third class medical certificate. To recognize the importance of Arkansas tree farmers’ economic and conservation efforts to our state and the 75th anniversary of the American Tree Farm System, I authored a resolution honoring this program that helps woodland owners sustain forests and promote the benefits they provide. The Senate passed this resolution in July. I’m pleased with what my colleagues and I have accomplished in the 114th Congress and I look forward to what we’ll be able to achieve with a new president. I’m excited about the next Congress and the opportunity we have to repeal and replace Obamacare and provide relief from the regulations imposed by the current administration. I wish you and your family all the best in 2017.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins%E2%80%99-statement-passing-graham-shimmield,Senator Collins Statement on the Passing of Graham Shimmield,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ME,Susan Collins,C001035,www.collins.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Newsroom Senator Collins’ Statement on the Passing of Graham Shimmield Posted Wed, 12/28/2016 - 16:31 Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement regarding the passing of Dr. Graham Shimmield, the executive director of Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences: “Graham was an accomplished scientist and leader who transformed Bigelow Laboratory through his energy and vision.“Under Graham’s leadership, Bigelow made important contributions to Maine’s economy and research sector and expanded its influence internationally. I enjoyed working with Graham to secure federal funding that assisted in nearly doubling the size of the institution a few years ago.“Graham helped enhance our understanding of the ocean and emphasized the need to protect this vital ecosystem. Graham’s passing is a loss to his family and friends, the research community, the State of Maine, and all who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/114th-congress-promoting-energy-growth-and-securing-our-environment,114th Congress: Promoting Energy Growth and Securing Our Environment,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN—During the 114th Congress, major pieces of legislation were enacted to help speed up a plan to protect the Texas Gulf Coast, end the outdated ban on exporting crude oil, and reform the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Texas Coastal Protection in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) (Passed House 12/8/16, passed Senate 12/10/16, became law 12/16/16) Includes a major provision from Senator Cornyn’s COAST Act to help streamline the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ coastal surge protection study along Texas’ upper Gulf Coast. Requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to take into consideration certain studies already developed by the Gulf Coast Community Protection and Recovery District (GCCPRD) while completing its Coastal Texas Protection & Restoration Study. Ending of the Crude Oil Export Ban (Passed the Senate as part of the 2015 Omnibus Appropriations Bill 12/16/15, passed the House 6/8/16, became law 6/22/16) Lifts the 40-year ban on the export of crude oil, put in place during the 1973 Arab oil embargo. Will reduce global reliance on countries like Russia and Iran for energy needs. Toxic Substances Control Act (Passed House 6/23/15, passed Senate 12/17/15, became law 6/22/16) Provides the EPA with direct tools to obtain testing information on chemical substances, improving the former lengthy process Restructures the way existing chemicals are evaluated and regulated by prioritizing scientific evaluations. Encourages transparency at the EPA regarding trade secrets and scientific decision making. Energy Improvement Act of 2015 (Passed Senate 3/27/15, passed House 4/21/15, became law 4/30/15) Establishes a voluntary, market-driven approach to aligning the interests of commercial building owners and their tenants to reduce energy consumption. Exempts certain electrical resistance water heaters used for demand response from pending Department of Energy regulation. Requires federal agencies to coordinate with OMB, DOE, and EPA to develop and implantation strategy for the maintenance, purchase, and use of energy saving technologies. Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety Act of 2016 (Passed Senate 3/3/16, passed House 6/8/16, became law 6/22/16) Reauthorizes the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) through 2019. Requests an assessment of Integrity Management programs for natural gas and liquid pipelines. Encourages PHMSA to investigate and report on advanced mapping technologies for pipeline networks. Ensure coordination and collaboration on research, development, and technology between PHMSA, industry and public sector stakeholders. National Park Service Centennial Act (Passed House 12/6/16, passed Senate 12/10/16, became law 12/16/16) Establishes a Centennial Challenge Fund to help maximize private donations to our National Parks, as well as a National Park Foundation Endowment. Makes needed changes to the National Park Foundation structure to ensure leadership continuity and establish annual appropriations for non-administrative purposes. Eliminates barriers for Public Lands Corps participants to gain federal appointment and promotes Tribal participation on the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=574,Cotton in New York Times 'Fix Immigration. It's What Voters Want.',2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 28, 2016 Fix Immigration. It's What Voters Want.New York TimesBy: Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) Donald J. Trump smashed many orthodoxies on his way to victory, but immigration was the defining issue separating him from his primary opponents and Hillary Clinton. President-elect Trump now has a clear mandate not only to stop illegal immigration, but also to finally cut the generation-long influx of low-skilled immigrants that undermines American workers. Yet many powerful industries benefit from such immigration. They're arguing that immigration controls are creating a low-skilled labor shortage. ""We're pretty much begging for workers,"" Tom Nassif, the chief executive of Western Growers, a trade organization that represents farmers, said on CNN. A fast-food chain founder warned, ""Our industry can't survive without Mexican workers."" These same industries contend that stricter immigration enforcement will further shrink the pool of workers and raise their wages. They argue that closing our borders to inexpensive foreign labor will force employers to add benefits and improve workplace conditions to attract and keep workers already here. I have an answer to these charges: Exactly. Higher wages, better benefits and more security for American workers are features, not bugs, of sound immigration reform. For too long, our immigration policy has skewed toward the interests of the wealthy and powerful: Employers get cheaper labor, and professionals get cheaper personal services like housekeeping. We now need an immigration policy that focuses less on the most powerful and more on everyone else. It's been a quarter-century since Congress substantially reformed the immigration system. In that time, the population of people who are in this country illegally has nearly tripled, to more than 11 million. We've also accepted one million legal immigrants annually - and a vast majority are unskilled or low-skilled. Some people contend that low-skilled immigration doesn't depress wages. In his final State of the Union address, President Obama argued that immigrants aren't the ""principal reason wages haven't gone up; those decisions are made in the boardrooms that too often put quarterly earnings over long-term returns."" Yet those decisions are possible only in the context of a labor surplus caused by low-skilled immigration. In a tight labor market, bosses cannot set low wages and still attract workers. After all, the law of supply and demand is not magically suspended in the labor market. As immigrant labor has flooded the country, working-class wages have collapsed. Wages for Americans with only high school diplomas have declined by 2 percent since the late 1970s, and for those who didn't finish high school, they have declined by nearly 20 percent, according to Economic Policy Institute figures. No doubt automation and globalization have also affected wages, but mass immigration accelerates these trends with surplus labor, which of course decreases wages. Little wonder, then, that these Americans voted for the candidate who promised higher wages and less immigration instead of all the candidates - Republicans and Democrats alike - who promised essentially more of the same on immigration. America has always offered a basic deal: If you're willing to work hard and play by the rules, you can make a better life for yourself and your kids. But without good wages, this deal seems impossible, which is one reason so many Americans think their children will be worse off than they are. These Americans see cheap immigrant labor as a way to enrich the wealthy while creating a near permanent underclass for whom the American dream is always just out of reach. Yet, as if Mr. Trump's campaign never happened, companies in labor-intensive industries want to sustain or even increase current immigration flows. It's not hard to understand why. Cheap labor helps the bottom line. It is hard to understand why so many politicians would go along. The short-term interest of businesses isn't the same as the long-term national interest. Our country, like any country, needs borders and must decide who and how many can cross those borders. We must make this decision with the well-being of all our citizens in mind. Today, that means a large reduction in legal immigration and a reorientation toward ultra-high-skill immigrants. This policy would resemble the immigration systems of Canada and Australia, countries with similar advanced economies. While our system gives priority to reuniting extended families and low-skilled labor, their systems prize nuclear-family reunification and attributes like language skills, education and work experience. A similar system here would allow in immigrants like doctors to work in rural areas while not pushing down working-class wages. In some quarters, proposals like these invoke cries of ""nativism"" and ""xenophobia."" But recent immigrants are the very Americans who have to compete with new immigrants for jobs. Far from being anti-immigrant, this proposal would give recent arrivals a better shot at higher wages, stable work and assimilation. We have an immigration policy today that few Americans support or voted for. It's allowed legal and illegal immigration at levels divorced from what our economy needs. That has undermined the earning power of those Americans least able to afford it. But in this election, Americans finally demanded an end to this unthinking immigration system. President-elect Trump and Congress should take that mandate and act on it promptly in the new year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=566,Cotton Op-Ed in the New York Times “Fix Immigration. It's What Voters Want.”,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 28, 2016 Fix Immigration. It's What Voters Want.New York TimesBy: Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) Donald J. Trump smashed many orthodoxies on his way to victory, but immigration was the defining issue separating him from his primary opponents and Hillary Clinton. President-elect Trump now has a clear mandate not only to stop illegal immigration, but also to finally cut the generation-long influx of low-skilled immigrants that undermines American workers. Yet many powerful industries benefit from such immigration. They're arguing that immigration controls are creating a low-skilled labor shortage. ""We're pretty much begging for workers,"" Tom Nassif, the chief executive of Western Growers, a trade organization that represents farmers, said on CNN. A fast-food chain founder warned, ""Our industry can't survive without Mexican workers."" These same industries contend that stricter immigration enforcement will further shrink the pool of workers and raise their wages. They argue that closing our borders to inexpensive foreign labor will force employers to add benefits and improve workplace conditions to attract and keep workers already here. I have an answer to these charges: Exactly. Higher wages, better benefits and more security for American workers are features, not bugs, of sound immigration reform. For too long, our immigration policy has skewed toward the interests of the wealthy and powerful: Employers get cheaper labor, and professionals get cheaper personal services like housekeeping. We now need an immigration policy that focuses less on the most powerful and more on everyone else. It's been a quarter-century since Congress substantially reformed the immigration system. In that time, the population of people who are in this country illegally has nearly tripled, to more than 11 million. We've also accepted one million legal immigrants annually - and a vast majority are unskilled or low-skilled. Some people contend that low-skilled immigration doesn't depress wages. In his final State of the Union address, President Obama argued that immigrants aren't the ""principal reason wages haven't gone up; those decisions are made in the boardrooms that too often put quarterly earnings over long-term returns."" Yet those decisions are possible only in the context of a labor surplus caused by low-skilled immigration. In a tight labor market, bosses cannot set low wages and still attract workers. After all, the law of supply and demand is not magically suspended in the labor market. As immigrant labor has flooded the country, working-class wages have collapsed. Wages for Americans with only high school diplomas have declined by 2 percent since the late 1970s, and for those who didn't finish high school, they have declined by nearly 20 percent, according to Economic Policy Institute figures. No doubt automation and globalization have also affected wages, but mass immigration accelerates these trends with surplus labor, which of course decreases wages. Little wonder, then, that these Americans voted for the candidate who promised higher wages and less immigration instead of all the candidates - Republicans and Democrats alike - who promised essentially more of the same on immigration. America has always offered a basic deal: If you're willing to work hard and play by the rules, you can make a better life for yourself and your kids. But without good wages, this deal seems impossible, which is one reason so many Americans think their children will be worse off than they are. These Americans see cheap immigrant labor as a way to enrich the wealthy while creating a near permanent underclass for whom the American dream is always just out of reach. Yet, as if Mr. Trump's campaign never happened, companies in labor-intensive industries want to sustain or even increase current immigration flows. It's not hard to understand why. Cheap labor helps the bottom line. It is hard to understand why so many politicians would go along. The short-term interest of businesses isn't the same as the long-term national interest. Our country, like any country, needs borders and must decide who and how many can cross those borders. We must make this decision with the well-being of all our citizens in mind. Today, that means a large reduction in legal immigration and a reorientation toward ultra-high-skill immigrants. This policy would resemble the immigration systems of Canada and Australia, countries with similar advanced economies. While our system gives priority to reuniting extended families and low-skilled labor, their systems prize nuclear-family reunification and attributes like language skills, education and work experience. A similar system here would allow in immigrants like doctors to work in rural areas while not pushing down working-class wages. In some quarters, proposals like these invoke cries of ""nativism"" and ""xenophobia."" But recent immigrants are the very Americans who have to compete with new immigrants for jobs. Far from being anti-immigrant, this proposal would give recent arrivals a better shot at higher wages, stable work and assimilation. We have an immigration policy today that few Americans support or voted for. It's allowed legal and illegal immigration at levels divorced from what our economy needs. That has undermined the earning power of those Americans least able to afford it. But in this election, Americans finally demanded an end to this unthinking immigration system. President-elect Trump and Congress should take that mandate and act on it promptly in the new year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2936,Sen. Cruz: History Will Record Obama and Kerry As Relentless Enemies of Israel,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement in response to Secretary of State John Kerry's speech concerning Israel today:  ""Like bitter clingers, President Obama and Secretary Kerry are spending every last minute of this administration wreaking havoc domestically and abroad. With their last breath in office, they have struck at Israel, through the United Nations and through today's disgraceful speech. ""These acts are shameful. They are designed to secure a legacy, and indeed they have: history will record and the world will fully understand Obama and Kerry as relentless enemies of Israel. Their actions were designed to weaken and marginalize Israel, and to embolden its enemies.  ""Today's speech -- like Kerry's 2014 remarks likening Israel to an apartheid state -- will enflame rising anti-Semitism in Europe. It will encourage the mullahs who hate Israel and hate America. And it will facilitate 'law-fare,' growing legal assaults on Israel through transnational legal fora.  ""Kerry's speech drew a stunning moral equivalence between our great ally Israel and the Palestinian Authority, currently formed in a 'unity' government with the vicious terrorists of Hamas. Secretary Kerry declared the Hamas regime in Gaza ‘radical,’ in the same way he declared the duly-elected government of Israel ‘extreme.’ He declared vicious terrorism sponsored by Hamas equal to Israeli settlements in West Bank. And he equated Israel's celebration of its birth with the Palestinian description of this event as the ‘disaster.’ His speech attempted to lay out an historic and seismic shift towards the delegitimization of our ally, Israel, and the further empowerment of the Palestinian Authority.  ""Kerry's central conclusion, that 'Israel can either be Jewish or democratic, it cannot be both' is an inanity that passes as profound only in Ivory Tower faculty lounges. There are roughly 50 majority-Muslim countries in the world. There is one -- only one -- Jewish state. And yet, for Kerry and Obama, that is too much.  The Israeli Knesset has 17 elected Arab members. It has Muslim members and Christian members. In contrast, one searches in vain for Muslim countries that have elected Jewish representatives.   ""It is a sign of their radicalism and refusal to defend American interests, that Obama and Kerry choose to attack the only inclusive democracy in the Middle East -- a strong, steadfast ally of America -- while turning a blind eye to the Islamic terrorism that grows daily.  ""America is an unshakable friend of Israel, and we are horrified at what has transpired this week.   ""I believe Obama's and Kerry's shameful conduct will backfire. That it will be short-lived, and will inspire a bipartisan repudiation of their radical anti-Israel agenda. ""All Americans who understand the value of the U.S.-Israel alliance must immediately and unequivocally reject their false and dangerous narrative, and reassert our fundamental commitment to Israel's security. Thankfully, Congress and the incoming administration can and I hope will take decisive action to intercept the administration’s final and desperate Hail Mary, and that should begin with eliminating U.S. funding to the U.N., unless and until this disgraceful resolution is reversed.  ""I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle as well as the incoming administration to chart a new path forward based on America's national security interests and clear-eyed reality, not on the Obama administration's globalist agenda and wishful thinking."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.flake.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=947A8CDE-F88D-40AE-B2FB-812A89DED0A2,"Flake, McCain Encouraged Arizona Not Included Among New Monument Designations",2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,AZ,Jeff Flake,F000444,www.flake.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PHOENIX – U.S. Sens. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) and John McCain (R-Ariz.) today released the following statement regarding reports that the president’s latest round of national monument designations does not include a proposed 1.7 million acre monument in Arizona: “President Obama seems to have heard the message that Arizonans are not on board with plans for Washington to lock-up another 1.7 million acres in our state. As frustrating as it is to see federal land grabs in Utah and Nevada today, we are encouraged that the administration does not appear to be moving toward another national monument designation in Arizona at this time.”   Background: On Dec. 5, Flake and McCain sent a letter to President Barack Obama following encouraging reports that he may abandon plans to abandon declaring a new national monument in Arizona. Flake and McCain’s signed letter can be viewed here. On Dec. 5, Flake and McCain also sent a letter to Department of Interior Secretary Sally Jewell today asking about the department’s position on designation a new monument in Arizona. The signed letter can be viewed here. On October 3, Flake and McCain sent a letter to President Obama asking him to refrain from designating any additional national monuments in Arizona without first engaging with affected stakeholders, including local governments and state agencies. Flake and McCain’s signed letter can be viewed here. On September 22, at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing, Flake advocated for stakeholder input on new national monument designations in Arizona. More information can be found here. On Nov. 6, 2015, Flake and McCain sent a letter urging the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to increase the pace of forest thinning efforts in order to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire and improve forest health. Flake and McCain’s signed letter can be viewed here. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey simultaneously sent an identical letter to the USFS. Ducey’s signed letter can be viewed here.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/faa-notifies-hoeven-that-authorization-for-beyond-line-of-sight-operability-is-approved,FAA Notifies Hoeven that Authorization for Beyond-Line-of-Sight Operability is Approved,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.28.16 FAA Notifies Hoeven that Authorization for Beyond-Line-of-Sight Operability is Approved Senator Worked to Secure COA for First in the Nation Beyond-Line-of-Sight Operability WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved a certificate of authorization (COA) for the Northern Plains UAS Test Site to oversee unmanned aircraft operations that go beyond the line of sight of the operator. The senator worked to secure approval of this request from the FAA. The North Dakota test site is the first in the nation to have such beyond-line-of-sight operability. This means the test site will be able to support the development, testing and evaluation of a wide range of new applications for UAS technology, giving the state a competitive edge. The FAA's approval of this COA is a major step forward for North Dakota and the UAS industry in general because UAS will have to be able to fly beyond the line of sight in order to operate concurrently with piloted aircraft in the National Air Space, Hoeven said. This authorization will help companies like General Atomics, Northrop Grumman and future tenants at the Grand Sky technology park test and evaluate complex UAS operations possible nowhere else in the nation. It also makes North Dakota an attractive place for government agencies like NASA, the Air Force and the Department of Homeland Security to integrate UAS into the national airspace system. North Dakota is ideally suited to support beyond line of sight operations with the combination of an FAA test site, the Grand Sky Technology Park and Grand Forks Air Force Base, which hosts the Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system. Grand Forks Air Force Base uses a DASR-11 digital radar system. The system helps operators track unmanned aircraft so they can fly safely even when beyond the sight of the UAS operator. Hoeven secured funding for upgrades to this system and a similar system at Hector Field in Fargo earlier this year as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. The Northern Plains UAS Test Site will continue to use a chase plane until the Grand Sky Technology Park implements a scheduled software upgrade to its system so that it can link to the DASR-11 radar at Grand Forks Air Force Base. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lee.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=10612AE2-CE4B-4DF6-B6AC-CEACBF049B1B,Sen. Lee Pledges To Fight Obama’s San Juan County Land Grab,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SALT LAKE CITY – Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) issued the following statement Wednesday after learning of President Obama’s decision to designate 1.35 million acres in southeast Utah as a national monument:   “This arrogant act by a lame duck president will not stand. I will work tirelessly with Congress and the incoming Trump administration to honor the will of the people of Utah and undo this designation.”   Watch local Navajo explain why they oppose the monument here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOpOT4ZnvkY&t=11s   Watch San Juan County Commissioner, Rebecca Benally explain why she opposes the monument here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bwqYj6-PTE&feature=youtu.be   Recent polling on Bears Ears here: http://utahpolicy.com/index.php/features/today-at-utah-policy/11319-poll-most-utahns-remain-opposed-to-a-bears-ears-monument",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7AF8FBD5-41FB-47D0-9A95-B9224C408658,Graham Reacts to Secretary Kerry's Remarks on the Path to Middle East Peace,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) made this statement today following remarks given by Secretary John Kerry about the path to Middle East peace. “While I support a two-state solution, an independent Palestinian state coexisting with a secure Israel, the one and only Jewish state, I do not believe under the current construct such an outcome is possible. The biggest impediment to a two-state solution is not boundary lines or the right of return, it is the fact that the Palestinians are hopelessly divided and a large percentage of the Palestinian population is represented by Hamas. Until that changes, the peace process is dead and a chance for a two-state solution is a fantasy rather than reality. “While I appreciate Secretary Kerry’s enthusiasm, I am getting weary of plans and proposals that are at best fanciful and worse delusional. Given the current state of discord and dysfunction among the Palestinians, a two-state solution is impossible until fundamental change occurs in Palestine. “What John Kerry fails to appreciate, is that the Palestinians are in complete disarray when it comes to acting like a state. A two-state solution would require two parties capable of reaching an agreement and executing it. I do not believe that the Palestinians under the current construct could deliver on any agreement reached. Almost forty percent of the Palestinian population lives under the control of Hamas – one of the most vicious terrorist groups on the planet. “I wish Secretary Kerry and President Obama would stop pushing Israel to negotiate against themselves. The only way the peace process can be restarted is for the Palestinians to hold elections and be governed by a single entity that rejects terrorism. That is not the current situation and until that day arrives, pushing Israel to restart the peace process is folly.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=86038892-7A03-42C7-8A8C-DE8857D73D46,STATEMENT BY SASC CHAIRMAN JOHN McCAIN ON SECRETARY JOHN KERRYS SPEECH ON ISRAEL,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,AZ,John McCain,M000303,www.mccain.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on Secretary of State John Kerry’s speech on Israel today: “Secretary Kerry’s speech today was at best a pointless tirade in the waning days of an outgoing administration. At worst, it was another dangerous outburst that will further Israel’s diplomatic isolation and embolden its enemies. “Peace between Israelis and Palestinians is not up to Secretary Kerry or President Obama. It is not up to the United States or the United Nations. It is up to Israelis and Palestinians to negotiate that peace. Public lectures against Israel and UN resolutions attacking Israel do not aid the cause of peace. They only provide those seeking Israel’s destruction a convenient excuse to blame Israel for their own intransigence. “I support a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians – one that ensures the Jewish state will be secure within its borders, and its right to remain so is recognized and respected by Palestinians and Israel’s neighbors. But this solution is simply not possible at this time because Israel has no viable partner for peace. Not when Israel’s right to exist is denied and threatened. Not when Hamas and Hezbollah continue deadly rocket attacks. Not when Palestinian leaders tolerate or even glorify terrorist attacks against innocent Israeli civilians by Palestinians armed with knives, meat cleavers, guns, and cars. “No American interest in the Middle East is more important than the integrity and future of our friendship with Israel. That is why our priority must be to make it crystal clear to the entire world, both in word and deed, that the United States will stand by our ally Israel now and always.”  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F20B00C3-7840-4127-85BB-03DF7492F96B,Rubio: Secretary Kerry's Anti-Israel Speech Undermines America's Moral Standing,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,FL,Marco Rubio,R000595,www.rubio.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Miami, FL – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) issued the following statement today regarding Secretary of State John Kerry’s speech on the Middle East peace process:  “Secretary Kerry today once again decided to cater to the demands of freedom’s enemies and devote an entire speech to disparaging a country that is one of our closest allies. This administration’s shameful undermining of our moral standing in the world should be a warning to administrations for decades to come about the consequences of America abandoning our values. When we fail to take a stand against those that seek to deny Israel’s right to exist or try to question the Jewish history of Jerusalem, we hurt not just Israel but our own credibility. “The greatest immediate threat to the future of Israel is not a stalled peace process, or settlements, but the abandonment of the Jewish state by the current U.S. administration at a time when it needs America’s support more than ever. “I look forward to working with President-elect Trump and his incoming team to restore our relationship with Israel to its proper place. I intend to continue to work with my colleagues to fight alarming efforts by those in the United States and internationally to promote modern day anti-Semitism through the boycott and divestment movement. I will also work to ensure that if the United Nations wants to continue to promote anti-Semitism and anti-Israel views, it will do so without U.S. taxpayer funding. “This shameful episode in American foreign policy cannot end soon enough.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-kerry-speech-promises-path-to-pain,Scott: Kerry Speech Promises Path to Pain,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Wednesday | December 28, 2016 Scott: Kerry Speech Promises Path to Pain Charleston, SC - U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the statement below following U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry's speech regarding Israel and the Middle East today. ""The 'path to peace' laid out today by Secretary Kerry would actually bring the exact opposite - it is a path to pain. This whole charade is putting Israel at a huge disadvantage in peace negotiations, and needlessly tests our nation's relationship with a critical ally in a volatile part of the world. With three weeks left in this administration, it is absolutely ridiculous that they would choose to continue antagonizing Israel. I strongly believe that next month we will make it clear to the world that the United States stands with Israel, and that our decades-long friendship is solid."" Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/press-release/scott-kerry-speech-promises-path-pain,Scott: Kerry Speech Promises Path to Pain,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Scott: Kerry Speech Promises Path to Pain Dec 28, 2016 Issues: Foreign Affairs Charleston, SC – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the statement below following U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry’s speech regarding Israel and the Middle East today. “The ‘path to peace’ laid out today by Secretary Kerry would actually bring the exact opposite – it is a path to pain. This whole charade is putting Israel at a huge disadvantage in peace negotiations, and needlessly tests our nation’s relationship with a critical ally in a volatile part of the world. With three weeks left in this administration, it is absolutely ridiculous that they would choose to continue antagonizing Israel. I strongly believe that next month we will make it clear to the world that the United States stands with Israel, and that our decades-long friendship is solid.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-zeldin-middle-east-visiting-troops-2nd-straight-year-during-holidays,Rep. Zeldin in Middle East Visiting Troops For 2nd Straight Year During Holidays,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, is currently traveling with a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to the Middle East, including Afghanistan. This is the second consecutive year that Congressman Zeldin is in the Middle East visiting deployed service members during the holidays: Congressman Zeldin said, “It is an honor to visit our troops deployed overseas in the Middle East during the holiday season. Throughout this trip, I have had the privilege to thank many of our heroes, several from New York, risking their lives away from their families in defense of our freedoms and liberties. My meetings with top military and diplomatic leadership front and center in the fight against ISIS, Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups are also a critical component of this timely visit to the Middle East.” Also participating in the bipartisan CODEL are Congressman Mike Coffman (R, CO-6), Congressman David Valadao (R, CA-21) and Congressman David Cicilline (D, RI-1). Pictures from the currently ongoing 2016 CODEL are below. Congressman Zeldin is pictured below with the other Congressmen on the CODEL, as well as servicemen stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan, including New York servicemembers Captain Dan Kim, SSG Luna Sergio, SSG Joseph Philbin and NY-1 resident, SPC Raymond Stock, from Congressman Zeldin’s hometown of Shirley.  Congressman Zeldin is pictured below with service members at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. The Congressman is pictured with MG John Thomson, Commander of the 1st Cavalry Division, far right, and several New York service members: In December 2015, Congressmen Zeldin, Valadao and Cicilline travelled to the Middle East on a CODEL that included time spent thanking troops in Iraq and Kuwait on Christmas Day.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=400013,"Trentonian article on Smith trip to Iraq to visit refugees'NJ Congressman Chris Smith makes Christmas-season visit to Iraq, says ISIS genocide must end'",2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Sulaiman Abdur-Rahman, of The Trentonian - As millions of people around the globe celebrate a merry Christmas, Congressman Chris Smith of New Jersey has made a recent trip to Iraq to meet with Christian survivors of a nearly three-year-long ISIS-fueled genocide. “This Christmas season, the survival of Christians in Iraq, where they have lived for almost 2,000 years, is at stake,” Smith, a Republican who represents parts of Mercer, Ocean and Monmouth counties, said Tuesday in a statement. “I hope that President-elect (Donald) Trump will act urgently to make sure his administration helps these Christians with the funds Congress has approved for survivors of ISIS atrocities.” Chaldean Archbishop Bashar Warda, the highest-ranking ordained Catholic in the Iraqi city of Erbil, invited Smith to the Kurdistan region of northern Iraq. During their meeting, according to Smith’s office, Archbishop Warda emphasized that unless the ancient minority Christian communities of Iraq received significant financial support very soon, they may not survive. U.S. Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey (center) meets with Iraqi Archbishop Bashar Warda (right) and Christian survivors of the ISIS-fueled genocide in Iraq on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2016. Photo Courtesy of U.S. Rep. Chris Smith’s Office “My Iraq and Syria Genocide Relief and Accountability Act legislation is a blueprint for how to assist Christians and other genocide survivors and hold perpetrators accountable,” Smith said of his H.R. 5961 bill that was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in September. “I will be working tirelessly to get this bill on the new president’s desk when we reconvene in January.” President-elect Trump is a Republican who has vowed to destroy ISIS. Smith accused President Barack Obama’s Democratic administration of ignoring Christian families who have survived the ISIS genocide, but U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry gave a speech earlier this year highlighting the known atrocities of ISIS, a terrorist group also known as Islamic State, ISIL and Daesh. Kerry on March 17 revealed his personal judgment that ISIS “is responsible for genocide against groups in areas under its control, including Yezidis, Christians, and Shia Muslims” and noted that “Daesh is also responsible for crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing directed at these same groups and in some cases against Sunni Muslims and Kurds and other minorities.” “The fact is that Daesh kills Christians because they are Christians; Yezidis because they are Yezidis; Shia because they are Shia,” Kerry added. “This is the message it conveys to children under its control. Its entire worldview is based on eliminating those who do not subscribe to its perverse ideology.” In addition to being a congressman, Smith also chairs the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the U.S. Helsinki Commission, a U.S. government agency that promotes human rights worldwide. The U.S. Helsinki Commission is affiliated with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, also known as the OSCE, which comprises 57 participating nation-states throughout the world, including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, Turkey and Russia. Smith has urged leaders in other OSCE countries to provide more humanitarian assistance to Christian genocide survivors and to support criminal investigations into people suspected of perpetrating genocide. A July 2016 report published by the Institute for International Law and Human Rights and other organizations said: “Many minority communities in Iraq are now on the verge of disappearance. The Christian population, which before 2003 numbered as many as 1.4 million, had dwindled to 350,000 by early 2014, and since the ISIS advance is now estimated as under 250,000.”This article originally ran on page 3 of the Dec. 25, 2016 print edition of the Trentonian daily newspaper, and can be found online at: http://www.trentonian.com/general-news/20161224/nj-congressman-chris-smith-makes-christmas-season-visit-to-iraq-says-isis-genocide-must-end",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-announces-2017-legislative-agenda-0,Wilson Announces 2017 Legislative Agenda,2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) announced his 2017 Legislative Agenda at media presentations across the Second Congressional District of South Carolina, visiting West Columbia, Aiken, North Augusta, Barnwell, and Orangeburg. “With President-elect Donald Trump and strong majorities in the House and Senate, we have been given a new opportunity to promote positive conservative change,” Wilson said. “I am optimistic for our children and grandchildren—fighting to promote limited government and expanded freedom for American families.”          Focusing on creating jobs and economic growth, Wilson detailed plans to reduce taxes and harmful regulations that destroy jobs. “Government regulation and overbearing executive action stifled small businesses and job-creators. I will continue to support initiatives in Congress to lower taxes and reduce costly regulations.” As Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee for Emerging Threats and Capabilities, Wilson is also committed to strengthening our nation’s cyber capabilities and promoting our military and veterans. “In the past year, terrorist attacks at home and across the globe have constantly reminded that we are in the Global War on Terrorism. We need to promote peace through strength to protect American families.” Throughout the 115th Congress, Wilson will advance legislation in the following areas: Create Jobs and Economic Growth by working with local chambers and agencies to bring quality jobs to South Carolina, protecting our “Right to Work” laws, continuing to advocate for the critical missions at the Savannah River Site and Savannah River National Lab, and repealing and replacing Obamacare. Reduce Regulations that Harm Jobs by supporting a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution and conservative budgets, cutting taxes to allow families to keep more of their hard-earned paychecks, and eliminating burdensome government regulations that stifle small businesses and job creation. Strengthen our nation’s cyber capabilities to protect our nation against cyberattacks by strengthening our nation’s offensive and defensive cyber capabilities, coordinating an inter-agency response to cyberattacks, and promoting public-private partnerships to encourage innovation. Promote our Military and Veterans by maintaining our military’s responsiveness and capabilities to promote peace through strength, protecting TRICARE benefits and sustaining quality of life for military families, reversing defense sequestration which hollows out the military, supporting National Guard and Reserve units, and supporting reforms to the VA system. View his legislative agenda here.  View a video about his legislative agenda tour here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.blunt.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/in-the-news?ContentRecord_id=1EAF999F-5E8C-4BF3-842A-875B82CE3FB2,"Columbia Tribune: Blunt promises work on child nutrition, mental health during Boys & Girls Clubs visit",2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MO,Roy Blunt,B000575,www.blunt.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Rudi Keller Personal income in Columbia and Boone County is higher than in the state as a whole. So is poverty. At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbia, leaders are acutely aware of that gap as they attempt to provide an affordable, safe place for after-school and summer day programs. The club serves about 700 children each year, but many more need and want to participate, Executive Director Valorie Livingston said during U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt’s tour of the main service site on North Seventh Street. “Since we have been here, we’ve had a standing waiting list at every site of kids that need and want to attend a Boys & Girls Club,” Livingston said. Blunt visited the club as part of his annual year-end visits to food banks and other organizations that provide support for lower-income families. The club served 47,000 meals in 2015, provides educational enhancement programs in music and technology and will begin construction in January on a 14,000-square-foot expansion that will double its current space. The visits, Blunt said, are intended to highlight what “these kind of community service organizations provide and why do we need them in places where you see lots of affluence. But if you look very closely, you will see lots of people still struggling.” The fundraising program to pay for the building concluded in October. Paying to keep it open and provide services means finding additional ongoing donations, said Joe Miller, past president and co-chair of the capital campaign. The current budget is about $1.5 million annually. It costs about $2,500 per child to provide services. The club charges $20 per semester for membership, Miller said. “When we are serving 700 kids, it takes a lot of manpower and a lot of resources to keep the lights on, keep the heat on, so that is the challenge for us year over year is just raising those operational dollars,” Miller said. Statistics that measure poverty in Columbia show 50 percent of Columbia Public Schools students eat a free or reduced-price lunch and 24.4 percent of city residents have incomes below the federal poverty threshold. Per capita income was $26,773 in 2015, according to the Census Bureau, $514 above the state per capita income, but the poverty rate statewide is 14.8 percent. “If you said 50 percent of kids in school are on the free and reduced-price lunch programs and that is one of the highest in the state, that would be a big surprise to a lot of people,” Blunt said. Blunt told club staff and board members that he is focusing on two areas that can support their work. The first is expanding child food programs to summer months, he said. The club could be a distribution point for food, he said. The second is mental health programs, he said, and the club can be a place for children to receive support for their problems or help understanding a parent’s illness. “We are trying to look for ways to expand that footprint so mental health is treated like all other health issues,” Blunt said. “We are about 50 years behind, frankly, in the mental health field.” The expanded club building will be ready by Labor Day, and the goal is to attract teenagers with a full-size gym, complete kitchen and music recording facilities. “The high school kids are all around us, but they don’t come in,” Livingston said. Click here to read more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398701,Rep. Steve Chabot Condemns Obama Administrations Abstention at U.N. Vote Over Israel,2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Steve Chabot (R-OH) issued the following statement on the Obama Administration’s decision to abstain from a vote condemning Israel at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC): “Under President Harry S. Truman, the United States was the first country in the world to recognize the State of Israel in the spring of 1948.  Since then, our two nations have shared a special relationship rooted in shared values and interests.  The Obama Administration’s refusal to reject an anti-Israel resolution at the United Nations will not destroy our alliance.  It will only further stain an already shameful foreign policy legacy.  Thankfully, the incoming Trump Administration has signaled it is willing to do everything within its power to repair this critical friendship as soon as possible.” Rep. Chabot is Chairman of the House Small Business Committee (SBC) and is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Judiciary Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/looking-back-look-forward,Looking Back to Look Forward,2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,,,legacy,"This past year was one of great change for America. After eight years of President Obama, the American people elected perhaps the most unorthodox candidate in our nation’s history. The nominating process for both parties was unlike any we have ever seen. The Democrats nearly nominated a self proclaimed Socialist before settling on the establishment front runner, Hillary Clinton. And the Republicans nominated a candidate who had never sought or held elected office before.  And that candidate prevailed in the election by appealing to a constituency that Democrats had come to take for granted - the blue collar working class.   Just exactly how this came to be will be a subject of debate and speculation for years to come.  What is not debatable is the fact that Americans have become uneasy and uncomfortable with politics and politicians as usual.   In the past several years, our nation has faced an enemy unlike any we’ve had before. Following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, we became painfully aware of the growing Islamic terror network. More recently, the Islamic terrorist group ISIS has expanded their sphere of influence by destabilizing the Middle East and launching brazen attacks throughout Europe.  As the United States and our allies have stepped up our traditional lines of defense, we have also had to take measures to defend ourselves from cyber terrorism. Unfortunately, radical Islamic terrorism will likely be a generational challenge for the United States and our allies, and will necessarily be a top priority for President Trump and his administration.   On the domestic front, our new President will face numerous challenges as well. Eight years of President Obama’s government by executive order have taken their toll on the American economy. From Obama Care to the Labor Department’s onerous overtime rules, the economy has been smothered by excessive regulations and needless rules. Ironically, many of these rules and regulations were put into place through President Obama’s reliance on executive orders intended to subvert the will of Congress.  President Trump will be able to undo these overreaching measures using his own executive order authority.  I expect that we will see much of Obama’s legacy undone within months of President Trump being sworn in. 2016 will certainly go down as one of the most unusual and consequential in our nation’s history.  As we move forward in an unsteady and dangerous world, our new President will need our prayers, our optimism and our commitment to helping him achieve his objective to make America great again.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dent.house.gov/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=0BB9863A-B926-45B6-9953-BB32C244EB86,Congressman Dent Expresses Concerns Over Department of Transportation's Changes to Metropolitan Planning Organization Structure,2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,PA,Charlie Dent,D000604,dent.house.gov,,,legacy,"ALLENTOWN, PA – Congressman Charlie Dent (PA-15) expressed concerns regarding a final rule issued by the Federal Highway and Federal Transit Administrations, entitled “Metropolitan Planning Organization Coordination and Planning Area Reform,” that would impact state and local transportation plans and future resource disbursements. “I am disappointed by the final rule that has been issued by the Department of Transportation, and will be working in partnership with local organizations and my colleagues in the House of Representatives to ensure that our communities continue to retain the lead in decisions about our local infrastructure projects. The Metropolitan Planning Organizations in Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District currently serve their residents well by truly understanding and addressing the local needs of the community, providing residents with a voice in the decision-making process, and coordinating with each other to address regional issues that may cross jurisdictional boundaries,” Dent said. This rule would require Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) representing communities within a larger Metropolitan Area—which could include entities in other states and cities with competing interests to those of Pennsylvania’s drivers and residents—to develop a single set of transportation plans and standards. “I am concerned that these new requirements will create unnecessary competition among MPOs, make it harder for local concerns to receive the attention they deserve, and delay responsiveness,” Dent added. “The MPOs in my district currently work with each other, and the state of Pennsylvania, to solve larger regional issues. While the stated goal of this rule is to improve planning within larger Metropolitan Areas, I believe that it has the potential to create new difficulties for MPOs that were already addressing such challenges. Such decisions and collaborative agreements should be handled at the community level and not compelled by a one-size-doesn’t-fit-all approach imposed by a federal agency. I will work with the incoming Administration and through my work in Congress to allow local decisions to remain at the local level.”  Congressman Dent had previously sent a letter to Secretary Anthony Foxx, the head of the U.S. Department of Transportation, regarding this issue, a copy of which has been attached. ### For more information, please visit: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/12/20/2016-30478/metropolitan-planning-organization-coordination-and-planning-area-reform CONTACT: Emily Rauch (202) 225-6411",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dent.house.gov/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=C51641F6-0DF4-40D6-877C-96A619B6F352,Dent Condemns Obama Administration's Abstention from Anti-Israel UN Resolution,2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,PA,Charlie Dent,D000604,dent.house.gov,,,legacy,"ALLENTOWN, PA -- On Friday, the United States allowed the U.N. Security Council to adopt a resolution that Israel cease all settlements in the West Bank, as well as East Jerusalem. Congressman Charlie Dent (PA-15) released the following statement, condemning the actions of the Obama Administration:  ""Congress has repeatedly stated that only direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians must be the basis for security and lasting peace. Make no mistake, President Obama's abstention on the U.N. Resolution is a major setback for peace. Even worse, this abstention is an extension of this President's hostility toward Israel and more specifically his personal disdain for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu,"" Dent said.  ""As bad as this all is, the President's action should surprise no one,"" he continued. ""His abdication from America's traditional global leadership and security role--coupled with a disturbing, dangerous global disengagement and detachment that has created political vacuums--has led to the ascendency and empowerment of Russia and Iran, while leaving longstanding American friends and allies bewildered and dismayed."" Rep. Dent concluded by adding, ""Tragically, President Obama leaves office with a lasting foreign policy legacy that will lead to greater global instability and will haunt America and its allies for years to come.""  ### CONTACT: Emily Rauch (202) 225-6411",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1860,Paulsen Creates Judicial Selection Committee for Minnesota Federal District Court Vacancies,2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MN,Erik Paulsen,P000594,paulsen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.– Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) announced the formation of a judicial selection committee to review candidates and make recommendations to President-elect Trump to fill two vacancies on Minnesota’s federal district court. The committee will be co-chaired by former Chief Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court Kathleen Blatz, and Bert McKasy, of counsel attorney at Lindquist & Vennum, former state representative, and former commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Committee members include Russell Anderson, former Chief Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court; Terry Dempsey, former state representative and Fifth Judicial District judge; Gary Haugen, of counsel attorney at Maslon LLP and faculty member at Vanderbilt University; Rick Morgan, partner at Bowman and Brooke and former assistant U.S. attorney; Dan Rosen, a preeminent trial lawyer and board member of the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee and Jewish Community Relationship Council of Minnesota; John Stanoch, former interim president of the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce, former chief deputy attorney general for the State of Minnesota and a former president of Qwest Communications and chief executive of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Upper Midwest. “This committee is made up of some of Minnesota’s brightest legal minds, with an extremely diverse breadth of professional experience,”said Paulsen. “I have full confidence in their ability to identify the most-qualified individuals to apply the law in a fair manner, and to ensure equal treatment under the law to all Minnesotans. I look forward to reviewing the committee’s work and recommending candidates to the President-elect who will serve Minnesota faithfully.” The new committee will meet in January to begin the process of accepting applications and reviewing candidates to be nominated to the President-elect to fill these vacancies. Congressman Paulsen, a champion of small business and advocate of free enterprise, entrepreneurship, and innovation, serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, the bicameral Joint Economic Committee, and is co-chair of the Congressional Medical Technology Caucus. For more information on Congressman Paulsen’s work in Congress visit paulsen.house.gov.    ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/countering-boko-haram-senator-collins%E2%80%99-legislation-combat-ruthless-terrorist-organization,Countering Boko Haram: Senator Collins Legislation to Combat This Ruthless Terrorist Organization Becomes Law,2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ME,Susan Collins,C001035,www.collins.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In 2014, the terrorist group Boko Haram shocked the world by kidnapping 276 Nigerian schoolgirls, sending them into lives of sexual slavery and forced “marriages.” That horrific act was part of a nearly decade-long campaign of brutal violence by the extremist organization against the people of Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger in West and Central Africa. Last year, in response to the horrific kidnapping, I led all 20 women of the United States Senate in urging Secretary of State John Kerry to seek Boko Haram’s addition to the United Nation’s ISIL & Al-Qaida Sanctions List. Subsequently, the United Nations Security Council voted to subject Boko Haram to a complete asset freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo. This crucial vote followed a Global Terrorism Index Report finding that Boko Haram killed 6,664 people in 2014, more than the Islamic State. As this Congress comes to a close, our nation has taken stronger steps to stop the spread of Boko Haram. In September 2015, the Senate unanimously passed bipartisan legislation I authored calling for a concerted strategy by the State and Defense Departments to counter this threat. The House passed it unanimously in early December of this year, and it was signed into law by the President on December 14th. The need for this legislation was recently underscored when Boko Haram bombers attacked a busy market in Madagali, Nigeria, killing at least 50 and critically wounding many more. Boko Haram has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and continues to commit terrible acts of brutal violence against innocent civilians. My bipartisan legislation signals a renewed congressional commitment to pursuing Boko Haram and bolstering U.S. efforts throughout the region. The already dire situation there will continue to worsen, and this terrorist group will pose a threat not only to African countries but also to the United States and our allies. The passage of my legislation in the House was aided by the strong backing of the Congressional Black Caucus. In a letter of support, the CBC notes that Boko Haram has killed more than 20,000 people since 2009. Additionally, as a result of the terrorist insurgency in northeastern Nigeria and the Lake Chad region, 2.6 million people have become refugees and millions more face starvation. Untold numbers have been tortured, sexually abused, and murdered, creating a humanitarian crisis that may take generations to heal.Indeed, the very name of the terrorist group proclaims its goal of destroying hope for a better future in the region. By definition, Boko Haram means “Western education is forbidden.” We must never forget that the girls of Nigeria were targeted simply because they chose to pursue an education. That mass kidnapping was not an isolated incident: Boko Haram is particularly focused on terrorizing women, girls, and religious minorities, just as the Taliban sought to silence Malala Yousafzai, the teenage girl who was shot by a gunman after she took a school exam in Pakistan. My legislation strengthens our efforts against Boko Haram, including the development of a long-term diplomatic and military strategy to counter the threat. This strategy includes bolstering the government of Nigeria’s ability to protect schoolchildren and to combat gender-based violence and inequality. Combatting oppression against women and girls and increasing their opportunities around the world has been a long-standing priority of mine. This legislation sends a clear signal to the international community that these girls are not forgotten and that America will not sit idly by and allow these atrocities committed by Boko Haram or any other terrorist group to continue.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/tester-daines-zinke-bullock-fox-stand-against-anti-semitism-and-white-nationalism,"Tester, Daines, Zinke, Bullock, Fox Stand Against Anti-Semitism and White Nationalism",2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.27.16 Tester, Daines, Zinke, Bullock, Fox Stand Against Anti-Semitism and White Nationalism (Montana) U.S. Senators Jon Tester, Steve Daines, U.S. Representative Ryan Zinke, Governor Steve Bullock and Attorney General Tim Fox are standing together against anti-Semitism and white nationalism in Montana and across the nation. In an open letter to the nation, Montana's top elected leaders stood together to send a bipartisan message condemning attacks on the Jewish community. We stand firmly together to send a clear message that ignorance, hatred and threats of violence are unacceptable and have no place in the town of Whitefish, or in any other community in Montana or across this nation,Montana's elected officials wrote.We say to those few who seek to publicize anti-Semitic views that they shall find no safe haven here. The letter is available below: December 27, 2016 Dear Fellow Americans, As we close out this year and look toward the future, we as Montana's elected leaders are focused on the values that reflect our true character. Therefore, we condemn attacks on our religious freedom manifesting in a group of anti-Semites. We stand firmly together to send a clear message that ignorance, hatred and threats of violence are unacceptable and have no place in the town of Whitefish, or in any other community in Montana or across this nation. We say to those few who seek to publicize anti-Semitic views that they shall find no safe haven here. We offer our full support to the Jewish community, Montana families, businesses, faith organizations and law enforcement officers as they ensure the security of all our communities. We will address these threats directly and forcefully, putting our political differences aside to stand up for what's right. That's the Montana way, and the American way. Rest assured, any demonstration or threat of intimidation against any Montanan's religious liberty will not be tolerated. It takes all Montanans working together to eradicate religious intolerance. We are encouraged that so many Montanans from a variety of religious backgrounds have joined us in condemning this extreme ideology. God bless the great state of Montana and the United States of America. U.S. Senator Jon Tester U.S. Senator Steve Daines U.S. Representative Ryan Zinke Governor Steve Bullock Attorney General Tim Fox Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D5C0AF62-2F30-4CCF-BDBD-A6025F69A12E,Sasse Statement on Trump's Cybersecurity Adviser,2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,NE,Ben Sasse,S001197,www.sasse.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement regarding President-elect Donald Trump's naming of Thomas Bossert as his chief adviser on homeland security, counterterrorism, and cybersecurity.""As hacks from Russia and China make clear, cybersecurity is national security. Washington isn't prepared for these new challenges and we need a complete review of both our offensive and defensive cyber-doctrines. There's tough work ahead and Mr. Bossert has an important role in protecting Americans from new threats.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://jasonsmith.house.gov/media-center/weekly-capitol-report/making-a-list-checking-it-twice,"Making a List, Checking it Twice",2016-12-26,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,MO,Jason Smith,S001195,jasonsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the New Year quickly approaches, many people are making a list of New Year’s resolutions and goals for 2017. While those lists often include getting in better shape, eating healthier or spending more time with loved ones – the incoming Trump Administration is working on a different kind of list. Theirs is a list of priorities, changes, repeals and policies to help move our economy forward, enhance the security of Americans and truly once again make our country great. Topping the list of President-elect Trump’s priorities heading into 2017 is a day one repeal of so many of the regulations which are holding back innovation, access to care and economic prosperity in this country. President Obama continually went around Congress and the will of the American people to implement his big government, liberal agenda with the stroke of a pen. Through executive orders, executive ‘guidance memorandums’, and administrative rules and regulations, President Obama consistently sided with left leaning groups and lobbyists in a direct assault on our economy and our Constitution. President Obama so often went around Congress that on over 20 different occasions the Supreme Court ruled with unanimous decisions that the actions of the President or his Administration were unconstitutional or illegal. However, what President Obama will soon learn is that when you enact an agenda without the approval of Congress or the American people via the Executive pen, your policies can just as easily be undone with the stroke of that very pen. As a result, President Trump on day one will have the power to undue much of the damage done over the last 8 years. Next on that list, Congress will work with President Trump to reform our healthcare system in order to lower costs for patients and put you back in control of your healthcare choices, not the federal government. This week I met with those on the front lines witnessing the failure of Obamacare in southeast and south central Missouri during my healthcare roundtables. From Farmington to Kennett, to Poplar Bluff, to West Plains, to Rolla and Cape Girardeau, there was unanimous agreement that our current healthcare system simply isn’t working and an overhaul is needed to put the power of choice and competition on the side of the patient. I look forward to working with the new Trump Administration during the first 100 days to repeal Obamacare and begin the work to provide Americans with affordable and high-quality healthcare coverage options. Fixing our country’s broken tax code is also a major priority list item for myself and the incoming Trump Administration. We need a simpler, fairer and flatter tax system which lowers rates on the middle class, gets the IRS off the back and out of the lives of families and farmers, and makes our American companies competitive. We will use the tax code to incentivize companies to expand, locate and hire here in the U.S. while holding accountable those who chose to locate elsewhere. We can make our economy great again and it starts with developing a tax code which rewards those who choose to invest in ingenuity and the American worker. Also on the agenda list for 2017 is to restore a sense of security to American families. That starts with ending the talk of relocating terrorists housed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba on domestic American soil and continues by standing tall against those who wish to do American soldiers and families harm. Those efforts are further fulfilled by seeing through President Trump’s commitment to place enhanced security, personnel, and a wall on our southern border. I am dedicated to seeing these efforts through and will work with our incoming President to help authorize the resources and tools needed to help enhance the security and safety of American families. ‎ As a country, we have so much to look forward to in 2017. 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue will soon be home to a reformer who shares our vision that step one is getting Washington off the backs and out of the lives of American families and small business owners. Our White House will be home to someone dedicated to making our lives easier and who wants to remove the regulatory red tape, the tax code complexity and the “Washington, DC knows best” mentality that has marred the last 8 years in this country. Our next President wants to bet on the American worker, not enact policies which push workers overseas. The list of goals and plans the Trump White House and Congress are working together on is an impressive one – and I am truly excited about what it will mean for my friends and neighbors in south central and southeast Missouri. It is high time the needs of the Washington elite and bureaucrats take a back seat to those of American families and workers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398658,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.26.16,2016-12-26,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Celebrating All Twelve Days of Christmas “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is one of the most popular carols for this time of the year. Its alliteration like “swans a swimming,” outlandish gifts like “twelve lords a leaping,” and repetition make it an enjoyable song to sing and hear. Artists from Perry Como to John Denver and the Muppets have recorded their own versions that are played during the Christmas season. The exact origins of the lyrics have been lost to time. Some theories suggest the song originated in France, while others point to the north of England. But we should not let the unusual nature of the song’s gifts or uncertainty about the origins of the carol to take away from the point that there are twelve days of Christmas. When decorations appear in stores and promotions for holiday shopping start in October, it may seem that everything is building towards Christmas Day on December 25th alone. But the days after Christmas have their own meanings, too. Take Boxing Day. On December 26th, Britain and many countries with strong cultural ties to it celebrate Boxing Day, although it is not a tradition that made it to the British colonies that became the United States. Professor Mark Connelly of the University of Kent notes, “While Christmas Day was about being at home with your family, Boxing Day was a time to get outside, to get away from the home.”1 Fox hunting and horse racing are pastimes often associated with the day. It is also a popular day for soccer, just as many Americans look forward to watching football on our Thanksgiving. Perhaps the name of the holiday came from the boxed gifts given by aristocrats to their servants for the Christmas season. Or perhaps the name came from the church boxes which contained donations for the poor and were opened the day after Christmas. This suggestion seems appropriate, for December 26th is also St. Stephen’s Day. The day’s link to charity is immortalized in the first lines of the traditional Christmas carol, “Good King Wenceslas:” Good King Wenceslas looked out On the Feast of Stephen When the snow lay 'round about Deep and crisp and even As the song goes, when the king looked out on St. Stephen’s Day, he saw a poor man gathering fuel. Wenceslas called for his page to gather food and drink to take to the poor man’s house. As the pair went forth to their task on the freezing day, the page found warmth by following in the footsteps of the good king. Another tradition involving good kings comes at the end of the Twelve Days, on January 6th, which is Epiphany. The kings celebrated on this day are known variously as the Three Kings, the Three Wise Men, or the Magi. We are familiar with them through the Book of Matthew and carols such as “We Three Kings.” Epiphany celebrates the visit of the Three Kings to Jesus in Bethlehem bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In Spain and Latin America, the day is also known as “Three Kings’ Day.” Just as children here write letters to Santa, in cultures that celebrate this day, they write to the Three Kings asking for gifts. On January 5th, the kings arrive in a parade atop live camels and accompanied by floats and pages tossing candy into the crowd. That night, children put out bread and water for the camels and awake the next morning to find their shoes filled with presents from the kings.2 Like the lyrics of “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” many of these holiday celebrations originated in past ages, when the world looked much different, and for reasons we might not even know with certainty. I believe it is a testament to the magic of the Christmas season that these celebrations remain vital and beloved in many places around the modern world. Whether they are spent outdoors, as Boxing Day is often done, or performing acts of charity, as the carol of “Good King Wenceslas” celebrates, I hope you can treasure all the days of Christmas. By the end of the Twelve Days of Christmas, we will have begun the 115th Congress and will hopefully do great things for America during this session. On the eighteenth day of this Congress, Donald Trump will be inaugurated, and then we will have real change and hope. If you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office.  You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. Also on my website is the latest material from my office, including information on votes recently taken on the floor of the House of Representatives. 1http://www.historyextra.com/feature/brief-history-boxing-day 2http://www.spain.info/en_US/reportajes/la_magica_espera_de_los_reyes_magos.html ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399158,Rep. Stivers' Statement on the Passage of the UN Security Council Resolution,2016-12-26,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Stivers' Statement on the Passage of the UN Security Council Resolution f t # e Washington, December 26, 2016 ""President Obama's highly unprecedented decision to not veto this resolution is yet another representation of his refusal to support Israel - our greatest ally in the Middle East - and I strongly disagree with the action. I am looking forward to working in the new Congress to strengthen Israel's standing and security in the region."" share: f t Regarding the passage of the United Nations Security Council resolution condemning Israel's presence in the West Bank, the following can be attributed to Congressman Steve Stivers (R-OH):    ""President Obama's highly unprecedented decision to not veto this resolution is yet another representation of his refusal to support Israel - our greatest ally in the Middle East - and I strongly disagree with the action. I am looking forward to working in the new Congress to strengthen Israel's standing and security in the region.""   -30- f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/12-photos-2016,12 photos from 2016,2016-12-26,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,IA,David Young,Y000066,davidyoung.house.gov,,,legacy,"Friends, Throughout the year I’ve had many wonderful opportunities to meet with and listen to you and your neighbors, the folks I am humbled to represent. As 2016 comes to a close, I wanted to share with you a photo from each month - every image depicts a moment from a fantastic year working for Iowans of the Third Congressional District. JANUARY Jack Oberman, an Iowa Midshipman at the United States Naval Academy, was my guest to the president’s State of the Union address this January. Before the address, during which the president outlined his vision for 2016 to members of Congress, I had the opportunity to show Jack a bit of the historic building that houses the legislative branch: the U.S. Capitol. FEBRUARY I led a roundtable discussion alongside the Iowa Farm Bureau for Iowa farmers, agricultural producers, transportation industry leaders, and other key Iowa stakeholders to talk directly with representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Transportation about the need for a long term agriculture-transportation strategy. Our conversation provided an opportunity for members of our community to share their feedback, concerns and ideas directly with the federal agencies who can play a big role in helping and restraining our agricultural economy. MARCH Each year, I host Coffee with My Congressman meetings in all 16 counties of the Third Congressional District. Whether in Truro or Hamburg, Urbandale (pictured above), Macedonia, or elsewhere, the folks I met with voiced their ideas, concerns and opinions about many issues of great importance to our state and our country. I enjoy these meetings, for democracy is a two way street, and it is through ongoing conversations that I am best able to represent the Third Congressional District.  APRIL   Each month I make it my mission to meet with and listen to Iowans in all 16 counties of the Third Congressional District. During a visit to Glenwood High School, I had a nice time speaking with students about my role in Congress and answering their questions. I also spent time spent talking with Iowa's young leaders this year during other visits, including school tours, the annual Youth Leadership Summit I host, and visits from school groups to my office in our nation's capital.  MAY   I visited Bondurant-Farrar High School to surprise the winner of this year's Third Congressional District Congressional Art Competition, tenth grader Kallan Paulsen, before her classmates and teachers. Kallan’s artwork, “The Smirk,” was displayed this year in the U.S. Capitol Building for members of Congress and visitors from all over the world. JUNE   I enjoyed visiting with the Spencer family from Waukee in my Washington, D.C. office, and reminding them of all of the different services my office offers to Iowans in the Third Congressional District. They stopped by for a meeting before taking a tour of the U.S. Capitol building with a member of my Washington, D.C. staff.  JULY I organized and hosted Iowa Senior Wellness and Security Expos in Des Moines, Creston and Council Bluffs. These expos were three unique and valuable opportunities providing Iowa seniors with a one-stop-shop of federal, state, and local resources. We had a great turnout at each event, and I enjoyed and appreciated meeting with everyone who attended!  AUGUST   I hosted my second annual Veterans Care Fairs in Des Moines and Treynor to provide Iowa veterans and their families with information and resources about benefits, programs and services available to them. Members of my staff were in attendance to remind folks of the constituent services we offer, including help with veterans’ benefits, assistance in dealing with federal government agencies, and much more. To honor living and deceased Vietnam Era Veterans and their families, I organized Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemorations featuring veteran and former Iowa Congressman Leonard Boswell. These commemorations included a presentation of the colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of our national anthem, and special remarks.  SEPTEMBER The Mahlstadt family from Indianola joined me in my Washington, D.C. office to receive the 2016 Angels in Adoption award, a distinction for which I nominated them in August. I first got to know the Mahlstadts when my office assisted navigating difficulties they encountered while adopting their daughters, and they are more than deserving of this honorable award.  OCTOBER Fall is an extraordinary season here in Iowa, and I conducted my annual “Bringing in the Harvest” agriculture tour in October to meet with our busy and hardworking farmers during harvest time, and thank them for all of the remarkable work they do to feed and fuel the world. It was an honor to have Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey join, and we made a number of stops throughout the Third Congressional District, including a visit to the Randolph family farm (pictured above).  NOVEMBER Every November 11th, we recognize those who have answered our nation’s call to service and honor the sacrifices of all our nation’s veterans. This year I spoke with veterans, service members, and their families at Veterans Day events in Shenandoah (pictured above) and Hamburg, and reiterated my commitment to ensuring our veterans, service members, and families have access to the services and resources they need.  DECEMBER I visited with folks at an American Red Cross event to talk about the different ways Congress is working to ensure our service members and veterans have the resources and support they need. It was an honor to recognize our service members and write holiday cards to those serving overseas, thanking them for all they do for our country.  Take care.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-washingtonians-serving-one-another,COLUMN: Washingtonians Serving One Another,2016-12-26,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"The great philosopher Bob Hope once said, “my idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?” He has a point. This time of year, Christians celebrate the birth of our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the true ‘reason for the season,’ as we say, and the Christmas season reminds us to serve our neighbors. Part of what makes this season so special, beyond families traveling long distance to gather together, or the music of Bing Crosby in the background while enjoying a roaring fire, is the love that people in Central Washington show one another in their communities. There are so many recent examples in our cities and towns that I wanted to share a few. In Kennewick, a school bus driver and veteran from the U.S. Army noticed a little boy on his route who did not have gloves or a hat in freezing temperatures. The driver contacted a school administrator to find the little boy’s classroom and gave him a new pair of gloves and a hat to keep him warm. In Ritzville and several cities in the Mid-Columbia, local law enforcement participated in a community service effort called “Shop with a Cop.” The officers accompanied children to shop for Christmas presents, in the process giving the children the opportunity for a positive interaction that builds trust with law enforcement. This year, the Union Gospel Mission in Yakima has provided 45,000 ‘bed nights’ this year in addition to more than 155,000 meals. In Moses Lake, local firefighters executed “Operation Warm” to give 120 winter coats to children in need at local elementary schools. Okanogan Middle School students collected food, gift certificates, and donations to give meals to fourteen local families as part of a “Thanks and Giving” project. In my hometown of Sunnyside, a local church recently prepared turkey dinners to feed 100 hungry and homeless people in the community. One of the best parts of representing the Fourth Congressional District is the opportunity to highlight positive stories about our community that inspire people from Oroville in Okanogan County all the way to Touchet, Walla Walla County. If you have a story about someone you know in our community who deserves recognition, I invite you to send it to my Yakima office at 402 E. Yakima Avenue, Suite #445, Yakima, WA 98901. We remember the men and women in the Armed Forces who are stationed around the world and unable to spend the holidays with their families. We are grateful for their service, which allows us to celebrate the blessing of freedoms we enjoy as Americans. In Scripture, Jesus says, “truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” That is the true Christmas spirit. Our community thrives when we serve each other as these local examples attest, and we do not have to wait for the holidays. I hope you enjoy this blessed season with your loved ones, and that you look forward to a joyous new year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/columns?ID=068547C7-5CB9-401A-87AC-D16C4CB81EC3,Delivering Results in 2016,2016-12-26,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Ohioans are tired of Washington gridlock and want to see things getting done that will help them and their families. That's how I feel. We don't all agree on what those specific policies should be, but in general most of us just want to see Republicans and Democrats work together for the greater good. That's what I've tried to do over the past six years during my first term in the U.S. Senate, and I've had a lot of success finding common ground, not on every issue, but on some important ones. In my first term, more than 50 of my bills were signed into law by President Obama. These measures are making a difference for working families in Ohio. At yearend, I like to give a report on specific progress made over the past year. I work for you, and you deserve to know what my office and I have accomplished. In 2016 alone, more than a dozen of my bills were signed into law. For a more extensive list of 2016 accomplishments, please go on our website, at Portman.Senate.Gov, but below is a summary. My top priority has been creating more and better jobs in Ohio. This year, I successfully fought for Ohio workers who have been hurt by the unfair trade practices of our competitors around the world. I co-authored the ENFORCE Act, which helps Ohio manufacturers by cracking down on foreign competitors who launder their goods through other countries to get around our tariffs. Trade laws I’ve authored, including the ENFORCE Act and the Level the Playing Field Act, also helped a number of Ohio companies—including steel companies like AK Steel in Middletown, ArcelorMittal in Cleveland, and U.S. Steel in Loraine—win 2016 trade cases at the International Trade Commission. I also authored several laws this year that protect our environment. Earlier this month, President Obama signed into law my bill to establish public-private partnerships to help our National Park system reduce its $12 billion backlog of maintenance projects and preserve national treasures like Cuyahoga Valley National Park. He also signed into law my measure stopping the Army Corps of Engineers from dumping dredged material into the Cleveland Harbor without permission from the state of Ohio, my bill to help finish Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati, my bill to fund the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative—which is helping to clean up Lake Erie—and my bill to save nearly 2,000 jobs by continuing to clean up the former Piketon Gaseous Diffusion plant in Piketon, Ohio. But maybe the most important bill that became law this past year was the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, or CARA. It’s the first comprehensive reform to federal addiction policy in at least 20 years and it modernizes the federal government’s response to the epidemic of heroin and prescription drug addiction that is devastating Ohio. A new study shows that Ohio leads the country in overdoses and we now lose more of our fellow citizens to overdose deaths than car accidents. CARA authorizes $181 million annually in new federal investments in prevention, treatment, and long-term recovery programs, and it channels that funding toward the programs that have been proven to work. I’ve secured a down payment on fully funding CARA in the spending bills and I also fought for legislation in the spending bill for this year that provides additional funds to empower states like Ohio to fight this epidemic. CARA and this additional funding will help save lives, reduce crime, and reunite families and communities that have been torn apart by this epidemic. But my job as a United States Senator is about more than just writing laws. I’ve also held the administration accountable to ensure that our laws are being enforced. For example, this year, as Chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, I led a bipartisan investigation into human trafficking that examined how the federal government had placed migrant children with a human trafficking ring in Marion, Ohio. After law enforcement arrested them, the ringleaders were sentenced to a total of 15 years in prison in June. Our investigation also revealed that backpage.com—the online leader in commercial sex—likely edited their advertisements to conceal evidence of sex trafficking minors. Ohioans also hired me to be their advocate with the federal government. In 2016, my casework team worked on more than 3,000 new cases for Ohioans who came to our office in need of help with problems like Social Security checks, getting a passport in a hurry, or helping veterans get the health care that they deserve. Over my first term in the United States Senate, we successfully resolved 84 percent of more than 16,700 cases. This past year, we resolved more than 87 percent successfully. If I can help you or your family navigate the federal bureaucracy, you can contact my office at Portman.Senate.gov or by calling 1-800-205-6446. I'm proud of what we were able to accomplish for Ohio this past year, and I’m not slowing down. With a new Congress and a new Administration I hope we can make even more progress on big issues like getting the economy going and restoring American global leadership. Just like 2016, my focus will be on delivering results for Ohio. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z