url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=227,"Walkinshaw, Ranking Member Garcia, Members of Congress Demand Answers from OPM as Trump Workforce Purge Triggers Federal Retirement Backlog",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), Representatives Robert Garcia (CA-42), Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA-08), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), and Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Government Operations, pressed the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) for immediate answers after new reporting highlighted severe delays in federal retirement processing following the Trump Administration’s Deferred Resignation Program (DRP) and other workforce reduction policies.

In a letter to OPM Director Scott Kupor, the lawmakers warned the delays are not an accident, but the predictable result of shrinking the workforce without a plan.

“This foreseeable and avoidable administrative failure is the clear result of an Administration that has prioritized a purge of the federal civil service over government efficiency, leaving thousands of federal employees in administrative and financial limbo,” the lawmakers wrote.

The lawmakers warned retirees are now “trapped in a prolonged cycle of delayed payments and benefits, lost paperwork, limited communication, and financial and administrative uncertainty,” driven by a surge in applications colliding with understaffed HR offices and broken communication channels for separating employees.

“In November of this year alone, OPM received nearly 23,400 retirement applications… [and] OPM’s retirement inventory has grown to more than 48,000 pending applications,” the lawmakers wrote.

“Federal workers earned these benefits through decades of service,” said Rep. Walkinshaw. “They deserve timely processing and clear answers—not bureaucratic chaos created by reckless workforce policies.”

The lawmakers requested OPM respond by January 29, 2026 with specific steps to restore retiree communication, address stalled cases across agencies and payroll providers, assess the impact of HR staffing losses, and detail which agencies have fully adopted OPM’s Online Retirement Application (ORA).

Full letter text follows and is available here.

###

The Honorable Scott Kupor

Director The Office of Personnel Management

1900 E Street, NW, Washington,

D.C Washington, D.C. 20415

Dear Director Kupor,

We write to express concern regarding the substantial delays in federal retirement processing recently reported on by Federal News Network, following the Trump Administration’s implementation of the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP) and other workforce reduction policies. This foreseeable and avoidable administrative failure is the clear result of an Administration that has prioritized a purge of the federal civil service over government efficiency, leaving thousands of federal employees in administrative and financial limbo.

That priority was made explicit in a recent blog post in which the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) referred to the forced departure of more than 300,000 federal employees, either through reductions in force (RIFs) or through pressure to leave via the DRP or the Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA), as a “success.” The tone of this post makes clear that the Administration’s primary objective over the past year has been to gut the federal workforce at any cost. Federal employees, who devoted decades to careers in public service and provided valuable, non-political expertise to federal agencies now find themselves trapped in a prolonged cycle of delayed payments and benefits, lost paperwork, limited communication, and financial and administrative uncertainty. This is a direct result of the Administration’s eagerness to force departures without adequate planning.

As outlined in the recent reporting, the federal retirement process requires coordinated action across multiple entities. Retirement applications are first prepared and reviewed by an individual’s employing agency human resources office, then processed by payroll providers, and then transmitted to OPM for adjudication, interim annuity determination, and final benefit calculation. The influx of new retirement applications under the DRP, combined with government-wide RIFs and early-out packages have reduced both the capacity and staffing levels of agency human resources offices and supporting organizations. This has put the federal retirement system under enormous strain.

In November of this year alone, OPM received nearly 23,400 retirement applications. They received 20,300 in October, more than triple the volumes seen during the same period in 2024. In all, OPM’s retirement inventory has grown to more than 48,000 pending applications, nearly four times the number of applications the agency aims to have on hand at once. Breakdowns or delays at any stage of the processing pipeline can stall an entire application. This surge of applications caused by the Administration’s policies has now overwhelmed agency HR offices and payroll providers before many cases even reach OPM, a bottleneck the Administration should have anticipated and planned for if it were serious about efficiency. As Rob Shriver, former Acting Director of OPM during the Biden Administration, observed, “HR was already understaffed—now lots have left, and they have an ever-increasing workload. It’s all going to create backlogs.” Shriver, in the same article, went on to note the “incredible frustration” from DRP employees and others currently trying to separate from government service.

OPM is continuing to prioritize electronic retirement submissions and broader modernization efforts, which, while necessary, are insufficient to address one of the core drivers of current delays. Agencies are facing significant understaffing in their human resources offices at the same time that many employees who departed under the DRP lost access to internal communication systems upon separation and were provided with no points of contact. As a result, retiring employees are often unable to reach already overburdened HR staff to correct errors, confirm receipt of paperwork, or obtain basic status updates. This further compounds delays and administrative failures across the retirement process.

The scale of current delays was foreseeable given the Administration’s actions to purge the federal workforce. If the Administration cared at all about efficiency, the impact of its policies on agency human resources capacity and retirement processing should have been anticipated and planned for prior to implementation of policies that promoted mass employee departures. Because this did not occur, the federal retirement system has been reduced to chaos and continues to face unprecedented inefficiencies. As a result, our constituents are unable to receive the benefits they have rightly earned after years of service to the American people.

Given our concerns, we request a response to the following questions by January 29, 2026:

1. What guidance has OPM provided to agencies to ensure that retiring employees who lost access to government email and internal systems can continue to communicate with human resources offices using personal contact information?

2. What steps is OPM taking to address retirement applications that remain stalled at agencies or payroll providers and have not yet been transmitted to OPM for processing?

3. How is OPM assessing the impact of agency human resources staffing reductions on retirement processing delays across the federal government?

4. How does OPM track and account for delays that occur at agencies and payroll providers, rather than solely within OPM’s own retirement processing timelines?

5. OPM has heavily advertised its new digital retirement tool, the Online Retirement Application (ORA), and promoted its role in retirement processing reform. Please provide a list of named agencies (with components when applicable) that have wholly adopted and launched ORA for their entire HR teams and workforce. For agencies that remain in interim status, please provide a list of agencies (by component when applicable) and what the adoption status is, and the estimate for full usage. Please also provide what number and percentage of current cases are and are not using ORA, what the reasons are for non-adoption and usage, and what steps remain to be taken by OPM and employing agencies for full implementation.

6. Please list any step and/or discrete action under the end-to-end retirement processing process that is not captured by ORA.

7. What has been the impact on OPM’s customer service and support for the existing retiree population amidst the growing number of new retirements, and have there been any staffing or work assignment changes within the components that manage this process since December 2024?

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March 28, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

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Walkinshaw Statement on Court Victory for AFGE and VA Employees

March 13, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

Walkinshaw Demands Accountability in Explosive DOGE Social Security Breach Allegations

March 10, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/warner-kaine-scott-slam-trump-administrations-sudden-halt-virginia,"Warner, Kaine, Scott Slam Trump Administration's Sudden Halt of Virginia Offshore Wind Project",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine along with U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (all D-VA) issued the following statement:

“Despite our senior roles on the Senate Intelligence and Armed Services Committees, the administration has failed to share any new information that supports this sudden and sweeping move to halt all offshore wind development, including a project off the coast of Virginia that is already almost complete and operational. That silence speaks volumes, especially given the president’s longstanding, well-documented opposition to offshore wind – and the promises he’s made to his donors to put his thumb on the scale against certain energy projects. This reckless, haphazard approach puts billions of dollars in private investment at risk, threatens thousands of good-paying American jobs coming to a veteran-heavy area, undermines energy security, and damages the credibility of the United States government. Virginia’s offshore wind project has undergone years of rigorous review and represents a critical step toward strengthening our energy independence, lowering energy costs for American families, growing our clean energy economy, and positioning the Commonwealth as a global leader in this industry. When a project that has met every requirement is suddenly stopped without explanation, it is fair to ask whether this decision is being driven by evidence, or by personal and political grievance.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcclellan-statement-trump-administration-pausing-coastal-virginia-offshore,McClellan Statement on Trump Administration Pausing Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) issued the following statement after the Trump Administration’s Department of Interior ordered a 90-day suspension of work for the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project:

“After waging open war on clean energy and energy efficiency projects, the Trump Administration has now paused all offshore wind projects. This reckless action threatens our nation’s ability to meet growing energy demand, maintain grid security and keep thousands of jobs this holiday season. One of these projects, the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project, fills a significant gap in our Commonwealth’s push to supply reliable power to consumers and maintain our existing energy infrastructure. Its suspension hurts our status as a leader in this space and the clean energy industry as a whole and will drive up electricity costs for Virginia families.

“As a state legislator, I championed the Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA) in 2020, which made Virginia the first state in the South to adopt a 100% clean energy standard. Today’s decision to pause the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project when it’s nearly complete and operational violates the spirit of the VCEA and could have profound impacts on our Commonwealth.

“The Trump Administration’s pause undermines our national security by hindering the ability to meet the energy needs of Virginia-based assets from the world’s largest naval base, to the shipyards and the Pentagon itself. And with Virginia serving as the data center capital of the world, this will only make it harder for the U.S. to compete in the race for more reliable and sophisticated AI. Both of these industries contribute to our exploding energy demand, and we must leverage every available technology to meet those needs.

“Our goal for a cleaner, more competitive and more affordable Commonwealth should not be at the mercy of this President’s irrational hatred of our current energy projects. This latest attack on clean energy goes against what we have known for years: that we must invest in energy efficiency and clean energy programs if we hope to strengthen our national security and invest in advanced technologies. I’ll continue to work within Congress to ensure this project resumes in a timely manner to put Virginians first and keep costs down with renewable, reliable power.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-subramanyam-statement-escalating-violence-bangladesh,Rep. Subramanyam Statement on Escalating Violence in Bangladesh,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) said:

""I am concerned by the escalating violence in Bangladesh following the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a youth leader who planned to run for parliament. In the aftermath of his death, newspaper offices have been burned and further loss of life has been reported.

I am deeply troubled by the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu factory worker in Bangladesh, who was lynched after being accused of blasphemy. This act of violence is appalling, and must be investigated. Since the recent change in government, accounts of attacks against Hindu and other minority communities have increased, including on homes and temples. In light of this violence, I remain committed to promoting stability and to protecting Hindus and minority communities in Bangladesh and around the world.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/subramanyam-and-timmons-release-new-report-deadly-dca-crash-and-dod-use,Subramanyam and Timmons Release New Report on Deadly DCA Crash and DOD Use of Civilian Airspace,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"December 22, 2025

WASHINGTON—Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs Chairman William Timmons (R-S.C.) and Ranking Member Suhas Subramanyam (D-Va.) today released a staff report titled, “The DCA Incident: Assessing the Military’s Role in the National Airspace Tragedy.” The report analyzes how the fatal mid-air collision between American Airlines flight 5342 and a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter occurred and determined what failures – procedural, regulatory, or operational – within the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) may have contributed to the crash. Following the Military and Foreign Affairs Subcommittee’s investigation, it is recommending that the DoD Inspector General conduct a comprehensive evaluation of all operations in civilian airspace within the United States with an emphasis on safety, coordination, and compliance.

“The tragic accident at DCA on January 29th and thirty near misses overall have revealed that the military’s current operations fall woefully short of keeping both military personnel and American civilians safe in Washington, D.C. airspace. Several briefings on this issue have highlighted the pressing need for clearer military flight protocols, enhanced training, and regular audits of flight operations and capabilities within the DoD. It is crucial that military personnel are given the tools and training they need to navigate this complex airspace and prevent accidents and miscommunications like these from ever happening again. The Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs remains committed to this investigation and is upholding its responsibility to conduct oversight of U.S. military operations to ensure that both members of the military and civilians remain safe when sharing the nation’s skies,” said the lawmakers.

Below are key findings from the report:

Communication issues between the Black Hawk and the tower contributed to the January 29th crash: On March 11, 2025, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released its Aviation Investigation Preliminary Report. The findings of this report indicate that discrepancies in altitudes were reported by the pilot and the instructor pilot of the Black Hawk. Similarly, the report mentions that seventeen seconds before the collision, the tower directed the Black Hawk to ‘pass behind the’ Canadair Regional Jet (CRJ). However, according to the helicopter’s cockpit voice recorder (CVR), a portion of ‘pass behind the’ may not have been heard by the crew.

Night vision goggles (NVGs) limited the Black Hawk pilots’ ability to see the American Airlines plane on January 29th: NVGs make it especially difficult to see peripherally and during flights with excessive bright light, like that seen coming from Washington and DCA. In an investigative hearing held by NTSB, Dr. Stephen Casner, a human factors expert, testified that when an aircraft is approaching head-on, it will not appear to be moving closer, and this approaching aircraft often looks the same as buildings and other objects while wearing NVGs, making it extremely difficult for pilots to detect oncoming traffic. Likewise, NVGs make it nearly impossible to detect color, which is critical when trying to detect the red and green anti-collision lights positioned on the side of aircraft.

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out was not transmitting on the Black Hawk, preventing other aircraft and the public from detecting it on January 29th: Rick Dressler of Metro Aviation, which operates medical helicopters, stated during the NTSB hearing that his company’s goal of maintaining “extra vigilance” while transporting critically ill passengers is “an extreme challenge when those aircraft [military helicopters] are not usually transmitting ADS-B” meaning the company “can’t see them on his traffic system” and has to rely on see and avoid methods. The NTSB’s investigation is still ongoing, and it is still being evaluated whether having ADS-B Out transmitting would have made a difference on the night of the January 29th collision.

The Army lacks certain knowledge of DCA airspace: Chief Warrant Officer Five David Van Vechten stated during the NTSB hearing that Army Black Hawk pilots are not trained on fixed-wing aircraft approaches to DCA runways, and this is based on “personal knowledge.” Additionally, when asked if there was a unit he was concerned about, Dressler of Metro Aviation, stated that when flying, the 12th Aviation Battalion, the unit of the U.S. Army Aviation Branch to which the Black Hawk was assigned, make his company “uncomfortable” due to what he described as “gross misunderstandings” of the airspace, including instances of military helicopters landing on MedSTAR helipads without prior notice.

The DoD to DCA hotline was offline, preventing direct communication between the Pentagon and DCA, showing the broader breakdown of critical air traffic coordination: This hotline, maintained by DoD, was severed during the construction of a new air traffic control tower at the Pentagon. Previously, the hotline was used to allow for seamless communication between the Pentagon’s air traffic controllers and DCA’s. FAA Aviation officials only discovered the hotline was offline after the May 1 near miss incident, when two commercial jets were forced to abandon their approaches to DCA due to an Army Black Hawk occupying the airspace.

Based on the findings, the Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs is recommending that the DoD Inspector General conduct a broad evaluation of the DoD’s use of U.S. civilian airspace and its adherence to established aviation safety protocols. Such an evaluation would provide Congress and the public with an independent assessment of risks and opportunities to strengthen safety in shared airspace.

Read the report here.

Read the letter to Inspector General Moring here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcclellan-kelly-pocan-introduce-resolution-reaffirm-us-commitment-ending,"McClellan, Kelly, Pocan Introduce Resolution to Reaffirm U.S. Commitment to Ending Pediatric HIV/AIDS",2025-12-20,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – In case you missed it: Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Congresswoman Robin Kelly (NY-02) and Congressman Mark Pocan (WI-02) introduced H.Res. 955 to strengthen U.S. leadership in the global fight against HIV/AIDS by advancing prevention, expanding treatment for women and children and supporting families worldwide.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global efforts against HIV/AIDS have driven progress, with new HIV infections falling by 40% and HIV-related deaths dropping by 54% since 2010. Despite these advances, HIV continues to pose a serious threat, with approximately 40.8 million people living with HIV at the end of 2024, including 21 million women and 1.4 million children worldwide. Each year, an estimated 1.3 million women and girls living with HIV become pregnant each year. Without interventions, HIV transmission rates between a mother and her child during pregnancy, labor, delivery and breastfeeding range from 15 to 45%.

“Working with our global allies and partners, the United States has driven meaningful progress in reducing pediatric HIV/AIDS and curbing perinatal transmission. But we still have more work to do,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Antiretroviral therapies help people live long, healthy lives by lowering the viral loads and strengthening the immune systems of those infected. This resolution supports the benchmarks set by the United Nations to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 by expanding prevention, increasing testing and treatment and maintaining global commitment.”

“In the midst of President Trump’s attacks against PEPFAR, the most successful global health program, it’s more important than ever that Congress recommits to ending HIV and AIDS worldwide,” said Congresswoman Kelly, Chair of the CBC Health Braintrust. “In particular, 1.4 million children live with HIV across the globe, and the U.S. has the power to end AIDS, eliminate new pediatric HIV infections, and support those affected. I am leading the fight to reauthorize PEPFAR, which supports orphans and vulnerable children, and save lives from AIDS.”

“PEPFAR has saved millions of lives and has proven that U.S. leadership can turn the tide against HIV/AIDS, but too many children continue to be left behind,” said Congressman Mark Pocan, Chair of the HIV/AIDS Caucus. “This resolution reaffirms America’s commitment to ending pediatric HIV/AIDS by strengthening PEPFAR’s leadership and advancing evidence-based, child-focused strategies. With the tools and knowledge we have today, ending pediatric AIDS is not just possible, it’s a moral obligation.”

H.Res. 955 reaffirms the United States’ commitment to ending AIDS, eliminating new pediatric HIV infections, and supporting women, children, adolescents and families affected by HIV. The resolution calls for scaling up pediatric HIV treatment, including access to more effective antiretroviral regimens, age-appropriate services and support for caregivers.

H.Res. 955 is endorsed by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, NMAC (formerly known as the National Minority AIDS Council) and ONE.

“We commend Representative McClellan for her leadership on this vital issue. The numbers tell an urgent story: 75,000 children died of AIDS-related causes last year, and only 55 percent of children living with HIV receive treatment compared to 78 percent of adults,” said Dr. Doris Macharia, President of the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. “This resolution recognizes that gap as unacceptable and charts a clear path forward — calling for a dedicated PEPFAR pediatric HIV strategy that aligns with both the Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children by 2030 and the America First Global Health Strategy. We have the tools to end pediatric AIDS. We call on members of Congress to join Rep. McClellan in supporting this resolution and demonstrate their political commitment to finish what we started.”

“NMAC commends the leadership of Congresswoman McClellan, Congresswoman Kelly, and Congressman Pocan in reaffirming the United States’ commitment to ending HIV, at home and abroad,” said Harold Phillips, CEO of NMAC. “We cannot end the epidemic and especially pediatric HIV without protecting women and children, who while essential to our social fabric and future, are under-served within public health systems. Working at the intersection of HIV and family health — including testing pregnant women for HIV — has already led to significant prevention impact, and we encourage the United States to increase these prevention and treatment efforts in order to finally end pediatric AIDS, which is one critical step in ending the epidemic overall.”

“The U.S. continues to be a leader in the global fight against HIV/AIDS through investments in the Global Fund and programs like PEPFAR which ensured nearly 8 million babies were born HIV-free last year. Still, 75,000 children died of HIV/AIDS in 2024, and recent studies suggest the number of babies being born with HIV is on the rise,” said Elizabeth Hoffman, ONE Executive Director for North America. “It is crucial for the U.S. to maintain strong support for global investments in education, prevention, and treatment that serve vulnerable children, especially girls, who are disproportionately impacted by the crisis. With new innovations like Lenacapavir coming to market, the end of AIDS is within reach. We must continue the fight until that goal is realized.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-bipartisan-subramanyam-bills-signed-law-part-annual-defense-legislation,Two Bipartisan Subramanyam Bills Signed into Law as Part of Annual Defense Legislation,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) announced that two of his bipartisan bills have been signed into law. The two bills are the Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act and the Contaminated Wells Relocation Act. These two bills were signed into law as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which President Trump signed last night.

“Thousands of Korean American families in Virginia and across the country have been forcibly torn apart from their loved ones by the Korean War for more than seven decades,” said Congressman Suhas Subramanyam. “This bipartisan law will bring these families one step closer to a long-overdue reunion. I thank all the Korean American families who have shared their stories with me and who helped get this legislation over the finish line.”

“I’ve heard from Korean Americans in Virginia about how their families were separated after the Korean War. That's why I'm glad that my bipartisan bill to help facilitate their reunification passed and was signed into law,” said U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA).

The Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act, now law, will accelerate family reunifications by directing the U.S. Department of State to compile information about Korean American families who want to reconnect with relatives in North Korea to enable future family reunions. The law, co-introduced with Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA-40), also directs the State Department to prioritize progress on arranging future reunions for Korean American families and their relatives in North Korea in any future bilateral discussions with North Korea.

Rep. Subramanyam continued, “The people in the town of Chincoteague will soon get some relief from unnecessary burdens to allow the town and NASA to come to an agreement on the costs of relocating contaminated water wells. Safe drinking water is a right, and I am glad this bipartisan, bicameral law will make life better for fellow Virginians.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/19/vindman-higgins-sessions-moore-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-make-traffic-stops-safer-for-individuals-with-disabilities/,"Vindman, Higgins, Sessions, Moore Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Make Traffic Stops Safer for Individuals with Disabilities",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), Clay Higgins (R-La.-03), Pete Sessions (R-Texas-17), and Barry Moore (R-Ala.-01) introduced a bipartisan bill to make traffic stops safer and less stressful for individuals with autism, developmental, or communication disabilities.

“Individuals with disabilities are great assets to our communities and need to be treated with dignity and respect. This bipartisan bill is one way Congress can make sure everyone feels safe and understood during a traffic stop,” said Vindman. “For both individuals with disabilities and law enforcement officers, these encounters can be prone to misunderstanding. This legislation will better support law enforcement with a straightforward way to recognize when accommodations are needed and keep these interactions calm, safe, and respectful.”

“America’s law enforcement professionals make split-second decisions every day. Blue envelope programs can add context to these decisions and improve communication between drivers with disabilities and officers during traffic stops,” said Higgins. “The Blue Envelope Act uses existing funds to implement these initiatives and deliver safer outcomes. It’s appropriate that I co-lead this bipartisan effort with Congressman Vindman.”

“Several cities across Texas are already using the Blue Envelope Program, and the Blue Envelope Act of 2025 builds on that proven local success. By co-leading this legislation, we are taking a commonsense approach that works in Texas communities and making it available nationwide,” said Sessions. “This bill helps law enforcement conduct safer, more predictable traffic stops while ensuring individuals with autism and other communication disabilities are treated with patience, clarity, and respect. Using existing resources, we can reduce misunderstandings, lower stress, and better serve officers and the American people.”

“The Blue Envelope Program is a common sense idea that gives officers immediate context during a traffic stop and gives drivers with autism or other communication disabilities the time and clarity they need,” said Moore. “This program is voluntary, low-cost, and already working in Alabama and states across the nation. By allowing existing funds to support these programs, we’re strengthening trust, reducing unnecessary tension, and making our roads safer for everyone.”

The Blue Envelope Awareness Act would provide drivers with disabilities a blue envelope to store essential documents such as their driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. The envelope would discreetly alert law enforcement officers that the driver may require additional time, clear verbal instructions, or other reasonable accommodations during a traffic stop.

The legislation would also allow states and local governments to use existing Byrne JAG funds to support these programs, giving officers immediate situational context during traffic stops, helping reduce misunderstandings and the risk of unnecessary escalation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/19/vindman-rulli-bentz-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-address-scams-in-the-rehab-industry/,"Vindman, Rulli, Bentz Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Address Scams in the Rehab Industry",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), Michael Rulli (R-OH-06), and Cliff Bentz (R-Ore.-02) introduced a bipartisan bill to confront the rise of fraud, scams, and deceptive practices in the addiction treatment and recovery industry

“Virginians are fed up with scammers, and it’s past time Congress did something about it. No one seeking help for addiction should be exploited or misled for profit,” said Vindman. “This bill will support government watchdogs cracking down on bad actors with the tools and information they need to identify fraud in the rehab industry, protect patients from abuse, and ensure insurance dollars support real, effective care.”

“When bad actors exploit people seeking recovery by tricking them into leaving their homes to faraway states, providing little to no care, and then dumping them on the streets when their insurance expires, it isn’t just fraud; it is cruel and disgusting,” said Rulli. “Every dollar lost to this scam is a dollar that could have gone to legitimate treatments and quality care for the affected individuals.”

The Protecting Patients from Rehab Fraud Act directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to study insurance fraud and patient exploitation within the drug addiction treatment and recovery industry. This bill aims to stop deceptive, predatory practices that exploit patients, drain insurance resources, and undermine legitimate treatment providers.

Specifically, the bill would direct the DOJ to examine:

The prevalence of insurance fraud in Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans used to house individuals at treatment facilities

The practice of brokers encouraging patients to commit insurance fraud to enroll in high-cost, out-of-network plans

Drug use and trafficking within treatment facilities

The practice of “patient dumping,” also known as “curbing,” where patients are discharged and abandoned once their insurer no longer pays the facility

Instances where patients are discharged in locations different from where they originated

Any research on the prevalence of homelessness and relapse among individuals who are dumped by their rehab facility

Legislative recommendations for Congress to crack down on illegal practices in the rehabilitation industry and protect prospective patients seeking rehab

Specifically, the GAO’s study would examine:

The actions currently being undertaken by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and the federal government to curb this type of insurance fraud

The extent and effectiveness of Congress’ expenditure of taxpayer dollars on subsidizing rehab facilities to date

State-level efforts to curb this type of insurance fraud

Recommendations for Congress to crack down on illegal practices in the rehabilitation industry

BACKGROUND

The addiction treatment field has grown quickly in the past decade. While many providers offer important, quality care, some predatory, for-profit operations have taken advantage of weak oversight and insurance rules.

“Body brokers” recruit people with substance use disorders — often from other states — and steer them to specific facilities in exchange for illegal referral payments. They target people with valuable private or ACA insurance and often push them to lie about where they live or their income to get coverage.

Patients are then transported to distant treatment centers that bill insurers large amounts for unnecessary or fraudulent care. When a patient’s insurance runs out, these places commonly discharge them suddenly — often without money, transportation, medication, or follow-up support — leaving them stranded, homeless, or forced to return home on their own. Some end up in unfamiliar cities, relapse, overdose, or become trapped in homelessness.

The Protecting Patients from Rehab Fraud Act seeks to bring transparency and accountability to an industry where oversight has failed too many people seeking recovery.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=226,Walkinshaw Slams Trump Admin’s Insulting 1% Pay Raise for Federal Workers After a Year of Unprecedented Harm,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) issued the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s 1% pay raise for federal workers.

“Under President Trump, Americans are paying more for groceries, more for housing, more for utilities, and federal workers are being told to accept a meager 1 percent pay raise. That is not just inadequate. It is insulting.

Federal employees serve our country shoulder to shoulder with our service members, often under intense pressure and enduring real risk. They deserve respect, stability, and pay parity with service members, not another hit to their livelihoods during the holiday season.

This decision is shameful. Congress must step in and pass the FAIR Act to deliver a real, meaningful pay increase for every federal employee.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8751,Beyer Returns To House Science Committee,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Don Beyer, previously a longtime member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Committee, was re-appointed to that committee by Democratic Leader Jeffries this week. Beyer departed the Committee after serving on it for his first four terms when Democrats lost slots at the beginning of the 118th Congress. His appointment became official after being confirmed by the full House Democratic Caucus and with the approval of House Resolution 954 on Wednesday morning, where he was welcomed back by Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren.

“American leadership on scientific research and technology is at a crossroads, and many of the most important challenges facing our country fall under the jurisdiction of the House Science Committee. I am thrilled to return to the Committee as it seeks answers to key questions about our nation’s future,” said Beyer. “From rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and their implications for our economy and workforce, to energy policy amid rapidly rising electricity prices, to the debate over the future of our space program, to renewed battles over scientific integrity, the House Science Committee is engaged in extremely important policy work. I have never stopped my efforts in these areas, but serving on the Committee will make me a stronger advocate on these topics, especially for my district and my constituents. I thank Leader Jeffries and my Democratic colleagues for this opportunity, and Ranking Member Lofgren and my colleagues in both parties for their warm welcome.”

Rep. Beyer is the founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Fusion Energy Caucus, and a steadfast advocate for the advancement of fusion energy technology. A leading voice in the House on energy and climate, he co-chairs the Safe Climate Caucus, and attended the 2021 COP26 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, Scotland with then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi. He co-chairs the bipartisan AI Caucus, was appointed by House leaders to serve on the bipartisan Artificial Intelligence Task Force in the 118th Congress, and is currently working toward a master’s degree in machine learning at George Mason University.

Beyer previously served for several terms on the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee, where he helped protect funding for key science missions including the Nancy Grace Roman Telescope. As the Subcommittee Chair during the 117th Congress, he was a key voice on intergovernmental debates over space situational awareness, and coauthored the first NASA authorizing legislation in over five years. Since taking office he has been a prominent advocate for scientific integrity, and an indefatigable defender of federal workers, including those who work in scientific fields.

Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) represents a Northern Virginia district in the U.S. House that is home to leading institutions of technology and research including the National Science Foundation, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the MITRE Corporation, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Virginia Tech’s Institute For Advanced Computing, George Mason University’s Mason Square campus, and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, along with numerous global aerospace and tech firms. He has been published in the pages of Scientific American, and his work has been covered by Popular Science, Science Magazine, Ars Technica, and Gizmodo, among others.

Beyer serves as co-Chair of the Congressional Artificial Intelligence Caucus. He was one of a handful of members selected to serve on the bipartisan Task Force On Artificial Intelligence, convened by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Speaker Mike Johnson. He is the author of the AI Foundation Model Transparency Act and a lead cosponsor of the CREATE AI Act, the Federal Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Act, Artificial Intelligence Environmental Impacts Act, the SECURE AI Act, and forthcoming legislation that will address President Trump’s recent executive order on artificial intelligence.

Beyer is the founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Fusion Energy Caucus. He was a co-lead of the Fusion Energy Act, signed into law in 2024, and is the House sponsor of the bipartisan, bicameral Office of Fusion Act. He was a leading governmental voice celebrating the historic announcement of a net energy gain from a human-controlled fusion energy reaction. He has advocated for fusion energy research and funding as a long time member of the House Science Committee, with hiscolleagues in Congress, at the White House, in the pages of Scientific American, and elsewhere.

Beyer served as Chair of the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee in the 117th Congress, in which capacity he helped draft and pass the first bipartisan reauthorization of NASA in years (included in the CHIPS and SCIENCE Act). His work on the subcommittee also included leading the effort to protect funding for the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, longtimeadvocacy for NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia, and defending funding for NASA’s Earth Science Division. He is the author of the Cleaner, Quieter Airplanes Act (signed into law in the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022), and the Space Safety and Situational Awareness Transition Act of 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8752,"SEEC Lands, Waters, and Nature Task Force Slams Republican Attack on Our Treasured Landscapes and Wildlife",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) Lands, Waters, and Nature Task Force, led by Co-Chairs Reps. Don Beyer (VA-08), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Doris Matsui (CA-07), released the following statement in response to the House passage of the Mining Regulatory Clarity Act (H.R. 1366) and Pet and Livestock Protection Act (H.R. 845).

“In a week dominated by shameless giveaways to Trump’s polluter allies, House Republicans once again doubled down on their crusade to sell off our public lands to the highest bidder and gut critical protections for endangered wildlife. Our public lands and wildlife are a core part of our nation’s identity. Whether it’s the bald eagle, the grizzly bear, or the Florida panther, we have a shared responsibility as Americans to protect and preserve these iconic species and their habitats for future generations. Yet, instead of preserving our treasured natural landscapes and wildlife for future generations, Republicans just gave a free pass to mining companies to dump toxic waste on our public lands and poison our environment and children, all while legalizing the killing of America’s endangered gray wolves.

“Our Republican colleagues seem to have forgotten that being conservative once actually meant supporting conservation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-passing-rev-lincoln-james-jr,"Scott Statement on Passing of Rev. A Lincoln James, Jr",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement on the passing of the Rev. Dr. A Lincoln James, Jr., Pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia.

“Rev. James was a charismatic and influential preacher who had a remarkable career. He led Trinity Baptist Church for several decades and served as a mentor for clergy members throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. He also improved the Richmond region through his leadership as President of the Virginia Baptist State Convention, his service on the Virginia Parole Board, his work as a seminar professor and his vision as the driving force in the creation of the Trinity Family Life Center, which provides essential services to thousands of young people every year. I am thankful to have benefited from his counsel and friendship throughout my career, and I sincerely offer my heartfelt condolences to Rev. James’ family, loved ones, congregation and people who were impacted by his ministry and body of work.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-wittman-kiggans-elfreth-reintroduce-bill-reauthorizing-noaa,"Scott, Wittman, Kiggans, Elfreth Reintroduce Bill Reauthorizing NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, Representatives Bobby Scott (VA-03), Rob Wittman (VA-01), Jennifer Kiggans (VA-02), and Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) reintroduced the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Advancement for Training, Education, Restoration, and Science (WATERS) Act, previously known as the Chesapeake Bay Science, Education, and Ecosystem Enhancement Act. This legislation reauthorizes key programs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Chesapeake Bay Office (CBO). Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

NOAA’s CBO provides a variety of services that advance the restoration of the Bay and support local businesses, schools, and coastal resilience. CBO manages the Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoy System which collects water quality, meteorological, and oceanographic data used by scientists, fisherman and those recreating on the Bay. CBO also oversees the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) program, a competitive grant program for environmental education projects that connect students throughout the watershed with the Bay. The Chesapeake Bay WATERS Act authorizes the Chesapeake Bay B-WET program for the first time in the program’s history.

“NOAA’s Chesapeake Bay Office serves a critical role in restoring the health of the Chesapeake Bay,” said Congressman Scott. “The Office conducts scientific research that assists us in making evidence-based decisions as we restore much-needed oyster reefs and wetlands. This bill includes many of the Office’s activities including the Chesapeake B-WET program, which has connected countless students with the Bay to further their environmental education. As a co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force, I am proud to reintroduce the Chesapeake Bay WATERS Act with my colleagues to ensure that NOAA can continue being an effective partner in the effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay.

“The Chesapeake Bay WATERS Act is critical to protecting the Chesapeake Bay and ensuring it remains an important part of our environment and economy for generations to come,” said Congressman Wittman. “By allowing NOAA to coordinate with community stakeholders, monitor restoration activities, and authorizing the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Education and Training program, the WATERS Act will help protect the Chesapeake Bay’s health for generations to come. As a lifelong outdoorsman and co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force, I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to protect the Chesapeake Bay.”

“The Chesapeake WATERS Act is critical to protecting the Chesapeake Bay and the communities, jobs, and ecosystems that rely on it,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “By reauthorizing NOAA’s Chesapeake Bay Office, supporting science-based restoration, and expanding education and workforce training throughout the watershed, this bill strengthens long term stewardship of the Bay. I am proud to work with Representatives Wittman, Bobby Scott, and Sarah Elfreth on this bipartisan effort to preserve the Chesapeake Bay for generations to come.”

“The NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office, right here in Maryland's Third District, conducts critical work across the Watershed in advancing our shared goal of restoring the health and habitat of the Chesapeake Bay,” said Congresswoman Elfreth. “From water quality monitoring through the buoy system to convening an expert Task Force to tackle the issue of invasive blue catfish, I am proud to co-lead the bipartisan Chesapeake Bay WATERS Act to reauthorize this critical office and continue the innovative work it conducts.”

""For decades, NOAA's Chesapeake Bay Office has been a steadfast partner in the multi-jurisdiction effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay and its living resources,” said Anna Killius, Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Commission. “Bay partners rely on NOAA science and support to help steward economically important fisheries, restore vital habitats, monitor and report conditions on the Bay, and educate students on the richness of the Bay and the challenges it faces. We appreciate the leadership of Senator Warner and Representatives Scott, Wittman, Elfreth, and Kiggans in championing bipartisan legislation to continue NOAA's critical role in the future of Bay conservation.""

“The bipartisan Chesapeake Bay WATERS Act throws a welcome legislative lifeline to NOAA’s Chesapeake Bay Office that would sustain its vital role restoring the Bay and its waterways, fisheries, and wildlife habitat,” said Keisha Sedlacek, Senior Policy Director for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. “NOAA’s oyster restoration expertise, climate change research, and outdoor education programs are essential to safeguarding this priceless resource and economic engine. NOAA science will be critical as we enter the next phase of Bay restoration under the revised Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement. Thanks to Sen. Mark Warner and Reps. Bobby Scott, Sarah Elfreth, Rob Wittman, and Jen Kiggans, Congress now has the legislation to make sure this essential partner remains at the table.”

“We are thrilled to see the introduction of the Chesapeake Bay WATERS Act,” said Kristin Reilly, Director of the Choose Clean Water Coalition. “NOAA is a crucial federal partner in the fight to protect and restore the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers and streams. This bipartisan legislation provides critical funding to support projects such as habitat work in the Chesapeake, including on fisheries management and oyster research and restoration, monitoring of restoration activities, and environmental education grants. We want to thank Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) and Representatives Bobby Scott (D-VA), Rob Wittman (R-VA), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD), and Jen Kiggans (R-VA), all long-time champions for the Bay, for spearheading this legislation and we look forward to supporting its passage into law.”

Full text of the bill can be found by CLICKING HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/18/vindman-crenshaw-lead-bipartisan-bicameral-effort-to-crack-down-on-cartel-smuggling-operations-at-southern-border/,"Vindman, Crenshaw Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Crack Down on Cartel Smuggling Operations at Southern Border",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas-02) today introduced bipartisan legislation to tackle the fentanyl crisis by combatting the flow of illicit firearms and money that fuel cartel operations.

“I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to disrupt the transnational criminal networks that threaten America’s national security and take on the criminals selling fentanyl. Cartels are not just Mexico’s problem — they are a direct threat to communities across our Commonwealth and country,” said Vindman. “By expanding outbound inspections, we can cut off the weapons, cash, and resources that fuel their violence and criminal operations at and beyond our southern border.”

“The cartels flooding our country with fentanyl aren’t someone else’s problem — they are a direct national security threat to the United States. If we’re serious about stopping them, we have to cut off the weapons, cash, and resources that keep them alive,” said Crenshaw. “Expanding outbound inspections is a commonsense step to choke off cartel power and protect American communities.”

The Enhancing Southbound Inspections to Combat Cartels Act would strengthen border security by expanding inspections of outbound traffic from the United States to Mexico. The bill equips U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with additional personnel and resources to disrupt the flow of illicit firearms and cash that fuel cartel violence and fentanyl trafficking.

Specifically, the Enhancing Southbound Inspections to Combat Cartels Act would:

Authorize at least 100 Homeland Security Investigators (HSI) agents to investigate drug smuggling, human trafficking, child trafficking, and unauthorized entries from Mexico into the U.S.

Authorize at least 100 HSI agents to investigate the smuggling of guns and money at the southern border.

Authorize 50 additional non-intrusive imaging systems and the procurement of additional infrastructure or alternative inspection equipment at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Require that at least 10 percent of all southbound vehicles be inspected, to the extent practical, and require the DHS Secretary to submit a report one year after the bill’s enactment on the feasibility of increasing inspection rates to 15 and 20 percent.

Companion legislation is led in the U.S. Senate by U.S. Senators James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).

BACKGROUND

Cartels and other transnational criminal organizations are exploiting gaps in outbound inspection enforcement to traffic firearms, drug money, and other contraband into Mexico — fueling the illegal drug trade, human trafficking, and violent crime. These groups rely on a steady flow of weapons and cash to sustain their operations. Strengthening outbound inspections is critical to cutting off those resources and deterring criminal activity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/18/vindman-joins-bipartisan-statement-from-all-25-jewish-house-members-on-antisemitic-attack-in-australia/,Vindman Joins Bipartisan Statement from All 25 Jewish House Members on Antisemitic Attack in Australia,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined 24 of his fellow Jewish Members of the U.S. House of Representatives in releasing the following statement in response to an attack on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia that targeted Jewish people celebrating the first night of Hanukkah:

“On a night meant for celebration, Jewish families in Australia, gathering in joy and peace on the first night of Hanukkah, were grotesquely targeted with hate and murderous intent. Sadly, this attack does not come as a surprise to the Jewish community of Sydney who have been raising a clarion call for local and national authorities to take concrete steps against a rising tide of antisemitism.

“We stand in solidarity with the Australian Jewish community and together extend our condolences to the family and friends of the people murdered and are praying for the complete recovery of the dozens wounded, and the entire Jewish community feeling besieged.

“Antisemitism is a cancer that eats at the core of society, whether in Australia, the United States, or anywhere it is allowed to take root and grow. We join leaders around the globe in condemning this evil act and in calling for justice, peace, and unwavering support for those affected. We also call on all leaders to do better standing up to antisemitism, bigotry, and hate. We must also do better in our work for a world where everyone can celebrate their faith and traditions free from discrimination and fear.

“Jews around the world will continue to gather this week to celebrate Hanukkah and its story of religious freedom and defiant optimism. As we light the menorah each night and remember the miracle of the festival of lights, let us proclaim that light is stronger than darkness, right is stronger than might, and justice is stronger than tyranny. Wishing all Jewish communities and the world around us strength and peace.”

The 24 members who signed the statement in addition to Vindman include:

Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.)

Rep. Becca Balint (D-Vt.)

Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.)

Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.)

Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.)

Rep. Lois Frankel (D-Fla.)

Rep. Laura Friedman (D-Calif.)

Rep. Craig Goldman (R-Texas)

Rep. Daniel Goldman (D-N.Y.)

Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.)

Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.)

Rep. David Kustoff (R-Tenn.)

Rep. Greg Landsman (D-Ohio)

Rep. Mike Levin (D-Calif.)

Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.)

Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio)

Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.)

Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.)

Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.)

Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.)

Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.)

Rep. Kim Schrier (D-Wash.)

Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Calif.)

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.)

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/18/vindman-office-delivers-real-results-for-virginias-seventh-district-in-2025/,Vindman Office Delivers Real Results for Virginia’s Seventh District in 2025,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today released an end-of-year summary highlighting his office’s work delivering results for Virginians across Virginia’s Seventh District in 2025 — including returning hard-earned tax dollars to constituents, advancing bipartisan legislation, and resolving thousands of constituent service cases.

“As a 25-year Army veteran, I know it takes a true team effort to deliver real results for our communities. I am proud that my team has been hard at work all year showing up and delivering for you and your family in Virginia’s Seventh District,” said Vindman. “We’ve worked to assist veterans with their benefits, protect access to affordable health care, support legislation that lowers your energy bill, and lead on bipartisan solutions to bring down costs. My office is laser focused on results that make a real difference. My team and I remain committed to being accessible, responsive, and effective for every Virginian we serve in the new year.”

In 2025, Congressman Vindman’s office worked directly with Virginians to navigate federal agencies, resolve issues, and return money owed to constituents.

As a result of this work, the office:

Returned more than $4.2 million in backlogged benefits to constituents

Closed more than 1,450 constituent service cases

Assisted Virginians with issues related to veterans’ benefits, Social Security, Medicare, passports, IRS matters, and disaster assistance

In Congress, Vindman focused on pragmatic, bipartisan legislation to address the issues Virginians raised most often.

In 2025, Vindman:

Introduced 45 pieces of legislation, 44 of which are bipartisan

Cosponsored nearly 665 pieces of legislation

Led key congressional efforts to lower costs, support military families and veterans, strengthen workforce development, lower energy costs, safeguard Americans’ health care, and improve public safety.

Secured provisions in major legislative packages to support military families, active-duty service members, and federal employees in Virginia’s Seventh District.

Beyond legislation, Vindman used his voice and oversight authority to advocate for Virginians and hold federal agencies accountable.

This year, his office:

Sent 120 letters to federal agencies and administration officials on behalf of constituents and district priorities

Attended more than 405 events in Virginia’s Seventh District

Led or joined bipartisan oversight efforts on issues impacting Virginia families, service members, and small businesses

As 2025 comes to a close, Vindman reaffirmed his commitment to continue fighting for the Seventh District in the year ahead.

For assistance with a federal agency or to learn more about Congressman Vindman’s work, constituents are encouraged to contact one of Vindman’s offices or visit vindman.house.gov. Sign up for his weekly newsletter here

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/18/vindman-thompson-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-american-workers-better-prepare-for-retirement/,"Vindman, Thompson Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help American Workers Better Prepare for Retirement",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (R-Penn.-15) today introduced a bipartisan bill to help American workers take advantage of their employer-sponsored retirement plans and employer match offers by permitting more frequent opportunities for employees to opt in.

“Too many Americans struggle to build the retirement savings they will need after decades of hard work. It doesn’t have to be this way,” said Vindman. “The Auto Reenroll Act gives workers a simple, commonsense solution for flexibility with their retirement plan options. By encouraging reenrollment every few years, we will help more families stay on track financially and give people more power over the money they’ve earned.”

“While automatic enrollment has helped many Americans start saving for retirement, a significant number of workers still initially choose to opt-out of their employer-sponsored retirement plans or fail to maximize matching contributions,” said Thompson. “I am proud to work with Rep. Vindman, Senator Cassidy, and Senator Kaine to make this simple, no-cost reform that gives employees more frequent chances to opt into their plans and take advantage of their full retirement benefits, which will provide greater financial stability and peace of mind to workers and their families.”

The Auto Reenroll Act would allow employers to automatically re-enroll workers in their 401(k) plans every one to three years. This provision is designed to help increase employee participation in workplace retirement plans by giving workers who previously opted out another chance to save for retirement. The process would preserve individual choice — employees could opt out again if they choose — and aims to expand retirement savings without imposing new mandates on workers or creating additional government spending.

Specifically, the Auto Reenroll Act would allow employers to:

Automatically reenroll employees in 401(k) or similar retirement plans every one to three years, even if they had previously opted out.

Preserve employee choice, allowing anyone who is reenrolled to opt out again if they choose.

Encourage long-term savings, by giving workers periodic “check-ins” to reconsider their retirement options as their incomes and circumstances evolve.

The legislation is endorsed by the Bipartisan Policy Center and TIAA Retirement Solutions.

“Saving for retirement should be simple and, whenever possible, automatic,” said Michele Stockwell, president of BPC Action. “That idea underpins the bipartisan progress Congress has made over the past decade to expand retirement savings participation. BPC Action commends Reps. Eugene Vindman (D-VA) and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) for taking automatic enrollment one step further, helping employers to bring even more workers into their retirement plans.”

“The Auto Reenroll Act is a helpful clarification of present law and, if passed, could spur more employers to adopt auto reenrollment in their defined contribution retirement plans. This no-cost reform would serve as an effective tool to reengage employees, especially younger and lower-paid workers, who have previously opted out of enrollment or have stopped contributing to their plans,” said Kourtney Gibson, CEO, TIAA Retirement Solutions. “By giving workers periodic opportunities to reconsider their retirement options as their incomes and circumstances evolve, while preserving individual choice through the ability to opt out again, this legislation helps more American workers stay on track financially and build the savings they need for a secure retirement.”

Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La).

BACKGROUND

Under existing law, employers are already required to provide employees with between one and three months’ notice of any automatic 401(k) contributions, this bill maintains that requirement while expanding the ability to reenroll.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8748,Bipartisan Leaders of the Joint Economic Committee Issue Requests to Federal Agencies on Efforts to Crack Down on Overseas Scam Networks,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee Chairman David Schweikert (R-AZ), Ranking Member Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Vice Chairman Eric Schmitt (R-MO), and Senior House Democrat Don Beyer (D-VA) today issued requests to federal agencies for information on their efforts to crack down on overseas scam networks that steal from Americans.

Last year alone, Americans lost an estimated $10 billion from scams that originate in Southeast Asian compounds and often rely on U.S.-based technologies to identify and target victims. In letters to the U.S. Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, Department of the Treasury, Department of State, and Federal Trade Commission, the Members of Congress asked the agencies about their coordination across government and engagement with the private sector to disrupt overseas scam networks and protect Americans from scams.

“Online scammers overseas routinely use technology or online platforms owned by American companies to defraud victims in the United States,” wrote Chairman Schweikert, Ranking Member Hassan, Vice Chairman Schmitt, and Senior House Democrat Beyer. “As the Administration acts to thwart bad actors and their corrosive attacks on our nation, whether in response to fentanyl trafficking or criminal cartel organizations, these scam compounds represent a necessary front.”

The bipartisan request to federal agencies follows an alert issued by the four Joint Economic Committee leaders warning consumers about the heightened risk of travel scams during the holiday season.

Read all the letters to federal agencies from the Joint Economic Committee members here, or their letter to the Department of the Treasury below:

Dear Secretary Bessent,

We are writing to request information about the ways in which the Department of the Treasury (Treasury) and U.S. technology companies are engaging to disrupt overseas scam networks and protect Americans from fraud and the foreign adversaries that enflame it, as well as the staff and other resources that the Treasury dedicates to this effort. Last year, overseas scam networks stole an estimated $10 billion from Americans through sophisticated criminal compounds that are based in Southeast Asia and are often staffed through the forced labor of trafficked workers. These scam compounds often rely on U.S.-based technologies—including social media and online dating platforms, artificial intelligence models, peer-to-peer payment applications, and satellite internet services—to identify, target, and defraud victims. New technology has contributed to the proliferation of these overseas compounds in recent years. Still, “U.S. efforts [to expose and deter this growing threat] remain fragmented and under-resourced,” according to the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC).

Online scammers overseas routinely use technology or online platforms owned by American companies to defraud victims in the United States. For instance, to begin a scam, criminals frequently initiate contact with potential victims on American-owned social media and online dating platforms. In the first half of 2023, at least half of individuals who reported financial losses from an online romance scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) said that the scam began on a social media platform. Similarly, a co-owner of one popular peer-to-peer payment application notes that nearly half of the scams that its consumers report originate on social media. In addition, more than half of online dating users believe that they have encountered a scam. Scammers can also lend credibility to their communications through the use of artificial intelligence models developed and owned by American companies. In a February 2025 report, for example, one leading artificial intelligence company noted that scammers in Cambodia had used its technology to generate personalized English-language messages and sustain conversations with users on social media.

Once they gain a victim’s trust, overseas scammers then solicit payments through American-owned peer-to-peer payment applications, where transfers are instant and, as the FTC notes, difficult to reverse. Finally, as an official from the U.S. Secret Service testified to Congress, scam compounds in Southeast Asia are increasingly turning to American-owned satellite internet services for the connectivity that often makes these online scams possible.

Moreover, scam compounds in Southeast Asia reportedly operate with the tacit approval of Chinese state actors as part of a symbiotic relationship built on the exploitation of others. As described in the USCC report on these networks, criminal actors like Chinese crime boss Wan Kuok-Koi (“Broken Tooth”) have reinvented themselves into pro-CCP businesspeople as they rebuild their criminal networks. Broken Tooth operates a multi-billion-dollar scam network in China’s backyard near the Thailand–Myanmar border—reportedly laundering corrupt profits into the failing Chinese real estate sector and spreading CCP propaganda. As discussed above, scams perpetrated by Chinese criminal networks have devastated U.S. citizens. Last year, an 82-year-old Virginia man named Dennis took his own life after losing his life savings to a scam.

As the Administration acts to thwart bad actors and their corrosive attacks on our nation—whether in response to fentanyl trafficking or criminal cartel organizations—these scam compounds represent a necessary front. The Government Accountability Office (GAO), for instance, has recommended that the Federal Bureau of Investigation lead the development of a government-wide strategy to combat scams that would address the “coordination of federal and business activities.” Industry representatives interviewed for the audit similarly called for what the GAO described as “a multisector approach, to include telecommunications and social media companies, as well as law enforcement to address fraudulently induced payments.” Officials from one of the world’s largest financial institutions also expressed support for public–private partnerships as part of a whole-of-government response. Similarly, the USCC has argued that improved coordination between the U.S. government and technology companies could be part of the solution to this problem. With no additional response, however, “criminal groups will likely continue exploiting platforms and services to target Americans with impunity.”

To aid the Joint Economic Committee in understanding the Treasury’s current efforts and engagement with U.S. technology companies to combat overseas scam compounds and the actors that enable these scams, please provide responses to the following information requests:

1. Please identify all U.S. social media, online dating, artificial intelligence, peer-to-peer payment application, and satellite internet service companies with which the Treasury currently engages to disrupt activity from overseas scam compounds, and describe the frequency and nature of each engagement.

2. What specific tools or data do U.S. technology companies currently provide to the Treasury as part of these engagements?

3. Please describe any non-confidential coordination between the Treasury, U.S. technology companies, and other federal agencies that led to a federal enforcement action against an overseas scam compound or the foreign actors supporting the compound.

4. Please provide the Treasury’s total budget and current full-time equivalent staff dedicated to combating activity from overseas scam compounds.

5. What metrics, if any, does the Treasury use to evaluate the effectiveness of its efforts to combat activity from overseas scam compounds? If the Treasury plans to improve or develop these metrics, please describe how this will be achieved.

6. What dollar amount did the Treasury help save or return to victims of activity from overseas scam compounds in Fiscal Year 2024 and Fiscal Year 2025 to date as a result of its efforts to combat these scams?

7. Please describe the Treasury’s coordination with the following entities to combat activity from overseas scam compounds. For each entity, identify the Treasury offices involved; the scope and frequency of coordination; and any specific initiatives, joint operations, or information-sharing mechanisms:

- a. Other U.S. federal agencies;

- b. Foreign government or law enforcement agencies; and

- c. International government or law enforcement agencies.

8. If the Treasury plans to improve its current coordination activities related to the issues mentioned above, please describe how this will be achieved.

9. What additional tools, if any, would help aid the Treasury in combating criminal scamming networks and the foreign actors supporting these networks?

Please provide your responses as soon as possible, but in no event later than January 21, 2026.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8750,Beyer Introduces Legislation to Invest in George Washington Memorial Parkway Safety and Maintenance,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) today introduced legislation that would allow for revenue generated from speed camera enforcement on roads within the National Park System, such as the George Washington Memorial Parkway, to be reinvested for safety improvements, road maintenance, and related infrastructure needs in the parks where violations occur.

“Speeding is a persistent and dangerous problem along the George Washington Memorial Parkway – and on Parkways across the country – that threatens drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike,” said Rep. Don Beyer. “This bill enables revenue from speed camera enforcement to be reinvested within our national parks to fund safety improvements, critical maintenance, and educational efforts without diverting resources from these treasured public lands. It is smart, responsible policy that keeps Americans safe and strengthens the national parks and major transportation corridors they use every day.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-slams-trump-administrations-absurd-rationale-boat-strikes-votes,"Scott Slams Trump Administration’s Absurd Rationale for Boat Strikes, Votes to Stop Military Action in Venezuela",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after voting for the adoption of H.Con.Res. 61, directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with presidentially designated terrorist organizations in the Western Hemisphere; and H.Con.Res. 64, directing the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Venezuela that have not been authorized by Congress:

“I voted to stop the Trump Administration from continuing its dubiously legal military actions towards Venezuela. These deadly boat strikes began under the guise of stopping illicit drugs from entering the United States. Multiple cabinet officials have claimed that President Trump’s actions have saved hundreds of millions of American lives. These numbers are comically absurd. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 81,000 individuals died in the United States last year from any drug overdose.

“In addition to the simple-minded exaggerations about numbers, we must also examine if this is even an effective means of curtailing drug use. Any suggestion that these military actions attacking boats in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific are reducing drug use in the United States is itself an exaggeration. The Congressional Budget Office cannot confirm that this policy is reducing drug use or drug overdoses.

“The research is clear. Evidence-based approaches, like education and rehabilitation treatment, are the most cost-effective strategies in reducing illicit drug use as opposed to spending millions of taxpayer dollars on blowing up random fishing boats in the Caribbean and Pacific. Yet the Trump Administration is aggressively dismantling the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the very federal agency that focuses on mental health and drug addiction treatment. The fact that this strategy lacks any cost-effective justification should end this action. And that is before any consideration of war crimes and murder. Several weeks ago, I sent letters to the Trump Administration asking for documentation and clarity about this interdiction strategy. Not surprisingly, I received no response.

“And earlier today, Stephen Miller, one of President Trump’s senior advisors, has taken the mask off and revealed that these boat strikes were not really about stopping drugs from entering the United States. Instead, he has clarified their main motivation in the strikes and ramping up of military hostilities is the oil that moves through Venezuela.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcclellan-statement-republican-health-care-bill,McClellan Statement on the Republican Health Care Bill,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) issued the following statement after the House voted on the health care bill brought forward by Republicans that does not include an extension of the enhanced premium tax credits under the Affordable Care Act (ACA):

“For months, I have sounded the alarm on the devastating impact that the expiration of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits would have on millions of Americans. Those concerns have largely fallen on deaf ears, as House Republican leadership refuses to address the looming health care crisis they created.

“Now, in the eleventh hour, Republican leadership brought forth a bill that does nothing to bring down costs for the millions of Americans who will see their health insurance premiums skyrocket in just 15 days, while recycling failed ideas from their prior efforts to repeal and replace the ACA.

“House Republicans have paid for permanent tax breaks for billionaires on the backs of the American people. At a time when people are already struggling with higher costs for everything from groceries to utilities to child care, this bill will only heighten anxieties around health care costs, as individuals are forced to make impossible choices between paying for their health care, food on the table or rent.

“It is not too late to change course. A majority of House members now support voting on a three-year extension of the ACA enhanced premium tax credits. Yet Speaker Johnson and House Republican leadership would rather play games with people’s lives than provide much-needed relief to millions who just want to know they can get the care they need without going bankrupt. I’ll keep fighting in Washington to deliver that relief this holiday season and keep health care affordable for all.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=217,Walkinshaw Demands Speaker Johnson Hold Immediate Vote to Extend ACA Premium Tax Credits,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) released the following statement after House Democrats’ discharge petition to force a vote on extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits reached 218 signatures.

“Enough stalling, Speaker Johnson. Let’s vote today.

A majority of the House supports extending ACA premium tax credits. There is zero excuse for delay.

In Fairfax, Jack, a young dad, went uninsured so his wife and newborn could stay covered. If these tax credits expire, thousands of my constituents will lose coverage or face skyrocketing costs.

Congress shouldn’t leave for the holidays until we vote. Speaker Johnson: do the right thing. Bring it to the floor, and let’s vote today.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8746,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Delegation Introduces New Fusion Energy Legislation",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"House Fusion Energy Caucus co-chairs Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA), Jay Obernolte (R-CA), and Lori Trahan (D-MA) today introduced bipartisan legislation to formally establish the Office of Fusion at the Department of Energy (DOE). Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA) and John Cornyn (R-TX).

Last month, DOE released their reorganization plans which included an “Office of Fusion.” This bipartisan bill would codify this office, and urge DOE to move forward with plans to ensure that the United States can continue leading the way on fusion energy and eventually reach commercialization.

“Establishing an Office of Fusion at the Department of Energy is a critical step toward unlocking one of the most promising clean energy solutions,” said Representative Beyer. “Fusion research and development is advancing toward commercialization, and we need a coordinated federal effort dedicated to getting fusion energy on the grid as quickly as possible. An established Office of Fusion would provide the focused leadership and technical expertise necessary, in coordination with the private sector, to accelerate decades of scientific progress, give the United States the momentum it needs to lead the world in fusion energy development and deployment, and finally supply fusion power to the grid.”

“Fusion energy represents one of the most promising breakthroughs of our time, with the potential to deliver abundant, reliable, carbon-free power while strengthening America’s economic and national security,” said Representative Obernolte. “By reestablishing the Office of Fusion at the Department of Energy, this bill accelerates commercialization through public-private partnerships, positions our workforce and supply chains to compete and win against adversaries like China, and ensures the United States remains the global leader in fusion technology. Congress must provide clear direction and a coordinated federal strategy to move fusion from the lab to the grid, and this legislation does exactly that.”

“Fusion energy holds enormous promise to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable power while strengthening America’s competitiveness and security,” said Representative Trahan. “Formally establishing an Office of Fusion at the Department of Energy will give this rapidly advancing field the focus and coordination it needs to move from breakthrough science to real-world deployment. With world-class fusion companies and researchers here in Massachusetts and across the country, this bipartisan legislation helps ensure the United States leads the way in bringing fusion from the lab to the grid.”

With energy costs soaring across the nation, the office would advance fusion energy and accelerate research, development, demonstration, deployment, and market adoption of fusion technologies. In partnership with the private sector, this office would also advance near-term and long-term fusion energy science and technology to meet the growing energy, environmental, and economic demands of the United States.

“A clean energy future powered by fusion has the potential to bring nearly unlimited, dependable, and carbon-free electricity across our country, slashing energy costs for millions of Americans,” said Senator Padilla. “California’s Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is leading the industry with repeatable fusion ignition breakthroughs, and Republicans and Democrats agree that now is the time to support further progress to cement the United States’ energy dominance and establish fusion’s market viability. Establishing the Office of Fusion is a bipartisan priority to support advancements in fusion technology to lower Americans’ electric bills and meet the evolving energy needs of our nation.”

“As energy demand continues to skyrocket, the United States must implement innovative solutions quickly to maintain reliability and safeguard national security,” said Senator Cornyn. “By establishing the Office of Fusion within the Department of Energy, this legislation would accelerate the deployment of cutting-edge fusion energy as an abundant and reliable power source to help meet surging demand and bolster grid stability.”

Last year, Trahan, Obernolte, Beyer, Padilla, and Cornyn’s Fusion Energy Act was signed into law as part of the Fire Grants and Safety Act. The law streamlines the creation of clear federal regulations to support the development of commercial fusion facilities by codifying the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s regulatory authority over commercial fusion energy systems.

In December 2022, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory became the first lab to achieve fusion ignition — meaning more energy was released than was needed for the reaction. Ignition has been achieved at least seven times since then. This success proves the viability of fusion energy and the leadership of the United States in the face of heavy investment by China.

“The restoration of the Office of Fusion, first by the Trump Administration, and now Congress, is the newest powerful signal that fusion is rapidly evolving from its scientific origins to a commercial endeavor that will power the global economy for generations,” said Bob Mumgaard, CEO of Commonwealth Fusion Systems. “I applaud the sponsors of the bill for the vision and leadership in helping to ensure the Department of Energy’s fusion efforts are organized and, ultimately, funded around driving commercial deployment and scaling of fusion power.”

“A dedicated office of fusion at the Department of Energy was a priority for the FIA from the beginning. We thank the sponsors for their leadership on the introduction of this bipartisan, bicameral legislation and look forward to supporting its passage. This bill will codify the DOE’s plan to create an office of fusion. The prioritization of fusion through a dedicated office will advance the path to commercial deployment,” said Andrew Holland, CEO, Fusion Industry Association.

A one-pager on the bill is available here. Full text of the bill is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8747,Beyer On Disastrous Jobs Report: “This Is Not An A++++ Economy”,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) issued its November jobs report, which found that the unemployment rate rose to 4.6 percent, the highest level since the pandemic, while the economy lost jobs on balance over the months of October (-108,000 jobs) and November (+64,000 jobs). In the seven months since President Trump’s tariffs took effect, the U.S. economy has averaged just 17,000 jobs added per month, a dramatic decrease from the monthly average of 168,000 the year before Trump took office.

Rep. Don Beyer, Senior House Democrat on the Joint Economic Committee, said:

“This disastrous jobs report makes it clear that this is not an ‘A++++ economy’ as President Trump claimed, it’s an economy at risk of sliding into recession.

“Trump’s tariffs are most to blame for the hiring slump. In the year before Trump took office, the U.S. economy averaged 168,000 jobs added per month. In the seven months since his tariffs went into place, that number has fallen to just 17,000. Our economy lost jobs in three of those months, after not seeing a single negative monthly job number since Trump’s first term. The national unemployment rate rose to 4.6 percent, the highest number since the Delta wave of the pandemic hit the U.S. in August of 2021.

“Even Trump’s Chief of Staff now admits Trump’s tariffs were ‘more painful than [she] expected.’ Tariffs were supposed to bring back manufacturing jobs, but manufacturing job numbers are plummeting. The Black unemployment rate is now over 8 percent, and wage growth is falling as inflation rises. Americans are paying more for groceries, electricity, housing, and health care, as Republicans prepare to pass even more legislation that will drive costs higher. Meanwhile they continue to surrender their power to stop Trump’s tariffs – the one thing they could do that would most help our flagging economy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-mcgarvey-introduce-legislation-improve-black-lung-benefits,"Scott, McGarvey Introduce Legislation to Improve Black Lung Benefits Program",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"As originally released by the Committee on Education and Workforce, Democrats

WASHINGTON – Today, Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA-03), House Committee on Education and Workforce, and Representative Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03), reintroduced the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act, legislation that would help miners who have suffered from black lung disease access the workers’ compensation and benefits they are entitled to receive under the federal Black Lung Benefits Program. This legislation significantly reduces barriers, such as complex claims processes and lack of legal representation, that prevent miners and their survivors from accessing benefits.

“Decades ago, Congress established the Black Lung Benefits Act to provide monthly compensation and medical coverage for coal miners who develop black lung disease and are totally disabled. Unfortunately, the Government Accountability Office found that miners often lack the necessary medical and legal resources to develop evidence to prove their claims,”said Ranking Scott. “The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act helps miners and their survivors access legal representation, ensures benefits are not eroded due to inflation, reduces the time for processing claims, and protects taxpayers from taking a hit when a self-insured coal company goes bankrupt and cannot pay black lung claims.”

“After paying for this country’s last energy revolution with their own health and safety, miners shouldn’t have to endure a costly, drawn-out legal process to prove they’ve earned their benefits,”said McGarvey.“Our bill would peg these benefits to inflation and make them easier to access, rather than letting these miners who have sacrificed so much be left further and further behind. I’m grateful for Senators Kaine and Fetterman and Ranking Member Scott’s continued dedication to strengthen black lung benefits, get miners the care they need, and uphold the dignity of financial security that they deserve.”

Many miners have developed coal workers’ pneumoconiosis—commonly referred to as “black lung”—a debilitating and deadly disease caused by the long-term inhalation of coal dust in underground and surface coal mines. In response, Congress passed the Black Lung Benefits Act in 1976 to provide monthly compensation and medical coverage for coal miners who develop black lung disease and are disabled. The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Actmakes necessary updates to ensure Congress is fulfilling its commitment to the nation’s coal miners by:

Automatically adjusting coal miners' benefits for inflation,

Helping miners and their survivors secure legal representation by increasing the number of attorneys willing to take on black lung claims,

Expanding the assistance provided by black lung clinics,

Ensuring miners get assistance from the Department of Labor (DOL) in rebutting medical evidence,

Improving access to CT scans to clarify medical eligibility,

Requiring the DOL to address potential conflicts of interest with physicians providing medical exams,

Accelerating the DOL’s access to employment and earnings verification for miners from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS),

Establishing stringent criteria for mine operators that seek to self-insure,

Increasing civil penalties for mine operators that fail to secure benefits, and

Expanding the parties that the DOL can hold liable when an operator fails to secure benefits.

The legislation has been endorsed by Appalachia Voices, Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center, the BlueGreen Alliance, the Sierra Club, and the United Mine Workers of America.

To read the bill text for the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act, clickhere.

To read the fact sheet on the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act, clickhere.

To read the section-by-section on the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act, clickhere.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/warner-scott-honor-civil-rights-leader-barbara-johns-us-capitol-statue,"Warner, Scott Honor Civil Rights Leader Barbara Johns at U.S. Capitol Statue Dedication",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA-03) delivered remarks at the Congressional Statue Dedication Ceremony honoring Barbara Rose Johns, a Prince Edward County civil rights leader whose student-led strike and its subsequent lawsuit became one of five cases combined into Brown v. Board of Education, one of the most consequential Supreme Court decisions in our nation’s history. Her statue will represent Virginia in National Statuary Hall.

“On April 23, 1951, a 16-year-old Barbara Johns led a walkout of students at the Robert Russa Moton High School in Farmville, Virginia, to protest school segregation and the discriminatory education conditions of Black students. Her courage forced this country to reckon with its conscience on a scale much larger than she ever could have imagined,” said Sen. Warner. “I’m proud to unveil Barbara Johns’ statue in the U.S. Capitol where she will represent the Commonwealth of Virginia and be recognized for the vital role she played in ending school segregation.”

""At the age of 16, Barbara Johns’ refused to accept inequality in our public schools. Her determination led to the lawsuit Davis v. County School Board of Prince Edward County, which ultimately became part of the landmark case of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka. Her strength and unwavering belief in equality and justice helped change the entire nation for the better. It is hard to think of a better example of a Virginian to represent the Commonwealth in the United States Capitol,” said Rep. Bobby Scott.

Under federal law, each state is represented by two statues in National Statuary Hall, selected by the state to honor notable individuals from its history. The Johns statue was recommended by Virginia’s Commission for Historical Statues to replace Virginia’s statue of Robert E. Lee in the U.S. Capitol.

Sen. Warner and Rep. Scott are both cosponsors of the Confederate Monument Removal Act, legislation to remove statues of individuals who voluntarily served the Confederate States of America from display in National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. Sen. Warner has spoken publicly about the need to remove public symbols honoring the Confederacy as part of broader efforts to advance racial justice.

As Governor, Sen. Warner helped establish a commission to build a monument on Capitol Square honoring Johns, after his youngest daughter asked why the grounds did not include more diverse representation of famous Virginians. In the Senate, Sen. Warner has led efforts to expand the Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Site in Kansas and designate National Park Service (NPS) Affiliated areas, including the Moton Museum which recognizes the central role of the Moton School in Farmville in ending school segregation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2630,Rep. Cline Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Foreign Influence in State and Local Ballot Initiatives,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06), alongside Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), introduced the Protecting Ballot Measures From Foreign Influence Act of 2025, which would prohibit contributions and donations from foreign nationals seeking to influence state and local ballot initiatives and referenda.

“Foreign nationals should have absolutely no role in influencing the outcome of American elections, whether at the federal, state, or local level. My Protecting Ballot Measures From Foreign Influence Act closes a dangerous loophole by ensuring that ballot initiatives and referenda are decided by American citizens alone, not foreign money or foreign interests. This commonsense legislation strengthens election integrity and reaffirms that the future of our communities must be determined by those who live in them,” said Rep. Ben Cline.

“Folks of all political stripes agree that U.S. citizens, not foreign nationals should determine the outcome of U.S. elections,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “Ballot measures can have an immense impact on life in the United States, and they must be protected from the whims of international bad actors. I take seriously my duty to keep our elections safe, secure, and solely decided by the American people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/16/vindman-statement-on-death-of-virginia-student-in-shooting-at-brown-university/,Vindman Statement on Death of Virginia Student in Shooting at Brown University,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Vindman Calls on Secretary Hegseth to Resign After Hearing From More Than 3,000 Virginians Concerned About War with Iran

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today renewed his call for the...

vindman, mackenzie lead bipartisan bill to improve coordination, threat mitigation ahead of fifa world cup & 2028 summer olympics

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Ryan Mackenzie...

Vindman Introduces Bill to Restore Crucial Funding for Sickle Cell Disease Research

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) introduced legislation to restore staff and funding...

Vindman, Walkinshaw demand answers on uscis processing delays affecting ukrainians seeking humanitarian parole & work authorization requests

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and James Walkinshaw (Va.-11) led a letter to U.S....

Vindman, Pfluger, & Baumgartner Introduce Legislation to Protect Americans and Combat Deadly Nitazenes

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Michael Baumgartner...

Vindman and McClain Delaney Introduce Two Bills to Address Agricultural Conservation Workforce Shortages

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (Md.-06) introduced...

Vindman Joins Congressional Amicus Brief Supporting Veterans’ Access to Education Benefits

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark R. Warner...

HUGE MILESTONE: Vindman’s Office Returns $5.1 Million in Backlogged Dollars to Constituents

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today announced that his office has now returned more than...

Vindman Delivers Whopping $1 Million Federal Investment to Build Pedestrian Bridge in Prince William County

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders in Prince William...

Vindman Celebrates Funding Secured for the Northern Virginia Community College Woodbridge Campus HVAC Program

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined Northern Virginia Community...",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=216,Walkinshaw Statement on Trump Administration’s Band-Aid Solution to Rebuild Federal Tech Talent,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) issued the following statement responding to the Trump administration’s new U.S. Tech Force program.

“I’m glad the Trump Administration now recognizes the need for skilled technologists in the federal government. Unfortunately, they spent the past year firing or forcing out thousands of them.

Elon Musk took a wrecking ball to the federal workforce, hollowing out career expertise and replacing it with DOGE bros and chaos. In the process, critical institutional knowledge was lost, and Americans’ personal information was put at risk.

The damage runs deep, and it will take far more than a handful of new hires to repair what was broken.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-reports-mass-elimination-positions-veterans-affairs,Scott Statement on Reports of Mass Elimination of Positions at Veterans Affairs Health Care Facilities,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after the Washington Post reported the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plans to eliminate 35,000 health care positions:

“Our veterans put their lives on the line, and they are entitled to quality health care. The Trump Administration has spent this year attacking, demoralizing and firing huge swaths of our federal workforce. That includes many veterans who worked at VA facilities. And now VA facilities across the nation are struggling to retain and hire new employees. There are reports that the new Chesapeake Battlefield VA outpatient clinic in my congressional district is still woefully understaffed, and the Hampton VA continues to face staffing shortages. If these reports are true, it is going to only exacerbate and worsen the problem and further hinder veterans’ ability to access the health care they were promised. The Trump Administration must reverse course for the sake of our veterans.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-subramanyams-statement-attack-bondi-beach,Congressman Subramanyam's Statement on Attack at Bondi Beach,2025-12-14,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“Hanukkah is a yearly celebration of light and miracles, and yet the Jewish community was deliberately targeted and attacked at Bondi Beach in Australia, where families were gathered to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah.

We must call out the rise in antisemitism and threats to the Jewish community in our country and around the world. We cannot let this hate win.

My prayers are with the families of the victims and with the Commonwealth’s Jewish community this week. We must always push back against hate and make people of all faiths and backgrounds feel safe.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8743,House and Senate Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Students from Dangerous Seclusion and Restraint Practices,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"House and Senate education leaders reintroduced the bipartisan Keeping All Students Safe Act to protect students from dangerous seclusion and restraint practices in school.

In the House, the bill is sponsored by House Committee on Education and Workforce Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA-03), Representative Don Beyer (D-VA-08), and Representative Abraham Hamadeh (R-AZ-08). And in the Senate, it is sponsored by Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), Ranking Member Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Appropriations Committee.

The Keeping All Students Safe Act would make it illegal for any school receiving federal taxpayer money to seclude children and ban dangerous restraint practices that restrict children’s breathing, such as prone or supine restraint. The bill would also prohibit schools from physically restraining children, except when necessary to protect the safety of students and staff. The bill would provide grants to train school personnel to address school-expected behavior with evidence-based, proactive strategies, require states to monitor the law’s implementation, and increase transparency and oversight to prevent future abuse of students.

According to yearlong investigation by Hearst Media, federal data show that incidents of restraint and seclusion occur on average at least 2,300 times per school day and impact upwards of 102,000 students each academic year. The most recent data shows that more than 50,000 public school students were restrained or secluded during the 2020-2021 school year. However, schools underreport incidents of restraint and seclusion, and there are likely many more incidents than are reflected in the data.

“Every child should be safe and protected while in school. Sadly, that is not always the case. Despite evidence that seclusion and restraint practices make schools less safe, thousands of students are still subjected to these dangerous discipline methods. Students of color and students with disabilities are disproportionately impacted by these harmful practices,” said Ranking Member Scott. “A quality education cannot be achieved without a safe learning environment. The Keeping All Students Safe Act would establish nationwide requirements and provide states and teachers the support they need to improve their schools’ culture by using evidence-based interventions.”

“Every child deserves a safe environment in which to learn and grow, but too many students – particularly Black students and those with disabilities – face harmful and abusive disciplinary actions instead. Many states have recognized the harm of seclusion and inappropriate restraint in the classroom and banned these practices, but this remains an issue that requires a federal solution,” said Representative Beyer.“Our bill would enact critical protections for students by creating national safety standards for schools and by providing personnel training and support. By enacting this legislation, Congress can ensure that children have a safer learning environment in every school.”

“No kid should be locked alone in a room or forcibly restrained while at school. Yet a shocking amount of schools continue to use unnecessary force to discipline kids, particularly those with disabilities. These methods are not only ineffective, they risk traumatizing and physically harming students in need of care. Our bill will protect kids from abuse while giving teachers and staff the tools they need to address disruptive behavior to keep all students safe,” said Senator Murphy.

“It is absolutely unacceptable that children across this country, disproportionately students of color and students with disabilities, face dangerous seclusion and restraint practices. It is our moral responsibility to ban these practices once and for all,” said Ranking Member Sanders.

“It’s past time we ban dangerous discipline practices that put students at risk in the classroom, and I’m going to keep pushing until our bill banning these practices gets signed into law,” said Vice Chair Murray. “Every kid deserves to learn in a safe, nurturing environment—full stop.”

This legislation is endorsed by Access Ready, Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint, Alliance of and for Visually Impaired Texans, Allies for Independence, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, American Association of People with Disabilities, American Bar Association, American Civil Liberties Union, American Psychological Association, Association of University Centers on Disabilities, Autism Society of America, Autistic People of Color Fund, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network (AWN), Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, Boys Town, Center for American Progress (CAP), Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD), Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), Council for Learning Disabilities, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR), Crisis Prevention Institute, DeafBlind Community of Texas, Disability Belongs, Disability Rights California, Education Trust, Epilepsy Foundation, Higher Education Consortium for Special Education (HECSE), Little Lobbyists, Lives in the Balance, Maine Parent Federation, National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD), National DeafBlind Coalition, National Disability Rights Network, National Down Syndrome Congress, National Down Syndrome Society, National Parents Union, National PTA, New America's B-12 Education Policy Program, New Disabled South, Oregon State Senator Sara Gelser Blouin, Respect ABILITY Law Center, SPAN Parent Advocacy Network, TASH, the Advocacy Institute, the Arc, the Arc of Northern Virginia, the Center for Learner Equity, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the National Family Association for DeafBlind, the Satanic Temple and Protect Children Project, the U.S. Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Unsilenced, and Zero to Three.

To read the bill text for the Keeping All Students Safe Act, click here.

To read the fact sheet on the Keeping All Students Safe Act, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8744,SEEC Blasts House Republicans' Attack on Cheap Energy and Clean Water,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"The leaders of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC), including Co-Chairs Reps. Doris Matsui, Mike Quigley, and Paul Tonko and Vice Chairs Reps. Don Beyer, Suzanne Bonamici, Sean Casten, Mike Levin, and Chellie Pingree, released the following statement in response to the House passage of the Improving Interagency Coordination for Review of Natural Gas Pipelines Act (H.R. 3668), State Planning for Reliability and Affordability Act (H.R. 3628), and Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today (PERMIT) Act (H.R. 3898).

“The promise of permitting reform has always been that, if done properly, it could unlock cheaper, cleaner energy to the benefit of all Americans. Unfortunately, House Republicans have chosen to use the guise of ‘permitting reform’ as an excuse to pursue their pro-polluter agenda. The bills they brought to the floor this month do nothing to actually address the primary challenges holding back cheap and reliable energy here in America. The biggest threat to affordable energy in America is Donald Trump’s all-out assault on solar and wind, but House Republicans have proven too scared to push back against him.

“Electricity prices have now increased by 13% since Trump took office, yet he continues to lie and dismiss the cost-of-living crisis as a ‘scam’. Trump can try to ignore the very real concerns of the American people, but we all know that life is more expensive thanks to Donald Trump, his billionaire polluter donors, and his army of Congressional yes-men.

“We remain willing to engage in good-faith bipartisan negotiations on true ‘permitting reform’. Hopefully, Congressional Republicans will heed the wake-up call of the ever-worsening energy affordability crisis and join us in that effort.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcclellan-announces-2025-2026-congressional-app-challenge-winner,McClellan Announces 2025-2026 Congressional App Challenge Winner,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the winner of the 2025-2026 Congressional App Challenge for Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District: Akash Arun Kumar Soumya. Akash designed ElderLink AR, an application that utilizes AI to provide targeted physical and emotional wellness guidance for seniors, while also offering options for real-time feedback and coaching during exercises. Akash created ElderLink AR to address the challenges posed by sedentary lifestyles among older adults.

The Fitness Chatbot offers a platform for exercise and wellbeing tips, allowing users to message questions and receive insights. It also features voice capabilities, similar to Companion Chat, which provide direct guidance on emotional wellness, including stress management. Lastly, Akash created the Exercise AR feature, which offers a real-time feedback option for seniors performing exercises through camera tracking technology.

“Akash has designed an innovative tool that gives seniors a free, accessible way to improve their health and address the issue of living a sedentary life,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Sedentary lifestyles can increase the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers, as well as cause muscle or bone loss. They can also trigger depression, anxiety and cognitive decline. Too often, providers keep mental and physical care in separate silos. Akash created a coding project that thoughtfully understands and addresses the deep connection between mental and emotional health in aging. I congratulate Akash for winning the Congressional App Challenge for Virginia’s Fourth!”

Akash currently attends Maggie Walker Governor’s School as a tenth grader.

The Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide competition that fosters students’ interest and passion in STEM and computer science. As technology rapidly evolves, STEM education is crucial for innovation, economic growth and workforce readiness. Akash, as a representative of Virginia’s Fourth in the Congressional App Challenge, will be invited to Washington, D.C. to meet Congresswoman McClellan and attend the annual #HouseofCode science fair.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/12/vindman-barrett-introduce-bipartisan-legislative-package-to-confront-the-impact-of-screen-addiction-on-mens-mental-health-2/,"Vindman, Barrett Introduce Bipartisan Legislative Package to Confront the Impact of Screen Addiction on Men’s Mental Health",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Tom Barrett (R-Mich.-07) today introduced a pair of bipartisan bills to confront the rising crisis of screen addiction, and its toll on American men and boys — a trend increasingly linked to worsening mental health, declining workforce participation, and weakened social and family connections.

The two bills — the Tech Wellness for Men Act and the Tech Wellness for Young Men Act — direct the federal government to comprehensively study the mental, social, and economic consequences of screen addiction among men and boys, and to deliver evidence-based recommendations to Congress.

“Too many men and boys in our country are quietly suffering — struggling with anxiety, isolation, and lost opportunities as screen addiction erodes their mental health, undermines family bonds, and pulls them out of the workforce,” said Vindman. “These bills are the first step toward confronting a growing crisis by putting facts and evidence above assumptions. Our families and our communities deserve real solutions.”

“One of the biggest challenges of raising four kids today is managing screen time in an increasingly digital world. Kids and teenagers all across the country are more interested in burying their face in a video game than playing outside,” said Barrett. “This isolation from the real world has led to an alarming spike in anxiety and depression, especially among boys and young men. These bills are about understanding the toll screen addiction is having on the next generation and getting serious about addressing the root cause before this trend gets any worse.”

The Tech Wellness for Men Act confronts screen addiction as a growing threat to men’s mental health, stability, and economic participation. This bill directs the Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institute of Mental Health, and the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation to conduct a federal study of men ages 25–64, investigating screen addiction’s impacts on their mental, social, and developmental wellbeing.

Specifically, the study would:

Assess links between excessive screen use and depression, anxiety, substance misuse, sleep disorders, workforce disengagement, and social isolation.

Include focused analysis of veterans and unemployed men with data broken down by urban, suburban, and rural areas.

Confront an overlooked driver of male decline and restore personal and family resilience.

HHS will report its findings and provide policy recommendations to Congress within 18 months.

The Tech Wellness for Young Men Act would also direct a comprehensive study through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the National Institute of Mental Health, and the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation to study screen addiction’s effects on the mental, social, and developmental health of boys and young men ages 12–25. This age group now faces unprecedented levels of digital exposure during a critical stage of emotional and cognitive development.

Specifically, the study would:

Examine emotional development, impulse control, academic performance, attention span, and the erosion of friendships, dating relationships, and family ties.

Examine compulsive gaming, streaming, and social media use, and their impact on civic and physical engagement to measure digital dependency.

Require input from adolescent psychiatrists, addiction scientists, educators, and technology ethicists.

HHS must provide Congress with findings, identify the most vulnerable subgroups, and outline recommended next steps within 18 months.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8742,AI Caucus Co-Chair Beyer Response To Trump’s AI Order,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA), co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Artificial Intelligence Caucus, today issued the following statement on President Trump’s executive order targeting state regulations on artificial intelligence:

“President Trump’s AI order is an attempt to kill responsible safety reforms passed by states, which would create a lawless Wild West environment for AI companies that puts Americans at risk. This is a terrible idea.

“Congress has been slow to respond to the AI revolution and in the absence of a strong federal response, states are wisely taking the lead to create guardrails and protect the public. Trump’s attempt to undo this progress without providing any federal regulatory protections would be extremely harmful. A moratorium on state legislation will reduce the likelihood of Congressional action as well, which is the unstated goal of this Executive Order. Moreover, his attempt to block state laws through federal coercion likely violates the 10th Amendment, and as such constitutes an unconstitutional abuse of power.

“The first attempt to pass this harmful AI moratorium policy in the One Big Beautiful Bill failed because of robust bipartisan opposition. Trump is using this executive order to bypass this opposition in both chambers of Congress. Hostility on Capitol Hill to this damaging and irresponsible policy remains strong, and I am actively exploring legislative options with members in both chambers and both parties in response to this order.”

Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) serves as co-Chair of the Congressional Artificial Intelligence Caucus. He was one of a handful of members selected to serve on the bipartisan Task Force On Artificial Intelligence, convened by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Speaker Mike Johnson. He is the author of the AI Foundation Model Transparency Act and a lead cosponsor of the CREATE AI Act, the Federal Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Act, and the Artificial Intelligence Environmental Impacts Act.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-votes-send-trump-impeachment-inquiry-judiciary-committee,Scott Votes to Send Trump Impeachment Inquiry to Judiciary Committee,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after voting No on the Republican Motion to Table H.Res. 939, Impeaching Donald John Trump, President of the United States for high crimes and misdemeanors:

“During his first term in office, I voted twice to impeach Donald Trump for his abuse of his office and his incitement of the deadly insurrection on January 6, 2021. House Republicans have shown little interest in conducting congressional oversight over Donald Trump and his Administrations during his time in office.

“During his second term, Donald Trump has engaged in corrupt abuses of the Emoluments Clause, threatened violence against Members of Congress, and committed apparent war crimes in the Caribbean amongst other out-of-control, illegal behavior that demeans and abuses the Office of the President. It is long overdue for the House Judiciary Committee to hold hearings and investigate all potential high crimes and misdemeanors committed by President Trump.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2629,Rep. Cline Introduces Bill to Restore Standard Rulemaking Procedures at Federal Agencies,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06) introduced the Sunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act of 2025, legislation to bring transparency, accountability, and public input to federal agency consent decrees and settlement agreements. Currently, activist groups leverage behind-closed-doors lawsuits to pressure agencies into sweeping regulatory changes without meaningful input from the public, job creators, or affected industries, effectively sidestepping the traditional rulemaking process. Rep. Cline’s bill restores accountability by requiring public notice and comment, strengthened judicial review, agency head certification of settlements, and detailed reporting to Congress to ensure these agreements serve the public interest.

“The American people deserve a transparent, accountable government, not one where major regulatory decisions are made behind closed doors through backroom legal deals,” said Rep. Ben Cline. “For too long, activist-driven lawsuits have been used to force sweeping policy changes without public input or congressional oversight. The Sunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act restores openness and accountability by ensuring these agreements are subject to public notice, comment, and judicial review so that taxpayers, workers, and small businesses all have a voice.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcguire.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mcguires-wintergreen-emergency-egress-act-advances-through-committee,Rep. McGuire's Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act Advances Through the Committee Process,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,VA,John J. McGuire III,M001239,mcguire.house.gov,mcguire,https://mcguire.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative John McGuire’s (VA-05) legislation, the Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act, was included in the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands’ legislative hearing. Senator Tim Kaine (VA) leads the companion legislation in the U.S. Senate with Senator Mark Warner (VA) as an original cosponsor.

Wintergreen, Virginia is a popular tourist destination located off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Nelson County, Virginia. Currently, the Wintergreen community has only one entrance and exit route; presenting a significant safety concern if there were to be an evacuation due to a natural disaster.

Congressman McGuire’s Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act directs the Secretary of the Interior to issue a right-of-way to Wintergreen to finish an emergency route upon the completion of the required reviews; ensuring residents and visitors have an alternative route to use to evacuate during a catastrophic event, while minimizing disturbance to federal land.

“I am proud to introduce this legislation which will help solve an over 25-year problem for the town of Wintergreen and puts public safety first,” said Congressman McGuire. “The danger posed by limited evacuation routes is well documented. The difference between survival and catastrophe comes down to whether there is more than one way out during times of emergency. I’m proud to have the support of seven of my House colleagues in the Virginia Delegation and both of Virginia’s Senators on this straightforward bill that prioritizes public safety.""

Watch Rep. McGuire's testimony here.

“There is currently only one road for entry to and exit out of Wintergreen, and residents have shared their concerns with me about the risks that poses if there is an emergency,” said Senator Kaine. “I’m proud to be introducing this bipartisan legislation to support the construction of a new road and enhance public safety.”

“Every American is taught as a child the importance of knowing where emergency exits are located. It’s why schools have fire drills,” said Curtis Sheets, Chief of Wintergreen Fire & Rescue. “Every American who travels by air understands the importance of knowing where the exits from the plane are located. That is why we have safety briefings on every single flight. Serious wildfire events such as those in Gatlinburg, TN, and Paradise CA, have all underscored the importance of having emergency exits from neighborhoods. The Wintergreen community does not have an emergency exit, even though creating such an exit would be incredibly simple. We have tried for over 25 years to gain approval from the National Park Service. We appreciate Congressman McGuire for helping us continue and hopefully finish the fight.”

While Congressman McGuire and other members of the Virginia Delegation work to pass this through the House, Virginia’s Senator Kaine and Senator Warner are advancing it in the Senate. This important piece of legislation will provide the thousands of residents and visitors with a reliable and safe emergency evacuation route and help keep Virginians safe.

“Currently, there is only one road in and out of Wintergreen, posing a great risk to residents and first responders in the event of an emergency,” said Senator Warner. “This legislation takes the first step towards fixing this potentially life-threatening problem and prioritizing public safety during a natural disaster or emergency situation.”

“This legislation is critical to the safety of the thousands of residents and visitors who visit Wintergreen Resort every year,” said Congressman Wittman (VA-01) “I am proud to support this investment into the emergency preparedness of Virginia’s tourism industry — ensuring that both tourists and staff aren’t put in harm’s way.”

“The thousands of people who live in Wintergreen or are staying at the Wintergreen Resort deserve a safe and reliable evacuation route — this legislation would establish just that,"" said Congressman Vindman (VA-07) ""I'm proud to support the Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act to decrease the risk in the event of a natural disaster or emergency, guaranteeing that federal partners can help Wintergreen build the infrastructure its residents and first responders have needed for years.”

“Wintergreen is one of Virginia’s greatest treasures, and the safety of the families who live, work, and visit there must always come first,” said Congressman Cline (VA-06) “With only a single road in and out, the risk during a natural disaster or emergency is simply too great to ignore. Congressman McGuire’s Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act is a commonsense, life-saving solution that will give first responders and residents the critical access they need to safely evacuate when it matters most.”

“In the event of a natural disaster or emergency, we must prioritize the safety of our communities above all else,” said Congresswoman McClellan (VA-04) “Construction of an additional exit route for Wintergreen will give residents and tourists the peace of mind that they can safely and calmly evacuate the area if needed. I am pleased to join Congressman McGuire’s efforts to save lives through the Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act.”

“The Blue Ridge Parkway is a major tourism engine that generates revenue for mountain communities in Virginia, including in Virginia’s Ninth District,” said Congressman Griffith (VA-09). “I am proud to join my Virginia colleagues in exploring sensible policies that support the Parkway. The Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act provides a safer environment for a significant Parkway attraction.”

Background:",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-subramanyam-applauds-senate-introduction-his-bill-support-family-farmers,Rep. Subramanyam Applauds Senate Introduction of His Bill to Support Family Farmers and Grow Agritourism,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Agritourism Caucus and primary sponsor of the AGRITOURISM Act, released the following statement after Senate introduction of a companion to Rep. Subramanyam’s bill:

“I thank Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Ted Budd (R-NC) for introducing the companion to my legislation for the first time in the Senate. I look forward to working with my House and Senate colleagues to pass this legislation to support our agritourism farmers and contribute to the resiliency of small-town America. Agritourism is a booming industry in Virginia and critical to our local economy. From wineries to ranches, breweries, distilleries, and farm stands, our farmers deserve dedicated resources within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to make sure they have everything they need to be successful.”

Rep. Subramanyam introduced the bipartisan Accelerating the Growth of Rural Innovation and Tourism Opportunities to Uphold Rural Industries and Sustainable Marketplaces (AGRITOURISM) Act earlier this year. The bill would create an Office of Agritourism at USDA to represent the interests of agritourism businesses in federal policymaking and consolidate federal resources to sustain agritourism businesses, such as loans, grants, and broadband connectivity programs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-subramanyam-votes-restore-collective-bargaining-rights-almost-million,Rep. Subramanyam Votes to Restore Collective Bargaining Rights for Almost a Million Federal Workers,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) joined members from both parties in voting to repeal President Trump’s executive order that stripped union rights from almost one million federal workers.

“This administration has lived up to their promise to make federal workers ‘traumatically affected,’ with firings, reductions in force, and the closure of whole offices within departments. The president’s executive order stripping collective bargaining rights from federal workers was another insult to thousands of our neighbors who are civil servants,” said Rep. Subramanyam. “Repealing this executive order will ensure federal workers maintain their right to fight for competitive pay and benefits. We want to retain these hardworking employees who could be making more money in the private sector, and collective bargaining is a key component of retention.”

President Trump’s March 27 Executive Order, “Exclusions from Federal Labor-Management Relations Programs,” sought to end collective bargaining with unions at the departments of Defense, State, Veterans Affairs, Justice and Energy, and some workers at the departments of Homeland Security, Treasury, Health and Human Services, Interior and Agriculture. The order affected hundreds of thousands of federal workers.

The Protect America’s Workforce Act would fully repeal the executive order and guarantee that the federal government honors union contracts in place at the time it was made.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/11/u-s-house-passes-three-vindman-led-efforts-as-part-of-bipartisan-defense-bill/,U.S. House Passes Three Vindman-Led Efforts as Part of Bipartisan Defense Bill,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07), member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, today voted with a bipartisan majority of the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

The legislation included three Vindman-led provisions to strengthen support for military families, improve the educational environment in Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools, and protecting the Department of Defense (DoD) civilian workforce from arbitrary firings.

“As a 25-year Army veteran, I know that passing a strong, bipartisan defense bill is one of the most important things Congress does each year,” said Vindman. “This NDAA reflects months of work to strengthen our national security and support the people who make that mission possible. I’m glad to see three provisions I championed included — one that bolsters quality education by making DoDEA classrooms phone-free, another that guarantees children of reservists can attend DoDEA schools when their parent is serving their country, and one that protects Virginia’s federal workers. These are practical steps that give military families more stability and help their kids succeed.”

Specifically, the Vindman-led provisions in the bipartisan defense bill would:

Require all DoDEA schools to adopt phone-free classroom policies. These schools, which serve the children of U.S. military personnel stationed across the globe, would become leaders in restoring in-class focus and reducing screen time during school hours.

Guarantee that children of reservists can access DoDEA schools while their parent is serving their country. Vindman pushed for this change after hearing directly from an affected constituent about the challenges they faced.

Protecting federal workers from DOGE by standing up for the DoD civilian workforce by strengthening protections against arbitrary firings. With 55,000 federal workers in Virginia’s Seventh District, Vindman will always fight our federal workers.

Vindman was one of 17 Democrats to vote to pass the bipartisan NDAA when it first came to the House floor in September. He believes the national security of our country should remain a bipartisan issue and will continue to put our military families and service members over politics.

BACKGROUND

Congressman Vindman is a U.S. Army veteran. He served as an infantry officer and paratrooper including assignments in the 82D Airborne Division and as a company commander leading troops. Soon after, he transitioned to the U.S. Army Judge Advocate Generals (JAG) Corps. As a JAG, Vindman served as an international law advisor in Iraq; as the senior prosecutor in the busiest jurisdiction in the Army; and as a White House National Security Council (NSC) deputy legal advisor. In Congress, he sits on the House Armed Services Committee.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/11/vindman-votes-to-give-troops-well-deserved-pay-raise-invest-in-military-readiness/,"Vindman Votes to Give Troops Well-Deserved Pay Raise, Invest in Military Readiness",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07), member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee released the following statement after voting to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.

“This bipartisan bill delivers real investments in readiness, innovation, and the wellbeing of our service members and their families,” said Vindman. “Two measures I led successfully passed the U.S. House as part of this legislation: one to guarantee children of reservists are able to go to school on base while their parents are serving our country and another to make DoDEA classrooms phone-free so students can learn with fewer distractions. With this bill, we will strengthen our military and back our service members with the resources they deserve. Every military family and service member should know that I will always have their back.”

The majority of this legislation reflects months of bipartisan negotiations done in good faith between the U.S. House and U.S. Senate Armed Services Committees.

Vindman was one of 17 Democrats on the House Armed Services Committee to pass the bipartisan NDAA when it first came to the House floor in September. He believes the national security of our country should remain a bipartisan issue and will continue to put our military families and service members in front of politics.

Vindman championed and secured the following priorities for Virginia’s service members and military families in the NDAA:

$18 million increase in funding for the U.S. Army to procure First-Person View (FPV) drones

$17 million in additional funding for the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) to purchase drones

$10 million in additional funding for the USMC’s Warfighting Lab

Children of reservists are guaranteed access to Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools while serving their country

Requiring that all DoDEA schools adopt phone-free classroom policies

$20 million increase in funding for U.S. Army Facilities Sustainment, Restoration, and Modernization to address infrastructure issues at Ft. Walker

Requiring parental notification within 24 hours of any negative incidents at DoD Child Development Centers

Stands up for the DoD civilian workforce by strengthening protections against arbitrary reductions in force

Repealing the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for use of Military Force against Iraq

Reauthorizing the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) for $400 million for FY26 and $400 million for FY27

Vindman’s yes vote — along the majority of his colleagues — also supported critical priorities for the United States, including:

A well-deserved 3.8% pay raise for service members

$1.5 billion for new and needed barracks, housing, and child development centers

Extends a limitation on recognizing Russian sovereignty over any part of Ukraine

$460 million for necessary environmental cleanup at Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) sites

Extends the Child Care In Your Home pilot program for eligible community-based childcare providers

These provisions reflect Vindman’s commitment to holding the Department of Defense accountable, safeguarding our national security, and guaranteeing our service members have the resources and support they need to succeed.

BACKGROUND

Congressman Vindman is a U.S. Army veteran. He served as an infantry officer and paratrooper including assignments in the 82D Airborne Division and as a company commander leading troops. Soon after, he transitioned to the U.S. Army Judge Advocate Generals (JAG) Corps. As a JAG, Vindman served as an international law advisor in Iraq; as the senior prosecutor in the busiest jurisdiction in the Army; and as a White House National Security Council (NSC) deputy legal advisor. In Congress, he sits on the House Armed Services Committee.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=215,"Walkinshaw Calls Out OPM Director Kupor for Misleading, Deplorable Comments on Federal Workforce",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) issued the following statement responding to U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director Scott Kupor’s misleading claim that nearly 97% of departing federal workers “voluntarily” left civil service rather than being coerced by the Trump administration.

“Federal workers were hit with DOGE, watched agencies shutter, were threatened with imminent Reductions in Force, demagogued, and bombarded with those mindless “5 things” emails.

Nothing about that was voluntary — the Fork in the Road was coercion.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8740,"Raskin, Beyer, Welch Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Expand Ranked Choice Voting to all Congressional Elections",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Don Beyer (VA-08) and Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced bicameral legislation to bring ranked choice voting (RCV) to congressional races across America. The Ranked Choice Voting Act would require RCV for all primary and general congressional races beginning in 2030, allowing voters to express their ranked support for multiple candidates. This would make our elections fairer and more representative and create a more positive politics.

With RCV, voters rank candidates in order of preference. If a candidate receives more than half of the first choices, that candidate wins, just like in any election. If not, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and voters who picked that candidate as ‘number 1’ have their votes redistributed and counted for their next favored choice. This process continues until a candidate wins with more than half the votes.

“Ranked choice voting is a great advance in democracy. It gives voters more power at the ballot box and makes our politics more positive and inclusive, encouraging candidates to connect with more voters,” said Rep. Raskin. “I’m proud to partner with Representative Beyer and Senator Welch on this important legislation to keep growing and improving electoral democracy.”

“Polarization in Congress is worse than ever, and this is making it harder and harder for Congress to solve basic problems for the American people,” said Rep. Beyer. “Ranked choice voting would help fix our broken political system by changing election incentives to favor leaders who build broad and diverse coalitions focused on solutions rather than divisive rhetoric. This reform would strengthen our democracy and make Congress more responsive to the needs of the people we represent.”

“Our democracy is at its strongest when everyone is heard and represented. Ranked choice voting offers an opportunity to break through polarization and strengthen our democracy by ensuring that our elected candidates have received the broad support of the folks they’ll represent,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to join my friends and former colleagues Representatives Raskin and Beyer on this pro-democracy bill to make our elections more equitable, more civil, and more representative.”

“The Ranked Choice Voting Act will give voters more choice and more power. It will make Congress more responsive and more accountable to the people they represent,” said Meredith Sumpter, president and CEO of FairVote, a nonpartisan organization seeking better elections. “At a time when polarization and gridlock are making it harder for Congress to deliver for the American people, ranked choice voting gives members of Congress incentives to lead, legislate, and govern together.”

The RCV Act is endorsed by FairVote Action, Campaign Legal Center, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Public Citizen, People Power United, Third Way, Ranked Choice Voting Maryland, National Council of Jewish Women, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, United Church of Christ, #unifyUSA, 7th Generation Labs, Better Ballot SC, Bridge Alliance Education Fund, Citizen Works, Clean Elections Texas, Connecticut Voters First, DemCast USA, Divided We Fall, FairVote Illinois, FairVote Minnesota, Fix Democracy First, Founding Mothers Movement, Georgia Coalition for the Peoples Agenda, Greenpeace USA, HeadCount, Healthfox US, Indivisible Howard County, N.C. For The People Action, National Network for Arab American Communities, National Organization for Women, NH Ranked Choice Voting, Ocean State RCV, Rank the Vote, Rank The Vote Ohio, RepresentUs, RepresentWomen, SC Small Business Chamber of Commerce, Task Force for Democracy, UpVote Virginia, Vote Nevada, Voter Choice Arizona, Voter Choice Massachusetts, Women's Committee of the Forward Party.

The legislation is cosponsored in the House by Representatives Steve Cohen (TN-09), Angie Craig (MN-02), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Summer Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Scott Peters (CA-50), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Shri Thanedar (MI-13).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8741,Virginia Delegation Statement On NDAA Rotary Wing Aircraft Provision,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today U.S. Representatives Don Beyer, Suhas Subramanyam, James Walkinshaw, Bobby Scott, Jennifer McClellan, and Eugene Vindman, Members of Congress representing Virginia, issued the following statement on Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2026, which addresses “Manned Rotary Wing Aircraft Safety” in the wake of the January 29, 2025 mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan National Airport that took 67 lives:

“We share serious concerns raised by the Families of Flight 5342 and the National Transportation Safety Board about Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act related to safety in the airspace around National Airport following the tragic collision in January. We are deeply disappointed that this provision, which only applies to training flights, creates a waiver process to allow training flights in the region that further congest the airspace, an issue that contributed to January’s deadly crash.

“This provision falls short of NTSB’s preliminary safety recommendations and omits changes that are essential to improve visibility, safety, and communications between military and civilian aircraft in D.C. airspace. Further action is needed to prevent a repetition of the mistakes that led to this incident, and we will continue working with all possible speed on legislative solutions with our colleagues and transportation officials to get this right before any waivers are issued, and to ensure air safety in the region.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-labor-leaders-introduce-bill-protect-workers-and-level-playing,House Labor Leaders Introduce Bill to Protect Workers and Level the Playing Field,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, House labor leaders will introduce the Labor Enforcement to Securely (LET’S) Protect Workers Act. The LET’S Protect Workers Act is a transformative bill that will protect America’s workers and crack down on dishonest employers and corporations by raising penalties for violations of workers’ rights and protections.

The bill introduction is accompanied by a damning report entitled, “A Slap on the Wrist: How it Pays for Dishonest Employers to Take Advantage of Workers” which illustrates how current civil monetary penalties for labor violations fall short, allowing dishonest employers to exploit workers. And it underscores the lack of accountability for serious infractions, such as illegal child labor, worker fatalities, wage theft, union-busting, and discriminatory health coverage practices, emboldens companies to keep breaking the law.

“Every American should be fairly compensated and be able to return home safely at the end of the day,” said Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), House Committee on Education and Workforce. “Unfortunately, shortcomings in our labor laws enable unethical employers to exploit workers, endanger children, and suppress the right to organize—with little accountability. That’s why I'm proud to reintroduce the LET’S Protect Workers Act, which will hold bad actors accountable and strengthen penalties for labor law violations. This bill will help level the playing field and, once again, restore the balance of power between workers and their employers.”

“Far too often, bad employers break our labor laws by violating safety standards or retaliating against workers for union organizing, and yet they get off with merely a slap on the wrist,” said Congressional Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Donald Norcross, Mark Pocan, Debbie Dingell, and Steven Horsford. “Today, we’re introducing legislation that would finally establish meaningful penalties to protect workers and hold bad actors accountable. Every day, working people bravely organize for fairer workplaces, and lawmakers need to have their backs. We’re calling on every one of our colleagues to join us in supporting this legislation and fighting for workers.”

Responsibly strengthening civil monetary penalties will save workers’ lives, prevent disabling injury, protect the welfare of children, safeguard the most vulnerable workers, and undergird the right to organize by raising the cost of noncompliance and deterring violations. The LET’S Protect Workers Act will:

Increase civil monetary penalties for violations of child labor, minimum wage and overtime, worker health and safety, and farmworker protection standards.

Improve mine safety and reliable funding of black lung benefits through new and increased civil monetary penalties and the option to shut down scofflaw operators.

Set new penalties for retaliation against workers who exercise their family and medical leave rights.

Strengthen enforcement of mental health parity requirements for employer-sponsored health plans.

Close a loophole that allows employers to escape penalties for failing to keep records of workplace injuries if OSHA does not detect the violation within six months.

Create new penalties for violations of the National Labor Relations Act, consistent with the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act.

The LET’S Protect Workers Act is co-sponsored by 70 Representatives including Alma S. Adams (NC-12), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), André Carson (IN-07), Troy A. Carter (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-25), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gilbert Ray Cisneros, Jr. (CA-31), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Christopher R. Deluzio (PA-17), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Valerie P. Foushee (NC-04), Lois Frankel (FL-22), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Daniel S. Goldman (NY-10), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Timothy M. Kennedy (NY-26), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), John W. Mannion (NY-22), Doris O. Matsui (CA-07), Sarah McBride (DE-AL), Jennifer L. McClellan (VA-04), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Janice D. Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Melanie A. Stansbury (NM-01), Haley M. Stevens (MI-11), Thomas R. Suozzi (NY-03), Emilia Strong Sykes (OH-13), Mark Takano (CA-39), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24), Val T. Hoyle (OR-04), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), and Angie Craig (MN-02).

The LET’S Protect Workers Act is endorsed by AFL-CIO, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Child Labor Coalition, Communications Workers of America (CWA), Economic Policy Institute (EPI), Family Values @ Work, International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), National Consumers League, National Employment Law Project (NELP), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Transport Workers Union of America (TWU), UNITE HERE, United Auto Workers (UAW), United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), and United Steelworkers (USW).

To read the full text of the LET’S Protect Workers Act, click here.

To read the fact sheet of the LET’S Protect Workers Act, click here.

To read the section-by-section of the LET’S Protect Workers Act, click here.

To read the report entitled, “A Slap on the Wrist: How it Pays for Dishonest Employers to Take Advantage of Workers,” click here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-votes-defense-bill-fy26,Scott Votes for Defense Bill for FY26,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after voting for the final passage of S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:

“The FY26 NDAA provides support to servicemembers, guarantees the defense of the American people, and invests in shipbuilding and our national security. This bill includes a 3.8% raise for all servicemembers, extends efforts to improve childcare and military housing, and protects workers from reduction in force at a public shipyard without cause.

“As the representative of Hampton Roads, home to significant military installations, I am proud that the final bill supports our region’s shipbuilding industrial base with $26 billion for shipbuilding provisions that includes full funding for the advance procurement of the first CVN-82 and full funding of the Ford-Class Aircraft Carrier Program, as well as full funding of the third Columbia-class Ballistic Missile Submarine and one Virginia-class Submarine. The final bill also improves the AUKUS agreement between our partners and strengthens the efficiency of the agreement. The bill also authorizes funding for military construction projects across Hampton Roads including funding for a Child Development Center at Naval Station Norfolk and Dry Dock 3 Modernization at Norfolk Naval Shipyard.”

“I am thankful that many culture war provisions included in the original House-passed version of this year’s NDAA were ultimately rejected such as provisions attacking LGBTQ+ servicemembers, undermining efforts to diversify our fighting force, and restricting university research. Ultimately, this bill supports our service members and our allies while ensuring America’s national security.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/virginia-delegation-statement-ndaa-rotary-wing-aircraft-provision,Virginia Delegation Statement On NDAA Rotary Wing Aircraft Provision,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Representatives Don Beyer, Suhas Subramanyam, James Walkinshaw, Bobby Scott, Jennifer McClellan, and Eugene Vindman, Members of Congress representing Virginia, issued the following statement on Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2026, which addresses “Manned Rotary Wing Aircraft Safety” in the wake of the January 29, 2025 mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan National Airport that took 67 lives:

“We share serious concerns raised by the Families of Flight 5342 and the National Transportation Safety Board about Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act related to safety in the airspace around National Airport following the tragic collision in January. We are deeply disappointed that this provision, which only applies to training flights, creates a waiver process to allow training flights in the region that further congest the airspace, an issue that contributed to January’s deadly crash.

“This provision falls short of NTSB’s preliminary safety recommendations and omits changes that are essential to improve visibility, safety, and communications between military and civilian aircraft in D.C. airspace. Further action is needed to prevent a repetition of the mistakes that led to this incident, and we will continue working with all possible speed on legislative solutions with our colleagues and transportation officials to get this right before any waivers are issued, and to ensure air safety in the region.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcclellan-joins-rep-nikema-williams-introduce-resolution-declaring-abortion,McClellan Joins Rep. Nikema Williams to Introduce Resolution Declaring Abortion as a Human Right,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) joined Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) to introduce a Congressional Resolution, along with 108 other members, affirming reproductive freedom as a human right. According to the UN Committee on Human Rights, parties to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), including the United States, are obliged to protect reproductive freedom. Following the Dobbs decision, many states are not upholding their obligations under the ICCPR and other human rights treaties. The resolution is also co-led by Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Rep. Troy Carter (LA-02), Rep. Alma Adams (NC-12), and Rep. Greg Casar (TX-35).

Over the last three decades, more than 60 nations have reformed their abortion laws while only four have rolled abortion rights back: Poland, El Salvador, Nicaragua — and now, the United States.

Last Month, the United States was scheduled to appear before the United Nations for the Universal Periodic Review–a human rights assessment that every UN member state undergoes every 4.5 years. Despite participating in all previous reviews, this year, the Trump Administration boycotted, signaling a disregard for the obligation to comply with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) said:

“From the overturning of Roe v. Wade by Trump-appointed Justices on the Supreme Court to drastic Medicaid cuts that hurt patients and providers alike, we’ve seen reproductive health care fall further and further out of reach for millions. Comprehensive and accessible reproductive health care remains a public health, social justice and human rights issue — and this resolution ensures we treat it with the seriousness it deserves. I thank Rep. Williams for her leadership on this resolution. We won’t rest until reproductive rights are fully restored and upheld across our nation.”

Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said:

“Abortion bans are extremely dangerous—and, in some cases, deadly—in Georgia, a state already reeling from a maternal health crisis, and across the country. Without reproductive freedom, we are not truly free. This resolution affirms that reproductive freedom is a fundamental human right under United States law, and that state abortion bans violate federal law and endanger the lives of women. We must uphold our most basic freedoms and get our country back on track as a global leader in human rights, restoring health, dignity, and freedom for pregnant women everywhere.”

Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) said:

“Democrats are fighting to make reproductive care a fundamental human right as MAGA Republicans seek to destroy it as a right and even an available social good. We believe Americans should be able to make their own health care decisions without asking Donald Trump or Mike Johnson for permission. We’re on the side of protecting personal freedom, lowering health care costs and opposing government control. That’s why we’re introducing this critical resolution.”

Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02) said:

“Access to safe, legal abortion is healthcare. It’s as fundamental as any other medical service. I’m proud to support this resolution because it sends a message that no matter where you live in this country, your rights to make decisions about your body and your health should not be up for debate. That’s a matter for you, your doctor, and your family. Not the government.”

Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12) said:

“I am proud to support this resolution. Abortion care is healthcare and women can’t be free without their right to reproductive freedom. As the United States faces a maternal mortality crisis, draconian abortion bans are costing women their lives. Since Roe was overturned, women living in states that ban abortion are nearly two times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than states where abortion is legal and accessible. For women of color, the maternal mortality rate is even higher. Abortion is a healthcare issue, an autonomy issue, an equity issue, and a dignity issue—we must fight to protect this fundamental right.”

The resolution is endorsed by 160+ organizations. See endorsers here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcclellan-statement-fy26-ndaa,McClellan Statement on the FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) issued the following statement after the House voted to advance the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26 NDAA):

“While the FY26 NDAA is not a perfect bill and contains provisions I oppose, it represents a significant step forward in raising pay for service members; strengthening protections for civilian workers against reckless mass layoffs; investing in housing and childcare centers for service members and their families; advancing scientific research; and more. It stands as one of the few instances in this 119th Congress of an ongoing bipartisan, bicameral negotiation process based in cooperation and compromise. For these reasons, I voted yes.

“The FY26 NDAA makes marked improvements in pay, infrastructure and quality of life for our service members, their families and the service community. It bolsters our positioning as a leader on the global stage, supports our allies in countries like Ukraine, includes tens of millions in funding for scientific research at HBCUs and more. These positive changes will be felt across every sector of our nation.

“Unfortunately, the Trump Administration and Speaker Johnson continued their efforts to politicize this bill to stoke culture wars. The FY26 NDAA was no exception. I vehemently oppose their efforts to undermine Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives and the work of the Naming Commission; exclude hard-won provisions for collective bargaining rights for civilian employees and funding for in vitro fertilization; and target transgender athletes at military academies. I also share the concerns raised by the families of Flight 5342 and the National Transportation Safety Board regarding safety in the airspace around Reagan National Airport. I will continue working to address these deficiencies in the FY27 NDAA.

“Despite its shortcomings, the FY26 NDAA goes a long way to meet the quality of life needs of our service members and families, supports our nation’s military readiness and reasserts some Congressional oversight responsibility over the Department of Defense. I commend my Democratic colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee for their steadfast work to counter actions taken by the Trump Administration that consistently undermine our national security. I’ll continue to work with them and House Democrats to uplift service members and keep attention on the issues that matter to the American people, not culture wars.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/virginia-delegation-statement-ndaa-rotary-wing-aircraft-provision,Virginia Delegation Statement on NDAA Rotary Wing Aircraft Provision,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Don Beyer, Suhas Subramanyam, James Walkinshaw, Bobby Scott, Jennifer McClellan, and Eugene Vindman, Members of Congress representing Virginia, issued the following statement on Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2026, which addresses “Manned Rotary Wing Aircraft Safety” in the wake of the January 29, 2025 mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan National Airport that took 67 lives:

“We share serious concerns raised by the Families of Flight 5342 and the National Transportation Safety Board about Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act related to safety in the airspace around National Airport following the tragic collision in January. We are deeply disappointed that this provision, which only applies to training flights, creates a waiver process to allow training flights in the region that further congest the airspace, an issue that contributed to January’s deadly crash.

“This provision falls short of NTSB’s preliminary safety recommendations and omits changes that are essential to improve visibility, safety, and communications between military and civilian aircraft in D.C. airspace. Further action is needed to prevent a repetition of the mistakes that led to this incident, and we will continue working with all possible speed on legislative solutions with our colleagues and transportation officials to get this right before any waivers are issued, and to ensure air safety in the region.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcguire.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mcguire-votes-passage-national-defense-authorization-act-fiscal-year-2026,Rep. McGuire Votes for Passage of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,VA,John J. McGuire III,M001239,mcguire.house.gov,mcguire,https://mcguire.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative John McGuire (VA-05), voted for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 on the House Floor.

“As a Navy SEAL veteran, I am pleased to see the House pass the final Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. This year’s NDAA advances President Trump’s Peace through Strength Agenda,” said Congressman John McGuire. “This legislation improves the quality of life for all servicemembers, invests in new equipment and systems for enhanced deterrence, removes radical DEI policies from the Department, and improves acquisition reform at the Pentagon so our warfighters get what they need to win now. Virginia is home to numerous defense innovators, installations, and military families. I was proud to support this critical legislation on the floor as it ensures our military is modern and lethal. I promised, when I took office, to deliver for Virginia’s 5th District. This bill does just that and more for the Commonwealth, supporting the growing nuclear industry, advanced manufacturing, and workforce development sectors. I look forward to President Trump signing this critical legislation.”

Watch Rep. McGuire’s House floor remarks in support of the NDAA here.

The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026:

Fundamentally reforms defense acquisition – streamlining the process, cutting through red tape, and getting our warfighters what they need when they need it.

Supports the Trump Administration’s budget request for a 3.8% pay raise for all servicemembers and improves housing, education, and access to childcare for military families.

Invests in the capabilities needed to maintain a strong U.S. posture. It strengthens nuclear deterrence, expands missile defense, and provides resources and authorities to counter adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

Ensures our Armed Forces have the capabilities they need to prevail in the wars of the future by accelerating innovation, prioritizing cutting-edge technologies like hypersonics and autonomous systems.

Expands U.S. production capacity and provides certainty to rebuild the defense industrial base.

Codifies all or parts of 15 President Trump executive orders and 30 legislative proposals requested by the Trump Administration.

Supports President Trump’s top priorities, including the Golden Dome, F-47 fighter aircraft, submarines, warships, and autonomous vehicles.

This year’s NDAA includes several key provisions critical to Virginia and the Fifth District, many of which Congressman McGuire championed:",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-subramanyam-raises-concerns-over-imran-khans-condition,Congressman Subramanyam Raises Concerns Over Imran Khan's Condition,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“I am concerned by reports that members of former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s family went weeks without establishing direct contact with him, raising fears that he may have suffered irreversible harm. While it was later reported that Mr. Khan is in stable physical condition, he largely remains in solitary confinement with limited communication to others.

I will continue to monitor these developments, and reaffirm my commitment to justice, human rights, and democracy around the world.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/virginia-delegation-statement-ndaa-rotary-wing-aircraft-provision,Virginia Delegation Statement On NDAA Rotary Wing Aircraft Provision,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today U.S. Representatives Suhas Subramanyam, Don Beyer, James Walkinshaw, Bobby Scott, Jennifer McClellan, and Eugene Vindman, Members of Congress representing Virginia, issued the following statement on Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2026, which addresses “Manned Rotary Wing Aircraft Safety” in the wake of the January 29, 2025 mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan National Airport that took 67 lives:

“We share serious concerns raised by the Families of Flight 5342 and the National Transportation Safety Board about Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act related to safety in the airspace around National Airport following the tragic collision in January. We are deeply disappointed that this provision, which only applies to training flights, creates a waiver process to allow training flights in the region that further congest the airspace, an issue that contributed to January’s deadly crash.

“This provision falls short of NTSB’s preliminary safety recommendations and omits changes that are essential to improve visibility, safety, and communications between military and civilian aircraft in D.C. airspace. Further action is needed to prevent a repetition of the mistakes that led to this incident, and we will continue working with all possible speed on legislative solutions with our colleagues and transportation officials to get this right before any waivers are issued, and to ensure air safety in the region.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/10/vindman-bresnahan-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-expand-small-business-administration-lending-eligibility-for-residential-developers-boost-housing-supply/,"Vindman, Bresnahan Lead Bipartisan Effort to Expand Small Business Administration Lending Eligibility for Residential Developers, Boost Housing Supply",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Rob Bresnahan (R-Pa.-08) introduced bipartisan legislation to require the Small Business Administration (SBA) to carry out a pilot program for the construction or management of build-to-rent multifamily housing.

The Main Street Home Builders Act would authorize the SBA’s 504-loan program to support small-scale residential construction under a new pilot. The program would operate under clear performance standards to track success and protect taxpayer dollars. By leveraging the proven structure of the SBA’s 504-loan program, focusing support on small builders, and establishing strict caps and time limits, this bill would increase the nation’s housing supply.

“Communities across America are being squeezed by rising construction costs and a shrinking housing supply. This bill will unlock new opportunities for small builders — empowering them to help deliver the homes our neighbors desperately need,” said Vindman. “By using the Small Business Administration’s proven 504-loan framework in a responsible pilot program, we can grow housing supply, lower costs, and safeguard taxpayer dollars all at once.”

“Families in Northeastern Pennsylvania are being priced out of the housing market, and we can’t afford to let red tape keep holding back the small businesses that are ready to build more homes,” said Bresnahan. “The Main Street Home Builders Act is a commonsense step to lower costs by helping local builders access the tools they need to get more homes on the market. When our local builders can get shovels in the ground faster, families across NEPA see lower costs and more housing options.”

BACKGROUND

Rising construction costs and limited housing supply are putting pressure on communities nationwide. Meeting the country’s economic and workforce needs will require building more homes — and empowering small builders is essential to lowering costs and extending supply. Under current law, the SBA’s 504 Loan Program helps small businesses finance commercial development projects but doesn’t allow small builders to use it for residential construction. This gap limits the ability of local builders to respond to housing demand and slows efforts to increase affordable, attainable housing across the country.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=204,Virginia Delegation Statement On NDAA Rotary Wing Aircraft Provision,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Representatives James Walkinshaw, Don Beyer, Suhas Subramanyam, Bobby Scott, Jennifer McClellan, and Eugene Vindman, Members of Congress representing Virginia, issued the following statement on Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2026, which addresses “Manned Rotary Wing Aircraft Safety” in the wake of the January 29, 2025 mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan National Airport that took 67 lives:

“We share serious concerns raised by the Families of Flight 5342 and the National Transportation Safety Board about Section 373 of the National Defense Authorization Act related to safety in the airspace around National Airport following the tragic collision in January. We are deeply disappointed that this provision, which only applies to training flights, creates a waiver process to allow training flights in the region that further congest the airspace, an issue that contributed to January’s deadly crash.

“This provision falls short of NTSB’s preliminary safety recommendations and omits changes that are essential to improve visibility, safety, and communications between military and civilian aircraft in D.C. airspace. Further action is needed to prevent a repetition of the mistakes that led to this incident, and we will continue working with all possible speed on legislative solutions with our colleagues and transportation officials to get this right before any waivers are issued, and to ensure air safety in the region.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8716,Beyer Announces New Date for Annual Women's Conference,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"After previously postponing his annual Women’s Conference in October due to the government shutdown, Rep. Don Beyer today announced that he will be hosting his Ninth Annual Women's Conference: The Ripple Effects of Resilience on Thursday, January 15 at George Mason University’s new Fuse building in Arlington.

The program will feature a discussion with Brooke Sydnor Curran, founder of Move2Learn; Lisa Jacobs, Executive Director of the Alexandria Tutoring Consortium; Elizabeth Jones Valderrama, Executive Director of Offender Aid and Restoration (OAR); and Ana Dionne-Lanier, Attorney at the Amica Center for Immigrant Rights. The discussion will be moderated by Nyree Wright, Executive Vice President of Crisis & Risk Communications at Edelman. Beyer will also present this year's Clara Mortenson Beyer Women and Children First Award.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8739,"Landsman, Beyer Introduce Bill to Protect Residents from Rising Costs Caused by AI Data Centers",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Greg Landsman (D-OH-01) and Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA-08) introduced a bill to protect residents and small businesses from rising electricity costs caused by artificial intelligence data centers.

The annual electricity consumption in the U.S. hit a record high in 2024 and is expected to keep rising. It’s driven in part by the growing demands for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers.

As a result, communities and small businesses are paying more in their electricity bills.

To address this, Congressman Landsman and Congressman Beyer introduced the Protecting Families from AI Data Center Energy Costs Act – legislation requiring the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to hold a conference with major stakeholders on how to protect residents from increased costs.

FERC will be required to submit a report with detailed recommendations and best practices to ensure energy costs associated with AI data centers are not passed onto communities.

Congressman Landsman:

“Costs are increasing in every aspect of people’s lives – adding to the affordability crisis. Residents and small businesses in states like Ohio, which is home to nearly 200 data centers, shouldn’t be footing the bill to support them. There needs to be a plan to address this.”

Congressman Beyer:

“The rapid growth of data center construction to meet power demands from the proliferation of AI platforms is driving electricity prices up sharply in Virginia and across the country. The Administration has been slow to respond to these changes, and unfortunately Republican-passed legislation is slowing the construction of energy projects that we need to bring capacity online to meet this demand. Our bill would respond to this growing problem to generate policy changes that protect consumers and lower prices for the American people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-subramanyam-introduces-bipartisan-bill-help-first-time-homebuyers-save,Rep. Subramanyam Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Help First-Time Homebuyers Save for a Downpayment,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representatives Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) and Ashley Hinson (IA-02) introduced a bipartisan bill that will help first-time homebuyers with a down payment on a home. The First Home Savings Opportunity Act establishes tax-deductible first-time homebuyer savings accounts to assist individuals and families saving for a downpayment.

“Purchasing a home has become out of reach for far too many Americans because of housing costs, especially for young adults,” said Rep. Subramanyam. “We must preserve the American dream of home ownership and take action now in Congress. This commonsense legislation will make purchasing a home a little easier for first-time homebuyers. There is more Congress needs to do to address the affordability crisis, but this is an important step in the right direction.”

“Buying a home is the core milestone of living out the American Dream, but it has become out of reach for hardworking families. By allowing families to save tax-free to buy a home, we’ll help more families be able to afford their dream home. I’ll continue working to improve housing access and affordability in Iowa and across the country,” said Rep. Hinson.

The First Home Savings Opportunity Act would allow eligible participants to contribute up to $10,000 per year tax-free ($20,000 for joint filers) to a savings account. These funds would be used exclusively for a downpayment and closing costs on a first home, offering some relief to potential homebuyers and removing a significant barrier to entering the housing market.

“The First Home Savings Opportunity Act of 2025 is a smart, forward-thinking solution to one of the most significant barriers facing young families and first-time home buyers: saving for a down payment. Expanding access to stable, attainable housing strengthens our workforce, supports local businesses, and builds more resilient communities. The Loudoun Chamber is proud to support this effort to offer more hardworking Americans the opportunity to achieve the dream of homeownership,” said Tony Howard, President of the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce.

“Recent data show that nearly half of potential homebuyers cannot afford a down payment, as the median age of first-time homebuyers, now 40, continues to rise. For generations, access to homeownership has been the primary way Americans built wealth, and homeownership remains the cornerstone of the American Dream. The bipartisan First Home Savings Opportunity Act would help turn aspiration into action, turning modest savings into the foundation of lifelong stability. The National Association of REALTORS® is grateful that Representatives Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) and Ashley Hinson (R-IA) have introduced this bill to address these challenges by establishing tax-deductible, first-time homebuyer savings accounts, helping individuals and families save for a down payment and closing costs,” said Shannon McGahn, National Association of REALTORS® Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer.

In addition to introducing the First Home Savings Opportunity Act, Congressman Subramanyam has taken the following actions to bring down housing costs:

Secured $1,000,000 for Hero’s Bridge to construct affordable housing for aging veterans living in rural Virginia in this year's spending bills.

Secured $1,200,000 for Northern Virginia Community College to construct a Center for Building and Construction Trades to develop a skilled construction workforce for Northern Virginia in this year's spending bills.

Co-sponsored the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act to expand and strengthen the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit.

Co-sponsored the CONSTRUCTS Act to establish a grant program for junior/community colleges and technical education schools to develop residential construction industry training and education.

Co-sponsored the Housing Supply Frameworks Act to provide best housing practices for housing production and housing opportunities with respect to state and local zoning frameworks.

Co-sponsored the Saving the American Dream Act to better coordinate relevant housing-related research and market data.

Co-sponsored the Housing Financial Literacy Act that will give first time homebuyers a discount on mortgage premiums if they complete a financial literacy housing counseling course before purchasing a home.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-subramanyam-statement-one-year-anniversary-fall-assad-and-repeal-caesar,Rep. Subramanyam Statement on One Year Anniversary of the Fall of Assad and Repeal of Caesar Sanctions in NDAA,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"""I’m pleased to see the repeal of the 2019 Caesar Sanctions included in this year’s defense bill, which the House of Representatives will vote on this week.

This moment also coincides with the one-year anniversary of the fall of the Assad regime. As a co-sponsor of the legislation to repeal these sanctions, this is a step toward giving Syria a chance to build a stable and secure country. I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress to continue supporting the Syrian people as they pursue a brighter, democratic, and free future.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/09/vindman-booker-thompson-young-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-retirement-security-and-emergency-savings/,"Vindman, Booker, Thompson, Young Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Retirement Security and Emergency Savings",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va-07) and Glenn “G.T.” Thompson (R-Pa.-15) and U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced the Emergency Savings Enhancement Act, a bipartisan bill to strengthen Americans’ financial security by making emergency savings more accessible.

“Too many Americans are one flat tire, one medical bill, or one missed paycheck away from financial crisis,” said Vindman. “The Emergency Savings Enhancement Act builds on proven bipartisan reforms to give working families a safer, more effective tool to handle emergencies without sacrificing their long-term retirement security. By expanding these savings options, we can help Virginians weather life’s storms while protecting their futures.”

“Far too many Americans don’t have emergency savings when they need it, and this bill gives workers a straightforward way to build emergency savings directly within their retirement plans,” said Glenn “G.T.” Thompson. “I am proud to work with Rep. Vindman, Senator Young, and Senator Booker to make these commonsense updates to help families prepare for unexpected challenges without creating new burdens on taxpayers.”

The legislation is led in the U.S. Senate by Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.)

“As a father of four, I understand the impact that unexpected expenses can have on a family budget. Our bill will provide workers and families with additional options to build savings for unexpected expenses, without tapping into retirement savings. If passed, our bill will support Indiana families and build financial security for working Hoosiers,” said Young.

“For millions of working families, an unexpected expense can quickly push them into financial turmoil—even more so as families face rising costs of rent, groceries, and other essentials,” said Booker. “In 2022, Senator Young and I passed legislation to create emergency savings accounts to help families weather these storms while also saving for their retirement. Today, we are introducing a proposal building on that progress, enhancing emergency savings accounts to help strengthen workers’ financial stability and support their path to a secure retirement.”

The Emergency Savings Enhancement Act builds on the bipartisan SECURE Acts of 2019 and 2022, which first established Pension-Linked Emergency Savings Accounts (PLESAs). These accounts include a “sidecar” feature that lets workers automatically set aside savings for emergencies alongside their retirement contributions. Funds in the emergency account can be withdrawn at any time, tax- and penalty-free, to cover unexpected expenses.

By modernizing PLESAs, this legislation makes it easier for Americans to build emergency savings without jeopardizing their long-term retirement goals. Broader adoption of PLESAs will help workers and their families grow their savings while simultaneously reducing the federal deficit, as scored by the Congressional Budget Office.

Specifically, the Emergency Savings Enhancement Act would modernize and improve PLESAs by:

Raising the contribution limit to pay for real-world emergencies. The current $2,500 PLESA cap falls short of covering real emergency costs, such as a substantial medical bill or major car repair. Raising the contribution limit to $5000 better reflects today’s financial realities and helps families avoid high-interest debt, costly early retirement withdrawals, and reliance on public assistance.

Cutting red tape for business owners. By eliminating the PLESA exclusion for highly compensated employees, this bill creates a fair standard for all workers and encourages broader business adoption by reducing administrative complexity.

This Emergency Savings Enhancement Act is endorsed by the National Taxpayers Union, Progressive Policy Institute, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Alight, Vestwell, Prosperity Now, SaverLife, WISER, Financial Finesse, Sunny Day Fund, Aspen Institute, Commonwealth, T. Rowe Price, Voya, UnidosUS, Third Way, and Bipartisan Policy Center Action.

“Too many working Americans are one emergency expense away from financial hardship,” said Michele Stockwell, President, Bipartisan Policy Center Action. “This commonsense bill, led by Sens. Todd Young (R-IN) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Reps. Eugene Vindman (D-VA) and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), tackles that problem by making it easier for employers to help their workers automatically save for an emergency, alongside their retirement accounts. By passing the Emergency Savings Enhancement Act of 2025, Congress can build on the progress of the bipartisan SECURE 2.0 Act and strengthen middle class financial security.”

BACKGROUND

Across the country, millions of American families remain on precarious financial footing. According to the Federal Reserve, 37% of adults cannot cover a $400 expense, and nearly half lack the savings to weather a $2,000 emergency. Credit card debt is at record highs, delinquencies are rising, and one in four non-retired adults has no retirement savings at all. Vindman introduced the Emergency Savings Enhancement Act to provide Americans with an alternative to costly hardship withdrawals and predatory high-interest loans that sabotage long-term financial security.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=202,"At Reston Roundtable, Walkinshaw Hears How Trump’s Tariffs Are Squeezing Local Small Businesses",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Reston, Virginia – Small business owners from across Fairfax shared how recent federal tariffs and the growing affordability crisis are squeezing their businesses at a roundtable hosted by Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) at Scrawl Books in Reston.

The conversation focused on how these tariffs, higher operating costs, and rising prices for health care, groceries, housing, and utilities are straining small businesses this holiday season. Local business owners described thinner margins, customers cutting back, and the pressure of trying to keep doors open while supporting their employees.

“I brought small business owners from across Fairfax together at Scrawl Books in Reston to hear how this economy is hitting them. From design studios to coffee, tea, and neighborhood book shops, many shared the same fear: how much longer they can keep this up,” said Congressman Walkinshaw. “Owners described the sacrifices they have made to keep employees on the payroll, but federal tariff policy is driving up costs, the affordability crisis is squeezing customers, and we are heading toward a health care cliff if Congress does not extend ACA premium support. Small businesses are the backbone of Fairfax and watching them struggle cuts against what the American Dream should be. I am taking their stories to Congress to fight for lower costs and an economy that empowers small business owners to thrive.”

“I’m grateful to Congressman Walkinshaw for taking the time to really listen to my small business story,” said Sarah Wells, CEO and Founder of Sarah Wells Bags. “My company designs breastfeeding gear for new moms, and we just celebrated 13 years in business. Our mission is to support parents in one of the most vulnerable seasons of their lives, but this year has been especially hard. Tariff policies have driven up our costs, disrupted our supply chain, and made it harder for new parents to afford what they need. Roundtables like this matter because they give small business owners a real seat at the table. I’m thankful to Congressman Walkinshaw for showing up, asking thoughtful questions, and committing to take what he heard back to Congress to fight for businesses like mine.”

“I really appreciate Congressman Walkinshaw bringing small business owners together and taking the time to listen,” said Paul Olsen, CEO of Weird Brothers Coffee. “We’re a disabled-veteran owned, family-run coffee roaster, but our real mission is people, bringing our community together in our three local shops. The affordability crisis is pushing up costs on everything from beans to utilities, and tariffs add another layer of stress at a time when small businesses should be getting help. Roundtables like this give us a real voice, and I’m grateful the Congressman is taking what we’re seeing on the ground back to Congress to fight for small businesses like mine.”

“I am grateful to Congressman Walkinshaw for coming to Scrawl and hearing from local business owners about the challenges we are facing,” said Rachel Wood, owner of Scrawl Books. “As an independent bookstore, we are proud to be a space where people gather, kids discover a love of reading, and local authors share their work. But 2025 was one of the toughest years ever for Northern Virginia businesses, with federal layoffs, rising costs, and unpredictable tariffs. I appreciate that our Congressman is listening and ready to fight for policies that support the unique businesses that contribute so much to our community.”

Walkinshaw pledged to use the insights from the discussion to push for policies that lower costs, stabilize supply chains, and ensure small businesses have the tools and resources they need to compete and prosper in Fairfax and across the country.

Participants in the roundtable included:

Anna Gibson, Owner, AKG Design Studio

Rachel Rozner, Owner, Elden Street Tea Shop

Paul Olsen, CEO, Weird Brothers Coffee

Rachel Wood, Owner, Scrawl Books

Sarah Wells, CEO and Founder, Sarah Wells Bags

Sabrina Matten, Founder, Wool & Loom

Lauren Bealore, National Director of Policy and Programs, Main Street Alliance

Frank Kuhns, Fairfax CORE

The small businesses are members of Main Street Alliance, a network of 30,000 small business owners working together to help small businesses thrive.

View pictures of the event here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2628,"Cline Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Protect Skinny Labels, Lower Drug Costs",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA), alongside Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), introduced the Skinny Labels, Big Savings Act, a bipartisan bill to help lower prescription drug costs by protecting generic drug makers from abusive lawsuits and preserving patient access to affordable medications.

“Families across Virginia and the nation are facing rising prescription drug prices that strain their budgets and put their health at risk,” said Congressman Cline. “The Skinny Labels, Big Savings Act is a commonsense solution that protects competition in the marketplace and ensures patients can get the medications they need at a price they can afford. By reinforcing a key pathway that brings safe, effective generics to market, we’re putting patients ahead of profit.”

The legislation strengthens protections for the use of “skinny labels,” a critical regulatory tool that allows generic and biosimilar manufacturers to seek FDA approval for uses of a drug that are no longer protected by patents. This pathway accelerates access to more affordable alternatives while respecting valid intellectual property rights.

“For years, generic manufacturers have used skinny labels to lower drug costs without infringing on brand-name patents,” Cline continued. “But now, some pharmaceutical companies are exploiting legal loopholes to sue generic competitors and delay their entry into the market. Our bill stops that abuse and restores fairness to the system.”

The Skinny Labels Big Savings Act ensures that generic manufacturers who obtain FDA approval for skinny label uses are not held liable for method-of-use patent infringement when operating by federal law. It also provides clarity that drugmakers can describe their generics as FDA-approved therapeutic equivalents, provided that description aligns with FDA regulations. Importantly, the bill reinforces that the use of skinny labels does not weaken legitimate patent rights, but rather supports a system that was designed to bring savings to patients, insurers, and taxpayers alike. The bill has earned the backing of key patient and consumer advocacy organizations, including Patients for Affordable Drugs NOW and the Campaign for Sustainable Rx Pricing.

""We have a prescription drug affordability crisis in this country. Lawsuits have eroded the ""skinny label"" pathway and delayed the rollout of lower-cost alternatives. With this bill, we are leveling the playing field and allowing generic drug manufacturers to get their lifesaving prescription drugs to the market faster, driving down costs for patients,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-members-subramanyam-and-garcia-call-southcom-oversight-hearing,Ranking Members Subramanyam and Garcia Call for SOUTHCOM Oversight Hearing,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representatives Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Ranking Member of the Military and Foreign Affairs Oversight Subcommittee, and Robert Garcia (CA-42), Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee, are calling on the Oversight Committee Majority to hold an oversight hearing on Venezuela and the U.S. Southern Command. The committee was originally scheduled to hold a SOUTHCOM oversight hearing on September 17th, but it was postponed indefinitely.

“It appears that President Trump and Secretary Hegseth want to drag us into another drawn out war, this time in Venezuela. House Republicans can’t hide from this. The American people deserve answers,” said Ranking Member Subramanyam. “The Military and Foreign Affairs Subcommittee must hold its previously scheduled hearing on the U.S. Southern Command so we can understand what the plan is for Venezuela. No one wants another forever war.”

The letter sent to Chairman Comer and Chairman Timmons can be found here and below.

###

Chairman Comer and Chairman Timmons,

On September 10, 2025, the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform noticed a hearing to be held by the Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs on September 17, 2025, titled “Underfunded and Overlooked: Assessing U.S. Southern Command’s Role in Defending the Homeland.”

On September 12, 2025, this hearing was postponed, with a new meeting date to be determined.

We write to request an update on the status of rescheduling this hearing and to urge you to do so as soon as possible to address this important and timely topic.

We look forward to your response.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-subramanyam-demands-answers-pentagon-plan-severing-ties,Ranking Member Subramanyam Demands Answers on Pentagon Plan Severing Ties with Scouting America,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Ranking Member of the Military and Foreign Affairs Oversight Subcommittee, led a bipartisan group of members in demanding answers from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on a proposal to sever ties with Scouting America.

The members said, “We write with significant concern over reports that the military could move to cut ties with Scouting America, withdraw support from the National Jamboree, and prohibit Scout troops to meet at military bases. We urge you to maintain the robust relationship between Scouting and the military and immediately cease consideration of any plan that would sever the strong bond between these organizations.”

Before Thanksgiving, a report leaked that the Pentagon was considering severing ties with Scouting America. For over a century, Boy Scouts and Scouting America have maintained a productive partnership with the Department of Defense and the military. Military families rely heavily on Scout units on bases for stability during frequent relocations. Additionally, the long-standing automatic rank increase for Eagle Scouts, from E-1 to E-3, would likely be eliminated if the partnership ends, further weakening the leadership pipeline. One in five cadets at West Point are Eagle Scouts.

The members urged the Department of Defense to reverse course and maintain the century-long relationship between the Department and Scouting America.

The letter was signed by Congress members: Greg Landsman (D-OH), Steven Horsford (D-NV), John Larson (D-CT), James Walkinshaw (D-VA), Ed Case (D-HI), Don Bacon (R-NE), Joe Courtney (D-CT), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Scott Peters (D-CA), Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Emily Randall (D-WA), John Mannion (D-NY), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), and Kelly Morrison (D-MN).

The full letter can be found HERE and below.

###

Secretary Hegseth,

We write with significant concern over reports that the military could move to cut ties with Scouting America, withdraw support from the National Jamboree, and prohibit Scout troops to meet at military bases. We urge you to maintain the robust relationship between Scouting and the military and immediately cease consideration of any plan that would sever the strong bond between these organizations.

For over a century, Boy Scouts and Scouting America have maintained a productive partnership with the Department of Defense and the military. Scouting has long instilled the values of leadership, citizenship, and service in countless young Americans, developing generation upon generation of young leaders and strengthening the early recruitment pipeline into the military with young men who understand what it means to serve their community and their country. As just one illustration of this fact, approximately one in five West Point cadets are Eagle Scouts.

Such a drastic policy change will also have real impacts on real people. Military families rely heavily on Scout units on bases for stability during frequent relocations. Loss of base access for Scouting troops could cut off youth development programs for these families. Additionally, the long-standing automatic rank increase for Eagle Scouts, from E-1 to E-3, would likely be eliminated if the partnership ends, further weakening the leadership pipeline.

This proposal has been met with significant concerns among military families, youth program advocates, and military officials, concerns that we share. Scouting is a nonpartisan organization with a long history of collaboration with presidential administrations on both sides of the aisle, and it would be extremely detrimental to our national security and thousands of young Americans to cut off this partnership.

We once again strongly urge you to reverse course on this decision. Thank you for your consideration and we look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Members of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8704,"Warren, Beyer, Lawmakers Warn Treasury Against Delivering Retroactive Tax Break to Billionaire Corporations",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, along with U.S. Representative Don Beyer (D-Va.), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, led Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Representatives Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), and Mike Thompson (D-Calif.) in questioning Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy Kenneth Kies on how Treasury will respond to lobbyists’ push to create a loophole in the corporate alternative minimum tax (CAMT) for billionaire corporations taking massive retroactive research and experimentation (R&E) tax deductions.

“Corporate lobbyists are shamelessly trying to create yet another loophole and undermine this law so that profitable billionaire corporations pay little to no taxes,” wrote the lawmakers.

This lobbying push follows a series of regulatory changes and industry-friendly loopholes the Trump administration has implemented to chip away at CAMT, which sets a minimum 15 percent tax rate on the book income of billionaire corporations. These changes, combined with other recent policy changes at Treasury that favor the ultra-wealthy, are set to result in hundreds of billions of dollars in lost tax revenue, according to independent estimates.

Corporations are demanding this additional loophole because of how CAMT interacts with the retroactive R&E expensing tax break in Republicans’ Big Beautiful Bill. Retroactive R&E expensing allows corporations to immediately deduct the full costs of R&E expenses they incurred years ago — because it is retroactive, it cannot incentivize any economic activity. This tax break is estimated to hand corporations $67 billion in 2026 and would be an even larger windfall in the absence of CAMT.

If billionaire corporations could subtract these accelerated deductions from CAMT’s measure of income, their tax liability could fall far below 15% — and, in some cases, to zero. Even the conservative American Enterprise Institute opposes the creation of such a loophole, stating that “it would be contrary to Congressional intent and would have no economic benefit” and that it would “not encourage additional investment in R&D [research & development].”

“This policy would clearly undermine the purpose of CAMT: to ensure that no billionaire corporation pays a lower tax rate than 15% on the income it reports to shareholders, known as book income,” the lawmakers concluded. “We urge Treasury not to further rig the tax code in favor of billionaire corporations by creating a CAMT carveout for retroactive R&E expensing.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2627,Rep. Cline Statement on ICE Arrest of ISIS-K Terrorist in Waynesboro,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) issued the following statement regarding the ICE arrest of an ISIS-K terrorist in Waynesboro, Virginia. The Department of Homeland Security announced on Wednesday that Jaan Shah Safi, an Afghan national who entered the United States under the Biden Administration’s “Operation Allies Welcome,” was taken into federal custody.

“I am grateful to the ICE agents and the local law enforcement officers whose professionalism led to the arrest of this dangerous individual. This incident happened right here in our own community, and it underscores the real-world consequences of the Biden Administration’s failure to properly vet the nearly 190,000 Afghan nationals released into the United States under Operation Allies Welcome. Republicans warned from the start that border security is national security, and every community has felt the impacts of the Biden-Harris border crisis,” said Rep. Cline. “The people of Virginia’s Sixth District deserve confidence that anyone entering this country has been thoroughly vetted. I appreciate President Trump and Secretary Noem for acting swiftly to end Temporary Protected Status for unvetted Afghan nationals and for restoring policies that put the safety of the American people first.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcclellan-casten-durbin-introduce-legislation-mitigate-negative-impacts,"McClellan, Casten, Durbin Introduce Legislation to Mitigate Negative Impacts of Natural Gas Pipelines",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) and Sean Casten (IL-06) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act of 2025, legislation to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to assess and mitigate the impacts that natural gas pipelines approved by FERC under the Natural Gas Act (NGA) will have on climate change and Environmental Justice communities.

“As we work to meet our growing energy demands with new technologies, we must consider the long-term impacts of those projects on surrounding communities and our environment,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Too often, natural gas pipelines jeopardize the health and well-being of vulnerable communities, especially low-income communities and communities of color. The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act implements common-sense requirements to ensure FERC identifies and considers the wide-ranging potential impacts of these projects. This bill represents another important step in our efforts to improve energy affordability and advance environmental justice.”

“For too long, we have placed the interests of energy producers above all else in setting our energy policy, including when deciding whether to permit a new natural gas pipeline,” said Congressman Sean Casten. “It’s past time we put the national interest first. I’m proud to introduce this legislation that would require FERC to consider the potential impacts on climate change, Environmental Justice communities, energy affordability, and reliability before approving a new natural gas pipeline.”

“Across the country, we are seeing rising temperatures and more frequent natural disasters—a clear sign that we are facing a serious climate crisis. If we hope to mitigate this crisis and protect our most vulnerable communities, we must evaluate the climate impacts of new natural gas pipelines before we build them,” saidSenator Durbin. “Enacting the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act will protect the communities most impacted by climate change and climate pollution while ensuring access to safe and affordable energy.”

In 2022, FERC, under then-Chairman Richard Glick, issued a draft Policy Statement to clarify how the Commission would take into account a natural gas pipeline’s impacts on climate change and Environmental Justice communities. The draft statement was terminated earlier this year. The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act is intended to codify the kind of analysis called for under the draft policy statement.

In particular, the legislation would amend the NGA to require FERC to determine, among other things, whether a proposed pipeline’s impacts on climate change and Environmental Justice communities are significant, if the impacts can be mitigated, and whether the proposed pipeline would ensure energy reliability and affordability. The bill further establishes what FERC should consider when making these determinations.

For a full summary of the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act, click HERE.

Text of the legislation can be found HERE.

“The Natural Gas Act requires FERC to consider whether a proposed interstate pipeline is both needed and in the public interest,” said Richard Glick, former Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. “It is essential that, when determining whether the public interest requires that the pipeline be permitted, FERC consider all potential benefits and adverse impacts. The Commission has not always fully considered these impacts in its decision making process. The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act would ensure full examination of a proposed pipeline’s impact on climate change and on the communities that may not have the resources necessary to ensure their voices are heard in permitting proceedings. I commend Congressman Casten for his leadership in calling attention to this important matter.”

“This legislation is a critical step forward in ensuring that FERC fully accounts for and addresses greenhouse gas emissions and environmental justice impacts of energy projects under the Natural Gas Act,” said Anastasia Gordan, Federal Policy Director of WE ACT for Environmental Justice. “The Biden Administration’s LNG study gave us a clear picture of the harms these projects impose on public health, on our climate, and on family budgets, and the courts have repeatedly called on the Commission to do the same. For decades, fossil fuel infrastructure has disproportionately burdened frontline communities, and clarifying FERC’s authority is essential to protecting all people, especially those who have borne the brunt of pollution and disinvestment. We applaud this effort to put equity, accountability, and climate responsibility at the center of energy decision-making.”

“The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission must consider greenhouse gas emissions and environmental justice impacts in its decisions around energy projects,” Mahyar Sorour, Sierra Club’s Director for Beyond Fossil Fuels Policy, said. “Yet, FERC has consistently shirked its duty to assess the holistic, long-term impacts of these projects, including methane gas pipelines. This bill will make it crystal clear that FERC must take potential climate and community harms into account when making critical decisions about the nation’s energy future. Sierra Club is grateful for the leadership of Reps. Casten and McClellan on this issue.”

“The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act is an important step towards enhancing the ability of FERC to reduce the impacts of climate change and pollution,” said Byron Gudiel, Executive Director at Center for Earth Energy & Democracy (CEED). “We support this effort in ensuring that no community bears a disproportionate share of the adverse environmental and public health consequences from the build-out of fossil fuel infrastructure.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/04/vindman-statement-on-fbi-arrest-of-resident-in-the-seventh-district-suspect-in-january-6-pipe-bomb-case/,"Vindman Statement on FBI Arrest of Resident in the Seventh District, Suspect in January 6 Pipe Bomb Case",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Vindman Calls on Secretary Hegseth to Resign After Hearing From More Than 3,000 Virginians Concerned About War with Iran

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today renewed his call for the...

vindman, mackenzie lead bipartisan bill to improve coordination, threat mitigation ahead of fifa world cup & 2028 summer olympics

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Ryan Mackenzie...

Vindman Introduces Bill to Restore Crucial Funding for Sickle Cell Disease Research

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) introduced legislation to restore staff and funding...

Vindman, Walkinshaw demand answers on uscis processing delays affecting ukrainians seeking humanitarian parole & work authorization requests

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and James Walkinshaw (Va.-11) led a letter to U.S....

Vindman, Pfluger, & Baumgartner Introduce Legislation to Protect Americans and Combat Deadly Nitazenes

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Michael Baumgartner...

Vindman and McClain Delaney Introduce Two Bills to Address Agricultural Conservation Workforce Shortages

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (Md.-06) introduced...

Vindman Joins Congressional Amicus Brief Supporting Veterans’ Access to Education Benefits

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark R. Warner...

HUGE MILESTONE: Vindman’s Office Returns $5.1 Million in Backlogged Dollars to Constituents

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today announced that his office has now returned more than...

Vindman Delivers Whopping $1 Million Federal Investment to Build Pedestrian Bridge in Prince William County

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders in Prince William...

Vindman Celebrates Funding Secured for the Northern Virginia Community College Woodbridge Campus HVAC Program

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined Northern Virginia Community...",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=201,Congressman Walkinshaw Statement on Generational Spike in Global Child Deaths After Trump Admin Dismantles USAID and Guts Foreign Aid,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) issued the following statement after public reports show that preventable child deaths will rise for the first time this century, with 200,000 more children expected to die this year:

“This is what happens when a president dismantles America’s leadership in providing and implementing foreign assistance to advance his own fraught political agenda,” said Congressman Walkinshaw. “Donald Trump and DOGE froze foreign aid, fired all 10,000 USAID personnel, and slashed $14 billion from programs that feed children, deliver vaccines, and stabilize local communities. In doing so, he didn’t just gut lifesaving programs—he weakened America’s influence, undermined our credibility, abandoned the moral leadership that has defined us for generations, and created a pathway for foreign adversaries to fill the gaps. The result is exactly what experts warned: soup kitchens closing, babies starving, and children dying for lack of access to preventive medicine. This is 100% avoidable. There is no reason children across the world should be dying from a preventable disease.”

In October, Walkinshaw and Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) led seven Members of Congress in demanding a full Inspector General investigation into the Trump Administration’s dismantlement of USAID, warning that the move violated statutory requirements, undermined U.S. national security, and created massive risks of waste, fraud, and abuse.

The State Department Inspector General has already found that following Trump’s restructuring, $800,000 in emergency food commodities expired and were destroyed that could have fed 1.5 million children for a week.

“The United States must rebuild what was torn apart and revitalize our role as a force for life-saving work around the world. Children should not die because a president chose politics over humanity,” concluded Congressman Walkinshaw.

Read the full U.S. Foreign Aid Freeze and Dissolution of USAID timeline of events.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-subramanyam-renews-call-secretary-hegseth-resign,Ranking Member Subramanyam Renews Call for Secretary Hegseth to Resign,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Ranking Member of the Military and Foreign Affairs Oversight Subcommittee, released the following statement after viewing the Pentagon Inspector General’s Signalgate report:

“What we presumed back in March has now been proven true by an independent Inspector General: Secretary Hegseth put our service members in danger by sharing intelligence about troop movements on a private device using an unsecured commercial app. He also violated records retention laws. As if that wasn't bad enough, the Secretary has not taken any responsibility for his actions, nor is there any indication that he and others at the Department or in the Administration have taken sufficient steps to ensure this isn't still happening.

This is just more proof that Secretary Hegseth is unfit to serve and should resign or be fired.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/03/vindman-kaine-valadao-lead-bipartisan-bicameral-effort-to-expand-digital-skills-in-workforce-training/,"Vindman, Kaine, Valadao Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Expand Digital Skills in Workforce Training",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.), and Congressman David Valadao (R-Calif.-22) introduced the Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expand access to digital skills training for American job seekers.

“Virginia is a place where anyone willing to work hard should be able to land their first job, keep a job they love, or build their first company. The jobs of today require new skills that can be mastered with the right training, helping employers retain seasoned workers and attract top talent,” said Vindman. “I’m proud to introduce bipartisan, bicameral legislation that helps Virginians and people across the country build digital skills that are essential in today’s economy.”

“As Americans face a rapidly-changing job market, it’s crucial they be empowered with the digital skills they need to succeed in the contemporary workforce,” said Kaine. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation to expand access to high-quality digital training programs to help people develop in-demand digital skills—benefiting our workers, employers, and economic growth. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join us in supporting this bill.”

“Our job market is changing rapidly, and workers need strong digital skills to keep up,” said Valadao. “The Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act will help people enter the workforce with the foundation they need while easing burdens on employers. I’m proud to join Senator Kaine and Congressman Vindman in reintroducing this bipartisan, bicameral bill that will set American workers on a path to success and strengthen our economy.”

More than 90 percent of today’s jobs require digital skills like email, spreadsheets, or data entry – but more than one-third of workers lack foundational digital skills, posing a huge obstacle to entering and succeeding in today’s workforce. Existing programs to help job-seekers access employment and support services under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) are not permitted to use federal resources for digital skills training. As a result, one-stop workforce development career centers – physical sites within local workforce development areas where job seekers and employers can access programs, services, and resources – do not offer any digital skills training opportunities.

To rectify this omission, the Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act would amend WIOA to establish a new “Digital Skills at Work” grant program to expand digital skills training within postsecondary education, adult education, and workforce development systems. This legislation would make targeted investments in digital skills training to help Americans seeking jobs or upskilling opportunities, as well as those with barriers to employment, learn or build digital skills.

Specifically, the Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act would:

Create digital skills training programs. This legislation would create formula funding grants for states based on a combination of population, number of working-age residents, and number of residents with low digital literacy skills (determined by educational attainment, earnings, and limited English proficiency).

Increase digital equity. This bill would create competitive grants for localities and organizations based on how the funds will be used and the populations that will receive services, including individuals with barriers to employment and historically underrepresented populations.

Require performance accountability. This legislation would require states, localities, and organizations that receive a grant under this bill to report their awards publicly.

The legislation is supported by the National Skills Coalition, American Library Association, Asc3, California EDGE Coalition, Coalition on Adult Basic Education, DAETC, Digitunity, Forum for Youth Investment, Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce, Greater Roanoke Workforce Development Board, Hispanic Federation, Jobs for the Future, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Mohuman, National Coalition for Literacy, National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy, National Digital Inclusion Alliance, National Immigration Forum, National Skills Coalition, Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce, Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce, NTEN, Prince William Chamber of Commerce, Third Way, Virginia Community College System, and Virginia Minority Chambers, Inc.

“By including digital skills and related performance metrics as requirements for grants issued under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), this legislation would ensure that our workforce is being prepared for today’s and tomorrow’s jobs,” said Virginia Community College System Chancellor David Doré. “There are practically no 21st century jobs that won’t require such skills–from basic data entry to business intelligence and virtual reality software. These skills are becoming increasingly critical to both small and large employers in every in-demand industry in the Commonwealth. Successful passage of this legislation will strengthen education and workforce development systems. In addition, business and industry employers will minimize turnover, and workers will be better prepared to achieve better jobs and greater economic success.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/03/vindman-lawler-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-lower-your-grocery-costs/,"Vindman, Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Lower Your Grocery Costs",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.-17) introduced the Cutting Cumbersome Overhead for Small-farm Testing Savings (COSTS) Act, a bipartisan bill that aims to bring down your grocery bill by allowing small farms to bring more affordable, local food into grocery stores.

“I hear time and time again that grocery costs are going up and access to local food is going down – this bill would change that,” said Vindman. “As the only Virginian on the House Agriculture Committee, I’m proud to introduce this commonsense, bipartisan bill with Congressman Lawler to lower the certification burden for small farms and help working families pay less at the grocery store.”

“Many farmers face steep costs to meet the food-safety standards required by wholesalers and grocery stores,” said Lawler. “By directing USDA to reimburse producers for Good Agricultural Practices audits, this bill helps level the playing field for local farms seeking new markets and strengthens regional food systems, bringing more affordable, locally grown produce to families across the country.”

Farmers are currently required to pass a third-party food safety certification, known as a Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) audit, which evaluates on-farm practices that reduce food safety risks. Many wholesale buyers and grocery retailers mandate that farms pass this audit before purchasing produce.

For small and beginning farmers, the cost of these audits can be a significant barrier. This bill directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a program to reimburse eligible producers for the cost of completing GAP audits — helping small farms meet safety standards, access new markers, and bring more affordable local food into grocery stores. By expanding market access for local producers, the measure will help strengthen regional food systems and lower the cost of produce for consumers.

Specifically, the Cutting COSTS Act would:

Establish a five-year USDA pilot program to cover the cost of GAP audits for small and beginning farms

Finance the program through CCC funds, avoiding the need for new discretionary spending

Require annual USDA reports to the House and Senate on the success of the program

BACKGROUND

USDA currently charges $108 per hour for GAP audit services, in addition to auditor travel expenses. Typical audits for small farms cost between $750 and $1,200 per year, with some operations paying $2,500 or more annually depending on complexity and distance. For producers earning less than $50,000 in farm income, these recurring costs create a significant barrier to accessing larger retail markets.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=193,"Walkinshaw, Kaine, Warner Introduce Bill to Rename Fairfax Post Office in Honor of the late Gerry Connolly",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced bicameral legislation to rename a United States Postal Service facility in Fairfax, Virginia in honor of the late Congressman Gerald E. “Gerry” Connolly, whose decades of service and leadership transformed Northern Virginia and inspired a generation of public servants.

The bill designates the USPS facility located at 10660 Page Avenue, Fairfax, VA 22030 as the “Congressman Gerald E. ‘Gerry’ Connolly Post Office Building.”

“Gerry Connolly was a singular force for good in Fairfax, and for 11 years I had the privilege of working beside him as his Chief of Staff. I watched him pour his intellect, integrity, and energy into serving this community every single day. He devoted his life to lifting up disadvantaged community members and giving voice to those too often unheard. He was widely respected as one of Congress’s most effective lawmakers, a champion for federal workers and the postal service, and a principled statesman who defended democracy with courage and clarity on the international stage,” said Congressman Walkinshaw.

“But Gerry was more than a Member of Congress. He was my mentor, my best friend, and one of the most formative figures in my life. His love for Fairfax continues to guide me in every decision I make. Introducing this bill with Senators Kaine and Warner is deeply meaningful because it honors a giant whose legacy is etched into every corner of our community. The best way to honor Gerry is to continue the work he loved and serve Fairfax with the same devotion he brought to it,” added Congressman Walkinshaw.

“From protecting federal workers and advocating for foreign aid to securing transformative transportation investments, Gerry Connolly was a one-of-a-kind public servant and fighter for Virginia’s 11th Congressional District,” said Senator Kaine. “I’m proud to join my Virginia delegation colleagues to introduce this bipartisan legislation to honor my friend Gerry’s legacy.”

“Whether he was fighting for federal employees, strengthening our transportation network, or standing up for democratic values at home and abroad, Gerry Connolly always led with integrity and purpose. Renaming this facility in his honor is a fitting tribute to a colleague and friend whose impact will be felt in Fairfax and across the Commonwealth for generations to come,” said Senator Warner.

Congressman Walkinshaw, Senators Tim Kaine, and Mark Warner were joined by a bipartisan group of original cosponsors: Chairman James Comer (KY-01), Rep. Rob Wittman (VA-01), Rep. Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-03), Rep. Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Rep. Don Beyer (VA-08), Rep. Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Rep. Mike Turner (OH-10), Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), and Rep. Eugene Vindman (VA-07).

The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform unanimously passed the bill on December 2, 2025.

Congressman Gerry Connolly’s Public Service:

Gerry Connolly served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors from 1995 to 2008, including five years as chairman. His leadership helped guide the county through a period of rapid growth and positioned it as a national model for smart planning, environmental stewardship, transit expansion, and affordable housing policy. He championed initiatives that were ahead of their time in addressing housing shortages, expanding the tree canopy, preserving open space, and advancing Washington Metro’s Silver Line.

His local government experience informed a distinguished career in Congress, where he rose to become the Ranking Member and top Democrat on the Oversight Committee. He was widely regarded as one of the most experienced Members on oversight, and a respected advocate for good governance, infrastructure, and the federal workforce. The nonpartisan Center for Effective Lawmaking recognized him as the most effective Democratic lawmaker in the U.S. House during the 117th Congress.

Connolly was also a statesman whose leadership extended well beyond the United States. As a two-time President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, he was a fierce defender of transatlantic unity and democratic values. He presided over the Assembly’s response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, advocated for the establishment of a Centre for Democratic Resilience at NATO Headquarters, and supported the accession of Sweden and Finland to the Alliance.

His international work, combined with decades of service in Congress and in Fairfax County, reflects a legendary career defined by integrity, vision, and a steadfast commitment to democracy at home and abroad.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8703,Beyer Presses CoreCivic for Immediate Improvements to Meet Required Medical and Safety Standards at the Farmville Detention Center,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) today requested detailed updates from CoreCivic on medical staffing levels, access-to-care protocols, and measures to ensure timely medication access at the Farmville Detention Center. The request follows an August 8, 2025 oversight visit that highlighted a significant need for increased medical staffing amid prolonged delays in access to care and medication, emphasizing ongoing concerns over the facility’s troubling pattern of substandard medical and safety standards. CoreCivic, which assumed operations of the Farmville facility from Abyon LLC in June 2025, had indicated plans to invest in upgrades, including a transition to electronic health records.

In a letter addressed to President and Chief Operating Officer at CoreCivic, Beyer wrote:

“Dear Mr. Swindle:

I am writing to follow up on my oversight visit to Farmville Detention Center on August 8, 2025 to ensure that the facility has increased medical personnel on staff and has updated protocols to allow for immediate access to medical staff.

When I visited in August, CoreCivic had recently taken over the Farmville Detention Center contract from Abyon LLC and had expressed plans in both news reporting and to me about investing in upgrades to the facility. At the time of the visit, it was clear that the medical staff were overwhelmed, could not relay to us the amount of medical staff that were employed by the facility, and that requests for medical attention were not met in a timely fashion, with some detainees waiting days for simple requests like medication for a headache (at which point such request would likely be moot). I understood that the facility was changing electronic health records and pharmacies as a result of the contract change, but the circumstances we witnessed could not simply be explained away by those stresses, and it was evident that the facility needed increased personnel and updated standards to meet the humanitarian standards required by law.

Farmville Detention Center has a history of failing to meet medical standards. In January 2021, a DHS audit of the Detention Center found various standards at the facility were not met, including access to emergency medical and mental health services. That was found again to be a standard that was unmet in a September 2023 audit. Due to the systemic nature of the issue when Farmville was under the management of Immigration Centers of America, I wrote to ICE after Abyon LLC took over the contract in March of 2024 to inquire about what improvements were being made in the new contract. Specifically, I inquired about what improvements were being made to health and safety standards so that issues like medical neglect would not continue and access to emergency medical and mental health services would improve.

I was therefore concerned to hear that these issues were still apparent upon my visit in August. My team and I had to personally intervene in a medication access case, which despite repeated phone and email communications, was only resolved after my in-person visit and confirmation with the detainee that it had not been resolved, despite communication to me otherwise.

Now that sufficient time has passed for any natural hiccups in a contract switch over to be addressed, I am writing to request an update on the staffing at the facility and protocols on access to medical care. Specifically, I request the following information:

How many medical staff were employed by Abyon LLC as of May 2025? How many medical staff are currently employed by CoreCivic as of November 2025? Please indicate the number and their professional title.

Are there plans to hire more medical personnel? Please elaborate in detail and include hiring timelines.

What protocols are in place to ensure that detainees can meet with a medical provider or receive access to their medication in a time-sensitive manner? Please describe the current protocol, and if there have been any changes since my oversight visit. If yes, indicate what they were.

Please indicate if there have been any updates to mental health access protocols specifically. Please describe the current protocol, and if there have been any changes since my oversight visit. If yes, indicate what they were.

As you know, Congress passed legislation in July that provided $170 billion for immigration and border enforcement, including funding specifically allocated for detention and deportation operations. Therefore, CoreCivic should have sufficient access to resources to make upgrades and hire the staff needed to ensure the facility can meet the requisite medical and safety standards.

Please provide a response to my questions in this letter no later than December 16, 2025. I look forward to hearing from you.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-foushee-mcclellan-urge-full-review-proposed-natural-gas-pipelines,"Scott, Foushee, McClellan Urge Full Review of Proposed Natural Gas Pipelines’ Environmental Impact",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), and Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) sent a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) urging the Commission to thoroughly review the environmental impacts of the Southeast Supply Enhancement Project (SSEP) and the Mountain Valley Pipeline Southgate (Southgate) project before advancing the projects further.

“We are concerned that FERC has not adequately reviewed all possible risks associated with the massive capacity expansion and resulting infrastructure of SSEP, the proposed changes to the Southgate project, the history of the developers’ compliance, and the colocation of these two projects,” the letter reads. “On behalf of communities in Virginia and North Carolina, we urge the Commission to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for both projects before considering them further. If FERC is unwilling to do so, we urge the Commission to deny the certification of both projects to ensure that the surrounding communities are not placed at undue risk.”

The members highlighted the worrisome track records for the developers of these two projects.

“Since construction began on the Mountain Valley Pipeline mainline project, the developer has shown an unwillingness to comply with environmental and safety regulations,” the letter states.“In 2018, the Office of the Attorney General of Virginia alleged 375 violations, including hundreds of water quality protection violations. The violations include unpermitted discharges into waterways, failure to maintain and repair erosion and sediment controls, violations related to road crossings over streams, and violations related to water diversions and drains... Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC also allegedly terminated one of its inspectors for reporting safety violations. If that is true, this should also be considered in FERC’s assessment as this action is a clear sign that the developer is willing to act against reporting violations and avoid taking necessary steps to address situations as they arise.”

The letter also highlighted FERC’s inadequacy in considering the cumulative impacts of these two projects being built in close proximity to one another.

“The recommendation also does not adequately consider the cumulative impacts, including water quality and public safety impacts, that may occur due to the colocation of portions of the SSEP and the Southgate project,” the members wrote. “Approximately 95 percent of the SSEP’s proposed Eden Loop is within a quarter mile of Southgate, and multiple waterways would be impacted by both projects. The potential for permanent cumulative impacts from individual pipeline crossings is compounded when there are multiple crossings of a waterway or in a watershed. The colocation of two high-pressure, large diameter pipelines is of significant concern for local residents.”

Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below.

The Honorable Laura Swett

Chairwoman

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

888 First Street NE

Washington, DC 20426

Ms. Debbie-Anne Reese

Secretary

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

888 First Street NE

Washington, DC 20426

RE: Environmental Assessments for Mountain Valley Pipeline Southgate (Docket No. CP25-60-000) and Southeast Supply Enhancement Project (Docket No. CP25-10-000)

Dear Chairwoman Swett and Secretary Reese,

We write to you regarding FERC’s current review of the proposed Southeast Supply Enhancement Project (SSEP) and Mountain Valley Pipeline Southgate (Southgate) project. We are concerned that FERC has not adequately reviewed all possible risks associated with the massive capacity expansion and resulting infrastructure of SSEP, the proposed changes to the Southgate project, the history of the developers’ compliance, and the colocation of these two projects. On behalf of communities in Virginia and North Carolina, we urge the Commission to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for both projects before considering them further. If FERC is unwilling to do so, we urge the Commission to deny the certification of both projects to ensure that the surrounding communities are not placed at undue risk.

SSEP is one of the largest natural gas capacity expansions proposed in decades, but FERC found no significant impact on human health or the environment despite only preparing an environmental assessment (EA) for its review. Under every metric, this is factually incorrect, including project footprint, horsepower upgrades to compressor stations, and capacity increase. This massive project will have significant environmental impacts that demand a thorough review and a complete EIS. Further, not conducting an EIS for SSEP would be a dramatic departure from past FERC policy and practice for projects of this magnitude. The Commission has consistently completed EISs for projects much smaller in size than SSEP.

On June 18, 2020, FERC issued a final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the Southgate project. The FEIS determined that the project would create air and noise pollution detrimental to surrounding communities, cause long-term cumulative effects on wetlands and uplands, and result in a variety of other environmental impacts. Guided by the FEIS, FERC issued a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity authorizing Southgate to transport 375,000 dekatherms of natural gas per day (Dth/d) based on the project’s design at the time. Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC, the developer of the Southgate project, has since significantly changed the project’s scope and operations in its amended application. These changes include, but are not limited to, increasing the pipe’s diameter from 16- and 24-inches to 30-inches, modifying the project’s route, and raising the project’s operational capacity to 550,000 Dth/d. Despite these major changes, FERC’s EA of the amended project recommended a finding of no significant impact which does not require a new EIS be prepared. There are several faults within FERC staff’s rationale in issuing this recommendation.

The EA relies heavily on the assumption that Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC will adhere to the construction and mitigation protocols that the company enumerated in its application. Since construction began on the Mountain Valley Pipeline mainline project, the developer has shown an unwillingness to comply with environmental and safety regulations. In 2018, the Office of the Attorney General of Virginia alleged 375 violations, including hundreds of water quality protection violations. The violations include unpermitted discharges into waterways, failure to maintain and repair erosion and sediment controls, violations related to road crossings over streams, and violations related to water diversions and drains. That matter was resolved with a negotiated consent decree, or settlement, which required Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC to pay a $2.15 million penalty and pay for third-party environmental auditing. Since the consent decree was entered in 2019, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has cited Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC for additional violations. The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection has also issued more than 50 violation notices to the developer.

Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC also allegedly terminated one of its inspectors for reporting safety violations. If that is true, this should also be considered in FERC’s assessment as this action is a clear sign that the developer is willing to act against reporting violations and avoid taking necessary steps to address situations as they arise. It should also be noted that the Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company (Transco), the developer of the SSEP, has a similar history of environmental and safety violations which should be considered in evaluating the SSEP.

The recommendation also does not adequately consider the cumulative impacts, including water quality and public safety impacts, that may occur due to the colocation of portions of the SSEP and the Southgate project. Approximately 95 percent of the SSEP’s proposed Eden Loop is within a quarter mile of Southgate, and multiple waterways would be impacted by both projects. The potential for permanent cumulative impacts from individual pipeline crossings is compounded when there are multiple crossings of a waterway or in a watershed. The colocation of two high-pressure, large diameter pipelines is of significant concern for local residents. Multiple local governments and other elected officials have expressed concerns about the safety and health impacts of these proposed pipelines.

We urge you to prepare Environmental Impact Statements for the Southeast Supply Enhancement Project and the amended Mountain Valley Pipeline Southgate project before moving forward in reviewing these projects. If FERC is unwilling to do so, we urge the Commission to deny the Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity for both projects.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcclellan-joins-scott-foushee-urge-full-review-proposed-natural-gas-pipelines,"McClellan Joins Scott, Foushee to Urge Full Review of Proposed Natural Gas Pipelines’ Environmental Impact",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) joined Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) and Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) in sending a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) urging the Commission to thoroughly review the environmental impacts of the Southeast Supply Enhancement Project (SSEP) and the Mountain Valley Pipeline Southgate (Southgate) project before advancing the projects further.

“We are concerned that FERC has not adequately reviewed all possible risks associated with the massive capacity expansion and resulting infrastructure of SSEP, the proposed changes to the Southgate project, the history of the developers’ compliance, and the colocation of these two projects,” the letter reads. “On behalf of communities in Virginia and North Carolina, we urge the Commission to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for both projects before considering them further. If FERC is unwilling to do so, we urge the Commission to deny the certification of both projects to ensure that the surrounding communities are not placed at undue risk.”

The members highlighted the worrisome track records for the developers of these two projects.

“Since construction began on the Mountain Valley Pipeline mainline project, the developer has shown an unwillingness to comply with environmental and safety regulations,” the letter states. “In 2018, the Office of the Attorney General of Virginia alleged 375 violations, including hundreds of water quality protection violations. The violations include unpermitted discharges into waterways, failure to maintain and repair erosion and sediment controls, violations related to road crossings over streams, and violations related to water diversions and drains... Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC also allegedly terminated one of its inspectors for reporting safety violations. If that is true, this should also be considered in FERC’s assessment as this action is a clear sign that the developer is willing to act against reporting violations and avoid taking necessary steps to address situations as they arise.”

The letter also highlighted FERC’s inadequacy in considering the cumulative impacts of these two projects being built in close proximity to one another.

“The recommendation also does not adequately consider the cumulative impacts, including water quality and public safety impacts, that may occur due to the colocation of portions of the SSEP and the Southgate project,” the members wrote. “Approximately 95 percent of the SSEP’s proposed Eden Loop is within a quarter mile of Southgate, and multiple waterways would be impacted by both projects. The potential for permanent cumulative impacts from individual pipeline crossings is compounded when there are multiple crossings of a waterway or in a watershed. The colocation of two high-pressure, large diameter pipelines is of significant concern for local residents.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8701,"Beyer, Lawler, and Peters Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Rising Childhood Obesity and Diabetes",2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA), Mike Lawler (R-NY), and Scott Peters (D-CA) today introduced the bipartisan Childhood Diabetes Reduction Act to address growing public health concerns regarding rising childhood obesity rates and diet-related chronic diseases such as diabetes. The legislation would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) implement clear nutrient and health warning labels and ban junk food advertisements targeting children. It would also direct the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to expand research programs on the health effects of ultra-processed foods and requires the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to lead a national initiative to educate children and families on nutrient warning labels and the health risks associated with ultra-processed foods.

“Today, one in five American children are living with heightened risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other diet-related chronic diseases,” said Rep. Beyer. “Congress must take bold action to protect the health of our youngest citizens. Our legislation would do just that by empowering families with the tools and information they need to make healthier choices while holding the food and beverage industry accountable for targeting our children with unhealthy products.”

“Childhood diabetes is affecting more and more families in our communities, and we have a responsibility to address it with commonsense, bipartisan solutions,” said Rep. Lawler. “I’m proud to be a co-lead of this legislation, which improves transparency in food labeling and gives parents clearer information to help families make informed choices about what their kids consume. Supporting parents with facts, not burdens, is an important part of protecting children’s health and reducing long-term medical costs for families in the Hudson Valley.”

“Childhood obesity has more than tripled over the last four decades, due in large part to ultra-processed and calorie-dense foods marketed to kids,"" said Rep. Peters. “Families should know exactly what their child is eating without marketing gimmicks or misleading packaging. That’s why I reintroduced the Childhood Diabetes Reduction Act, which creates a clear front-of-package labeling requirement for junk foods, stops companies from pushing them on kids, and helps families make informed choices to keep their children healthy.”

“It’s thrilling to see this bill introduced in the House. If passed, this bill would establish the US as a global leader in taking action to promote health for kids,” said Dr. Lindsey Smith Taillie, Professor at the University of North Carolina and Co-Director of the UNC Global Food Research Program. “Scientific evidence shows that front-of-package labels like the ones proposed give parents the information they need to make healthy choices for their children.”

Over the last two decades, the availability and consumption of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods with little nutritional value has increased dramatically and increasing evidence links consumption of these ultra-processed foods to negative health outcomes. According to the CDC, nearly 15 million Americans aged 2-19 years are living with obesity, increasing their risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, asthma, sleep apnea, and other diet-related chronic diseases. A new study led by Harvard Medical School and Mass General Brigham researchers found that consuming ultra-processed foods increases the risk of early-onset colorectal cancer.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/labor-leaders-demand-coal-operators-pay-their-fair-share,Labor Leaders Demand Coal Operators Pay Their Fair Share,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"As originally released by the Committee on Education and Workforce, Democrats

WASHINGTON — Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA), House Committee on Education and Workforce and Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (D-MN), House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, urged the Department of Labor (DOL) to enforce the Black Lung Self-Insurance Rule, which requires coal operators to contribute their fair share to the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund (BLDTF).

Under federal law, coal mine operators are required to provide cash assistance and medical care for miners they employ who become disabled by black lung disease. But when the liable coal company goes bankrupt, closes, or is otherwise unable to pay, miners and their families receive benefits from the BLDTF. In 2024, the Biden Administration issued the Black Lung Self-Insurance Rule improved oversight of the program to hold bad actors accountable and protect taxpayers from bearing the cost that should be borne by coal operators.

The Members expressed concern that DOL may not be enforcing the new rule, potentially exposing the BLDTF to further financial risks.

“The possibility that DOL might now be failing to implement the Black Lung Self-Insurance Rule is mindboggling,”the Members wrote. “The risks to taxpayers and the integrity of the Trust Fund (which you, as a trustee, are obliged to protect) are too significant for these matters to remain in the shadows.”

The Members are asking for DOL to clarify whether it will enforce the Black Lung Self-Insurance Rule and to provide documents related to its implementation since January 2025.

Full text of the letter can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-subramanyam-secures-over-3-million-federal-funding-local-projects,Rep. Subramanyam Secures Over $3 Million in Federal Funding for Local Projects,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) announced that his office has secured more than $3 million in federal funding for local projects in Fauquier and Rappahannock Counties. The Congressman’s office announced the selection of 15 local projects to receive direct funding through the congressional appropriations process earlier this year.

“At a time when veterans are struggling and families are concerned about housing and public safety, this funding will be critical to our community,” Rep. Subramanyam said. “Thank you to Hero’s Bridge, Reset180 and Rappahannock County for their partnership and advocacy of these initiatives, and I will continue to ensure that there is federal support for critical projects like these in our community.”

The three projects that will be funded by the U.S Department of Agriculture funding bill are:

Hero’s Bridge: $1,000,000 to construct affordable housing and a community center in Warrenton to house and provide services to aging veterans living in rural Virginia.

Reset180: $1,000,000 to fund the construction of a two-phase shelter and transitional housing program to serve survivors of human traffic and commercial sexual exploitation.

Rappahannock County: $1,015,000 for a new courthouse to replace the County’s single courtroom courthouse that no longer meets space or security requirements.

“We are grateful to Congressman Subramanyam for securing this vital funding. Because of his leadership, the Village project takes a major step forward. The Village will change the lives of aging Veterans in our community, and this support brings us significantly closer to breaking ground,” said Molly Brooks, CEO and Founder of Hero’s Bridge.

“Tonight, we celebrate a breakthrough for survivors of human trafficking in our community. Thanks to the advocacy of Congresswoman Wexton and the continued leadership of Congressman Subramanyam, we have secured vital federal support for something our region has never had: a dedicated shelter for survivors of human trafficking. This investment not only provides essential resources for survivor services but also strengthens the capacity of law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable and enhance community safety. This funding is more than a grant, it is a lifeline. A safe place. A new beginning. We are deeply grateful to Virginia’s 10th District for standing with survivors and helping make this vision a reality,” said Esther Daniel, Executive Director of Reset180.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/01/vindman-demands-hegseth-release-unredacted-radio-communications-strike-footage-following-reports-of-illegal-orders/,Vindman Demands Hegseth Release Unredacted Radio Communications & Strike Footage Following Reports of Illegal Orders,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Vindman Calls on Secretary Hegseth to Resign After Hearing From More Than 3,000 Virginians Concerned About War with Iran

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today renewed his call for the...

vindman, mackenzie lead bipartisan bill to improve coordination, threat mitigation ahead of fifa world cup & 2028 summer olympics

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Ryan Mackenzie...

Vindman Introduces Bill to Restore Crucial Funding for Sickle Cell Disease Research

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) introduced legislation to restore staff and funding...

Vindman, Walkinshaw demand answers on uscis processing delays affecting ukrainians seeking humanitarian parole & work authorization requests

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and James Walkinshaw (Va.-11) led a letter to U.S....

Vindman, Pfluger, & Baumgartner Introduce Legislation to Protect Americans and Combat Deadly Nitazenes

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Michael Baumgartner...

Vindman and McClain Delaney Introduce Two Bills to Address Agricultural Conservation Workforce Shortages

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (Md.-06) introduced...

Vindman Joins Congressional Amicus Brief Supporting Veterans’ Access to Education Benefits

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark R. Warner...

HUGE MILESTONE: Vindman’s Office Returns $5.1 Million in Backlogged Dollars to Constituents

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today announced that his office has now returned more than...

Vindman Delivers Whopping $1 Million Federal Investment to Build Pedestrian Bridge in Prince William County

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders in Prince William...

Vindman Celebrates Funding Secured for the Northern Virginia Community College Woodbridge Campus HVAC Program

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined Northern Virginia Community...",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/12/01/vindman-gives-thanks-to-the-seventh-district/,Vindman Gives Thanks to the Seventh District,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Vindman Calls on Secretary Hegseth to Resign After Hearing From More Than 3,000 Virginians Concerned About War with Iran

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today renewed his call for the...

vindman, mackenzie lead bipartisan bill to improve coordination, threat mitigation ahead of fifa world cup & 2028 summer olympics

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Ryan Mackenzie...

Vindman Introduces Bill to Restore Crucial Funding for Sickle Cell Disease Research

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) introduced legislation to restore staff and funding...

Vindman, Walkinshaw demand answers on uscis processing delays affecting ukrainians seeking humanitarian parole & work authorization requests

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and James Walkinshaw (Va.-11) led a letter to U.S....

Vindman, Pfluger, & Baumgartner Introduce Legislation to Protect Americans and Combat Deadly Nitazenes

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Michael Baumgartner...

Vindman and McClain Delaney Introduce Two Bills to Address Agricultural Conservation Workforce Shortages

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (Md.-06) introduced...

Vindman Joins Congressional Amicus Brief Supporting Veterans’ Access to Education Benefits

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark R. Warner...

HUGE MILESTONE: Vindman’s Office Returns $5.1 Million in Backlogged Dollars to Constituents

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today announced that his office has now returned more than...

Vindman Delivers Whopping $1 Million Federal Investment to Build Pedestrian Bridge in Prince William County

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders in Prince William...

Vindman Celebrates Funding Secured for the Northern Virginia Community College Woodbridge Campus HVAC Program

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined Northern Virginia Community...",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=191,Walkinshaw Presses Chairman Walberg to Address Antisemitism Consistently,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) called on Congressman Tim Walberg, Chair of the House Education & Workforce Committee, to take a comprehensive and consistent approach to rising antisemitism, warning that the Chairman’s new investigation into Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and two other districts ignores similar or more serious incidents elsewhere, including in Walberg’s district, and reflects a selective and politicized response to a nationwide crisis.

“Antisemitism must be confronted wherever it appears. On that, we agree,” Congressman Walkinshaw said. “But confronting it requires consistency, seriousness, and a willingness to address every source of hate, not only the ones that are politically convenient. It is hard to take this investigation seriously when similar incidents in the Chairman’s own district go unexamined, and when Republican leaders have repeatedly ignored antisemitism within their own ranks. The safety and well-being of the Jewish community are bigger than politics, and they must be treated that way.”

Walkinshaw noted that the Anti-Defamation League recorded more than 9,000 antisemitic incidents last year, the highest ever documented and rising in every region of the country. He pointed to a reported pro-Hamas role-play assignment at Sand Creek High School in Michigan’s 5th District—an incident in Chairman Walberg’s own community—as an example that mirrors the types of concerns he is now raising about FCPS but has not been the subject of similar scrutiny.

Walkinshaw emphasized that federal law requires schools to provide safe learning environments free from discrimination, and said congressional oversight must strengthen those protections, not fuel partisan culture-war narratives.

Walkinshaw underscored that Republican leaders have consistently failed to confront antisemitism within their own ranks. He pointed to Donald Trump hosting Nick Fuentes, a neo-Nazi and Holocaust denier, at Mar-a-Lago; the Administration’s support of Paul Ingrassia, who reportedly praised white-supremacist ideology; and conservative figures who amplified antisemitic conspiracies such as so-called “Jewish space lasers.”

Walkinshaw said these examples make clear that a credible response to rising antisemitism must confront all sources of hate, not only those that are politically convenient.

Walkinshaw sent the letter after Chairman Walberg issued formal inquiries to FCPS, Berkeley Unified, and the School District of Philadelphia, an action Walkinshaw said reflects a selective response to a national crisis.

full letter text follows and is available here.

###

The Honorable Tim Walberg

Chairman

Committee on Education and Workforce

2176 Rayburn House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Dear Chairman Walberg,

I am writing in response to your announcement of an investigation into alleged antisemitic incidents within Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), Berkeley Unified, and the School District of Philadelphia. Antisemitism must be confronted wherever it appears. On that, we

agree. But your inquiry gives the troubling impression that a handful of school districts are singularly responsible for a crisis that is national in scale and growing across all political and

geographic lines. If we are going to address antisemitism honestly, then we cannot do it selectively. And we certainly cannot do it by throwing stones from glass houses.

The Anti-Defamation League’s most recent audit shows that the United States experienced the highest number of antisemitic incidents ever recorded in the last year, more than 9,000 incidents, including harassment, vandalism, and assaults, with increases recorded in every region of the

country. These are not isolated failures of three school districts. This is a national crisis, cutting across schools, universities, online platforms, political movements, and social spaces. The data makes one thing unmistakably clear: no community is insulated, and no institution is exempt.

That includes your own. Before condemning Fairfax County, we must acknowledge problems in your own district. The ADL documents an incident from Sand Creek High School in Michigan’s

5th Congressional District in which an assignment was given to high school students instructing them to role-play as a pro-Hamas student organizer. If accurate, that is precisely the kind of

deeply inappropriate classroom content that should concern this Committee. In 2022, swastika graffiti was found in a high school bathroom in Marcellus, Michigan, in your district. The culprit of this antisemitism, also reportedly referred to the high school principal as a “scummy jew.”

Yet those reports did not prompt you to open an investigation into your own district. This selective scrutiny is difficult to ignore. If Fairfax County is to be investigated for incidents that

reflect a wider national trend, then consistency requires examining similar incidents occurring closer to home.

Antisemitism is not a partisan problem and the Committee cannot pretend otherwise. In your public statements, you suggest that antisemitism in schools is linked to certain ideological

leanings. But antisemitism has gained ground across the spectrum and significantly within elements of the conservative movement as well. Even more troubling is the fact that your

concern is voiced at a moment when individuals with documented extremist views have been advancing within national power structures, in some cases with little apparent concern from your office.

It is no secret that vicious antisemites such as Nick Fuentes have been embraced, platformed, or courted by figures on the political right, helping mainstream rhetoric that once lived on the edges. Further, Donald Trump invited the neo-nazi, Holocaust denier, Fuentes, to Mar-a-Lago

for dinner along with Kanye West, a self-proclaimed admirer of Hitler.

Another vivid example is Paul Ingrassia. When first nominated by the Trump Administration to lead a federal watchdog agency, Ingrassia had reportedly participated in private group-chat

conversations in which he admitted he “has a Nazi streak,” expressed support for white-supremacist ideology, and denigrated civil-rights holidays. The Trump Administration did not

immediately withdraw his nomination when his hate speech became public, but instead begrudgingly waited until it was clear he did not have the votes to survive the nomination

process. Well-known conservative personalities and elected officials have amplified antisemitic conspiratorial claims, rhetoric that has no place in public discourse and unquestionably fuels the very climate we are all now confronting.

It is also worth recalling that you did not specifically denounce the explicitly antisemitic chants, symbols, and motivations driving the 2017 Charlottesville white-supremacist riot, one of the

most visible antisemitic events on American soil in recent memory, making your newly expressed concern over antisemitism seem selectively applied.

You also voted against the Nonprofit Security Grant Program Improvement Act of 2022, legislation that expanded funding to help safeguard nonprofits and houses of worship from rising

threats of terrorism and hate-motivated violence. This vote came even as antisemitic incidents were surging nationwide, including the January 15, 2022 attack in which an armed individual

entered Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas and held four worshippers hostage for 11 hours, and the horrific massacre at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh that remains the

deadliest antisemitic attack in American history. The bill was designed to ensure that vulnerable community institutions had the resources they needed to protect their congregations, yet you

opposed it.

If the Committee intends to address the causes of rising antisemitism, it must reckon with all of them, not just those that are politically convenient. Fairfax County is openly engaged in

combating antisemitism in schools. Every incident deserves investigation, and every child deserves safety. FCPS has taken meaningful steps to address antisemitism, improve reporting

mechanisms, and educate students, steps that deserve recognition, not public vilification. Holding Fairfax solely accountable for a nationwide problem does not advance solutions. It

merely shifts blame.

To effectively confront antisemitism, your Committee should:

Address all sources of antisemitic rhetoric, including those emanating from public

figures, influencers, and political movements.

Provide resources and guidance to school districts nationwide, rather than singling out a

few for political theater.

Support evidence-based antisemitism education, Holocaust education, and hate-prevention programs across states.

Apply standards consistently including in Michigan, where documented issues also

deserve scrutiny.

If this Committee wishes to lead on combating antisemitism, it must be willing to look inward as well as outward. I respectfully urge you to pursue a genuinely comprehensive, non-partisan

approach to this crisis, one grounded in fairness, consistency, and the courage to acknowledge antisemitism wherever it appears, not only where it is politically expedient.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/11/28/vindman-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-cut-red-tape-lower-costs-increase-housing-supply/,"Vindman Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Cut Red Tape, Lower Costs, & Increase Housing Supply",2025-11-28,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Vindman Calls on Secretary Hegseth to Resign After Hearing From More Than 3,000 Virginians Concerned About War with Iran

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today renewed his call for the...

vindman, mackenzie lead bipartisan bill to improve coordination, threat mitigation ahead of fifa world cup & 2028 summer olympics

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Ryan Mackenzie...

Vindman Introduces Bill to Restore Crucial Funding for Sickle Cell Disease Research

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) introduced legislation to restore staff and funding...

Vindman, Walkinshaw demand answers on uscis processing delays affecting ukrainians seeking humanitarian parole & work authorization requests

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and James Walkinshaw (Va.-11) led a letter to U.S....

Vindman, Pfluger, & Baumgartner Introduce Legislation to Protect Americans and Combat Deadly Nitazenes

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Michael Baumgartner...

Vindman and McClain Delaney Introduce Two Bills to Address Agricultural Conservation Workforce Shortages

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (Md.-06) introduced...

Vindman Joins Congressional Amicus Brief Supporting Veterans’ Access to Education Benefits

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark R. Warner...

HUGE MILESTONE: Vindman’s Office Returns $5.1 Million in Backlogged Dollars to Constituents

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today announced that his office has now returned more than...

Vindman Delivers Whopping $1 Million Federal Investment to Build Pedestrian Bridge in Prince William County

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders in Prince William...

Vindman Celebrates Funding Secured for the Northern Virginia Community College Woodbridge Campus HVAC Program

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined Northern Virginia Community...

ICYMI: Vindman Delivers $1,200,000 in Federal Funding for Quantico Creek Flood Mitigation project

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders to...",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-mcbath-press-trump-admin-effectiveness-illegal-deadly-boat,"Scott, McBath Press Trump Admin on Effectiveness of Illegal Deadly Boat Strikes in Curtailing Drug Use in the U.S.",2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) and Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-06) ledother House Democrats in sending a letter to top Trump Administration officials on whether this heavy-handed, legally dubious interdiction effort will have any meaningful effect on drug addiction and drug related deaths in the United States.

“Regardless of the questionable legality of these strikes, an equally relevant question is whether this is even an effective means to curtail drug use in the United States,” the letter reads. “The cost of these airstrikes is likely in the tens of millions of dollars already. Furthermore, deploying a carrier strike group is estimated to cost upwards to $6.5 million a day and it is unclear how long the Ford carrier strike group will be deployed in support of this activity. Our nation already spends billions of dollars annually on the so-called war on drugs. While at the same time, we spend very little comparatively on education, treatment, and other demand-reduction strategies, despite all the research that shows those to be the most cost-effective strategies by far in reducing illicit drug use.”

The members highlighted evidence and research that shows these measures are ineffective.

“There have been numerous studies over the past three decades showing that it is far more cost effective to offer treatment to those with substance use disorders in order to reduce drug usage, rather than interdiction strategies,” the letter states. “For example, in the 1990s, the RAND Corporation published a comprehensive study on controlling cocaine use and looked at the four primary control programs utilized by the government – source control, interdiction, domestic law enforcement, and treatment. The study addressed the question: How much would the government have to spend on each approach to decrease cocaine consumption in the United States by one percent? The RAND study showed that, compared to treatment, it cost seven times more to achieve the same result with domestic law enforcement. It costs 10 times more to get those results with interdiction, and 23 times more to achieve the results using the strategy of source control.”

The letter also highlighted the Trump Administration’s plans to dismantle key agencies meant to treat addiction.

“With these illegal, and significantly costly, lethal strikes to interdict drugs entering the United States, the Trump Administration is doubling down on one of the least cost-effective means of reducing drug addiction and at the same time it is aggressively dismantling the very federal agency focused on mental health and addiction treatment,” the Members wrote. “Since the start of his second term, President Trump has taken actions to reduce staffing by 50 percent at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The Trump Administration has terminated $1.7 billion in SAMHSA block grants for state health departments and cut approximately $350 million in addiction and overdose prevention funding.”

The letter was also signed by: Representatives Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), John Garamendi (CA-08), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and James Walkinshaw (VA-11).

Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below.

Dear Attorney General Bondi, Secretary Hegseth, and Secretary Kennedy:

We write to you concerning the illegal military campaign against foreign nationals allegedly smuggling drugs in the United States on vessels in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean.

These strikes are already in violation of the War Powers Resolution’s 60-day clock requiring termination of military action if the President is unable to obtain congressional authorization.[1] Further contravening federal law, the President has deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group to the Caribbean, further escalating this illegal military operation. According to news reports, there have been at least 15 strikes carried out by our military in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, killing at least 64 foreign individuals – something that may be deemed an act of war by a foreign sovereign.[2] To date, the Trump Administration has failed to provide sufficient evidence that these individuals were so-called “narco-terrorists” and has failed to provide appropriate legal justification for these strikes to Congress.

Regardless of the questionable legality of these strikes, an equally relevant question is whether this is even an effective means to curtail drug use in the United States? The cost of these airstrikes is likely in the tens of millions of dollars already. Furthermore, deploying a carrier strike group is estimated to cost upwards to $6.5 million a day and it is unclear how long the Ford carrier strike group will be deployed in support of this activity.[3] Our nation already spends billions of dollars annually on the so-called war on drugs. While at the same time, we spend very little comparatively on education, treatment, and other demand-reduction strategies, despite all the research that shows those to be the most cost-effective strategies by far in reducing illicit drug use.

There have been numerous studies over the past three decades showing that it is far more cost effective to offer treatment to those with substance use disorders in order to reduce drug usage, rather than interdiction strategies. For example, in the 1990s, the RAND Corporation published a comprehensive study on controlling cocaine use and looked at the four primary control programs utilized by the government – source control, interdiction, domestic law enforcement, and treatment.[4] The study addressed the question: How much would the government have to spend on each approach to decrease cocaine consumption in the United States by one percent?[5]

The RAND study showed that, compared to treatment, it cost seven times more to achieve the same result with domestic law enforcement. It costs 10 times more to get those results with interdiction, and 23 times more to achieve the results using the strategy of source control. The RAND study found that to achieve the 1 percent reduction in cocaine use required $34 million ($75.5M in 2025 dollars) if you use treatment; $246 million (546.1M in 2025 dollars) for domestic law enforcement; $366 million ($813M in 2025 dollars) using interdiction; and $783 million ($1.7B in 2025 dollars) if you use a strategy of source control to achieve the same one percent reduction in cocaine use.[6]

With these illegal, and significantly costly, lethal strikes to interdict drugs entering the United States, the Trump Administration is doubling down on one of the least cost-effective means of reducing drug addiction and at the same time it is aggressively dismantling the very federal agency focused on mental health and addiction treatment. Since the start of his second term, President Trump has taken actions to reduce staffing by 50 percent at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The Trump Administration has terminated $1.7 billion in SAMHSA block grants for state health departments and cut approximately $350 million in addiction and overdose prevention funding.[7]

At a House Committee on the Budget (CBO) hearing on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, the Director of the Congressional Budget Office was asked if there was any evidence that such heavy-handed, legally dubious interdiction efforts, such as what this administration is currently doing, had ANY effect on drug use in the United States in terms of availability and price.[8] The CBO Director testified that he had no evidence that such a strategy had any effect at all.[9]

So, we respectfully ask the following questions:

What evidence does the administration have that this is an effective strategy to reduce drug use and drug related deaths in the United States?

How was it determined that the targeted vessels were carrying drugs and what was their intended destination for distribution? Please provide all evidence, documentation, and communications that support these findings, as well as documentation that establishes the type of cargo carried, intended location for delivery and distribution, source of cargo, as well as the involved cartels, suppliers, and distributors.

How did the administration arrive at the decision that sinking and destroying these vessels were more effective than general interdiction methods?[10]

What legal authorities is the administration relying on to conduct these strikes, and what findings were made to quell concerns within the administration regarding the legality of these strikes?

What has this strategy cost so far to the American taxpayer?

What evidence does the administration have to support public statements made by the Attorney General that “258 million”[11] Americans have been saved as a result of the administration’s drug control and seizure polices?

What evidence does the administration have to support the President’s claim that “[e]very boat that we knock out we save 25,000 American lives”[12]?

What effect has the administration’s reductions in force at SAMHSA as well as the terminations of block grants to state health departments, and cuts to addiction and overdose prevention funding administered through SAMHSA had on reducing drug use and addiction?

Thank you for reviewing and answering these important questions. Please provide all relevant evidence, documentation, and communications to support the administration’s answers. We expect a response by Friday, December 12, 2025.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/seventy-five-house-members-sound-alarm-negative-impact-ice-raids-k-12,Seventy-Five House Members Sound the Alarm on the Negative Impact of ICE Raids on K-12 Students,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,"Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott",S000185,bobbyscott.house.gov,bobbyscott,https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"As originally released by the Committee on Education and Workforce, Democrats

WASHINGTON – Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), House Committee on Education and Workforce, and Ranking Member Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education, and 73 House Democrats urged the Department of Education to use all available resources to support schools, students, and states affected by the Trump Administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement actions.

Immigration raids at or near schools have been restricted for more than 30 years across Administrations, but earlier this year, the Trump Administration rescinded that policy.

“Since January, we have seen unprecedented immigration enforcement actions to effectuate President Trump’s stated goal of creating the country’s largest deportation operation. We are deeply concerned about how these actions are impacting K-12 students, their families, and their communities,”said the Members. “The chaotic manner in which raids and apprehensions are being carried out is injecting needless trauma into these communities, which then makes its way into schools and contributes to absenteeism.”

The Trump Administration’s immigration raids — including activity near schools— has traumatized kids, put new burdens on teachers and administrators, and dramatically altered the school year. The federal government does not release comprehensive data showing where arrests or detentions are taking place, but a Washington Post review of news reports found instances of parents arrested near campuses in at least 10 states in 2025.

The Members demanded the Department utilize all resources necessary to ensure that all students, regardless of their immigration status, can receive a safe, quality education. The Members also demanded the Department share its plans to issue guidance on how schools can mitigate the negative impact of the immigration raids on students’ mental health and increased absenteeism.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-subramanyam-statement-dod-proposal-cut-ties-scouting-america,Ranking Member Subramanyam Statement on DOD Proposal to Cut Ties with Scouting America,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LEESBURG, VA – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Ranking Member of the Military and Foreign Affairs Oversight Subcommittee, released the following statement after a leaked proposal from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth suggested dissolving a century-old partnership between Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts) and the Department of Defense:

“If Secretary Hegseth was truly concerned about America’s young men, he wouldn’t be cutting this partnership. For generations, Eagle Scouts join the military ready to serve in leadership positions because of the character, training, and service learned in the Scouts. This decision doesn’t help our recruiting crisis; it hurts Scouts and parents across the country and cuts off an entire pipeline of motivated young folks, all because the Secretary wants to score political points. I’m calling on the Department of Defense to reverse course immediately.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=182,"Walkinshaw, Pappas Lead Colleagues in Condemning Previously Planned USCG Change in Hate Symbol Policy, Presses Acting Commandant Lunday for Answers",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,James R. Walkinshaw,W000831,walkinshaw.house.gov,walkinshaw,https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), member of the House Homeland Security Committee and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), member of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, led 28 of their colleagues in a letter condemning a U.S. Coast Guard’s (USCG) policy that was set to take effect on December 15, 2025, reclassifying swastikas, nooses, and the Confederate flag as 'potentially divisive' instead of as ‘hate symbols.’ The lawmakers also call on acting Coast Guard Commandant Kevin Lunday to explain how the previously planned policy change came about, confirm whether reports are now subject to an arbitrary 45-day deadline, and explain how the branch will rebuild trust with Black and Jewish Coast Guard members.

The lawmakers wrote, “We write to condemn to the highest degree the U.S. Coast Guard’s (USCG) policy that was set to take effect on December 15, 2025, classifying swastikas, nooses, and the Confederate flag as 'potentially divisive' instead of as the clear antisemitic and racial hate symbols they are.”

While acknowledging the USCG has since announced an updated policy, they condemned the fact that the change in policy was ever considered and pressed USCG on the reported 45-day deadline to report such incidents saying, “While USCG’s previous policy did not include a deadline to report an incident, the change would create a cutoff that may have a clear chilling effect on members of the USCG who in many instances are deployed for longer period than 45 days.”

They closed by calling for USCG to report to Congress on “the series of events within the USCG that created this level of uncertainty about hate symbol policy,” to answer whether the updated policy now includes a 45-day deadline, and how “the USCG [intends] to rebuild trust with Black and Jewish Coast Guard members following this series of events.”

Read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/11/22/trumps-retribution-campaign-silence-intimidate-vindman-for-speaking-the-truth/,Trump’s Retribution Campaign: Silence & Intimidate Vindman for Speaking the Truth,2025-11-22,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today released the following statement after President Trump and Secretary Hegseth sent a letter to the U.S. House Ethics Committee, Oversight Committee, and Armed Services Committee full of baseless innuendos, half-truths and false accusations.

This letter was sent just one day after Vindman spoke on the floor of the U.S. House demanding the release of a call transcript between President Trump and the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salaman.

Vindman said, “Unlike the President, I have nothing to hide. Donald Trump and his lackeys are working overtime to weaponize the government against his political opponents.

“This week, I demanded the release of a 2019 phone call transcript between President Trump and MBS. This obviously touched a nerve. The very next day, they spew lies to silence and intimidate me. It’s not going to work.

“I’ll save President Trump and Secretary Hegseth some time: I never took a dime from a Ukrainian citizen or government entity, directly or indirectly. I followed the law and properly complied with all relevant regulations.

“This is not the first time the president has attacked me, and it won’t be the last.

“But let’s be clear about what he’s trying so hard to distract from: his disturbing phone call with the Saudi Crown Prince after the murder of journalist and Virginia resident Jamal Khashoggi.

“I have one message to Virginians and Americans: I never back down from a fight. Not now, not ever.”

BACKGROUND

On Tuesday, November 18, Vindmanspoke on the floor of the U.S. House to demand President Trump release transcript of 2019 call with Mohammed bin Salman. Following Khashoggi’s murder in 2018, Vindman served on NSC staff in the first Trump Administration andreviewed a phone call that he believes would be of interest to both the Khashoggi family and the American people — especially given Trump’s disturbing defense of the Saudi Crown Prince in the Oval Office on Tuesday.

On Thursday, November 21, Vindmanled a group of 37 U.S. House lawmakers in sending a letter to President Donald Trump calling for the immediate release of the transcript of a 2019 phone call between President Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman following the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

On Friday, November 22, Vindmanhosted Hanan Elatr Khashoggi — the wife of murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi — on Capitol Hill to amplify her story and urge President Trump to release the transcript of his 2019 call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Further calling out the incompetence of Trump and his Administration, Vindman questioned Secretary Hegseth during the budget oversight hearing for the House Armed Services Committee. Vindman repeated his call for Hegseth to resign.

In the wake of Signalgate, Vindman was among the first lawmakersto call for Hegseth to resign.

Before being sworn in as a Member of Congress, Vindman divested from Trident Support, LLC. He never received payment from the government of Ukraine or any Ukrainian citizen or entity as part of this venture — or in any other capacity.

The Trump administration has also attempted to intimidate and silence other Democratic lawmakers such as Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.), Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Representatives Robert Garcia (D-Calif.-42), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.-15), and LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.-10).

This week, Trump called for the execution of Members of Congress who have restated military law including Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) and Representatives Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.-17) , Maggie Goodlander (D-N.H.-02), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.-06), and Jason Crow (D-Colo.-06).

Click here to view the document sent by the Department of Defense to the aforementioned U.S. House Committees which is full of lies about Vindman and just another example of retribution from Trump for seeking the truth.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8695,"Beyer, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Fix Broken House Disciplinary Process",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,"Donald S. Beyer, Jr.",B001292,beyer.house.gov,beyer,https://beyer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA) and Don Bacon (R-NE) today introduced a bipartisan resolution that would raise the required vote threshold to punish Members of the House with censure, disapproval, or removal of committee assignments from a simple majority to 60 percent. This measure would reform the process by which the House disciplines its Members, in response to the sharp increase in introductions of punitive resolutions in the House.

“The process of censures and disciplinary measures in the House is broken, and all of us know it. These measures were historically reserved for rare and exceptional cases after a lengthy process that allowed time for investigations and due process, but that precedent has deteriorated. Our resolution would break the cycle of censures to help return focus in the House to solving problems for the American people,” said Rep. Beyer. “The proliferation of resolutions to punish our fellow Members with censure, disapproval, or the revocation of committee assignments has become unsustainable, to the point that they now impair our ability to work together to address serious issues. I fear this is inflicting lasting damage on this institution. Our legislation would implement desperately needed reform by creating a threshold high enough to require significant consensus between the parties that the process has been fair and that any wrongdoing rises to the level of the punishment. I thank my colleague, Congressman Bacon, for working with me on this solution and urge my colleagues to support this measure and raise the level of sanity in the People’s House.”

“A U.S. House ruled by mob mentality cannot function. The institution and American people deserve better than what we’ve seen this week. The vast middle must stand up to the extremes and put commonsense safeguards in place,” said Rep. Bacon. “This resolution with Rep. Beyer, which requires a 60 percent threshold before the House can censure or penalize a Member, will force future censures to have bipartisan support, restore stability, protect the institution, and get the House back to working for the American people.”

Article I of the Constitution establishes that “Each House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings, punish its Members for disorderly Behaviour.” Historically measures punishing Members of the House were reserved for rare, unique cases following investigations; during the 20th Century the House voted to censure its members just six times, most after lengthy ethics investigations that established criminal activity or serious misconduct. At least five resolutions to punish Members of the House have been brought forward just this week, and dozens of Members have been targeted with such measures this year.

Full text of the resolution is available here.

In addition to Congressmen Beyer and Bacon, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Angie Craig (D-MN), Kevin Kiley (R-CA), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), Michael Turner (R-OH), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Tom McClintock (R-CA), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Sarah McBride (D-DE), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Nikema Williams (D-GA), James Walkinshaw (D-VA), Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Ami Bera (D-CA), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), and Jared Huffman (D-CA).",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-subramanyam-demands-answers-fbi-about-potential-tampering-epstein-files,Rep. Subramanyam Demands Answers from FBI About Potential Tampering of Epstein Files,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Suhas Subramanyam,S001230,subramanyam.house.gov,subramanyam,https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), member of the House Oversight Committee, has sent a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel demanding answers about the security and integrity of the Epstein files. This week Director Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi held a press conference where they refused to answer multiple questions about a timeline for releasing the files, what information will be released, and how re-opening the investigation will affect what files are released.

In the letter the Congressman said, “The American people understandably have concerns about the President using his political influence over the files’ release and either tampering, destroying, or selectively releasing and withholding files, particularly in light of the Department of Justice’s announcement to start investigating Democrats who were associated with Epstein.”

In the last few days, there have been several concerning anecdotal reports of tampering with the files. The Congressman also requested a visit to the FBI’s Winchester, VA facility in his region and any other facilities to review the security and integrity of the files.

You can read the full letter here and below:

Dear Director Patel,

As you know, Congress voted to release all the files the Department of Justice has on Jeffrey Epstein to the public. While the President could have released the files to the public months ago, this week’s landmark vote is a step forward towards achieving justice for the survivors and the American people. For years, the rich and powerful have not been held accountable for their association with Jeffrey Epstein and potential involvement in his criminal enterprise.

The American people understandably have concerns about the President using his political influence over the files’ release and either tampering, destroying, or selectively releasing and withholding files, particularly in light of the Department of Justice’s announcement to start investigating Democrats who were associated with Epstein.

Furthermore, there have recently been troubling anecdotes to suggest this, such as an acting deputy chief at the Department of Justice saying that all Republican names were being redacted. The brother of Jeffrey Epstein also claimed in an interview on NewsNation that “I’ve been recently told, the reason they’re going to be releasing the files and the reason for the flip is that they’re sabotaging these files.” He went on to say that Trump Administration officials are “scrubbing the files to take Republican names out,” and that some of this information may be damaging to President Trump.

These reports do nothing to inspire confidence of a complete release of all of the Epstein files, no matter the political affiliation of the people named. The victims and their families are themselves concerned about the tampering of the files and politicization of this process. They deserve full justice and accountability, and, as you said upon your own confirmation, “there will be no coverups, no missing documents, no stone left unturned.”

In this light, I request the following answers by November 26, 2025:

Before the files are released, who will be redacting them? Who will be approving the redactions?

In February 2025, Attorney General Pam Bondi said that the files were on her desk. Were the files physically on her desk? Where were they?

Are there files relating to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation at the FBI’s Central Records facility in Winchester, VA? 1. If so, have the files been altered, tampered with, or accessed – at any point – since January 20, 2025?

What steps has the FBI taken to protect the files’ storage at the facility in Winchester, or elsewhere?

What security measures are currently in place at the Winchester facility, or other facilities relevant to the Epstein files?

In a November 19 press conference, Attorney General Bondi said that new information led to the reversal of her decision to close the Epstein case earlier this year. What was that new information?

I also request a visit to the FBI Central Records Complex or other facilities housing relevant Epstein files to review the security and condition of these files as we continue our investigation on the House Oversight Committee.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/11/21/vindman-miller-meeks-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-women-from-surprise-medical-bills-who-experience-pregnancy-loss/,"Vindman, Miller-Meeks Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Women from Surprise Medical Bills Who Experience Pregnancy Loss",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"According to the National Institutes of Health, as Many as 26 Percent of Pregnancies End in Miscarriage & More Than 24,000 Babies are Stillborn Each Year in the United States

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa-01) introduced bipartisan legislation to make sure that women who experience miscarriage or stillbirth are not charged more for the prenatal care they received before losing their pregnancy than they would have been if they had been able to carry to term.

“Every year, hundreds of thousands of women in Virginia — and across the nation — suffer the pain of pregnancy loss through miscarriage or stillbirth. These grieving women and their families shouldn’t have to face unexpectedly high medical bills while grieving their baby,” said Vindman. “I’m proud to introduce commonsense, bipartisan legislation that offers a straightforward solution to a cruel problem. No family should be penalized for losing a pregnancy through no fault of their own.”

“Enduring the loss of a pregnancy is a shattering experience for expecting mothers and their families,” said Miller-Meeks. “The Caring for Grieving Families Act ensures that mothers who suffer a miscarriage or stillbirth are not subject to a higher medical bill. This legislation would streamline pregnancy care payments and avoid adding financial burdens to women who experience either a miscarriage or a stillbirth.”

The Caring for Grieving Families Act of 2025 ensures that women who experience a miscarriage or stillbirth aren’t charged more for prenatal care than women whose pregnancies go to term. It limits cost-sharing for prenatal services within pregnancy bundles and bars insurance plans from imposing higher copays for care received before a pregnancy loss than what would have applied under the full bundled payment.

BACKGROUND

As many as 26 percent of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, according to the National Institutes of Health. Additionally, more than 24,000 babies are stillborn in the United States each year, affecting about one in 160 pregnancies at 20 weeks or later. Combined, pregnancy loss affects nearly one million expecting mothers in the United States each year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/11/21/vindman-moylan-mann-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-strengthen-health-care-access-in-rural-communities/,"Vindman, Moylan, & Mann Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect, Strengthen Health Care Access in Rural Communities",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), James Moylan (R-Guam), and Tracey Mann (R-Kan-01) today introduced the Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act, bipartisan legislation led in the U.S. Senate by Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) to help financially distressed rural hospitals remain open and maintain essential services.

Medicare’s Critical Access Hospital (CAH) program keeps care within reach for rural communities by providing cost-based reimbursement rather than standard prospective payments. But the program’s rigid mileage requirement — 35 miles from another hospital, or 15 miles in mountainous regions — often blocks hospitals that are financially vulnerable, yet still the only practical provider for entire areas. In Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley and Southside, several hospitals sit just inside the threshold but remain critical lifelines for surrounding counties.

“Too many rural hospitals are hanging on by a thread,” said Vindman. “When a hospital closes, it eliminates emergency care, wipes out jobs, destabilizes local economies, and leaves families without access to lifesaving services. No one should have to drive thirty miles in an emergency because their nearest hospital was shut down. States need the ability to step in before it’s too late, and this legislation gives them the tools to do exactly that.”

“Rural communities rely on their local hospitals for timely, dependable care,” said Mann. “The sad reality is that too many facilities are struggling to serve patients effectively due to rising costs and falling reimbursements. The Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act gives vulnerable hospitals the tools they need to keep their doors open and keep essential services available to Americans in rural areas. Every American should have access to quality, affordable health care regardless of their zip code.”

“Rural hospitals serve as the backbone of this country. Guam, which is 100% rural, knows all too well the financial strain placed on our healthcare system,” said Moylan. “That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act with Rep. Vindman and Rep. Mann, which provides the relief hospitals need to continue saving lives and updates Medicare policy to reflect the realities of delivering care in remote areas. This legislation is essential to ensuring that States and Territories have the tools necessary to empower our hospitals.”

The Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act is endorsed by the American Hospital Association, National Rural Health Association, and Virginia Rural Health Association.

Specifically, the Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act would:

Allow states to certify certain rural hospitals as “necessary providers” and waive the mileage rule for CAH status when financial distress and community need are demonstrated,

Limit designations to 120 hospitals nationwide and no more than five per state over a nine-year period,

Require hospitals to show two years of operating losses, a solvency plan, and a commitment to maintain or expand a high-demand service line such as OB or behavioral health,

Direct GAO and MedPAC to assess program impacts on hospital stability, patient access, and Medicare costs,

Allow the U.S. territories to use CAH designations and waive the bed requirement, and

Sunset the program after nine years with transition mechanisms for hospitals.

BACKGROUND

From 1997 to 2006, states could designate “necessary providers” and waive the mileage requirement for CAH status, but that authority expired nearly two decades ago. The Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act reinstates a targeted, accountable version of that flexibility with modern safeguards to protect Medicare and ensure designations are reserved for hospitals most at risk.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/11/21/vindman-valadao-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-rural-energy-for-america-program-lower-energy-costs-for-virginians/,"Vindman, Valadao Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen “Rural Energy for America Program,” Lower Energy Costs for Virginians",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) and Congressman David Valadao (R-Calif.-22) introduced a bipartisan bill to strengthen the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).

“As the only Virginian on the House Agriculture Committee, I’ve heard firsthand how lower energy costs can really help farmers. We need to take real steps to make this a reality, cutting costs for agricultural producers and rural areas as they make smart investments in clean energy and storage,” said Vindman. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan legislation to cut red tape and lower energy costs. We’re not just helping farms — we’re strengthening our rural economies and investing in a more sustainable future for Virginia.”

“As a dairy farmer, I’ve seen firsthand how hard our producers work to improve energy efficiency and be responsible stewards of the land,” said Valadao. “The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) helps lower costs and makes it easier for recipients to become more energy independent, and this bill makes key updates to ensure the program meets the needs of our Central Valley communities. I’m proud to partner with Congressman Vindman on this bipartisan effort to help more farmers and rural small businesses take advantage of this successful program.”

REAP provides financial assistance to farmers, producers, and rural small business owners to install renewable energy systems and adopt energy efficiency measures. REAP has leveraged more than $2 billion in public investment — helping drive more than $2.5 billion in total rural clean‑energy project spending — delivering more than 586 in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in rural America.

The REAP Modernization Act would build on this success by increasing the cost share of REAP grants and raising certain grant limits. Additionally, this legislation would make it easier for farmers and small businesses to access the program by streamlining the application process and increasing assistance, outreach, and education for farmers and small businesses throughout the application process.

Specifically, the REAP Modernization Act would:

Increase the available cost share for REAP grants and the small project grant limit,

Streamline the application process,

Improve outreach, technical assistance, and education,

Allow agricultural producer cooperatives and rural electric cooperatives to apply for financial assistance on a case-by-case basis,

Establish a study on dual use of farmland for both energy production and traditional farming,

Make reduction of greenhouse gases a more integral part of the REAP program mission, and

Establish a reserve fund for underutilized technologies.

This bipartisan legislation is backed by the National Rural Health Association (NRHA).

“The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) applauds Representative Vindman for leading the House introduction of the Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act. Rural hospitals continue to face extreme financial strain and this legislation provides a targeted, responsible path to keep essential facilities open in the communities that need them most,” said Alan Morgan, CEO, National Rural Health Association. “By restoring limited state flexibility to certify ‘necessary provider’ hospitals for Critical Access Hospital designation, paired with strong guardrails on financial need, community benefit, and service expansion, this bill offers rural providers a lifeline without sacrificing accountability. With clear limits on certifications, requirements to maintain high-demand services like obstetrics or behavioral health, and mandated GAO and MedPAC evaluations, this legislation strikes the right balance between access and rural system stability. NRHA is proud to support this effort and looks forward to working with Representative Vindman and congressional leaders to protect and strengthen rural health care nationwide.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/11/21/vindman-widow-of-jamal-khashoggi-and-members-of-congress-renew-call-for-president-trump-to-release-transcript-of-2019-call-with-saudi-crown-prince/,"Vindman, Widow of Jamal Khashoggi, and Members of Congress Renew Call for President Trump to Release Transcript of 2019 Call with Saudi Crown Prince",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) was joined by Hanan Elatr Khashoggi — the wife of murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi — and U.S. Representatives Jamie Raskin (Md.-08) and Suhas Subramanyam (Va.-11) to urge President Trump to release the transcript of his 2019 call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Vindman, who reviewed the call while serving as a deputy legal advisor on the White House National Security Council, reiterated that the American people — and the Khashoggi family — deserve transparency about what was said.

Speakers emphasized that the circumstances surrounding Khashoggi’s killing, and the Trump administration’s engagement with the Saudi government in its aftermath, demand full public disclosure of the call’s contents.

“I’m honored to have Mrs. Khashoggi standing with me today as we remember her husband and call for transparency and accountability for her family and for the American people. Given President Trump’s disturbing and counter-factual defense of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman this week, I felt compelled to speak up on behalf of the Khashoggi family and the country I serve. That is why I took to the House floor to bring to light a call I reviewed during my tenure on Trump’s White House National Security Council staff,” said Vindman. “All week, I’ve urged the President to release this transcript. Yesterday, I sent him a letter with 37 of my colleagues demanding its release. We will continue pressing until the American people get the truth.”

“I’m seeking the help of Congressman Vindman to get the contents of the conversation between President Trump and MBS to get the truth,” said Khashoggi. “Try as much as you can to save the Democratic freedom of America. Do not be a copy of the Middle East dictator countries. We look to America as our role model of modern civilization. Please maintain it.”

“Thank you to Congressman Vindman for your leadership in making sure that Jamal Khashoggi is not forgotten,” said Raskin. “We will stand always with Mrs. Khashoggi in the search for justice in what has happened.”

You can watch the full press conference here.

BACKGROUND

Jamal Khashoggi, a Washington Post journalist and U.S. resident, was murdered inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October 2018 — an assassination that drew global condemnation and raised serious questions about Saudi Arabia’s leadership and the Trump administration’s response.

At the time of the Trump–bin Salman call in 2019, Vindman was serving as a lawyer on the White House National Security Council, where his duties included reviewing certain presidential calls with foreign leaders. Following Khashoggi’s murder, he reviewed this call and believes its contents are of clear public interest.

Earlier this week, Vindman led 37 U.S. House lawmakers in sending a letter to President Trump calling for the immediate release of the transcript.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcclellan-announces-2025-veteran-year-recipient,McClellan Announces 2025 Veteran of the Year Recipient,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. –​​ Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the recipient of the 2025 Veteran of the Year Award for Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District: U.S. Air Force Colonel William Woodard Butler.

“My Veteran of the Year Program seeks to celebrate our district’s veterans, their loved ones and their service community,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “This year, I am honored to recognize U.S. Air Force Colonel William Butler as our Veteran of the Year for Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District. With over 30 years of service between active duty and reserves, Colonel Butler has devoted his entire military career and beyond to improving the lives of our service members, advancing medical research and giving back to his community. I thank him for his service to our nation and admire all he has done for those he swore to protect and defend.”

Col. Butler has built a well-founded military career to save lives and expand our understanding in surgery, tropical, hyperbaric and aerospace medicine. He has over 980 hours of flight time, of which over 65 were in combat. After completing two overseas deployments — one to Okinawa and one to Qatar — he served as a professor of aerospace medicine in the U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine and became internationally recognized for his work with altitude-induced decompression sickness and aeromedical evacuation.

After retiring from the Air Force, Col. Butler continued to serve as an aerospace medicine consultant to the Air Force for another decade. Between his military and consultant careers, he has authored over 150 publications, most notably the definitive 200+-page academic monograph teaching how best to affect the safe aeromedical evacuation of critically ill and injured casualties.

Additionally, he has become a steadfast presence in the Tri-Cities area. Col. Butler now serves as a trustee for the John Randolph Foundation and a member of Hopewell’s City Planning Commission. He helped establish a permanently endowed scholarship for Chesterfield, Hopewell and Prince George students pursuing a medical career. His mentorship and work as a theater validating flight surgeon, an aeromedical evacuation researcher and professor has touched the lives of hundreds, if not thousands in his community.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases/open-enrollment-underway-congresswoman-jennifer-mcclellan-joins-advocates-and,"With Open Enrollment Underway, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan Joins Advocates and Parents of Premature Babies to Discuss Importance of Renewing Enhanced Premium Tax Credits",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Jennifer L. McClellan,M001227,mcclellan.house.gov,mcclellan,https://mcclellan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Richmond, Va. — In recognition of Prematurity Awareness Month, U.S. Rep. Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) on Wednesday joined parents, Protect Our Care Virginia, and other advocates for a virtual press conference to discuss the crucial role the Affordable Care Act plays in helping families navigate premature births and costly NICU services, which average more than $70,000 per stay.

Following a 40-day standoff, Republican lawmakers decided to pass a government funding package that does not include an extension of the enhanced Premium Tax Credits (EPTCs) for people who purchase their insurance through an Affordable Care Act marketplace. As a result, Virginia residents are experiencing sticker shock this open enrollment season as they look to sign up for a plan for 2026. If the tax credits are not renewed, 106,000 people are expected to drop out of the Virginia Marketplace.

“No one plans to have a premature baby, I certainly didn’t, but it can happen to anybody, and we need to make sure that those families are insured,” saidCongresswoman McClellan, who, as a state legislator, championed legislation to create the Virginia Marketplace. “Preterm birth is preventable, but we have to make sure that moms are healthy before they get pregnant and can get the care that they need. And when they face prematurity, they should not have to worry about who’s going to pay the cost, the $70,000 average cost for a NICU bill should not be what those parents have to focus on. They should be focusing on the care their child receives and for the mom, recovery.”

“Twenty-six years ago, during this time of the year, my family sat worried about the well-being of my daughter, who was born 23 weeks premature,” saidDr. Deneen Evans, PhD, LCSW of Roanoke County, whose adult daughter has had lifelong medical costs associated with her premature birth. “Those babies that are born that early are considered micro-preemies, and their chances of survival are extremely low … We need to also focus on the long-term consequences. It’s important for us to understand if they don’t start out healthy, and we’re not getting health care for these mothers and children, it is going to be a long-term problem, and a problem that’s going to stress society long-term when you have people that have to depend on services in order to navigate and live healthy.”

“I think the hardest moment was actually having to walk out of the hospital without a baby, no one really prepares you for that. You have this idea in your head that, ‘hey, you get to carry the car seat out,’ and when you don’t get that moment, that’s pretty tough,” saidKristen Clardy of Washington, D.C., who is transitioning to an Affordable Care Act plan so that she can be a stay-at-home-mom. “Once we actually looked at it, we realized that the Marketplace health plans were actually pretty affordable, and it turned out that they were actually even cheaper than my husband’s employer-sponsored coverage. So we decided that I would leave work and we would get Marketplace health coverage for myself and the kids. Of course, that was just a couple weeks before the premiums skyrocketed. So now we are facing about somewhere between an $800 and $900 premium increase for next year, which is not exactly part of the budget that we had in mind when I decided to leave my job.”

“There is a reason that Black women are more than twice as likely to die of childbirth as white women, and that Black babies are 57% more likely to be preterm than white babies,” saidKenda Denia, executive director of Birth in Color. “That is where good quality health insurance comes in. Right now, health care is a privilege and not a right. NICU care can leave a family completely bankrupt, and children born prematurely may not be able to access the follow-up care they need weeks, months and years after being born. That is why keeping the Affordable Care Act enhanced Premium Tax Credits and restoring Medicaid funds are essential. If Congress fails to act, thousands of Virginians will be left uninsured, and we will have lost this essential tool in the fight to fix the maternal health crisis.”

“Postpartum Support Virginia is the only organization in the Commonwealth whose sole focus is perinatal mental health,” saidAmy Hammond, executive director of Postpartum Support Virginia. “We have the honor of walking with families who experience preterm birth as they navigate the emotional trauma surrounding the birth of their preterm babies. Pregnant people experiencing mental health issues are at a 50% greater risk of giving preterm birth. A parent who gives birth prematurely is 40% more likely to develop depressive symptoms compared to parents of full-term babies. Mothers of babies who spend time in the NICU have up to a 70% risk of developing postpartum depression, compared to 10 to 15% of mothers of full-term babies. We ask you today to protect the lives of mothers and babies. Please join us in advocating to save the ACA tax credits that keep families insured in Virginia so that no mother and baby are left without access to the care that they require.”

“No mother should have to be concerned about a seven-figure hospital bill while recovering from birth and caring for their child in the NICU,” saidAlexis N. McDonald of Virginia Beach. “The first time that I had held Grace was 12 days after she was born. To give you an idea, the first time we were able to touch her was seven days after she was born. We were able to stick our hand inside the isolette. And so I then went home one week after my C-section and entered her nursery. It was empty. I hadn’t finished nesting. There were still things in boxes. Our family were sending gifts. That is the hardest pain that a mother can know is to enter their child’s room or even to leave the hospital, and that baby is not there. There’s no crying, there’s no bottles being made. So what I will say is we need to renew these tax credits because no parent, no mother, no father, should experience this at all.”

“Having [Affordable Care Act] health insurance gave me peace of mind to have the proper care for a healthy pregnancy, birthing my beautiful baby boy, and postpartum check-ups,” saidRonni Moss of Richmond. “Before this Big Ugly Bill, my monthly insurance premium was around $117. To continue the same coverage starting in January 2026, the monthly premium will be over $400. That is not affordable in any way, considering the ever-increasing cost of groceries, other living expenses … families like mine cannot afford to pay quadruple the cost for health insurance. I’m calling on Congress to renew the enhanced Premium Tax Credits so that all families can be insured when they welcome a baby, including a premature baby.”

[My son] was about five and a half, six weeks early,” saidMonica Edwards of Charlottesville. “My placenta ruptured. I fell celebrating my birthday. I fell at a restaurant, and about an hour and a half later, I’m rushed into emergency C-section, delivering my son. And so thankfully, I had Medicaid, and so I didn’t have the heavy of having to worry about the cost and things of that nature. Being able to have affordable health care, or just being able to have Medicaid, it is a lifesaver. It’s literally life and death and I would rather have the attention on making sure my family and my babies are healthy and not worrying about how to get money.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vindman.house.gov/2025/11/20/vindman-leads-37-colleagues-in-demanding-trump-release-the-full-transcript-of-trumps-2019-call-with-mohammed-bin-salman/,Vindman Leads 37 Colleagues in Demanding Trump Release the Full Transcript of Trump’s 2019 Call with Mohammed bin Salman,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,VA,Eugene Simon Vindman,V000138,vindman.house.gov,vindman,https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"“Americans deserve answers regarding your communications with the Crown Prince, as well as any promises, favor or commitments exchanged during the conversation.”

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today led a group of 37 U.S. House lawmakers in sending a letter to President Donald Trump calling for the immediate release of the transcript of a 2019 phone call between President Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman following the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

After the murder, Vindman — then a National Security Council deputy legal advisor — reviewed the transcript of the call. He has stated that the American people, and the Khashoggi family, deserve to know what was said.

In their letter, the lawmakers argue that the circumstances surrounding Khashoggi’s murder, and the Trump administration’s subsequent engagement with the Saudi government, warrant immediate public disclosure of the call’s contents.

In the letter, Vindman and his colleagues stated “The U.S. Intelligence Community concluded that the Saudi Crown Prince personally ordered Khashoggi’s murder. In a direct rebuke of our dedicated national security civil servants, your recent statements suggest that you place greater trust in the Crown Prince’s claims than in the assessments of our intelligence agencies.”

“Moreover, our strategic interests in the Middle East do not require the whitewashing of human rights abuses nor the abandonment of core American values. The American people deserve transparency in our foreign policy,” the lawmakers continued. “Americans deserve answers regarding your communications with the Crown Prince, as well as any promises, favor or commitments exchanged during the conversation.”

A full copy of the letter text can be found below.

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Dear Mr. President:

We write to demand the release of the full transcript of your 2019 phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which was reviewed by Congressman Eugene Vindman during his tenure on the White House National Security Council. The American people deserve to know what was said in that conversation, particularly anything that might pertain to the brutal murder of Jamal Khashoggi, a U.S.-based Washington Post journalist and Virginia resident.

We recognize that U.S. national security sometimes requires engaging with governments and leaders whose values do not align with our own. However, such engagement does not require forming personal alliances with authoritarian figures. Whether dealing with Chairman Kim Jong Un, President Vladimir Putin, or President Xi Jinping, presidents must navigate complex relationships. However, doing so in a manner that publicly flatters, defends, or excuses their conduct undermines U.S. credibility and projects weakness on the world stage.

The U.S. Intelligence Community concluded that the Saudi Crown Prince personally ordered Khashoggi’s murder. In a direct rebuke of our dedicated national security civil servants, your recent statements suggest that you place greater trust in the Crown Prince’s claims than in the assessments of our intelligence agencies. Moreover, our strategic interests in the Middle East do not require the whitewashing of human rights abuses nor the abandonment of core American values.

The American people deserve transparency in our foreign policy. Specifically, Americans deserve answers regarding your communications with the Crown Prince, as well as any promises, favor or commitments exchanged during the conversation. For these reasons and for the sake of justice and closure for the Khashoggi family, we urge you to immediately release the transcript of the 2019 call.

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BACKGROUND

Jamal Khashoggi, a Washington Post journalist and U.S. resident, was murdered inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October 2018 — an event that drew worldwide condemnation and raised serious questions about Saudi Arabia’s leadership and the Trump administration’s response.

At the time of the Trump–bin Salman call in 2019, Vindman was serving as a lawyer on the White House National Security Council. His responsibilities included reviewing certain presidential calls with foreign leaders. Following Khashoggi’s murder, he reviewed this call and believes its contents are of clear public interest.

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