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://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/national-association-secretaries-state-call-congress-provide-missing-funds,National Association of Secretaries of State Call on Congress to Provide Missing Funds Needed for Election Security,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"National Association of Secretaries of State Call on Congress to Provide Missing Funds Needed for Election Security WASHINGTON, DC Today, the Congressional Task Force on Election Security, chaired by Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Robert Brady (D-Pa.) and Committee on Homeland Security Ranking Member Bennie G. Thompson (D-Miss.) applauded the National Association of Secretaries of States call for Congress to provide the remaining $396 million in outstanding Help America Vote Act (HAVA) funds to assist in updating and maintaining our nations aging election systems. Russias unprecedented assault on the countrys elections in 2016, targeting 21 states voting systems, exposed the urgent need to protect these systems which includes voting machines and voter registration databases. Currently, there is nearly $400 million remaining from the 2002 Help America Vote Act that can be used for this purpose. In November, Brady and Thompson sent a letter to the leaders of the House Appropriations Committee to request fully appropriating the remaining HAVA funds to help states secure their voting infrastructure. Congressman Brady and Congressman Thompson issues the following statement today: When a sovereign nation attempts to meddle in our elections, it is an attack on our country. We cannot leave states on their own to defend against the sophisticated tactics of state actors like Russia. As the National Association of Secretaries of State correctly stated, the money that states desperately need to take crucial security steps has already been authorized by Congress, is available, and can be appropriated right away. It is time our colleagues in Congress recognize that ensuring the security of our election systems is a bipartisan issue. With the next federal election less than a year away, Congress must act immediately. Although the election was over a year ago, federal election security action has been nonexistent. Last month, Attorney General Jeff Sessions admitted to Congress that he had not followed through to ensure that the 2018 elections are secure. According to the National Association of State Secretaries, providing the remaining funding under HAVA will help states enhance the efficiency and security of elections, including through the purchase of new voting systems, the implementation of additional cybersecurity tools, and the hiring of additional IT professionals.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-s-statement-us-committee-homeland-security-s-passage-his,Congressman Thompsons Statement On U.S. Committee on Homeland Securitys Passage of His Bill Protecting Places of Worship Against Terrorism,2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Release                                                                                                       Contact : Guy King December 13, 2017                                                                                                                       (202) 225-5876   Congressman Thompson’s Statement On U.S. Committee on Homeland Security’s Passage of His Bill Protecting Places of Worship Against Terrorism   WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Ranking Member of the U.S. Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on the passage of the Securing American Non-Profit Organizations Against Terrorism Act of 2017: “Regrettably, the volume of homegrown violent extremist threats to houses of worship and other non-profits has grown significantly over the past year. This threat is not new and it is not limited to big cities. We cannot forget that in 2015, a man trying to start a “race war” murdered nine parishioners in a mass shooting at the AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina.” “My legislation, which passed today with bipartisan support, seeks to ensure that DHS continues to be a valuable partner to non-profits that are at risk of a terrorist attack. As places of public gathering without extensive security protection, churches and other houses of worship are considered soft targets, much like shopping malls, restaurants, and theaters.  My bill directs FEMA to set aside $15 million to help protect at-risk institutions and it sends a message of support to non-profit organizations across the country that homegrown extremists and others with violent ideologies seek to attack.” Copy of the bill is attached.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-watson-coleman-after-nyc-attack-tsa-must-focus-overdue-security,"Thompson, Watson Coleman: After NYC Attack TSA Must Focus on Overdue Security Mandates",2017-12-12,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thompson, Watson Coleman: After NYC Attack TSA Must Focus on Overdue Security Mandates December 12, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, and Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Protective Security, sent a letter to the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regarding two surface transportation security mandates that have not been implemented and are long overdue.  Yesterday’s attack in New York City underscores the urgent need for TSA to move forward with these critical mandates with renewed urgency.   Link to Letter   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/does-new-homeland-security-secretary-agree-trump,Does the New Homeland Security Secretary Agree with Trump?,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Does the New Homeland Security Secretary Agree with Trump? December 6, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, sent the below letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, on her first day, reminding her of President Trump’s past inflammatory statements on homeland security matters and inquiring if she agrees with these statements. Department of Homeland Security’s future actions and policymaking on these topics impact all Americans.    Link to Letter   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-dhs-border-numbers-show-no-need-wall,Thompson: DHS Border Numbers Show No Need for Wall,2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thompson: DHS Border Numbers Show No Need for Wall December 5, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) end-of-year immigration enforcement numbers:   “Today’s report from DHS show that with border apprehensions continuing to decline to a 45-year low, there is absolutely no need to waste billions of taxpayer dollars on an unnecessary border wall.  The Administration can try to twist these numbers into whatever they please, but the fact remains that after unprecedented investments in border security over the last decade, the border has become harder to cross and fewer people are trying. Focusing massive, new government resources on a campaign promise would be a foolish and irresponsible exercise.”   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-statement-dhs-confirmation-vote,Thompson Statement on DHS Confirmation Vote,2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thompson Statement on DHS Confirmation Vote December 5, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on news the Senate has confirmed Kirstjen Nielsen to be Homeland Security Secretary:   “While I am glad that the Department of Homeland Security will soon finally have a permanent leader for the first time since July, there is still much we do not know about Ms. Nielsen’s plans for the Department. She still must show us she has the ability lead a workforce of 240,000 while keeping the country safe and secure.  She also must show us she will work with Congress as a coequal partner.  I, like many Americans, have been concerned with the precarious direction this Administration has pushed the Department in since January.  It is clear the Department has been a political tool of the White House tasked with enacting campaign promises while lacking any standard definition of accountability.  Instead, the Department should focus its time and energy on empowering its frontline workforce to keep our skies, waters, and borders from foreign and domestic threats.”   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-s-statement-president-trump-s-attendance-ms-civil-rights,Congressman Thompsons Statement on President Trumps Attendance to MS Civil Rights Museum Opening,2017-12-04,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Release                                                                                                                                                      Contact : Guy King December 4, 2017                                                                                                                                                                     (202) 225-5876   Congressman Thompson’s Statement on President Trump’s Attendance to MS Civil Rights Museum Opening   WASHINGTON – Today, U.S Representative Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) released the following statement:   “With President Donald Trump accepting Gov. Phil Bryant’s invitation to attend the opening of the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, I am hopeful he will begin to understand the pain he is causing in the black and underserved communities across America,” Thompson said. “His unfair budget cuts in agriculture, education, healthcare and housing disproportionately impacts people of color and is viewed by many as an act reminiscent of Jim Crow policies of the south.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/troublesome-new-fema-request-100-million-single-vendor-puerto-rico-recovery,Troublesome: New FEMA Request for $100 Million Single Vendor Puerto Rico Recovery Contract,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Troublesome: New FEMA Request for $100 Million Single Vendor Puerto Rico Recovery Contract December 1, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, sent a letter to Acting Homeland Security Secretary Elaine Duke regarding a Request for Information (RFI) issued by FEMA for Resource Capability and Transportation Support needs in the wake of extensive hurricane damage in Puerto Rico. The contract to a single vendor could be worth more than $100 million.   Letter excerpts:   “We have certainly seen the danger in awarding a single vendor a contract of this magnitude, namely the award of a now-canceled $300 million contract to Whitefish Energy Holdings, a company that clearly lacked the capacity to manage the reconstruction of the Puerto Rico power grid.”   “It goes without saying that those directly impacted by Hurricanes Irma and Maria should be the first in line to participate in rebuilding and recovery efforts.  Small, local, and minority-owned businesses should be granted a fair opportunity to contract with the federal government.”   Link to letter   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-bennie-thompson-hearing-statement-world-wide-threats-keeping,Ranking Member Bennie Thompson Hearing Statement World Wide Threats: Keeping America Secure in the New Age of Terror,2017-11-30,2017,2017-11,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Ranking Member Bennie Thompson Hearing Statement World Wide Threats: Keeping America Secure in the New Age of Terror November 30, 2017 November 30, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – In the wake of the disturbing rise in domestic terrorism in recent years, Democratic Members of this Committee have repeatedly asked for a hearing on this important topic. While this hearing is our annual one examining worldwide threats, a great deal of our conversation will likely be focused on the terror threat from right here at home.    Incidents like the 2015 killing of nine churchgoers by a white supremacist at Mother Emmanuel Church in Charleston and the hate-fueled violence that left a young woman dead and 19 others injured during a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville earlier this year highlight the threat posed by domestic extremists.   Domestic terrorist organizations have even adopted some of the same techniques for recruitment and radicalization as foreign terrorist organizations, using the Internet to reach followers and coordinate their actions.   Unfortunately, President Trump insists on fueling the fire of hatred and extremism in America, calling the marchers in Charlottesville “very fine people” and just yesterday re-tweeting inflammatory anti-Muslim videos posted by a far-right British organization. James Clapper, the former Director of National Intelligence, called Trump’s re-tweeting of the videos “bizarre and disturbing” and said his action undermines our relationship with our “friends and allies.”   Americans should be able to look to our President for a steady hand and responsible leadership in uncertain times, but unfortunately President Trump consistently conducts himself in a way that jeopardizes our security and is not befitting of the office he holds.   Also, though they cannot say so themselves, the President’s actions make the already difficult jobs of the witnesses joining us on the first panel today even harder. The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and National Counterterrorism Center play key roles in securing the homeland from terrorists both foreign and domestic.   I hope to hear from these witnesses today about the challenges they face, what emerging threats we should be aware of, and how Congress can support them in their mission, consistent with our American laws and values.   Since much of our focus is typically on foreign terrorists, today I am especially interested in hearing how the witnesses assess the threat from domestic extremist and terrorist groups and learning what can be done to protect us from this rising concern.   I also look forward to hearing from our second panel of witnesses on this topic later this morning.  They bring special expertise on domestic extremism and terrorism issues and I hope Members will hear what they have to say and engage in a thoughtful dialogue.   The Southern Poverty Law Center in particular is dedicated to fighting hate and seeking justice and equality for all Americans, and I look forward to their recommendations for countering the ideologies that are inspiring violence in America. I had hoped to have NAACP testify as well, but their invitation was issued less than 24 hours prior to the hearing and the late notice prevents their participation today. I look forward to inviting them to testify at a future hearing.   In closing, I want to say that we know there are those around the world who seek to come here and do Americans harm. Those charged with preventing such attacks have the unwavering support of all the Members of this Committee, consistent with the laws and values of our Nation.   I hope that the same attention and resources will be dedicated to fighting domestic extremism and terrorism here at home to ensure the security of all Americans.    #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/republicans-refuse-naacp-witness-domestic-terrorism-hearing,Republicans Refuse NAACP Witness for Domestic Terrorism Hearing,2017-11-28,2017,2017-11,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Republicans Refuse NAACP Witness for Domestic Terrorism Hearing November 28, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, sent the below letter to Committee Chairman Michael McCaul protesting his exclusion of the NAACP from a full Committee hearing Thursday on homeland threats and domestic terrorism:   I write regarding our Full Committee hearing entitled ""Worldwide Threats: Keeping America Secure in the New Age of Terror"" scheduled for November 30, 2017. As you know, I have requested that representatives from the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) be invited to testify at the hearing to share their perspectives on the disturbing rise of domestic terrorism.   I am greatly disappointed that, to date, you have not honored this longstanding request and instead have issued an invitation only to SPLC. In the wake of incidents like the 2015 Charleston church shooting and the attack in Charlottesville earlier this year, all Members of the Committee could benefit from the NAACP's important testimony.   I would also point out that the Majority selected all three witnesses on the first panel and two of the three witnesses currently on the second panel with no input from or consultation with Democrats. Certainly, there is no Committee rule prohibiting the NAACP from being invited.  This Committee has a long history of bipartisanship on matters related to securing the homeland from terrorism. I hope you will consider this request with that in mind.    On behalf of the Democratic Members of the Committee, I urge you to issue an invitation to NAACP for this hearing. Thank you for your attention to this matter.   Link to Letter   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/election-security-task-force-requests-funding-state-election-security-replacing,"Election Security Task Force Requests Funding for State Election Security, Replacing Outdated Voting Machines",2017-11-20,2017,2017-11,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Election Security Task Force Requests Funding for State Election Security, Replacing Outdated Voting Machines November 20, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – The Congressional Task Force on Election Security, chaired by Committee on Homeland Security Ranking Member Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) and Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Robert Brady (D-PA) sent a letter to the leaders of the House Appropriations Committee to request funding to help states secure their voting infrastructure.   Russia’s unprecedented assault on the country’s elections in 2016, targeting 21 states’ voting systems, exposed the urgent need to protect these systems – which includes voting machines and voter registration databases. Currently, there is nearly $400 million remaining from the 2002 Help America Vote Act that could be used for this purpose. The Brennan Center for Justice has reported that replacing outdated, paperless voting machines would cost up to $400 million. Although the election was over a year ago, federal election security action has been nonexistent. Just last week, Attorney General Jeff Sessions admitted to Congress that he had “not followed through” to ensure that the 2018 elections are secure.   Congressman Thompson and Congressman Brady released the following statement along with their letter:   “When a sovereign nation attempts to meddle in our elections, it is an attack on our country.  We created the Task Force on Election Security to better understand what can be done to protect our elections going forward.  Finding that voting machines and voter databases can be easily hacked, there is a clear and urgent need for federal funding to help states secure their elections. We cannot leave states on their own to defend against the sophisticated tactics of state actors like Russia. The money that states desperately need to take crucial security steps is available and can be appropriated right now.  We urge our colleagues in Congress to recognize with us that ensuring the security of our election systems is a bipartisan issue.  With the next federal election less than a year away, Congress must act now.”   Link to Letter to Appropriations   Task Force Preliminary Findings and Recommendations   #  #  # Media contact: (Thompson) Adam Comis at 202-225-9978 (Brady) Peter Whippy at 202-225-1943",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-statement-emergency-supplemental-request,Thompson Statement on Emergency Supplemental Request,2017-11-17,2017,2017-11,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thompson Statement on Emergency Supplemental Request  November 17, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on the Administration’s $44 billion emergency supplemental request:   “The Administration’s third disaster supplemental request is an insult to all of our fellow Americans that are still recovering from major natural disasters.  President Trump seems to have forgotten that the nation just faced three catastrophic hurricanes.  We must not forget the situation in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands is still dire.  Somehow – yet unsurprisingly – this funding request ignores the wildfire devastation in California.”   “To be clear, this request’s stinginess is both contemptable and ineffectual.  Shortchanging our recovery efforts serves no one and will only add to the suffering of the victims of these disasters.  Worse yet, seeking offsets from critical programs that help the poor and by extending arbitrary budget caps will only add to the damage this Administration’s priorities have inflicted on the country.  I hope Congress can again come together in bipartisan fashion to ignore this request and agree on a more appropriate number.”   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/republicans-protect-trump-administration-and-cancel-hearing-san-juan-mayor,Republicans Protect Trump Administration and Cancel Hearing with San Juan Mayor,2017-10-30,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Republicans Protect Trump Administration and Cancel Hearing with San Juan Mayor The Majority has no interest in oversight or the truth October 30, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, released the below statement after Committee Republicans canceled Wednesday’s hearing “Assessing FEMA’s Preparedness and Response Capabilities” with FEMA Administrator Brock Long and San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz.  No reason or rescheduled date was given.   ""I invited the Mayor of San Juan to testify before our Committee’s hearing on FEMA’s preparedness and response capabilities so our entire Committee could receive an accurate picture of what is happening in Puerto Rico from someone who has been on the ground since day one. It is inexcusable that the Republicans have delayed this hearing for the third time with no rational reason in a blatant attempt to silence the Mayor and shield the Trump Administration from another bad news story. It is clear that House Republicans and the Administration fear the Mayor and her telling her story. Now the Committee on Homeland Security – the authorizing committee of DHS – won't be hearing from the Mayor or FEMA Administrator Long even though they will both be on Capitol Hill this week.""   ""I visited Puerto Rico earlier this month and it is painfully clear that the real story of the plight of our fellow Americans in a humanitarian crisis is not being told. The federal response to hurricanes hitting Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands is inadequate in almost every respect and the situation is still dire. The American people deserve to know what went wrong during this Administration’s first hurricane season so we can make sure none of our fellow Americans ever have to go through this again.”   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/election-security-task-force-hold-second-public-forum,Election Security Task Force to Hold Second Public Forum,2017-10-23,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"MEDIA ADVISORY Election Security Task Force to Hold Second Public Forum October 23, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – On Tuesday, October 24th, the Congressional Task Force on Election Security, will hold its second public forum: Securing America’s Elections: Preparing for 2018 and Beyond. The task force will hear from Rhode Island Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea, Virginia Elections Commissioner Edgardo Cortés, and Commissioner and Vice-Chair of the Election Assistance Commission, Thomas Hicks. The forum will focus on steps states are taking to secure their elections, and what the federal government can do to do assist.     Details: “Securing America’s Elections: Preparing for 2018 and Beyond” Congressional Task Force on Election Security Forum 12 p.m. Tuesday, October 24th 1310 Longworth House Office Building Panelists: Nellie Gorbea, Rhode Island Secretary of State Edgardo Cortés, Virginia Department of Elections Commissioner Thomas Hicks, Election Assistance Commission Commissioner & Vice-Chair     The Congressional Task Force on Election Security was created this summer to following the news that Russia interfered and attempted to influence the 2016 Presidential election. The Task Force seeks to identify solutions that will safeguard our elections going forward.  It is chaired by Committee on Homeland Security Ranking Member Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) and Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Robert Brady (D-PA). The Task Force had its first public forum in September and heard from former Department of Homeland Security officials.   #  #  # Media contact: (Thompson) Adam Comis at 202-225-9978 (Brady) Jamie Fleet at 202-225-2061",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-senate-must-scrutinize-dhs-nominee-history-experience,Thompson: Senate Must Scrutinize DHS Nominee History & Experience,2017-10-16,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEThompson: Senate Must Scrutinize DHS Nominee History & Experience October 16, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, sent a letter to Senator Ron Johnson, Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs, urging him to scrutinize Kirstjen Nielsen’s professional background and experience thoroughly during her confirmation process to potentially become Homeland Security Secretary.   Excerpt from letter:   While I am pleased the President has finally named a nominee for this critical national security position, I am greatly troubled by Ms. Nielsen’s record as Senior Director for Preparedness and Response at the White House Homeland Security Council during the Bush Administration’s botched response to Hurricane Katrina.  Given the ongoing tragedy in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, along with other homeland security challenges facing our Nation, the Department of Homeland Security must have a proven, capable leader as Secretary.  Unfortunately, Ms. Nielsen’s record raises questions about her suitability for such a position.   Link to letter   News Article   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-payne-trump-you-must-commit-puerto-rico-recovery,"Thompson, Payne to Trump: You Must Commit to Puerto Rico Recovery",2017-10-12,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thompson, Payne to Trump: You Must Commit to Puerto Rico Recovery  October 12, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, and Rep. Donald Payne Jr. (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response and Communications, sent a letter to President Trump after yet another series of injurious tweets on Puerto Rico and the recovery efforts after Hurricane Maria.  Reps. Thompson and Payne urge President Trump not to renege on the federal government’s commitment to Puerto Rico’s recovery and demand he ensure the federal government tells the truth on the ongoing response efforts there.   Congressman Thompson also released the following statement:   “Today’s tweets from President Trump are, as I’ve said before, unbefitting of any president and are quite frankly heinous.  It is beyond comprehension that the President is chomping at the bit to get the federal government out of Puerto Rico leaving our fellow Americans to somehow recover and rebuild on their own.  Unfortunately, it seems that the President has made some sort of inhuman calculus that helping Americans in Puerto Rico is of no political benefit.  The lack of leadership coming from this Administration when it comes to helping Americans in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands continues to be appalling to those of us who know that much more needs to be done.  Instead of being on a constant misinformation and spin campaign, with hopes that the real stories never get out, it is high time this Administration gets to work.”   Link to Letter   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-vel-zquez-seek-audit-maria-death-toll,"Thompson, Velzquez Seek Audit of Maria Death Toll",2017-10-12,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thompson, Velázquez Seek Audit of Maria Death Toll With Conflicting Reports, Lawmakers Ask for Thorough Investigation into Total Fatalities   October 12, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Reps. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) and Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, wrote the U.S. Department of Homeland Security asking for an investigation into underreporting in the official death toll following Hurricane Maria.   In light of news reports suggesting that numbers could be much higher than the official count of 45 lives lost, the lawmakers asked for an official review of casualty counts.   “The American people deserve to know what’s happening to their fellow U.S. citizens in Puerto Rico,” Velázquez said. “Given recent reports suggesting that the death toll is much higher than is being officially acknowledged, we need a swift and thorough investigation to ensure the real magnitude of this crisis is made public.”   “Having just been in Puerto Rico last weekend, it is clear that the real story of what is happening is not being told by this Administration,” said Thompson.  “The federal response is woefully adequate and now we are seeing numerous reports that the death toll is unknown or not being reported accurately.  The whole nation deserves to know what is happening to our fellow citizens.”    Link to letter   #  #  # Media contacts: (Thompson) Adam Comis at 202-225-9978 (Velázquez) Alex Haurek at 202-225-2361",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-fema-grants-second-district,Congressman Thompson Announces FEMA Grants To the Second District,2017-10-11,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Release                                                                                                       Contact : Guy King October 11, 2017                                                                                                                       (202) 225-5876   Congressman Thompson Announces FEMA Grants To the Second District   WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced four U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency grants totaling $10,168,502 for  Yazoo, Holmes, Montgomery counties and the city of Durant. The grants will be cover the cost of debris removal in result of the severe storm that took place on April 30, 2017.   “The April storm took a toll on Mississippians residing in all of the counties affected,” Thompson said. “Six months later, we are still in the process of rebuilding. I am hopeful the reimbursement grants awarded by FEMA will be used to aid in moving forward from the devastating storm that occurred.”   Yazoo County will receive an award of $3,520,577.96. Holmes County is to receive the amount of $3,476,343.74. Montgomery County will be awarded $1,631,892.58. And, the city of Durant will receive $1,539,687.73.     ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-s-statement-dhs-secretary-nomination,Congressman Thompsons Statement on DHS Secretary Nomination,2017-10-11,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Release                                                                                                       Contact : Guy King October 11, 2017                                                                                                                           (202) 225-5876   Congressman Thompson’s Statement on DHS Secretary Nomination   WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the below statement on the news that the President has nominated Kirstjen Nielsen to be Homeland Security Secretary:   “I am pleased that the President has finally made a nomination for Secretary of Homeland Security after letting the critical national security position remain vacant as the nation faced multiple major hurricanes and a domestic terrorism attack,” Thompson said. “I am eager to hear from Ms. Nielsen on what her main priorities are for the Department and its 230,000 employees.”   He continued: “However, I am very concerned about her past work in the Bush Administration during its botched response to Hurricane Katrina and am fearful that DHS – as well as this President – has not learned all the lessons from that tragedy given what we are seeing unravel in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is extremely important that the DHS Secretary stay above the partisan fray and not allow the position be a political pawn of the White House.  DHS has not been without problems, but has made great strides in improving its workforce since its creation and we must not allow these gains go to waste.”     ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-joins-codel-puerto-rico,Congressman Thompson Joins CODEL to Puerto Rico,2017-10-06,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Release                                                                                                       Contact : Guy King October 6, 2017                                                                                                                   (202) 225-5876   Congressman Thompson Joins CODEL to Puerto Rico   WASHINGTON – Tomorrow, Saturday Oct. 7, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, will join a bipartisan Congressional delegation to Puerto Rico to survey hurricane damage and the government response.   “It is clear that the real story of what is happening in Puerto Rico is not coming through,” Thompson said. “Our fellow citizens are in a humanitarian crisis and need our help.  Most of the island is without adequate access to food, water, and power and we have seen little substantive progress. Since the federal government seems more concerned with assuring everyone they are doing a fantastic job – without much evidence – it is critical that we try to see what is really happening on the ground with our own eyes.  I particularly hope to learn about where and why the federal response is lacking, if smaller islands like Vieques are being adequately helped, and how the Red Cross is assisting.”   Thompson continued: “I witnessed the horrors of Hurricane Katrina firsthand and I now fear we are seeing the same obvious lack of direction and attention.  Congress will soon be funding what is necessary for the continuing response and recovery and it is essential we have all the information possible.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-bennie-thompson-statementthe-taking-americans-land-build-trumps,Ranking Member Bennie Thompson Statement:The Taking Americans' Land to Build Trump's Wall Act (H.R. 3548),2017-10-04,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Ranking Member Bennie Thompson Statement: The Taking Americans' Land to Build Trump's Wall Act (H.R. 3548)   October 4, 2017 - A central promise in President Trump’s campaign was that he would build a “big, beautiful wall” across the entire Southern border and Mexico would pay for it. There was a time, in the not too distant past, when this Committee cared about facts, data, and results.   We supported DHS having a border strategy, collecting metrics on the effectiveness of operations, and deploying personnel, equipment, and infrastructure to adjust to threats.   Last month, the Department of Homeland Security provided evidence that our responsible approach to border security is paying off.  In its 20-page report, DHS concluded ""available data indicate that the southwest land border is more difficult to illegally cross today than ever before."" DHS found that the inflow of illegal crossers is down as are apprehensions rates. It is getting harder and harder to cross, and less people are trying.   Yet, here we are today, considering a misguided, unnecessary, fiscally-irresponsible measure to formally authorize President Trump’s Wall at all costs. We will hear throughout the day that this is a $15 billion bill.  Actually, the costs are much higher and, one thing is for sure, they will not be borne by Mexico. It will be American taxpayers, landowners, the environment, and Native Americans that will bear the costs.   I have seen estimates that construction costs for the Wall could be between $20 to $70 billion, and, since H.R. 3548 does not include any mileage limitations, specifications, or cost controls, there is no telling how much it will actually cost to build.   Today, the Federal government only owns a third of those sections of the Southwest border that do not have physical barriers.  As such, to fulfill President Trump’s promise of a “big, beautiful wall,” H.R. 3548 would trigger the most extensive Federal Takings that this nation has seen in years.    This is not just my expectation.  The President made it clear that he expects to pursue legal actions against ranchers and small landowners and wants to hire a team of eminent domain attorneys to do it.   If history is any indication, when the Federal government wants land to build barriers, it is ranchers and small landowners who bare the biggest costs.  A decade after the Secure Fence Act, there are still 93 Americans waiting to get paid for land taken by the Federal government.  The Federal government might just see a quarter acre of land as worth a couple hundred dollars but to a landowner who has had it in his family for generations, it is priceless.    Additionally, the environment along the border would harmed. Big Bend National Park, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, and other Federal lands would be carved up.  Also carved up would be the habitat and endangered species that they protect. It would make it difficult for wildlife to move across the border including American Jaguars and ocelots—which have begun to return to various parts of the U.S. after a long absence.   A 28,000 member Native American tribe, the Tohono O’odham Nation would also pay a steep price. This tribe controls 75 miles along the U.S.-Mexico border and one tribe member explained, the wall  would cut “through our ancestral land, and it divides families that have been able to go back and forth freely since before the border line was drawn.”   The bill has hidden costs too. On the top of page 73, it states, “There are authorized to be appropriated to U.S. Customs and Border Protection such sums as may be necessary…” to increase the annual rate of basic pay of CBP employees.  I believe that CBP personnel should be adequately paid but the way this bill goes about it calls into question the seriousness of this effort.    This “such sums” language and the absence of offsets for the $15 billion authorization violate the General Protocols issued by Republican House Leadership for bills to be considered in the 115th Congress.    The bill before us would authorize Trump’s Border Wall at all costs. It is a $15 billion boondoggle that abandons past bipartisan efforts to stop throwing money at the border in an ad hoc way in favor of strategically deploying resources. I hope that after today, we can have a serious conversation about the border and move forward together in a productive manner.   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-s-statement-gop-tax-overhaul,Congressman Thompsons Statement on GOP Tax Overhaul,2017-10-02,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Release                                                                                                               Contact: Guy King October 2, 2017                                                                                                                                  (202)226-5804     Congressman Thompson’s Statement on GOP Tax Overhaul   WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) released his statement on the Republican Tax Overhaul.   “The Ryan-McConnell tax framework will leave thousands of low-income and middle-class Mississippians at an unfair disadvantage,” Thompson said. “They will pay more in taxes, while Republicans ensure the wealthy continue to thrive at the expense of others.”     ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-statement-las-vegas-shooting,Thompson Statement on Las Vegas Shooting,2017-10-02,2017,2017-10,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thompson Statement on Las Vegas Shooting October 2, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on the mass shooting in Las Vegas last night:   “Today, our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Las Vegas and all who were affected by the terrible mass shooting last night.  We are forever thankful to the first responders who put their lives on the line to help those in need.  Mass shootings have been too common in recent years and it is clear that much more needs to be done.  Only if we work together can we counter the forces of terror and hate – no matter the source.”   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-thompson-jackson-lee-and-green-present-hbcu-game-day-offering,"Reps. Thompson, Jackson Lee and Green Present HBCU Game Day Offering",2017-09-29,2017,2017-09,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Release                                                                                                       Contact : Guy King September 29, 2017                                                                                                         (202) 226-5804   Reps. Thompson, Jackson Lee and Green Present HBCU Game Day Offering   WASHINGTON –  U.S Representatives Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Shelia Jackson Lee (TX-18) and Al Green (TX-09) will host an offering after the annual Alcorn State University and Texas Southern University football game.   Congressman Bennie G. Thompson: “As a two-time HBCU graduate, I am deeply committed to preserving these institutions to ensure they continue educating future generations of our youth,” Thompson said. “I am confident in Alcorn pulling a win against Texas Southern because no one knows football better than a Mississippi SWAC school.”   Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee: “Given Texas Southern University’s illustrious heritage of educating African American students and inspiring them to achieve their dreams, I have no doubt that the TSU Tigers will reinforce this tradition of excellence when the Alcorn Braves encounter the #TSUNAMI.  TS-TS-TSU! I thought you knew! #TSU”   The game will take place at the BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, Texas on Friday, September 29, 2017, at 8:00 P.M. The three members of Congress have agreed to offer one another catfish or bar-b-que if the HBCU in the member’s district and/or state wins the game.   The Alcorn State University and Texas Southern University face-off comes a week after National HBCU Week, which is dedicated to bring awareness of the importance of HBCUs nationwide.   Alcorn State University sits in Mississippi’s Second Congressional District, represented by Thompson, while Texas Southern University is located in Texas’ Eighteenth Congressional District, represented by Jackson Lee and the alma mater of Green.   If you have any questions please contact Guy King at guy.king@mail.house.gov (Thompson), Rucks Russell at rucks.russell@mail.house.gov (Jackson Lee) or Kamau Marshall at Kamau.marshall@mail.house.gov (Green).   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-federal-response-puerto-rico-woefully-inadequate,Thompson: Federal Response in Puerto Rico Woefully Inadequate,2017-09-27,2017,2017-09,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEThompson: Federal Response in Puerto Rico Woefully Inadequate September 27, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on the current situation and federal response in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands following Hurricanes Irma and Maria:   “It is painfully clear that the devastation in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands point to a woefully inadequate federal response after the islands received direct hits from two major hurricanes.  If not immediately addressed, the unfolding humanitarian crisis will inflict more lasting damage to the islands. This lack of action shows that the President and his Administration has yet to comprehend the gravity and impact of what is happening on our own soil. Having lived through Hurricane Katrina, I recognize the President’s obvious lack of direction and attention--and I now fear we could see history repeating itself.”   “Instead of blaming the Puerto Rican people for the situation they are in, congratulating himself for a job well done, and obsessing over NFL politics, we need the President in the situation room coordinating an efficient response and requesting emergency relief from Congress.  Instead of having Congressional Republicans on a retreat to announce tax cuts for the rich, we need a working Congress ensuring emergency aid is available so the federal government has the resources it needs.  The President must realize what is unfolding under his watch. The lack of urgency from our government is putting human life at risk. Our fellow American citizens in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are suffering. They need help and they need it now.”   #  #  # Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-urges-hosemann-remove-russian-software-mississippi,Congressman Thompson Urges Hosemann to Remove Russian Software from Mississippi Electoral Systems,2017-09-15,2017,2017-09,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Thompson Urges Hosemann to Remove Russian Software from Mississippi Electoral Systems   Washington – Today, U.S. Representative Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) sent a letter to Delbert Hosemann, Mississippi Secretary of State, urging him to remove any use of Kaspersky, a Russian cyber-security company, software from Mississippi’s electoral systems.   “As voter registration databases house such information, we must be certain the software used does not give Russia or other malicious actors a back door to it,” Thompson wrote in the letter. “Therefore, I strongly advise that you take the necessary steps to identify any use or presence of Kaspersky products on Mississippi election systems and remove it.”   Rep. Thompson, Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, also sent a letter to Chairman of the House Committee on Administration, U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (MS-03) today, suggesting Harper advise the entire U.S. House of Representatives to follow suit by removing any Kaspersky software from its’ network.   Congressman Thompson’s letter to Sec. Hosemann can be viewed here.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-statement-trump-administration-ending-daca,Thompson Statement on Trump Administration Ending DACA,2017-09-05,2017,2017-09,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thompson Statement on Trump Administration Ending DACA   September 5, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on news the Trump Administration will end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:   ""Just when you thought this President and his craven Administration couldn't stoop any lower, they now go after the most vulnerable.  This is an atrocious and heartless decision to end a program that gave hope to nearly a million, brought them out of the shadows, and allowed them to contribute to the only country they know.  It is truly sad that we have a severely unpopular President that all too often is unable to do the right thing and refuses to show his face to defend this mean-spirited decision. He should be focusing on real homeland security matters and getting dangerous criminals off our streets rather than throwing red meat to his base. This will do nothing to improve national security and will only cause more chaos and break up families.”   “Congress must quickly come together, in bipartisan force, to stop this President and permanently protect those that came to this country under no fault of their own and are now a part of our society and economy. Democrats will stand firm together to protect DREAMers and Republicans must show they are willing to do the same.  Denying them protection not only runs against our values and damages the economy, but will be permanent stain on our history.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-administration-must-focus-harvey-recovery-not-wasteful-wall,"Thompson: Administration Must Focus on Harvey Recovery, Not Wasteful Wall",2017-08-31,2017,2017-08,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thompson: Administration Must Focus on Harvey Recovery,  Not Wasteful Wall August 31, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on the Customs and Border Protection announcement of awards for border wall prototypes:   ""Today's border 'wall' announcement from DHS to advance the President's pet project is incredibly tone deaf as flood waters from Hurricane Harvey still ravage Texas and Louisiana.   The Department of Homeland Security's top priority should be its emergency response and recovery efforts as lives still need to be saved and preparations need to be made for a recovery that will take years.   Funding relief efforts should be the focus - not obsessing over funding a wasteful, unnecessary wall that will do nothing but fulfill a campaign promise.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-president-trump-s-afghanistan-deployment-announcement,Congressman Thompson on President Trumps Afghanistan Deployment Announcement,2017-08-22,2017,2017-08,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Thompson on President Trump’s Afghanistan Deployment Announcement   Washington – Today, U.S. Representative Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) issued the following statement concerning President Trump’s recent announcement to deploy more U.S. troops to Afghanistan.   “Last night, President Trump told Americans everywhere his intent to deploy thousands of more U.S. troops to Afghanistan,” Thompson said. “This is without a doubt, an act he certainly has not thought out. His careless effort to put American lives in danger will not aide in ending the war or bringing our troops home. Trump, yet again, is acting without a plan, causing the American people to suffer in the end.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/immediate-release-democrats-call-domestic-terrorism-hearings,FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Democrats Call for Domestic Terrorism Hearings,2017-08-16,2017,2017-08,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"August 15, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Today, the twelve Democratic members of the House Committee on Homeland Security, led by Ranking Member Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), sent the below letter to Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX) and the Republican members of the Committee to urge the Committee hold hearings on domestic terrorism. In March and June of this year, Ranking Member Thompson wrote to Chairman McCaul requesting the Committee on Homeland Security address the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism through our oversight and legislative activities during the 115th Congress. Now, as our country has suffered yet another tragic and deadly domestic terrorist attack, we as Democratic Members of the Committee write to you, our Republican colleagues, to urge you to join with us to hold hearings to examine the troubling rise in domestic terrorism in our Nation. This weekend, the “Unite the Right” rally in Charlottesville, Virginia attracted hundreds of self-identified white supremacists, neo-Nazis, and other members of alt-right groups. This rally was founded and fueled by hate. Despicable violence towards counter-protesters caused the death of a Charlottesville-area woman, Heather Heyer, and injuries to more than 20 others. This heinous, cowardly act was terrorism, plain and simple. Terrorism is not confined to a single ideology or inspiration. Unfortunately, it has become clear we cannot count on President Trump for action. Even before he was elected, many of us were concerned that his unwillingness to denounce and distance himself from white nationalists would be taken as tacit support by those ready to use violence to advance their racist ideology. As leaders of the legislative branch of government, we must stand up to all ideologically-motivated violence. Failure to act as innocent people continue to be terrorized, harmed, and killed by domestic terrorists puts American lives in peril. It is past time for this Committee on Homeland Security to act. As Democratic Members, we stand ready to work in bipartisan manner to help stop acts of domestic terror and uphold the ideals that truly make America great. We look forward to a hearing on this critical issue when we return in September. Link to Letter",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-calls-removal-confederate-symbols-ms-flag-and-us-capitol,Congressman Thompson Calls for Removal of Confederate Symbols on MS Flag and U.S. Capitol,2017-08-15,2017,2017-08,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington – Today, U.S. Representative Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) calls for the removal of all confederate monuments and emblems in the United States Capitol and on the Mississippi state flag. “Confederate memorabilia have no place in this country and especially not in the United States Capitol. These images symbolize a time of racial discrimination and segregation that continues to haunt this country and many African-Americans who still to this day face racism and bigotry.” “In Mississippi, the confederate emblem continues to be flown on the state flag and was used as a rallying prop during the events that occurred in Charlottesville. The confederate flag was seen in almost every video image taken last Saturday. It is past-time for action to remove all confederate symbols in the U.S. Capitol and on the Mississippi state flag. I urge my colleagues both Republican, and Democrat, to work with me to ensure the permanent removal of all offensive and despicable confederate imagery.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-55750-grant-grenada-safe-room,"Congressman Thompson Announces $55,750 Grant for Grenada Safe Room",2017-07-19,2017,2017-07,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Thompson Announces $55,750 Grant for Grenada Safe Room   Washington – Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced the approval of a $55,750 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant, being paid to the City of Grenada for phase two of the emergency safe room construction.   “As communities continue to improve their infrastructure, it is important that we include investments in safety and security,” Thompson said. “Having the appropriate structural preventions, in a region that is susceptible to storm damage, is essential to saving lives in the event of a disaster.”   Trey Baker, city manager of Grenada, is pleased to know there will be something in place to protect the city’s residents from emergency situations.   ""The safe room is going to be a game changer for the City of Grenada,” Baker said. “Having a staging area for severe weather and other possible disasters in the Mondy Road area, coupled with our existing facilities makes us much better prepared to protect our citizens.""    Phase one of the safe room has already undergone completion, and the FEMA grant will be used to administer further modifications. The project is a 361 multi-purpose safe room with a total of 2,765 square feet. The safe room will be located at 260 Mondy Road, Grenada, Mississippi.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-congressman-thompson-announces-congressional-task-force-democratic-weekly,VIDEO: Congressman Thompson Announces Congressional Task Force in Democratic Weekly Address,2017-07-14,2017,2017-07,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"VIDEO: Congressman Thompson Announces Congressional Task Force in Democratic Weekly Address   Washington – Today, Congressman Bennie Thompson (MS-02) delivered the Weekly Democratic Address announcing the commencement of the Congressional Task Force on Election Security geared to investigate Russia’s possible involvement in the 2016 presidential election.   “We must get the truth about Russia’s meddling and the full extent of the Trump campaign’s complicity,” Thompson said. “But, we must also take action to protect our elections and our election infrastructure next time.”   Rep. Thompson, ranking member of the House Homeland Security Committee will co-chair the task force with Congressman Robert Brady (PA-01), ranking member of the Committee on House Administration; with members of the two respective committees also serving on the task force.   The Congressional Task Force on Election Security will be a platform for members of the House Homeland Security Committee and the Committee on House Administration to discern knowledge and testimonies from experts with the expertise of cybersecurity and the electoral framework. The task force will also provide suggestions on how to prevent future threats on our election procedure.   The video of Congressman Thompson’s full remarks can be seen here. Below is a full transcript of the address:   “Hello, I’m Congressman Bennie Thompson.  I represent Mississippi’s 2nd Congressional District, and I am the top Democrat on the Committee on Homeland Security.   “Nearly everyone outside the White House accepts the Intelligence Community's conclusion that Russia carried out the hacking campaign in an attempt to influence the outcome of the 2016 Presidential Election.    “And this week, in Donald Trump Jr.’s emails, we saw the first public evidence that the Trump Campaign eagerly intended to collude with Russia.   “This shocking new evidence raises even graver questions about Russia’s success infiltrating the election systems in 21 states and stealing voting records containing personal information.   “All of this has damaged Americans’ faith in our democracy and confidence in the security of our voting systems.   “In fact, just this week, one poll found one in four respondents reported that they may not vote in the next election because of cybersecurity concerns.    “This is not acceptable.  Congress must act and act immediately.  We must get the truth about Russia’s meddling and the full extent of the Trump Campaign complicity.  But we must also take action to protect our elections and our election infrastructure next time.   “That is why House Democrats launched the Congressional Task Force on Election Security, which I am proud to co-chair with Congressman Brady from Pennsylvania.   “This task force’s central mission is to focus on how to bolster the cyber and physical security of our election system ahead of the 2018 election.   “It will be a forum for Members of Congress to hear from experts in cybersecurity and election infrastructure and identify actions that should be taken to help ensure the integrity of our election systems and guard against future attacks.   “While elections are the exclusive responsibilities of the states, the Federal government has a responsibility to step up and help, where needed, to support states as they work to prevent the Russians or other bad actors from disrupting and interfering with our elections.   “Protecting the integrity of our election system should not be a partisan concern.  We hope House Republicans will join us.   “Unfortunately, we have a President who shows no interest in preventing last year’s election interference from happening again.  The Department of Homeland Security is also wavering over whether our election infrastructure should be designated part of our country’s critical infrastructure.    “Here in Congress, Republican leaders have displayed no appetite to tackle this critical homeland security issue – or even hold hearings.   “If we continue to do nothing, we make it easy for Russia and other nefarious actors to meddle in future elections.   “We must put politics aside for the good of the country and work together on this and so many other important issues to the American people.   “I thank you for your attention and urge you to stay engaged.  Our Democracy demands your involvement.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-supports-usdot-eas-program-greenville-airport,Congressman Thompson Supports USDOT EAS program for Greenville Airport,2017-06-29,2017,2017-06,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Thompson Supports USDOT EAS program for Greenville Airport Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced that Boutique Airlines has been re-selected to provide Essential Air Service (EAS) to the Mid-Delta Regional Airport in Greenville, Mississippi. Congressman Bennie G. Thompson is in full support of the USDOT’s continuous support in providing travel services to the Mississippi Delta. “I have met with federal officials on numerous occasions to express the need to maintain commercial air service through the Essential Air Service program for the people of Greenville and the Mississippi Delta,” Thompson said. “With the program supporting 12 weekly nonstop round trips to Nashville International Airport and 6 weekly nonstop flights to Dallas/Fort-Worth International Airport, Mississippi Delta residents will continue to have a convenient option to travel to destinations both near and far.” The EAS is a Department of Transportation program that subsidizes air carrier service to small and, in some cases, isolated communities. The EAS program provides subsidies to air carriers for providing service between selected small communities and hub airports. The program was originally established in 1978 as part of airline deregulation to ensure a minimum level of air service to smaller communities that might otherwise lose service because of economic factors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-299995-awarded-jackson-state-university,"CONGRESSMAN THOMPSON ANNOUNCES $299,995 AWARDED TO JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY",2017-06-14,2017,2017-06,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"BOLTON, MISSISSIPPI – Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced The National Science Foundation has awarded $299,995 to Jackson State University.   The Students Understanding Chemistry Concepts to Enhance STEM Skills (SUCCESS)  project at Jackson State University will target at-risk and underrepresented students, with a focus on biology majors, and will enable them to successfully complete general and organic chemistry. The SUCCESS project will provide three-day Chemistry Readiness Workshops prior to the start of a course, and an additional two-hour SUCCESS Session during each week of the semester. Enabling at-risk and underrepresented students to succeed in their chosen major will support diversification of the STEM workforce. How these interventions promote student success will be documented, and the knowledge gained will complement successful approaches to undergraduate instruction across multiple STEM disciplines.   The impact of Chemistry Readiness Workshops, the modified Xavier University Chemistry Drill Program, and Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning (POGIL) sessions on the success of students in general chemistry will be documented. Data from the intervention groups will be compared to historical data and evaluated to determine whether these strategies: (a) improve attendance in chemistry classes, (b) decrease drop/fail/withdraw rates, (c) improve students' conceptual understanding of chemistry, and (d) improve student retention. The results will be disseminated in biology and chemistry education conferences, and associated proceedings. Overall, this project will contribute to what is known about the promoting student success in STEM with at-risk and underrepresented students. This project will support broadening participation in STEM and the STEM workforce.   For more information call 703-292-8070.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-brownfield-grants-awarded-mississippi-second,CONGRESSMAN THOMPSON ANNOUNCES Brownfield Grants Awarded to the Mississippi Second Congressional District,2017-06-02,2017,2017-06,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRESSMAN THOMPSON ANNOUNCES Brownfield Grants Awarded to the Mississippi Second Congressional District BOLTON, MISSISSIPPI Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded six Brownfields grants to entities in the Mississippi Second Congressional District. The amount awarded totals $1.3 million. The City of Vicksburgwill receive $400,000 for two brownfields cleanup grants ($383,500 for hazardous substances and $16,500 for petroleum). The funds will be used to clean up the 1832 Kuhn North Facility and the 1959 Kuhn South Facility of the former Kuhn Memorial Hospital. Both cleanup sites were part of a 12.8-acre former hospital, which has been vacant since 1989. They are contaminated with metals, PCBs, and inorganic contaminants. Grant funds for both sites also will be used to conduct air monitoring and support community involvement activities. Canton $300,000 ($200,000 for hazardous substances and $100,000 for petroleum) to include an update of the citys brownfields inventory. Clarksdale $300,000 ($166,200 for hazardous substances and $133,800 for petroleum) to include an update of the citys brownfields inventory. Assessment activities will focus on the 18th Street Neighborhood and the Brickyard Area. Crystal Springs $300,000 ($123,000 for hazardous substances and $177,000 for petroleum) to include area-wide planning and the prioritization of the citys brownfield sites. Greenville $300,000 ($200,000 for hazardous substances and $100,000 for petroleum) to include area-wide planning. One area of focus is the Lower Mississippi River Port Investment Initiative Area. A Brownfield is a property, of which the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. EPA's Brownfields Program enables states, communities, and other stakeholders in economic redevelopment to work together in a timely manner to prevent, assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse brownfields.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-request-investigation-mississippi-legislator-s-call-lynchings,Thompson Request Investigation Into Mississippi Legislators Call for Lynchings,2017-05-24,2017,2017-05,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thompson Request Investigation Into Mississippi Legislator’s Call for Lynchings       WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) released the following statement regarding Mississippi Legislator Karl Oliver’s call for the lynching of individuals who seek the removal of symbols of the Confederacy:   “The recent Facebook post made by Karl Oliver was dangerous and as an elected official in Mississippi he should have been aware of the harm that could result from the post,” said Thompson.  “His insistence that people who are opposed to symbols commemorating the treasonous acts of the Confederate State of America should be lynched is deeply disturbing.   This type of hate speech is extremely perilous and could inspire others to commit criminal acts.  We should be reminded that less than two years have passed since nine African-American church members were murdered by a radicalized individual who swore allegiance to the confederate flag and we are three years removed from a group of college students placing a noose and a confederate flag on a statue of civil rights icon James Meridith.  These young people didn’t learn to hate on their own. They were inspired by people, like Mr. Oliver, who seek to indoctrinate others with vile speech.”   “I am requesting that Department of Justice officials review the comments made by Mr. Oliver to determine if his recommendation of violence constitutes an immediate threat to individuals who are committed to removing tributes to the Confederacy from our public spaces.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-statement-trump-s-fy-2018-budget,Thompson Statement on Trumps FY 2018 Budget,2017-05-24,2017,2017-05,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thompson Statement on Trump’s FY 2018 Budget WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s fiscal year 2018 budget request: “President Trump’s budget is perhaps the most damaging proposal for rural America that we have ever seen,” said Thompson.  “The Trump budget seeks to eliminate the Low Income Energy Assistance Program, the Rural Business and Cooperative Service, the Rural Water and Waste Disposal Program and the Single Family Housing Direct Loans Program.  President Trump also reneged on his promise to not cut Medicaid.  It is clear that President Trump has turned his back on rural America.”   “Unfortunately, many of us have become numb to Donald Trump’s foolish rhetoric and irrational tweets but this budget is a stark reminder of the dangers his Presidency. Perhaps the President should spend less time at his golf courses and more time meeting real Americans.  I look forward to working with my colleagues to develop a budget that works for all Americans.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/newest-members-congress,Newest Members of Congress,2017-01-03,2017,2017-01,Democrat,House,MS,Bennie Thompson,T000193,benniethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-5876 Fax: (202) 225-5898 Bolton Office Bolton, MS 39041 Phone: (601) 866-9003 Fax: (601) 866-9036; (800) 355-9003 Greenville Office Greenville, MS 38701 Phone: (662) 335-9003 Fax: (662) 334-1304 Greenwood Office Greenwood, MS 38930 Phone: (662) 455-9003 Fax: (662) 453-0118 Jackson Office 3607 Medgar Evers BoulevardJackson, MS 39213 Phone: (601) 946-9003 Fax: (601)-982-5337 Marks Office P.O. Box 356263 East Main StreetMarks, MS 38646 Mound Bayou City Hall Office P.O. Box 679 106 Green AvenueSuite 106Mound Bayou, MS 38762 (662) 741-9003 (662) 741-9002",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z