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://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/2019-a-year-in-review,2019: A Year in Review,2019-12-30,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"At this time last year, I predicted that the upcoming year with a Democrat majority in the House would be much different. While most activity in the House centered around efforts to impeach our President, I did not let that stop me from fighting for you and our state. One of our most significant victories this year for Alabama was reforming the Medicare wage index formula. For three decades, hospitals in rural states like Alabama have been underpaid in Medicare reimbursements. Upon taking office, I began fighting for a fix. With the election of President Trump, I found that we had an administration willing to listen and work with us, and as a result, Alabama's hospitals have begun receiving significantly higher Medicare reimbursements. In the past, these dollars were siphoned off towards high population areas like New York and Los Angeles at an unfair rate. I was also proud to lead the Trump Administration's school choice bill in the House, the Education Freedom Scholarship and Opportunity Act. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos asked me and Senator Ted Cruz to be their champions in Congress for this Trump policy priority, and support continues growing for our bill. It was an honor to join President Trump several weeks ago in an education roundtable at the White House and to advocate for providing options for students locked into failing schools. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I'm proud of my record advocating for a strong national defense. This year Congress passed an important National Defense Authorization Act that enables us to rebuild our military readiness after years of stagnation in the Obama administration. The bill allows for continued counter drug enforcement at our border, accelerates programs to counter Chinese and Russian aggression, and authorizes important bipartisan nuclear modernization programs. It also gives our troops the largest pay raise in a decade, repeals the widow's tax, and establishes the Space Force. Sadly, our Second Amendment rights are under assault like no time in our history. I was proud to lead 120 of my colleagues in filing a brief before the Supreme Court in support of protecting these fundamental American rights. The case, N.Y. State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc. v. City of New York,will determine if New York's ban on transporting a handgun to a home or shooting range outside city limits is constitutional. Our Constitution is clear that the right to bear arms shall not be infringed, and I am glad to have had so much support from my colleagues in taking a stand against these radical efforts to take away our gun rights. Finally, just weeks ago, the House passed President Trump's USMCA trade deal to replace NAFTA. Our state stands to benefit significantly, particularly our automobile manufacturing and agriculture sectors as well as steel, energy and high-tech. The USMCA is projected to create 176,000 new American jobs and raise our GDP by $68.2 billion. We will reap benefits from this deal for years to come. Of course, I continued holding constituent town halls throughout Southwest Alabama, and I have now held over 125 since taking office. Your input is important to me, and I appreciate everyone who has participated over the years. We have a great state full of amazing people, and I am glad to be among the leaders in Congress in the number of town halls held. Thank you for allowing me to represent you in Congress. I will continue fighting for you in 2020.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/reflecting-the-light-of-the-world,Reflecting the Light of the World,2019-12-23,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"The first chapter of John's Gospel tells us The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. It often seems as if we live in a dark world, doesn't it? Evil lurks all around us and too often bad things happen to good people. Falsehoods are accepted above truth and reality distorted to unreality. We value the cheap and empty things of the world and disvalue the truly worthy things. It's easy to be discouraged and disappointed to the point of becoming cynical. But that is not the Christmas story, is it? God so loved the world that he became one of us. He literally lowered himself to become a part of His own creation and for the sole purpose of saving us. The babe in the manger became the tortured man dying on the cross for us. He experienced hate and rejection, betrayal and estrangement, pain and death. All for us. What kind of a God does that? A God who only wants one thing: love. That's why John talks about light in a dark world, a light which cannot be overcome. The Song of Solomon says that love is strong as death. In Jesus, love was actually stronger than death. So, in the midst of this dark world, as we deal with the difficulties of life, we need to go back to Bethlehem and hear the songs of angels, see the gifts of kings, feel the love of a young mother, and adore the divine baby. We need to go and find the light out there in the darkness. It's there shining brightly and waiting for us to just believe. This has been a hard year and we ended it in Washington on the sad and avoidable note of the impeachment of a sitting president. I've repeatedly made my position on that issue clear, but the fact of the vote and the way in which it was handled was a big disappointment. The nation is worse off and for nothing at all. Yet, I believe in our country, in our Constitution and in the ultimate goodness of our people. We have come through so much over our history and triumphed every time. We will do so again. That's not me being trite. I really do believe it, because we are what Jesus meant when He talked about the city set on the hill, the lamp that belongs on a stand. And we will continue so long as we reflect the Light of the world in the darkness around us. This Christmas, I hope you will make the most out of quality time with family. Dust off an old photo album or board game. Tell the Christmas story to young children. Ride around the neighborhood and look at Christmas decorations. Never miss an opportunity to share God's love, to reflect the Light of the world in the darkness around us. There is so much to be grateful for, and I hope you will think about all the ways you have been blessed. May God bless and keep you and your family this Christmas season and may God continue to bless the United States of America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-announces-congressional-app-challenge-winners-0,Byrne Announces Congressional App Challenge Winners,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) today announced the winners of the Congressional App Challenge for Alabama's First Congressional District. Isabelle Stabler, JaMiyah Peebles, and Hannah Vaccaro of the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science won the Congressional App Challenge for their application entitled Cumulative Testing App. The students' app will be displayed in the United States Capitol and will be featured on the House of Representatives' website. Congressman Byrnesaid:Congratulations to Isabelle, JaMiyah, and Hannah on winning the Congressional App Challenge. Coding and technology proficiency are increasingly vital skills in our evolving economy. Their skills certainly will prepare them to for dynamic careers with the potential to change the world. I also want to thank their teacher, Mr. Grey Gaillard for encouraging and mentoring his students as they developed their app. His students will forever be impacted by his guidance. To view the winning submission,click here. The Congressional App Challenge is open to all students in Alabama's First Congressional District. For more information on the competition,click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/columns/sharing-joy-christmas,Sharing the Joy of Christmas,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year, and it is easy to get caught up in all the responsibilities that come along with it. These obligations can be quick to distract us from the true meaning behind the Christmas season. With everything happening across our country and around the world, it is inevitable that our attention is focused elsewhere. As we gather with family and friends this year to celebrate, I pray that we do not forget the reason behind this special holiday: the birth of Jesus Christ and His message of hope in a troubled world. This powerful message rings as true today as it did centuries ago for the shepherds and watchmen who gathered to bear witness to Jesus' birth. Although it is easy to get caught up in the stress and chaos of our promises and commitments, the nativity story and this important holiday serve as reminders that there is always a source of hope, no matter the circumstances. Jesus lived his life on earth displaying love, kindness, and joy to all, regardless of their situation or struggles, and we are called to follow His example and do the same. Many of us are fortunate enough to celebrate in the company of our loved ones. Let's do our best to ensure that everyone in our communities enjoy the Christmas holiday by remembering those who are not as fortunate. My thoughts are with those who are suffering: those who are battling illnesses, fighting financial struggles, or spending Christmas in the absence of loved ones. Many mothers and fathers selflessly serve in our military, and they will not be able to celebrate Christmas at home with their children. We owe much gratitude to these devoted servicemembers for sacrificing time with their family to protect our country. In the spirit of the holiday, I am encouraged by all those who are able to reach out to those in their community who may need a helping hand. Whether you decide to donate toys to children in need, write letters to soldiers overseas, collect food for local food banks, or bake delicious Christmas treats for your neighbors, every heartfelt action makes a difference. Each bit of compassion makes the world brighter. Let's spread kindness with every opportunity that comes our way. Joy is contagious, and our efforts will have a positive impact across our communities. I am extremely honored to represent the people of the Second Congressional District in Congress. It has been a blessing to have so many unique opportunities over the years to dedicate my efforts to serving the needs of my constituents. I hope that we will all remember to follow in Jesus' footsteps and spread joy this holiday season. From the Roby family to yours, we wish you a wonderful and Merry Christmas. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-usmca-passage,Aderholt Statement on USMCA Passage,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington — Today, Congressman Robert Aderholt, (AL-04) released the following statement after the House of Representatives voted in favor of the USMCA agreement. ""I was proud to cast a vote in support of legislation to implement the upcoming USMCA Trade Agreement. This agreement has been a signature priority of the Trump administration, modernizing the 25-year-old NAFTA to make improvements supporting continued economic growth and American jobs. ""This agreement made significant improvements for the state of Alabama with important provisions benefitting the interests of workers, farmers, and businesses in the agriculture and automotive industries. ""Alabama is the nation's second largest poultry producing state and I'm glad the Trump administration was able to secure language that will open Canadian markets for our poultry and egg producers. Auto provisions in the agreement will now require more goods and materials to be manufactured in the United States, and that's good for Alabama workers. Both of these provisions are tremendous news for the state of Alabama. ""President Trump and Ambassador Lighthizer have fulfilled their promise to rebalance and modernize our trading relationship with two of our largest trading partners and deliver a high-standard trade deal. I am proud to support this effort as I continue working with this administration to push for improved relationships with our trading partners and a stronger American economy.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/congressman-mo-brooks-colleagues-chief-justice-roberts-senate-leaders,"Congressman Mo Brooks & Colleagues to Chief Justice Roberts, Senate Leaders McConnell & Schumer: Use Federal Rules of Evidence in Senate Impeachment Trial",2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Thursday, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) and 8 conservative House colleagues sent a letter to United States Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urging them to adopt the Federal Rules of Evidence for the Senate's President Trump impeachment trial. Click HERE to view the letter. Signers of the letter: Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) Jeff Duncan (SC-03) Jody Hice (GA-10) Ted Yoho (FL-03) Neal P. Dunn (FL-02) Bob Gibbs (OH-07) Mark Meadows (NC-11) Debbie Lesko (AZ-08) Congressman Brooks said, The best way for the American people to discern the truth about impeachment is by using evidentiary standards developed by our judicial system over the past two centuries.The Federal Rules of Evidence, used in all federal courtrooms, generally excludes hearsay, gossip, rumor, opinions and otherwise irrelevant evidence from consideration for one simple reason:history has revealed that such evidence is unreliable and makes it harder for judges and juries to determine the truth of a matter.The House's impeachment proceedings have been devoid of evidentiary standards.The Senate should and can do better. Brooks continued, In America, everyone has the right to a fair trial presidents included. The formal adoption of the Federal Rules of Evidence would give Chief Justice Roberts a clear-cut standard for deciding admissibility of evidence during the Senate impeachment trial. Brooks concluded, An impeachment trial is as consequential as it gets in America's political system. There is simply no room for bad, misleading or otherwise weak evidence our judicial experts know, from experience, should never be considered.Chief Justice Roberts and the Senate should adopt the Federal Rules of Evidence and exclude substandard evidence from consideration during the impeachment trial. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-holding-articles-of-impeachment-puts-exclamation-point-on-sham,Byrne: Holding Articles of Impeachment Puts Exclamation Point on Sham Process,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) gave fiery remarks on the floor of the House of Representatives tonight after Nancy Pelosi withheld articles of impeachment from the Senate. Congressman Byrne said: So for weeks, we were told that we couldn't wait. We had to go forward with impeachment before Christmas, that the Republic was at stake. And then this House passed a purely partisan impeachment yesterday, and the speaker has decided to hold the articles of impeachment. That underscores the word sham.' That puts an exclamation point after the word sham.' That shows what a ridiculous exercise we just went through. We can't dictate to the Senate how they handle their trial. They get to pick that. This shows that they've got cold feet on the other side. They don't have a case, they can't win a fair trial in the Senate and they know it, and they're afraid to send the articles over there. We'll get a fair trial there and not the kangaroo court we had here. And with that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-usmca-major-victory-for-alabama,Byrne: USMCA Major Victory for Alabama,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) issued the following statement after voting for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Congressman Byrne said: Alabama scored a major victory today with the long-overdue House passage of USMCA. This trade deal strengthens relationships with two of Alabama's largest trading partners and will benefit businesses and industries large and small throughout the state, particularly in our agriculture, automotive manufacturing, steel, energy and high-tech sectors. And with the continued growth at the Port of Mobile, Alabama stands to benefit more than most. Many pundits said renegotiating NAFTA couldn't be done, but President Trump proved them wrong and scored a major victory for working Americans. The USMCA is projected to create 176,000 new American jobs and raise our GDP by $68.2 billion. The agreement raises the amount of made in America products Mexico and Canada will buy with exports to Canada increasing by an estimated $19 billion and exports increasing to Mexico by $14.2 billion. The bill passed today in the House and awaits further action in the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1787,Rogers: USMCA a Win for America,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rogers: USMCA a Win for America Washington, December 19, 2019 (Washington, DC)Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement today after the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) passed the House of Representatives with Rogers' strong support. Republicans have asked Democrat leadership for months to bring this bipartisan legislation to the House Floor, but House Democrats have been focused on a sham impeachment instead. I was thrilled to see this important piece of legislation finally be brought to the House Floor. The USMCA is a win for all Americans and I want to thank President Trump for his leadership on this important trade agreement, Rogers said. In the State of Alabama, over 23,000 producers and manufacturers depend on this trade deal. Alabama's economy will continue to soar under the USMCA, especially when it comes to our agriculture and automobile industries. I am pleased we finally got something done this Congress that will help folks across East Alabama and America, Rogers added. Rogers serves as Ranking Member on the Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=0F8ACA3A-8D5C-4075-B764-129B72664907,"Shelby Applauds Senate Passage of National Security Appropriations Package, Contains Funding for Alabama Priorities",2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee and its subcommittee on defense, today voted to approve the second of two comprehensive appropriations packages together containing all 12 appropriations measures. The package, H.R. 1158, was passed in the Senate by a vote of 81-11 and completes funding for the Fiscal Year 2020 (FY2020) process. This measure contains funding to support and continue prioritizing Alabama's defense and aerospace sectors. The funding in this appropriations measure provides for our men and women in uniform, ensures Alabama remains at the forefront of space exploration, and allows us to continue preventing current and emerging threats against the United States through cutting-edge technology, said Senator Shelby. Alabama plays a vital role in our national defense, and this legislation will make certain that our state remains a major player in keeping our nation safe. I look forward to the impact this legislation will have on the state and nation. The packages contain the following provisions regarding Alabama: Impacting the production and use of missiles and helicopters in the Wiregrass region: $1.224 billion for flight training at Fort Rucker, an increase of $142 million from last year to address the Army pilot shortage; $506 million for Future Vertical Lift research to accelerate development of helicopters flown at Fort Rucker; $150 million to upgrade Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk helicopters; $407 million for Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missiles; $292 million for Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles (JAGMs); $562 million for Joint Air-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSMs) and $123 million for Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASMs); $727 million for Hellfire missiles, an increase of $243 million from FY2019, which are made in Troy and used for training at Fort Rucker; and $178 million for Javelin missiles for the Army and Marine Corps. Impacting North Alabama: Army Research $12.5 billion, an increase of $1.5 billion from last year, for investments in transformational technologies to address modern and future Army warfighting needs. Missile Defense $10.4 billion for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), including $628 million to support urgent MDA unfunded priorities such as space sensors, hypersonic defense, and cybersecurity. Hypersonic weapons$1.9 billion to support and accelerate offensive and defensive hypersonics research and prototyping efforts, an increase of $362 million from last year. This funding includes $161 million to address an unfunded priority for the Army Hypersonic Weapons System. Cyber $268 million in additional funding to expand and accelerate cyber research across the Department of Defense, and an additional $200 million to support the Department's new 5G program. Military SpaceFully funds National Security Space Launch and Space Command, and includes funding to establish Space Force and Space Development Agency. Civil Space $2.586 billion for the Space Launch System (SLS), including $300 million for the Exploration Upper Stage (EUS), $44 million to standup the Lunar Lander office at Marshall Space Flight Center (lander program total funding is $744 million), and $110 million for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP), of which $80 million is for a flight demonstration mission no later than 2024. FBI $485 million for FBI Construction, which supports the ongoing and growing efforts in Huntsville. Impacting Anniston: $84.5 million for FEMA's Center for Domestic Preparedness, including $66.8 million for education, training, and exercises, as well as $18.2 million for high priority facilities renovation requirements. In addition, $3 million will be prioritized for competitively awarded FEMA-certified rural and tribal training; and $250 million for Hydra rockets, which are built in Anniston and fired from Army and Marine Corps helicopters. Funding for Army Vehicles overhauled and maintained at Anniston Army Depot (ANAD): $2.1 billion to continue modernizing M1 Abrams tanks; $912 million for Stryker vehicles, an increase of $519 million from last year; $579 million for Paladin Integrated Management artillery vehicles; and $80 million for M88A2 Hercules Improved Recovery vehicles. Impacting Mobile's shipbuilding industry: One additional Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) ship, as well as $49 million to convert an EPF into an Expeditionary Medical Transport; Full funding for the FFG(X) Frigate program; and An additional $650 million for LHA-9, an amphibious assault ship. Other provisions impacting Alabama: $7 million for the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Initiative, including $5 million to conduct an independent population assessment of greater amberjack in the Gulf of Mexico; $5 million to ensure successful implementation of Reef Fish Amendment 50, which delegates federal management of red snapper to the Gulf States; $2.6 million for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to implement and enforce the Seafood Import Monitoring Program; 34.5 million to support staffing and operations at the National Water Center (NWC) located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama; $6 million for remote water sensing research at the University of Alabama; and Funding and direction to fully staff the NOAA Disaster Response Center in Mobile, Alabama. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=58DEE3CC-9383-4969-A3EE-5476F1572733,Shelby Announces Critical Funding for Port of Mobile in FY2020 Appropriations Measure,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today voted to approve two comprehensive appropriations packages that together contain the 12 annual appropriations measures, completing funding for the Fiscal Year 2020 (FY2020) process. One of the packages, H.R. 1865, contains crucial funding to deepen and widen the Port of Mobile. The deepening and widening of the Port of Mobile has the ability to transform Alabama's economy for generations to come, said Senator Shelby. This project is not only of great importance to me, but it will allow for more goods to be shipped and sold from our state, extending benefits throughout Alabama while creating more economic opportunities. I am exceptionally proud that funding is included in this appropriations package, and I look forward to the immeasurable impact this project will have on our state once completed. The FY2020 Energy and Water Development Bill includes a new regional dredge demonstration program for the Central Gulf Coast which will explore innovative ways of executing dredging in a logical and sequenced manner to seek efficiencies, cost savings, and minimize disruptions to critical construction and maintenance dredging requirements across the nation. In the coming year, the Army Corps of Engineers is expected to allocate funding to eligible ports, of which the Port of Mobile qualifies and is well-positioned to receive significant funding. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=99A95FE0-EEE9-431D-A809-E45E0F2864B9,Shelby Touts Alabama Priorities in First FY2020 Appropriations Package,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today voted to approve the first of two comprehensive appropriations packages that together contain all 12 Fiscal Year 2020 (FY2020) appropriations measures, H.R. 1865. The legislation, which passed the Senate by a vote of 71-23, contains funding for various Alabama priorities. Completing the Fiscal Year 2020 appropriations process is good news for the nation and Alabama, said Senator Shelby. From investing in our state's infrastructure and supporting agricultural development to funding groundbreaking medical research, this package addresses many important priorities. I am proud of this bipartisan agreement and look forward to witnessing the positive impact this funding will have in my home state. H.R. 1865 contains the following provisions impacting Alabama: Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies: The final bill retains the $25 million increase for Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations (WFPO) for a total of $175 million, with a $70 million set-aside for certain projects. Includes $20 million for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Building and Facilities improvements for seafood safety to support FDA's Dauphin Island Lab. Contains $5 million for the Rural Water and Waste pilot. The bill includes language specifying that Rural Water and Waste Disposal program account that projects utilizing iron and steel shall use iron and steel products produced in the United States. Includes $5 million to combat cotton blue disease, $3 million for advanced poultry production technology development, $1.5 million for alternative technologies for poultry waste utilization, $1.2 million to study harmful algal bloom impacts on aquaculture, an additional $1 million for shrimp aquaculture research, and $1 million to explore salmonella exposure in livestock at Auburn University. Auburn will also continue to partner with Agricultural Research Services for training and workforce development of scientists for the National Bio and Agro-defense Facility. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service: $1 million increase for Cogongrass Management. Farm Service Agency: Report language is included that directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to modify its regulations so that producers of farm-raised fish are eligible for death losses under ELAP and that bird predation and disease be deemed eligible loss conditions. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service: Maintains FY2019 funding for the National Feral Swine Damage Management Program. Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies: Corps of Engineers: $378 million recommended in the Construction account for a Regional Dredge Demonstration Program in the central Gulf of Mexico. Mobile Harbor would be eligible for these additional funds. Includes a new regional dredge demonstration program for the Central Gulf Coast which will explore innovative ways of executing dredging in a logical and sequenced manner to seek efficiencies, cost savings, and minimize disruptions to critical construction and maintenance dredging requirements across the nation. $50 million above the budget request in the Operation and Maintenance account for Donor and Energy Transfer Ports. Funds will benefit Mobile Harbor. $10.975 million for Coastal Inlets Research Program in the Operation and Maintenance account and report language recommending additional funding to establish a multi-university-led effort for connecting terrestrial and coastal models and to continue work with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Water Center in Tuscaloosa on protecting the nation's water resources. Includes $16 million for Aquatic Nuisance Control Research in the Operation and Maintenance account for research and development related to harmful algal blooms. Department of Energy: $230 million for a new program to demonstrate Advanced Reactors and an additional $55 million for Advanced Reactor Technologies, including $20 million for the industry-led Advanced Reactor Concepts program. $25 million for the EPSCoR program and requested language regarding biennial implementation of grant solicitations. Funding to support the Department of Energy's National Carbon Capture Center in Wilsonville, consistent with the cooperative agreement. $56 million for Academic Alliances and Partnerships within the National Nuclear Security Administration, and report language encouraging new centers of excellence in materials research. Independent Agencies: $30 million for the Delta Regional Authority, including $15 million for flood control, basic public infrastructure development, and transportation improvements. $175 million for the Appalachian Regional Commission, including $16 million for a program of industrial site and workforce development in Southern and South Central Appalachia, of which $13.5 million is for Southern Appalachia. Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies: Fish and Wildlife Service Asian Carp Provides $25 million, an increase of $14 million, to combat Asian Carp and enhance efforts in sub-basins of the Mississippi River, which includes key areas of Alabama. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Technical Assistance Grant Programs For the two programs for rural technical assistance, one increased to $17.7 million, which is a $2.7 million increase, and a new program is funded at $13 as requested. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Abandoned Mine Land Pilot Program - $115 million is included, equal to the fiscal year 2019 enacted level. Use of Iron and Steel The bill continues a general provision to ensure that EPA requires the use of American iron and steel in State Revolving Fund projects. Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies: $41.7 billion for the National Institutes of Health (NIH): Includes $45 million in NIH for chronic disease centers; and $50 million for NIH biomedical research facilities. $6.44 billion for National Cancer Institute (NCI), an increase of $299.4 million, including $200 million in targeted funding for NCI competitive grants. $832.9 million for NIH National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, an increase of $26.5 million. $578.1 million for Clinical and Translational Science Award, an increase of $18.4 million. $500 million for the All of Us precision medicine study, a $161 million increase. $25 million in targeted funding for the Childhood Cancer Survivorship, Treatment, Access, and Research (STAR) Act. $3.8 billion in opioid funding, including $1.5 billion for State Opioid Response Grants. $3.9 billion for mental health programs, an increase of $328 million. $50 million in funding for Medical Student Education for states with highest projected physician shortages, including $15 million for supplemental grants and $35 million to fund the remaining 2019 applicants. $1.3 billion, an increase of $20 million, for Career and Technical Education state grants. $30 million in continued funding for Department of Labor Workforce Opportunities for Rural Communities in the Delta Regional Authority and Appalachian Regional Commission regions. Military Construction: Funds three military construction projects totaling $84 million in Alabama: Includes $38 million for an Aircraft and Flight Equipment Building at Redstone Arsenal; $12 million for a National Guard Readiness Center in Foley; and $34 million for Enlisted Transient Training Barracks in Anniston. Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies: Provides funding for the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program. Provides funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Grants-in-aid for airports; Contract towers; Research for advanced materials and structural safety; Research on airfield pavement; and Aviation workforce grants. Provides funding for Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) INFRA grants. Includes $30 million in funding for Alabama's Appalachian Development Highway System. Includes funding for Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) CRISI grants, the Maritime Administration's Small Shipyard Grant Program, and Port Infrastructure grants, and Community Development Block grants. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-democrat-impeachment-vote,Aderholt Statement on Democrat Impeachment Vote,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington — Today, Congressman Robert Aderholt, (AL-04) released the following statement after House Democrats voted to impeach President Donald J. Trump. Today is a sad day for the United States. Our duly-elected President, Donald Trump, was impeached by House Democrats compelled by partisanship, not by facts. I was proud to stand with President Trump, joining my Republican colleagues and several Democrats to vote no. Let's be clear about what has happened. It isn't the President who has abused his power. It is my colleagues on the other side of the aisle who are abusing one of the most powerful tools entrusted to Congress in the Constitution for their own purposes. Proceeding on the record before us threatens grave harm to the future of our country. Twisting the constitution to impeach a President who you fear will be re-elected is a flagrant abuse of the rule of law and an assault on the institution we all swore an oath to. The is one thing that the Founding Fathers were most fearful of. This process doesn't just impugn the President - it shows nothing but disdain and contempt for the voters who duly elected him. More than 80 percent of voters in the 4th District of Alabama voted for President Trump in 2016 and they continue to support him. And so do I. Speaker Pelosi and the House Democrats have made a mockery of our Democracy and it is past time to get back to work for our constituents and the important issues that face our great nation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/congressman-mo-brooks-socialist-dems-baseless-sham-impeachment-threatens,"Congressman Mo Brooks: Socialist Dems' Baseless, Sham Impeachment Threatens Our Constitution and Republic",2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCWednesday, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) voted No, against Impeaching President Donald Trump. The vote against impeachment was bipartisan, as 3 very courageous Democrats joined every Republican in voting against impeachment. Congressman Brooks released the following statement: Socialist Democrats have brazenly abused their majority party power in these impeachment proceedings. The Constitution imposes a very high bar that must be cleared before an impeachment can trash the votes of American citizens and nullify an election. Only proof of criminal conduct suffices, to-wit: a high crime or misdemeanor, bribery, or treason. Over the past 230 years, American elected officials have defined criminal conduct in thousands upon thousands of city, county, state or federal criminal ordinances and statutes. Notably, the Socialist Democrats' impeachment articles fail to cite a single criminal ordinance or statute they claim President Trump violated. That absence fatally flaws the Socialist Democrats' impeachment efforts. The Socialist Democrats' shameful conduct and motivation is best evidenced by their numerous public statements and promises to impeach President Trump . . . before he was even sworn into office. The Socialist Democrats started their impeachment effort with the Russian collusion scam, but there was no evidence of collusion, so that propaganda fell on its face and is not an impeachment article. Next, Socialist Democrats alleged Donald Trump violated various federal campaign laws. But, there was no evidence of campaign law violations, so that propaganda fell on its face and is not an impeachment article. Finally,Socialist Democrats alleged Donald Trump committed bribery. Yet, they fail to cite in the impeachment articles a single bribery statute President Trump allegedly violated. In effect, the Socialist Democrats' impeachment articles are an admission that President Trump did not collude with Russia, has not violated any federal campaign laws, and has not committed bribery. Instead of collusion, bribery, or criminal campaign finance law violations, Socialist Democrats allege in their impeachment articles that President Trump committed Abuse of Power' and Obstruction of Congress'. First, under the Constitution, neither of these allegations are impeachable offenses. Second, if they were, then almost every past president including Barack Obama could have been impeached on one impeachment article or the other.More specifically, Barack Obama abused his power (among many other things) when he gave work permits to illegal aliens in direct contravention of federal law that says you can't do that. Barack Obama also obstructed Congress too many times to count concerning the IRS scandal, the Fast & Furious scandal, the Hillary Clinton violation of classified information scandal, and on and on and on. Republicans didn't impeach Obama for abuse of power or obstruction of Congress. Rather, Republicans went to court and sought court orders resolving legal disputes and compelling the Obama Administration to obey the law. Socialist Democrats, in their rush to judgment, failed to give President Trump, and the American people, the same courtesy.Instead, Socialist Democrats resorted to the political equivalent of nuclear war. That is wrong and America has been, and will continue to, pay a heavy price for the Socialist Democrats' dangerous, radical conduct. In sum, Socialist Democrats have abused their majority power for political reasons to undermine the president and trash the votes of 63 million Americans. It is a dangerous precedent. It is a threat to our Constitution and Republic. The American people ought to punish the Socialists Democrats for this abuse. It's horrible what Socialist Democrats have done.I hope the American people will hold the Socialist Democrats accountable so that no political party will dare abuse the Constitution's impeachment provisions again. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-amendment-exposes-democrat-impeachment-hypocrisy,Byrne Amendment Exposes Democrat Impeachment Hypocrisy,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) gave an impassioned speech on the floor of the House of Representatives today on his amendment to the articles of impeachment saying, based upon the Democrat majority's standard in pursuing impeachment against President Donald Trump, they should have written articles of impeachment against President Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder for their actions during the House investigations into the Obama Administration's Fast and Furious program. His full remarks as prepared are below. Congressman Byrne said: Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the rule and the underlying resolution to impeach President Trump. When the framers granted the House the power to impeach, they feared that it would be abused. Today, those fears are realized. In record speed, this majority has assembled hearsay, speculation, and presumptions for the purpose of overturning the 2016 election. We are not here today, days before Christmas, because the Majority has assembled a case against President Trump. No, we are here today because the Democrat Majority believes getting impeachment done now will provide their vulnerable members time to distance themselves from their vote. But, I assure you, Mr. Speaker, the American people are watching! Many of my colleagues have, from day one, rejected the people's choice of President Trump. But, another President will come along more to the Majority's liking. Our actions here today will be remembered and will set the standard. The second article of impeachment seeks to remove President Trump for failure to produce certain requested witnesses and documents. But, as the Majority knows, every President in history has asserted Executive Privilege! The House has a legal avenue to challenge the President, the courts. But the Majority has skipped that step, showing that this is about impeachment as fast as possible, however possible! Most of my friends on the other side of the aisle had no problem backing President Obama when he stonewalled this House for years to block our quest to find out the truth in the Fast and Furious Investigation. That is why I filed an amendment to the resolution, rejected by the Rules Committee, saying, based upon the Democrat majority's standard, they should have written articles of impeachment against President Obama and Eric Holder! I wish my colleagues would think about the standard being set. I predict that they will very soon regret it. I yield back. Congressman Byrne's amendment, the only amendment offered to these historic articles of impeachment, would strike language alleging President Trump attempted to undermine investigations and replace it with language stating the president acted consistently with the previous administration's behavior during congressional probes.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-votes-against-impeachment,Byrne Votes Against Impeachment,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) voted against the two articles of impeachment in the House of Representatives tonight. Before voting, Byrne gave the following floor remarks. Congressman Byrne said: Madam Speaker, in three months, we have gone from receiving an unsubstantiated, hearsay, and discredited whistleblower complaint to the production of articles of impeachment against the President of the United States. Not since Andrew Johnson has the House engaged in such a partisan political stunt! From the beginning, this has been a sham and this House has been nothing but a star chamber! The Democrat majority literally locked themselves in the basement of this building, hiding from the American people. When my colleagues and I refused to stand for it, Democrats moved to public hearings but denied us questions, denied us witnesses, and denied the President any meaningful opportunity to defend himself. With this complete abuse of process, the Democrat majority has produced the flimsiest and most legally unsound articles of impeachment in the history of this institution. Never before has the House reported an article of impeachment that does not allege an underlying crime, yet this Majority will do so today. Read the transcripts! There was no quid pro quo, no bribery, no extortion, no crime, and no abuse of power, and they don't even allege a crime in their articles of impeachment. The President raising Ukrainian corruption is not an impeachable offense. If the dealings of Hunter Biden were so above board, you would think the majority would be just fine looking into this matter. Yet, they haven't moved my resolution asking for an investigation and our subpoenas for Hunter have all been denied. Hunter Biden doesn't get a pass because his dad was Vice President! I am proud to have fought against this charade every step of the way and I will proudly vote no today.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/palmer-will-vote-no-articles-impeachment-against-president-donald-trump,Palmer Will Vote ‘NO’ on Articles of Impeachment against President Donald Trump,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Gary J. Palmer,P000609,palmer.house.gov,palmer,https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"For Immediate Release Contact: Elizabeth Hance (202) 225-4921 Palmer Will Vote ‘NO' on Articles of Impeachment against President Donald Trump Washington, D.C. – Congressman Gary Palmer (AL-06) has announced he will vote ""no"" on both articles of impeachment against President Donald J. Trump. Palmer released the following statement: ""The vote today to impeach President Trump is not supported by law, facts, or logic. It does, however, circumvent the vision of America's Founders. They imagined that impeachment would occur only under grave circumstances, not due to political differences. Today, my Democratic colleagues have not proven that President Trump is guilty of ‘treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors.' The only thing President Trump is guilty of in this process is governing in a manner that some Democrats disagree with. That's not a standard for impeachment. ""In impeachment Article I, the allegation is that President Trump abused his power. The primary witness to this article is also the supposed victim of the abuse of power, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine. Democrats did not call him as a witness to their hearings, as his testimony is not helpful to their narrative, but this was his statement: ‘There was no pressure or blackmail from the U.S.' ""Democrats will not allow facts to get in the way, but facts matter. No foreign nation is entitled to receive money from the United States, and money certainly should not be released without accountability. My colleagues allege that money was withheld to force an investigation into a political rival of the President, but the facts do not support this. The U.S. released the money with no investigation having taken place. This is why, over time, we have seen Democrats shift their narrative. First, they accused President Trump of quid pro quo, then of bribery, and now they accuse him of abuse of power. Undoubtedly, when this process has failed, they will create another narrative. But the truth is clear – they are frustrated that President Trump has been effective, that the economy is strong, and that people are doing better, because that is not a narrative that will promote their agenda. They are attacking him because they can't attack his results. We know from this process that they only have one agenda – to impeach the President at all costs, regardless of the facts or the Constitution. ""In impeachment Article II, the allegation is that the President obstructed Congress. Obstruction of justice is a crime. Obstruction of Congress is not. Fundamentally, this second article is an attempt to charge President Trump with obstructing the Democrats' impeachment efforts. They engaged in a sham process to impeach the President, and they're now alleging he must be removed from office for not becoming complicit in their coup attempt. ""A president does not lose the right to assert executive or attorney-client privilege simply because an impeachment process is underway. Although Congress has the right to receive documents and other evidence from the executive branch, it has never been protocol that Congress can make demands, set arbitrary deadlines, and then commence impeachment when the executive branch misses a deadline or asserts a Constitutional privilege. Under this approach, every recent president would've been subject to impeachment. For example, former Attorney General Eric Holder refused to comply with a congressional subpoena related to misleading communications because President Obama, claiming executive privilege, instructed Holder not to comply. It would have been preposterous for Congress to immediately start an impeachment process in reaction to this, but that is how the current Congress has reacted to similar actions from President Trump. Democrat coup leaders have misrepresented the facts regarding his exercise of executive privilege in an attempt to mislead the American public. They claim that the Trump Administration officials were unresponsive and did not comply with their subpoenas. In reality, Administration officials did respond, stating that they would not comply, which is their right. Every Administration in recent memory has exercised executive privilege against subpoenas. This is not only not new, it is to be expected. ""These ambiguous standards for impeachment should not and must not become the norm. Until now, the impeachment process has never been substantially politicized, and God forbid that it ever is again in the future. My Democrat colleagues claim President Trump is a danger to our country. I must ask, is a growing economy or record unemployment a danger? Are rising wages and increased household income threats to our country? Is helping people achieve independence, personal growth, and self-sufficiency what my Democrat colleagues really fear? We are taking the wrong turn today with this vote, but it is my hope that when the Senate has rejected this partisan process, law, logic, and reason might be restored. Because there is no evidence in relation to treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors, I will vote ‘NO' on the articles of impeachment against President Trump."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-on-swampy-spending-bills-day-of-reckoning-is-coming,Byrne on Swampy Spending Bills: Day of Reckoning is Coming,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) issued the following statement after voting against the Omnibus spending bills brought to the floor this afternoon as part of a deal reached late last night. Congressman Byrne said: Yesterday at 5 pm, 2,313 pages containing $1.4 trillion in new spending and unrelated measures were dumped on me. As I slept, hundreds more pages were added to these bills last night. Voting on these bills less than 24 hours later is the definition of the swamp. During a time of remarkable economic growth, we should be taking steps to reduce the deficit, not throwing billions of dollars in goodies attempting to make an irresponsible spending bill more palatable. It is ridiculous that the greatest country in the world is being run so haphazardly, and a day of reckoning is coming if we cannot restore sanity to our government spending process. Despite Byrne's opposition, both funding bills passed the House today and are expected to receive a vote in the Senate this week.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/palmer-opposes-2020-spending-package,Palmer Opposes 2020 Spending Package,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Gary J. Palmer,P000609,palmer.house.gov,palmer,https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"For Immediate Release Contact: Elizabeth Hance (202)-225-4921 Palmer Opposes 2020 Spending Package Washington, D.C. – Congressman Gary Palmer (AL-06) has voted ""no"" on the Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 1158) and the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 1865). These two ""minibus"" bills authorize continued funding of the federal government through fiscal year 2020, once the current funding resolution expires on December 20. Following their passage in the House of Representatives, Palmer released the following statement: ""Combined, H.R. 1158 and H.R. 1865 add up to a massive 2,313 pages and $1.4 trillion dollars in spending, adding even more to our deficit for this fiscal year and to our long-term debt. These two bills were released less than 24 hours before Members were expected to vote on them, making it impossible to review the bills beforehand. ""It is always difficult to vote against appropriations for our military. I have long supported increased and robust funding for our military. There is no question that we must make certain that our military is adequately funded both for its present missions and the missions of the future. But the reckless and irresponsible course that we are on in regard to spending will ultimately have a devastating impact on our ability to provide for our national defense. Regardless of which party is the majority, we must find a way to get control of our spending, set priorities for domestic programs and our military, and offer spending bills that fund those priorities and that will set us on a course to fiscal stability. ""I remain committed to finding solutions to rebuilding our military after years of neglect and to meeting the threats of the future, but these spending bills are not the way to get that job done. It's for these reasons that I voted ‘no' today on H.R. 1158 and H.R. 1865."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=4E466E0B-8678-4B93-878B-C44F868E7460,Shelby Applauds Passage of FY2020 NDAA,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee and its subcommittee on defense, today released the following statement regarding Senate passage of the Conference Report to accompany S. 1790, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2020. Following passage in the House of Representatives last week, the authorizing legislation will now move to the President's desk for his signature. This legislation contains major victories for Alabama and the nation's defense and aerospace sectors, said Senator Shelby. This bipartisan, bicameral measure will help provide our troops with the tools necessary to best defend our nation. This is an important step in the process, and I look forward to securing critical funding for the Department of Defense through the appropriations process as soon as possible. The Fiscal Year 2020 NDAA Conference Report, which passed by a vote of 86-8, provides a total of $735 billion for national defense priorities. Specifically, the legislation authorizes a 3.1 percent pay raise for members of the Armed Forces, the creation of a new Space Force, resources needed to carry out the most recent National Defense Strategy, reform of military housing, and continued research and development into key technologies. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-2020-funding-nasa-s-current-priorities-and-impact,Aderholt Statement on 2020 Funding for NASAs Current Priorities and the Impact on Alabama,2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington Today, Congressman Robert Aderholt, (AL-04) released the following statement in regard to funding for NASA and the Space Launch System program. Today is a significant day for Marshall Space Flight Center's continued leadership in our nation's focus on space. There are four main ways that this bill is important: First, the funding bill that passed the House includes $2.586 billion for The Space Launch System. As the most powerful rocket ever made, the SLS will surpass even the Saturn V. We have worked hard to make the SLS, with its new upper stage, the rocket which will take us back to the moon and on into deep space. The great engineers and other leaders at Marshall Space Flight Center have made dramatic advances in manufacturing efficiency for the second rocket, including using both vertical and horizontal construction. I am confident that the work at Marshall on the SLS will be completed and stay on schedule.And that will allow plans for a production and launch tempo to deliver payloads that surpass what even the space shuttle could do. Second, as part of the SLS funding, no less than$300 millionis specified for the Exploration Upper Stage, EUS. In development since 2014, it is ready now to advance from design to production. This exciting next step is what secures American leadership in space. Compared to other available or soon to be available rockets, the SLS with an EUS, known as Block1B, will have the largest fairing in the world, and unequaled power to deliver payloads to the Moon and beyond. This means that very large items can be delivered already assembled inside the fairing. That greatly reduces the risk you face with multiple launches and tryting to do assembly in space. Third, back in August, it was announced that the Human Landing System would be managed at Marshall. Funding for 2020 allowsNASAto make its planned schedule of awards and to continue its planning in order to land the first woman astronaut on the surface of the moon in 2024, the date President Trump has targeted. I look forward to working with the Administration in the upcoming fiscal years. Fourth, this bill funds the Nuclear Thermal Propulsion program $110 million, including $80 million for a demonstration. Following years of research, this demonstration is crucial to including NTP in the planning discussions for the mission to Mars. We have positioned Huntsville and all of North Alabama to play a vital role in our push to go back to the moon and on to Mars. I know one thing for sure, without the talents and expertise we have in our state, these goals cannot be achieved. I'm proud of our team atNASAand the private companies involved in the overall space industry.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-2020-funding-nasas-current-priorities-and-impact,Aderholt Statement on 2020 Funding for NASA’s Current Priorities and the Impact on Alabama,2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington — Today, Congressman Robert Aderholt, (AL-04) released the following statement in regard to funding for NASA and the Space Launch System program, which is funded at a total budget figure of $22.6 billion, an increase of $1.1 billion above the FY 2019 level. ""Today is a significant day for Marshall Space Flight Center's continued leadership in our nation's focus on space. There are four main ways that this bill is important: ""First, the funding bill that passed the House includes $2.586 billion for The Space Launch System. As the most powerful rocket ever made, the SLS will surpass even the Saturn V. We have worked hard to make the SLS, with its new upper stage, the rocket which will take us back to the moon and on into deep space. The great engineers and other leaders at Marshall Space Flight Center have made dramatic advances in manufacturing efficiency for the second rocket, including using both vertical and horizontal construction. I am confident that the work at Marshall on the SLS will be completed and stay on schedule. And that will allow plans for a production and launch tempo to deliver payloads that surpass what even the space shuttle could do. ""Second, as part of the SLS funding, no less than $300 million is specified for the Exploration Upper Stage, EUS. In development since 2014, it is ready now to advance from design to production. This exciting next step is what secures American leadership in space. Compared to other available or soon to be available rockets, the SLS with an EUS, known as Block1B, will have the largest fairing in the world, and unequaled power to deliver payloads to the Moon and beyond. This means that very large items can be delivered already assembled inside the fairing. That greatly reduces the risk you face with multiple launches and trying to do assembly in space. ""Third, back in August, it was announced that the Human Landing System would be managed at Marshall. Funding for 2020, is at $600 million, noted as ""Advanced Cislunar and Surface Capabilities."" This funding allows NASA to make its planned schedule of awards and to continue its planning in order to land the first woman astronaut on the surface of the moon in 2024, the date President Trump has targeted. I look forward to working with the Administration in the upcoming fiscal years. ""Fourth, this bill funds the Nuclear Thermal Propulsion program $110 million, including $80 million for a demonstration. Following years of research, this demonstration is crucial to including NTP in the planning discussions for the mission to Mars. ""We have positioned Huntsville and all of North Alabama to play a vital role in our push to go back to the moon and on to Mars. I know one thing for sure, without the talents and expertise we have in our state, these goals cannot be achieved. ""I'm proud of our team at NASA and the private companies involved in the overall space industry.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-continued-funding-reconnect-program-rural-broadband,Aderholt Statement on Continued Funding For ReConnect Program for Rural Broadband,2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"This office is located on the backside of the Cullman Dental Arts building up the handicap ramp. It serves Cullman and Winston Counties. We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency. This office serves Marshall, DeKalb, and Blount Counties. We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency. This office serves Fayette, Lamar, Marion and Walker Counties. It also serves the portion of Tuscaloosa County north of the Black Warrior River, but also down the western side of the county to include the Ralph, Fosters areas. We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency. This office serves Colbert and Franklin Counties. It also serves residents of Lauderdale County from roughly Center Star, west to the Mississippi line. We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency. This office is located on the backside of the Cullman Dental Arts building up the handicap ramp. It serves Cullman and Winston Counties. We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency. This office serves Marshall, DeKalb, and Blount Counties. We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency. This office serves Fayette, Lamar, Marion and Walker Counties. It also serves the portion of Tuscaloosa County north of the Black Warrior River, but also down the western side of the county to include the Ralph, Fosters areas. We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency. This office serves Colbert and Franklin Counties. It also serves residents of Lauderdale County from roughly Center Star, west to the Mississippi line. We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-efforts-clear-rape-kit-backlog,Aderholt Statement on Efforts to Clear Rape Kit Backlog,2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington — Today, Congressman Robert Aderholt, (AL-04) released the following statement on his efforts to secure $102 million to assure clearing rape kit backlogs are made a priority in 2020 federal spending. The $102 million will go to the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grant program. ""There is an old legal saying – ""justice delayed is justice denied."" For thousands of victims of sexual assault across our country, including Alabama, justice has been delayed because of the wait time for DNA evidence to be examined. ""The rape kit backlog is currently one of the main obstacles to prosecuting perpetrators of sexual violence. Some estimates show that the arrest rate is nearly three times higher when rape kits are tested. That's why I worked to include in the 2020 Federal Budget, $102 million to specifically help clear this backlog. ""Every untested rape kit represents a victim denied justice. Every tested rape kit represents that victim's hope for justice. This new funding should provide that hope for many more victims. ""If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please reach out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE. Help is available to you today.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/answering-the-call-fighting-a-phony-impeachment,Answering the Call Fighting a Phony Impeachment,2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"This year Democrats finally did what they have wanted to do since November 2016 move to impeach President Donald Trump. This plan was politically motivated from the beginning, and I decided to lead the fight against it. This initial investigation into Donald Trump should never have begun in the first place. During the Obama Presidency, partisan government officials abused their power and used a phony dossier paid for by Democrat political operatives to justify the investigation. How could they run a phony investigation into then-candidate Trump while giving Secretary Hillary Clinton a pass on her many clear violations of the law? I introduced a bill called the Investigate the Investigators Act to get the answers the American people deserve. This bill would enable the Department of Justice to determine what President Obama and his Administration knew and when they knew it and why numerous questionable decisions were made in 2016 and beyond. As expected, Pelosi had no interest in bringing to light answers that could undermine her impeachment scheme. One of the key facets of her plan was to hold proceedings in the House Intelligence Committee instead of the Judiciary Committee. The Intelligence Committee is one of the House's smallest committees, where the Speaker essentially handpicks its members. Pelosi had a ready-made impeachment team loyal to her, led by Chairman Adam Schiff. Another characteristic of the Intelligence Committee is that it often examines classified material and has wide latitude to hold secret hearings to protect classified information. Schiff and Pelosi abused this to hold hearings in a classified meeting room called a SCIF, deep in the basement of the Capitol where the public and press could not access the facts. Even though the information they reviewed was not classified, the public was kept out. Several of my colleagues and I had enough. We entered the SCIF to observe the proceedings as we should be entitled to do as the people's representatives. Amazingly, Adam Schiff shut down the hearings. But we kept up the pressure. Eventually Democrats agreed to release their secret transcripts. Let's not forget what started this whole Ukraine mess Hunter Biden's shady foreign business dealings. While Hunter's dad, Joe, was Vice President of the United States, Hunter was making lucrative deals in countries like Ukraine and China. In Ukraine, where his dad was leading U.S. foreign policy efforts, Hunter was serving on the board of a sketchy energy company called Burisma Holdings. In the past, Joe Biden has bragged openly about successfully pressuring the Ukrainian government to remove Ukraine's top prosecutor or risk losing United States assistance. That same prosecutor was allegedly investigating Burisma, the company on whose board Hunter Biden sat at the time! President Trump recognized the importance of rooting out corruption in a country to which we give millions of dollars in foreign aid, and he was totally justified in being skeptical of a new administration in a notoriously corrupt country. If the same facts in the Biden case occurred with someone named Trump or Byrne, Democrats would have already launched a full-scale investigation. I decided to expose this hypocrisy. In October, I introduced a House resolution calling for an investigation into the Bidens' shady business dealings. Democrats will not consider it. The fact that they are continuing their sham Trump investigation while ignoring the real Biden scandal reveals their political motivations. Throughout this investigation, I've continued to lead the charge against Democrats' phony charges and hypocrisy. Democrats will not let up working to remove President Trump from office, even after he is acquitted by the Senate. You can rest assured I will continue to be a strong leader in the fight to protect President Trump.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-introduces-bill-to-fight-drug-cartels,Byrne Introduces Bill To Fight Drug Cartels,2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL), along with Congressman Mike Gallagher (R-WI), has introduced the Significant Transnational Criminal Organization Designation Act. This bill would create a new designation, Significant Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs), which has more stringent sanctions than the current transnational criminal organization designation. The penalties for Significant TCOs would mirror many of the penalties for entities designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), including sanctions on organization members and their families, travel restrictions, and increased penalties for US citizens who grant them material assistance. Click here for text of the bill. Congressman Byrne said: We should not have to tolerate transnational criminal organizations exporting drugs and violence into our country. This bill will enhance our ability to come after these groups and keep our communities and citizens safe at home and abroad. Congress should rally behind this effort and show these groups that there are severe consequences for their actions. Congressman Gallagher said: Recent cartel-related violence in Mexico has demonstrated that whatever we're doing to combat these thugs isn't working. Enough is enough. This bill gives the administration the tools it needs to go after significant transnational criminal organizations and ensure they face maximum pressure under the law. The Significant Transnational Criminal Organization Designation Act: Enables the federal government to impose sanctions on designated Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs), including: Barring organization members and their immediate families from admission into the United States, Freezing assets, and Seeking civil and criminal penalties against individuals providing material assistance or resources to the organization. Requires the President to submit a report to Congress detailing the government's findings from the November 4, 2019 attack on U.S. cities in northern Mexico, including whether the organization responsible should be designated as a Significant TCO Co-sponsors of this bill include: Mark Walker (R-NC) Matt Gaetz (R-FL) Doug Lamborn (R-CO) Lance Gooden (R-TX) Bob Gibbs (R-OH) Randy Webber (R-TX) Michael Cloud (R-TX) Denver Riggleman (R-VA) Ron Wright (R-TX) John Rutherford (R-FL) Rick Crawford (R-AR) French Hill (R-AR) Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) has introduced the Senate version of this bill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/columns/supporting-our-military,Supporting Our Military,2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"This past week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 with a vote of 377-48. This annual bill authorizes the various military programs and defense activities in the Department of Defense. It does not provide budget authority, which will be provided in future legislation. The United States Armed Forces are the world's most powerful military. It is imperative for our country's national security and the performance of our military that Congress provide ample support for our defense. This bill allows us to make progress toward increasing the strength and agility of our military. The FY 2020 NDAA bill provides a 3.1 percent pay raise to our troops, which is the largest pay increase in a decade. The bill will also establish the U.S. Space Force as the sixth branch of the military within the U.S. Air Force. As a representative in the U.S. Congress, it is my duty to be a voice for my constituents in Southeast Alabama, and supporting our military is one of my top priorities. The Second Congressional District is home to two of our nation's finest military installations Fort Rucker in the Wiregrass and Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery. Not only do we have a strong defense industry in the Second District, but the state of Alabama's military footprint is largely significant as well. Several servicemembers and active duty military families reside in our District, so it is vitally important that I commit my support to them. Their sacrifice and dedication to keeping our country safe must never be forgotten. By representing these men and women, I know the extreme importance of providing the members of our military with the best resources possible to ensure they are fit for whatever challenges they may face. From my first day in Congress until my last, I will continue to fight for sufficient military funding to safeguard the security of our nation. Providing for our common defense is a fundamental duty of the Congress as laid out in the Constitution. I am proud to have voted in favor of this critical piece of legislation. The decisions and votes I cast in Congress express the overall voice of our District, and I will always advocate for proper support of our nation's defense. By supporting this bill, I believe I am doing what's right by the servicemembers of the Second District. It is truly an honor to represent the remarkable servicemembers and veterans of my constituency. I am thankful for the opportunity to have this unique platform to fight for these men and women who selflessly dedicate themselves to defend and protect our nation.Thank you to all of our men and women in uniform. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/roby-comments-articles-impeachment,Roby Comments on Articles of Impeachment,2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) made comments this week during the House Judiciary Committee's markup of H. Res. 755, the articles of impeachment against President Trump. The articles of impeachment before us in this Committee do not meet the necessary requirements nor have they followed an exhaustive pursuit to even find all of the facts of the case, Representative Roby said. The American people deserve a process that puts politics aside. The American people deserve a process that is led by our promise to protect and defend the Constitution. The American people simply deserve better. Members of the Judiciary Committee offered amendments to the articles throughout the debate, and both articles of impeachment were reported out of the Committee with a partisan vote of 23-17. Next week, the House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on the articles of impeachment. The full text of Representative Roby's speech is below. I have made clear how woefully incomplete this process has been, how the Minority's right to a hearing has been completely disregarded, how no fact witnesses were called before us, and how staff questioning staff to get the truth was bizarre. No matter what any Member on this side says here tonight, the Majority will unanimously vote to send these articles of impeachment to the House Floor. However, I have a duty to continue to point out how flawed this process has been. All Members of Congress are required to take an oath of office at the beginning of every Congress. By taking this oath, we swearabove all else, to defend the Constitution of the United States. I have the distinct honor to represent the hardworking people of Southeast Alabama. They have placed their trust in me to represent their values and be their voice here in Congress. This revered and longstanding oath serves as a guiding principle for every decision I make as a Member of Congress. For the record, let me be clear: I believe in the rule of law. I believe that no person is above the law. I believe process is vital to this very institution. I have stated time and time again before this Committee: process matters. Without abiding by a framework that adheres to our Constitution, we are charting a course that does not follow our country's founding principles. Whether you identify as a Republican, Democrat, or Independent, whether you agree or disagree with a president's policies, whether you like or even dislike a president, the American people should feel cheated by what has taken place here. We sit here tonight without all the facts of the case because the Majority decided to conduct an incomplete and inadequate pursuit of the truth. Many questions remain. With the consequential decision of impeaching a president, it is our right and duty to the citizens of this country to properly use the powers of congressional oversight, to adjudicate impasses through the courts, and arrive at actual undisputed facts of a case that all Americans, regardless of ideology, can agree are truthful and honest. In the impeachment proceedings of President Nixon, the underlying facts of the case were undisputed. In the impeachment proceedings of President Clinton, the underlying facts of the case were undisputed. Here before us tonight, that is not the case. The articles of impeachment before us in this Committee do not meet the necessary requirements nor have they followed an exhaustive pursuit to even find all of the facts of the case. Therefore, the bar to impeach a sitting president of the United States has not been met. For the sake of our country and for the future trajectory of this body, I implore my colleagues to take a hard look at the course of this investigation. It has severely discounted the tenets of our democratic system. Tomorrow, we write history: a history that cannot be undone. A dangerous precedent will be set for future Majorities of this body. The American people deserve a process that puts politics aside. The American people deserve a process that is led by our promise to protect and defend the Constitution. The American people simply deserve better. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/alreportercom-bipartisan-ndaa-passes-house,ALREPORTER.COM: Bipartisan NDAA passes the House,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"102 South Court Street Suite 310 Florence, AL 35630 Phone: (256) 718-5155 Fax: (256) 718-5156",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/breitbartcom-exclusive-mo-brooks-agricultural-amnesty-attack-blue-collar,BREITBART.COM: ExclusiveMo Brooks: Agricultural Amnesty an 'Attack on Blue Collar Workers',2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"102 South Court Street Suite 310 Florence, AL 35630 Phone: (256) 718-5155 Fax: (256) 718-5156",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/breitbartcom-mo-brooks-obama-should-have-been-impeached-based-democrats,BREITBART.COM: Mo Brooks: Obama Should Have Been Impeached Based on Democrats Abuse of Power Standard,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"102 South Court Street Suite 310 Florence, AL 35630 Phone: (256) 718-5155 Fax: (256) 718-5156",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1786,Rogers Welcomes Constituents to Mornings with Mike,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"(WASHINGTON, DC)---Congressman Mike Rogers reminded folks today that he is holding weekly events when Congress is in session that are open to any constituents visiting Washington, D.C. Mornings with Mike events take place in Rogers' Washington office in the Rayburn House Office Building. The meetings offer East Alabamians a unique chance to meet with Congressman Rogers while enjoying coffee and donuts in his office. I want to remind anyone who will be visiting the DC-area to stop by for a cup of coffee. I have always had my offices open to everyone across the Third Congressional District, but these weekly events give folks the chance to come in and share their concerns and visit with my staff and me. I hope people will take advantage of them when in our nation's capital, Rogers said. The event is hosted in January on the last in-session morning of each week at 9:30 a.m. EDT in 2184 Rayburn. Anyone interested in attending should sign up on Mike's website to ensure enough coffee and donuts are ordered each week. The dates for the January meetings are: January 10th, 16th, 28th. Please visit https://mikerogers.house.gov/mornings-with-mike for more information, or call Rogers' Washington, D.C. office at 202.225.3261. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=1BB6F069-5862-4CD8-99E4-B6C58E28B432,"Shelby, Jones Honor Alabama Bicentennial With Senate Resolution",2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Doug Jones (D-Ala.) today introduced a Senate resolution recognizing and celebrating the 200th anniversary of the entry of Alabama into the Union as the 22nd state on December 14, 1819. This Saturday, December 14, 2019, will officially mark the 200th year of Alabama's statehood. The resolution honors the momentous occasion and the achievements of the Yellowhammer State. Alabama has transformed over the last 200 years, said Senator Shelby. Our state went from existing as a territory of farmland to being a major player in national defense, space exploration, manufacturing, medical research, and so on. I am honored to introduce this resolution commemorating Alabama's 200 years of statehood. What better time to remember our state's history and celebrate how much we have accomplished over the last two centuries. As we commemorate 200 years of Alabama history, we recognize that the history of our state is one of overcoming all odds in pursuit of the American dream, Senator Jones said. We honor and remember all the men and women who helped get us to where we are now, and recommit ourselves to each do our part to continue to move Alabama forward. The measure is expected to pass the full Senate unanimously. The celebration, known in the state as ALABAMA 200, is three-year effort to honor the people, places, and events that form Alabama's rich history. Throughout the bicentennial countdown, the commission has invested in schools and teachers, engaged in communities state-wide, and encouraged citizens and visitors to explore and learn more about the state. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/breitbartcom-mo-brooks-obstruction-congress-impeachment-article-pile-poop,BREITBART.COM: Mo Brooks: Obstruction of Congress Impeachment Article Is a 'Pile of Poop',2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"102 South Court Street Suite 310 Florence, AL 35630 Phone: (256) 718-5155 Fax: (256) 718-5156",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/c-spanorg-washington-journal-representative-mo-brooks-r-al-discusses,C-SPAN.ORG: Washington Journal: Representative Mo Brooks (R-AL) Discusses Impeachment and Afghanistan,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"102 South Court Street Suite 310 Florence, AL 35630 Phone: (256) 718-5155 Fax: (256) 718-5156",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/yellowhammernewscom-mo-brooks-obamas-attack-law-enforcement-tied-spike-0,YELLOWHAMMERNEWS.COM: Mo Brooks: Obama's attack on law enforcement tied to spike in police killed in the line of duty,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"102 South Court Street Suite 310 Florence, AL 35630 Phone: (256) 718-5155 Fax: (256) 718-5156",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/congressman-mo-brooks-fights-deadly-socialized-medicine-house-floor,Congressman Mo Brooks Fights Deadly Socialized Medicine in House Floor Speech,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Wednesday, in a House Floor speech, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) lambasted Socialist Democrats' drug pricing control bill, a Socialized medicine scheme that will result in worse health care at higher costs with longer waits and more dead Americans. Click on the above image or HERE for video of Congressman Brooks' speech Full text of Congressman Brooks' floor speech follows: Mr. Speaker, 106nearly halfof House Democrats have cosponsored the Socialist's Lower Drug Costs Now Act.[1] I will not mince words. Socialized medicine causes worse health care at higher costs with longer waits and more dead Americans. America must learn from countries that have experimented with Socialized medicine. Per Britain's Royal College of Surgeons, almost a quarter of a million people must wait more than six months SIX MONTHS to receive planned medical treatment from the National Health Service.[2] Worse yet, more than 36,000 Britons wait more than NINE MONTHS for medical care![3] The photo next to me was taken by a British mother outraged by the health care her ill son received.As this photo shows, her son was treated on a hospital floor! Do we want newborn babies kept in cardboard boxes like they are in Socialist Venezuela? Is that really what we want in America? I say NO! But that is exactly what America will get if Socialists have their way in this health care debate. Canada's Socialized medicine is no better. A 2016 survey by Canada's Fraser Institute found a median wait of 20 weeks almost FIVE MONTHS for [Quote] medically necessary [End Quote] treatments and procedures.[4] Britain's National Health Service data reveals that almost 25% of cancer patients don't start treatment on time despite urgent referrals from their primary care doctors.[5] Britain's politicians white-wash this deadly statistic by claiming treatment is [Quote] on time [End Quote] if it is given within 62 days of referral two months of referral. Such long wait periods for cancer treatment can be, and are, deadly! For example, 81% of British breast cancer patients live 5 years after diagnosis[6] compared to 89% for American breast cancer patients.[7] Stated differently, 8 of every 100 breast cancer patients who live in America would die in Britain's Socialized medicine system. Americans with prostate cancer have a 97% 5-year survival rate.[8] In Britain, it drops to 83%.[9] Stated differently, 14 of every 100 prostate cancer patients who live in America would die in Britain's Socialized medicine system. It is irresponsible and dangerous for America to copy Socialized medicine . . . yet that is exactly what Socialist Democrats want us to do. The House soon votes on a Socialist drug cost plan that gives the government control over drug pricing while suppressing the invention of life-saving drugs. For example, the Congressional Budget Office warns this legislation results in 15 fewer drugs in the next 10 years.[10] That's 15 drugs that help Americans live longer or more comfortably . . . gone because of Socialist Democrat wishful thinking. Mr. Speaker, socialized medicine is not the answer. Government price controls are not the answer. The answer is more free enterprise competition that forces health care providers and drug companies to provide their best products at their lowest prices . . . or go out of business. I urge the American people to not to fall prey to Socialists who promise taxpayer-funded government healthcare. I urge my colleagues to vote against this Socialist drug pricing scheme. Most importantly, I urge America to be wary of propaganda that claims Socialized medicine lowers healthcare costs or saves lives. Socialized medicine does neither. Remember the promise that ObamaCare will cut your health insurance premiums by $2,500 per year? That was false propaganda! Remember the promise that under ObamaCare you can keep your doctor and health insurance plans if you want? That was false propaganda! America, do your homework. Don't fall for the lies . . . again. Demand solutions that both lower costs and save lives! Why? Because your very life is at risk. Mr. Speaker, I yield back. ### [1] https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/3/cosponsors [2] https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/news-and-events/media-centre/press-releases/nhs-stats-march-2019/ [3] Id. [4] https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/health-care-wait-times-hit-20-weeks-in-2016-report-1.3171718 [5] https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-6808659/NHS-urgent-action-clear-hospitals-backlog.html [6] https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/research/articles/concord-2.htm [7] Id. [8] Id. [9] Id. [10] https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2019-10/hr3ltr.pdf",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/congressman-mo-brooks-votes-yes-compromise-defense-authorization-act,"Congressman Mo Brooks Votes ""Yes"" on Compromise Defense Authorization Act",2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCWednesday, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) voted Yes on the House-Senate Conference Report and compromise FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The compromise FY20 NDAA Conference Report passed the House 377-48. Congressman Brooks released the following statement: The FY20 NDAA House-Senate compromise bill is vastly superior to the original House version opposed by a bipartisan Senate and the White House. This compromise NDAAenhances America's national security by: authorizing $738 billion in defense funding; establishing the U.S. Space Force as a sixth Armed Service of the United States (which improves America's ability to acquire, operate, and defend space-based assets); adequately authorizing funding for the development of all three legs of the nuclear triad; reversing efforts to eliminate funding for the deployment of low-yield nuclear weapons; and, increasing funding for development of hypersonic weapons, directed energy weapons, and next-generation helicopters; to name a few. The FY20 NDAA House-Senate compromise bill improves the quality of life of America's servicemembers by: giving troops a 3.1% pay raise; phasing out the Widow's Tax; addressing the military housing crisis and requiring the services to establish a Tenant Bill of Rights; and, doubling the reimbursement amount for state licensure expenses for military spouses, who face unique career challenges when they move across state lines and often must pay substantial sums to requalify for nearly identical licenses. I am pleased by the success my office had in helping to successfully insert into the compromise NDAA the following provisions that are beneficial to America and Redstone Arsenal, including but not limited to: $38 million authorized for construction of an Aircraft and Flight Equipment Building on Redstone Arsenal; $40 million authorized for construction of a new air traffic control tower and airport terminal on Kwajalein Atoll; additional $161.6 million authorized for the Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (located on Redstone Arsenal) for hypersonic weapons development; additional $108 million authorized for the development of the Missile Defense Agency's Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor layer to detect and track hypersonic threats; additional $2.5 million authorized to develop next generation small satellites; additional $7 million authorized for new hypersonic weapons testing facilities; fully reverses the House Democrats' $50 million authorization cut to the Army Future Command's Assured Position, Navigation, and Timing Cross-functional Team's efforts to develop their Low Earth Orbit space architecture; and, additional $75 million authorized to develop Future Vertical Lift platforms. Perhaps as important as what's in the House-Senate NDAA is what is not in the bill. The bill does not cut border security funding. To be blunt, more Americans have died as a result of America's porous southern border than have been killed in any American military conflict, with the possible exceptions of World War II and the Civil War. Border security is national security. I'm pleased the House-Senate compromise NDAA doesn't hinder President Trump's ability to secure America's southern border and save American lives. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-defense-bill-a-victory-for-alabama-national-security,"Byrne: Defense Bill a Victory for Alabama, National Security",2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after voting for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) conference report which passed the House 377-48. Congressman Byrne said: This bipartisan bill is a huge win for our troops, national security, and Alabama. I applaud the conferees for removing House Democrats' numerous unrelated partisan wish list add-ons that prevented me from supporting the previously-passed House NDAA. Providing for the common defense is one of our most important duties in Congress, and it was time the Democrats stopped playing political games with our troops. This NDAA enables us to rebuild military readiness, allows for continued counter drug enforcement at our border, preserves President Trump's transgender troop ban, accelerates programs to counter Chinese and Russian aggression, and authorizes important bipartisan nuclear modernization programs. Importantly, this bill gives our troops a 3.1 percent pay raise, the largest increase in a decade, and repeals the widow's tax, a goal I've worked towards for many years. It also establishes the Space Force, a priority of President Trump's that is expected to bring high-paying jobs to Alabama. And I'm particularly pleased this bill maintains long-standing prohibitions on transferring detainees from Guantanamo Bay to the U.S. since my efforts to preserve this ban were blocked earlier in the year. With this bill's passage, we can continue President Trump's mission to rebuild our military might and arm our fighting men and women with the resources they need to combat threats around the globe. The NDAA contains many important benefits to Alabama: Authorizes one Guided Missile Frigate FFG(X) contract whichAustal will compete to build in Mobile, including language secured by Byrne reiterating and instructing that cost is a critical factor in the competition Supports the conversion of Expeditionary Fast Transport ships into medical ships at Austal's Mobile shipbuilding facility Authorizes $12 million for a new Army National Guard Readiness Center in Foley Authorizes $249.2 million for Stryker Combat Vehicle Lethality Upgradesto take place in Anniston Supports missile defense programs in Huntsville and Troy as well as cyber and hypersonic weapons advancements Authorizes $34 million for the Enlisted Transient Training Barracks at Fort McClellan Army National Guard Training Center in Anniston Authorizes $151.6 million for the Army's Future Vertical Lift Helicopter Modernization Program and the Future Long Range Assault Aircraftthat Bell Helicopter will compete to build in Ozark With House passage, the NDAA conference report now awaits a final Senate vote before going to the President's desk to be signed into law.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-remembers-officer-bill-clardy,Byrne Remembers Officer Bill Clardy,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) gave a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives today in memory of Huntsville Police Department Officer Bill Clardy. His prepared remarks are below: Congressman Byrnesaid:Mr. Speaker, I rise today with sadness in my heart to honor Officer Bill Clardy III of the Huntsville Police Department. Officer Clardy, a decorated 14-year veteran of the department who also served with distinction in the Iraq War, was tragically shot and killed recently during a drug investigation. Officer Clardy was assigned to a strategic counterdrug team called the STAC team, leading a task force of federal and local law enforcement agencies to make drug busts across north Alabama. Sadly, the Clardy family knows well the sacrifices of service. Officer Clardy's father, Billy Clardy, Jr., was killed in a car crash while on duty in 1978. We owe it to Officer Clardy not to forget him or his sacrifice. His reputation for service and for caring for his community is unmatched. He was a Huntsville hero and he is an American hero, and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts, prayers and support are with the Clardy family. We embrace you with our love, we offer you our support, and we pledge to you we will not forget his sacrifice.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1783,Rogers: Just More Examples of Unfair Partisanship,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rogers: Just More Examples of Unfair Partisanship Washington, December 11, 2019 (WASHINGTON, DC)Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement today after joining his colleagues on a letter to House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler requesting a minority hearing into the attempted coup against President Trump. The original request was made on December 4, 2019, but has yet to be addressed. The letter reads in part, The House rules do not afford you the ability to deny this request. Though scheduling is left to your discretion, when considering the unprecedented speed at which the majority is moving towards impeaching a duly elected president, a delay under these circumstances is tantamount to a denial of our right to a minority hearing. This is just another perfect example of how unfair and partisan this whole sham process has been. Shame on House Democrats for not following House rules and allowing the minority hearing, Rogers said. A minority hearing is in compliance with Clause 2(j)(1) of Rule XI. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1784,Report from Washington: The Season of Giving Across East Alabama,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"(WASHINGTON, D.C.) Each Christmas season, I like to highlight a few of the kind things folks across East Alabama are doing for others. Below is a small sample of ways our fellow Alabamians have cared for each other over the past year. In Clay County at Central High School, a teacher, Amanda East, gathered the school supplies that were going to be disposed of from the locker clean out. Those items are now set up to donate to students who need them. In Lee County, The Hallmark Channel is coming to Beauregard to present new homes to the 15 families who lost everything when the EF-4 tornado devastated the area. Hallmark will also serve residents a holiday meal at Providence Baptist Church with Santa and toys for the little ones too. In Calhoun County, Dara Murphy of Rosa Lee Boutique organized a White Bag Project for individuals to grab a white bag and fill it up for a child in need. They are also taking clothing and furniture to 20 families. In Lee, Macon and Tallapoosa Counties, Rep. Peeblin Warren assists 400 seniors with gift baskets. In Randolph County, the Roanoke Police Department is holding its annual toy drive to ensure local children get a Christmas gift. In Chambers County, the Christian Service Center collects food and toys to donate to families. In Montgomery County, Woodland United Methodist Church/Town of Pike Road distribute food. Pike Road and Central Alabama Health Care Systems also distribute hygiene items for local veterans. Reading these stories makes me proud to be from East Alabama. It is truly heartwarming to see our brothers and sisters across the Third District taking time to take care for someone who needs it most. May we carry this attitude of service to others all year long. Wishing you and your families a very Merry Christmas. Remember the reason for the season. Please sign up for my e-Newsletter and the Rogers' Roundup by visiting my recently launched new custom website at: www.mikerogers.house.gov. To stay up to date, follow any or all of my social platforms as well. You can like my Facebook page at facebook.com/CongressmanMikeDRogers, follow me on Twitter and Instagram using the handle @RepMikeRogersAL and subscribe to my YouTube page by visiting youtube.com/MikeRogersAL03.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1785,Rogers Hails House Passage of NDAA,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC)Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement today after the House passed the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. The NDAA establishes the U.S. Space Force in Title 10 as the sixth Armed Service of the United States, under the U.S. Air Force. This was a top priority not only for Rogers, but for President Trump and is the first new branch of the military since 1947. It also recognizes space as a warfighting domain and authorizes the transfer of Air Force personnel to the newly established Space Force. I was ecstatic that the project my friend Rep. Jim Cooper (D-TN) and I have been working on for several years is finally becoming a reality. This is an important step for our national security. Our adversaries are moving quickly in space and this new service will allow us to quickly realign our resources and efforts towards countering them. I am also pleased we continued the 58-year streak of passing a NDAA to ensure our military is fully funded. This year's NDAA includes many other significant policy provisions that are important not only to our national security, but also our brave men and women in uniform, Rogers said. This bill includes a 3.1 percent pay increase for our warfighters and doubles the reimbursement amount for state licensure expenses incurred by military spouses because of frequent moves. It also includes a three-year phased repeal of the Widow's Tax, a fix Rogers has long supported. The original House-passed NDAA, that every Republican opposed, included a number of open-border provisions that would have undermined our efforts to secure the Southwest border. I'm pleased Democrats dropped their unreasonable demands that would have tied President Trump's hands by limiting funding for the border wall and restricting the use of DoD assistance, Rogers added. Rogers serves as Ranking Member on the Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. Rogers also served as a conferee for the NDAA this year. -#-#-#-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/team-three-jefferson-county-students-wins-2019-congressional-app,Team of Three Jefferson County Students Wins 2019 Congressional App Challenge,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Gary J. Palmer,P000609,palmer.house.gov,palmer,https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"For Immediate Release Contact: Elizabeth Hance (202) 225-4921 Team of Three Jefferson County Students Wins 2019 Congressional App Challenge Birmingham, AL – Congressman Gary Palmer (AL-06) is pleased to announce Katsuki Chan, Viraj Kacker, and Aniket Pant as the winners of the 2019 Congressional App Challenge in Alabama's Sixth Congressional District. This contest provides a valuable opportunity for middle and high schoolers to develop their skills in computer coding, math, science, and related subjects by creating an original application. This year's winning team attends Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School, and their app is titled ""Famine Risk Index (FRI) Early Detection System."" ""I'm very impressed with Katsuki, Viraj, and Aniket's work for the App Challenge,"" Palmer said. ""They are incredibly talented and have created something valuable for humanitarian aid research that also shows ingenuity and user-friendliness. STEM skills are becoming more important every day and I'm confident these young men will go far. They should be proud of their hard work."" The FRI Early Detection System app is designed to map the relationship between drought and risk of famine in a given area. The system considers factors such as population density, vegetation data, rainfall, and more. Chan, Kacker, and Pant particularly sought to bring attention to famine and malnutrition risks in sub-Saharan Africa. Application submissions were judged by Mr. Steven Puckett of the University of North Alabama, Dr. Kathryn Lanier of Southern Research, and Mr. Kris Bishop of Integrated Legacy Solutions. The winning students will receive recognition certificates from Congressman Palmer and will have the chance to present their app at a coding fair in Washington, D.C. in the spring. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/yellowhammernewscom-mo-brooks-remembers-george-washington-carver-ahead,YELLOWHAMMERNEWS.COM: Mo Brooks remembers George Washington Carver ahead of Decatur historic marker unveiling,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"102 South Court Street Suite 310 Florence, AL 35630 Phone: (256) 718-5155 Fax: (256) 718-5156",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/congressman-mo-brooks-recognizes-george-washington-carvers-legacy-ahead,Congressman Mo Brooks Recognizes George Washington Carver's Legacy Ahead of Decatur Historic Marker Unveiling,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Tuesday, in a House Floor speech, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) recognized George Washington Carver's heroic, lasting legacy of scientific advancement and personal achievement made in the face of countless racist hurdles he had to overcome. The speech is a precursor to the George Washington Carver historic marker unveiling at the site of Carver School in Decatur, Alabama on January 5, 2020. Click on the above image or HERE for video of Congressman Brooks' speech Full text of Congressman Brooks' floor speech follows: Mr. Speaker, renowned Alabama educator, artist, and botanist George Washington Carver, like many Americans, overcame numerous obstacles to achieve greatness. Carver's contributions to science and agriculture made a huge impact that is still felt across the globe today. On January 5th of 2020, Alabama will unveil a historic marker honoring Dr. Carver at Decatur's Horizon School. Carver visited Decatur in 1935. Carver Elementary was named in his honor.[1] During his visit, Carver spoke to an audience of more than 1,000 Decatur residents.[2] In a letter to then Superintendent W.W. Henson after his visit, Carver Washington Carver wrote, The Carver School far exceeds my expectations. It is a most beautiful building and I hope that it will be able in every way to integrate itself into the up-building and the development of the splendid possibilities which lie all around you. Carver was deeply devoted to education. During the Civil War, George Washington Carver was born in Diamond Grove, Missouri.Shamefully, he was not allowed to attend public schools near his home because he was an African-American.[3] But that did not stop George Washington Carver.He was determined to get an education, so he enrolled at a school 10 miles away in Neosho, Missouri.[4] In Neosho, Carver was befriended by Mariah Watkins, from whom rented a room. Mariah Watkins advice to Carver was simple. You must learn all you can, then go back out into the world and give your learning back to the people.[5] Carver did just that. Disappointed in the quality of Neosho's school, Carver moved to Kansas and supported himself through a variety of occupations while he furthered his education as he could. After earning his high school diploma, he discovered opportunities for college for black men in Kansas were nonexistent. So, George Washington Carver majored in art at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa as their only black student.[6] Encouraged by his Simpson professors to focus on botany, Carver transferred to Iowa State, where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in science.[7] Thereafter, in April 1896, Booker T. Washington, recruited Carver to Tuskegee Institute's agriculture school in Alabama, where Carver taught and mentored generations of students for the next 47 years.[8] At Tuskegee, Carver developed revolutionary techniques to improve soils depleted by repeated plantings of cotton. Together with other agricultural experts, he urged farmers to restore nitrogen to their soils by practicing systematic crop rotation, alternating cotton crops with plantings of sweet potatoes or legumes (such as peanuts, soybeans and cowpeas).[9] While at Tuskegee, Carver trained farmers to successfully rotate and cultivate the new crops. Carver developed and established an agricultural extension program for all of Alabama.[10] Carver founded an industrial research laboratory, where he and assistants worked to popularize the new crops by developing hundreds of applications for them.[11] In 1916, Carver was made a member of the Royal Society of Arts in England, one of only a handful of Americans at that time to receive this honor.[12] The United Peanut Associations of America invited Carver to speak at their 1920 convention. He discussed ""The Possibilities of the Peanut"" and exhibited 145 peanut products.[13] Carver received the 1923 NAACP Spingarn Medal for outstanding achievement by an African American.[14] Before his death in 1943, Carver donated his life savings to establish the Carver Research Foundation at Tuskegee.[15] Carver was posthumously inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.[16] The George Washington Carver National Monument was the first national monument dedicated to a black American and the first to a non-president.[17] George Washington Carver left a lasting legacy on Alabama schools, and Alabama is proud to have been the home of this renowned scientific leader. Mr. Speaker, I yield back. ### [1] https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/alabama/articles/2019-09-29/historians-seek-marker-at-former-carver-school [2] Id. [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Washington_Carver [4] Id. [5] Abrams, Dennis (2008).George Washington Carver: Scientist and Educator. Chelsea House Publications. p.16.ISBN978-0791097175. [6] https://www.sciencehistory.org/historical-profile/george-washington-carver [7] Id. [8] Id. [9] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Washington_Carver [10] Id. [11] Id. [12] Id. [13] Id. [14] https://www.sciencehistory.org/historical-profile/george-washington-carver [15] https://www.britannica.com/biography/George-Washington-Carver [16] https://www.sciencehistory.org/historical-profile/george-washington-carver [17] Id.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-working-to-bring-more-gomesa-revenue-to-gulf-coast,Byrne Working to Bring More GOMESA Revenue to Gulf Coast,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) issued the following statement after cosponsoring the Domestic Offshore Energy Reinvestment Act of 2019, H.R. 3814, which would increase Alabama's share of qualified Outer Continental Shelf oil and gas revenues under the Gulf of Mexico Energy and Security Act (GOMESA) of 2006. Congressman Byrnesaid:Alabama's Gulf coast is a gem worth protecting, and the GOMESA funds we have received over the years have been indispensable for coastal restoration and hurricane preparedness. This legislation would bolster and expand those efforts by increasing Alabama's share of oil and gas revenue from federal waters. I thank my colleagues Cedric Richmond and Garret Graves for introducing this legislation to preserve and protect our coastal communities. I'll continue working to ensure coastal Alabama receives its share of oil and gas revenue. Under provisions in H.R. 3814, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas would split 50% of GOMESA revenues, up from 37.5%. The bill also eliminates the $500 million cap and includes leases that started in FY 2000, whereas right now GOMESA only covers leases beginning in FY 2006. The bill is pending before the House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources. Other cosponsors include Steve Scalise and Mike Johnson of Louisiana and Randy Weber of Texas. Byrne has a history of supporting GOMESA and fighting to protect GOMESA funds from being diverted from coastal areas.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1782,Rogers on Articles of Impeachment,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rogers on Articles of Impeachment Washington, December 10, 2019 (WASHINGTON, DC)Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement today after House Democrats unveiled two articles of impeachment. Nancy Pelosi and her Socialist horde are in the final stages of their planned coup against President Trump. The lies from Adam Schiff and Jerry Nadler form the basis of their treacherous claims. Their actions will be remembered in history as one of the greatest abuses of power in American history. Rogers serves as Ranking Member on the Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/empowering-alabama-with-education-opportunities,Empowering Alabama With Education Opportunities,2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Education is an amazing tool. It can transform the lives of both the young and old. A quality education empowers the powerless and provides opportunities in otherwise bleak circumstances. It can provide a path out of poverty. I think of Abraham Lincoln, who famously walked miles to borrow books from neighboring towns and farms. Despite being poor, he used what little money he made from farm chores and labor to buy candles. He spent many long nights reading books by dim candlelight to achieve the life he wanted for himself. Lincoln used his hard-earned education from dogeared textbooks and candlelight to become a country lawyer, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and President of the United States. Today he is remembered and revered as one of the greatest Americans of any generation. Of course, the absence of opportunity for a quality education can be devastating. Those without the means to be educated often have difficulty determining a pathway for a productive life. The temptation to fall into crime to escape can be strong, even overwhelming. I've seen these challenges firsthand in Alabama. As a former member of the Alabama Board of Education, I've discussed the downside of lack of quality education options with teachers and administrators, parents and students. These are not merely academic issues. They have a real, direct impact on lives. As chancellor of the Alabama Community College System, I saw what can happen when students get stuck in a system that does not prioritize the wellbeing of its students. Immediately upon taking over, I cracked down to remove corruption and install reform-minded leadership throughout our state. Many of those leaders are still in place, and our two-year and technical colleges are among the best in the nation. I'm proud to have played a role in ensuring the promise of a quality education to so many Alabamians who wanted the opportunity to gain a career and comfortably put food on their table through education. Offering that opportunity has been a passion throughout my career. That's why I was delighted when earlier this year the Trump Administration asked me to lead their school choice bill in the House. President Trump has prioritized empowering American students through education, and the opportunity to work with him and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos on such a critical issue was exciting. Working closely with Secretary DeVos and Senator Ted Cruz, who is carrying our legislation in the Senate, we developed the Education Freedom Scholarships and Opportunity Act. This bill creates a non-refundable federal tax credit for contributions from individuals and businesses to state-identified nonprofits called Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), a program that has already been used successfully in Alabama. The Education Freedom Scholarship and Opportunity Act also provides for the granting of scholarships to expand students' access to a variety of educational opportunities, from advanced or remedial courses to private and home schooling to career and technical education opportunities. The bottom line is this bill increases opportunities for families to make informed decisions that work for them and their individual needs. Importantly, our bill allows states to control their SGO programs, not the federal government. As someone who has spent a career in education, I can promise you that the more we allow education decisions to be made at the family and local level, the better off students will be. I'm thankful to President Trump for his trust in allowing me to shepherd his education legislative priority in the House, and I am hopeful that both parties can fully get behind this legislation to empower our students and their families to make the education decisions right for them. Working together, we can give students the educational opportunities they deserve. And they won't even have to study by candlelight.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-joins-president-trump-for-white-house-education-discussion,Byrne Joins President Trump for White House Education Discussion,2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL), a member of the House Education and Labor Committee, issued the following statement after participating in an educational choice roundtable discussion at the White House with President Donald Trump. Other participants included Vice President Mike Pence, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, and Senator Ted Cruz. Congressman Byrnesaid:I thank President Trump for his trust in me to lead his school choice bill in the House. Every student deserves a high quality education, and President Trump is making great progress towards improving our education system by putting American students first. No student deserves to be locked into a poor education outcome, and expanding education choices and freedom through this new tax credit will go far towards removing roadblocks to quality education. This bill should have bipartisan support, and I pledge to continue working with Secretary Devos and Senator Cruz to get it passed and signed into law by President Trump. President Trump invited Byrne to the roundtable to discuss the Education Freedom Scholarships and Opportunity Act that he introduced earlier this year with the support of the Trump Administration. H.R. 1434 would give students and parents in Alabama and around the country the freedom they deserve to make educational decisions that are right for them by building upon the Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) model already used successfully in Alabama. Congressman Byrne developed this legislation with Secretary Devos and Senator Cruz to respond to the President's call for increased school choice in his State of the Union Address. H.R. 1434 has 85 cosponsors in the House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-on-ig-report-government-bureaucrats-abused-power-to-harm-trump,Byrne on IG Report: Government Bureaucrats Abused Power to Harm Trump,2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) issued the following statement after the Department of Justice (DOJ) Investigator General's (IG) report was released today. Congressman Byrnesaid:Today's IG report makes it clear that the FBI, under James Comey's leadership, seriously abused the federal government's FISA power to spy on the campaign of Donald Trump. This flagrant abuse of the very system designed to protect the Constitutional rights of Americans against a candidate for our nation's highest office should be deeply troubling to all Americans. As I have advocated for months, we must investigate the investigators and institute new rules and a new process to prevent this abuse from ever happening again. Rather than wasting time on meaningless, partisan impeachment hearings, Jerry Nadler and Adam Schiff should summon Inspector General Horowitz to testify tomorrow to begin the process of enacting new protections against political abuse at the FBI. Byrne introduced the Investigate the Investigators Act earlier this year calling for a formal Department of Justice investigation into all the actions taken during the 2016 presidential election as it relates to federal investigations regarding President Trump and Secretary Clinton. The legislation also requires an automatic and independent oversight investigation anytime an investigation of a federal political campaign is opened by the DOJ in the future.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/alabama-daily-news-roby-honored-service-agriculture-award,Alabama Daily News: Roby honored with service to agriculture award,2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Martha Roby on Sunday was given the Alabama Farmers Federation's highest honor the Service to Agriculture Award for being a champion for farmers since she was first elected to Congress in 2010. The presentation was part of the opening sessionof the Federation's 98th annual meeting, which brought nearly 1,400 farmers to Montgomery Dec. 8-9. Roby, who is not seeking reelection to a sixth term in the U.S. House, played a role in writing two farm bills as a member of the House Agriculture Committee, and also saw farm programs funded as a member of the House Appropriations Committee. Federation President Jimmy Parnell said Roby's grit and determination ensured farmers weren't forgotten by other leaders in Washington and earned her the respect of agricultural leaders at home and in Congress. She enjoys a reputation as an outspoken proponent of conservative, Christian values that mirror those of her constituents in Alabama's 2nd Congressional District. Her work as a former member of the House Committee on Agriculture played a pivotal role in passing the 2014 and 2018 farm bills, Parnell said. Mitt Walker, who runs point in Washington as the Federation's National Affairs Director, went further to praise Roby on both a professional and personal level. In working on two farm bills, Congressman Roby was a strong advocate for the peanut program, seed cotton and catfish inspection, Walker said. She was also a staunch supporter of eliminating rules and regulations that hampered farmers and landowners in her district and across the state. On a personal note, Rep. Roby is one of the most genuine and compassionate people I have ever had the privilege to work with. Roby said she was honored by the award, but considered the work on behalf agriculture part part of ther job. Since agriculture and forestry are the largest employers in the district and in our state, I take the role as the farmers' advocate very seriously. I have prioritized spending time with farmers over the years. Whether it was standing in a peanut field or meeting with farmers after a disaster, what they have to say is important to me, Roby said. Roby also said she benefited greatly from having direct and lasting relationships with the farming community. I'm extremely grateful for the time and effort you have all invested in me over the years. Without your input, I could not have effectively done this job. Serving the people of Alabama's Second Congressional District is one of my highest honors. Although my time in Washington is coming to a close, I look forward to continuing to build relationships with members of the agriculture community throughout the state.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-statement-on-shooting-at-nas-pensacola,Byrne Statement on Shooting at NAS Pensacola,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) issued the following statement after today's shooting at NAS Pensacola. Congressman Byrnesaid:Rebecca and I offer our heartfelt condolences to all of those impacted by today's terrible act of violence in Pensacola. We owe our gratitude to the medical and law enforcement professionals whose bravery and quick response prevented further lives from being taken. While we continue the critical process of gathering the facts behind this cowardly act, let's join together in offering our full support to all the victims and their loved ones.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1781,Rogers: Senators Running for President Must Recuse Themselves from Impeachment Trial,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rogers: Senators Running for President Must Recuse Themselves from Impeachment Trial Washington, December 6, 2019 (WASHINGTON, DC) Congressman Mike Rogers announced today he was cosponsoring his colleague Congressman Jason Smith's (R-MO) legislation urging the Senate to change its rules on impeachment by requiring sitting U.S. Senators running for president to recuse themselves from an impeachment trial. This is just common-sense and fair. Clearly, none of the Democrats running for president will be impartial during an impeachment trial and they will all use their involvement in the trial to ramp up their campaigns. As unfair as the House witch hunt has been all along, I am hopeful the upper chamber will be just in their treatment of President Trump, Rogers said. Rogers serves as Ranking Member on the Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/columns/celebrating-200-years-alabama,Celebrating 200 Years of Alabama,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"For many, December 14 will be just another day to cross off the calendar; it's another day closer to the holidays and the new year. For Alabamians, it marks one of the greatest celebrations to date in the history of our state. On December 14, 1819, Alabama was incorporated into the Union as the nation's twenty-second state. From North Alabama all the way down to the Wiregrass, Alabamians join together to commemorate the 200th anniversary of statehood to honor the beloved place we call home. There are many incredible stories to be told about the historical impact made by our fellow Alabamians. The state has deep roots in our nation's history. Many Alabama natives, some temporary and some permanent, were involved in critical turning points in American history. Alabama emerged as the center of the American Civil Rights Movement half a century ago and was home to pivotal events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Ms. Rosa Parks, a civil rights activist and Montgomery native, is widely known as the first lady of civil rights. Montgomery leaders recently unveiled a statue in downtown Montgomery recognizing Rosa Parks for her bravery and to serve as a reminder for future generations to continue down a path of righteousness. Ms. Parks' actions changed the course of history, and her legacy will be remembered forever. Atlanta native Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., served as a pastor at Montgomery's Dexter Avenue Baptist Church and led the fight for equal rights. Parks and Dr. King represent faces of courage, strength, and equality for all. History changed right on our very own Alabama soil. Not only is our state widely known for central moments in history, but we are also globally recognized for our presence in industries that are vital components to the success of our country. The agriculture industry is the state's largest industry and is the largest employer in the Second Congressional District. Our state is home to thousands of acres of fertile farmland. Approximately half of the peanuts grown in the United States are cultivated within a 100-mile radius of the city of Dothan, also known as the Peanut Capital of the World. Additionally, Alabama plays an integral role in the aerospace and defense industries with these two industries contributing to over 60,000 jobs in the state. North Alabama is home to NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Redstone Arsenal, and the Anniston Army Depot, while Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base and Fort Rucker are located across the southern region of the state. These are just a few examples of the incredible, rich history that our state has to offer, and I wish I could include them all. One initiative that does honor each of these milestones is ALABAMA 200 which was designed to celebrate the people, places, and history of the state over a three-year time span. Beginning in 2017 and culminating with the state's 200th birthday in 2019, ALABAMA 200 curated events and activities across all 67 counties to engage with Alabamians far and wide. Teachers, students, organizations, and local leaders are among those included in these exciting events bringing local community residents and even visitors together. On Saturday, December 14, the state will participate in a finale commemoration in the Capital City. It will be the largest birthday celebration the people of Alabama have seen, and it is a unique and special opportunity to gather and honor the history and people that make the state of Alabama great. I am extremely excited to join the people of Alabama to celebrate our state's history. If you are able, I highly encourage you and your family to attend the events of the ALABAMA 200 finale celebration. There is no better way to pay tribute to the state we each hold so close to our hearts than by gathering in the Capital City to praise our great state. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/usda-invests-623-million-rural-broadband-infrastructure-alabama,USDA Invests $62.3 Million in Rural Broadband Infrastructure for Alabama Families,2019-12-05,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"HAMILTON, Ala., Dec. 5, 2019 – Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Donald ""DJ"" LaVoy announced USDA has invested $62.3 million in high-speed broadband infrastructure that will create or improve e-Connectivity for more than 8,000 rural households, 57 farms, 44 businesses, 17 educational facilities, 14 critical community facilities and three health care facilities in rural Alabama. This is one of many funding announcements in the first round of USDA's ReConnect Pilot Program investments. ""Beyond connecting us to our friends and family, high-speed broadband internet connectivity, or e-Connectivity, is a necessity, not an amenity, to do business, access opportunities in education and receive specialized health care in rural America today,"" LaVoy said. ""Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural communities in deploying this critical infrastructure, because we know when rural America thrives, all of America thrives."" Congressman Robert Aderholt added, ""When the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee created the Re-Connect program back in 2018 under my leadership, our goal was to help expand broadband to rural areas and help close the ‘digital divide' that isolates so many parts of rural America. I believed then, and continue to believe now, that the expansion, maintenance and upgrading of broadband service should be of highest priority. This program is beginning to pay dividends in rural Alabama and America. I want to thank the men and women of the United States Department of Agriculture and, of course, Secretary Perdue, for sharing this goal of expanding access."" Tombigbee Electric Cooperative, Inc. will use a $29.5 million 50 percent loan-grant combination to develop an All-Dielectric Self-Supporting (ADSS) fiber network in unserved areas of Marion, Lamar, Fayette, Franklin, Winston and Walker counties. This investment is expected to reach 2,152 households, 20 farms, 15 businesses, 10 critical community facilities, five educational facilities and one health care facility. Millry Telephone Company, Inc. will use a $28.2 million 50 percent loan-grant combination to develop a fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network in Choctaw and Washington counties. This investment is expected to reach 3,797 households, 20 farms, 15 businesses, 11 educational facilities, four critical community facilities and two health care centers. Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative, Inc. will use a $2 million loan to develop a FTTH network in Jackson and DeKalb counties. This investment is expected to reach 1,676 homes and one educational facility. National Telephone of Alabama, Inc. will use a $2.7 million 50 percent loan-grant combination to develop a fiber-to-the premises (FTTP) network in Colbert County. This investment is expected to reach 378 rural households, 17 farms and 14 businesses. Background: In March 2018, Congress provided $600 million to USDA to expand broadband infrastructure and services in rural America. On Dec. 13, 2018, Secretary Perdue announced the rules of the program, called ""ReConnect,"" including how the loans and grants will be awarded to help build broadband infrastructure in rural America. USDA received 146 applications between May 31, 2019, and July 12, 2019, requesting $1.4 billion in funding across all three ReConnect Program funding products: 100 percent loan, 100 percent grant, and loan-grant combinations. USDA is reviewing applications and announcing approved projects on a rolling basis. Additional investments in all three categories will be made in the coming weeks. These grants, loans and combination funds enable the federal government to partner with the private sector and rural communities to build modern broadband infrastructure in areas with insufficient internet service. Insufficient service is defined as connection speeds of less than 10 megabits per second (Mbps) download and 1 Mbps upload. In April 2017, President Donald J. Trump established the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity to identify legislative, regulatory and policy changes that could promote agriculture and prosperity in rural communities. In January 2018, Secretary Perdue presented the Task Force's findings to President Trump. These findings included 31 recommendations to align the federal government with state, local and tribal governments to take advantage of opportunities that exist in rural America. Increasing investments in rural infrastructure is a key recommendation of the task force. To view the report in its entirety, please view the Report to the President of the United States from the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity (PDF, 5.4 MB). In addition, to view the categories of the recommendations, please view the Rural Prosperity infographic (PDF, 190 KB). USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/usda-invests-623-million-rural-broadband-infrastructure-alabama-families,USDA Invests $62.3 Million in Rural Broadband Infrastructure for Alabama Families,2019-12-05,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,,,legacy,"HAMILTON, Ala., Dec. 5, 2019 Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Donald DJ LaVoy announced USDA has invested $62.3 million in high-speed broadband infrastructure that will create or improve e-Connectivity for more than 8,000 rural households, 57 farms, 44 businesses, 17 educational facilities, 14 critical community facilities and three health care facilities in rural Alabama. This is one of many funding announcements in the first round of USDA's ReConnect Pilot Program investments. Beyond connecting us to our friends and family, high-speed broadband internet connectivity, or e-Connectivity, is a necessity, not an amenity, to do business, access opportunities in education and receive specialized health care in rural America today, LaVoy said. Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural communities in deploying this critical infrastructure, because we know when rural America thrives, all of America thrives. Congressman Robert Aderholt added, When the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee created the Re-Connect program back in 2018 under my leadership, our goal was to help expand broadband to rural areas and help close the digital divide' that isolates so many parts of rural America. I believed then, and continue to believe now, that the expansion, maintenance and upgrading of broadband service should be of highest priority. This program is beginning to pay dividends in rural Alabama and America. I want to thank the men and women of the United States Department of Agriculture and, of course, Secretary Perdue, for sharing this goal of expanding access. Tombigbee Electric Cooperative, Inc. will use a $29.5 million 50 percent loan-grant combination to develop an All-Dielectric Self-Supporting (ADSS) fiber network in unserved areas of Marion, Lamar, Fayette, Franklin, Winston and Walker counties. This investment is expected to reach 2,152 households, 20 farms, 15 businesses, 10 critical community facilities, five educational facilities and one health care facility. Millry Telephone Company, Inc. will use a $28.2 million 50 percent loan-grant combination to develop a fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network in Choctaw and Washington counties. This investment is expected to reach 3,797 households, 20 farms, 15 businesses, 11 educational facilities, four critical community facilities and two health care centers. Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative, Inc. will use a $2 million loan to develop a FTTH network in Jackson and DeKalb counties. This investment is expected to reach 1,676 homes and one educational facility. National Telephone of Alabama, Inc. will use a $2.7 million 50 percent loan-grant combination to develop a fiber-to-the premises (FTTP) network in Colbert County. This investment is expected to reach 378 rural households, 17 farms and 14 businesses. Background: In March 2018, Congress provided $600 million to USDA to expand broadband infrastructure and services in rural America. On Dec. 13, 2018, Secretary Perdue announced the rules of the program, called ReConnect, including how the loans and grants will be awarded to help build broadband infrastructure in rural America. USDA received 146 applications between May 31, 2019, and July 12, 2019, requesting $1.4 billion in funding across all three ReConnect Program funding products: 100 percent loan, 100 percent grant, and loan-grant combinations. USDA is reviewing applications and announcing approved projects on a rolling basis. Additional investments in all three categories will be made in the coming weeks. These grants, loans and combination funds enable the federal government to partner with the private sector and rural communities to build modern broadband infrastructure in areas with insufficient internet service. Insufficient service is defined as connection speeds of less than 10 megabits per second (Mbps) download and 1 Mbps upload. In April 2017, President Donald J. Trump established the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity to identify legislative, regulatory and policy changes that could promote agriculture and prosperity in rural communities. In January 2018, Secretary Perdue presented the Task Force's findings to President Trump. These findings included 31 recommendations to align the federal government with state, local and tribal governments to take advantage of opportunities that exist in rural America. Increasing investments in rural infrastructure is a key recommendation of the task force. To view the report in its entirety, please view the Report to the President of the United States from the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity (PDF, 5.4 MB). In addition, to view the categories of the recommendations, please view the Rural Prosperity infographic (PDF, 190 KB). USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-applauds-usda-grant-for-rural-alabama-broadband,Byrne Applauds USDA Grant for Rural Alabama Broadband,2019-12-05,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) released the following statement applauding the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) announcement in Hamilton, Alabama of a $62.3 million investment in high-speed broadband infrastructure that will create or improve e-Connectivity for more than 8,000 rural households, 57 farms, 44 businesses, 17 educational facilities, 14 critical community facilities and three health care facilities in rural Alabama. Byrne said: Today's announcement is fantastic news for Alabama. This significant investment from USDA of $62.3 million in high-speed broadband infrastructure across rural Alabama is critical for economic development, education, healthcare, and quality of life in our state. Thank you President Trump for your ongoing commitment to improving the lives of rural Alabamians. I also offer my appreciation to Secretary Sonny Perdue for his partnership and support of rural Alabama and to my friend and colleague Rep. Robert Aderholt for his leadership on the Re-Connect grant program. Together with this Administration we are doing great things for rural America. This USDA Rural Development investment will be used to deploy a fiber-to-the-premise (FTTP) network that can guarantee quality of service and reliably deliver high-speed Internet, real-time streaming, voice over IP (VOIP), and Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) for residents in rural Alabama, many in unserved areas. USDA awarded a loan of $14,097,834 and a grant of $14,097,834 to Millry Communications; a loan of $14,747,626 and a grant of $14,747,626 to Tombigbee Electric Cooperative; a loan of $1,336,455 and a grant of $1,336,455 to National Telephone of Alabama; and a loan of $1,999,439 to Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1780,Rogers: Pelosi Proceeding with Partisan Coup Attempt Against Trump,2019-12-05,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rogers: Pelosi Proceeding with Partisan Coup Attempt Against Trump Washington, December 5, 2019 (WASHINGTON, DC)Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement today after Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced the decision to proceed with articles of impeachment.Even after all of Adam Schiff's disastrous lies to the American people, Speaker Pelosi has decided to proceed with the partisan coup attempt against President Trump. The Democrats in Congress should be ashamed of themselves. They are using impeachment as means to try and nullify the 2016 election and erase the votes of almost 63 million Americans just because of their pathetic hatred of our president. In her statement, Speaker Pelosi cited our Founding Fathers and declared no one is above the law. I am curious if she ever asked that question about Hillary Clinton or Joe Biden? Instead of working on behalf of the American people by passing a bipartisan Defense Authorization bill, USMCA or a full year spending bill, Nancy Pelosi has fully surrendered all control of the House to the Socialist horde running the Democratic Party. Their shameful action today casts a stain on our Constitution. The American people will remember their despicable behavior next November. I will continue to stand and defend President Trump. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/congressman-mo-brooks-praises-trump-administration-rule-requiring-able,Congressman Mo Brooks Praises Trump Administration Rule Requiring Able-bodied Adults Work Before Getting Food Stamps,2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Wednesday, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) praised the Trump Administration for today announcing a final rule that bars able-bodied adults from receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (commonly known as food stamps). Congressman Brooks said, America suffered a $984 billion deficit in FY 2019. America's accumulated debt has blown through the $23 trillion mark. Every financial guru Congress employs warns that our current financial path is unsustainable and that, as a result, America increasingly risks a debilitating national insolvency and bankruptcy. Brooks concluded, It is wrong to let slackers take roughly $70 billion per year from hard working taxpayers who need that money for their own needs. With unemployment at record lows, with 7 million available job openings, work opportunities are abundant. Able-bodied adults should never be allowed to vote for a living rather than work for one. As such, I fully support the Trump Administration's efforts to bar able-bodied, working age Americans from receiving food stamps, SNAP, or any other food benefits they can and should be paying for with money they earn themselves. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-cost-of-educating-illegal-immigrants-harms-alabama-students,Byrne: Cost of Educating Illegal Immigrants Harms Alabama Students,2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) spoke today during an Education and Labor Committee hearing Democrats called Growing Up in Fear: How the Trump Administration's Immigration Policies Are Harming Children. After stumping the Democrat witnesses on the costs of illegal immigration to our schools, Congressman Byrne criticized the Democrats for attacking President Trump for enforcing immigration laws without asking about the cost of failing to enforce the law. Byrne's line of questioning highlighted that these costs are borne by states and local school systems and ultimately harm students who are being denied access to quality taxpayer-funded programs. His full remarks are below. Congressman Byrne said: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In 2016, the Pew Research Center estimated that 3.9 million or 7.3% of kindergarten through 12th grade students in the United States were either here illegally or were the children of at least one parent illegally present in the United States. Can anyone tell me how much we spend on public education for that population of students? It's around $60 billion. A significant and increasing percentage of these costs represent remedial English education, required by the federal government for students designated as Limited English Proficiency or LEP. In 2016, it was estimated that 9.6% of all students and 17% of kindergarten students were now designated as LEP. Educating those students is expensive. By some estimations, we are spending $59 billion just on ESL and other programs to help children with English language deficiency. Can anyone tell me what percentage of teachers in the United States are certified or trained in ESL? It's about 1 percent. How about what percentage of ESL Programs are paid for by the federal government that requires them? Just over 1 percent. Who pays for the rest? States and local school systems! So, we require it and we push 99 percent of the costs on state and local school systems. That costs a lot of money for these state and local school systems. Many of them like my state of Alabama just don't have it. But because the federal government requires it, they have to put that money in there to the detriment of other programs. At least 13 states spend over $1 billion per year on limited English proficiency programs in public schools. Earlier this year, this committee found that there is a $46 billion public school infrastructure shortfall. Accounting for inflation, teacher salaries are down 1.6 percent since 2000. Classroom sizes are growing. Resources for students are shrinking. It is amazing we are here to talk about How the Trump Administration's Immigration Policies Are Harming Children' but we never, never talk about how illegal immigration is harming our students, teachers, and communities. People who are here legally are being harmed by this. The federal government has mandated that we provide public education to the children of illegal immigrants, but we don't pay for it! States and local school districts do! How is that fair? How is that right that we make the requirement here at the federal government and we put up 1 percent of the cost? I'm a former state school board member in Alabama. I have sat across from teachers and superintendents and talked to them about this issue. Dollars that our schools have, they are not unlimited. The states don't print money like we do here in Washington. They have requirements that they balance their budgets. Coming up with the money to fund these K-12 education programs around the country is extremely difficult. So, I think if we are going to sit here and criticize the President for enforcing the law, we need to also think about the cost of not enforcing the law. That cost is not being borne by those of us in Washington. It's being borne by men and women and the states and local school systems around the United States of America. But really the cost is being borne by children who are being denied the programs that they should have. Children who are citizens of the United States, whose parents are citizens of the United States, they're being denied programs because we're forcing their state and local school systems to take on an expense that we should be taking on because we've failed to enforce our own laws. With that, I yield back. Byrne has been a staunch supporter of President Trump's immigration policies. He visited the U.S.-Mexico border earlier this year to see the crisis firsthand and the progress President Trump's policies are making. Click here for a video of Congressman Byrne's questions and remarks before the Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=BAB72AB4-AE1E-41C4-ABA8-F45524AAFE90,Shelby Applauds Austin Huffakers Confirmation as U.S. District Judge in Alabama,2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today announced that Austin Huffaker of Montgomery, Alabama, has been confirmed by a Senate vote of 89-4 to be a U.S. District Judge for the Middle District of Alabama. Huffaker was nominated for the federal judgeship by President Trump in July 2019. Following his nomination, he appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee for consideration and was reported out of the committee with bipartisan support. Today the Senate confirmed Austin Huffaker's nomination to be a district judge for the Middle District of Alabama, which is great news for Alabama and our nation's federal judiciary, said Senator Shelby. Austin is well respected in the community, and I know that he will uphold the rule of law with the utmost integrity and honor. I was proud to support his nomination and believe that he is the ideal candidate to serve in this prestigious position. Austin Huffaker is currently a shareholder at Rushton, Stakely, Johnston & Garrett, P.A, where his practice focuses on complex commercial, product and lender liability, and professional malpractice litigation. Mr. Huffaker serves as a Commissioner of the Alabama Securities Commission and a member of the Alabama Civil Jury Charge Committee. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering degree, cum laude, from Vanderbilt University and his Juris Doctorate, magna cum laude, from the University of Alabama, where he was a member of the Alabama Law Review and a Hugo Black Scholar. Additionally, through the local chapter of the Federal Bar Association where he has served as an officer in leadership for over 10 years, Huffaker formed the local non-profit Federal Bar Center to help pro se litigants with their federal court complaints, with the overwhelming majority of them being from underserved communities. In addition to Huffaker's confirmation, eight of Alabama's federal judicial nominees have been confirmed in the Senate, each having been nominated by President Trump in 2017. Historic obstruction by Democrats has occurred during this Administration's attempt to confirm judges. The previous six presidents combined faced a total of 24 procedural votes on judicial nominees while President Trump faced more than 100 during his first two years in office. However, in April 2019, the Senate voted to reduce post-cloture debate time from 30 hours to two hours for certain executive and federal judicial nominations, including district court appointments, preventing further delay on confirming hundreds of qualified nominees. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/impeachment-lessons-from-the-distant-past,Impeachment Lessons from the Distant Past,2019-12-02,2019,2019-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"The first true test of the Legislative branch's impeachment powers occurred over two centuries ago in 1805. Its parallels with the current impeachment process, and the important precedent it set for determining impeachable conduct, make it worth examining today. That long-ago impeachment battle was waged against Samuel Chase of Maryland, a justice of the United States Supreme Court. The episode is a stern warning against the use of the power of impeachment for political purposes. In 1804, President Thomas Jefferson resoundingly won reelection, and his Democratic-Republican party won large majorities in both the House and the Senate. With his control over the Executive and Legislative branches secure, Jefferson looked to the third branch the Judiciary. The Supreme Court, comprised at that time of only seven justices, consisted primarily of appointees of George Washington and John Adams, both members of the opposing Federalist party. Jefferson had been angered by several Supreme Court rulings and considered the court an obstacle to his political agenda. He resolved to remove that obstacle. Jefferson saw Chase, an unabashed Federalist appointed by Washington, as the justice most vulnerable to being removed by a partisan impeachment. Jefferson and his allies blamed Chase's partisanship for several of his rulings against Jefferson. They claimed this conduct was worthy of impeachment. However, what some of Chase's opponents considered judicial excesses weren't the real issue. Chase's partisan leanings were merely a convenient excuse to eliminate an obstacle to the Democratic-Republicans' unchecked political power. Our Founders warned against falling into the trap of impeachment over partisan squabbles. In the Federalist Papers, Alexander Hamilton warned of the danger that the decision will be regulated more by the comparative strength of parties, than by the real demonstrations of innocence or guilt. Therefore, the Constitution makes clear that the only impeachable offenses are Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors. Did this disagreement on policy grounds rise to an impeachable offense? Nevertheless, with Jefferson's directive, the House impeached Justice Chase on a party-line vote in a partisan show eerily reminiscent of today's episode. It would be in the Senate, where Chase's trial was to take place, where the Democratic-Republicans' political motivations would come to a head with the Founders' intentions. Some partisans would ignore the intent of our Founders. Senator William Giles of Virginia said impeachment is nothing more than enquiry, by the two Houses of Congress, whether the office of any public official might not be better filled by another. Of course, that contradicts what the Constitution clearly says about impeachment. Yet Chase's opponents would leave no stone unturned in seeking a charge to stick as an impeachable offense. One of his defenders said Chase's footsteps are hunted from place to place, to find indiscretions, which may be exaggerated into crimes. Does this sound familiar? Those Senators were keenly aware of the important precedent at stake. Most realized that whatever short-term political gains they might achieve would pale in comparison to the lasting detriment to our young nation if the Constitution and its separation of powers were to be undermined. Ultimately, after great deliberation, the Senate acquitted Chase, even with the Senate's 24 Democratic-Republicans outnumbering its nine Federalists. Despite lacking evidence of an impeachable offense, Democrats have gone too far towards impeaching President Trump to turn back. Never mind that only months ago, Speaker Pelosi said impeachment is so divisive to the country that unless there's something so compelling and overwhelming and bipartisan, I don't think we should go down that path because it divides the country. Just like in 1805, one party seeks impeachment to gain political power. This time, a president is targeted. This poses a great threat to our Republic, and I'll continue fighting hard to stop this scheme and protect our Constitution.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/breitbartcom-mo-brooks-pelosi-risk-losing-her-speakership-considered-too,BREITBART.COM: Mo Brooks: Pelosi 'at Risk of Losing Her Speakership' -- Considered 'Too Conservative' by Majority of House Dems,2019-11-28,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,,0,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/thanksgiving-sacrifice-and-america,"Thanksgiving, Sacrifice, and America",2019-11-28,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Gary Palmer,P000609,palmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"As an official United States holiday, Thanksgiving is inextricably linked to our nation's founding and its times of conflict. The earliest Thanksgiving observances were announced by presidents, often during serious wars. These observances served as reminders to be thankful, even during difficulty, and to remember those courageous individuals who were sacrificing much to defend our country. The first official Thanksgiving proclamation was issued in 1777 by the Continental Congress after the American victory in the Battle of Saratoga.The proclamation asked God to, smile upon us in the prosecution of a just and necessary war, for the defense and establishment of our unalienable rights and liberties. Later, on October 3, 1789, eight years after the surrender of the British army at Yorktown, President George Washington issued a proclamation, to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness. In this same address, President Washington assigned a specific day for the purpose of that thanksgiving and prayer: Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation. Not until President Abraham Lincoln began issuing a proclamation for a national day of thanksgiving did it become the custom of U.S. presidents to do so. In the midst of the Civil War, the worst war in our nation's history, Lincoln established a permanent observance by calling on the American people to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens. To read full Thanksgiving newsletter greeting, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/much-to-be-thankful-for-0,Much to Be Thankful For,2019-11-27,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the year draws to a close and we enter another holiday season, I'm reminded we have much to be thankful for. First, I'm thankful for those who answer the call to service at home and abroad. It's easy to get bogged down in the never-ending news coverage of political squabbles, but the men and women of our military are doing extraordinary things to keep global threats at bay. Our country remains the freest nation in the world because of their sacrifices. Imagine for a moment living in the volatile Middle East, or in Hong Kong in an escalating battle against China for basic rights, or under an oppressive regime like North Korea. Think of how fortunate we are not only for our military but our system of government! Just recently, our military scored a major victory by taking out the top ISIS commander. The American people are safer as a result of their courage and incredible work and planning. Earlier this year I visited our Southern border with Mexico. During this eye-opening visit, I gained a new appreciation for the work our law enforcement agencies and military are doing to stem the tide of drugs, human traffickers and other criminals crossing into our country. And in a world full of danger, our law enforcement keeps our communities safe. Last week, we were tragically reminded of the very real danger our law enforcement officers face every day when Lowndes County Sheriff Big John Williams was killed in the line of duty. We should thank God each day for our military, veterans and law enforcement officers. This great American experiment could not proceed without the daily sacrifices of those like Sheriff Williams. The remembrances and kind words pouring in from across the state have been incredibly moving. I'm thankful for my brother Dale. My brother retired from the Alabama National Guard as a command sergeant major. I think of Dale and his selflessness in serving our nation every day. This Spring I was afforded the opportunity to speak at a naturalization ceremony for new citizens. In a speech titled what does it mean to be an American? I discussed the great gifts, and responsibilities, of our representative democracy.It was a treasured experience and poignant reminder of how thankful we should be for this nation. I'm thankful for the state of Alabama, its wonderful people, and the opportunity to serve you in Washington. It is a blessing and an honor to represent you in our nation's capital, and I do not take it lightly. I could not serve without my dedicated staff who care deeply for our country and the people we serve. I'm thankful for their commitment to the people of Southwest Alabama. Little is more important than family, and I have been blessed beyond measure by mine. My wife Rebecca is an amazing woman, and we are so proud of our children. I'm thankful for the opportunity Rebecca and I have gained in recent years to spoil our grandchildren! I'm thankful for the fall season, the changing leaves in Alabama, and football. This time of year reminds me of some of my happiest memories hunting with my boys and spending time with family at the farm. Most of all, I'm thankful for my God. I would not be able to accomplish anything without His constant encouragement and blessings. Through the seemingly nonstop bustle of the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons, it's important to keep the big things big and the little things little. As Philippians 4:6 instructs us, do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. I pray you have a blessed Thanksgiving.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/alabama-political-reporter-roby-introduces-resolution-honoring-alabama-its,Alabama Political Reporter: Roby introduces resolution honoring Alabama on its bicentennial,2019-11-26,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"Alabama will have been a state for 200 years on December 14, 2019. Congresswoman Martha Roby (R-Montgomery) and the rest of the Alabama congressional delegation introduced a resolution in Congress marking this historical event. Last Tuesday, I led the efforts alongside my Alabama colleagues in introducing a resolution that honors the 200th anniversary of Alabama's statehood, Roby said in an email to constituents. I am privileged to serve Alabama's Second Congressional District as we approach this memorable time in our state's history. Congresswoman Robyspoke on the floorof the House of Representatives about this resolution. I rise today to highlight an important time in Alabama's history, Roby said. I am proud to lead the effort, joined by my colleagues from Alabama, introducing a resolution today that honors the 2ooth anniversary of Alabama statehood. On December 14, 1819, Alabama was incorporated into the union as the 22nd state. December 14, 1819 will l mark 200 years since our state's incorporation. This is a monumental occasion in our state's history, and we look forward to joining Alabamians in a year full of celebration and commemoration of the bicentennial. It is my greatest honor to represent and serve the citizens of the Second Congressional District which includes Montgomery, our state's capitol, Roby said. Alabama is currently experiencing extreme economic development and job growth across this state which makes this time even more exciting for us all. I join my colleagues in recognizing this milestone in our state's history. I am grateful to represent the people of Alabama as we celebrate the birthday and history of the great state we all call home. In October, the Alabama Department of Labor announced that the unemployment rate in Alabama had dropped to just 2.8 percent, the lowest unemployment in the history of the state. Alabama has a rich and storied history; but persistent and pervasive poverty is also part of the state's history. With the booming economy, every Alabamian who wants to work can find work, and this rising prosperity is open to persons of all races. Alabama will celebrate 200 years of statehood with a three-day celebration beginning on Friday, December 13th and concluding Sunday, December 15th. A large portion of the festivities will take place on the day of Alabama's Bicentennial, Saturday, December 14, 2019. On Friday, December 13th at 7:30 p.m. there will be a Celebration of Alabama Concert with Bobby Horton at the Capri Theatre in Montgomery. This special benefit concert will open the Alabama 200 Birthday Celebration weekend with renowned musician and music historian Bobby Horton. Horton will paint a musical portrait of life in Alabama from the earliest days of our statehood through the 1850s. Tickets are $12. The poceeds will support the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Alabama-Mississippi Chapter. On Saturday, December 14th from 10 11:30 a.m. there will be an Alabama Bicentennial Parade in Montgomery. The parade will proceed from S Perry Street, up Dexter Avenue, exiting on Bainbridge Street. The 70 entries represent communities, cultures, people and places from around Alabama. The parade will conclude with the more than 150 member Bicentennial All Star Band performing an original composition Something in the water. The parade will be anchored by Don Dailey from Alabama Public Television. From 12 to 12:45 p.m. there will be an Alabama Bicentennial Park Dedication on the Alabama State Capitol Steps. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) and other state dignitaries will unveil the 16 monuments depicting Alabama's 200 years of statehood. Kirk Jay joined by the Booker T. Washington Magnet High School Choir and the 151st Army Band of the Alabama National Guard will perform. From 1 to 4 p.m. the Alabama Bicentennial Festival will be held at the State Capitol Complex. The afternoon will offer exhibitions, performances and open houses in the Capitol Complex, up and down Dexter Avenue and throughout downtown Montgomery. Alabama's State Capitol will play host to several cultural performances. Alabama's exhibit of the state's six constitutions, live music, reenactors, and family activities will be featured at the Alabama Department of Archives & History. From 4 to 6 p.m. will be the Alabama Bicentennial Concert* & Finale Presentation on the Alabama State Capitol Steps. December 14th will finish with a concert featuring popular musicians from Alabama, sponsored by the Alabama Tourism Department. The concert will be followed by a finale presentation of Alabama history presented in a never-before-seen way, sponsored by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. On Sunday, December 15th there will be an Encore Finale Presentation at the Alabama Attorney General Building of the special Bicentennial Finale Presentation of Alabama history presented in a never-before-seen way, sponsored by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. The Alabama Bicentennial Commission is chaired by State Senator Arthur Orr (R-Decatur). Congresswoman Roby is not seeking re-election.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1779,Rogers Announces a $4 Million Grant for Anniston Airport,2019-11-25,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rogers Announces a $4 Million Grant for Anniston Airport Washington, November 25, 2019 (WASHINGTON, DC)Congressman Mike Rogers congratulated the Anniston Regional Airport for receiving a $4 million grant from the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee's Airport Improvement Program (AIP), funding Rogers said would help rehabilitate the airport's runway. This project was much-needed and I am thrilled to see this investment being made in the Anniston airport, Rogers said. Rogers said the grant should be awarded under the AIP. U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao said, The robust economy is enabling more passengers to travel by air so this Administration is investing billions of dollars in America's airports which will address safer operations, fewer airport delays and greater ease of travel for air travelers. Rogers serves as Ranking Member on the Committee on Homeland Security in Congress as well as a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/fox-business-congressman-mo-brooks-blasts-socialist-dems-use-tax-dollars,"On Fox Business, Congressman Mo Brooks Blasts Socialist Dems' Use of Tax Dollars to Conduct Opposition Research on President Trump",2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Thursday evening, on Fox Business Network's Trish Regan Primetime, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) blasted Socialist Democrats for using federal tax dollars to conduct political opposition research to win the White House, House & Senate in the 2020 elections. ClickHERE for video of Congressman Brooks on Fox Business Full transcript of Congressman Brooks on Fox Business follows: Regan: And now, House Armed Services Committee member Alabama Congressman Mo Brooks. Good to have you here, congressman. Brooks: My pleasure. Reagan: I look at all this stuff, these conspiracy theoriesI mean one after another. Devin Nunes had a good point yesterday. He sort of ticked through them all. I mean starting with the agent of Russia. He's been an agent of Russia for, you know, decades. If we actually spend what 2 1/2 years and many, many millions of taxpayer dollars investigating all that? Conspiracy theories that we are wasting time investigating, you know, I don't see people doing that on the other side. What exactly is going on? Brooks:The Democrats are doing their utmost to divert the attention of the American people from the major challenges that we face as a nation. We want the elections to be about, do you want open borders, or do you want border security? Do you want a balanced budget or do you want these huge deficits and accumulated debt that threaten us with a national insolvency and bankruptcy? Do you prefer free-enterprise which is based on liberty or socialism that is based on dictatorial conduct? Do you want your medicine to be socialized? As a consequence of what the Democrats have done through, the attention of the American voter has been to a large degree on things like Russian collusion to help the democrats capture the House in 2018, that argument even though it was totally debunked and false. Now, they're substituting Russian collusion with this Ukrainian mess that has no substance to it whatsoever in hopes of diverting again the people's attention from the challenges we face as a nation. And, unfortunately, the major accomplices of the Democrats are entities like MSNBC, CNN, The Washington Post and The New York Times who seemingly have made a trade of being the allies of deception and the enemies of truth. And, that is a real shame, because it's making it very, very difficult for American voters to figure out what the true facts are and what the law really is as we wade through this impeachment mess that the Democrats have foisted upon the American people. Reagan: Well, representative there is a lot of conjecture right that's been going into all this because they are assuming a lot? They are assuming that the president must have been pulling something behind the scenes, must have been saying, OK, unless you deliver the goods on Biden, I'm not going to give you the 400 million bucks. It's been made clear now that that actually wasn't the case. Why is it that they are trying to spin all this? They are making these leaps. By the way, in a sort of kangaroo courtroom that goes nowhere. Right? Because there is not enough votes in the Senate. I think people have seen through all their efforts and they wouldn't be able to get to first base in the Senate. So why are they doing it? Is it all to hurt him at the ballot box? Brooks: Well, as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and a number of other Democrats have publicly stated in rather candid moments, this is not about impeaching Donald Trump and removing him from office. Rather, it isabout using taxpayer dollars to help fund an opposition research effort that in turn the democrats believe will help them in the 2020 elections. Now, setting aside for the moment whether it is illegal for the Democrats to abuse taxpayer monies in this regard for political campaign purposes, the key is that the mainstream news media is backing them up by continuing to spread this message that is a very deceptive message. The plain fact of the matter is, President Trump has not committed a high crime, misdemeanor, bribery or treason if you look at those words as they were intended by the people who actually wrote them at the Constitutional Convention. Regan: Crazy stuff, and it's a shame. Brooks: Notwithstanding that, the Democrats and the mainstream news media continue to push forth this propaganda simply because they dislike Donald Trump on the one hand, and Regan: Like I said! You know, Putin knows how to outsource, he has CNN and MSNBC Brooks: on the other hand, they don't want the message to be about how strong the economy is. Regan: doing the job for him. Very quickly before I let you go. The date is coming up. We heard from Lindsey Graham that December 9th is the day the Horowitz's report on just exactly what when into getting the FISA application done will be released. Any sense of what we are going to see? Brooks: No, at this point I hope that we'll see a report that will help divulge the truth about what has been going on with FISA. Time will tell whether that's going to actually happen, but I hope the Senate will call Hunter Biden as a witness and I hope the Senate will actually employ rules of evidence like we have in our judiciary that helps a judge and jury sift through evidence to reach a true conclusion where rumor, hearsay, rank opinions are not admitted, because they are not credible. Regan: Congressman Brooks, it's good to see you. Thank you so much. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/columns/time-give-thanks,A Time to Give Thanks,2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"Each November, Americans gather with family members and friends to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. This special day serves as a time for us to pause as a nation and remember all that we are grateful for. It can be easy to lose sight of our blessings when our attention is focused on all that is happening across the country and around the world. As we congregate around tables full of delicious cooking and conversation with people we love, I hope that we all remember just how blessed we are. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity and responsibility to serve the people of Alabama in the United States Congress for the past nine years. It is my highest honor to come to work every day and be an advocate for those I represent. From assisting veterans with casework, setting up tours for families visiting Washington, or corresponding with my constituents, I am thankful to serve the people of the United States and fight for the greatness of our country. I am grateful for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. We owe much gratitude to the men and women in uniform who fight to defend and protect our freedom. Many who serve in our Armed Forces spend their Thanksgiving holiday away from loved ones. Let us remember the servicemembers and their families as they celebrate the holiday apart from those they love, and let us always remember their dedication to our great nation. I am especially thankful for my family. My husband Riley and our two children Margaret and George bring me immense joy and happiness each day. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to be their mom, and we are thankful for our parents, families, and friends. I am appreciative to be able to spend Thanksgiving with them each year. In the spirit of the holiday, I want to thank you for allowing me to represent Alabama's Second Congressional District. We are fortunate to call the great state of Alabama our home. Alabama is experiencing extreme economic growth and development, especially with all the new business developments and expansions leading to increased job opportunities over the past year. In fact, our state has reached a record low unemployment rate of 2.8 percent. Additionally, we are approaching a time of celebration and commemoration of the bicentennial anniversary of Alabama's statehood. As Alabamians, we have much to be thankful for. My hope for all on this unique holiday is that we dedicate time to thank God for the ways in which He has blessed each of us. No matter where you are, who you are with, or what your plans are this Thanksgiving, remember that we have many blessings to count. I hope that you all enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday full of your favorite foods and traditions. From the Roby family to yours, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1778,Rogers Welcomes Constituents to Mornings with Mike,2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rogers Welcomes Constituents to Mornings with Mike Washington, November 21, 2019 (WASHINGTON, DC)---Congressman Mike Rogers reminded folks today that he is holding weekly events when Congress is in session that are open to any constituents visiting Washington, D.C. Mornings with Mike events take place in Rogers' Washington office in the Rayburn House Office Building. The meetings offer East Alabamians a unique chance to meet with Congressman Rogers while enjoying coffee and donuts in his office. The holiday season is beautiful in Washington and is the perfect time to visit our nation's capital. I want to remind anyone who will be visiting the DC-area to stop by for a cup of coffee. I have always had my offices open to everyone across the Third Congressional District, but these weekly events give folks the chance to come in and share their concerns and visit with my staff and me. I hope people will take advantage of them when in our nation's capital, Rogers said. The event is hosted in December on the last in-session morning of each week at 9:30 a.m. EDT in 2184 Rayburn. Anyone interested in attending should sign up on Mike's website to ensure enough coffee and donuts are ordered each week. The dates for the December meetings are: December 6th and 12th. Please visit https://mikerogers.house.gov/mornings-with-mike for more information, or call Rogers' Washington, D.C. office at 202.225.3261. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=86FE165F-F8AE-4A93-9810-6B0B3EA9CFBA,Shelby Announces $4 Million in FAA Funding for Anniston Airport,2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today announced that the Anniston Regional Airport is receiving $4,000,000 in funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the rehabilitation of a runway. This FAA grant is awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as part of the agency's efforts to support airport infrastructure improvements. This significant FAA funding will support the growth and development taking place throughout Calhoun County, said Senator Shelby. These improvements to the airport will benefit the people of Anniston and allow for continued economic success. I appreciate Secretary Chao and FAA's work to ensure Alabama's local airports are efficient and safe. The robust economy is enabling more passengers to travel by air so this Administration is investing billions of dollars in America's airports which will address safer operations, fewer airport delays, and greater ease of travel for air travelers, said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao. The Fiscal Year 2018 (FY2018) Omnibus Appropriations Bill, which was passed and signed into law last year, provided FAA an additional $1 billion in discretionary grants for FY2018 FY2020. This $4,000,000 grant from FAA to rehabilitate a runway at the Anniston Regional Airport is part of the third round of funding of the initial appropriation. Senator Shelby chairs the Senate Committee on Appropriations, which authored and advanced the FY2018 measure that included these additional FAA grant resources. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=8B79CD70-1158-40AA-A7B7-C851D06DC72B,"Shelby Announces $650,000 in FAA Funding for Eufaulas Weedon Field",2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today announced that Weedon Field in Eufaula, Alabama, is receiving $650,000 in funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the rehabilitation and expansion of the existing apron. This FAA grant is awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as part of the agency's efforts to support airport infrastructure improvements. This FAA grant is exciting news for Eufaula and the surrounding region, said Senator Shelby. The funding will improve the functionality and efficiency of Weedon Field. I am proud DOT recognized the need to invest in this local airport. The robust economy is enabling more passengers to travel by air so this Administration is investing billions of dollars in America's airports which will address safer operations, fewer airport delays, and greater ease of travel for air travelers, said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao. The Fiscal Year 2018 (FY2018) Omnibus Appropriations Bill, which was passed and signed into law last year, provided FAA an additional $1 billion in discretionary grants for FY2018 FY2020. This $650,000 grant from FAA to rehabilitate and expand the apron at Weedon Field in Eufaula, Alabama, is part of the third round of funding of the initial appropriation. Senator Shelby chairs the Senate Committee on Appropriations, which authored and advanced the FY2018 measure that included these additional FAA grant resources. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/yellowhammer-news-roby-alabama-bicentennial-amplified-current-extreme-economic,Yellowhammer News: Roby: Alabama bicentennial amplified by current extreme economic development and job growth,2019-11-20,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Martha Roby (AL-02) on Tuesday joined Alabama's entire U.S. House delegation in honoring the Yellowhammer State's upcoming bicentennial anniversary on the chamber floor. In a speech, Roby introduced H. Res. 711, which recognizes the incorporation of Alabama as the 22nd state in the Union on December 14, 1819. Reps. Bradley Byrne (AL-01), Mike Rogers (AL-03), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Mo Brooks (AL-05), Gary Palmer (AL-06) and Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined Roby in commemorating the historic milestone. Roby's remarks not only mentioned the marker of Alabama's statehood but lauded its current progress. This is a monumental occasion in our state's history, and we are looking forward to joining Alabamians in a year full of memorable celebration and commemoration of the bicentennial, she said. Alabama is currently experiencing extreme economic development and job growth across the state, which makes this special time even more exciting for us all. This comes after it wasannouncedon Friday that Alabama's unemployment rate dipped below 3% for the first time ever. The state has been breaking economic records consistently, with each month seemingly bringing even better news. The mainfocusnow for the state's economy isworkforce developmenteffortsto increaseAlabama's pool of skilled workers. Roby, who is not seeking reelection to a sixth term, concluded, I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve the people of Alabama as we celebrate the birthday and history of the beloved state we all call home. You can learn more about Alabama's bicentennialhere, including special events across the state.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-on-cr-impeachment-focus-is-undermining-military-readiness,Byrne on CR: Impeachment Focus is Undermining Military Readiness,2019-11-19,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after the House passed another Continuing Resolution (CR) to once again extend last fiscal year's funding levels to avoid a government shutdown. Congressman Byrnesaid:Democrats are so focused on impeaching President Trump that they've neglected to perform Congress's core responsibility of funding the government on time. By once again failing to provide the certainty of stable funding, Congress is undermining the Defense Department's planning efforts and crippling America's military readiness. Short-term funding bills are a bad way of doing business, and the American people and our military deserve better. Byrne voted against today's CR to extend funding through December 20, 2019. Last fiscal year's funding levels were previously extended through Thursday, November 21. The Senate is expected to pass this CR before Thursday's deadline.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-pelosi-moves-impeachment-goalposts-again-with-poll-tested-bribery,Byrne: Pelosi Moves Impeachment Goalposts Again with Poll-Tested Bribery Charge,2019-11-19,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) gave a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives today on the Democrats' latest allegation against President Trump of bribery. His prepared remarks are below: Congressman Byrnesaid:Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Unfortunately, I must rise again because like so many times before the goalposts for impeaching President Trump have moved. At this rate, Nancy Pelosi must be any field goal kicker's worst nightmare. Since day one literally day one it has been abundantly clear that the far-left members of the so-called Squad' have been moving this Democratic majority closer to impeaching the President. They don't care why or how. They don't care what evidence, real or imagined, is used. They only care about the end result impeaching President Trump so he will not win reelection. As this radical faction gains dominance in the Democrat party, Speaker Pelosi has tried every justification in the book to impeach this President. We were told for years we'd get to impeachment from the Mueller report. They said, just wait, wait till the report! It's going to show Russian Collusion! Well, two years and millions of dollars down the drain, Mueller showed no collusion. The Democrat narrative quickly turned towards obstruction of justice,' but that too fell flat. But then, Mr. Speaker, the majority got a new gift the whistleblower! Never mind he had no firsthand knowledge of what he blew the whistle on, never mind he's a partisan Democrat, never mind he worked with Adam Schiff on his new allegations against President Trump. It was campaign finance violations! Well, that didn't work. So, then it was quid pro quo! For weeks, that's all the majority has talked about. Not anymore. Apparently, Mr. Speaker, some highly-paid political consultants warned Speaker Pelosi that quid pro quo did not resonate with the American people. So now, it seems they've moved on to another version of impeachment that tested best in their focus groups the nefarious-sounding bribery.' It's bribery! That's what we will impeach President Trump on! Well, Mr. Speaker, I think my friends on the other side need to dust off their law books because, unfortunately for their latest impeachment fantasy, bribery isn't just some word. It's a real crime with a real definition. And it's one that this majority cannot prove. You see, bribery occurs when an individual corruptly' links receiving something of value in exchange for an official government action. I say to the majority, show me how asking Ukraine to look into the 2016 election and into the sketchy dealings of Hunter Biden is acting corruptly! Because I'll tell you what, I'll show you evidence that Ukrainian officials were working to boost Secretary Clinton, and I'll show you evidence that the Obama Administration was itself concerned about Hunter Biden's deals. I think most Americans will say maybe the President of the United States should be looking into those things. I think they will say we want the President looking into possible corruption in our government and interference in our elections. More importantly, I say to the majority, show me how President Trump linked aid to these investigations! Mr. Speaker, President Trump's phone call with Ukraine President Zelensky, you know, the one that the whistleblower blew the whistle on, is on the internet! Everyone can read it. And I hope they will. Because nowhere in that call did President Trump ever link any aid to Ukraine in exchange for anything. The President did not one time, not one time, even mention any kind of hold on the aid. Not once! This is not bribery. This is not impeachable conduct. Yet here we are, trying to remove the President of the United States, the leader of this country, the man chosen by the voters, over these newest allegations. Mr. Speaker, the American people see past this charade. They know this is a partisan political scheme. And at this point, I think most people who are paying attention those who haven't tuned out know this is just the latest effort by Democrats to throw something at the wall and see if it sticks. President Trump has committed no bribery, treason, or high crimes and misdemeanors' the only offenses that the Constitution says warrant impeachment. I ask the majority when do we stop and get back to the business of the American people? I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/roby-introduces-resolution-marking-alabama-s-bicentennial,Alabama Daily News: Roby introduces resolution marking Alabamas bicentennial,2019-11-19,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Martha Roby on Tuesday introduced a resolution marking Alabama's 200 years of statehood. The resolution, which was introduced on behalf of all members of the state's congressional delegation, called attention to the bicentennial milestone that Alabama will celebrate next month. Speaking from the floor of the House of Representatives, Roby said she was honored to serve alongside her Alabama colleagues during a special time in the state's history. This is a monumental occasion in our state's history, and we are looking forward to joining Alabamians in a year full of memorable celebration and commemoration of the bicentennial, Roby said.I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve the people of Alabama as we celebrate the birthday and history of the beloved state we all call home. Alabama was admitted into the union on December 14, 1819. The state has been engaged in a year-long celebration commemorating the anniversary, which will culminate in a massive birthday party in downtown Montgomery on December 13, 14 and 15. Information on the state's bicentennial celebration can be found online atAlabama200.org. H. Res. 711 is cosponsored by Representatives Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville , Mike Rogers, R-Saks, Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, Terri Sewell, D-Selma, Bradley Byrne, R-Mobile, and Gary Palmer, R-Birmingham.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/roby-introduces-resolution-honoring-alabama-s-200th-year-statehood,Roby Introduces Resolution Honoring Alabamas 200th Year of Statehood,2019-11-19,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) today spoke on the House Floor highlighting the introduction of legislation that honors the bicentennial anniversary of Alabama's statehood. Representatives Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Mike Rogers (R-AL), Mo Brooks (R-AL), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Bradley Byrne (R-AL), and Gary Palmer (R-AL) joined Representative Roby in the endeavor to commemorate this important milestone in Alabama history. I am proud to lead the efforts alongside my colleagues in recognizing this exciting time for the state of Alabama, Representative Roby said. It is my greatest honor to serve the people of Alabama's Second Congressional District, and I am especially privileged to do so during this memorable time in our state's history. I look forward to joining all Alabamians in a year full of celebration and commemoration of our beloved state. H. Res. 711 recognizes the incorporation of Alabama as the twenty-second state of the Union on December 14, 1819. The resolution honors the 200th anniversary on December 14, 2019 and commemorates the achievements of the great state of Alabama. The full text of Representative Roby's speech is below. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to highlight an important time in Alabama's history. I am proud to lead the efforts, joined by my colleagues from Alabama, in introducing a resolution today which honors the 200th anniversary of Alabama's statehood. On December 14, 1819, Alabama was incorporated into the Union as the twenty-second state. December 14, 2019 will mark 200 years since the historical day of our state's incorporation. This is a monumental occasion in our state's history, and we are looking forward to joining Alabamians in a year full of memorable celebration and commemoration of the bicentennial. It is my greatest honor to represent and serve the people of Alabama's Second Congressional District, which includes Montgomery, our state's capital city. Alabama is currently experiencing extreme economic development and job growth across the state, which makes this special time even more exciting for us all. I join my colleagues in recognizing this milestone in our state's history. I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve the people of Alabama as we celebrate the birthday and history of the beloved state we all call home. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/the-facts-about-ukraine,The Facts About Ukraine,2019-11-18,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"With all the allegations being made against President Trump, it's important to examine some background and facts. First, let's talk about what has been going on in Ukraine since the fall of the Soviet Union. Ukraine is one of the most corrupt countries on earth. Like many former Soviet countries, oligarchs control almost all the political power. Corruption is so rampant that many American business people refuse to operate there. For nearly 30 years, Republican and Democrat Presidents have pressured Ukraine to reform without much success. Part of that outreach was aimed at preventing Russia from gaining influence there. But five years ago, Russia invaded Ukraine, and the two countries have been at war ever since. After the invasion, President Obama rightly began providing them non-lethal aide. But to maintain goodwill with the Russians, he would not sell them weapons. Now let's move to 2016. During the 2016 campaign, President Trump ran on a deep skepticism of foreign aid. Partly as a result, senior members of the Ukrainian government took Secretary Clinton's side. After his victory, Ukrainian officials scrambled to make amends with President Trump. Despite President Trump's understandable skepticism towards Ukraine, he pursued policies towards Ukraine that began leading to progress. He began selling real weapons to Ukraine to help them fight the Russians, with enormous positive effects. However, a few individuals in the Administration tried to convince President Trump he should forget Ukraine's past and immediately embrace its new President. They began, in their own words, working to change President Trump's mind. It was office gossip among a handful of these individuals that led to the impeachment investigation. The drama started with the whistleblower (who lacked firsthand knowledge of what he reportedly blew the whistle on) alleging that President Trump made demands on President Zelensky on a phone call. He alleged President Trump threatened to withhold security assistance to Ukraine for political favors. But despite this allegation, President Zelensky has publicly, clearly, and repeatedly denied any demands were ever made on him. And the Justice Department reviewed this allegation and declined to pursue a criminal investigation. Further, President Trump released the transcript, and it showed that neither person said one word about the hold on that call! You would think that if President Trump were trying to use the aid for extortion, he would have at least mentioned it. President Zelensky did not mention the funds either because he did not know they were on hold and, as the transcript confirms, President Trump never told him! If that is the case, this would be a very strange quid pro quo indeed. Let's use common sense here. With President Trump's clear skepticism of foreign aid and Ukraine's reputation for corruption, is it surprising his Administration would want to review millions in aid to a new Ukrainian President and parliament? In contradiction to the bureaucratic gossip fueling this latest Democrat impeachment fantasy, not one person has testified that they had any direct knowledge that President Trump ordered aid held in exchange for a political favor. Witnesses have speculated about the reason for the hold, but when pressed, they've all said some version of I don't know. Despite this sham process, we have no evidence that President Trump ordered any kind of quid pro quo. The Ukrainians got the aid money, within days of even finding out it was on hold, and they got the meetings with President Trump and the Vice President that they wanted. There is no impeachable offense here, but most Democrats know that. This is all about defeating President Trump in the 2020 election, but I think their efforts will backfire as the American people learn the truth. Armed with the facts, I won't quit fighting against this sham impeachment scheme.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/fall-2019-update,Fall 2019 Update,2019-11-18,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Gary Palmer,P000609,palmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"The power to impeach a president resides with the entire House of Representatives, not select committees. Up until now, every impeachment inquiry has required a majority vote in the House to get started and has been conducted publicly. Unlike previous impeachments, the process of investigating President Trump has been hyper-partisan, extremely biased, and irreparably deceitful. The Democrats have been resolved to unseat President Trump since the day after he was elected. In fact, Rep. Maxine Waters has said publicly that once the Democrats remove President Trump, they will also impeach VP Mike Pence. Facing increasing pressure, on October 31st, the Democrats finally brought a resolution to the House floor that would formalize continuing their impeachment conspiracy after weeks of secret meetings and selectively leaked information that paints the president in a negative light. This entire investigation has gone against all precedent when you consider previous impeachments. To read the full newsletter, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/usda-designates-two-alabama-counties-primary-natural-disaster-areas,USDA Designates Two Alabama Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas,2019-11-15,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Emergency Support to Producers in Surrounding Counties/Border State Also Available WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2019 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated two Alabama counties as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in DeKalb and Marshall counties who suffered losses due to recent drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans. This natural disaster designation allows FSA to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation or the refinance of certain debts. Producers in the contiguous Alabama counties of Blount, Cherokee, Cullman, Etowah, Jackson, Madison, and Morgan, along with Chattooga, Dade and Walker counties in Georgia, are also eligible to apply for emergency loans. The deadline to apply for these emergency loans is July 6, 2020. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available and repayment ability. The Secretary previously declared several other Alabama counties as primary natural disaster areas. A listing of all disaster designations can be found at fsa.usda.gov. FSA has a variety of additional programs to help farmers recover from the impacts of this disaster. FSA programs that do not require a disaster declaration include: Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program; Emergency Conservation Program; Livestock Forage Disaster Program; Livestock Indemnity Program; Operating and Farm Ownership Loans; and the Tree Assistance Program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:43:09Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/columns/encouraging-second-district-s-creative-youth,Encouraging the Second Districts Creative Youth,2019-11-15,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"Each year, the U.S. House of Representatives sponsors an art competition that is open to high school students across the nation. The Congressional Art Competition is a unique opportunity to recognize the artistic talents of students from all over the country, including those in Alabama's Second Congressional District. The winning artwork is displayed in the U.S. Capitol building for one year, and the exhibit includes the winning artwork from all participating congressional districts. High school students have been participating in this annual creative competition since 1982. My office partners with a local Alabama museum each year in order to professionally judge and select a winner to represent the Second District. This year, our partnering museum is the Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA). The WMA holds the 2020 Youth Art Month every year to celebrate student artists throughout the Wiregrass area. Students of all ages are given the opportunity to have their artwork displayed at this local museum in order to highlight the value of art and art education. Although the 2020 Youth Art Month is a separate contest, artwork submitted will automatically be considered for the Congressional Art Competition if it meets the established criteria. On November 7, I was proud to introduce the Artistic Recognition for Talented Students (ARTS) Act alongside Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT), and Representative Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY). The ARTS Act directs the Register of Copyrights to waive the copyright registration fee for winners of the Congressional Art Competition. This piece of legislation encourages young artists to participate in the copyright system and helps them to learn the benefits of copyrighting their works. We have an abundance of brilliant, young creators across the country who are the rising generation of America's creative industry, and the ARTS Act is a great way to incentivize copyright registration within our youth. Although the deadline for the Congressional Art Competition is in January 2020, I want to provide students with ample time to create and submit their artwork. I recently sent out a letter to all 117 high schools in the Second Congressional District, drawing attention to the competition for those who might be interested in participating. The letter outlines the concept and rules of the competition in order to ensure students and teachers fully understand the guidelines. I highly encourage any student who wants to express their creativity to participate in this encouraging competition. It is a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their talents and take part in an exciting nationwide contest. For students or teachers who would like more information on the competition, please visit my website. My office will also continue to release updates on the competition as the deadline for entry approaches. I am proud of the artistic abilities and talents of our students in Alabama's Second Congressional District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/yellowhammer-news-roby-presses-va-officials-staffing-issues-alabama-0,Yellowhammer News: Roby presses VA officials on staffing issues at Alabama facilities My veterans are suffering,2019-11-15,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Martha Roby (AL-02), a member of the House's Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, on Thursday participated in a hearing regarding the Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection's failures at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Roby questioned Michael J. Missal inspector general of the VA and Dr. Tamara Bonzanto the assistant secretary for accountability and whistleblower protection of the VA. In her questioning and remarks, Roby highlighted the importance of whistleblowers in uncovering critical issues at Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS) and the urgent need for staffing improvements within the VA system. She specifically pressed the inspector general as to why the system is not seeing any internal change impacting the lives of Alabama's tremendous veterans. Roby asked, Is there a disconnect between the administration's view of how the VA is operating and the IG's reports on the issues, and is the administration doing enough to implement IG recommendations? She commented, This [whistleblower] hearing is important because there are some VA facilities in this country that are working well and serving our veterans well. There are others that are not, and that happens to be the one in my districtThere is a tremendous problem with our veterans even having the ability to be seen. It's just not getting better. I continue to be so outraged and frustrated as to why this is not getting betterMy veterans are suffering because of it. You can watch Roby's full remarkshere. The southeast Alabama congresswoman has long been a vocal advocate for veterans and improving the VA system.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/story-type/roby-news/yellowhammer-news-roby-presses-va-officials-staffing-issues-alabama-0,Yellowhammer News: Roby presses VA officials on staffing issues at Alabama facilities My veterans are suffering,2019-11-15,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Martha Roby (AL-02), a member of the House's Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, on Thursday participated in a hearing regarding the Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection's failures at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Roby questioned Michael J. Missal inspector general of the VA and Dr. Tamara Bonzanto the assistant secretary for accountability and whistleblower protection of the VA. In her questioning and remarks, Roby highlighted the importance of whistleblowers in uncovering critical issues at Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS) and the urgent need for staffing improvements within the VA system. She specifically pressed the inspector general as to why the system is not seeing any internal change impacting the lives of Alabama's tremendous veterans. Roby asked, Is there a disconnect between the administration's view of how the VA is operating and the IG's reports on the issues, and is the administration doing enough to implement IG recommendations? She commented, This [whistleblower] hearing is important because there are some VA facilities in this country that are working well and serving our veterans well. There are others that are not, and that happens to be the one in my districtThere is a tremendous problem with our veterans even having the ability to be seen. It's just not getting better. I continue to be so outraged and frustrated as to why this is not getting betterMy veterans are suffering because of it. You can watch Roby's full remarkshere. The southeast Alabama congresswoman has long been a vocal advocate for veterans and improving the VA system.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/story-type/roby-news/yellowhammer-news-roby-presses-va-officials-staffing-issues-alabama-facilities,Yellowhammer News: Roby presses VA officials on staffing issues at Alabama facilities My veterans are suffering,2019-11-15,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Martha Roby (AL-02), a member of the House's Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, on Thursday participated in a hearing regarding the Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection's failures at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Roby questioned Michael J. Missal inspector general of the VA and Dr. Tamara Bonzanto the assistant secretary for accountability and whistleblower protection of the VA. In her questioning and remarks, Roby highlighted the importance of whistleblowers in uncovering critical issues at Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS) and the urgent need for staffing improvements within the VA system. She specifically pressed the inspector general as to why the system is not seeing any internal change impacting the lives of Alabama's tremendous veterans. Roby asked, Is there a disconnect between the administration's view of how the VA is operating and the IG's reports on the issues, and is the administration doing enough to implement IG recommendations? She commented, This [whistleblower] hearing is important because there are some VA facilities in this country that are working well and serving our veterans well. There are others that are not, and that happens to be the one in my districtThere is a tremendous problem with our veterans even having the ability to be seen. It's just not getting better. I continue to be so outraged and frustrated as to why this is not getting betterMy veterans are suffering because of it. You can watch Roby's full remarkshere. The southeast Alabama congresswoman has long been a vocal advocate for veterans and improving the VA system.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-announces-november-staff-community-office-hours-2,Byrne Announces November Staff Community Office Hours,2019-11-14,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Staff members from the office of Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) will hold office hours throughout Alabama's First Congressional District from Tuesday, November 19 through Thursday, November 21. The staff members will be on hand to help constituents with problems they may be experiencing with federal agencies including the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Medicare, and Social Security. Staff members can also assist constituents who need help applying for or receiving a United States passport. Please note that Congressman Byrne will be in Washington casting votes and will not be in attendance at staff community office hours. Tuesday, November 19 9:30 10:30 am: Brewton City Hall 11:00 am 12:00 pm: East Brewton Town Hall 2:00 3:00 pm: Atmore City Hall Wednesday, November 20 9:00 10:00 am: Orange Beach City Hall 9:30 10:30 am: Monroeville City Hall 10:30 11:30 am: Gulf Shores City Hall 11:30 am 12:30 pm: Grove Hill Town Hall 1:00 2:00 pm: Foley City Hall 1:00 2:00 pm: White Smith Memorial Library, Jackson 2:30 3:30 pm: Magnolia Springs Town Office 3:00 4:00 pm: Washington County Public Library, Chatom Thursday, November 21 9:00 10:00 am: Bay Minette City Hall 9:00 10:00 am: McIntosh Town Hall 10:30 11:30 am: Spanish Fort City Hall 10:30 11:30 am: Citronelle City Hall 1:00 2:00 pm: Daphne City Hall 2:30 3:30 pm: City of Fairhope Office",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-refutes-democrat-impeachment-spectacle-the-facts-are-on-our-side,Byrne Refutes Democrat Impeachment Spectacle: The Facts Are On Our Side,2019-11-14,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) gave a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives last night refuting the process and the substance behind the Democrats' sham impeachment. Byrne's remarks as prepared can be seen in full here. Excerpts of his prepared remarks are below: Congressman Byrnesaid:Democrats made a big spectacle about holding their first public hearing today. The truth is that today's hearing is little more than a public showcasing of witnesses they've already interrogated and vetted in that little room to ensure they will say only what the Democrats desire. For weeks, we have been going back and forth about what these individuals may or may not have been doing. We have a mountain of bureaucratic gossip about what was going on, who was doing what. But the Democrats have provided zero, and I mean no direct evidence, showing President Trump ordered some kind of quid pro quo. We know that the whistleblower also lacked firsthand knowledge of what he reportedly blew the whistle on. He was, according to the Inspector General, a partisan individual. The whistleblower made allegations that President Trump made demands' on President Zelensky on a phone call that occurred in the White House. President Trump took the extraordinary step of releasing the transcript of this supposedly extraordinary call. The other issue that has been swirling downstairs in that little room is this hold that was placed on security assistance to Ukraine. That hold was placed before the phone call that President Trump had with President Zelensky, the call that the whistleblower raised. But in the transcript, neither President Trump nor President Zelensky said one word about the hold on that call! You would think that if President Trump were trying to use the aid for extorsion, he would have at least mentioned it. This would be a very strange quid pro quo where President Trump did not tell President Zelensky and President Zelensky did not know that the funds were on hold. Many of the witnesses have speculated about why OMB placed a hold on the aid, but when pressed, in all those thousands of pages, they've all said some version of I don't know why the aid was placed on hold.' Despite this sham of a process, we have no evidence that President Trump ordered any kind of quid pro quo, none. The call transcript shows no demand, President Zelensky says there was no demand, and no evidence shows President Trump ordered a demand. The Ukrainians got the aid money, within days of even finding out it was on hold, and they got the high-level meetings not only with the President of the United States but also with the Vice President that they wanted! The truth is this isn't about removing the President. They know that the votes in the Senate aren't there for that. This is about satisfying their resistance base and defeating President Trump in the 2020 election. This entire process, from its very inception, has been a hypocritical, shameful exercise in partisan political opportunism. There is no substance here. None of President Trump's actions even approach anything remotely near impeachable conduct. But Democrats have made a critical error in orchestrating their scheme. They have underestimated the resolve of the American people that elected this President. The facts are on our side, and we will rise to the occasion and fight back against this radical scheme to remove President Trump.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/roby-expresses-concerns-staffing-alabama-va-facilities,Roby Expresses Concerns with Staffing of Alabama VA Facilities,2019-11-14,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL), a member of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, today participated in a hearing regarding the Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection's failures at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Representative Roby has long been a vocal advocate for improving the services veterans in Alabama receive at VA healthcare facilities. Today, she addressed the Honorable Michael J. Missal, Inspector General of the VA, and Dr. Tamara Bonzanto, the Assistant Secretary for Accountability and Whistleblower Protection of the VA. Representative Roby highlighted the importance of whistleblowers in uncovering critical issues at Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS) and the urgent need for staffing improvements within the VA system. She questioned the Inspector General as to why the system is not seeing any internal change impacting the lives of Alabama's veterans: Is there a disconnect between the Administration's view of how the VA is operating and the IG's reports on the issues, and is the Administration doing enough to implement IG recommendations? This [whistleblower] hearing is important because there are some VA facilities in this country that are working well and serving our veterans well. There are others that are not, and that happens to be the one in my districtThere is a tremendous problem with our veterans even having the ability to be seenIt's just not getting betterI continue to be so outraged and frustrated as to why this is not getting betterMy veterans are suffering because of it. The full text of Representative Roby's remarks is below. Hello again. Madam Chair, I understand that this is a whistleblower hearing, but I'd be remiss not to take this opportunity to address a few other issues. I will start with this and say that you are well aware [Sir] of how important courageous whistleblowers have been in uncovering the gross mismanagement and problems at Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System. We're grateful for those folks who have stepped forward. We've followed all the procedures to make sure that we're getting the information in the right hands when these people come to us. I would be remiss if I didn't bring up the overwhelming deficiencies in the Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System and the VA Medical Center in Montgomery. The IG last published a report on CAVHCS in February of 2018 where it noted that the facility had a SAIL rating of three stars and generally stable executive leadership. Montgomery now has a one-star rating, and in the IG report released on September 30, 2019 titled, OIG Determination of Veterans Health Administration's Occupational Staffing Shortages, it showed that CAVHCS continues to suffer staffing shortages. We currently have an Acting Director for VISN 7 and an Acting Director for CAVHCS. My question is that the Director of the VA recently toured the facility in Montgomery and stated it was a three-star facility that was running well, is there a disconnect between the Administration's view of how the VA is operating and the IG's reports on the issues, and is the Administration doing enough to implement IG recommendations? It's not a three-star facility, and it's not running at the optimum performance that it could be. You're familiar with the Dothan clinic merger. For a long time, there was no physician even assigned to see the patients at the Dothan clinic. There is a tremendous problem with our veterans even having the ability to be seen. We have people doing two jobs. On paper, it appears as though that position is filled, but it's an individual who is actually doing another full-time job at the same time. Again, all this leads to the bottom line and what we all care about. This whistleblower hearing is important because there are some VA facilities in this country that are working well and serving our veterans well. There are other facilities that are not, and that happens to be the one in my district. It's just not getting any better. Madam Chair, I am going to take this opportunity to let you [nodding to witness] address this. I continue to be outraged and frustrated as to why this is not getting better. My veterans are suffering because of it, and you know how much I care about this [issue]. What I can do to better serve my veterans? ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/congressman-mo-brooks-recognizes-alabama-am-universitys-50th-anniversary,Congressman Mo Brooks Recognizes Alabama A&M University's 50th Anniversary in House Floor Speech,2019-11-13,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Mo Brooks,B001274,brooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Wednesday, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) congratulated Alabama A&M University on its 50th anniversary as a fully accredited university in a House Floor speech. Click on the image above or HERE for video of Congressman Brooks' speech Full text of Congressman Brooks' speech follows: Mister Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary of Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University. The school was originally established not long after the Civil War in 1873 by the legislature of the State of Alabama. Through the tireless efforts of the first principal and president, William Hooper Council, the Huntsville Normal School opened on May 1, 1875 with an appropriation of $1,000 per year. It had 61 students and two instructors. In 1885, because of its success with industrial education, the Alabama Legislature changed its name to the State Normal and Industrial School in Huntsville. In 1891, the name was again changed to The State Agricultural and Industrial Institute for Negroes, and a new location was provided at Normal, Alabama. In 1969, the school became a fully accredited member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and its name was changed to Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, the name that it has today. In the 50 years since its university designation and establishment of the foundation, Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University has grown to encompass widely respected programs in engineering, computer science, business, food sciences, agricultural and animal sciences, and education as well as PhD programs in plant and soil science, food science, physics, and reading. Today, Alabama A&M University is comprised of over 70 buildings on more than 1,000 acres, is home to more than 6,000 students, is a designated Gold Military Friendly institution, and serves as a regional, state, national, and international resource while maintaining its mission of educating the underserved and uplifting the people of Alabama, the nation, and the world through its excellence in education. On a more personal note, my mother, Betty Brooks, is a proud graduate of Alabama A&M University, having received her masters degree there. I thank Alabama A&M for helping her to successfully serve for a quarter of a century as a Lee High School government and economics teacher. In sum, I am and all of the State of Alabama is proud of Alabama A&M University's accomplishments and wish Alabama A&M a happy 50th Anniversary as a fully accredited university. Go Bulldogs! May your future success in helping prepare, train, and educate our youth be as great and productive as your past. Mister Speaker, I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1776,Report from Washington: The Witch Hunt Continues as Work in Washington Stops,2019-11-13,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"(WASHINGTON, D.C.)What a waste of time. Any and all work on behalf of the American people has come to a screeching halt as House Democrats continue to push their impeachment hoax. After holding secret meetings behind closed doors, that all Americans and most Members of Congress were denied entry, Democrats are set to hold public hearings. Chairman Adam Schiff, who is running the show for Nancy Pelosi, has demonstrated time and again that he has a hard time with truth, fairness and openness when it comes to a transparent hearing. So far, the only information leaked from House Democrats to the Fake News media outlets are partial versions of hearsay that help them control the narrative. We all know what this impeachment hoax is all about. It is about overturning the 2016 election. As soon as Donald Trump was elected President of the United States, Democrats started calls for impeachment over nothing more than they were unwilling to accept that Hillary Clinton lost. Even as our country has dealt with the most recent impeachment sham, Nancy Pelosi called for the impeachment inquiry a day before the transcript between Trump and Zelensky was released. How did she even know what they said? Now, here we are, after the Russian hoax, the Mueller report and now the impeachment hoax, House Democrats have accomplished nothing for the American people. In fact, they've issued more subpoenas than passed laws. Congress has yet to pass the USMCA which would be great for Alabama, Congress has yet to lower prescription drug costs which would also be great for folks across our state and Congress has yet to fund our military and take care of those who protect our freedoms. As this dog and pony show goes on without merit, I hope the American people can see that another dead-end witch hunt won't change the outcome of the election and won't help our country. Shame on House Democrats. I will continue to proudly stand with President Trump. Please sign up for my e-Newsletter and the Rogers' Roundup by visiting my recently launched new custom website at: www.mikerogers.house.gov. To stay up to date, follow any or all of my social platforms as well. You can like my Facebook page at facebook.com/CongressmanMikeDRogers, follow me on Twitter and Instagram using the handle @RepMikeRogersAL and subscribe to my YouTube page by visiting youtube.com/MikeRogersAL03.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1777,Rogers Reminds College Students About Available Spring and Summer Internships,2019-11-13,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rogers Reminds College Students About Available Spring and Summer Internships Washington, November 13, 2019 (Washington, DC) Congressman Mike Rogers announced today that the deadline for applying for spring and summer internships in his D.C. and district offices will be December 2nd for spring and February 15, 2020, for summer. The internship program is designed to offer select college students a hands-on opportunity to learn about the legislative process, as well as the day-to-day operations of a Congressional office. To be considered for an internship, students should visit https://mikerogers.house.gov/forms/internships/ to complete the forms. Please call Rogers' Washington, D.C. office at 202.225.3261 for more information. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=99918020-9DBC-4F05-B68E-5C5625A9FCEB,Shelby Announces New Southwest Alabama Regional Airport,2019-11-13,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has authorized a new regional airport in Thomasville, Alabama, for residents across the southwest region of the state. Local airports will merge to become the Southwest Alabama Regional Airport. The recent growth and economic investment in Thomasville and the surrounding areas have created an ideal environment to host the new Southwest Alabama Regional Airport, said Senator Shelby. I am grateful for the efforts of Mayor Day, Dr. Eagerton, and Gil Gilmore over the years as we have worked to make this vision possible. I am also proud that the Federal Aviation Administration has recognized the need for this airport, and I am confident this project will contribute to the economic vitality of the region for generations to come. ""North Clarke County is located 60 miles from the closest interstate. The new Southwest Alabama Regional Airport is vital in closing the transportation gap for business and industry in our rural region, said Thomasville Mayor Sheldon Day. We want to sincerely thank Senator Shelby! He has been a strong advocate of this new airport and has long recognized the need for vital infrastructure in rural areas to accommodate new and expanding industries. We would also like to thank Gov. Ivey and Dr. John Eagerton for their unwavering dedication to seeing the vision for this airport become reality."" After 13 years of effort that included a site selection study, feasibility study, justification study and a business case analysis, land acquisition and construction of a proposed new airport in Thomasville, Alabama will soon become a reality thanks to the leadership, confidence and support of Kirk Shaffer, the FAA's Associate Administrator for Airports, said Dr. John Eagerton of the Alabama Department of Transportation. It has been especially gratifying to work with Thomasville Mayor Sheldon Day and Mr. Gil Gilmore, Chairman of the Southwest Alabama Regional Airport Authority, to make this airport a reality. I too want to thank Rans Black, the FAA's ADO manager, for his continuing support and guidance as well as the FAA's Southern Region Airports Division Director, Steven Hicks, for his unwavering efforts. And most importantly, the project would not have advanced without the support and effort of Senator Shelby and his staff to gain final FAA approval for the new airport. This has truly been a team effort. The development of the new Thomasville airport is part of a broader state system planning initiative that has the goal of providing the rural regions of Alabama with improved air access by developing regional airport facilities that serve today's business aviation fleet. As part of this goal, the strategy is to locate and invest in regional airports in those communities that serve as business and economic hubs in the rural regions of the state. It is always encouraging to see rural areas in our state take bold, giant steps and I congratulate Senator Richard Shelby and Mayor Sheldon Day for their work in getting the Southwest Alabama Regional Airport approved by the FAA, said Alabama Governor Kay Ivey. Projects like this take a long time, a lot of patience and even more persistence. My Administration is totally focused on helping rural Alabama compete whether it is in infrastructure, broadband or economic development, and we've recently seen several major developments come to rural Alabama. Special thanks to Senator Shelby and our Federal Delegation for their help. As one who grew up in Alabama's Black Belt, helping our rural areas is top priority of mine. I'm especially grateful for the leadership of Dr. John Eagerton, chief of the Aeronautics Bureau, at the Alabama Department of Transportation. John has been working for years to help Alabama's airports and he worked tirelessly on this project as well. The 2005 Alabama Statewide Airport System Plan revealed that Southwest Alabama was underserved in terms of access to aviation infrastructure. As a result, the Alabama Department of Transportation's Aeronautic Bureau worked with FAA and the Southwest Alabama Regional Airport Authority to conduct studies outlining an approach to meet the region's aviation needs. These studies confirmed that the area was underserved and recommended the construction of a new general aviation airport in Clarke County. Additionally, over the past decade, various companies have been or are in the process of investing over $550 million in facilities and infrastructure to support business operations in the Thomasville area. These investments have and will continue to support hundreds of jobs, and these business, as well as their vendors, suppliers, and customers, rely on general aviation aircraft to support their commercial needs. The new regional airport will allow local companies to enhance operations, while also attracting new business to the area. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-introduces-full-choice-for-veterans-act,Byrne Introduces Full Choice for Veterans Act,2019-11-12,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) today introduced the Full Choice for Veterans Act to allow every veteran the option of receiving care from doctors, specialists, and hospitals in their local community instead of forcing them to stay in the VA system. The bill, H.R. 5033, amends the Community Care Program which limits conditions under which veterans are eligible to use the program. The bill will allow all veterans to make the choices they need and to receive access to timely medical care. Congressman Byrnesaid:Our veterans deserve the best medical care available and should never forego treatment because of bureaucratic roadblocks. My legislation will free all our veterans from VA regulations that lock them into a dysfunctional system, allowing them to seek care when and where they need it. Additionally, the efficiencies from cutting down the bloated VA bureaucracy will save taxpayer money. With President Trump's leadership, we've made great progress at the VA, but much more work remains. I pledge to continue working to serve our veterans who have given us so much. The Community Care Program was created in 2018 to expand the conditions under which veterans can seek medical care in their local communities. However, the subjective nature of the conditions to use the Community Care Program will leave it up to the VA to decide which veterans are able to use private medical care. Byrne believes every veteran should have the choice to seek care in their community. Byrne is a longtime advocate for increasing veteran access to private medical care. He previously introduced legislation to expand veteran access to private care in 2015 and 2017. After arriving in Washington, Byrne was instrumental in securing a long-delayed new VA Clinic in Mobile.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/serious-about-corruption-investigate-the-bidens,Serious About Corruption? Investigate the Bidens,2019-11-11,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Speaker Pelosi, Adam Schiff, and their Democratic colleagues have spent countless hours and taxpayer dollars to find evidence that President Trump was involved in corruption. At the same time, Democrats refuse to even consider the fundamental issue at hand was President Trump right to question the activities of Hunter Biden in Ukraine? Months ago, media reported Hunter Biden's shady business dealings. But, once impeachment began, the mainstream media moved to kill the story. We're told nothing to see there. Yet each week, new information continues to emerge demanding a full investigation of the facts. We know that Hunter Biden essentially made his living as a high-powered lobbyist benefiting from his father's career as a Senator and Vice President. When Joe was elected Vice President, Hunter claimed to leave lobbying, but really he just shifted his game. He formed a series of companies with Christopher Heinz, the stepson of Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman and later Secretary of State John Kerry. These kids, trading on their fathers' names and political ties, made a pretty powerful combo. As the New York Times reported, Biden and Heinz pursued multiple foreign business investments where connections implied political influence and protection. These guys closed lucrative deals with China right after Hunter visited China on Air Force II with his father. Importantly, they were working in Ukraine while Joe was leading Ukrainian policy for the U.S to fight corruption. Ukraine is known for its corruption. A small group of oligarchs hold most political power. Hunter and his company went to work for one of these guys and his notoriously corrupt energy company, Burisma Holdings. Hunter was paid up to $50,000 a month to sit on its board. We know Hunter knew nothing about energy or Ukraine. But, when you're dealing a with a corrupt country like Ukraine, and the son of the Vice President of the United States is involved in a corrupt company, that sends a signal to government officials when considering pursuing investigations. At the same time, Vice President Biden was threatening to withhold aid to Ukraine unless they fired the prosecutor allegedly looking into Burisma. Senior State Department officials raised concerns about Hunter to the Vice President. Yet, the arrangement continued until recently. The bottom line is that there are serious allegations here, they directly relate to impeachment, and Congress needs to find out what happened. In fact, I introduced a H.Res. 631 directing the relevant committees to investigate alleged Biden corruption. Despite having a substantial number of cosponsors, my resolution has been bottled up by Speaker Pelosi. Last week, Republicans on the Intelligence Committee echoed my resolution, requesting that if Hunter Biden is going to be the basis for impeachment, Congress should get his testimony in the impeachment inquiry. But, Democrats have signaled they won't allow it. My question is, why? We know the answer - this is a partisan witch hunt against President Trump. President Trump never once demanded a quid pro quo from President Zelenksy. You can read the transcript yourself. While the Democrats and their allies in the press have trashed President Trump for raising Burisma and Ukraine's role in the 2016 elections, those are serious issues worthy of investigation. I am proud to be a leader in the pressure campaign to expose the hypocrisy of the Democrats' sham process. And I will continue leading the fight to investigate the Bidens and expose real corruption that may exist. If Democrats are serious about exposing corruption, investigating Hunter Biden cannot be ignored. One thing I've learned is that you can't win a fight you don't join. When you fight, good things can happen. That is why I am going to keep fighting, to make sure the truth is out there.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mikerogers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1775,Rogers: Honoring Our American Heroes,2019-11-10,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Mike Rogers,R000575,mikerogers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rogers: Honoring Our American Heroes Washington, November 10, 2019 (Washington, DC)Congressman Mike Rogers made the following remarks today ahead of Veterans Day on November 11th. Today, as we honor our Veterans, we must remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in fighting to protect our freedoms and pray for their families and friends they left behind. All of our brave men and women who serve our country in uniform are nothing less than true American heroes. God bless our Veterans and God bless America. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roby.house.gov/newsroom/columns/we-will-always-stand-our-american-heroes,We Will Always Stand by Our American Heroes,2019-11-08,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"Each year on Veterans Day, Americans pause to recognize those who have served our country in uniform. Originally known as Armistice Day, Congress later passed a resolution signed by President Dwight Eisenhower that officially designated November 11 as Veterans Day. It is important that we honor these heroic men and women not only on this holiday but every day. We are indebted to the selflessness of those who put their lives on the line to protect our freedom. This special day of remembrance is not simply just a day off work. It is a day set aside to acknowledge the servicemembers who sacrificed for the freedoms we may sometimes take for granted. One way to show tribute to our heroes is by attending a local Veterans Day event. It is always an honor to be in the presence of those who fight to defend our nation, but it is especially humbling on this significant holiday. I highly encourage you and your family to attend a Veterans Day ceremony in your hometown. Many cities and towns throughout Central and South Alabama will hold special observances in which you and your family can attend. Not only is it a wonderful opportunity to express your gratitude, but it is also a great way for your children to meet servicemembers and better understand the endless sacrifices made on our behalf. If you cannot attend an event in person, please make sure you take time to thank the people you may know who have served our country in uniform. It is my highest honor to represent the people of Alabama's Second Congressional District and to fight for the men and women who serve us all. One of my top priorities since my first day in Congress is working on behalf of America's servicemembers and veterans, particularly because the Second District is home to a notable population of veterans and thousands of active duty and reserve personnel. My offices do the best we can to represent our veterans and provide them with adequate assistance every day because they deserve proper care and attention. If I can ever be helpful to you or someone you know, please do not hesitate to call my office or visit my website for more information on the assistance my office can supply. It is imperative that we remain committed to honoring and caring for our veterans and military families more than just one day each year. We owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to all members who have served in our Armed Forces. Thank you to every servicemember, young and old, across our nation. Your gracious devotion to our country and its people has never gone unnoticed, and it never will. America is great because of your willingness to make sacrifices on our behalf.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=93B48D35-E2C9-4D8E-AB39-487D57C3F5D4,Shelby Announces $9.3 Million DOT BUILD Grant for Madison County,2019-11-07,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded a grant totaling $9,268,804 in funding for highway infrastructure improvements in Madison County, Alabama. The grant is made available as part of the DOT Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program, which focuses on economic development and infrastructure upgrades. This $9.3 million BUILD grant will allow Madison County to continue to meet the growing transportation needs of North Alabama, said Senator Shelby. As businesses and residents continue relocating to the Huntsville area, it is vital that our infrastructure is able to support these exciting developments. I am grateful that DOT recognized the need for this funding and look forward to the efficiencies created by this project. The $9.3 million in BUILD grant funding will expand a section of Blake Bottom Road from two lanes to five lanes, stretching from State Route 255 Interchange to Jeff Road. The project will alleviate traffic congestion and hazardous driving conditions to and from Huntsville, Alabama, and will ease navigation to and from Huntsville's three primary locations of employment, Redstone Arsenal, Cummings Research Park, and North Huntsville Industrial Park. I thank Senator Shelby and his staff for their unwavering support of Madison County, Alabama, in what is the largest US Department of Transportation grant in the history of our county, said Madison County Commission Chairman Dale W. Strong. This project will significantly support commuter travel to Research Park Boulevard which leads to the 2nd largest research park in the United States, and to Madison County's largest employer, Redstone Arsenal. This is truly a great day for Madison County. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=9DF5CAAE-E04A-413F-8D76-50086E736AD5,Shelby Announces $14.9 Million DOT BUILD Grant for Lauderdale County,2019-11-07,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded a grant totaling $14,880,000 in funding for highway infrastructure improvements in Lauderdale County, Alabama. The grant is made available as part of the DOT Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program, which focuses on economic development and infrastructure upgrades. DOT's decision to award Lauderdale County with $14.9 million in funding is a testament to the economic development taking place in the Florence area, said Senator Shelby. This BUILD grant will allow for highway improvements that will make the area more attractive to tourists, residents, and businesses. I look forward to continuing efforts with DOT and my colleagues to ensure our local infrastructure supports our state's economic growth and transportation needs. This $14.9 million BUILD grant will expand a stretch of U.S. Highway 72, also known as Florence Boulevard, from a four-lane divided highway to a six-lane divided highway, adding a lane in each direction, as well as concrete curb and gutters. These improvements will alleviate traffic congestion and provide easier commutes for those traveling to and from the area. On behalf of the Lauderdale County Commission I would like to thank Senator Shelby and his staff for the hard work and support on this project, said Lauderdale County Commissioner Roger Garner. I believe this will be a tremendous asset for our area moving forward. This will help with economic and industrial development for our area. With the addition of the event center to our area, this will be a vital part of the transportation infrastructure. I would also like to thank our local State Senator Tim Melson and Representatives Lynn Greer and Phillip Pettus for all their hard work on this project. Commissioner Joe Hackworth commented on how this will relieve the congestion that already exist in this area. I think this will have a positive impact on our area for years to come. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E4AB44C7-0EB2-4B73-AB37-3CC22572BFBE,Shelby Announces $14.4 Million DOT BUILD Grant for Gulf Shores Highway Infrastructure Project,2019-11-07,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Richard Shelby,S000320,www.shelby.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will award the City of Gulf Shores, Alabama, a federal highway infrastructure improvement grant in the amount of $14,404,831 for a project to increase the capacity of State Highway 59 in Baldwin County. The grant is made available as part of the DOT Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program, which focuses on economic development and infrastructure upgrades. This is excellent news for the City of Gulf Shores and our Gulf Coast region, said Senator Shelby. The $14.4 million BUILD grant from DOT will enhance the safety and efficiency along Highway 59, as well as alleviating excessive traffic. I look forward to working with my colleagues and Transportation Secretary Chao as we continue to prioritize the infrastructure needs of Alabama and the nation. The BUILD grant for Gulf Shores, Alabama, will fund a project to: Construct approximately two miles of a third southbound lane on State Highway 59 between County Road 8 and Alabama State Highway 180; Construct a new pedestrian bridge over the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway; Construct shared-use paths along State Highway 59 from 20th Avenue to County Road 4; Expand County Road 6 from a two-lane roadway to a divided four-lane boulevard with dedicated cycling lanes and a shared-use pedestrian path access; and Add new two-lane roads, cycling lanes, and sidewalks. We recognize that multimodal transportation infrastructure improvements are critical to the long term sustainability of our community. This project will provide safe bicycle and pedestrian routes, ease traffic congestion, improve emergency response and expedite the evacuation process for our residents and the millions of visitors we host annually. stated Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft. I would like to thank Senator Richard Shelby and our Congressional Delegation for their assistance with this grant process. This project would not be possible without their unwavering support. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/byrne-congratulates-alabama-recipients-of-hire-vets-award,Byrne Congratulates Alabama Recipients of 'HIRE Vets' Award,2019-11-06,2019,2019-11,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) issued the following statement congratulating eleven Alabama companies for being awarded by the Department of Labor (DOL) for their investments in recruiting, employing, and retaining our nation's veterans. Congressman Byrnesaid:Congratulations to these Alabama companies for being the nation's best at putting America's veterans to work. I can think of nothing more rewarding than supporting those who have given so much to us. Our veterans possess unique, invaluable skills, and we must recognize businesses who provide opportunities to transition those skills to civilian life. This Veterans Day, let's renew our pledge to remember the many sacrifices of our veterans and their families. The Alabama companies below were named recipients of DOL HIRE Vets Medallion Awards this morning in Washington. Click here for more information on the program. Navigator Development Group Inc., Enterprise Shearer & Associates, Inc., Huntsville Qualis Corporation, Huntsville nLogic, LLC, Huntsville HigherEchelon, Inc., Huntsville PeopleTec, Inc., Huntsville Intuitive Research and Technology Corporation, Huntsville Pinnacle Solutions, Inc., Huntsville Bevilacqua Research Corporation, Huntsville A Precision Auto Glass, Inc., Mobile Blueridge IT Solutions, Montgomery",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z