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://rouzer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3239,Rouzer Celebrates Investment in ILM Aircraft Apron Expansion...,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,David Rouzer,R000603,rouzer.house.gov,rouzer,https://rouzer.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WILMINGTON, NC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) applauded a $3 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant to expand the aircraft apron at Wilmington International Airport (ILM).

The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding will support ILM’s apron expansion, the first phase of a broader terminal expansion project that will ultimately add additional gates, improve aircraft parking and maneuvering, and position the airport to accommodate continued passenger and airline growth.

""Southeastern North Carolina relies on Wilmington International Airport to connect our community and support our growing economy,"" said Congressman Rouzer. ""This investment is a major step toward ensuring ILM can accommodate continued growth and better serve our community for years to come. I'll keep working to enhance ILM’s advancement as well as our other infrastructure needs.”

“We’re thrilled to see this investment at ILM,” said Jeffrey Bourk, ILM Airport Director. “Our airport has grown tremendously in recent years, and the work ahead will allow us to keep pace with the region. We thank Congressman Rouzer for his continued advocacy and support for ILM. With this funding, we can modernize our infrastructure to provide the safe, efficient service our community and passengers expect.""

AIP funding supports airport infrastructure projects, including runways, taxiways, signage, lighting, markings, and other improvements that promote safe and efficient airport operations.",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/28/senator-budd-wraps-second-official-100-county-tour/,Senator Budd Wraps Second Official 100 County Tour and is Ready to Get Back on the Road,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) has completed his second official 100-County Tour during his time serving in the Senate, traveling to all 100 counties across North Carolina. Senator Budd has completed a total of three 100-County Tours, spanning from Murphy to Manteo, the first of which he completed during his 2022 U.S. Senate campaign.

Upon wrapping his second tour of the state, Senator Budd said:

“Throughout my career in public service, I have firmly believed that representing North Carolina cannot be done from behind a desk in Washington. I work for the people of North Carolina, and that means being where they are, listening to their concerns firsthand, and bringing their voices back to Washington to shape the policies that affect their lives. That is what my 100-County Tour is all about.

“North Carolina didn’t become the number one state economy by accident. It happened because communities across all 100 counties are building, innovating, and investing in our state’s future. That’s why I have made it a point to travel to every corner of our state to understand what is happening on the ground and ensure Washington is working with North Carolina—not against it.

“In Western North Carolina, that means keeping up the momentum to rebuild the communities and infrastructure devastated by Hurricane Helene and making them more resilient than before. In the Piedmont Triad and the Northeast, it means strengthening our workforce and supporting the farmers who power North Carolina’s number one industry. In the Triangle, it means driving investment and innovation to keep our state at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge technology. In Central North Carolina, it means fostering a business environment where companies want to invest. And in the Southeast, it means standing with our service members and ensuring they have the resources and support they need to defend our nation and put America first.

“Now that I’ve completed my second tour, my work is far from over. I’m resetting the odometer and ready to get back on the road.”

100-County Tour Highlights

While traveling across all 100 counties, Senator Budd visited farms, factories, military installations, schools, healthcare facilities, and businesses shaping North Carolina’s future. The tour stops below showcase the industries driving North Carolina’s growth, creating jobs, and keeping the state at the forefront of American innovation and competitiveness.

BACKING OUR FARMERS

Wilson County | Scott Farms — Senator Budd visited Scott Farms, a sixth-generation family farm in Lucama and one of the largest family-owned and operated farms in the state. During his visit, he held a roundtable to discuss issues that limit farmers from meeting their bottom line, such as operational costs and production capacity. Given these challenges, Senator Budd has introduced the FARM AI Act to invest in agricultural technology to improve workforce development with the goal of educating farmers on the latest AI technologies to advance production and better compete in the global marketplace. At the roundtable, Senator Budd also highlighted wins in the Working Families Tax Cut Act for North Carolina farmers, including over $10 billion in tax cuts for producers and preventing the death tax from harming the future of our nation’s 2 million family-owned farms.

Caswell County | Yarborough Farms — Senator Budd visited Yarborough Farms in Prospect Hill, one of the state’s top tobacco producers, where he met with local farmers and business leaders to discuss the state of the rural economy, agricultural labor shortages, and trade issues. Senator Budd secured a duty drawback on tobacco in the Working Families Tax Cut Act, and has continued to bring the needs of the flue-cured tobacco industry to President Trump’s attention, especially during trade negotiations with China. After hearing from farmers about the lack of clarity in forecasting labor costs, Senator Budd introduced the FARM Stability Act to give farmers greater certainty and clarity as they plan for future growing seasons.

DEFENDING THE HOMELAND

Wayne County | Seymour Johnson Air Force Base — Senator Budd visited Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and delivered on a long-term defense priority for the state, confirming Seymour Johnson to be the first F-15E base to receive the new, modernized F-15EX aircraft. Senator Budd continues to champion the effort in the Senate in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes provisions from his bipartisanAirpower Acceleration Act granting the U.S. Air Force authority to use multiyear procurement to expand the F-15EX fleet.

Pasquotank County | U.S. Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City — Senator Budd visited the men and women at Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City, home to the Coast Guard’s largest aviation footprint. During his tour of the Air Station, Senator Budd spoke with service members supporting the base’s field support operation at the Aviation Logistics Center, Aviation Technical Training Center, Support Center, and Boat Station. Senator Budd was proud to ensure the U.S. Coast Guard received the largest investment in the branch’s history in the Working Families Tax Cut Act.

HELENE – THE ROAD TO RECOVERY

Senator Budd kicked off his second official 100-County Tour in Western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. He surveyed damage and relief efforts in Ashe, Watauga, Avery, Mitchell, Yancey, Madison, Buncombe, Henderson, Rutherford, and Polk counties during the first leg of the tour. Read more about those visits HERE.

Rutherford County | Surveying WNC Recovery Needs with Secretary Mullin — Senator Budd hosted U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, Markwayne Mullin, in Western North Carolina to survey outstanding recovery needs post Hurricane Helene in Lake Lure. Additionally, Senator Budd and Secretary Mullin held a roundtable discussion in Chimney Rock with local and state leaders and emergency responders to discuss recovery gaps and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) response to outstanding needs.

Henderson County | USDA Disaster Grant Signing at Mountain State Fair — Senator Budd joined U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Stephen Alexander Vaden, and N.C. Agriculture Commissioner, Steve Troxler, at the Mountain State Fair in Asheville, where the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced over $221 million in recovery assistance for North Carolina farmers to recover losses caused by Hurricane Helene. Senator Budd led the charge to release these funds from USDA in a letter he sent with his colleagues.

ADVANCING HEALTHCARE & BIOTECHNOLOGY

Mecklenburg County | The Pearl — Senator Budd toured Charlotte’s first four-year medical school, The Pearl. Given the Queen City’s leadership as a hub for advancing healthcare, The Pearl will expand Charlotte’s leadership by creating over 5,500 on-site jobs and over 11,500 jobs regionally over the next 15 years, positioning the city as a global destination for medical advancement.

Franklin County | Novonesis — Senator Budd toured Novonesis’ North American headquarters in Franklinton, where he met with the company’s leadership to discuss how their manufacturing facility is leveraging microbiology and science to improve a wide range of consumer products. Additionally, Senator Budd discussed how his bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence Act, geared toward promoting U.S. leadership in biotechnology, could support Novonesis’ goals in developing the next generation of BioSolutions.

INVESTING IN NORTH CAROLINA’S WORKFORCE & INDUSTRY

Caldwell County | Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute Small Business Center – The Hub Station — Senator Budd visited many community colleges and universities on the 100-County Tour, including Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute’s Hub Station, which has seen great success in implementing the workforce training benefits in Senator Budd’s PELL Act. The PELL Act, signed into law as part of the Working Families Tax Cut Act, is now helping low-income students move into family-sustaining careers by accessing in-demand credentials in as little as 8 weeks.

Guliford County | JetZero’s Flagship Airplane Manufacturing Facility — Senator Budd spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony for JetZero’s first aircraft factory in Greensboro. The $4.7 billion project is projected to create over 14,500 jobs over the next 10 years. JetZero will be developing its Z4 plane at the factory, bringing a next-generation commercial and military aircraft to market. As a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, Senator Budd has a vested interest in maintaining America’s global competitiveness in aerospace innovation, and JetZero’s investment in North Carolina is a step in the right direction to further American dominance.

Randolph County | Toyota’s First U.S. Electric Battery Manufacturing Plant — Senator Budd spoke at the opening ceremony of Toyota’s first electric battery manufacturing plant in North America and toured the Liberty facility with U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy. Toyota’s $13.9 billion investment in North Carolina will create over 5,000 jobs and support working parents at its childcare center, which will care for up to 312 children.

FOSTERING THE FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY

Johnston County | Vulcan Elements — Senator Budd joined state and local leaders to highlight Vulcan Elements’ $1 billion investment in Benson to build its Polaris Facility and strengthen America’s rare earth magnet supply chain. Rare earth magnets are critical to many of the technologies shaping the future, and Senator Budd is fighting to ensure America—not China—leads the world in robotics, drones, semiconductors, and other next-generation technologies.

Richmond County | Amazon Data Center — Senator Budd toured the new Amazon Data Center construction site in Hamlet to expand America’s artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing footprint. Amazon has invested $10 billion in Richmond County, one of North Carolina’s 40 most economically distressed counties. The data center is projected to significantly boost the county’s economic development, creating 500 high-skilled jobs and thousands of supply chain support jobs, in addition to the company’s $150,000 community fund contribution to support STEM education, workforce development, and economic growth in Richmond County.

###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/harris-calls-wnba-define-woman-biological-female-establish-clear-eligibility,"Harris Calls on WNBA to Define Woman as Biological Female, Establish Clear Eligibility Standards",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Mark Harris,H001102,markharris.house.gov,markharris,https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) sent a letter to Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Commissioner Cathy Engelbert urging the league to define women as biological females under its Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and establish biological sex as the basis for eligibility in women’s basketball.

The letter follows backlash against Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham after she publicly spoke out in support of protecting women’s sports. Commissioner Engelbert subsequently addressed the controversy in a memo to teams but stopped short of announcing changes to the league’s eligibility rules.

Earlier this year, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) adopted a policy limiting eligibility in the female category to biological females beginning with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Despite the WNBA’s longstanding connection to Olympic basketball, the league has not announced plans to take similar action.

KEY EXCERPTS FROM THE LETTER:

“Since then, the league has played a pivotal role in advancing women’s sports and creating opportunities for female athletes. Preserving those opportunities requires a clear and consistent standard for eligibility and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of women’s basketball.”

“Yet the league’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) leaves a critical question unanswered. Article XIII, Section 1(a) states, ‘Only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA,’ but the CBA does not define ‘women’ according to biological sex or establish a clear standard for determining eligibility. Without that clarity, female athletes and fans are left uncertain about the standard governing who may compete in a league created specifically for women.”

“Sophie Cunningham deserves recognition for having the courage to raise concerns about protecting women’s sports and maintaining a fair competitive environment for female athletes. Athletes should feel confident that they can speak openly about legitimate issues affecting their sport without being subjected to controversy or backlash simply for doing so.”

“I respectfully ask the WNBA to adopt a definition of ‘woman’ under its CBA that defines women as biological females and establishes biological sex as the basis for eligibility in women’s basketball. Female athletes deserve certainty that the opportunities created for them—and the integrity of women’s basketball—will continue to be protected.”

The full text of Congressman Harris’s letter can be found here.

###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-introduces-let-americans-buy-explicit-labeling-label-act,Congressman Tim Moore Introduces Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling (LABEL) Act,2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Yesterday, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced H.R. 10580, the Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling Act (LABEL) Act, to require that country of origin and production method (wild or farm-raised) labels for fish be clearly displayed on the front of consumer packages through amending the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946.

“Every American deserves to know where their food comes from,” said Congressman Tim Moore. “The LABEL Act helps ensure consumers have clear information about where their seafood was caught or raised and how it was produced, right on the front of the package.”

Original cosponsors include Randy Weber (R-TX). This legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Hyde-Smith (R-MS) and cosponsored by Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Adam Schiff (D-CA). The text is also included in the Agricultural Act of 2026.

This legislation also has support from the American Shrimp Processors Association (ASPA), Louisiana Shrimp Association, Southern Shrimp Alliance, and Organized Seafood Association of Alabama.",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/25/budd-blunt-rochester-introduce-bill-to-establish-biometrology-laboratory-program/,"Budd, Blunt Rochester Introduce Bill to Establish Biometrology Laboratory Program, Accelerate Development in Biotech",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) this week introduced the Standards and Collaboration for American Leadership in Engineering (SCALE) Biology Act, legislation that would establish a Biometrology Laboratory Program for the research of engineering biology, biomanufacturing, and biotechnology under the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This new program would advance research into the measurement of key units and inputs and promote U.S. competitiveness in biotech development.

“If the U.S. is going to continue to lead the world in biotechnology innovation, we must ensure that the accepted standards for the most fundamental inputs that these programs will rely on are developed in America,” said Senator Budd. “With China’s recent increases in state support for their bioeconomy, I am grateful to Senator Blunt Rochester for her partnership on this effort to facilitate commercial development here in America.”

“America’s bioeconomy is critical to our economy, national security, and leadership in fields from health care to agriculture. The bipartisan SCALE Biology Act will strengthen the measurement science and technical standards needed to accelerate innovation and bring new biotechnology from the lab to the marketplace. Delaware is home to a robust life sciences and biomanufacturing ecosystem, and I’m proud to work with Senator Budd to strengthen this important sector and ensure the United States continues to set the global standard for biotechnology and biomanufacturing,” said Senator Blunt Rochester.

In July, Senator Budd chaired a hearing in the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Science, Manufacturing, and Competitiveness, where he discussed China’s evolving biology standards. Drew Endy, PhD, a bioengineering professor and Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, was a witness at the hearing and urged Congress to support the creation of a biomeasurement laboratory. About the introduction of the SCALE Biology Act, Dr. Endy said:

“Biology is becoming a general-purpose technology. The SCALE Biology Act is an extraordinary and high-leverage opportunity. By tasking and enabling NIST to advance world-leading measurement science and standards for biotechnology, all Americans can harvest the benefits of a safe, secure, resilient, and trustworthy bioeconomy.”

**(Disclaimer: For identification purposes only. The Hoover Institution does not take institutional positions, and this statement does not represent the organization’s views.)**

U.S. Representatives April McClain Delaney (D-Md.-06) and Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.-08) introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives in May.

The SCALE Biology Act has been endorsed by OpenAI and Google.

Read the full bill text HBudd, Blunt Rochester Introduce Bill to Establish Biometrology Laboratory Program, Accelerate Development in Biotech

ERE.

BACKGROUND

Biomanufacturing, biotechnology, and engineering biology all have direct implications on America’s economy and our national security. The SCALE Biology Act will direct NIST to cooperate with other governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, industry, and institutions of higher education to develop standards supporting biomanufacturing and engineering biology. Additionally, the bill directs the Director of NIST to support the development of engineering biology foundries to improve measurement assurance and make the engineering of living measurement systems more predictable and routine.

China has identified the bioeconomy as a strategic national industry by significantly increasing its state support and research and development activities in this sector. Concerningly, China has rapidly expanded the construction of bioeconomy focused scientific parks. Between 2016 and 2020, the number of biotech science parks in China increased from 400 to 600. The Biometrology Laboratory Program will ensure that U.S. standards and research remain the international gold standard as China pushes aggressively to displace U.S. leadership.

###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/25/budd-markey-lead-bipartisan-resolution-condemning-chinas-wrongful-detention-of-american-academics/,"Budd, Markey Lead Bipartisan Resolution Condemning China’s Wrongful Detention of American Academics",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) were joined by Senators John Curtis (R-Utah) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) in introducing a bipartisan resolution condemning the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) repeated pattern of arbitrary or wrongful detention of American academics. The resolution urges the United States government to prioritize the safe return of all American citizens wrongfully detained in China. U.S. Representatives Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.-08) and John Moolenaar (R-Mich.-02) led a companion resolution in the House of Representatives.

“The Chinese Communist Party’s pattern of unjustly detaining innocent Americans on baseless allegations cannot carry on unchecked. It is long past time for the CCP to return American academics Dr. Youlin Chen and Mr. Min Zin home to their loved ones and end the targeting of American citizens. I am proud to stand with Senator Markey and my colleagues, as a bipartisan front, against these escalatory actions,” said Senator Budd.

“The wrongful detainment of innocent civilians is never justifiable and should always be condemned in the strongest possible terms. We owe it to the American people to stand up and speak out when our citizens are wrongfully detained in foreign prisons. It is my hope that this bipartisan resolution from the United States Congress will bring increased attention to the unjust detention of Dr. Youlin Chen and Min Zin and force the Chinese government to do the right thing and release them immediately. I am praying for Dr. Chen, Mr. Zin, and their families today,” said Senator Markey.

“China’s repeated and cruel pattern of wrongful detentions of American citizens, leaving some without access to legal counsel, is nothing short of an affront to the rule of law and infringes on their rights and freedoms. The U.S. government must redouble its efforts to ensure U.S. citizens unjustly detained abroad, like Min Zin and Dr. Chen, return safely back home to their loved ones,” said Senator Schiff.

Read the full bill text HERE.

BACKGROUND

The resolution:

• Condemns the PRC’s repeated pattern of arbitrary or wrongful detention of United States citizens.

• Urges the Secretary of State to use all available tools to press for the release of all United States nationals being unlawfully or wrongfully detained in the PRC.

• Urges the United States government to make the safe return of United States citizens detained in China a top priority, including the return of Dr. Chen and Min Zin:

On November 5, 2024, PRC authorities arrested Dr. Chen, an American academic who has conducted transparent, open-source seismological research in cooperation with Chinese academics. Despite this high level of engagement, the PRC has held him in detention for more than 600 days without a trial or access to his family on baseless espionage charges.

On June 3, 2026, PRC authorities detained Mr. Zin, the executive director of a Myanmar-focused policy think tank, at Kunming Changshui International Airport. His arrest occurred after he received an invitation to attend an academic event at a university in China’s Yunnan province. Mr. Zin remains in detention without access to legal counsel.

###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-helped-secure-over-378000-federal-funding-city-belmont,"Congressman Tim Moore Helped to Secure Over $378,000 in Federal Funding for the City of Belmont",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) announced the City of Belmont has been awarded $378,240.04 for the Belmont Fire Department through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)'s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program.

“I’m proud to have helped secure this grant for the Belmont Fire Department to better support the men and women who keep our community safe,” said Congressman Moore. “Belmont has grown significantly over the past decade, increasing the demand for emergency services. This funding will allow the department to hire additional firefighters, which will strengthen response capabilities and help keep Belmont residents safe.”

“On behalf of Belmont Mayor Joe Jordan and Belmont City Council, we sincerely thank Congressman Tim Moore for supporting the Belmont Fire Department’s SAFER grant application,”said Alex Hardee, Deputy Fire Chief of the Belmont Fire Department. “This grant will provide three operational positions that are paramount to Belmont’s public safety initiatives.”

Over the past three years, the Belmont Fire Department has experienced a roughly 70% increase in call volume. Despite these increasing demands, the department continues to operate with limited staffing. Specifically, this grant will allow the department to hire three additional firefighters, enabling the staffing of a four-person engine company.

This announcement follows a letter of support from Congressman Moore to FEMA recommending the City of Belmont for the SAFER Grant.",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-raises-concerns-over-national-debt-calls-bipartisan,"Congressman Tim Moore Raises Concerns Over National Debt, Calls for Bipartisan Fiscal Commission During Field Hearing",2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - During the House Budget Committee field hearing in Dallas, Texas, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) raised concerns about how the national debt is affecting North Carolina families and called for the establishment of a bipartisan fiscal commission to address this issue.

“[We need to make sure] that folks back home in our district understand how important this is,” said Congressman Moore. “Do you realize we're spending over $1 trillion a year in interest? That's more than we fund our military...The average family [pays]...a little over $500 [more] a month...in interest on a house payment because of [the national debt and inflation].”

During the hearing, ""America's Fiscal Future: Examining the Need for a Fiscal Commission,"" the committee heard from several witnesses including former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, former Sen. Joe Manchin III of West Virginia, and former Sen. Rob Portman of Ohio.",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/23/ahead-of-trump-xi-summit-budd-leads-colleagues-in-calling-out-chinese-effort-to-flood-u-s-markets-with-illicit-dangerous-vapes/,"Ahead of Trump-XI Summit, Budd Leads Colleagues in Calling Out Chinese Effort To Flood U.S. Markets With Illicit, Dangerous Vapes",2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led several of his Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump today, urging him to confront the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on its efforts to flood the United States with illicit, unauthorized vapes. In the letter, the senators call on the administration to press President Xi to enforce the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) existing export rules, halt the manufacturing and exporting of illicit vape products targeting U.S. markets, and cooperate with U.S. enforcement agencies to address the national drug crisis at its source.

In the letter, the senators wrote:

“China has the power to stop this but has chosen not to. … Beijing enforces this rule selectively while allowing hundreds of millions of illegal e-cigarettes to be exported to the U.S. annually, generating billions of dollars in revenue. This is a deliberate strategy that exploits gaps in U.S. enforcement. …

“This is a public health crisis, a national security threat, and a trade-fairness failure at once. Honest American retailers who follow federal law are being undercut by a black market supplied almost entirely from a single country that profits while our families pay the price.”

U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) joined in co-signing the letter.

Read the full letter text HERE or below:

Dear Mr. President:

As you prepare to meet with President Xi Jinping, I write to urge you to press him on a threat that continues to harm American families, undercut law-abiding retailers, and enrich our foremost geopolitical adversary: the flood of illicit, unauthorized vaping products manufactured in China and smuggled into the United States.

I am encouraged that you have previously signaled your intention to raise this issue with President Xi, and I commend the aggressive enforcement your Administration has already undertaken. From Operation Vape Trail to the record maritime seizures that have taken millions of illegal devices off the supply chain, your Administration has sent a clear message. But as long as the source of these products remains untouched, the flow will continue. This must ultimately be solved at its origin, and no one is better positioned to raise this issue with President Xi than you.

The scale is staggering. Thousands of distinct vaping products are currently sold on American shelves, the overwhelming majority of them illegal. A retail-scanner analysis of December 2025 sales found that nearly 70 percent of every dollar spent on e-cigarettes went to products the FDA never authorized, and 97.6 percent of disposable vape sales were unauthorized. Chinese e-cigarette exports to the United States surpassed $4 billion in 2025 alone, and rather than falling under enforcement pressure, they continued to rise through the final quarter of the year.

Most importantly, China has the power to stop this but has chosen not to. China’s own State Tobacco Monopoly Administration exercises extensive control over the e-cigarette industry, including exports, and Chinese law expressly bars manufacturers from shipping e-cigarettes to any country where those products are illegal. Beijing enforces this rule selectively while allowing hundreds of millions of illegal e-cigarettes to be exported to the U.S. annually, generating billions of dollars in revenue. This is a deliberate strategy that exploits gaps in U.S. enforcement. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) can direct regulators to enforce their own rules tomorrow if they choose.

Chinese manufacturers disguise shipments as everyday goods to evade customs, then market candy-flavored cartridges and toy-like designs in packaging styled to appeal to children. Many contain carcinogens, toxic additives, and heavy metals. The Department of Justice reports these products are sold near schools and military bases, putting minors and service members at risk. The emerging generation of Chinese “smart vapes,” which connect to smartphones, also raises a distinct cybersecurity threat if used by military personnel, potentially routing personal data and network access to the Chinese Communist Party. The illicit trade has further become a revenue stream for Mexican cartels and a vehicle for fentanyl-linked money laundering.

This is a public health crisis, a national security threat, and a trade-fairness failure at once. Honest American retailers who follow federal law are being undercut by a black market supplied almost entirely from a single country that profits while our families pay the price.

I respectfully ask that you urge President Xi to direct the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration to enforce its own export rules, to halt the manufacture and export of these illicit products, and to cooperate directly with U.S. enforcement agencies in stemming the flow at its source.

The CCP has the power to shut this trade down. I stand ready to work with your Administration to advance this shared priority.

Sincerely,

/X/

###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/23/icymi-budd-delivers-floor-speech-urging-trump-admin-to-hold-china-accountable-for-targeting-the-safety-security-of-americans/,ICYMI: Budd Delivers Floor Speech Urging Trump Admin to Hold China Accountable for Targeting the Safety & Security of Americans,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"“The CCP’s malign influence on the world stage is growing rapidly, and American citizens are paying the price.”

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor yesterday ahead of President Trump’s meeting with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. In his speech, Senator Budd called attention to China’s war on religious freedom, its role in fueling the U.S. drug epidemic, its relationship with key U.S. adversaries, and the consequential state of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) race.

Watch Senator Budd’s remarks:

Read Senator Budd’s remarks, as prepared for delivery:

This week, President Xi Jinping will visit the U.S. for bilateral meetings at a pivotal moment for U.S.-China relations. During his two terms in office, President Trump has been clear that under his leadership, the United States must engage with China given the reality of our economic relationship, but we can’t forget that China is also a competitor and an adversary.

The Chinese Communist Party’s malign influence on the world stage is growing rapidly, and American citizens are paying the price. America’s economy, our fundamental values, and our security—both at home and abroad—have been challenged by the CCP.

I’ve long believed a whole-of-government approach is necessary to address this, and I am grateful that President Donald Trump is at the helm for these crucial negotiations.

China is our most consequential geopolitical competitor, and we cannot afford to ignore the CCP’s ambitions to reorganize global order at the expense of the United States or underestimate the CCP’s rapidly progressing hard and soft power influence around the world to execute this goal.

When President Xi enters the White House later this week, I hope discussions between our two nations include America’s most fundamental values and responsibilities upfront: the protection of American citizens abroad and reiterating a zero-tolerance for violating the God-given right to religious freedom. Let me be clear: there is no excuse for the CCP to unjustly target American citizens abroad or their families, harass religious groups, or carry out a broad-sweeping war on faith in China.

To this day, eight leaders of Zion Church remain behind bars in China because of China’s attack on religious freedom. These detainments are egregious and cannot be ignored. China’s persecution of Christians and other religious groups must not go unaddressed. This is why, during my time in the Senate, I’ve sought to implement strict sanctions on any CCP official who is responsible for or directly carries out violations of religious freedom.

Under President Trump’s leadership, we have already proven to China that the United States has zero tolerance for religious persecution, and we have seen notable results.

At the U.S.-China Summit this past May, President Trump personally raised the case of Zion Church Pastor Ezra Jin with President Xi. Two months later, Pastor Jin was released and returned to U.S. soil, where he was reunited with his family after years of unjust detention. While we are deeply grateful for Pastor Jin’s return, we must never stop fighting to bring home the numerous pastors still unjustly detained and to defend the freedom to worship around the world.

China’s pattern of wrongfully detaining Americans, or relatives of American citizens, is not limited solely to religious crackdowns. I also want to highlight the bipartisan effort Senator Markey and I have taken to bring home both Dr. Youlin Chen and Mr. Min Zin, American academics currently being held in brutal and inhumane conditions.

I am grateful for this body’s bicameral, bipartisan support in condemning the People’s Republic of China’s repeated pattern of arbitrary or wrongful detention of United States citizens.

Here at home, China’s influence and key role in the illicit drug supply chain have resulted in the loss of far too many American lives, the destruction of families, and stolen livelihoods.

I’ve met with far too many families changed forever by the impacts of the drug epidemic. Through buying up American farmland, malign actors have brought the production of illegal hemp-derived products into our communities, and our children are paying the price. And by partnering with transnational criminal organizations, Chinese-connected companies have intentionally made highly addictive, intoxicating substances—like fentanyl and illicit vapes—readily accessible to Americans.

But make no mistake: China is aware of the consequences of its actions. That is exactly why Beijing has no problem extending law enforcement and counter-narcotics cooperation to other nations to mitigate these outcomes. But Chinese products are still flooding American markets in what looks more and more like a reverse Opium War. It needs to end.

Just last week, the Trump administration listed the PRC as one of 23 major drug-transit and producing countries. We have rightfully planted the flag, and now we must demand action to dismantle this criminal enterprise preying on the American people. Ahead of his meetings, President Trump is right to raise this issue directly with President Xi.

Mister President, the American people cannot be blind to China’s efforts to threaten our national security. Especially since the PRC’s growing economic and strategic relationships with adversaries like Russia, Iran, and North Korea have had sweeping consequences.

Earlier this year, at the U.S.-China summit in Beijing, President Trump and President Xi agreed that Iran can never possess a nuclear weapon, and the Strait of Hormuz must remain open for the free flow of global energy.

But if Beijing wants to maintain a productive relationship with Washington, it must recognize the consequences of continuing to partner with adversarial nations that fundamentally defy U.S. interests on the world stage.

Recent reports suggest that China provided Iran with intelligence, including satellite imagery that led to the death of three American service members.

A PRC State-owned firm has reportedly supplied Russia with materials for kamikaze drones, violating sanctions. And the PRC has reportedly supplied Iran with air defense equipment, among other goods, bypassing sanctions.

This behavior cannot continue.

America’s national security must remain at the center of every discussion shaping the future of U.S.-China relations, including the race to develop technologies that will define this century.

We are in a race with China to develop the next generation of advanced manufacturing technology, quantum computing, space travel and satellite technology, and perhaps most consequentially, artificial intelligence.

China’s cyber-threats to the U.S. government have been well documented and damaging to our government and private sector even before the rise of artificial intelligence.

The AI race is not simply about who builds the most powerful model. It is about who will set the standards, safeguards, and norms that will govern one of the most consequential technologies of our time.

Beijing’s national AI strategy calls for China to reach world-leading levels in artificial intelligence by 2030 and surpass the U.S. That reality should alarm us all—especially given that these models are being developed within fundamentally different political systems.

China is developing and deploying AI within its authoritarian system that employs censorship and state surveillance. In dramatic contrast, our models are being developed under constitutional principles that promote free speech, value individualism, and encourage private enterprise.

As the Senator from North Carolina, a state with a growing tech industry, thriving pharmaceutical manufacturing, a pivotal financial sector, and a critical agriculture industry, my state represents many of the successes the PRC aspires to.

Failure to maintain American dominance in these industries threatens to leave our nation vulnerable and decimate the economic growth and development that has benefited North Carolina and many others.

I rise today to urge this body, and our entire federal government, to engage with China with our eyes wide open, and without compromising our values, our security, or our strategic interests. Not because we expect our differences to disappear, but because those differences are too consequential to ignore.

We must continue to invest strategically in our national defense and prioritize AI engineering that promotes safety. As a nation, the United States is the most uniquely positioned to hold China accountable for exporting deadly drugs, evading sanctions in support of Iran and Russia, and for waging a war on religion. So, in that vein, Congress cannot rest in its vigilance to contain the China threat.

###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/22/budd-kaine-lead-letter-urging-trump-to-prioritize-securing-the-freedom-of-detained-pastors-people-of-faith-at-u-s-china-summit/,"Budd, Kaine Lead Letter Urging Trump to Prioritize Securing the Freedom of Detained Pastors & People of Faith at U.S-China Summit",2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) led a bipartisan letter to President Trump today, encouraging the administration to continue raising concerns with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) at this week’s meeting in Washington, D.C. on the persecution of religious groups in China and specifically pastors and religious minorities being unjustly held simply because of their faith. The letter highlights the persecution of ethnic and religious minority groups such as Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, Uyghur Muslims, and Falun Gong practitioners. In May, President Trump successfully secured the release of Pastor Ezra Jin following conversations with President Xi Jinping at the U.S.-China Summit in Beijing. In this letter, senators are now urging President Trump to specifically raise the cases of Pastor Gao Quanfu and his wife Pang Yu, Pastor Tang Bingyi of Light of Zion Church, and the eight remaining members of Zion Church—Gao Yingjia, Wang Lin, Yin Huibin, Wang Zhong, Wang Cong, Liu Zhenbin, Lin Shucheng, and Wu Qiuyu at the U.S.-China Summit in Washington.

In the letter, the senators wrote:

“The United States should continue to promote international religious freedom by calling on the Government of the People’s Republic of China to end its harassment and persecution of members of religious organizations, unconditionally release all unjustly detained political prisoners imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom of religious belief, and ensure that detainees who have not yet been released are treated humanely.”

U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) joined in co-signing the letter.

Read the full letter text HERE or below:

Dear President Trump,

Thank you for raising Pastor Ezra Jin’s case with President Xi earlier this year and working to secure his release. We were incredibly grateful to see him reunited with his family on July 3, right before we celebrated the 250th Anniversary of the United States.

The United States should continue to promote international religious freedom by calling on the Government of the People’s Republic of China to end its harassment and persecution of members of religious organizations, unconditionally release all unjustly detained political prisoners imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom of religious belief, and ensure that detainees who have not yet been released are treated humanely.

Building on your successful engagement leading to the release of Pastor Ezra Jin, we request that you continue keeping those persecuted for their faith in China, including ethnic and religious minority groups such as Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, Uyghur Muslims, and Falun Gong practitioners, top of mind in conversations with President Xi.

Specifically, we ask that in your meeting with him in Washington in late September you raise the cases of remaining pastors like Pastor Gao Quanfu and his wife Pang Yu and Pastor Tang Bingyi of Light of Zion Church in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province and the remaining eight members of Zion Church in Beijing: Gao Yingjia, Wang Lin, Yin Huibin, Wang Zhong, Wang Cong, Liu Zhenbin, Lin Shucheng and Wu Qiuyu.

Thank you for your consideration,

/X/

###",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/president-trump-signs-hudson-bill-to-complete-national-ems-memorial-into-law,President Trump Signs Hudson Bill to Complete National EMS Memorial Into Law,2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson’s (NC-09) applauded President Donald Trump’s signature into law of his legislation to complete the National Emergency Medical Services Memorial in Washington, D.C. The bipartisan law gives the National Emergency Medical Services Memorial Foundation more time to complete the memorial at no cost to the taxpayer.

“Each year, 850,000 EMS professionals respond to more than 30 million calls for assistance. It’s time we finally give these unsung heroes the recognition they deserve,” said Rep. Hudson. “I’m grateful President Trump signed my bill into law so we can honor their service with a permanent memorial in our nation’s capital.”

Hudson’s legislation is a clean, bipartisan extension. Congress first authorized the memorial in 2018, but that authority expired under the Commemorative Works Act before the project could be completed. The new law extends the authorization for an additional seven years from enactment, giving the Foundation time to complete approvals and private fundraising so the memorial can move forward.

Background

In 2018, Congress authorized the National Emergency Medical Services Memorial Foundation to establish a commemorative work in Washington, D.C., honoring EMS professionals. Under the Commemorative Works Act, that authority expires after seven years unless extended.

EMS personnel are often the first to respond in moments of crisis, including natural disasters like hurricanes in North Carolina, accidents, and public health emergencies. Despite their service and sacrifice, there is still no permanent memorial in the nation’s capital honoring EMS professionals who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The Department of the Interior supported Hudson’s legislation, which passed the House unanimously with bipartisan support before being signed into law by President Trump.",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/18/senator-budd-announces-departure-of-state-director-kyle-bridges/,Senator Budd Announces Departure of State Director Kyle Bridges,2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement marking the departure of State Director Kyle Bridges, who served as Senator Budd’s State Director since 2023, and previously worked for Senator Budd during his tenure in the House of Representatives. Kyle also worked for the Office of Senator Richard Burr before positions in the private sector.

“Kyle has traveled to every single corner of North Carolina with me during his time as my office’s State Director, and his strong relationships have helped our team better serve North Carolina’s 100 counties,” said Senator Budd. “Kyle has led our robust state outreach and casework operations and provided critical guidance to ensure the work in Washington stays in lockstep with the communities we serve. I have no doubt that his immense experience and sound judgment will carry him forward as he returns to the private sector.”

###",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-newhouse-introduce-resolution-honoring-gold-star-families,"Hudson, Newhouse Introduce Resolution Honoring Gold Star Families",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), Fort Bragg’s Congressman, introduced a bipartisan resolution alongside Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) designating September 20 through September 26 as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week to honor the families of servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

“Our Gold Star families have sacrificed more than most of us can ever imagine,” said Rep. Hudson. “As Fort Bragg’s Congressman, it is one of my greatest privileges to serve these families and help make sure the legacies of their loved ones are never forgotten. During Gold Star Families Remembrance Week, I hope folks across North Carolina will join me in honoring their sacrifice and remembering the heroes we lost.”

“Gold Star Families are living reminders that there is a price for the freedoms we enjoy every day as Americans. The families of the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice grieve the loss of their loved ones. To honor the loved ones of these American patriots, we recognize Gold Star Families Remembrance week. My colleagues and I send our gratitude to the thousands of families who keep the memories of their loved ones alive through sharing stories and continue to honor the bravery of those who lost their lives in service to our great Nation,” said Rep. Newhouse.

The resolution recognizes the sacrifices made by Gold Star families and encourages Americans to honor fallen servicemembers through acts of service and remembrance.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcdowell-leads-bipartisan-fisa-ai-reporting-act-increase-oversight-artificial,McDowell Leads Bipartisan FISA AI Reporting Act to Increase Oversight of Artificial Intelligence Use Under FISA,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Addison P. McDowell,M001240,mcdowell.house.gov,mcdowell,https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Addison McDowell (NC-06) introduced a bipartisan bill with Congressman James Walkinshaw (VA-11) to direct the intelligence community to report to Congress on how it uses artificial intelligence with data collected under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, including which systems are being used and what safeguards are in place to protect Americans’ Fourth Amendment rights.

“Artificial intelligence is changing the way industries across our country are collecting and analyzing information,” Congressman McDowell said. “Congress has a responsibility to ensure these tools strengthen our national security while protecting the constitutional rights and freedoms that define our Nation.”

""Congress must have strong oversight and transparency over federal AI use,” Congressman Walkinshaw said. “When intelligence agencies use AI to analyze sensitive communications and data, Congress needs to know how they use it and for what purpose. Our laws and oversight must keep pace with the technology.""

What the FISA AI Reporting Act does:

Requires the Director of National Intelligence to submit a report to Congress within 180 days on the intelligence community’s use of artificial intelligence systems under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.

Requires the report to include:

A summary of how the intelligence community is using artificial intelligence systems to acquire, analyze, query, disseminate or otherwise access data under Section 702.

An assessment of safeguards in place to ensure the use of artificial intelligence complies with FISA and the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Information submitted by the Department of Justice or intelligence community to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court regarding the use of artificial intelligence under Section 702.

An identification of the types of artificial intelligence models being used under Section 702.

Allows the report to include a classified annex.

Requires the Director of National Intelligence to coordinate with the Attorney General, CIA Director, FBI Director, NSA Director, and other relevant intelligence community officials in preparing the report.

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), first enacted in 1978, sets out the legal framework for the government’s collection of foreign intelligence information, including electronic surveillance, physical searches, the use of pen registers and trap and trace devices, and business records.

Section 702 of FISA allows the government to conduct targeted surveillance of foreign persons located outside the United States to obtain foreign intelligence information, with the compelled assistance of electronic communication service providers.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-helps-launch-bipartisan-hydropower-caucus,Congressman Pat Harrigan Helps Launch Bipartisan Hydropower Caucus,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) joined Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) to launch the bipartisan Congressional Hydropower Caucus, a new forum focused on expanding reliable American energy production, strengthening the electric grid, and lowering costs for families and businesses.

The Hydropower Caucus will bring Members of Congress together with hydropower and marine energy experts from federal agencies, industry, and stakeholder organizations to address permitting and licensing reform, tax policy, research and development, and deployment of new technologies. The caucus will focus on practical ways to make better use of existing infrastructure, remove barriers to new generation, and bring more American power onto the grid.

“America’s electricity needs are growing fast, and meeting that demand is going to require us to produce more power from every reliable resource we have here at home,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Hydropower has been powering American communities for generations, and there is still tremendous potential to build on what already works. This caucus gives us a place to bring the right people together, cut through outdated barriers, and find practical ways to get more power onto the grid. If we want to bring manufacturing home, lead the next generation of technology, and keep energy affordable, America needs an energy system built for growth.”

“Hydropower is at the heart of lowering energy costs for hardworking Granite Staters and making America the world’s clean energy superpower. For generations, hydropower has delivered reliable, homegrown energy to communities across New Hampshire and our country. Our bipartisan caucus will bring together the people with the expertise and ideas we need to cut red tape, invest in innovation, and get more affordable American energy online. I’m proud to lead this effort with Congressman Harrigan, and I will keep working across the aisle to lower costs and build an energy future that works for the people we serve,” said Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander.

“Hydropower is a reliable, carbon-free energy resource that plays an important role in supporting grid reliability and meeting growing electricity demand. Duke Energy looks forward to working with the Caucus on policies that support the continued operation and modernization of America's hydropower fleet, and I thank Representatives Pat Harrigan and Maggie Goodlander for their leadership in creating this bipartisan forum,” said Kendal Bowman, president of Duke Energy’s utility operations in North Carolina.

""NHA applauds Representatives Goodlander and Harrigan for launching the bipartisan Hydropower Caucus. Hydropower is America’s first renewable energy resource, operating in 48 states and providing reliable power to nearly 30 million Americans. Yet too few people understand its benefits and the policy challenges it faces. The Hydropower Caucus can help change that by educating lawmakers and stakeholders about the many ways hydropower supports our communities—not only through affordable, reliable electricity, but also through irrigation, flood control, recreation, and good-paying jobs. We thank Representatives Goodlander and Harrigan for their leadership in advancing this important effort,” said Matthew Allen, Senior Director of Legislative Affairs, National Hydropower Association.

Congressman Harrigan has made expanding reliable American energy production and modernizing the infrastructure needed to support it a focus of his work in Congress:",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-introduces-reach-act-strengthen-rural-health-care,Congressman Pat Harrigan Introduces REACH Act to Strengthen Rural Health Care Workforce,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10), alongside co-leads Congressmen Tom Barrett (R-MI-07) and Don Davis (D-NC-01), introduced the Resources for Essential Access to Community Health (REACH) Act, legislation to address the shortage of health care providers in rural communities by offering a refundable $10,000 annual tax credit to doctors, nurses, mental health professionals, and medical residents who choose to work in rural areas.

“Too many families in rural North Carolina have to drive farther and wait longer just to see a doctor because there simply aren’t enough health care professionals nearby. If we want to change that, we have to make it easier for doctors, nurses, and mental health professionals to choose these communities and stay there,” said Congressman Harrigan. “The REACH Act puts a real incentive behind that choice, giving providers a $10,000 tax credit to serve rural communities and helping more families get the care they need closer to home.”

“Too many of our rural communities don’t have enough doctors and nurses to provide essential care for the local residents who need it,” said Congressman Barrett. “Where you live should never be a barrier to accessing quality care. By providing an incentive to attract these professionals to our communities, our bipartisan REACH Act will make health care more affordable and accessible for families in rural mid-Michigan.”

""Every patient deserves the same standard of care, no matter their zip code. That's especially true in rural North Carolina, where shortages of physicians, nurses, and mental health providers make access to care more challenging than it should be. As an academic health system, training the next generation of healthcare professionals is central to our mission, and we welcome Congressman Harrigan's efforts to strengthen the rural healthcare workforce and encourage more providers to serve the communities that need them most,” said Dr. David Zaas, Chief Executive Officer, Duke University Health System.

“As the largest provider of rural health care in North Carolina, Atrium Health understands firsthand the importance of attracting and retaining providers in underserved areas. We applaud Representatives Pat Harrigan and Don Davis for introducing the REACH Act and for their leadership in addressing the unique health care challenges facing rural communities. This legislation is an important step toward strengthening the rural health care workforce, expanding access to care, and ensuring patients can receive high-quality healthcare services close to home. We appreciate them for their bipartisan commitment to supporting the health and well-being of rural North Carolina communities,” said Steve Moot, President North Carolina & Georgia Division, Atrium Health.

“Rural hospitals and health systems are working every day to recruit and retain the healthcare professionals their communities need. The REACH Act would give rural providers another tool to compete for talented professionals and strengthen access to care in communities across North Carolina,"" said Josh Dobson, President and CEO of NCHA.

Under the REACH Act, eligible providers who work at least 900 hours per year in a rural area would qualify for the $10,000 credit. The legislation covers primary care practitioners, including OB-GYNs, as well as mental health professionals, nurses, and residents participating in approved medical residency programs.

The credit would begin to phase out for providers with adjusted gross incomes above $170,000 and would remain available for qualifying rural employment through 2033. The legislation would take effect beginning with the 2027 tax year.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-block-california-shipping-mandate,Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Block California Shipping Mandate,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted for H.J. Res. 210, a Congressional Review Act resolution overturning an Environmental Protection Agency action allowing California to enforce its own emissions requirements for ocean-going vessels while they are docked at ports.

“California should not get to write the rules for an industry that moves goods across the entire country,” said Congressman Harrigan. “When one state is allowed to impose its own requirements on ships moving through our ports and supply chains, the consequences do not stop at the California border. Congress has a responsibility to push back when state regulations reach far beyond the state itself and affect how the rest of the country does business.”

H.J. Res. 210 disapproves the EPA’s decision regarding California’s nonroad engine pollution control standards for ocean-going vessels at berth. Under the Congressional Review Act, the resolution would nullify the EPA action and prevent it from having force or effect.

Following House passage, H.J. Res. 210 now moves to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcdowells-bipartisan-foreign-robocall-elimination-act-passes-energy-and,McDowell’s Bipartisan Foreign Robocall Elimination Act Passes Energy and Commerce Committee 37-0,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Addison P. McDowell,M001240,mcdowell.house.gov,mcdowell,https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Addison McDowell’s bipartisan Foreign Robocall Elimination Act (H.R. 6152) unanimously passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee by a vote of 37-0.

The legislation brings together experts from the federal government and private sector to identify and combat illegal robocalls originating overseas.

“Today’s unanimous vote sends a clear message, these scammers need to be stopped,” Rep. Addison McDowell said. “I’m grateful to the committee for its consideration of the Foreign Robocall Elimination Act, and I look forward to getting this bill across the House floor.”

McDowell introduced the House companion to legislation led in the Senate by Senators Ted Budd (R-NC) and Peter Welch (D-VT).

The Foreign Robocall Elimination Act now advances toward consideration by the full House.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://rouzer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3212,House Passes Water Resources Development Act with NC-07 Prio...,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,David Rouzer,R000603,rouzer.house.gov,rouzer,https://rouzer.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, with the support of Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC-07), the House passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026, following unanimous approval by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on July 14. The legislation includes Surf City’s federal beach renourishment project and multiple flood reduction studies for communities across Southeastern North Carolina. The bill now advances to the Senate for consideration.

“WRDA 2026 delivers for Southeast North Carolina, moving critical federal water infrastructure projects forward more efficiently and helping meet the needs of communities across our region,” said Congressman Rouzer. “The House passage brings us another step closer to strengthening our communities and making our homes and businesses more resilient to future natural disasters.”

Across the country, our water infrastructure supports agricultural production, protects homes and businesses from natural disasters, and strengthens ports and waterways. WRDA 2026 authorizes 10 major U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects (including one in Surf City), 131 feasibility studies for locally proposed projects, and provides policy guidance for implementation by the Corps.

WRDA 2026 North Carolina priorities championed by Congressman Rouzer include:

Surf City 50-Year Federal Beach Nourishment Project: Authorizes $292.8 million in federal funding over the 50-year life of the Surf City Coastal Storm Risk Management Project, periodically renourishing the beach and dune system to reduce storm damage and strengthen the long-term resilience of Topsail Island.

Improves Flood Resiliency: Advances three flood risk management studies in Whiteville's Waccamaw River Basin, Fayetteville's Cross Creek Watershed, and the Town of Topsail Beach, allowing the Corps to evaluate solutions to reduce flooding and better protect surrounding communities.

Enhances Water Quality: Supports a water supply and ecosystem restoration feasibility study of the Cape Fear River in Cumberland County to identify new opportunities for regional water supply while removing hazardous substances from the water supply and strengthening the long-term health of the river.

Strengthens White Lake Infrastructure: Authorizes $40 million for water, wastewater, stormwater, and other environmental infrastructure improvements to improve the community's long-term resilience.

The legislation also supports economic growth by improving Corps operations and increasing collaboration with non-federal partners on maintenance dredging projects. To accelerate project delivery at a lower cost, WRDA 2026 requires the Corps to provide regular project updates to Congress, allowing lawmakers and the Corps to identify solutions that keep projects on track. Together, these reforms will help deliver projects faster and support the American economy.

For more information on WRDA 2026, click here.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-secures-20-million-authorization-mooresville-water,Congressman Pat Harrigan Secures $20 Million Authorization for Mooresville Water Infrastructure,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted for H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation that includes a major win he secured for Mooresville, increasing the city’s federal authorization for water and wastewater infrastructure from $4 million to $20 million.

“Mooresville is one of the fastest-growing communities in our region, and I worked to make sure this bill reflects what that growth actually requires,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Increasing Mooresville’s authorization from $4 million to $20 million gives our community significantly more capacity to pursue the water and wastewater infrastructure families and businesses will depend on for decades. This is exactly the kind of work I came to Congress to do, taking the needs I hear about at home and turning them into results in Washington.”

Beyond Mooresville, the Water Resources Development Act authorizes and improves U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects and programs across the country, covering water and wastewater infrastructure, flood risk management, ports and harbors, inland waterways, dam safety, and other critical water resources needs. The legislation also includes reforms aimed at speeding project delivery, improving contracting and permitting processes, and making it easier for local communities to navigate and access Army Corps programs.

Having passed the House, the Water Resources Development Act of 2026 now heads to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-crack-down-fraud-federal-programs,Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Crack Down on Fraud in Federal Programs,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted for H.R. 10326, the Preventing Rip-offs and Obtaining Oversight of Funds (PROOF) Act, legislation strengthening information sharing between federal law enforcement and state agencies to help identify, investigate, and prosecute fraud involving taxpayer-funded programs.

“Every dollar stolen through fraud is a dollar taken from an American who earned it and a program someone genuinely depends on,” said Congressman Harrigan. “We know criminals look for gaps between agencies, jurisdictions, and systems because those gaps make it easier to hide. The PROOF Act gives law enforcement a better way to connect the dots and go after the people stealing from taxpayers, with strong protections in place for Americans’ private information.”

The PROOF Act allows the Attorney General, as part of a fraud investigation or prosecution, to request relevant records from states administering programs including Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, unemployment insurance, disaster assistance, emergency rental assistance, broadband funding, and certain small business programs. The bill requires transferred information to be encrypted, limits access to authorized personnel, restricts its use to fraud-related law enforcement purposes, and requires the information to be permanently removed after the relevant investigation or legal proceeding concludes.

Having passed the House, the PROOF Act now heads to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-strengthen-federal-fraud-enforcement,Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Strengthen Federal Fraud Enforcement,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted for H.R. 9576, the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act of 2026, legislation establishing a dedicated National Fraud Enforcement Division within the Department of Justice to strengthen the federal government’s ability to combat fraud and protect taxpayer dollars.

“Fraud has changed dramatically, but the way the government goes after it hasn’t kept pace,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Criminals can move money, steal identities, and exploit weaknesses in our systems faster than ever before, while federal enforcement is often spread across different offices and agencies. Americans deserve a government that can keep up, and creating a dedicated fraud division at the Department of Justice is a commonsense step toward doing that.”

The National Fraud Enforcement Division Act establishes a permanent National Fraud Enforcement Division within the Department of Justice under the authority of the Attorney General. The division will be led by an Assistant Attorney General for National Fraud Enforcement, appointed by the President, providing a dedicated leadership structure within DOJ for federal fraud enforcement. The legislation also subjects the new division to federal restrictions on political activity, ensuring the officials responsible for carrying out its work are held to the same standards governing political activity that apply to other key components of the Department of Justice.

Having passed the House, the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act now heads to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-strengthen-sanctions-against-russia-and-iran,Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Strengthen Sanctions Against Russia and Iran,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted for the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5334, the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, legislation imposing sweeping economic pressure on Russia and those helping finance, supply, and sustain its war machine.

“America’s adversaries pay attention to what we are willing to tolerate, and there has to be a real cost for threatening our interests and fueling aggression,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Russia has used its energy exports, financial system, and networks around the world to sustain its war machine and evade pressure from the West. This legislation goes after those lifelines directly, including the countries and companies helping keep them open. Peace through strength means making clear that aggression comes with consequences.”

The legislation targets senior Russian officials, state-controlled entities and financial institutions, defense suppliers, energy interests, and vessels used to evade sanctions. It restricts U.S. investment in Russia, prohibits certain financial transactions and energy exports, blocks purchases of Russian sovereign debt, and strengthens restrictions on Russian uranium. The bill also authorizes tariffs of up to 500 percent on Russian goods and duties of up to 100 percent on goods from certain countries that continue purchasing Russian oil or natural gas or facilitate Russian sanctions evasion.

The bill also extends the Iran Sanctions Act through 2031, maintaining a key tool for applying economic pressure on the Iranian regime.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-backed-bill-to-keep-am-radio-in-new-vehicles-passes-house,Hudson-Backed Bill to Keep AM Radio in New Vehicles Passes House,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, applauded House passage of bipartisan legislation he championed to keep free AM radio available in new vehicles.

“AM radio is about more than what you listen to on the drive home. For millions of Americans, especially folks in rural communities, it is a trusted source for local news, weather, and critical information during emergencies,” said Rep. Hudson. “I’ve pushed hard to keep AM radio available in our cars, and I’m glad the House has finally passed this bipartisan bill.”

Background

The legislation directs the Department of Transportation to require AM radio access as standard equipment in new passenger vehicles. Consumers would not be charged an additional fee to access AM radio.

AM radio continues to play an important role in emergency communications, particularly in rural areas and during hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, and other disasters when cellular and internet service can be disrupted. Firefighters, law enforcement officers, sheriffs, emergency medical organizations, and farmers have backed keeping AM radio available in vehicles because of its role in delivering emergency information.

As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, Hudson has continued working with local broadcasters and public safety leaders to preserve access to AM radio for drivers across the country.

Hudson was one of the earliest cosponsors of the legislation and has pushed for its passage throughout the 119th Congress.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-files-occ-complaint-against-ethics-committee-leaders-circumventing,Edwards Files OCC Complaint Against Ethics Committee Leaders for Circumventing Their Own Rules,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) announced that he has filed a formal submission with the Office of Congressional Conduct against House Ethics Committee Chairman Michael Guest and Ranking Member Mark DeSaulnier, alleging that they circumvented the Committee’s own rules to recommend his censure.

“The Ethics Committee demanded that I be punished for supposedly violating the ‘letter and spirit’ of House rules while its own leaders treated those same rules as optional,”Edwards said.“There was nothing ethical about this process. They decided the outcome, adopted their report before receiving my response, denied me the procedures designed to test their accusations, and then publicly attacked my character based on findings that were never subjected to an adjudicatory hearing or the required clear-and-convincing-evidence standard.”

According to the complaint, the Committee voted to adopt its report on July 22, 2026, 12 days before receiving Edwards’ formal response. The Committee did not provide the draft report to Edwards’ counsel until July 31. By that point, its factual findings, credibility determinations, conclusions, and recommendation of censure had already been approved.

“Allowing me to append a response to a decision they had already made was not due process, and it shamelessly abandons the Committee's claim to 'provide a fair procedural framework for the conduct of the Committee's activities,"" Edwards said. “It was window dressing intended to create the appearance of fairness after the verdict had already been written.”

The complaint further alleges that the Committee relied upon a purported waiver to bypass the regular disciplinary process even though Edwards never executed a waiver satisfying Committee Rule 26(b). That rule expressly requires any waiver request to be in writing, signed by the respondent, and to identify the specific procedural rights or steps being waived. Edwards submitted and signed no such document.

“Chairman Guest and Ranking Member DeSaulnier cannot manufacture a waiver that does not exist,”Edwards said. “Nor can they use an oral communication with counsel as a license to discard their own rules. Rule 26(b) is unambiguous: a waiver must be written, signed by the respondent, and specific about the rights being waived. None of that occurred.”

Without a valid waiver, the Committee proceeded without establishing an Investigative Subcommittee, issuing a Statement of Alleged Violation, permitting an answer to specific charges, conducting an adjudicatory hearing, allowing Edwards to confront adverse testimony and introduce evidence, determining that any count was proved by clear and convincing evidence, or holding a sanction hearing.

The Committee’s report found no sexual activity, no explicit sexual proposition, no quid pro quo harassment, and no violation of federal sexual-harassment law. Nevertheless, it recommended censure based upon broad interpretations of the “letter and spirit” of House rules.

“They could not prove that I violated the law or identify sexual conduct,” Edwards said.“So they relied on insinuation, selective evidence, and subjective assumptions—while denying me the very process their rules establish for separating facts from accusations. They invoked the ‘spirit’ of the rules to condemn me while violating the unmistakable letter of their own.”

The OCC complaint asks for an independent investigation into whether Guest and DeSaulnier violated House standards by authorizing a sanction recommendation through a process the Committee’s rules did not permit. It also requests preservation and examination of all communications concerning the purported waiver, correction of the public record, appropriate disciplinary action, and a public apology for the grave and lasting damage inflicted upon Edwards’ character, dignity, reputation, family, and public service.

“No Member of Congress, Republican or Democrat, should be subjected to a process in which the investigators write the verdict first and hear the defense later,” Edwards said.“If the Ethics Committee cannot be trusted to follow its own rules when a Member’s reputation and dignity are at stake, then it has forfeited the moral authority to sit in judgment of anyone else. Chairman Guest and Ranking Member DeSaulnier must be held accountable.”",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-raises-concerns-healthcare-fraud-and-competition-during,Congressman Tim Moore Raises Concerns on Healthcare Fraud and Competition During Field Hearing in Charlotte,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - During the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust field hearing in Charlotte, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) raised concerns about fraud and government subsidies driving up healthcare costs for North Carolina families.

""Despite decades of increased federal spending and regulation, we still see that healthcare remains too expensive and too difficult to access, not only in North Carolina, but in other states as well,"" said Congressman Moore. ""Part of the problem...is that we move too far away from a healthcare system that's driven by competition and toward one shaped by government regulations and subsidies. [The statistic] that a fourth of the spending is estimated to be waste, fraud, and abuse is unbelievable [and it's] what we need to be looking at.""

The hearing, ""Examining Healthcare Markets: Fraud and Competition,” examined the effect of mergers, certificate of need laws, regulations, vertical integration, and fraudulent insurance practices on healthcare access and affordability in the U.S.",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://knott.house.gov/media/press-releases/knott-hudson-bill-advance-new-veterans-home-harnett-county-passes-house,"Knott, Hudson Bill to Advance a New Veterans’ Home in Harnett County Passes the House",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Brad Knott,K000405,knott.house.gov,knott,https://knott.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. - Congressman Brad Knott (NC-13) issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 10159, a bill he co-led with Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09) to transfer land facilitating the construction of a new state veterans' home in Harnett County.

""Tens of thousands of veterans call North Carolina’s 13th District home, and they’ve earned care worthy of their service,” said Congressman Knott. ""Since the Fayetteville veterans' home closed in 2024, our state's heroes in central North Carolina have been without a home built for their care. I am proud to work with Congressman Hudson on this bill to advance a new veterans' home in Harnett County, which will provide quality, long-term care for those who served our country.""

“Our veterans kept their promise to serve, and we have a responsibility to keep our promise to take care of them,” said Congressman Hudson. “After the Fayetteville State Veterans Home closed, veterans were forced to relocate across the state, many far away from their families. Today’s passage brings us one step closer to building a new home near Fort Bragg and bringing that care back to our community.”

Background:

The North Carolina State Veterans Home in Fayetteville closed in 2024 due to disrepair and health and safety concerns.

H.R. 10159 transfers a 20-acre parcel of land from the Fort Bragg Training Area to the State of North Carolina to build a replacement facility.

The new site sits roughly 15 miles from the original Fayetteville location, along the western access road to Fort Bragg.

Congressmen Knott and Hudson were joined by Reps. David Rouzer (NC-07), Don Davis (NC-01), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Greg Murphy (NC-03), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Addison McDowell (NC-06), Mark Harris (NC-08), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Alma Adams (NC-12), and Tim Moore (NC-14) in cosponsoring the legislation.

###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-legislation-grant-authority-nps-extend-leases-passes-house,Murphy Legislation to Grant Authority to NPS to Extend Leases Passes House of Representatives,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., applauds the passage of H.R. 4931, the National Park System Long-Term Lease Investment Act. This legislation grants the Secretary of the Interior, through the Director of the National Park Service (NPS), the authority to extend a lease if the lease has been entered into not less than 5 years before the date of the extension is to take effect.

""I am proud my bill, the National Park System Long-Term Lease Investment Act, passed in the House of Representatives,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""This legislation is critical to helping our coastal communities flourish, especially within the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Capital investment relies on long-term certainty, and granting this authority to the National Park Service would encourage private investors to invest in our communities where such public-private partnerships have already shown to be beneficial. I am grateful for the support of Dare County Chairman Bob Woodard for giving testimony in favor of this bill, and I look forward to continuing my advocacy as it heads to the Senate.""

Background",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/14/budd-applauds-edas-investment-to-support-key-north-carolina-disaster-relief-projects/,Budd Applauds EDA’s $32M+ Investment to Support Key North Carolina Disaster Relief and Public Works Projects,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement after the Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced over $32 million for disaster relief and public works projects across the state.

Following the EDA’s announcement, Senator Budd said:

“The EDA’s recent announcement of more than $32 million in federal investments for disaster recovery and public works projects across North Carolina is a major step toward rebuilding communities devastated by Hurricane Helene and creating new opportunities for North Carolina workers.

“Nearly two years after Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, communities like Hendersonville and Forest City are still working to rebuild critical infrastructure. More than $20 million in federal funding to restore Hendersonville’s water treatment facility will return the plant to full operational capacity, protecting public health and ensuring residents have access to safe, reliable water. And nearly $8 million to build a new electric substation in Forest City will strengthen power reliability and give the community greater resilience against future disasters.

“When Hurricane Helene struck Western North Carolina nearly two years ago, communities like Hendersonville and Forest City were strapped with multi-million-dollar disaster relief projects to rebuild. By investing over $20 million in federal funding to repair Hendersonville’s water treatment facility, the public health of the city’s residents will be prioritized once again to prevent the spread of disease by restoring the plant to full operational capacity. Additionally, nearly $8 million in federal dollars to build a new electric substation in Forest City will significantly improve local power reliability and help the region better withstand future disasters.

“The EDA’s public works investments in Cumberland and Jackson Counties will also undoubtedly drive economic growth while creating more jobs for hardworking North Carolinians and their families. I’m grateful to the Trump administration for delivering the federal resources needed to complete these four critical projects, rebuild communities across our state, and put North Carolina on a stronger path for the future.”

BACKGROUND

FY25 DISASTER SUPPLEMENTAL

Hendersonville Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion

The EDA announced it would invest $20,092,800 to expand the wastewater treatment plant in the City of Hendersonville, North Carolina. Upon the project’s completion, the EDA anticipates adding nearly 200 jobs, retaining well over 500 jobs, and leveraging close to $75 million in private investment.

Forest City Electric Substation

The EDA announced it would invest $7,798,480 to support the construction of a new electric substation in the Town of Forest City, North Carolina, to address economic distress caused by Hurricane Helene. Upon the project’s completion, the EDA anticipates adding nearly 30 new jobs and generating over $9 million in private investment.

PUBLIC WORKS

Scaling a Workforce Training Center in Rural North Carolina

The EDA announced it would invest $2,593,557 to support the renovation of the former Southwestern Community College library to create the new home of the Workforce Continuing Education/Small Business Center in Sylva, North Carolina. Upon completion, the project is expected to double employment opportunities, increasing available career positions to over 100.

Fayetteville Public Works Commission

The EDA announced it would invest $1,519,753 to support the construction of critical water infrastructure to serve the 401 North Industrial Site in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and meet the requirements of manufacturing facilities. Upon completion, the project is expected to create 300 new jobs and leverage $867 million in private investment.

###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/house-passes-hudson-knott-bill-to-clear-way-for-new-veterans-home-near-fort-bragg,"House Passes Hudson, Knott Bill to Clear Way for New Veterans Home Near Fort Bragg",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation led by U.S. Representatives Richard Hudson (NC-09), Fort Bragg’s Congressman, and Brad Knott (NC-13) to clear the way for construction of a new state veterans home near Fort Bragg.

“Our veterans sacrificed to take care of us, and we have a responsibility to take care of them,” said Rep. Hudson. “After the Fayetteville State Veterans Home closed, 85 veterans were forced to leave their home and relocate across the state, many far away from their families. Today’s passage brings us one step closer to building a new home near Fort Bragg and bringing that care back to our community.”

""Tens of thousands of veterans call North Carolina’s 13th District home, and they’ve earned care worthy of their service,” said Rep. Knott. ""Since the Fayetteville veterans' home closed in 2024, our state's heroes in central North Carolina have been without a home built for their care. I am proud to work with Congressman Hudson on this bill to advance a new veterans' home in Harnett County, which will provide quality, long-term care for those who served our country.”

The legislation transfers 20 acres off installation at Fort Bragg to the State of North Carolina, allowing the state to move forward with the permitting and construction process for the new veterans home.

The former Fayetteville State Veterans Home closed in 2024, displacing 85 veterans, including many with dementia and other disabilities. Hudson has worked with members of the North Carolina congressional delegation and the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to advance plans for a replacement facility, and the legislation is a necessary step in that effort.

Hudson spoke on the House floor ahead of passage, urging his colleagues to support the legislation and highlighting the need to restore a veterans home to the Fayetteville and Fort Bragg community.

Hudson and Knott were joined by Reps. David Rouzer (NC-07), Don Davis (NC-01), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Greg Murphy (NC-03), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Addison McDowell (NC-06), Mark Harris (NC-08), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Alma Adams (NC-12), and Tim Moore (NC-14) in cosponsoring the legislation.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-urges-cms-expand-access-healthy-food-ma-beneficiaries,Murphy Urges CMS to Expand Access to Healthy Food for MA Beneficiaries,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., led seven of his colleagues in urging Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Mehmet Oz to issue guidance allowing Medicare Advantage plans to provide healthy food as a supplemental benefit for seniors managing chronic conditions.

""It has become increasingly apparent that healthy food should be part of the solution when we are treating chronic disease,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""As a physician, I know that nutrition plays an important role in preventing and managing both acute and chronic illness. Food is medicine. We should be giving seniors the tools they need to stay healthy and out of the hospital, rather than waiting until their conditions become more severe and expensive to treat. CMS can take action within existing authority to make nutritious food more accessible to seniors who need it most.""

Background

Medicare Advantage plans currently have authority to offer certain supplemental benefits to beneficiaries. However, access to healthy food benefits is generally limited to enrollees who meet specific eligibility requirements related to their health and risk of hospitalization.

Congressman Murphy and his colleagues are asking CMS to update these rules so more seniors can use nutritious food to help prevent and manage chronic disease, reduce health care costs, and improve quality of life.",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-leads-bipartisan-congressional-delegation-sarajevo-security-conference,Murphy Leads Bipartisan Congressional Delegation to Sarajevo Security Conference,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D, led a bipartisan congressional delegation to the Sarajevo Security Conference over the weekend.

""As a member of the Helsinki Commission, a Speaker-appointed position, it was my honor to lead a bipartisan delegation to the Sarajevo Security Conference,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""I advocated for enhanced Balkan and European engagement in defense and security alongside the United States to support our mutual goals. We must support the democratic process, especially in places like Bosnia. To protect our domestic interests, we must collectively confront with vigor and robust funding the greatest threat to global peace - the sinister axis of China, Russia, and Iran. We must also never forget the horrific genocide of Srebrenica and commit to never allowing such evil to occur again.""",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-announces-2026-congressional-app-challenge,Hudson Announces 2026 Congressional App Challenge,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) announced the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is open to students in North Carolina’s Ninth District.

“North Carolina’s students have the creativity and talent to build the next generation of technology,” said Rep. Hudson. “The Congressional App Challenge gives them an opportunity to turn an idea into something real. I look forward to seeing this year’s submissions, and I encourage every eligible student in our district to participate, whether they are an experienced coder or just getting started.”

The Congressional App Challenge is the official student Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) competition of the U.S. House of Representatives. The nationwide competition encourages students to explore coding and computer science through hands-on experience creating their own app.

The competition is open to students who are enrolled in middle or high school and live or attend school in North Carolina’s Ninth District. Students may compete individually or in teams of up to four. At least half of the members of a team must live or attend school in the Ninth District. Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of industry professionals from North Carolina’s Ninth District. The winning app will be featured online and may be displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

Students must register and submit their app through CongressionalAppChallenge.us by 12:00 p.m. ET on Monday, October 26, 2026. The official rules and requirements for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge are available here.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-secures-new-att-service-in-continued-push-for-better-cell-coverage,Hudson Secures New AT&T Service in Continued Push for Better Cell Coverage,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, shares the news of AT&T's expanded wireless service to areas of Moore County following his continued push for better cell service across the community.

“Folks in Moore County have been asking for better cell service, and I’m glad we’re continuing to see progress,” said Rep. Hudson. “This new coverage will help families, businesses, and especially our first responders stay connected when it matters most. I appreciate AT&T working with us after our meeting last month, and I’ll keep working with providers to bring better service to more of our community.”

Beginning Thursday, September 10, AT&T customers will benefit from a new roaming agreement that expands wireless coverage into parts of Moore County where AT&T previously did not provide service. The expanded coverage will serve both AT&T customers and FirstNet subscribers, including first responders who rely on FirstNet to stay connected, especially during emergencies.

This comes just weeks after Hudson met with AT&T officials in Moore County to discuss areas where residents, businesses, and visitors experience weak signal, dropped calls, and unreliable service. Hudson also discussed opportunities to improve connectivity for first responders and other AT&T customers.

Hudson’s work with AT&T follows similar efforts with Verizon. In July, he brought Verizon officials to Moore County to see problem areas firsthand, including a small cell site in Aberdeen and a cell tower near Moore County Airport. In August, Verizon activated the site near Moore County Airport, improving service for customers in the surrounding area.

As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, Hudson will continue working with AT&T, Verizon, and other providers to improve reliable cell service across Moore County and the Ninth District.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-announces-78-million-eda-funding-hurricane-helene,Congressman Tim Moore Announces $7.8 Million in EDA Funding for Hurricane Helene Recovery in Forest City,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) announced $7.8 million in federal funding from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for Hurricane Helene recovery in Forest City, North Carolina. This EDA investment is estimated to create 28 new jobs and generate over $9 million in private investment.

“While our communities in Western North Carolina have made significant progress since Hurricane Helene, there is still important work ahead,” said Congressman Moore. “This funding will help Forest City build the infrastructure necessary to support economic development and create new jobs. I appreciate President Trump and the EDA for supporting Western North Carolina’s recovery and helping our communities come back stronger.”

$7,798,480 will go to the Town of Forest City, North Carolina for the construction of a new electric substation to support economic development and resilience to address economic distress caused by Hurricane Helene.",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-expand-american-mining-and-reduce-dependence,Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Expand American Mining and Reduce Dependence on China,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted for H.R. 1501, the Protecting Domestic Mining Act of 2025, legislation that strengthens domestic mineral production by making the federal permitting process more predictable for American mining and mineral processing projects.

“Everything from our cars and power grid to our factories and weapons systems depends on minerals that have to be mined and processed somewhere. When we make it nearly impossible to produce those resources here at home, we don’t stop mining, we simply push it overseas and become more dependent on countries like China,” said Congressman Harrigan. “That dependence makes our supply chains more fragile, drives investment and jobs out of the United States, and gives our adversaries leverage over resources our economy and national security depend on. We can maintain strong environmental standards without trapping American projects in years of uncertainty, and this bill gives companies a clearer path to invest, build, and produce here at home.”

The Protecting Domestic Mining Act permanently adds mining and mineral processing to the sectors eligible for FAST-41, giving qualifying projects access to a coordinated federal permitting process with greater transparency and predictability. The bill also blocks a Biden-era proposed rule that would have narrowed mining eligibility under FAST-41. Projects remain subject to federal environmental requirements, but American producers gain greater certainty that access to the permitting process will not change every time a new administration takes office.",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-harris-delivers-floor-remarks-support-constitutional-amendment,Congressman Harris Delivers Floor Remarks in Support of Constitutional Amendment to Keep Nine Supreme Court Justices,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Mark Harris,H001102,markharris.house.gov,markharris,https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) delivered remarks on the House floor in support of H.J. Res. 1, legislation which proposes an amendment of the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court of the United States be composed of nine justices.

Rep. Harris’s remarks as delivered:

“I rise today in support of H.J. Res. 1, which proposes an amendment to the Constitution that would require the Supreme Court of the United States to be composed of nine justices.

“This action will uphold the Court’s legitimacy, protect the checks and balances that defend our fundamental freedoms, and ensure that every American’s rights remain protected—regardless of who holds political power.

“For decades, we have heard calls from those unhappy with the ideological balance of the Supreme Court to ‘pack the Court.’ The alarming rise of such calls should worry all of us because their objective is not to uphold ethical principles or protect individual rights, but rather to consolidate power and intimidate the Court.

“Our founders understood that liberty cannot survive when power goes unchecked. They therefore built a system of checks and balances, with an independent Supreme Court serving as a critical safeguard for the rights and freedoms of every American. The Court’s role is not to advance a party’s political agenda but to uphold the Constitution and protect liberty—even when doing so means standing apart from the passions of the moment.

“At a time when the Supreme Court is under ongoing and escalating attacks, Congress can and must act to defend it. I am proud to support this proposed amendment, and I urge all my colleagues to support maintaining the integrity of the Supreme Court.”

###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcdowells-bipartisan-foreign-robocall-elimination-act-advances-through-house,McDowell’s Bipartisan Foreign Robocall Elimination Act Advances Through House Subcommittee,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Addison P. McDowell,M001240,mcdowell.house.gov,mcdowell,https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Addison McDowell's Bipartisan Foreign Robocall Elimination Act advanced through the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology.

McDowell introduced the House companion to Senators Ted Budd (R-NC) and Peter Welch’s (D-VT) legislation. The legislation brings together experts from the federal government and private sector to identify and combat illegal robocalls originating overseas.

“I continuously hear about bad actors targeting seniors through robocalls. Foreign scammers are trying to steal Social Security numbers, bank information, and any other sensitive information they can get their hands on,” said Rep. Addison McDowell. “The financial security of the American people is extremely important, and Congress cannot ignore this threat. I’m encouraged that the Foreign Robocall Elimination Act has advanced through the subcommittee, and I look forward to getting it through the full Energy and Commerce Committee.”

""USTelecom applauds the House Communications and Technology Subcommittee for advancing the Foreign Robocall Elimination Act. Every day, the Industry Traceback Group, in its role as the FCC’s registered traceback consortium, traces illegal robocalls to their source. This bill would build on that work by strengthening traceback efforts against illegal robocalls entering the United States from abroad, including those used to perpetrate scams. We thank Reps. McDowell and Morrison for their leadership and urge Congress to move this legislation swiftly so it can be signed into law,” said Brandon Heiner, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs at USTelecom, The Broadband Association.

Background: Millions of Americans are targeted by scam calls each month by bad actors seeking to gain access to individuals’ Social Security Numbers, banking information, or other sensitive information. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has previously estimated that eliminating illegal scam robocalls would provide a public benefit of billions of dollars annually. Legislation like the Pallone-Thune TRACED Act, which was signed into law in 2019, empowered the FCC and telecommunications companies to implement call authentication technologies that could more easily identify and trace back illegal, spoofed calls. This bill builds on the TRACED Act’s success by continuing to harden our telecommunications infrastructure against foreign scammers. In the Senate, this effort is led by Senators Ted Budd (R-NC) and Peter Welch (D-VT).

What the Foreign Robocall Elimination Act does:

Creates an interagency task force comprised of federal agency representatives and seven private sector representatives. The federal agency participants shall be determined jointly by the FCC, FTC, and the Attorney General.

Of the private sector representatives:

Three must have experience in combating unlawful robocalls

One must be from the U.S. Traceback Consortium

One must be from a telemarketing business

One must be from a nonprofit that primarily uses telephone communication

One must be from a customer advocate organization that specializes in combating unlawful robocalls

Requires the task force to report to the administration and to Congress on suggested ways to improve the federal response to unlawful robocalls made by foreign scammers

Requires the task force to evaluate ways for the DOJ to improve law enforcement’s response to and prevention of unlawful robocalls

Strengthens the TRACED Act by extending the Industry Traceback Group’s (ITG) renewal period from 1 to 3 years and provides further protections for the ITG to go after illegal robocallers.

Allows for a rulemaking so the FCC can consider the introduction of a bond to increase the costs to fraudulent providers who violate the Robocall Mitigation Database.

The Foreign Robocall Elimination Act now advances to the full House Energy and Commerce Committee for consideration.",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://rouzer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3196,Rouzer Announces $25.1 Million HUD Grant for Fayetteville’s ...,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,David Rouzer,R000603,rouzer.house.gov,rouzer,https://rouzer.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"FAYETTEVILLE, NC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) announced today the City of Fayetteville and the Fayetteville Metropolitan Housing Authority (FMHA) have been awarded a $25,115,578 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Fiscal Year 2025 Choice Neighborhoods Implementation (CNI) Grant program. The grant will support the transformation of the Murchison Townhouses public housing community into the new mixed-income Murchison Choice Neighborhood.

“This is a major investment in the future of Fayetteville and, most importantly, in the families who call Murchison home,” said Congressman Rouzer. “This funding will help bring new housing, stronger infrastructure, and greater opportunities to one of Fayetteville’s historic neighborhoods. I was proud to support the City of Fayetteville’s application, and I’m pleased to see this significant federal investment become a reality.”

""This Choice award will be a game-changer for the Murchison Road corridor and the families who call it home. For years, our residents have shared their vision for a stronger, safer, more connected neighborhood — today, that vision starts becoming reality,” said Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin. I want to thank Congressman Rouzer, our Murchison Choice team and every resident who showed up to shape this plan, understanding that this work is about more than what we see today — it’s about what we’re building for the next generation. Fayetteville is ready to get to work.""

The award will leverage more than $531 million in public and private investment to fund the next phase of the Murchison Choice Transformation Plan, a comprehensive strategy to revitalize one of Fayetteville’s most historic neighborhoods through new housing, infrastructure, and community investment.

Fayetteville’s grant follows sustained advocacy from Congressman Rouzer and the City’s Congressional delegation. Congressman Rouzer advocated for the City’s application with HUD leadership, including through an April 2026 letter to Secretary Scott Turner in support of the project.

The project will replace all 60 units at the 56-year-old Murchison Townhouses public housing community while creating 323 new mixed-income apartments across the Murchison Townhouses and Elliott Properties sites. The project will also expand supportive services for residents and support physical improvements throughout the surrounding neighborhood.",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-keep-government-open-protect-critical-national,"Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Keep Government Open, Protect Critical National Security and Veterans Programs",2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted for the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2027, legislation that keeps the federal government funded through December 11 while Congress completes work on full-year appropriations. The bill maintains funding for federal agencies largely at current FY2026 levels and prevents disruptions to critical defense, veterans, transportation, and other federal programs.

“Keeping the government open should not be controversial, and neither should getting our debt under control,” said Congressman Harrigan. “This bill gives Congress the time to finish its work without disrupting paychecks, military readiness, veterans’ services, or basic government functions in the process. But the long-term answer cannot be another cycle of short-term funding bills. We need to use this time to make real choices about spending, cut what isn’t working, and start putting this country on a more responsible fiscal path.”

The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act:

Keeps the government open through December 11, 2026, generally maintaining federal programs at FY2026 funding rates while Congress completes the FY2027 appropriations process.

Maintains critical defense operations and national security programs, including targeted flexibility for Navy shipbuilding needs and other defense priorities.

Extends the Defense Production Act and key federal cybersecurity authorities through December 11, preserving important national security tools.

Protects veterans’ health and mental health programs, including rural mental health services, suicide prevention grants, support for family caregivers, and care for certain rural veterans.

Continues housing and homelessness assistance for veterans, including more than $130 million for supportive services for very low-income veteran families through December 11.

Keeps key federal transportation programs running, including funding for highways, public transit, rail, airports, and air service to smaller communities.

The measure gives Congress additional time to complete the FY2027 appropriations process while maintaining the services and national security functions Americans depend on. Harrigan will continue working toward full-year appropriations that set clear priorities, reduce wasteful spending, and begin the harder work of bringing down the national debt.",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mark-harris-honors-retiring-atf-agent-darren-solomon,Rep. Mark Harris Honors Retiring ATF Agent Darren Solomon,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Mark Harris,H001102,markharris.house.gov,markharris,https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) spoke on the House floor to honor Darren Solomon on his retirement following 33 years of dedicated public service, including 26 years as a federal agent. In his remarks, Congressman Harris recognized Solomon’s unwavering patriotism and lifelong commitment to serving his country and community.

Rep. Harris’s remarks as delivered:

“Nothing is more noble and patriotic than serving our great country, and Darren Solomon exemplifies this spirit. After 33 years of public service, including 26 years as a federal agent, he has officially retired.

“As a Certified Fire Investigator, Darren spent years uncovering the truth behind how fires occurred and helping provide answers to families during some of their hardest moments. Beyond his own investigations, he dedicated himself to training fellow investigators and passing along his knowledge and expertise to the next generation.

“Throughout his remarkable career, Darren has demonstrated unwavering patriotism, a deep love for his family, and a strong commitment to his community.

“Thank you, Darren, for your service; it will never go unnoticed. I am proud to have you as part of the great Eighth District of North Carolina and wish you a well-earned retirement.”

###",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-votes-extend-government-funding-avert-shutdown,"Congressman Tim Moore Votes to Extend Government Funding, Avert Shutdown",2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, the U.S. House passed H.R. 6500, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027, to continue federal funding through December 11, 2026. This legislation prevents a September 30, 2026 government shutdown while allowing Congress to continue working on the full-year FY2027 appropriations bills.

""I'm proud to support this clean, straightforward continuing resolution that protects Americans from the costs of a shutdown and ensures election-year politics don't jeopardize the funding process,"" said Congressman Moore. ""This short-term measure prevents a last-minute funding crisis, guards the critical services Americans rely on, and preserves the path to completing full-year FY27 appropriations without allowing political games to dictate the process.""

This legislation continues programs at the funding rates and under the conditions established in the FY2026 appropriations laws. It also preserves funding authority for FEMA disaster relief and continues programs such as WIC, SNAP, flood insurance, small-business lending, and assistance for low-income families.

H.R. 6500 now advances to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law.",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://knott.house.gov/media/press-releases/knott-votes-condemn-socialism-slams-democrats-refusing-do-same-0,"Knott Votes to Condemn Socialism, Slams Democrats for Refusing to Do the Same",2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Brad Knott,K000405,knott.house.gov,knott,https://knott.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Brad Knott (NC-13) issued the following statement after voting for H.Res 1490, to condemn and denounce socialism in all its forms. No surprise: 194 House Democrats refused to condemn socialism and told the American people they stand squarely with the radical-left agenda. Socialism has no place in America.

""This shouldn’t be a hard vote to take. Every time socialism has been tried, it has failed miserably, and failed the people it claims to help,” said Congressman Knott. ""House Democrats had a simple choice today, and the vast majority of them chose socialism. That's not leadership. That's surrender to the radical left.""",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-harris-honors-retiring-atf-agent-darren-solomon,Congressman Harris Honors Retiring ATF Agent Darren Solomon,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NC,Mark Harris,H001102,markharris.house.gov,markharris,https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) spoke on the House floor to honor Darren Solomon on his retirement following 33 years of dedicated public service, including 26 years as a federal agent. In his remarks, Congressman Harris recognized Solomon’s unwavering patriotism and lifelong commitment to serving his country and community.

Rep. Harris’s remarks as delivered:

“Nothing is more noble and patriotic than serving our great country, and Darren Solomon exemplifies this spirit. After 33 years of public service, including 26 years as a federal agent, he has officially retired.

“As a Certified Fire Investigator, Darren spent years uncovering the truth behind how fires occurred and helping provide answers to families during some of their hardest moments. Beyond his own investigations, he dedicated himself to training fellow investigators and passing along his knowledge and expertise to the next generation.

“Throughout his remarkable career, Darren has demonstrated unwavering patriotism, a deep love for his family, and a strong commitment to his community.

“Thank you, Darren, for your service; it will never go unnoticed. I am proud to have you as part of the great Eighth District of North Carolina and wish you a well-earned retirement.”

###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-co-leads-bipartisan-bill-track-self-improving-ai,Congressman Pat Harrigan Co-Leads Bipartisan Bill to Track Self-Improving AI,2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) joined Congressman George Whitesides (D-CA-27) in introducing the bipartisan Self-Improving AI Monitoring Act, legislation to help the federal government better understand how quickly the most advanced AI systems are evolving, particularly their ability to conduct research and contribute to the development of new AI systems with limited human involvement.

“AI is moving incredibly fast, and we need a clear picture of what the most advanced systems can actually do,” said Congressman Harrigan. “As AI begins taking on more of the work involved in developing the next generation of AI, the pace of progress could accelerate dramatically. This bill makes sure we can track those developments without putting new mandates on American companies or getting in the way of innovation.”

The Self-Improving AI Monitoring Act directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to monitor trends in the ability of advanced AI systems to conduct or assist with AI research and development. It also ensures that when frontier AI companies voluntarily partner with NIST on model evaluations, those agreements include sharing relevant metrics and estimates about how much AI is being used in their internal research and development, including work conducted without human review.

The legislation creates no new regulatory mandates and keeps participation with NIST voluntary. Congressman Harrigan will continue working to keep the United States at the forefront of artificial intelligence while ensuring policymakers have the information necessary to understand where this technology is headed and what it means for American innovation and national security.",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-harris-celebrates-passage-hr-4499-his-sixth-bill-pass-house,"Congressman Harris Celebrates Passage of H.R. 4499, His Sixth Bill to Pass the House",2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Mark Harris,H001102,markharris.house.gov,markharris,https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) celebrated the passage of H.R. 4499, legislation that makes technical corrections to federal statutes and updates references to provisions reclassified to Title 34 of the United States Code, which covers Crime Control and Law Enforcement. The bipartisan legislation is Congressman Harris’s sixth bill to pass the U.S. House of Representatives.

Rep. Harris’s remarks on H.R. 4499:

“I rise today in support of H.R. 4499, a bill that makes important technical corrections to our federal statutes and ensures that references in the United States Code remain accurate.

“The Office of the Law Revision Counsel, or OLRC, is responsible for preparing and publishing the United States Code, which organizes the federal laws enacted by Congress. In 2017, the OLRC moved various laws to Title 34 of the United States Code, which pertains to Crime Control and Law Enforcement. This was done to ensure that our nation’s laws are properly organized.

“H.R. 4499 updates references to these laws throughout the titles of the Code affected by their move to Title 34. While these may be technical changes, they are important for maintaining an accurate and accessible United States Code. I am grateful that Congress is taking action through my bill, as well as the other legislation being considered by the House today, to ensure that our laws accurately reflect the current Code.

“I would like to thank the Office of the Law Revision Counsel for all the work it does, as well as those on the Judiciary Committee who helped address these much-needed changes. I urge all my colleagues to support this important legislation.”

###",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-announces-more-17-million-fema-funding-rutherford-and,Congressman Tim Moore Announces More Than $17 Million in FEMA Funding for Rutherford and Mecklenburg Counties,2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) announced $17,870,774.13 in federal funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support the acquisition of 42 properties in Rutherford and Mecklenburg Counties impacted by Hurricane Helene.

“Recovery from Hurricane Helene is about rebuilding while also making our communities safer for the future,” said Congressman Moore. ""This funding will help Rutherford and Mecklenburg Counties address properties at risk of future flooding and landslides and better protect against future storms. I appreciate President Trump, Secretary Mullin, and the folks at FEMA for continuing to prioritize Western North Carolina's recovery.”

$10,638,923.44 will go to Rutherford County to fund the acquisition and demolition of 23 properties impacted by Hurricane Helene. The acquired properties will be returned to green space and deed restricted to reduce the risk of future damage from flooding and landslides. This funding is authorized under Section 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

$400,000 will go to Rutherford County to support management costs associated with the acquisition and demolition of 23 properties impacted by Hurricane Helene. This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

$6,651,850.69 will go to Mecklenburg County to fund the acquisition and demolition of 19 properties impacted by Hurricane Helene. The acquired properties will be returned to green space and deed restricted to reduce the risk of future damage from flooding and landslides. This funding is authorized under Section 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

$180,000 will go to Mecklenburg County to support management costs associated with the acquisition and demolition of 19 properties impacted by Hurricane Helene. This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.",1,2026-08-29T11:31:28Z,2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-responds-ethics-committee-findings,Edwards Responds to Ethics Committee Findings,2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Chuck Edwards,E000246,edwards.house.gov,edwards,https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Chuck Edwards sent a letter rebuking the House Ethics Committee's findings that he engaged in sexual harassment and outlining his concerns with the Committee's investigation and conclusions.

In the letter, Edwards directly challenged the Committee's findings and provided his colleagues with his account of the allegations and the context surrounding the evidence and investigation.

The Committee concluded that Representative Edwards did not violate federal sexual harassment law; concluded he engaged in no sexual activity with nor propositioned any staff member; and concluded that the allegations in the matter do not implicate quid pro quo sexual harassment. Yet the Committee used third-party testimony, omitted evidence, and made inferences that his conduct ""could"" be perceived as something the evidence itself failed to establish.

""Sexual harassment is a serious offense. One that deserves to be defined clearly, investigated fairly, and established by evidence—not inference or speculation. I unequivocally reject the Ethics Committee's findings and its conclusion that I engaged in sexual harassment,"" said Congressman Edwards. ""Those conclusions do not accurately reflect the facts or the full context surrounding these allegations. I sent this letter because every Member of Congress deserved to hear directly from me and have the opportunity to review the facts for themselves.""

###",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcdowell-leads-resolution-honoring-gulf-war-era-veterans-and-fifth-anniversary,McDowell Leads Resolution Honoring Gulf War-Era Veterans and Fifth Anniversary of Afghanistan Evacuation,2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Addison P. McDowell,M001240,mcdowell.house.gov,mcdowell,https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Addison McDowell (NC-06) introduced a resolution honoring the millions of American veterans who served during the Gulf War era and commemorating five years since the evacuation of Afghanistan.

Approximately 8.4 million veterans served during the Gulf War era, representing roughly 43 percent of all living American veterans and making them the largest single group of living veterans.

“Gulf War-era veterans answered the call to defend our country, confront terrorism, and protect freedom around the world,” said Congressman McDowell. “For more than three decades, they have stood in defense of our nation through war, terrorism, and uncertainty. We are a safer and stronger nation because of their courage and sacrifice. Five years after the evacuation of Afghanistan, we honor their service and reaffirm a simple promise: America will never forget those who stood in her defense.”

For more than three decades, members of the United States Armed Forces have served across the Middle East to defend our Nation and its allies. The Gulf War era began with Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990 and 1991, when American service members liberated Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. They later served in Operation Enduring Freedom to dismantle al-Qaeda, Operation Iraqi Freedom to overthrow the Ba’athist government of Saddam Hussein, and Operation Inherent Resolve in response to the rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.

“The National Guard remains an essential component of America's Total Force. Thousands of Guardsmen continue to support missions at home and abroad, carrying forward the legacy established by those who served throughout the Gulf War era. This resolution sends an important message that Congress remembers their service, honors their sacrifices, and remains committed to supporting veterans and military families,” said Jon “Ice” Eisberg, Vice President of Government Affairs at the National Guard Association of the United States.

“NGAUS thanks Representative McDowell for his leadership on this resolution and urges all Members of the House of Representatives to support H. Res. 1496 to join in recognizing the dedication and courage of Gulf War era veterans. Passage of this resolution will ensure that the service of this generation is properly remembered and that their contributions to our nation's security are never forgotten.”

Tomorrow, August 28, 2026, also marks five years since the evacuation of Afghanistan. Among those remembered are the 13 American service members killed in the terrorist attack at Abbey Gate on August 26, 2021, and all those who sacrificed throughout the Gulf War era. American service in the region continues today, as tens of thousands of members of the Armed Forces remain in the Middle East protecting the United States and its allies from the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Original Cosponsors: Rep. Jim Baird (IN-04) , Rep. Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07) and Rep. Derrick Van Orden (WI-03).",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-announces-38-million-fema-funding-hurricane-helene,"Congressman Tim Moore Announces $3.8 Million in FEMA Funding for Hurricane Helene Recovery Projects in Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, and Polk County",2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) announced $3.8 million in federal funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Hurricane Helene recovery across Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, and Polk County. Projects include critical sewer repairs, dam restoration, and public assistance.

“While it has been nearly two years since Hurricane Helene devastated our communities, significant recovery work remains,” said Congressman Moore. “This additional funding will help restore necessary infrastructure across Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, and Polk County. I appreciate President Trump, Secretary Mullin, and the folks at FEMA for continuing to prioritize Western North Carolina's recovery.”

$1,810,198.80 will go to the Town of Lake Lure for permanent repairs to the sewer collection system following severe damage from Hurricane Helene. This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

$1,555,804.86 will go to the Town of Lake Lure for permanent repairs to the Lake Lure Dam following Hurricane Helene. The repairs include removing and replacing concrete stairs, chain link fence, dam barrel, traffic signs, crossing sign, and embankment restoration. This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

$312,717.28 will go to Chimney Rock Village to support management of Public Assistance grants as a result of Hurricane Helene. This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

$142,298.10 will go to Polk County to support the earthen retention dam and related repairs or replacements following the damage from Hurricane Helene. This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-brings-att-to-moore-county-in-continued-push-for-better-cell-service,Hudson Brings AT&T to Moore County in Continued Push for Better Cell Service,2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SOUTHERN PINES, NC – This week, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, met with AT&T officials and local leaders in Moore County to discuss areas with poor cell service and continue his push for better coverage across the community.

“Folks in Moore County deserve reliable cell service,” said Rep. Hudson. “I’ve made it clear to the major providers I want them here on the ground, seeing the problems firsthand, and working with us on solutions. I appreciate AT&T coming to Moore County to continue the conversation, and I’ll keep working until folks see better service across our community.”

During the visit, Hudson discussed areas where residents, businesses, and visitors continue to experience weak signal, dropped calls, and unreliable service. Hudson also heard from AT&T officials about their network in the area and opportunities to improve service for customers in Moore County.

Background

The AT&T visit follows Hudson’s July visit with Verizon officials and Southern Pines Mayor Taylor Clement, when Hudson brought the company to Moore County to see poor cell service firsthand. The group toured a small cell site in Aberdeen, met in downtown Southern Pines, and visited a cell tower near Moore County Airport.

That effort has already produced results. Verizon recently activated the site near Moore County Airport, improving service for Verizon customers in the surrounding area.

Hudson previously met with Verizon officials in December 2025 to push for better service in Moore County and across the Ninth District. As Telecom Subcommittee Chairman, Hudson will continue working with AT&T, Verizon, and other providers to improve reliable cell service across Moore County.

-###-",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcdowell-brings-faith-family-and-community-leaders-together-values-roundtable,"McDowell Brings Faith, Family and Community Leaders Together for Values Roundtable",2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Addison P. McDowell,M001240,mcdowell.house.gov,mcdowell,https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KANNAPOLIS, N.C. – Congressman Addison McDowell today hosted faith, family, education and community leaders for an important discussion in Kannapolis, bringing local voices directly into the conversation on some of the most important issues facing families.

The discussion focused on parental rights and education, religious liberty, life and pro-family policies, and protecting kids online.

The “Values Roundtable” marks the third issue-focused roundtable McDowell has led, following his Prosecuting the Poison roundtable focused on fentanyl and drug trafficking and his Agriculture Roundtable focused on the needs of North Carolina farmers and the agriculture industry.

“Today I heard directly from parents, pastors and community leaders about the challenges facing our families,” said Congressman McDowell. “We discussed issues that are near and dear to my heart - like protecting children from online predators and making sure parents always have a say in their kid’s education. I’m extremely thankful for everyone who joined the conversation. These discussions inform the work I do in Washington.”

McDowell’s roundtable series brings local leaders together to discuss the issues they see firsthand and take those concerns back to Congress.

Values Roundtable participants included:

Tyler Sparks, Shepherding Elder, Two Cities Church

Spencer Martin, College and Missions Pastor, Two Cities Church

Simon Arkley, CEO, The Lantern Project

Nick Jarvis, Outgoing Chairman, Davidson County School Board

Erica Spivey, Senior Director of Training and Church Mobilization, Baptist Children’s Homes

Maria Adams, Chapter Chair, Guilford County Moms for Liberty

Mary Summa, General Counsel, NC Values

Mitch Prosser, Vice President, NC Family Policy Council

Andrew Fitzgibbon, Center Director, Greater Charlotte with Adult and Teen Challenge

Dr. Bill Pincus, President, NC Right to Life

The Values Roundtable focused on parental rights, religious liberty, protecting life, supporting families and keeping kids safe online.

McDowell has supported those priorities in Congress through school choice and parental-rights legislation, Title IX protections for women and girls, conscience protections, pro-life legislation and stronger online safeguards for children.

Congressman Addison McDowell leads a discussion with faith, family, education and community leaders during his Values Roundtable in Kannapolis.

Congressman McDowell hears directly from local leaders about parental rights, religious liberty, pro-family policies and protecting children online.",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-demands-answers-transparency-on-proposed-chatham-county-pipeline,"Hudson Demands Answers, Transparency on Proposed Chatham County Pipeline",2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09) is requesting answers from state and federal officials regarding Enbridge Gas North Carolina’s proposed Chatham County System Expansion Project on behalf of residents whose property and communities could be affected. Hudson sent letters to North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Secretary Reid Wilson, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers seeking additional information about the proposal, the review and permitting process, and how local residents will be heard as the proposed project potentially moves forward.

“Chatham County is one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing counties, and I support actions taken to expand our state’s infrastructure amidst robust economic growth. However, any growth should ensure an appropriate amount of time for feedback, public discussion on the proposals, transparency into alternative proposals, rationale for selection of the proposals, and details of engagement with impacted constituencies. Successful growth should not come at the cost of potential community disruption for my constituents,” wrote Rep. Hudson.

Background

The proposed project would construct an approximately 28-mile, 12-inch natural gas pipeline running from the Siler City area toward Moncure, crossing the Haw River. The project remains in the design and survey phase, and a final route has not yet been determined.

Residents have raised concerns about potential impacts to private property, farms, waterways, and the rural character of their communities. They have also sought greater information about alternative routes under consideration and how public input will factor into the final route.

In his letters, Hudson asked:

Governor Stein to provide details about the state’s engagement with the local community and efforts to address residents’ concerns. Read the full letter to Governor Stein here.

NCDEQ to outline its jurisdiction over the proposal, any permits or certifications that may be required, the standards it will use to review the project, and how impacts to waterways and wetlands and concerns from affected landowners will be considered. Read the full letter to NCDEQ here.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to explain its anticipated role in reviewing the proposal, any permits or approvals that may be necessary, how potential impacts to waterways and wetlands will be evaluated, and what opportunities local stakeholders will have to participate in the process. Read the full letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers here.",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-introduces-army-quantum-readiness-act-advance-military,Congressman Tim Moore Introduces Army Quantum Readiness Act to Advance Military Technology,2026-08-21,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Yesterday, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced H.R. 10130, the Army Quantum Readiness Act, which would direct the U.S. Army to develop a long-term initiative to prepare for the integration of the next generation of military technology, including quantum computing, sensing, networking, and quantum-enabled AI.

“America's adversaries are investing heavily in emerging technologies, and we cannot afford to fall behind,” said Congressman Moore. “This bill supports the Army in preparing for the technologies that will define the future of national defense. By maintaining America’s technological edge, we can strengthen our cyber capabilities and ensure our military remains the most capable fighting force in the world.”

Specifically, this legislation:

• Establishes the Army Quantum Readiness and Advanced Computing Initiative to prepare the Army for the integration of quantum computing, quantum sensing, quantum networking, and quantum enabled artificial intelligence into future operations.

• Assesses the infrastructure needed to support these emerging technologies, including secure facilities, power capacity, cooling systems, and other operational requirements.

• Evaluates opportunities to accelerate the acquisition and deployment of quantum technologies for military applications.

• Develops a workforce strategy to recruit, train, and retain personnel with expertise in quantum technologies.

• Launches pilot demonstration activities for post quantum cybersecurity and resilient networking.

• Requires the Secretary of the Army to submit a comprehensive report to Congress within 270 days outlining infrastructure investment recommendations, workforce requirements, and any legislative authorities needed to accelerate the Army's quantum readiness.",1,2026-08-22T05:24:59Z,2026-08-22T05:26:16Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/08/20/senator-budd-secures-f-15ex-aircraft-for-seymour-johnson-air-force-base/,Senator Budd Secures F-15EX Aircraft for Seymour Johnson Air Force Base,2026-08-20,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after receiving notice from Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink that Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (AFB) will be the recipient of modernized F-15EX aircraft procured through the Fiscal Year 2027 budget.

In a statement following confirmation from Secretary Meink, Senator Budd said:

“Since 2023, when I began serving the great state of North Carolina in the U.S. Senate, one of my top defense priorities has been protecting the future of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and its F-15 mission.

“North Carolina is at the epicenter of American military dominance, and Seymour Johnson’s role in maintaining our air superiority is critical to our national security. The 4th Fighter Wing has operated at a significantly high operational tempo, including deployments to the Middle East and the Pacific, demonstrating the critical role Seymour Johnson plays in defending our nation. The base is also the primary training ground for Air Force F-15 pilots and home to two operational F-15E squadrons, currently deployed to undisclosed locations in Southwest Asia in support of Operation Epic Fury.

“This confirmation from the Department of the Air Force that Seymour Johnson’s mission is being prioritized and modernized with the procurement of F-15EX aircraft is an important step toward ensuring America maintains its air dominance. But we cannot stop here. Congress must do its job and pass the NDAA with a multiyear procurement provision that accelerates F-15EX production, strengthens our air defenses, and ensures we have no gap in our operational or training capabilities. Our adversaries are picking up pace on their defense modernization efforts, and we risk falling behind if we stall any longer.”

Read the full letter text HERE or below:

Dear Senator Budd:

Thank you for your inquiry dated July 29, 2026, regarding the future of the F-15 mission at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. I appreciate the opportunity to address your questions, as well as your continued advocacy for Seymour Johnson and the F-15EX program. Your leadership has been instrumental in strengthening our fighter force and the Airmen who execute this mission.

While Air Force fleetwide delivery schedules depend on aircraft production and congressional appropriations, the Air Force has no plans to reduce Seymour Johnson’s F-15 missions without replacement aircraft already in place. We remain committed to preserving the installation’s combat capability, training mission, and long-term role in our national defense.

Current plans provide for Seymour Johnson to receive modernized F-15E aircraft in the near term as aircraft become available elsewhere in the Air Force. Looking ahead, Seymour Johnson is the planned recipient of the F-15EX aircraft procured through the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, if authorized and appropriated by Congress. Those aircraft will provide the replacement capability needed before any F-15Es could be reassigned to another installation.

The briefing material referenced in your inquiry discusses a potential future relocation of F15E aircraft from Seymour Johnson to support an Air Force Reserve mission. This basing action is being considered through the Department’s governance process, and the final decision is expected in Fall 2028. Any future movement of aircraft would occur only after Seymour Johnson receives replacement F-15EX aircraft, ensuring there is no gap in its operational or training missions.

I assure you that the Air Force’s commitment to Seymour Johnson has not changed. We remain fully committed to preserving both the operational F-15 mission and the Formal Training Unit at the installation.

I appreciate your continued support of the Department of the Air Force and the men and women who serve our Nation.

Sincerely,

Troy E. Meink

BACKGROUND

Both the House and Senate versions of the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) include provisions from Senator Budd’s Airpower Acceleration Act, which grants the United States Air Force (USAF) the authority to use multiyear procurement to expand the F-15EX fleet. The goal is to expand fighter aircraft production, provide financial stability to the Defense Industrial Base, and save taxpayer dollars to preserve American air dominance in modern warfare.

In 2024, Senator Budd worked with his colleagues on the Armed Services Committee to secure a provision that blocked the Air Force from retiring F-15E Strike Eagles. The jets from Seymour Johnson AFB were critical in defending allies and partners in the Middle East from Iranian attacks. Senator Budd’s work ensured these F-15 Strike Eagles continued to protect America and its allies, while also preserving jobs on base and in the local Goldsboro community. In 2025, Senator Budd worked with Air Force leadership to allow limited F-15 Strike Eagle divestment for the purposes of bringing in newer F-15E aircraft, which will ultimately be replaced by F-15EX jets.

Senator Budd’s leadership has ensured that Seymour Johnson AFB will be the first F15E base to receive F-15EX aircraft.

###",1,2026-08-21T05:30:57Z,2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-kelly-press-trump-administration-to-reverse-cuts-to-joint-military-exercises-with-south-korea,"Tillis, Kelly Urge Trump Administration to Reverse Cuts to Joint Military Exercises with South Korea",2026-08-18,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,NC,Thom Tillis,T000476,www.tillis.senate.gov,tillis,https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) sent a letter to Department of War (DOW) Secretary Pete Hegseth urging the Trump Administration to reverse its decision to substantially reduce joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea and urged the administration to maintain the training necessary to preserve the readiness of the alliance.

“For more than 70 years, the alliance between the United States and South Korea has been a cornerstone of peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and throughout the Indo-Pacific,” the senators wrote. “South Korea is a capable military ally, and the ability of our forces to operate together is not guaranteed. It is built and sustained through rigorous, realistic, and recurring joint training.”

“This is not the time to reduce the readiness of U.S. and allied forces in the region,” the senators continued. “Joint exercises such as Ulchi Freedom Shield provide U.S. and ROK forces critical opportunities to practice command and control, combined operations, logistics, and responses to evolving threats. Reducing these exercises risks degrading interoperability and readiness while sending the wrong signal to North Korea and our adversaries.”

“Our allies should not be punished for declining to support unilateral U.S. military actions in the Middle East, particularly when such shortsighted measures undermine American military readiness…The United States should continue to stand firmly alongside our South Korean allies and ensure our servicemembers have the training they need to fight and win should deterrence fail,” the senators concluded.

Click here to read the full text of the letter.

###?",1,2026-08-19T05:29:02Z,2026-08-19T05:30:24Z
https://rouzer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3163,Rouzer Announces 2026 Congressional App Challenge for NC-07 ...,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,David Rouzer,R000603,rouzer.house.gov,rouzer,https://rouzer.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) is excited to announce the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open for submissions. The annual competition is open to all middle and high school students across North Carolina’s Seventh Congressional District to showcase their creativity, coding skills, and innovative ideas.

Students must register online and submit their apps no later than October 26, 2026.

“The Congressional App Challenge gives students a chance to turn big ideas into something tangible,” said Congressman Rouzer. “Every year, I’m inspired by the talent and creativity of our students, and I’m excited to see what this year’s winner creates!”

The Congressional App Challenge gives students an opportunity to design and create their own app for web, PC, tablet, mobile device, robotics, or any other platform of their choice. The winner will have their app featured in the U.S. Capitol, receive an invitation to the #HouseOfCode reception on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., and an opportunity to have their app patented at no cost.

To be eligible, students must be enrolled in middle or high school and either live or attend school in North Carolina’s Seventh Congressional District. Students can use the district lookup tool to confirm their eligibility.

Students may participate individually or as part of a team of up to four students. For team submissions, at least half of the team members must be eligible to participate in the district where the app is submitted.",1,2026-08-20T05:28:41Z,2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-introduces-gate-act-protect-us-national-laboratories,Congressman Pat Harrigan Introduces GATE Act to Protect U.S. National Laboratories from Foreign Adversaries,2026-08-14,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) introduced the Guarding American Technology from Exploitation (GATE) Act, legislation to strengthen security at U.S. National Laboratories by restricting access for nationals of China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and Cuba. The legislation is the House companion to legislation introduced by Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR).

“America’s National Laboratories are home to some of the most sensitive and valuable research in the world, and the same countries working to steal American technology should not have routine access to the facilities developing it,” said Congressman Harrigan. “China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea have spent years targeting American innovation to close the technological gap with the United States. The GATE Act puts a clear safeguard around critical American research while preserving access when our own counterintelligence professionals determine it serves the national interest.”

“Scientists from our adversaries like Russia and China should be nowhere near our national laboratories,” said Senator Tom Cotton. “Foreign nationals in our country’s most sensitive labs pose a clear threat to our national security and should end immediately.”

The GATE Act prohibits covered foreign nationals from accessing National Laboratory facilities, information, or technology as visitors or long-term assignees, while exempting U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. The legislation allows the Secretary of Energy to grant a waiver only after consultation with Department of Energy intelligence officials and senior FBI counterintelligence officials, and only when the benefits to the United States outweigh the national security and economic risks.

The legislation also requires the Department of Energy to notify Congress within 30 days of granting a waiver and disclose the individual’s country of origin, the timeline of the decision, and the specific justification for allowing access. Congressman Harrigan will continue working to protect American research and intellectual property and prevent foreign adversaries from exploiting taxpayer-funded innovation.",1,2026-08-15T05:23:20Z,2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-helps-secure-new-verizon-cell-service-near-moore-county-airport,Hudson Helps Secure New Verizon Cell Service Near Moore County Airport,2026-08-14,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SOUTHERN PINES, NC –U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, announced Verizon has activated a new cell site near Moore County Airport, improving service for Verizon customers in the surrounding area.

“Folks in Moore County have told me loud and clear they need better cell service, and I’m glad we’re seeing results,” said Rep. Hudson. “When Mayor Clement raised these concerns, I brought Verizon to Moore County to see the problems firsthand. I appreciate Verizon following through and getting this site online, and I’ll keep working with providers to improve service across our community.”

The new service comes just weeks after Hudson visited the site near Moore County Airport with Verizon officials and Southern Pines Mayor Taylor Clement as part of his push for better cell service across the county.

Background

In July, Hudson brought Verizon officials to Moore County to see areas with poor cell service firsthand and hear directly from Mayor Clement about problems residents, businesses, and visitors were experiencing.

During the visit, Hudson and Clement toured a small cell site in Aberdeen, met with Verizon officials in downtown Southern Pines, and visited the cell tower near Moore County Airport that has now been activated.

Hudson previously met with Verizon officials in December 2025 to push for better service in Moore County and across the Ninth District. Hudson looks forward to continuing to work with Verizon and other providers to ensure that the Moore County community has the reliable, high-speed service it needs.",1,2026-08-15T05:23:20Z,2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-introduces-resolution-honoring-shelby-permanent-home,"Congressman Tim Moore Introduces Resolution Honoring Shelby as Permanent Home of American Legion World Series, Recognizing 100 Years",2026-08-14,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Yesterday, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced H.Res. 1482, the American Legion World Series Resolution, which recognizes 100 years of American Legion Baseball and the American Legion World Series and honors Shelby, North Carolina for serving as the permanent home of the American Legion World Series.

“Since 2011, the American Legion World Series has been a welcomed tradition in Shelby and across Cleveland County,” said Congressman Tim Moore. “As we celebrate 100 years of American Legion Baseball, this milestone reminds us of the lasting impact this event has both on and off the field. It teaches young athletes the value of hard work, sportsmanship, and patriotism. I’m grateful to the volunteers, coaches, and families who make this event such a source of pride for our community and continue to honor the legacy of our veterans.”

The 2026 American Legion World Series, held August 13 through August 18, 2026 at Veterans Field in Shelby, marks the 100th anniversary of the first American Legion World Series, a milestone reflecting a century of service to American communities and to the young athletes who have worn the American Legion uniform.",1,2026-08-15T05:23:20Z,2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://foxx.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=400180,Foxx Announces U.S. Service Academy Day,2026-08-13,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Virginia Foxx,F000450,foxx.house.gov,foxx,https://foxx.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"ELKIN, N.C. – The Office of Congresswoman Virginia Foxx will hold a U.S. Service Academy Day on Saturday, September 12th, from 1-3PM at Surry Community College’s Elkin Center at 1461 N Bridge St, Elkin, NC 28621. Representatives from all five U.S. Service Academies will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on their respective application processes. This event is open to all students, parents, counselors, and educators in North Carolina’s 5th District.

To aid in seating logistics, please RSVP by Thursday, September 10th to NC05serviceacademy@mail.house.gov. For questions about the U.S. Service Academy Day, please call Simon Connolly in Congresswoman Foxx’s Mayodan District Office at (336) 778-0211. Information about obtaining a nomination to a U.S. Service Academy is also available here.",1,2026-08-14T06:13:05Z,2026-08-14T06:14:08Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-rounds-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-preserve-records-for-at-risk-afghan-allies,"Tillis, Rounds Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Preserve Records for At-Risk Afghan Allies",2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,NC,Thom Tillis,T000476,www.tillis.senate.gov,tillis,https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced the Afghan Ally Records and Credential Heritage (ARCH) Act, legislation requiring the Department of War (DOW) to establish a process to identify, verify, and preserve the service records of certain Afghan allies who served alongside our forces during the war in Afghanistan.

Under the ARCH Act, the DOW would establish a secure online application system through which eligible Afghan allies or their representatives could submit service information and supporting documentation. After reviewing available military, contractor and biometric records, the DOW would preserve verified records for future use. The bill also provides applicants with notice of adverse decisions, an opportunity to appeal and the ability to request reconsideration when new evidence becomes available.

“We owe it to our Afghan allies to provide a fair and efficient process to preserve the service records documenting the sacrifices they made while serving alongside U.S. forces,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to cosponsor this effort to ensure those records are available for those who stood with our servicemembers in Afghanistan.”

“We owe an enormous debt to the Afghans who supported U.S. forces during their 20-year mission in Afghanistan,” said Senator Coons. “In exchange for the huge risk to themselves and their families, we promised them protection. This is a first step to fulfilling that promise by ensuring those who put their lives on the line for our country don’t fall through the cracks.”

“Thousands of brave Afghans stood shoulder-to-shoulder with American service members in some of the most dangerous missions of the war,” said Senator Rounds. “Many of these individuals risked everything to support the United States, yet the records documenting their service remain vulnerable to loss or destruction. The ARCH Act creates a secure process to preserve this documentation, making certain that accurate records are maintained.”

“We must keep our covenant with the Afghans who served beside us, risking everything – often at great personal expense to themselves and their families – to further America’s mission,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan legislation will ensure Afghan allies can be confident their service records will be preserved to help them establish facts about their service in future applications to the U.S. government.”

Specifically, the ARCH Act would:

Establish a Department of War Afghan Allies Records Preservation Program.

Create a secure online application portal for eligible Afghan allies outside the United States.

Verify applicants’ service using available military, contractor and biometric records.

Preserve validated service records and supporting documentation for future use.

Provide applicants with written notice of denials, an appeals process and an opportunity to reopen applications with new evidence.

Prohibit application fees and authorize personnel necessary to administer the program.

Maintain the application process for at least ten years, unless the Secretary of Defense later determines that termination is in the national interest.

The legislation recognizes the service of former members of Afghanistan’s special operations forces, Afghan Air Force, Special Mission Wing, intelligence personnel, justice-sector officials, female members of the former Afghan security forces and other individuals who supported the United States mission in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2021.

###",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://knott.house.gov/media/press-releases/knott-suozzi-introduce-right-worship-act-stop-harassment-houses-worship,"Knott, Suozzi Introduce the Right to Worship Act to Stop Harassment at Houses of Worship",2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Brad Knott,K000405,knott.house.gov,knott,https://knott.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Brad Knott (NC-13), alongside Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03), introduced the Right to Worship Act, a bill that would establish a 100‑foot buffer zone around houses of worship during services and make it unlawful to knowingly disrupt those services or impede people from attending. The bill sets civil fines and authorizes individuals, the U.S. Attorney General, and state attorneys general to sue violators.

""Today, many Americans are unable to worship without fear of harassment, assault, or other forms of intimidation. The right to worship freely is foundational to our nation and was one of the motivations for its founding. No American should ever feel that their choice is between worshiping in fear and not worshiping at all,” said Congressman Knott. ""The Right to Worship Act protects peaceful speech while restoring essential protections for Americans by empowering worshipers against those who seek to intimidate them. I look forward to this bill becoming law and appreciate the many contributions made through bipartisan, bicameral work.""

“Exercising your right to worship should not require you to exhibit particular courage as you enter your synagogue, church, mosque, temple, mandir, or gurdwara,” said Congressman Suozzi. “I will always stand up for people’s right to protest peacefully, but attendees of religious services should not be harassed, threatened, intimidated, or targeted for practicing their faith. I am proud to lead this bipartisan and bicameral Right to Worship Act that both protects free speech and the freedom to worship.”

What the Bill Does

Creates a civil prohibition against knowingly disrupting access or participation in religious services held in a house of worship.

Establishes a buffer zone of 100 feet at a house of worship, one hour before and one hour after a scheduled services.

For this law to be applicable, an individual or group must knowingly engage in conduct that would reasonably be known to disrupt a religious service and prevent individuals from attending.

As such, the bill targets conduct, such as blocking doorways, loud interference that meaningfully interrupts worship, or threats that may affect or deter attendance.

Peaceful expression through speech remains protected provided it does not impact one’s religious liberties as described above

Civil Penalties and Enforcement

Establishes a civil fine structure that increases with each offense, beginning at $2500 and up to $10,000 per violation.

Creates a right of action for the aggrieved to seek appropriate recompense, which can include, but is not limited to injunctive relief by the court for the aforementioned behavior, monetary damages, or legal costs. State Attorney Generals may also pursue civil action on behalf of their constituents.

Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

You can find the bill text here.

###",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-announces-new-legislative-director,Murphy Announces New Legislative Director,2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., announces that Hannah King will take on the role of Legislative Director.

""Hannah is a veteran on Capitol Hill and a highly respected professional in health policy space,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. ""I am proud to announce she will serve as my Legislative Director, leading my team in Washington. Hannah has a wealth of experience leading the fight to improve American healthcare during a very consequential time in Congress. She possesses exceptional leadership qualities and will be a valuable asset to my office. I look forward to her being a part of the team and the meaningful work ahead.""

Background

Before joining the office, Hannah King served as Legislative Director for Congressman Bob Onder, M.D., as Senior Legislative Assistant handling health policy for Congressman Andy Harris, M.D., and as Legislative Assistant for former Congressman Phil Roe, M.D.",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/08/05/icymi-budd-calls-on-colleagues-to-permanently-stop-dangerous-hemp-loophole-targeting-american-children/,ICYMI: Budd Calls on Colleagues to Permanently Stop Dangerous Hemp Loophole Targeting American Children,2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"“Our children should never be the testing ground for an industry willing to exploit a loophole in federal law for profit.”

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) today delivered remarks on the Senate floor calling for his Senate Colleagues to join his effort to permanently close the dangerous “hemp loophole” that has allowed the intoxicating hemp industry to sell unregulated hemp-derived products that have been marketed to American children.

Watch Senator Budd’s remarks below:

Read Senator Budd’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, below:

Mister President,

Every parent in America wants the same thing: to know their child is safe.

As United States Senators, each of us has a responsibility to the millions of parents we represent to put the safety and welfare of American children first.

That is exactly why, just nine months ago, 76 members of this body voted to close the hemp loophole that allowed these dangerous substances to be sold in unregulated retail stores.

But since last November, the intoxicating hemp industry has attempted to delay our effort to close this dangerous loophole.

These companies want to continue selling intoxicating THC substances, loosely labeled as “hemp” products, on the shelves of local convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery stores nationwide.

And the problem does not stop there. The packaging is unmistakably designed to appeal to children, using bright colors and intentionally mimicking popular snack food and candy brands.

But what is most concerning is how easy it is for a child to walk into a convenience store and pick up what looks like their favorite snack or candy—without realizing they’re actually buying an intoxicating substance.

It is difficult enough for an adult to distinguish the minor difference between these name-brand products and intoxicating substances on the shelves. Just look at these examples.

Are you telling me this isn’t intentional? The four basic principles of marketing are: product, price, place, and promotion. And what we’re looking at right here is a crash course in all four—how to package a product, how to make it appealing, how to put it in front of consumers, and how to promote it while attempting to evade federal law.

This isn’t some innocent coincidence. You don’t accidentally create packaging for an intoxicating substance that bears an eerie resemblance to a recognizable brand. You don’t accidentally make an intoxicating product look like something a child would recognize from the grocery store shelf, without reasonable intent. This is marketing by design, and it is designed to evade the law.

The resemblance here is outrageous—and it is putting our kids at risk, every single day. And over the past few years, we have already seen the horrifying consequences play out in emergency rooms across the country.

From 2018 to 2023, emergency departments in the United States that responded to pediatric cannabis poisoning increased by 461 percent. 91 percent of those patients were 4 years of age or younger, and 45 percent of those children, ages 0-11, were hospitalized.

These numbers are not just statistics. They represent children ending up in emergency rooms. Why? All because the intoxicating hemp industry wants to make a cheap dollar.

In my home state of North Carolina, cannabis consumption-coded emergency department visits among minors increased by 969 percent between 2017 and 2025.

That is nothing short of alarming.

THC can have very serious consequences for adults. It can trigger psychosis, addiction, manic episodes, bipolar relapse, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Having assessed those risks, it makes it utterly irresponsible to then turn around and put those same THC substances within reach of our children.

It is impacting our workforce too. Able-bodied adults are unable to hold jobs that require them to take a drug test. Stores near military bases sell these products to men and women in our armed services—making them ineligible for service. That is also no accident.

Mister President, I cannot tell you how many times I have sat down with a family in my office that has tragically lost their son or daughter because they became addicted to these disguised substances. It is heartbreaking to witness.

There are young people who are no longer walking this earth—who will never graduate, never go to college, never start a career, never get married, never have children, and never get the chance to experience the life that was ahead of them because these dangerous substances robbed them of that future.

I am appalled by the well-oiled, slick lobbying machine—which is very well connected in this town—that has chosen to wage this surreptitious war against our efforts to protect American children.

So let me be clear to my colleagues: I will not back down. I will not waver. And I will not stop until this life-threatening loophole is closed permanently.

We are going to have this fight before the end of this Congress, and I can assure you that I am not going to stop fighting to protect America’s children.

I have already had numerous conversations with the White House about this issue, and I am willing to have a larger conversation about marijuana. But I want to make sure one thing is perfectly clear—making THC intoxicating substances readily accessible to our kids is an entirely different issue from the medical marijuana movement.

Today, we are talking about unregulated hemp-derived products being sold on the shelves of nearly every corner store in America. These intoxicating substances are hiding in plain sight—and they are putting our kids at risk.

Parents should never have to fear that sending their child into a convenience store for a snack or a treat could mean that child walks out with a product that can get them high.

That is not too much to ask. It is common sense.

And it is our responsibility to make sure the millions of parents we each represent can trust that the products sitting on store shelves are safe for their children.

I’m not here to obstruct the Senate for the sake of obstruction.

I’m here because I have a duty to the millions of parents in North Carolina who sent me to Washington to be their voice and, above all, to protect their children. To every parent in North Carolina: I hear you, I stand with you, and you have my word—I will not back down. And I’m not going to stop fighting until we get this right.

This is a public health crisis that deserves this Senate’s immediate attention. Our children should never be the testing ground for an industry willing to exploit a loophole in federal law for profit.

We must strip this amendment from the continuing resolution and regulate these harmful substances for what they are—not what the industry wants to call them. If a substance causes intoxication like marijuana, it should be regulated as such—not given a free pass as “hemp.” There is no loophole worth putting a child’s well-being at risk.

###",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/delivering-140-million-for-north-carolina-supporting-our-troops-and-strengthening,"Delivering $140 Million for North Carolina, Supporting Our Troops, and Strengthening America",2026-08-04,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Dear friend,

As Fort Bragg’s Congressman, making sure our servicemembers and their families have the pay, resources, and support they deserve is one of my top priorities.

That’s why I voted to pass this year’s National Defense Authorization Act. The bill expands support for servicemembers, strengthens our industrial base, and delivers major wins for Fort Bragg and defense projects in North Carolina.

Through the bill, I was able to secure more than $140 million in project authorizations for our district and state, resulting in one of the highest funding totals secured by any House member. I also helped secure additional investments at Fort Bragg and new legislative protections for special operators carrying out critical missions.

Here is a closer look at what we accomplished.

Delivering for Fort Bragg and North Carolina

Fort Bragg is home to some of the most elite warfighters in the world, serving as our nation’s global response force and undertaking critical missions all over the world. Therefore, it is imperative these warriors and their families have the best facilities, equipment, and support possible so they can maintain readiness and get the job done.

This year, I secured $65 million for a Special Operations Forces ammunition supply point and $6.4 million for a Special Operations Forces battalion operations facility at Fort Bragg. I also secured $69 million for an aircraft maintenance hangar for the North Carolina National Guard.

Together, those projects total more than $140 million for North Carolina.

I also helped secure additional investments, including:

$50 million for a Special Operations Forces training facility at Fort Bragg

$31 million for an aircraft maintenance hangar at Fort Bragg

$10.5 million for reliable backup power at Fort Bragg

$2.5 million for defense innovation in North Carolina

The bill also supports needed construction and maintenance at Fort Bragg and bolsters North Carolina’s defense innovation and industrial base.

As long as I have the honor of serving as Fort Bragg’s Congressman, I will keep fighting to give our servicemembers everything they need to complete their missions and come home safely.

Protecting Our Special Operators

Our special operators carry out some of the most dangerous and sensitive missions in the world. They and their families should never have to worry someone will expose their identities and put a target on their backs.

Earlier this year, I introduced the Special Operator Protection Act of 2026 after identifying information about a servicemember involved in a sensitive military operation was posted publicly.

Following my months-long push, this year’s defense bill includes new protections for special operators and other military personnel serving in sensitive units. Anyone who intentionally exposes an identity the government is actively working to keep secret could face prison time and fines.

This is an important step in the right direction, but my work is not finished. I will keep pushing for stronger protections for the personal information of our servicemembers and their families.

Giving Our Troops the Resources They Need

The men and women who put on the uniform make tremendous sacrifices to defend our country.

This year’s defense bill gives every servicemember a pay raise. That means more money in the pockets of military families working to pay their bills, buy groceries, and raise their children.

Our servicemembers deserve more than our gratitude. They deserve competitive pay, good housing, reliable child care and the best equipment in the world.

That is why the bill also invests $1.8 billion in new barracks and family housing, while improving education and child care for military families. When our troops know their loved ones are taken care of at home, they can focus on the mission ahead.

Rebuilding America’s Military Strength

The threats facing our country are growing. China, Russia, Iran and North Korea are watching closely for any sign of weakness.

Peace comes through strength. We prevent wars by making sure our enemies know America has the troops, weapons, and industrial strength to defeat any threat.

This year’s defense bill replenishes depleted weapons stockpiles, strengthens America’s missile defense, and speeds up the development of new technology. It also expands American defense manufacturing, opens the door to more small businesses, and creates skilled jobs here at home.

At the same time, the bill cuts nearly $30 billion in wasteful, Biden-era programs and pushes the Pentagon toward a clean financial audit. Every defense dollar should help our troops, strengthen readiness, or keep America safe.

A strong military begins with strong servicemembers and the American workers who build their equipment. House Republicans and I are making sure America can out-build, out-innovate, and out-produce any enemy.

More Work on the House Floor

The defense bill was not the only important work we completed over the past couple of weeks.

I was proud the House passed my bipartisan DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act. People with Down syndrome enrich our families and communities in so many ways. My bill strengthens federal research into Down syndrome and related health conditions so people living with it can lead longer, healthier lives and reach their full potential.

House Republicans also passed legislation to help Americans with disabilities who want to enter or return to the workforce. Outdated federal rules can punish people for trying to work by putting the benefits they still need at risk. This bill allows Social Security to test better approaches while protecting the income and benefits of everyone who volunteers to participate.

We also passed a budget resolution, taking the first step toward legislation focused on military preparedness, American agriculture, and election integrity. The House has now directed committees to begin developing legislation to replenish critical weapons stockpiles, support the farmers who feed our country, and ensure only American citizens vote in American elections.

I am working to secure each of those basic priorities.

Whether it is giving our troops a raise, strengthening Fort Bragg, protecting special operators, or helping Americans build a better life, my focus remains the same: delivering results for the people I represent and keeping our country safe.

Until next time,

Richard Hudson",1,2026-08-05T07:37:37Z,2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/08/04/budd-welch-bill-to-crack-down-on-foreign-robocall-scammers/,"Budd, Welch Bill to Crack Down on Foreign Robocall Scammers Targeting Americans Passes the Senate with Unanimous Support",2026-08-04,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statements after their Foreign Robocall Elimination Act passed the Senate floor with unanimous support. The bill brings together government and private sector experts to eliminate unlawful robocalls originating abroad and prevent them from entering the U.S. to target Americans. The Foreign Robocall Elimination Act is now headed to the House of Representatives for consideration.

“Too many American households have been targeted by foreign scam calls that threaten to steal identities and defraud innocent victims. We cannot allow these criminals to continue preying on Americans without consequence. I am proud this timely legislation passed the Senate with unanimous support, and I urge my House colleagues to swiftly pass it so we can strengthen international cooperation to crack down on foreign robocall scammers,” said Senator Budd.

“Vermonters have received 27 million robocalls so far in 2026. And it’s not only our state—folks in red and blue states alike are sick and tired of picking up the phone and wondering if they’re being scammed. As foreign robocallers step up their efforts to exploit and prey on vulnerable people, we need to do more to combat this unlawful practice and protect Americans from scams. I’m proud to work with Senator Budd on this bipartisan legislation and am grateful for the Senate’s support. I urge the House to join us in sending it to the president’s desk,” said Senator Welch.

“Illegal robocalls and other abuses of our phone networks are not just a nuisance – they are tools scammers around the world use to target Americans here at home. Thanks to strong partnerships between the Industry Traceback Group and federal, state, and local law enforcement, we’ve made measurable progress in combatting these bad actors, but there is much more work to be done. The Foreign Robocall Elimination Act builds on this success to empower industry and law enforcement to use what works to advance the fight against the bad actors overseas preying on Americans. Thanks to Senators Budd and Welch for their leadership in advancing this legislation that will help protect consumers – we urge the House to quickly pass the bill and send it to the President’s desk,” said Josh Bercu, Senior Vice President, Policy at USTelecom and Executive Director of the Industry Traceback Group.

BACKGROUND

Last year, Senators Budd and Welch first introduced the Foreign Robocall Elimination Act to establish an interagency task force comprising key representatives from the Federal Communications Commission, Federal Trade Commission, and Department of Justice, as well as experts in voice service and analytics, telecommunications technology, marketing organizations, and consumer advocacy.

This task force will evaluate foreign robocalls and determine the most effective strategies to combat them, with the goal of enhancing international cooperation to reduce illegal robocalls. The task force will also help ensure that the Department of Justice is adequately equipped to address and prosecute criminals behind the influx of foreign robocalls.

###",1,2026-08-05T07:37:37Z,2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-applauds-commission-of-peter-anthony-pappas-to-usitc,Tillis Applauds Commission of Peter-Anthony Pappas to USITC,2026-08-04,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,NC,Thom Tillis,T000476,www.tillis.senate.gov,tillis,https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after Peter-Anthony Pappas was sworn in as a Commissioner of the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC):

“Since 2022, Peter-Anthony Pappas has been one of my most trusted advisors, leading my Judiciary team’s intellectual property efforts and helping advance bipartisan solutions on technology, antitrust, and cybersecurity. Those who have worked alongside Peter-Anthony know why he earned the nickname ‘Juice.’ His energy, sound judgment, and tireless work ethic have made him an indispensable member of my team. Given the trade and intellectual property matters before the USITC, I can think of no one better qualified to serve as a commissioner.

“Peter-Anthony has earned the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and I am grateful to President Trump for recognizing his talents and nominating him to this important role. I also thank my Senate colleagues for confirming his nomination. While my office will certainly miss ‘Juice,’ I am confident he will faithfully uphold the USITC’s mission and continue serving the American people with integrity and distinction.”

###",1,2026-08-05T07:37:37Z,2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-led-push-delivers-new-protections-for-special-operators-in-annual-defense,Hudson-Led Push Delivers New Protections for Special Operators in Annual Defense Bill,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), Fort Bragg’s Congressman, applauded the inclusion of new protections for Special Operations Forces and other personnel serving in sensitive military units in the Fiscal Year 2027 (FY 27) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The provision follows a months-long push by Hudson to protect servicemembers from the intentional disclosure of information that could expose their identities, endanger their families, or compromise sensitive military missions.

“Our special operators take on some of the most dangerous missions in the world to keep us safe. They and their families should never have to worry someone will expose their identities and put a target on their backs,” said Rep. Hudson. “As Fort Bragg’s Congressman, I introduced legislation to strengthen these protections, and I’m glad this year’s NDAA takes an important step in the right direction. I will keep working to make sure our servicemembers and their families have the strongest protections possible.”

Background

Earlier this year, Hudson, alongside U.S. Representative Pat Harrigan (NC-10), introduced H. R. 7136, the Special Operator Protection Act of 2026, following an incident in which identifying information about a servicemember involved in a sensitive military operation was posted publicly. U.S. Senator Ted Budd introduced a companion measure in the U.S. Senate.

H. R. 7136 would make it a federal crime to knowingly publish restricted personal information about Special Operations Forces, certain servicemembers and Department of War personnel involved in sensitive activities, and their immediate family members when the information is intended to threaten, intimidate, or facilitate violence.

The NDAA provision advances the same goal through a different legal framework by extending existing federal protections for covert identities to certain servicemembers and Department of War personnel involved in sensitive units or activities. It applies criminal penalties when someone intentionally exposes an identity the government is actively working to conceal.

Hudson will continue pushing for the broader protections in his Special Operator Protection Act, including safeguards for the personal information of covered servicemembers and their immediate families.

-###-",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/cornyn-tillis-announce-agreement-with-blanche-on-anti-weaponization-fund-irs-settlement,"Cornyn, Tillis Announce Agreement with Blanche on Anti-Weaponization Fund, IRS Settlement",2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,NC,Thom Tillis,T000476,www.tillis.senate.gov,tillis,https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) released the following statement announcing the successful negotiation of a legally enforceable document clarifying the anti-weaponization fund and the IRS audit release included in the Settlement Agreement signed by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche last May:

“From the outset, we were clear that we needed a written document addressing our concerns on the IRS audit agreement and the anti-weaponization fund that included constraining the scope of audit protection by limiting it to the parties of the Settlement Agreement and legally ending the anti-weaponization fund.

“We are pleased that the Department of Justice has issued a formal order terminating the anti-weaponization fund. Additionally, the Department has acknowledged in a binding written order that the audit settlement is limited to the plaintiffs and the scope does not extend beyond the defendants in the lawsuit, the IRS and the Treasury, addressing concerns that multiple of our Republican colleagues share.

“We want to express our gratitude to Mr. Blanche and his staff for working with us on this, and we look forward to voting to advance his nomination out of the Senate Judiciary Committee soon.”

###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-announces-passport-fair-north-carolinas-14th-district,Congressman Tim Moore Announces Passport Fair for North Carolina’s 14th District,2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) announced his office is hosting a three-day passport fair with the U.S. Department of State across North Carolina’s 14th Congressional District.

“I'm glad to bring these passport services to Belmont, Cornelius, and Shelby, so it's easier for folks to apply for a new passport or renew an existing one,” said Congressman Moore. “This fair is a great opportunity to complete the passport application process with on-site assistance from my office and the U.S. Department of State.”

The passport fair will be at the following times and locations:

Wednesday, August 12th

10am-5pm

Gaston College - Kimbrell Campus Auditorium

7220 Wilkinson Blvd, Belmont, NC 28012

Thursday, August 13th

10am-5pm

The Town of Cornelius Town Hall - Assembly Room

21445 Catawba Avenue, Cornelius, NC 28031

Friday, August 14th

10am-5pm

Cleveland Community College – Speaker Tim Moore Advanced Technology Center, Room 7170

1750 E Marion St, Shelby, NC 28152

To participate, attendees must bring:

Unsigned application form (available at travel.state.gov/passportforms)

Check or money order made payable to the U.S. Dept. of State (debit cards, credit cards, and Apple/Google/Samsung Pay also accepted)

Proof of identification (and a photocopy)

Passport photo

Certified evidence of U.S. citizenship (and a photocopy)",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-provider-reimbursement-stability-act-to-ensure-long-term-access-to-medical-care,"Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Provider Reimbursement Stability Act to Ensure Long-Term Access to Medical Care",2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Thom Tillis,T000476,www.tillis.senate.gov,tillis,https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Boozman (R-AR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Roger Marshall M.D. (R-KS), Angus King (I-ME), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced the Provider Reimbursement Stability Act to modernize Medicare’s Physician Fee Schedule (MFPS). The bipartisan, comprehensive legislation would create greater predictability in Medicare physician payments, preserve patient access to care and better reflect the actual cost of delivering medical services.

According to the American Medical Association (AMA), when adjusted for inflation, Medicare reimbursement for physician services has declined 33 percent since 2001. This reduction, attributed to the Medicare budget neutrality threshold last updated in 1992 and other factors, has failed to keep pace with the rising cost of care. The legislation reforms key structural components of the MPFS, helping preserve physicians’ ability to care for Medicare patients.

“More than two million Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina depend on timely access to quality care,” said Senator Tillis. “Year after year, Medicare reimbursement cuts have made it harder for physicians to care for patients. This bipartisan legislation makes long overdue reforms to outdated policies to ensure physicians are fairly reimbursed and seniors continue to have access to the care they deserve.”

“Providers should not face unpredictable payment cuts that make it more difficult to care for patients. Modernizing Medicare reimbursement is an important step toward ensuring long-term financial stability for our health care providers and preserving access to quality care. Our bill is a bipartisan solution that will more accurately reflect the costs of delivering quality care, which ultimately benefits patients in Arkansas and across our country,” said Senator Boozman.

“Outdated policies are creating instability for doctors and threatening access to care for Medicare patients in Vermont and across the country. Our commonsense, bipartisan bill will help ensure physicians can continue providing vital care to our communities,” said Senator Welch.

“For 25 years, I cared for patients in western Kansas. Like many, I didn’t go into medicine to worry about Washington’s payment formulas – I went into medicine to take care of people,” said Senator Marshall. “When doctors can’t make the numbers work, patients lose access to care. This legislation is a commonsense step toward stabilizing physician reimbursement so doctors can spend more time caring for patients and less time worrying about whether they can afford to stay in practice.”

“Accessible, reliable health care is essential for seniors across Maine, particularly in our rural communities where providers are already stretched thin,” said Senator King. “The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would help ensure that Medicare providers are fairly reimbursed so they can continue delivering the full range of care that Maine seniors depend on for their healthcare needs. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this commonsense bipartisan legislation to strengthen access to quality care for older Americans.”

“It’s critical we do all we can to ensure that Granite Staters who rely on Medicare for health insurance have access to the quality, affordable care they need,” said Senator Shaheen. “This bipartisan bill would make sure physicians are fairly compensated and guarantee adequate reimbursement for providers, which would help strengthen Medicare’s dependability for patients now and into the future.”

BACKGROUND

The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would:

Increase the budget neutrality threshold from $20 million to $57.64 million and index it to the Medicare Economic Index (MEI) every five years, to address rising practice costs.

Revise spending estimates and budget neutrality adjustments based on utilization rates derived from claims data.

Provide updates to direct costs used to calculate practice expense relative value units (RVUs), including clinical wage rates, medical supplies and equipment, not less often than every five years.

Limit year-to-year positive or negative variances in the conversion factor to no greater than 2.5 percent.

###",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-introduces-bipartisan-hud-disaster-information,Congressman Tim Moore Introduces Bipartisan HUD Disaster Information Improvement Act,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced H.R. 9992, the HUD Disaster Information Improvement Act, which would facilitate disaster relief information sharing between Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Small Business Administration (SBA). This bipartisan legislation is co-led by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-07).

“In the wake of Hurricane Helene, it became clear that we need better coordination between agencies to get disaster assistance to communities faster,” said Congressman Tim Moore. “The GAO and HUD’s Inspector General have identified serious challenges with data sharing, duplication-of-benefits determinations, and improper payments. This legislation strengthens transparency and coordination between agencies, helping reduce waste, fraud, and abuse while ensuring disaster relief gets to folks more efficiently.”

“Each year, families across the country face more frequent and more intense severe weather and natural disasters. In Colorado, we recently saw historic fires sweep across the state, destroying homes, communities, and lives. It’s important that we have an all-hands-on deck approach to how we respond to these disasters so communities can rebuild,” said Rep. Brittany Pettersen. “I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Moore. Our bill lays out a clearer path for how HUD can work seamlessly with FEMA and the SBA to support families and businesses when a disaster strikes. When Americans are facing their hardest moments, they deserve to know that their government is responsive and standing with them.”

Specifically, the HUD Disaster Information Improvement Act would require HUD to enter into a memorandum of understanding with FEMA and SBA to share disaster relief data to improve efficiency and mitigate waste, fraud, and abuse. HUD would be required to submit a report to Congress on the increased collaboration between the agencies and the effectiveness of the enhanced information sharing.",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-in-support-of-ukrainian-defense,"Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation in Support of Ukrainian Defense",2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Thom Tillis,T000476,www.tillis.senate.gov,tillis,https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), Alan Armstrong (R-OK), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the bipartisan Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act to boost Ukraine’s defense by allowing for the more consistent and timely provision of high-volume, low-tech munitions critical to the country’s fight against Russian aggression. The legislation would foster greater investment by NATO allies in Ukraine’s defense as well as build out the capacity of the U.S. defense industrial base.

“As Russia continues it’s illegal attack on Ukraine, it’s imperative we work alongside NATO to do everything we can to provide Ukraine with the valuable resources they need,” said Senator Tillis. “I am proud to join my colleagues in this bipartisan legislation that will help us better support Ukraine in its fight against Putin’s authoritarian aggression by ensuring a consistent supply of critical low-tech munitions.”

“I’ve been to Ukraine twice—most recently in June—and saw firsthand how critical U.S. investments have been for Ukrainians’ defense,” said Senator Kaine. “We’re currently at a pivotal point in the war—we must keep up the pressure on Russia and show that the democracies of the world continue to stand united against authoritarian regimes. I’m glad to be working with this bipartisan group of senators to boost U.S. and allied support and help ensure our European partners can invest in the swift high-volume production and transfer of urgently-needed low-tech munitions to Ukraine. I’m going to keep urging my colleagues to join us in this important effort.”

“Third-party transfers of high-volume munitions have helped Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression while also ensuring our European allies share the cost burden, and it’s unfortunate that this valuable tool is often caught in a cumbersome arms export approval process,” said Senator Cornyn. “Our commonsense legislation would cut red tape to expedite the process for our allies to purchase and transfer certain munitions to Ukraine so they can continue their fight against Putin’s unprovoked invasion, and I’m proud to join Senator Kaine to introduce it.”

“Ukraine stands on the front lines of freedom, protecting the world from Putin’s aggression,” said Senator Coons. “Our European allies have stepped forward, taking on more of the financial burden of investing in Ukraine’s defense. We should pass this bill to support our allies’ efforts, strengthen our own industrial base, and ensure Ukraine has the weapons it needs to win on the battlefield.”

”Ukraine's ability to defend itself is essential to the security and stability of Europe and the broader transatlantic alliance. The Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine's Defense Act strengthens our allies, encourages greater European burden-sharing, and helps ensure Ukraine has the resources it needs to deter Russian aggression while advancing our shared security interests,” said Senator Armstrong.

“Ukraine urgently needs artillery and rockets, but bureaucratic delays are hindering the delivery of critical munitions. Each day we wait strengthens Putin’s position. This bipartisan bill creates a faster, clearer pathway to get Ukraine the weapons it needs to protect itself,” said Senator Kelly.

“When Putin loses America is safer. Vladimir Putin has waged his brutal war against Ukraine. However, Ukraine continues to courageously hold the line and take the fight to Russia. Getting weapons to Ukraine faster is just commonsense. This bill does just that without any additional cost to taxpayers. Continuing our support of Ukraine will keep Americans safe,” said Senator Ricketts.

BACKGROUND

Third-party transfers of high-volume artillery and rocket munitions have been essential to keeping Ukraine supplied and ensuring European partners are sharing the burden. However, each transaction requires a lengthy arms export approval process by the U.S. government, and many of these transactions consist of the same low-tech munitions. This rigorous process is hindering Ukraine’s ability to receive critical munitions and hurting battlefield effectiveness.

The Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act would address these challenges. Specifically, it would:

Amend the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) to preauthorize the purchase and transfer of certain high-volume, low-tech munitions to Ukraine by NATO members and other countries until December 31, 2030 with the option of an extension through 2035. Munitions include:

155mm Artillery Shells

155mm Excalibur Extended Range Artillery Shells

High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) Munitions

Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) Munitions

Require the Government of Ukraine to provide a written guarantee that it will not transfer any such articles without receiving consent from the U.S.

Maintain all current end-use monitoring and congressional oversight legal requirements.

###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-unanimously-pass-grassley-coons-anti-counterfeiting-month-resolution,"Tillis, Colleagues Unanimously Pass Grassley-Coons Anti-Counterfeiting Month Resolution",2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Thom Tillis,T000476,www.tillis.senate.gov,tillis,https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) in applauding the Senate’s unanimous passage of their resolution designating July as “National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month.” The bipartisan resolution aims to educate Americans on the economic importance of trademarks and their role in protecting consumers from dangerous knockoffs.

“For too long, counterfeit products have threatened American businesses and put consumers at a serious risk,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to support this resolution recognizing the importance of protecting trademarks and raising awareness on the dangers of counterfeiting.”

“Counterfeit goods endanger consumers, harm businesses and threaten the U.S. economy. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort as Judiciary Chairman to raise awareness of the dangers of illicit knockoffs and the value of protecting American trademarks and intellectual property,” said Senator Grassley.

“To ensure our nation remains the global leader in innovation, we must secure Americans’ intellectual property rights. That includes combatting the counterfeit goods that steal our incomes, endanger our safety, and degrade trust in the products we buy,” said Senator Coons. “As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Trademark Caucus, I’m proud to mark July as Anti-Counterfeiting Month to help raise awareness of the harms of counterfeit goods and the importance of trademarks to our intellectual property system.”

“The rise of online shopping has heightened the long-standing threat counterfeit goods pose to American businesses and consumers. By recognizing the importance of protecting trademarks and raising awareness about the dangers of counterfeiting, this resolution reaffirms the importance of protecting American consumers from the dangers of deceptive and harmful products,” said Senator Hirono.

Read the full resolution HERE.

###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-urges-usps-provide-answers-clear-path-waco-post-office,"Congressman Tim Moore Urges USPS to Provide Answers, Clear Path to Waco Post Office Reopening",2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) wrote a letter calling on the U.S. Postal Service to provide answers and a clear timeline for reopening the Waco Post Office, which has remained closed since sustaining damage that forced a temporary relocation of mail service to Cherryville.

“While I appreciate that the Postal Service moved quickly to repair the structural damage, this arrangement is not a viable long-term solution,” Congressman Moore wrote in the letter. “The Cherryville location does not have sufficient P.O. boxes to accommodate the approximately 400 customers who depend on Waco for their primary mail delivery. For many of these residents, their post office box is their only reliable means of receiving mail...They deserve dependable service and direct communication from the Postal Service about what comes next.”",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-co-leads-bipartisan-bill-modernize-americas-electric,Congressman Pat Harrigan Co-Leads Bipartisan Bill to Modernize America's Electric Grid and Lower Energy Costs,2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) joined Congressman George Whitesides (D-CA-27) in introducing the Lowering Energy Costs through Grid Modernization Act, bipartisan legislation to accelerate upgrades to America's aging electric grid by modernizing existing transmission infrastructure, reducing permitting delays, and expanding the capacity of the nation's electric grid.

""The future of AI, advanced manufacturing, and American energy dominance all depends on one thing: reliable, affordable electricity,"" said Congressman Harrigan. ""Our electric grid wasn't built for the demands we're placing on it today. This bill takes a smarter approach by upgrading the infrastructure we already have instead of waiting a decade to build from scratch, delivering more power, lower costs, and a stronger, more resilient grid.""

The Lowering Energy Costs through Grid Modernization Act helps utilities deliver more electricity over existing transmission corridors by deploying advanced conductors that can significantly increase capacity without building entirely new power lines. The legislation also streamlines permitting for upgrades within existing rights-of-way and encourages investment in technologies that improve grid reliability while reducing congestion and lowering costs for consumers.

Congressman Harrigan will continue advancing policies that strengthen America's energy security, expand affordable and reliable power generation, and ensure the nation's infrastructure can support the next generation of economic growth, technological innovation, and national defense.",1,2026-07-25T07:13:44Z,2026-07-25T07:15:09Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/23/budd-welch-bipartisan-bill-supporting-the-next-generation-of-american-aviation-advances-out-of-committee/,"Budd, Welch Bipartisan Bill Supporting the Next Generation of American Aviation Advances Out of Committee",2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statements after an amended version of their bipartisan Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act passed out of committee. The Senators’ legislation would improve the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) type certification process for American Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft companies to help them succeed and cement the United States’ role as a global leader in aviation. Updates to the bill reflect further technical assistance from the FAA and the acceptance of a modified amendment by Senator Ed Markey (D-Mass.) to give airline pilots a seat at the table.

“By ensuring that the FAA prioritizes the certification of novel aircraft like eVTOLs, we can quickly incorporate innovative technology into the National Airspace System. I am glad that our common-sense efforts to usher in the next generation of advanced air mobility aircraft will soon be considered by the full Senate,” said Senator Budd.

“Building on generations of leadership in aviation, American companies are spearheading electric aircraft innovation. That includes companies like Vermont’s Beta Technologies, which completed its historic, first-ever electric flight last year in South Burlington. Ensuring the FAA certification process is safe, efficient, and more transparent for emerging AAM companies like Beta is critical to promoting aviation innovation,” said Senator Welch. “I’m thankful for the support of my colleagues on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, including my bipartisan co-lead Senator Budd, in helping this bill fly through to the Senate Floor to support American ingenuity, good-paying jobs in Vermont, and our global leadership in aviation.”

Joining Senators Budd and Welch as cosponsors of this legislation are Sens. John Curtis (R-Utah), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).

“The Committee passage today brings us one step closer to modernizing the FAA certification process for the next generation of aviation,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan bill will provide greater clarity and accountability, helping American Advanced Air Mobility companies innovate, compete, and lead the world in the future of flight. I’m pleased to see it advance and look forward to its passage by the full Senate.”

“New Mexico is a strong leader in aviation technology, and this legislation will help ensure our state continues to shape the next generation of innovation,” said Senator Luján. “This bill will streamline and update the FAA certification processes, accelerate innovation, support new technologies, and strengthen U.S. global leadership in aviation. I’m proud to see this legislation advance and help keep the United States at the forefront of global aviation.”

“Streamlining the FAA’s type certification processes for advanced aviation technologies, such as advanced air mobility, is critical to bolstering America’s global leadership in aviation innovation,” said Senator Moran. “I appreciate the bipartisan support from my colleagues for this legislation, and I’m pleased by this step forward with its passage out of committee today. This legislation would support emerging aerospace technologies and strengthen the aviation industry in Kansas and across the country, and I look forward to its approval by the full Senate.”

“California companies are leading the world in developing the next generation of electric aircraft. I’m proud to see our bill advance to cut through red tape and streamline the FAA certification process, so we can maintain our competitive advantage and keep groundbreaking innovation here at home,” said Senator Padilla.

“As the birthplace of aviation, America must maintain dominance in this critical industry by streamlining outdated bureaucracy and allowing innovators to remain competitive through a transparent, consistent regulatory framework. The bipartisan Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act takes important steps to accomplish these ends, and I’m proud to see it advance out of the Commerce Committee,” said Senator Sheehy.

“Advanced Air Mobility platforms will revolutionize the American economy. The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act is a crucial step to securing American drone dominance. Our bill will provide much needed clarity and certainty as we seek to establish American leadership in these critical technologies and lay the groundwork for the future of air transportation. The Commerce Committee’s advancement of this bipartisan legislation marks an important step forward, and I look forward to seeing it pass the full Senate,” said Senator Young.

U.S. Representative Troy E. Nehls (R-TX-22), Chair of the House Aviation Subcommittee; Rep. André Carson (D-IN-07), Ranking Member of the House Aviation Subcommittee; Rep. Nicholas Begich (R-AK-AL); Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05); Rep. Tracey Mann (R-KS-01); Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23); Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19); and Rep. Tony Wied (R-WI-08) lead companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act is endorsed by the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA); Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA); Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA); American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE); American Institutes of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA); Archer Aviation; Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI); Beta Technologies; Boeing; Eve Air Mobility; General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA); Joby Aviation; National Air Transportation Association (NATA); National Business Aviation Association (NBAA); Professional Aviation Safety Specialists, AFL-CIO (PASS); Vertical Aviation International (VAI); and Wisk Aero.

Read the full bill text HERE.

BACKGROUND

Specifically, the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act:

• Establishes non-binding, standard expected timelines for the FAA’s type certification process for AAM aircraft for the Agency to respond to petitions for exemptions of aircraft type, and to develop means of compliance for aircraft outside of the existing types of AAM aircraft.

• Sets transparent and reliable non-binding, standard expected ranges of time for the issue paper process, so that type certification applicants know how long reviews will take, reducing uncertainty and delays.

• Provides the FAA Administration with the sole discretion to exclude safety-critical matters from established timelines to ensure airspace safety is paramount.

• Directs the FAA to define when an issue paper is required in the certification process, while providing flexibility for the Agency on complex, safety issues.

• Directs the FAA to account for performance-based rules in the certification process.

• Directs the FAA to brief the relevant congressional committees on the status of implementing the certification regulations and managing workload.

• Clarifies when the FAA can delegate routine compliance findings to qualified personnel, allowing Agency experts to focus on complex, safety-critical issues.

• Updates delegation guidance for type certification to cover new and novel technologies related to AAM, including eVTOL aircraft.

Senators Budd and Welch published a bipartisan opinion piece in Newsweek in September 2025 entitled: “Congress Should Help Air Innovation Take Flight.” In their op-ed, they urged Congress to build on America’s proud history of global aviation leadership and pass this bipartisan legislation to help AAM take flight.

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-coons-renew-call-for-release-of-dr-gubad-ibadoghlu,"Tillis, Coons Renew Call for Release of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu",2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Thom Tillis,T000476,www.tillis.senate.gov,tillis,https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Coons (D-DE), co-chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, led a group of seven Senators urging for the immediate release of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu on the third anniversary of his arrest and released the following statement:

“This week marks three years since Azerbaijani authorities violently and arbitrarily detained internationally renowned economist, anti-corruption expert, and academic Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu on false charges, which have been universally condemned as politically motivated and baseless. To this day, Dr. Ibadoghlu has never received a fair trial.

“Today, more than 1,000 days since his arrest, Dr. Ibadoghlu remains under indefinite house arrest, under constant surveillance, barred from domestic and international travel, and required to report to police twice a week. His health has deteriorated gravely. He suffers from a worsening aortic aneurysm requiring urgent surgery, type 2 diabetes with chronically uncontrolled blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Doctors have warned that without immediate specialist intervention, his life is at serious risk, yet Azerbaijan's travel ban continues to block him from receiving the lifesaving care he urgently needs.

“Dr. Ibadoghlu has dedicated his career to democracy, good governance, and anti-corruption research, including years of teaching and conducting research at leading American universities. He is not simply a political prisoner; he is a man whose life is slipping away while the world watches. That is unacceptable.

“We call on Azerbaijani authorities to release Dr. Ibadoghlu immediately and unconditionally and to lift his travel ban without delay. Three years is too long. His life is at stake. The time for action is now.”

Joining Senators Tillis and Coons are Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Peter Welch (D-VT).

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-introduces-safe-rural-act-strengthen-flood-resilience,Congressman Pat Harrigan Introduces SAFE Rural Act to Strengthen Flood Resilience in Rural Communities,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) introduced the Sustainable and Flood Resilient Engineering for Rural Areas (SAFE Rural) Act, bipartisan legislation to expand access to FEMA flood resilience funding for rural communities and remove barriers that too often prevent small towns from preparing before disaster strikes. Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) joined Harrigan as the bill's original co-lead.

""Communities across western North Carolina know better than anyone that rebuilding after a flood is always harder and more expensive than preparing beforehand. The problem is that too many rural communities never get the chance to prepare because they don't have the staff or resources to navigate Washington's grant process. The SAFE Rural Act changes that by making it easier for small towns to access the funding they need to strengthen critical infrastructure before the next disaster hits. That's a smarter use of taxpayer dollars, and it's how we build more resilient communities for the long haul,"" said Congressman Harrigan.

“Rural communities are often the first to feel the impacts of severe weather and flooding, but they don’t always have the resources to prepare,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “The SAFE Rural Act helps level the playing field by making sure small towns and rural areas have the tools and funding they need to protect their families, infrastructure, and communities before disaster strikes.”

The SAFE Rural Act has earned the support of leading organizations representing engineers, floodplain managers, and resilience experts:

“Small, rural and under-resourced communities often lack the funding and capacity to build resilience before disaster strikes, and BRIC's competitive grant model too often leaves them behind. AFCA applauds Congressman Harrigan and Congressman Sorensen for their introduction of the SAFE Rural Act. This bipartisan proposal would empower states to steer proactive resilience investment where it's needed most with fewer bureaucratic hurdles, and deliver dedicated funding for rural and under-resourced communities,” said Julie Seger, Federal Advocacy & Policy Director at AFCA.

""Rural, Tribal, and U.S. territorial communities are often among the most vulnerable to severe flooding and its devastating impacts. By expanding access to hazard mitigation funding, encouraging the use of modern engineering practices and helping underserved communities overcome barriers to project delivery, the SAFE Rural Act will help these communities to better protect their residents, critical infrastructure systems, and local economies while reducing the long-term costs of disaster recovery,” said Marsha Anderson Bomar, President of the American Society of Civil Engineers.

""The Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) is proud to support the SAFE Rural Act in addressing one of the shortcomings of existing pre-disaster hazard mitigation programs - equal opportunity for rural areas and Tribal nations. By using proven approaches to provide technical assistance and funding to these communities and avoiding known pitfalls in existing programs, the SAFE Rural Act allows funding to be flexibly used for locally identified and prioritized flood hazard mitigation efforts. We' ve long known that the benefits of hazard mitigation actions far exceed their costs. By directing a small part of the Disaster Relief Fund towards hazard mitigation, the SAFE Rural Act compels responsible stewardship of these taxpayer dollars by enabling long-term community flood resilience,” said Chad Berginnis, Executive Director of ASFPM.

“The National Association of Flood & Stormwater Management Agencies (NAFSMA) strongly supports the Sustainable and Flood Resilient Engineering for Rural Areas Act (SAFE Rural Act) and urges Congress to pass it without delay. Rural communities, Tribal lands, and U.S. territories often face the greatest flood risks and the least capacity to access federal mitigation funding. The SAFE Rural Act fixes this by establishing a dedicated, formula-based funding stream within the BRIC program, capitalized by a 2 percent set-aside from the FEMA Disaster Relief Fund. It streamlines applications for small projects, waives cost-share requirements for economically distressed communities, and builds state and local capacity through the Community Assistance Program. Every dollar invested in pre-disaster resilience saves many more in post-disaster recovery. This legislation reflects that reality, and NAFSMA is proud to support it,” said Sunny Simpkins, Executive Director of NAFSMA.

The SAFE Rural Act establishes a dedicated rural flood resilience fund within FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program to provide formula-based funding for eligible rural communities, Tribal governments, and U.S. territories. The legislation streamlines applications for smaller projects, expands technical assistance, and helps communities invest in flood mitigation projects before disasters occur, reducing long-term recovery costs while strengthening critical infrastructure.

The SAFE Rural Act has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for consideration.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-ban-congressional-stock-trading,Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Ban Congressional Stock Trading,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10), an original cosponsor of the Stop Insider Trading Act, voted in favor of H.R. 7008, legislation to prohibit Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from purchasing individual stocks while serving in office and strengthen transparency requirements for stock sales.

""Congress shouldn't be playing the stock market while writing the laws, which is why I haven't touched individual stocks since coming to Congress and why Americans expect better from Washington,"" said Congressman Harrigan. ""If we're asking the American people to trust us with the power to write the rules, they should never have to wonder whether those same rules are being used for personal financial gain.""

The Stop Insider Trading Act prohibits Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from purchasing individual stocks while in office, while continuing to allow diversified investment funds, blind trusts, and certain other exempt investments. The legislation also requires advance public disclosure before covered individuals sell individual stocks and establishes meaningful penalties for violations.

Congressman Harrigan has consistently supported stronger ethics standards in Congress and has not traded individual stocks since taking office. As an original cosponsor of the Stop Insider Trading Act, he believes restoring public trust requires holding Members of Congress to the same standard Americans expect from anyone entrusted with public office.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-fy27-ndaa-secures-five-key-wins-strengthen,"Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes for FY27 NDAA, Secures Five Key Wins to Strengthen Military Readiness",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Pat Harrigan,H001101,harrigan.house.gov,harrigan,https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), legislation that strengthens America's military while including five provisions authored by Harrigan to improve military readiness, secure critical defense supply chains, and modernize the Armed Forces.

""The world isn't getting any safer, and our military can't afford to prepare for yesterday's fight. This year's NDAA strengthens the industrial base that underpins our national defense, invests in the technologies that will shape the next generation of warfare, and delivers meaningful improvements for our servicemembers and their families. I'm especially proud that it includes several provisions I fought for to help the Department of Defense move faster, operate smarter, and stay ahead of our adversaries,"" said Congressman Harrigan.

Among the provisions secured by Congressman Harrigan are:

Military Right to Repair, bipartisan legislation ensuring the Department of Defense has access to the technical data needed to maintain and repair mission-critical equipment without being dependent on contractor monopolies.

Deployable Nuclear Power for INDOPACOM, directing the Department of Defense to deploy a transportable nuclear microreactor in the Indo-Pacific by 2030 to provide reliable power for expeditionary operations.

Ban on Chinese-Manufactured Optical Fiber, prohibiting the Department of Defense and its contractors from procuring or using optical fiber produced or controlled by entities under the jurisdiction of the People's Republic of China.

Repair by Replacement Reform, strengthening the Department of Defense's ability to sustain equipment in the field by improving how replacement parts are procured and maintained.

6.8mm NATO Standardization, directing the Department of Defense to pursue NATO standardization of next-generation 6.8x51mm ammunition to improve interoperability and logistics among allied forces.

Beyond Congressman Harrigan's provisions, the FY27 NDAA rebuilds America's defense industrial base by expanding domestic manufacturing capacity, restoring critical stockpiles, strengthening shipyards, and supporting the defense workforce. It also strengthens nuclear deterrence and missile defense, accelerates the development of emerging technologies such as hypersonics, quantum computing, and autonomous systems, provides a 5 to 7 percent pay raise for servicemembers, improves military housing and childcare, and advances reforms to eliminate waste and improve Pentagon accountability.

The FY27 NDAA now moves to the Senate, where differences between the House and Senate versions will be reconciled before final consideration by Congress.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-harris-applauds-house-passage-budget-reconciliation-30-framework,Congressman Harris Applauds House Passage of Budget Reconciliation 3.0 Framework,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Mark Harris,H001102,markharris.house.gov,markharris,https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) issued the following statement in response to the House passage of H. Con. Res. 113, a resolution that begins the budget reconciliation 3.0 process.

“Since the beginning of this Congress, House Republicans have been united in getting our country back on track and delivering on the mandate entrusted to us by the American people,” said Congressman Harris. “Without a single Democrat vote, we have used the budget reconciliation process to pass the largest tax cut in American history and fund the law enforcement agencies tasked with securing our border.

“By passing this third budget resolution, we are taking the first step toward ensuring the brave men and women who defend our nation have the tools, resources, and support they need to carry out their missions and keep the American people safe. We are also advancing commonsense measures to restore confidence in our elections and provide assistance to the farmers and producers who sustain our nation’s food supply.

“The Senate should now build on the work of the House without delay so we can advance these critical priorities and seize the opportunity of our Republican majority to make our nation stronger, safer, and more prosperous.”

BACKGROUND:

H. Con. Res. 113 unlocks the budget reconciliation process, allowing Congress to advance legislation with a simple majority vote in the Senate and avoid the 60-vote threshold.

The resolution contains budgetary instructions totaling up to $95 billion across four House committees.

It instructs the House Armed Services Committee to develop legislation providing up to $60 billion for military operations, readiness, service member pay, and critical munitions investments. It also instructs the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence to develop legislation providing up to $13 billion for intelligence-related activities that protect the nation.

The resolution instructs the Committee on House Administration to develop legislation providing up to $10 billion to advance election integrity measures included in the SAVE America Act.

It also instructs the House Committee on Agriculture, on which Congressman Harris serves, to develop legislation providing up to $12 billion in economic assistance for American farmers and food producers and help ensure the nation’s food supply remains secure and affordable.

During consideration of H. Con. Res. 113, 211 House Democrats voted against moving forward with the framework to strengthen our national defense, secure our elections, and support American farmers.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-harris-applauds-house-passage-fy27-national-defense-authorization,Congressman Harris Applauds House Passage of FY27 National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Mark Harris,H001102,markharris.house.gov,markharris,https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) applauded House passage of H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, the annual legislation that sets national defense policy and authorizes funding for the United States military.

“The first and foremost responsibility of the federal government is to provide for the common defense and protect the American people,” said Congressman Harris. “At a time of growing threats from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and terrorist organizations around the world, America must have the military strength and industrial capacity necessary to deter our adversaries and defend our interests at home and abroad.

“This legislation rebuilds America’s arsenal by strengthening domestic manufacturing, securing critical supply chains, replenishing our munitions stockpiles, and investing in the capabilities our warfighters need to carry out their missions. It also supports our service members and their families through increased military pay and important investments in housing, education, and childcare.

“For decades, the National Defense Authorization Act has reflected a bipartisan commitment to putting our national security first. Today’s vote reflects the unfortunate political reality that 205 House Democrats opposed the annual defense legislation necessary to maintain America’s military readiness and protect our nation.”

BACKGROUND:

H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, authorizes $1.15 trillion for national defense priorities to strengthen America’s military, revitalize the defense industrial base, support service members and their families, and advance President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda.

The FY27 NDAA focuses on rebuilding America’s Arsenal of Freedom by expanding domestic defense production, strengthening critical supply chains, reducing barriers for small businesses and innovative companies, and creating new opportunities for America’s skilled technical workforce.

The legislation authorizes multiyear procurement for critical weapons systems, accelerates the production and acquisition of munitions, and invests in the ships, aircraft, combat vehicles, missile defenses, autonomous systems, hypersonic weapons, and other capabilities American warfighters need to deter and defeat emerging threats.

The bill supports service members and military families by authorizing a 5% to 7% pay increase, investing more than $1.8 billion in military barracks and family housing, expanding access to on-base childcare, and increasing the Family Separation Allowance for deployed service members.

The FY27 NDAA strengthens American deterrence against China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and terrorist organizations while supporting key allies and partners around the world. It also continues military support for law enforcement operations along the southern and maritime borders.

The legislation cuts nearly $30 billion in wasteful spending, including funding for inefficient and underperforming programs, while advancing reforms intended to reduce fraudulent payments and move the Department of War toward a full and clean audit.

Under the rule governing consideration of H.R. 8800, the text of the House-passed SAVE America Act will be added to the legislation before it is transmitted to the Senate. The SAVE America Act requires proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and establishes voter identification requirements for federal elections.

H.R. 8800 passed the House by a vote of 216-212.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-applauds-passage-congressional-stock-trading-ban-voter-id,Murphy Applauds Passage of Congressional Stock Trading Ban & Voter ID,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., applauds the passage of H.R. 7008, the Stop Insider Trading Act, to prohibit Members of Congress, spouses, and dependent children from purchasing publicly traded stocks, as well as H.R. 9368, the Voter ID Act, which was included, to require voters to show a photo ID when they cast a ballot for an election for federal office.

""As members of Congress, we are elected to serve our constituents with integrity and not for self-benefit,""said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D.""Members and their families should not use the office for financial gain. We must root out perceptions of corruption to preserve faith in our federal government, and even the appearance of impropriety stands in the way of that pursuit. This commonsense reform is overdue, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for it to become law.

Likewise, free and fair elections are fundamental to American democracy. We require photo identification to open a bank account or purchase alcohol; it should be requisite to vote in federal elections, a sacred exercise in our democracy. Confidence in our elections is the bedrock of trust in governance and our nation's leaders. We must never cease to improve access to voting and election integrity.""",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-applauds-passage-fy27-national-defense-authorization-act,Murphy Applauds Passage of FY27 National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., applauds the passage of H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027. This legislation authorizes $1.15 trillion for fiscal year 2027.

""I am pleased that Congress has passed a National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 that empowers our military to safeguard the United States and takes care of our troops,""said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D.""This package is a historic investment in our armed forces to prepare us against threats to our nation and to improve the quality of life for service members and their families. I am honored to represent some of our nation’s greatest warfighters at Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Stations Cherry Point and New River. North Carolina’s 3rd District will benefit greatly from the more than $647 million in funding secured for military construction projects on our bases and $70 million in Impact Aid that will help our military community.""

Third District Victories | By the Numbers:

Camp Lejeune:

Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) Shelters: $24,140,000.

10th Marines Operational Complex: $77,520,000.

Ammunition Supply Point Upgrade: $15,451,000.

Combat Water Survival Training Facility: $141,880,000.

Marine Raider Battalion Operations Facility: $80,000,000.

Marine Raider Operational Support Facility: $72,000,000.

MCAS Cherry Point:

Aircraft Maintenance Hangar: $47,560,000.

CH-53K Gearbox Repair and Test Facility: $17,941,000.

F-35 Sustainment Center: $89,181,000.

Maintenance Facility & Marine Air Group HQs: $62,575,000.

2D Low Altitude Air Defense (LAAD) Maintenance and Operations Facilities Design: $19,390,000.

Total for NC-03 Military Construction Initiatives in FY2027: $647.6 MILLION

Highlights",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-votes-pass-house-budget-resolution-secure-elections,"Congressman Tim Moore Votes to Pass House Budget Resolution to Secure Elections, Strengthen National Defense, and Support Farmers",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) voted to pass H. Con. Res. 113, the Budget Resolution. This legislation safeguards elections, supports troops, and strengthens America’s food supply.

“Americans overwhelmingly support voter ID, yet not every state has enacted strong election integrity laws like North Carolina,"" said Congressman Moore. “This resolution outlines a framework to finally secure our elections, deliver critical assistance to American farmers, and strengthen our national defense. It advances reforms like voter ID across all fifty states, giving Americans confidence that their elections are secure, and provides supplemental funding to ensure baseline military readiness and strengthen American Agriculture.”

Watch Congressman Moore’s floor speech here.

H. Con. Res. 113 now advances to the Senate.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-votes-strengthen-americas-military-through-fy27-national,Congressman Tim Moore Votes to Strengthen America's Military Through FY27 National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), legislation that ensures America's military readiness and sets defense policy for the coming year. The FY27 NDAA authorizes funds to revitalize our defense industrial base, accelerate next generation technologies, and build on quality-of-life improvements for our service members and their families.

Included in the bill is Congressman Tim Moore's (NC-14) amendment establishing the Army Quantum Readiness and Advanced Computing Initiative to better prepare the Army for the technology race.

""Our service members face threats unlike any in a generation. We must ensure America remains the strongest and most capable fighting force in the world,"" said Congressman Moore. ""The National Defense Authorization Act strengthens American deterrence by restoring and modernizing depleted stockpile and providing our service members with a well-deserved pay raise.""

Specifically, this legislation will:

• Support a 5 to 7 percent pay raise for all service members while improving housing, education, and childcare for military families.

• Strengthen military readiness by rebuilding critical weapons stockpiles and expanding the nation's defense industrial base.

• Accelerate the development and deployment of next generation technologies, including quantum computing, hypersonics, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence.

• Strengthen America's deterrence against adversaries such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea by investing in the forces and capabilities needed to maintain a strong U.S. military.

• Improve efficiency at the Department of War by streamlining operations, reducing wasteful spending, and strengthening financial accountability.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/22/budd-chairs-subcommittee-hearing-to-examine-u-s-competition-with-china-in-race-for-global-leadership-in-science-and-technology/,Budd Chairs Subcommittee Hearing to Examine U.S. Competition with China in Race for Global Leadership in Science and Technology,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) chaired a hearing in the Senate Subcommittee on Science, Manufacturing, and Competitiveness yesterday entitled Measuring What Matters: Science, Standards, and Strategic Competition to discuss how the U.S. can more strategically align our scientific research, federal science agencies and assets, and the private sector to compete with China. In his opening statement, Senator Budd emphasized three priorities to pave the way for stronger American competition: prioritizing outcome-based metrics, streamlining our world-class science agencies, and identifying Chinese intellectual property theft undermining our national security.

Watch the full hearing HERE.

Below are Senator Budd’s opening remarks:

“I want to thank Ranking Member Baldwin, Chairman Cruz, and Ranking Member Cantwell for helping to convene this important hearing.

“For 250 years, the American economy has told a single, consistent story: one of relentless innovation and bold risk-taking, and an unmatched ability to turn ideas into industries. The secret sauce in that formula for continued growth and expanded American prosperity is innovation.

“Throughout our history, and particularly since the end of World War II, the U.S has been the world’s foremost laboratory for fundamental science, and we lead the world in turning that research into revolutionary inventions and commercial products.

“As our expert witnesses will discuss, the Vannevar Bush model of the federal government funding basic research through universities and research institutions has served our nation incredibly well.

“However, we have never faced as fierce a competition as we do today.

“Earlier this year, China approved its 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development. According to a recent Congressional Research Service report, the PRC’s goal is to build self-reliance in areas it currently relies on the United States and Europe for, by boosting advanced manufacturing with decisive breakthroughs in advanced materials, equipment, machine tools, and high-end instruments, and industrial applications of artificial intelligence and robotics. It also calls for building PRC leadership in strategic and emerging sectors and 2 making other decisive breakthroughs in core areas such as biotechnology, semiconductors, and software.

“But don’t be confused—the PRC’s plan is not just about self-reliance. It is an economic and strategic framework for identifying critical supply chains and industries, then systematically stealing intellectual property, heavily subsidizing manufacturing, and, eventually, dumping products designed to ensure that other countries cannot compete at scale. We have seen this across multiple strategic industries, and the breadth and pace is only increasing.

“The PRC has joined the U.S. as the only other country to spend more than $1 trillion annually on research and development (R&D). By 2024, the PRC accounted for 30% of global research and development flows, while the U.S share had declined from 39% at the start of the 21st century to 29%.

“We must be clear-eyed about the competition that we face, and this committee can play a significant role by setting the metrics by which we define scientific success and place the federal research enterprise on stronger footing.

“First, we need to better prioritize outcome-based metrics as a gauge of impact and competitiveness. Influencing international standards, leading in high-impact research, and measuring technology adoption and diffusion are paramount. Additionally, evaluating the strength of public-private partnerships and instances of industry funding university research could signal which lines of applied research are most valuable and making the greatest impact.

“Second, this committee should look at ways to streamline, focus, and improve agencies under its jurisdiction, like the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the National Science Foundation. Dr. Copan, during your time as NIST Director, you authored an important 3 white paper titled, ‘Return on Investment Initiative for Unleashing American Innovation,’ which recommended improving tech transfer, strengthening R&D partnerships with the private sector, and improving access to federal R&D assets for businesses.

“Given the PRC’s significant focus on standards development, I look forward to discussing ways in which NIST’s world-class talent in metrology can be better targeted to enhance U.S. competitiveness in emerging technologies.

“Finally, this committee should look carefully at Chinese scientific and intellectual property theft, which significantly undermines American economic dominance and national security. I firmly believe that the U.S. is well positioned to continue to lead the world in the amazing discoveries and breakthroughs that inspire countless young men and women to engage in science and build the technologies and companies that shape the future.

“However, we are at a critical inflection point if we want to maintain and improve that lead.

“We can help secure that leadership by re-thinking the metrics by which we determine success, streamlining our world-class science agencies, and looking for ways to further partner with the private sector on shared applied research priorities.”

Below are Senator Budd’s questions for the witnesses:

Sen. Budd: “…You mentioned the 5,000-person team in Shenzhen ready to move on an American research accomplishment in biological engineering. It seemed like that was at speed and scale. You also mentioned your support for the creation of a biological measurement laboratory at NIST. So, is China applying that scale, speed, and resourcing to metrology work and standard setting?”

Dr. Endy: “What I observe is China appears to be building national laboratory-scale facilities for the 21st century across all sciences, and, in particular, in biology and biotechnology. They’re advantaged in that, in starting such an effort, they’re not burdened by a legacy portfolio. It’s easier to build a new house sometimes than renovate an old house. The work that they’re capable of doing, because of the capacity they have.

“When I have an idea in biology, I won’t know if it works or not until I build it and test it. Let’s say I’m interested in an AI tool. If I have an AI tool that generates a string of English, I can quickly judge if that text is good or bad. But if I have an AI tool trained on DNA sequences, and it emits [or] generates novel DNA sequences, what do they do… The only way to really know is to build that DNA and test it, and then see what it does, and feed that measurement back into the modeling platform to get a better model. So, if you want to have world-leading large language foundation models, for biology, we have to have the large language laboratories to go along with it.

“And so, that’s the capacity I see being developed in Shenzhen, and throughout China, to scale measurement, experimentation, prototyping, tinkering, and translation of biotechnology solutions. And we just don’t have anything like it, not in the United States, not in Europe.”

Sen. Budd: “You mentioned it might be easier to build a new house than to renovate an old house. … What are parts of the old house? If we have some of the old house that may need renovating, what are those parts that are difficult to renovate?”

Dr. Endy: “ …The amazing thing about biology is operating at the intersection of physics, chemistry, information science, and energy science. … I would say, strengthen the expertise in physical science and metrology, chemical science and metrology at NIST.

“The ability of NIST to do an amazing job coordinating industry coalitions and translating innovations into the economy, but at the same time use that and recognize there needs to be something for biology itself. Biology is a big space. It’s 5% of our domestic economy, and it’s poised to grow by a significant amount. Shame on us if we don’t figure out how to get a good investment in place for advancing the bioeconomy and a bigger return.”

Sen. Budd: “What would be some of the consequences if the Chinese biology standards were the globally adopted standards?”

Dr. Endy: “… Biotechnology is a bottom-up manufacturing platform that will reshape how we build the majority of inputs to our economy. So, think of a future in which people can partner with biology to solve problems where they are locally. That content for programming biology is going to have to come from somewhere. It’s going to have to be accessible through a bio net, a resilient distributed network for manufacturing on demand. … The platforms for doing this, the soft power, the hard power, [and] the economic power-all of that is at stake right now. One of the reasons Beijing has bet big on bio is not just that they need it, because they need food and everything else. But they also see that the bio race is not yet won.”

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/22/budd-coons-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-u-s-international-leadership-in-civil-nuclear-energy/,"Budd, Coons Lead Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen U.S. International Leadership in Civil Nuclear Energy",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) today introduced the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) Act to codify the U.S. State Department’s FIRST program advocating for the responsible deployment of civil nuclear energy around the world. The bipartisan bill would ensure that U.S. economic and national security interests are prioritized as we advance our nuclear industry and continue supporting the partnerships American companies have with other countries working to expand their nuclear energy programs.

“The responsible development of civil nuclear energy, on an international scale, contributes to U.S. national security and bolsters our economy. The FIRST program has been a productive way for our nation to partner with good-faith actors who are building their nuclear arsenals, and continuing to leverage these public and private partnerships will help us advance our own energy dominance. Since North Carolina is a leader in next-generation nuclear technology, I am proud to partner with Senator Coons to bring this bipartisan solution forward and codify this program that will expand markets for our great innovators into law,” said Senator Budd.

“Nuclear energy is a source of clean and abundant power, and its growth in the U.S. and around the world will lower costs for consumers and combat climate change,” said Senator Coons. “Right now, too many nations that want to embrace nuclear power need to buy Chinese and Russian technology at huge cost, trapping them in debt. The United States should offer an alternative that keeps us on the cutting edge, strengthens our relationships around the world, and keeps Americans safe.”

“The FIRST Act would codify the State Department’s successful FIRST program and help secure America’s global energy dominance. Helping our trusted allies develop advanced nuclear energy with Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) will strengthen American competitiveness and counter advances from Communist China, Russia, and other foreign adversaries. Nebraska’s longtime nuclear pedigree means we play an important role in advancing America’s energy independence. Nebraska continues to innovate and is currently studying sites that could have the potential to host advanced small modular nuclear reactors. This bipartisan bill is critical to protecting our national security and advancing our civil nuclear capabilities around the world,” said Senator Ricketts.

U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) joined the bill as co-sponsors.

Read the full bill text HERE.

BACKGROUND

Launched in 2019, the State Department’s FIRST program is a multiagency initiative that leverages public-private partnerships to strengthen U.S. leadership in civil nuclear energy. Through engagement with more than 50 partner countries seeking to deploy advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), the program supports the development of civilian nuclear power programs that adhere to the highest international standards for nuclear security, safety, and nonproliferation.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/22/budds-supersonic-aviation-modernization-act-clears-committee-and-heads-to-senate-floor/,Budd’s Supersonic Aviation Modernization Act Clears Committee and Heads to Senate Floor,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement after his Supersonic Aviation Modernization (SAM) Act received bipartisan support and passed out of the committee. The bill is now headed to the Senate floor.

“If we want to maintain America’s global leadership in technological innovation, we must lift the outdated ban on civil supersonic flight. The SAM Act would unlock the potential for the U.S. to defeat China in the race to develop the next generation of supersonic aircraft. I am grateful to my colleagues on the Senate Commerce Committee for advancing my legislation to the Senate floor, and I commend President Trump and Secretary Duffy for their efforts to reduce regulations that have limited civil supersonic flight. Congress has the ability, by passing the SAM Act, to ensure the supersonic industry will not face government headwinds into the future,” said Senator Budd.

Joining Senator Budd as cosponsors of this legislation are Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.).

“Outdated regulations are keeping America’s supersonic innovation grounded while China soars full speed ahead. Our national security depends on cutting outdated red tape around supersonic flight – we need to deregulate so Americans can innovate. The Supersonic Aviation Modernization Act will lift unnecessary restrictions around supersonic flight to unleash American dominance. I’m pleased to see it marked up in committee and look forward to voting for it on the Senate floor,” said Senator Lee.

“We can’t continue to hinder innovation due to outdated restrictions. It’s common sense: if no sonic boom reaches the ground, supersonic flight should be allowed. The Supersonic Aviation Modernization (SAM) Act gets rid of burdensome red tape so the United States can continue leading the way in aviation on the world stage, while maintaining protections for public safety and property on the ground. I’m proud to support this legislation and am glad to see it advance through the Senate Commerce Committee,”said Senator Sheehy.

“In Colorado we know all about the power of aerospace innovation. Supersonic flight is yet another way to move us into the future. Making air travel faster while preserving public safety is a win-win,” said Senator Hickenlooper.

“The SAM Act will revolutionize air travel, bolster Colorado’s economy, and promote innovation. I am glad to see this legislation passed out of committee as we work to secure continued U.S. leadership at the forefront of civil aviation,” said Senator Bennet.

“We’re grateful for Senator Budd’s historic work leading a bipartisan coalition for supersonic passenger flight for all in the US,” said Blake Scholl, Founder and CEO, Boom Supersonic.

BACKGROUND

In June 2025, Senator Budd first introduced the SAM Act, which would require the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator to issue regulations to legalize civil supersonic flight in the United States. The legislation would allow operators to fly aircraft at supersonic speeds within the National Airspace System, provided that no sonic boom reaches the ground. Read more HERE.

In June 2025, President Trump also signed Executive Order 14304, Leading the World in Supersonic Flight, calling on the FAA to secure aviation safety agreements with foreign aviation authorities to ensure the safe international operation of supersonic aircraft.

In June 2026, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy announced a proposed rule to set a noise-based certification for supersonic aircraft. Additionally, Secretary Duffy announced that the FAA plans to propose another rule later this year to establish landing and takeoff noise standards for supersonic aircraft.

If signed into law, Senator Budd’s SAM Act would codify the Trump Administration’s efforts to lift regulations limiting American aerospace innovation and supersonic flight over land.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://murphy.house.gov/index.php/media/press-releases/murphy-applauds-passage-congressional-stock-trading-ban-voter-id,Murphy Applauds Passage of Congressional Stock Trading Ban & Voter ID,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Gregory F. Murphy,M001210,murphy.house.gov,murphy,https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., applauds the passage of H.R. 7008, the Stop Insider Trading Act, to prohibit Members of Congress, spouses, and dependent children from purchasing publicly traded stocks, as well as H.R. 9368, the Voter ID Act, which was included, to require voters to show a photo ID when they cast a ballot for an election for federal office.

""As members of Congress, we are elected to serve our constituents with integrity and not for self-benefit,""said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D.""Members and their families should not use the office for financial gain. We must root out perceptions of corruption to preserve faith in our federal government, and even the appearance of impropriety stands in the way of that pursuit. This commonsense reform is overdue, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for it to become law.

Likewise, free and fair elections are fundamental to American democracy. We require photo identification to open a bank account or purchase alcohol; it should be requisite to vote in federal elections, a sacred exercise in our democracy. Confidence in our elections is the bedrock of trust in governance and our nation's leaders. We must never cease to improve access to voting and election integrity.""",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-votes-for-fort-bragg-wins-in-annual-defense-bill-secures-over-140-million-for,"Hudson Votes for Fort Bragg Wins in Annual Defense Bill, Secures Over $140 Million for North Carolina",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09) voted to pass the Fiscal Year 2027 (FY 27) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which delivers significant new funding and protections for Fort Bragg and defense projects across North Carolina. Hudson delivered more than $140 million through the bill, ranking near the top of all House members in total authorizations awarded, while helping secure additional investments for Fort Bragg.

""As Fort Bragg’s Congressman, making sure our soldiers and their families have the resources they need is a top priority,"" said Rep. Hudson. ""Through this year's NDAA, I was able to deliver critical funding for facility maintenance upgrades, promote statewide innovation, and enhance the safety and wellbeing of my soldiers and their families at Fort Bragg. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to take up this legislation quickly and look forward to the President signing this bill into law.""

The $140.4 million in project authorizations Hudson secured includes:

$65,000,000 for a Special Operations Forces Ammunition Supply Point at Fort Bragg

$6,400,000 for a Special Operations Forces Battalion Operations Facility at Fort Bragg

$69,000,000 for an Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Addition and Alteration for the North Carolina National Guard

The FY27 NDAA also includes the following priorities that Congressman Hudson helped secure for Fort Bragg and North Carolina:

$50,000,000 for Special Operations Forces Operational Training Facility at Fort Bragg

$31,000,000 for Aircraft Maintenance Hangar at Fort Bragg

$10,500,000 for Microgrid and Backup Power Reauthorization at Fort Bragg

$2,500,000 for defense innovation in North Carolina

Language to protect the identities of special operators and other personnel involved in critical military activities by making the unauthorized disclosure of their identities subject to prison time and fines

Language to support military construction and facilities maintenance at Fort Bragg

Language to support North Carolina companies working in the defense space

The FY27 NDAA authorizes $1.15 trillion in national defense discretionary spending to revitalize our defense industrial base, strengthen American deterrence, and support our service members. This legislation presents a conservative approach to national security, explicitly focusing on policy changes and the authorization of funds that will enhance military lethality, restore fiscal discipline, and support President Trump’s ""Peace through Strength” agenda. By securing supply chains, expanding domestic manufacturing, developing our skilled technical workforce, and reducing procurement costs, the FY27 NDAA is focused on “Rebuilding the Arsenal of Freedom” to restore the American defense industrial base to global preeminence.

-###-",1,2026-07-29T07:41:48Z,2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-harris-applauds-house-passage-continuing-resolution-prevent,Congressman Harris Applauds House Passage of Continuing Resolution to Prevent Another Democratic Shutdown,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Mark Harris,H001102,markharris.house.gov,markharris,https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tonight, Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) applauded House passage of H.R. 9770, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027. The legislation would continue federal funding through December 4, 2026, while Congress completes work on the full-year FY2027 appropriations bills.

“Americans cannot afford another manufactured Democratic shutdown,” said Congressman Harris. “Tonight, nearly every House Democrat went on the record as the party of chaos, putting political games ahead of the American people. This was a clean, straightforward continuing resolution to keep the government open beyond the September 30 funding deadline and ensure that the paychecks, benefits, and essential services hardworking Americans rely on are not held hostage once again.

“House Republicans are doing our job. This short-term extension keeps the government operating while we continue working to pass responsible, full-year appropriations bills and advance President Trump’s America First agenda. The Senate must now act quickly and send this legislation to the President’s desk.”

BACKGROUND:

H.R. 9770 passed the House by a vote of 220–205, with 213 Republicans and six Democrats voting in favor.

This Congress, Democrats have repeatedly used government funding deadlines to hold the American people hostage to their partisan demands, resulting in a 43-day government shutdown, a four-day partial shutdown, and a 75-day shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. H.R. 9770 acts early to prevent another manufactured funding crisis and protect the American people from further disruption.

The legislation maintains current funding for federal programs and does not allow agencies to begin most new programs or expand existing activities during the continuing resolution.

H.R. 9770 also protects essential services and programs, including disaster response, wildfire suppression, WIC, SNAP, TANF, flood insurance, small-business lending, and assistance for low-income families.

The House Appropriations Committee has advanced all 12 fiscal year 2027 funding bills.

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-votes-extend-government-funding-prevent-partisan,"Congressman Tim Moore Votes to Extend Government Funding, Prevent Partisan Shutdown",2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Tim Moore,M001236,timmoore.house.gov,timmoore,https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, the U.S. House passed H.R. 9770, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027, to continue federal funding through December 4, 2026. This legislation prevents a September 30, 2026 government shutdown while allowing Congress to continue working on the full-year FY2027 appropriations bills.

""This clean, straightforward continuing resolution keeps the government open, protects our national security, and ensures election-year politics don't jeopardize the funding process,"" said Congressman Moore. ""The House advanced all FY27 appropriations bills through committee and passed three full-year funding bills, but Senate inaction has put that progress at risk. This short-term measure prevents a last-minute funding crisis, protects the critical services Americans rely on, and preserves the path to completing full-year FY27 appropriations without allowing political games to dictate the process.""

This legislation keeps the federal government open by continuing funding at current FY26 levels. It also preserves funding authority for disaster response and continues programs such as WIC, SNAP, flood insurance, small-business lending, and assistance for low-income families.

H.R. 9770 now advances to the Senate.",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/21/budd-makes-case-for-disaster-relief-funding-for-western-north-carolina-before-senate-appropriations-committee/,Budd Makes Case for Disaster Relief Funding for Western North Carolina Before Senate Appropriations Committee,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee to highlight how additional disaster relief funding would benefit Western North Carolina as the region continues to rebuild twenty-one months after Hurricane Helene. Senator Budd was invited to appear at the hearing, which was convened to review President Trump’s Supplemental Funding Request. Last month, Senator Budd vowed that he would not support any supplemental appropriations package that does not include additional funding for Western North Carolina.

Here are Senator Budd’s remarks as prepared for delivery:

“Chair Collins, Vice Chair Murray, and Members of the Committee: Thank you for the opportunity to testify this afternoon to provide a voice for the people in Western North Carolina.

“More than 21 months ago, Hurricane Helene unleashed an unprecedented amount of rainfall upon the Blue Ridge Mountains, causing severe flooding and devastating landslides. The storm left behind tens of billions in damage.

“In December 2024, Congress responded by approving a disaster supplemental that provided billions of dollars to Western North Carolina recovery. Additionally, North Carolina’s state government stepped up by committing roughly $2.4 billion in state appropriations and redirecting more than $2 billion from state agencies for reconstruction.

“But the Blue Ridge Mountains’ challenging terrain has made it uniquely difficult for federal programs to operate, resulting in delays and inefficiencies. And there is still work to be done.

“Too many projects in Western North Carolina have stalled due to insufficient funding, or because of financial shortfalls from expensive debris removal and rebuilding efforts.

“I greatly appreciate that President Trump and Secretary Mullin have empowered FEMA to more rapidly reimburse the state & local governments for public assistance projects. However, FEMA is only one part of the equation. The Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Housing and Urban Development, and other federal agencies play a key role in disaster recovery, and much of the existing disaster funding for those agencies has already been largely allocated.

“When I visit Western North Carolina, I still see the impacts the delays in recovery have caused. Debris still clogs waterways. Facilities that provide drinking water and manage wastewater have yet to be rebuilt. Most concerning, some homeowners are paying mortgages on properties that are still unlivable or yet to be rebuilt.

“Towns have been forced to embrace expensive short-term stopgap solutions just to carry out their most basic functions for their residents.

“In the small town of Beech Mountain, there is no long-term water supply. The dam and water treatment plant were heavily damaged, forcing the town out of compliance with state safety standards. As a result, the state could be fining Beech Mountain $25,000 per day.

“Major repairs are needed so that the water treatment plant can function long-term. If funded, this process will take at least a year, and require significant diversion of utilities and/or daily water trucks, just so hundreds of residents will have clean drinking water during construction. Three years is too long to wait after a disaster—we can’t delay any longer.

“Tourism, the lifeblood of much of Western North Carolina, has begun to rebound, but there are still far too many areas that are unable to accommodate the travelers they once welcomed.

“But I want to highlight a few examples of success stories to show how ample funding from the last disaster supplemental, paired with exceptional planning and project execution, made an immediate impact on our mountain communities.

“Last July, key portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway reopened after 57 landslides struck 200 miles of the parkway.

“This Memorial Day weekend, Lake Lure reopened to the public after an incredible debris removal and refilling project.

“I want to be clear that I fully support President Trump’s request to replenish our munitions stockpile and strengthen our military. I am also appreciative of his efforts to provide economic assistance to farmers impacted by disasters and unfair trade practices.

“However, to address the long-term recovery needs of Western North Carolina, more federal funds are needed.

“Every time I’m in Western North Carolina, people ask me to make sure that they’re not forgotten. This is Congress’s chance to remind them that we’re serious about helping them get back on their feet.

“I am deeply grateful to the Members of the Committee for holding this hearing. I look forward to continuing to work with you all as this process continues.”

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-bill-to-advance-down-syndrome-research-passes-house,Hudson Bill to Advance Down Syndrome Research Passes House,2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,hudson,https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) applauded House passage of the bipartisan DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act, legislation he introduced to strengthen Down syndrome research and improve health outcomes for people living with the condition.

“People with Down syndrome enrich our families and communities in so many ways,” said Rep. Hudson. “I’m proud the House passed my bill to support research that can help them live longer, healthier lives and reach their full potential without barriers standing in their way.”

The legislation formally authorizes the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) INCLUDE Project, which supports research into Down syndrome and health conditions that often occur alongside it. It also requires NIH to coordinate its Down syndrome research, avoid duplicating existing work, consult with patient advocates, and report to Congress on its research and how it can improve medical care.

Hudson was joined by U.S. Representative Diana DeGette (D-CO) in introducing the legislation.

A previous version of the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act passed the House unanimously during the 118th Congress.

In May of 2024, Hudson was one of two honorees who receivedthe Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award for their work in Congress to support those with Down syndrome.

-###-",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/20/budd-joins-60-senate-colleagues-in-leading-sanctions-package-holding-russia-accountable-honoring-senator-lindsey-graham/,"Budd Joins 60+ Senate Colleagues in Leading Sanctions Package Holding Russia Accountable, Honoring Senator Lindsey Graham",2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Darline Graham (R-S.C.), and 59 of his Senate colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026. The legislation aims to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine.

“The time to increase pressure on Moscow is now. Our overwhelmingly bipartisan sanctions package has the power to cripple Putin’s revenue streams by targeting the energy exports that bankroll Russia’s unjust war machine. Our colleague and friend, Senator Lindsey Graham, worked tirelessly to stand up to Russian aggression, and now we have the opportunity to honor his leadership and cement his legacy,” said Senator Budd.

“Ukraine is at a critical crossroads — and we must meet this pivotal moment with a powerful sanctions bill. As Ukraine turns the tide on the battlefield, our Russia sanctions bill would be historically impactful in stopping Russia’s murderous slaughter,” said Senator Blumenthal.“When Senator Graham and I last spoke, he was absolutely exultant, calling from Kyiv with news that President Trump would support this bill to impose scorching tariffs and sanctions on purchasers of Russian oil and stop them from fueling Putin’s war machine. Now is the time to push Russia toward peace. Ukraine is gaining net territory and reaching deep into Russia with its drones and missiles. Sanctions provide a path toward peace. Our bill is the product of lengthy, detailed, difficult bipartisan work, and now has broad bipartisan support. Passing this legislation right now would be a fitting tribute to Senator Graham’s fierce support for Ukraine’s freedom.”

“Until the very day he passed, Lindsey remained focused on passing the Russia sanctions bill. Passing this legislation would honor my brother’s steadfast commitment to our national security and it would provide President Trump with additional leverage to bring this war to an end. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this legislation and send it to President Trump’s desk,” said Senator Graham.

The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) as well as U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Katie Britt (R-AL), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Angus King (I-Maine), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), John Curtis (R-Utah), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Kennedy (R-La.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.) and Steve Daines (R-Mont.).

Read the full bill text HERE.

BACKGROUND

Before his death, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) secured an agreement with the White House on new text to bring sweeping sanctions against the enablers of Russia’s war in Ukraine.

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 would impose primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. The sanctions target Russian officials, oligarchs, their family members, foreign persons, Russian banks and financial institutions, and the Russian Shadow Fleet.

The legislation also directs the President to impose up to 100 percent tariffs on imported goods from countries that buy the majority of Russian oil and gas and enable Russian sanctions evasion. The new text limits these tariffs to the five largest importers of Russian crude oil and gas.

###",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/20/budd-returns-from-leading-european-codel-to-examine-regional-security-challenges-tied-to-russian-threats/,Budd Returns from Leading European CODEL to Examine Regional Security Challenges Tied to Russian Threats,2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, returned earlier this month from leading a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to Belgium, Moldova, Ukraine, Sweden, and Austria. CODEL Budd, which occurred prior to the 2026 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit, met with Heads of State and senior defense leaders in each country to discuss the continent’s regional security challenges, reiterate the importance of the NATO Alliance, and to examine how the United States and Europe can partner to counter threats posed by the Russian Federation.

Senator Budd was joined by his colleagues, U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), and Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.) on the CODEL.

“The security of the United States and Europe is inseparable. As Russia continues its campaign of aggression in Ukraine and threatens the security of Eastern Europe and the Baltics, our partnership with our European allies remains indispensable to deterring adversarial aggression and maintaining Europe’s strength to defend itself. By leading this CODEL ahead of the NATO Summit, my colleagues and I sought to reaffirm the strength of the NATO Alliance and express our unwavering support for the U.S.-European partnership to promote security, prosperity, and freedom for our citizens,” said Senator Budd.

BELGIUM

CODEL Budd began in Brussels, Belgium, with a meeting with the Commander of U.S. European Command and NATO Supreme Allied Commander, General Alexus Grynkeiwch, during which they discussed U.S. force posture on the continent, European defense spending improvements, opportunities to partner with European countries to combat Russian and terrorism threats, and the current operational situation in Ukraine. The Senators also met with the Minister of Defense of the Kingdom of Belgium, Theo Francken, to discuss the defense and trade partnership between the United States and Belgium and opportunities to co-produce defense technology in Europe which would benefit U.S. companies. Additionally, CODEL Budd met with U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, Bill White, and the U.S. Ambassador to NATO, Matt Whitaker, ahead of their meetings with various European Heads of State to discuss the U.S.-European partnership.

MOLDOVA

In Chișinău, the capital of Moldova, CODEL Budd visited the Presidential Palace to meet with President Maia Sandu. During their meeting with the Moldovan President, the Senators demonstrated support for and a commitment to strengthening U.S.-Moldovan relations. The delegation also gained a deeper understanding of Moldova’s security challenges to address Russian hybrid threats.

Additionally, the CODEL visited the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova, where they met with the Speaker of Parliament, Igor Grosu, to discuss the North Carolina National Guard’s (NCNG) vital relationship with the Moldovan military, energy security vulnerabilities, and opportunities to advance the U.S.-Moldova trade partnership.

UKRAINE

In Odesa, Ukraine, the delegation toured the country’s state-owned energy substation, where they examined the country’s civilian energy infrastructure and discussed the impact of Russian strikes. Additionally, the Senators observed Ukrainian counter-drone operations in the Black Sea, including systems procured from U.S. companies, and received a war update briefing from senior Ukrainian defense officials. The delegation held a round table discussion with the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine where Senators learned about the challenges and opportunities for the 600+ U.S. businesses operating in the conflict zone.

SWEDEN

The delegation met with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard to discuss Swedish integration into NATO, the Russian threat in the Baltic Sea and Arctic, countering malign Chinese economic activities, and opportunities to expand U.S.-Sweden trade relations. Additionally, they discussed the Technology Prosperity Deal between the U.S. and Sweden to collaborate on AI innovation, biomedical research, energy leadership, and a secure quantum ecosystem.

AUSTRIA

In Vienna, Austria, CODEL Budd sat down with Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger to discuss U.S.-Austria relations, energy security, opportunities to enhance U.S.-European Union trade relations, and the extent of Russian influence and activity in the region.

###",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z