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://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bean-another-great-year-fighting-northeast-floridians,Congressman Bean: Another Great Year of Fighting for Northeast Floridians,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Aaron Bean,B001314,bean.house.gov,bean,https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— U.S. Congressman Bean (FL-04) led the fight in the House this year to deliver pro‑growth, pro‑jobs, and pro‑freedom policies that strengthen the economy for working families and put America First.

Reflecting on the past year, Congressman Bean said, “2025 has been nothing short of historic, and it is the honor of my lifetime to serve as Northeast Florida’s Congressman in our nation’s capital. As we look toward the new year, rest assured I will continue working every day to grow our economy, defend our freedoms, lower costs for hardworking Northeast Floridians, and hold Crazy Town accountable. I’ll keep fighting to put the Fourth District first.”

Congressman Bean’s 2025 Highlights:

SIGNED INTO LAW: Working Families Tax Cut landmark legislation to lock in permanent tax cuts that shield families, seniors, and small businesses from rising costs.

SIGNED INTO LAW: Rescissions Act of 2025 to rescind $9 billion in unnecessary, wasteful federal funds identified by DOGE.

HOUSE PASSED: 404 Permitting Act Amendment to protect the ability of states, like Florida, to continue their state 404 Permitting Programs.

HOUSE PASSED: TRACE Act to ensure parents know how foreign funding is impacting their child’s classroom and to keep foreign nations from reaching America’s youth.

HOUSE PASSED: Claiming Age Clarity Act to clarify age-based eligibility rules for federal benefits, like Social Security, to reduce confusion and delays.

INTRODUCED: LEO K9 Protection Act to strengthen penalties for harming law‑enforcement K9s and enhance protections for police working dogs.

INTRODUCED: Apples to Apples Comparison Act to ensure consumers have accurate data when deciding between Medicare Advantage (MA) and Fee-for-Service (FFS) for their healthcare coverage.

INTRODUCED: FSA‑HRA Act to expand flexibility for families to use tax-advantaged savings accounts for health-related expenses.

INTRODUCED: PROMPT Act to ensure Medicare beneficiaries receive timely, clear information about their services and costs.

INTRODUCED: We Want Our Healthcare Money Back Act to require regular reporting on Medicare and Medicaid fraud to protect taxpayer dollars.

INTRODUCED: More Affordable Care (MACA) Act to expand access to lower‑cost health‑care options for families and small businesses.

In addition, Congressman Bean’s office returned $8,312,262 to constituents this year through casework and assistance with federal agencies — delivering real results for families across Northeast Florida.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-new-year-statement-0,Congressman Flood's New Year Statement,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA– Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement ahead of the New Year holiday, which is celebrated on Thursday, January 1st.

“The New Year is a time for both reflection and renewal. As Americans and as Nebraskans, we have much to be thankful for as we turn the page and enter 2026. Our economy continues to grow, our communities enjoy great peace and prosperity, and, thanks to American leadership, a number of significant conflicts abroad have been concluded. In the new year, Congress will continue working to protect the American Dream for our hardworking families, helping them find new great opportunities, lower energy costs, make homeownership affordable, and much more. Mandi, the boys, and I wish everyone a happy New Year. May God continue to bless the Good Life and may God bless the United States of America.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jasonsmith.house.gov/2025/12/31/smith-delivers-rural-health-funding-for-missouri-communities/,Smith Delivers Rural Health Funding for Missouri Communities,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MO,Jason Smith,S001195,jasonsmith.house.gov,jasonsmith,https://jasonsmith.house.gov/category/press_release/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. –The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a $216,276,818 grant to the state of Missouri to expand access to health care in rural communities from the Rural Health Transformation Program that was created as part of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill that Congressman Jason Smith (MO-08) co-authored. Since passage of the Bill, Congressman Smith (MO-08) personally contacted both HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz to ensure rural communities in Missouri receive desperately needed funding, particularly in southeast and south-central Missouri.

Congressman Smith said, “Access to care is the biggest issue facing working families in Missouri, which is why I made funding rural health care such a top priority in the One, Big, Beautiful Bill. The Rural Health Transformation Program is a foundational piece of a broader Republican effort to prioritize working families in rural communities across the country. Sixty million Americans — roughly 20 percent of our nation’s population — live in rural communities that lack sufficient access to quality, affordable health care. This funding will help fund greatly expanded health care access, better training and retention for health professionals, and new innovations to fight the chronic disease epidemic. This effort will dramatically improve the delivery of health care in rural communities that currently suffer from a disproportionate level of mortality when compared to their urban counterparts — including heightened cancer and maternal mortality rates, alongside the closure of hospitals like the twelve that have shut down in Missouri over the past decade. I applaud the Trump Administration for recognizing this once in a generation opportunity to strengthen the health and well-being of America’s rural communities. Now I will work hand-in-hand with our state’s leaders to ensure this funding is used to create sustainable, long-lasting changes that improve the quality of life for Missouri residents through improved health access.”

Congressman Smith, alongside members of the Missouri delegation, sent a letter to Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, Missouri Department of Social Services Director Jessica Bax, and Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Director Sarah Willson highlighting the importance of the RHTP program to Missouri’s rural communities and asking officials to incorporate key policies in their application.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-announces-winner-and-runner-up-of-the-2025-congressional-app-challenge,LaHood Announces Winner and Runner-up of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representative Darin LaHood (IL-16) announced today Kavi Praanesh of Dunlap High School as the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Illinois' 16th District. Kavi developed an application titled ""MeloCognia,"" using Python and C/C++ as her programming language. MeloCognia is an AI powered health assistant designed to help detect Parkinson's in its early stages. The runner-up, Agrini Neekhra of Dunlap High School, developed an app titled ""Febrile Neutropenia Intervention eXpert"" (FENIX), which works to combat the issue of delayed antibiotic treatment in pediatric febrile neutropenic patients.

“My office has been proud to host the Congressional App Challenge for the past 10 years to encourage students in the 16th Congressional District to pursue their passion in STEM fields,” said Rep. LaHood. “Each year, I have been amazed by the talent of our students and the creativity of the applications they put together to solve real-world problems and improve the lives of others. I want to congratulate this year's winner Kavi, and our runner-up Agrini, for their outstanding work in this competition and developing two incredible apps. Thank you to all the students who participated and made this year's Congressional App Challenge a success!”

""I was inspired to create MeloCognia after seeing my grandfather struggle with Parkinson’s, as he wasn’t diagnosed until the disease had already heavily impacted his daily life and treatment options were limited,"" said Kavi. ""That experience made me realize how hard early detection can be and how much the delay can cost patients. MeloCognia is an AI-powered health assistant that uses voice analysis and symptom tracking to provide fast, accessible early screening, giving users a quick insight in minutes that encourages them to seek medical evaluation sooner.""

""The Congressional App Challenge has given me the incredible opportunity to explore new fields. Before my app, I had never coded before and teaching myself was a great experience for me to build the skill and perseverance,"" said Agrini. ""FENIX is an app aiming to prioritize the small details in healthcare systems that may go unnoticed and improve diagnosis and treatment times. Oftentimes, chemo patients with compromised immune systems will need to receive a straightforward antibiotic treatment. However, delivery system variability and delays can prolong the treatment process, increasing mortality rates. FENIX helps to predict that delay and alert healthcare personnel to prioritize those patients. Being named runner-up for Congressman LaHood's Congressional App Challenge is a great honor and encourages me to keep developing my programming skills to create stronger, improved healthcare delivery initiatives. I am very grateful for this program and hope that all students see coding as an outlet to make their own mark on the world.""

Background:

The Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition hosted by the U.S. House of Representatives aimed at encouraging students to pursue careers in STEM fields. Since its inception in 2015, the Challenge has grown to become the largest student computer science competition in the United States.

The 2025 Congressional App Challenge set new records including:

Largest student participation with 13,830 students competing across the U.S.

4,650 original applications submitted - an increase of nearly 800 from 2024

Over 56% of this year's applications incorporated Artificial Intelligence

The winner will receive an invitation to demonstrate their application in Washington, D.C., have their application featured on the House of Representatives website, www.house.gov, and receive a copyright fee waiver provided through the Arts Act. A video link to the winning group’s application can be found here.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/meuser-announces-193-million-pennsylvania-rural-health-working-families-tax,Meuser Announces $193 Million for Pennsylvania Rural Health from the Working Families Tax Credit,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"POTTSVILLE, PA: Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) released the following statement after the Trump Administration and CMS awarded $193 million to Pennsylvania from the Rural Health Transformation Fund.

Congressman Meuser strongly advocated for and voted in favor of the Working Families Tax Cut package which created this fund that will transform healthcare across rural Pennsylvania.

“Pennsylvania will be receiving $193 million this year through the Rural Transformation Fund, an investment that will expand access to care and strengthen workforce training across the Commonwealth,” said Rep. Meuser.

Meuser continued, “My Republican colleagues and I supported the creation of this fund to confront the growing healthcare challenges facing rural communities across the United States. It’s unfortunate that every single Democrat in Congress, including every Democrat from Pennsylvania, voted against creating this fund. In recent years, rural Pennsylvanians have experienced a steady decline in access to essential healthcare services, and this funding is a critical step toward reversing that trend.”

About the Rural Health Transformation Fund:

Congress created the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Fund through the Working Families Tax Cut. This funding, which represents the largest direct federal investment in rural healthcare in American history, will be distributed over the next five years to help states improve healthcare access and outcomes in rural communities.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://scalise.house.gov/press-releases/scalise-slams-minnesota-democrats-for-widespread-fraud-highlights-gops-2025-wins,"Scalise Slams Minnesota Democrats for Widespread Fraud, Highlights GOP’s 2025 Wins",2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,LA,Steve Scalise,S001176,scalise.house.gov,scalise,https://scalise.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"JEFFERSON, La.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) appeared on Fox News' The Faulkner Focus to call out Democrats for refusing to address massive taxpayer fraud in Minnesota and to highlight efforts by the Trump Administration and the House to uncover the facts and deliver accountability. Leader Scalise also touted House Republicans’ legislative wins in 2025 for working families, including lowering costs, securing the border, unleashing American energy, and cutting government spending.

Image",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.moreno.senate.gov/press-releases/moreno-recaps-first-year-successes-for-ohio,Moreno Recaps First Year Successes For Ohio,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,OH,Bernie Moreno,M001242,www.moreno.senate.gov,moreno,https://www.moreno.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) recapped his work for Ohio in his first year in the U.S. Senate.

Senator Moreno’s 2025 Statistics:

Introduced 25 pieces of legislation

Co-sponsored 48 pieces of bipartisan legislation

Secured more than $35 million for Ohio projects

Visited 48 counties in Ohio

Solved 2,364 constituent cases

Hosted over 50 constituent coffees in Washington, D.C.

Welcomed four cabinet secretaries to tour Ohio

Sat for over 250 interviews with Ohio TV and radio stations

Joined the Senate Whip team to help pass President Trump’s legislative priorities

Fighting for Ohio:

Senator Moreno worked to secure $1.3 billion in funding for rural hospitals across Ohio in the One Big Beautiful Bill.

After the closure of the historic Chillicothe Paper Mill, Senator Moreno worked to encourage investment in the community and bring good-paying jobs to hardworking families in Ross County.

Following a brutal attack on a woman in Cincinnati, Senator Moreno fought for accountability alongside local law enforcement.

After the historic passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, Senator Moreno held a three-day, 18 county tour to hear directly from constituents, small business owners, and tour manufacturing plants.

Reindustrialization and the American Auto Industry:

Senator Moreno introduced the USA CAR Act to promote American manufacturing and allow Ohioans to write off interest on auto loans for U.S.-made cars. The USA CAR Act was included in the final passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Senator Moreno introduced the Transportation Freedom Act to reverse nonsensical EV mandates, make an historic investment in American auto workers, and streamline our regulatory processes.

Securing the Border and Restoring Law and Order:

Senator Moreno introduced the Refugees Using Legal Entry Safely (RULES) Act to reform the broken asylum system.

To protect American workers and college graduates, Senator Moreno introduced the HIRE Act. If companies want to hire foreign workers instead of Americans, his legislation will hit them where it hurts: their pocketbooks.

To honor the legacy of Hamilton County Sheriff’s Deputy Larry Henderson, Senator Moreno introduced the Larry Henderson Act to set a new mandatory sentence of 20 years in prison for anyone found guilty of assault on a federal officer. Anyone who assaults our law enforcement must face severe consequences.

Senator Moreno worked across the aisle with Senator Chris Coons to introduce the Auto Theft Prevention Act to create programs to provide funding to state and local law enforcement agencies to crack down on auto theft.

Championing Financial Freedom and Digital Assets:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://hamadeh.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=490,Year In Review: Congressman Hamadeh Advances America First Principles and Practices,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,AZ,Abraham J. Hamadeh,H001098,hamadeh.house.gov,hamadeh,https://hamadeh.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Since before taking office, FOX News named Congressman Abe Hamadeh as one of the “rising stars” in the Democratic and Republican parties expected to emerge in 2025, and that is what he set about doing.

From working with President Trump and his Cabinet members to securing wins on the legislative front, Congressman Hamadeh has advanced America First principles and practices on behalf of his constituents in the nation’s Capitol.

“I came to D.C. committed to fight for the principles embodied in the America First agenda as laid out by President Trump; the principles that best serve my constituents. I hit the ground running, and within a very short period of time, I was able to successfully secure a ban on Chinese propaganda from the People’s House. The popularity of the ban even prompted a ban in the UK House of Commons, proving that these fundamental principles are universally what the public wants and following them will keep us on the right track,” stated Congressman Hamadeh.

Buoyed by that initial and almost immediate win, Congressman Hamadeh continued working tirelessly in a bipartisan manner to fight for his constituents’ top priorities.

In his first year, Congressman Hamadeh and his team met with thousands of residents, conducting over 450 tours for visitors from Congressional District 8.

Congressman Hamadeh’s team has successfully closed over 600 constituent cases to date and returned nearly $2 million to constituents despite the democrats’ government shutdown.

Keeping his promise to veterans, two of the very first bills he introduced as a Member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act and the Health Professionals Scholarship Program (HPSP) Improvement Act of 2025, were unanimously passed in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In March, Congressman Hamadeh reached out to FBI Director Kash Patel, advocating for the men and women of the Phoenix Police Department who had been the victims of the Biden Administration's weaponization of the Department of Justice. Thanks to Congressman Hamadeh’s doggedness, the DOJ officially ended its investigation into the Phoenix Police Department (PPD, retracting previous Biden-era findings of widespread constitutional violations, citing the move as ending a ""failed experiment"" with consent decrees and upholding local control.

That same month, Congressman Hamadeh’s Congressional Fitness Challenge bill won the support of NFL Hall of Famer Brett Favre and former NFL player Antonio Brown (“AB”). “Iron Mike” Tyson threw his support behind H.Con.Res.20, which establishes the Congressional Fitness Challenge, calling it “bold” and necessary. It was deemed so necessary that President Trump followed suit and reinstated the Presidential Fitness Challenge. Congressman Hamadeh and his team are preparing to support the President in bringing the fitness initiative to Congressional District 8 in order to build a stronger, healthier future for our kids.

At the end of the month, Congressman Hamadeh was honored to be invited to meet with Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Over dinner, Congressman Hamadeh participated in a discussion about how to advance President Trump’s intelligence agenda.

In April, keeping his vow to his constituents to secure election integrity, Congressman Hamadeh introduced the Proving Residency for Overseas Voter Eligibility (PROVE) Act.

The legislation will amend the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) to require non-military overseas citizens to prove their current residency in a state in which they are attempting to vote.

If they are unable to prove a current resident status by themselves, their spouse, parent, or legal guardian, U.S. citizens may still vote a federal ballot only in the District of Columbia.

Congressman Hamadeh also co-led the Preventing Ranked Choice Corruption Act. The legislation, which amends the Help America Vote Act, will help American citizens vote by prohibiting the confusing and disenfranchising voting scheme of Ranked Choice Voting.

Congressman Hamadeh then co-sponsored a bill to support and codify President Donald Trump’s election integrity agenda.

By codifying President Trump’s Executive Order 14248, entitled Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections, Congressman Hamadeh’s bill would make law an extensive list of necessary measures, including government-issued proof of U.S. citizenship, security standards for voting equipment, enforcement of the voter-list maintenance, requiring voter-verifiable paper ballots, and prosecuting non-citizen voting and related crimes.

In May, Congressman Hamadeh joined President Donald Trump, along with top executives from companies including Nvidia, Johnson & Johnson, Eli Lilly, GE Aerospace, and SoftBank, to celebrate their increasing investment in the U.S.

Congressman Hamadeh thanked President Trump for his bold leadership, which led to TSMC making the largest single foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Much of TSMC’s investment is made in Congressional District 8.

Congressman Hamadeh had the pleasure of meeting with Secretary of Veterans Affair Doug Collins in May to share the concerns of veterans in Congressional District 8 and how the VA can best serve them. They also discussed what legislative actions the Congressman could take to facilitate the vital reforms sought by the Trump administration.

Peace through strength is a priority for both Congressman Hamadeh and President Trump; in fact, it is what CD8 residents voted for. As a result, Congressman Hamadeh has worked closely with Ambassador Tom Barrack Tom Barrack, U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and special envoy for Syria, to gain the Syrian government’s assistance in locating and returning USA citizens or their remains, including the body of Kayla Mueller.

In August, Congressman Hamadeh made an unprecedented trip from Jerusalem to Damascus to meet with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani to discuss the Congressman's continuing effort to bring Kayla Mueller's body to her family in Arizona. Kayla was abducted by terrorists in 2013 while leaving a Doctors Without Borders hospital in Aleppo, Syria.

Over the course of his first year in office, as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Hamadeh worked across the aisle to secure wins for our national security, Arizona industry, and servicemembers during the National Defense Authorization Act development process.

In September, the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was passed on a bipartisan vote of 231-196. Congressman Hamadeh was proud to vote in favor of this historic legislation that includes key support for our service members.

Congressman Hamadeh successfully led the charge for Arizona’s military communities, installations, and defense industrial base—delivering bipartisan wins for Arizona:

Reliable Air Conditioning for Luke Air Force Base

Investment in the Sharpest Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance Satellite Imagery

Suicide Prevention Oversight for Servicemembers

Collaborative Combat Aircraft Propulsion Development

Increased Investment in Dump Trucks for the Arizona Army National Guard

Recognition of Arizona State University-Led Irregular Warfare Consortium

Saving Mesa’s Apache Helicopter Factory Jobs

Congressman Hamadeh was honored to be among a handful of Republican lawmakers who joined President Donald Trump for the inaugural event of the new “Rose Garden Club” in September.

Closing out the year, Congressman Hamadeh once again earned constituents’ support and national attention when he was joined by Angel families in December to announce the introduction of the American Border Story Memorial Act.

“Angel families” are those families who have lost loved ones to the ravages created by former President Joe Biden's broken border and the cartels’ deadly drug trade. The bill has already amassed an impressive number of cosponsors.

This legislation would establish a permanent memorial in Washington, D.C. to honor the victims of the open border and illegal immigration. No taxpayer dollars will be used to build the memorial wall. The memorial complies fully with the Commemorative Works Act and will be established by The American Border Story (TABS), a nonprofit organization.

Congressman Hamadeh believes that while these families are often featured in discussions advocating stricter immigration enforcement and border security, their personal loss should be memorialized, and the wall will also serve as a reminder of the costs of bad policy.

Angel family members in attendance included Mary Ann Mendoza; mother of Sgt. Brandon Mendoza, Agnes Judit Gibboney; mother of Ronald Da Silva, Joe Abraham; father of Katie Abraham, Anne Fundner; mother of Weston Fundner, Jane Gray; mother of Nicole Gray, Wanda Dequardo; mother of Christian Knight, and Anatoly Varfolomeev; father of Anya Varfolomeev. The families shared their stories of loss and what this bill means to them during the holiday season.

Now, Congressman Hamadeh is urging his colleagues to pass two bills he introduced, the Service Members Tax Relief Act and the Tax Cuts for Veterans Act, which amend the tax code to exempt all military income earned by active-duty and reserve service members and all service-related retirement payments from federal income taxes.

“These bills are in keeping with my commitment to America First principles and advance President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda by alleviating the burdens on our service members in some small measure,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “Our service members face high operational demands and cost-of-living pressures that outpace pay tables. So, anything we can cost-effectively do to ease those pressures should be done.”

“These bills are fiscally conservative in that they offer relief through the tax code instead of new spending,” explained Congressman Hamadeh. “It is a win-win; the exemption instantly improves take-home pay, while helping with recruitment and retention, which in turn keeps our war fighters strong.”

“I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish this year, but there is more to do, and my team and I are ready,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “I have full confidence that my bills to amend the tax code to exempt all military income earned by active-duty and reserve service members and all service-related retirement payments from federal income taxes will have wide support in 2026 from my fellow Republicans and even a few Democrats.”

“2025 was exciting. I have learned so much from my constituents and colleagues about what we need to do to put America first and how to get that done,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “For 2026, my New Year’s resolution is to never stop putting America First and never stop fighting for my constituents.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z
https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4267,"Arrington Delivers Historic Rural Health Investment, Texas Awarded Largest Allocation in Nation",2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,TX,Jodey C. Arrington,A000375,arrington.house.gov,arrington,https://arrington.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) announced Texas will receive the largest rural health investment of any state under the newly established Rural Health Transformation Program. Created by legislation authored and passed by Chairman Arrington earlier this year, the program will provide Texas with a historic $1.4 billion investment to strengthen rural hospitals and expand access to care across West Texas and rural communities statewide.

“You won't have the next generation of ag and energy producers providing America with food security and energy independence without access to basic health care in rural communities. Yet for years, Rural America has faced a growing health care crisis marked by fewer providers, reduced services, and declining access to quality care.

“To combat this crisis, the One Big Beautiful Bill established the ‘Rural Health Transformation Program,’ the largest and most comprehensive investment in rural health care in modern history - delivering a historic $50 billion commitment to strengthen rural hospitals and expand access to care.

“Today, I am proud to announce the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) awarded Texas the highest allocation of any state under this program, directing landmark investments to strengthen rural hospitals, expand access to care for our cowboys and plowboys, and secure a healthier future for the next generation of Texans. This is a major win for our region, our great state, and the heartland of America - ensuring our rural communities remain healthy, strong, and thriving for years to come.” – Chairman Jodey Arrington.

Background:

CMS Office of the Actuary estimates Medicaid in total spent $19 billion on rural hospitals in 2024.

The Rural Health Transformation Program will provide an additional $10 billion each year from 2026 through 2030, representing a substantial increase in overall funding for rural hospitals.

Texas will receive $281 million each year for five years.

Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will award qualified applicants including rural hospitals, rural federally qualified health centers, rural behavioral health providers, and local governments.

HHSC will use a competitive process to allocate funds to:

educate and attract health professionals to rural towns

invest in telehealth services to improve rural access

mitigate chronic disease

develop proactive wellness and nutrition programs

improve cybersecurity defenses to protect patient data

upgrade equipment in rural hospitals and clinics

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2517,Congressman Baird Announces Significant Health Care Funding for Indiana Through Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) announced that the State of Indiana will receive nearly $207 million in funding for Fiscal Year 2026 through the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program.

“Hoosiers in rural communities deserve access to timely, high-quality care,” said Congressman Baird. “I was proud to support the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which authorized the Rural Health Transformation Program to deliver vital funding that will help address provider shortages, barriers to accessing care, and workforce shortages, while allowing our rural health care providers to continue to provide quality care. I am pleased to see these taxpayer funds returned to Hoosiers so Indiana can increase access to care and improve patient outcomes. I thank President Trump for signing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz for his leadership in delivering this critical funding for Hoosiers and Rural America.”

The RHT Program was created by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025. The RHT Program empowers states to strengthen rural communities by improving health care access, quality, and outcomes by transforming the health care delivery ecosystem. RHT Program funding consists of $50 billion allocated to approved states over five fiscal years, with $10 billion available each fiscal year, beginning in Fiscal Year 2026 and ending in Fiscal Year 2030. Fifty percent of this funding is distributed equally to all approved states, and the remaining 50% will be allocated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) based on a variety of factors including rural population, the proportion of rural health facilities in the state, the situation of certain hospitals in the state, and other factors to be specified by CMS.

More information on the Rural Health Transformation Program can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bresnahan.house.gov/media/press-releases/bresnahan-applauds-193-million-pennsylvania-rural-healthcare-reaffirms,"Bresnahan Applauds $193 Million for Pennsylvania Rural Healthcare, Reaffirms Commitment to Securing More Funding",2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,PA,"Robert P. Bresnahan, Jr.",B001327,bresnahan.house.gov,bresnahan,https://bresnahan.house.gov/media,scraper,"SCRANTON, PA: Today, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) applauded the announcement that $193 million in federal dollars will be directed to Pennsylvania through the Rural Health Transformation Fund. Rep. Bresnahan strongly advocated for and worked to include the fund as a central component of the Working Families Tax Cuts package.

“This $193 million investment is a major win for Pennsylvania’s rural communities,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “From the start, I pushed to guarantee the Rural Health Transformation Fund was included, because I knew how critical these resources would be for our hospital providers and patients. This funding will make a real difference for families across the Commonwealth.”

Earlier this month, Rep. Bresnahan hosted Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz in Scranton for a healthcare roundtable with hospital executives, providers, and community leaders from Northeastern Pennsylvania. During the visit, participants discussed workforce shortages access to care challenges and the financial pressures facing rural and community hospitals.

“When Administrator Oz came to Northeastern Pennsylvania, he heard directly from the people on the front lines of our healthcare system,” continued Bresnahan. “Those conversations helped reinforce why this fund must be prioritized, and why Pennsylvania deserves strong federal support.”

The Rural Health Transformation Fund is intended to help states strengthen rural healthcare systems expand access to care support workforce recruitment and retention and invest in innovative delivery models. Pennsylvania’s $193 million allocation will support state-driven strategies tailored to the needs of rural and underserved communities.

Rep. Bresnahan emphasized that while this funding represents an important step, his work is far from finished.

“I remain committed to continuing to fight for Pennsylvania, so we secure even more resources in the future,” continued Bresnahan. “Our rural communities deserve long-term solutions, and I will keep working to make sure Pennsylvania gets its fair share.”

About the Rural Health Transformation Fund

The Rural Health Transformation Fund provides targeted federal resources to help states improve healthcare access and outcomes in rural communities by supporting infrastructure workforce development and innovative care delivery.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://burlison.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-eric-burlison-outlines-legislative-wins-and-next-priorities-oan,Rep. Eric Burlison Outlines Legislative Wins and Next Priorities on OAN,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MO,Eric Burlison,B001316,burlison.house.gov,burlison,https://burlison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Rep. Eric Burlison (MO-07) appeared on One America News Network to reflect on the 2025 session and preview the policy priorities Republicans must advance in the second half of the 119th Congress.

Watch the full interview here.

Burlison highlighted key outcomes from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, noting that Congress enacted meaningful spending reductions, including defunding NPR and PBS. He also pointed to a significant Second Amendment tax relief provision, permanent extensions of major tax reforms, the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, and the codification of more than three dozen Trump administration executive actions focused on deregulation and domestic energy production.

Burlison noted that these reforms are beginning to show positive economic effects, while emphasizing that additional work remains.

Looking ahead, Burlison stressed the need for another reconciliation bill to address unresolved priorities, particularly healthcare and election integrity. He explained that rejecting a temporary extension of enhanced COVID-era Obamacare subsidies was an important step toward creating the leverage necessary for meaningful reform.

Burlison outlined clear expectations for any reconciliation legislation, including significant healthcare reform that expands patient choice, increases transparency, and lowers costs without adding to the national debt. He emphasized giving individuals greater control over insurance options, provider networks, and alternative care models such as direct primary care.

“We have to set the marker early and be clear about our expectations,” Burlison said. “Reconciliation must deliver real reform, not more spending layered onto a broken system.”

Burlison also addressed recent comments from Democrats suggesting another government shutdown, noting that many Democrats remember the consequences of the last shutdown, which brought the country within days of crippling TSA operations and airport travel. He emphasized that continuing to advance appropriations bills would reduce the impact of any shutdown effort and remove it as a political weapon.

The interview concluded with Burlison reaffirming his commitment to fiscal responsibility, healthcare reform, and restoring accountability as Congress enters the next phase of the legislative session.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://clayhiggins.house.gov/2025/12/30/2025-annual-report/,2025 Annual Report,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,LA,Clay Higgins,H001077,clayhiggins.house.gov,clayhiggins,https://clayhiggins.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"It is my honor to serve as your voice in Congress. I will continue to fight for Constitutionalist and Conservative principles. Please take a minute to review my annual report, an update on recent legislative actions and constituent services.

For the latest news from my office, please follow me on Facebook, X, and Truth Social. If there is anything I can do to assist you, please don’t hesitate to contact my office.

Constituent Services Report

My offices in Louisiana and Washington D.C. are staffed with Patriots dedicated to serving you. Since 2017, we have resolved over 11,000 cases for constituents. We are here to advocate for you, and my team stands ready to assist with federal matters. Being accessible and staying in touch are priorities for my office. We regularly host Veterans outreach clinics, town halls, and attend meetings with constituents across South Louisiana. We are boots on the ground, and we are at your avail.

Here is a snapshot of the real, measurable results we’ve delivered on behalf of the people we serve.

2025: Legislative Rundown

In 2025, I worked to deliver for Louisiana, correct the trajectory of spending, and codify the America First policy agenda. I’ve compiled a by-the-issue summary of many legislative actions taken by my office this year.

SECURING AMERICA

Passed into law H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, providing historic resources for border security and immigration enforcement.

Passed H.R. 2056, the District of Columbia Federal Immigration Compliance Act, to end DC’s sanctuary city status.

Voted YES on H.R. 22, the SAVE Act, mandating proof of citizenship for voters nationwide.

Sponsored H.R. 1569, the CATCH Fentanyl Act, establishing new inspection technologies and enforcement tools to combat drug trafficking.

FIGHTING FOR LOUISIANA’S ENERGY SECTOR

Introduced H.R. 513, the Offshore Lands Authorities Act, to restore hundreds of millions of acres for offshore oil and gas development.

Cosponsored and passed H.R. 1949, the Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act, which passed the House, expediting approvals for LNG export terminals.

Worked with the Trump Administration to secure permits for multiple LNG projects in Louisiana.

Passed into law H.R. 1, which ensures oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of America over the next 15 years.

IMPLEMENTING SOCIAL SECURITY FAIRNESS

Worked with the Trump Administration to secure expedited payments in accordance with the Social Security Fairness Act.

PROMOTING FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY

Passed H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, to save $9.4 billion in taxpayer dollars.

Introduced H.R. 2716, the Ending Improper Payments to Deceased People Act, to save $1.3 billion and combat government waste, fraud, and abuse.

Voted for conservative appropriations bills that correct the trajectory of spending.

ADVOCATING FOR OUR SEAFOOD INDUSTRY

Introduced H.R. 4800, the Fisheries Modernization Act, which expands fishery disaster relief programs to Louisiana’s wild-caught crawfish industry.

Petitioned President Trump to levy tariffs on foreign shrimp and crawfish imports.

Sponsored H.R. 2715, the Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act, which mandates the FDA to destroy contaminated products.

Authored H.R. 2071, the Save our Shrimpers Act, to prevent taxpayer dollars from funding foreign shrimpers.

PROTECTING LOUISIANA FARMERS

Expanded agriculture support programs for rice and sugarcane farmers in H.R. 1.

Helped complete a trade agreement for Iraq to purchase hundreds of thousands of metric tons of Louisiana rice.

Petitioned the USDA to include Louisiana in its slate of new regional hubs.

Worked closely with President Trump to increase rice tariffs on countries undercutting American industry.

STANDING FOR PRO-LIFE PRINCIPLES

Voted YES and cosponsored H.R. 21, the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, requiring medical care for abortion survivors.

Maintained a 100% pro-life voting record as a member of Congress.

SUPPORTING VETERANS & THE MILITARY

Patrolled with Louisiana National Guardsmen stationed in our nation’s capital.

Secured wins for Louisiana’s military bases, service members, and shipyards in the National Defense Authorization Act.

Cosponsored H.R. 2102, the Major Richard Star Act, to restore earned benefits for disabled combat-injured Veterans.

DELIVERING TAX RELIEF FOR WORKING AMERICANS

Voted to pass H.R. 1, which lowered taxes for working families.

Delivered on President Trump’s priorities of no tax on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security.

Passed an enhanced Child Tax Credit to provide additional relief for American families.

ADDRESSING DISASTER RESILIENCY & INFRASTRUCTURE

Secured $131.5 million for the Morganza to the Gulf Hurricane Protection Project in the House Energy & Water appropriations bill.

Co-led the National Flood Insurance Program Automatic Extension Act, providing lasting and affordable coverage for Americans in disaster-prone areas.

Secured permits and held the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers accountable for delays on multiple flood mitigation projects.

Introduced H.R. 1070, the Restoring Competitive Property Insurance Availability Act, to encourage market competition and help lower rates for home and business owners.

Worked with Governor Jeff Landry to advance key infrastructure projects like the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge and the I-49 Connector.

Expanded revenue-sharing caps for the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) as part of H.R. 1, which will increase Louisiana’s share of annual funding for coastal restoration efforts.

For all legislative updates, please visit clayhiggins.house.gov/issues.

DELIVERING FOR SOUTH LOUISIANA",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7299,Congressman Estes Releases Statement on Funding to Kansas Strengthening Rural Health Care,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement following the Trump administration’s announcement that gives nearly $222 million to Kansas as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program:

“As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee I was proud to be involved in the conversations that led to including these investments into the One Big Beautiful Bill, and I’m thrilled to see this funding being given to rural health care nationwide, and particularly the $222 million being given to Kansas,” Congressman Estes said. “Rural health care is one of the largest challenges that Kansas faces, and this investment will make a significant difference across the board. Your zip code should never determine your access to reliable and quality health care. I’m pleased to see this historic initiative and look forward to seeing the differences that these funds make in Kansas.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-praises-trump-administration-protecting-american-farmland-foreign,Feenstra Praises Trump Administration for Protecting American Farmland from Foreign Adversaries,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IA,Randy Feenstra,F000446,feenstra.house.gov,feenstra,https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"HULL, IOWA — Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement applauding the Trump administration for advancing its National Farm Security Action Plan, which includes Feenstra’s FARMLAND Act to keep foreign enemies away from American farmland.

“President Trump’s National Farm Security Action Plan defends rural Iowa from China and our foreign adversaries and ensures that Iowa farmland stays in the hands of Iowa farmers. It also includes my work to develop new oversight measures for foreign farmland purchases, require the Secretary of Agriculture to report threats of foreign acquisition of American farmland to Congress, and hold foreign investors who fail to properly disclose farmland purchases accountable,” said Rep. Feenstra. “Keeping foreign adversaries – like China – off our farm ground is an important matter of national and farm security. I’ll keep working to ensure our farmland is passed to the next generation so that we can keep our proud agricultural traditions alive in Iowa.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://hageman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-hageman-applauds-205-million-obbba-funding-strengthen-wyomings,Congresswoman Hageman Applauds $205 Million in OBBBA Funding to Strengthen Wyoming’s Rural Health Care,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WY,Harriet M. Hageman,H001096,hageman.house.gov,hageman,https://hageman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (R-WY) applauded the announcement that Wyoming would receive more than $205 million for fiscal year 2026 through the Rural Health Transformation Program, which Rep. Hageman and Congressional Republicans created this summer in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), also known as the Working Families Tax Cut. Additional funding will follow in the subsequent years.

“This summer, Republicans in Washington delivered an unprecedented $50 billion investment in rural health care through the Rural Health Transformation Program enacted as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation,” said Rep. Hageman. “Wyoming’s rural communities deserve reliable, high-quality health care without having to travel hundreds of miles. This initial $205 million investment strengthens our hospitals and clinics, supports the health care professionals who serve our communities, and expands access to care for families across Wyoming. It reflects a clear commitment to rural America and shows that Republicans and the Trump administration are delivering real, measurable results by prioritizing long-term sustainability of rural health care.”

Background:

Wyoming will be able to use this funding to address long-standing challenges unique to rural health care. The investment supports efforts to expand primary, preventive, maternal, emergency, and behavioral health services, recruit and retain a strong rural health workforce, and modernize aging facilities and technology. The program also encourages innovation, including telehealth, remote monitoring, and new models that help keep care local and sustainable.

This program represents the largest federal investment in rural health care in American history. Congress created the initiative to ensure access to care does not depend on zip code and to give states flexibility to design solutions that reflect local needs.

Funding will roll out over multiple years, providing Wyoming with a stable foundation to strengthen health care delivery and improve the well-being of rural families statewide.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://mackenzie.house.gov/media/press-releases/pennsylvania-receives-nearly-200-million-rural-health-care-transformation,Pennsylvania Receives Nearly $200 Million for Rural Health Care Transformation,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,PA,Ryan Mackenzie,M001230,mackenzie.house.gov,mackenzie,https://mackenzie.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-7), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, welcomed today’s announcement from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services that Pennsylvania will be receiving nearly $200 million in 2026 to support rural health care initiatives. The funding was made possible by the Working Families Tax Cuts — the funding package passed by Congress this year. That legislation included $50 billion, spread over five years, to support rural health care.

“This funding marks the beginning of an unprecedented investment in rural health care,” said Congressman Ryan Mackenzie. “I’m proud to have helped secure hundreds of millions of dollars to support our state’s rural health infrastructure, which will help to address longstanding challenges facing hospitals, medical staff, and patients throughout Pennsylvania. By investing in our health care workforce, embracing innovation, improving substance abuse treatment, and supporting providers, we can deliver better outcomes for people throughout our community.”

Pennsylvania’s proposal features a range of solutions aimed at improving collaboration, supporting innovation, and investing in the rural health workforce. The objectives of the proposal include:

“Improve key health outcomes, including prevention and treatment of chronic disease and use of the 988-suicide prevention line, substance use disorder treatment engagement and collaborative care arrangements for subspecialty care.”

“Increased adoption of paramedicine programs at EMS agencies.”

“Increased training and credentialing programs (e.g., EMTs, midwives, MDs, etc.) focused on rural workforce.”

“10% reduction in workforce vacancy rate in rural hospitals.”

Read the press release from CMS HERE

See Pennsylvania’s proposal HERE

See highlights from Pennsylvania’s proposal HERE

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-delivers-working-families-tax-cuts-indiana-awarded-207,Congressman Shreve Delivers Working Families Tax Cuts as Indiana Is Awarded $207 Million for Rural Health,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenwood, IN — Rep. Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) delivered news that Indiana will receive $206,928,000 in federal funding for the first year of the five-year Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, focused on improving access and quality of care in rural communities across the state.

The RHT Program was created under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts law, which Congressman Shreve supported in the House. The program is a $50 billion initiative administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to strengthen rural health systems nationwide.

In September, Mr. Shreve joined members of the Indiana delegation in urging HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy, Jr. and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz to award Indiana the maximum funding available through the new program. Beginning in fiscal year 2026, states will receive first-year awards through RHT.

CMS says the investment will help states expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize facilities and technology, and support innovative models that bring dependable care closer to home.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://strong.house.gov/media/press-releases/2025-review,2025 in Review,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,AL,Dale W. Strong,S001220,strong.house.gov,strong,https://strong.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Dale Strong released the following update on his legislative work and priorities for North Alabama during the first year of the 119th Congress:

“Some of the most consequential wins in 2025 include securing the largest tax cut in history for hardworking Americans, bringing U.S. Space Command to its rightful home, delivering game-changing investments for Redstone Arsenal, Marshall Space Flight Center, Golden Dome and next-generation missile defense, and closing the southern border and strengthening our homeland security,” said Representative Dale Strong.

“It has been a great year with a Republican majority and President Trump leading the way,” Strong continued. “In the year ahead, my focus will remain on turning conservative priorities into concrete results, championing North Alabama’s capabilities, and continuing our work to put more money back into the pockets of hardworking Alabamians.”

2025 CONSTITUENT SERVICES

1,300 constituents served through casework ranging from expedited passports and VA benefits to tax returns and social security benefits.

Over $7.2 million returned to constituents through casework.

148,530 individual response letters sent to constituents.

667 visits made across AL-05 to meet with constituents, small businesses, manufacturers, and organizations.

25 Mobile Office Hour events in communities across North Alabama, including Pisgah, Elkmont, and Trinity, among others.

Tied fourth nationally for the total number of cadets accepted to West Point from a single congressional district and second in the Southeast region.

Reached 177,163 constituents through telephone town halls.

WELCOMING SPACE COMMAND

“This time last year, during my 2024 Year in Review, I said to you all:

‘I refuse to sit back and allow such a blatantly political decision to put our national security and key space programs at risk. Through an objective, fact- based process, Huntsville demonstrated that North Alabama is the best location to permanently house Space Command. I look forward to new leadership in the White House, who will put America’s national security needs before politics.’

Today, I proudly say: promises made, promises KEPT,” said Strong.

“North Alabama has always been critical to our nation’s defense, and President Trump made clear that U.S. Space Command belongs where mission readiness comes first. I’m proud to have been a part of the process to bring Space Command HQ to its rightful home every step of the way — first as Chairman of the Madison County Commission and now as the Congressman representing the home of Space Command. This has been one of the most rewarding achievements of 2025.”

In September, President Trump announced that U.S. Space Command will establish its permanent headquarters at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, a decision driven by national security priorities and mission readiness. Earlier this month, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth joined Alabama leaders at Redstone to unveil the sign at the site of the future headquarters location – marking a pivotal new chapter for Huntsville, Alabama, and Space Command.

INVESTING IN AMERICA

“The Working Families Tax Cut Act is delivering real relief for working families, strengthening our economy, securing the border, and cutting wasteful spending. This bill invests in North Alabama’s space, defense, and manufacturing industries while putting more money back in the pockets of families, farmers, and small business owners,” said Strong.

Congressman Dale Strong voted in favor of final passage of the Working Families Tax Cut Act, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill. The legislation delivers major investments in North Alabama, including over $4.2 billion for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center to support the Space Launch System, Orion integration, and critical infrastructure upgrades. It also provides $25 billion for the Golden Dome missile defense program at Redstone Arsenal as part of $150 billion in long-term national defense funding.

The bill locks in Alabama’s 6% hospital provider tax, creates a $50 billion national rural health fund with over $500M for Alabama, of which $203M in first-year funding was awarded to the state just this month, and strengthens the farm safety net by raising reference prices and expanding access to affordable crop insurance.

The legislation made permanent the largest tax cut in history of 22%, increasing take-home pay for a typical family of four by $7,600 to $10,900 per year. It ends federal taxes on tips, overtime pay, and interest on loans for American-made vehicles, and provides additional tax relief for seniors with a $6,000 bonus deduction.

SECURING THE HOMELAND

“Protecting our homeland requires constant vigilance across many fronts – from securing our borders and preventing illegal crossings, to addressing emerging threats posed by drones, cyberattacks, and bioterrorism. Our nation faces complex and evolving challenges, including drug and human trafficking, threats to mass gatherings and critical infrastructure, and risks to our agricultural and food systems. We must ensure that we have strong laws, innovative technology, and coordinated enforcement to safeguard our communities,” said Strong.

As a member of the Committee on Homeland Security and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology, Congressman Strong led several legislative efforts aimed at addressing the threats to our homeland, including the Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act to strengthen research security within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); SHIELD Against CCP Act to better assess and coordinate efforts to counter threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party; and the DHS Biodetection Improvement Act to evaluate and strengthen DHS’s biodetection strategy – all of which passed the House with bipartisan support.

Congressman Strong prioritized countering unmanned aircraft threats by again introducing the National Training Center for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act, to establish a national training center to improve coordination and readiness against malicious drone activity. Executive Order 14305 subsequently established the Center, which is based on Redstone Arsenal and serves as the nation’s premier hub for preparing law enforcement and security professionals to detect, assess, and counter emerging threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems.

As a member of the Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events in the United States, he is conducting oversight of security preparations for major upcoming international events, including the FIFA Club World Cup (2025), the Ryder Cup (2025), the FIFA World Cup (2026), the United States’ 250th anniversary (2026), and the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles (2028).

DEFENDING NATIONAL SECURITY

“I came to Congress to protect and defend our national security; safeguarding our national security requires investing in a strong national defense. As the United States faces unprecedented threats from our adversaries, such as China, Russia, and Iran, we must continue to ensure our warfighters are equipped with the best available tools and resources,” said Strong.

Congressman Strong secured wins for Redstone Arsenal this year, including a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act to alleviate Redstone Arsenal Gate bottlenecks and ensure that the thousands of employees, contractors, and service members who travel through these gates have secure, efficient access as Redstone’s mission continues to expand.

Strong re-established the Army Aviation Caucus to advocate for critical funding for advanced capabilities and readiness for UAVs, traditional fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, and next-generation vertical lift –military aviation programs that support our military readiness.

He also launched the House Golden Dome Caucus to advance President Trump’s next-generation missile defense initiative, strengthening homeland protection against ballistic, hypersonic, and advanced cruise missiles, as well as other evolving aerial threats, through policies, funding, and cutting-edge land- and space-based capabilities. Strong says North Alabama’s pivotal role, anchored by Redstone Arsenal’s missile defense legacy, will drive Golden Dome’s success.

SERVING CONSTITUENTS

“Unparalleled constituent services are my top priority, whether it’s helping constituents navigate federal agencies, supporting young people who want to serve our country, or honoring our veterans, I am proud of the results that my office and I have delivered for the Fifth District,” said Strong.

Congressman Strong hosted Mobile Office Hours in 25 towns and municipalities across Alabama’s Fifth District to help constituents with federal casework and share concerns directly with him and his staff. These events provide one-on-one assistance with federal agencies and ensure that all areas of our district have access to our office and its services.

In August, Strong hosted the Third Annual Strong Military Service and Academy Day at Huntsville High School, connecting North Alabama students with representatives from U.S. military service academies. This year, the Fifth District ranked fourth nationally for the number of accepted West Point candidates from a single congressional district and second in the Southeast.

In August, Congressman Strong hosted a Vietnam War 50th Anniversary lapel pinning ceremony. The event honored more than 150 Fifth District veterans who served between 1955 and 1975, continuing Strong’s efforts to recognize and thank our local Vietnam veterans for their service and sacrifice.

Other significant veteran’s casework achievements this year include securing and having the honor of presenting commendations to the families of Mr. Richard Herman Carlile and Ms. Tessie Mae Seymour, who were posthumously awarded a Purple Heart Medal and a Congressional Gold Medal, respectively.

INVESTING IN NORTH ALABAMA

Returning taxpayer dollars back home remains a top priority for Rep. Strong. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, he has brought more than $24.7 million back to North Alabama in Community Project Funding alone.

For Fiscal Year 2026, $6.2 million of Community Project Funding for AL-05 has already been signed into law through H.R. 5371, the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies bill. This includes $5,175,000 for the Town of Ardmore to construct a groundwater treatment facility and $1,087,500 for the Town of Triana to make critical sanitary sewer upgrades.

As work continues on Fiscal Year 2026 bills, Congressman Strong is working to secure $29.7 million in additional funding for projects to address critical infrastructure and public safety needs across the district. With those projects secured, Representative Strong will have advanced over $60 million in Community Project Funding for North Alabama.

This year, Congressman Strong also celebrated the following funding victories as dollars moved from paper to projects: Bethel Road improvements in Limestone County; Jackson, Morgan, and Madison County Sheriff’s Offices getting new patrol vehicles; a new sewer pump station and gravity main in Priceville; and the Northern Bypass project to connect I-565 with Memorial Parkway North. Together, these projects show how targeted federal investments are making life safer and better for the people of North Alabama, while keeping taxpayer dollars working here at home.

KEY LEGISLATION INTRODUCED BY REP. STRONG

National Training Center for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act – H.R. 709 – Established by Executive Order 14305

A bill to establish a national counter-UAS training center that brings federal, state, and local partners together to strengthen coordination and improve the ability to detect and stop malicious drone threats to critical infrastructure and mass gathering events.

The Center, established by President Trump’s Executive Order, is now operational on Redstone Arsenal. Its first class of trainees graduated in November 2025.

No More Funding for NPR Act of 2025 – H.R. 1146 – Successfully Defunded NPR via H.R. 4

A bill to prohibit federal funding for National Public Radio. This legislation would prevent taxpayer dollars from going to the organization, which has a history of biased political and ideological reporting.

SHIELD Against CCP Act – H.R. 708 – Passed the House

A bill to establish a dedicated effort within the Department of Homeland Security to assess and counter threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party to the homeland, including risks related to cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, supply chains, and border and transportation security.

DHS Biodetection Improvement Act – H.R. 706 – Passed the House

A bill to expand federal support for spaceport infrastructure so the U.S. can modernize space transportation facilities that serve civil, commercial, and national security needs.

SERVICE Act of 2025 – H.R. 3312

A bill to support veterans by leveraging their training and experience through specialized law enforcement response teams that improve emergency response and connect veterans in crisis with appropriate support services.

Protecting America’s Agricultural Land from Foreign Harm Act of 2025 – H.R. 1438

A bill to prohibit the purchase or lease of U.S. agricultural land by individuals associated with the governments of China and other designated foreign adversaries.

Promoting American Patriotism in Our Schools Act – H.R. 1351

A bill requiring all elementary and secondary schools receiving federal funding to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of each school day, display the United States flag in all classrooms and gymnasiums, and incorporate educational materials on the history and significance of the American flag.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tenney-unveils-2025-annual-report-highlight-results-ny-24,"Congresswoman Tenney Unveils 2025 Annual Report to Highlight Results for NY-24 Families, Farmers, and Small Businesses",2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NY,Claudia Tenney,T000478,tenney.house.gov,tenney,https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Oswego, New York — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today released her 2025 Annual Report, showcasing how her office delivered for working families, farmers, small businesses, veterans, and seniors across the district. The report highlights expanded constituent services, strong legislative action, and a continued commitment to transparency and accountability.

“Serving NY-24 in 2025 has been a privilege, and this year delivered meaningful progress for families and small businesses. My office returned $27.5 million to constituents who were owed benefits, resolved 2,600 constituent cases, and responded to tens of thousands of calls and messages from those seeking help,"" said Congresswoman Tenney. On the legislative front, I supported the Trump Tax Cuts to deliver permanent relief for working families, seniors, farmers, and small businesses, and backed dozens of bills that advanced through the House. This annual report outlines how these efforts delivered real results for Upstate New York and where the focus remains as we head into the new year.”

View the full report here and view highlights from each section below:

Constituent Services

Returned over $27.5 million in benefits or back pay to residents of NY-24.

Completed 2,600 constituent cases, helping people cut through federal red tape.

Answered more than 16,000 constituent calls and messages.

Provided over 850 commendations and proclamations to veterans, first responders, students, and community leaders.

Wrote 110 grant letters to support local community projects and economic growth.

Attended over 130 community events across the district.

Accessibility and Transparency

Explained every vote cast in Congress, surpassing 1,000 detailed vote explanations on the website.

Responded to more than 78,000 constituent messages seeking answers and accountability.

Continued to provide clear breakdowns of Washington actions that affect costs, security, and local priorities.

Delivering Results for NY-24

Introduced 67 bills and cosponsored 472 bills on critical issues like economic growth, national security, and election integrity.

Supported 45 bills that passed the House of Representatives.

Helped advance 11 bills that became law, including measures enacted in the Trump Tax Cuts that deliver permanent relief.

Secured wins that support local priorities: tax credits for advanced manufacturing, stronger protections for family farms, and rural hospital support.

Advocated for energy affordability and reliability, including preserving nuclear credits important to Upstate New York.

Highlights for the District

Backed efforts that helped secure the release of an American held abroad.

Passed H.R. 323, Renaming a Post Office to Honor Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz

Pressed for stronger border security and enforcement to protect public safety and stop illegal trafficking.

Supported workforce development initiatives and small business outreach efforts across NY-24.

Read the full 2025 Annual Report here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-issues-2025-year-review,Thompson Issues 2025 Year in Review,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"BELLEFONTE, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson today issued a 2025 Year in Review, providing a snapshot of the work he focused on in Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. during the year.

""This year was full of legislative victories: From ensuring more milk options in public schools to making certain our rural schools receive the funding they need, we continue to deliver for Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District,"" Rep. Thompson said. ""In addition to serving as a senior member of the Education and Workforce Committee, I continued in my role as Chairman of the Agriculture Committee, where I proudly advocate for all of rural America.""

TOP SPEAKER: Rep. Thompson was again named the No. 1 speaker in the House of Representatives, speaking 91 days on the House Floor and delivering 120 speeches.

SIGNED INTO LAW: Rep. Thompson helped ensure passage of the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act, which was signed into law in December 2025. Rep. Thompson also secured numerous provisions in the Working Families Tax Cut Act that became law in July 2025, including the largest investment in American agriculture in a generation as well as a provision authorizing Workforce Pell Grants. In addition, Rep. Thompson delivered more than $6.1 million in federal funding for nine community projects in PA-15, which became law through the appropriations package Congress passed to reopen the government this fall.

PRESIDENT'S DESK: Rep. Thompson's Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 has passed both the House and Senate and will be signed into law by President Trump.

HOUSE APPROVED: In an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote in July, the House approved Rep. Thompson'sDigital Asset Market Clarity Act of 2025 (CLARITY Act) to establish a federal regulatory framework for digital assets like cryptocurrency. In September, with strong bipartisan support, the House passed Rep. Thompson's U.S. Grain Standards Reauthorization Act of 2025, a testament to our shared commitment to fair markets and reliable standards for American farmers.

The report also includes information about community project funding, nominations of seven exceptional students from PA-15 to our nation's service academies, and various metrics for constituent services.

Click here to review the full report.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-further-award-of-more-than-215-million-for-rural-nebraska-healthcare/,Ricketts Celebrates Further Award of More than $215 Million for Rural Nebraska Healthcare,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"Omaha, NE — Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) celebrated the award of Rural Health Transformation Program grant money for rural healthcare in Nebraska. This funding comes from a program that was created by Congress earlier this year in the Working Families Tax Cut to strengthen rural healthcare. Senator Ricketts voted in support of the bill.

“This is how you keep rural communities thriving,” said Ricketts. “The Rural Health Transformation Program was an important part of the Working Families Tax Cut that Senate Republicans passed earlier this year. This is an investment in the future of rural healthcare and in the future of Nebraska.”

BACKGROUND:

The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced awards to all 50 states under the Rural Health Transformation Program. The program, created by Congress earlier this year as part of the Working Families Tax Cut, committed $50 billion to invest in rural healthcare. 50% percent of this funding is split equally among the states, 50% percent is awarded after an application process. Nebraska was awarded an additional $218,529,075.

As a part of CMS’ application guidelines, awarded money is to be used to help rural communities expand care reach, strengthen and sustain clinical workforce, modernize rural health infrastructure and technology, drive efficiency, empower community providers, and advance innovative care models.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-introduces-bill-to-designate-anti-communism-week-and-honor-victims-of-communist-regimes,Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Bill to Designate Anti-Communism Week and Honor Victims of Communist Regimes,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced the introduction of legislation to designate the first week of every November as Anti-Communism Week and request an annual presidential proclamation recognizing the victims of communist regimes worldwide. This bill builds on President Trump’s 2025 Anti-Communism Week proclamation and reinforces America’s commitment to freedom, liberty, and dignity across the globe. Senator Marsha Blackburn is a cosponsor in the Senate. Companion legislation is being led in the House of Representatives by Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Communism is one of the most destructive and deadly ideologies in human history, responsible for the suffering and deaths of millions while crushing freedom wherever it takes hold. As a nation founded on liberty and individual freedoms, we must never forget these horrors or allow dangerous ideals to be repackaged, idealized, or sold to future generations. Designating Anti-Communism Week serves as a reminder of this evil ideology and reaffirms America’s unwavering commitment to freedom and opportunity for all.”

Senator Marsha Blackburn said, “Communism has claimed over 100 million lives by suppressing freedom, erasing faith, and destroying the prosperity that comes from hard work. The Anti-Communism Week Act would designate November 2 through 8 as a time to honor those victims, stand firm for liberty, and ensure this destructive ideology ends up on the ash heap of history.”

Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar said, “Communism has left a trail of death, suffering, and shattered nations across the globe, from Cuba to China, from Venezuela to North Korea. Too many Americans, especially in our schools, are now dangerously unaware of the real history and real horrors behind these failed systems. That’s why I’m proud to lead the Anti-Communism Week bill, which formally designates a week when we will reaffirm America’s commitment to freedom, educate our youth about the deadly consequences of communist ideology, and honor the memory of the tens of millions who have died under it. If we lose sight of history, we risk repeating it. This week isn’t just symbolic, it’s a necessary stand for liberty and truth.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://begich.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-begich-returns-over-1-million-alaskans-through-casework,Congressman Begich Returns Over $1 Million to Alaskans Through Casework,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,AK,Nicholas J. Begich III,B001323,begich.house.gov,begich,https://begich.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ANCHORAGE, AK. – Dec. 29, 2025 – Today, Congressman Nick Begich (R-AK) announced that his office has returned over $1 million in federal casework funds to Alaskans since taking office in January.

“I’m proud to announce that my constituent services team has returned over $1 million to Alaskans this year. Whether it’s ensuring a veteran receives long-overdue benefits or resolving a Social Security issue, my office is committed to delivering results,” said Congressman Begich. “Our office works diligently to cut through federal red tape on behalf of people across our state. Returning more than one million dollars is an important milestone, and I’m proud of the real impact this work has had on the lives of Alaskans across our great state.”

Below are recent constituent success stories from Alaskan residents who worked with Congressman Begich’s office:

“I want to express my sincere gratitude for the hard work and dedication shown in helping my family navigate a challenging situation. The commitment shown to veterans and their families has made a meaningful difference to us. We are truly grateful.” – Vince H.

""My wife and I had been waiting since 2023 for the disability benefits we were owed, and we were at a breaking point. Congressman Begich’s office took our case seriously and worked tirelessly to get answers. Because of their efforts, we received $32,500 in backpay. Their help changed our lives, and we can’t thank them enough."" –David N.

""After struggling for months to make progress with the Social Security Administration, Congressman Begich’s office stepped in and got results. With their help, I received more than $18,000 in backpay that I had been waiting on. I’m deeply appreciative of their hard work and compassion."" – Theresa H.

""Congressman Begich and his team helped me navigate a long and frustrating situation with Social Security. Thanks to their persistence, I finally received the benefits I was owed - over $11,000. Their support, especially the work of Casework Manager, Denali Tshibaka, took a huge weight off my shoulders and I’m truly thankful.""

– Robert C.

""I was owed a small IRS refund and kept running into roadblocks trying to get it resolved. Congressman Begich’s office treated my case with the same importance as any other and made sure I received the refund. It meant a lot to be heard and helped, no matter the size of the issue.""

– Jane B.

To request assistance with a federal agency, please visit Begich.House.gov to fill out a casework form.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1543,Congressman Josh Brecheen's 2025 Highlights,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Josh Brecheen,B001317,brecheen.house.gov,brecheen,https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 29, 2025

Congressman Josh Brecheen's 2025 Highlights

Washington, DC–As we reach the conclusion of Congressman Brecheen's third year in office, here's a recap of the top highlights from the year.

Top Bills Introduced

Healthy SNAP Act of 2025 -- this legislation would exclude certain junk foods from being purchased with SNAP benefits.

USA First Act -- this legislation would transfer any unobligated funds previously appropriated to USAID to the Disaster Relief Fund under FEMA.

DRIVE Act -- this legislation would prohibit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) from mandating speed limiters on vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) above 26,000 pounds.

Energy Freedom Act -- this legislation would repeal the more than 20 green energy tax subsidies created or expanded by the Biden Administration's Inflation Reduction Act.

Top Oversight Activity

Congressman Brecheen led 134 Republican Members of Congress in a public commitment to monitoring the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities in Syria, ensuring that the sanction repeal conditions found in the NDAA are upheld. Fox News wrote an exclusive on the statement. A copy of the full statement is available here.

Congressman led a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi requesting a criminal investigation into the activities of Biden Administration Special Counsel, Jack Smith, and his grave violation of the Fourth Amendment during Operation Arctic Frost. The Blaze wrote an exclusive on the letter. A copy of the full letter is available here.

By the Numbers

Miles Traveled by our Staff for Visits, Meetings, Events, Speaking Engagements, and Town Halls: 85,137

Constituent Letters Responded To: 21,544

Visits, Meetings, or Events with Constituents, Businesses, and Community Leaders by our Field Representatives: 5,921

Commendation Letters Mailed: 1,521

Constituents Assisted with Casework: 571

Speaking Engagements by our Field Representatives: 120

Media Interviews by Congressman Brecheen: 106

In-Person Town Halls: 20

Telephone Town Halls: 1

Press Inquiries: kate.bryan@mail.house.gov

###

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House Values Action Team Statement on Christian Persecution in Nigeria

November 4, 2025 | Posted in News Hits",1,2026-04-07T14:30:38Z,2026-04-07T14:34:40Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2025/12/buchanan-applauds-280-000-dot-grant-to-improve-pedestrian-safety-in-bradenton,"Buchanan Applauds $280,000 DOT Grant to Improve Pedestrian Safety in Bradenton",2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“Strong Communities Start with Safe Streets”

Combined with the City’s Match, the $350,000 Investment will Support a Citywide Safety Action Plan to Protect Pedestrians, Cyclists and Seniors.

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan applauded the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for awarding $280,000 to the City of Bradenton through the Safe Streets and Roads for All program to address longstanding pedestrian, bicycle and traffic safety challenges. With the City of Bradenton’s 20 percent match, the total investment will reach $350,000.

The funding will support Bradenton’s Safety Action Plan and Countermeasure Demonstration Project, a citywide effort to identify safety risks and test practical solutions to reduce crashes and make streets safer.

“Strong communities start with safe streets,” said Buchanan. “This grant will help Bradenton make targeted improvements that protect seniors, families and everyone who uses our roads by taking a closer look at traffic risks and testing real-world solutions that make it safer for people to walk, bike and drive.”

“We appreciate Congressman Vern Buchanan and his team for their support in securing this funding for Bradenton,” said Mayor Brown. “This grant gives us the opportunity to take a closer look at traffic safety across the city and test practical improvements to make our streets safer for everyone.”

Between 2018 and 2022, Bradenton recorded 27 roadway fatalities, underscoring the need for targeted, data-driven safety improvements. This equates to a fatality rate of 9.7 per 100,000 residents, highlighting ongoing risks for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists across the city.

To address these challenges, the funding will support a citywide Safety Action Plan and the testing of practical safety improvements. This effort will allow the city to better understand traffic risks, pilot proven countermeasures and use the results to guide long-term safety investments.

Buchanan is a respected leader in Florida’s business community and has created thousands of jobs over the course of his career. He previously chaired both the Florida Chamber of Commerce and the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce and currently serves as Vice Chairman of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=415233,Rep. Smith condemns Communist China’s provocations and acts of aggression against Taiwan,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher H. Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,chrissmith,https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), issued the following statement in response to China’s deliberately provocative and antagonistic military exercises around Taiwan:

“Communist China’s egregious violations of Taiwan’s air space, its ships’ crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, and live-fire drills, which commenced on December 29, are belligerent provocations, which constitute the crime of aggression under international law. Communist China’s violations of the sovereignty of the democratic island nation—coupled with recent transgressions against U.S. treaty allies Japan and the Philippines—directly threaten peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

“China is a totalitarian tyrant, which abuses its own people at home and remains a predatory rogue state abroad. Congress stands with freedom-loving peoples in both nations—those in China, working against the oppressive Communist Party ruling their country, and the people of Taiwan, standing firm against this outside aggressor. By its actions, Communist China has put itself outside the community of nations.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-historic-investment-rural-health-care,Downing Applauds Historic Investment in Rural Health Care,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MT,Troy Downing,D000634,downing.house.gov,downing,https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following an announcement that $233,509,359 will be headed to Montana in Fiscal Year 2026 as part of the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program enacted in Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill.

“Nearly every county in Montana is rural, and this historic funding will provide critical support for families across our state,” said Congressman Troy Downing. “I am proud to have voted for the One Big Beautiful Bill which secured this funding, and I look forward to seeing it improve health outcomes in Central and Eastern Montana.”

Background:

Montana received the fourth-largest disbursement of funds out of all 50 states for FY 26.

This funding is the largest federal investment in rural health care in American history.

Click here for a state-by-state summary of program funding.

Click here for a list of RHT Program state project abstracts.

Click here for more information about the RHT Program.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7291,Congressman Estes Releases Statement on House Passage of Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Budget Committee, released the following statement after House Republicans passed the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act – a package of reforms that would lower premium costs for all Americans, expand access to affordable coverage, and increase transparency to drive down prices across the health care system.

“I voted for this legislation knowing that House Republicans are choosing the right and most sensical way – decreasing health care premiums by 11%. Republicans are addressing the health care crisis in America that Democrats themselves created through Obamacare,” Congressman Estes said. “The law Democrats passed that they insisted would make health care affordable couldn’t be more untrue. The Unaffordable Care Act led to doubled premiums and deductibles, and choices decreased for Americans nationwide. Republicans are committed to solving this crisis, and I’m honored to vote for this legislation alongside my colleagues.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-applauds-approval-209-million-rural-hospitals-and-healthcare-iowa,Feenstra Applauds Approval of $209 Million for Rural Hospitals and Healthcare in Iowa,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IA,Randy Feenstra,F000446,feenstra.house.gov,feenstra,https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"HULL, IOWA – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) praised the Trump administration and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for approving $209 million for rural hospitals and rural healthcare in Iowa for 2026 as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program.

This transformational investment in rural healthcare was made possible by the Working Families Tax Cuts, which Feenstra helped write and pass.

“Working with President Trump, my Republican colleagues and I delivered $50 billion for rural hospitals and rural healthcare nationwide, and today’s announcement of $209 million for Iowa in 2026 alone will greatly benefit our state and rural communities. This funding will support rapid emergency medical services in Iowa, keep our rural hospitals open and operational, and make high-quality healthcare more accessible and affordable for Iowans,” said Rep. Feenstra. “As a former volunteer EMT in my hometown of Hull for 15 years, I can confidently say that this investment in rural healthcare will support patients and save lives. I’ll keep working with President Trump to lower healthcare costs and ensure all Iowans have access to high-quality, affordable care.”

You can find more information about today’s announcement HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases?ID=3177953F-1F2D-49F8-BE85-39112AE422EF,Congressman Rogers Announces Nearly $213 Million Award for Rural Healthcare in Kentucky,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KY,Harold Rogers,R000395,halrogers.house.gov,halrogers,https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced Kentucky has been awarded $212.9 million from the new Rural Health Transformation Fund through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Earlier this year, Congressman Rogers voted for the historic Working Families Tax Cuts legislation, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill, including a carve out of $50 billion for rural healthcare from 2026 to 2030. Kentucky will receive nearly $213 million in 2026 from the new fund to expand rural healthcare, strengthen the workforce in rural clinics and modernize rural healthcare facilities. Awards from the fund will be made annually to Kentucky over the next five years.

“When we passed this funding into law earlier this year, I worked hard to ensure Kentucky would receive necessary support over the next five years from the new Rural Health Transformation Fund to help address the high rates of health disparities in our rural Appalachian region,” said Congressman Rogers, Dean of the House. “We have made great strides to improve healthcare in the mountains, and this funding will help us continue to address diabetes, obesity, perinatal care, behavioral health, dental care and other dire medical needs in our rural communities.”

Two key initiatives will be included in Kentucky:

Rural Community Hubs for Chronic Care Innovation will help rural providers coordinate and improve treatment for diabetes, cancer, heart disease and other chronic conditions.

Powering Rural Maternal and Infant Health Community-Based Teams will strengthen prenatal care access and support healthier outcomes for mothers and babies in underserved communities.

The formula for the Rural Health Transformation Program was written into law, including:

$25 billion over five years will be distributed evenly among the states; this means each state will receive $100 million each year for FY 2026-2030 ($500 million total).

$25 billion will be distributed to states based on criteria established by the Secretary that target funding to states with high rural health care needs and that outline long-term programmatic goals that will transform access to care in the state.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://harris.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-harris-applauds-168-million-rural-health-transformation-0,Congressman Harris Applauds $168 Million Rural Health Transformation Investment for Maryland,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MD,Andy Harris,H001052,harris.house.gov,harris,https://harris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01), Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration, applauded the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for awarding Maryland $168,180,838 under the Rural Health Transformation Program, which will expand access to care, strengthen the healthcare workforce, and modernize rural health infrastructure and technology. Unfortunately, Maryland did not receive additional funding because the Moore Administration chose not to pursue a SNAP nutritious food waiver.

This funding will expand access to preventive, primary, maternal, and behavioral healthcare in Maryland’s rural communities, strengthen the rural healthcare workforce by helping recruit and retain doctors and nurses, improve emergency care coordination, and modernize facilities and telehealth so patients can receive high-quality care closer to home. These investments will directly benefit rural residents and communities across Maryland, especially those in Maryland’s First District.

Statement from Congressman Andy Harris:

“I commend the Trump Administration for its leadership in delivering billions of dollars to strengthen rural health care nationwide as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill. Unfortunately, the Moore administration failed to adequately prioritize Maryland’s application by not applying for a SNAP nutritious food waiver, causing our rural communities to miss out on additional millions of dollars that would have been flowing into our state. As a physician and representative of a rural district — and the only member of Maryland’s congressional delegation to support the passage of these rural healthcare funds, I’m ready to work with the Trump Administration to address the needs of rural Marylanders with these dollars.”

For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404206,Huizenga Statement on Elections in Burma,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MI,Bill Huizenga,H001058,huizenga.house.gov,huizenga,https://huizenga.house.gov/news/,scraper,"Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) released the following statement regarding elections in Burma.

As long as the junta is overseeing the election process in Burma and refuses to allow true opposition candidates, any election under these circumstances should be viewed as nothing more than a sham. I call on all ASEAN countries to refrain from legitimizing this staged and predetermined outcome.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/langworthy-announces-cms-funds-support-rural-hospitals-across-western-new-york,Langworthy Announces CMS funds to Support Rural Hospitals Across Western New York and the Southern Tier,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced that New York State has been awarded $212 million in federal funding for Fiscal Year 2026 through the Rural Health Transformation Program, a historic investment authorized under H.R. 1 and the Working Families Tax Plan, and announced by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

“I’m extremely proud to share that New York will receive $212 million in funding to strengthen our rural hospitals and healthcare systems that serve so many hardworking families in Western New York and the Southern Tier,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “This funding is historic — and it will make a real difference for patients and providers across our communities.”

The Rural Health Transformation Program represents the largest federal investment in rural healthcare in American history. Established under H.R. 1 and the Working Families Tax Plan, the initiative invests $50 billion over five years to expand access to care, improve outcomes, modernize healthcare delivery, and support rural providers nationwide.

“Rural hospitals are the backbone of healthcare in our communities. For too long, many rural systems have faced mounting financial pressure, workforce shortages, and access challenges — forcing patients to travel farther for care,” Langworthy continued. “This investment helps change that.”

CMS confirmed that funding will support initiatives such as workforce development, expanded access to primary and specialty care, improved care coordination, and modern health technology investments designed to improve outcomes in rural communities.

“As a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I was proud to help advance the policies that made this investment possible,” Langworthy added. “This is critical funding to strengthen the rural hospitals and healthcare systems that serve so many residents of New York’s 23rd Congressional District.”

The funding will be distributed beginning in Fiscal Year 2026, with oversight to ensure resources are used efficiently, responsibly, and with a clear focus on delivering measurable improvements for patients and providers.

“This is a historic win for rural healthcare in New York,” Langworthy concluded. “I will continue fighting in Congress to bring home resources that protect access to care, support healthcare workers, and strengthen the communities we serve.”

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://miller.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-announces-service-academy-nominations-1,Miller Announces Service Academy Nominations,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WV,Carol D. Miller,M001205,miller.house.gov,miller,https://miller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) announced the nomination of seven West Virginia students to U.S. military service academies.

“I am happy to nominate these exceptional West Virginia students to our nation’s prestigious service academies. These students demonstrated a strong desire to serve in the most powerful military in the world and protect the United States from foreign adversaries. I am grateful for their future service to our nation and wish them all the best,” said Congresswoman Miller.

While a congressional nomination is required to apply, it does not guarantee admission. Students will be notified individually if they are granted admission to one of the service academies.

The nominated students are as follows:

Elijah Baldwin

BridgeValley Community and Technical College

Nominations: United States Naval Academy and United States Air Force Academy

William Barton

Charleston Catholic High School

Nominations: United States Air Force Academy and United States Naval Academy

Blake Blankenship

Princeton High School

Nominations: United States Air Force Academy

Christian Connard

Hurricane High School

Nominations: United States Military Academy

Levi Maddox

Pikeview High School

Nominations: United States Military Academy

Liberty Mannon

Marshall University

Nominations: United States Naval Academy and United States Merchant Marine Academy

Chevelle Salmons

Lincoln County High School

Nominations: United States Naval Academy and United States Military Academy

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-meeks-announces-209-million-iowa-part-historic-rural-health,Miller-Meeks Announces $209 Million for Iowa as Part of Historic Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IA,Mariannette Miller-Meeks,M001215,millermeeks.house.gov,millermeeks,https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"IOWA — Today, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) proudly announced that Iowa will receive $209,040,064 in federal funding as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program, the largest federal investment in rural health care in American history. This groundbreaking initiative, established under the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation passed by House Republicans and signed by President Trump, represents an unprecedented $50 billion commitment to revitalizing rural health care systems across the country.

""This is a transformational moment for rural Iowa,"" said Miller-Meeks. ""Access to high-quality health care should never depend on your zip code, and today, we’re delivering on that promise. This $209 million investment will bring top-tier care closer to home for families, seniors, and veterans in every corner of our state. I fought hard to ensure Iowa received its fair share, and I’m proud to see that fight pay off for the people I serve.""

The Rural Health Transformation Program is designed to support states in expanding access to care, modernizing outdated facilities and technologies, strengthening the rural health workforce, and deploying innovative care models. Iowa’s share of the funding will be used to:

Strengthen and expand rural health care providers and staff

Modernize rural hospitals and clinics with new technology and infrastructure

Improve emergency medical services and mental health access in underserved communities

Support community-based care delivery models that meet the unique needs of rural populations

This achievement builds on Miller-Meeks' long-standing commitment to improving health outcomes for rural communities. A physician, veteran, and strong advocate for rural Iowa, Miller-Meeks has consistently prioritized rural health in Congress and has sent multiple letters to leadership at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state leadership urging full and fair consideration for Iowa's RHTP application.

BACKGROUND:

In August & September 2025, Miller-Meeks hosted roundtables with hospital leaders across Southeast Iowa to gather input and advocate for targeted relief.

In October, Miller-Meeks led the Iowa delegation in sending a letter to Governor Kim Reynolds and Iowa HHS Director Larry Johnson expressing strong support for the Rural Health Transformation Program and outlining several guiding principles for consideration as Iowa prepares its application.

In November, Miller-Meeks led the Iowa Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz showing strong support of Iowa’s application for the program.

""This is the result of listening to rural Iowans and delivering real results,"" Miller-Meeks continued. ""This funding will not only save lives but also strengthen our rural communities for generations to come.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/29/nunn-secures-209-million-rural-health-investment-for-iowa/,Nunn Secures $209 Million Rural Health Investment for Iowa,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IA,Zachary Nunn,N000193,nunn.house.gov,nunn,https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/,scraper,"DES MOINES, IA — Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) today applauded the award of more than $209 million to Iowa from the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, a $50 billion nationwide initiative to strengthen rural health care created through the Working Families Tax Cuts.

“When we passed the Working Families Tax Cut, I fought to secure $50 billion for rural health care across the country,” said Rep. Nunn. “Now, more than $209 million is coming home to Iowa to strengthen care close to home, expand access through telehealth, and help rural clinics recruit and retain the providers Iowa communities rely on.”

The announcement follows a letter sent by the Iowa Congressional delegation on November 20, urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to approve funding for Healthy Hometowns—Iowa’s rural health initiative designed to expand care access, strengthen emergency response, and retain medical providers across underserved communities.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://radewagen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/amata-s-statement-celebrating-new-year,Amata’s Statement Celebrating the New Year,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,AS,Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen,R000600,radewagen.house.gov,radewagen,https://radewagen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata released the following message for New Year’s Day.

“Happy New Year! As we complete a busy 2025 and ring in 2026, I’m humbled and thankful that I represent the wonderful people of American Samoa. Together, we’ve experienced many blessings from God this year, and I’m optimistic for the year ahead.

“In Congress, right before Christmas week, we finished up the 3.8 percent raise for our military in 2026. This much-deserved increase continues to build on last year’s largest-ever raise, as Congress is prioritizing better compensation for our military.

“It’s hard to believe 2025 has flown by already and we are halfway through the 119th Congress. This year brought many changes. When I was first sent to Washington to represent you, President Obama was in office, so I’ve been through these changes before. I continue to emphasize bipartisanship in the legislation I support, and making American Samoa my first focus.

“Any review of 2025 must include the importance of the Executive Order restoring fishing access, signed on our historic 125th Flag Day. This was a longtime objective that followed years of effort, with congressional testimony, and support from our leaders in U.S. fishing and U.S. food security. This was a milestone achievement for our people, and I appreciate the President’s decision and all who had a part in support for American Samoa’s fishing.

“Throughout 2026, I will be focused on what matters to American Samoa, seeking opportunities to support health care, education, veterans and military families. God bless our islands and the United States as we start this new year. May God bless and guide you and your families.”

Psalm 20:4 (NIV) May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://taylor.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-taylor-applauds-202-million-awarded-ohio-through-president-trumps,Congressman Taylor Applauds $202 Million Awarded to Ohio Through President Trump’s Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OH,David J. Taylor,T000490,taylor.house.gov,taylor,https://taylor.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02) today applauded the allocation of $202 million from the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) to the state of Ohio. This funding will support Ohio’s multi-year plan to strengthen rural hospitals and clinics, expand access to primary and behavioral health services, modernize health care infrastructure, and improve health outcomes for families in rural areas across the state.

“For too long, rural Buckeye communities have faced unique health challenges in terms of outcomes and access, and it’s time to level the playing field,” said Congressman Taylor. “President Trump’s Rural Health Transformation Program will dramatically improve health outcomes for thousands of Ohioans, and I’m grateful for this Administration’s leadership in this area. I will continue advocating on behalf of my constituents and applaud this program as a historic step in the right direction.”

Background:

The Rural Health Transformation Program was established by President Trump under the Working Families Tax Cut Act to transform health care outcomes in rural regions across the U.S. Administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the RHTP represents the largest targeted investment in rural health infrastructure and services in American history.

The RHTP allocates a total of $50 billion over five fiscal years (FY2026-FY2030), with $10 billion being made available per year.

Congressman Taylor led a letter to Governor Mike DeWine with Representatives Jim Jordan (OH-04), Michael Rulli (OH-06), and Warren Davidson (OH-08) applauding the newly-created Rural Health Transformation Program on October 6, 2025. This letter urged Governor DeWine to direct funds toward initiatives that support independent rural hospitals, rural Federally Qualified Health Centers, and creative solutions to address health care gaps across rural Ohio.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://tiffany.house.gov/media/press-releases/tiffany-announces-winner-2025-congressional-app-challenge,Tiffany Announces Winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WI,Thomas P. Tiffany,T000165,tiffany.house.gov,tiffany,https://tiffany.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WAUSAU, WI – Today, Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07) announced the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge (CAC) for Wisconsin's Seventh District. The CAC provides middle and high school students who are interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) with the opportunity to compete against their peers from across the nation.

“Thank you to all the students who participated in this year’s Congressional App Challenge. After reviewing the submissions, it is clear that we are not short of talent here in Wisconsin,” said Congressman Tiffany. “This year’s winner, Invisible Shield, was designed as a tool to combat the mental health crisis we are facing in the United States and provide a space where kids can write down their thoughts and get immediate onsite intervention from a trained counselor.”

First Place

App: Invisible Shield

By: Ridhi and Riya Shankar

School: Marshfield Middle School

The winner of the first-place app, Invisible Shield, will be eligible to have their app on display at the U.S. Capitol and be featured on the House of Representatives website. They will also be invited to the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill Reception in the spring. For more information on the CAC please visit Congressman Tiffany’s website.",1,2026-04-28T06:05:12Z,2026-04-28T06:07:17Z
https://vanorden.house.gov/media/press-releases/van-orden-applauds-203m-investment-strengthen-rural-health-care-wisconsin,Van Orden Applauds $203M Investment to Strengthen Rural Health Care in Wisconsin,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WI,Derrick Van Orden,V000135,vanorden.house.gov,vanorden,https://vanorden.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) today applauded the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announcement that Wisconsin will receive $203,670,005 through the Rural Health Transformation Program, part of a historic $50 billion investment created under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts legislation to strengthen and modernize rural health care across America.

Beginning in 2026, this funding will support Wisconsin-led efforts to expand access to care, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize facilities and technology, and keep care local for rural families, seniors, and veterans across the state.

“Every American citizen should have access to readily available, high-quality, and actually affordable health care,” said Rep. Van Orden. “This $203 million investment delivers real support for rural Wisconsin hospitals, clinics, and health care workers. Republicans fought to get this done, and not one Democrat voted for it. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, rural Wisconsin is finally getting the support it deserves.”

The Rural Health Transformation Program will distribute $10 billion annually from 2026 through 2030, with funding allocated based on rural need, policy innovation, and the potential to deliver measurable improvements in access and outcomes.

The $50 billion investment strengthens rural health care in Wisconsin and across the nation by focusing on:

A Nationwide Commitment to Strengthen Rural Health Care

Bringing More Care Within Reach for Rural Families

Strengthening and Sustaining the Rural Clinical Workforce

Modernizing Rural Health Infrastructure and Technology

Driving Structural Efficiency & Empowering Community Providers

Advancing Innovative Care Models and Payment Reform

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-fox-news-senator-banks-demands-probe-of-minnesota-childcare-fraud/,ICYMI: Fox News: Senator Banks Demands Probe of Minnesota Childcare Fraud,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary Alex Adams urging the department to investigate and review Minnesota’s childcare contracts in light of recent instances of childcare fraud.

See excerpts from the story below or read the full story here.

Read the full letter here.

EXCLUSIVE: Senator Jim Banks, R-Ind., is pushing for a federal investigation after sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) calling forthe agency to construct investigative reports of Somali networks as the roughly $9 billion fraud scandal in Minnesota continues to unfold.

The Indiana senator pointed out that the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program is administered by the state government, but is largely funded by federal tax dollars through two programs that provide roughly $300 million in federal childcare subsidies to Minnesota.

On Sunday, Banks sent a letter to Alex J. Adams, the Assistant Secretary for Family Support, leading the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at HHS.

“I urge ACF to investigate reports of Somali networks creating fake ‘daycare centers’ as vehicles to steal millions of dollars from Minnesota’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which administers hundreds of millions of dollars in federal childcare subsidies each year,” Banks’ letter to HHS reads.

“Clearly, the Walz administration has failed to meet the most basic benchmarks required by ACF,” Banks explained. “Any unlawful behavior uncovered in ACF’s investigation must be immediately referred to the proper federal authorities including ICE, the Department of Homeland Security, and Federal prosecutors.”

“I will not stand by while tax dollars meant to support hardworking families are stolen and state officials refuse to act,” Banks added.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/barrasso-applauds-205-million-award-for-wyomings-rural-health-fund/,Barrasso Applauds $205 Million Award for Wyoming’s Rural Health Fund,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"Wyoming will receive $205,004,743 to implement its plan to expand rural healthcare access, stabilize rural hospitals and make Wyoming healthy again.

CASPER, WY — Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) announced the State of Wyoming’s application for the $50 billion rural health fund, created by the Working Families Tax Cut Act, has been approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Wyoming will receive $205,004,743 in 2026 to implement its plan to expand rural healthcare access, stabilize rural hospitals and make Wyoming healthy again.

“The State of Wyoming has a smart and targeted plan to address our unique healthcare challenges,” said Barrasso. “With this over $205 million award, Wyoming can get to work expanding access to care, recruiting and training new health providers and strengthening rural healthcare across our state. Thanks to the Working Families Tax Cut Act, rural health providers will have the funding and resources we need to keep caring for patients in frontier communities.”

The Working Families Tax Cut Act created a Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. RHT Program funding is $50 billion to be allocated to approved States over five fiscal years, with $10 billion of funding available each fiscal year, beginning in fiscal year 2026 and ending in fiscal year 2030. This will give Wyoming hospitals, clinics, and health centers access to more than $500 million to help ensure high-quality care remains available across our frontier state.

States were required to submit a plan by early November for how they would use these funds and apply to CMS to receive these grants. On December 29, 2025, CMS announced the awards for each state.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/12/blackburn-applauds-206-million-for-tennessee-from-rural-health-transformation-program,Blackburn Applauds $206 Million for Tennessee from Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after the Trump administration announced a $206,888,882 award to strengthen rural health care in Tennessee. This funding comes from the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, which Senator Blackburn supported as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation that President Trump signed into law over the summer.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.britt.senate.gov/news/press-releases/a-year-of-results-for-alabama-families/,A Year of Results for Alabama Families,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Katie Boyd Britt,B001319,www.britt.senate.gov,britt,https://www.britt.senate.gov/media/press-releases/,scraper,"The past year has certainly been a memorable one—and, more importantly, a rewarding one.

Beginning the year by leading the Laken Riley Act through the Senate and to President Trump’s desk—and seeing it become the first bill he signed into law in his second term—was just the start of what we have accomplished for Alabamians and Americans alike. President Trump and Republicans campaigned on cracking down on illegal migration, and this legislation sent an immediate and unmistakable message to the nation: we intended to keep that promise.

Since then, in less than a year, border crossings have reached historic lows, and as a result, countless lives have been saved. Whether it’s stopping deadly fentanyl or violent criminals from crossing our border, the success in securing our nation is undeniable.

Another issue Republicans were tasked with cleaning up is an inherited economy plagued by record inflation, soaring grocery prices, and an energy industry in shambles. Under Republican leadership, significant strides have been made to restore affordability and economic stability, starting with unleashing American energy.

President Biden ended his term with the highest gas prices in our nation’s history. In less than a year, average gas prices dropped to their lowest level in more than four years. This didn’t happen by chance. Energy prices are finally lowering thanks to cutting government red tape and overturning Biden-era regulations that were suffocating our energy producers. This has resulted in lower energy costs, which are a critical first step to bring down prices across the board, namely groceries.

Making America energy dominant again is just one piece of the puzzle, though. Another landmark piece of legislation Republicans delivered was the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. This resulted in the largest tax cut in U.S. history, putting millions of Americans on track to keep more of their hard-earned money. Whether it’s a larger tax refund, no taxes on tips, no taxes on overtime, or Social Security relief for seniors, the benefits of this legislation will soon be felt by families across Alabama as our economy continues to rebound.

We achieved another historic win by updating child care tax credits. This priority was personal to me—before my children were old enough for school, we struggled to find child care that had two spots open. After finally securing care, we were shocked when it felt like we were writing checks to college, not child care. Experiencing the issue of both affordability and availability of childcare is what led me to be at the tip of the spear in fighting to modernize three child care tax credits.

We permanently increased the Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP) for the first time since 1986, when Ronald Reagan was President. Parents can now set aside up to $7,500, a 50% increase. We also permanently updated the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC), a provision that hadn’t been touched in over two decades. This change will directly cut taxes for nearly 4 million working families. Lastly, we gave the Employer-Provided Child Care Credit (45F) its first major upgrade in nearly 25 years – and made it permanent. This means more employers can help cover child care – a win for businesses and a lifeline for working parents.

Democrats had been talking about the issue of child care for decades, but it was Republicans who took action. Republicans are the party of families, and it’s paramount we continue to find ways to responsibly support them. While this was an important step, I will continue to fight for families and to find ways to address the affordability and availability of child care.

The results we have seen in D.C. have been matched by incredible results in Alabama. From the Shoals to the Shores, from the Wiregrass to Jackson County and everywhere in between—we put the needs of hardworking Alabamians front and center. This year, we celebrated the Port of Mobile becoming the deepest container port in the Gulf of America. We also secured tremendous commitments from businesses looking to expand their footprint across our state. In my first year in office, I secured funding to relaunch Tuskegee University’s aviation science program, and I was proud to join their community this year to celebrate the first students who received their pilot licenses.

And finally, we permanently relocated U.S. Space Command Headquarters to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville. Thanks to the work of Alabama’s entire congressional delegation and President Trump’s support, Space Command will now proudly call Alabama home. This relocation will bring thousands of jobs to our state and further strengthen Alabama’s vital role in our national defense.

While I am proud of what we’ve accomplished this year, I recognize there is still more work to be done. Whether it’s fixing Democrats’ health care crisis, taking on Big Tech and protecting our children online through meaningful social media legislation, or ensuring Alabama has the resources and tools it needs to thrive for generations to come, I will keep fighting every day for our state and nation.

Serving you remains one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I will continue to give you everything I have.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/29/senator-budd-issues-statement-after-cms-announces-213m-in-funding-for-north-carolinas-rural-hospitals/,Senator Budd Issues Statement After CMS Announces $213M+ in Funding for North Carolina’s Rural Hospitals,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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. — Earlier this month, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined members of the North Carolina congressional delegation in sending a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Dr. Mehmet Oz, expressing strong support for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Service’s (DHHS) Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) application. Today, CMS allocated $213,008,356 in funding for North Carolina’s rural hospitals, which was previously approved in the Working Families Tax Cut Act signed into law earlier this year.

In a statement following the announcement, Senator Budd said:

“North Carolina has the second-largest rural population in America, home to 7.6% of our nation’s rural residents. Today’s announcement by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of $213 million from the Rural Health Transformation Program will greatly benefit patients across our state. While I was proud to support the inclusion of this funding in the Working Families Tax Cut Act, it is unfortunate that the State’s application was not appropriately coordinated with federal officials and did not request funding levels that more accurately correlate with our significant rural population.”

Read the full text of the letter HERE and below.

Dear Administrator Oz:

As members of the North Carolina congressional delegation, we express our strong support for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) application. We respectfully request that you approve the application in full before the December 31 deadline. Approval will allow our state, which has three million rural residents across 85 counties—the second-largest rural population in the nation—to expand proven innovative models, foster sustainable innovation, and strengthen our rural workforce.

While our state’s application requested a funding amount equal to 2 percent of total RHTP dollars available, North Carolina accounts for 7.6 percent of the rural population nationwide, so we are requesting that CMS allocate additional dollars so that the total funding amount is proportional to the disproportionately large rural population in our state. Per existing Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidance, North Carolina applied the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) definition of rural, which excludes counties like Burke, Moore and Pitt, with respective populations of 88,000, 108,000 and 180,000, yet includes counties like Wake, which is a primarily urban county home to over 1.2 million residents. Moore, Pitt, and similar jurisdictions serve some of the most isolated patients living in the most rural and even remote areas, and we look forward to ensuring all our rural providers and patients receive funding commensurate with their level of need.

After applying on November 3, DHHS plans to allocate awarded funds through its Office of Rural Health (NCRHTP). A statewide steering committee, including Medicaid, Public Health, and Behavioral Health divisions, would guide implementation. The program allows sufficient flexibility for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to assign recipients. As population declines continue and rural hospitals increasingly rely on Medicaid, rural communities face ongoing healthcare and economic challenges, with gaps in access to care and quality. At least 24 counties lack adequate primary care, and 90 counties are designated mental health shortage areas. Since 2006, 12 rural hospitals have closed, with seven closures in eastern North Carolina.

An RHTP investment will improve health outcomes and access for nearly three million rural North Carolinians, advancing innovative care models, transforming the rural care experience, and creating a sustainable rural delivery system. By FY2031, NCRHTP aims to increase rural provider-to-population ratios, reduce preventable hospital readmissions and emergency visits, lower chronic disease risk factors, and expand access to integrated behavioral, mental health, and substance use services. Locally governed, community-tailored networks will connect medical, behavioral, and social services, making it easier for rural residents to access comprehensive care in one place.

Each hub is tailored to its region, offering in-person services, care coordination, and direct family support, while also leveraging virtual care and advanced AI to improve access and data sharing. These efforts will provide an opportunity to accelerate technological innovation, access, and interoperability through expanded health information exchange participation, digital literacy programs to ensure rural residents can access modern, connected care, and the broad implementation of state-of-the-art AI-based technology to support documentation and real-time expert clinical decision support to drive down business costs for rural providers and improve sustainability.

Approving North Carolina’s application for the RHTP will improve health outcomes and our economy, which relies on healthy communities to thrive. We are grateful for your full and fair consideration of this crucial award ahead of the December 31 deadline.

Sincerely,

/X/

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-applauds-historic-rural-health-care-investment-for-west-virginia,Capito Applauds Historic Rural Health Care Investment for West Virginia,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WV,Shelley Moore Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,capito,https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"CHARLESTON, W.Va. — U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today applauded the Trump administration’s announcement awarding nearly $200 million to West Virginia through the Rural Health Transformation Program, a historic initiative established by Republicans under the One Big Beautiful Bill, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

West Virginia will receive $199,476,099 as part of the largest federal investment in rural health care in American history—an initiative that every single Democrat voted against.

“For rural states like West Virginia, this historic investment is transformative, and it proves that President Trump and Republicans are delivering real results for rural America. In the crafting of this legislation that impacts every American, I was proud to help shape the Rural Health Transformation Program from the start and to support the Working Families Tax Cuts Act that made this funding possible. Today’s announcement means more West Virginians can access care, stronger rural hospitals, and a more sustainable health care future,” Senator Capito said.

BACKGROUND:

The Rural Health Transformation Program was authorized by the Working Families Tax Cuts Act and empowers states to strengthen rural communities across America by improving healthcare access, quality, and outcomes by transforming the healthcare delivery ecosystem. Through innovative system-wide change, the Rural Health Transformation Program invests in the rural healthcare delivery ecosystem for future generations.

Senator Capito played a significant role in the creation of the Rural Health Transformation Program and has long been a leading voice in Congress for strengthening rural health care systems. She also voted in favor of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which established this landmark investment.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-secures-over-19-5-million-to-improve-louisiana-roadway-safety-from-his-infrastructure-bill/,Cassidy Secures Over $19.5 Million to Improve Louisiana Roadway Safety from His Infrastructure Bill,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $19,517,973 in federal funding from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program. The funding will help communities across the state improve traffic safety, reduce serious injuries and fatalities, and make local roads safer for families, pedestrians, and first responders.

“Too many Louisiana families have had their lives changed forever by preventable traffic accidents,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding I secured is going directly to Louisiana communities to make our streets safer.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-190-million-for-maine-rural-hospitals-and-providers-through-rural-health-transformation-program,Senator Collins Announces $190 Million for Maine Rural Hospitals and Providers through Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that Maine will receive $190 million in first-year funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), a $50 billion initiative that will be awarded over five years that she proposed to support rural health care systems across the country. Maine’s population is the oldest of any state in the nation and is among the most rural, placing unique strains on its rural health care system.

“I proposed $50 billion in funding for the Rural Health Transformation Program to help give rural states like Maine the resources they need to keep health care available close to home,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will help strengthen our rural hospitals and support innovative approaches that can lower costs and improve health outcomes for Mainers no matter where they live. And while this investment will not solve every challenge facing our state’s rural health care system, it represents an important step toward improving access to care for individuals across rural Maine and comes at a time when many rural health care providers are facing significant financial hardship.”

The Rural Health Transformation Program represents the largest single federal investment in rural health care in more than two decades. Senator Collins proposed the funding during negotiations over amendments to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. She successfully pushed to expand the RHTP to $50 billion and ensure that a broader range of rural providers would be eligible for support, despite voting against the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is expected to distribute the $50 billion initiative in tranches of $10 billion over each of the next five years.

The State of Maine’s application for RHTP funding, submitted by the State with the support of the entire congressional delegation, focuses on five core priorities: empowering rural Mainers to achieve their own healthy living goals; strengthening the rural health workforce; adopting health-enabling technologies such as telehealth and electronic medical records; reducing financial and transportation-related barriers to care; and sustaining the long-term viability of Maine’s rural health care ecosystem.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-announces-281-million-for-texas-from-new-rural-health-transformation-program/,Cornyn Announces $281 Million for Texas from New Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement announcing that the Trump administration has allocated $281,319,361 for Texas from the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, which Sen. Cornyn supported as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts:

“I was proud to vote to create the new Rural Health Transformation Program to improve health care for the millions of Texans living in rural areas across the Lone Star State,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’m grateful to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Dr. Oz, and the Trump administration for allocating Texas this significant funding, which is yet another example of the Working Families Tax Cuts benefitting all Texans.”

Background:

Earlier this month, Sen. Cornyn and Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) led a letter with members of the Texas congressional delegation to Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Dr. Mehmet Oz, urging him to prioritize funding for the State of Texas. Sen. Cornyn also released a statement in support of Texas’ application in November.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/north-dakota-awarded-nearly-200-million-for-rural-health-transformation-plan,North Dakota Awarded Nearly $200 Million for Rural Health Transformation Plan,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – When Congress passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, it established the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) to strengthen rural health care by providing states funding to support innovation, expand access, and enhance quality of care.

The U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) announced the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services will receive $199 million in initial funding for its RHTP. North Dakota’s approved application includes a five-year plan to strengthen and stabilize its rural workforce, bring high quality health care closer to home, and confront immediate threats to rural health while building lasting sustainability.

“Rural hospitals are essential to the health and economic stability of their communities,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “The creation of this fund reflects a clear commitment by the Trump administration to prioritize rural healthcare and protect access to care where it is needed most. I look forward to this money getting to North Dakota and providing the support it was designed to deliver.”

“North Dakota is taking bold steps to restore health, opportunity, and dignity to our prairies,” the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services said in its application. “North Dakota’s RHTP delivers practical investments that honor local and tribal values, protect rural independence, and get America back to what matters: healthy people, prosperous communities, and common-sense service delivery.”

The unprecedented funding provides key opportunities for North Dakota’s rural health care systems:

Strengthens and Stabilizes Rural Health Workforce:

The funding allows rural hospitals in North Dakota to expand rural healthcare training programs, improve retention in rural and Tribal communities, and use technology as an extender for rural providers.

Makes North Dakota Healthy Again:

North Dakota’s RHTP initiatives support the launch of Eat Well ND to enhance nutrition education for North Dakotans, initiates ND Moves Together to provide education on the benefits of physical activity across the state and promotes connection and resilience to improve mental health with a focus on children.

Brings High-Quality Health Care Closer to Home:

The state’s five-year plan right-sizes rural healthcare delivery systems, enhances the telehealth and mobile clinic infrastructure; and expands community health worker and paramedic infrastructure, training, and certification. It ensures rural residents have access to transportation and develops care coordination programs with payers in the state for patients with chronic disease or behavioral health conditions.

Connects Tech, Data, and Providers for a Stronger North Dakota:

North Dakota’s application outlines key initiatives to gain efficiency with modern tech and data, including cooperative purchasing agreements for technology, regulatory and financial infrastructure, use of staff, and bulk purchasing of supplies and equipment.

It also summarizes plans to harness artificial intelligence to detect early signs of chronic disease and behavioral health conditions, expand the capacity of rural providers, and utilize new technology for rapid transport, automated prescription pickup kiosks, and laboratory capability to process self-collected specimens.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2025/12/29/icymi-daines-op-ed-2025-was-a-historic-year-for-montana/,ICYMI: Daines Op-Ed: 2025 Was a Historic Year for Montana,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines wrote an op-ed for the Bozeman Daily Chronicle recapping 2025’s historic wins for Montana. Read it below.

2025 Was a Historic Year for Montana

Bozeman Daily Chronicle

Senator Steve Daines

December 27th, 2025

2025 was a historic year for Montana. Tim Sheehy, a former Navy Seal, joined me in the U.S. Senate, along with Troy Downing and Ryan Zinke in the U.S. House.

Working together, we’ve made major strides advancing Montana priorities, from increasing our energy dominance, protecting our public lands, and supporting farmers, ranchers, veterans, and working families.

We now have a majority in the U.S. Senate, which allowed us to quickly confirm President Trump’s cabinet as well as excellent Montana candidates to serve us on the federal level — Kurt Alme to serve as our U.S. Attorney and Bill Mercer to serve as a district judge.

I worked around the clock with my colleagues in the Senate to implement the president’s agenda as quickly as possible. On Independence Day, I stood with President Trump at the White House as he signed the Working Families Tax Cut, which delivered the largest tax cuts in American history.

Montana families will see the effects in 2026, when their take-home pay is boosted by over $10,000 a year and there are no taxes on tips. The bill also included my provision to save the Bull Mountains Mine, which protects Montana’s energy dominance and saved over 300 good-paying Montana mining jobs.

And as a lifelong sportsman, protecting our public lands is one of my top priorities. That’s why I was proud to block a provision from being included in the bill that would have sold millions of acres of our public lands.

Thanks to President Trump’s leadership we’ve saved Montana energy. In addition to keeping the Bull Mountains Mine open, he also signed into law my bill to reverse a disastrous Biden administration anti-coal rule that would have blocked future coal leasing in eastern Montana and caused the loss of billions of dollars in revenue to our state.

Additionally, President Trump and his cabinet listened to the concerns of Montanans and reversed a Biden mandate that would’ve put the Colstrip Power Plant out of business.

One of my main priorities this year was supporting the Montana sportsmen and our great outdoors.

I worked closely with the administration to support our logging industry and ensure we can better fight catastrophic wildfires. I also introduced the “America the Beautiful Act,” which provides critical funding for our national parks and addresses maintenance backlogs, so that people can get outside and enjoy the great outdoors.

Additionally, I introduced a bill to expand access to our public lands for sportsmen and outdoor recreation.

I am also working hard to support our farmers and ranchers. Montana beef is the best in the world, and one of my main focuses this year was expanding market access for our farmers and ranchers.

I’m pushing for a robust Farm Bill that will support Montana ag and ensure Montana voices are represented, and worked hard to pass a permanent increase to the death tax exemption, which will allow family farms and ranches to pass their land down to future generations.

We’ve also made massive strides protecting life and family. In December, President Trump signed into law my bill, the BABES Enhancement Act, which makes it easier for moms and families to safely travel with breastmilk and formula. I’m working to protect women from the harmful abortion pill, which causes traumatic adverse effects at a rate 22 times higher than advertised.

Montana has the highest number of veterans per capita in the nation, so it’s critical they get the support and resources they deserve. This year I attended the Butte VA Clinic’s renaming ceremony, which honors Montana legend Charlie Dowd for his incredible legacy of service.

I also introduced bills to protect health care and pension benefits for veterans and their families. Lastly, I introduced a bill to honor fallen service members and keep national cemeteries open on federal holidays.

Finally, protecting Montana’s tribal communities remained at the forefront of 2025. I introduced a bill to combat drug trafficking in our tribes and also passed a resolution designating May 5 as National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

2025 has brought win after historic win for Montana and the nation. I’ll always work to support the needs of Montanans — from our veterans to our children, and from our farmers and ranchers to our loggers.

It’s my honor to serve you in the U.S. Senate and I look forward to what 2026 brings.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-shares-overview-of-his-2025-policy-and-oversight-achievements,Grassley Shares Overview of His 2025 Policy and Oversight Achievements,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is sharing an overview of his 2025 legislative and oversight work on behalf of Iowans.

“It’s an honor serving the people of Iowa every day. I’m happy to report that Senate Republicans made a great impact this year by preventing the largest tax increase in U.S. history and ending the Biden Border Crisis, providing American families with increased safety and prosperity. In 2026, I’ll continue my efforts to bring down costs for Iowans and make government more accountable and transparent. We’ve got more work to do to lower the price of prescription drugs, pass a five-year Farm Bill and root out wasteful spending. I encourage all Iowans to share their views with me while I continue working for them in Washington,” Grassley said.

Click HERE to read Grassley's 2025 Year in Review.

Table of Contents:

1 Welcome

Numbers to Know

2 Iowa: Number One in the Senate

HIStory Series

3 Every County, Every Year

4 Year One of Trump’s Second Term

5 Tax Cuts for Working Families

6 Advancing Iowa’s Clean Energy Future

7 Agriculture

Pushing for Year-Round, Nationwide E15

Lowering the High Cost of Fertilizer

Supporting Farm Aid

9 Health Care

Protecting Rural Health Care and Supporting Telehealth

Preserving and Strengthening Medicaid

Cracking down on Obamacare Fraud

Lowering Prescription Drug Prices through PBM Transparency

Caring for Rural Iowans

11 The Senate Judiciary Committee | Chairman Chuck Grassley

About the Committee

Ending the Biden Border Crisis

Supporting the American Workforce

Putting President Trump’s Team in Place

Lifetime Judicial Appointments

Breaking Through the Partisan Blockade

Fighting Unconstitutional Judicial Overreach

Keeping an Eye on the Courts

Restoring Law and Order

Delivering for American Communities

Combating Organized Retail Crime

Halting the Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl

Safeguarding Children

17 Transparency Brings Accountability

18 Arctic Frost: A Scandal Worse than Watergate

19 Standing Strong at Home and Abroad

-30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-welcomes-historic-investment-in-iowa-rural-health-care-from-republicans-working-family-tax-cuts-law,Grassley Welcomes Historic Investment in Iowa Rural Health Care from Republicans’ Working Family Tax Cuts Law,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, welcomed news from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that Iowa will receive $209,040,064 in Fiscal Year 2026 from the Rural Health Transformation Fund to boost hospitals, nursing homes, community health centers and other rural providers.

“Senate Republicans fought hard to ensure our Working Family Tax Cuts Law included significant funding for rural communities. I was proud to help craft this legislation that provides the largest federal investment in rural health care in history. It’s fantastic news that Iowa will receive $209 million in the next year to support its Healthy Hometowns program and revitalize rural care across the state. I thank Governor Reynolds and her team for working with my office and our congressional delegation to make this substantial investment in Iowa health care,” Grassley said.

Background:

The rural health care funding comes from the Grassley-backed Working Family Tax Cuts law, titled the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. In addition to preventing the largest tax increase in history and providing major investments in border security and law enforcement, the law includes a historic investment in rural health care.

Last month, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the state had submitted its “Healthy Hometowns” application for a portion of the law’s funding. Iowa’s plan is aimed at building a high-quality, sustainable system of care that improves the health, well-being and quality of life in rural communities across the state.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-north-dakota-awarded-nearly-200-million-from-one-big-beautiful-bill-rural-health-transformation-fund,Hoeven: North Dakota Awarded Nearly $200 Million From One Big Beautiful Bill Rural Health Transformation Fund,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: North Dakota Awarded Nearly $200 Million From One Big Beautiful Bill Rural Health Transformation Fund

State Receiving Initial Funds for FY26, Expected to Receive $500 Million Over Five Years

BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today announced North Dakota will receive more than $198 million from the One Big Beautiful Bill’s (OB3) Rural Health Transformation Fund for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. The state is expected to receive a total of $500 million over five years to improve health care quality and access in rural areas, using the funds to:

Build and retain a rural health workforce.

Prevent chronic disease and reduce costs.

Leverage telehealth and care coordination to bring health care closer to home, while improving the timeliness of care.

Hoeven worked to support the state as it developed its application for the program, which was submitted in November. A summary of North Dakota’s application can be found here.

“This nearly $200 million award is a tremendous step toward implementing North Dakota’s plan for creating a more accessible and robust health care system for our rural communities,” said Hoeven. “With nearly $500 million expected to be awarded to the state over the next five years, these funds will help address staffing needs over the long-term, open up new care opportunities for local residents and improve efficiency to reduce providers’ costs. Through efforts like these, we can improve the health and well-being of North Dakotans across our state and support the continued resiliency of our rural communities.”

As chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven has worked to empower local communities to better meet their health care needs. This includes leveraging Rural Development loans and Critical Access Hospital (CAH) reimbursement to build state-of-the-art hospitals in communities like Rugby, Grafton and Hazen and improve health care access in those regions. Hoeven also advanced a multi-year effort to ensure the best possible health care for the residents of the Devils Lake region. This resulted in the agreement between Altru and CommonSpirit Health for Altru to acquire Devils Lake Hospital, benefiting both patients and health care providers.

-###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=23E19F2B-B66D-4C93-BA00-907571B2B5F2,McConnell Helps Secure More Than $212 Million in Federal Funding for Kentucky Rural Hospitals,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KY,Mitch McConnell,M000355,www.mcconnell.senate.gov,mcconnell,https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today that the Commonwealth of Kentucky has been awarded $212,905,591 in federal funds for investment in rural healthcare.

The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services will receive funding from the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program which was authorized by the Working Families Tax Cuts Act that Senator McConnell voted in support of. The federal funding distributed this year to Kentucky will be directed toward rural hospitals and will be used in a variety of ways approved by statute.

“This significant investment in healthcare is a major win for Kentucky’s rural hospitals and providers,” said Senator McConnnell. “I was proud to help secure the Rural Health Transformation fund in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act that Congress passed earlier this year. This legislation helped strengthen safety nets for Kentuckians most in need and works toward a more sustainable and innovative healthcare system in rural areas throughout our country and the Commonwealth.”

This federal program was established to help implement structural reforms to failing rural healthcare systems in place of prior temporary patches. The main goals of the program include sustainable access to care, workforce development, innovative care, and innovation in technology to promote healthy lifestyles for Americans. The federal funding will be allocated to approved states over five years. All 50 states were eligible to apply for funding from the RHT, and half of the funds will be distributed equally to approved states while the other half will be allocated based on state metrics and applications to maximize impact as well as address needs.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=C379D510-3516-412F-943B-FC5C0D7BE2D7,Sen. Moran Applauds $222 Million for Kansas Rural Hospitals from First Year of CMS Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today applauded the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announcement that Kansas will receive $222 million for the first year of the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. This allotment will be awarded for 2026, the first year of the five-year program. The RHT was created in the Reconciliation Bill to direct CMS to work with states to identify the root challenges facing rural health providers and invest in solutions to improve outcomes for struggling providers.

“The Rural Health Transformation Program is a significant investment in rural health care and will help improve outcomes for struggling hospitals, invest in new technology and bolster rural communities,” said Sen. Moran. “I worked with my colleagues to establish this fund, and these resources will now be tailored to meet the individual needs of rural health care in each state with no match required by the state. I look forward to working with our health care leaders and state leaders to make certain Kansas providers are able to use these resources to improve the long-term success of rural providers.”

Sen. Moran helped establish the rural provider fund as a part of the Reconciliation Bill, which was signed into law by the President on July 4. On July 3, Sen. Moran joined a town hall with more than 100 Kansas hospital leaders to outline changes made in the Reconciliation Bill for rural hospitals specifically, highlighting the Rural Health Transformation Program.

Items to note:

Funds from the RHT program will be allocated to approved states over five years, with $10 billion available each year from Fiscal Year 2026 through Fiscal Year 2030.

Kansas will receive one of the highest amounts from the RHT program, exceeded by only five other states.

The funding requires no state match; it is a federal-only investment aimed at helping to improve outcomes for struggling healthcare providers.

This is a one-time application with no renewal required, making certain states and providers have access to the funding over the next five years without needing to reapply.

In collaboration with CMS, states submitted detailed rural health transformation plans for improving access to care. CMS will monitor implementation in order to make certain resources are being targeted to best support struggling providers and improve health outcomes in rural communities.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-on-rural-health-transformation-fund-alaska-has-an-extraordinary-opportunity,Murkowski on Rural Health Transformation Fund: “Alaska has an extraordinary opportunity.”,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,murkowski,https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/press-releases?PageNum_rs=3,scraper,"Anchorage, AK – The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today announced awards under the Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion initiative established through the reconciliation bill. U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) highlighted the opportunity presented to Alaska’s rural health care system through the newly expanded fund, which will deliver $272 million per year to Alaska for the next five years.

“During the reconciliation negotiations, protecting health care access for rural communities in Alaska and across the country was my top priority,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “As one of the lead advocates to double the Rural Health Transformation Fund from $25 billion to $50 billion, I was intent on ensuring our rural providers had the resources to adapt, innovate, and continue to deliver care in challenging environments like ours. In addition to the funding, I fought for key provisions, including exemptions for Tribal members from SNAP and Medicaid work requirements and greater flexibility for states like Alaska to exempt regions with limited job availability. These safeguards will matter just as much as the funding. Taken together, they position Alaska well for the future and recognize the realities facing our rural and remote communities. We have an extraordinary opportunity in front of us, and I’m committed to working with our partners in the state to seize it.”

Background:

The Rural Health Transformation Fund was conceived during negotiations on H.R. 1. The fund provides $50 billion nationwide over five years (FY 2026–2031), including a $100 million per-state base allocation each year. Alaska will receive $272 million annually—totaling $1.36 billion over five years—to support rural health care priorities such as maternal and child health, access to essential services, preventive care, workforce recruitment and retention, and health care technology. Senator Murkowski’s negotiations directly led to the doubling of the fund from $25 billion to $50 billion.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/sen-tim-scott-applauds-200-million-rural-health-care-investment-for-south-carolina/,Sen. Tim Scott Applauds $200 Million Rural Health Care Investment for South Carolina,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"CHARLESTON, S.C. — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) today released the following statement on the Trump administration’s announcement that South Carolina will receive more than $200 million through the Rural Health Transformation Program:

“Access to health care should not be determined by one’s ZIP code. The $50 billion investment in rural health care established through the Working Families Tax Cut, which was advanced by Republican Members of Congress and signed into law by President Trump, demonstrates our commitment to improving life for every American,” said Sen. Scott. “I was proud to champion this historic funding that will benefit South Carolinians by ensuring rural families in the Palmetto State and nationwide have access to life-saving care closer to home.”

The Working Families Tax Cut authorized the Rural Health Transformation Program, and all 50 states will benefit from the $50 billion initiative, marking the largest federal investment in rural health care in American history.

The funds allocated to South Carolina will support initiatives such as expanding telehealth and improving chronic disease management, including Sickle Cell Disease, both issues that Sen. Scott has long championed.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.sullivan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sullivan-welcomes-272-million-investment-in-alaskas-health-care-system,Sullivan Welcomes $272 Million Investment in Alaska’s Health Care System,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AK,Dan Sullivan,S001198,www.sullivan.senate.gov,sullivan,https://www.sullivan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases?PageNum_rs=2,scraper,"ANCHORAGE, ALASKA—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) today welcomed a $272 million award from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to strengthen Alaska’s health care system, the first of five annual awards for Alaska under the five-year Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). Sen. Sullivan was one of the lead authors of the $50 billion fund in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, the budget reconciliation bill signed into law in July, that established the RHTP. The program is intended to help states expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize rural facilities and technology, and support innovative models that bring high-quality, dependable care closer to home.

Sen. Sullivan announced the award at a press conference today in Anchorage alongside Governor Mike Dunleavy (R-Alaska), Congressman Nick Begich (R-Alaska), and Alaska Health Commissioner Heidi Hedberg.

“This is the biggest investment in rural health care in American history, and certainly the largest investment in Alaska’s health care system from the federal government in our state’s history,” said Sen. Sullivan. “The $272 million per year that Alaska will receive for five years—nearly $1.4 billion from the federal government—is a generational opportunity to transform our health care system. It gives our communities, state officials, and the Legislature the opportunity and freedom to design a health care system that reflects Alaska’s unique needs. This is the opposite of the one-size-fits-all approach we too often see from Washington, DC. This funding will help keep care closer to home, reduce the need for costly and disruptive travel, strengthen rural clinics, and stabilize our health care workforce. With the application the Dunleavy administration put forth, this award is an example of the power of local, tribal and state leaders, and our federal delegation—all the stakeholders—working together to get results for Alaskans.”

According to CMS, the funding will be used by states to implement comprehensive strategies to improve care delivery, support providers, and advance new approaches to coordinating health care services across rural communities. Five key areas of focus for the program include:

Bringing more care within reach

Strengthening and sustaining the rural clinical workforce

Modernizing rural health infrastructure and technology

Driving structural efficiency and empowering community providers

Advancing innovative care models and payment reform

Below is a timeline of Sen. Sullivan’s work on the Rural Health Transformation Program.

During the first few months of 2025, Senate Republicans began working with the Trump administration on their legislative priorities to be included in a budget reconciliation bill.

Among many other important priorities for Alaska, Sen. Sullivan initially secured a 25 percent increase in Alaska’s Medicaid Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) in the bill to better reflect the state’s high cost of living and high cost of health care delivery. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the change would’ve permanently generated more than an additional $200 million in increased annual federal Medicaid dollars for Alaska.

During the final stages of debate on the bill, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senate Democrats challenged Sen. Sullivan’s FMAP provision by arguing to the parliamentarian of the Senate that it violated budget reconciliation rules. Following this review, the parliamentarian advised that the provision violated the requirements of the “Byrd Rule,” resulting in its removal.

It was disappointing that Sen. Schumer and Senate Democrats cut the estimated $200 million in increased annual Medicaid funding for Alaska, but Sen. Sullivan and his team quickly pivoted to another solution—shaping the formula for the Rural Health Transformation Fund to better address Alaska’s unique needs, doubling the fund’s overall size to $50 billion, and moving up the program’s start date to 2026.

On July 1, 2025, the Senate passed the budget reconciliation bill. On July 4, 2025, the legislation was signed into law.

On September 15, 2025, CMS unveiled details on how states could apply to receive funding from the RHTP. The State of Alaska then crafted an application with a plan for transforming Alaska’s health care system.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://hamadeh.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=360,Congressman Hamadeh Announces Winners of the Eighth Congressional District’s 2025 App Challenge,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,AZ,Abraham J. Hamadeh,H001098,hamadeh.house.gov,hamadeh,https://hamadeh.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) is proud to announce the winners of the Eighth Congressional District's 2025 Congressional App Challenge. The winning App, ""Chronos,"" was developed by Vignesh Nagarajan and Raghav Senthil Kumar, both are 12th grade students at BASIS High School.

A smart scheduler, ""Chronos"" is an App designed to pull together Google Calendar, Outlook, Apple Calendar, etc., and instantly finds times that work for all meeting invitees, no matter what platform they use or time zone they are operating in. It then books the meeting on all calendars automatically.

“I am so proud of young coders and developers, like Vignesh and Raghav, who are sharing their talents and skills to better people's lives,"" stated Congressman Hamadeh. ""Their willingness to share their creativity and coding skills embody the very spirit of what it means to serve this great nation.”

The “Chronos” App will be displayed in the United States Capitol Building and featured on the House of Representatives’ website, House.gov. Vignesh and Raghav have also earned an invitation to the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill Reception in Washington, D.C.

The Congressional App Challenge’s mission is to inspire, include, and innovate efforts around STEM, coding, and computer science education.

Background:

The Congressional App Challenge is an initiative of the U.S. House of Representatives, and the most prestigious prize in student computer science. Members of Congress can host district-wide contests for students in middle school and high school.

The Challenge accepts computer programs written in any programming language, for any computer-based platform.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z
https://www.britt.senate.gov/news/press-releases/u-s-senator-katie-britt-joins-cnns-state-of-the-union-to-discuss-protecting-minors-from-the-growing-threat-of-big-tech-ai/,"U.S. Senator Katie Britt Joins CNN’s State of the Union to Discuss Protecting Minors from the Growing Threat of Big Tech, AI",2025-12-28,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Katie Boyd Britt,B001319,www.britt.senate.gov,britt,https://www.britt.senate.gov/media/press-releases/,scraper,"‘How many parents … are going to have to come and tell us a devastating story before we actually pass legislation?’

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined CNN’s Jake Tapper on a special edition of State of the Union, which focused on the growing threat of Big Tech and artificial intelligence (AI).

On raising teenagers in the age of social media and AI:

“I often say I don’t have to ask people what it’s like to raise kids right now, I am living it. We have two teenagers … 15 and 16. And so when you come with that perspective, you know that there are parents out there that are looking for tools to help keep their children safe. Also, when you look at both social media and technology and how fast everything is moving, it’s truly hard to keep up … So I think if we think about all of those things and what our kids are dealing with right now, it is imperative that we put up guardrails, especially when you’re looking at AI.”

On the harms of AI chatbots and the GUARD Act, legislation that would put guardrails around chatbots for minors:

“I have met with a number of parents who have told me devastating stories about their children, where chatbots ultimately … had isolated them from their parents, had talked to them about suicide, had talked to them about a number of things. And you think about this: If these AI companies can make the most brilliant machines in the world, they could do us all a service by putting up proper guardrails that did not allow for minors to utilize these things … And that’s one thing that this legislation does.”

On Big Tech and Congress’s failure to deliver solutions and protect American families:

“I mean, truly enough is enough. I mean, I also want to say: How long is it going to take Congress to actually act? … We’ve been talking about this for years. How many parents like the one that we just heard from are going to have to come and tell us a devastating story before we actually pass legislation? The truth is (that) these AI companies can absolutely do much of this on their own. But we know consistently, time and time again, whether it’s been social media companies or now some of the AI space that we consistently see people putting their profits over actual people …

“I want to elevate this topic for parents from coast to coast. [Congress is] not doing enough to put up guardrails. I mean, you and I did not grow up with front facing cameras … If these things were happening in a storefront on a main street in Alabama, we would shut that store down … So I am disappointed and will continue to push, because I think the time to act for Congress is now … People are over it, and we’re over people going to DC and just dragging their feet and coming up with an excuse. Get in a room and let’s figure out a pathway forward. That’s certainly what I’m committed to doing.”

Senator Britt has been a leader on reining in Big Tech and social media companies and a champion for children’s safety online since she came to Congress. She has led a number of bipartisan pieces of legislation, including the Stop the Scroll Act and Kids Off Social Media Act, both of which would set critical guardrails on social media platforms and companies.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=415219,Chairman Smith on President Trump’s decisive action to strike ISIS encampments in Nigeria,2025-12-27,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher H. Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,chrissmith,https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), the Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee issued the following statement after the U.S. military’s coordinated strikes on ISIS settlements in northwestern Nigeria:

“President Trump’s decisive action reflects the United States’ unyielding commitment to standing up to the Nigerian terrorists, who have been murdering, raping, torturing and violently harassing Christians and non-radical Muslims in the region for decades.

“Coordinated under Secretary Pete Hegseth, the limited precision airstrikes against Islamist terrorists in Nigeria clearly demonstrate that violent actions against Christians and other religious groups have profound consequences.

“The strikes also put the radical Islamist terrorists in Nigeria on notice that the United States will never condone or turn a blind eye to religious persecution and violence.

“Significantly, the U.S. Department of State and Nigeria on December 19 signed a five-year bilateral America First Global Health Strategy, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen Nigeria’s health system with a strong emphasis on promoting Christian faith-based healthcare providers. The U.S. intends to commit $2.1 billion in health assistance in the combined investment of nearly $5.1 billion over the life of the MOU.

“According to State, ‘The MOU was negotiated in connection with reforms the Nigerian government has made to prioritize protecting Christian populations from violence….’ Additionally, it was announced that the Trump Administration ‘expects Nigeria to continue to make progress ensuring that it combats extremist religious violence against vulnerable Christian populations.’

“In October, I and many of my colleagues applauded President Trump and welcomed his declaration of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ based on the religious persecution of Christians in that country.

“I then chaired a hearing entitled, ‘President Trump’s Redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern”: A Serious, Well-Founded Wake-Up Call,’ at which key State Department officials made it clear that the Trump administration was working tirelessly to ensure that human rights and religious freedom remain central to our bilateral relationship with Nigeria.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-bill-help-natural-disaster-victims-tax-filing-signed-law,Murphy Bill to Help Natural Disaster Victims with Tax Filing Signed into Law,2025-12-27,2025,2025-12,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., issued the following statement after his bill, the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act, was signed into law.

""Disaster victims endure unimaginable challenges as they work to rebuild their lives,"" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D.""The last thing they should worry about is navigating confusing IRS filing requirements. The Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act provides individuals with sufficient time to claim tax refunds or credits while ensuring clear communication from the IRS to prevent unnecessary penalties or interest. I am grateful to President Trump for signing my bill into law to bring meaningful reform. I am also very appreciative of Chairman Smith for his leadership on the Ways and Means Committee and the unanimous, bipartisan support the bill received in Congress.""

Background

Under current law, taxpayers are afforded a “lookback period” of up to three years to claim credits or refunds. Unfortunately, the lookback period does not take into account filers who may have postponed their filing due to a disaster declaration.

This bill ensures that victims of disasters have additional time to claim any missed credits or refunds.

Separately, the IRS issues a ""notice and demand"" to inform filers of any payments they may owe by the original deadline but wait until the postponed deadline to make a payment. This creates unnecessary confusion and stress for disaster victims.

This legislation requires the IRS to extend the claim deadline and postponed filing deadline together, as well as tie the deadline for mailing a ""notice and demand"" to the postponed filing deadline for those who filed prior to the postponed deadline.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-passing-of-jeffrey-holland,Crapo Statement on Passing of Jeffrey Holland,2025-12-27,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement on the passing of Jeffrey R. Holland, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:

“I join other members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in mourning the loss of President Jeffrey R. Holland. Known for his empathetic love and care for others, President Holland embodied a Christ-like spirit of generosity. His more than 30 years of service in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spread the gospel far and wide, inviting others to know the unrelenting love of Christ here on earth.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/icymi-an-iowans-advice-after-70-years-of-parenting,ICYMI: An Iowan’s Advice After 70 Years of Parenting,2025-12-27,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"An Iowan’s Advice After 70 Years of Parenting

By Senator Chuck Grassley

December 26, 2025

Wall Street Journal

Last weekend I encouraged everyone to read Rahm Emanuel’s op-ed “Lessons From Modern Parenthood” (Dec. 20). He’s a Democrat, and I’m a Republican, but his advice is sound for moms and dads of any stripe. Kudos to him for speaking up on a consequential issue on many Americans’ minds.

After years of policymaking and parenting, I agree that there’s no “secret sauce” to raising a family. Good parenting isn’t partisan. My wife of 71 years and I agree with the Emanuels on the ritual of eating together as a family. The conversations around the table in my own childhood are seared in my memory—they prompted an interest in government that turned into my vocation.

When our five kids were growing up, I can’t pretend I was at every meal. I give Barbara credit for serving as commander in chief of our household, acting as mom, homework-helper, chore-taskmaster and more when I was in Washington. Yet there was no daylight between us in our approach to parenthood. We taught our kids to work hard and live by the Golden Rule. Farm chores and school work didn’t leave much time to waste on television.

Raising kids today comes with new challenges, but the fundamentals haven’t changed. Our advice: Stick your nose in their business and keep strict boundaries. The internet poses risks beyond idleness and harm to mental health. Nefarious predators are targeting children with all manner of schemes.

As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I’m leading bipartisan efforts with Sen. Dick Durbin (D., Ill.) to combat online child exploitation and keep the next generation safe. Our reforms will help deter bad actors by revamping federal sentencing laws, targeting online criminal networks and cracking down on offenders who use child sex-abuse material to extort and coerce children.

Having and raising children is our nation’s most important work. Parents deserve to feel empowered, to be assured that Washington is an ally.

Barbara and I didn’t fall into helicopter- or tiger-parenting categories. Our Midwestern philosophy was handed down from our parents: Have faith in God and yourself; don’t worry about failure—it yields resilience—and remember that love guarantees you a permanent seat at the supper table.

Sen. Chuck Grassley (R., Iowa)",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/trump-signs-into-law-lummis-bill-reauthorizing-congressional-awards-program/,Trump Signs Into Law Lummis Bill Reauthorizing Congressional Awards Program,2025-12-27,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Cheyenne, WY — U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement after President Trump signed her Congressional Award Program Reauthorization Act into law, continuing this vital program that encourages young Americans to achieve their personal goals and give back to their communities. The Congressional Award is the highest honor bestowed by Congress to young Americans aged 14 to 24. This reauthorizes the board that administers the Congressional Award Program through FY2028.

“I am thrilled that President Trump has signed my bipartisan legislation into law, ensuring the Congressional Award will continue empowering young Americans through FY2028,” said Lummis.“Wyoming holds a special connection to this program– it was our own Senator Malcolm Wallop who helped establish the Congressional Award in 1979, creating a legacy that has inspired generations of youth to embrace service, personal growth, and civic responsibility. For more than forty years, this program has shaped the character of countless young people across our nation, and I am proud to see this Wyoming tradition flourish. This continued investment in America’s youth will help develop the leaders our country needs for tomorrow.”

About the Congressional Award Program:

– As the United States Congress’ only non-profit and highest honor for youth civilians, the Congressional Award program was started by late Wyoming Senator Malcolm Wallop in 1979, and Senator Lummis is proud to carry on his legacy by serving on the national board of directors.

– To achieve a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Congressional Award Certificate or Medal, each participant sets and achieves challenging goals in four program areas: voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition/exploration.

– Medals are presented by members of the House and Senate, with the Gold Medal Ceremony/Summit taking place each June at a Ceremony in the U.S. Capitol.

– The Congressional Award is a public-private partnership.

– Although created by Congress, the Congressional Award program is funded entirely through private-sector donations.

– Congress provides in-kind support, including office space, the medals from the U.S. Mint and the audit oversight by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

– There are currently more than 50,000 youth enrolled throughout the country and reside in every congressional district.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2841,Bacon Announces $10 Million Grant for Eppley Airfield Expansion,2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Thanks Senator Fischer and Eppley Leaders for Collaboration

Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) announced today that Eppley Airfield has secured a $10 million FY26 Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) for reconstructing 35,000 square feet of the existing terminal, including the concourse and security checkpoint, arrival/departure gates, and international gates that have reached the end of their useful lives. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction of the pedestrian walkway.

Throughout his Congressional career, Rep. Bacon has made improvements to Eppley Airfield one of his top priorities, helping secure more than $94.1 million through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and other funding sources. These investments expand flight capacity and inspection areas while streamlining the check-in and TSA processes for travelers and increasing possible international flights.

“It has been thrilling to see the airport expansion construction take place and realize how much this will add to Omaha’s “entrance,” said Rep. Bacon. “This expansion will enable Eppley to meet the travel needs of the growing metropolitan Omaha area and welcome international flights. This transformation will shape our region’s future for many decades to come and will be vital for Omaha's economy. I'm pleased to work with the leaders at Eppley and Sen. Fischer in creating what will become the best airport in the Midwest.”

“Eppley Airport is a critical gateway connecting Nebraskans to the rest of the country and the world. With this funding I secured alongside Rep. Bacon, we’re expanding Eppley’s global reach and strengthening Nebraska’s economy,” said Sen. Fischer.

“The Omaha Airport Authority was pleased to be notified by Congressman Bacon’s office that Eppley Airfield will be receiving a grant for the Build OMA Terminal Modernization Program. We are happy to be the recipient of $10 million in Federal Aviation Administration funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said Dave Roth, Chief Executive Officer of the Omaha Airport Authority. “This grant funding will create benefits for travelers from Omaha and throughout Nebraska. The funds will support continued improvements at Eppley Airfield including increased capacity, improved throughput, and an enhanced customer experience for decades to come.”

Rep. Bacon also announced an Airport Improvement Program grant for the Wahoo Municipal Airport of $382,000 to construct a new 11,000 square foot sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage/maintenance to assist the airport to be as self-sustaining as possible by generating revenue. This project is allowable under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's expanded eligibility. This grant funds a portion of the final phase, which consists of construction.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://begich.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-begich-celebrates-presidential-signing-alaska-native-vietnam-era,Congressman Begich Celebrates Presidential Signing of Alaska Native Vietnam Era Veterans Land Allotment Extension Act,2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,AK,Nicholas J. Begich III,B001323,begich.house.gov,begich,https://begich.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Dec. 26, 2025 – Today, Congressman Nick Begich released the following statement after legislation he authored to extend the Alaska Native Vietnam Era Veterans Land Allotment program was signed into law:

“Today, President Trump signed the Alaska Native Vietnam Era Veterans Land Allotment Extension Act into law. With the President’s signature, we are fulfilling a decades-old promise to Alaska Native Vietnam-era Veterans who were logistically prevented from accessing land allotment opportunities for Alaska natives made available during their military service overseas. Under the Biden Administration, selections were slow-rolled or denied, preventing veterans and their families from receiving these lands. Thank you to Senator Dan Sullivan for his work in the Senate getting this across the finish line before the end of 2025 and for championing this issue for many years. I’m proud of the work we’ve done to extend this vital program.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://harris.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-harris-announces-240000-grant-talbot-county-roadway-safety-plan,"Congressman Harris Announces $240,000 Grant for Talbot County Roadway Safety Plan",2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MD,Andy Harris,H001052,harris.house.gov,harris,https://harris.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) announced a $240,000 U.S. Department of Transportation Safe Streets and Roads for All grant awarded to Talbot County to develop a comprehensive Safety Action Plan to help reduce roadway fatalities and serious injuries.

This funding will help Talbot County analyze local crash trends, gather input from residents and community partners, and work with transportation experts to identify the most urgent safety needs. The resulting countywide Safety Action Plan will outline priority projects, estimated costs, timelines, and measurable goals to reduce serious crashes and improve roadway safety across the county. It will also strengthen Talbot County’s ability to pursue future federal funding for roadway safety upgrades.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

""This is an important investment in public safety for Talbot County and the Eastern Shore. Communities across my district rely on safe, reliable roads, and this grant will strengthen local planning, support smarter infrastructure decisions, and ultimately help save lives. I thank the U.S. Department of Transportation for awarding this grant and recognizing the importance of improving roadway safety in Talbot County.""

For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.britt.senate.gov/news/press-releases/u-s-senator-katie-britt-urges-epa-to-prioritize-national-emission-standards-for-lime-manufacturing/,U.S. Senator Katie Britt Urges EPA to Prioritize National Emission Standards for Lime Manufacturing,2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Katie Boyd Britt,B001319,www.britt.senate.gov,britt,https://www.britt.senate.gov/media/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) recently sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin urging the EPA to prioritize the reconsideration of the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Lime Manufacturing Plants (Lime NESHAP).

Despite low levels of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) emitted by lime plants, the Biden Administration EPA finalized a new set of regulations with which the lime industry must comply. The regulations include four strict emissions standards that would cost the industry $2 billion—the lime industry’s annual revenue totals $2.3 billion.

“I ask you to continue your crucial work reconsidering yet another disastrous Biden-era rulemaking that would stunt the capability of our domestic lime manufacturing industry and negatively impact downstream industrial end-users. Lime is manufactured in 20 States and is an important component in steel production, energy production, delivering safe drinking water, road building, and wastewater treatment,” wrote the Senator.

She continued, “According to EPA’s own regulatory impact analysis, the rule would impose more than $2 billion in costs on an industry that generates just $2.3 billion in annual revenue.’ Despite this, the agency was unable to identify any quantifiable monetized benefits associated with the rule. The EPA has repeatedly acknowledged that the rule is unnecessary as emissions from the lime industry are already within acceptable limits, posing no threat to human health or the environment.”

“I urge you to establish a workable rule with feasible standards and ensure that manufacturers do not have to make costly and unnecessary efforts to comply with a rule that produces no quantifiable public health benefits,” Senator Britt concluded.

Alabama is one of the top lime-producing states in the U.S. In fiscal year 2024, approximately 28.5 million tons of limestone were produced in Alabama. Additionally, it is estimated that 20% of total lime production in the U.S. takes place in Shelby County, Ala., alone.

Read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cramer-announces-2025-service-academy-nominees,Senator Cramer Announces 2025 Service Academy Nominees,2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, announced his nominees to the U.S. service academies:

“One of the great joys of serving North Dakota in Congress is nominating some of our best young patriots for appointments to our service academies,” said Cramer. “After visiting with Cormac and Oliver, I am honored and grateful they are willing to answer the call to serve. They will be great ambassadors of our state.”

The nominees are as follows:

Cormac Dunnick – U.S. Military Academy (West Point). Cormac, son of Ev and Kendra Dunnick, competes in basketball and trapshooting. He is a member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and enjoys hunting, weight-lifting, and golf. Cormac is from Grand Forks and attends Red River High School.

Oliver Schaefer – U.S. Air Force Academy. Oliver, son of Mark and Kristi Schaefer, competes in track and field and cross country. He volunteers for the Serenity Therapeutic Equine Program and enjoys reading, military history, and board games. Oliver is from Minot and attends Des Lacs Burlington High School.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=4DA43F2D-C747-4AE0-A481-A224962CFDFF,"Sens. Moran, Cortez Masto Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen America’s Energy Supply Chain",2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen America’s energy supply chain, reducing the risk of dangerous power outages and helping to meet increasing energy demand. The Electric Supply Chain Act would require the Secretary of Energy to conduct regular assessments of electric consumption trends and vulnerabilities in the electric energy supply chain, which includes distribution lines, transformers and other equipment required to connect energy generators to energy consumers.

“Demand for energy is continuing to grow in Kansas and across the country as power needs increase for housing, business and transportation,” said Sen. Moran. “As demand for energy expands, so does the importance of securing our energy supply chains. It is critical that the Department of Energy is tracking trends in our nation’s energy consumption to recognize vulnerabilities and protect national energy security.”

“Nevada’s electric grid is experiencing unprecedented levels of demand,” said Sen. Cortez Masto. “It is our responsibility to help ensure that our supply chains are secure and capable of meeting growing energy demand to prevent power outages or other disruptions to daily life. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will ensure the Department of Energy is collecting information needed to keep electricity flowing throughout the country.”

The legislation would require the Department of Energy to conduct regular reviews of the electric energy supply chain with the following information:

Efforts and opportunities to strengthen, secure and supply electric energy supply chains;

Any trends, risks and vulnerabilities in the supply, demand and availability of components for or related to transmitting electricity;

National security and energy security considerations for strengthening, securing and expanding such supply chains;

Barriers to expanding and manufacturing transmission components and the processing of critical minerals;

Domestic policies that would prevent greater investment into such supply chains;

Workforce challenges impacting such supply chains; and

Recommendations to address the above challenges and risks to the electric energy supply chain.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

Similar legislation led by Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH-05) recently passed the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation is endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM); National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO); Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE); and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).

“Manufacturers thank Senator Cortez Masto and Senator Moran for introducing the Senate companion to the Electric Supply Chain Act,” said Chris Phalen, NAM Vice President of Domestic Policy. “Their leadership underscores the bipartisan commitment to strengthening America’s competitiveness and keeping our economy growing. Manufacturers are making significant investments in the domestic production of components that are helping to maintain and modernize our grid, and this bill will help ensure those efforts are matched by smart federal oversight and strategic insight. We urge the Senate to continue this momentum and advance this legislation as part of the broader push for comprehensive permitting reform and grid modernization that will strengthen America’s energy and AI dominance.”

“America’s grid is foundational to reindustrializing our economy and advancing U.S. leadership in twenty-first century technologies,” said Avery Ash, SAFE CEO. “Energy-intensive industries are central to American global competitiveness, including critical mineral processing, smelting, automotive manufacturing, and AI computing. The analysis required by this bill will be valuable in enabling strategies to secure our grid component supply chains from foreign adversaries and expand our grid to meet future electricity demand.”

“The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) applauds Senators Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) for their introduction of the Electric Supply Chain Act, marking a swift and encouraging response to House passage of the bill earlier this month,” said Peter Ferrell, NEMA Senior Director of Government Relations. “By requiring regular reports on the grid and its supply chains from the U.S. Department of Energy, this bill enables government and private sector partners to undertake more efficient and effective actions that will improve the reliability and affordability of the grid. NEMA appreciates the Senate's commitment to comprehensive oversight and stewardship of our nation's most critical infrastructure, and encourages bipartisan action on this legislation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-tim-scott-releases-2025-year-in-review/,Senator Tim Scott Releases 2025 Year in Review,2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released his 2025 Year in Review, highlighting major legislative accomplishments and continued efforts to expand opportunity, strengthen American security, and deliver results for the people of South Carolina and families across the nation.

“I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished this year for the people of South Carolina and Americans nationwide, and I’m looking forward to building on that momentum,” said Senator Scott. “Whether it’s expanding school choice, securing tax relief for families, or strengthening our national security, my mission remains the same: to champion hope, protect opportunity, and ensure every American has the chance to achieve their version of the American Dream. I look forward to building on this progress in the year ahead.”

This year, Senator Scott led the introduction of 38 bills, 8 resolutions, and 14 amendments as well as cosponsored 79 bills and 42 resolutions.

Putting South Carolinians First

The Senator and his team completed casework for nearly 6,000 South Carolinians.

Maintaining a direct line of communication with constituents remained a priority for the Senator and allowed him to respond to more than 200,000 emails and letters from South Carolinians in 2025.

Energy and American Competitiveness

In an effort to restore American energy dominance and strengthen U.S. energy security, Senator Scott reintroduced the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act of 2025. The legislation removes red tape by eliminating the requirement for the Department of Energy (DOE) to approve exports of American liquefied natural gas and streamlining the approval process. In November, the House companion bill, led by Representative August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), passed by a vote of 217-188, moving Congress closer to expanding U.S. energy production, supporting jobs, and lowering energy costs.

Environmental Oversight and Regulatory Accountability

Senator Scott also led efforts to rein in federal regulatory overreach by introducing a Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Rubber Tire Manufacturing National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) rule. The Biden administration finalized the rule in November 2024 despite the EPA’s own risk review concluding it was unnecessary for protecting public health or the environment and unable to quantify any public health benefit. The CRA passed the Senate and was signed into law in May, reversing a burdensome mandate and protecting American manufacturers and workers.

Standing with South Carolina and Honoring Its History

This year marked 10 years since the tragic shooting at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina – an attack that shook the nation and forever changed the Palmetto State. Senators Scott and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) led the introduction of a Senate resolution honoring the lives of the nine innocent worshippers murdered in the attack. The resolution passed unanimously, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to combating hatred and preserving the legacy of the Mother Emanuel Nine.

Supporting Small Businesses and Disaster Recovery

Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, Senator Scott led efforts to ensure small businesses and homeowners received timely assistance by reintroducing the SBA Disaster Transparency Act. The legislation requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to publish regular reports on the status of its disaster loan fund, providing Congress and communities clear insight into the availability of critical recovery resources.

Senator Scott also continued his work to protect small businesses from unnecessary federal overreach by reintroducing the Protecting Access to Credit for Small Businesses Act. This legislation pushes back against a Biden-era rule that would allow the SBA to make direct loans, ensuring that community banks and credit unions – that know the communities they serve – remain the primary source of credit for local businesses.

Empowering Families Through Education

Throughout 2025, Senator Scott continued advancing educational freedom and expanding school choice for families across the country. He introduced the National School Choice Week resolution and led the introduction of the High-Quality Charter Schools Act, legislation designed to grow and support charter schools, ensuring that more students, regardless of background, race, or ZIP code, have access to high-quality education.

In response to the rise of antisemitism on college campuses, Senator Scott partnered with Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) to introduce the Antisemitism Awareness Act. The legislation directs the Department of Education (ED) to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism when enforcing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. This provides schools and investigators clear guidance for addressing antisemitic incidents, protecting Jewish students, and ensuring a safe learning environment for all students.

Through the Working Families Tax Cut, signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025, Senator Scott secured major wins for students and families, including the Educational Choice for Children Act becoming law. This provision encourages charitable contributions to scholarship programs and helps families access quality K–12 education, further empowering parents and communities with meaningful educational options.

Strengthening Families Through Quality Health Care

In 2025, Senator Scott continued leading efforts to expand health care access, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen the nation’s health care system. He reintroduced the Pregnant and Postpartum Women Treatment Reauthorization Act, which was signed into law as part of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act, ensuring that pregnant and postpartum women across the country have access to vital mental health and substance use disorder care.

Senator Scott has prioritized modernizing health care delivery and expanding patient access to high-quality care by working across the aisle to implement innovative solutions that meet the needs of families and communities. He partnered with Senator Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) to extend the Acute Hospital Care at Home Waiver program, passed by the House in December, giving patients the option to receive hospital level care at home, reducing costs, improving outcomes, and modernizing the delivery of care.

As a champion for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), Senator Scott introduced legislation reauthorizing the Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program. SCD is an inherited blood disorder that disproportionately affects African Americans, Latinos, and other minority groups, affecting approximately 100,000 individuals in the United States and significantly reducing life expectancy. The legislation expands access to research and treatment, trains more clinicians in SCD care, improves care during the transition from pediatric to adult services, and strengthens coordination among health care providers. Additionally, Senator Scott hosted a roundtable in Charleston, South Carolina to highlight emerging gene therapies and drive innovation in treatment options for patients living with the disease.

Senator Scott further led Senate resolutions recognizing National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month, underscoring his commitment to health equity, protecting vulnerable populations, and advancing access to high-quality, patient-focused care for Americans.

Supporting America’s Workers and Families

Senator Scott continued leading efforts to strengthen America’s workforce and protect the rights of workers across the country. He introduced the Modern Worker Empowerment Act to provide independent workers greater flexibility, helping them thrive in the modern day economy. He also championed stronger retirement security through the Strengthening Benefit Plans Act, which allows employers to use overfunded pension accounts to maintain health benefits amid rising costs. Additionally, Senator Scott reintroduced the Employee Rights Act of 2025, reinforcing fairness, privacy, and choice in the workplace and ensuring that all Americans have the protections and opportunities they need to succeed.

Tax Relief and Pro-Growth Reform

Senator Scott delivered major tax wins for hardworking Americans in 2025 aimed at lowering costs, encouraging investment, and strengthening communities. Through the Working Families Tax Cut, Opportunity Zones were made permanent and expanded upon, providing lasting incentives for investment in distressed areas. The legislation also established an extended educator tax deductions to coaches and athletic staff and delivered critical disaster relief and protections for South Carolina’s farmers.

Beyond this landmark legislation, Senator Scott introduced and supported key tax reforms to support families, infrastructure, and economic growth. These initiatives include the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act, expanded tax credits for short line railroads essential to South Carolina’s port economy, the IRS Accountability and Taxpayer Protection Act, and incentives to strengthen American clean energy and advanced nuclear production.

Bolstering Our National Security

Throughout the year, Senator Scott advanced policies to strengthen U.S. national security, secure the southern border, and support those who serve our nation. He introduced the Securing Our Border Act to redirect unobligated International Revenue Service (IRS) enforcement funds toward border security priorities, including nonintrusive inspection systems, border wall construction, and Border Patrol recruitment and retention efforts. He also introduced the Alan Shao II Fentanyl Public Health Emergency and Overdose Prevention Act to accelerate the processing and removal of migrants illegally entering the country to protect American lives in response to the fentanyl crisis.

Senator Scott secured a key provision in the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) directing the Department of Defense (DOD) to support recruitment, training, and retention of top cyber talent to ensure the U.S. military remains prepared for evolving threats. During the government shutdown, he introduced the Pay Our Capitol Police Act to guarantee continued pay for Capitol Police officers, civilian staff, and essential contractors, and supported similar legislation to pay our military personnel during the shutdown.

Supporting our veterans remained a key priority of Senator Scott’s. Last month, the Senator joined Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) in introducing the Non-Opioids Prevent Addiction in the Nation (NOPAIN) for Veterans Act. The legislation would expand veteran access to non-opioid alternatives by providing pathways for FDA-approved non-opioid treatments to be included in the VA National Formulary (VANF), the list of available prescriptions at VA facilities.

Earlier this year, Senator Scott joined Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Republican colleagues in introducing the No Official Palestine Entry (NOPE) Act to cut off U.S. assistance to entities that give additional rights and privileges to the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO). Current U.S. law prohibits funding to organizations, such as the United Nations, which gives the PLO full membership or standing as a member state. The NOPE Act updates the existing funding prohibition to organizations that offer the PLO “any status, rights, or privileges beyond observer status.”

Preserving the American Dream

Senator Scott, as Chairman of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, led the inclusion of key provisions in the Working Families Tax Cut to cut waste, eliminate duplication, and protect hardworking taxpayers. These reforms rein in the unaccountable Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), defund wasteful Green New Deal spending, and eliminate the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) slush fund.

Senator Scott also played a leading role in advancing the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act, which President Trump signed into law in July. The legislation established the nation’s first regulatory framework for payment stablecoins, strengthening consumer protections and national security. Under Senator Scott’s leadership, the bill passed the Senate Banking Committee with the support of every Republican and five Democrats. He further led the release of a discussion draft on digital asset market structure, as well as a Request for Information (RFI) for stakeholders to submit feedback on the draft and on a wide range of related issues.

To combat the debanking of federally legal businesses and law-abiding Americans, Senator Scott introduced the Financial Integrity and Regulation Management (FIRM) Act to eliminate all references to reputational risk as a measure to determine the safety and soundness of financial institutions. The bill advanced out of the Senate Banking Committee during its first legislative markup of the 119th Congress, prompting federal regulators to remove this arbitrary standard from their oversight practices.

President Trump also signed into law Chairman Scott’s Congressional Review Act resolution overturning a Biden-era CFPB rule that imposed government price controls on overdraft fees, preserving access to short-term liquidity for millions of Americans.

In the Committee’s first bipartisan housing markup in more than a decade, Chairman Scott led the unanimous passage of the Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream (ROAD) to Housing Act of 2025. The comprehensive package passed the Banking Committee 24-0 and was later included in the Senate-passed version of the National Defense Authorization Act. Senator Scott will continue to build on this momentum in 2026, reinforcing his priorities: expanding housing supply, lowering costs, and making the American Dream of homeownership within reach for more Americans.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://barr.house.gov/press-releases?ID=40918BA1-AB26-4732-9DB6-6A059D768023,"Andy Barr Announces the Passing of Tatum Dale, Longtime District Director, Deputy Chief of Staff, and Campaign Manager",2025-12-25,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KY,Andy Barr,B001282,barr.house.gov,barr,https://barr.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Lexington, KY— It is with an incredibly heavy heart that U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY) announced the passing of Tatum Dale, his longtime District Director, Deputy Chief of Staff, and Campaign Manager for his U.S. Senate campaign. Barr released the following statement:

“When I first ran to serve the Sixth District, Tatum Dale was one of the first people who volunteered to help. Born and raised in Murray, Tatum came to the University of Kentucky for college, and I’m forever grateful that she stayed to serve alongside me. For over 15 years, Tatum was the heart and soul of my team. She held almost every job in my office—Scheduler, Field Representative, Deputy District Director, District Director, then Deputy Chief of Staff and Campaign Manager for my U.S. Senate run.

“With Tatum’s leadership, my office favorably closed thousands of cases for Kentuckians—helping veterans, seniors, and families throughout our district. She fought to deliver funds to support dozens of community projects across our Commonwealth. She loved helping people and was a servant of others, just as Christ envisioned us all to be. Maybe that’s why her birth in heaven is a shared birthday with our Lord and Savior. While our hearts are broken, our team finds peace and hope knowing that Tatum is now home with Christ, resting comfortably in the arms of her Savior.

“Tatum loved her family, her faith, and her Commonwealth. She made me a better Congressman, our staff better public servants, and we will all miss her forever. From Murray to Lexington and everywhere in the Commonwealth that she touched, we hope you will all join us in praying for Tatum’s family and friends—and be forever inspired by her memory to serve others.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404207,"Huizenga Statement on Coordinated Strike Against Terrorists, Protecting Christians in Nigeria",2025-12-25,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MI,Bill Huizenga,H001058,huizenga.house.gov,huizenga,https://huizenga.house.gov/news/,scraper,"Today, in coordination with the Nigerian government, President Trump and the U.S. Military took decisive action to protect Christians from radical Islamists in Nigeria. The Congressional Delegation I led to Nigeria this past weekend provided insight that some attitudes inside the Nigerian Government are beginning to turn in favor of protecting Christians — in addition to taking actions against those terrorizing Christians and moderate Muslims. As I have said previously, the US was too late in Rwanda and too late in South Sudan. This strike demonstrates the United States is taking the targeted killings in Nigeria seriously.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://king-hinds.house.gov/media/newsletters/legacy-sails-forward-thank-you-pete-and-emma-perez,A Legacy That Sails Forward: Thank You Pete and Emma Perez,2025-12-25,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MP,Kimberlyn King-Hinds,K000404,king-hinds.house.gov,king-hinds,https://king-hinds.house.gov/media,scraper,"As we reflect with gratitude, we honor Pete and Emma Perez, co-founders of 500 Sails, whose vision and leadership have helped revive traditional canoe knowledge and inspire a new generation of ocean stewards.

For more than 11 years, Pete and Emma guided 500 Sails with the belief that our youth are the sunrise and that true leadership means preparing them to lead. As they transition stewardship to a capable new generation, they do so having built a strong foundation for cultural education, sustainability, and community impact.

As Pete and Emma begin a new chapter in Guam, we thank them for their service, their humility, and their trust in the future. Their legacy will continue to sail forward, carried by many hands.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://king-hinds.house.gov/media/newsletters/merry-christmas,Merry Christmas,2025-12-25,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MP,Kimberlyn King-Hinds,K000404,king-hinds.house.gov,king-hinds,https://king-hinds.house.gov/media,scraper,"Image

For those who celebrate, Christmas is a time for family, for quiet moments, and for reflecting on the blessings we share. This year, I am especially grateful for the gift you have given me in allowing me to serve you in Washington. As we gather this season, I hope we also take a moment to look out for one another, especially knowing the holidays can be difficult for some. A kind word, a shared meal, or simply checking in can mean more than we realize.

Wishing you a peaceful and joyful Christmas, filled with time with the people you love and moments that remind you of what truly matters. Merry Christmas and I love you CNMI!",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2025/12/fitzpatrick-statement-following-silver-lake-nursing-home-explosion,Fitzpatrick Statement Following Silver Lake Nursing Home Explosion,2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"LANGHORNE, PA— Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) released the following statement in the wake of a devastating explosion at Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol Township, which claimed two lives, injured dozens, and prompted a heroic, multi-agency emergency response on Christmas Eve:

“On this Christmas Eve, our hearts are heavy—but they are also grateful.

We have received confirmation that everyone at Silver Lake Nursing Home has been accounted for—an outcome made possible by the heroic first responders who ran into danger again and again, risking their own lives to save others.

We mourn the two lives lost, pray for the twenty who were injured, and hold close the families whose lives have been forever changed.

The incident occurred yesterday, shortly after 2:00 PM, when PECO crews responded to reports of a gas odor at the facility. While crews were on site, an explosion occurred, causing the first floor to collapse into the basement and trapping individuals inside. A second explosion followed approximately 30 seconds later. What happened will be thoroughly examined in the days ahead, and those facts will be made known. An investigation is already underway.

But what needs no explanation is this: when the moment demanded courage, our community delivered it. Firefighters, police officers, medics, nurses, and emergency personnel from across our region answered the call without hesitation, and because of them, lives were saved.

So tonight, as homes and churches across our region are lit for Christmas, we ask for prayers—for those grieving, for those recovering, and for the brave men and women who stood watch when it mattered most.”

Background

Yesterday, Congressman Fitzpatrick was on site at Lower Bucks Hospital, where he addressed the media and received a comprehensive operational briefing following the explosion at Silver Lake Nursing Home. He reaffirmed that his office remains fully engaged and stands ready to secure any necessary federal assistance as the response continues.

After the briefing, Congressman Fitzpatrick toured the on-scene command post alongside Governor Josh Shapiro and Mike Motte, CEO of Lower Bucks Hospital, where they met with and thanked the extraordinary nurses, medical professionals, and first responders who have worked tirelessly under dangerous conditions since the first call came in.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/12/general/video-blackburn-wishes-tennesseans-a-merry-christmas,VIDEO: Blackburn Wishes Tennesseans a Merry Christmas,2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a video message wishing Tennesseans a Merry Christmas:

“From all the Blackburns, I want to say Merry Christmas to you,” said Senator Blackburn. “There is nothing so special or nothing more wonderful than a Tennessee Christmas. Our wish is for all Tennesseans to know firsthand the blessings of the Christmas and holiday season. So, from our family to yours, Merry Christmas.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/wicker-s-statement-on-the-44-million-awarded-to-mississippi-s-safe-streets-for-all,Wicker's Statement on the $44 Million Awarded to Mississippi's Safe Streets for All,2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today released the following statement after five cities is Mississippi were awarded $44 million in roadway funding under the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program. These projects are possible because of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Senator Wicker helped negotiate as a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee.

“Improved roadways lead to improved safety and increased commerce. I have continually advocated for these investments in Mississippi’s infrastructure. I am eager for these grants to be implemented across the state. These upgrades will provide safer, more convenient travel options for drivers and pedestrians alike.”

The grants for Mississippi will support:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2840,Bacon Issues Statement Following Ben Sasse’s Cancer Diagnosis,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after the announcement of former Nebraska Sen. Ben Sasse’s cancer diagnosis:

“Angie and I are heartbroken by the news shared by our friend Ben Sasse. He is a strong friend who I love to hear from. We are keeping Ben and his family in our prayers and are grateful for his willingness to share his faith and trust in the Almighty during such a difficult moment, reminding us of the eternal promise God has given all of us when we put our faith in Him.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=415214,TAPinto Gold Coast article on Trump administration's halting of offshore wind projects'Federal Pause Hits Offshore Wind Projects Planned Off the Jersey Shore and Along the East Coast',2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher H. Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,chrissmith,https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"By Jim Lonergan

Published December 23, 2025 at 9:51 AM

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Trump administration has ordered a suspension of construction and lease activity for five major offshore wind projects along the East Coast, including Empire Wind, which is planned off the New Jersey and New York coasts. Federal officials cited national security concerns, specifically the potential for large offshore wind turbines to interfere with military and civilian radar systems used for aviation and maritime navigation.

The pause, announced by the U.S. Departments of the Interior and Defense, applies not only to future permitting but also to projects that were already approved, under construction, or still in the development phase. Administration officials said the action is intended to allow time for additional review and coordination between federal agencies, the military, and project developers.

The five offshore wind projects affected by the suspension are:

Empire Wind 1 (New York–New Jersey coast), developed by Equinor

Vineyard Wind 1 (off Massachusetts), the nation’s first large-scale offshore wind farm

Revolution Wind (off Rhode Island and Connecticut), led by Ørsted

Sunrise Wind (off New York), also developed by Ørsted

Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW), a Dominion Energy project off Virginia

Together, these projects represent several gigawatts of planned renewable energy capacity and had been central to state and federal clean energy goals along the Eastern Seaboard.

Photo Credit: shutterstock/ShutterDesigner

Rep. Chris Smith (R–NJ), a long-time critic of offshore wind development, welcomed the administration’s decision, saying it validates concerns he has raised for years regarding radar interference and national security risks. Smith has argued that offshore wind turbines can create radar “clutter” that may weaken or disrupt systems relied upon by the Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Armed Forces. Click HERE for Rep. Smith's deeper explanation of the risks posed.

Smith pointed to an April 2025 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report examining offshore wind’s impact on radar systems, a study he said he requested with other members of Congress. He also cited legislation he sponsored that passed the U.S. House in 2023 requiring certification that offshore wind projects would not interfere with military or aviation radar capabilities.

Empire Wind has drawn particular scrutiny because of its proximity to major transportation and defense infrastructure, including Newark Liberty International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and JFK, as well as Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and Naval Weapons Station Earle in New Jersey.

We spoke with Rep. Smith about the offshore wind pause, and he said, “This has been one of my deepest concerns and an issue I have fought since day one. The fact that these risks were never fully tested, and that the previous administration would not certify the projects as safe, is alarming and, at best, negligent. You don’t move forward with projects of this magnitude — especially in close proximity to critical military installations and major airports — without first proving they pose no risk to national security, aviation safety, or maritime operations.”

Local Impact: Offshore Turbines and Transmission Lines: Beyond Empire Wind, the federal pause comes as offshore wind development tied to the Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind South also fall under the Federal pause. The project, which we've written about at length, would place turbines roughly nine miles off Long Beach Island, while its onshore transmission lines would affect Sea Girt, Manasquan, Wall Township, and Howell. Plans call for subsea cables to make landfall near the Sea Girt National Guard Training Center before running underground through local corridors to grid connections in Howell. Officials and residents in those communities have raised concerns about construction disruption, long-term infrastructure impacts, environmental effects, and potential costs associated with hosting offshore wind transmission infrastructure.

Beyond national security, critics have raised concerns about the potential impact of offshore wind projects on commercial and recreational fishing, marine ecosystems, and coastal tourism. Opponents have also questioned the cost of large-scale offshore wind development and the financial burden it could place on taxpayers and ratepayers.

Offshore wind developers and clean energy industry groups told Reuters that several of the paused projects had already undergone years of federal environmental and security review. They cautioned that suspending construction could delay clean energy goals, disrupt supply chains, and impact jobs tied to offshore wind manufacturing, port infrastructure, and maritime construction across multiple states.

The administration has not released a timeline for completing its review or for determining whether the projects could resume under revised conditions or additional mitigation measures. For now, construction activity on all five projects remains paused.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=415216,Shorebeat article on Trump administration's halting of offshore wind projects'Trump Halts Construction of Remaining Offshore Wind Project Off N.J.',2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher H. Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,chrissmith,https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"By Daniel Nee

Published December 23, 2025

President Donald Trump halted numerous offshore wind projects on Monday, citing national security concerns, officials said. The decision led to cheers from U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, who has lobbied against the projects for years, and with consternation from some environmental groups that favored the projects.

The order from Trump’s administration will stop five major offshore wind farms — including Empire Wind, located offshore in the New York bight, roughly between Monmouth County and portions of southern Long Island. Unlike some other wind projects, proposed and approved, Empire Wind would not likely have been visible from the New Jersey coast.

Offshore wind development has been a persistent source of partisan wrangling, favored by New Jersey Democrats as well as officials in the former Biden administration. Trump, and GOP congressional leaders, pledged to eliminate the leases of offshore territory after concerns grew over potential negative effects on marine mammals, as well as subsidies for its foreign owner, the Norwegian firm Equinor. An executive order shutting down the projects has bounced between courtrooms since Trump took office in 2025, with the administration suffering a loss in court earlier this month when Massachusetts U.S. District Judge Patti Saris, appointed by President Bill Clinton, struck down the order. The decision is expected to be appealed, but Monday’s order effectively accomplishes the abolition of the projects – at least in the immediate future – for reasons related to national security.

Offshore wind turbine. (Photo: Harald Pettersen/Statoil)

The Department of the Interior halted the projects to allow for a “pause” so a review could be conducted in conjunction with the Department of Defense (War). Critics of the offshore development, most prominently Smith, have raised concerns that the massive turbines atop the structures could create radar clutter in busy airspace, most notably affecting Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, a major transit point for materiel between the U.S., Europe and the Middle East.

“I am grateful to President Donald Trump and Secretary Doug Burgum for their leadership in assessing ocean wind’s threats to national security and radar interference,” Smith said. “As I have argued from day one — ocean wind projects pose significant, catastrophic impacts to radar, putting military and civilian aircrafts and vessels at grave risk.”

A lawn sign opposing wind turbines off Long Beach Island, Sept. 2022. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

A deceased humpback whale floats off Seaside Park, N.J., March 1, 2023. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

A humpback whale is prepared to be buried at Funtown Beach, Seaside Park, N.J., March 3, 2023. (Photo: MMSC)

Those in favor of the projects have said the matter had already been the subject of reviews by the U.S. Coast Guard under the previous administration, which did not identify any issues with radar clutter or interference.

“The administration is again illegally blocking clean, affordable energy,” said Ted Kelly of the Environmental Defense Council.

“Placing largely foreign-owned wind turbines along our coastlines was never acceptable,” countered Robin Shaffer, President of Protect Our Coast New Jersey, largely echoing the concerns raised by Smith.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=415218,"Daily Caller article on Smith's Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act'""Murder Masquerading As Medicine"": Senate Ignores Bill On CCP's Christian Organ Harvesting'",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher H. Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,chrissmith,https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"By Derek VanBuskirk

Published December 23, 2025 at 1:08 PM ET

A bill aimed at curbing the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) forced organ harvesting of cultural and religious minorities, including Christians, has “languished” in committee for seven months as Senate leaders have failed to act.

Republican New Jersey Rep. Christopher Smith, sponsor of the legislation that passed the House with a nearly unanimous vote, told the Daily Caller about the growing threat to Christians in China and the real consequences of delaying Senate action.

H.R. 1503, the Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act of 2025, is not Smith’s first attempt to confront the practice. A 2023 version of the bill passed the House 413-2 before dying in the same place the current bill now sits: the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

(Photo by CHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULT/AFP via Getty Images)

Smith chaired his first hearing on forced organ harvesting in 1998, hearing testimony from Chinese security officials. While the practice was once limited in scope, it exploded into a billion-dollar state enterprise following the CCP’s 1999 crackdown on Falun Gong.

Falun Gong, a spiritual practice drawing on Buddhist and Taoist traditions and once widely embraced in China, was the primary early target.

Because practitioners abstain from tobacco and alcohol, they were considered ideal harvesting candidates, with the average age of those executed and immediately harvested being 28, Smith said.

Taipei, TAIWAN: During a rally joined by thousands of Falun Gong practitioners at Taipei 23 April 2006, four demonstrators play in an action drama against what they said was the Chinese communists’ killing of Falun Gong followers and harvesting of their organs in concentration camps. (Photo: PATRICK LIN/AFP via Getty Images)

“I want to know how long [the patients] have to wait [for a liver transplant].”

David Matas and David Kilgour recorded from an undercover conversation they had with a Chinese doctor, as recorded in “Bloody Harvest: The Killing of Falun Gong for Their Organs.”

“The supply of organs we have, we have every day. We do them every day,” the doctor responded.

“We want fresh, alive ones,” Matas and Kilgour asked.

“They are all alive, all alive,” the doctor reassured.

“I heard some come from those who practise Falun Gong, those who are very healthy,” Matas and Kilgour said.

“Yes, we have. I can’t talk clearly to you over the phone,” the doctor said, before inviting whom he believed was a potential buyer to visit in person.

This photo taken on June 2, 2019 shows buildings at the Artux City Vocational Skills Education Training Service Center, believed to be a re-education camp where mostly Muslim ethnic minorities are detained, north of Kashgar in China’s northwestern Xinjiang region. (Photo: GREG BAKER/AFP via Getty Images)

Smith, who has held nine hearings on the issue, said detainees’ health was closely monitored to prepare them for execution and the harvesting of up to six vital organs.

A 2024 report from Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) cited several independent sources verifying that Falun Gong often reported that prisoners of conscience were subject to unsolicited, coerced medical exams and blood testing, adding that guards would use organ transplantation to threaten prisoners who would not comply.

Although reliable data is difficult to obtain, DAFOH also found that Chinese organ transplant numbers were reported irregularly, as sudden increases were followed by decade-long standstills, contrasting the steady increase of other countries.

For example, DAFOH found that Chinese annual transplant numbers increased by 250% between 2000 and 2004, which contrasts with the rates of other countries, ranging from 10-15% during the same time period.

“They have perfected this art form of killing and stealing organs,” Smith told the Caller.

WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 19: U.S. House Speaker Emerita Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) (2nd L) and Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) (3rd L) join (L-R) Policy and Advocacy Coordinator of the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong (CFHK) Foundation Frances Hui, Research and Policy Advisor of the Hong Kong Watch Anouk Wear, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Democracy Council Anna Kwok, Senior International Advocacy Associate of the Hong Kong Democracy Council Carmen Lau during a news conference in response of the sentencing ruling in the Hong Kong 47 case November 19, 2024 in front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

In a 2024 written testimony, researcher Ethan Gutmann estimated that annual victims may number between 25,000 and 50,000, suggesting as many as 175,000 victims even under lower estimates.

Officials-turned-witnesses testified in Smith’s hearings that they personally harvested organs from living patients to maximize quality.

Smith said the motive goes beyond profit, serving the party’s pursuit of practical immortality.

When a member of the CCP’s totalitarian leadership needs an organ, prisoners’ medical records are searched. If a match is found, the individual is killed for the benefit of the party — or, more accurately, the men running it, Smith said.

Smith cited a September hot-mic exchange between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping discussing harvesting in this manner.

“Earlier, people rarely lived to 70, but these days at 70 you are still a child,” Xi said through a translator, according to The Epoch Times.

“As biotechnology advances, human organs can be continuously transplanted, allowing us to become younger and younger, perhaps even achieve immortality,” Putin reportedly replied.

In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, (L-R) Russia’s President Vladimir Putin walks with China’s President Xi Jinping and North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un before a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of victory over Japan and the end of World War II, in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square on September 3, 2025. (Photo by ALEXANDER KAZAKOV/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Smith called the practice “murder masquerading as medicine.”

After decades of rapid harvesting, Smith said healthy Falun Gong candidates were depleted, forcing the party to expand into “alternative” supply sources, including Uyghur Muslims, Kazakhs, other Central Asians and Christians.

Christians’ health and “pure lives,” Smith said, make them highly valuable “commodities.”

While Christians currently represent a “smaller portion” of victims, Smith warned they could become increasingly targeted as other populations are exhausted, serving as a fresh resource for an “ever-expanding” enterprise.

Religious persecution is routine in China. Smith told the Caller that Beijing licenses clergy, edits holy scriptures, censors online worship, bars minors from religious life and restricts contact with fellow believers abroad, adding that “the end goal is eradication.”

A Catholic worshipper prays during an Easter Sunday mass at a prayer house in a village near Beijing on April 4, 2021. (Photo by JADE GAO/AFP via Getty Images)

Though most harvesting occurs in China, H.R. 1503 targets the global organ trade, including Western participants in “transplant tourism.”

The U.S. is no exception. Wealthy American patients, Smith said, are willing to pay steep fees to bypass transplant waitlists, funding China’s system in the process.

Smith is not proposing a new approach but expanding a proven one. By attaching organ harvesting to the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000, the same framework used against Ghislaine Maxwell, he aims to signal that the FBI will treat transplant tourists and brokers like sex traffickers.

The goal is to make the risk — up to 20 years in federal prison and a $1 million fine for those prosecuted in the U.S. — so high that U.S. demand collapses.

The bill would also impose asset freezes, sanctions, and travel bans on foreign participants of the underground market.

“Maybe it deters it, and after a few prosecutions, it begins to make a real serious impact,” Smith said. “You start prosecuting people, and at least it will dry up people utilizing this tainted supply chain.”

H.R. 1503 passed the House 406-1 under suspension of the rules, a process reserved for broadly nonpartisan legislation.

The sole dissenting vote came from Republican Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie, whom Smith said votes no on almost everything.

As 2025 draws to a close, the bill remains stalled in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, chaired by Republican Idaho Sen. Jim Risch.

WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 25: Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Sen. Jim Risch (R-ID) arrives for the confirmation hearing for former Governor of Arkansas Mike Huckabee, U.S. President Donald Trump’s nominee to be ambassador to Israel, at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on March 25, 2025 in Washington, DC. Huckabee, the former governor and presidential candidate, answered questions on Israel and its campaign against Hamas. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

“I appreciate Rep. Smith’s attention to this horrific issue,” a committee spokesperson told the Caller. “Senator Risch remains committed to countering the dreadful practice of organ harvesting and is happy to work with anyone to counter it. However, this particular piece of legislation has not been raised with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.”

While any member may request consideration, only the chairman controls the agenda. That leaves the responsibility ultimately on Risch to get the bill out of what Smith called the legislative black hole of referred-but-ignored legislation — the same fate as his 2023 effort.

If Gutmann’s estimates are accurate, between 68,000 and 136,000 people have been killed since the 2023 bill reached the committee, with 15,000 to 31,211 victims since the 2025 bill was referred in June.

Without action, the Chinese regime and its allies may seek to further expand the practice, and as reserves of Falun Gong practitioners and Uyghur Muslims are depleted, the CCP may turn to massacring even more Christians to maintain profits.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://delacruz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3463,De La Cruz Leads Texas Dreamer Work Authorization Act,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,TX,Monica De La Cruz,D000594,delacruz.house.gov,delacruz,https://delacruz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Texas Dreamer Work Authorization Act to ensure uniform access to employment authorization documents (EADs) for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients nationwide.

""The Texas Dreamer Work Authorization Act provides uniformity and certainty that DACA recipients need to pursue their careers and contribute to our communities. By bringing common sense and stability to our immigration policy, my legislation will ensure the American dream remains a reality for those working hard to achieve it."" - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:

The Texas Dreamer Work Authorization Act ensures the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has the statutory authority to issue Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients.

By giving DHS the authority to issue EADs, this will ensure uniformity and continued access to employment authorization for all eligible DACA recipients nationwide, bringing certainty for recipients.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-urges-dow-continue-wounded-warrior-service-dog-program,Downing Urges DOW to Continue Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MT,Troy Downing,D000634,downing.house.gov,downing,https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congressman Troy Downing (R-MT) sent a letter to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth alongside Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) expressing his support for the Wounded Warrior Service Dog program (WWSDP) and urging the Department of War (DOW) to continue to carry out the program going forward. Congressman Downing’s efforts have garnered support from Dog Tag Buddies, a Billings-based group dedicated to providing improved daily living and social mobility for veterans living with the invisible wounds of war.

“The Treasure State has one of the nation's largest veteran populations, many of whom rely on four-legged partners to help them recover from the physical and invisible scars of war,” said Congressman Downing. “I was proud to advocate on behalf of Montana’s veteran community, their service dogs, and the many unsung heroes at partnering organizations who work behind the scenes to make these connections possible.”

“The Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program is not a luxury—it is a lifeline,” said DeeDe Baker, Founder & Executive Director, Dog Tag Buddies. “For veterans in rural states like Montana and North Dakota, it is often the only path to the independence and social mobility that service dogs make possible.”

Read key excerpts from the lawmakers’ letter below:

“WWSDP is a competitive grant program overseen by the Department of War to support nonprofit organizations that help raise service dogs and connect them with veterans. Today, 28 organizations in 23 states rely on this program to place highly trained service dogs with veterans experiencing PTSD, traumatic brain injury, mobility and hearing impairments, blindness, and other life-altering disabilities. This includes two long-standing constituent providers under the program, Dog Tag Buddies in Billings, Montana, and Service Dogs for America, located in Jud, North Dakota. WWDSP has served as an essential support mechanism, enabling veterans in our states to access the life-changing assistance delivered by trained service dogs…

“We urge your office to take action to continue to carry out WWSDP, including through the reprogramming process and the administrative flexibility available to the Department. This action would critically bridge the gap between FY24 funds and FY26 appropriations. Notably, the House-passed Department of Defense Appropriations Act includes $17 million in funding for the program.

“The service dogs provided with the support of WWSDP are an essential lifeline for veterans who faced the harshest consequences of war to live independently and have a companion to support them. Without funding for the next year, service dog organizations across the country will be forced to suspend new intakes, stop matching dogs to veterans, and even in some cases shut down services altogether.”

Read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-announces-2025-congressional-app-challenge-winner,Johnson Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winner,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) congratulated Congressional App Challenge winner Nana Kwame Dwomoh from Brookings, South Dakota. Nana Kwame coded an app called “WorkWellness.”

“Congratulations to Nana Kwame on being selected as this year’s Congressional App Challenge Winner from South Dakota,” said Johnson. “He overcame several obstacles in developing his product and learned more about coding in the process. Technology is increasingly important in career fields, and the App Challenge is a great opportunity for students to test and improve their skills.”

Nana Kwame created “WorkWellness” to boost productivity and health by running timed work sessions, prompting stretch breaks, and suggesting targeted exercises for areas of discomfort. It also tracks total work time and includes an AI wellness assistant that provides quick, practical advice on posture, ergonomics, and healthy routines.

Nana Kwame says, “As a high school student who spends long hours at a desk and on a computer, I’ve felt back pain myself. Millions of students and office workers share this same discomfort from ignoring what their bodies need during work sessions. I created WorkWellness to help solve that problem, allowing people to stay focused and productive while also reminding them to take care of their health through consistent stretching.”

Annually, students from each congressional district compete in the App Challenge. This year, Nana Kwame’s app will be displayed in the Capitol and featured online, and he will have the chance to participate in #HouseofCode, a gathering of all the current year’s winners.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1984,Ezell Applauds Return of Coast Guard Station Pascagoula to Full Operations,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,MS,Mike Ezell,E000235,ezell.house.gov,ezell,https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, today welcomed the U.S. Coast Guard’s decision to return Coast Guard Station Pascagoula to full response operations, marking a major step forward for maritime security and economic activity along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

The Coast Guard announced that, in conjunction with Assignment Year 2026, Station Pascagoula will transition from scheduled mission operations back to full response operations after capabilities were temporarily reduced in 2023 due to workforce shortages.

“This is outstanding news for South Mississippi,"" Chairman Ezell said. “Coast Guard Station Pascagoula plays a critical role in protecting our maritime border, supporting search and rescue missions, and safeguarding the Port of Pascagoula. I’m grateful to see the Coast Guard fully restoring these operations and ensuring our Coast Guard men and women have the staffing they need to do their jobs. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I’ve been clear that readiness matters. Restoring full operations at Station Pascagoula improves safety for our mariners, strengthens national security, and protects one of Mississippi’s most important economic engines.”

""After temporarily reducing capabilities at Station Pascagoula in 2023 due to severe workforce shortages, I am pleased to announce the Coast Guard will fully restore the unit’s operational capabilities and readiness in 2026,"" Adm. Kevin E. Lunday, Acting Commandant said. “Our strong recruiting performance has made this possible. Station Pascagoula is vital to securing our southern maritime border and supporting the Port of Pascagoula's $18 billion economic impact. This action directly supports our nation's security and economic prosperity.""

Strategically located on the Gulf Coast, Coast Guard Station Pascagoula conducts missions that deter and interdict illegal migration and illicit trafficking, while also protecting vital port infrastructure from physical and cyber threats. The station’s return to full response operations strengthens the Coast Guard’s ability to respond quickly to emergencies, natural disasters, and maritime security threats in accordance with its long-standing motto, Semper Paratus — “Always Ready.”

The U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for defending more than 95,000 miles of U.S. shoreline, 25,000 miles of navigable rivers, and 4.5 million square miles of exclusive economic zone. With more than 76,000 members operating cutters, aircraft, boats, and cyber capabilities, the Coast Guard plays a vital role in protecting America’s maritime domain and economic security.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-us-military-service-academy-nominations-class-2030,Congressman Flood Announces U.S. Military Service Academy Nominations for Class of 2030,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced the nomination of First Congressional District constituents to the U.S. Military Service Academies. The announcement comes at the conclusion of a rigorous interview and selection process that included the input of a committee of Nebraskans with diverse backgrounds, including military leaders and community members.

“I want to commend this impressive class of Nebraskans who desire to serve our nation through our Armed Forces. It is one of the greatest honors to put forward talented young leaders for consideration at our U.S. Military Service Academies every year,” said Congressman Flood. “I would also like to express my appreciation to the selection committee for their careful and dedicated review of every applicant.”

The committee was chaired by Dave Merritt of Norfolk (USN) with members including Col. Fred Phelan of Lincoln (USAF) and Chris Hove of Lincoln (USN). The committee examined each applicant’s understanding of the nature of the Military Service Academies, the role of Officers in the Armed Forces, the applicant’s desire to serve, their academic records, and their ability to communicate effectively in a high stakes environment.

With input of the committee, Congressman Mike Flood nominated applicants that met the rigorous academic and physical requirements of the Military Service Academies. There are five U.S. Military Service Academies: U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The office received no applications for nomination to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

Congressman Mike Flood’s nominations are in alphabetical order by last name:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-delivers-2025-christmas-address,Congressman Flood Delivers 2025 Christmas Address,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) issued a recorded statement ahead of Christmas, which is observed December 25, 2025.

Video of Congressman Flood's Christmas address can be found here, while the full text of Congressman Flood’s remarks are provided below. News outlets are welcome to use the video for reporting purposes.

Friends and fellow Nebraskans,

As we enter into Christmas, it's an opportunity for us to pause and reflect on the blessings we've received and on the real meaning of the season.

In the coming days, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in a humble manger, surrounded by family, heralded by angels, and visited by kings. The nativity of Jesus marks the arrival of our Savior and the beginning of His journey on earth. Now, 2,000 years later, Christ's life, death, and sacrifice offer each of us eternal salvation. Through the centuries, the heart of Jesus has strengthened us through times of trial and persecution, as well as times of prosperity.

This holiday season, I'm especially praying for peace in the world. Right now, American troops are serving in different capacities across the globe, helping to protect and defend American interests and keeping the world safe. I particularly hope and pray for an end to global conflicts, including the war between Russia and Ukraine, an end to violence in Sudan, and lasting peace in the Middle East.

Here in America, as we gather around the Christmas tree, attend worship service or Mass, and spend time with our loved ones, we have much to be grateful for, knowing that we get to celebrate this holiday amidst great peace and prosperity at home.

As we celebrate this Christmas season and look to the new year, let us continue to strengthen the flame of faith in Jesus Christ and a deeper love and compassion for our neighbors. Whether you are spending time with family and friends or serving overseas this Christmas season, we all can draw closer to God and to one another.

Mandi, my sons, and our entire family wish each of you a very safe, warm, and merry Christmas. May God richly bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-statement-former-sen-ben-sasses-cancer-diagnosis,Congressman Flood’s Statement on Former Sen. Ben Sasse’s Cancer Diagnosis,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following news of former U.S. Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE) announcing his diagnosis of metastasized, stage-four pancreatic cancer.

“A remarkable response to a devastating diagnosis. From Nebraska to Florida and all across the country, we are with you and praying for you, Melissa, and your kids as you take on this new battle, Ben.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://gabeevans.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-evans-sends-letter-governor-polis-demanding-accountability-cdot,Rep. Gabe Evans Sends Letter to Governor Polis Demanding Accountability for CDOT Mismanagement,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,CO,Gabe Evans,E000300,gabeevans.house.gov,gabeevans,https://gabeevans.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Gabe Evans (R-CO-08) sent a letter to Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Executive Director Shoshana Lew expressing grave concerns over the continued mismanagement of CDOT —demanding immediate corrective action to refocus the agency on core infrastructure priorities that keep Coloradans safe and the economy moving.

In the letter, Congressman Gabe Evans highlighted repeated concerns from constituents about worsening road conditions and traffic congestion across Adams, Weld, and Larimer Counties – even as CDOT’s budget has nearly doubled since 2018 under Governor Polis’ administration. Rep. Evans also cited statutory violations identified in CDOT’s own audit, and reports of Federal regulatory violations that could jeopardize Colorado’s access to critical federal transportation funding.

An excerpt from the letter reads:

“I respectfully urge your offices to take immediate steps to correct the blatant mismanagement that has plagued CDOT under your leadership, restore public trust in CDOT, and ensure good governance in the allocation of taxpayer dollars. The agency's failure to prioritize core infrastructure needs despite record-high budgets and unprecedented federal support— is not just irresponsible, it's indefensible. My constituents deserve a transportation system that works for them, not against them. I will continue to advocate for the communities I serve, whom you have neglected, until CDOT is reoriented toward delivering results that reflect their needs and values.” - Congressman Gabe Evans

Key Concerns in Rep. Evans Letter

Congressman Evans emphasized a pattern of mismanagement that has left Coloradans paying more to receive less. Working families and businesses are continuously burdened by more than $500 million in taxpayer funded fees in CDOT’s Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget costs, which disproportionately falls onto road users and industries that depend on conventional fuel and freight movement to operate and grow.

At the same time, Colorado’s roads continue to deteriorate. Under Governor Polis’ leadership, the state ranks among the worst in the nation for road conditions. Currently the state ranks 7th worst overall, and comes in 3rd for the worst urban highways and 5th worst for rural highways. These rankings reflect years of out-of-touch priorities as CDOT has expanded spending on political initiatives, while failing to adequately invest in core roadway maintenance and safety.

The consequences of these choices are being felt across Colorado’s Eighth Congressional District. Critical transportation corridors such as I-25, Highway 85, and I-75 serve as economic lifelines for families, farmers, and employers; yet commuters and businesses face worsening congestion, repeated vehicle damage, longer travel times, and an increased risk of serious accidents. On average, these failures are costing Colorado drivers an estimated $1,900 per year.

Rep. Evans also pointed to serious accountability concerns raised by CDOT’s own audit, which found statutory violations in funding disbursement more than six times higher than when Governor Polis took office. The audit identified $4.8 million in unaccountable taxpayer dollars, much of it tied to the Division of Transit and Rail, raising significant questions about fiscal responsibility at the agency.

Public safety risks continue to mount as well. Across the state, 417 bridges are currently classified as structurally deficient, including heavily traveled bridges in Adams County and along major Front Range routes. These conditions pose real dangers to drivers and underscore the cost of neglecting basic infrastructure needs.

Finally, Congressman Evans warned that CDOT’s reported violations of federal commercial driver licensing regulations risk undermining the federal government’s confidence in the agency. With nearly half of CDOT’s budget dependent on federal funding, this mismanagement could jeopardize Colorado’s eligibility for future federal grants and formula funding – placing hundreds of millions of dollars at risk.

Congressman Evans made it clear that Colorado’s transportation system is being undermined, not by lack of resources, but by Governor Polis’ failure to prioritize safety, accountability, and the fundamental needs of all communities in Colorado.

Rep. Gabe Evans Calls for Immediate Corrective Action

Congressman Gabe Evans urges Governor Polis to take immediate steps to restore public trust and refocus CDOT on delivering results for Colorado communities including:

Prioritizing road, highway, and bridge repair over politically driven projects

Increasing transparency and accountability in funding disbursement

Partnering with local governments in Adams, Weld, and Larimer Counties on district priorities

Proactively correcting any ongoing violations that could put federal transportation funding at risk",1,2026-04-01T05:41:29Z,2026-04-01T05:42:36Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-returns-65-million-constituents-through-casework-efforts,Houchin Returns $6.5 Million to Constituents Through Casework Efforts,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) announced that her office has successfully returned more than $6.5 million to residents of Indiana’s 9th Congressional District through constituent casework assistance with federal agencies.

Since taking office, Houchin’s team has worked directly with constituents to resolve issues involving the IRS, Social Security Administration, Medicare, veterans’ benefits, and other federal programs. These efforts have resulted in recovered payments, corrected records, and restored benefits for individuals, families, and small businesses across the district.

“Serving the people of Indiana’s 9th District means making sure the federal government works the way it is supposed to,” said Congresswoman Houchin. “Casework is one of the most important responsibilities of our office, and I am proud of the results we have delivered. Every dollar returned represents someone who needed help navigating a government agency that can be unfortunately overwhelming and unresponsive.”

One such case involved Doug Drake, President and CEO of Personal Counseling Services, Inc., who faced an unresolved IRS issue that placed significant strain on his nonprofit organization. With assistance from Congresswoman Houchin’s office, the matter was resolved and over $380,000 was returned.

“I am extremely grateful for Congresswoman Houchin and her staff,” said Drake. “They stayed on top of our case, communicated clearly, frequently and ultimately helped recover funds that were rightfully owed to my nonprofit. This could not have been accomplished without their assistance.”

Another case involved Kettig Coghill and his adult daughter Tasha, who has Down syndrome. After the passing of Coghill’s wife, a Social Security error mistakenly marked Tasha as deceased, cutting off her benefits and Medicare coverage. Rep. Houchin’s office intervened to correct the error and restore her benefits retroactive two years to the date of the mistake.

“When my wife passed away and Tasha’s benefits suddenly stopped, it was devastating,” said Coghill. “Congresswoman Houchin’s office treated our situation with compassion and urgency. They helped get everything fixed and restored Tasha’s benefits and Medicare. I will always be thankful for their support during such a difficult time.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-mackenzie-urge-gov-shapiro-preserve-law-enforcement-communication-access,"Kelly, Mackenzie urge Gov. Shapiro to preserve law enforcement communication access",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- This week, U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (PA-16) and Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07) led members of the Pennsylvania congressional delegation in urging Governor Josh Shapiro to preserve Pennsylvania’s participation in the International Justice & Public Safety Network (formerly known as the National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System, or Nlets), a critical information-sharing system used by law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Joining Reps. Kelly and Mackenzie on the letter are Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), Congressman Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Congressman Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10), Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09), Congressman John Joyce (PA-13), and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01).

“Nlets works to connect local law enforcement with federal agencies. As the federal government cracks down on illegal immigration and crime in cities nationwide, including right here in Pennsylvania, it’s imperative that our local and federal agencies have the ability to work together quickly and efficiently,” said Rep. Kelly.

“Any move to restrict law enforcement’s access to vital information-sharing systems would endanger our communities,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “Nlets is a proven tool that helps law enforcement apprehend dangerous criminals and keeps Pennsylvanians safe. Restricting access would empower criminal illegal aliens at the expense of Pennsylvania families.”

""The International Justice & Public Safety Network has been an effective resource for law enforcement agencies at every level,” said Congressman Thompson. “Sharing secure information helps law enforcement apprehend fugitives and supports efforts in missing persons cases. Any restrictions to these programs will hinder the efforts of law enforcement to keep Pennsylvania safe.”

“Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our Commonwealth and keep dangerous criminals off our streets. Efforts by far-left Democrats to shield criminal illegal aliens and restrict Pennsylvania’s participation in Nlets undermine public safety,” said Congressman Reschenthaler. “I am proud to join my Pennsylvania Republican colleagues in urging Governor Shapiro to continue the Commonwealth’s participation in this critical public safety program.”

“As a former law enforcement professional and FBI agent, I know that investigations succeed or fail in real time, based on timely and accurate information,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “Nlets provides the data that officers depend on every day in the field. Limiting access would slow apprehensions, disrupt multi-agency investigations, and needlessly increase risk to officer safety and the public, without any public-safety benefits. This would be a step backward for law enforcement and a risk Pennsylvania should not take.”

""The only constituency that Governor Shapiro cares about are illegal aliens bankrupting Pennsylvania Taxpayers by abusing our generous welfare system. Cutting off Pennsylvania from Nlets, a secure and effective public safety database that’s over half a century old, proves once again that our governor is more concerned with protecting criminal aliens from Immigration and Customs Enforcement than he is in protecting Commonwealth Citizens from violent felons. Governor Shapiro should have our federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies’ backs - instead of stabbing them in the back,"" said Congressman Perry.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-delivers-2025-christmas-message,Rep. Kelly delivers 2025 Christmas message,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Ahead of the Christmas holiday, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) delivered his annual Christmas message to Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District.

You can watch his full message here or by clicking the image below.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mackenzie.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mackenzie-hails-strong-q3-gdp-report,Congressman Mackenzie Hails Strong Q3 GDP Report,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,PA,Ryan Mackenzie,M001230,mackenzie.house.gov,mackenzie,https://mackenzie.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-7), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, hailed the news of strong economic growth in the third quarter. Wednesday’s report from the Commerce Department showed that gross domestic product (GDP) grew at a rate of 4.3% in the third quarter. This is the fastest rate of growth in two years and well above economists’ expectations of 3.2% growth.

“Today’s growth figures are the latest sign that investing in workers, families, and small businesses is the key to strong, sustainable growth,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “More work remains, but after entering the year and finding an economic situation that was far weaker than initially thought, we are making progress towards building an economy that delivers for the American people. I’ll keep working to unleash American energy; cut unnecessary red tape; and support workers, seniors, and small businesses.”

Congressman Mackenzie has helped to pass a range of pro-growth policies since beginning his term in January. This includes:

Tax relief for every American, including families, seniors, and workers.

$750 increase to the standard deduction.

Raised the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 (had been set to fall back to $1,000).

Established a $6,000 bonus deduction for seniors — eliminating taxes on social security for 88% of seniors.

And more.

Preventing the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which would have resulted in a 22% tax increase for the average taxpayer.

Permanently extending the 20% Small Business Deduction, benefiting over 30 million small businesses.

Permanently allowing 100% immediate expensing for business investments, helping small businesses to grow and expand.

Rolling back the failed, one-size-fits-all energy policies of the Biden era and embracing an all-of-the-above policy.

Reining in red tape that strangles small businesses.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mackenzie.house.gov/media/press-releases/mackenzie-urges-governor-shapiro-preserve-nlets-access,Mackenzie Urges Governor Shapiro to Preserve Nlets Access,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,PA,Ryan Mackenzie,M001230,mackenzie.house.gov,mackenzie,https://mackenzie.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, is leading a letter to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro alongside members of the Pennsylvania congressional delegation. The letter raises concerns about efforts to restrict or end Pennsylvania’s participation in the International Justice & Public Safety Network (Nlets).

Joining Congressman Mackenzie on the letter are Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), Congressman Mike Kelly (PA-16), Congressman Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Congressman Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10), Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09), Congressman John Joyce (PA-13), and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01).

Nlets is a secure, state-managed law enforcement network connecting more than 45,000 agencies nationwide, allowing officers to quickly share critical public-safety information such as driver’s license data, vehicle registrations, criminal histories, and warrants. In November, a group of Democrats urged Governor Shapiro to restrict Nlets information from being shared with certain federal law enforcement agencies, including ICE, HSI, and U.S. Border Patrol. Any attempt to limit federal access to Nlets would slow investigations, disrupt real-time coordination between agencies, and put additional strain on state and local law enforcement without improving public safety.

“Any move to restrict law enforcement’s access to vital information-sharing systems would endanger our communities,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “Nlets is a proven tool that helps law enforcement apprehend dangerous criminals and keeps Pennsylvanians safe. Restricting access would empower criminal illegal aliens at the expense of Pennsylvania families.”

""The International Justice & Public Safety Network has been an effective resource for law enforcement agencies at every level,” said Congressman Thompson. “Sharing secure information helps law enforcement apprehend fugitives and supports efforts in missing persons cases. Any restrictions to these programs will hinder the efforts of law enforcement to keep Pennsylvania safe.”

“Nlets works to connect local law enforcement with federal agencies. As the federal government cracks down on illegal immigration and crime in cities nationwide, including right here in Pennsylvania, it’s imperative that our local and federal agencies have the ability to work together quickly and efficiently,” said Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA).

“Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our Commonwealth and keep dangerous criminals off our streets. Efforts by far-left Democrats to shield criminal illegal aliens and restrict Pennsylvania’s participation in Nlets undermine public safety,” said Congressman Reschenthaler. “I am proud to join my Pennsylvania Republican colleagues in urging Governor Shapiro to continue the Commonwealth’s participation in this critical public safety program.”

“As a former law enforcement professional and FBI agent, I know that investigations succeed or fail in real time, based on timely and accurate information,” said Fitzpatrick. “Nlets provides the data that officers depend on every day in the field. Limiting access would slow apprehensions, disrupt multi-agency investigations, and needlessly increase risk to officer safety and the public, without any public-safety benefits. This would be a step backward for law enforcement and a risk Pennsylvania should not take.”

""The only constituency that Governor Shapiro cares about are illegal aliens bankrupting Pennsylvania Taxpayers by abusing our generous welfare system. Cutting off Pennsylvania from Nlets, a secure and effective public safety database that’s over half a century old, proves once again that our governor is more concerned with protecting criminal aliens from Immigration and Customs Enforcement than he is in protecting Commonwealth Citizens from violent felons. Governor Shapiro should have our federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies’ backs - instead of stabbing them in the back,"" said Congressman Perry.

Congressman Mackenzie has consistently opposed policies that block cooperation between local, state, and federal law enforcement. Earlier this year, he condemned policies implemented by the Northampton County Executive that forced ICE to conduct arrests in public rather than in prison facilities.

To read the full text of the letter, click HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://radewagen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/merry-christmas-amata-2,Merry Christmas from Amata,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,AS,Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen,R000600,radewagen.house.gov,radewagen,https://radewagen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is wishing everyone in American Samoa a merry Christmas:

“The beautiful Christmas season is full of family time, gift-giving, delicious food, and cheerful decorations. Most of all, we remember it is a celebration of the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, signifying joy, hope, and peace.

“Many of our people have loved ones far away due to military service, collegiate studies, or careers in the states. May God especially bless and each of them and these families, with ‘many happy returns’ to our island home. This Christmas, we keep our Toa o Samoa especially in our prayers – thank you to each one for your service and sacrifice! Just this week, Congress sent next year’s 3.8 percent pay raise for our military to the President to be signed into law, as part of a busy December. We look forward together to all the possibilities for a wonderful new year.

“May each of us celebrate this special season with joyful and charitable hearts. Have a Merry Christmas!”

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. – Luke 2:10-11

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://rileymoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-moore-responds-release-sunday-jackson-notes-longstanding-calls,"Congressman Moore Responds to the Release of Sunday Jackson, Notes Longstanding Calls for Clemency",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WV,Riley M. Moore,M001235,rileymoore.house.gov,rileymoore,https://rileymoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Riley M. Moore today praised the release of Sunday Jackson, a Nigerian farmer who was sentenced to death after killing a Fulani Islamic radical in self-defense following an attack on his home, following a pardon issued by Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.

For months, Congressman Riley M. Moore has publicly called for Jackson’s release, raising the case for his release duringCongressional hearings, in media interviews, and in private meetings with senior Nigerian officials including meetings in Washington D.C. and during his Congressional Delegation visit to Nigeria.

Sunday Jackson’s release is a positive development in the relationship between the Nigerian government and the United States which demonstrates a willingness by President Bola Tinubu and his government to work in coordination and cooperation with the United States to address the persecution of Christians.

Congressman Riley M. Moore released the following statement:

“Sunday Jackson is free! After more than a decade in prison serving a death sentence for defending himself, Sunday Jackson has been pardoned. Sunday is a Christian farmer who, like countless of other Christians in Nigeria, was brutally attacked by an Islamic radical. Sunday fought back in self-defense, killing his attacker. I have been advocating for Sunday’s release both in public and in private meetings, including during my recent Congressional Delegation visit to Nigeria.

There is much more to do, but I continue to see positive steps that my concerns and the concerns of President Trump are being taken seriously by the Nigerian government. I want to thank President Tinubu for his administration’s willingness to engage in continued constructive discussions with the U.S. Government on establishing a strategic security framework between our two countries to tackle the multifaceted security challenges facing Nigeria. The Nigerian government at the Federal and State level must ensure Sunday’s safety during and following his release.

Our Lord came to set the captives free, and now Sunday will be able to celebrate Christmas with his family. Thanks be to God!”

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z