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://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-commends-un-security-council-resolution-calling-surge-humanitarian,McCollum Commends UN Security Council Resolution Calling for Surge in Humanitarian Aid for Gaza,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) released the following statement today: “I commend the UN Security Council for adopting its legally-binding resolution today calling for urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and corridors to enable full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access. “The brutal attacks by Hamas, a terrorist organization, on October 7th took the lives of innocent Israeli civilians, including children, and ignited horrific suffering throughout Gaza. More than twenty-thousand children and their family members in Gaza have been killed and millions are suffering without access to food, water, medical care, or safe shelter. Without an immediate humanitarian pause and the establishment of a regional ceasefire among all parties, this war could spread throughout the region. Humanitarian aid is urgently needed in Gaza, as is clarity about the strategic objectives for achieving peace and long-term stability. Global leaders must use the actions taken today to build a foundation for lasting peace in the future. “I continue to urge President Biden and Secretary Blinken to detail the administration’s strategic objectives for achieving de-escalation and stability in the region, and to work to establish a ceasefire via regional engagement and in cooperation with international humanitarian organizations.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-republicans-demand-answers-on-postal-delays-following-issues-in-city-of-carver,"Emmer, Minnesota Republicans Demand Answers on Postal Delays Following Issues in City of Carver",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Every member of Minnesota’s Republican congressional delegation, Representatives Brad Finstad (MN-01), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) and Pete Stauber (MN-08), joined a letter led by Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) addressing the postal delays which have impacted homes and businesses across Minnesota. The letter to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy is the delegation’s second inquiry into the United States Postal Service (USPS) service delays this year. “We have heard consistent concerns from Carver residents that their everyday mail service is delayed and unreliable. Even though our local mail carriers are working overtime, they simply can’t keep up with their routes,” Emmer said.“Sixth District residents rely on timely mail service and their mail carriers deserve to be compensated for their hard work. Postmaster General DeJoy must answer for these persistent delays across our state.” The members wrote: We are writing to you regarding the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) operation within the Minnesota-North Dakota Region. In the middle of one of the busiest seasons for mail and package delivery, we are extremely concerned about the current state of mail delivery in Minnesota. Nearly a year ago, we shared our concerns over the lack of mail delivery and delays across Minnesota that worsened during the holiday season. A month after the initial letter, we received a response stating that mail service was delayed due to staffing shortages and inclement weather, and that the USPS was working on solutions to provide Minnesotans with reliable, timely mail services. Unfortunately, we are in an identical situation a year later. Our offices have received many complaints from constituents that they are not receiving mail at a consistent rate, some going without mail for up to a week. It was recently announced by the Inspector General that four post offices in the south metro would be receiving audits and Congressman Stauber’s office was informed that the Bemidji and Blackduck post offices would receive audits as well. We are aware the USPS is facing a staffing shortage across the state and there is significant burnout among current employees. While it is welcomed news that the Minnesota-North Dakota Region has been holding job fairs in an effort to hire additional staff, we are concerned about the recent reports that USPS workers are working overtime without receiving correlating pay. Mail carriers in the Twin Cities metropolitan area have been working 60-to-80-hour weeks just to keep up with demand. Additionally, it was reported that some Minnesota Post Offices are directing their employees to set aside traditional USPS mail delivery for other non-traditional mail deliveries. Our constituents, especially those in rural areas, rely on the USPS to pay their bills, get their prescriptions, and keep in touch with their loved ones. To further understand the actions that the USPS is taking, please provide a response to the following questions: What steps has the USPS taken to ensure that Minnesotans are able to receive their mail and packages during the holiday season? Given the recent news that the Bemidji Post Office instructed their mail carriers to work extended hours without overtime pay, are any other post offices in Minnesota offering similar instructions to their employees? Are Minnesota Post Offices instructing their carriers to prioritize deliveries other than traditional mail? What steps, other than career fairs, is the USPS taking to recruit and retain workers? How did the Inspector General determine which post offices in Minnesota would receive an audit? Is there potential for any additional post offices in Minnesota to receive an audit or the possibility for a statewide audit? It is imperative that the USPS finds solutions to ensure that Minnesotans receive their mail in a timely fashion, while providing a safe working environment for their employees. Thank you for your prompt consideration of our questions. Background This month, constituents in the City of Carver have contacted Rep. Emmer’s office regarding mail delays, with some residents not receiving mail for five days. Additionally, as the City of Carver’s population continues to grow, the city’s post office faces capacity and space issues including reports that postal workers previously had to sort mail in the parking lot. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/12/icymi-house-members-disappointed-in-usmca-ruling,ICYMI House Members Disappointed in USMCA Ruling,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Reps. Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Mike Bost (R-IL), Jim Costa (D-CA), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Annie Kuster (D-NH), and Suzan DelBene (D-WA) led 56 of their colleagues in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack expressing their disappointment in the recent dispute settlement ruling on Canada’s dairy tariff rate quota (TRQ) allocation measures under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The ruling raises significant questions regarding fair market access for American dairy producers and processors involved in the Canadian food and agriculture sector. “The latest USMCA panel decision is extremely disappointing and leaves America’s dairy industry at a disadvantage. But my colleagues and I will not give up. We are exploring other tools and opportunities to ensure U.S. dairy producers get fair access to Canadian export markets, and this letter encouraging the Administration to do the same is the first step of many,” said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). “I look forward to a swift response and to working with USTR and USDA on solutions.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/2023-financial-services-year-in-review,2023 Financial Services Year in Review,2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"2023 has been a year of action and progress in the House Financial Services Committee. Under Republican leadership, we have moved legislation to bolster our capital markets, promote innovation, and hold unelected bureaucrats accountable. Here is a quick look back at some key milestones: In April, our office passed three bills out of the Financial Services Committee: The CFPB Dual Mandate and Economic Analysis Act prioritizes competition, consumer choice, and transparency at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The CFPB Whistleblower Incentives and Protection Act empowers whistleblowers to expose wrongdoing in the financial industry. The Small Business Entrepreneurs Empowerment and Development (SEED) Act makes it easier for small businesses to access capital, fueling American entrepreneurship. In July, we helped pave the way for digital asset innovation in the United States with: The Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act will streamline money transmission regulations, removing a major roadblock for digital asset innovators. The Securities Clarity Act (embedded in the FIT for the 21st Century Act) laid the foundation for the Ripple decision, clarifying that a token itself isn’t automatically a securities contract. Both bills passed out of the Financial Services Committee and are awaiting a vote in the House of Representatives. In September, we took a stand in defense of privacy and individual liberty with the: CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act which prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) directly to anyone. The CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act passed out of the House Financial Services Committee and is awaiting a vote on the House floor. In November, we sent a strong message to Gary Gensler and the SEC: The House of Representatives passed our appropriations amendment barring the SEC from using taxpayer dollars on its crypto enforcement tirade until Congress passes legislation giving the SEC jurisdiction over this budding industry. And this is just the beginning. In 2024, we will build on this momentum, bringing these reforms to the House floor and delivering real results for the American people. We are committed to fostering a dynamic and transparent financial system that empowers innovators, protects consumers, and fuels economic growth. Rest assured my friends, a new day is coming.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:34:08Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-congratulates-winners-2023-fourth-congressional-district-app,McCollum Congratulates Winners of the 2023 Fourth Congressional District App Challenge,2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On Tuesday, Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) held a virtual event to congratulate Isaac Tsai of Shoreview, Minnesota, a student at Mounds View High School, for winning the 2023 Fourth Congressional District App Challenge for his app NTRL, which is designed to help users engage with nature and open up about their mental health by responding to daily thought-provoking questions. Congresswoman McCollum offered her congratulations: “It is a pleasure to congratulate the winner of the 2023 Fourth Congressional District App Challenge and recognize the other finalists,” Congresswoman McCollum said. “My office and our fantastic judges were impressed with the creativity of the apps submitted by students in Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District and the ways in which their apps solve real problems or improve people’s lives. Every student who submitted an entry to this year’s contest should be extremely proud of their hard work. I am proud to host this competition to foster the next generation of STEAM superstars in the East Metro.” Isaac Tsai was inspired to create NTRL to give students an outlet to speak freely about their struggles by providing a space that facilitates thoughtful conversations about difficult topics. Motivated by the increase of high school students who self-report struggles with their mental health during and after the Covid-19 pandemic, Isaac hopes to provide an avenue for students to talk openly about what they are experiencing and know that they are not alone. Users have two windows to provide responses to questions and are encouraged to take a picture of the day’s sunrise or sunset. The responses are then overlaid on the photo and placed in their journal. Isaac also developed a community tab to allow users to see the responses of others. The winning app was chosen by a panel of judges from the Fourth Congressional District. As the winner of this year's competition, Isaac will have the opportunity to visit Washington D.C. for the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill Reception, to demo his app, and to have his entry featured in a display at the U.S. Capitol Building. During Tuesday’s event, Congresswoman McCollum also congratulated the second and third place winners of the App Challenge: Riddhi Singhvi and Coolsjes Singhvi from Stillwater Area High School took second place with their app, Speak Up Secure, which offers a secure and confidential complaint management system for organizations and employees. Jacob Rome and Akshay Alluri from Woodbury High School and Math and Science Academy, respectively, took third place with their app, Liberty Learning, an educational app to help users succeed in their U.S. citizenship test as well as learn more about our nation’s history and civic traditions. Judges for this year's competition were Eric Ebbesen and Salman Elmi. Eric Ebbesen is a brigade captain for Open Twin Cities, a local organization fostering an inclusive community of civic collaboration and championing open government and civic technology for positive social impact and civic engagement. Salman Elmi is a Co-Founder of Tavolo, an app partnered with Twin Cities restaurants streamlining reservations, dining options, and payment methods. Salman is a recipient of the emerging startup award from BETA and an outstanding refugee award for the state of Minnesota. The Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide STEAM competition where students create an application or ""app"" for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, or other devices. Fourth Congressional District middle and high school students are encouraged to enter next year's competition by submitting an app of their own creation. Students and teachers can find more information about the competition at mccollum.house.gov. Information on the 2024 competition will be available in the coming months.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-aipac-dangerously-trafficking-hate-speech-amid-israel-gaza-war,McCollum: AIPAC Dangerously Trafficking in Hate Speech Amid Israel-Gaza War,2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) released the following statement today: “Amid rising calls from leaders in the U.S. and 153 nations at the United Nations for Israel to stop the killing of civilians in Gaza – including countless women and children – AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) has doubled down on hateful rhetoric against those who disagree with their extremist positions. Through paid Facebook attack ads against me and others who have called for a negotiated regional ceasefire to protect human lives, they are dangerously inciting hate and division to silence dissent by spreading lies and misinformation while Israel and Hamas are at war. This only further endangers innocent lives – not only in Gaza, but also in Israel. “I have strongly condemned Hamas and continue to do so for their horrific and vicious terrorist attacks and murder of innocent Israeli citizens on October 7. I have called for the release of all hostages. I have consistently stated that Israel has the right to self-defense. But facts don’t matter to AIPAC and its extremist supporters. “As a Member of Congress and the lead Democrat on the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I have the solemn duty to allocate more than $800 billion to protect the national security interests of the American people. This obligation comes with a great responsibility to the men and women who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces and the Intelligence Community to ensure they can succeed in defending human rights and freedom that are foundational to our national security and our democracy. My work to keep America safe, strong, and successful means nothing to AIPAC. “I refuse to back down from my commitment to our national security, and to saving lives by seeking peace, justice, equality, and human rights for Palestinians and Israelis. Jews, Muslims, Christians, and people of all faiths and backgrounds deserve to be safe and secure – in the U.S., in Israel, and in Gaza.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-omar-mcgovern-schakowsky-lead-letter-demanding-living-wages-bangladeshi,"Reps. Omar, McGovern, Schakowsky Lead Letter Demanding Living Wages for Bangladeshi Garment Workers",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA) Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) led a letter today to the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) to support fairer wages and to protect labor rights for Bangladeshi workers. The letter is co-signed by Reps. Raúl Grijalva, Barbara Lee, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, David Trone, and Susan Wild. “We are writing to urge the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) to strongly support the demands of Bangladesh’s garment workers for fairer wages,” the lawmakers wrote. “As you know, the recent wage increases announced by Bangladesh’s wage board, which would not even meet the rising cost of living, have led to extended mass protests. Police have responded with violence against protesters and trade union leaders, resulting in at least four deaths, numerous injuries, and a wave of unjust arrests, detentions, and indefinite factory shutdowns. We agree with the Biden administration’s call for the government of Bangladesh to respect and protect workers’ rights to organize, protest peacefully, and collectively bargain without fear of retaliation, violence, or intimidation.” Recent negotiations over a new minimum wage for garment workers have led to mass demonstrations, ever since the wage board announced an increase far below living wage levels. Factory owners and police have responded to the protests with intimidation and violence. U.S. brands must use their influence and stand together with workers by immediately demanding better wages and rights for Bangladeshi working families. This letter echoes the sentiments of local worker organizations, international trade unions, and the U.S. government to revisit the minimum wage decision and respect worker rights, including the freedom of association. The letter is endorsed by Academics Stand Against Poverty, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (AFL-CIO Affiliate), IndustriALL Global Union, Institute for Policy Studies – Global Economy Project, Labour Behind the Label, Oxfam America, and Workers United (SEIU Affiliate). You can read the full letter here and below. Stephen Lamar President and CEO American Apparel & Footwear Association 740 6th Street N.W. Washington, D.C. 20001 Dear Mr. Lamar, We are writing to urge the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) to strongly support the demands of Bangladesh’s garment workers for fairer wages. Due to their significant presence and operational leverage in Bangladesh, we believe that AAFA member companies are strongly positioned to support workers’ petitions for livable wages and to vocally champion their labor rights in a key country for the global apparel industry. The escalating repression that Bangladeshi workers are enduring underscores the urgent need for transformative, systemic reform—a call to action that U.S. corporations must heed. As you know, the recent wage increases announced by Bangladesh’s wage board, which would not even meet the rising cost of living, have led to extended mass protests. Police have responded with violence against protesters and trade union leaders, resulting in at least four deaths, numerous injuries, and a wave of unjust arrests, detentions, and indefinite factory shutdowns. We echo the Biden administration’s call for the government of Bangladesh to respect and protect workers’ rights to organize, protest peacefully, and collectively bargain without fear of retaliation, violence, or intimidation. While we were encouraged to see several U.S. brands express support for a wage increase and a fair, transparent wage setting process, words are not enough. The reluctance to support a living wage of 23,000 BDT, or around $208 per month, is not only disheartening but shameful. We implore the American Apparel & Footwear Association to: · Call for an immediate end to the violence perpetrated by police and other security forces against workers; · Pressure the government and garment manufacturers of Bangladesh to improve the wage setting process and accept workers’ minimum demand of $208 per month to align with the real cost of living; · Commit to maintaining a long-term sourcing relationship with your suppliers and to increasing your purchasing prices to fully absorb the additional labor costs; · Foster transparency and accountability in the business operations and supply chains of member companies to safeguard labor and human rights, including the right to freedom of association; · Instruct your suppliers to promptly withdraw or to dismiss any false criminal cases filed against workers and union leaders; · Warn your suppliers to stop filing criminal cases against workers, and make clear that the dismissal, blacklisting, or other harassment of workers and union leaders is unacceptable and will influence your sourcing decisions; · Call on Bangladeshi authorities to stop arresting workers and union leaders in response to wage protests and to immediately release innocent detained individuals; and, · Use your considerable leverage with individual factory owners and industry associations to ensure that workers are paid in spite of recent factory closures. Brands with factories in the Export Processing Zones (EPZ) sector should note that EPZs have their own Minimum Wage Board, which has just recently been constituted. Brand engagement can play a critical role in ensuring that the EPZ wage setting process does not follow the same disastrous and unfair path as in the garment sector outside the zones. There is still a chance for a better outcome that will not trap EPZ workers in poverty for another 5 years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-reintroduces-legislation-modernize-endangered-species-act,Stauber Reintroduces Legislation to Modernize the Endangered Species Act,2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) re-introduced the ESA Flexibility Act. This legislation will grant landowners leeway and the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) flexibility when dealing with endangered species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Joining Congressman Stauber in introducing the legislation is House Western Caucus Chairman Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Rep. Cliff Bentz (OR-02), Rep. Harriet Hageman (WY at-large), and Rep. Lauren Boebert (CO-03). “I’m pleased to introduce the ESA Flexibility Act today, which creates latitude for species listed as threatened or endangered,” said Congressman Stauber. “If we’re to build infrastructure, permit electricity transmission, mine for resources needed for everyday life, and properly manage our forests, we need commonsense habitat conservation plans that protect wildlife without harming our economy. The ESA Flexibility Act will allow for better management of species listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, such as the Northern Long-Eared Bat. Stauber continued, “The flexibility given to the Secretary of the Interior under this bill will allow for fit-for-purpose protections for species like the Northern Long-Eared Bat, while still allowing for responsible logging and land management across Northern Minnesota. Although my commonsense bill is a small step forward, I hope we build on this reform to make the ESA work for people and animals once again."" “This year marks the 50th anniversary of the ESA, and its disappointing track record highlights the urgent need for reform,” said Western Caucus Chairman Dan Newhouse (WA-04). “I’m proud to join Western Caucus Vice Chair Stauber in re-introducing this legislation to provide the Fish and Wildlife Service with additional flexibilities in implementing regulations to recover species while avoiding actions detrimental to landowners. Western Caucus members will continue to prioritize reforming the ESA to make sure the law works better for both species and rural America.” Background There are currently two classifications under the Endangered Species Act (ESA): endangered and threatened. Section 4(d) of the ESA provides flexibility for threatened species, allowing the Department of the Interior and the Fish and Wildlife Service to develop fit-for-purpose regulations to help maintain and improve threatened species' status, while simultaneously reducing undue regulatory burdens that are affecting energy development, farming, and logging activities. The ESA Flexibility Act will help further alleviate the undue regulatory burdens posed by the ESA by expanding section 4(d) and allowing the Secretary of the Interior to also utilize 4(d) rules for species listed as endangered. The ESA Flexibility Act will allow for better, fit-for-purpose management of endangered species across Northern Minnesota, such as the Northern Long-Eared Bat, while still supporting responsible land use and management. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-leads-bipartisan-effort-address-critical-medication-shortages,Rep. Angie Craig Leads Bipartisan Effort to Address Critical Medication Shortages and Reduce American Reliance on China,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN), Jefferson Van Drew (R- NJ) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen domestic medication supply chains and reduce American reliance on China for critical medications. Currently, nearly 80% of the manufacturing facilities that produce critical pharmaceutical ingredients are located outside the United States. Rep. Craig’s bipartisan RAPID Reserve Act would encourage the domestic production of critical medications and incentivize American-based manufacturers to increase their reserves of these medications to prepare for future public health threats and supply chain challenges. “Manufacturing critical medications and pharmaceutical ingredients here in America will strengthen our domestic supply chains, create good-paying jobs and most importantly, get life-saving medications into the hands of those who need them,” said Rep. Craig. “Manufacturing medications here at home instead of other countries like China is a no-brainer – and that’s why I’m teaming up with Reps. Spanberger and Van Drew on this bipartisan effort.” “Americans should not have to rely on foreign adversaries for key medications or pharmaceutical ingredients — especially when homegrown manufacturers operate across our Commonwealth and our country,” said Rep. Spanberger. “With drug shortages on the rise, the United States’ reliance on the Chinese Communist Party poses both national security and health threats — as we saw during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. This bipartisan legislation would address vulnerabilities in our supply chain to boost domestic production, improve Americans’ access to essential medications, and make sure that manufacturers can build and maintain reserves of critical medications and their key ingredients.” The Senate companion to the RAPID Reserve Act was introduced in the Senate by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) earlier this year. The bipartisan RAPID Reserve Act is supported by numerous leading health organizations including the American Hospital Association, American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, CivicaRx, Healthcare Distribution Alliance, Phlow and Securing America’s Medicines and Supply Coalition. Full bill text can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-chairman-bost-host-roundtable-with-speaker-johnson-and-veteran-service-organizations,"Emmer, Chairman Bost Host Roundtable with Speaker Johnson and Veteran Service Organizations",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Emmer with Sixth District veteran Keith Kiefer “Our nation is indebted to our service members, veterans, and their families,” said Emmer. “We were glad to highlight Keith’s service and his work in Minnesota and across the nation on behalf of the veteran community. The Sixth District’s more than 38,000 veterans deserve our continued support and straightforward access to the benefits they have earned. We will continue working with Chairman Bost and Speaker Johnson to provide for these heroes and their families.” Kiefer said, “It was an honor to be invited and attend the veterans’ stakeholder event hosted by Congressman Emmer. As the National Commander of the National Association of Atomic Veterans (NAAV), I, along with the other Veteran Service Organizations, believe the Members of Congress in attendance want to make a positive difference for the veterans and their families. Each represented organization had the opportunity to share their organization’s top legislative agenda, provide comments and ask questions. This open-office communication is a key component to solving veterans’ issues. I thank the members and VSOs for their contributions.” “As Chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I always appreciate hearing from our Veteran Service Organization partners to keep a pulse on what’s important to everyday veterans across the country,” said Chairman Bost. “I am grateful to my friends, our Whip Tom Emmer and Speaker Mike Johnson, for hosting this important stakeholder discussion today. We must continue fighting for the men and women who have served and conversations like this help to make that happen. Important work has been done by this majority, and I assure you we will hit the ground running next year to continue delivering for veterans, their families, and their survivors.” “America owes our veterans a limitless debt of gratitude for their service, and Congress has a moral obligation to pay it down,” said Speaker Johnson. “We are grateful to the many veterans’ service organizations who joined us for this roundtable, and I thank Whip Emmer and Chairman Bost for their efforts to support America’s veterans.” Emmer, Chairman Bost, and Speaker Johnson were joined by Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) and Representatives Jack Bergman (R-MI), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Gregory F. Murphy (R-NC), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Keith Self (R-TX), and Jennifer Kiggans (R-VA). VSOs represented include America’s Warrior Partnership, AMVETS, Blinded Veterans Association, Blue Star Families, Disabled American Veterans, Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the U.S., Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.A, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Military Officers Association of America, Mission Roll Call, National Association of Atomic Veterans, National Association of State Approving Agencies, Inc., National Defense Committee, National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Student Veterans of America, The American Legion, The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans of America, and Wounded Warrior Project. Background This Congress, Emmer helped key veteran-focused bills pass the House floor. These include: The RELIEVE Act, which will open up community care options to veterans for emergency treatment, allowing veterans in need to access care at local hospitals when they need it most. The Wounded Warrior Access Act, which establishes as secure online resource for veterans to submit electronic requests for claim records, ending the antiquated requirement for veterans to go in-person to a VA facility or mail a form to request a paper copy of their claims. In July, Emmer hosted an event with members of the Disabled American Veterans of Minnesota at VFW Post 428 to provide updates on the work being done to support disabled veterans and their families. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/klobuchar-smith-omar-secure-significant-federal-funding-minneapoliss-traffic,"Klobuchar, Smith, Omar Secure Significant Federal Funding for Minneapolis’s Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Project",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) and Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has awarded $20,004,000 in federal funding for the City of Minneapolis to implement its Vision Zero Action Plan. The Plan addresses the three leading causes of severe and fatal traffic accidents in Minneapolis: speeding, left-turn conflicts, and red-light running. “We have an obligation to ensure our roads are safe for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians,” said Klobuchar. “These infrastructure upgrades will save lives.” “We need to build a transportation system that prioritizes safety. This important investment will help make progress toward eliminating pedestrian injuries in Minneapolis,” said Smith. “Sometimes smaller things like pedestrian refuge islands, high-visibility crosswalks and protected bicycle lanes are the most effective tools to create safer roads. I appreciate the work of local leaders to make Minneapolis safer for everyone.” “Investing in pedestrian and traffic safety measures will help protect the lives of Minnesotans. I’m glad to see federal dollars coming back home to Minneapolis to implement proven improvements that will make streets safer for all users, especially our most vulnerable. We know speeding, red light violations and turn conflicts cause serious accidents, and this funding will directly address those dangers. I applaud Mayor Frey and city leaders for prioritizing residents’ wellbeing through Vision Zero, and I’ll keep working to secure federal infrastructure dollars that help communities across Minnesota thrive,” said Omar. The Vision Zero Action Plan components include pedestrian safety features, including intersection medians, protected bicycle lanes, and systematic traffic signal Proven Safety Countermeasures at 526 intersections. The project will also implement high-visibility crosswalks, rectangular rapid-flashing beacons (RRFB), intersection lighting upgrades, and pedestrian crosswalk signs. Additional supplemental planning and demonstration activities include speed data collection, reduced speed limit and roundabout evaluation, and quick-build pilot projects and analysis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-pens-letters-governor-walz-and-irs-commissioner-rebate-failure,Stauber Pens Letters to Governor Walz and IRS Commissioner on Rebate Failure,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) recently sent two letters, one to Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz and one to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, to address the failure of Governor Walz and the DFL-led state legislature to send rebate checks by the deadline mandated by the Biden Administration. This failure will result in Minnesota’s citizens paying federal taxes on these rebates. In his letter to Governor Walz, Congressman Stauber highlighted the consequences of this massive failure, by stating, “At a time when inflation and energy prices are crippling Minnesota families, making them choose between putting food on the table or gifts under the Christmas tree for their children, this tax rebate was meant to provide a little financial reprieve. Because of your failures, Minnesotans could lose hundreds of millions of dollars.” Read the full letter HERE. In his letter to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, Stauber requested the IRS immediately reverse the decision to tax Minnesotans on their rebate checks, stating, “Minnesota ranks sixth on the list of highest state income taxes. We share more taxpayer dollars with the federal government than we ever get back. I implore you to take stock of my constituents as good, hardworking people who should not be unduly punished for the failures and delays of their state leadership.” Read the full letter HERE. Stauber is scheduled to speak with IRS Commissioner Werfel on Friday on this matter. BACKGROUND: During the forced government shutdowns of the last few years, states could send money to their residents tax-free to alleviate some of their financial stress. On January 30, 2023, President Joe Biden stated that he would end the national emergencies related to COVID-19 on May 11, 2023. Although most states were able to get their affairs in order and provide rebate checks before May 11, Governor Walz failed to sign legislation for tax rebates until May 23, 2023. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/12/house-votes-to-formally-open-impeachment-inquiry-into-president-biden,House Votes to Formally Open Impeachment Inquiry into President Biden,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, the House of Representatives voted to formally open an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. ""Several committees, including the Ways and Means Committee, have gathered hundreds of pages of testimony causing grave concern about the President's conduct,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""With tonight's vote, we have reasserted Congress' authority to gather all the necessary evidence to complete its investigation and get the American people the answers they deserve.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/breaking-us-house-passes-rep-angie-craigs-bipartisan-bill-fight-fentanyl,BREAKING: U.S. House Passes Rep. Angie Craig’s Bipartisan Bill to Fight Fentanyl Crisis,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Rep. Angie Craig’s bill to expand access to overdose prevention resources in a bipartisan vote. Rep. Craig’s bipartisan RECONNECTIONS Act of 2023 will direct the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to expand their overdose prevention efforts – like bolstering prescription drug monitoring programs, promoting and evaluating community and health system interventions and conducting research on controlled substance overdoses. The bill also categorizes the fentanyl crisis as a “new and emerging public health crisis.” “The fentanyl crisis has touched every part of our district – I've heard from too many families who have been torn apart by this epidemic. That’s why I’m pushing so hard to make a change and why I’m so proud of the milestone we reached today,” said Rep. Craig. “I am committed to continuing this work, with members of both parties, to keep Minnesotans safe and healthy, and I urge the Senate to take this common-sense bill up as soon as possible.” The RECONNECTIONS Act passed the House as part of the bipartisan SUPPORT Act. Rep. Craig has been a leader in the fight to combat the opioid crisis, expand resources for law enforcement and improve addiction and recovery support in Congress. Last week, Rep. Craig introduced the bipartisan Kid PROOF Actto expand access to lethal means safety supplies – like lockboxes and safes – for parents of children at risk of overdose or suicide. Earlier this year, Rep. Craig successfully urged the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to fully approve over-the-counter distribution of Narcan, a medicine used to reverse overdoses. Click here to read the RECONNECTIONS Act of 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/breaking-us-house-vote-rep-angie-craigs-bipartisan-bill-fight-fentanyl-crisis,BREAKING: U.S. House to Vote on Rep. Angie Craig’s Bipartisan Bill to Fight Fentanyl Crisis,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – This week, the U.S. House of Representatives will vote on Rep. Angie Craig’s bipartisan bill to expand access to overdose prevention resources. Rep. Craig’s bipartisan RECONNECTIONS Act of 2023 will direct the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to expand their overdose prevention efforts – like bolstering prescription drug monitoring programs, promoting and evaluating community and health system interventions and conducting research on controlled substance overdoses. The bill also categorizes the fentanyl crisis as a “new and emerging public health crisis.” “This is a common-sense bipartisan bill that will help address one of the most urgent issues facing our nation. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support my bill on the House Floor,” said Rep. Craig. Rep. Craig has been a leader in the fight to combat the opioid crisis, expand resources for law enforcement and improve addiction and recovery support in Congress. Last week, Rep. Craig introduced the bipartisan Kid PROOF Actto expand access to lethal means safety supplies – like lockboxes and safes – for parents of children at risk of overdose or suicide. Earlier this year, Rep. Craig successfully urged the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to fully approve over-the-counter distribution of Narcan, a medicine used to reverse overdoses. Click here to read the RECONNECTIONS Act of 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omars-statement-meeting-family-israeli-american-hostages,Rep. Omar’s Statement on Meeting with Family of Israeli-American hostages,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Congresswoman Omar met Thursday with additional family members of Israeli-American hostages held in Gaza. She reiterated her support for the release of all hostages held and for an immediate permanent ceasefire. “Last week I was honored to meet with the family of an Israeli-American hostage still being held in the Gaza Strip. I reiterated my continued support for the safe and timely release of all hostages held by Hamas and for an immediate ceasefire and end to the siege of Gaza. The humanity of the hostages, along with all the innocent civilians caught in the crosshairs of this war, should be at the center of our efforts to bring peace and justice to Israel and Palestine.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-introduces-bipartisan-bill-streamline-fda-approval-time-animal,Rep. Angie Craig Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Streamline FDA Approval Time for Animal Feed,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined her colleagues Representatives Greg Pence (R-IN), Jim Baird (R-IN) and Kim Schrier (D-WA) to introduce a bipartisan bill to streamline the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval process for animal feed. Right now, the average FDA approval time for a feed additive is 10-15 years. Rep. Craig’s bipartisan Innovative FEED Act would create a new category of animal feeds and clarify the FDA approval process for feed additives – helping to speed up the approval process. “The agricultural industry is constantly evolving and improving to meet current demands – and it’s critical that the regulatory processes surrounding the industry do the same. That’s why I worked with my colleague, Rep. Greg Pence of Indiana, to introduce the bipartisan Innovative FEED Act to make sure we can get products to Minnesota’s family farmers in a timely manner,” said Rep. Craig. The Innovative FEED Act is supported by the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, the National Milk Producers Federation, the American Feed Industry Association, the National Green and Feed Association, the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives and the Agricultural Retailers Association. Text of the Innovative FEED Act can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-craig-gonzales-introduce-bipartisan-lethal-means-safety-legislation,"Reps. Craig, Gonzales Introduce Bipartisan Lethal Means Safety Legislation",2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN-02) and Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23) introduced bipartisan legislation to expand access to lethal means safety supplies – like lockboxes and safes – for parents of children at risk of overdose or suicide. Their bipartisan Kid PROOF Act would allow health care providers to purchase and distribute lethal means safety supplies – like lockboxes or safes – for children at risk of overdose or suicide. This would help parents safely store opioids or other dangerous materials and keep them away from at-risk children in the home. Research shows that proper storage of lethal means – like opioids or a knife – saves lives. 95% of individuals considering suicide do not go on to die by suicide when lethal means are effectively stored. “Our bipartisan legislation takes an informed, compassionate, evidence-based approach to keeping kids safe, and I’m grateful for Rep. Gonzales’ partnership on this important issue,” said Rep. Angie Craig. “As a mother and a grandmother, I’ll do everything I can to help parents keep their children safe and healthy – that's what this bipartisan bill will accomplish.” “Reducing access to lethal means for children at risk of suicide is a proven method to decrease suicide rates. Our bill, the Kid PROOF Act, would help physicians obtain funding to provide parents with safes and lockboxes to properly store medications and other dangerous materials,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales. “The Kid PROOF Act is an important step forward in our commitment as parents to protect our kids. I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this life-saving legislation across the finish line.” Full text of the Kid PROOF Act can be found here. Reps. Maria Salazar (R-FL-27) and David Trone (D-MD-06) joined as original co-sponsors of the bill. U.S. Senators Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. “Protecting America’s children starts at home,” said Rep. Maria Salazar. “I am proud to support this compassionate legislation to give healthcare providers the resources they need to empower parents to protect their children. Our national mental health crisis requires bold and incisive solutions, and this bill is a great step toward our ultimate objective: saving lives.” ""We're living during a time when a record number of Americans are fighting mental illness and substance use disorder. With nearly 110,000 overdose deaths and over 49,000 suicide deaths last year alone, we can't afford to sit on the sidelines any longer,"" said Congressman David Trone, co-chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force. ""That's why I'm proud to co-lead the Kid PROOF Act to ensure more folks have lockboxes or safes to store opioids and other high-risk, lethal substances. Simple measures like this one can be the difference between life or death, and if we can save just one life it's worth it."" Leading national safety and mental health organizations endorsed the Kid PROOF Act. “Today, members of Congress took an important step to help prevent tragedies at home. The ‘Kid PROOF Act’ will give parents and families the support they need to protect kids by giving grants for lockboxes and safes to keep potentially lethal items away from children and teens. With the grants provided by children’s health care providers, the ‘Kid PROOF Act’ will support families in addressing rising rates of youth suicide and overdose. We commend Representatives Craig (D-MN), Gonzales (R-TX), Trone (D-MD), and Salazar (R-FL) for their leadership in introducing this bipartisan bill. In doing so, they are prioritizing our children and taking an important step to stem violence and youth suicide,” said Mark Barden, co-founder and CEO of the Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund. “AFSP is proud to support the Kid PROOF Act, critical legislation to reduce access to lethal means for our youngest and most vulnerable populations,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer. “Youth and young adults experience a heightened risk of suicide; according to the CDC, suicide was the third leading cause of death for youth ages 10-19 in 2021. Helping families and communities keep environments safe from lethal means, as an essential and effective component of suicide prevention, is a priority for AFSP, and we stand ready to advocate for the enactment of the Kid PROOF Act.” “We’re pleased to support the Kid PROOF Act, a vital piece of legislation that would further the safety of children by giving parents the means and tools to store potentially harmful objects,” said Christy Gleason, Vice President of Policy, Advocacy & Campaigns for Save the Children. “Far too often, children face harm that is easily preventable, inhibiting them from living their lives to the fullest. Save the Children believes every child has the right to a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm – and the Kid PROOF Act is important to realizing this bright future for kids.” “The national emergency in youth mental health continues to put too many children and teens at risk of self-injury, suicide and overdose. Children’s hospitals support the bipartisan Kid PROOF Act, which will help to provide parents and guardians with the resources and tools that they need to keep their children safe, especially during a mental health crisis,” said Matthew Cook, CEO Children’s Hospital Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-angie-craig-slams-irs-decision-tax-minnesota-rebate-checks,U.S. Rep. Angie Craig Slams IRS Decision to Tax Minnesota Rebate Checks,2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig slammed the IRS’ decision to tax the rebate checks sent to Minnesotans earlier this year and demanded an explanation from the IRS Commissioner. The IRS’ decision is a departure from previous guidance when they chose not to tax the stimulus checks issued by 21 states in 2022. “I’m concerned that Minnesotans are being treated differently than residents from other states and further concerned regarding this inconsistency of IRS guidance,” wrote Rep. Angie Craig in a letter to the IRS Commissioner. “My office routinely handles IRS casework for constituents, and it would be unfortunate if this decision created additional unnecessary hardship and confusion for Minnesotans.” Minnesota already pays nearly $7 more in federal taxes for every $1 it receives back. Rep. Craig’s letter to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel is linked here and copied below. December 6th, 2023 The Honorable Danny Werfel Commissioner Internal Revenue Service 1111 Constitution Ave. NW Washington, D.C. 20224 Dear Commissioner Werfel: I write to you to express strong concern with the IRS’ decision to tax Minnesotans’ stimulus checks, which stands in direct conflict with the tax status of stimulus checks issued by 21 states in 2022. This decision could lead to my constituents losing up to $286 of these important one-time payments that they had been expecting to see during a time of economic uncertainty. This year, the Minnesota State Legislature enacted these one-time stimulus checks of $260-$1,3000 and thoughtfully designed the program using 2021 income tax returns to be compliant with previous IRS guidance and to ensure it was tied to pandemic-era income. I’m concerned that Minnesotans are being treated differently than residents from other states and further concerned regarding this inconsistency of IRS guidance. Minnesota already pays nearly $7 more in federal taxes for every $1 it receives back. Furthermore, Minnesota will not be taxing these stimulus checks, but because the IRS decided to tax them, this is certain to lead to confused taxpayers and possibly incorrect IRS returns filed. My office routinely handles IRS casework for constituents, and it would be unfortunate if this decision created additional unnecessary hardship and confusion for Minnesotans. I urge you to reconsider this decision for the good of my constituents and all Minnesotans. Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter, I look forward to receiving your response. Sincerely, Angie Craig Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-statement-celebrating-hanukkah,Rep. Omar Statement Celebrating Hanukkah,2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), released the following statement on the first day of Hanukkah: “Wishing a happy Hanukkah to all those celebrating in Minnesota's 5th district and across the world! This Festival of Lights commemorates the Jewish people's struggle for religious freedom. As you kindle the lights of the menorah, continue spreading light through service and solidarity. Chag sameach! “",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-honors-us-air-force-major-jeffrey-t-hoernemann-on-house-floor,Emmer Honors U.S. Air Force Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann on House Floor,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in memory of U.S. Air Force Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann. Maj. Hoernemann, 32, of Andover was one of eight airmen killed last week when their Osprey aircraft crashed over the coast of Yakushima Island, Japan during a routine training mission. He served as a CV-22 instructor pilot and officer in charge of training. Hoernemann was assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron at Yokata Air Base. You can read Emmer’s remarks in full below: I rise to honor U.S. Air Force Major Jeff Hoernemann of Andover. Jeff lost his life last week, along with seven other airmen, during a routine training mission off the coast of Japan. He was just 32 years old. Throughout his life, Jeff had a competitive spirit and was uniquely disciplined. A graduate of Andover High School, Jeff broke school and conference records in the indoor 800 meters and four by 800-meter relay. As a teenager, he won a fifteen-thousand-dollar scholarship with an essay describing his careful budgeting to purchase a bike for triathlons. After competing in cross country and earning a degree in mechanical engineering from North Dakota State University, Jeff entered the Air Force. In 2016, he became a pilot after completing Columbus Air Force Base’s Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Class. Jeff dedicated his life to service and made the ultimate sacrifice. Today, across the city of Andover, the state of Minnesota, and this county, we honor his life and preserve his memory. Our prayers are with Jeff’s wife, Jess; his parents, Thomas and Catherine; and his brother, Jared. I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-honors-us-air-force-major-jeffrey-t-hoernemann-on-house-floor-0,Emmer Honors U.S. Air Force Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann on House Floor,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in memory of U.S. Air Force Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann. Maj. Hoernemann, 32, of Andover was one of eight airmen killed last week when their Osprey aircraft crashed over the coast of Yakushima Island, Japan during a routine training mission. He served as a CV-22 instructor pilot and officer in charge of training. Hoernemann was assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron at Yokata Air Base. You can read Emmer’s remarks in full below: I rise to honor U.S. Air Force Major Jeff Hoernemann of Andover. Jeff lost his life last week, along with seven other airmen, during a routine training mission off the coast of Japan. He was just 32 years old. Throughout his life, Jeff had a competitive spirit and was uniquely disciplined. A graduate of Andover High School, Jeff broke school and conference records in the indoor 800 meters and four by 800-meter relay. As a teenager, he won a fifteen-thousand-dollar scholarship with an essay describing his careful budgeting to purchase a bike for triathlons. After competing in cross country and earning a degree in mechanical engineering from North Dakota State University, Jeff entered the Air Force. In 2016, he became a pilot after completing Columbus Air Force Base’s Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Class. Jeff dedicated his life to service and made the ultimate sacrifice. Today, across the city of Andover, the state of Minnesota, and this county, we honor his life and preserve his memory. Our prayers are with Jeff’s wife, Jess; his parents, Thomas and Catherine; and his brother, Jared. I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-reintroduces-landmark-legislation-to-promote-main-street-capital-formation,Emmer Reintroduces Landmark Legislation to Promote Main Street Capital Formation,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) re-introduced the Main Street Growth Act to create more jobs, improve capital formation, and encourage more Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). The bipartisan bill is co-led by Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). The Main Street Growth Act allows the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to provide for the creation of venture exchanges, which will foster an active and liquid secondary trading environment for small and emerging growth companies to access the capital they need to grow. These exchanges will encourage more early-stage IPOs, which, in turn, will enable retail investors to invest in early-stage, high-growth companies potentially previously restricted to accredited investors. ""When businesses go public, jobs are created and new centers of wealth are formed. However, IPOs are on a steep decline, which means more exciting investment opportunities are reserved for accredited investors instead of everyday Americans. Recognizing the continued challenges we face in courting new IPOs, and, understanding that liquidity is key for small companies interested in going public as well as securities currently trading in the marketplace, it is clear that we must take steps to better tailor our markets in order to account for the varying size and nature of potential public companies if we are to encourage new capital formation. I look forward to working with my colleagues to support the success of our nation’s entrepreneurs and capital markets,"" Emmer said. “California’s 19th Congressional District is home to many transformative small businesses that too often find access to existing capital markets limited,” said Rep. Panetta. “The bipartisan Main Street Growth Act would empower the federal government to create specialized venture exchanges, critical to getting the capital these fledgling businesses need to grow and thrive. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and essential to fostering the future innovation we’ll need to stay ahead, and I’ll continue working to ensure they have a strong foundation for success.” Background While American capital markets saw a historic rise in Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in 2020 and 2021, participation in the IPO process has slowed dramatically over the last few decades. The number of IPOs declined significantly from the 1990s to the 2000s and remained relatively flat throughout the 2010s. Additionally, the number of small IPOs (under $100 million) has declined significantly. The Main Street Growth Act builds on the success of the 2012 JOBS Act, which allowed businesses greater access to crowdfunding and expanded the number of companies that can offer stock without going through burdensome SEC registration. Specifically, the Main Street Growth Act allows for the creation of venture exchanges, which are markets that are designed specifically to support the trading of small and emerging growth companies as well as currently listed, but liquidity-challenged securities. The Main Street Growth Act received unanimous support from the House Financial Services Committee and passed the House of Representatives during the 115th Congress with no opposition. You can read the full text of the Main Street Growth Act here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/staubers-bill-restore-alaskan-energy-production-passes-out-natural-resources,Stauber’s Bill to Restore Alaskan Energy Production Passes Out of Natural Resources Committee,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Natural Resources Committee advanced Congressman Pete Stauber’s (MN-08) bipartisan Alaska’s Right to Produce Act, which will reverse the Biden Administration’s decision to block domestic energy development on Alaska’s North Slope. Specifically, this bill will reverse the Biden Department of the Interior (DOI)’s decision to ban oil and gas development on 13 million acres within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A). Additionally, this legislation will reinstate the lawfully awarded leases the Biden DOI cancelled in the non-wilderness Coastal Plain of the Artic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Of this bill’s passage out of committee, Stauber said, “As Chairman of the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, I’m working to stop the Biden Administration’s ‘anywhere but America, and worker but American’ energy policies. The Biden Administration’s decision to take these resources offline without consulting the Alaska Native communities most impacted by this decision will have terrible repercussions for the state of Alaska and the entire United States, including job loss and higher energy costs. By reversing Biden’s harmful actions on Alaska’s North Slope, my bill will lower energy costs for Americans, create economic opportunities for Native communities, and reduce our dangerous reliance on foreign nations for our energy needs. I’m proud to see this legislation advance through committee with bipartisan support, and I will continue to push until it becomes law.” House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman stated, “President Biden's decision to cancel the remaining leases in the 1002 Area of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge was a slap in the face to the hard-working Alaskans whose livelihoods depend on state energy production. This decision ignored local voices and will be devastating for North Slope communities as well as the larger Alaskan economy as energy revenues support essential services from infrastructure to hospitals and schools. H.R. 6285 will reverse this disastrous decision and help those President Biden's agenda has left behind. Representative Stauber has been a leading voice in Congress to counter the administration's war on energy, and I am ready to continue to work with him to pass this bill into law.” This legislation is supported by Alaska’s entire Congressional delegation. This legislation is not the first that Stauber has introduced to reverse a harmful decision made by the Biden Administration’s DOI. In the 118th Congress, Stauber has championed legislation to reverse the DOI’s decision to withdraw 225,500 acres from mining activity within the Superior National Forest. Learn more HERE. Congressman Stauber is currently serving his first term as Chairman of the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-historic-santos-expulsion-rep-angie-craig-pushes-revoke-retirement,"Following Historic Santos Expulsion, Rep. Angie Craig Pushes to Revoke Retirement Benefits from Expelled Members of Congress",2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Following the House’s historic expulsion of George Santos, U.S. Representative Angie Craig is leading a bipartisan push to revoke retirement benefits from expelled Members of Congress. Rep. Craig’s bipartisan Congressional Pension Accountability Act, which she introduced alongside Reps. Zach Nunn (R-IA) and Chris Pappas (D-NH), would ensure that expelled members would not be able to collect a taxpayer-funded pension after they leave Congress and revoke any government-funded match made to their retirement plan. “It’s our job to use taxpayer dollars responsibly, and that’s why I’m introducing this bipartisan bill to revoke retirement benefits for any Member who is expelled from Congress. I’ll keep doing my part to get Congress working better for the American people,” said Rep. Craig. Under current law, expelled Members of Congress are eligible to receive a pension after five years of government service. While Rep. Craig’s legislation would not apply to former Rep. George Santos because he has not served for five years, it would address a loophole in existing law and ensure the responsible use of taxpayer funds. Text of the Congressional Pension Accountability Act can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omars-statement-voting-no-hres-894,Rep. Ilhan Omar's Statement on Voting 'NO' on H.Res. 894,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"""I voted no on H. Res. 894. This extreme and cynical Republican resolution does nothing to combat antisemitism, relies on a definition that conflates criticism of the Israeli government with antisemitism, paints critics of the Israeli government as antisemites and falsely states that anti-Zionism is anti-Semitism. ""We must stand against any attempt to define legitimate criticism of this war and the government perpetrating it as antisemitism. I am proud to join fellow Democrats in opposing this wrongheaded resolution.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/12/congresswoman-fischbach-meets-with-service-academy-nominees,Congresswoman Fischbach Meets with Service Academy Nominees,2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Willmar, MN - Each year, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach has the opportunity to nominate students to the U.S. Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY. This year, Congresswoman Fischbach nominated nine high school seniors for the service academies. If students are accepted, upon their graduation, the cadets will earn a Bachelor of Science degree and become commissioned as an officer in the U.S. military with a requirement to serve a minimum of five years in active-duty service. “I am honored to nominate such remarkable students from Minnesota’s Seventh District to the United States Service Academies,” said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). “It is encouraging to see young men and women with such promising futures feel called to serve our country. I join their families and communities in celebrating this achievement, and I look forward to watching them grow into the leaders of tomorrow. ” The Congresswoman is nominating Christian Bachmann of Motley to the U.S. Military, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Naval Academies; Avery Browen of Detroit Lakes to the U.S. Naval Academy; Calvert Burkholder of Alexandria to the U.S. Military, U.S. Naval, and U.S. Air Force Academies; Ariana Doll of Frazee to the U.S. Naval and U.S. Air Force Academies; Ashley Eblen of Belgrade to the U.S. Air Force Academy; Ellie Gertken of Richmond to the U.S. Military and U.S. Naval Academies; Eli Hanson of Sartell to the U.S. Air Force Academy; Bjorn Messick of Fertile to the U.S. Air Force Academy; and Leo Nordick of Fergus Falls to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (not pictured). If you or someone you know is interested in attending a service academy, they can apply directly to Congresswoman Fischbach’s office. The Congresswoman’s Service Academy Board interviews candidates and makes nomination recommendations. For more information or to begin the application process, please visit her website.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-omar-and-jacobs-lead-letter-preventing-atrocities-sudan,Reps. Omar and Jacobs Lead Letter on Preventing Atrocities in Sudan,2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA) led a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken today seeking additional information about U.S. strategies for atrocity prevention and justice in Sudan. The signers specifically ask the status of the Department’s efforts to make atrocity determinations and its impact on U.S. policy. The letter is also signed by Reps. Alma Adams, Kamlager-Dove, McGovern, Grijalva, Stansbury, Magaziner, Watson Coleman, and Bush. “We are writing to express our ongoing grave concerns about the humanitarian and human rights crisis in Sudan,” the Members wrote. “We are particularly disturbed by significant and growing allegations of mass atrocities committed by the so-called Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Darfur. Although credible reports have implicated both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in war crimes and instances of severe civilian harm, it also seems clear that the RSF has borne responsibility for the majority of the atrocities committed since the outbreak of fighting in April.” “Members of Congress have been clear that we support accountability for atrocity crimes committed in Sudan and elsewhere, and we stand prepared to take legislative action as necessary to ensure a civilian-led transition in Sudan includes significant mechanisms for justice for the victims of atrocities dating back decades,” they added. “The dream of civilian-led Sudanese government cannot be achieved without such measures.” The letter comes after 50 organizations called on the Biden Administration to make an atrocity determination in Sudan and take concrete actions to protect civilians and prevent further atrocities late last week. The conflict in Sudan that began in April has gotten steadily more brutal over recent weeks, with international experts ringing the alarm about a possible recurrence of genocide in Darfur. According to international observers, thousands have been killed just this month, with tens of thousands fleeing across Sudan's borders. Credible accusations of sexual violence, targeted killings, and torture against ethnic minorities have persisted. You can read the full letter here and below. Dear Secretary Blinken, We are writing to express our ongoing grave concerns about the humanitarian and human rights crisis in Sudan. We are particularly disturbed by significant and growing allegations of mass atrocities committed by the so-called Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Darfur. Although credible reports have implicated both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in war crimes and instances of severe civilian harm, it also seems clear that the RSF has borne responsibility for the majority of the atrocities committed since the outbreak of fighting in April. In 2004, then-Secretary of State Colin Powell testified that the United States understood what was happening in Darfur as genocide. The United States then supported a resolution at the United Nations Security Council to refer the situation in Darfur to the International Criminal Court (ICC) Earlier this year, the ICC announced that alleged war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide taking place during the current conflict are within its jurisdiction. We are heartened that the Department has continued to be publicly supportive of the ICC’s investigation. At the same time, we recognize that there are limitations to the ICC’s case and would like to the see the State Department work with Sudanese civilians to devise judicial and accountability mechanisms for atrocity crimes committed outside Darfur and the ICC’s jurisdiction. Members of Congress have been clear that we support accountability for atrocity crimes committed in Sudan and elsewhere, and we stand prepared to take legislative action as necessary to ensure a civilian-led transition in Sudan includes significant mechanisms for justice for the victims of atrocities dating back decades. The dream of civilian-led Sudanese government cannot be achieved without such measures. As we formulate our legislative strategy in response to the newest wave of atrocities in Sudan, we respectfully request your response to the following questions: 1) What is the status of the Department’s efforts to make atrocity determinations related to the current fighting in Sudan? 2) In the event that the Department makes a finding of war crimes, crimes against humanity, or genocide in Sudan, what are the practical implications for U.S. policy? What will change with respect to both the level of assistance and the type of programming for Sudan to deal with these atrocity crimes? 3) Is the Department, in carrying out this determination, considering the role of third countries in facilitating atrocities? Specifically, is the Department looking into the reported role of the United Arab Emirates in supporting the RSF and in disregarding the UN arms embargo on Darfur? 4) Given the shift in long-standing U.S. posture toward the ICC in the context of its investigation in Ukraine, are there ways the Department can now be supportive of the ICC’s Sudan investigation that it could not have been before? 5) In your view, are there any legislative changes to existing statute necessary to allow the U.S. to more fully support the ICC’s investigation in Sudan? 6) In addition to the ICC, what options for transitional justice mechanisms in Sudan would the U.S. support? What technical assistance are we able to provide in terms of evidence preservation, intelligence sharing, etc.? We appreciate your timely attention to this matter and look forward to continuing this discussion to ensure that the U.S. is standing fully on the side of the Sudanese people and their aspirations for civilian-led government and justice. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-new-va-outpatient-center-in-st-cloud,Emmer Applauds New VA Outpatient Center in St. Cloud,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, following the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ announcement about the addition of a new Vet Center Outstation in St. Cloud, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement: ""The Sixth District’s more than thirty thousand veterans deserve quick access to mental health care when they need it, not weeks or months down the line. The new Saint Cloud outstation is a worthy investment in the wellbeing of Minnesota veterans and will provide much-needed mental health resources to the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our nation."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-leads-bipartisan-push-expand-flex-fuel-vehicle-production,Rep. Angie Craig Leads Bipartisan Push to Expand Flex Fuel Vehicle Production,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representatives Angie Craig and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at expanding flex fuel vehicle production in the United States. The Flex Fuel Fairness Act would incentivize automakers to manufacture flex fuel vehicles – which would provide consumers with more options and support Minnesota’s family farmers and producers. “Renewable fuels are a solution we can implement to combat climate change right now, and we know that flex fuel vehicles help Minnesotans save money at the pump, support family farmers and producers and help protect the environment. That’s why I introduced this bipartisan bill with my colleague Rep. Miller-Meeks to expand flex-fuel vehicle production – and I’ll keep working to get our bill passed,” said Rep. Craig. “As we look toward a cleaner energy future with options to lower carbon emissions, it’s imperative to amplify solutions like flex fuel vehicles (FFVs) and ensure that they are included as a low-carbon option,” said Rep. Miller-Meeks. “FFVs provide more options for consumers and the U.S. supply chain and unlock increased use of lower-carbon liquid fuel blends containing higher levels of ethanol, like E30 and E85. I am proud to lead the ‘Flex Fuel Fairness Act of 2023,’ and level the playing field for FFVs as a practical alternative to Electric Vehicles.” “The Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association applauds Representative Craig for her leadership in introducing the Flex Fuel Fairness Act in the House. To reduce transportation emissions quickly and meaningfully, we need to utilize clean energy vehicle technologies that accelerate the use of higher blends of low-carbon, renewable fuels that are produced here in Minnesota. This bipartisan bill will help unlock the carbon reduction potential of renewable fuels and flex fuel vehicles. We sincerely appreciate Rep. Craig’s work on it,” said Brian Werner, Executive Director of the Minnesota Biofuels Association. “We thank Reps. Craig, Miller-Meeks, and all the co-sponsors for introducing the Flex Fuel Fairness Act. This bill acknowledges the important emissions benefits of flex fuel vehicles and promotes the continued production of these popular automobiles,” said Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “This legislation would give automakers more ways to comply with increasingly stringent vehicle emissions standards while providing more clean vehicle options for consumers. By leveling the playing field for all clean vehicle technologies, this bill allows low-carbon liquid fuels like ethanol to work alongside clean electricity, electric vehicles, and other technologies to reduce emissions from transportation.” Rep. Craig has long advocated for the expansion of biofuel production in Minnesota and across the country. Earlier this year, she was given the National Corn Growers Association’s President’s Award for her work to support ethanol and biofuel producers in Congress. Full text of the Flex Fuel Fairness Act can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/11/rep-fischbach-reintroduces-the-law-enforcement-education-grant-program-act,Rep. Fischbach reintroduces the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) reintroduced the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act with Rep. Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Rep. Clay Higgins (LA-3). ""Unfortunately, police forces across the country are facing workforce shortages. Congress has an opportunity to support young people who are looking to their futures and want to serve their communities,"" said Congresswoman Fischbach. ""Unlike broad-stroke student loan forgiveness programs, the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act provides a targeted approach to specifically invest in well-trained and highly educated police officers at a time when our country desperately needs it. I am proud to introduce this legislation to encourage young people to join the next generation of law enforcement."" The Congresswoman thanks Reps. Stauber and Higgins for co-sponsoring this piece of legislation. “As a former police officer, I know that a properly staffed and trained police force is necessary to keep our communities safe. Unfortunately, the law enforcement community is struggling to recruit new officers due to the radical left’s efforts to defund and disparage the police. By improving education benefits and recruiting through the establishment of the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program, interested recruits will have a new incentive to join the police force and will be better prepared to serve and defend our communities. I’m proud to join Congresswoman Fischbach in sponsoring this legislation,"" said Congressman Pete Stauber. “I will always stand with my Brothers and Sisters of the Thin Blue Line. This pro-law enforcement bill is critical in assisting the retention and recruitment of officers,” said Congressman Clay Higgins.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-highlights-service-minnesota-veterans-library-congress,Rep. Angie Craig Highlights Service of Minnesota Veterans at Library of Congress,2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig delivered first-hand narratives from two U.S. Army veterans, Jack Zimmerman of Elysian and Thomas Mullon of Eagan to the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC. Throughout the past year, Rep. Craig and her team have conducted video interviews with Jack and Thomas. During today’s event, Rep. Craig delivered those interviews and shared more about Jack and Thomas’s military service. Their interviews will be archived in the Library’s Veterans History Project and be available for the public to view in the coming months. “We will never be able to fully repay our veterans for all that they have done, but this project is a great way to acknowledge and genuinely honor these men and women by archiving their first-hand memories with the Library of Congress,” Rep. Craig said in her remarks. “Today, I am honored to deliver to the Library of Congress the stories of U.S. Army veterans, Jack Zimmerman of Elysian, Minnesota and Thomas Mullon of Eagan, Minnesota,” she continued. Image Video footage from the event can be found here. The Veterans History Project archives and distributes testimonials from U.S. military veterans to ensure that the American public can understand what they endured during their service. More information on the Veterans History Project can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/11/rep-fischbach-on-usmca-dispute-settlement-panel-decision,Rep. Fischbach on USMCA Dispute Settlement Panel Decision,2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - The United States - Mexico - Canada Agreement (USMCA) dispute settlement panel has released a report stating that Canada's dairy tariff-rate quota (TRQ) allocation measures do not breach USMCA agreements. ""The USMCA was intended to level the playing field between the three countries. I am extremely disappointed in the USMCA panel's decision and stand with America's dairy industry, who are being left at a disadvantage with regard to Canada's TRQ allocation measures,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""Trade opportunities need to be increased, rather than stifled as they are in this decision, which favored Canada's historically restrictive structure. I will continue to work for increased market access for our dairy farmers in Canada and across the world.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-letter-demands-answers-postal-issues-minnesota,Stauber Letter Demands Answers on Postal Issues in Minnesota,2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) recently sent a letter to United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy demanding information on a variety of issues impacting United States Postal Service (USPS) operations in Minnesota, including alleged unfair working conditions for USPS employees and the supposed prioritization of third-party packages over essential items like bills and medications. This letter was sent in response to a number of complaints the Congressman’s office has received from impacted postal workers and residents in the Brainerd and Bemidji areas. The letter reads (in part), “The welfare of our constituents and the integrity of postal service operations are of utmost importance. Reports of alleged prioritization of certain third-party packages over essential mail, such as medications, bills, and paychecks, are of serious concern. Moreover, the reports of employees working without adequate benefits and fair compensation are deeply troubling. Our dedicated postal workers deserve better treatment and fair employment conditions as they tirelessly serve our communities.” Stauber’s letter also outlines his concerns with a Biden Administration policy that earmarks $3 billion for the procurement of a fleet of electric vehicles for the USPS. The letter reads (in part), “I wonder whether the acquisition of electric vehicles, which are unreliable in cold weather climates like Minnesota, is the most judicious use of resources at this juncture given the financial challenges plaguing the USPS.” Congressman Stauber has reached out to USPS leadership multiple times over the past year to ask how they plan how to fix these issues, and this letter reiterates many of the questions he has asked in the past. One question included in the letter that the Congressman has not asked before is whether redirecting the funds currently designated for the USPS electric vehicle fleet toward bolstering staffing levels and enhancing employee benefits would more effectively meet the needs of the floundering USPS. Stauber’s letter demands DeJoy provide answers to his questions by December 4th. Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-democrats-working-feed-families-holiday-season,McCollum: Democrats Working to Feed Families this Holiday Season,2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) visited the Hallie Q. Brown food shelf today and lauded Governor Walz’s decision to distribute $5 million in federal American Rescue Plan funds to seven food banks in Minnesota ahead of the holiday season: “I commend the Hallie Q. Brown Food Shelf and Second Harvest Heartland for their commitment to ending hunger in our community. Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan understand the need is great, and I thank them for announcing that $5 million in American Rescue Plan funds will be distributed to local food banks to help families keep food on the table as we head into winter and the holiday season. These funds were approved by the Democratic House in 2021 to meet the growing need for nutrition assistance in our communities. Rather than continue these investments, House Republicans have proposed funding bills this year that would make drastic cuts, which would take food away from children and families who need it most. These deep Republican cuts are a devastating break from decades of bipartisan precedent of supporting efforts to eliminate hunger in America. Democrats in Congress worked with President Biden to enact the American Rescue Plan to deliver for Minnesota, and we will continue to focus on meeting the needs of the American people.” Background: House Republicans’ Appropriations Bills would have devastating impacts across America, including in Minnesota. Republicans’ FY 24 Agriculture Appropriations bill would make deep funding cuts to food assistance programs: Cuts the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): $300 million below the President’s Request Included a $500 million rescission to WIC Cuts the fresh fruit and vegetable cash voucher program by $1.2 billion Cuts Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) budget by $50 million, which negatively impacts its ability to administer SNAP, WIC, The Emergency Food Assistance Program, and the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations In addition to the agency and grant funding: Republicans failed to advance their FY24 Ag Appropriations bill in September because of the extreme cuts included in the bill. The passage of the Continuing Resolution on November 14 included a 1-year extension of the Farm Bill; Republicans still have not released a draft of the bill. The administration requested a supplement/anomaly for WIC that House Republicans refused to include in the continuing resolution. WIC has seen increased participation rates, and so they requested an additional $405 million to meet that demand. Without these additional funds, states are soon going to have to either halt new enrollment or scale back benefits for enrollees. Republicans’ FY 24 Labor, Health, Human Services, and Education bill would make deep funding cuts to nutrition services like Meals on Wheels, which would be cut for more than 1 million seniors. For some, these services provide their only meal of the day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-omar-casar-lead-letter-calling-state-department-review-whether-us,"Reps. Omar, Casar Lead Letter Calling on State Department To Review Whether U.S. Security Assistance has been Used to Violate Human Rights in Pakistan",2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX) led a letter today to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken asking for a prompt review of whether U.S. security assistance to Pakistan has been used to violate human rights, as well to withhold future security assistance to Pakistan until a return to constitutional democracy has been completed, and to send observers to hearings in emblematic human rights cases. They were joined by Reps. Pallone, Castro, Summer Lee, Pressley, Carson, Lieu, McGovern, Titus, Doggett, and Bush. “Pakistan is a long-standing ally of the United States, and we recognize the importance of our relationship for regional stability and counterterrorism efforts,” the Members wrote. “However, we are unable to ignore the persistent reports of human rights abuses including restrictions on freedom of expression, speech, and religion and belief, as well as enforced disappearances, military courts, and harassment and arrest of political opponents and human rights defenders. These violations not only violate the fundamental rights of the Pakistani people but also undermine the principles of democracy, justice, and rule of law.” “Equally, we remain concerned about the ongoing harassment and arrests of political opponents, including members of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf, Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement, and human rights defenders who are charged with bogus cases to trample their right to free speech. Such acts of harassment do not only impact individuals, but deeply traumatize their families. This includes the former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is reportedly facing the death penalty,” they added. This year has seen a significant and tragic backsliding in the situation of human rights in Pakistan. There have been persistent reports of human rights abuses including restrictions on freedom of expression, speech, and religion and belief, as well as enforced disappearances, military courts, and harassment and arrest of political opponents and human rights defenders. You can read the full text of the letter here and below. Dear Secretary Blinken, As Members of Congress dedicated to upholding human rights and international law, we write to express our deep concern about the ongoing human rights violations in Pakistan and to urge you to conduct a comprehensive review of the Leahy Act and Section 502B of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 as they pertain to U.S. assistance to Pakistan. Pakistan is a long-standing ally of the United States, and we recognize the importance of our relationship for regional stability and counterterrorism efforts. However, we are unable to ignore the persistent reports of human rights abuses including restrictions on freedom of expression, speech, and religion and belief, as well as enforced disappearances, military courts, and harassment and arrest of political opponents and human rights defenders. These violations not only violate the fundamental rights of the Pakistani people but also undermine the principles of democracy, justice, and rule of law. We are extremely concerned about the passing of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2023 which will strengthen the existing blasphemy law, which has historically been used to persecute religious minorities, if signed by the President. The Bill was passed in haste despite repeated calls from many lawmakers for a thorough parliamentary procedure. On August 16, eight days after the Bill was passed, a mob desecrated churches and set fire to homes of Christians in Jaranwala. There have been reported protests against the Bill, including by the Shia community in Gilgit-Baltistan. Religious persecution remains rampant in Pakistan, and we are concerned about future restrictions on freedom of religion and belief should this Bill become law. Equally, we remain concerned about the ongoing harassment and arrests of political opponents, including members of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf, Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement, and human rights defenders who are charged with bogus cases to trample their right to free speech. Such acts of harassment do not only impact individuals, but deeply traumatize their families. This includes the former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is reportedly facing the death penalty. Recently, Imaan Mazari, a human rights lawyer on who represents families of those forcibly disappeared, works on issues of forced evictions and media freedom, was taken from her home by men in plainclothes and elite security forces at 3am without an arrest warrant after speaking at a rally against enforced disappearances. Mazari was charged under the broad Anti-Terrorism Act including sedition, rebellion against the state, and terror-financing. Given the above, we request a legal determination from the Department under the Leahy Laws, Section 502(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act, and all other relevant statutes as to whether U.S.-origin security assistance has been used for gross violations of human rights. We further request that future security assistance be withheld until Pakistan has moved decisively toward the restoration of Constitutional order, including by holding free and fair elections in which all parties are able to participate freely. Finally, we ask for Embassy Islamabad to send observers to hearings and other legal proceedings of human rights defenders and political dissidents, including for emblematic cases such as Imaan Mazari, Khadija Shah, and Imran Khan. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to working with you to promote human rights, democracy, and stability in Pakistan. We believe that the United States can play a constructive role in supporting positive change, and it is our hope that our cooperation can contribute to a more just and equitable future for the people of Pakistan.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-house-progress-on-carver-county-infrastructure-project,Emmer Applauds House Progress on Carver County Infrastructure Project,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CARVER COUNTY, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that funding for a Carver County infrastructure project had passed the House of Representatives. “This funding will ensure Minnesotans’ water is clean and represents our continued effort to invest in essential Carver County infrastructure,” said Emmer. $2.24 million for New Germany’s Wastewater Treatment Facility was included in the House Interior, Environment and Related Agencies appropriations bill. Background Since 2021, the House Committee on Appropriations has considered Member requests for community project funding. During the 2022 and 2023 fiscal years, Emmer has helped deliver $40 million in federal funding for infrastructure projects in Carver County. Read more about Emmer’s past and current community funding requests here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-house-progress-on-wright-county-infrastructure-projects,Emmer Applauds House Progress on Wright County Infrastructure Projects,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WRIGHT COUNTY, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that funding for two Wright County infrastructure projects passed the House of Representatives as part of the appropriations process for fiscal year 2024. “This funding will ensure that safe, clean water is available in Wright County for years to come. We will continue our effort to bring taxpayer dollars home to Minnesota,” said Emmer. Included in the House bill for the Interior, Environment and Related Agencies was $2.24 million in funding for St. Michael’s Wastewater Treatment Plan project and $1.52 million for Otsego’s improvements to its Drinking Water Treatment Facility. Background Since 2021, the House Committee on Appropriations has considered Member requests for community project funding. During the 2022 and 2023 fiscal years, Emmer helped deliver $13,385,000 in federal funding for infrastructure projects in Wright County. Read more about Emmer’s past and current community funding requests here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-applauds-resumption-food-aid-ethiopia,Rep. Ilhan Omar Applauds the Resumption of Food Aid to Ethiopia,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Chair of the US-Africa Policy Working Group, released the following statement on the Resumption of Food Aid to Ethiopia: “I applaud USAID's decision to resume lifesaving food aid across the country. I am grateful that diplomatic negotiations have paved the way for vital assistance to reach vulnerable populations. “In July, I led a letter with my colleague Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) in calling on USAID to resume food assistance in Ethiopia. We must ensure food aid gets to those most in need. The one-year trial period with continuous monitoring is necessary. I urge the Government of Ethiopia to fully embrace these reforms to prevent future diversions. “The UN estimates there are more than 20 million Ethiopians facing food insecurity. Given the scope of the crisis, resumption of this aid represents the difference between life and death for many. Ethiopians have endured immense suffering. I remain committed to working with partners to provide critical support to vulnerable populations.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-introduces-resolution-block-weapons-sale-used-fund-war-crimes-gaza,Rep. Omar Introduces Resolution to Block Weapons Sale Used to Fund War Crimes in Gaza,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) introduced a joint resolution of disapproval today for the proposed export license for $320 million in Spice Family Guided Bomb Assemblies to Israel. These weapons have already been used in the siege on Gaza, which has taken the lives of over 4,000 children and over 11,000 civilians, making it the deadliest conflict for children this decade. The United Nations and human rights experts around the world have condemned the bombing of hospitals and schools as crimes against humanity and called for the prevention of genocide. ""Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right ethnonationalist government continue to commit war crimes in their siege of the Gaza Strip,"" said Rep. Omar. ""From requests to minimize civilian casualties, avoid a ground invasion, avoid reoccupation of Gaza, and institute a meaningful humanitarian pause, Netanyahu continues to thumb his nose at U.S. policy and requests. The United States already provides the Israeli government with $3.8 billion of military aid a year, and holds enormous leverage over their actions. It is the responsibility of Congress to exercise oversight over weapons sales. That is why we must not allow weapons sales that will be used to directly violate U.S. and international law, human rights, and our own moral standing in the world."" Cosponsors for the resolution include Reps. Cori Bush, Summer Lee, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Delia Ramirez, and Rashida Tlaib. The bill is endorsed by About Face: Veterans Against the War, Action Center on Race & the Economy, Action Corps, ActionAid USA, Activist San Diego, Adalah Justice Project, American Friends Service Committee, American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), Americans for Justice in Palestine action (ajp action), Amnesty International USA, Arab American Civic Council, Arizona Muslim Alliance, Arizona Muslim Alliance, Arlington United for Justice with Peace, Armenian-American Action Network, Campaign Against Arms Trade, Center for Civilians in Conflict, Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Jewish Nonviolence, Center for Pluralism, Center on Conscience and War, Committee for a Just Peace in Palestine/Israel, Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Defense for Children International - Palestine, Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN), DRUM - Desis Rising Up & Moving, Ekō, FCNL, For All, Freedom Forward, Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ, Grassroots Global Justice Alliance, Grassroots International, Highlander Research and Education Center, Human Rights Watch, ICAHD-USA, IfNotNow Movement, Institute for Policy Studies New Internationalism Project, International Civil Society Action Network (ICAN), InterReligious Task Force on Central America, Israel/Palestine Mission Network of the Presbyterian Church (U.S..A.), Jewish Voice for Peace Action, Justice Democrats, MADRE, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, MENA Rights Group, Migrant Roots Media, Movement for Black Lives, Movimiento Poder, Movimiento Poder, MPower Change Action Fund, Mujeres Unidas y Activas, Muslims For Progress, National Iranian American Council Action, NM No False Solutions, Our Revolution, Pax Christi USA, Peace Action, Project on Middle East Democracy (POMED), Project South, ReThinking Foreign Policy, Rising Majority, RootsAction.org, Shadow World Investigations, Shalom United Church of Christ, New Haven, CT, Sunrise Movement, The Freedom Initiative, The Mosque Cares | Ministry of Imam W. Deen Mohammed, The Peoples Port Authority, United Church of Christ Palestine Israel Network, US Campaign for Palestinian Rights, US Council of Muslim Organizations, WFP, Women for Weapons Trade Transparency, Women Working Together Usa, World BEYOND War, and the Yemen Relief and Reconstruction Foundation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-leads-bipartisan-farmer-mental-health-legislation,Rep. Angie Craig Leads Bipartisan Farmer Mental Health Legislation,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Angie Craig introduced bipartisan legislation to expand access to mental health resources in Minnesota’s rural communities and connect farmers and producers with stress management tools and medical professionals. Rep. Craig’s bipartisan Farmers First Act would reauthorize the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) and ensure rural communities have access to certified community behavioral health clinics, critical access hospitals and rural health centers. “Farmers and farm workers are some of the toughest, hardest working people I know, but farming is a uniquely stressful job and we’ve got to get them the support they need,” said Rep. Angie Craig. “I’m working across the aisle to ensure that farmers and rural Americans know that there are resources available to them to help deal with stress and mental health challenges.” Rep. Craig introducedthe legislation alongside Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Mike Bost (R-IL) and Jim Costa (D-CA). The Farmers First Act is supported by several agriculture groups including: the National Farmers Union, the National Rural Health Association, the American Psychological Association, the National Rural Health Association, the National Corn Growers Association, the American Farm Bureau Federation and more. Bill text of the Farmers First Act can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-leads-bipartisan-fact-finding-mission-into-crypto-terrorist-fundraising,Emmer Leads Bipartisan Fact-Finding Mission into Crypto Terrorist Fundraising,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06), Chairman Patrick McHenry (NC-10), Digital Asset Subcommittee Chairman French Hill (AR-02) and Congressman Ritchie Torres (NY-15) led 58 of their colleagues on a bipartisan letter to President Biden and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to inquire into the size, scope, and duration of Hamas’s crypto fundraising efforts. This letter embarks on a fact-finding mission intended to gather information that can inform congressional actions. “Open, transparent blockchain technology should easily provide an open book of Hamas’s terror financing with digital assets, as compared to traditional, more opaque, methods of financing. We request the White House and the Treasury to utilize the open blockchain ledger to assess the footprint of Hamas’s digital asset fundraising campaign. In doing this, Congress can better understand the United States’ available tools and capabilities to target bad actors on blockchain and support legitimate digital asset use and innovation,” Emmer said. “It’s critical for Congress to understand the true extent of the use of digital assets for illicit purposes. In light of conflicting reports regarding Hamas’ fundraising efforts through digital assets, we are commencing a bipartisan fact-finding mission. It’s important to note that digital assets are built on transparent and open distributed ledger technology—making it far easier to detect and track illicit activity. It’s essential that we hold bad actors in the digital asset ecosystem accountable in order for legitimate players to thrive. I thank my colleagues, Whip Emmer, Congressman Torres, and Subcommittee Chairman Hill for their partnership on this issue,” Chairman McHenry said. “Terrorism financing is unacceptable no matter what form it takes, whether that’s cash or crypto. Congress must better understand how groups like Hamas use digital assets to fund their operations and cut off all avenues for this illicit activity, but also recognize that bad actors are the problem—not crypto. I thank my colleagues, Chairman McHenry, Whip Emmer, and Congressman Torres for our continued collaboration on this critical issue,” said Rep. Hill. Background: The United States government routinely sanctions and seizes cryptocurrency used for illicit purposes. Last year, Congressman Emmer led a bipartisan letter to the Federal Reserve inquiring into the United States stockpile of digital assets and the mechanisms through which the government holds and transfers those assets. The Members requested a response to the letter no later than November 29. The full letter can be viewed here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-pocan-ocasio-cortez-call-biden-administration-establish-ceasefire,"McCollum, Pocan, Ocasio-Cortez Call on Biden Administration to Establish a Ceasefire, Protect Children in the Gaza Strip",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and Congressman Mark Pocan (WI-02), have sent a letter to the Biden administration expressing concern and calling for immediate action to protect the rights of children in Gaza, Israel, and the West Bank. Congresswoman McCollum released the following statement: “Since the brutal attacks by Hamas, which took the lives of innocent Israeli civilians, including children, it has been deeply disturbing to see children continue to bear the awful toll of this war. Thousands of children in Gaza have been killed and thousands more are suffering without access to food, water, medical care, or safe shelter. Without an immediate humanitarian pause and the establishment of a regional ceasefire among all parties, this war could spread throughout the region. Humanitarian aid is urgently needed in Gaza, as is clarity about the strategic objectives for achieving peace and long-term stability. Actions we take today can be a foundation for a lasting peace in the future.” This letter urges the President and Secretary Blinken to: Establish an immediate pause to prevent further violence and allow desperately-needed humanitarian aid to enter Gaza Provide clarity on the administration’s strategic objectives for achieving de-escalation and stability in the region Establish a ceasefire via regional engagement and working with international humanitarian organizations The letter is endorsed by MoveOn, Amnesty International, Demand Progress, Center for International Policy, Center for Jewish Nonviolence, Churches for Middle East Peace, CIVIC, Common Defense, Friends Committee for National Legislation (FCNL), MADRE, Oxfam America, Win Without War, POMED, Working Families Party, Action Corps, Adalah Justice Project, American Friends Service Committee, Americans Justice In Palestine, Arab American Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), Democracy for Arab World Now, IfNotNow, Institute for Policy Studies New Internationalism Project, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, Migrant Roots Media, National Iranian American Council Action, Pax Christi Metro DC-Baltimore, Pax Christi USA, Peace Action, Peace Action Montgomery, The Duty Legacy, US Campaign for Palestinian Rights, Women for Weapons Trade Transparency and the Yemeni Alliance Committee. The letter is co-signed by Representatives Rashida Tlaib, Cori Bush, James McGovern, Mary Gay Scanlon, Raúl Grijalva, Pramila Jayapal, Joaquin Castro, Delia Ramirez, Henry Johnson, Greg Casar, Jesús “Chuy” Garcia, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Nydia Velázquez, Ayanna Pressley, Jonathan Jackson, Barbara Lee, André Carson, Jamaal Bowman, Summer Lee, Veronica Escobar, and Ilhan Omar. The full text of the letter is available here and below. The Honorable Joseph R. Biden, Jr. The Honorable Antony Blinken The White House Department of State 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue 2201 C St. NW Washington, DC 20500 Washington, DC 20520 Dear President Biden and Secretary Blinken, We write to you to express deep concern about the intensifying war in Gaza, particularly grave violations against children, and our fear that without an immediate cessation of hostilities and the establishment of a robust bilateral ceasefire, this war will lead to a further loss of civilian life and risk dragging the United States into dangerous and unwise conflict with armed groups across the Middle East. Further, we write urging clarity on your strategic objectives for achieving de-escalation and stability in the region. We reaffirm our unequivocal condemnation of the Hamas attacks on Israel that took place on October 7th, in which Hamas killed over 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals, and captured over 200 hostages, who were subsequently taken to Gaza. While exact figures have not yet been released, Israeli authorities so far have confirmed the identity of 516 civilians killed, including 31 children, and at least 20 children who have been abducted by Palestinian armed groups.[1] We also share dire concerns with the ongoing Israeli response, in which the Israeli Defense Forces have killed over 11,078 Palestinians, nearly half of whom have been children. During the past 37 days of hostilities, at least 4,500 children have been killed in the Gaza Strip and at least 7,695 children have sustained injuries. Additionally, about 3,250 Palestinians in Gaza, including at least 1,700 children, have been reported missing and are presumed to be trapped or dead under the rubble, awaiting rescue or recovery.[2] During this same time, Israeli forces or settlers have killed 51 Palestinian children in the occupied West Bank.[3] [4] [5] We are profoundly shocked by the grave violations of children’s rights in the context of armed conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory. International norms require that all parties to an armed conflict protect children and prevent the commission of grave violations against them, including killing and maiming, attacks on schools and hospitals, recruitment and use of children, abduction of children, and denial of humanitarian access.[6] Of the total 2.2 million Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip, nearly half are children. In addition to the threat of widespread Israeli airstrikes on residential buildings and civilian infrastructure, these children face further imminent threats due to Israeli government restrictions on food, water, fuel, and other humanitarian assistance being able to reach these children and their families. To date, 285 Educational facilities in Gaza have been affected, including at least 29 United Nations-run schools.[7] Eight of these schools were used as emergency shelters for internally displaced people in Gaza, with at least one of them being directly hit in an Israeli airstrike. More than half of medical facilities in the Gaza Strip have completely shut down, according to the World Health Organization, including 22 out of Gaza’s 35 hospitals.[8] [9] Additionally, Israel has now carried out multiple strikes on five refugee camps inside Gaza, resulting in civilian casualties.[10] We commend your Administration’s goals of seeing a major expansion of humanitarian supplies arriving into Gaza. While we greatly welcome your work, it has had limited impact on the ground so far and, we believe, risks undermining the United States’ own credibility in the region.[11] We urge an immediate cessation of hostilities in order to stop the bombing and provide much-needed relief to Palestinian civilians. In his remarks reflecting on the October 7th attacks, the President acknowledged U.S. mistakes in the aftermath of September 11th and advised that an appropriate response “requires being deliberate. It requires asking very hard questions. It requires clarity about the objectives and an honest assessment about whether the path you are on will achieve those objectives.”[12] These wise words should continue to inform U.S. counsel to Israel’s response. Recognizing that there is no military solution that will end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, we urge your Administration to obtain clarity on the specific strategic objectives of a large-scale ground invasion, their achievability, what may come after Hamas, the risks to hostages and civilians in the region, the national security implications of a multi-front war in the Middle East, and the potential threats to American citizens in the region. We thank the President for calling for a humanitarian pause so that humanitarian aid may flow and diplomacy may take place. However, given the present lack of an apparent and clear strategic plan, we encourage a redoubling of efforts to achieve rapid de-escalation through a ceasefire and robust, regional engagement that includes international humanitarian organizations. We understand that the Administration has serious concerns regarding the objectives and consequences of a large-scale ground offensive, and we urge you to press this case directly. Thank you for your time and consideration, and we look forward to your response. [Members of Congress] [1] “Hamas Hostages: Who Are the People Taken from Israel?” BBC News, BBC, 2 Nov. 2023. 2 Associated Press. “Live Updates: Palestinians Report Deadly Israeli Airstrikes Including in Southern Gaza.” AP News, 4 Nov. 2023. 3 “At least 16 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank.” Al Jazeera. Accessed 13 Nov. 2023. 4 “Hostilities in the Gaza Strip and Israel - Reported Impact: Day 37.” United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Accessed 13 Nov. 2023. 5 All casualty statistics are current as of at least 12 Nov. 2023 6 The Six Grave Violations – Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, United Nations. Accessed 4 Nov. 2023. 7 Israel-Palestine: Gaza Death Toll Passes 5,000 with No Ceasefire in Sight | UN News, United Nations. Accessed 4 Nov. 2023. 8 “UNFPA, UNICEF and WHO Regional Directors call for immediate action to halt attacks on health care in Gaza.” World Health Organization, Eastern Mediterranean Region. Accessed 13 Nov. 2023. 9 “Hostilities in the Gaza Strip and Israel - Reported Impact: Day 37.” 10 ​​No Place of Refuge: Israeli Strikes Hit Camps in Gaza, Reuters. Accessed 4 Nov. 2023. 11 As of November 13, 2023, only 981 trucks carrying aid have entered Gaza since October 21, 2023. 12 “Remarks by President Biden on the October 7th Terrorist Attacks and the Resilience of the State of Israel and Its People.” The White House, 18 Oct. 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-democrats-preventing-government-shutdown,Rep. Ilhan Omar on Democrats Preventing a Government Shutdown,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement on Democrats preventing a government shutdown: ""I am proud that Democrats were able to once again bail out Republicans and narrowly avoid a government shutdown. ""Sadly, Republicans have once again brought us to the brink of a shutdown because of their infighting. Instead of legislating, they’re now starting literal fights in the Capitol and bringing forward another short-term funding patch that will only keep the government operating into early next year, while threatening massive cuts—including everything from cuts to climate action and affordable housing to extreme anti-abortion amendments. Because of Republican infighting, millions of dollars in funding for vital community projects for the 5th District remain in limbo. The American people deserve better. They deserve more than a short term patch. It’s time to stop fighting and start governing.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-leads-minnesota-lawmakers-bipartisan-call-expand-home-care,Rep. Angie Craig Leads Minnesota Lawmakers in Bipartisan Call to Expand In-Home Care Options for Minnesotans,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BURNSVILLE, MN – U.S. Representative Angie Craig led a bipartisan group of Minnesota lawmakers in urging Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to expand Minnesota’s Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) Program. CFSS is a health care program that provides Minnesotans of all ages and abilities with flexible in-home care options and covers services such as eating, shopping, cooking, laundry assistance and health-related tasks. In a letter, the lawmakers urged CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to ensure this program is implemented swiftly in Minnesota. “Minnesota’s CFSS program allows recipients to choose to use a portion of their budget to purchase goods or services, increasing their independence. They would also have additional access to support planning to ensure informed choice through consultation services. These flexibilities would support patients in their homes and communities without requiring 1915(c) waiver eligibility,” wrote the lawmakers. “These benefits are consistent with CMS’s goals of encouraging a person-centered, long-term support system and giving people the opportunity to decide where they live and which services they receive,” they continued. The letter was co-led by Senator Amy Klobuchar and co-signed by Senator Tina Smith and Representatives Pete Stauber, Betty McCollum, Ilhan Omar and Dean Phillips. A full copy of the lawmakers’ letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-gop-delegation-continue-to-demand-accountability-for-feeding-our-future-fraud,"Emmer, Minnesota GOP Delegation Continue to Demand Accountability for Feeding our Future Fraud",2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) joined every Republican member of the Minnesota delegation on a letter to the Minnesota Department of Education regarding its involvement in and oversight of what is being called the “largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the nation.” The letter, led by Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05), was co-signed by Oversight and Accountability Committee Chairman James Comer (KY-01) and Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-05.) Emmer said, “Due to a lack of transparency from the State of Minnesota and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, we are no closer to understanding how $250 million of taxpayer funds were stolen from children and families in need. Minnesotans deserve answers. We will continue to do our work to hold those responsible to account and prevent this from occurring again.” “USDA and its state partner, Minnesota Department of Education, are directly responsible for the mismanagement of child nutrition programs that led to the largest COVID-related fraud in the country,” said Rep. Finstad (MN-01). “It is critical that we have all the information necessary from MDE to understand the extent to which these programs were exploited by bad actors at the expense of hungry kids and families. My colleagues and I remain committed to demanding transparency at every level of government to get the answers we need in order to safeguard these food programs and hold accountable those responsible for allowing this fraud to occur.” “Feeding Our Future’s alleged fraud has been described as the largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the nation,” said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). “Taxpayers deserve to know how $250 million could be stolen from those in need with no one the wiser. My colleagues and I are determined to prevent anything like this from happening again. I look forward to a swift response so our work can continue.” “It is shocking that the Minnesota Department of Education along with the Department of Agriculture’s Food Nutrition Service failed to prevent what has been described as the largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the nation,” said Rep. Stauber (MN-08). “This scandal raises many questions, and I believe Minnesotans deserve answers. We need to know exactly how such a large amount of taxpayer money was allowed to be stolen at the expense of some of our state’s most vulnerable. That’s why I am proud to sign onto to this letter demanding the Minnesota Department of Education provide the necessary documents so our House Committees can properly conduct a much-needed investigation into this shameful scandal.” The letter is the third in a series of congressional inquiries since the fraud came to light. In September 2022, the same members asked Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack for documents related to Feeding our Future and were met with an inadequate response. In July, Emmer joined a follow-up letter to the USDA, which has yet to receive a response. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-voting-keep-federal-government-open,McCollum Statement on Voting to Keep the Federal Government Open,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement today after voting to avoid a federal government shutdown: “For the second time in two months, House Democrats have prevented a shutdown of the federal government while the Republican Majority continues to let a handful of extremists in their conference dictate the agenda of the House of Representatives. I voted for this bill to keep our government open and stop more Republican chaos. My vote was to prevent a shutdown from hurting American families at this time, but I still believe Speaker Johnson’s so-called ‘laddered Continuing Resolution’ is not a long-term solution to responsibly fund our government. The Speaker’s refusal to negotiate top-line spending numbers with the Senate is a dereliction of duty. Instead, he continues to waste time considering right-wing spending bills loaded with extremist social policy provisions that cannot even pass the House. The House took a vote on funding for Israeli aid. But this legislation contains no emergency assistance to Ukraine, humanitarian assistance for Gaza, or funding to address disaster relief and other domestic priorities here at home. Those concerns need to be addressed immediately. If this bill passes the Senate, the Speaker will have two months until the first half of government funding expires. He and the Republican Majority need to get serious about a bipartisan process to finish these bills and responsibly fund our entire government for the rest of the fiscal year.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-leads-49-members-push-strike-harmful-anti-lgbtqi-provisions,Rep. Angie Craig Leads 49 Members in Push to Strike Harmful Anti-LGBTQI+ Provisions from Labor-HHS Appropriations Bill,2023-11-13,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig filed an amendment to strike harmful anti-LGBTQI+ language from critical government funding legislation. Rep. Craig’s amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2024 has 49 cosponsors. The amendment would block Republican-led provisions to allow discrimination against LGBTQI+ people, ban the display of Pride flags at government facilities, block gender affirming care, undermine Title IX protections for women and LGBTQI+ people and more. “MAGA Republicans are pushing a dangerous agenda that is not only anti-LGBTQI+, it’s anti-American,” said Rep. Craig. “As the first out-lesbian mother elected to Congress, I’m proud to lead this charge and stand up for LGBTQI+ Americans and I strongly urge my Republican colleagues to reject this culture-war extremism and get back to the work of the American people.” Rep. Craig’s amendment would strike the following sections: Sec. 243 - Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Executive Order rider Sec. 247 - ACA Section 1557 Rule rider Sec. 311 - Title IX Rules rider Sec. 312 - All Comers Rider Sec. 317 – Trans and Intersex Sports Ban Sec. 534 – Gender Affirming Care Ban Sec. 537 - License to Discriminate Provision Sec. 540 – Pride flag ban Rep. Craig’s amendment is supported by 49 Members of Congress and more than 10 leading national civil rights organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, the Congressional Equality Caucus and the American Civil Liberties Union. Click here to read Rep. Craig’s amendment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-house-republicans-irresponsible-continuing-resolution,McCollum Statement on House Republicans’ Irresponsible Continuing Resolution Proposal,2023-11-13,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement today on House Republicans’ partisan Continuing Resolution proposal that brings our nation dangerously close to a shutdown: “Speaker Johnson’s proposal of an untested, so-called ‘laddered Continuing Resolution’ only continues the chaos and extends the profoundly unserious way that Republicans have governed the House of Representatives this Congress. By not providing a topline number and splitting funding for the federal government into two parts with different expiration dates, the Speaker’s proposal would set up a two-tiered shutdown crisis early in 2024. Legislators need to know what they are voting on, and so does the American public. Our constituents expect the entire federal government to be funded in a responsible way, something House Republicans have utterly failed to do. The Speaker’s proposal does not include any emergency security assistance for Ukraine or humanitarian aid to address the crisis in Gaza. As the Departments of Defense and State continue to manage multiple global crises at once, failure to include emergency funding to address these needs is deeply irresponsible. This proposal also does not include any funding to address our domestic emergencies, including disaster relief, shoring up our child care system, and border security. As I said in September during the last House Republican-manufactured shutdown crisis, it is long past time for Republican leadership to stop listening to the extremists in their Conference. The only path forward to funding the entire government for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2024 is to work with House and Senate Democrats in a bipartisan fashion.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-calls-usps-postmaster-general-dejoy-release-plan-handle,Rep. Angie Craig Calls on USPS Postmaster General DeJoy to Release Plan to Handle Holiday Mail Deliveries in South Metro,2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Angie Craig is calling on United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to release his plan to handle mail deliveries in the South Metro during the peak holiday shipping season. In a letter, Rep. Craig expressed her continued frustration about persistent mail delays in Minnesota and reports of poor working conditions for postal workers. She also requested information on how USPS is preparing to handle the peak holiday shipping season. “The United States Postal Service is a critical resource to Minnesotans in the Second District of Minnesota. I write to express deep concern and frustration with the ongoing poor delivery service in the Second District, and to request information on the steps USPS is taking to address the needs of my constituents and wellbeing of its employees this holiday season,” wrote Rep. Craig. Last year, Rep. Craig’s office received outreach from thousands of constituents concerned about their postal service during the winter holiday season – some reporting weeks-long mail delivery delays. Rep. Craig encourages her constituents to contact her office if they are having any trouble navigating or accessing any federal agency, including their local post offices. For assistance, they should visit Representative Craig’s website at https://craig.house.gov/casework. A copy of the letter can be found below or here. November 9, 2023 The Honorable Louis DeJoy Postmaster General United States Postal Service 475 L’Enfant Plaza, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20260 Dear Postmaster General DeJoy, The United States Postal Service is a critical resource to Minnesotans in the Second District of Minnesota. I write to express deep concern and frustration with the ongoing poor delivery service in the Second District, and to request information on the steps USPS is taking to address the needs of my constituents and wellbeing of its employees this holiday season. I am extremely concerned about reports of poor treatment causing USPS employees to be nervous to come to work. At the busiest time of year for the shipping industry, current and prospective Postal Employees deserve respect and a welcoming workplace for the important service they provide to our communities. It is unacceptable, particularly when the Postal Service is experiencing staffing shortages, that workers would be treated poorly at their workplace. I am thankful for our letter carriers and postal workers putting long hours in to work through the backlog of mail, and I am concerned that not enough is being done to recruit and retain employees. As you know from my previous letters, throughout the past year - especially during the peak holiday shipping season last year - my office fielded complaints from thousands of constituents who were dissatisfied with the service of mail delivery. To say I’ve been underwhelmed with your past responses to my letters would be putting it mildly. Minnesotans need to know their prescription medications, shipments from small businesses, rent checks and holiday gifts will be delivered in time. Last year, many were not. And rather than receive support from the Postal Service, frustrated constituents turned to my office requesting assistance in receiving their deliveries. In Minnesota, extreme weather happens. But when it does, USPS customers need to be able to rely on responsive support. In addition to describing the steps USPS has taken to prepare for the FY24 peak holiday shipping season, I respectfully request your response to the following questions: 1. In the Minnesota-North Dakota region, what are the adequate staffing levels needed to accommodate the FY24 peak season, and what are the current staffing levels? 2. What, specifically, is USPS doing to recruit and retain workers during the FY24 peak season? And what steps are being taken to address reports of poor working conditions at USPS facilities? 3. As part of a recent report reviewing USPS performance during the FY23 peak holiday shipping season, Postal Service Management and the Office of Inspector General agreed on a recommendation that USPS “implement a process to respond to inquiries within three business days”. To date, what systems and processes has USPS implemented to meet this recommendation? 4. In how many business days can constituents in the Minnesota-North Dakota region expect to receive a response to their inquiries this holiday season? Thank you for your attention to this important matter, I look forward to receiving your response no later than Monday, November 27, 2023. Sincerely, Angie Craig Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-veterans-day-2023,McCollum Statement on Veterans Day 2023,2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) released the following statement today in honor of Veterans Day: “On Veterans Day, we take time to recognize those who have served our nation in the U.S. Armed Forces. We honor their commitment, bravery, and sacrifices to protect the ideals and freedoms we cherish as Americans. We thank all who served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marines. These Americans who raised their hands to serve our nation deserve our gratitude. That’s why it’s important that our actions reflect our appreciation. I have worked to expand the availability of high quality, affordable health care, including passing the PACT Act to ensure veterans receive all the benefits they are entitled to, and protecting GI education benefits and workforce training opportunities. “We also honor the sacrifices made at home by the families and loved ones of our service members. As veterans return home and take on new challenges following military service, know that my office stands ready to help. This Veterans Day, join me in honoring and remembering veterans' bravery and service in defending the United States at home and abroad.” Congresswoman McCollum was proud to join the National Association of Counties, including Ramsey County Commissioner Trista Martinson, and Rep. Molinaro in promoting Operation Green Light for Veterans, an initiative connecting veterans with county support services. You may see buildings illuminated in green through Veterans Day in honor of this initiative. A livestream of the 2023 State of Minnesota Veterans Day Program is planned. Additional Fourth District Veterans Day observations will take place in Woodbury, North St. Paul, Stillwater, and Mahtomedi. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Day Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery will be held Saturday, November 11. More information here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-leads-legislation-restore-alaskan-energy-production-north-slope,Stauber Leads Legislation to Restore Alaskan Energy Production on the North Slope,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Chairman of the House Natural Resources Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, led his House colleagues Mary Peltola (AK at-large), Kevin Hern (OK-01), and August Pfluger (TX-11) in introducing the bipartisan Alaska’s Right to Produce Act of 2023. This legislation will reverse the Biden Department of the Interior (DOI)’s decision to prohibit oil and gas development on 13 million acres within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A). It will also reinstate the lawfully awarded leases that the Biden DOI cancelled within the non-wilderness Coastal Plain of the Artic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Of this legislation, Congressman Pete Stauber stated, “Alaska has been blessed with vast deposits of oil and natural gas that can unleash economic prosperity, which is why the responsible development of these resources is widely supported by inhabitants of the state, Alaska Native communities, and their entire Congressional delegation. Biden’s decision to take these resources offline not only ignores the needs of Alaskans, particularly the Alaska Natives that live and work on the North Slope, it also ignores our nation’s energy and security needs. It makes no sense to deny Alaskans the right to safely produce these resources and instead continue our dependence on hostile foreign nations, so I am proud to lead the introduction of this legislation to help restore oil and gas leasing and production on the North Slope. As the Chairman of the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, I will continue to fight until our friends in Alaska, and the entire nation, can benefit from this abundance of natural resources.” Congresswoman Mary Peltola stated, “I am deeply frustrated by the Administration’s recent actions restricting energy development on Alaska’s North Slope, including the National Petroleum Reserve. These actions are strongly opposed by the Inupiat North Slope communities of the region. I will continue to advocate for them and for Alaska's ability to explore and develop our natural resources, from the critical minerals we need for our clean energy transition to the domestic oil and gas we need to get us there. This bill is an important step in protecting Alaska’s leasing ability, including limiting the ability of courts to continuously reset the process. I will continue to advocate for permitting reform to make sure we have predictable timelines and a stable jurisdiction for developing our resources.” Republican Study Committee Chairman Kevin Hern stated, “President Biden has been determined to destroy domestic energy production since Day One of his presidency, and Americans feel the painful effects of his policies every day. Energy security is national security, and our economy and security are stronger when we develop the resources we have at home. This legislation reverses the Biden Administration’s illegal actions in the Coastal Plain and will help us get back to a position of strength.” House Energy Action Team (HEAT) Chairman August Pfluger stated, “Energy security is national security. President Biden’s decision to block American energy producers from utilizing nearly 40% of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is a continuation of his war on fossil fuels. Not only will this decision destroy the livelihoods of thousands of energy workers, but it will drive up costs for all Americans. I’m proud to work with Congressman Stauber on this legislation to restore drilling in Alaska’s North Slope and recognize the national security importance of affordable, reliable, American-made energy.” House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman stated, “At every turn, the Biden administration has waged war on domestic energy production and punished struggling American families who can hardly afford to keep the lights on and fill up their tanks. Earlier this year, Biden made the reckless decision to cancel Congressionally mandated energy production in Alaska while simultaneously locking up millions of acres in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska, actions that directly put our national security at risk. These sweeping decisions were made without input from local and indigenous communities who widely support and rely on the responsible development of these resources. Today, Congressman Stauber is introducing much needed legislation to overturn these disastrous decisions and support the responsible development of our domestic energy resources and American jobs rather than relying on foreign production from our adversaries. He has been a champion for these issues as chairman of our Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, and I thank him for his hard work defending American workers and American resources.” Background: Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), former President Trump established an oil and gas leasing program in ANWR. The TCJA restricted energy development in the Coastal Plain of ANWR to 2,000 acres and production could result in the development of 10.4 billion barrels of oil.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-secures-375000-hire-three-additional-police-officers,"Rep. Angie Craig Secures $375,000 to Hire Three Additional Police Officers in Burnsville",2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BURNSVILLE, MN – U.S. Representative Angie Craig secured $375,000 to help hire three additional police officers in Burnsville. Rep. Craig began her push to secure the funding in April as part of her work to promote public safety in Burnsville. The federal funding comes through the Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program. Thanks to the funding secured by Rep. Craig, the Burnsville Police Department will be able to hire two additional officers for their Behavioral Health Unit and one to enhance their community policing efforts. “I’m determined to get law enforcement officers across the Second District the support they need, and that means building out our public safety workforce,” said Rep. Craig. “I’m proud we got this done for Burnsville, grateful for the partnership of Burnsville Mayor Elizabeth Kautz and Burnsville Police Chief Tanya Schwartz and looking forward to continuing our work to keep Minnesotans safe.” “It is an honor to be awarded the Community Oriented Policing Services Grant. We are grateful to the COPS Office, Congresswoman Angie Craig, and her team for their investment and partnership in the Burnsville community and the Police Department’s Behavioral Health Unit. Specialized responses, training and inclusive collaboration between the Burnsville Police and Fire departments, along with Dakota County Social Services and community-based resources drive our work. Among many positive impacts, we are excited that these positions will help us connect people to the right services at the right time, establish a point of contact for those suffering with mental illness, chemical dependency, homeless/unsheltered living conditions, and proactively look for solutions and continuously improve our service to the Burnsville community,” said Burnsville Police Chief Tanya Schwartz. “I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Congresswoman Craig for her diligence and commitment to the City of Burnsville. Her recent support of our application for the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant will make a significant difference in our community, and we are truly grateful for her efforts. This success would not have been possible without her support. The grant will play a crucial role in enhancing our Behavioral Health Unit, our team committed to supporting and encouraging mental wellbeing and health in our community. The call volume for our Behavioral Health Unit has continued to rise each month, underlining the importance of their work. With the awarded COPS grant, we can expand their resources which will enable us to connect individuals coping with mental illness, chemical dependency, homelessness, or unsheltered living conditions with the care they need most. We are deeply honored to have been awarded this grant. My appreciation extends to the COPS Office, Congresswoman Angie Craig, and her dedicated team for their invaluable investment and partnership in the Burnsville community. We are proud to have you as our representative, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration to make Burnsville an even better place to live and work,” said Burnsville Mayor Elizabeth Kautz. Last year, Rep. Craig helped pass the bipartisan Public Safety Officer Support Act to expand benefits for officers with work-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and for families of officers who die by trauma-linked suicide. Earlier this year, Rep. Craig secured funding to expand mental health resources for Shakopee police officers. Rep. Craig also secured funding last year to help West St. Paul and South St. Paul hire additional police officers and promote community policing efforts. Click here to learn more about Burnsville’s COPS Hiring Grant.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-demands-investigation-after-massachusetts-couple-were-denied-license,Stauber Demands Investigation After Massachusetts Couple Were Denied License to Become Foster Parents Due to their Catholic Faith,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) sent a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (OCR) requesting that they investigate a case of discrimination against Kitty and Mike Burke of Massachusetts, who were denied a license to become foster parents due to their Catholic faith. Despite their suitability and commitment, the Burkes had their application denied by the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) over concerns they would not be affirming to a child who identified as LGBTQIA. This decision was based off their religious convictions and objection to certain medical procedures for minors. This was a violation of their right to religious freedom under the First Amendment and the Massachusetts Foster Parents Bill of Rights. Of this decision, Congressman Pete Stauber stated, “There are countless children across the United States who are in desperate need of loving families, and there are simply not enough foster families equipped to meet this need. That’s why it is simply outrageous that this loving and qualified couple was blocked from fostering a child by the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families due to their religious beliefs. Not only is this blatant discrimination, but it puts gender activism and trans ideology above the needs and well-being of at-risk children. As a devout Catholic and adoptive parent, I urge the OCR conduct a thorough investigation into this matter and ensure the necessary steps are taken to rectify this injustice.” Along with Senators Mike Braun (R-IN) and Marco Rubio (R-FL), Representatives Ryan Zinke (MT-01), Mary Miller (IL-15), Chris Smith (NJ-04), Randy Weber (TX-14), Don Bacon (NE-02), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Mike Kelly (PA-16), John Rose (TN-06), Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Mike Bost (IL-12), James Baird (IN-04), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Jim Banks (IN-03), and Andy Biggs (AZ-05) have signed onto this letter. Read Stauber’s full letter here. The Burkes are more than qualified to become foster parents. They underwent a rigorous application process during which they were repeatedly acknowledged as strong candidates for adoption. They expressed their willingness to care for children with medical, mental health, and behavioral needs and were ready to welcome multiple children into their home to keep sibling groups together, reducing potential trauma.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/11/house-passes-israel-security-supplemental,House Passes Israel Security Supplemental,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, the House passed H.R. 6126, the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024, offsetting $14.3 billion from a proposed IRS expansion to provide critical support to our allies in Israel. ""This emergency supplemental package is critical to supporting Israel as they defend themselves against terrorism. It would reinforce the Iron Dome defense systems, replenish Israel's domestic defense stockpiles, and protect U.S. citizens,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""Furthermore, the bill respects taxpayer dollars, as it is offset by rescinding funding for the IRS that would increase their ability to audit working class families. I commend my colleagues for putting forward thoughtful legislation. I urge the Senate and the President to work quickly to pass this bill into law and support our allies.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-celebrates-minnesota-victories-interior-appropriations-legislation,Stauber Celebrates Minnesota Victories in Interior Appropriations Legislation,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) joined the majority of his House colleagues in passing H.R. 4821, the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for FY2024, which contains many legislative wins for Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional District. Of this legislation’s passage, Congressman Stauber stated, “Since President Biden took office, he has implemented policies that are anti-mining, anti-American energy production, and anti-farmer. This year’s Interior Appropriations bill would help stop Biden’s harmful agenda in its tracks. I am especially excited that it contains a number of wins for northeast Minnesota, including a provision to roll back the Department of Interior’s harmful mineral withdrawal in the Duluth Complex. I now urge my Senate colleagues – particularly Minnesota’s Senators – to take this legislation up immediately because we can't afford any more of Biden's 'anywhere but America, any worker but American' mining and energy policies."" Here are the top provisions included in this appropriations package that would benefit Minnesota’s Eighth District: Reinstate mineral leases in northeast Minnesota. Block the Secretary of the Interior’s mineral withdrawal in the Superior National Forest. Repeal the recent Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, which has been harmful to Minnesota’s farmers, landowners, and small businesses. Require the Secretary of the Interior to reissue the final rule removing the gray wolf from the list of threatened and endangered wildlife. Reverse the Environmental Protection Agency’s abuse of the Endangered Species Act by delisting the Northern Long-Eared Bat. This unnecessary listing has stifled responsible logging and forest management in Minnesota’s Eighth District. Fund critical infrastructure projects in Bemidji, Braham, and Silver Bay. Stauber also had two amendments added to this legislation that would prevent the Biden Administration from making the broken NEPA system even worse. NEPA is currently filled with duplicative red-tape and is all too often weaponized by litigious groups, making it near impossible for important projects to move forward.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-leads-push-expand-access-high-speed-internet-across-minnesota,Rep. Angie Craig Leads Push to Expand Access to High-Speed Internet Across Minnesota,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Angie Craig is leading a push to renew funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to help expand access to high-speed internet across Minnesota and close the digital divide. Rep. Craig helped establish the ACP through the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021. Since its creation, the ACP has provided 21 million Americans with internet access – but is set to run out of funding in 2024. In her letter, Rep. Craig led 69 of her colleagues in urging congressional leadership to provide more funding to allow more Americans to access the high-speed internet they need to succeed in the 21st century. “Failure to renew funding for the ACP would once again make low-cost broadband internet service unaffordable for millions of families, resulting in a significant loss of internet connectivity nationwide,” wrote the Members. “As you work to finalize a government funding package, we urge you to include robust funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program to sustain the program through December of 2024. This funding will keep Americans connected as Congress continues to work to develop a permanent funding pathway for this critical broadband program,” they continued. Rep. Craig serves as a co-chair of the Bipartisan Rural Broadband Caucus and has led the push in Congress to increase access to high-speed internet in rural communities. A full copy of the letter can be found here and copied below. October 30, 2023 The Honorable Charles E. Schumer Majority Leader United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Mike Johnson Speaker of the House United States House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515 The Honorable Mitch McConnell Minority Leader United States Senate Washington. DC 20510 The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries Minority Leader United States House of Representatives Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Johnson and Minority Leader Jeffries, As members of the New Democrat Coalition, we write to advocate for the inclusion of $6 billion in additional funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in any government funding package, to reflect the President’s Fiscal Year 2024 emergency supplemental funding request. The ACP provides critical financial assistance to help American households afford broadband internet services. Access to high-speed and affordable broadband is vital to participating in our 21st-century economy. Communities without sufficient internet connectivity struggle to keep pace in a rapidly changing world increasingly dependent on technology. The New Democrat Coalition is committed to closing this digital divide and the ACP is a necessary tool to accomplish this goal. Established in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the ACP currently provides broadband subsidies to more than 21 million households throughout the country. The program has had great success as millions of families who previously could not get online or struggled to pay for broadband access are now connected to the internet. By helping to secure broadband access, the ACP has allowed millions of Americans to maximize educational opportunities, increase telehealth opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and connect with loved ones. At the current rate of enrollment, the ACP’s funding will be exhausted as imminently as early next year. Failure to renew funding for the ACP would once again make low-cost broadband internet service unaffordable for millions of families, resulting in a significant loss of internet connectivity nationwide. This would be a significant step backwards in the progress Congress has made to connect more Americans to the internet through additional federal broadband investments. The loss of the ACP would also reduce the efficacy of Congress’ groundbreaking $42 billion investment in the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. A recent study found that the ACP reduces the subsidy amount needed to incentivize broadband deployment in rural areas by 25 percent per-household. The ACP is necessary to maximize BEAD program dollars intended to build out our nation’s broadband infrastructure and ensure that no community gets left behind. Congress has recognized, on a bipartisan basis, that every American must be connected to the internet to prosper and compete in a 21st-century economy. We cannot risk millions of families losing access to the internet service they depend on every day by allowing the ACP to lapse. We stand with the Biden Administration in recognizing the ACP as a critical service for American families and a priority for our country. As you work to finalize a government funding package, we urge you to include robust funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program to sustain the program through December of 2024. This funding will keep Americans connected as Congress continues to work to develop a permanent funding pathway for this critical broadband program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-votes-yes-israel-emergency-supplemental-package,Stauber Votes Yes on Israel Emergency Supplemental Package,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) made the following statement after voting for the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, a $14.3 billion emergency supplemental package to ensure Israel has the resources necessary to defend itself against terrorism. “Israel is our greatest ally and the only democracy in the Middle East, so the United States must stand with them as they defend themselves from the barbaric war launched by Hamas. This means providing them with the resources necessary to completely eradicate these terrorists. I know some Americans are worried about the costs associated with supporting Israel, which is why I applaud Speaker Johnson’s plan to pay for this package by taking funds away from Biden's army of IRS agents. Our new Speaker is off to a great start.” The Israel Supplemental Appropriations Act would be paid for by making cuts to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, specifically Section 10301, which appropriated billions in funding to hire 87,000 new IRS agents. This legislation would specifically do the following:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-pushes-epa-recognize-environmental-benefit-homegrown-biofuels,Rep. Angie Craig Pushes EPA to Recognize Environmental Benefit of Homegrown Biofuels,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Angie Craig is working to pass bipartisan, bicameral legislation to ensure the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) modeling accurately reflects the environmental benefits of homegrown biofuel production. The Adopt GREET Act would require the EPA to update its greenhouse gas modeling for ethanol and biodiesel production and continue to update its modeling every five years in accordance with the most recent science and data. Rep. Craig is introducing the legislation alongside Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI). “Homegrown biofuels are tools we have at our fingertips right now to help address climate change – and it’s critically important that the EPA’s data accurately reflects that. I’m proud to be working across the aisle to pass this bill and make sure the true benefit that homegrown biofuels bring to our environment, economy and ag communities is recognized,” said Rep. Craig. U.S. Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) have introduced companion legislation in the Senate. Full text of the Adopt GREET Act can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/11/rep-michelle-fischbach-receives-friend-of-farm-credit-award,Rep. Michelle Fischbach Receives Friend of Farm Credit Award,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Tri-County News: Serving Eden Valley, Kimball, Watkins, and surrounding communities The AgriBank District Farm Credit Council (ADFCC) has recognized U.S. Rep. Michelle -Fischbach (MN-07) with its 2023 Friend of Farm Credit Award. Fischbach, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and former member of the House Agriculture Committee, received the award for her critical leadership to preserve and support the well-being of agriculture and rural communities across the country. “I have long admired and supported the work of the Farm Credit System, and I am honored to receive the 2023 Friend of Farm Credit Award,” said Rep. Fischbach. “I have long been committed to building strong rural communities, and I know that Farm Credit institutions play a critical role in that objective. That’s why I was proud to introduce the Investing In Rural America Act, which eliminates unnecessary regulatory barriers to capital investment, particularly for critical community facilities like hospitals, childcare centers, and senior care centers. This will attract private sector investment into these kinds of facilities, encouraging future generations to see rural communities as home. I am grateful for the Farm Credit Council’s hard work and look forward to continuing to work side by side with them to better rural America.” “The strong support Representative Fischbach has demonstrated for the Farm Credit mission and investments that support healthy rural communities, particularly as a lead sponsor of the Investing in Rural America Act, makes her a standout amongst her peers,” said Ed Hegland, a farmer from Lac Qui Parle County, Minn., and an AgCountry Farm Credit Services board representative on the ADFCC, which he chairs. “We are honored to celebrate her as an AgriBank District Farm Credit Council Friend of Farm Credit and a friend of rural America.” AgCountry Farm Credit Services is one of the local Farm Credit Associations that comprise the AgriBank District along with AgriBank. The ADFCC represents Farm Credit farmers and ranchers in a 15-state area from Wyoming to Ohio, and Minnesota to Arkansas. About half the nation’s cropland is located within the Agri Bank District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-calls-house-leadership-move-quickly-border-security,Rep. Angie Craig Calls on House Leadership to Move Quickly on Border Security Legislation,2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Angie Craig is calling on congressional leadership to move quickly on border security legislation. Rep. Craig joined 34 Members of Congress in writing to congressional leadership, requesting a timely vote on a comprehensive bipartisan border security package. As part of her call for action, Rep. Craig is pushing to increase funding to secure the border, ensure a humane and orderly immigration process and stop the flow of illicit fentanyl into the United States. “We understand emergency funding is necessary to secure our border, ensure a humane and orderly immigration process and stop the flow of illicit fentanyl into the United States,” wrote the Members. “Securing our nation’s southern border is a bipartisan goal, and the shared responsibility of all Members of Congress. We ask that you swiftly bring this important package to a vote on the floor,” they continued. Full text of the letter can be found here or copied below. October 26, 2023 The Honorable Charles E. Schumer Majority Leader United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 The Honorable Mike Johnson Speaker of the House United States House of Representatives Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Mitch McConnell Minority Leader United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries Minority Leader United States House of Representatives Washington, DC 20510 Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Speaker Johnson, Minority Leaders McConnell and Jeffries, We urge you to quickly bring a bipartisan border security package reflecting the President’s Fiscal Year 2024 emergency supplemental request to the House and Senate floor. As members of the New Democrat Coalition, we understand emergency funding is necessary to secure our border, ensure a humane and orderly immigration process, and stop the flow of illicit fentanyl into the United States. President Biden has put forth a strong and comprehensive border security package in his supplemental request. The requested $13.6 billion investment would: Increase boots on the ground at the border. The request ensures the Department of Homeland Security has the additional resources and personnel to accomplish their mission of maintaining border security while assisting refugees and processing migrants, including funds to hire an additional 1,300 border patrol agents. Improve the processing of asylum cases. The request includes funding to hire 375 new immigration judge teams and 1,600 asylum officers to tackle the significant backlog straining our immigration courts that has severely delayed resolutions, often for years at a time. Support local governments and nonprofits. The request includes $1.4 billion for the depleted Shelter and Services Program which reimburses already-overstretched local governments and nonprofits who provide essential resources to recently released migrants. Address the illicit fentanyl crisis. The request includes funding to hire an additional 1,000 officers focused on counter-fentanyl efforts and to purchase cutting-edge technology to stop the flow of illicit fentanyl into the United States. Deaths related to the use of illicit fentanyl and other synthetic opioids have risen by nearly 200% in the past decade, affecting nearly every American community in the process. Each of these investments will reduce illicit fentanyl trafficking and save lives. Securing our nation’s southern border is a bipartisan goal, and the shared responsibility of all members of Congress. We ask that you swiftly bring this important package to a vote on the floor. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-remarks-metro-state-university-cybersecurity-roundtable,McCollum Remarks at Metro State University Cybersecurity Roundtable,2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, today joined Metro State University’s Cybersecurity Roundtable as a panelist to give context for the challenges and threats posed by cyber actors and the importance of strategic investments in cybersecurity as a national security priority. In Fiscal Year 2023, Congresswoman McCollum secured $1.6 million in Community Project Funding for Metro State University and the Neighborhood Development Center to develop the Cybersecurity Information Center that is now supporting workforce development in the Fourth District. Congresswoman McCollum worked to include $1.45 million in Defense funding for the University’s Cybersecurity Clinic sponsored by the National Security Administration (NSA), which helps the K12 School System, underserved counties and cities, small businesses, and nonprofits address cybersecurity concerns. The free cybersecurity clinic staffed by Metro students will address the growing need for cybersecurity awareness and protection in our community. McCollum is also working to deliver $10.5 million to support academic cybersecurity institutes and cyber workforce development for which Metro State University will be eligible to compete. [Remarks as prepared for delivery] Thank you, it is great to be with you all this morning. I want to begin by thanking Metro State University and President Arthur for hosting this event. And I truly commend her for leading from the front when it comes to making cybersecurity education a priority for this university. The State of Minnesota is going to benefit from the training and education being done here – but so will our country and our national defense. In Congress, I have the honor of serving as the Ranking Member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. I am charged with the responsibility of allocating over $800 billion in federal spending each year for the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Last Congress, I was the Chair of the Subcommittee. So I know very well the threats we face from cyber actors. Foreign states, terrorist groups, criminal enterprises, and rogue individuals – they all represent significant cyber threats to our nation. In the last decade we have seen escalating cyber-attacks on our economy, health care system, energy infrastructure, national security assets – and even our democracy itself. Right here in Minnesota – Russian hackers have targeted our election systems. They have tried to access voter registration data, and ultimately impact the outcome of our elections. We know that they will continue to do this – and defending ourselves and our way of life is not an option. That is because we live in a digital society, where data powers everything. It underpins our economy, our health care system, our critical infrastructure, and our national security. That is why we must invest not only in the cyber tools we need to protect our data, but the workforce needed to utilize those tools and keep us safe from these threats. The private sector, academia, non-profits, and every level of government are constantly under threat from ransomware, digital attacks, and data breaches. And defending our society requires that we have a cyber workforce capable of handling these threats, as well as robust workforce development pipelines to train the next generation of Americans to meet this challenge. That is why in Congress, I have been committed to not only providing necessary resources to the Department of Defense but have worked to push them to take seriously their role in building out national security workforce development pipelines. DoD and the Intelligence Services have a mandate to keep us safe and empower a national security cyber force – both military and civilian – that can meet this challenge. That is why I am so excited to see the work that Metro State has been doing in this field. They offer expertise in cybersecurity education to a unique and diverse student population. And their connections across Minnesota provide opportunities for a cyber workforce initiative that will help produce the cyber professionals of the future. That is what we need to ensure our national security, but also to insulate our businesses, hospitals, universities, financial institutions, and every individual connected to the internet. In the Fiscal Year 2024 Defense Appropriations bill, I have included funds for the Air Force Digital Transformation Office to invest in a cyber workforce initiative. It is my hope that they will look to Metro State as a partner who can provide the necessary capacity building and deliver a new generation of cybersecurity professionals to meet the needs of Minnesota and our nation’s cyber security. We don’t have the luxury of waiting. Everyone in this room knows that this kind of workforce investment is essential. So again, I want to thank Metro State and President Arthur for stepping up to the challenge and driving this initiative. I hope that Minnesota policymakers, along with the Minnesota National Guard, will embrace their work and invest in this critical workforce effort. And in Congress, I’ll continue to my part to make sure we have the resources necessary to support our existing cyber workforce, and train the talent we need for the future. Thank you again.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-calls-smith-and-klobuchar-support-mining-minnesota-after-they,Stauber Calls on Smith and Klobuchar to Support Mining in Minnesota After They Expressed Concerns Regarding Minerals Trade Deal with Indonesia,2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, is calling on Minnesota’s Senators to support critical mineral mining projects in his district after they sent a bipartisan letter, expressing several concerns regarding a potential mineral trade agreement with Indonesia. This letter, which was led by Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) and Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), was sent following reports that the Biden Administration is in negotiations with Indonesia on a limited free trade agreement for critical minerals, mainly nickel. In the letter, the Senators outline concerns with Indonesia’s weak labor protections, Chinese influence in Indonesian mining, and Indonesia’s lack of environmental standards. They also emphasize the need to prioritize domestic producers. Of this letter, Stauber stated, “Since taking office, President Biden has chosen to rely on foreign countries with poor labor and environmental standards for the critical minerals necessary for his green energy push. These reported negotiations with Indonesia are just the latest example of Biden’s ‘anywhere but America, any worker but American’ mining policy. I am glad to see Minnesota Senators Klobuchar and Smith finally push back on this blatant hypocrisy. Now, I encourage them to go one step further and call on this Administration to allow critical mineral projects within the Duluth Complex to move forward, just as I have for years. Minnesota’s miners are ready and eager to responsibly source the copper and nickel located in the Duluth Complex, and all of Minnesota’s leaders should be unified in support of this worthy goal.” Senator Kevin Cramer stated, “Developing the United States’ natural resources with the highest labor standards and best environmental stewardship should not be a partisan issue. Rather than adopting the Biden philosophy of exporting our environmental guilt to polluting countries, we should be prioritizing American workers and miners who do it best. Minnesota and North Dakota have a great deal to offer our critical supply chains.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/congresswoman-fischbach-proudly-stands-with-israel,Congresswoman Fischbach Proudly Stands with Israel,2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - This week, the House of Representatives passed H. Res. 771 - Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists. ""Israel is facing the worst attacks on its people since the Holocaust, and the United States stands in nationwide support as they defend themselves from true evil,"" said Congresswoman Fischbach (MN-07). ""I am proud that the first action taken by Speaker Johnson was an overwhelmingly bipartisan resolution to demonstrate America's support for Israel and its people.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/readout-rep-omars-meeting-family-members-israeli-american-hostages-held-gaza,Readout of Rep. Omar’s Meeting with Family Members of Israeli-American Hostages Held in Gaza,2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Congresswoman Omar met Thursday with family members of Israeli-American hostages held in Gaza. She reiterated her support for the release of all hostages held and for an immediate ceasefire. ""I was moved and honored to meet with the family members of Israeli-American hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. We must do everything in our power to negotiate the safe release of all hostages held in Gaza. I will remain in touch with regional partners and NGOs to push for the release of the hostages, an end to the unjust targeting of civilians, and an immediate ceasefire.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-ground-invasion-gaza-strip-would-have-disastrous-consequences,Rep. Omar: A Ground Invasion Into The Gaza Strip Would Have Disastrous Consequences,2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement Friday following reports the Israeli military is expanding ground operations in Gaza and the Biden Administration is urging against a ground invasion. ""It can’t be underscored enough: a ground invasion into the Gaza Strip would have disastrous consequences and lead to loss of life of catastrophic proportions. It would risk pulling the U.S. into a rapidly-escalating broader regional conflict. We should fully oppose it. ""A ground invasion would make an untenable humanitarian disaster even worse. It would not only put the lives of more and more Palestinian civilians at risk, but also Israelis, the hundreds of hostages held by Hamas, and the hundreds of Americans trapped in Gaza ""This war has reportedly already taken the lives of over 1,400 Israelis, and over 7,000 Palestinians. Fuel and electricity remain shut off for the 2.3 million residents of Gaza—a war crime—and communications and internet services are now down across Gaza. Over 1 million have fled from their homes. ""Residents remain trapped in this open-air prison, without any exits, including American citizens. Civilians are told to flee their homes—but are then killed by airstrikes after fleeing. Gaza’s health care system is already in a state of “complete collapse,” according to the Health Ministry, with over two-thirds of healthcare facilities shut down. Only 84 trucks of aid have been able to enter the Rafah land crossing. ""A ground invasion would turn a horrific regional tragedy into potentially a global one. Both Iran and Hezbollah have threatened to escalate militarily if Netanyahu launches a ground invasion into Gaza. The United States has asked the Israeli government to delay an invasion so it can place air defenses in the region to protect U.S. troops, heightening the risk of U.S. involvement. ""We have to ask: what is the endgame here? Does a ground invasion increase security and safety for Israelis or Palestinians? No. In fact, the Biden Administration has reportedly warned that Israel does not have achievable military objectives for a Gaza ground invasion. ""It is important to note that this ground invasion is deeply unpopular. Two-thirds of Americans and fully eighty percent of Democrats support the commonsense position of a ceasefire to end this horror. And according to a recent poll by Israeli paper Maariv, a ground invasion is not supported by a majority of the Israeli people either. ""The solution to this horror, as ever, is a negotiated peace—with Israelis and Palestinians enjoying equal rights and security guarantees. That peace may seem impossible in the fog of war, but it starts with us calling for an end to the war, for the release of hostages by Hamas, and for the international community to seek accountability for these atrocities. ""Most of all, we must remember that we are all part of one human family, that the wanton destruction of lives will only pull us apart and perpetuate the seemingly endless cycle of violence.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/amid-continued-slow-mail-service-rep-angie-craig-introduces-bill-increase-usps,"Amid Continued Slow Mail Service, Rep. Angie Craig Introduces Bill to Increase USPS Transparency",2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, as constituents across MN-02 continue to experience slow mail service, U.S. Representative Angie Craig introduced legislation to require the United States Postal Service (USPS) to increase public-facing service level reporting. Rep. Craig’s bill would require USPS to notify customers of undelivered and partially delivered routes by zip code, keeping Minnesotans informed of when they can expect their mail to be delivered or delayed. As Minnesotans continue to experience slow delivery, additional public reporting would help increase transparency and accountability for sub-par service from USPS. “For months, my constituents have been left wondering when their mail – their prescription medications, notes from loved ones, small business checks – will be delivered. This bill will help Minnesotans get timely and accurate information when it comes to their mail delivery, and will help hold USPS accountable for poor delivery service. I’ll keep working to improve postal service here in the South Metro,” said Rep. Craig. Bill text can be found here. This bill is part of Rep. Craig’s push to improve mail delivery in the South Metro. Most recently, she renewed her call to USPS Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to consider opening a joint Lakeville/Farmington Post Office to help improve mail service in two of Minnesota’s fastest growing cities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/rep-fischbach-welcomes-rep-mike-johnson-as-speaker-of-the-house,Rep. Fischbach Welcomes Rep. Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Today, the House of Representatives elected Congressman Mike Johnson (LA-04) to be the next Speaker of the House of Representatives. ""Mr. Johnson is a proven conservative. I was honored to work with him on the Judiciary Committee, and I am confident that, as Speaker, he will move forward with an agenda that reflects the values and priorities of the American people,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""We have a lot to accomplish, and I trust that Mr. Johnson will lead Congress from a position of strength as we continue to fight for the values of American families and against the Left's spending spree and extreme 'woke' priorities.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omars-statement-voting-no-hr-771,Rep. Omar's statement on Voting NO on HR 771,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar released the following statement on voting NO on H.R. 771: ""I'm committed to peace and a prompt ceasefire. While the resolution rightly acknowledges and mourns the lives taken by Hamas, I cannot support a resolution that fails to acknowledge and mourn the lives of Palestinians taken by the Israeli military. The resolution also fails to acknowledge the Israeli government's military bombardment of Gaza, especially after Israeli officials openly admitted to implementing collective punishment of Palestinians in Gaza. ""Our position should be consistent in defending innocent lives. We must use diplomacy to secure the release of hostages, end the violence by negotiating a ceasefire, restore water, food, and fuel to Gaza, and work toward lasting peace. ""My unwavering commitment to human rights and peace compels me to oppose any action that perpetuates a crisis that has already ended many lives. ""For this reason, I cast my vote against House Resolution 771.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-inadequate-usps-response-rep-craig-doubles-down-call-joint-lakeville,"Following Inadequate USPS Response, Rep. Craig Doubles Down on Call for Joint Lakeville-Farmington Post Office",2023-10-24,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BURNSVILLE, MN – Following an inadequate response from the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), U.S. Representative Angie Craig is doubling down on her call for USPS to work with local leaders to find a solution to improving mail service in Farmington and Lakeville. Rep. Craig originally wrote to USPS Postmaster General Louis DeJoy in September – asking him to consider how opening a joint Lakeville/Farmington Post Office would help improve mail service in two of Minnesota’s fastest growing cities. USPS denied Rep. Craig’s request, claiming: “As these facilities currently meet our present and projected operational needs, we have no plans to establish a new Post Office in these communities.” Rep. Craig’s office has received feedback from over 500 constituents in the Lakeville and Farmington area regarding service levels. The USPS Minnesota-North Dakota Region has consistently been ranked as one of the lowest performing regions in the country. In her letter, Rep. Craig urged Postmaster General DeJoy to meet with Lakeville Mayor Luke Hellier and Farmington Mayor Joshua Hoyt to find ways to address the persistent delivery issues that are impacting residents. Additionally, she requested responses from USPS to the following questions: What is the official USPS definition of “space-constrained” and what individuals determine whether a facility meets that definition? What are your “projected operational needs” at the Lakeville and Farmington Post Offices? As of October 23, 2023, what are the on time delivery rates over the last two weeks for both of these facilities? As of October 23, 2023, how many vacant job positions exist in each facility? Full text of Rep. Craig’s letter can be found here and copied below. October 23, 2023 The Honorable Louis DeJoy Postmaster General United States Postal Service 475 L’Enfant Plaza, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20260 Dear Postmaster General DeJoy: Last month, I requested that the United States Postal Service (USPS) examine the feasibility of opening a joint post office branch near the border between the City of Lakeville and the City of Farmington, Minnesota. Your response blatantly disregards the needs of our local communities and the reality of continued poor USPS performance in the Minnesota-North Dakota Region, especially in the Second Congressional District. Since January 1, 2023, I have received feedback from over 500 constituents in the Lakeville and Farmington area regarding service levels. Additionally, your on-time service performance score for first class mail is currently 80.8 percent, almost 10 percentage points below your target and one of the lowest in the country. Your statement that these facilities meet your current and projected operational needs is both absurd and unacceptable. I will reiterate what I said in my previous letter: I have seen firsthand how the Lakeville Post Office is already over its operating capacity. New options need to be explored. I ask that you promptly respond to the following questions: What is the official USPS definition of “space-constrained” and what individuals determine whether a facility meets that definition? What are your “projected operational needs” at the Lakeville and Farmington Post Offices? As of October 23, 2023, what are the on time delivery rates over the last two weeks for both of these facilities? As of October 23, 2023, how many vacant job positions exist in each facility? Additionally, I ask that USPS Facilities Management commit to holding a local meeting with Lakeville Mayor Luke Hellier and Farmington Mayor Joshua Hoyt to discuss options that meet the needs of the cities of Lakeville and Farmington and their residents as they continue to grow and thrive. Thank you for reviewing this letter and I look forward to your response on behalf of all the residents of Farmington and Lakeville. Sincerely, Angie Craig Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-stresses-urgency-delivering-humanitarian-aid-gaza,McCollum Stresses Urgency of Delivering Humanitarian Aid to Gaza,2023-10-20,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement today following news reports that aid trucks are waiting to cross into Gaza: “Humanitarian aid trucks at the Rafah border crossing with Egypt must be allowed to cross immediately to deliver urgently needed food, water, and medicine to people who need it in Gaza,” McCollum said. “I call for all involved parties to deliver this desperately needed humanitarian assistance in a timely manner, and for Israel to agree to inspections of this assistance by the United Nations or other international organizations. Two million Palestinian civilians need this humanitarian assistance now and time is of the essence.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omars-statement-united-states-easing-sanctions-venezuelan-oil,Rep. Ilhan Omar’s statement on the United States easing sanctions on Venezuelan oil,2023-10-19,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINTON -- Rep. Ilhan Omar’s released the following statement on the United States easing Venezuelan Sanctions: “I strongly support the Biden Administration’s decision to ease Trump’s Venezuela sanctions after the agreement between the Venezuelan government and opposition figures to allow for free and fair elections in 2024. This is a breakthrough in U.S. policy toward Venezuela that has the possibility of leading to significant improvements in the lives of the Venezuelan people. Trump’s sanctions programs in Venezuela have contributed enormously to Venezuelan suffering while achieving none of their political goals. ""I am also grateful to the Norwegian government for the critical role they have played in facilitating dialogue and supporting this process. We have a chance now to move past the failed policies of the Trump Administration in Venezuela towards a better and more representative Venezuelan democracy. I hope we will seize it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-angie-craig-ranked-top-2-most-bipartisan-us-house-members,U.S. Rep. Angie Craig Ranked in Top 2% Most Bipartisan U.S. House Members,2023-10-18,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig announced that the Common Ground Committee has ranked her in the top 2% most bipartisan Members of the U.S. House of Representatives in this Congress. The Common Ground Committee scores and ranks Members of Congress based on their willingness to work with members of both parties to deliver for their constituents. While the average score for a Member of the House is 27, Rep. Craig’s score is 93. “Minnesotans deserve leaders who will put them – not a party or politics – first. That’s exactly what I’ve aimed to do since being elected, and I’m proud that work has ranked me in the top 2% most bipartisan Members of Congress. I’ll keep reaching across the aisle to deliver the common sense, bipartisan solutions Minnesotans deserve,” said Rep. Craig. Rep. Craig has cosponsored nearly 300 pieces of legislation in the 118th Congress – 77% of which have been bipartisan. Earlier this year, Rep. Craig was ranked as Minnesota's most effective Member of the U.S. House by the Center for Effective Lawmaking.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-secures-more-80000-expand-law-enforcement-mental-health,"Rep. Angie Craig Secures More Than $80,000 to Expand Law Enforcement Mental Health Resources in Shakopee",2023-10-17,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SHAKOPEE, MN – U.S. Representative Angie Craig secured more than $80,000 to help expand mental health support for Shakopee law enforcement. Rep. Craig began her push to secure the funding in April as part of her work to promote public safety in Shakopee. The federal funding comes through the Department of Justice’s Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) Program, which recognizes the importance of officers’ mental health and well-being in addition to physical health. “Expanding access to mental health resources has been a major focus of my work with the City of Shakopee and Chief Tate, and that’s why I pushed for this federal funding to promote law enforcement mental health and well-being,” said Rep. Craig. “These dollars will go directly towards providing support to Shakopee police officers and their families, and I’ll keep working to secure additional resources.” “We are extremely happy to be receiving this grant. Officer wellness is a major priority and this grant will allow us to take our initiatives to the next level,” said Shakopee Police Chief Jeff Tate. Last year, Rep. Craig helped pass the bipartisan Public Safety Officer Support Act to expand benefits for officers with work-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and for families of officers who die by trauma-linked suicide. Rep. Craig also secured funding last year to help West St. Paul and South St. Paul hire additional police officers and promote community policing efforts. Click here to learn more about Shakopee’s LEMHWA grant.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-urges-president-biden-facilitate-ceasefire,McCollum Urges President Biden to Facilitate Ceasefire,2023-10-17,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement today: ""I strongly support President Biden’s decision to travel to Israel at this critical time. I urge him to use this visit to begin facilitating a ceasefire among all parties to prevent the loss of more innocent lives in Israel and Gaza. However, a ceasefire cannot be one-sided. That includes Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah, and other parties. The international community must work together to restore the delivery of food, water, power, and medical supplies to Gaza. ""All people deserve safety and security – and in the wake of the heinous attacks by Hamas, the violence that has followed, and the suffering of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, the only sustainable path forward is one where international human rights and international law are at the forefront."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sara-jacobs-calls-state-department-expand-resources-palestinian-americans,"Rep. Sara Jacobs Calls on State Department to Expand Resources for Palestinian Americans and Americans in Gaza, West Bank",2023-10-13,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) led 16 colleagues in urging the State Department to expand its resources for Palestinian Americans and Americans living, working, or traveling in Gaza and the West Bank. In a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the lawmakers urged the State Department to expand its guidance for Palestinian Americans and Americans in Gaze and the West Bank, ensure embassy staff fluent in Arabic are available to assist them, and publicize this information in an accessible manner. The lawmakers wrote: “Thank you for everything the Department of State is doing to help Americans impacted by the war in Israel. We are all devastated by Hamas’ horrific, inexcusable attacks, and all of the innocent civilians who have been kidnapped, killed, or trapped in the crossfire in Israel and Gaza. “While we have received frequently updated resources for Americans in Israel, we write to express our concern about the lack of clear information available to our constituents and other Americans who are trying to leave Gaza and the West Bank. Many of them are unclear about what services the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem is providing to help Palestinian Americans and American citizens living, working, and traveling in Gaza and the West Bank. “As the United States Government works with regional partners to help provide safe passage for civilians to leave the region, we request the Department make efforts to expand their guidance to include additional details pertinent to Palestinian Americans and American citizens in Gaza and the West Bank, ensure embassy staff fluent in Arabic are available to assist them, and publicize this information in an accessible manner. “Thank you for your urgent attention to this vitally important matter.” In addition to Rep. Sara Jacobs, Reps. Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Nikema Williams (GA-05), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Raul Grijalva (AZ-07), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Greg Casar (TX-35), and Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) signed this letter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-announces-nearly-800000-strengthen-substance-use-disorder,"Rep. Angie Craig Announces Nearly $800,000 to Strengthen Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Programs in Rice County",2023-10-12,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"RICE COUNTY, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig announced $799,671 in federal funding for Rice County’s Treatment Court. The treatment court provides non-violent offenders with access to comprehensive substance use treatment and recovery alternatives within the local justice system. The federal funding comes from the Department of Justice’s Adult Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program. “We must address mental health and substance use disorder with an informed, effective and compassionate approach. Rice County’s Treatment Court helps ensure Minnesotans are provided with the resources and support they need throughout their recovery process – and I’m proud to announce they will be receiving nearly $800,000 to continue those critical efforts,” said Rep. Craig. Last year, Rep. Craig secured nearly $1 million in federal funding to support the Rice County Opioid Response Council’s efforts to promote public safety, support access to opioid treatment and reduce overdose deaths.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omars-statement-constituents-and-family-members-israel-and-gaza,Rep. Ilhan Omar's statement on constituents and family members in Israel and Gaza.,2023-10-12,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement on constituents and family members in Israel and Gaza. “Our office is actively engaged in assisting constituents and their families who are in Israel and Gaza. While we cannot provide travel advice or help with individual travel arrangements, there are specific situations where our team may be able to help – in particular, for constituents whose U.S. passports have expired or those who are waiting for family visa petitions to be processed. “In international crises, the role of the State Department is to communicate with U.S. citizens and provide information and assistance. It is vital that all U.S. citizens have registered with the State Department and review all updates they provide. Registration with the State Department can be done through the crisis intake form. For those individuals planning to travel to Jordan or Egypt, the Department of State has advised that travelers make use of the U.S. Embassies in those countries to facilitate their journey back home.” If you are a constituent of the Fifth District and need assistance with an issue like this, or have other questions that you need help addressing, please contact our office by emailing MN05.info@mail.house.gov or call (612) 333-1272. The Department of State is providing consistent updates for American citizens in Israel and Gaza. We are committed to ensuring that you receive the necessary guidance and assistance during this challenging period. Please don’t hesitate to contact us should you need any assistance or information. Your safety and well-being are our utmost priorities. U.S. citizens seeking to be in touch with the U.S. Embassy in Israel: Crisis Intake Form Call 1-833-890-9595 (toll free) and 1-606-641-0131. U.S. citizens in Israel please call the local number (03-519-7426).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/rep-fischbach-on-iran-backed-terrorists-attack-on-israel,Rep. Fischbach on Iran-Backed Terrorists Attack on Israel,2023-10-07,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Hamas terrorists have claimed responsibility for a surprise attack on Israel. Israel has responded with counterstrikes. Israeli President Netanyahu says Israel is now at war. The attack took place on the 50th anniversary of the 1973 war, which began with a surprise attack on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur. ""This attack on Israel is shocking and horrifying, and I pray for and grieve with the families who have lost their loved ones,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""The United States condemns this heinous attack and firmly stands with one of our strongest allies as they do everything in their power to defend themselves against these Iran-backed terrorists.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-terrorist-attacks-israel,McCollum Statement on Terrorist Attacks in Israel,2023-10-07,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) released the following statement today after Gaza militants fired rockets and attacked nearby areas in a surprise assault on Israel: “The U.S. government and the international community must immediately unite in denouncing the escalating violence in Israel and Gaza, and demand the immediate release of all hostages.” McCollum said. “These appear to be serious acts of war, and war is never the answer. I call upon the U.S. State Department to brief Congress about the situation immediately when the House of Representatives returns to Washington next week. While we await more information, my heart goes out to all those families impacted by this violence.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-urges-postmaster-general-dejoy-work-local-leaders-address-mail,Rep. Angie Craig Urges Postmaster General DeJoy to Work with Local Leaders to Address Mail Delivery Delays in the South Metro,2023-10-06,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Angie Craig is urging United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to work with local leaders and find a solution to improve mail service in Farmington and Lakeville. In a letter, Rep. Craig highlighted how opening the joint post office would address the numerous capacity, storage and delivery issues facing USPS in two of Minnesota’s fastest growing cities. “From July 2020 to July 2021 alone, Lakeville experienced a population growth rate of 3.8%, the fastest in Minnesota according to the Census Bureau. Furthermore, Lakeville is expected to reach a population of 85,000 as it continues to expand. I have repeatedly heard from constituents about poor mail delivery service. Additionally, the City of Farmington has expressed interest in relocating their current post office to better accommodate the safety and growth of a nearby school,” wrote Rep. Craig. “Opening a local office near the border of Lakeville and Farmington would allow for improvements to be made in the efficiency of mail sorting and delivery while solving problems for each of the cities as they continue to grow,” she continued. Rep. Craig’s letter is part of her continued efforts to address the persistent postal delivery delays and issues confronting Minnesotans. Farmington Mayor Joshua Hoyt and Lakeville Mayor Luke Hellier joined Rep. Craig’s call for action from the Postmaster General. “Farmington supports a collaboration with the City of Lakeville and the U.S. Post Office to combine our facilities and resources for mail delivery. The consistent disruptions to our local mail delivery system are neither desirable, nor sustainable. We believe this is a shining example of how neighboring communities can work together to better serve our residents,” said Mayor Hoyt. “A new post office will facilitate smoother mail and package deliveries and contribute to our community’s growth and convenience. We wholeheartedly welcome Congresswoman Craig’s efforts and look forward to working together to make this project a reality,” said Mayor Hellier. Earlier this month, Rep. Craig joined U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith in calling on Postmaster General DeJoy to quickly address a payroll system error that resulted in an estimated 53,000 rural letter carriers missing their September 1st paycheck. A full copy of the letter can be found here or copied below. The Honorable Louis DeJoy Postmaster General United States Postal Service 475 L’Enfant Plaza, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20260 Dear Postmaster General DeJoy: I write to you today to request that the United States Postal Service (USPS) examine the feasibility of opening a joint post office branch near the border between the City of Lakeville and the City of Farmington, Minnesota. After meeting with the mayors of both cities, I firmly believe this would help improve mail delivery and increase customer service. Both postal facilities are USPS leased facilities and the leadership of each city is willing and ready to work together with USPS to better serve their constituents and your customers. I’ve seen firsthand after touring the Lakeville Post Office how it is already over its operating capacity and new options need to be explored. Lakeville has experienced rapid population growth and business expansion over the last several years, and I fear that the postal service may not be expanding at the necessary rate. From July 2020 to July 2021 alone, Lakeville experienced a population growth rate of 3.8%, the fastest in Minnesota according to the Census Bureau. Furthermore, Lakeville is expected to reach a population of 85,000 as it continues to expand. I have repeatedly heard from constituents about poor mail delivery service. Additionally, the City of Farmington has expressed interest in relocating their current post office to better accommodate the safety and growth of a nearby school. Opening a local office near the border of Lakeville and Farmington would allow for improvements to be made in the efficiency of mail sorting and delivery while solving problems for each of the cities as they continue to grow. Thank you for reviewing this letter and I look forward to your response on behalf of all the residents of Farmington and Lakeville. Sincerely, Angie Craig Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omars-statement-us-mexico-border-wall,Rep. Omar's Statement on U.S. - Mexico Border Wall,2023-10-06,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement following reports of the Biden Administration's plans to extend the border wall. “I urge the President to reconsider the decision to possibly erect a border wall in Texas’s Rio Grande Valley. “We will not defeat the rise in Trumpism, xenophobia and white nationalism by trying to erect more barriers to the migrants coming to our shores and borders. We will not defeat it through detention, deportation, or fear. “We will defeat it by abiding by international law that requires us to welcome asylum seekers fleeing persecution. We will defeat it by investing in diplomacy and aid in the unstable regions fueling displacement—not through punitive sanctions. “We will defeat it by embracing our values as a beacon of hope to migrants and refugees from around the world. We will defeat it by welcoming the tired, the poor, and the huddled masses yearning to breathe free. “It is true that these funds were appropriated in 2019 under Donald Trump. It is true that House Republicans have blocked any possible legislative action on immigration, while engaging in near-constant hateful fear-mongering around refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. “However, it is also true that the law does not require the waiving of dozens of federal laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Clean Air Act to build this wall. “The human rights crisis at the U.S. border—and even more acutely in countries like El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Venezuela—will not be solved with more walls. Walls only punish the victims, sending them back to the very violence they are fleeing. It will only be solved by addressing the root causes of migration, and creating a country and a world that values the life of every single human being.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/craig-backed-legislation-combat-fentanyl-crisis-builds-momentum,Craig-Backed Legislation to Combat Fentanyl Crisis Builds Momentum,2023-10-05,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Two of U.S. Representative Angie Craig’s bipartisan bills aimed at combating the fentanyl crisis have been endorsed by the New Democrat Coalition – a group of 97 center-left House Democrats who seek to advance common sense, fiscally responsible policies in Congress. The two bills – the RECONNECTIONS Act and the School Access to Naloxone Act – would expand overdose prevention efforts and resources, like naloxone. Both bills have garnered support from Republicans and Democrats. “The fight to combat the fentanyl crisis is going to take all hands on deck,” said Rep. Craig.“I’m grateful to count my fellow New Dems as partners in that fight – and I’ll keep working to make sure every Minnesotan has access to the support, tools and education they need to keep themselves and their families safe and well.” The bipartisan RECONNECTIONS Act would help expand the CDC’s overdose prevention efforts – like bolstering prescription drug monitoring programs, promoting and evaluating community and health system interventions and conducting research on controlled substance overdoses. Bill text can be found here. The bipartisan School Access to Naloxone Act would make sure naloxone is available in schools and ensure educators and school administrators are trained on how to use this life-saving drug. Bill text can be found here. The New Democrat Coalition is a group of nearly 100 center-left House Democrats committed to breaking through partisan gridlock and delivering results for Americans. Rep. Craig has been a member of the New Democrat Coalition since being elected. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-pens-letter-mayorkas-after-young-girls-were-sexually-assaulted-bemidji,Stauber Pens Letter to Mayorkas After Young Girls Were Sexually Assaulted in a Bemidji House Full of Illegal Immigrants,2023-10-05,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHGINTON, D.C. -- Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) sent a letter to Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and other Homeland Security officials expressing outrage over the recent sexual assault of one eleven-year-old girl, and potentially two more, in a home in Bemidji, Minnesota. When police conducted a search warrant of the home, 11 illegal immigrants were found at the scene. The letter reads in part, “I write to express my concern and outrage over the recent events in Bemidji, Minnesota, a beautiful northern town in the congressional district I represent. The news stories and police report highlight the deplorable consequences of the Biden Administration's recklessly lax border and failing immigration policies. Nearly a dozen illegal immigrants were found at a home where, according to the local police department press release, a sexual assault of a minor occurred. I demand immediate action from your agencies and answers to several questions myself and the communities I represent have regarding this horrific incident. It is your duty to fully protect all citizens from this ongoing onslaught of illegal immigrant criminal activity, which is a direct result of your failure to secure our border and fully track illegal immigrants and their whereabouts. “The unspeakable violence in Bemidji perpetrated against at least 1 eleven-year-old girl, and potentially two more, demonstrates your complete and total failure to follow the laws of this country. As a result, these failures are impacting little children, over a thousand miles from the southern border, and will have real, long-lasting, ramifications. The victim(s) in this case deserves justice. More importantly, however, the victim(s) deserved your protection from the beginning. You were appointed to serve the people of this sovereign nation, and it is your duty to ensure our border is secure and innocent lives are safeguarded.” Click HERE to read the full letter. Stauber demanded Mayorkas answer a number of questions regarding the status of the 11 illegal immigrants who were found at the scene of this horrendous crime. The questions include the following: How did the 11 illegal immigrants travel to Bemidji? Were they specifically relocated to Bemidji as a directive of this Administration? Who paid for their transportation? When are the court dates for the 11 illegal immigrants if they are seeking asylum? Are any of these 11 illegal immigrants being charged with rape/sexual assault of a minor(s)? Where are the 11 illegal immigrants being detained in until their court cases? How many court cases do they have pending? Is the primary suspect, Oscar Ernesto Luna, an American citizen? Are you aware if Oscar Ernesto Luna or any of the 11 illegal immigrants are connected to a cartel? Were any minors traveling with these 11 illegal immigrants when they crossed the border? If so, where are they now? What are your agencies doing to locate the other victims that have reportedly gone missing? What coordination is occurring with other law enforcement agencies to investigate and address incidents like the one in Bemidji, Minnesota, and to prevent such incidents from happening in the future?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-angie-craig-introduces-bill-expand-security-cabinet-secretaries,U.S. Rep. Angie Craig Introduces Bill to Expand Security for Cabinet Secretaries,2023-10-04,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig introduced legislation to expand security protections for Presidential Cabinet members. Under Rep. Craig’s legislation, Cabinet members would be granted the same security allowance as Members of Congress, including $10,000 for equipment acquisition and installation and $150 per month for relevant fees. “We’ve all seen the consequences of rising political threats in our country, and we must ensure our leaders have the tools they need to keep themselves and their families safe,” said Rep. Craig. “My bill is a common sense solution and I’ll keep pushing to ensure we're doing everything we can to deter political violence and keep communities safe.” Permitted security equipment for Cabinet members’ personal residences would include cameras, motion sensors, video recorders, door locks and lighting. All Cabinet Secretaries, the Director of National Intelligence and the Directors of the Environmental Protection Agency and Small Business Administration would be eligible for additional security under Rep. Craig’s bill. Click here to read Rep. Craig’s legislation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-statement-egyptian-elections,Rep. Omar Statement on Egyptian Elections,2023-10-04,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement following reports of election tampering, arrests and bribery in the Egyptian elections. ""Dozens of opposition leaders detained. Buying off votes. Bribing so-called supporters. This is not how a democracy works. This is only the latest in a long line of rampant anti-democratic measures and human rights abuses under 2013 Egyptian coup leader and current dictator Abdel Fatah al-Sisi.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/rep-fischbach-on-vacating-the-speaker-s-chair,Rep. Fischbach On Vacating the Speaker's Chair,2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Democrats and a handful of Republicans voted to vacate the Speaker of the House's chair. ""In the last nine months, Speaker McCarthy stood up to Democrats and forced President Biden to agree to the largest federal spending cuts in a decade. He ended the Omnibus Bill process, and now Congress is working on 12 separate appropriations bills, as it should. And, he opened an impeachment inquiry against President Biden,"" said Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). ""I am truly disappointed that all of that work is going to be halted until another Speaker is elected.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-republican-motion-vacate-chair,McCollum Statement on the Republican Motion to Vacate the Chair,2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement today regarding the Resolution to Declare the Office of the Speaker Vacant: “Speaker McCarthy has never asked for my vote, much less offered to listen to the priorities of the people I represent. Why would I vote to enable the ongoing madness and chaos that have consumed the U.S. House since January? “Let me be clear: Democrats stand united. This is about the Republican conference’s own internal war. They have the speakership, the gavels, and the majority—it is up to them to be able to find unity of purpose to pass their own bills. If their bills are so extreme they cannot even pass them with Republican votes, that is their own problem and their leadership must recognize that they lack a functional majority with which to govern, and should come together with Democrats to forge a bipartisan path forward that reflects the will and the values of the American people. “Speaker McCarthy has been at the beck and call of Donald Trump and extreme MAGA Republicans even before assuming the speakership, when he voted against certifying the electoral college vote on January 6th, and as Minority Leader he actively worked to discredit the committee investigating this attack on our Capitol. Since becoming Speaker—after 15 ballots—he has repeatedly failed to govern, pursued baseless attacks against the current President at the behest of the twice-impeached former President, and betrayed his word and his responsibilities to appease the most radical members of his conference, with their anti-LGBT, anti-women, anti-American agenda. “Twice, House Democrats have stood up to be the adults in the room and keep this institution moving forward: on passing both the Fiscal Responsibility Act to avoid a catastrophic default, and the Continuing Resolution to keep the government open—both times, to spare the American people and our economy devastating consequences. Each time, the Speaker disrespected both us and the very institution he wants to lead. “The Fiscal Responsibility Act was his own deal, negotiated with President Biden and passed by Congress. After it was signed into law, Speaker McCarthy promptly went back on his word. Instead of doing the serious work of moving bipartisan funding bills at the agreed upon levels, Speaker McCarthy led his party in the pursuit of devastating cuts to the services the American people rely on, slashing investments in keeping people and our planet healthy—all while loading up their appropriations bills with toxic culture war provisions. “Just last week, Democrats once again stepped in to rise above the chaos and fulfill our responsibility to pass a clean Continuing Resolution to avoid a government shutdown. Republicans’ own rules dictate that we have 72 hours to review a bill; we asked for 90 minutes and were met with a refusal. We asked for an hour, and were again refused. In order to give our caucus time to read the bill, our Leader Jeffries stepped up and spoke eloquently on the House Floor about the Democratic commitment to put country over party and people over politics. In the end, 90 Republican members voted against the Continuing Resolution, and without Democratic votes, the government would have shut down on Speaker McCarthy’s watch. “This latest Republican crisis is about their own failed leadership. Speaker McCarthy disrespected this institution, lied about his commitment to a bipartisan funding agreement, and then ignored or blamed Democrats for coming to his rescue. Enough! Democrats continue to put our nation’s families and communities first, and we will not vote to continue the madness. The American people deserve better.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omars-statement-voting-yes-motion-vacate-and-remove-kevin-mccarthy-speaker,Rep. Omar's statement on voting YES on the Motion to Vacate and remove Kevin McCarthy as Speaker,2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Rep. Omar's statement on voting YES on the Motion to Vacate and remove Kevin McCarthy as Speaker. ""Speaker Kevin McCarthy made it his mission to target women’s ability to make decisions about their bodies, made it his mission to cover up a criminal conspiracy from Donald Trump, and is himself a threat to our democracy. He literally voted to overturn the 2020 election results, overthrow the duly elected President, and did nothing to discourage his Members from doing the same. He represents one of the state’s most affected by climate change, but actively fights any efforts to address the climate crisis. ""Minnesotans deserve a government that works for them. They deserve institutions that are responsive to their everyday needs. And they deserve leaders in Congress who stand for democracy and the rule of law. ""Kevin McCarthy is a weak politician, who routinely put his self-interest over his constituents, the American people, and the Constitution. ""I remain ready to fight for my constituents and work with anyone who rejects the extremist MAGA agenda and is willing to make progress for Minnesotans. But Kevin McCarthy never showed an interest in doing that. For these reasons and more, I stood with my Democratic colleagues today and voted not to prop up Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-omar-garcia-lead-letter-calling-moratorium-co2-pipelines,"Reps. Omar, Garcia Lead Letter Calling for Moratorium on CO2 Pipelines",2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Reps. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Chuy Garcia (D-IL) sent a letter to President Biden today urging him to issue an executive order putting a moratorium on any federal permitting of new carbon pipelines and related infrastructure. The letter is also signed by Reps. Jamaal Bowman, André Carson, Raúl Grijalva, Jared Huffman, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr., Barbara Lee, Summer Lee, Rashida Tlaib Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jerrold Nadler, Delia Ramirez, and. It is endorsed by Food and Water Watch, Sierra Club, Congressional Progressive Caucus Center, Progressive Democrats of America, Center for Biological Diversity, Bold Alliance, Center for International Environmental Law, Climate Justice Alliance, and 350.org. Over 150 groups recently sent a similar letter calling for a carbon pipeline moratorium. “We urge you to issue an Executive Order declaring a moratorium on any federal permitting of new carbon pipelines and related infrastructure until PHMSA’s safety regulations are finalized,” the lawmakers wrote. “We further request that the Administration direct PHMSA [Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration] to consider the unique hazards of CO2 and the knowledge gaps about CO2 transportation safety to ensure we do not have more disasters like the one that happened in Satartia, Mississippi.” “As an invisible and odorless asphyxiant, CO2 spewing from a ruptured pipeline can suffocate humans and animals without notice,” they added. “Transporting CO2 under the extremely high pressure required to maintain a supercritical fluid state can cause ruptures that “unzip” a pipeline over long distances, allowing CO2 to escape before the flow can be stopped. Due to the risk posed by carbon pipelines, PHMSA’s updated safety rules must be in place before the Administration issues any permits for new CO2 pipelines.” “Communities across the country are opposing these carbon capture pipelines because they understand the risks they pose to their health and safety. We applaud Representative Omar and Representative Garcia for leading this effort to stop dangerous pipelines from transporting carbon dioxide through communities. President Biden needs to use his authority to immediately enact a moratorium on permits for these dangerous projects,” said Jim Walsh, Policy Director, Food & Water Watch Since existing regulations were primarily designed to address the transport of hazardous hydrocarbon liquids like crude oil and refined petroleum product, they do not encompass pipelines transporting CO2 as a gas or subcritical liquid. These substances carry significantly different safety risks compared to CO2. CO2, being an odorless subcritical fluid, poses severe risks if leaked from pipelines, potentially leading to unnoticed fatalities among both animals and humans. In 2020, the Denbury Gulf Coast Pipelines in Satartia, Mississippi, ruptured, resulting in numerous residents being hospitalized and necessitating evacuations, even for people miles away from the incident. You can read the full letter here and below. President Joseph R. Biden The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Biden, We write regarding our shared goal to implement policy initiatives that will address the catastrophic effects of climate change on public health and the ongoing rulemaking at the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) concerning the transport of carbon dioxide (CO2) via pipelines. While we are pleased the agency is working on updating regulations to improve the safety of this process, we urge you to issue an Executive Order declaring a moratorium on any federal permitting of new pipelines that transport CO2 and related infrastructure until PHMSA’s carbon dioxide pipeline safety regulation are finalized. As an invisible and odorless asphyxiant, CO2 spewing from a ruptured pipeline can suffocate humans and animals without notice. Transporting CO2 under the extremely high pressure required to maintain a supercritical fluid state can cause ruptures that “unzip” a pipeline over long distances, allowing CO2 to escapebefore the flow can be stopped. Due to the risk posed by carbon pipelines, PHMSA’s updated safety rules must be in place before the Administration issues any permits for new CO2 pipelines. A recent report commissioned by the Pipeline Safety Trust highlights several significant issues with current regulations including an inadequate definition of CO2, unreliable incidents data, the complexity of CO2 transport, massive and undetermined impact areas for ruptures, corrosiveness of CO2 combined with common impurities, and significant risks to first responders to name a few. Unfortunately, current regulations do not cover pipelines transporting CO2 as a gas or subcritical liquid, and are tailored to address the transport of hydrocarbon hazardous liquids, such as crude oil and refined petroleum products, which carry vastly different safety risks. Our concerns are exemplified by the 2020 rupture of a pipeline, operated by Denbury Gulf Coast Pipelines, transporting CO2 in Satartia, Mississippi. The Satartia rupture caused dozens of residents–even those miles away–to be evacuated and hospitalized, and posed significant challenges for first responders who were ill-equipped to respond to such an emergency. New pipeline infrastructure will invariably put more communities in danger given the complexity of transporting CO2thousands of miles with what could create dozens of points of entry and exit for CO2. Since PHMSA has authority over the safety of CO2 pipelines, states confront preemption issues, restricting their ability to protect residents from the dangers CO2 pipelines pose. The absence of strong regulations leaves urban and frontline communities at greater risk, as carbon capture and storage, which depends on CO2 pipelines to function, rises in prominence. We are pleased that PHMSA is expected to release updated CO2 regulations in 2024. However, as portions of this rule will not retroactively apply to pipelines that have already been constructed, a moratorium is necessary to protect communities from the construction of pipelines that we know will soon be operated under outdated safety standards. In addition, at least some of the proposed carbon dioxide pipelines will be completely free of federal safety standards until PHMSA’s rules are updated.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-opposes-motion-vacate,Stauber Opposes Motion to Vacate,2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) released the following statement after voting against a disastrous resolution to remove Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the House. “This is a sad day for America. Speaker McCarthy and House Republicans have consistently delivered strong results for the American people, who are hurting thanks to the policies of the Biden Administration. Under his conservative and steadfast leadership, House Republicans have passed bills to cut $2 trillion in spending, reduce energy costs, enact commonsense work requirements, restore order at the southern border, and much more. “Speaker Kevin McCarthy had my full support in January, and he had my full support today. “Make no mistake, Matt Gaetz worked with socialist Democrats to remove a Republican Speaker. Thanks to his actions, the important work of the House of Representatives is now stalled, and we are unable to hold Joe Biden and his failing Administration accountable. “To quote former Speaker of the House Joseph G. Cannon in 1910, ‘government is not the whim of a handful of men who don’t know what they want—and when they get it, want something else.’ “Matt Gaetz and a handful of other selfish Republicans have no interest in governing. They care more about fundraising and making a name for themselves than getting the hard work done for the American people. “I will continue to stand with the vast majority of our House Republican Conference as we push back against the chaos created by Matt Gaetz and his Democrat allies.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-molinaro-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-honoring-operation-green,"McCollum, Molinaro Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Operation Green Light for Veterans",2023-10-02,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-MN-04) and Congressman Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) have introduced a resolution in the United States House of Representatives in support of Operation Green Light for Veterans, to raise awareness about important county resources available to help veterans transition to civilian life. “Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to the brave U.S. service members who defend and protect our nation and its ideals at home and abroad,” Rep. McCollum said. “Operation Green Light for Veterans not only encourages county governments to illuminate buildings with green lights from November 6 to November 12 to symbolize unwavering support, appreciation, and recognition for veterans, but it also helps connect veterans with vital county resources to help them thrive in their daily lives. I thank the National Association of Counties (NACo), including NACo Military and Veterans Policy Committee Chair and Ramsey County Commissioner Trista Martinson, for their leadership, and I urge my colleagues to join me and Rep. Molinaro in supporting this resolution to demonstrate our commitment to ensuring our veterans have what they need to successfully transition to civilian life.” “I am honored to recognize Operation Green Light with Congresswoman Betty McCollum,” Rep. Molinaro said. “Operation Green Light helps raise awareness about the challenges veterans face accessing services by encouraging counties across America to shine a green light during the month of November. Encouraging veterans to connect to county veteran service agencies, and other local resources will help ease their transition back into civilian life. I am proud to lead this effort with Rep. McCollum to raise awareness – as I did as a county official – about Operation Green Light and support our nation’s heroes.” “Operation Green Light for Veterans is an important way for counties to honor and show support for veterans in our communities,” said NACo President Mary Jo McGuire. “Counties thank Representatives McCollum and Molinaro for recognizing the significance of this initiative and its growing momentum. As we strengthen our intergovernmental partnership to support our nation’s veterans and their families, we look forward to seeing even more counties light up buildings and landmarks in green this November.” The text of the H.Res. 750 is below and here. More information on Operation Green Light for Veterans can be found here. Recognizing Operation Green Light for Veterans as an Opportunity for Veterans to Connect with Important County Resources Whereas, the United States of America owes an immeasurable debt of gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in its armed forces, safeguarding our liberties and upholding the principles upon which our nation was founded; Whereas, veterans across the nation continue to face challenges in accessing essential resources that can support their successful transition to civilian life; Whereas, the National Association of Counties (NACo), in collaboration with the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), has launched the Operation Green Light for Veterans campaign; Whereas, Operation Green Light for Veterans encourages counties, parishes, and boroughs across the country to illuminate their buildings with green lights from November 6 to November 12, 2023, symbolizing unwavering support, appreciation, and recognition for veterans; Whereas, this vibrant and symbolic gesture serves as a visible reminder to veterans that their service is seen, valued, and honored by their local communities; Whereas, Operation Green Light for Veterans further aims to facilitate connections between veterans and vital county resources, fostering an environment where former service members can access the assistance, guidance, and support necessary to thrive in their civilian lives; Whereas, participating counties are encouraged to adopt resolutions declaring their commitment to Operation Green Light, reinforcing the collective dedication to veterans' well-being; Whereas, the campaign encourages counties to engage in outreach efforts, including collaboration with members of Congress, local news media, and social media platforms, to amplify the impact of their support and encourage broader participation; Whereas, Operation Green Light for Veterans exemplifies the profound collaboration between federal, state, and local entities in ensuring veterans' successful integration into their communities; Whereas, the campaign highlights the historical legacy of counties in serving veterans and underscores their continued commitment to facilitating access to crucial resources for veterans; Whereas, this initiative aligns with the core principles of unity, gratitude, and respect that define our nation's character; Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the House of Representatives recognizes and commends the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), and the Operation Green Light for Veterans campaign for their exemplary efforts in demonstrating unwavering support for veterans and their crucial role in connecting veterans with important county resources; Be it further resolved, that the House of Representatives encourages all counties, parishes, and boroughs to participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans, illuminating their buildings with green lights as a powerful symbol of appreciation and as an avenue for veterans to connect with essential county resources; Be it further resolved, that the House of Representatives urges its members to engage with their local communities to raise awareness about Operation Green Light for Veterans and to support its goals of honoring veterans and facilitating their access to county services.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/rep-fischbach-on-passage-of-continuing-resolution,Rep. Fischbach on Passage of Continuing Resolution,2023-10-01,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Saturday, Congress passed H.R. 5860, the Continuing Appropriations Act, extending government funding for 45 days. ""House Republicans have been working tirelessly to reverse the out-of-control spending in Washington and fund the government responsibly,"" said Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). ""At the same time, it would be irresponsible to shut down the government, which would affect every corner of the country. Earlier in the week, the Spending Reduction and Border Security Act was put forward, which would have kept the government open while cutting wasteful spending and securing the border, but every Democrat and a handful of Republicans joined together to kill that bill. While that vote would have worked towards achieving conservative values, yesterday's resolution avoids shutting down government services that matter to Minnesota's 7th District. I support the work done by House Republicans to keep the government functioning, and I look forward to continuing our hard work in the appropriations process to get this country's fiscal house in order.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-passage-continuing-resolution-keep-government-open-0,McCollum Statement on Passage of Continuing Resolution to Keep the Government Open,2023-09-30,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement today after the House passed a Continuing Resolution to keep the government funded and operating for 45 days, which the Senate is expected to soon pass and send to President Biden to be signed into law: “Once again, House Democrats stood strong for hard-working American families and have prevented a government shutdown at the hands of extremists in the Republican Majority. A clean 45-day Continuing Resolution that keeps government open and does not cut essential services to American families and communities was the only solution to ending extremist Republican chaos and obstruction. With this current crisis avoided, it is clear that the only long-term solution is for Speaker McCarthy and House Republicans to work in a bipartisan fashion with Democrats on an Appropriations process that funds the government for a full year – just like Democrats did last Congress and have been saying for months. If House Republicans fail to do so, we will have a repeat of this funding crisis in November. “I voted for this bill to keep our government open. However, I am deeply concerned that assistance to Ukraine was not included in this Continuing Resolution. With government funding only extended for 45 days, we must start working now to provide additional security and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine so that they have the resources to defend their democracy and protect their people from Russian atrocities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/9/rep-fischbach-introduces-the-protecting-rural-seniors-access-to-care-act,Rep. Fischbach Introduces the Protecting Rural Seniors Access to Care Act,2023-09-29,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Fischbach (MN-07) introduced the Protecting Rural Seniors Access to Care Act. ""I am deeply disappointed CMS continued to move forward with this rule given the public knows their reservations regarding its efficacy. If the one-size-fits-all staffing ratios issued by CMS are put in place, it will devastate facilities across greater Minnesota, forcing them to either decrease the number of patients they serve even further, or close their doors entirely,"" said Rep. Fischbach. ""The Protecting Rural Seniors Access to Care Act will keep CMS from implementing this rule until it can prove it will not result in the closure of skilled nursing facilities, will not harm patient access, and will not make workforce shortage issues worse in areas that are already struggling. I am proud to introduce this legislation and will continue to fight for the strength of our rural communities."" “At a time when nursing homes are already experiencing significant staffing shortages and financial hardships, it is frustrating to see the Biden White House encouraging the HHS to establish minimum staffing requirements and standards for nursing homes,” said Congressman Pence. “If implemented, this will result in limited access to care for seniors, mandatory increases in state Medicaid budgets, and could lead to nursing home closures, which would have an especially negative impact in rural communities, like many of the ones I represent in Indiana, that already experience health care access challenges. I am proud to co-lead the Protecting Rural Seniors Access to Healthcare Act to stop this proposed rule from being implemented, and I want to thank Congresswoman Fischbach for her work on this.” This bill has the support of the Minnesota Hospital Association, stating, ""Ensuring every Minnesotan has access to quality care in their own communities is a top priority for Minnesota’s hospitals and health systems. That's why the Minnesota Hospital Association expresses deep gratitude to Congresswoman Fischbach for introducing the 'Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act.' This legislation aligns precisely with what patients need most: timely, high-quality care delivered close to home. This bill will help to mitigate the risk of unintended negative consequences that would arise from rigid, one-size-fits-all mandates—especially amid a historic workforce crisis and in rural areas where resources are notably limited. We applaud Congresswoman Fischbach's dedication to preserving essential health services for all Minnesotans and look forward to ongoing collaboration to protect care and access statewide.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-republican-chaos-shutdown-nears,McCollum Statement on Republican Chaos as Shutdown Nears,2023-09-29,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement today, sending a message to House Republican leadership: “In just over 24 hours, if we cannot come to an honest, responsible, and bipartisan solution on a continuing resolution to fund federal agencies, we will be forced into a government shutdown. Our constituents are relying on us to work together to fulfill our constitutional responsibility to fund their government. Failing to do so will harm this nation’s children and families, our service members and veterans, our seniors and our next generation, and all those who depend on the services and investments our government provides. Let me be clear: This is a completely avoidable, politically-manufactured crisis, but it will have real consequences for the American people. “The looming shutdown is the result of a failure to govern by the House Republican Majority, who have allowed this body’s legislative work to be undermined by an extreme MAGA faction that controls GOP leadership. Democrats in the House, President Biden, and a bipartisan Senate have been working for a solution to prevent a shutdown. This included compromising to meet Republican demands to cap spending levels for the next two years under the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which passed both the House and the Senate with bipartisan support and was signed into law by President Biden less than four months ago. “But that wasn’t enough for these GOP extremists. Instead of doing the serious work of moving bipartisan bills at those agreed upon levels, this Republican Majority has chosen chaos. They have chosen to waste months pursuing devastating cuts to the services the American people rely on, slashing investments in keeping people and our planet healthy—all while loading up their appropriations bills with toxic culture war provisions that are discriminating and harmful to our families and our communities. “And the Continuing Resolution they brought to the floor today is nothing more than a continuation of their denial of the serious work that needs to be done. It does nothing to avoid a shutdown. Instead, Republicans are holding the American people hostage with a demand for a 30 percent cut across the board to federal agencies. This would result in a 74 percent cut to our federal investments in the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), literally leaving families in the cold that is already settling in back home in Minnesota. They proposed to cut nutrition support for Women, Infants, and Children by 30 percent, taking away a lifeline for hungry families and pregnant women. “They want to see investments in the health of our communities gutted: -Their bill would mean the loss of thousands of research grants to cure Alzheimer’s disease, cancers, and heart disease; -Thousands of my constituents would lose access to care at their Community Health Centers, as would millions more rural and underserved families nationwide; -and millions more who are struggling with opioid addiction or mental health crises would be denied life-saving support services. “There is no end to the harm and hurt that this extreme Republican Continuing Resolution would cause to our families, our economy, and our communities if passed into law. But Speaker McCarthy knows there is no chance that this bill will become law because Democrats in the House, a bipartisan majority of Senators, and President Biden would never support this betrayal of our responsibilities to our fellow Americans. “But until the House Republican Majority stops catering to the bullies in their caucus, we cannot move forward on funding the federal government. So I invite my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to stop the chaos. Join us in doing the serious work of funding our government and meeting the needs of our constituents. With just five reasonable Republican votes, we can force Speaker McCarthy to take up a vote on a bipartisan solution. “America deserves better leadership than what the Chaos Caucus has to offer.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/readout-rep-omars-meeting-central-american-parliament-member-karina-sosa,Readout of Rep. Omar’s Meeting with Central American Parliament Member Karina Sosa,2023-09-29,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Omar met today with MP Karina Sosa, a Member of the Central American Parliament from El Salvador. They discussed the political and human rights situations in El Salvador, including the upcoming elections. Congresswoman Omar reiterated her long-held support for Salvadoran democracy and human rights.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omars-statement-impending-government-shutdown,Rep. Ilhan Omar's Statement on the Impending Government Shutdown,2023-09-29,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), released the following statement on the looming government shutdown “This shutdown is not only tragic, but completely avoidable. An overwhelming bipartisan majority of lawmakers in the House support a clean bill to keep the government open. The Senate is prepared to pass it, the President is prepared to sign it. “But the most extreme faction of MAGA wing of the party—egged on by Donald Trump, who craves a distraction from his indictments and criminal charges—are demanding an endless list of cuts that has brought us to a government shutdown. “Marjorie Taylor Greene specifically demanded an impeachment inquiry against Joe Biden in order to keep the government open. Matt Gaetz and other far right members are demanding near-complete abandonment of Ukraine in a gift to Russia, along with draconian measures that will punish migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. “I serve in Democratic leadership on the House Budget Committee, where a faction of Republicans just introduced a radical budget resolution designed to appease their right wing. What does it do? It keeps in place every single dime of the Trump tax cuts for the rich, every single dime in funding for the Pentagon and military contracts, and makes some of the biggest cuts in history to programs that Minnesotans turn to: food stamps, Meals on Wheels, Medicaid, housing, veterans healthcare, and Medicare “This shutdown will be tragic for Minnesotans. Hundreds of thousands of workers won’t get paid. Small business owners in Minnesota forced to wait for loans and certifications. Our constituents’ safety put at risk as FDA food inspections and EPA environmental inspections are suspended. “But we have to remember how we got here. The government has shutdown four times in the past 30 years. Each time it happened, an extreme faction of Republicans were in charge of the House of Representatives. “We need a clean bill to keep the government open, before this causes real harm. It’s time for Republicans to stop playing with people’s lives and do their jobs.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-returns-over-4-million-constituents-mn-02,Rep. Angie Craig Returns Over $4 Million to Constituents in MN-02,2023-09-28,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BURNSVILLE, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig announced that she has returned more than $4 million to constituents in the Second Congressional District through her casework and constituent services programs. Since coming to Congress in 2019, Rep. Craig and her team have worked to cut through bureaucratic red tape and resolve constituents’ issues with federal agencies like the IRS, Social Security Administration and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “Dealing with government agencies shouldn’t be stressful or confusing, but that’s the reality for a lot of Minnesotans. That’s why I’ve always worked hard to cut through bureaucratic red tape and get folks the help they need. I’m proud of this $4 million milestone and I look forward to putting more money back into the pockets of the people I represent,” said Rep. Craig. Residents of Minnesota’s Second Congressional District who are having trouble with a federal agency should visit Rep. Craig’s website: https://craig.house.gov/helping-you/casework.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-highlights-how-extreme-republican-shutdown-would-harm-families,McCollum Highlights How An Extreme Republican Shutdown Would Harm Families in Minnesota,2023-09-28,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"With just two days remaining until a potential extreme Republican government shutdown, Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) warned that House Republicans are risking serious consequences for Minnesota families: “I will continue doing everything in my power to keep the government open and protect Minnesota families from a costly, unnecessary government shutdown,” McCollum said. “It’s time for House Republicans to do their jobs, put American families first, and stop charging towards a government shutdown.” “Minnesota families shouldn’t be forced to pay the price for House Republicans’ inability to govern. An extreme Republican shutdown would endanger access to food assistance for families, risk air travel disruptions for businesses and travelers, harm small businesses, and force thousands of FEMA disaster workers, FBI agents, and U.S. service members, among federal employees, to work without pay. It is unconscionable that House Republicans would hurt working families, damage our economy, and endanger our national security.” According to new data released by House Budget Committee Democrats, a Republican government shutdown would mean: 108,420 people in Minnesota would soon lose access to Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits. 459,439 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries in Minnesota would lose access to benefits in a prolonged shutdown. Workers at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would be sidelined, risking interruptions and delays to the 382 food safety, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and other inspections conducted in Minnesota last year. 31,731 people flying through Minnesota airports every day would face potential delays and safety concerns due to staffing impacts on TSA agents and air traffic controllers. The Small Business Administration would stop processing small business loans, halting a program that provides $674,093,300 in funding to small businesses in Minnesota every year. 20,444 federal workers in Minnesota would be furloughed or forced to work without pay, and 18,866 active duty and reserve personnel serving our nation's armed forces in Minnesota would be forced to go without the pay they earn during a shutdown. The Department of Agriculture would be forced to stop processing housing loans, which provide $272,965,073 in funding to help 1,572 families in rural Minnesota communities buy homes every year. The Department of Agriculture would be forced to stop processing farm loans which provide $318,894,000 in funding for farmers in Minnesota every year. 1,113,346 people who visit national parks in Minnesota every year would be turned away or unable to fully access parks, monuments, and museums. Last Congress, Democrats working with President Biden delivered a historic economic recovery that is growing the middle class and rebuilding American manufacturing, with 189,500 jobs created in Minnesota since the president took office. Now, this potential extreme MAGA Republican shutdown undermines our economic progress and hurts working families. Constituents can find answers to Frequently Asked Questions about what will be impacted by a Republican Shutdown here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z