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://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-scott-2022-year-in-review/,Senator Scott 2022 Year in Review,2022-12-30,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released his 2022 year in review, highlighting the work his office did on behalf of the people of South Carolina and advancing his Opportunity Agenda across the country. This year, Senator Scott introduced 18 bills, 7 resolutions, and 13 amendments. Twenty one pieces of his legislation were in part or fully enacted this year. While he voted against the Democrats’ big spending increase in the omnibus bill, the senator was able to secure passage of many bills and provisions he led or supported in the accompanying legislative package. Among those wins were: Portions of Senator Scott’s MADE in America Act that strengthen the U.S. pharmaceutical supply chain; A 2-year extension of Medicare telehealth flexibilities; A 2-year extension of the hospital at home program, based off of language in Senator Scott’s Hospital Inpatient Modernization Act; Senator Scott’s Advancing Auto Portability Act, which cuts red tape to help Americans who change jobs frequently to increase retirement savings; and Key provisions of Senator Scott’s IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act. South Carolina Senator Scott continued his emphasis on communicating directly with constituents. To that end, he increased the number of letters sent annually by nearly 70%, amounting to more than 17,000 letters sent in 2022 alone. The senator continued his efforts to aid the South Carolina Port Authority in its harbor deepening project, and joined with South Carolina leaders earlier this month to celebrate Charleston becoming home to the deepest port on the East Coast. As a result of his efforts to strengthen the Minority Business Development Agency, South Carolina was issued a grant for $1.6 million. Law Enforcement In recognition of his work to support and increase funding for training for police departments across the country, Senator Scott was given numerous awards from law enforcement organizations. At the beginning of the month, the Federal Law Enforcement Foundation honored the senator with their National Service Award. In July, he received the Florida Sheriffs Association’s National Legislative Champion Award, and in February he was given another legislative champion award from the Major County Sheriffs of America. The Scott-sponsored Law Enforcement De-escalation Training Act, a bill that equips law enforcement officers with the tools to effectively and safely respond to people in crisis, was passed and signed into law by President Biden. The new requirements for developing de-escalation training standards contained in the bill are the same requirements included in Senator Scott’s JUSTICE Act, which was introduced in 2020. Justice & Fairness One of the marquee achievements this year was the passage of Senator Scott’s anti-lynching legislation, named in honor of Emmett Till. The senator first introduced the bipartisan legislation in 2018. This is a key component of his broader mission to combat hate crimes, which has included speaking out against bomb threats at HBCUs and forming the Senate Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations. Senator Scott successfully lobbied FEMA to change its disaster relief policies that discriminated against Black homeowners. Known as heirs property, more than a third of Black-owned land in the South is passed down informally, rather than through deeds and wills, which precluded those land owners from getting much-needed FEMA aid after natural disasters. Following this push and policy change, 42,000 homeowners and 53,000 renters nationwide—who would have previously been denied—received disaster assistance, totaling $350 million. Education As the co-chair of the Congressional School Choice Caucus, Senator Scott hosted the inaugural School Choice Caucus Breakfast with dozens of Congressional and education leaders to call attention to the growing nationwide support for school choice and fight against the Biden administration’s attempts to limit education options for students. He also led the charge to get answers from Education Secretary Miguel Cardona on his coordination with the National School Boards Association that led to concerned parents being labeled as domestic terrorists. As the co-chair of the bipartisan HBCU Caucus, Senator Scott hosted the first ever HBCU Career Fair in conjunction with Benedict College. The event served as a forum to foster public-private partnerships and introduce students and alumni to career, fellowship, and internship opportunities with South Carolina’s top employers. As the co-chair of the Congressional Financial Literacy Caucus, Senator Scott co-led a resolution designating April as Financial Literacy Month and led a forum on the importance of youth financial literacy. He also spearheaded efforts to build consumers’ financial capability and broader economic well-being. Aging Committee As the ranking member on the Aging Committee, Senator Scott led the charge to reopen Social Security field offices. After being closed for more than a year due to COVID, the senator’s pressure campaign to reopen allowed seniors and people with disabilities to once again receive in-person services for the benefits they deserve. Throughout the year, the senator led a series of reports on issues that represent national imperatives for older Americans including senior nutrition programs, financial literacy, senior housing, retirement security, drug pricing, and home and community based services. He also led the effort to combat frauds and scams that target seniors through the publication of an annual Fraud Book, hearings investigating frauds, and a Fraud Hotline to support seniors. Health Care Senator Scott led his colleagues in urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to support and strengthen the Medicare Advantage (MA) program. Following their efforts, CMS announced lower than expected premiums for individuals utilizing the MA program, which covers one third of the Medicare enrollees across South Carolina. Foreign Affairs & National Security Senator Scott continued his vocal support for Israel and fight against threats to peace and stability in the Middle East. To that end, he introduced the Commission of Inquiry (COI) Elimination Act, a bipartisan bill to withhold U.S. funding for the United Nation Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for their targeted and biased investigation into Israel. He also introduced the Solidify Iran Sanctions Act, which would make permanent sanctions against Iran’s energy sector. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=7765556E-4576-4022-897F-09B84AD24361,Graham on Passing of Joe Taylor Jr. of Columbia,2022-12-29,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham today made this statement on the passing of Joe Taylor Jr. of Columbia. “I was shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of my good friend, Joe Taylor. “Joe was a force in South Carolina business and politics, and a friend to so many. His time as South Carolina’s Secretary of Commerce was one of unprecedented growth for our state. He was also a strong and challenging voice on the Columbia City Council - always looking out for the taxpayer.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-hails-final-passage-of-fiscal-year-2023-omnibus-appropriations-package/,CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN HAILS FINAL PASSAGE OF FISCAL YEAR 2023 OMNIBUS APPROPRIATIONS PACKAGE,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN HAILS FINAL PASSAGE OF FISCAL YEAR 2023 OMNIBUS APPROPRIATIONS PACKAGE COLUMBIA, SC – Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn hailed the final passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023. This legislation includes more than $111 million to fund community projects in the Sixth Congressional District of South Carolina, as well as additional funding for key priorities and other legislative items. The CPF allocations were requested by local entities to address community needs. “I strive to provide essential support to the communities I represent, especially those that have been systemically and historically neglected,” said Congressman Clyburn. “This funding package includes some basic and essential investments in local communities that helps make the promise of America more accessible and affordable for all.” South Carolina 6th District projects funded in the FY 2023 omnibus appropriation legislation are: Project Sponsor Description Funding Received Orangeburg Railroad Corner Project City of Orangeburg Rehabilitation of the historic State Theater on Boulevard Street near downtown Orangeburg. The rehabilitated facility will house a Civil Rights museum that will serve as a centerpiece of Orangeburg’s Railroad Corner Redevelopment. $703,256 South Carolina State University ROTC Training Center South Carolina State University Construction of a modern 35,000 sqft. ROTC Multipurpose Complex on campus to provide training and academic space for ROTC cadets. The facility will house classrooms, training rooms, living quarters, multi-purpose spaces and administrative spaces. $4,000,000 Claflin University Bioscience Research and Technology Center Claflin University Construction of a new science and technology building that will serve as the central core for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics research at Claflin University. $17,417,000 City of Sumter COPS Technology Project City of Sumter Upgrades to ballistic evidence system. $510,000 Lakes Marion and Moultrie, SC US Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District Water infrastructure project for the Orangeburg-Berkeley Reach, which will provide water to the U.S. Highway 176 corridor in Orangeburg and Berkeley counties in the Camp Hall area. $10,511,000 Charleston Peninsula Coastal Storm Risk Management Project US Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District Preconstruction, Engineering, and Design of the project to protect the peninsula of Charleston from coastal storms. $13,325,000 Charleston Flood Risk Management Project US Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District Begin new feasibility study to mitigate inland, tidal, and non-coastal storm related flooding throughout Charleston. $200,000 Charleston Harbor Project US Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District Reimbursement for local funds advanced for the Charleston Harbor Post-45 Deepening Project. $10,000,000 USC Civil Rights Center University of South Carolina Planning, design, and execution of sitework and utility infrastructure phase of a construction project to house the University’s Center for Civil Rights History and Research. This Center will chronicle, preserve, and share the contributions of South Carolina to the American Civil Rights Movement. $1,500,000 Benedict College Academic Center Benedict College Construction of the Benedict College Music Academic Complex to expand Benedict College offerings and host local, regional and national music events. $3,000,000 Skilled Trades Training Equipment Midlands Technical College Expansion and upgrades of training equipment for the Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Trades programs. $1,000,000 Hampton County Recreation Complex Hampton County Construction of a comprehensive recreational complex to improve the health and social well-being of Hampton County citizens. $3,000,000 Black River Park Project Town of Kingstree Development of Black River Park and Trail. $4,600,000 Pee Dee Healthy Start Workforce Development Initiative Pee Dee Healthy Start, Inc. Provide career-credentials, training, and other workforce services to high-risk and at-risk youth, ex-offenders, persons with disabilities, and the long-term unemployed and underemployed in Williamsburg, Florence, and Sumter counties. $1,000,000 USC Biomedical Research Project University of South Carolina Biomedical research and facilities upgrade. $4,500,000 USC Stroke Research Project University of South Carolina Facilities and equipment for stroke research and care. $2,505,000 CIU Nursing Education Program Columbia International University Includes the purchase of equipment. $915,000 MUSC Research Development and Facilities Upgrade Medical University of South Carolina Medical University of South Carolina for facilities and equipment. $6,250,000 Roper St. Francis Facilities Upgrade Roper St. Francis Hospital Facilities and equipment upgrade. $3,775,000 Roper St. Francis Oncology Care Roper St. Francis Hospital Facilities and equipment for oncology care. $6,475,000 USC Alzheimer’s Project University of South Carolina Facilities and equipment for Alzheimer’s diagnosis and care. $7,750,000 USC School of Law Center Project University of South Carolina Law center, including curriculum development, Student scholarships, and teacher stipends. $950,000 Jasper YMCA Facility Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry Expansion of the YMCA recreational facility in Jasper County to provide recreational activities and other critical services to low-income families that reside in Jasper County. $1,500,000 Haven at Palmer Pointe Columbia Housing Authority Close the funding gap on an affordable housing development project in Columbia, S.C. $3,000,000 Alex Chatman Judicial Complex-Auditorium Williamsburg County Renovation of the Alex Chatman Judicial Complex-Auditorium to bring it up to compliance with building and fire codes to allow the facility to remain open to serve the public for community events and judicial matters. $750,000 The Second Chance Project Community Foundation of the Lowcountry Employment for at-risk youth in local theater productions. The program will train participants in the fundamentals of theater production, acting and support, and Gullah culture. Participants will learn their cultural roots, develop positive social networks, and increase their personal resiliency to reduce the risk of violence and criminal justice involvement in the community. $500,000 Calhoun County Emergency Operations Center Calhoun County Construction of a new Emergency Operations Center to serve as the central point for county emergency response agencies to manage response and recovery efforts for any major disaster in Calhoun County. $1,668,263 Carolina Youth Development Center Security Enhancement Carolina Youth Development Center Security equipment and technology. $361,000 Total $111,665,519 In addition to securing funding for these community projects, there are additional priorities of Congressman Clyburn included in the spending package impacting South Carolina: The Southeast Crescent Regional Commission will receive $20 million in support of its mission to build sustainable communities and strengthen economic growth across seven Southern states. An increase to $19 million in the total authorized funding for the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, first created in 1996 by legislation authored by Congressman Clyburn to preserve and promote the natural, historic, and cultural assets of a 17-county area of South Carolina and encourage more heritage tourism in the region. The omnibus legislation includes over $1 billion for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other minority serving institutions (MSIs), an increase of over $100 million from FY 22 levels. This will provide additional formula funding for South Carolina’s HBCUs. Additional funding opportunities for HBCUs and other MSIs include: $11 million for HBCU Historic Preservation, a $1 million increase over FY22, for a program created after Congressman Clyburn secured a 1998 General Accounting Office report that identified historic structures on HBCU campuses in need of restoration (this allocation is part of $204,515,000 for the National Park Service Historic Preservation Fund, which also includes $29,000,000 for competitive grants to preserve the sites and stories of the Civil Rights movement); $50 million in new funding that Congressman Clyburn worked to secure for a program to promote investments in research infrastructure at HBCUs and other MSIs; $10 million for workforce development and training partnerships at HBCUs in South Carolina and Hispanic Serving Institutions and Tribal Colleges in New Mexico will receive to support plutonium pit production; and $60 million for the Department of Energy’s Office of Science in support of their engagement with HBCUs and MSIs to build research capacity and workforce development. This funding is directly connected to Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm’s visit to South Carolina State University where she met with the leaders from all of South Carolina’s HBCUs at the request of Congressman Clyburn. Two Beaufort post offices will be named in honor of two historic Black leaders. The post office located at located at 11 Robert Smalls Parkway Suite 4 C in Beaufort will be named for Robert Smalls and the post office located at 501 Charles Street in Beaufort will be named for Harriet Tubman. The Savannah River Site will receive over $1.6 billion in funding, a $55 million increase from last year. This includes full funding for Payment in Lieu of Taxes to provide critical funding for schools, emergency services, and county operations in Aiken, Allendale, and Barnwell counties. Nearly $100 million for research projects throughout the state that will foster the development of cutting-edge technology while providing tangible training for students at several South Carolina institutions of higher education. $11.5 million for the Rural Energy Savings Program, an initiative originally introduced by Congressman Clyburn in 2010 for energy efficiency improvements in rural areas. The Department of Agriculture’s ReConnect Program will receive an additional $364 million to bring high-speed broadband service to unserved areas. These funds are in addition to the $65 billion for affordable, high-speed internet service included in the “Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act” in 2021. Language throughout the bill and committee reports directing departments and agencies to target spending in certain programs to persistent poverty communities through the “10-20-30” formula and other mechanisms, including language directing the Office of Management and Budget to take steps to target funding to these areas in programs across the federal government. $100 million to develop a domestic nuclear fuel capacity, in alignment with the bipartisan and bicameral International Nuclear Energy Act, introduced by Representatives Clyburn and Donalds and Senators Manchin and Risch. This legislation establishes an Executive Office for Nuclear Energy Policy to promote engagement with ally and partner nations to develop a civil nuclear export strategy and offset China and Russia’s growing influence on international nuclear energy development. $600 million to combat the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi. $1.5 billion for the National Park Service to use for construction projects necessary to mitigate the consequences of wildfires, hurricanes, and other natural disasters. The Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act, which ensures the peaceful transfer of power and prevents any future subversive actions like those of MAGA Republicans who sought to change the outcome of the 2020 election. These reforms clarify the role of the Vice President, Congress, state election officials and federal judges in the counting and certification of votes. These measures will ensure that Congress efficiently receives an accurate certificate of state voting results, combating undue interference in the electoral count process. The legislation now goes to President Biden for his signature. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-statement-on-signing-of-fy2023-national-defense-authorization-act,Wilson Statement on Signing of FY2023 National Defense Authorization Act,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Joe Wilson issued the following statement on the signing into law of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023: ""This year's NDAA represents the ongoing commitment my colleagues and I have to our national security, servicemembers, veterans, and their families. As a Senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am grateful for the opportunity to represent my country and the Second District of South Carolina on this critical legislation that advances peace through strength. ""This strong, bipartisan, bicameral bill reverses President Biden's reckless cuts to our national security, and restores funding for procurement, missile defense, and military construction and housing projects. It provides the authorities and resources needed to ensure our military can defend our nation, meet ongoing challenges in the Global War on Terrorism, and modernize to deter and defeat China, Russia, and our other near-peer adversaries. It supports Ukraine while requiring the Department of Defense (DoD), State Department, and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Inspector Generals to regularly carry out comprehensive reviews and audits of all assistance provided to Ukraine. ""To counteract the dangerous effects that Biden's unprecedented inflation crisis is having on military readiness and servicemembers, this legislation provides a 4.6 percent pay raise, increases housing allowances, lowers prices at commissaries, and expands eligibility for low-income military families to receive an additional allowance to cover their basic needs. ""Military families are the strong foundation of the nation's armed forces, which is why I am focused on ensuring that servicemembers and their families continue to receive the benefits they deserve. I am grateful that my bill, the Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission (MIC3) Improvement Act, was included in this year's NDAA. Military children face unique challenges due to frequent moves and deserve the opportunity to have continuity of education. ""Additionally, this bill repeals the COVID-19 vaccination mandate on all active and reserve component servicemembers and ends servicemember separations for failure to take the COVID-19 vaccine that was negatively impacting the military's recruitment and retention goals. ""This year's NDAA supports the missions and communities of the Savannah River Site by authorizing additional funding for plutonium pit production through the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility and full funding for Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT), all of which I have worked to secure through the committee process. ""I am also grateful that the NDAA included language from the Water Resources Development Act of 2022 that will assist South Carolina in coming to a solution that will maintain the water level below the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam of 114.76 feet. ""Finally, I was grateful to champion continuing authorizations for defense research projects at South Carolina institutions of higher education including Clemson University, Benedict College, and the University of South Carolina. These world-class schools are actively engaged in technological research on projects such as autonomous logistics, automotive research, artificial intelligence, naval power and energy systems, and hypersonics that directly benefit DoD programs and enhance national security. ""As a veteran and father of four sons who have served in the military overseas, I appreciate these victories for our military and am committed to continuing to work for our servicemembers and their families. I am thankful to have advanced this important, bipartisan legislation alongside my colleagues in the House and Senate.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-nancy-mace-votes-no-17-trillion-omnibus-spending-package,REP. NANCY MACE VOTES “NO” ON $1.7 TRILLION OMNIBUS SPENDING PACKAGE,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Unprecedented Spending Bill is a Total Fail to Addressing Nation’s Major Issues Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Nancy Mace voted against passing the FY23 Omnibus bill which contains $1.7 trillion of unchecked spending and fails to address key issues facing the country. “We know it’s Christmas, but would you really let your friend run up the bar tab and leave you hanging with the bill,” asked Rep. Mace. “The Omnibus doesn’t balance the budget, has no spending offsets and runs up the deficit. And don’t get us started on the waste and pork. We cannot keep doing this. The federal government hasn’t done a true budget in 30 years.” Some examples of waste and misalignment of issues: $12.319 billion for the Internal Revenue Service, on top of the nearly $80 billion provided to the IRS in the Inflation Reduction Act; Does not extend Title 42; Does not secure the border; Increases funding for non-defense programs by a whopping 8%. This includes $12.3 billion for the IRS, on top of the nearly $80 billion given in the Inflation Reduction Act; Used as a bailout due to the Administration’s failed immigration and border control - $2.4 billion for refugee and migrant programs; Only 300 additional Border Control Agents; Additional $100 million for immigration courts, which does not aid our crisis at the border; Appropriates $135 billion (or 9.2 percent) above FY 2022 spending levels, and contains no budgetary offsets. ABOUT Congresswoman Nancy Mace grew up in the Lowcountry. She is the daughter of a retired Army General and retired school teacher. Before being sworn into Congress, Nancy earned accolades as one of the most fiscally conservative members of the South Carolina General Assembly; she’s also one of the most pro-conservation lawmakers in the state of South Carolina. Nancy is the recipient of the 2019 Taxpayer Hero Award from the South Carolina Club for Growth; she has a 100% record of voting to lower taxes. Nancy is also the recipient of the Champion Award from Palmetto Goodwill for her efforts in education and in helping those most in need receive job training; she has a 100 percent rating with Conservation Voters of South Carolina. MEDIA CONTACT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-celebrates-passage-of-the-southern-campaign-of-the-revolution-national-heritage-corridor-act/,CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN CELEBRATES PASSAGE OF THE SOUTHERN CAMPAIGN OF THE REVOLUTION NATIONAL HERITAGE CORRIDOR ACT,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"COLUMBIA, SC –Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn celebrated passage of the National Heritage Area Act, which includes key provisions of the Southern Campaign of the Revolution National Heritage Corridor Act. This legislation will establish the Southern Campaign of the Revolution National Heritage Corridor, an 8-mile-wide corridor that will span across North and South Carolina. Additionally, this will be the third National Corridor in South Carolina alongside the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, which was designated in 1996, and the Gullah-Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, which was designated in 2006. The National Heritage Area Act also extends the authorization of those two corridors until 2037. “I have studied history my entire life and the Southern Campaign’s role in the American Revolution is often left out,” said Congressman Clyburn. “The creation of this corridor, which closes the loop on my heritage corridors creation efforts, will not only show the rich history of the Carolinas but also help tell a more complete history of our country.” Previously, Congressman Clyburn worked with former Congressman John Spratt to pass the National Heritage Areas Act of 2006 which initially authorized the National Park Service to study the feasibility of establishing a Southern Campaign of the Revolution National Heritage Corridor. The legislation now goes to President Biden to be signed into law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-rep-nancy-mace-and-rep-levins-student-veterans-emergency-relief,HOUSE PASSES REP. NANCY MACE AND REP. LEVIN’S STUDENT VETERANS EMERGENCY RELIEF ACT,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Bill will help support veterans financially. Washington - D.C. Today, the House passed a Senate Amendment to the Student Veterans Emergency Relief Act (H.R.7939). Rep. Mace issued the following statement on the bill’s passage: “During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress worked to ensure our veteran’s Education benefits did not lapse,” saidRep. Mace. “The Passage of today's Senate Amendment to the Student Veterans Emergency Relief Act will protect those benefits for the future.” Student Veterans Emergency Relief Act (H.R.7939): When COVID-19 began, many veterans stood to lose a significant portion of their education benefits when their classes were interrupted. For example, existing law required VA to make significant cuts to the housing benefits afforded to student veterans who were taking classes remotely, even though many student veterans transitioned to online coursework during the pandemic. Others were unable to continue classes at all and faced the expiration of their benefits. Meanwhile, student veterans working on campus through VA’s work-study program were poised to lose income as physical locations closed. In response, Congress took action to provide flexibility and prevent cuts to veterans’ benefits. The Student Veteran Emergency Relief Act would allow the VA to extend those GI Bill and VR&E flexibilities on any future emergency declared by the president. ABOUT Congresswoman Nancy Mace grew up in the Lowcountry. She is the daughter of a retired Army General and retired school teacher. Before being sworn into Congress, Nancy earned accolades as one of the most fiscally conservative members of the South Carolina General Assembly; she’s also one of the most pro-conservation lawmakers in the state of South Carolina. Nancy is the recipient of the 2019 Taxpayer Hero Award from the South Carolina Club for Growth; she has a 100% record of voting to lower taxes. Nancy is also the recipient of the Champion Award from Palmetto Goodwill for her efforts in education and in helping those most in need receive job training; she has a 100 percent rating with Conservation Voters of South Carolina. MEDIA CONTACT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/president-signs-rep-mace-and-rep-khannas-cybersecurity-bill-law,PRESIDENT SIGNS REP. MACE AND REP. KHANNA’S CYBERSECURITY BILL INTO LAW,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, President Biden signed the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act into law. Rep. Nancy Mace released the following statement on her and Rep. Ro Khanna’s bipartisan bill being signed into law: “To strengthen our cybersecurity is to strengthen our national security,"" said Rep. Mace.“Just yesterday the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act was signed into law. Rep. Ro Khanna and Senators Portman and Hassan worked hard to ensure this critical bill got through. When coming to Washington, we promised to work across the aisle to help strengthen our country, and this law is the perfect example of bipartisanship in action.” BACKGROUND: The Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act will: Require the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to prioritize the acquisition and migration of federal agencies’ information technology to post-quantum cryptography; Instruct OMB to create guidance for federal agencies to assess critical systems one year after the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) issues planned post-quantum cryptography standards; Direct OMB to send an annual report to Congress that includes a strategy on how to address post-quantum cryptography risks, the funding that might be necessary, and an analysis on whole-of-government coordination and migration to post-quantum cryptography standards and information technology. ABOUT Congresswoman Nancy Mace grew up in the Lowcountry. She is the daughter of a retired Army General and retired school teacher. Before being sworn into Congress, Nancy earned accolades as one of the most fiscally conservative members of the South Carolina General Assembly; she’s also one of the most pro-conservation lawmakers in the state of South Carolina. Nancy is the recipient of the 2019 Taxpayer Hero Award from the South Carolina Club for Growth; she has a 100% record of voting to lower taxes. Nancy is also the recipient of the Champion Award from Palmetto Goodwill for her efforts in education and in helping those most in need receive job training; she has a 100 percent rating with Conservation Voters of South Carolina. MEDIA CONTACT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=CD470C38-AE55-4ACB-9A06-7A8D854662BD,"Graham, Whitehouse Russian Oligarch Asset Seizure Amendment Unanimously Passes Senate",2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) today spoke on the Senate floor ahead of consideration of their amendment calling for asset seizure for Ukraine reconstruction. The Graham-Whitehouse amendment allows the sale and proceeds from assets - including seized mega-yachts, private jets, mansions, and expensive art - from sanctioned Russian oligarchs and entities supporting Putin to be used to the benefit of the Ukrainian people. Ukrainian President Zelensky has called on nations to use seized assets to help pay for the reconstruction of Ukraine. The provisions outlined in the Graham-Whitehouse amendment would make Putin and his cronies pay for the infrastructure, schools, hospitals, and homes his military has destroyed without any cost to the American taxpayer. The amendment applies to sanctioned persons already designated for malign activity outlined in executive orders and for those who facilitate Putin’s war efforts. “I’m very pleased the Senate unanimously adopted my amendment with Senator Whitehouse to allow assets seized from sanctioned Russian oligarchs and entities supporting Putin to be used to the benefit of the Ukrainian people,” said Senator Graham. “This change in U.S. law allows the proceeds of seized assets to support Ukrainian war efforts, which is a win-win for the people of Ukraine and the American taxpayer. I expect over time billions of dollars in seized assets will be sent to help Ukraine in their fight for freedom. Our amendment also takes pressure off the American taxpayer.” “President Zelenskyy’s address last night was a reminder of what Senator Graham and I have believed from the earliest days – victory for Ukraine can be achieved with our continued support. My amendment with Senator Graham gives the Biden administration authority to transfer the proceeds from recovered Russian oligarch assets back to the victims in Ukraine. It unlocks billions of dollars for the Ukrainian people to rebuild their schools, hospitals, homes, and critical infrastructure that Putin’s military has destroyed – all at no cost to the American taxpayer,” said Senator Whitehouse. “Thank you also to Senators Blumenthal and Bennet and Representatives Malinowski and Wilson for helping us get this provision over the finish line.” The Department of Justice (DOJ) has a variety of tools to go after these assets, both criminal and civil. This amendment does not impact the tools DOJ has at its disposal to go after the assets of Russian oligarchs – it impacts what is done with those assets.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=F3D64163-4140-4869-A324-1F503443DCDF,Graham on End of Year Spending Bill,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made the following statement after voting in favor of the end of year spending bill. “This bill is a big win for the American military. It gives a much-needed boost to the Department of Defense and a well-deserved pay raise to our men and women in uniform. A ten percent increase in defense spending will add real dollars to our defense budget. The legislation also contains vital aid to Ukraine to deal a decisive defeat to Putin in his war of aggression. I’m also pleased my amendment with Senator Whitehouse was adopted that allows the proceeds from confiscated property from Russian oligarchs to be sent to Ukraine to support their efforts to rebuild their country. This over time could be billions of dollars for Ukrainian war efforts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-tim-scott-votes-no-on-bloated-omnibus-bill/,Senator Tim Scott Votes “No” on Bloated Omnibus Bill,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released the following statement on his vote against the bloated and rushed omnibus spending package. “A rushed end-of-year vote on a $1.7 trillion spending package chock full of government waste is exactly the type of bad governance South Carolinians sent me to Washington to fight against,” said Senator Tim Scott. “For two years, Democrats’ out-of-control spending has fueled record-high inflation that’s squeezing the budgets of hard-working Americans and families growing up in poverty like I did. Instead of crafting a bill focused on bringing down prices, helping small business owners, securing our border, and increasing opportunity for all Americans, we are being asked to blindly pass legislation that will plunge our nation even further into debt in service of liberal priorities like more IRS funding and a radical climate agenda. “While I was pleased to see legislation I authored included in the package, I could not in good conscience vote for yet another debt-increasing, taxpayer-dollar-wasting, big-government spending bill. I will continue to stand up against this type of mismanagement that puts the American Dream further and further out of reach for the next generation.” Background Bundled with the omnibus spending bill was a legislative package that contained a number of Scott-led bills or supported provisions, including: An extension of the National Flood Insurance Program authorization and borrowing authority; Portions of Senator Scott’s MADE in America Act that strengthen the U.S. pharmaceutical supply chain; A 2-year extension of Medicare telehealth flexibilities; A 2-year extension of the hospital at home program, based off of language in Senator Scott’s Hospital Inpatient Modernization Act; Senator Scott’s Advancing Auto Portability Act, which cuts red tape to help Americans who change jobs frequently to increase retirement savings; and Key provisions of Senator Scott’s IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-praises-final-passage-of-bill-to-rename-the-orangeburg-post-office-in-honor-of-j-i-washington/,Congressman Clyburn Praises Final Passage of Bill to Rename the Orangeburg Post Office in Honor of J.I. Washington,2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"COLUMBIA, SC – Congressman James E. Clyburn issued the following statement today after the Senate passed legislation he authored to designate the U.S. Post Office located at 1550 Middleton Street in Orangeburg, South Carolina as the “J.I. Washington Post Office”: “I am pleased President Biden will soon sign legislation renaming the post office at 1550 Middleton Street in Orangeburg, South Carolina the ‘J.I. Washington Post Office.’ J.I., as he was known throughout the community, was a pillar in Orangeburg and highly influential throughout South Carolina. J.I. kept a low profile and saw his role working behind the scenes, as his calling. But he was the go-to guy when you wanted to get something done. “His name on this post office will be a constant reminder that everyone has a role to play to make their community a better place. Despite having never stood for elective office, he accomplished more than many elected officials and had a significant impact on the community and the state. I look forward to the dedication of the post office in his honor.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=77BFD05B-D57C-477B-B290-1798AF7F611F,Graham Announces South Carolina Projects in Year End Spending Bill,2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today announced the South Carolina projects that were included in the year-end spending bill set to be debated and voted on in both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate this week. Graham made these funding requests to the Senate Appropriations Committee, a committee on which he serves. Among the South Carolina funding included in the legislation: Aiken (City): $4.5 million for water treatment system upgrades. Aiken – Rural Health Services: $422,000 for facilities and equipment to improve health care access. Aiken County: $413,000 to purchase updated firefighting equipment. Aiken County: $5 million for wastewater treatment plant expansion. Anderson – Restoration Project Foundation: $650,000 to develop and implement curriculum. Beaufort (City): $800,000 for storm water management. Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry: $1.5 million for facility improvements. Calhoun County: $10.511 million for water infrastructure expansion. Cayce: $858,000 to upgrade police equipment. Charleston (City): $200,000 to conduct a feasibility study to mitigate the effects of tidal and inland flooding in the Charleston area. Charleston (City): $13.325 million for preconstruction, engineering, and design to protect against severe storms and storm surge impacts at the Charleston Peninsula. Cheraw: $423,000 for water plant improvements. Clemson: $2.629 million for public infrastructure improvements. Clemson University: $6 million to improve student health care delivery. Columbia International University: $915,000 for nursing education program and equipment. Folly Beach: $500,000 to mitigate extensive shoreline erosion due to severe storms. Francis Marion University: $1.09 million for equipment for science, health care, and engineering. Greenville – MetroConnects: $4 million for sewer system upgrades. Greenville – REWA Renewable Water Resources: $6.3 million to construct wastewater infrastructure sewer and pumping station upgrades in Greenville County. Greenville Water: $5.4 million for transmission main line upgrades. Horry County: $22 million for an interchange extension. Kershaw County Family YMCA: $1.1 million to develop a child care center and training facility. Kingstree (Town): $4.6 million for park infrastructure. Limestone University: $700,000 campus safety equipment. Laurens County: $14.552 million for road safety improvements. Lexington (Town): $2.275 million to acquire updated technology for the police department. Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort: $900,000 to plan and design a new fuel pier. Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island: $75.9 million for the replacement of recruit barracks. Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island: $4.8 million to plan and design a new dental clinic. Medical University of South Carolina: $6.25 million for facilities and equipment to improve cancer care. Mount Pleasant: $10 million for reimbursement to the state of South Carolina for harbor deepening. The state pre-funded harbor deepening in an effort to accelerate the timeline and ensure the project was not delayed waiting on annual federal appropriations. Mount Pleasant: $5.677 million for drainage resilience. Mount Pleasant – Enough is Enough: $960,000 to conduct online exploitation prevention. North Charleston – Carolina Youth Development Center: $361,000 to enhance security. Pendleton: $5.3 million for wastewater treatment plant expansion. Pickens Regional Joint Water: $4 million for a water treatment plant. Piedmont Technical College: $256,000 to improve student outcomes and increase graduation rates. Roper St. Francis Hospital: $6.475 million for facilities and equipment to improve oncology care. Roper St. Francis Hospital: $3.775 million to increase access to health care. Sumter (City): $510,000 to upgrade their ballistic evidence system. South Carolina Emergency Management: $7.5 million for facility upgrades and modernization. Tri-County Technical College: $1.211 million for an automotive training center. University of South Carolina Aiken: $830,000 for equipment for STEM program. University of South Carolina Beaufort: $1 million for facilities and equipment improvements to nursing simulation center. University of South Carolina Lancaster: $110,000 for facilities and equipment to improve health care education. University of South Carolina School of Law: $950,000 for Rule of Law curriculum development. University of South Carolina: $2.505 million for facilities and equipment to improve stroke research and care. University of South Carolina: $4.5 million for facilities and equipment to create a shared biomedical research core. University of South Carolina: $7.75 million for facilities and equipment to enhance clinical diagnosis and care for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Walterboro – Genesis Health Care: $1 million to improve the delivery of health care. Other notable funding items related to South Carolina organizations and institutions included in the legislation: $1.2 Billion for Plutonium Pit Production at Savannah River Site: Allows for the continued construction on the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility (SRPPF) project to achieve a production capability of at least 50 pits per year within South Carolina consistent with the NNSA’s recommended alternative for pit production. This advances our nation’s nuclear capability to counter threats like Russian and China. $71.764 Million for Surplus Plutonium Disposition at Savannah River Site: The Surplus Plutonium Disposition (SPD) project will add additional glovebox capacity at the Savannah River Site (SRS) to accelerate plutonium dilution and aid in the removal of plutonium from South Carolina. $12.137 Million for Savannah River Site Community and Regulatory Support: The Atomic Energy Act authorizes payments to communities to help offset losses in property taxes due to the presence of non-taxable federal lands within their boundaries. This critical funding is used in a variety of ways in South Carolina, including supporting public schools. $10.5 Million for Procurement and Industrial Base Protection. This request supports the production of the M240 machine gun in Columbia. Without additional procurement funding, the M240 line would be at risk and restarting the line in the future creates an unacceptable risk to American warfighters. #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=BF04436C-1269-481C-BCB8-992C0FD21F49,Graham: Where is the Commander in Chief When it Comes to the Border Crisis?,2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) joined Jesse Watters on Fox News Channel to discuss the crisis on the southern border, including the expiration of a Biden Administration policy, known as Title 42, to prevent illegal immigrants from being deported due to public health concerns from the COVID-19 pandemic. GRAHAM:“…We went from the lowest illegal crossings when Trump was president to the highest of all time.” https://youtu.be/mC8tjz6zXbM?t=17 GRAHAM:“I am calling on President Biden tonight to reinstate Title 42 by executive action. That’s one thing to do. Number two, I’ll introduce a bill. You get behind it President Biden and we’ll get 80 votes in the Senate to make it a statute.” https://youtu.be/mC8tjz6zXbM?t=39 GRAHAM: “[Biden] is choosing to allow Title 42 authority to go away. He is choosing to allow the number of illegal immigrants to come into our country to double. He is choosing that.” https://youtu.be/mC8tjz6zXbM?t=56 GRAHAM:“If you want to look at a humanitarian nightmare, go to our border. I can’t believe the President of the United States has not visited the border. He is the Commander in Chief. You’ve got the Governor of California, a Democrat, who went to the border and said if we repeal Title 42, you’ll destroy California. You have the mayor of New York City, a Democrat, suggesting that if Title 42 is changed, it will overwhelm New York City.” https://youtu.be/mC8tjz6zXbM?t=94 GRAHAM:“El Paso has declared a state of emergency. Fourteen thousand pounds of fentanyl have come across this broken border. The border is not open, it’s been obliterated by the policies of Biden. He has surrendered the border. Where is the Commander in Chief when it comes to this crisis?” https://youtu.be/mC8tjz6zXbM?t=121 GRAHAM: “Title 42 authority allows the United States to deport people [in the country illegally] based on a COVID problem without a whole lot of delay. It is a tool that actually works. There are thousands of people waiting for it to expire. We are going to double the number of illegal immigrants literally in about 48 hours because people are waiting for Title 42 to go away. The President of the United States could by the stroke of a pen keep the policy in place or he could ask Congress to pass a law to reinstate Title 42. He is choosing not to do this. He is choosing to allow illegal immigration to double in 48 hours.” https://youtu.be/mC8tjz6zXbM?t=169 Watch Full Interview Here ##### Click play to view the video or follow this link https://youtu.be/mC8tjz6zXbM",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-fischer-duckworth-and-colleagues-press-the-biden-administration-on-mexicos-proposed-ban-on-us-corn/,"Scott, Fischer, Duckworth, and Colleagues Press the Biden Administration on Mexico’s Proposed Ban on U.S. Corn",2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) in authoring a bipartisan letter to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture (USDA) expressing concern over Mexico’s efforts to ban certain American-grown corn. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s plans, which amount to unilaterally abandoning a long-held science-based regulatory system, would threaten the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA). “These actions are unsupported by science and a breach of USMCA. It would be detrimental to food security in Mexico, hurt U.S. agricultural sustainability, and stifle future agricultural technology innovations that would benefit both nations. While we appreciate the efforts of USTR and USDA to resolve this issue by engaging with Mexican officials, we also encourage the administration to consider all options available in an effort to hold Mexico to their trade commitments including pursuing a dispute settlement process through USMCA,” the senators wrote in their letter. Joining Senators Scott, Fischer, and Duckworth on the letter are Senators John Boozman (R-Ark.), Debbie Stabebow (D-Mich.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Michael Rounds (R-S.D.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), John Thune (R-S.D.), and Rob Portman (R-Ohio). The full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-introduces-the-bipartisan-revoking-entry-granted-to-iranian,Wilson Introduces the Bipartisan ‘Revoking Entry Granted to Iranian Mullahs and Elites Act of 2022’,2022-12-19,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.– Representatives Joe Wilson (R-SC), Senior Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, along with Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), and Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), introduced the bipartisan ‘Revoking Entry Granted to Iranian Mullahs and Elites Act of 2022,' or the ‘REGIME Act of 2022.' The bill stands with the oppressed Iranian people by directing the Secretary of State to block Iranian officials in the government, security, military, and law enforcement sectors of the brutal regime from entry into the United States. These are the same officials involved in the arrests and murder of the Iranians who are so bravely protesting in support of their personal freedoms. Equally important, this legislation also targets the family members of these Iranian regime members. None of these individuals should be allowed to enjoy the same freedoms in the U.S. as those being denied their own fellow citizens in Iran. If the Secretary determines that any of these persons are in possession of a U.S. visa, then the visa will be revoked. ""The Iranian regime steals from and commits brutal atrocities against its citizens. Heroically, however, the Iranian people are standing up in the face of unthinkable dangers to advocate for basic human rights and dignity. It is wrong that corrupt regime officials and their family members would be awarded U.S. visas to enjoy the very freedoms they deny their citizens. I am grateful to introduce this bipartisan legislation which further underscores that nobody should be above the law, least of all the terrorist regime in Tehran,"" said Congressman Wilson. ""Iran is the world's leading state-sponsor of terror and its paramilitary terror arm, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has directly or through its proxies like Hezbollah, Hamas, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), killed hundreds of Americans and attacked our bases in the region. Members of the Iranian regime cannot be trusted, nor should they be living the high life in the U.S. while oppressing their own people in Iran,"" said Congressman Gottheimer. ""I'm proud to cosponsor the bipartisan REGIME Act to ensure that these inhumane terrorist leaders of Iran never step foot on American soil."" ""The Iranian regime continues to deny its own people dignity and basic fundamental human rights. The same regime thugs who are complicit in the abuse, detention, or killing of peaceful protesters should not be allowed to send their own children and family members to study, live, and thrive here in the United States,"" said Congresswoman Tenney. ""The REGIME Act will ensure U.S. visas issued to members of the Iranian regime and their families are immediately revoked so that these individuals cannot seek residency in and reap the benefits bestowed by the taxpayers of this country while continuing to deny those same opportunities to so many in their own country. I'm honored to stand with my colleagues and co-sponsor this important legislation."" ""The atrocities we have seen from the Iranian regime are nothing short of a violation of basic human rights and freedoms,"" stated Congressman Gonzalez. ""I am proud to join this bipartisan piece of legislation, which sends a message to the rest of the world that the United States government will not stand for this iniquity. The very same leaders who are complicit should not enjoy the same freedoms they themselves are suppressing in their own country."" Background",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=567A1CC5-8DFA-4815-99F7-B1728FA0AD2A,Graham Applauds South Carolina Projects Included In Defense Bill,2022-12-16,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made the following statement on South Carolina priorities included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023. “I’m very pleased that we were able to secure authorizations for a number of South Carolina priorities in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023. This makes 62 years in a row that the NDAA has passed. This bill authorizes pay increases for our military, upgrades our national defense, benefits a number of critical South Carolina projects, and eliminates the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, which was hurting recruiting and retention. Overall, this legislation is good for our nation’s men and women in uniform.” Senator Graham worked with South Carolina congressional delegation colleagues to secure authorizations for the following projects: Total FY23 South Carolina MILCON Authorizations: $91.6 million $38.3 million for the Marine Corps Depot Parris Island Recruit Barracks #2. $37.6 million for the Marine Corps Depot Parris Island Recruit Barracks #1. $10 million for the Shaw Air Force Base Radar Approach Control (RAPCON) Facility to provide safe and orderly air traffic control support and services for aircraft. $4.8 million for planning and design to replace the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island Ambulatory Care Center (Dental). $900,000 for planning and design to replace the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Fuel Pier. Total Savannah River Site (SRS) Authorizations: $3 billion, including: $1.258 billion for SRS Plutonium Modernization, including the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility (SRPPF). $460.3 million for SRS risk management operations. $12.137 million for SRS payments in lieu of taxes. Other South Carolina Priorities: Authorizes millions in defense related research and development funding that can benefit academic institutions across the state. Provision allowing for the transfer a small portion of Joint Base Charleston land to the city of North Charleston. South Carolina Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) Projects: $165 million authorization for the Lakes Marion and Moultrie regional water supply project. $74 million authorization for environmental infrastructure improvements within and around North Myrtle Beach. $31 million authorization for environmental infrastructure improvements within and around Myrtle Beach. $25 million authorization for wastewater and storm water infrastructure improvements in Charleston. $19 million authorization for environmental infrastructure improvements within and around Horry County. $7.8 million authorization for Mount Pleasant wastewater and storm water infrastructure improvements. $7.4 million authorization for storm water management infrastructure in Beaufort. Provision that calls for expedited reimbursement for the Port of Charleston. $1.2 billion authorization for the Charleston Peninsula, Coastal Storm Risk Management Project. Authorization for the Folly Beach Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project. Provision included for Edisto Beach to receive in-kind credit for work completed on beach groins before its authorized beach project began. Provision included that would increase the cost share and cost cap of the existing New Savannah Lock and Dam project to enable more solutions to be considered. Authorization for ecosystem restoration and flood risk management in Berkeley County.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressmen-wilson-and-cohen-introduce-resolution-to-remove-russia-from,Congressmen Wilson and Cohen Introduce Resolution to Remove Russia from the United Nations Security Council,2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.– Congressmen Joe Wilson (R-SC) and Steve Cohen (D-TN), the Ranking Member and Co-Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission, introduced a resolution making the finding that, in light of Russia's unprovoked invasion of and ongoing war against Ukraine, Russia's presence on the United Nations Security Council ‘violates the purposes and principles of the United Nations.' The resolution continues by also urging President Biden ‘to direct the Department of State and other relevant Federal departments and agencies to pursue all appropriate steps with Allies, partners, and other countries to limit, suspend, or terminate rights and privileges that the Russian Federation exercises in the Security Council of the United Nations under (the) United Nations Charter.' See the entire resolution here. Background",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1521,Rep. Ralph Norman Introduces the Capital Loss Inflation Fairness Act,2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – On Wednesday, Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-05) introduced H.R. 9524, the Capital Loss Inflation Fairness Act, which would increase the capital loss limit against ordinary income from $3,000 to $13,000 for individuals and those married filed jointly. Additionally, H.R. 9524 includes an annual adjustment for inflation. The Capital Loss Inflation Fairness Act enjoys support from National Taxpayers Union and Heritage Action. Background Under current income tax law, individuals pay capital gains tax when assets, such as property or stocks, are sold at a profit. Individuals may claim a capital loss deduction when assets are sold at a loss. The capital losses a taxpayer may deduct in a particular year are limited to the amount of gains taxed in that year, plus $3,000. Long-term and short-term losses are netted against their respective gains, and then used against each other. Should any net loss remain, it can offset up to $3,000 of ordinary income each year. Net losses exceeding the $3,000 limit may be carried forward indefinitely and deducted in future years (subject to the limit.) The limit is not automatically adjusted for inflation and has remained unchanged since 1978 despite drastic changes in nominal prices. Adjusting the limit to reflect inflation since 1978 would result in an increase to about $13,000. H.R. 9524 corrects the disparity by increasing the outdated capital loss limit against ordinary income from $3,000 to $13,000 and adjusts for future inflation. Statements “Prices have increased exponentially in 44 years – as a comparison, we were paying around 78 cents for a gallon of gas in 1978,” Rep. Ralph Norman said in a statement on Wednesday. “This is well overdue, small modernization of the tax code that I believe will have a big impact restoring investor confidence in these uncertain times.” ""For many years, NTU's founder warned Congress about the shortcomings of capital loss limitations in the tax code. Congressman Ralph Norman deserves great credit and thanks for tackling a lesser-mentioned area of the tax code that can have a terrible impact on taxpayers and investors, especially when broad investment indices are down. Mobility of capital is one key ingredient to a healthy economy, and Congress must re-examine tax and regulatory policies that impede such mobility. That's why NTU is proud to endorse the Capital Loss Inflation Fairness Act."" said Pete Sepp, President, National Taxpayers Union.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-celebrates-passage-of-bipartisan-de-escalation-training-bill-urges-biden-to-sign/,"Scott Celebrates Passage of Bipartisan De-escalation Training Bill, Urges Biden to Sign",2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), along with Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), released statements celebrating House passage of the bipartisan Law Enforcement De-escalation Training Act. The bill, which now heads to President Biden’s desk for his signature, would equip law enforcement officers with the tools to effectively and safely respond to people in crisis. “Equipping America’s law enforcement officers with resources and training to respond to all types of emergencies is critical for the safety of both the officers and the communities they serve,” said Senator Scott. “That’s why I’ve been calling for more resources for de-escalation training, as a part of my years-long efforts to pass comprehensive police funding and reform legislation. I was pleased that my colleagues in the House joined in our bipartisan push for more and better training by passing our bipartisan Law Enforcement De-escalation Training Act last night. I urge President Biden to sign it into law as soon as possible.” “By giving law enforcement the tools they need to help those experiencing mental health emergencies and other crises, we can help make communities safer by building a stronger bridge between the criminal justice system and mental health care,” said Sen. Cornyn “I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House for passing this critical legislation, and I urge the President to promptly sign this bill into law.” “I’m pleased to see the House pass the Law Enforcement De-escalation Training Act and send it the President’s desk,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “Every day police officers are called on to respond to complex situations involving mental and behavioral health issues. I’m grateful for Senator Cornyn’s partnership on this bipartisan piece of legislation that will equip officers with the training and resources to handle those issues safely and appropriately. Many Rhode Island police departments have shown real leadership in this area and I’m grateful to them for their advice and support.” Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Mont.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) also cosponsored the bill, which would empower police and the mental health professionals working with them to link individuals to mental and behavioral health services in their community. Companion legislation in the House was led by Reps. Karen Bass (D-Calif.), Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), David Trone (D-Md.), and Steve Chabot (R-Ohio). Background: In June 2020, Senator Scott introduced the JUSTICE Act, legislation to improve policing in America by giving law enforcement officers the training and resources necessary needed to improve safety in our neighborhoods. In the year after the bill was blocked, homicides in U.S. cities reached near record highs. Among other things, the JUSTICE Act would have implemented the same requirements for developing de-escalation training standards that the Law Enforcement De-escalation Training Act addresses. Studies estimate that as many as six to ten percent of law enforcement encounters involve persons experiencing serious mental illnesses. People in crisis account for between 25-50% of fatalities during law enforcement encounters. Training in de-escalation tactics and other techniques can reduce excessive force complaints and fatalities during law enforcement encounters, and crisis intervention teams can improve outcomes. The bill would build off the existing Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program to create a dedicated stream of funding to local and state law enforcement agencies to train officers, and mental health professionals who work with them, in de-escalation tactics, alternatives to use of force, safely responding to mental, behavioral, and suicidal crises, and more. The bipartisan Law Enforcement De-escalation Training Act would: Require the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services to develop curricula in the training topics, or identify existing curricula, in consultation with law enforcement, mental health organizations, family advocacy organizations, and civil rights and civil liberties groups, among other stakeholders; Authorize $124 million in grant funding over four years for training, including scenario-based exercises and evaluative assessments; and Require the National Institute of Justice and the Government Accountability Office to evaluate the implementation of the program and the effect of the training, to ensure that the curricula have a tangible impact on law enforcement encounters with people in crisis, and identify possible changes that would further improve outcomes. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-joins-boozman-and-colleagues-to-protect-farmers-from-sec/,Scott Joins Boozman and Colleagues to Protect Farmers From SEC,2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Washington– This week, Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined six other senators in cosponsoring the Protect the Farmers from the SEC Act introduced by Senator John Boozman (R- Ark.). This legislation would protect family farmers and ranchers from burdensome greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting rules proposed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). “Farmers and ranchers are the people responsible for feeding America. The last thing they need is to be subjected to intrusive, unnecessary, and overwhelming requirements from the government,” said Senator Scott. “Instead of burdening these families with compliance paperwork, we should be looking for ways to support them and lighten an already heavy load.” “The authors of this rule clearly lack an understanding of how agriculture works. The publicly traded corporations overseen by the SEC won’t be the ones tasked with complying with these onerous ‘value chain’ rules. That responsibility would fall on America’s family farmers and ranchers who would be forced to deal with unprecedented amounts of unnecessary paperwork. This is the last thing they need as they struggle in the face of record high input costs, supply chain bottlenecks, labor shortages, drought and other natural disasters,” Boozman said. Joining Senators Scott and Boozman are Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R- Miss.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Cynthia Lummis (R- Wyo.). Background In March 2021, the SEC announced a climate disclosure proposal that would require all public companies to disclose GHG emissions from operations a company owns or controls; from the generation of purchased electricity, steam, heat or cooling consumed by company operations; and, if material, indirect GHG emissions that occur in the upstream and downstream activities of a registrant’s value chain. The value chain reporting component of this proposal would place an undue burden on the farmers and ranchers who provide raw products to the value chain, inundating small, family-owned farms with costly compliance requirements. The Protect Farmers from the SEC Act will exempt family farmers and ranchers from these reporting requirements, ensuring they are not required to track and disclose granular on-farm data regarding individual operations and day-to-day activities in order to stay compliant with the companies that purchase their products. The Protect Farmers from the SEC Act is backed by a number of leading agriculture organizations including the American Farm Bureau, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Pork Producers Council, USA Rice, National Cotton Council, American Sugar Alliance, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Corn Growers Association, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, U.S. Cattlemen’s Association, U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, United Egg Producers and Agriculture Retailers Association. A companion bill was introduced in the House of Representatives earlier this year by Congressman Frank Lucas (R-Okla.). Full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-tim-scott-statement-on-passage-of-the-ndaa/,Senator Tim Scott Statement on Passage of the NDAA,2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released the following statement on his vote to pass the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “I’m proud to have fought for a robust increase to military funding in this year’s NDAA, including a pay raise for our troops for the fourth year in a row,” said Senator Scott. “As the world’s fiercest defender of democracy, we must take seriously our responsibility to modernize in order to compete and win against adversaries around the globe. Investing in a strong national defense means American families can sleep easier at night knowing our men and women in uniform have the resources they need to keep us safe.” Background: The FY23 NDAA authorizes $847 billion to support U.S. national defense and includes a 4.6% pay increase for the troops and rescinds the onerous COVID vaccine mandate for service members. The bill invests in advanced weapons systems, including the procurement of hypersonic missiles, to deter aggressors like Russia and China. It also includes a Scott-supported provision that bolsters missile defense integration between the U.S., Israel, and Arab partners to further the goal of stability in the Middle East. Many of the priorities Senator Scott advocated made it into the final NDAA, including a requirement for each military department to increase transparency in the process used to score the quality of life on military bases, in order to help South Carolina remain one the most military friendly states in the country. The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) included in the NDAA contained Scott-advocated funding authorizations for projects in Horry County, Myrtle Beach, and North Myrtle Beach, as well as increased funding for Lake Marion Regional Water Agency. Additional South Carolina wins championed by Senator Scott include: $10 million, Shaw Air Force Base’s RAPCON Facility $75.9 million, Parris Island’s Recruit Barracks $4.8 million, Parris Island’s Ambulatory Care Center Replacement $900,000, USMC Air Station Beaufort Fuel Pier Replacement Design $1.7 billion, Savannah River Site ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-sen-tim-scott-spoke-on-the-senate-floor-against-biden-admin-charter-school-rule/,ICYMI: Sen. Tim Scott Spoke on the Senate Floor Against Biden Admin Charter School Rule,2022-12-14,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) spoke on the Senate floor about his fight against the Biden administration’s attacks on public charter schools, which provide crucial opportunity for many American students. This afternoon, the Senate will vote on his Congressional Review Act (CRA) legislation to nullify new Department of Education rules that would stifle education options for parents and students. Watch Senator Scott’s floor speech here On the charter school resolution vote… “…tomorrow, we will have an opportunity to vote for students. Tomorrow, we will have an opportunity to vote for parents. Tomorrow, Mr. President, we will have the opportunity to vote for common sense in the United States Senate. Tomorrow, we will have an opportunity to vote for my resolution to stop the Biden Department of Education from destroying educational opportunities for millions of students and their parents during the pandemic.” On giving parents educational options for their children… “Parents, are the ones who know what’s best for their kids. They need flexibility. They deserve choice. One of those options should always be high quality public charter schools. These charter schools continue to outkick their coverage. Charter schools only represent 12%, 12% of all public high schools, but they make up 22% of the top 100 public high schools.” On the Biden administrations attack on charter schools… “Despite their proven track record of success for students, for parents, and, of course, for common sense, the Biden administration continues to attack charter schools. He campaigned against them. And then as soon as he got in office, he directed the bureaucrats at the DOE, the Department of Education, to put new restrictions on charter schools, [that are] desperately looking for funding. These restrictions are a slap in the face to parents who are turning to charter schools as a better alternative for their children.” On the need for bipartisan support… “I can’t imagine a world where my friends across the aisle, who stood with me to protect DC Opportunity Scholarships, would not stand with us today to protect more education options for kids. All across America, by voting for the administration’s restrictions, my friends across the aisle are telling these hardworking parents that labor union bosses and bureaucrats know what’s best for their kids better than the parents themselves. That’s plain wrong.” On education leading to opportunity… “These are kids growing up in some of America’s most devastated communities, some of America’s poorest communities, some of America’s most disadvantaged communities. And this is a game changer, not just for the students while they’re in roles in these schools, but this is a game changer for the rest of their lives. This is a game changer for them economically. This is the fastest path to the American dream we all hope to achieve one day.” Background: Senator Scott has led the fight for Congress to nullify the Biden administration’s new rules adding burdensome requirements to charter schools seeking funding. The rule, announced by the Department of Education earlier this year, would upend the 28-year-old, bipartisan Charter School Program (CSP). The changes would place federal, one-size-fits-all requirements on charter schools, making it difficult — if not impossible — for many of these high-quality public schools to receive funding. The Senate is slated to vote on Senator Scott’s CRA this afternoon. CLICK HERE to read more about the CRA and Senator Scott’s fight for school choice. CLICK HERE to read more about the CRA in Fox News. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/remarks-ranking-member-scott-opening-remarks-at-hearing-on-expanding-entrepreneurship-and-investment-opportunities/,REMARKS: Ranking Member Scott Opening Remarks at Hearing on Expanding Entrepreneurship and Investment Opportunities,2022-12-14,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Ranking Member of the Securities, Insurance, and Investment subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, led a hearing on increasing opportunity for and diversity among entrepreneurs and investors through capital markets. Ranking Member Scott and members of the subcommittee asked witnesses about structural challenges that rural, women, low- and moderate-income, military veteran, and minority business founders, investors, and workers face in accessing capital formation, investment, and employment opportunities. The hearing also highlighted a legislative framework aimed at spurring capital formation for underserved communities and expanding opportunities for retail investors. Click here to watch Ranking Member Scott’s remarks On providing pathways for Americans of all backgrounds to build their own version of the American Dream… “It does not matter whether you are Black or white, a man or woman, or living in rural South Carolina or downtown Chicago; these three tools – homeownership, entrepreneurship, and investing in markets – are the great equalizer.” On improved capital access for America’s job creators… “I believe that there is more opportunity today in the United States than at any time in our history. Founders and entrepreneurs of diverse backgrounds… were once almost completely unable to access the same early stage and growth funding opportunities as their peers. Today, these groups are now receiving a growing share of investment capital to start and scale their businesses.” On improved market participation for Main Street investors… “In 1989, less than one-third of American families owned any stocks or bonds. Now, over half of U.S. families are accessing the U.S. capital markets – one of the most powerful and transformative drivers of economic growth, job creation, and wealth accumulation in the world.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-nancy-mace-and-ro-khanna-send-cyber-bill-presidents-desk-be-signed-law,REP. NANCY MACE AND RO KHANNA SEND CYBER BILL TO PRESIDENT’S DESK TO BE SIGNED INTO LAW,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Law Strengthens National Security Washington, D.C. - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act, led by Rep. Nancy Mace and Rep. Ro Khanna. The bill now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law: “Cybersecurity is national security,”said Rep. Mace. “After 11 federal agencies were hacked by agents of Russia and China in 2020, we must do all we can to strengthen and protect our nation’s systems and keep our data secure. Congress will now receive an annual report on the federal government’s strategy for facing post-quantum cybersecurity threats.” Rep. Ro Khanna released the following statement after the passage of the bill: “As quantum computing continues to progress, we must take steps now to protect America’s national security and economy. While I support federal funding for quantum computing and believe the technology can one day help us solve many of the world’s problems, we have to plan ahead for potential vulnerabilities it may create. I’m glad to see my legislation with Reps. Mace and Connolly headed to President Biden's desk to ensure that our government's data is quantum proof."" Senators Hassan and Portman led the Senate companion bill and also voiced their support after today’s passage. Ranking Member Portman released the following statement: “Quantum computing will provide for huge advances in computing power, but it will also create new cybersecurity challenges,” said Ranking Member Portman.“I’m pleased the House passed our bipartisan legislation to require the government to inventory its cryptographic systems, determine which are most at risk from quantum computing, and upgrade those systems accordingly and urge the president to sign it into law soon.” Senator Hassan released the following statement: “As cutting-edge quantum computing continues to develop, there is an increased risk that our adversaries can weaponize this technology to breach American data systems,”said Senator Hassan. “We must proactively address cybersecurity challenges posed by quantum computing-enabled breaches, which is why I introduced a bill to help address this emerging threat. I am glad that our bill to strengthen our quantum cyber defenses has passed the House, and I look forward to this bill heading to the President’s desk.” BACKGROUND: The Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act will: Require the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to prioritize the acquisition and migration of federal agencies’ information technology to post-quantum cryptography; Instruct OMB to create guidance for federal agencies to assess critical systems one year after the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) issues planned post-quantum cryptography standards; Direct OMB to send an annual report to Congress that includes a strategy on how to address post-quantum cryptography risks, the funding that might be necessary, and an analysis on whole-of-government coordination and migration to post-quantum cryptography standards and information technology. ABOUT Congresswoman Nancy Mace grew up in the Lowcountry. She is the daughter of a retired Army General and retired school teacher. Before being sworn into Congress, Nancy earned accolades as one of the most fiscally conservative members of the South Carolina General Assembly; she’s also one of the most pro-conservation lawmakers in the state of South Carolina. Nancy is the recipient of the 2019 Taxpayer Hero Award from the South Carolina Club for Growth; she has a 100% record of voting to lower taxes. Nancy is also the recipient of the Champion Award from Palmetto Goodwill for her efforts in education and in helping those most in need receive job training; she has a 100 percent rating with Conservation Voters of South Carolina. MEDIA CONTACT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/advisory-virtual-press-conference-today-to-discuss-ukraine-codel,ADVISORY -- Virtual Press Conference TODAY to Discuss Ukraine CODEL,2022-12-12,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Monday, December 12, at 3 PM ET, Reps. Joe Wilson, Ruben Gallego, Salud Carbajal, Sara Jacobs, and Seth Moulton will hold a virtual press conference to discuss the congressional delegation to Ukraine they led over the weekend. The delegation first traveled to Poland, where they met with U.S. troops deployed to the region, and then to Ukraine, where they met with members of the Ukrainian government in Kyiv. Last December, Rep. Wilson traveled to Ukraine on a congressional delegation amidst heightened tension with Russia—before the invasion. Press interested in participating in the press conference must RSVP at this link. FULL DETAILS Who: Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-02) Rep. Ruben Gallego (A-07) Rep. Salud Carbajal (CA-24) Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-53) Rep. Seth Moulton (MA-06) What: Virtual press conference to discuss recent Ukrainian congressional delegation. When: Monday, December 12, 2022, at 3 PM ET. Where: Click here to RSVP. Additional Media Note:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-nancy-mace-passes-bill-name-hilton-head-post-office-after-caesar-h-wright,REP. NANCY MACE PASSES BILL TO NAME HILTON HEAD POST OFFICE AFTER CAESAR H. WRIGHT JR.,2022-12-12,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Honors Longtime Island Postmaster Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Nancy Mace announced the U.S. House of Representatives passed her bill renaming the Hilton Head Island Post Office located at 213 William Hilton Parkway after Caesar H Wright: “Caesar Wright is part of the fabric of Hilton Head Island and served as the first black postman on the island,” said Rep. Mace. “His time at the postal service goes back to the days of sandy roads and a quiet coastal community. Today, we honor Mr. Wright with the renaming of this post office, and continue to celebrate Hilton Head’s rich history and Mr. Wright's decades of service to the community.” Members of Congress have the ability to rename post offices in honor of citizens in their district. This post office was previously known as the Fairfield Post office and will hereafter be known as the Caesar H. Wright Jr. Post office. ABOUT Congresswoman Nancy Mace grew up in the Lowcountry. She is the daughter of a retired Army General and retired school teacher. Before being sworn into Congress, Nancy earned accolades as one of the most fiscally conservative members of the South Carolina General Assembly; she’s also one of the most pro-conservation lawmakers in the state of South Carolina. Nancy is the recipient of the 2019 Taxpayer Hero Award from the South Carolina Club for Growth; she has a 100% record of voting to lower taxes. Nancy is also the recipient of the Champion Award from Palmetto Goodwill for her efforts in education and in helping those most in need receive job training; she has a 100 percent rating with Conservation Voters of South Carolina.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-booker-sickle-cell-awareness-resolution-passes-the-senate/,"Scott, Booker Sickle Cell Awareness Resolution Passes the Senate",2022-12-09,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R- S.C.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) designating September as Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month unanimously passed the U.S. Senate. Joining Scott and Booker, the resolution was cosponsored by Senators James Lankford (R-Okla.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.). “Sickle cell disease continues to be a prevalent blood disorder affecting many in the Black community today,” said Senator Scott. “This resolution exhibits a commitment to raising awareness and supporting the eradication of this terrible disease.” “We must continue to raise awareness of sickle cell disease and ensure that communities that are disproportionally affected by this condition have equitable access to care and treatments that help improve their health,” said Senator Booker. “The passage of this resolution reaffirms our commitment to raise awareness, improve access to care, and help find a cure for this disease.” Senator Scott’s signature sickle cell legislation, the Sickle Cell and Other Heritable Blood Disorders Research Surveillance, Prevention and Treatment Act, was signed into law in 2018. The Senator continues the work of raising awareness and advocating for the sickle cell community today. Full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-nancy-mace-passage-national-defense-authorization-act,REP. NANCY MACE ON PASSAGE OF THE NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Rep. Mace Secured $124 Million to Support the Lowcountry Washington D.C. - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), including two Amendments drafted by Rep. Nancy Mace and $124 million in appropriations for the Lowcountry. In response, Rep. Mace has issued the following statement: “The passage of the NDAA provides much-needed funding for our military and national security. We secured multiple amendments and authorized approximately $124 million for the Lowcountry.” Proposals from Rep. Mace included in the final NDAA bill: Authorization for a hurricane and storm damage risk reduction project on the city of Charleston peninsula Federal reimbursement for a project for water navigation in Charleston Harbor $7,462,000 for stormwater management infrastructure in Beaufort County $25,583,000 for waste and stormwater projects for the city of Charleston $7,822,000 for waste and stormwater infrastructure projects for the town of Mount Pleasant $55,000,000 for infrastructure improvements in and around Lakes Marion and Moultrie $55,465,000 for the City of Folly Beach for beach renourishment Authorizes a feasibility study for the development of water resources in Berkeley County Included Rep. Mace’s Amendment to allow electric aircraft to implement short take-offs and landings Included Rep. Mace’s Amendment to close a loophole and prevent Russia to use its gold reserves to circumvent sanctions As promised, Rep. Mace ensured language pertaining to Parris Island’s closure was not included South Carolina’s Lowcountry is home to approximately half of all military installations in South Carolina. ABOUT Congresswoman Nancy Mace grew up in the Lowcountry. She is the daughter of a retired Army General and retired school teacher. Before being sworn into Congress, Nancy earned accolades as one of the most fiscally conservative members of the South Carolina General Assembly; she’s also one of the most pro-conservation lawmakers in the state of South Carolina. Nancy is the recipient of the 2019 Taxpayer Hero Award from the South Carolina Club for Growth; she has a 100% record of voting to lower taxes. Nancy is also the recipient of the Champion Award from Palmetto Goodwill for her efforts in education and in helping those most in need receive job training; she has a 100 percent rating with Conservation Voters of South Carolina. MEDIA CONTACT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-nancy-mace-votes-protect-marriage-again,"REP. NANCY MACE VOTES TO PROTECT MARRIAGE, AGAIN",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"It’s time to Protect Marriage and Religious Liberty Washington, D.C. - Today, the House passed the Respect for Marriage Act. Rep. Nancy Mace released the following statement after voting in favor of the legislation: “Today’s vote to protect marriage and protect religious liberties marks the end of a long fight for the basic civil right for any two people to marry without discrimination,” said Rep. Mace. “The right to marry whoever you love regardless of the color of your skin or orientation shouldn’t be controversial. Our nation was built on the notion of individual liberty. This vote marks another step forward in the American people’s constant fight for freedom.” ABOUT Congresswoman Nancy Mace grew up in the Lowcountry. She is the daughter of a retired Army General and retired school teacher. Before being sworn into Congress, Nancy earned accolades as one of the most fiscally conservative members of the South Carolina General Assembly; she’s also one of the most pro-conservation lawmakers in the state of South Carolina. Nancy is the recipient of the 2019 Taxpayer Hero Award from the South Carolina Club for Growth; she has a 100% record of voting to lower taxes. Nancy is also the recipient of the Champion Award from Palmetto Goodwill for her efforts in education and in helping those most in need receive job training; she has a 100 percent rating with Conservation Voters of South Carolina. MEDIA CONTACT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=2541D61B-03E9-4C9B-A867-AE476CD8F7BE,"Graham, Menendez Applaud Iran Nuclear Monitoring Language in NDAA",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Bob Menendez (D-New Jersey), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today applauded the inclusion of provisions from their Iran Nuclear Weapons Capability Monitoring Act of 2022, bipartisan legislation they introduced this summer to establish a State Department led joint task force to monitor and regularly provide reports to Congress regarding Iran’s nuclear weapons and missile capabilities, in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). In addition to the original provisions establishing a task force led by the Department of State, new language included in the NDAA expands the task force’s purview and requires it to coordinate and synthesize U.S. government efforts concerning Iran and its proxies’ regional and global terrorism activities. Working in conjunction with the intelligence community, the task force will report to the appropriate congressional committees on all the above activities in order to provide Congress a more complete picture of the nefarious activities Iran is engaging in domestically and globally. “It is imperative the United States government stays focused on monitoring Iranian nuclear ambitions,” said Senator Graham. “The National Defense Authorization Act includes language that I authored with Senator Menendez requiring the intelligence community and other federal agencies to report to Congress on the status of Iran’s nuclear ambitions in a number of areas critical to developing a nuclear weapons capability. This extra monitoring will make it harder for Iran to break out in a nuclear fashion. I’m pleased we’ve increased scrutiny of the Iranian Nuclear Program in a bipartisan fashion at a very critical time.” “The inclusion of our legislation to better track Iran’s nuclear efforts in the NDAA is an important step forward as the United States continues to look for creative ways to fully address Iran’s illicit nuclear program in 2023,” Chairman Menendez said. “In establishing a managed process for enhanced Congressional review and oversight over Tehran’s nuclear weapons and missile capabilities, we are ensuring Congress is more informed when shaping our nation’s Iran policy. I thank Senator Graham for his partnership and determination to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear weapons state and potentially igniting a nuclear arms race in the most dangerous tinderbox in the world.” Additionally, the senators’ NDAA provision requires the Secretary of State to submit to Congress an annual diplomatic strategy for engaging with U.S. partners and allies regarding Iran’s nuclear and terrorism activities to include:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/sens-scott-booker-warnock-pass-resolution-celebrating-senate-black-legislative-staff-caucus-45th-anniversary/,"Sens. Scott, Booker, Warnock Pass Resolution Celebrating Senate Black Legislative Staff Caucus’ 45th Anniversary",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, the Senate unanimously passed Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Raphael Warnock’s (D-Ga.) resolution celebrating the Senate Black Legislative Staff Caucus’ 45th Anniversary. “Congratulations for reaching this incredible milestone. The mission of the Senate Black Legislative Staff Caucus is rooted in diversifying Capitol Hill—bringing people from all walks of life to help our nation’s leaders better understand who we are serving.” said Senator Scott “For decades, the Senate Black Legislative Staff Caucus has served as an important community and support system among Black Senate staffers and I am proud to help commemorate the 45th anniversary of this incredible group. Those who represent us in government should reflect the rich diversity of our nation. Increasing diversity within the Senate is a goal we all should strive for,” said Senator Booker. “For 45 years, the Senate Black Legislative Staff Caucus has provided crucial resources and support to recruit and develop Black congressional staff,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I’m proud to congratulate the SBLSC —a pillar in the effort to ensure that the staff who shape our laws be as diverse as the country itself.” Read our resolution here. Background: The Senate Black Legislative Staff Caucus is a professional and social network for Black legislative staff in the United States Senate. Established in 1977 as a non-partisan, official staff organization, SBLSC is the oldest congressional staff caucus on the Hill. SBLSC’s goal is to build a sense of community and support among minority Senate staffers by increasing diversity and access to resources in the Senate. SBLSC also provides professional resources and programming to ensure that staffers are successful. This resolution honors and celebrates the vision, foresight, and legacy of Jackie Parker and Ralph Everett which sought to cultivate a Senate culture that reflects America. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-senator-tim-scott-receives-federal-law-enforcement-foundations-national-service-award/,ICYMI: Senator Tim Scott Receives Federal Law Enforcement Foundation’s National Service Award,2022-12-07,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott attended the Federal Law Enforcement Foundation’s 34th Annual Luncheon and Awards Ceremony as the keynote speaker and recipient of the organization’s National Service Award. He discussed his positive experiences with our nation’s law enforcement community, the current crime epidemic, and his partnership with law enforcement leaders on police funding and reform efforts. On personal experience with law enforcement… “I had a tough start. Sometimes you have to thank God for a miserable beginning. In part, one of the reasons why I became a fan of law enforcement so early in life was because of some of the challenges that I’ve seen in my lifetime… For the last 42 years, I have been a raving fan of law enforcement. And it’s that perspective I had as a young man in the midst of a really bad situation, that I understood very quickly that those who are running into danger—those who are showing up at the scenes—are those people called to the mission of public safety. And I’m a fan of every single man and every single woman who wears a badge, who supports public safety.” On increased violence and crime rates…“…At no time has resources been more important than the times in which we live—in my lifetime. When we’ve seen a 70% increase in violence against police officers. We’ve seen over 380 officers shot in the line of duty. Seventy officers ambushed; just trying to do their jobs and go home to their families. I think about two of those officers, Wilbert Mora and Jason Rivera. I think about the comments of Mrs. Rivera during that painful scene, suggesting and saying very clearly that the system has failed us. Too often we see too many violent criminals back on the streets as soon as they are arrested because too many weak prosecutors continue to put the lives of the officers in jeopardy and the lives of the community in jeopardy by putting those violent criminals back on the streets of this country. That is wrong and we should do something about it.” On bridging the gap between law enforcement and their communities… “…I get a little passionate about this because we live in a world where people want there to be a simple binary choice that does not exist. People want you to believe that you either are for law enforcement officers or you are for communities of color. That is a false binary choice. If you are for communities of color, you must be for law enforcement officers. If you are for law enforcement officers, you’ve got to be for communities of color. You’ve got to be for the communities where they serve and for the officers who serve in those communities. That’s the truth. That’s one of the reasons why 81% of African-Americans across this country say we want the same level of policing or more.” Background: Senator Scott has led several efforts in support of law enforcement officers and building bridges to the communities they serve. This year, Sen. Scott: Received the FSA National Legislative Champion Award from the Florida Sheriffs Association, which recognizes legislators who have made significant contributions to public safety that impact our entire nation; Was awarded the Major County Sheriffs of America Legislative Champion Award; Introduced with colleagues the Combating Violent and Dangerous Crime Act, which seeks to resolve discrepancies brought on by conflicting court decisions and clarifies congressional intent regarding crimes of violence and respective penalties; Introduced with colleagues the Law Enforcement De-escalation Training Act of 2022 which aims to help law enforcement respond more effectively to people suffering with mental or behavioral health crises. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-co-leads-legislation-to-designate-wagner-group-as-a-foreign,Wilson Co-Leads Legislation to Designate Wagner Group as a Foreign Terrorist Organization,2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Joe Wilson (R-SC), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Richard Hudson (R-NC), and Marc Veasey (D-TX), introduced the Holding Accountable Russian Mercenaries (HARM) Act, bipartisan legislation that would require the Secretary of State to designate the Russian-based PMC Wagner Group as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO). A companion measure led by Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Ben Cardin (D-MD), was also introduced in the U.S. Senate. ""For too long the Wagner Group has been engaging in nefarious atrocities around the globe, all at the behest of war criminal Putin and his cronies. I'm grateful to join my bipartisan, bicameral colleagues in introducing legislation that will finally designate the group as the foreign terrorist organization it is and expose them in their true state as a murderous and criminal enterprise,"" said Congressman Wilson. ""Where the Wagner Group operates, atrocities follow. The HARM Act will identify Putin's private mercenary group as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and let the world know that its activities are both malign and illegal. It's time to shine some light on this notorious group and give it the detestable reputation it deserves,"" said Congressman Cohen, co-chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission. ""The Wagner Group is a threat to the interests and security of the United States, our allies, and its partners,"" said Representative Hudson. ""We must hold those responsible for perpetrating Putin's war against Ukraine and atrocities elsewhere accountable. Designating this mercenary group a Foreign Terrorist Organization will send a strong message to those in Russia and all who seek to do harm across the world."" ""The Wagner Group's mercenaries are doing Vladimir Putin's bidding around the world. This critical legislation will take steps to hold this dangerous group accountable for the atrocities that they commit and help put a stop to future violent crimes from occurring,"" said Congressman Veasey. ""Vladimir Putin and his cronies will stop at nothing to accomplish their objectives, including employing mercenaries like the Wagner Group to commit atrocities on their behalf,"" Senator Wicker said. ""The U.S. should call this shadow army what it is: a foreign terrorist group. We must hold them accountable along with any who support them."" ""As Russia's brutal war against Ukraine enters its ninth month, the United States must continue to remove the tools of destruction at its disposal,"" said Senator Cardin, chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission. ""The Wagner Group has been credibly linked to countless atrocities in Ukraine as well as Syria and across the African continent. The U.S. must immediately designate the Wagner Group as a foreign terrorist organization. Doing so will diminish the strength of the Russian armed forces and help hold human rights violators accountable."" The Wagner Group is a para-military organization that employs thousands of mercenaries. It has been widely recognized for its work as a private military for Russian President Vladimir Putin, conducting terrorist operations in Ukraine, Mali, Sudan, and the Central African Republic that resulted in the massacre of civilians since 2014. The Wagner Group has also murdered and threatened journalists, kidnapped children, deployed nerve agents against civilians, committed acts of torture, and engaged in rape and sex trafficking of women and children. The legislation would require the Secretary of State to designate the Wagner Group as a FTO under section 219(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act within 90 days of enactment. The proposal also includes provisions that would apply the FTO designation to any affiliated or successor entity to the PMC Wagner Group. The legislation follows action by the European Parliament that declared Russia a state sponsor of terrorism and specifically called out the Wagner Group for its atrocities. The Wagner Group has already been the target of U.S. action. On June 20, 2017, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctioned the Wagner Group and its military leader, Dmitry Utkin, pursuant to Executive Order 13660. On September 20, 2018, the Department of State added Yevgeniy Prigozhin and his affiliated entities, including the PMC Wagner Group, to the list of persons identified as part of, or operating for or on behalf of, the defense or intelligence sectors of the Government of the Russian Federation under section 231 of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. Wilson, Hudson, Veasey, Cohen, Wicker, and Cardin are all members of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, which is a U.S. government commission that promotes human rights, military security, and economic cooperation in 57 countries in Europe, Eurasia, and North America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-cassidy-colleagues-sound-alarm-demand-transparency-from-biden-administration-on-far-left-organizations-involved-in-parent-education-council/,"Scott, Cassidy, Colleagues Sound Alarm, Demand Transparency from Biden Administration on Far-Left Organizations Involved in Parent Education Council",2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), and Mitt Romney (R-Utah) in penning a letter demanding answers from the U.S. Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona regarding the National Parents and Families Engagement Council. The senators outlined their concerns with the hyper-partisan makeup of the council, as its members are representatives of organizations that have little to no interaction at the local level and support anti-school choice policies. “It is troubling that you seem to have forgotten to include any actual families or local level officials in it. Instead, the Department has filled the Council with organizations that have limited, if any, engagement at the local level. Most, if not all, of these organizations are liberal advocacy groups that seek to nationalize our education systems into a one-size-fits-all system while eliminating parental choice and leaving the individual needs of our students behind,” wrote the senators. “…a recent lawsuit against the Council alleges that the highest-ranking executives for eleven of the fourteen represented organizations donated to President Biden, Democratic lawmakers, Democratic fundraisers, or other entities affiliated with Democrats. Additionally, the former director of one of the organizations was appointed to serve in the Department, and one even hosted President Biden at its annual convention. The uniformly partisan members of the Council demonstrate this administration’s commitment to putting the interest of unions, teachers, non-education associations, and the radical left above students and parents,” continued the senators. Read the full letter here or below: Dear Secretary Cardona: I write to convey my disappointment with the seemingly prejudiced National Parents and Families Engagement Council (Council) recently announced by the Department of Education (Department). If this Council continues to exist, I seek to ensure you will establish objectivity and nominate members who serve its stated purpose of “identify[ing] constructive ways to help families engage at the local level.” During the COVID-19 pandemic, it became evident that facilitating the relationship between schools and parents is most successfully chartered at the local level. Therefore, I welcome the stated purpose of this Council; however, it is troubling that you seem to have forgotten to include any actual families or local level officials in it. Instead, the Department has filled the Council with organizations that have limited, if any, engagement at the local level. Most, if not all, of these organizations are liberal advocacy groups that seek to nationalize our education systems into a one-size-fits-all system while eliminating parental choice and leaving the individual needs of our students behind. For example, a recent lawsuit against the Council alleges that the highest-ranking executives for eleven of the fourteen represented organizations donated to President Biden, Democratic lawmakers, Democratic fundraisers, or other entities affiliated with Democrats. Additionally, the former director of one of the organizations was appointed to serve in the Department, and one even hosted President Biden at its annual convention. The uniformly partisan members of the Council demonstrate this administration’s commitment to putting the interest of unions, teachers, non-education associations, and the radical left above students and parents. The biased nature of the Council also appears to violate federal law, as it disregards the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), which explicitly requires “membership of [an] advisory committee to be fairly balanced in terms of the points of view represented”. The Department’s failure to include anyone with a diverse set of parental, or even political, perspectives makes the Council void of any balance. While the Department once again ignores the laws passed by Congress, the families it claims to want to engage are left out of the room. For the sake of parents, teachers, and students across the nation, if this overtly partisan Council continues, it is not too late for the Department to invite parents and families to the discussion. To learn about the steps the Department will take to engage parents and families, or disband the Council altogether, I request the following information and documents by January 3, 2023. When responding, please respond under each question rather than in narrative format. Please provide a list of named representatives for each organization on the Council, along with their credentials for being said representative. Please provide all documents and communications that have been created by the Council or by any of its members in the Council’s course of business. What instructions, goals, or guidance has the Department given to the Council? What criteria governed the selection of the fourteen organizations invited to participate in the National Parents and Families Engagement Council? This may seem like a question with an obvious answer, but to be sure, was there a requirement that any of the representatives have human children? Did any organization have the opportunity to apply to join the Council? Was there any outreach done by the Department to specific organizations with regard to the formation? If so, please list all organizations the Department conducted any outreach to with regards to the formation of this Council, regardless of whether potential membership in the Council was discussed. How were organizations invited to participate in the Council? For example, were there formal invitations sent out or were invitations part of informal communications between the Department and outside organizations? Please provide all documents and communications that discuss or reflects an invitation to any organization to be a part of this Council. Before assembling the Council, did anyone at the Department have communication with any of the fourteen represented organizations regarding mask or vaccine mandates, critical race theory, and gender identity training in schools, transgender issues, educational equity, or school boards? What was the nature and substance of such communication(s)? What efforts were and are being taken to meet FACA requirements governing viewpoint diversity, open and transparent public meetings and activities, Federal Register notice, and public oversight in the formation of federal advisory committees? Given the apparent partisan bias and close ties between the fourteen organizations and the Biden Administration, is the Department taking any steps to ensure that all parents and families, not just those that voted President Biden, are represented on the Council? Several of the organizations represented on the Council have espoused policy positions radically unpopular with American parents. For example: The National Parents Union has supported “Critical Race Theory” instruction and its director has defended the September 29, 2021, letter written by the National School Board Association calling certain parents “domestic terrorists.” The Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) sued to maintain mask mandates in Virginia schools. Does the Department endorse these views and envision the Council also endorsing these views? Why are there no groups that have opposed school mask mandates or critical race theory instruction represented on the Council? How would you respond to concerns that these groups are overly partisan and do not represent perspectives held by all parents around the nation? Thank you for your attention to this important matter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-tim-scott-announces-senate-banking-committee-republican-staff-director/,Senator Tim Scott Announces Senate Banking Committee Republican Staff Director,2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), who is set to serve as the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, announced today his intention to appoint Lila Nieves-Lee as the Committee’s Republican staff director in the 118th Congress. “Lila Nieves-Lee’s career has been defined by her passion to expand economic opportunity for all Americans,” said Senator Scott. “She will be instrumental in shaping a committee agenda that makes the right tools and opportunities available for Americans to achieve financial security, provide for their families, gain an education, start a business, buy a house, and engage in the modern economy – without unnecessary red tape and regulations. Having been such an important part of our achievements in the Banking Committee last Congress, I cannot imagine taking on the role of ranking member of the Committee without her by my side.” Nieves-Lee, who is currently the senior director for U.S. Government Engagement at Visa, previously worked on the senator’s policy staff and served as his staff director of the Senate Banking Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Protections under Scott’s leadership. “I want to thank Senator Scott for the opportunity to expand on the work we did together to protect American consumers and put hardworking families first,” said Nieves-Lee. “The Senate Banking Committee is uniquely positioned to pursue an Opportunity Agenda centered around a fundamental belief that every American has the right to succeed. I look forward to carrying out that vision.” In addition to her roles at Visa and in the Senate, Nieves-Lee served as vice president of Autos Drive America, a trade association representing the U.S. operations of international automakers. She also served as a political appointee in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative as director of Congressional Relations and helped usher Members of Congress and staff through the NAFTA/USMCA and KORUS renegotiation processes. A native of California, Lila started her career with the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and later joined the House Ways and Means Committee. She earned her undergraduate degree from Harvard University. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-joins-colleagues-to-direct-offshore-energy-funds-back-to-the-states-help-strengthen-coastal-communities/,"Scott Joins Colleagues to Direct Offshore Energy Funds Back to the States, Help Strengthen Coastal Communities",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, Senator Scott joined Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and 20 of their Senate colleagues as a cosponsor of the Reinvesting in Shoreline Economics and Ecosystems (RISEE) Act. The legislation would direct money generated from offshore wind projects back to the states nearest to those projects. Current law requires that all revenues generated from offshore wind leases and production beyond six nautical miles from states be sent to the U.S. Treasury. The RISEE Act would allow South Carolina to generate revenue from these leases, giving the state and local governments more resources to better protect the Carolina coastline. “Coastal states like South Carolina are actively pursuing an all of the above energy approach, especially now that failed leadership in Washington has crippled our domestic energy production and endangered our national security,” said Senator Scott. “I would rather see revenue from these newer projects get into the capable hands of South Carolinians instead of it all going to the U.S. Treasury. Leaders in the state know the needs of our coast better than any of the bureaucrats in Washington.” State funds from offshore wind revenue could be used for the following: Coastal restoration, hurricane protection, or resiliency infrastructure; Mitigating damage to natural resources; or Implementing a marine, coastal, or conservation management plan. Additionally, 37.5 percent of offshore wind revenues would serve as a further dedicated funding source for the National Oceans and Coastal Security Fund (NOCSF). This fund provides competitive grants to coastal communities to respond to coastal erosion and sea level rise, restore coastal habitat, and make improvements to coastal infrastructure. The RISEE Act would also amend the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) to create a new stream of funding by equalizing mineral rights revenues for offshore leases and devoting that money to coastal resiliency and flood mitigation projects. The bill amends GOMESA by: Eliminating the state revenue sharing cap, currently at $375 million; Lifting the Land & Water Conservation Fund’s state side funding cap of $125 million; Adding the National Oceans and Coastal Security Fund (NOCSF) as a fourth GOMESA equity (12.5%); Making oil and gas leases from 2000-2006 eligible for future GOMESA payments to Gulf Coast states and the NOCSF. Currently, only leases from 2007 to present are eligible for GOMESA payments. EIA reports 11 new oil and gas fields in the Gulf of Mexico that will contribute to the overall growth in U.S. production are GOMESA eligible under current law, and another eight would qualify under this proposed change; and Protecting GOMESA revenues from sequestration. This bill is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Benjamin Cardin (D-Md.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.). Full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:06Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1509,Rep. Norman Leads Letter to IRS Regarding New Changes to Form 1099-K Reporting,2022-11-29,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Tuesday, Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-05) sent a letter to Acting Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Douglas O'Donnell, regarding changes to Form 1099-K reporting requirements. Specifically, this letter asks the IRS to delay the implementation of the new lower reporting threshold and requests further details related to implementation and privacy concerns. The letter is co-signed by 33 additional Members of the House of Representatives. Background The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 amended the Internal Revenue Code to decrease the threshold for reporting on third-party settlement organizations (TPSOs) on Form 1099-K. Reporting requirements changed to any qualifying transaction over $600 where the previous threshold for reporting was $20,000 on 200 or more transactions. The change went into effect on January 1, 2022. The lowered threshold will result in millions of small business owners, freelancers, independent contractors, and other taxpayers receiving a Form 1099-K for the first time when filing their taxes for year 2022. In addition, the IRS has issued insufficient guidance to TPSOs (such as Venmo or PayPal) on how companies should discern private transactions not subject to taxation from business transactions. This lack of oversight will result in numerous individuals receiving a Form 1099-K where there is no tax liability. Concerns over the storage and accessibility of consumer data within the IRS are also in question. The new reporting requirement would demand online marketplaces to collect sensitive taxpayer information and share the data with the IRS. Though in 2021, an audit report conducted by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) found various problems, most notably the ""platforms did not satisfy the minimum mainframe security requirements in several key areas..."" The letter requests the IRS provide details on how it plans to: process millions of additional Form 1099-Ks, differentiate which type of electronic transactions are subject to reporting, prioritize privacy and prevent future data leaks, and respond to taxpayers who receive a Form 1099-K in error for a nontaxable transaction. Until these details become clear, this letter requests the IRS delay the implementation of these new reporting requirements by one year. Statement Rep. Norman issued the following statement on Tuesday: ""Without proper implementation or direction from the IRS of the amended change, I expect the 2022 tax season to be utterly chaotic for taxpayers. The IRS has given no indication they know how to implement the lower threshold of reporting- let alone process the additional filings, and above all has demonstrated the privacy of the American people is of little concern to them. I implore the IRS to delay the execution of this change until they themselves work out how to do it properly.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-joins-bipartisan-group-urging-usda-to-give-farmers-more-time-to-comment-on-new-rule-with-major-impact-for-chicken-industry/,Scott Joins Bipartisan Group Urging USDA to Give Farmers More Time to Comment on New Rule With Major Impact for Chicken Industry,2022-11-22,2022,2022-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), co-chairs of the Senate Chicken Caucus, and 16 of their Senate colleagues urging the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to extend the time farmers have to comment on a proposed rule that would have a major impact on the poultry industry. Granting a 180-day extension, as the letter requests, would allow farmers and constituents to consider more carefully the new rule created through the Packers and Stockyards Act and provide the most substantive comments possible of the effects of the rule on the poultry, cattle, and hog industries. “The proposed rule entitled ‘Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act’ introduces novel regulatory concepts, which would have wide-ranging impacts on the contracting of poultry, cattle, and hogs. … It is appropriate that additional time is allotted to stakeholders and our constituents so that they may provide the most substantive comments possible,” wrote the Senators. “We respectfully request that USDA extend the comment period of the proposed rule for 180 days. This would allow stakeholders and constituents to study the impact that the Department’s full competition agenda would have on industry efficiency and compliance costs, food availability and hunger, and inflationary pressures on consumers. As you know, the chicken industry is essential to our domestic and global food security because of our significant exports. We therefore urge you to let stakeholders comment on all proposed rules together and to take steps to mitigate any interruptions to the poultry supply chain,” wrote the Senators. A bipartisan group of 16 senators joined Senators Scott, Coons, and Wicker in signing the letter, including Senators James Lankford (R-Okla.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and Richard Burr (R-N.C.). A copy of the letter is available here and below. Dear Secretary Vilsack: As representatives of states with substantial chicken operations, we respectfully request the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) grant a 180-day extension of the comment period for the above-referenced proposed rule. We believe an extension is needed for stakeholders to consider and properly analyze the proposal. The proposed rule entitled “Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act” introduces novel regulatory concepts, which would have wide-ranging impacts on the contracting of poultry, cattle, and hogs. It would also establish broad recordkeeping obligations on each of these sectors. Additionally, the preamble to the proposed rule poses 44 detailed, technical questions regarding definitions of terms that require careful consideration and feedback. It is appropriate that additional time is allotted to stakeholders and our constituents so that they may provide the most substantive comments possible. The proposed rule is the second installment in a three-part rulemaking intended to effect changes to the meat and poultry supply chains. On June 8, USDA published a proposed rule entitled, “Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments,” and an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking entitled, “Poultry Growing Tournament Systems: Fairness and Related Concerns.” USDA has also stated its intent to promulgate another proposed rule entitled, “Clarification of Scope of the Packers and Stockyards Act.” Each of these rules are inexorably connected, and USDA has described them as a “suite of major actions under the Biden administration to create fairer marketplaces for poultry, livestock, and hog producers.” Therefore, to understand fully the economic, legal, and operational impacts of the proposed rule and to provide meaningful comments, stakeholders and our constituents must have the opportunity to consider USDA’s competition agenda in its entirety. We respectfully request that USDA extend the comment period of the proposed rule for 180 days. This would allow stakeholders and constituents to study the impact that the Department’s full competition agenda would have on industry efficiency and compliance costs, food availability and hunger, and inflationary pressures on consumers. As you know, the chicken industry is essential to our domestic and global food security because of our significant exports. We therefore urge you to let stakeholders comment on all proposed rules together and to take steps to mitigate any interruptions to the poultry supply chain. Thank you for your attention to this request. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like more information or have any questions. Sincerely, Christopher A. Coons United States Senator Roger Wicker United States Senator ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:38:01Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-thune-grassley-and-senate-republican-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-hold-the-irs-more-accountable/,"Scott, Thune, Grassley & Senate Republican Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Hold the IRS More Accountable",2022-11-22,2022,2022-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Taxation and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Oversight, and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and a current member of the Subcommittee on Taxation and IRS Oversight, recently led their Republican colleagues on the Senate Finance Committee in introducing the IRS Funding Accountability Act. The legislation responds to the Democrats’ use of the so-called “Inflation Reduction Act” (IRA) to infuse the IRS with $80 billion of new funding without any oversight measures to prevent waste, protect taxpayer rights, or measure improvements of service. The IRS Funding Accountability Act would give Congress a direct say in how this new funding could be spent, hold the IRS more accountable, and provide more transparency for the American people. “DC Democrats poured tens of billions of dollars into the IRS, an agency with a well-documented history of political bias and abuse of power. Yet, the Biden administration has not released a plan to conduct oversight to ensure taxpayers know how their hard-earned money is being spent. Our bill would implement appropriate accountability measures to give the American people full transparency.” said Scott. “The Democrats’ attempt to supersize the IRS without holding the agency accountable to Congress and American taxpayers is dangerous and irresponsible,” said Thune. “This legislation would provide much-needed oversight of the unprecedented $80 billion in new funding to the agency, more than half of which Democrats have directed toward enforcement-related measures, including audits. If our bill becomes law, the Biden administration’s IRS would have to answer to the American people, not Washington bureaucrats.” “Government, especially when it comes to the treatment of taxpayers, needs to be accountable and transparent to the American people,” said Grassley. “When Democrats’ partisan spending bill gave the IRS an extra 80 billion dollars, their legislation included no oversight mechanisms whatsoever. Our bill will ensure that the IRS is answerable to the American people in how it uses this money, and will force it to forfeit funds every day it’s not in compliance.” “The $80 billion in IRS funding included in the so-called Inflation Reduction Act came with almost no guardrails for an agency that has fallen chronically short on core elements of their mission in recent years,” said Pete Sepp, president of the National Taxpayers Union. “National Taxpayers Union (NTU) is proud to support the IRS Funding Accountability Act, which would require the IRS to provide Congress with a genuine and realistic plan for spending the most significant influx of funds the agency has ever received. The bill would also require the IRS to regularly update Congress on their spending, ensuring ongoing accountability of the agency over the next 10 years. On behalf of the nation’s taxpayers, NTU gratefully applauds Senators Thune and Grassley for their leadership on IRS oversight.” “Joe Biden promised taxpayers that no one earning less than $400,000 would see a penny more in taxes. Biden lied his way into office,” said Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform. “Democrats raised taxes on American families and unleashed 87,000 new IRS agents to shakedown small business owners and ramp up audits on taxpayers. Congressional oversight of Biden’s IRS is essential. This legislation will help rein in Biden’s IRS and address the agency’s broken culture of unaccountability.” “The Inflation Reduction Act directed 80 billion taxpayer dollars to the IRS, with the majority earmarked to increase the agency’s enforcement activities,” said Brent Gardner, chief government affairs officer for Americans For Prosperity. “With little to no information about how the agency plans to use those taxpayer dollars or hold itself accountable, the IRS Funding Accountability Act would implement commonsense measures to increase oversight and transparency on behalf of the American taxpayer. Americans for Prosperity thanks Senators Thune and Grassley for introducing this legislation.” The senators’ legislation would, among other things, require the IRS to provide Congress with an annual plan for how the agency intends to use the new IRA funds, which would be subject to a new joint resolution of disapproval. The bill would also require quarterly updates from the IRS and U.S. Department of the Treasury to enable consistent and transparent evaluation of the plans, provide accountability for any misuse of funds, and guard against violations of taxpayer rights. Failure to submit timely and thorough plans or reports would result in financial penalties, including IRA funds being rescinded on a daily basis until the IRS complies with the reporting requirements. The legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.). Additional background information on the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:38:01Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-and-coons-resolution-celebrating-national-college-application-month-passes-in-the-senate/,Scott and Coons’ Resolution Celebrating National College Application Month Passes in the Senate,2022-11-18,2022,2022-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, the Senate unanimously passed Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Chris Coons’ (D-Del.) resolution designating November as National College Application Month. The bipartisan resolution encourages students to focus on their options for pursuing higher education and commends the parents, educators and mentors who partner in guiding them through the process. The resolution, also cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Angus King (I-Maine), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Tom Carper (D-DE), highlights findings from the Pew Economic Mobility Project that shows those who earn a college degree are more likely to achieve upward mobility. “A college education continues to increase opportunities for students of all backgrounds,” said Senator Scott. “I encourage families, educators, and mentors to continue to work together to provide awareness and assistance to students pursuing educational excellence.” “Higher education provides an important path of students to expand their skillset, worldview, and career opportunities. National College Application Month is an opportunity to make sure students are aware of their options and encourages them to explore resources as they take the next steps in their education,” said Senator Coons. “I’m glad to bring my colleagues together in recognition of this exciting moment in so many people’s lives, and proud to see this measure move forward unanimously in the Senate.” “We appreciate that members of the U.S. Senate recognize the importance of ensuring that every student has the opportunity to fulfill their potential. ACT’s American College Application Campaign works each year to support all high school seniors, especially those who are systemically underserved, in applying to at least one college. Students from low-income families and those who are the first in their families to attend college are often faced with many obstacles to completing an application, from confusion about how to apply, to financial concerns.” – Janet Godwin, ACT CEO Full text of the resolution can be found here. Background: As a part of Sen. Scott’s ongoing efforts to improve college access and affordability, he introduced provisions to simplify student loan applications. As a result, the following improvements were made to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The total number questions on the FAFSA were reduced from 108 questions to a maximum of 36 questions, building on the previous year’s FUTURE Act. Reduced the Department of Education’s lengthy financial data verification process by instead using data from the Internal Revenue Service. Created simpler Pell Grant eligibility guidelines for maximum and minimum awards, so many applicants will know if they will get a maximum or minimum grant to go to college. Enabled an additional 555,000 students to qualify for Pell grants each year, and enabled an additional 1.7 million students to qualify to receive the maximum Pell grant award each year. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:38:01Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-and-rosen-introduce-israeli-american-heritage-resolution-recognizing-israeli-american-contributions/,Scott and Rosen Introduce Israeli-American Heritage Resolution Recognizing Israeli-American Contributions,2022-11-18,2022,2022-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) introduced a resolution recognizing Israeli-American contributions and condemning antisemitism. The bipartisan resolution introduced by the co-chairs of the Senate Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations condemns discrimination and violence faced by Israeli-Americans while recognizing their important cultural contributions to America. “Israeli-American and Jewish Americans have been incredible contributors to the success of the United States and have made valuable improvements to our society. Furthermore, in America, where everyone is free to pursue the American dream regardless of their race, religion, or ethnic background, discrimination of any kind has no place,” said Senator Scott. “I stand with my Jewish brothers and sisters against antisemitic hate.” “As the third Jewish woman to ever serve in the U.S. Senate, I’m proud to help introduce this resolution to honor the culture, heritage, and legacy of Israeli-Americans,” said Senator Rosen. “At a time of rising antisemitism that impacts Israeli-Americans, this resolution recognizes their contributions to the United States and condemns all forms of hate and discrimination.” The Israeli-American Coalition voiced its support for the resolution noting the importance of vigilance against antisemitism in America. “We are proud that our community and institutions have matured to the point that the Israeli-American story and our contributions to America are worthy of such acknowledgement,” said the IAC. Background: As a founding member of the Senate Black-Jewish Relations Caucus, Senator Tim Scott has worked to combat antisemitism in America and on the world stage. Recently, Sens. Scott and Rosen worked together to introduce a bill to introduce halting the United Nation Human Rights Council’s (UNHRC) biased inquiry into Israel. He also sponsored the Anti-Semitism Awareness Act. Full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:38:01Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-nancy-mace-holds-first-cannabis-hearing-oversight-congress,REP. NANCY MACE HOLDS FIRST CANNABIS HEARING IN OVERSIGHT THIS CONGRESS,2022-11-15,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Chairman Jamie Raskin and Ranking Republican Nancy Mace Hold Oversight Subcommittee Hearing Addressing Bipartisan Cannabis Reform on the One-Year Anniversary of the Mace’s State Reform Act Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC-01), Ranking Member on the Oversight Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, and Chairman of the Subcommittee Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08) held a bipartisan hearing on the developments in state cannabis laws and reforms at the federal level. Rep. Mace issued the following statement on this landmark hearing: “On the one-year anniversary of the introduction of the States Reform Act (H.R.5977), we are taking another important step in the fight for cannabis access,” said Rep. Mace. “Today’s hearing marks a historic moment in time as bipartisan members of Congress come together to discuss the archaic and oppressive cannabis policies holding us back for far too long. We must reach across the aisle to pass common sense cannabis reforms like the States Reform Act.” ### ABOUT Congresswoman Nancy Mace grew up in the Lowcountry. She is the daughter of a retired Army General and retired school teacher. Before being sworn into Congress, Nancy earned accolades as one of the most fiscally conservative members of the South Carolina General Assembly; she’s also one of the most pro-conservation lawmakers in the state of South Carolina. Nancy is the recipient of the 2019 Taxpayer Hero Award from the South Carolina Club for Growth; she has a 100% record of voting to lower taxes. Nancy is also the recipient of the Champion Award from Palmetto Goodwill for her efforts in education and in helping those most in need receive job training; she has a 100 percent rating with Conservation Voters of South Carolina.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1499,Rep. Norman Leads Letter Addressing TRICARE Pharmacies and the Dept. of Defense Health Agency’s Recent Contract Changes,2022-10-27,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – On Wednesday, Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-5) led a letter to Secretary of Defense, Lloyd J. Austin, seeking information from the Department of Defense Health Agency (DHA) regarding its newly re-negotiated contract with Cigna/Express Scripts (ESI). This contract removes the option for many TRICARE beneficiaries to utilize the pharmacy of their choice. The letter was co-signed by 27 additional Members of the House of Representatives, and has the support of the National Community Pharmacists Association, American Pharmacist Association, and Military Officers Association of America. Background As recently as 2021, over 56,000 pharmacy retailers were recognized within the TRICARE network. TRICARE beneficiaries include active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. However, as a result of DHA's newly negotiated contracts with Cigna/ESI, nearly 15,000 pharmacy retailers are no longer part of the TRICARE network, as of October 24th. The exodus of pharmacy retailers leaving the network leaves roughly 400,000 beneficiariesliving in suburban, rural, and underserved communities with limited access to care. Rep. Norman's letter seeks answers from the Secretary of Defense concerning this change, the appropriateness of these negotiated terms, and the impact this decision will have on TRICARE beneficiaries across the nation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-daines-colleagues-demand-nonpartisan-assessment-of-democrats-reckless-and-inflationary-spending/,"Scott, Daines, Colleagues Demand Nonpartisan Assessment of Democrats’ Reckless and Inflationary Spending",2022-10-27,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Steve Daines (R-Mont.), members of the Senate Committees on Finance and Banking, along with a group of their colleagues, sent a letter to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) demanding a swift and thorough assessment of the short- and long-term effects of the Democrats’ reckless spending and inflationary policies on the nation’s fiscal future. “We write to obtain CBO’s assessment of the effects of rapid acceleration of interest rates on net interest costs of servicing the $31-trillion-plus, and growing, federal debt, and effects of the runaway 40-year high consumer price inflation that has been hammering American families and eroding workers’ paychecks,” the senators wrote. “Given the upcoming two-day meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee on November 1st and 2nd, at which it is widely expected that the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates by at least 75 basis points, please reply as soon as possible after November 2nd so that lawmakers and the public can be equipped with the most accurate data possible when making policy decisions,” the senators continued. Senators Scott and Daines were joined by Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), and James Lankford (R-Okla). Read the senators’ full letter sent to the Congressional Budget Office here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-announces-over-58-million-from-epaaes-clean-school-bus-program-for-16-south-carolina-school-districts/,Congressman Clyburn Announces Over $58 Million from EPA’s Clean School Bus Program for 16 South Carolina School Districts,2022-10-26,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"COLUMBIA, SC- Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn announced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding $58.46 million from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to South Carolina school districts through the newly created Clean School Bus Program, including $20.54 million for the Sixth Congressional District. South Carolina will receive the third highest total funding among the states. This funding, administered through the EPA, will help 16 South Carolina school districts purchase electric school buses and charging stations that will aid in the transition to zero emission vehicles and produce cleaner air in and around schools and communities. “I am pleased to see how the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is continuing to serve South Carolina in our pursuit to improve quality of life through infrastructure,” said Congressman Clyburn. “This funding will provide students with the reliable transportation they deserve while reducing climate pollution.” The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The program will also save school districts money by covering the cost to upgrade school bus fleets, replacing older, heavily polluting buses with brand new clean school buses. The South Carolina school districts receiving funded are: School District Total Number of Buses Requested Total Rebate Amount Awarded Abbeville 60 8 $3,160,000.00 Anderson 03 4 $1,580,000.00 Anderson 05 12 $4,740,000.00 Barnwell 45 5 $1,975,000.00 Chester 01 8 $3,160,000.00 Dorchester 04 8 $3,160,000.00 Fairfield 01 8 $3,160,000.00 Georgetown 01 16 $6,320,000.00 Hampton 8 $3,160,000.00 Jasper 01 4 $1,580,000.00 Laurens 56 7 $2,765,000.00 Marion 10 12 $4,740,000.00 McCormick 01 4 $1,580,000.00 Orangeburg 16 $6,320,000.00 Richland 01 16 $6,320,000.00 Sumter 01 12 $4,740,000.00 Total 148 $58,460,000 These awards are part of the first $1 billion allocated from the five-year, $5 billion Clean School Bus Program. In the next round of funding, the EPA will make available another $1 billion for clean school buses in Fiscal Year 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/mace-presses-hhs-taxpayer-funded-child-gender-transition-research,Mace Presses HHS on Taxpayer-Funded Child Gender Transition Research,2022-10-26,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Ranking Member Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra raising concerns about the federal government’s use of taxpayer funds to promote radical gender ideology and the medical transition of children using pharmaceutical or surgical interventions. Mace is calling for all documents and communications about federal funds being used to conduct research related to gender-related medicine on children. “The Biden Administration appears to be encouraging any child, who does not conform to perceptions of masculine or feminine stereotypes, to alter his or her body through potentially irreversible medical or surgical intervention. Instead of funding these life-altering drugs and procedures, our government should be promoting policies to protect vulnerable children—who cannot consent. In light of these concerns, I am requesting documents and information to understand whether, and to what extent, taxpayer dollars are being used to promote and/or fund these potentially harmful practices,” wrote Mace. The number of new gender dysphoria cases and children receiving puberty blockers and hormone therapy have dramatically increased in recent years. While other western countries now warn about the dangers of gender transitions, Biden Administration officials at HHS are perpetuating these practices. Some politicians at the state level are already seeking to remove parents from having any role in their child’s healthcare. Additionally, a recent HHS-proposed rule would force medical practitioners and hospitals to perform these procedures on children even where the medical provider objects on moral and religious grounds. “Under your leadership, the Department of Health and Human Services has taken numerous steps to promote unscientific and harmful practices that reinforce sex stereotypes and, in the worst cases, promote life altering changes to young children. HHS, under the guise of ‘gender affirming care,’ now promotes medical interventions such as drugs designed to block puberty, opposite-sex hormones to transition children—both of which do not have FDA approval for use in children’s gender care—and even surgical interventions to remove or alter the gender specific anatomy. HHS also falsely promotes some of these interventions as ‘reversible’ or ‘partially reversible’ despite potential, serious long-term physical and mental health risks, complications, and regret,” continued Mace. “The American medical institutions simply do not have enough data to understand outcomes. Children who suffer from mental health conditions are least likely to engage in sound decision making which is where parental control should intervene … It is imperative that the American people understand HHS’s role and the use of federal taxpayer money to promote a radical gender ideology that is harming children in our country.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=E6E67CC5-FB4A-4741-B4F6-8E9BB84A7F76,Graham On The Passing Of Secretary Carter,2022-10-25,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement on the passing of former U.S. Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter. “I’m very sad to hear of the passing of former Secretary of Defense Ash Carter. “He was a good friend and worked hard for the men and women in uniform on his watch. “He will be missed by his many friends and his loving family. “Rest in Peace, my friend.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-applauds-fhfa-efforts-to-responsibly-expand-homeownership-to-more-americans/,Scott Applauds FHFA Efforts to Responsibly Expand Homeownership to More Americans,2022-10-25,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released a statement on this week’s announcement by Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director Sandra Thompson that the Agency validated and approved both FICO 10T and VantageScore 4.0 for use by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the GSEs) and will eventually require lenders to deliver both credit scores with each loan sold to the GSEs. “A lot has changed about the world in the two decades since the GSEs’ accepted scoring model was last updated – including tremendous technical advancements in credit modeling technology and significant changes to consumer consumption trends – and this announcement marks an important step in helping make our country’s housing system more fair for everyone without lowering the bar for qualification,” said Senator Scott. “Homeownership is a central part of the American Dream, and I am optimistic that the changes outlined by FHFA today will responsibly assist millions of hardworking, qualified, and creditworthy people across the country to accomplish that goal.” Background: In 2017, Sen. Scott partnered with Senator Mark Warner (R-Va.) to introduce the Credit Score Competition Act, which directed the FHFA to create a process by which credit scoring models can be validated and approved for use by the GSEs when they purchase mortgages. The bill was ultimately part of the bipartisan financial regulatory tailoring package, S. 2155 — the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, which was signed into law in May 2018. FHFA began efforts to implement Sen. Scott’s legislation shortly afterward. Read more about Senator Scott’s work to level the homeownership playing field for creditworthy Americans here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-graham-colleagues-raise-concerns-over-proposed-noaa-rule/,"Scott, Graham, Colleagues Raise Concerns Over Proposed NOAA Rule",2022-10-24,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Senators Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) in sending a letter to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) regarding a recently proposed change to the North Atlantic Right Whale (NARW) Vessel Strike Reduction Rule. In their letter, the senators argue the rule change would slow operations at the port, hurt sport fishers and boat manufacturers, and threaten the lives of harbor pilots. The senators wrote, “After briefings from our harbor pilots and ports experts, the proposed changes as we understand them would challenge navigation safety, endanger mariners, and threaten the viability of South Carolina, North Carolina and Florida ports, as well as the boating and fishing industries and communities in our states. … “Again, while we support NOAA’s efforts to protect the NARW, these efforts should not put mariners in danger, or unnecessarily disrupt the maritime supply chain that is so important to our country’s economy and national security. We urge NOAA to work in good faith with key stakeholders, including ports, pilots, shipping, and labor organizations, to modify its proposal so that the NARW is protected, but the unintended consequences discussed above can be eliminated,” the senators concluded. Read their letter in full here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-finance-committee-republicans-irs-requires-unbiased-oversight-of-unprecedented-funding-boost/,"Scott, Finance Committee Republicans: IRS Requires Unbiased Oversight of Unprecedented Funding Boost",2022-10-21,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Finance Committee Republicans in sending a letter to Government Accountability Office (GAO) Comptroller General Gene Dodaro requesting an update on outstanding issues that GAO has previously advised the IRS to remedy. The senators note the IRS lacks substantive attention to oversight, transparency and accountability, raising the need for increased oversight by Congress and others. With roughly $80 billion in unbridled new funding, the IRS has no excuse for not addressing existing problems at the agency, including lack of taxpayer privacy protections in light of IRS data leaks. The letter: Requests information on what high-risk IRS issues previously identified by GAO remain outstanding; Requests details of the “significant deficiencies in internal controls” identified in GAO’s recent audit of IRS’s FY 2021 and FY 2020 financial statements; Requests details of the “unresolved information system security control deficiencies” identified in that audit; Asks for confirmation that IRS, prior to the IRA, already received more than $3 billion of supplemental funding for FY 2020 and FY 2021; and Asks for a list of outstanding GAO recommendations to the IRS for agency improvements and adherence to the law. The senators wrote, “Among the many unfortunate characteristics of what P.L. 117-169 labels ‘enhancement’ of IRS resources is absence of any substantive enhancement to how the supersized funding will be managed and overseen. This works against accountability, transparency and protections against abuse, and improved internal funding controls. … “Concerns over lack of additional oversight resources proportionate to the vast increase in IRS funding derived from partisan legislation are especially warranted given recent IRS abuses of taxpayers, including violations of civil rights, inappropriate and systematic targeting of non-profit applicants and groups based on political beliefs and inappropriate IRS mixing of politics with religious beliefs. … “Congress and the American people rely on inspectors general, oversight boards where operational and functional, and, importantly, the Government Accountability Office to help provide accountability, transparency, and bipartisan inclusion in agencies uses of hard-earned taxpayer resources. … We ask that GAO provide initial guidance to Congress on its plans to help provide all of the American people eyes into what will transpire with the massive new IRS funding.” Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-tillis-and-colleagues-send-letter-seeking-answers-on-changed-paypal-policy-to-financially-punish-customers-over-misinformation/,"Scott, Tillis, and Colleagues Send Letter Seeking Answers on Changed PayPal Policy to Financially Punish Customers Over ‘Misinformation’",2022-10-20,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and five of their Senate Republican colleagues in penning a letter to PayPal seeking answers over PayPal’s recent announcement of a policy intended to financially punish its own customers for expressing views which PayPal arbitrarily classifies as “misinformation.” Though PayPal ultimately rescinded the policy before it could go into effect, the senators “remain concerned about the processes and values in place at PayPal that allowed a policy such as this to move forward in the first place.” The senators wrote, “As widely reported, PayPal issued an update to the terms and conditions of its AUP, which is scheduled to take effect on November 3, 2022. This update included language that would have allowed PayPal to fine any one of its 429 million users up to $2,500 per offense for spreading ‘misinformation.’ Disturbingly, the drafting of the policy gave PayPal ‘sole discretion’ regarding what constitutes ‘misinformation.’ In effect, PayPal sought the ability to define, then punish its users’ public thoughts.” The senators continued, “Additionally, PayPal attempted to downplay the dramatic shift in policy this provision envisioned by arguing that its user agreement ‘has long-stated that PayPal can take funds of up to $2,500 or local equivalent from an account for each violation of the Acceptable Use Policy.’ Yet a review of PayPal’s current Prohibited Activities list shows the vast majority of violations arise from breaches of public law or transactions for specific disfavored items or business practices. The addition of a vague prohibition on spreading ‘misinformation’ not only would have concerningly expanded the scope of punishable actions, but also would have decreased clarity and increased subjectivity within the Prohibited Activities list. PayPal users deserve clear rules of the road for using the platform, not punishments for open-ended, subjective offenses.” “Greater encroachment by large technology and financial companies into public speech will only exacerbate Americans’ increasing mistrust of such institutions. Moreover, countless major news events over the past several years have taught us that public information continually evolves, often causing individuals, groups, and organizations to reassess what once appeared to be settled fact. Given this reality, policies that empower companies to punish individuals’ beliefs by acting as arbiters of fact in our ever-changing news and public debate environment represent poor business decisions. Instead, large technology and financial institutions should focus on serving the needs of their customers without bias,” the senators concluded. Senators Scott and Tillis were joined by U.S. Senators Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) and Steve Daines (R-Mont.). Read the full letter here. Background Sen. Scott has been leading the fight against discrimination in financial services. Last week, he sent a letter to PayPal President and CEO Dan Schulman expressing his concerns regarding reported updates to the company’s Acceptable Use Policy. The letter cautioned the firm against attempting to usurp the democratic process by using its market power as a financial institution to pick political winners and losers. Read Senator Scott’s letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1494,"Rep. Norman Leads Letter Demanding the Department of Justice Disclose Its Plans to Carry Out President Biden's Executive Order to ""Promote Voter Registration and Voter Participation""",2022-10-18,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Tuesday, Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-5) led a letter to Attorney General Garland regarding the Department of Justice's (DOJ) plan to enact Executive Order (EO) 14019 to ""promote voter registration and voter participation."" As first reported by the Epoch Times on Tuesday, Rep. Norman's letter demands the DOJ publicly disclose its plans and documents indicating how it intends to carry out EO 14019, as ordered by a federal judge. This letter was co-signed by Reps. Randy Weber, Mary Miller, Fred Keller, Bill Posey, Chip Roy, Louis Gohmert, Andy Biggs, and Ben Cline. Background On March 7, 2021, President Biden signed EO 14019 “Promoting Access to Voting,” which directed the heads of federal agencies to submit a comprehensive plan to promote voter participation. President Biden states in this EO that the federal government will expand access to voter registration and will “combat misinformation” that affects public voting participation. The Foundation for Government Accountability sought a copy of the DOJ’s plan to implement this order through a Freedom of Information Act request. The DOJ stonewalled for over 200 days before a federal judge finally ordered the Department to disclose this information. To date, however, the DOJ has not fully complied with that court order. Through the Elections Clause of the Constitution, the responsibility of election matters rest upon the state legislatures. There is no provision in the U.S. Constitution that allows the President to utilize federal agencies — led by his political appointees — as voter registration organizations. Furthermore, federal employees carrying out this EO could be in violation of the Hatch Act and other laws which are meant to keep federal agencies from engaging in political activities to benefit one political party over another. Statements Rep. Norman issued the following statement on Tuesday: “The DOJ’s reputation with public trust is already minimal at best. What could the DOJ have to gain from hiding their plan to promote voter participation from the public? American voters have a right to know what the DOJ’s planned role is in our election. The federal government should abide by the Hatch Act and keep their hands out of our election process.” In response to the congressional letter, the Foundation for Government Accountability's Senior Director of Federal Affairs, Robin Walker, said, “Rep. Norman and his colleagues are asking vital questions that every American deserves answers to—and before Election Day. We applaud their efforts to hold DOJ accountable and expose the lack of transparency surrounding the President’s plan to influence elections.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-announces-over-6-2-million-investments-to-improve-rural-health-care/,Congressman Clyburn Announces Over $6.2 Million Investments to Improve Rural Health Care,2022-10-17,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"Congressman Clyburn Announces Over $6.2 Million Investments to Improve Rural Health Care COLUMBIA, SC– Today Congressman James E. Clyburn announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is awarding $6,276,787 in Emergency Rural Health Care Grants for eight projects to improve health care facilities throughout South Carolina. These grants will help rural health care facilities expand and improve quality of services. “It has been my mission to ensure that every citizen has access to affordable healthcare especially those in our rural communities that have been historically neglected,” said Congressman Clyburn. “I am pleased to see the Biden-Harris Administration’s continued investment in rural communities, which addresses a critical need in districts like mine.” “This significant investment in our rural communities shows the agency’s commitment to not only helping rural, particularly those communities that suffered the most from COVID 19, to recover from the pandemic; but also to help these communities prepare for future pandemics,” said Dr. Saundra Glover, Director of South Carolina Rural Development. “Most importantly it shows our agency’s recognition of the importance of access to quality health care and healthy food options in addressing health inequities.” The Biden-Harris Administration is making this Emergency Rural Health Care Grants Program funding available through its historic legislative package, the American Rescue Plan Act. The Act and this program are examples of the government’s ability to respond quickly to ensure every person and family has access to high-quality health care no matter their zip code. The investments in the eight South Carolina facilities will help build a stronger, more sustainable rural health care system in response to the pandemic. The projects receiving funding are: The Regional Medical Center of Orangeburg and Calhoun counties will receive a $1 million grant to purchase emergency medical equipment that will prevent, detect, and respond to the threat posed by any future pandemic and strengthen the healthcare system for public health preparedness. This project has two components: The first component, emergency pandemic equipment, aims to prevent and limit the extent of possible long-term effects and loss of life in the region by having updated and more accessible clinical equipment. The second component, is to provide healthcare access through telemedicine, aims to support monitoring and evaluation of future patients to ensure smooth and satisfactory transitional care and access to specialized healthcare providers. The Franklin C. Fetter Family Health Center will receive a $1 million grant to expand and improve health care services, nutritional services, provide COVID-19 testing and vaccinations and prepare for future pandemic testing and vaccinations, food distribution of locally grown fruits and vegetables (food bank) and telehealth services. This project and these improvements will allow the Fetter Health Care Network to provide essential services to its customers and improve health care related outcomes. Dorchester County will receive a $1 million grant to offer support for rural healthcare services to broaden access to COVID-19 testing and vaccines, wellness services, lab work, radiology, and telemedicine in the rural community of St. George, South Carolina. Dorchester County plans to rehabilitate and repurpose the structure for an urgent medical care facility providing these services to increase access to quality health care and improve community health outcomes in the rural western end of Dorchester County. The City of Orangeburg will receive a $857,075 grant to assist the city of Orangeburg recover from the costs and wear on the fire and Emergency Management System equipment during the pandemic. This improvement will enable the city to replace and expand their emergency medical care and services to provide equity medical care and emergency medical response to rural citizens to improve the medical and health outcomes in rural Orangeburg. Allendale County Rescue Squad will receive a $750,000 grant to improve pre-hospital patient health outcomes by providing more effective pre-hospital emergency and non-emergency care to the residents of Allendale County, South Carolina. Replacement of obsolete emergency equipment is critical to improving patient outcomes. Pre-hospital interventions are important to patient survival. This improvement will provide emergency communication systems and ambulance equipment resulting in better to access to quality health care for the citizens of Allendale County. Orangeburg County will receive a $750,000 grant to purchase five emergency medical services response vehicles for the Holly Hill and Eutawville service area, which is medically underserved and 40 miles from a hospital. This project is needed to provide equitable medical services to residents of this rural area and to prepare for future pandemics. Allendale County will receive a $687,212 grant to increase access to quality health care services, improve community health outcomes, and help first responders safely and properly respond to emergent situations. These improvements will allow the Allendale County Fire Department and Sheriff’s Department to improve and increase access to quality health care to the residents of rural Allendale County. Coastal Plains Physician Associates will receive a $232,500 grant to purchase medical equipment and furnishings needed to establish the telemedicine center. This project is in conjunction with Hampton Regional Medical Center and is an affiliate of Medical University of South Carolina. In August 2021, USDA made the Emergency Rural Health Care Grants available through the American Rescue Plan Act to help rural health care facilities, tribes and communities expand access to health care services and nutrition assistance. The assistance is helping provide immediate relief to support rural hospitals, health care clinics and local communities. USDA is administering the funds through Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-cotton-colleagues-call-for-answers-on-possible-double-dipping-student-loan-refunds-for-federal-employees/,"Scott, Cotton, Colleagues Call for Answers on Possible Double-Dipping Student Loan “Refunds” for Federal Employees",2022-10-14,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), along with Sens. John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), sent a letter to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona seeking answers about federal employees potentially receiving refunds for student loan payments that the federal government made on their behalf. The senators wrote, “Your current guidance raises the troubling possibility that over 12,000 federal employees who benefit from these taxpayers funded repayment programs could receive direct checks to ‘reimburse’ them for loan repayments already made by taxpayers. Your Department explicitly tells borrowers that payments can only be ‘refunded to you, even if someone else made a payment on your loan.’ This could allow federal employees to receive thousands of dollars in refunds for student loans payments that they never actually made themselves.” Read full text of the letter here and below. Dear Secretary Cardona, Your agency recently released a guidance document stating that federal student loan borrowers who made repayments since March 13, 2020 will receive an automatic refund for their payments because both the requirement to make payments and the accrual of interest were paused since this time period. As you know, the federal government already offers generous repayment programs to its employees, which continued during the pandemic. Reports suggest roughly 2,000 Capitol Hill staffers and 10,400 executive branch employees benefit from these generous repayment plans. Your current guidance raises the troubling possibility that over 12,000 federal employees who benefit from these taxpayers funded repayment programs could receive direct checks to “reimburse” them for loan repayments already made by taxpayers. Your Department explicitly tells borrowers that payments can only be “refunded to you, even if someone else made a payment on your loan.” This could allow federal employees to receive thousands of dollars in refunds for student loans payments that they never actually made themselves. Please respond to the following questions no later than October 14, 2022: 1. Do you plan to give a “refund” to any federal employees who had repayments made on their behalf by the federal government since March 13th, 2020? 2. If a federal employee with a $20,000 federal student loan balance in March of 2020 stopped making payments at that time but continued to receive taxpayer benefits that paid their balance down to zero over the course of the pause on repayment, could that borrower apply to have $20,000 “refunded” to them? ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-scott-accepting-applications-for-spring-2023-internships/,Senator Scott Accepting Applications for Spring 2023 Internships,2022-10-12,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) is now accepting applications for internships in his Washington, D.C., North Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville offices for the spring of 2023. The internship program offers undergraduate and graduate students the chance to work with public service professionals and gain practical experience in constituent services, government policy, and more. Washington, D.C. Office: In Washington, interns will research legislation, attend Congressional hearings and briefings, assist with press tasks, and help manage correspondence on various issues. Responsibilities also include answering phones and other administrative tasks. Interns in this office will gain a stronger understanding of the lawmaking process, while also improving their communications skills. South Carolina Offices (North Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville): In the state offices, interns will take an active role in the community, working on state-based projects while also answering phones, completing research, and being an integral part of day-to-day office operations. Interns in these offices are able to assist with issues that affect South Carolinians each day. Internship hours are flexible to accommodate students’ course schedules but generally run from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students may also gain course credit for completing the internship program. Interested students can apply through our website at https://www.scott.senate.gov/constituent-services/internships. For additional questions, contact the internship coordinator at internships@scott.senate.gov or (202) 224-6121. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/tim-scott-letter-to-paypal-financial-institutions-are-not-engineers-of-social-policy/,Tim Scott Letter to PayPal: Financial Institutions Are Not Engineers of Social Policy,2022-10-12,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) wrote a letter to PayPal President and CEO Dan Schulman, following the company’s announcement that their policy fining users $2,500 for spreading “misinformation” was published by mistake. In the letter, Sen. Scott urges PayPal to disavow discrimination in the financial services industry and requests more information related to the development and publication of the erroneous policy. Sen. Scott wrote,“I was gravely concerned by the recently reported updates to PayPal, Inc.’s Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) that would provide the firm carte blanche authority to levy financial penalties against users it determines have violated poorly-defined anti-“misinformation” policies. … “Financial institutions provide financial services; they are not engineers of social policy. They should not punish legal industries like firearms dealers or media companies because they disagree politically, nor should they promote credit to politically favored industries. Increasingly, companies seek to benefit from US regulatory backstops and stability, while blatantly ignoring or subverting long-standing US protections for free speech and political diversity. Going forward, I strongly urge PayPal to clarify how it will make its business decisions based on consistent, quantifiable risk-based analysis of customers, rather than internal policy decisions about what legal products and services should be available to consumers and markets.” Read full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-graham-colleagues-introduce-religious-education-week-resolution/,"Scott, Graham, Colleagues Introduce Religious Education Week Resolution",2022-10-07,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) in introducing a resolution designating October 2 through October 8, 2022, as “Religious Education Week” to celebrate religious educational institutions and the options they provide to families seeking the best education for their children. “Each year, millions of families across the nation choose to enroll their children in religious education,” said Sen. Scott. “With this resolution, we affirm that decision and commit to ensuring religious schools can thrive alongside their secular counterparts. Families should be able to educate their children in the way they see fit, and religious schools play a large role in making that possible.” The resolution is cosponsored by Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.). Organizations in support of the resolution include the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty, Coalition for Jewish Values, Foundation for American Christian Education, School Time Bible Ministries, Association of Christian Schools International, Agudath Israel of America, Seventh-day Adventist Church, Christian Coalition, Alliance Defending Freedom, Christian Legal Society, Catholic Education Partners, Family Research Council, National Committee for Religious Freedom, and Catholics Count. The full text of the resolution is attached. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-sens-scott-and-brown-op-ed-urges-support-for-bipartisan-legislation-to-create-a-more-secure-financial-future/,ICYMI: Sens. Scott & Brown Op-Ed Urges Support for Bipartisan Legislation to Create a More Secure Financial Future,2022-10-06,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON— This week, U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) penned an op-ed in The Hill explaining the importance of advancing their auto portability legislation, which will help all Americans establish a more secure financial future. Creating a more secure financial future for American workers The Hill By Sens. Tim Scott and Sherrod Brown October 5, 2022 “Americans shouldn’t have to jump through hoops and do cumbersome paperwork just to keep their hard-earned retirement savings. When you change jobs your retirement savings should go with you. Period. “It’s why we teamed up to introduce the Advancing Auto Portability Act of 2022, to save workers both time and money. […] “Today, if workers have less than $5,000 in their retirement accounts, those savings are shifted out of retirement savings and are often cashed out. When that happens, workers may have to pay taxes and fees on the money they’ve saved.? They also lose the important benefit of compounding retirement growth. “In 2015, the Employee Benefits Research Institute (EBRI) estimated that Americans lost $92.4 billion due to ‘leakages’ from their retirement cash-outs.? This means Americans are losing retirement savings simply because they changed jobs.?This represents a serious problem that undermines the ability of 401(k) plans to support Americans in their retirements. “According to EBRI, more than 5 million Americans with retirement plan account balances of less than $5,000 leave jobs each year. More than half of those workers have their money leak out of the qualified system within a year, and a close look at the data reveals that money is disproportionately lost by Black and Latino workers, and those in the lowest income brackets. “The Advancing Auto Portability Act of 2022 — which we introduced this summer— would solve this problem by allowing workers to automatically roll over savings from their previous employer to a new employer. Creating continuity will help workers keep more of what they’ve earned for retirement and alleviate some of the stress that already accompanies major life events like changing jobs. “In the modern economy, Americans are changing jobs more frequently than ever before. The average American will have nearly 10 jobs over their working careers, meaning an estimated 14.8 million workers changing their retirement plans each year. Allowing these workers to seamlessly take their full retirement savings with them to their next job would have a life-changing impact on working Americans and would make a significant impact on the U.S. economy. […] “We encourage our colleagues to support this bipartisan, commonsense legislation that will create a more secure financial future for American workers, and save people precious time and money.” Click here to read the op-ed in full at The Hill. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/representatives-wilson-cohen-banks-and-slotkin-introduce-the-0,"Representatives Wilson, Cohen, Banks, and Slotkin Introduce the Bipartisan Stop Helping Adversaries Manipulate Everything (SHAME) Act",2022-10-05,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.– Representative Joe Wilson (R-SC), Ranking Member of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission, along with Co-Chairman Steve Cohen (D-TN), Jim Banks (R-IN), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) issued a joint statement regarding the introduction of the bipartisan Stop Helping Adversaries Manipulate Everything (SHAME) Act. The legislation serves as a deterrent for would-be enablers of foreign governments seeking to undermine democracy, democratic institutions, and U.S. national security interests. ""Stopping corruption and authoritarianism from undermining the American way of life starts at home. No patriotic American should be doing the work of our adversaries by profiting from peddling the propaganda and influence of state-owned businesses and contracting celebrities to push agendas which are detrimental to the United States and our allies. Putin's invasion of Ukraine and his network of oligarchs have brought particular attention to the hundreds of elites who are paid to lobby for our adversaries and undermine our national security. Free speech is a bedrock of our Constitution, but that has never meant massively profiting on the corruption of the likes of the Chinese Communist Party, the terrorist regime in Tehran, war-criminal Putin, and mass-murderer Bashar al-Assad."" Background The SHAME Act amends the Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) and the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) by prohibiting both lobbyists and individuals registered as foreign agents from accepting compensation for work performed on behalf of U.S. adversaries; stipulates new reporting requirements if performed; and levies financial consequences against individuals if violated. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-hagerty-colleagues-lambaste-amalgamated-bank-for-weaponizing-financial-system-to-infringe-on-americans-second-amendment-rights/,"Scott, Hagerty, Colleagues Lambaste Amalgamated Bank for Weaponizing Financial System to Infringe on Americans’ Second Amendment Rights",2022-10-05,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – United States Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, joined Senators Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), and 23 colleagues in sending a letter to Amalgamated Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Priscilla Sims Brown, criticizing the bank’s manipulation of an international rules organization to force U.S. financial services firms to categorize gun purchases—an indefensible attempt to target law-abiding Americans exercising their right to purchase firearms and to enact far-left political goals. “Your bank is attempting to restrict the Second Amendment rights of Americans by going around the democratic process. You should expect Congressional oversight of your actions,” the senators wrote. The Senators pointed to Amalgamated Bank’s website, where its anti-firearm agenda is made alarmingly clear. “It is clear from Amalgamated Bank’s website that it has fully embraced an anti-firearm agenda. Whether it is choosing to debank firearms manufacturers, forcing all commercial clients to adopt anti-gun control codes, or divesting customer assets from lawful businesses, these decisions demonstrate your attempt to force your political views on law-abiding Americans. If you want to change gun policy, you should run for office and make yourself accountable to voters. What’s worse, these actions weren’t enough for you, so you set your sights on forcing these radical and discriminatory policies on the entire financial system,” the senators continued. Prior to the International Standards Organization (ISO)’s recent creation of a merchant category code (MCC) that will target, surveil and discourage gun and ammunition sellers earlier this month, Amalgamated Bank submitted three applications for its anti-firearm policies—each of which were rejected. “Let us be clear: weaponizing the financial system to enact far-left political goals is inexcusable… You should consider this notice to retain all communications involving your role in ISO’s categorization scheme, and you should anticipate testifying before Congress in the near future,” the senators concluded. Additional signers include United States Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), along with Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), John Boozman (R-AR), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Thune (R-S.D.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas). A copy of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Ms. Brown, We write to you about your bank’s manipulation of an international rules organization to force U.S. financial services firms to categorize gun purchases. Your bank is attempting to restrict the Second Amendment rights of Americans by going around the democratic process. You should expect Congressional oversight of your actions. As you are undoubtedly aware, earlier this month, the International Standards Organization (ISO) based in Switzerland created a merchant category code (MCC) specifically to target, surveil and discourage gun and ammunition sellers. Your actions were a major step toward targeting law-abiding Americans exercising their right to purchase firearms, a right that is protected by the Constitution. It is clear from Amalgamated Bank’s website that it has fully embraced an anti-firearm agenda. Whether it is choosing to debank firearms manufacturers, forcing all commercial clients to adopt anti-gun control codes, or divesting customer assets from lawful businesses, these decisions demonstrate your attempt to force your political views on law-abiding Americans. If you want to change gun policy, you should run for office and make yourself accountable to voters. What’s worse, these actions weren’t enough for you, so you set your sights on forcing these radical and discriminatory policies on the entire financial system. There was good reason that the ISO rejected your previous three applications for this policy, as such a move is purely political, not to mention the immense regulatory and compliance burden it will ultimately place on retailers. Let us be clear: weaponizing the financial system to enact far-left political goals is inexcusable. The fundamental rights of Americans should be legislated on and debated by the elected officials who are sent to Washington, D.C. on their constituents’ behalf, and not by progressive activist CEOs or un-elected bureaucrats in Geneva. You should consider this notice to retain all communications involving your role in ISO’s categorization scheme, and you should anticipate testifying before Congress in the near future. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-hbcu-caucus-co-chairs-urge-fbi-and-doj-to-help-protect-hbcus-from-recent-bomb-threats/,"Scott, HBCU Caucus Co-Chairs Urge FBI and DOJ to Help Protect HBCUs from Recent Bomb Threats",2022-10-04,2022,2022-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), Representative French Hill (R-Ark.), and Congresswoman Alma Adams (D-N.C.) — co-chairs of the Congressional Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus — sent a letter to Department of Justice (DOJ) Attorney General Merrick Garland and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray. In their letter, the members urge the FBI and DOJ to provide additional information about the ongoing bomb threats against HBCUs, along with guidance outlining resources available for HBCUs to protect against these threats. The members wrote, “As you know, at least 57 bomb threats have been made to HBCUs across the country. Notably, Howard University has received eight bomb threats, including two recently within the same week. Bomb threats should not be a normal part of the campus experience. … As the co-chairs of the Congressional HBCU Caucus, we are concerned that the ongoing nature of these threats may and embolden others who wish to do these schools, and their students, harm. We look forward to continuing to work with you to ensure institutions receive timely and relevant communications to ensure school leaders and law-enforcement officials have all they need to keep safe as you work expeditiously to identify those responsible.” Background: At least 57 bomb threats have been made to HBCUs in 2022, including to Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Sen. Scott has been working to get to the bottom of these incidents and ensure students feel safe as they continue their education. To that end, the senator: Sent a letter to the Biden administration, alongside the other HBCU caucus chairs, requesting information about the bomb threats; Introduced a Senate resolution condemning these bomb threats and reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to combating violence against HBCU students, staff, and faculty; and Testified at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing title “Combating the Rise in Hate Crimes” where he denounced the bomb threats and called upon the Biden administration to take these threats seriously. Read full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=B6522484-9A68-4504-B8DE-3D2A898B152A,"Graham, Blumenthal Oppose Russia Annexation",2022-09-29,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) today introduced legislation and a resolution that makes clear the United States views the annexation of any Ukrainian territory by the Russian Federation as illegal and unworthy of recognition by the international community. “This is one of the greatest shams since World War II,” said Graham. “It reeks of Putin’s desperation and violates every tenet of international law and human decency. We must stand strong and reject this illegal and immoral annexation. Territorial integrity is one of the bedrocks of the international order, and any nation which recognizes this illegal act should lose all military and economic assistance from the United States.” “Our legislation would, very simply, immediately require cutting off economic and military aid to any country that recognizes Vladimir Putin’s illegal annexation of four regions of Ukraine,” said Blumenthal. “Vladimir Putin is pushing the countries that have backed Ukraine to somehow moderate what they’re doing, and it won’t work. Any nation that aids and abets Vladimir Putin in this absolutely illegal action ought to be held responsible for its complicity. No economic aid, no military aid to any country that recognizes this annexation. It’s a land grab, it’s a steal, and it’s another craven, brazen tactic by Vladimir Putin to test the west’s support for Ukraine. We will continue this effort to hold accountable nations that fail to side with international law, with the fight for freedom, and independence on the part of Ukraine.” Graham and Blumenthal noted that pro-Russian authorities conducted the sham referenda in four regions in Eastern Ukraine (Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia) between September 23 -27, 2022 with the ultimate goal of annexing these regions into the Russian Federation. There were multiple reports of Russian officials visiting schools, hospitals, and workplaces and forcing Ukrainians to vote in favor of annexation. According to published reports, a number of Ukrainians were forced to cast their vote at gunpoint while others were visited by Russian-installed officials who carried ballot boxes from house to house with armed soldiers. There is even concern that Ukrainians in the annexed territories will now be conscripted and forced to fight on behalf of Putin. The legislation, Ensuring Ukrainian Sovereignty Act: Requires the President to immediately cut off all economic and military assistance to nations that recognize any annexation sponsored by the Russian Federation; and Submit a report to Congress regarding the nations that have been cut off and the aid that is being restricted The report would go to the Senate/House Appropriations Committee, Senate/House Foreign Relations/Foreign Affairs Committee, and the Senate/House Armed Services Committee The resolution, which is a statement of support from the United States Senate: Affirms that the Senate refuses to recognize any claim of sovereignty by the Russian Federation over any portion of Ukraine; Affirms the Senate views the recent sham referenda beginning on September 23, 2022, directed by the Government of the Russian Federation, as a violation of international law; and Calls upon the President of the United States to restrict all economic and military aid and assistance to any nation that recognizes Russian sovereignty over any portion of Ukraine The full text of the legislation can be found here. The full text of the resolution can be found here. #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-toomey-meijer-introduce-legislation-to-bolster-americans-retirement-savings/,"Scott, Toomey, Meijer Introduce Legislation to Bolster Americans’ Retirement Savings",2022-09-29,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and U.S. Representative Peter Meijer (Mich.-03) today introduced the Retirement Savings Modernization Act to bolster Americans’ retirement savings by allowing workers to diversify assets included in defined contribution plans, such as 401(k) plans. This legislation will amend the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to clarify that private sector retirement plan sponsors may offer plans, including both pensions and 401(k)s, that are prudently diversified across the full range of asset classes. Since 1982, pension plans have incorporated exposure to asset classes outside of the public markets, such as private equity and real estate. Even though they are covered by the same law, 401(k) plans almost never incorporate exposure to alternative assets due to fiduciaries’ anticipated litigation risk. “Inflation has eroded and devalued the savings many Americans spent their lives accumulating,” said Sen. Scott. “This bill would modernize retirement plans to ensure they can provide diverse investments with higher returns. American workers and their families deserve to go about their lives with peace of mind, knowing their hard-earned money will be secure when they choose to retire.” “With inflation at record highs, a stock market downturn, and a potential recession on the horizon, many Americans are rightfully concerned about their financial future,” said Sen. Toomey. “Our legislation will provide the millions of American savers invested in defined contribution plans with the option to enhance their retirement savings through access to the same wide range of alternative assets currently available to savers with defined benefit pension plans. This reform will open the door to higher returns and a more secure retirement for millions of Americans.” “Americans deserve flexibility with their retirement options, especially in times of fiscal uncertainty,” said Rep. Meijer. “It is past due for retirement plans to reflect the demands of the modern workforce, and the Retirement Savings Modernization Act takes a necessary step towards that. With this bill, Americans can better prepare for retirement, and I am proud to join my colleagues in the both the House and Senate in introducing this meaningful legislation.” Background: Until the 1970s, most Americans working in the private sector relied on pension plans for retirement. Today, the vast majority of private sector workers rely on 401(k) plans. However, pension plans have consistently outperformed 401(k) plans because they diversify across the full range of asset classes, putting one of every five dollars in alternative asset classes like private equity. A recent Georgetown study estimated that 401(k) plans diversified with a modest allocation to alternative asset classes—private equity, hedge funds, and real estate—would increase American workers’ retirement savings by 17% per year and reduce losses in a downturn. The Retirement Savings Modernization Act will: Clarify that plan fiduciaries may select investment options that include a range of asset classes, including private equity. Nothing in ERISA currently limits the asset classes that may be included in a plan; this amendment makes clear that Congress intends to let investment professionals determine the appropriate range of asset classes. Protect ERISA’s fiduciary standard. A unanimous U.S. Supreme Court has affirmed that ERISA’s fiduciary duties are “the highest known to the law.” Fiduciaries must still select investments through a prudent process, and the bill explicitly does not create a safe harbor from a fiduciary’s legal duties. Promote the prudent diversification of retirement savings plans. The bill does not require that plan participants have access to specific asset classes, but it provides fiduciaries with the tools to better ensure diversification. Read more about the bill from Roll Call. For full text of the bill, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-scott-talks-economy-education-and-inflation-on-fox-news-america-reports/,"ICYMI: Scott Talks Economy, Education, and Inflation on Fox News’ “America Reports”",2022-09-28,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Sandra Smith and John Roberts on Fox News’ “America Reports” to discuss the state of the economy, the latest report from the Federal Reserve, and parental rights in education. Click to watch On the nation’s skyrocketing inflation … “Let me tell you this. One of the things that the American people are focused on is the fact that for six consecutive months, inflation has been over 8%. For 17 consecutive months, inflation has outpaced wage growth. So, when you talk to the average voter across the country, as I am, in person— the one thing they talk about is inflation.” On the state of the economy … “The truth is, 75 basis points is the best they could have done. We’re already in a recession; more than half this country has less than $1,000 in their savings accounts. The truth is, Sandra, as a kid who grew up in a single parent household— I will tell you, when my mom pulled up to the gas pump and gas is 50 or 60% higher, that was a crisis in our lives.” On his PROTECT Kids Act … “The fact of the matter is that your child is your most precious possession and your greatest asset, and is your wonderful hope for your future. And to literally separate the child from the parent at nine, ten, eleven, and twelve years old. I just can’t imagine—it’s unimaginable. All what’s happening in schools, big labor unions and bureaucrats are stopping parents from knowing what’s happening to their kids.” “Parents should be talking to their teachers, not having to file a Freedom of Information Act to see if their kid is learning about CRT or some gender issue. In the fourth grade? That’s unconscionable. Literally unconscionable. We should stop seeing schools indoctrinate kids and get back to educating that child.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-blumenthal-lead-effort-to-improve-mental-health-on-college-campuses/,"Scott, Blumenthal Lead Effort to Improve Mental Health on College Campuses",2022-09-28,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) led a bipartisan group of six senators in introducing legislation to encourage higher education institutions to develop and implement comprehensive mental health and suicide prevention plans. “Mental health issues have skyrocketed on college campuses, where students struggle with depression and anxiety at an alarming rate,” said Sen. Scott. “Sadly many students — particularly those at smaller universities with fewer resources — lack the help they need. This bill will help address those gaps and enable students to focus on what matters: their friends, their activities, and most importantly, their education.” “This bipartisan measure will provide students with the mental health support they need to succeed,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Our country is in the midst of a youth mental health crisis with serious cases of anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide growing among college students. Our bill aims to ensure colleges are prepared with the best evidence-based plans to promote positive mental health on campus and to support students when they need help the most.” The Enhancing Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Through Campus Planning Act would amend the Higher Education Act to provide for increased coordination between the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and encourage higher education institutions to create proactive plans for preventing suicide and promoting positive mental health among students to address the mental health crisis. These plans would align with strategies recommended by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Suicide Prevention Resource Center, specifically its nine-part Comprehensive Approach to Suicide Prevention. In the Senate, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.). In the House, the bill was led by U.S. Representatives Susan Wild (D-Pa.) and Fred Keller (R-Pa.) and passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in June. Full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-manchin-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-designate-september-2022-as-national-childhood-cancer-awareness-month/,"Scott, Manchin Lead Bipartisan Effort to Designate September 2022 as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month",2022-09-27,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) led a bipartisan resolution to designate September 2022 as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. This resolution recognizes the impact of cancer on the lives of children, urges stakeholders at every level of government to increase public awareness about the risks of cancer and reminds Americans of the bravery of children who are diagnosed with and recover from cancer. “I am proud to co-lead a resolution designating September as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month,” said Senator Scott. “Childhood should be filled with vibrant memories of family gatherings, sports, school, and holiday parties. Children who battle cancer have these memories overshadowed. That’s why my Senate colleagues and I will continue to support these little heroes and their families who endure cancer battles every day.” “Far too many children in West Virginia and across the country are bravely fighting a cancer diagnosis or have lost loved ones to this devastating disease, and childhood cancer is especially heartbreaking,” said Senator Manchin. “I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to ensure September is dedicated to raising awareness for the terrible battle that many of our children face every day. Gayle and I will continue to keep all cancer patients and their families across West Virginia and the country in our prayers.” “Each year in the U.S. an estimated 16,000 children are diagnosed with cancer, and unfortunately, cancer remains the most common cause of death by disease for children in America. The Alliance for Childhood Cancer thanks Senator Manchin for introducing a resolution to designate September, 2022 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. This resolution will raise awareness and encourage research into cures for pediatric cancers,” the Alliance for Childhood Cancer said in a statement. Senators Scott and Manchin were joined by Senators Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). The full text of the resolution is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mace-unanimous-passage-her-human-trafficking-prevention-act,Rep. Mace on Unanimous Passage of her Human Trafficking Prevention Act,2022-09-26,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,SC,Nancy Mace,M000194,mace.house.gov,mace,https://mace.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Bill requires posting of contact information for the National Human Trafficking Hotline in the public places. Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Mace released the following statement on the passage of her Human Trafficking Prevention Act: “Human trafficking is a crime that often goes unnoticed in our communities”,said Rep. Mace. “Even something as simple as knowing who to call can help a victim free themselves from this horrific crime. Unfortunately, South Carolina is no stranger to these tragedies. In my own backyard of Goose Creek, 28 people faced human trafficking charges just last year. Thanks to the bipartisan leadership and unanimous support from my colleagues, we can ensure perpetrators of this heinous crime are held accountable and victims can receive the help they need.” BACKGROUND: The National Human Trafficking Hotline is a toll-free service connecting victims and survivors of trafficking to critical support and resources. The Hotline provides both a toll-free phone line and SMS text lines which are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Help is available in English, Spanish or in more than 200 additional languages through an on-call interpreter. Contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at: 1-888-373-7888, TTY: 711, Text: 233733",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-finance-committee-republicans-demand-answers-on-irs-use-of-massive-funding-boost/,"Scott, Finance Committee Republicans Demand Answers on IRS Use of Massive Funding Boost",2022-09-23,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Finance Committee Republicans in sending a letter to Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Charles Rettig, requesting detailed plans for how the agency will spend the massive $80 billion injection of funds provided through the Democrats’ latest spending bill, including whether it will fix existing problems and satisfy the critical need for improved customer service, transparency, and accountability. Rather than vague plans outlined by the Treasury Department to date, the senators request detailed information on how the IRS will: Prioritize taxpayer services; Guard against partisan targeting; Protect taxpayer privacy; Modernize technology; and Track and publish timely and reliable reports to establish comprehensive transparency and accountability, allowing for meaningful independent oversight. From the letter: On Prioritizing Taxpayer Services: “…In 2021, taxpayers waited at length for their refunds and approximately 250 million calls to the IRS went unanswered. Millions of taxpayers should not wait well over a year for their refund or spend days trying to connect with the IRS. The situation is particularly dire for millions faced with 40-year high inflation and in need of their tax refund to support their families. . . . The IRS should use its additional funding to prioritize clearing the backlog of returns and correspondence, and expediently pay taxpayers who are owed a refund.” On Guarding Taxpayers Against Partisan Targeting: “Americans should be able to trust that the government will enforce the law without regard to political beliefs, religion, or party affiliation. Compared to other government agencies, the IRS has a broad and powerful reach into Americans’ daily lives. The American people have a right to expect the IRS will exercise its power in a fair, neutral, and impartial manner. There should be no hint of religious or political bias or partisanship; the IRS must take this responsibility seriously.” On Protecting Taxpayer’s Privacy: “The IRS must hold taxpayer information securely in order to preserve its confidentiality. The law protecting taxpayer information rests on sound principles that evolved from adverse experiences with the misuse of tax information. … “Regarding the ProPublica leak, the American people remain in the dark about who was responsible and how it was allowed to happen. Although we understand TIGTA is investigating the leak to ProPublica, the IRS is not a bystander in this ‘very damaging’ event.” On Modernizing Technology: “Modernizing the IRS’s technology infrastructure must be a top priority. With an additional $4.75 billion of the supersized IRS funding allocated to technological improvements, and with the IRS’s Integrated Modernization Business Plan providing loose sketches of what the IRS wants to do and how it plans on doing it, there is room for realizing productivity gains and accompanying improved taxpayer service. … “Refinement and clear articulation of metrics and milestones that independent overseers can objectively use for monitoring any IRS IT and/or business plan modernization are required.” On Transparency and Accountability: “The IRS needs to report to Congress and the American people clear, reliable metrics for monitoring productivity improvements and related customer service improvements facilitated by its supersized budget. … “With an infusion of $80 billion of new funding, the IRS must be accountable, and accountability requires transparency and timely communication with its authorizing Committees.” Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-hosts-inaugural-school-choice-caucus-breakfast-feat-secretary-devos-releases-video/,"Scott Hosts Inaugural School Choice Caucus Breakfast Feat. Secretary DeVos, Releases Video",2022-09-23,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) — co-chair of the bicameral School Choice Caucus — hosted his inaugural School Choice Caucus Breakfast, featuring former Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos and caucus co-chair, Congressman John Moolenaar (R-Mich.). Caucus members discussed ways to expand families’ access to education options that work best for their children. “It’s unacceptable that, in America today, thousands of kids still lack access to quality education simply because of their zip code,” said Sen. Scott. “Their futures — and the future of our nation — depend on us taking action. That’s why I founded the School Choice Caucus, to put the focus back on children and their unique education needs. I’m thankful for Secretary DeVos’ leadership on this issue and look forward to our continued efforts to advance education freedom for all kids.” Sen. Scott released the following video recapping the event. Click to watch Background: With education at the top of mind for parents and families across the nation, Sen. Scott has led several efforts to give them greater autonomy over their children’s education. This year, Sen. Scott: Introduced thePROTECT Kids Act to protect parental rights and combat indoctrination in schools; LedCongressional Review Act (CRA) legislation to nullify the Biden administration’s new rules adding burdensome requirements to charter schools seeking funding; Introduced theRECOVER Act to allow states and school districts to use unspent COVID funds to issue Child Opportunity Scholarships directly to parents; Penned aWall Street Journal op-ed on the RECOVER Act; Penned aWashington Examiner op-ed on families’ desire for school choice; Introduced aresolution celebrating National Charter Schools Week; Urged the U.S. Department of Education to reconsider proposed rules redefining the Charter School Program, stripping parents of their ability to choose the best school for their child; Penned a Washington Examiner op-ed with Congressman Burgess Owens about the merits of school choice; Introduced the Kids in Classes Act to allow families with children in Title I schools to put unused federal education funds toward in-person education, should their school close to COVID-19 or a teachers union goes on strike; Held a parental involvement panel to discuss the need for greater transparency within schools; and Hosted a policy panel featuring former Secretary Condoleezza Rice and Congressman Burgess Owens to discuss how to expand education opportunity to all children. Read more about the breakfast from the Washington Free Beacon. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1477,Rep. Ralph Norman Leads Letter Requesting the Dept. of Justice Investigate White House Advisor's Connection to the Chinese Communist Party,2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Wednesday, Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-05) led a letter requesting Attorney General Merrick Garland investigate the connection between John Podesta, President Biden’s newly appointed White House Advisor for Clean Energy Innovation & Implementation, and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Background John Podesta’s appointment on September 2, 2022 came less than a week prior to the Biden Administration announcing a rollback of Trump-era restrictions on Huawei, a Chinese based telecommunication corporation. The timing of Podesta's appointment calls into question the motive behind easing such restrictions. Huawei was previously sanctioned by the U.S. when the company was accused of using its software to access critical U.S. data and intelligence. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) previously determined Huawei’s equipment was capable of compromising highly restricted military communications. Public disclosure forms released in early 2022 revealed Huawei paid John Podesta’s brother, Tony Podesta, a total of $1 Million in 2021 to lobby the Biden administration on its behalf. Additionally, John Podesta sits on the board of the China-United States Exchange Foundation (CUSEF), a non-governmental organization (NGO) that has funded Chinese propaganda at U.S. Universities. Rep. Norman's letter requests the Department of Justice investigate John Podesta’s connection to the CCP and provide necessary documents such as John Podesta’s employment history, his signed pledge to the ethics code of his office, and documents that verify his brother Tony’s compliance with lobbying rules. Statement “John Podesta will oversee a budget of approximately $370 billion as he steps into his new role,” said Rep. Ralph Norman. “A connection between John Podesta, his brother Tony Podesta, and the Chinese Communist Party certainly raises eyebrows concerning our national security. It's important for the Department of Justice to ensure there's nothing nefarious about this activity by corroborating the relationships and timelines.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=1DEEA7EC-BE6B-4B41-801E-3BA374A1FFC2,Graham to Harris: Tell the Truth,2022-09-20,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after Vice President Harris’s misleading comments in South Carolina on the recently introduced Protecting Pain-Capable Unborn Children from Late-Term Abortions Act. “I’m glad the Vice President visited South Carolina and she is always welcome, but when she comes to our state, she should tell the truth – not mislead. “Vice President Harris and Democrats in Washington must be held accountable for their extreme position on abortion. “The Biden-Harris Administration has the country on the wrong track when it comes to border security, immigration policy, crime, national security – and now they want to put us on the Chinese and North Korean track of abortion on demand up until the moment of birth. “I reject their position. It is not good for America. It is cruel, inhumane, and out of line with the civilized world – and their idea must be soundly rejected. “They want a national law that allows abortion on demand – anywhere, anytime, up until the moment of birth. They even want to use taxpayer dollars to pay for it. The Biden-Harris-Schumer proposal puts America in line with communist China and North Korea, where abortion is available until the moment of birth. “What I’m trying to do at the national level is create a national minimum standard of banning abortion at 15 weeks, when a baby can feel pain, with exceptions for rape, incest, and the life and physical health of the mother. States that have more protections for the unborn in place will not be affected. My proposal puts us in line with 47 out of 50 European countries that have abortion bans at 12 to 14 weeks. It is common-sense protection of the unborn.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-introduces-bill-to-protect-parental-rights-combat-indoctrination-in-schools/,"Scott Introduces Bill to Protect Parental Rights, Combat Indoctrination in Schools",2022-09-20,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) introduced the Parental Rights Over the Education and Care of Their (PROTECT) Kids Act, to protect parental rights by preventing schools from concealing information about students’ gender from their parents. “Schools exist to educate children — not indoctrinate them. And a quality education requires input from those who know children best: their parents,” said Sen. Scott. “Sadly, radical and secretive gender policies have shut parents out of the conversation and broken their trust. My bill will safeguard parental rights, improve the crucial relationship between parents and schools, and ensure that children can learn in an environment free from activist ideology.” The PROTECT Kids Act would restrict federal funding for any elementary or middle school that allows students to change their pronouns, gender markers, or sex-based accommodations (including locker rooms and bathrooms) without the consent of their parents. The bill is supported by Parents Defending Education Action and Independent Women’s Voice. Read more about the bill from the Washington Examiner. Read full text of the bill here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=5075B4EE-CB3F-4B4C-B91D-4ED657446D51,"Graham, Senate Republicans Call for Hunter Biden Prosecutor to be Given Special Counsel Authority",2022-09-19,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and more than 30 other colleagues today sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland demanding that U.S. Attorney David Weiss be extended special counsel protections and authorities to conduct the investigation into Hunter Biden: “There is no way of knowing the entire scope of the investigation, but evidence seems to be mounting that Hunter Biden committed numerous federal crimes, including, but not limited to, tax fraud, money laundering, and foreign-lobbying violations,” the Senators wrote Attorney General Garland. “Given that the investigation involves the President’s son, we believe it is important to provide U.S. Attorney Weiss with special counsel authorities and protections to allow him to investigate an appropriate scope of potentially criminal conduct, avoid the appearance of impropriety, and provide additional assurances to the American people that the Hunter Biden investigation is free from political influence.” “Given the politicization of the DOJ under your watch and the importance of avoiding any appearance of impropriety, the undersigned request that you provide U.S. Attorney Weiss the full protections and authorities of a special counsel. This is one important action that you can take that will go a long way in restoring faith in our governmental institutions.” Full text of the senators’ letter is here. It was signed by Senators Graham, John Cornyn (R-TX), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Charles Grassley (R-IA), John Thune (R-SD), John Barrasso (R-WY), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ron Johnson (R-WI), James Lankford (R-OK), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Mike Lee (R-UT), Steve Daines (R-MT), Ted Cruz (R-TX), James Risch (R-ID), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), James Inhofe (R-OK), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), John Kennedy (R-LA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Shelley Moore-Capito (R-WV), Tim Scott (R-SC), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Hoeven (R-ND), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Ben Sasse (R-NE). #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-cornyn-31-senate-republicans-call-for-hunter-biden-prosecutor-to-be-given-special-counsel-authority/,"Scott, Cornyn, 31 Senate Republicans Call for Hunter Biden Prosecutor to be Given Special Counsel Authority",2022-09-19,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas), along with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and 30 other colleagues, today sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland demanding that U.S. Attorney David Weiss be extended special counsel protections and authorities to conduct the investigation into Hunter Biden. “There is no way of knowing the entire scope of the investigation, but evidence seems to be mounting that Hunter Biden committed numerous federal crimes, including, but not limited to, tax fraud, money laundering, and foreign-lobbying violations,” the senators wrote. “Given that the investigation involves the President’s son, we believe it is important to provide U.S. Attorney Weiss with special counsel authorities and protections to allow him to investigate an appropriate scope of potentially criminal conduct, avoid the appearance of impropriety, and provide additional assurances to the American people that the Hunter Biden investigation is free from political influence.” “Given the politicization of the DOJ under your watch and the importance of avoiding any appearance of impropriety, the undersigned request that you provide U.S. Attorney Weiss the full protections and authorities of a special counsel. This is one important action that you can take that will go a long way in restoring faith in our governmental institutions.” Full text of the senators’ letter is here. It was signed by Senators Scott, Cornyn, McConnell, Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), John Thune (R-S.D.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), James Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Cynthia Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Shelley Moore-Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Ben Sasse (R-Neb.). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-finance-committee-republicans-demand-accountability-for-continued-late-release-of-medicare-social-security-trustees-reports/,"Scott, Finance Committee Republicans Demand Accountability for Continued Late Release of Medicare, Social Security Trustees Reports",2022-09-19,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Finance Committee Republicans in a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), requesting the agency monitor the managing trustee’s flagrant disregard for statutory deadlines. Required by law, the Medicare and Social Security Trustees reports are to be issued no later than April 1, yet the 2021 and 2022 reports were issued August 31 and June 2, respectively. The Biden administration has repeatedly ignored congressional inquiries as to why the trustees reports have not been submitted in a timely manner. Neither Treasury Secretary Yellen nor the Board of Trustees have signaled any intent to modify internal procedure regulating management of the report schedule, nor have they adopted previous GAO recommendations to improve communication with Congress. It is the responsibility of the treasury secretary to provide these reports to Congress in a timely manner, as required by law, or provide Congress and the American people with explanations for late work. From theletter: “With respect to reporting on the financial conditions of trust funds, once again this year the reports were issued well beyond the statutory deadline, and there was no process followed by the Managing Trustee for informing the public or members of Congress about the delay or reasons for the delay. … “Late reporting on financial conditions of important trust funds that support multi-trillion-dollar Social Security and Medicare programs does not seem important to the administration, even in light of the striking decision by the President to politicize the Social Security Administration.” Read the full letterhere. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=A3635053-6D21-4BA6-96F3-AD8FE21F5DFE,"Graham Praises Texas, Florida Governors' Actions in Support of Securing the Border",2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made the following statement on efforts by Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to force the Biden Administration to protect our southern border. “Governor Abbott and Governor DeSantis: Keep it up! “Make this problem real for the Liberal elite. You are welcoming them to the reality facing our border communities who do not get a break from illegal immigration. “Liberals should be trying to fix the problem and securing the border, not complaining about where the migrants go. “According to some on the left, sending illegal immigrants to Martha’s Vineyard is inhumane. What’s inhumane is the Biden immigration policy that entices people to make a dangerous journey to the United States. What makes no sense is to continue these open border policies where our country is flooded with drugs and illegal immigrants, including people on the terrorist watch list. “My message to President Biden: Go to the border. Visit border communities. Talk to the Border Patrol officials on the ground. It’s past time you understand the chaos you have created.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-colleagues-introduce-permitting-reform-legislation/,"Scott, Colleagues Introduce Permitting Reform Legislation",2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Washington – This week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and 44 of their colleagues in introducing the Simplify Timelines and Assure Regulatory Transparency (START) Act. This legislation would implement comprehensive federal regulatory permitting and project review reform. “The failure of Democrat leadership has made the link between energy and national security more apparent than ever before,” said Senator Scott. “Republicans are focused on efficient solutions like the START Act to provide the necessary framework for states to promptly address the challenges to undertaking necessary energy and infrastructure projects across the country.” “Since our calls for action and offers to see legislative text from the permitting ‘deal’ remain unheeded, Republicans are introducing this legislation today to deliver solutions to the roadblocks, delays, and postponements of key infrastructure projects across the country,” said Senator Capito. “The START Act would provide regulatory certainty to states, expedite permitting and review processes, codify substantive environmental regulatory reforms, and expedite permitting of the critically important Mountain Valley Pipeline. Republicans are unified in working to deliver needed permitting reform, and this legislation is a blueprint for how we can help communities benefit from being able to finally get critical projects across the finish line.” This bill was co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), John Thune (R-S.D.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), John Kennedy (R-La.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), and Rob Portman (R-Ohio). Full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=E1E4AC04-AD2B-4D60-9DA0-A59D1646CAA5,"Graham Applauds Clemson, SC State University Funding Announcement",2022-09-15,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will award Clemson University and South Carolina State University up to $70 million under the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grant program. The grant will strengthen South Carolina’s agricultural economy, promote climate-smart production strategies, and enhance the conservation of natural resources. Clemson University and South Carolina State University, South Carolina’s land-grant institutions, have established strategic partnerships with 27 regional entities to establish a pilot project to provide incentives to peanut, vegetable, beef cattle, and forest product growers and landowners to implement climate-smart production practices. The statewide project will enroll hundreds of South Carolina farmers to ensure meaningful involvement of small and underserved producers. “I very much appreciate Secretary Vilsack awarding this grant to strengthen South Carolina’s agriculture economy,” said Graham. “The world is experiencing a food crisis, and Clemson University, South Carolina State University, and South Carolina farmers are on the forefront of increasing crop yields and helping poverty-stricken regions through cutting-edge research. Investing in research and development – particularly as it pertains to agriculture – is a no-brainer. I was proud to be a partner in the efforts to get this done.” Graham wrote to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack this summer encouraging USDA to make this important investment. #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=FE52B63F-C004-47BF-B036-F122EB7864C3,"Graham, Blumenthal Introduce Russian State Sponsor of Terrorism Bill",2022-09-14,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) today introduced the Russia is a State Sponsor of Terrorism Act, legislation that would designate the Russian Federation a State Sponsor of Terrorism. The Russia is a State Sponsor of Terrorism Act would designate the Russian Federation a State Sponsor of Terrorism (SST). This designation would: Drastically curtail defense and technology exports to Russia, Significantly reduce foreign assistance and impose additional financial restrictions on Russia, and Eliminate Russia’s sovereign immunity in the eyes of U.S. courts, opening Russia’s government to lawsuits and other civil claims from the families of victims of its state-sponsored terrorism. “Putin has crossed every line of civilized norms during the war in Ukraine and years before,” said Senator Graham. “He has engaged in state-sponsored assassinations, the Wagner group supported by Russia terrorizes the world, and the war crimes being committed in Ukraine on a daily basis shock the conscious. If Putin’s regime is not a State Sponsor of Terrorism after all this, then the designation is meaningless. We believe that it is long past due to designate Putin’s Russia as a State Sponsor of Terrorism and suffer the consequences thereof because he is a terrorist. Ukrainians have been asking for this designation, and we are listening. This will be a game changer in how we deal with terrorists worldwide.” “The events of these past days and weeks have shown more than ever that Russia should be designated as a state sponsor of terrorism,” said Senator Blumenthal. “What has been revealed in Ukraine’s success on the battlefield is not only its military prowess and Russia’s weakness, but also Putin’s reliance on brutal atrocities, genocide, and war crimes against the people of Ukraine. Russia has more than earned the right to be among the club of pariah nations.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=8F99177C-2BD3-44CA-9D7F-E86AA1A25BF9,"Graham Introduces Legislation to Protect Unborn Children, Bring U.S. Abortion Policy in Line with Other Developed Nations",2022-09-13,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today introduced the Protecting Pain-Capable Unborn Children from Late-Term Abortions Act in the United States Senate. The legislation would set a federal minimum protection for unborn children that is in line with European limits and ban abortion after 15 weeks gestation when unborn children can feel pain. Graham noted that the current standard of medical care calls for unborn babies to receive pain medication during fetal surgery at 15 weeks gestation. Life-saving surgeries performed in utero, using pain medication, include treatment for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome and spina bifida. “Working closely with the preeminent pro-life groups in the country, we are today introducing legislation to ban abortion at a time when unborn children can feel pain,” said Graham. “Our legislation, which bans abortion after 15 weeks gestation, will put the United States abortion policy in line with other developed nations such as France, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Spain, and other European nations.” The Graham legislation: Prohibits doctors from performing abortions after 15 weeks gestation – when an unborn child can feel pain – except in situations involving rape, incest, or risks to the life and physical health of the mother. Leaves in place state laws that are more protective of unborn life. Puts the United States in line with other modern societies – 47 out of 50 European nations limit elective abortion prior to 15 weeks gestation. “After Roe v. Wade was overturned, Democrats in Congress have rallied behind pro-choice legislation which allows abortion right up until the moment of birth. I view the Democrat proposal as radical and one that Americans will ultimately reject. Our legislation is a responsible alternative as we provide exceptions for cases of rape, incest, and life and physical health of the mother,” concluded Graham. Graham noted that over 55,000 abortions at 15 weeks gestation or later occur each year in the United States, and the most recent state-level data shows that the majority of late-term abortions are performed for elective reasons. A majority of Americans – 72 percent – are in favor of limiting abortions after 15 weeks. The full text of the legislation can be found here. ####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=E6F52D7A-4FBF-4F7A-834F-83B1E809456D,Graham: We Cannot Abandon The Unborn,2022-09-13,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made the following statement in response to Andrew McCarthy’s “Confession of Error on My Abortion Post” analysis of the Protecting Pain-Capable Unborn Children from Late-Term Abortions Act. “I’ve known Andy McCarthy for years. He’s a strong conservative voice on many issues, including national security matters. While we’ve had our disagreements, I’ve always respected his point of view. I have never respected Andy more than I do now. “Andy took time to actually read the legislation and better understand what we’re trying to accomplish, and I hope others follow suit. “The legislation we introduced today, with the support of America’s leading pro-life groups, is designed to create a minimum standard in America when it comes to the unborn. “I agree that abortion is now in the hands of the states, but it does not mean that Washington is closed for business when it comes to protecting the unborn. While I’m a strong believer in the Tenth Amendment, many abuses have been justified under the guise of states’ rights. I do not believe completely abandoning the unborn under the guise of states’ rights serves the conservative cause or makes us a better nation. “The radical Left recently pushed legislation in Washington – supported by nearly every Democrat – that will allow abortion up until the point of birth. Their legislation is well outside the mainstream of the world, and I have been working with pro-life groups to produce an alternative. “The Protecting Pain-Capable Unborn Children from Late-Term Abortions Act is a rational, scientifically sound answer to this emotional issue. “The legislation I introduced is in the mainstream of the developed world. 47 out of 50 European nations have abortion restrictions more protective than 15 weeks. France, Denmark, and Norway are at 12 weeks. Germany, Spain, and Belgium are 14 weeks. There are only 7 nations that allow abortion on demand up until the point of birth – North Korea and China among them. “I believe the Republican party should be the party of respecting the Tenth Amendment – but we’re also a nation greater than the sum of its parts. A great nation should not allow procedures – in any state – that will result in the dismemberment of a 15 week developed child unless there were extraordinary circumstances. “My bill explicitly says it will not preempt states that have more restrictive proposals on abortion. “We know from medical science that babies feel pain because their nerve endings are developed by 15 weeks. That is why health care professionals administer anesthesia when operating on a baby at 15 weeks. “It seems to me that prohibiting the dismemberment of a child at this point in time is the right answer for a great nation and places us in the mainstream of developed nations. “Finally, I appreciate Andy’s second look at the bill and look forward to working with him and others as we address the proper role of not only government but society when it comes to protecting the most vulnerable among us – the unborn.” #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-finance-committee-republicans-introduce-bill-to-protect-middle-class-small-businesses-from-supersized-irs/,"Scott, Finance Committee Republicans Introduce Bill to Protect Middle Class, Small Businesses from Supersized IRS",2022-09-13,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and all other committee Republicans in introducing a bill to prevent the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) from using the Democrats’ massive, $80 billion infusion of taxpayer dollars to squeeze more revenue out of Americans earning less than $400,000 per year. “The Democrats’ plan to supersize the IRS flies in the face of President Biden’s promise not to increase taxes on middle-class and low-income Americans. The truth is: The majority of taxes gained from IRS audits come from individuals making less than $200,000 a year,” said Sen. Scott. “The American people are tired of this administration’s vague, misleading messages. This bill would hold President Biden to his word and ensure hard-working Americans are not forced to pay for yet another broken promise.” “Democrats cannot achieve their desired tax revenue goals without targeting the middle class, small businesses and taxpayers earning under $400,000 per year–taxpayers who cannot afford teams of lawyers and legal fees–which is why they rejected my original amendment,” said Sen. Crapo. “While advocates promise they do not intend to increase audits on people making less than $400,000, the best way to protect those taxpayers is to turn that promise into law.” The legislation would prevent the IRS from using any of the $80 billion of funding for audits on hard-working American taxpayers — including individuals and small businesses — with taxable incomes below $400,000. For bill text, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/uk-caucus-co-chairs-wilson-kind-rouzer-and-kilmer-mourn-passing-of-queen,"UK Caucus Co-Chairs Wilson, Kind, Rouzer, and Kilmer Mourn Passing of Queen Elizabeth II",2022-09-09,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Bipartisan co-chairs of the UK Caucus, Representatives Joe Wilson (SC), Ron Kind (WI), David Rouzer (NC), and Derek Kilmer (WA) issued the following statement: ""We offer our sincerest condolences to our friends in the UK, the Commonwealth, and the world, on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. During wartime and peacetime, Queen Elizabeth reigned with distinction and ushered in unprecedented human progress during her decades-long era of service. The spirit of her steadfast leadership and devotion to the cause of freedom will remain with all of us.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-leads-effort-to-protect-charter-schools-from-biden-admins-attacks/,Scott Leads Effort to Protect Charter Schools from Biden Admin’s Attacks,2022-09-09,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) led 21 colleagues in introducing Congressional Review Act (CRA) legislation to nullify the Biden administration’s new rules adding burdensome requirements to charter schools seeking funding. “Time and time again, this administration has bowed to big-labor unions and liberal extremists at the expense of children’s futures. Now they are outdoing themselves with rules that will undermine charter schools — tuition-free, top-notch public education options that serve primarily disadvantaged students,” said Senator Scott. “Support for these schools has never been a partisan issue. It’s time the administration put politics aside and joined parents in the fight for quality education.” Co-signing the resolution are Senators Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas), James Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.). Background: Earlier this year, the Department of Education announced new rules overhauling the 28-year-old, bipartisan Charter School Program (CSP). The changes would place federal, one-size-fits-all requirements on charter schools, making it difficult — if not impossible — for many of these high-quality public schools to receive funding. Despite substantial bipartisan backlash, the administration is moving ahead with its plans, which will strip families of education choice and give more power to big labor unions and bureaucrats in D.C. For months, Sen. Scott has been leading the charge to protect charter schools from this brazen attack. He wrote to Secretary Cardona on several occasions: In April, Sen. Scott and several Republicans expressed deep concern over the proposed CSP rules. In April, Sen. Scott and HELP Ranking Member Richard Burr (R-N.C.) requested an extension of the public comment period. In May, Sen. Scott and a bipartisan group of senators urged the Department to revise the new rules. Click here to read about the CRA in Fox News. Click here for full text of the CRA. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1469,Rep. Ralph Norman Issues Statement on the Passing of Queen Elizabeth II,2022-09-08,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Thursday afternoon, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) issued the following statement following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II: ""My prayers go out to the Royal Family and all of those in the U.K. and the Commonwealth who are mourning the loss of Queen Elizabeth II. May her life and legacy as one of the most symbolic historical figures never be forgotten.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-passing-of-queen-elizabeth-ii/,Scott Statement on Passing of Queen Elizabeth II,2022-09-08,2022,2022-09,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released the following statement on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. “I am saddened to hear of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, and my prayers go out to the Windsor family and all the people of the United Kingdom who are mourning her death. As the longest serving British monarch, her seven decades of steadfast leadership and commitment to building strong relationships with American leaders will be pillars of her larger than life legacy.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:29:59Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1467,Rep. Norman Introduces No Federal Funds for Abortion Travel Expenses Act of 2022,2022-09-07,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Tuesday, Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-5) introduced a bill, No Federal Funds for Abortion Travel Expenses Act of 2022, to restrict federal funding of abortion travel where not otherwise already prohibited by the Hyde Amendment. Background The introduction of the No Federal Funds for Abortion Travel Expenses Act of 2022 comes after the Senate included in its FY23 LHHS appropriations bill a $350 million Abortion Travel Fund for individuals living in pro-life states to travel to obtain abortions, and after the Administration has called for federal action to expand access to abortion travel. In June in the Dobbs v. Jackson ruling, the United States Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, allowing states to handle the issue of abortion themselves and ending more than 49 years of heartbreaking federal precedent. Living in a post-Roe world, we must do everything we can to keep fighting for the rights of the unborn. After the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, President Joe Biden directed his administration to find ways to provide increased access to abortions. He released an executive order that directs the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to “consider any action to advance access to reproductive healthcare services, including through Medicaid for patients who travel out of state for reproductive healthcare services.” Sen. Patty Murray’s (D-WA) egregious abortion travel funding bill is a stark violation of the Hyde Amendment. Rep. Norman’s No Federal Funds for Abortion Travel Expenses Act of 2022 is a retaliation to this. It prohibits the use of federal funds for abortion through financial or logistical support to individuals traveling to another state or country to receive an abortion. Original cosponsors include: Rep. Jeff Duncan (SC), Rep. Greg Stube (FL), Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA), Rep. Mary Miller (IL), Rep. Steve Palazzo (MS), Rep. Andrew Clyde (GA), Rep. Jody Hice (GA), Rep. Randy Weber (TX), Rep. Louie Gohmert (TX), Rep. Jeff Van Drew (NJ), Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ), Rep. Brian Babin (TX), Rep. Ben Cline (VA), Rep. Warren Davidson (OH), Rep. Jodey Arrington (TX), Rep. Markwayne Mullin (OK), Rep. William Timmons (SC), Rep. Lauren Boebert (CO), Rep. Roger Williams (TX), Rep. Lance Gooden (TX), Rep. Ken Buck (CO), Rep. Doug Lamborn (CO), Rep. Michael Guest (MS), Rep. Alex Mooney (WV), Rep. Michael Waltz (FL), Rep. Tracey Mann (KS). Statement Rep. Norman issued the following statement on Wednesday: “It is absolutely unacceptable that Senate Democrats and the Biden Administration are doing everything they can to fund abortions in this post-Roe world. Using federal funds for this purpose is sickening, considering the Supreme Court recently left the issue of abortion up to the states. Remember, many Democrats including our President used to be of the opinion that abortions should only happen in rare circumstances. My Republican colleagues and I will put our foot down every time the federal government attempts to step in on the matter of the right to life.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1464,Rep. Ralph Norman Introduces the Fighting Cancer in Children Act in Honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month,2022-09-02,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Friday, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) introduced the Fighting Cancer in Children Act in honor and recognition of September being Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Background An estimated 400,000 children are diagnosed with cancer around the world each year. Here in the United States, cancer remains the number one cause of ""death by disease"" among children according to the American Childhood Cancer Organization, Funding for the Fighting Cancer in Children Act will be fully offset. This legislation will transfer $30 million from the Office of the Director at the National Institutes of Health, and those funds will be directed to pediatric cancer research, awareness, and survivorship through the Public Health Service Act. Statement Rep. Norman issued the following statement on Friday: “Perhaps the most helpless feeling a parent can experience is watching their child suffer through illness. Fighting pediatric cancer is a critical endeavor, and I aim to make sure we support this type research in a fiscally responsible manner.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1453,Letter to Speaker Pelosi re: Offloading Student Loan Debt to Taxpayers,2022-08-24,2022,2022-08,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Wednesday, Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-5) co-signed a congressional letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi concerning President Biden's recent efforts to offload up to $10,000 from each student loan to taxpayers. ""Noticeably absent from the President’s plan is any plausible legal authority to implement such a policy,"" wrote the lawmakers. ""The legislative and executive branches each possess defined powers under the Constitution. No provision of the Constitution nor any act of Congress, including the Higher Education Act, grants President Biden or the Secretary of Education the authority that they falsely claim to wield through this unilateral action. Thankfully, you have previously expressed your agreement with us on this point. In July 2021, you made the following statement: 'People think that the President of the United States has the power for debt forgiveness. He does not. He can postpone, he can delay, but he does not have that power. That has to be an act of Congress.' ""Although we may disagree on many things, your statement in July 2021 was correct. President Biden’s student loan giveaway is unconstitutional and illegal. Given your previously stated position and your leadership role as Speaker of the House, it is imperative that you act immediately in defense of our Constitution and the powers of the legislative branch."" Click here to view a copy of the letter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=2504979E-6F5A-4F88-9C62-EDEB7A4DB539,"Graham on Fallout of Afghanistan Withdrawal, Mar-A-Lago Raid",2022-08-24,2022,2022-08,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today joined Fox & Friends to discuss where we are one year after the Biden Administration’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan and the latest on the actions of the Department of Justice in regards to the raid of Mar-A-Lago. On Afghanistan: GRAHAM: “This was the withdrawal heard around the world…this withdrawal was heard in Moscow. It was heard in every terrorist camp throughout the world. The terrorists are on steroids, and all of our allies have been shaken by this withdrawal.” https://youtu.be/L3KWWWE9aCI?t=128 GRAHAM: “This has reset the War on Terror in all the worst ways. We had just about cleaned up the mess from the Iraq withdrawal that led to ISIS and the rise of terrorism and thousands of people getting killed all over the world. So apparently Biden learned nothing from Iraq, and this decision to withdraw all of our forces and turn Afghanistan back over the Taliban is setting up another 9/11. This is a very big deal. We're not prepared for the consequences of this withdrawal. You'll never convince me this didn't affect Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine.” https://youtu.be/L3KWWWE9aCI?t=150 On the Department of Justice: GRAHAM: “I want somebody outside of DOJ to look through these documents...I want the affidavit released to the American public. We’re 80 days before a midterm election and we're going to be reading every few days in the Washington Post, the New York Times, and other liberal media outlets about what's in these documents and what Trump knew and what he did. If you release the affidavit, all of us can judge what was there or not there. So this idea of drip, drip, drip 80 days before an election needs to stop. We need to see the affidavit.” https://youtu.be/L3KWWWE9aCI?t=29 GRAHAM: “I read about the Mueller investigation every week in the New York Times and Washington Post. Nobody told me that [Department officials] altered information to the FISA court. Nobody told me that they had information that the entire basis for the Carter Page warrant was a bunch of hearsay and bar talk. So no, I don't trust these people. What I want to do is see the affidavit. This is a raid on the former president of the United States’ personal home 80 days before an election, and I'm supposed to trust the New York Times and The Washington Post? Hell no!” https://youtu.be/L3KWWWE9aCI?t=76 Watch Full Interview Here #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:26:22Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=FD5BBB89-E73D-47CD-89E1-AB237375F6C9,"Graham, Blumenthal Statement on Six-Month Anniversary of Russian Invasion of Ukraine",2022-08-24,2022,2022-08,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) today made the following statement on the six-month anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. “It has been six months since Putin invaded Ukraine – a sovereign nation and American democratic partner. “We were told by intelligence and military officials that this war would last a matter of days. But where are we six months later? “In our recent visit to Ukraine, we witnessed with our own eyes the brutality of the Russian invaders and the determination of the Ukrainian people and their leaders to fight back against Putin’s unprovoked invasion. “With the support of the American people, our Allies and other partners throughout the world, Ukraine has taken the weapons provided and fought like tigers. This has been a disaster for Putin. “Six months after the invasion, NATO is on the verge of expanding to 32 countries, the Russian economy has been crippled, and the Russian military is breaking. “Thanks to the help of the United States and other western allies, Ukraine is attacking Russian forces throughout their country with weapons and assistance. “Six months later, Ukraine has been bloodied but unbowed and remains a vibrant, sovereign democratic nation. Putin is more isolated than ever, and the International Criminal Court is pressing on all fronts to hold Putin and his cronies accountable for their war crimes. “We remain in awe of the determination of the Ukrainian people and leadership to fight against Putin in Ukraine. On this Ukrainian Independence Day, we recognize and celebrate the freedom which Ukraine is fighting so fervently to defend and we recommit ourselves to military, economic, and humanitarian assistance to ensure Ukraine remains free. “It is now time to deliver a decisive blow to the Putin regime by designating Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism under U.S. law. This would be a decisive blow to Putin’s economy and make it more difficult for others to come to his aid. “The Senate unanimously adopted our resolution to designate Russia a state sponsor of terrorism. We are hopeful that the Biden Administration and Secretary Blinken will act soon. The sooner, the better.” #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:26:22Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-tim-scott-statement-on-bidens-300-billion-student-loan-plan/,Senator Tim Scott Statement on Biden’s $300 Billion Student Loan Plan,2022-08-24,2022,2022-08,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) issued the following statement on President Biden’s plan to force Americans who didn’t attend college to pay for student loan forgiveness. “Only one third of Americans have a college degree, and the majority of higher education debt is held by the wealthiest among us. President Biden’s plan to cancel student debt will amount to a $300 billion tax burden that will be paid for by low and middle-class families in the midst of a recession,” said Sen. Scott. “My mom is one of millions of Americans who didn’t go to college. She worked double shifts to keep the lights on and provide for my brother and me. Hardworking Americans like my mom and millions of others should not be responsible for this politically-motivated giveaway. It does nothing to solve the cost of higher education and will only pour more fuel on an overheated economy. Our country is in desperate need of better leadership that works for everyone. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:26:22Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1443,Rep. Rick Crawford and Retired Rep. Mike Conaway To Join Rep. Ralph Norman for Special Agriculture Forum in Chester County on August 30th,2022-08-22,2022,2022-08,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,norman,https://norman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Tuesday, August 30th at 6:00 PM, a special agricultural forum will take place at the Gateway Conference Center in Richburg, SC. This event is sponsored by the Chester County and Fairfield County Farm Bureau Chapters, and will feature: Congressman Ralph Norman (SC-05) Congressman Rick Crawford (AR-01), who serves as the Vice Republican Chair of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture Retired Congressman Mike Conaway (TX-11), who chaired the House Committee on Agriculture through passage of the last Farm Bill in 2018. Harry Ott, President of the SC Farm Bureau Federation Dinner will begin at 6:00 PM, followed by a discussion forum on issues facing our farmers and agricultural industry, including supply chain shortages, federal spending, inflation, trade, the upcoming Farm Bill reauthorization, and more. Individuals from the farming and agricultural community interested in attending this event should RSVP by Friday, August 26th by contacting Ann Torbert, the Chester County Farm Bureau Secretary, at (803) 377-3134 or email AnnTorbert@scfbins.com. Media coverage of this event is welcomed and encouraged. Inquiries should be directed to Austin Livingston at (202) 740-8937.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-announces-2022-bus-tour,Wilson Announces 2022 Bus Tour,2022-08-18,2022,2022-08,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"West Columbia, SC – Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) will host his annual bus tour from August 22-25, 2022, where he will travel throughout South Carolina's Second Congressional District making stops at local businesses, schools, and organizations. ""Each August I host an annual bus tour where I visit all five counties across the Second Congressional District to hear from members of our community and share news of my work in Congress. While I regularly meet with people in our district, I am grateful for this time-honored tradition of being accessible and accountable to those I represent."" Though all can follow us throughout the tour with ongoing updates and photos on our FacebookandInstagram pages, and via hashtag #SC02BusTour2022, the following stops are opportunities for the media to join us and ask questions. August 22 Aiken Rotary Club 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Newberry Hall, 117 Newberry Street, SW Aiken, SC August 23 Coffee Talk with the Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center 800 Lake Murray Boulevard Irmo, SC August 24 South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. 10311 Wilson Boulevard Blythewood, SC August 25 Meet and Greet with the Orangeburg Chamber of Commerce 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. 155 Riverside Drive Orangeburg, SC August 25 Cascades Tissue Group 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 285 Midfield Road Barnwell, SC Media interested in attending please RSVP to David Snider at david.snider@mail.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=B30539A3-0FC6-474F-95F4-275DA4090ADC,Graham on One-Year Anniversary of Afghanistan Withdrawal,2022-08-16,2022,2022-08,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today joined America’s Newsroom to discuss the one-year anniversary of the Biden Administration’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. GRAHAM: “The likelihood of another attack on American soil and on American allies emanating from Afghanistan because of what Biden did is through the roof. We haven't ended any war at all – we started a new one.” https://youtu.be/v8ctg0MVUdE?t=39 GRAHAM: “Al-Qaeda training camps are emerging in Afghanistan as I speak…We're repeating history and it was all avoidable.” https://youtu.be/v8ctg0MVUdE?t=123 GRAHAM: “It was Biden's decision to pull the plug on Afghanistan against sound military advice. There were conditions in place for our withdrawal. The Taliban were not meeting those conditions. This was a political decision by Biden.” https://youtu.be/v8ctg0MVUdE?t=97 GRAHAM: “You’ve got ISIS fighting al-Qaeda, and al-Qaeda is aligned with the Taliban. What do these three groups have in common? They’re radical Islamists. What have we learned in the last year? If you're a woman in a radical Islamic country, your life is miserable. We're teaching a new generation of young boys to disrespect women. They're starving to death because radical Islamists couldn't run a one car funeral. The conditions in Afghanistan are deplorable. Everything we worked for the last 20 years was wasted, and the training camps that existed before 9/11 are being re-established.” https://youtu.be/v8ctg0MVUdE?t=200 GRAHAM: “It’s just a matter of time before terrorism in Afghanistan migrates to America and the likely path would be a broken southern border.” https://youtu.be/v8ctg0MVUdE?t=234 Watch Full Interview Here #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:26:22Z https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-announces-7-million-grant-to-reconnect-and-transform-disadvantaged-communities-in-charleston-2/,Congressman Clyburn Announces $7 Million Grant to Reconnect and Transform Disadvantaged Communities in Charleston,2022-08-11,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"COLUMBIA, SC – Congressman James E. Clyburn announces the City of Charleston will receive a $7 million Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equality (RAISE) planning grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation for the Lowcountry Lowline project. This project will reconnect disadvantaged communities divided by I-26 on the Charleston Peninsula by revitalizing an abandoned rail corridor to connect residents of seven neighborhoods to local schools, jobs, and a future rapid transit hub. Congressman Clyburn was instrumental in securing provisions in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that directed at least $15 million in RAISE grant funding to projects located in persistent poverty communities and waived matching fund requirements for those historically disadvantage areas. “I am so pleased that Charleston will benefit from the updated RAISE grant program,” said Congressman Clyburn. “This project will reconnect communities, improve their quality of life, and serve as a catalyst for economic growth. This is an example of the federal government investing in historically neglected areas and providing equity and opportunity for them to gain access the promise of America.” This grant award will fund planning and pre-construction activities such as design engineering, permitting, environmental remediation of contaminated soil, NEPA review, equity-focused community engagement, and project management for an approximate 2-mile shared pathway that will create new linkages to metro area’s transit system. This project will utilize an abandoned railway track and a neglected highway corridor to transform the backbone of the Charleston Peninsula into an urban greenway with bike lanes, pedestrian paths, and a hub for the Lowcountry Rapid Transit bus system. RAISE grants are awarded through a competitive process and selected based on criteria that focus on safety, environmental sustainability, quality of life, economic competitiveness and opportunity, state of good repair, partnerships and innovation. Additionally, the updated RAISE criteria also evaluates projects based on mobility and community connectivity. This award is part of $1.5 billion in RAISE grant funding that is being distributed in 2022 to projects that will have a significant local or regional impact. As a result of receiving a RAISE grant in this cycle, the City of Charleston will be eligible to apply for additional funding when the Lowcountry Lowline project is ready for construction.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-announces-7-million-grant-to-reconnect-and-transform-disadvantaged-communities-in-charleston/,CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN ANNOUNCES $7 MILLION GRANT TO RECONNECT AND TRANSFORM DISADVANTAGED COMMUNITIES IN CHARLESTON,2022-08-11,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"COLUMBIA, SC – Congressman James E. Clyburn announces the City of Charleston will receive a $7 million Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equality (RAISE) planning grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation for the Lowcountry Lowline project. This project will reconnect disadvantaged communities divided by I-26 on the Charleston Peninsula by revitalizing an abandoned rail corridor to connect residents of seven neighborhoods to local schools, jobs, and a future rapid transit hub. Congressman Clyburn was instrumental in securing provisions in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that directed at least $15 million in RAISE grant funding to projects located in persistent poverty communities and waived matching fund requirements for those historically disadvantage areas. “I am so pleased that Charleston will benefit from the updated RAISE grant program,” said Congressman Clyburn. “This project will reconnect communities, improve their quality of life, and serve as a catalyst for economic growth. This is an example of the federal government investing in historically neglected areas and providing equity and opportunity for them to gain access the promise of America.” This grant award will fund planning and pre-construction activities such as design engineering, permitting, environmental remediation of contaminated soil, NEPA review, equity-focused community engagement, and project management for an approximate 2-mile shared pathway that will create new linkages to metro area’s transit system. This project will utilize an abandoned railway track and a neglected highway corridor to transform the backbone of the Charleston Peninsula into an urban greenway with bike lanes, pedestrian paths, and a hub for the Lowcountry Rapid Transit bus system. RAISE grants are awarded through a competitive process and selected based on criteria that focus on safety, environmental sustainability, quality of life, economic competitiveness and opportunity, state of good repair, partnerships and innovation. Additionally, the updated RAISE criteria also evaluates projects based on mobility and community connectivity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=805DCD02-1B4F-47CA-AC93-FFAC0E8CBA97,"Graham, McMaster Slam Democrat Spending Bill: ""Nightmare for South Carolina""",2022-08-11,2022,2022-08,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster today spoke in a press conference on the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act and the FBI raid of Mar-a-Lago. On Inflation Reduction Act: GRAHAM: “This bill is a nightmare for South Carolina. It’s a nightmare for the American economy…The bottom line is that this bill raises taxes and creates new federal government programs at a time that we're in a recession. The best way to get out of a recession is limit federal government spending and incentivize growth in the private sector.” McMASTER: “This is dangerous. There's never a good time to raise taxes – we are taxed enough. What we need to do is spend the money on the right things. This is going in the wrong direction.” GRAHAM: “This would harm South Carolina's economy. It would deepen the recession. It is a power grab in the name of climate change. It is a tax and spend bill at a time we can least afford it. And every Republican from Susan Collins to Ted Cruz to Lindsey Graham voted no. The reason that we voted no is that we understood in March 2021 when [Democrats proposed] the American Rescue Plan it would not work.” McMASTER: “The Biden Administration is saying, and the Democrats in the Senate are saying, ‘well it is going to be paid for, it’s going to cut inflation,’ and all that. That is the same rhetoric that we've been hearing year after year from the people on the Left, and what has it gotten us? It has gotten us a $30.59 trillion national debt, which means it is not paid for. It does not cut inflation. It does not create business. It does not spur the economy. It does exactly the opposite.” GRAHAM: “The same people who are telling you this bill will lower inflation are the same people in March 2021 who passed a $1.9 trillion bill along party lines that has wrecked our economy. In March 2021, inflation was 2.6% in this country. It is now 9.1%. The massive spending and taxes in the American Rescue Plan led us to where we are today, and this new bill will make everything worse.” On FBI Raid of Mar-a-Lago: GRAHAM: “I know doing this 90 days before an election reeks of politics. I know this is a dangerous precedent to set. At the end of the day, there's a tremendous burden on the Department of Justice, in my view, to explain their actions, and I hope they will.” GRAHAM: “Can you imagine if the roles were reversed here? If this happened in the Trump world against a prominent Democrat?” GRAHAM: “You don't do things before an election unless you have to. I want to know what led to this. I think every Republican believes that the FBI and other organizations have lost their mind when it comes to Trump. The FBI protects us against child pornography, against terrorism, against crime. My problem is not with the FBI writ large, but I have lived through this. I have seen the Mueller investigation and their work product. What I saw was a system trying to get somebody no matter what the evidence told them.” Watch Full Press Conference Here #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:26:22Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=AF4E5C3D-D4A2-4162-A781-26D38AB723CB,Graham Statement on Attorney General Press Conference,2022-08-11,2022,2022-08,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after Attorney General Merrick Garland’s press conference in Washington. “The primary reason the Attorney General and FBI are being pushed to disclose why the search was necessary is because of the deep mistrust of the FBI and DOJ when it comes to all things Trump - such as the Crossfire Hurricane and Mueller investigations. “What I am looking for is the predicate for the search. Was the information provided to the judge sufficient and necessary to authorize a raid on the former president’s home within ninety days of the midterm election? I am urging, actually insisting, that the DOJ and the FBI lay their cards on the table as to why this course of action was necessary. Until that is done the suspicion will continue to mount. “After Crossfire Hurricane and the Mueller investigation, where FISA Court rebuked the FBI and DOJ for failing to disclose exculpatory material, there is no benefit of the doubt when it comes to investigating President Trump. “Half the country believes that when it comes to President Trump there are no rules. They have lost faith in the system. The only way to address that problem is full disclosure of the facts and circumstances which led to this unprecedented action.” #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:26:22Z