Monday, May 29, 2017

Military, Travel Ban, Memorial Day, WOTUS, Land Exchange, Cyber Defense

FRANKEL PRAISES BIPARTISAN EFFORT TO PROTECT SERVICE MEMBERS FROM EXPLICIT PHOTO SHARING ONLINE
Lois Frankel (D-FL, 22nd)
May 24, 2017

Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21), Chair of the Democratic Women’s Working Group (DWWG), issued the following statement in support of the bipartisan PRIVATE Act, which makes it illegal for military members to share explicit photos without consent. The PRIVATE Act passed the House.
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Congressman Garamendi Statement on Appeals Court Travel Ban Ruling
John Garamendi (D-CA, 3rd)
May 25, 2017

“The 4th Circuit Court of Appeals made the right decision in upholding a lower court ruling that blocked the implementation of President Trump’s travel ban from six predominately Muslim countries. America is a stronger nation when it welcomes immigrants and embraces religious freedom. President Trump repeatedly called for a Muslim ban during the campaign, and people close to the President have admitted that this travel ban was a backdoor attempt to create a legal framework to implement the Muslim ban by other means. The ban is discriminatory and must be rejected. Let’s remember that all of these immigrants are vetted before entering the United States. Muslim Americans form an integral part of the American fabric, and we cannot sacrifice our values for a misguided policy that will not make us safer."
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TODAY WE REMEMBER THOSE WHO SACRIFICED EVERYTHING FOR THIS NATION
Thomas Garrett (R-VA, 5th)
May 29, 2017

"There are some that think Memorial Day is a holiday. The definition of holiday is a day of festivity. For those who have lost spouses, family members and friends who died while serving in our Armed Forces, a festivity is the furthest thing from the truth. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom and security of this great nation. It is our duty to preserve the memory of America and honor those who served it with such distinction. No nation, in human history, has done so much to liberate and defend so many across the planet.
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Gohmert Introduces Armed Services Always Paid (ASAP) Act
Louie Gohmert (R-TX, 1st)
April 27, 2017

“Those who stand between us and loss of freedom –or even annihilation –deserve our utmost respect and honor. The heroic men and women of the U.S. Military risk life and limb daily to certify the safety and security of all Americans at home and abroad. If Congress cannot pass an appropriation, it’s not right for these valiant warriors and their families to suffer through a late paycheck.”
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Goodlatte, Conaway Call on AG to Evaluate DOJ Overreach in Prosecuting WOTUS Violations
Bob Goodlatte (R-VA, 6th)
May 26, 2017

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and House Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway (R-Texas) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions calling for a review of the legal theory underlying the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) decision to prosecute a California court case alleging violations under the Clean Water Act (CWA) – directly related to both the statutory exemptions for farming and the Obama Administration’s waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule.
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Rep. Gosar Introduces Land Exchange Bill to Foster Economic Development and Job Creation in Rural Arizona
Paul A. Gosar (R-AZ, 4th)
May 24, 2017

U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after introducing H.R. 2630, which would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to convey Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land to La Paz County, Arizona, in order to create economic development opportunities and facilitate renewable electricity generation for the Western United States:
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Rep. Tom Graves Releases Updated Active Cyber Defense Bill
Tom Graves (R-GA, 14th)
May 25, 2017

“These changes reflect careful analysis and many thoughtful suggestions from a broad spectrum of industries and viewpoints,” said Rep. Graves. “I thank everyone who helped sharpen this idea and improve the legislation. I look forward to continuing the conversation and formally introducing ACDC in the next few weeks.”
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Sunday, May 28, 2017

Budget, Flood Insurance, Canada, Fishing, Gerrymandering, Veterans, NATO, Small Business, Climate, Skin Cancer

Doyle Responds to Trump Budget
Mike Doyle (D-PA, 14th)
May 23, 2017

“President Trump calls his budget “A New Foundation for American Greatness. It’d be more accurate to call it a budget that undermines the foundations of American greatness. President Trump’s budget would gut the federal investments in education, science, and infrastructure that promote economic growth. It would slash safety net programs and the programs that make life better for millions of hard-working Americans. On top of all that, it would do nothing to create jobs and raise wages.
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Congressman Sean Duffy’s Statement On NFIP Discussion Draft
Sean P. Duffy (R-WI, 7th)
May 25, 2017

“We’re releasing this discussion draft so that all sides can continue to provide input into protecting the program integrity of the NFIP. So far, we have incorporated ideas from both Republicans and Democrats, Members from inland and coastal areas, and stakeholders across several industries. The ideas stemming from this open process will ensure that everyone who needs flood insurance will have access to it while ensuring that the NFIP does not fall further into debt.”
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Duncan, Meeks, Cramer, and Huizenga Introduce Canada Resolution Supporting Bilateral Partnership
Jeff Duncan (R-SC, 3rd)
May 25, 2017

“Canada is one of our closest friends. We share the longest undefended border, largest bilateral trading relationship, and one of the deepest security and energy partnerships in the world. Today, 32 U.S. States consider Canada their primary trading partner. Canada has been a critical ally of ours in the fight against terrorism, and our border security cooperation is one of the most comprehensive in existence. Our energy ties are especially strong, and I am excited about the future of our energy relationship. As our Canadian neighbors celebrate 150 years of the Canadian Federation, I am thankful for the many ways Canada has supported the United States and look forward to building an even stronger relationship in the days ahead.”
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DR. DUNN FIGHTS FOR LOCAL ANGLERS
Neal Dunn (R-FL, 2nd)
May 25, 2017

“We strongly urge you to use any authority at your disposal to expand the 2017 private recreational Red Snapper season in federal waters to include Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in June, July, and August, as well as July 3 and July 4, consistent with the current health and overall sustainability of the stock,” wrote the lawmakers. “While this proposal does not address the longer term issues, we hope this proposed solutions for the 2017 season will be something you will strongly consider.”
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Rep. Ellison Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on North Carolina’s Racist Gerrymandering
Keith Ellison (D-MN, 5th)
May 23, 2017

Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) released the following statement after the Supreme Court affirmed a lower court ruling that two of the congressional districts redrawn by Republicans after the 2010 census were unconstitutional. The Supreme Court found the boundaries of these congressional districts had been been drawn using race as a factor, disenfranchising Black voters.
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Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Honor Veterans
Tom Emmer (R-MN, 6th)
May 26, 2017

This week, U.S. Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Tom Emmer (R-MN) and U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) reintroduced H.R. 2754, the Atomic Veterans Service Medal Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill that would authorize the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participation in the testing of nuclear weapons or under other circumstances.
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ENGEL STATEMENT ON TRUMP'S NATO SPEECH
Eliot Engel (D-NY, 16th)
May 26, 2017

“While I do agree that NATO allies need to keep working toward their defense-spending goals—as set out at the Wales Summit under President Obama’s leadership—there’s a time and a place for that conversation. It shouldn’t be done in a way designed to embarrass our closest friends while standing before a memorial to 9/11—the single time in NATO’s history Article 5 has been invoked.”
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Eshoo Statement on Updated Trumpcare CBO Score
Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA, 18th)
May 25th, 2017

“The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has once again put out the facts on Trumpcare, and they further confirm how damaging the legislation is.
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Esty Statement on CBO Score of Revised GOP Health Care Bill

Foxx, Walberg Statement on American Health Care Act CBO Report

CONGRESSMAN EVANS INTRODUCES BILL TO HELP SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND ENTREPRENEURS
Dwight Evans (D PA, 2nd)
May 25, 2017

The Small Business Innovation Protection Act of 2017 requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) and United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to work together to create valuable training for domestic and international patent protection for our small businesses. The bill will also require the USPTO to work with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network to provide critical training on both domestic and international intellectual property protections for small business owners and entrepreneurs.
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Fitzpatrick Statement on Paris Climate Agreement
Brian Fitzpatrick, (R PA, 8th)
May 28, 2017

"I urge the Administration to keep the United States in the Paris Climate Agreement. Last month, I joined members of both parties in urging the President to remain in the agreement and to keep our seat at the table, and our words are worth repeating: ‘The world's leading nations must work together... It is imperative that we maintain our seat at the table in global discussions of how to address the threats posed by climate change.' I share Secretary of Defense Mattis' view that this challenge must be addressed proactively and head-on, and I agree with both our Secretary of State and Secretary of Energy that retaining our seat at this table is vitally important. A renegotiation is a better option and will benefit our nation in the long run.”
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OP-ED: Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN, 3rd)
May 23, 2017

Listen up, Dad! Your teen daughter isn’t the only one at risk for skin cancer. An estimated 87,110 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with melanoma this year, with 1,840 cases expected in Tennessee alone. But did you know that more than half of those cases will be men? Males age 50 and older are at increased risk of skin cancer, and by age 65 skin cancer rates in men are double that of women. This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, educate yourself and your loved ones about skin cancer prevention.
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Honoring our Commitments to American Veterans
Bill Flores (R-TX, 17th)
May 26, 2017

“Our nation’s veterans have given so much to protect our freedoms and liberties. They deserve to know that their health care and benefits are in good hands. This week, the House passed several bills to help our veterans and put the VA on a path to permanent success. I remain committed to working with my fellow House colleagues to create a 21st century VA that improves access to high-quality care and puts the care of our nation’s veterans first. With Memorial Day approaching, it is fitting that the House works to honor the commitments made to our military men and women.”
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Friday, May 26, 2017

American Health Care Act, Protestors, Biodefense, Food Stamps, Minimum Wage, Social Security, Veterans, Everglades

Davidson Statement on Updated CBO Score for AHCA
Warren Davidson (R-OH, 8th)
May 25, 2017

Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) released the following statement in response to the Congressional Budget Office's (CBO’s) updated score of the American Health Care Act (AHCA): “The CBO only confirms that the AHCA’s entitlement reforms will reduce the deficit and its regulatory reforms will lower premiums. This updated score shows that the amendments added to the original bill will cause premiums to decrease potentially up to 30% in states that take advantage of the new waiver authority granted by the MacArthur Amendment. The Senate needs to act on this legislation as soon as possible so the American people can get relief from the rising costs of Obamacare.”
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Davis Urges Expulsion of Turkish Personnel Who Assaulted Peaceful American Protesters
Rodney Davis (R-IL, 13th)
May 26, 2017

U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) sent a letter, along with several of his colleagues, to the Department of Justice and Department of State urging the immediate expulsion of Turkish personnel who physically assaulted Americans peacefully protesting President Tayyip Erdogan. The assault that took place on May 16, 2017 outside the Turkish ambassador’s residence in Washington, D.C. resulted in several protestors being sent to the hospital.
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DeGette: CBO Score Shows Trumpcare Bill is Ill-Advised, Full of Broken Promises
Diana DeGette (D-CO, 1st)
May 24, 2017

“Trumpcare is bad news for a lot of people, as the CBO has shown yet again,” DeGette said. “If this bill becomes law, it will ration care and put insurance companies back in charge. Millions of people will lose their coverage while the cost for others will go up – including those covered through employer plans. People can expect higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs for skimpy coverage that in many cases won’t include essential services such as maternity care and treatment for mental health and substance abuse. And those over age 50 will pay even more – that is, if they can afford the age tax that this plan would impose."
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Delaney Statement on Potential Closing of National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center in Frederick
John Delaney (D-MD, 6th)
May 26, 2017

President Trump’s fiscal year 2018 budget, released this week, zeroes out funding for the National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) in Frederick, Maryland and calls for its closure. The NBACC is operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is a one-of-a-kind facility dedicated to defending the United States against biological threats. The NBACC supports preparedness planning, intelligence assessments and bio-forensic analysis. The lab often assists the FBI in investigating bioterrorism and bio-crime and employs over 180 people.
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DeLauro Calls out Trump Administration for Decimating the SNAP Program
Rosa L. DeLauro (D-CT, 3rd)
May 24, 2017

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today pressed Sonny Perdue, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to discuss how the Trump Administration’s budget will deeply affect the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps. The Administration has proposed changes that would cut SNAP by $193 billion—more than 25 percent of the program total. DeLauro is a senior member on the Appropriations subcommittee responsible for funding the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Click here to watch the full remarks.

DelBene Joins Sen. Murray in Calling for Federal Minimum Wage Increase
Suzan Delbene (D-WA, 1st)
May 25, 2017

“Strong economic growth can only be achieved when all working families have the opportunity to succeed,” DelBene said. “To build an economy that works for everyone, we need to ensure Americans working a 40-hour week aren’t living below the poverty line. Congress should raise the federal minimum wage to restore the middle class and help families thrive.”
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CONGRESSWOMAN VAL DEMINGS RESPONDS TO THE PASSAGE OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY FRAUD PREVENTION ACT
Val Demings (D-FL, 10th)
May 24, 2017

Congresswoman Val Demings, Florida’s 10th Congressional District, is excited to announce the passage of H.R. 628, the Social Security Fraud Prevention Act of 2017, which she was an original Co-Sponsor of. It will prohibit federal departments and agencies from including the social security account numbers of any individuals on any document sent by mail unless the department or agency head determines that the inclusion of such numbers on a document is necessary.
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Dent Votes to Increase Quality, Expediency of Veterans’ Services
Charles W. Dent (R-PA, 15th)
MAY 26 2017

“These pro-veteran initiatives show that the members of the House from both parties have a sincere desire to ensure that our veterans receive the quality care and attention that they deserve,” Dent said. “We must never grow complacent in our continuing efforts to make necessary reforms to the VA and fulfill the promises that our nation has made to our veterans. The innumerable sacrifices and the selfless dedication exemplified by the men and women in our armed forces can and should be met with a firm commitment to providing them with the highest standards of care and service. In my role as Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Other Related Agencies (MILCON-VA), my goal has always been to advocate on behalf of the men and women in uniform back home in Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District, as well as those across the country. The passage of these bills this week marks an important step in that direction.”
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Everglades Caucus Co-Chairmen Hastings and Diaz-Balart Introduce Everglades for the Next Generation Act
Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL, 25th)
May 25, 2017

“Protecting and restoring the Everglades is vital to the overall health of both South Florida’s ecosystem and economy,” said Congressman Hastings. “This bill works to restore this unique ecosystem by ensuring that as final planning for restoration projects is completed, these projects are authorized and brought on line as expeditiously as possible. I am proud to work with Congressman Diaz-Balart and Senator Nelson in ensuring that progress toward Everglades restoration continues as quickly as possible, and that this national treasure is protected for future generations.”
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Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Attorney General, Israel, terrorism, Russia

Pursuing a Christian Idea of Criminal Justice in the Jeff Sessions Era
Christianity Today
MAY 18, 2017

Since assuming office, Attorney General Jeff Sessions has shown little interest in expanding the efforts of his predecessors in curbing policies that criminal justice reform advocates blame for America’s high rates of mass incarceration. Instead, he’s doubled down, recently instructing federal prosecutors to pursue the harshest penalties for drug dealers and gun violence offenders.
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7 Prophetic Prayer Insights In Response To Manchester Suicide Bombing
Hello Christian
May 22, 2017

In what Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May is calling a “callous" terrorist attack—one of the worst ever in British history—a suicide bomber struck at an Ariana Grande concert on Monday night. The attack left 22 dead—including children—and 59 injured.
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President Trump: 'I Marvelled At God's Presence'
Hello Christian
May 23, 2017

President Donald Trump has given a powerful address at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, explaining his encounter with God at the Western Wall, and reiterating his commitment to the state of Israel and the Jewish people. Reports indicate that the President left a note in the crack of the sacred wall as he prayer, and now he has revealed his experience of God in that moment.
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Intelligence Leaks and Our Hypocritical Press
The Christian Post
May 23, 2017

The overdramatic hype about Trump doing what every president before him has done to share information with an ally to prevent a terror attack is a head-scratcher to those who recall the events of September 11, 2001 as a bad thing.
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Monday, May 22, 2017

Vice President, Terrorism, Saudi Arabia

Graduates walk out on Vice-President Pence at Notre Dame commencement
CBC News
May 21, 2017

Pence spoke briefly of Trump, praising his speech to the leaders of 50 Arab and Muslim nations earlier in the day in Saudi Arabia. Pence said the president "spoke out against religious persecution of all people of all faiths and on the world stage, He condemned, in his words, the murder of innocent Muslims, the oppression of women, the persecution of Jews and the slaughter of Christians."
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London attack: Khalid Masood named as perpetrator
CNN
May 22, 2017

As the inquiry into the atrocity gathered pace, Prime Minister Theresa May revealed the attacker was once linked to violent extremism. He was thought to have been inspired by Islamist ideology, she said.
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Trump signs $110 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia
CBS News
May 20, 2017

The agreement is worth $110 billion effective immediately and $350 billion over 10 years, in an effort to equip Saudi Arabia and Persian Gulf partners in the fight against ISIS. The agreement will provide fighter jets, tanks, combat ships and anti-missile defense systems and create defense-sector jobs in the U.S., according to the White House. The deal includes additional private-sector agreements and a joint vision statement with Saudi Arabia, one of the world's largest oil producers.
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Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Sleeping Angels, Russia, FBI Director

Sleeping Angels run included about 300 bikes
Boone News Republican (Boone)
May 9, 2017

Saturday’s Sixth Annual Sleeping Angels charity run included about 300 bikes, which left the TK Events Center in Boone, stopped at a handful of bars on a loop through counties to the north, then returned to the Events Center for a series of raffles.
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If you want to know more about sleeping Angels Foundation, click HERE

McMaster: Trump talk to Russia ‘wholly appropriate’
Burlington Times News
May 16, 2017

Pushing back against allegations of damaging intelligence disclosures, President Donald Trump’s national security adviser insisted Tuesday that Trump’s revelations to Russian officials about the terrorist threat from the Islamic State group were “wholly appropriate” and amounted to a routine sharing of information.
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Texas Sen. John Cornyn tells Trump administration he'll stay in Senate, is not interested in FBI director job
ABC 13 News
May 16, 2017

Cornyn was interviewed for the post after President Donald Trump fired James Comey. But he said in a statement Tuesday that "the best way I can serve is continuing to fight for a conservative agenda in the U.S. Senate."
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Apprenticeship, College, Immigration, Russia, Health, Student Loans, Israel, FBI Director

Reps. Davis & Lipinski Join Aon Apprentices to Announce Bipartisan Bill to Reinvigorate America’s Apprenticeship Programs
Rodney Davis (R-IL, 13th)
May 10, 2017

“Reducing college debt has been a focus of mine since coming to Congress and apprenticeships can help with this,” said Davis. “For example, the apprentices at Aon learn valuable workplace skills while also attending college classes to complete an associate’s degree. At the end of the program, these young men and women have a job and a college degree that didn’t require any student loans. We want more companies to utilize apprenticeships, not only to help reduce college debt, but also to help retrain our workforce. The LEAP Act will help us accomplish this important, bipartisan goal.”
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Davis, Scott, Hirono, Murray Introduce Major Legislation to Secure Pell Grant Program and Make College More Affordable for Low-Income Students
Susan Davis (D-CA, 53rd)
May 16, 2017

Representatives Susan Davis (D-Calif.) and Bobby Scott (D-Va), and Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) introduced the Pell Grant Preservation & Expansion Act today that will expand and permanently safeguard the Pell Grant program, helping millions of low-income students offset the rising costs of college. The bill would improve the purchasing power of Pell Grants, permanently index the maximum grant to inflation, shift the Pell Grant program to fully mandatory funding, and restore eligibility for defrauded students.
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DeGette Hails Temporary Stays for Vizguerra and Hernandez Garcia, Calls for Further Action
Diana DeGette (D-CO, 1st)
May 12, 2017

Vizguerra, an undocumented immigrant and immigrant rights’ activist, had sheltered in the First Unitarian Church in DeGette’s district since mid-February to avoid deportation on the eve of her last regularly-scheduled appointment with ICE officials. Because the stay on a previous deportation order had expired the week before, Vizguerra became concerned, alerting her family and her attorney that the check-in might not be routine. She was right; ICE agents were preparing to deport her upon arrival at their offices.
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Delaney Statement on Washington Post Report That President Trump Revealed Highly Classified Information to Russian Officials
John Delaney (D-MD, 6th)
May 15, 2017

Late today the Washington Post reported that “President Trump revealed highly classified information to the Russian foreign minister and ambassador in a White House meeting last week, according to current and former U.S. officials, who said that Trump’s disclosures jeopardized a critical source of intelligence on the Islamic State.”
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DeLauro Calls on Congress to Increase Funding for the NIH
Rosa L. DeLauro (D-CT, 3rd)
May 17, 2017

The NIH is the leading biomedical research entity in the world and my colleagues on the subcommittee have often heard me say that medical research is special. A breakthrough at the NIH saves not just one life, but potentially millions, over generations to come. That breakthrough can improve the life of not just a sick individual, but the lives of their loved ones, caretakers, and friends. That is what the NIH represents.
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DelBene Helps Introduce Bill to Let Families Refinance Student Loans
Suzan Delbene (D-WA, 1st)
May 17, 2017

“We should provide every student borrower the opportunity to refinance their loans. It’s unacceptable that Americans are currently able to refinance their car loans, mortgages and business loans, but cannot take advantage of lower interest rates on student loans,” DelBene said. “The rising cost of college is forcing millions of middle-class families deep into debt as they take out higher loan amounts to pay for tuition, fees, textbooks and housing. If we want students to succeed, we need to work toward solutions that make a college degree more affordable for all.”
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Rep. Denham’s ENLIST Act Reaches 200 Co-Sponsors
Jeff Denham (R-CA, 10th)
May 11, 2017

The ENLIST Act would allow otherwise qualified undocumented immigrants brought to the United States by their parents, through no fault of their own, to enlist in the armed services and earn legal status upon honorable completion of their contracts.
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DeSantis: Trump Administration Shouldn't Waffle on Whether the Western Wall is Part of Israel
Ron DeSantis (R-FL, 6th)
May 16, 2017

"The Western Wall is one of the holiest sites in Judaism and there is no reason to be waffling about whether it is properly considered to be a part of Israel. Jerusalem is the eternal and indivisible capital of the Jewish people and of the modern State of Israel. Indeed, soon Israelis will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the liberation of Jerusalem during the defensive Six Day War. Let's stand with our strong friend and ally and not kowtow to those who seek to do Israel harm."
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Congressman DeSaulnier’s Statement on Reports President Trump Asked FBI Director Comey to End Investigation of Flynn
Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA, 11th)
May 17, 2017

“We are at a critical moment in our nation’s history. The reported attempt by President Trump to put an end to the FBI’s investigation into Michael Flynn is an inappropriate abuse of power and reason for grave concern. In order to maintain faith in our democracy and trust in our government, it is essential that Republicans and Democrats set aside party affiliation and seek answers to the many questions plaguing this Administration and its connection to Russia.
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Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Codetalkers, Cursive Writing, North Korea, Syria, Whining Celebs

North Korea missile launch tests Trump’s China outreach
Seymour:Tribune
May 15, 2017

North Korea’s launch of a longer-range missile shows advances in its technological capabilities and offers the sternest test yet of President Donald Trump’s strategy to work with China to combat the threat.
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Bill to study cursive writing passes Indiana Senate and goes to governor for his signature
Shelby News
May 15, 2017

Senate Bill 29 will require the Indiana Department of Education to survey elementary and secondary school administrators and teachers about whether they are for or against mandating cursive writing.
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US accuses Syria of mass executions and burning the bodies
Terre Haute:Tribune-Star
May 15, 2017

The Trump administration on Monday accused the Syrian government of carrying out mass killings of thousands of prisoners and burning the bodies in a large crematorium outside the capital.
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Loud-Mouth Liberal Ashley Judd Wants To Live In Middle East Where Women Have ‘More Rights,’ Gets Unexpected Surprise!
Joe for America

May 8, 2017

Start packing your bags, ladies. All ten of them with the blow-dryers and 46 colors of nail polish. Get your giant vagina costume all stuffed into a carry-on, or better yet, wear it on your flight to Iraq. Let’s see how fast you’re on a flight back to America. No chance you ladies survive a day in another country. You’ll be back to the USA faster than the next Women’s March can hire another terrorist or murderer.
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Flag raised at WHS for Navajo Codetalker
Albia News
May 15, 2017

Adolph Hitler actually knew the United States used Native American codetalkers to communicate without enemy detection in WWI and sent cryptologists to the U.S. to learn Indian languages, but it was determined impossible to learn the hundreds of Native American languages.
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Monday, May 15, 2017


Conaway, Schiff Issue Joint Statement on Russia Investigation
Michael K. Conaway (R-TX, 11th)
May 11, 2017

“The House Intelligence Committee is determined to move forward with its Russia investigation in a thorough and nonpartisan fashion. As a part of our responsibilities, we will be conducting rigorous oversight to ensure that the FBI's own investigation is not impeded or interfered with in any way."
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Congressional Progressive Caucus Leaders Oppose Trump Administration’s Discriminatory Targeting of Haitian Refugees
John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI, 13th)
May 11, 2017

“The Temporary Protected Status Program is a humanitarian program meant to protect individuals from returning to unsafe conditions in their home country. The Trump administration’s request that the Department of Homeland Security pursue inquiries into the criminal records of Haitian immigrants before deciding whether to continue humanitarian protections for tens of thousands of people threatens the livelihood of many Haitians. This marks an unprecedented and disturbing new development in President Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda.”
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Well Armed Women: Promoting gun safety and awareness in Gibson County
Princeton Daily Clarion
May 15, 2017

Educate. Equip. Empower. That is the motto of The Well Armed Woman Gibson County chapter, dedicated to helping women protect themselves and have a little fun as well.
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Could you run a business and homeschool 12 kids?
Richmond:Palladium-Item
May 15, 2017

"I've told the kids that if at any time (Craig or) I feel like we can't handle it, that (school) comes first," she said. "Homeschooling has been a priority for us for 25 years now. They are learning, to be sure. But being involved in this business is also part of the educational experience for our kids."
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Wednesday, May 10, 2017

Pondering the Christian Viewpoint

FIRED, IN TRUE TRUMP FASHION, AND FBI DIRECTOR JAMES COMEY DIDN'T EVEN SEE IT COMING!
Breaking Christian News
May 10, 2017

President Donald Trump, at the recommendation of both Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Attorney General Jeff Sessions, fired FBI Director James Comey on Tuesdaynight over his handling of the investigation into former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
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CHRISTIAN BAKERS IN IRELAND, FINED FOR REFUSING TO BAKE CAKE FOR GAY MARRIAGE, GET A BIG SURPRISE
Breaking Christian News
May 10, 2017

Something quite surprising has happened to Christian bakers in Northern Ireland who were found guilty of discrimination for declining to make a cake that included the message "support gay marriage" on it: The bakery's profits have increased.
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James Comey's Firing Fishy or Long Overdue? Jay Sekulow Breaks It Down
CBN News
May 10, 2017

"James Comey over the last several years has overstepped his bounds," Sekulow charged, "has not understood the jurisdiction of his office, has been derelict in his duties in that regard, and also has, quite frankly, engaged in political activities that are in our lifetime unprecedented."
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'Nixonian': The Left's New Lie That Smears 2 Presidents
Charisma News
May 10, 2017

For weeks, Democrats had been demanding that President Donald Trump fire FBI Director James Comey, and then after he did it, they accuse him of staging a 21st century "Saturday Night Massacre."
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Welfare, FBI Director, Trumpcare, Bladder Cancer

The Ponder News Blog recently tried to reformat how people read the news on this blog, but it didn't work. So we are going back to the original format. It's easier, and better read.

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Trumpcare
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Budd To Support American Health Care Act
Ted Budd (R-NC, 13th)
May 4, 2017

“If history is any guide I’ll take around 2,000 votes this Congress. Most of them will be forgotten. This is not one of those votes. This vote marks the beginning of the end of Obamacare as we know it. The failure of that law can be seen in the double-digit premium increases and monopoly situation in the individual insurance market in our state. "
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Butterfield Statement on Trumpcare Vote
G.K. Butterfield (D-NC, 1st)
May 4, 2017

“I am deeply disappointed that Republicans have once again decided to abandon the interests of the American people. Today’s vote in favor of the latest version of Trumpcare, which repeals the Affordable Care Act (ACA), is shameful."
Read more...

Byrne Votes to Repeal and Replace Obamacare

Rep. Calvert Statement on the Passage of the American Health Care Act

REP. CARBAJAL STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF THE AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT

Carson Statement on Today’s Health Care Vote


Carter Statement on Passage of the American Health Care Act


CARTER VOTES TO REPEAL, REPLACE OBAMACARE

Chabot Statement on Obamacare Repeal

Chaffetz Statement on House Passage of AHCA

CONGRESSMAN CHENEY’S STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF THE AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT (AHCA)

Rep. Chu Decries "Heartless" ACA Repeal Vote

Clark Blasts House Trumpcare Vote

Clay Says House GOP TrumpCare Vote Will Cost Lives, Devastate Medicaid, Rob Medicare

Clyburn Floor Statement In Opposition to House Republicans' Pay More, For Less

Cole Statement on Passage of the American Health Care Act

Congressman Collins Votes to Repeal and Replace Obamacare

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FBI Director James Comey
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Bustos Statement on President Trump’s Firing of FBI Director James Comey
Cheri Bustos (D-IL, 17th)
May 9, 2017

“President Trump’s decision to fire the FBI Director, while the President’s ties to Russia are under FBI investigation, undermines the public trust and should distress all Americans. To allow President Trump to appoint a new FBI Director, who would be in charge of investigating him, would be like letting the fox decide who’s in charge of security at the hen house. This underscores why we need a truly independent investigation with a special prosecutor to go wherever the facts lead so the American people can get a clear understanding of the full extent of Donald Trump’s ties to the Kremlin."
Read more... Modern day McCarthyism, if you ask me.

Statement from Rep. Capuano on the Firing of FBI Director James Comey

Cárdenas Statement on Comey

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor's statement regarding the firing of FBI Director

Castro Statement on Firing of FBI Director Comey

Cicilline Statement on Firing of FBI Director Comey

Congressman Cleaver Releases Statement Regarding James Comey

Coffman Statement on FBI Director Firing

Cohen’s Statement on the Firing of FBI Director James Comey

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Welfare
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Buchanan Legislation to Be Signed Into Law
Vern Buchanan (R-FL, 16th)
May 5, 2017

Buchanan’s bill, which was included in a sweeping government funding bill, directs the U.S. Departments of Labor and Health and Human Services to create a database of state practices that have proved successful in helping people leave welfare. Those best practices would then be made available to officials in all 50 states to be duplicated.
Read more...

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Bladder Cancer
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Cartwright Introduces Resolution to Increase Bladder Cancer Awareness
Matthew Cartwright (D-PA, 17th)
May 4, 2017

Bladder cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the U.S. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 79,000 people will be diagnosed with bladder cancer and over 16,000 people will die from bladder cancer in 2017.
Read more...

Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Today's News Updates

FDA User Fees are Critical to Bringing Safe, Effective Cures to Patients
Bipartisan Policy Center
April 26, 2017

Provisions in draft legislation reauthorizing the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) user fee programs will play a critical role in accelerating the development and delivery of safe and effective treatments and cures to patients. That’s the message of a new Bipartisan Policy Center report released today to help inform Congress as they consider updating and reauthorizing fee agreements the FDA collects from industry for prescription drugs, medical devices, and biosimilars. The fees make up a significant part of the agency’s budget and are set to expire on September 30, 2017, risking staff layoffs and timely approvals of new treatments and cures.
Read more...

Tell Congress to pass bill to defund Planned Parenthood
American Family Association
APRIL 26, 2017

Planned Parenthood is America's largest abortion provider and it carries out over 300,000 abortions each year. In recent years the gruesome practice of abortion by Planned Parenthood was highlighted through undercover videos. These videos showed Planned Parenthood employees discussing the barbaric sale of baby body parts. Not only is this inhumane, it is likely a felony. Such an organization should not receive taxpayer dollars.
Read more...

Fraud in the "Credible Fear" Process
Center for Immigration Studies
April 24, 2017
Since the 2016 presidential campaign, significant attention has been focused on refugees to the United States and the potential dangers that they may pose. Scarce attention has been directed to aliens in expedited removal proceedings with "credible fear" claims, even though they may pose a greater risk to the United States than potential refugees.
Read more...

Elections have consequences, build the wall
Americans for Limited Government
April 24, 2017

“One of the fundamental promises Trump made was to secure the border by expanding the nation’s border wall infrastructure, which already consists of about 600 miles of walls, fencing and other barriers. This is not a binary choice of wall or no wall. We already have walls. It’s about whether the Republican Congress can keep the basic promise the President made to secure the border that was one of the major issues that united Trump’s electoral coalition and propelled Republicans to majorities in both houses of Congress, and not cave into the temper tantrum of the left still trying to figure out how it lost everything in 2016.”
Read more...

FCC Chairman Ajit Pai Begins to Free the Internet From Burdensome Overregulation
Citizens Against Government Waste
April 26, 2017

Citizens Against Government Waste (CAGW) praised Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai today after his announcement of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that is intended to reconsider the imposition of an outdated regulatory regime on the internet.
Read more...

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Citizens Against Government Waste Praises President Trump's First 100 Days
April 24, 2017
Citizens Against Government Waste

Citizens Against Government Waste (CAGW), America’s largest taxpayer watchdog group, applauded the numerous effective actions taken by President Donald Trump during his first 100 days in office to curb rampant waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement in the federal government.
Read more...

CLUB FOR GROWTH ON TRUMP TAX PROPOSAL: THIS IS WHAT PRO-GROWTH TAX REFORM LOOKS LIKE
Club for Growth
April 26th, 2017

“The Trump Administration’s tax reform proposal is massively pro-growth,” said Club for Growth president David McIntosh. “Cutting rates and eliminating deductions will put the U.S. squarely on the path of sustained economic growth, and allowing small and mid-size businesses to use a new 15% business tax rate is crucial to that growth. This is the tax plan that the American people supported when they elected President Trump, so House Republicans would do well to give it their full support.”
Read more...

CLUB FOR GROWTH CELEBRATES 100 DAYS OF PRO-GROWTH PROGRESS
Club for Growth
April 26th, 2017

“Imagine the economic devastation we’d be talking about today if Hillary Clinton had been elected: Higher taxes, more job-crushing government regulations, an expansion of government-run health care, and massive government overreach into the private sector,” said Club for Growth president David McIntosh. “In less than 100 days, President Trump and his administration have not only prevented that nightmare, but they have halted the economic destruction caused by eight years of Obama Administration policies, and have restored consumer and business confidence with strong and effective pro-growth policies (see below). The result of these policies has been a 15% gain in the stock market, which has added at least $2 trillion of wealth to all Americans in their retirement funds and savings.”
Read more...

COUNCIL ON FOUNDATIONS STATEMENT REGARDING WHITE HOUSE TAX CUT STATEMENT
Council on Foundations
APRIL 26, 2017

“Today’s White House statement on its tax reform position clarifies the first step in what will be a long process towards meaningful tax reform. We are especially pleased to see the White House recognize the importance of the charitable deduction. We look forward to seeing even greater clarity from the White House in the coming months on its position."
Read more...

RNC Statement on President Trump’s Tax Reform Proposal
Republican Party
April 26, 2017

“This proposal represents a bold step to enact much needed tax reform,” said Chairwoman McDaniel. “For too long businesses and people in this country have been burdened by an unnecessarily complex and overreaching tax code that has stifled wage and job growth. President Trump’s proposal will go a long way toward restoring economic prosperity by prioritizing middle class tax cuts, enacting business tax reform, and encouraging investment and job growth.”
Read more...

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RETAILERS RESPOND TO PRESIDENT TRUMP’S TAX PLAN
Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA)
April 26, 2017

"We welcome President Trump's outline for tax reform. Retailers pay among the highest effective tax rates of all U.S. businesses and provide jobs to more Americans than any other industry. Reform that substantially lowers the rates that retailers ultimately pay will generate job growth and benefit American families in countless ways. The President's tax reform plan recognizes the importance of a globally competitive tax code that allows American businesses to compete around the world and grow, and for consumers to have more money to save or spend. We will continue to fight back against the harmful border adjustment tax proposed by House Republicans and look forward to working with President Trump to exact pro-growth tax reform this year," said Brian Dodge, senior executive vice president for public affairs."
Read more...

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Trump Administration’s Tax Reform Outline
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
April 26, 2017

“As an advocate for pro-growth tax reform, the U.S. Chamber welcomes the White House’s strong push today to advance tax reform. We’ve got a once-in-a-generation chance to do tax reform, and if we do it right, it can be the single most important step our leaders take to drive economic growth.
Read more...













Internet


FCC Chairman Ajit Pai Begins to Free the Internet From Burdensome Overregulation
Citizens Against Government Waste
April 26, 2017

Citizens Against Government Waste (CAGW) praised Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai today after his announcement of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that is intended to reconsider the imposition of an outdated regulatory regime on the internet.
Read more...

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See Also Media and the Press
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Media and the Press


RSF’s index stresses threats against journalists in Asia, audiences’ need for free press
Broadcasting Board of Governors
April 26, 2017

The media environment in Radio Free Asia’s broadcast region further declined, according to Reporters Without Borders’s 2017 Press Freedom Index. Radio Free Asia (RFA) President Libby Liu said the report’s findings underscore the importance of RFA’s mission in countries that censor and restrict access to independent, reliable news and information. Seven of RFA’s nine language services operate in countries that were ranked in the bottom 10 percent of the survey, with North Korea ranked dead last, and China and Vietnam named the world’s biggest jailers of bloggers and journalists.
Read more...

9th Circuit urged to uphold First Amendment freedoms of investigative journalists
Alliance Defending Freedom
April 21, 2017

Alliance Defending Freedom attorneys representing the pro-life Susan B. Anthony List Education Fund filed a friend-of-the-court brief Friday with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit that encourages the full court to take up the case of David Daleiden of the Center for Medical Progress and uphold First Amendment freedoms for investigative journalists.
Read more...

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