Impeachment, USCMA, Nominations, and Teachers

New Boston, TX - December 24, 2019 - (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH, 3rd) voted to impeach Trump. She said, "We are a nation of laws, based on the principle that no one is above the law, but this president believes he can do anything he wants. As the record shows and the irrefutable testimonies by Trump Administration officials make crystal clear, President Trump welcomed foreign interference in the 2020 Election, abused the power of the presidency, and tried to cover it all up."

Don Beyer (D-VA, 8th) also voted to impeach on those grounds.

Yet, no proof of this exists. Tax dollars have been spent trying to prove this, and other accusations against him, and through it all, the Democrats have found NOTHING except that he is hated enough to want impeached.

Thank God for some Republicans who stand up and call a spade a spade:

Congressman Vern Buchanan spoke on the House floor Wednesday against the impeachment of President Donald Trump.

“Madam Speaker, I will vote today against both articles of impeachment because they are without merit and set a dangerous precedent for our country. This political vendetta is an abuse of the impeachment process and would subvert the votes of 63 million Americans. Just because the President’s opponents are afraid he will win reelection is no excuse for weaponizing impeachment. No president in history has ever been impeached 10 months before an election. Elections are the heart of our democracy. Our founding fathers devised a simple way to remove a president that you disagree with — it’s called an election — and we have one coming up in less than a year. Let the people decide.”

On Thursday, December 19, 2019, Congressman Mo Brooks (R-AL, 5th) and 8 conservative House colleagues sent a letter to United States Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urging them to adopt the Federal Rules of Evidence for the Senate’s President Trump impeachment trial.

Also on Thursday, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed in a bipartisan manner the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). that vote follows months of negotiations by House Democrats to secure improvements to the original USMCA negotiated by the Trump Administration.

“I’m pleased to see that House Democrats were able to secure important changes to the original USMCA draft,” said Ami Bera (D-CA, 7th). “The version of USMCA that passed (today) includes strong protections for American workers, important enforcement mechanisms to ensure all countries are compliant, and key environmental protections.

The revised version of USMCA is a win for the U.S. economy and American families, and will bring important jobs to California.”

I wonder if she will admit that the idea came from Trump?

Rob Bishop (R-UT, 1st) noted the irony of this in his statement:

“It is about time!

Despite USMCA’s bipartisan and bicameral support, Speaker Pelosi has refused to bring it to the floor in what can only be described as an attempt to deny President Trump any victories until she could impeach him.

I am pleased the House passed the trade deal with Canada and Mexico. This is a vast improvement over NAFTA. This bill is good for Utah and the country. It is just too bad it took so long for Democrat leadership to do the right thing.”

Passage of the USMCA is a win for every sector of our economy, including:

Agriculture: The USMCA reduces Canadian and Mexican tariffs on American agricultural goods and eliminates other unfair trading practices – helping our farmers and ranchers sell more of their goods abroad.

Autoworkers and Manufacturers: The USMCA creates new requirements for producing auto parts in North America and ensuring those parts are made in high-wage areas – supporting U.S. autoworkers and giving U.S. automakers an edge over foreign competitors.

Digital Trade: The agreement creates the strongest standard for digital trade in any international agreement to date. This chapter will provide certainty for our tech sector, protect our privacy, and encourage cross-border growth of digital transactions and e-commerce.

Small Businesses and Consumers: Both Canada and Mexico are increasing their de minimis thresholds, or the maximum value of a good shipped across the border before tariffs are applied. This will make it easier for consumers and small businesses to participate in cross-border trade.

Intellectual Property: The USMCA modernizes NAFTA’s IP chapter and creates new enforcement mechanisms to protect American innovators and investors.

“Due to the efforts of House Democrats in the House Trade Working Group, we were able to negotiate with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer a revised USMCA agreement. The revisions make enforcement more effective and fair by fixing loopholes that would have allowed Mexico and Canada to avoid accountability with regards to their trade obligations. This revised USMCA strengthens standards on protecting workers’ rights and introduces penalties on goods and services that are not produced in compliance with key labor standards," said Sanford D. Bishop, Jr (D-GA, 2nd).

“This was an unprecedented vote for an unprecedented trade agreement. This agreement got more Democratic votes than Republican votes, and we were able to thwart the efforts of big drug companies for the first time ever in a trade agreement. This should be a sign that the days of giving big pharma sweetheart deals are over. Protecting our workers and environment, addressing climate change, and putting people ahead of profit will be at the center of all new trade agreements as long as Democrats are in charge,” said Earl Blumenauer (D-OR, 3rd).

“With today’s vote, The House is delivering much-needed certainty to the nearly 70,000 Illinoisans whose jobs depend on fair and free trade with Canada and Mexico,” said Mike Bost (R-IL, 12th). “USMCA will strengthen exports for farmers across my district and is a bright spot in what has been one of the worst years in decades for agriculture. Despite a year of unnecessary delays, I’m glad that we are finally moving forward on this historic agreement.”

“Illinois Farm Bureau greatly appreciates Representative Bost’s vocal leadership for USCMA and for recognizing the value of expanded trade between the U.S. and its neighbors,” said Illinois Farm Bureau president Richard Guebert, Jr., who farms in the 12th District. “The largest export market for Illinois corn is Mexico. This modernized trade agreement maintains our tariff free access to that vital market and opens up the Canadian market for more sales of dairy and wheat from the 12th District. Thanks to Rep. Bost’s leadership Illinois farmers can begin to reap the benefits of expanded trade under USMCA.”

“While we did not achieve all the environmental standards we had hoped for, we did successfully include language that will allow the Paris Climate agreement and other future international environmental agreements to be added by the parties at a later date. As a member of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, I will continue to work to address this issue,” said Julia Brownley (D-CA, 26th).

Now we know why the Democrats so overwhelmingly supported a Trump idea.

Once enacted, USMCA is expected to help create over 176,000 American jobs, $68 billion in new economic activity, and $2.2 billion in annual agriculture exports.

Also on Thursday, President Trump announced his intention to nominate Arizona State University Professor Sethuraman Panchanathan to serve as the director of the National Science Foundation (NSF).

“President Trump has made an inspired choice with his nomination of Dr. Panchanathan—or “Panch,” as we all know him—to head the NSF. During his time at ASU, Panch was instrumental in turning Arizona’s largest institution of higher learning into one of the most innovative universities in the country. His passion for new and exciting ideas is infectious, and I am confident that he will bring this rejuvenating spirit to an organization that could benefit from fresh direction. As a Member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, I look forward to working with him on future projects,” said Andy Biggs (R-AZ, 5th).

On Friday, December 20, 2019, Congressman Anthony Brown (D-MD, 4th) celebrated the inclusion of language from his standalone legislation, the “Educators Expense Deduction Modernization Act,” in the “Restoring Tax Fairness for States and Localities Act.” The legislation passed the House of Representatives. The original provision doubled the teachers’ tax deduction for classroom expenses from $250 to $500. The deduction was increased to $1,000 on the floor.

Reportedly, more than 9 in 10 public-school teachers are not reimbursed for classroom expenses which can include everything from pens to books, crafts and science materials. Teachers in high-poverty schools spent nearly 40 percent more than their peers elsewhere, with one in 10 spending $1,000 or more. In Maryland, nearly 80,000 educators benefit from this deduction.

Club for Growth Supports Neomi Rao’s Confirmation to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals

by: Club for Growth

Washington, D.C. - February 26, 2019 - (The Ponder News) -- Club for Growth President David McIntosh provided the following statement offering his support for Neomi Rao, President Trump’s nominee to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals:

“I have known Neomi for decades and have no doubt that she will be a principled jurist, cut from the same cloth as Justices Scalia and Thomas,” stated Club for Growth President David McIntosh.

“Not only is she eminently qualified for the position, she possesses an extensive knowledge of administrative rulemaking given her most recent time as the Director of President Trump’s Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs at the White House. Furthermore, the decades I have spent working with her on separation-of-powers issues demonstrate that she is an originalist who is faithful to the Constitution. Senate Republicans should not be thrown off track by rumors and innuendo, and instead should stand behind President Trump in support of this nominee. The Senate should move swiftly to confirm her.”

Kavanaugh

Announcements

I can't get them all, but here are a few items from our elected officials about Kavanaugh.

News from the Lawmakers

Bennet Statement on Testimony By Dr. Ford And Judge Kavanaugh
Senator Michael F. Bennet (D - CO)
September 27, 2018
“A hearing is neither a trial nor an investigation. Dr. Ford has made clear in compelling testimony that she is 100% certain Judge Kavanaugh assaulted her. Judge Kavanaugh denies this. Before we vote on a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court, the FBI should investigate the underlying facts of the dispute. If Leader McConnell can hold open a Supreme Court vacancy for more than 400 days, the FBI can surely spend the time required for a formal investigation.”

Read more...

Cantwell Statement on Today’s Judiciary Committee Hearing
Senator Maria Cantwell - (D - WA)
September 27, 2018
"The Senate should not move forward on the Kavanaugh nomination. Dr. Ford's strong testimony should be enough to stop any further votes before a complete nonpartisan investigation takes place. Dr. Ford showed great strength and courage in painting for the nation the long-lasting impacts of sexual assault."

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Sen. Cruz: Judge Kavanaugh and Dr. Ford’s Treatment by Democrats and the Media is One of the Most Shameful Chapters in the History of the Senate
Senator Ted Cruz (R - TX)
September 27, 2018
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, participated in a hearing on the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the United States Supreme Court. There, he expressed his concerns over Senate Judiciary Democrats’ inaction and delay in handling the allegations presented before the Senate Judiciary Committee, and especially how this delay harmed Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and Judge Kavanaugh, their families, their reputations, and their personal lives.

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Daines: I Stand with Judge Kavanaugh
Senator Steve Daines (R-MT)
September 27, 2018
“I watched the entire hearing from gavel to gavel. I made it very clear from the beginning that I wanted to hear from both Dr. Ford and Judge Kavanaugh because of the seriousness of these allegations. And I thank both of them for coming before the Committee to be heard. But as I watched it today, I concluded that there is no corroborating evidence to support this serious allegation. Rather, this seems to be an orchestrated smear campaign intended to destroy Judge Kavanaugh at the eleventh hour. The Democrats turned this process into an embarrassing, political circus that will have lasting effects for generations to come. They should be ashamed. I look forward to casting my vote for Judge Kavanaugh.”

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Durbin Presses Judge Kavanaugh To Call For FBI Investigation Into Allegations Of Sexual Assault; Judge Kavanaugh Refuses
Senator Richard J. Durbin - (D - IL)
September 27, 2018
Following the release of a sworn declaration from Julie Swetnick detailing new allegations of sexual assault by Judge Kavanaugh, Durbin called for Senate Republicans and the White House to either immediately call for the FBI to conduct an investigation into the multiple allegations of sexual assault by Judge Kavanaugh or withdraw his nomination.

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Feinstein Speaks on Brett Kavanaugh’s Credibility and Character
Senator Dianne Feinstein (D - CA)
September 27, 2018
“I hope the majority changes their tactics, opens their minds and seriously reflects on why we are here. We are here for one reason: to determine whether Judge Kavanaugh should be elevated to one of the most powerful positions in our country. This is not a trial of Dr. Ford. It’s a job interview for Judge Kavanaugh. Is Brett Kavanaugh who we want on the most prestigious court in our country? Is he the best we can do?”

Read more...

Transcript of Graham's Remarks on Kavanaugh Nomination
Senator Lindsey Graham (R - SC)
September 27, 2018
“I hope you're on the Supreme Court, that's exactly where you should be. And I hope that the American people will see through this charade. And I wish you well. And I intend to vote for you and I hope everybody who's fair-minded will.”

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Senator Lamar Alexander Statement on Judge Brett Kavanaugh
Senator Lamar Alexander (R - TN)
September 28, 2018
“I will vote to confirm Judge Kavanaugh because of his 26 years of distinguished public service and his reputation as a superior jurist, lawyer and teacher.

“Judge Kavanaugh denies under oath Dr. Ford’s account of an alleged incident 36 years ago. The FBI has conducted six background investigations of Judge Kavanaugh since that alleged incident and found no such conduct. Every person Dr. Ford alleges was present at the incident says under penalty of a felony it didn’t happen.

“Senate Democrats have treated Judge Kavanaugh as innocent until nominated. They have victimized Judge Kavanaugh and Dr. Ford and their families. They have diminished the United States Senate by their embarrassing irresponsibility.”

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Cardin Statement on Judiciary Committee Testimony from Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and Judge Brett Kavanaugh
Sendator Benjamin L.Cardin (D - MD)
September 28, 2018
“Republicans’ righteous indignation over Democrats’ handling of the process fails to address the key question relevant to today’s proceedings: whether Dr. Ford was telling the truth. For my part, I believe Dr. Ford, and I believe she showed remarkable courage in sharing her experience with the American people. I call on my Republican colleagues to now meet her courage with their own. Chairman Grassley should specifically ask President Trump to direct the FBI to fully investigate the incidents brought forward to the Judiciary Committee. The committee vote should be postponed until that investigation is completed. Failing a complete accounting of what happened and when, Judge Kavanaugh’s name should be withdrawn from consideration for the Supreme Court.”

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CORKER ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR SUPREME COURT NOMINEE JUDGE BRETT KAVANAUGH
Senator Bob Corker (R-TN) - (R - TN)
September 28, 2018
“While both individuals provided compelling testimony, nothing that has been presented corroborates the allegation.

“There is no question that Judge Kavanaugh is qualified to serve on the Supreme Court, and in a different political environment, he would be confirmed overwhelmingly.

“I believe Judge Kavanaugh has conducted himself as well as anyone could expect throughout this process and plan to vote to confirm him.”

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On Fox, Cornyn Discusses Ford, Kavanaugh Hearing
Senator John Cornyn- (R - TX)
September 28, 2018
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) appeared on Fox News’ Fox & Friends to discuss yesterday’s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing with Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and Judge Brett Kavanaugh.

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Flake Statement on SCOTUS Nomination
Senator Jeff Flake - (R - AZ)
September 28, 2018
"...What I do know is that our system of justice affords a presumption of innocence to the accused, absent corroborating evidence. That is what binds us to the rule of law. While some may argue that a different standard should apply regarding the Senate’s advice and consent responsibilities, I believe that the constitution’s provisions of fairness and due process apply here as well.

I will vote to confirm Judge Kavanaugh.”

Read more...

Russia, Election Commission, Immigration, Women, Trade, SAFE Act, Disabilities, Shooting, Soil, Nominations, Precision Medicine, USAF, Budget, Veterans

News from the Lawmakers

Sarbanes Statement on Mueller Indictments of Russian Nationals for 2016 Election Meddling
John P. Sarbanes (D-MD, 3rd)
February 16, 2018
Democracy Reform Task Force Chair Rep. John Sarbanes (D-Md.) released the following statement today after special counsel Robert S. Mueller III charged 13 Russian nationals and 3 Russian companies with conspiracy for illegally using social media to spread discord among the American public and to support Donald Trump’s campaign while maligning Hillary Clinton’s campaign:

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Sarbanes Joins Bipartisan Group Calling on President Trump to Immediately Fill Vacant Seats on Federal Election Commission
John P. Sarbanes (D-MD, 3rd)
February 16, 2018
"Our nation needs an effective watchdog to respond in real-time, enforce our nation’s election laws, and provide guidance to incumbents and challengers as they navigate our federal election laws,” the Members wrote. “That is why we urge you to promptly nominate replacements for former Commissioner Ann Ravel and Commissioner Lee Goodman and to fill any further vacancies on the Commission without delay."

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Scalise Urges Support for Goodlatte-McCaul Immigration Bill, Reflects on Personal Experience Enduring Shooting Attack on The Ingraham Angle
Steve Scalise (R-LA, 1st)
February 16, 2018
House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Fox News Channel's The Ingraham Angle last night to discuss his efforts to whip support in the House for the Goodlatte-McCaul immigration bill. In light of this week's tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Whip Scalise also reflected on his own experiences of being a target of a shooting attack.

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Schakowsky Reintroduces the International Violence Against Women Act
Jan Schakowsky (D-IL, 9th)
February 16, 2018
Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Chief Deputy Whip and member of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, released the following statement after reintroducing H.R. 5034, the International Violence Against Women Act:

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Sensenbrenner Leads Delegation-Wide Effort Asking for Local Business Support
James F. Sensenbrenner (R-WI, 5th)
February 16, 2018
Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (WI-05), along with all other members of the Wisconsin Congressional delegation, sent a letter of support to Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross regarding an effort to combat imbalanced trade incentives and protect jobs in Wisconsin. Specifically, the request was made by the Port of Milwaukee on behalf of Quad/Graphics, which employs 7,700 Wisconsin residents and is headquartered in Wisconsin’s Fifth Congressional District.

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Congressman Sires’ Statement on the Indictment of Russian Individuals and Entities for Election Interference
Albio Sires (D-NJ, 8th)
February 16, 2018
“Today’s indictment is further proof of Putin’s continued attempts to undermine the integrity of our democracy. My colleagues and I in Congress have repeatedly urged the Trump Administration to stand up to Russia and take action to defend ourselves from these acts. Bipartisan legislation I supported to sanction Russian actors was signed into law by President Trump himself yet he refuses to enforce it. The President continues to ignore the will of Congress and the American people to sanction those individuals responsible for undermining our democracy. These are attacks on the foundation of our country and protecting against future intrusions should be our number one priority. In the wake of this indictment, it is essential that Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation be allowed to continue unhindered so that we can discover the full extent of Russian interference and hold those responsible fully accountable for their actions. ”

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Rep. Stivers Applauds R+L Carriers’ Announcement of Bonuses up to $1,000 for all Employees
Steve Stivers (R-OH, 15th)
February 16, 2018
On Monday, Wilmington-based global transportation company R+L Carriers announced that it would be issuing bonuses of up to $1,000 for all of its employees, citing the economic benefits from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

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Sasse Statement on Mueller Indictment
Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE)
February 16, 2018
“Mueller just put Moscow on notice. This ought to be a wakeup call to Washington: Putin’s shadow war is aimed at undermining Americans’ trust in our institutions. We know Russia is coming back in 2018 and 2020 – we have to take this threat seriously.”

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Shaheen Statement on Mueller Indictment of Russian Nationals and Entities for Meddling in 2016 Elections
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D - NH)
February 16, 2018
“Russia clearly interfered in our elections and this indictment paints a very disturbing picture as to some of the methods the Kremlin used,” said Shaheen. “This indictment further underscores the need to protect Special Counsel Mueller’s investigation from political interference from the White House and partisan members of Congress. This should not be a partisan issue. We have a duty to come together, both Republicans and Democrats, to support efforts to follow the facts and take aggressive action to defend our democracy.”

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Stivers' SAFE Transitional License Act Passes House
Steve Stivers (R-OH, 15th)
February 15, 2018
This week, the SAFE Transitional License Act, introduced by Congressman Steve Stivers (R-OH), passed the House of Representatives as part of a package of bills from the Financial Services Committee (H.R. 3978). This bill changes the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act (SAFE) by providing regulatory relief for loan originators in an effort to make a smooth employment transition between bank and non-bank entities. Representatives Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) and Bruce Poliquin (R-ME) joined as cosponsors of this bipartisan legislation.

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Schakowsky defends the Americans with Disabilities Act
Jan Schakowsky (D-IL, 9th)
February 15, 2018
Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Chief Deputy Whip, spoke on the House floor to oppose H.R. 620, the so-called “ADA Education and Reform act of 2017”, a bill that would severely weaken the Americans with Disabilities Act and roll back decades of progress for people living with disabilities.

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Rep. Sewell Statement on Parkland School Shooting
Terri A. Sewell (D-AL, 7th)
February 15, 2018
“My heart goes out to the victims, their families, and to the Parkland community. Our schools should be places where our children are loved, where they learn, and where they are kept safe. When classrooms are turned into crime scenes, when our students and teachers are terrorized by guns, something has gone horribly wrong. This is not the first school shooting our nation has witnessed, it is not the second, it is the 239th school shooting since the Sandy Hook massacre. There is an epidemic of gun violence in America, and every day Congress fails to address this epidemic, more students, more teachers, more parents and brothers and sisters are killed.”

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Shea-Porter Stands with Disability Rights Groups Against Legislation to Undermine the Americans with Disabilities Act
Carol Shea Porter (D NH, 1st)
February 15, 2018
“The Americans with Disabilities Act protects millions of people from discrimination. It is disturbing that Speaker Ryan continues to use his majority to attack the civil rights of people with disabilities after spending half of last year trying to undermine their health care. H.R.620, if passed by the Senate, would place the burden of complying with the Americans with Disability Act on the victims of discrimination rather than the entities that are in violation of the law. I will continue to stand with hundreds of disability rights organizations against these misguided policies.”

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VIDEO: Shea-Porter Blasts Republican Leadership for Inaction on Gun Violence
Carol Shea Porter (D NH, 1st)
February 15, 2018
Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) spoke on the House floor in support of common sense solutions to reduce gun violence. She directly called on Speaker Ryan to end his obstruction and bring bipartisan gun violence prevention legislation to the floor for a vote.

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Congressman Sires’ Statement on the Shooting in Parkland, Florida
Albio Sires (D-NJ, 8th)
February 15, 2018
“My heart breaks for the victims of yesterday’s shooting and for their families and friends. 17 innocent lives were lost in yet another senseless act of violence. The community of Parkland, Florida has been struck by an unimaginable tragedy and my sincerest condolences go out to all those affected and I will continue to hold them in my thoughts as they grieve. I would also like to thank the brave first responders as well as the teachers and faculty who risked their lives to protect the students they teach every day.

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Pro-Choice Caucus Leaders Call on Secretary Azar to Fire Director Lloyd Due to His Ongoing, Blatant Disregard for Women’s Constitutional Rights
Louise Slaughter (D-NY, 25th)
February 15, 2018
After revelations today by the Washington Post about continued unlawful behavior by Director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement Scott Lloyd, who has ignored the constitution and federal rules regarding women’s rights and reproductive health, the co-chairs of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, Congresswomen Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Louise Slaughter (D-NY), called on Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar to fire him.

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REP. SOTO STATEMENT ON PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL SHOOTING
Darren Soto (D-FL, 9th)
February 15, 2018
There is a photograph in Bill Kelly’s room in the Claremont Center nursing home. It’s of him, wearing a Manasquan High School football uniform, on Thanksgiving 1942.

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BOST, SOTO INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO IMPROVE SOIL QUALITY
Darren Soto (D-FL, 9th)
February 15, 2018
Representative Mike Bost (R-IL) and Representative Darren Soto (FL-09) introduced bipartisan legislation, the Nutrient Management Technical Service Provider Certification Act, to expand options for agriculture producers to access nutrient management technical assistance. This bill would allow qualified individuals, including Certified Crop Advisors or Certified Agronomists, to act as Technical Service Providers for nutrient management.

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Reps. Speier, Takano, and McGovern Calls For Review of John Kelly’s Role in Overseeing Personnel Misconduct
Jackie Speier (D-CA, 14th)
February 15, 2018
Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-14), Ranking Member on the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel, was joined by Congressmen Mark Takano (CA-41) and James McGovern (MA-2) yesterday in writing a letter to Defense Secretary James Mattis requesting information related to General John Kelly’s handling of complaints against personnel under his command.

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Sanders Statement on Rounds-King Immigration Bill
Senator Bernard Sanders (I - VT)
February 15, 2018
"With an extremely anti-immigrant president in office who precipitated the current DACA crisis, I fear very much about the fate of 800,000 Dreamers who will soon be losing their legal protections under DACA and be subject to deportation.

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Sasse Statement on Kelly Nomination
Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE)
February 15, 2018
“Joe Kelly’s next career calling is to the benefit of Nebraskans across our state. Throughout his nomination process Joe showed that Nebraskans will continue to be well served by his commitment to honesty, humility, and the law.”

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Shaheen Statement Following Senate Vote on Bipartisan Immigration Agreement
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D - NH)
February 15, 2018
“The agreement we voted on was the product of good faith bipartisan discussions and would have allowed Dreamers a pathway to citizenship so that they no longer have to live in fear of deportation,” said Shaheen. “I’m disappointed that, because of President Trump’s erratic and inconsistent positions on this issue, this agreement did not receive enough support to move forward in the Senate. It’s critically important that the Senate provide a pathway forward to protect Dreamers which is why I’ll continue my efforts across the aisle to find common ground.”

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Swalwell Introduces Bipartisan Advancing Access to Precision Medicine Act
Eric Swalwell (D-CA, 15th)
February 14, 2018
“It’s time to use technology to transform our health care system to focus on the uniqueness of every patient – this is the future of medicine,” Swalwell said. “Genetic and genomic testing technology is getting better every day. We’re working in a bipartisan way to look ahead for ways to make it more accessible to Americans, in order to improve and save lives.”

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Sarbanes Statement on School Shooting in Parkland, Florida
John P. Sarbanes (D-MD, 3rd)
February 14, 2018
“It's not enough to send thoughts and prayers to the grieving families. We must do more. Sadly, Congressional leaders refuse to bring even the most minimal commonsense gun safety measures to the floor of the House or Senate. But we cannot be silent. In sober memory of the thousands who have been victimized by gun violence, we will keep fighting for a meaningful response to this terrible epidemic.”

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ICYMI: Rep. Austin Scott to USAF: It was a mistake to cancel the F-22, it was a mistake to try to cancel the A-10, and it would be a mistake to cancel JSTARS
Austin Scott (R-GA, 8th)
February 14, 2018
During a House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Readiness Subcommittee hearing entitled, “Air Force Readiness Posture,” Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) questioned Lieutenant General Mark C. Nowland, United States Air Force (USAF) Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, on USAF’s decision to divest three E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) Battle Management and Command and Control Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (BMC2/ISR) platforms in its Fiscal Year 2019 budget proposal.

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Rep. Sewell Questions HHS Secretary Azar on Trump Budget
Terri A. Sewell (D-AL, 7th)
February 14, 2018
On Wednesday, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar appeared before the House Ways and Means Committee to testify about the White House budget request for HHS. The President’s budget cuts Medicare by $500 billion, Medicaid by $1.3 trillion, and renews the failed Republican attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act, raising health costs and taking health coverage away from millions of Americans. Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL), who sits on the Ways and Means Committee, asked Secretary Azar about the impact of these cuts on rural hospitals.

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Shea-Porter Statement on School Shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida
Carol Shea Porter (D NH, 1st)
February 14, 2018
“I am once again horrified and sickened by yet another massacre at an American school. This is at least the 18th school shooting this year. I am praying for the victims and their families. Parents and students should never have to endure such awful tragedies. And yet, they keep happening. Every single week. This cannot continue—we need common sense laws to reduce gun violence. It’s the least we can do for all of the victims and their grieving families, friends, and communities.”

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Sinema Passes Bill to Cut Red Tape, Help Arizona Companies Making Life-Saving Breakthroughs
Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ, 9th)
February 14, 2018
Congresswoman Kyrsten Sinema (AZ-09) and Congressman Trey Hollingsworth (IN-09) passed the Fostering Innovation Act through the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation provides commonsense regulatory relief for companies on the cutting edge of scientific and medical research, allowing them to save lives and bring more high-tech, high-wage jobs to Arizona.

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Senator Stabenow Hosts Michigan Veteran to Share Perspective on the Importance of the Farmer Veterans Programs in the Farm Bill
Senator Debbie Stabenow - (D - MI)
February 14, 2018
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) hosted Nick Babcock, President of the Farmer Veteran Coalition of Michigan, to share his story as a farmer veteran and discuss the importance of incentives in the Farm Bill with Senators and leaders of the veteran community. Babcock was one of seven veteran leaders from across the country that participated in the discussion hosted by Senators.

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Budget, Infrastructure, Nominations

Statements from the Lawmakers

On the Continuing Resolution

Senator Rand Paul (R - KY)
February 9, 2018

"Tonight, you could feel the frustration and embarrassment growing in Congress as we exposed the hypocrisy of Republicans who are joining in an unholy alliance and spending free-for-all with Democrats at the expense of the American people and our party's supposed principles. Make no mistake, I will always stand up for fiscal responsibility, regardless of which party is in power, and I will continue to call the Republican Party home to the ideas that led to Americans trusting us with government in the first place."

Pete Olson (R-TX, 22nd)
February 9, 2018

“This funding for disasters like Hurricane Harvey, which happened last August, is long overdue and critically needed. In passing this funding, Congress took an important step in to helping Texans impacted by this devastating storm recover. I want to thank my Texas colleagues and our House and Senate leadership for getting this desperately needed funding across the finish line.”

Jimmy Panetta (D-CA, 20th)
February 9, 2018

"We cannot keep governing from manufactured crisis to manufactured crisis. Right now, our constituents expect us to find common ground on a sensible solution that responsibly funds our government and protects Dreamers. Between this bill, which adds over $300 billion to the nation’s credit card, and the unpaid-for tax law, which will add billions more, Congress has now voted to add over $1 trillion to the federal deficit in just under two months. While focusing on these irresponsible plans, the Speaker of the House, unlike the Senate Majority Leader, has refused to take any action or even commit to have a fair and open debate on legislation for our Dreamers. This is not responsible governing. Republicans and Democrats must sit down and negotiate in order to pass legislation that advances the priorities of all Americans today and for future generations. This bill does not meet the values that we share on the central coast of California."

Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 9th)
February 9, 2018

“While disgusted with the incompetence and chaos with which the Republicans have governed, I voted in favor of this bipartisan, long-term budget agreement because of the hard-fought priorities within it that give our communities, servicemembers, and businesses the assurance they need that the federal resources they rely on will not run out,” said Rep. Pascrell. “This deal isn’t perfect, but it puts us on the path to responsible governing. This bill addressed critical needs for the next two years like improving our seniors’ healthcare, assisting at-risk mothers, supporting community health centers, investing in aging infrastructure, funding for the opioid and mental health epidemics, and helping the recovery and rebuilding in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

“I am mad as hell at Speaker Ryan for continually holding our Dreamers hostage to the extreme right wing of his party. This is not an issue of Right vs. Left but simply Right vs. Wrong. As time ticks towards the deadline President Trump cruelly imposed, I continue to demand Speaker Ryan put his money where his mouth is and bring the Dream Act or a bipartisan deal to the floor for a vote immediately. Dreamers are part of the fabric of our communities and embody what makes America great. Too many live in fear of being torn from their friends and families because President Trump pulled the rug out from under them and Republican leadership in Congress has failed to act. It is long past time for Congress to schedule a vote so we can act on the promise we made to them when the Dreamers came out of the shadows in good faith.”

Steve Pearce (R-NM, 2nd)
February 9, 2018

“Any piece of legislation that suspends the debt limit is simply an excuse for Congress and the government to spend at will, without regard for the consequences down the road. Just as businesses and families have a borrowing limit on their credit card, so does the federal government. By suspending the debt limit through the end of 2018, Congress is granting the government a blank check.

I did not support giving President George W. Bush a blank check. I did not support it under President Barack Obama. And I will not support it under President Donald Trump.

For this reason, I could not in good conscience vote for the fifth continuing resolution, which also sets a misguided budget for the next two years. Earlier this year, the House passed all 12 appropriations bills on time, the Senate has still refused to debate and vote on a single one. Instead of doing our job, Congress is acting without a thought-out plan. We must ensure our nation’s military has the tools and training it needs to succeed, and we have to help our fellow man in times of great need. But, we cannot be reckless.”

Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
February 9, 2018

"Republicans control the House, Senate, and Executive branch, but their inability to govern has put our country’s priorities—from military spending to the opioid crisis—in limbo for the past nine months and a fifth continuing resolution is just more of the same. I could not in good conscience vote for a bill that underfunds key programs after this Republican-controlled Congress just passed a trillion dollar tax cut for corporations.

"President Trump and Republicans in Congress tied the fate of 800,000 young Dreamers to this budget bill as a cruel bargaining chip. In less than a month, thousands of teenagers and young adults who know no other country than this will face deportation because of a crisis created by President Trump. We know the bipartisan DREAM Act has the votes to pass and for months I’ve called on Speaker Ryan to bring it to the House floor, but he’s refused and stirred a frightening uncertainty in communities nationwide. I refuse to engage in this kind of immoral negotiation which has caused so many Americans to lose faith in Washington."

Stacy Plaskett (D-Virgin Islands, At-Large)
February 9, 2018

“Early this morning, members of Congress approved a 2 year budget package that funds government and provides critical disaster relief to the hurricane affected areas including the U.S. Virgin Islands. This funding comes after long protracted discussion and substantial negotiation in both the Senate and the House. Our office is grateful for the work that Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) engaged in on our behalf with Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and the support of Governor Mapp and his team to make this happen.

“While the funding does not include the full amount or all of requests of the Virgin Islands it will help us substantially in the rebuilding efforts. We worked very hard to see that the Virgin Islands be provided with additional Medicaid funding for the territory’s urgent health needs. The islands are provided with $142 million in additional funds through September 2019, with a 100% federal match for these new funds. The measure also provides the Virgin Islands with five years of significant additional funding through a higher rate of rum excise tax revenue paid to the Virgin Islands treasury – at $13.25 per proof gallon (from $10.50).

Congresswoman Plaskett cautions the Virgin Islands government and its people that this advancement in our rebuilding needs to be taken in context with last month’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Bill. “We must be aware that the new tax laws are likely to have the unintended consequence of providing a disincentive to companies operating in the Virgin Islands due to foreign tax treatment. Additionally, there will be lost revenue to the General Fund due to reduction in individual tax brackets, along with the lack of reimbursement to the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit. Tax experts predict that those losses can range from a hundred million to hundreds of millions of dollars each tax year.”

Bruce Poliquin (R-MN, 2nd)
February 9, 2018

“As an original cosponsor and strong supporter of a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution, I have long advocated for our government to get our spending under control and for the budget process in Congress to operate the way it should, instead of floating from one temporary funding bill to the next,” said Congressman Poliquin. “But the alternative right now—shutting down the government and continuing to deprive our men and women in uniform of critically needed support—would harm Maine and would harm America.

“We must fund the government, we must fully fund our military and support our shipbuilders at BIW, we must support the fight against the horrific opioid crisis in Maine, and we must make sure our rural communities continue to have access to health care providers. It’s important for Maine that this bill passes.

“I call on all my colleagues who are concerned about spending to join me in supporting a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution to ensure a financially sustainable future for our Nation. In my first week as a member of Congress in 2015, I became an original cosponsor of the Balanced Budget Amendment to our Constitution. It is more critical now than ever before to get our spending under control and I am appreciative that so many in Congress are now finally concerned about this serious problem.”

Bill Posey (R-FL, 8th)
February 9, 2018

“The budget process is clearly broken. The House of Representatives passed all of its appropriations bills in September. Yet, even with last month’s short-term extension, the Senate still won’t act to bring those bills to a vote. Each continuing resolution is an admission of failure to do the job right. Waiting for the eleventh hour to consider a short-term, must pass funding bill is no way to run the government. It’s unfair to American families, workers and our children and grandchildren who will inherit these important issues that Washington refuses to deal with today.”

David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 9, 2018

“The bipartisan budget agreement reached by Senate leaders this week is a long-awaited step to address a number of outstanding funding priorities. It fulfills the fundamental obligation of Congress to keep the government open and paves the way for the delayed passage of our twelve appropriations bills. For too long, Congress has lurched from crisis to crisis, passing short-term spending patches but failing to address the sequestration-level spending caps that hobble economic investments, threaten our national security, and make realistic budgeting impossible.

In addition to making dollar for dollar increases in the defense and non-defense budgets above sequestration levels, this agreement contains much-needed relief for millions of families still recovering from natural disasters—including $125 million for ongoing Hurricane Matthew recovery efforts in North Carolina. It also reaffirms our commitment to fight the opioid crisis, secures billions to improve our nation’s infrastructure, and makes critical investments in our nation’s veterans, healthcare, and education programs.

Unfortunately, Republican leadership in the House has done nothing to advance bipartisan legislation to protect the hundreds of thousands of Dreamers facing uncertainty thanks to President Trump. His decision to rescind the DACA program, and then blow up the bipartisan proposal to fix the problem that he created, forced Dreamers squarely in the middle of the shutdown battle. What’s worse, the President has yet to learn his lesson, just this week calling for another government shutdown to advance his mass-deportation agenda.

My colleagues in the Senate have received assurances by Majority Leader McConnell of an imminent vote that includes DACA, but Speaker Ryan has continued to cater to the extreme wings of his caucus, lacking the political courage to put legislation on the floor. His promise to only put a bill on the floor that President Trump publicly supports is particularly disgraceful. No Speaker should yield our legislative prerogative to the President, particularly this President on this issue. Without assurances in the House similar to those given in the Senate, I cannot vote to support this budget package and let Republican leadership once again kowtow to a President who believes his power cannot be checked.”

On Trump's Budget Proposal

Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ, 1st)
February 12, 2018

“The budget proposed today by the Trump Administration would hurt rural communities, veterans, and seniors,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “Rural America needs more tools, not less, to be a part of the economic recovery and create new jobs. This budget slashes the few tools that rural communities depend on to develop, attract, and retain a strong workforce and good jobs. This budget breaks a promise to Rural America, by making jobs, affordable education, and health care harder to access for working families.”

The budget proposal eliminates or reduces the following programs:

The Rural Business and Cooperative Service

The Economic Development Administration

The Manufacturing Extension Partnership

Community Development Block Grants

Rural Water and Wastewater Grants

Indian Community Development Block Grant

Rural Economic Development Program

Essential Air Service, critical to businesses in rural communities

Reimbursement for rural health care providers

Native American Housing Block Grants

Medicare and Medicaid

Veterans programs and services

“We must work together in a bipartisan way to ensure every American has the opportunity to compete for good jobs in the 21st century and that we keep our promises to our seniors and veterans."

Steve Pearce (R-NM, 2nd)
February 13, 2018

“It is imperative that we come together to establish a balanced and sustainable budget. The American people deserve certainty. Creating ten-year spending projects with the goal of reducing our crushing debt and deficit is critical to the future success of our nation.

There is much to be encouraged by in this request. The White House remains committed to rebuilding our nation’s military and defenses, it continues to prioritize the reduction of burdensome and duplicative regulations, it supports New Mexico’s federal facilities, and it strives to make a real dent in our nation’s ever-growing debts.

At the same time, this proposal is not perfect. There are several areas of the proposal that will need to be examined in greater depth to ensure that, as a nation, we are taking appropriate steps to solving our nation’s budget crisis, while also meeting our commitments to the American people. Keep in mind, however, the President’s budget proposal today is just that – a suggestion of priorities for Congress to consider while establishing the spending plan for the upcoming year. I look forward to building off the proposal put out by the President today, and working with my colleagues in Congress in setting a course that will protect and support our New Mexico communities.”

Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
February 12, 2018

"President Trump’s budget proposal spells disaster for rural states like Maine and demonstrates how out of touch his Administration is with the needs of the country. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’ll fight the Trump Administration’s proposal to eliminate so many programs critical to Maine, including low-income heating assistance, Community Development Block Grants, and rural air service. And I will work to ensure his proposals to decimate the ACA, Medicaid, and Medicare, while jeopardizing food assistance for families, do not move forward. With a nearly 30 percent cut to essential non-defense discretionary programs coming after a huge corporate tax cut, President Trump has sent a statement to working Americans that their needs aren’t even on his radar."

Mark Pocan (D-WI, 2nd)
February 12, 2018

“The Trump Administration’s budget is an attack on the very Americans President Trump promised to serve and it undermines the values we share as a nation. Rather than support an economy that strengthens the middle class, the promise of a safe and secure retirement, and the idea that every American should have access to lifesaving care, the Trump budget attacks programs that everyday Americans rely upon. We should make critical investments in health, education, and workforce development for the American people, not gut resources that allow millions of hardworking Americans to get ahead.

“From dangerous cuts to Medicare and Social Security, to slashing funding for education, housing, and workforce training and protection programs, the Trump budget will have serious consequences for American families. And while Republicans will hide behind the same old talking points of fiscal responsibility and hard choices, it is clear that President Trump and Republicans are engaging in a coordinated effort to further enrich the wealthy at the expense of the middle class. For months, President Trump advocated for massive tax breaks for the wealthy and corporations, and today’s budget further reflects that he is not working in the interests of the middle class, workers, students, seniors, and the poor.”

Bruce Poliquin (R-MN, 2nd)
February 12, 2018

“I am very appreciative that members of both parties are now finally expressing concerns about our government’s spending,” said Congressman Poliquin. “I call on all my colleagues who are concerned about spending to join me in supporting a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution to ensure a financially sustainable future for our Nation. It is more critical now than ever before to get our spending under control and I am appreciative that so many in Congress are now finally concerned about this serious problem.

“As I begin reviewing the details of the White House’s budget request, I’m pleased it demonstrates our Nation’s commitment to strengthening national security and making sure our Armed Forces have the support they need.

“In addition, the White House has clearly signaled that infrastructure investment will be a primary focus in the coming year. Maine is third in the nation for needed infrastructure improvements, as many families, communities and small businesses in our State know too well. From needed roads and bridges repairs to critically important development in broadband access, there is a lot of work to be done for Maine on this front that I will be pushing for in the upcoming budget process.

“As I have said before, we must make sure we maintain support for programs and agencies that that serve our families and communities and help protect our environment. Specifically, I remain strongly supportive of funding for programs such as LIHEAP, which provides critical support for our Maine families in winter; Community Development Block Grants, which support multiple local programs in our State such as ‘Meals-on-Wheels’; and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, delivering family programming and also serving an important role with its emergency alert system; among others. As Congress begins its work in the coming months on the federal budget, I will continue to push for continued support for these and other programs and agencies that do good for Maine families.

“I remain concerned about drastic reductions in support for important environmental programs, policies and services, such as:

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and their specific sea grants

Funding for Acadia National Park

Maintaining clean drinking water infrastructure and waste water infrastructure

Superfund

Maine Healthy Beaches Program

National Estuary Program, and

Continued lead remediation efforts in Maine

“One of the most important things Congress must focus on in the coming months is completing the budget process the way it is supposed to be done: passing our appropriations bills in the House and the Senate and working together to reduce spending and make spending adjustments where they are needed. The House got this done last year and I am hopeful all of my colleagues in both chambers can get it done in the coming months.

“As I continue to review the White House’s request, I remain focused on working across the aisle to protect Seniors’ earned Social Security benefits, growing Maine jobs, fighting illegal trade, standing up for our Veterans, combating the opioid epidemic, and working every day for our Maine families.”

David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 12, 2018

“After blowing up our nation’s debt with a $1.5 trillion tax cut for the wealthy, the Trump administration is determined to further undermine our nation’s middle class and stifle upward mobility – this time by attempting to gut critical economic investments, Medicare and Medicaid, and other human capital programs to pay for a foolhardy $18 billion border wall that the American public continues to oppose. Our nation’s budget is a moral document, and the Trump budget is further evidence of a morally bankrupt Administration.”

On Trump's Infrastructure Plan

Senator David Perdue (R-GA)
February 12, 2018

“When he was elected, President Trump said job one was growing the economy. In 2017, he focused on reducing regulations, unleashing our energy potential, and cutting taxes. In 2018, President Trump wants to move to immigration, trade, and infrastructure. He is now beginning to rebuild our nation’s infrastructure. We need a smart approach to prioritize and leverage significant economic development projects like they do in the real world. We need to streamline federal, state, and local cooperation and remove regulatory roadblocks so we can get the greatest return on investment for taxpayers. In Georgia, we saw this approach in action when the I-85 bridge collapsed and was repaired a month ahead of schedule. We need to replicate that efficiency on a larger scale so we can increase productivity and ultimately update our nation’s infrastructure network to support additional growth.”

Senator Rob Portman (R - OH)
February 12, 2018

“The president’s infrastructure proposal is a good starting point for discussion and I’m hopeful both parties will work together on this issue. By rebuilding our aging infrastructure and improving job training programs targeted toward in-demand infrastructure-related jobs, we have a great opportunity to further strengthen our economy. I am also glad to see the administration is making infrastructure permitting reform a priority. I’ve led efforts in the Senate to streamline our permitting process, working to enact FAST-41 so we can rebuild our infrastructure more quickly. With a permitting process that makes sense and operates efficiently, we can put more people back to work, improve our infrastructure, and better protect the environment. I look forward to working with the administration and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to develop legislation on these issues in the coming months.”

Portman has led efforts in Washington to streamline the federal permitting process. Recently, the Trump administration has begun to use the tools authorized by Portman’s Federal Permitting Improvement Act, which helps streamline the federal infrastructure permitting process to boost our economy and create jobs. The bill was enacted into law last Congress as Title 41 of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41). Two weeks ago, the Trump Administration and the state of Louisiana entered into the first memorandum of understanding between the federal government and a state to facilitate the infrastructure permitting process for a project covered by this new law. FAST-41 requires that one agency serve as the lead agency for covered projects; all agencies involved in covered projects develop a coordinated permitting timeline at the start of the process; and agencies post the permitting timeline and updates to it on an online Permitting Dashboard throughout the permitting process for each covered project. Last September, Portman chaired a Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) hearing on how permitting reform, like FAST-41, will create good-paying jobs across the country.

Steve Pearce (R-NM, 2nd)
February 13, 2018

“As a state vastly comprised of rural communities, we understand just how important infrastructure projects are to improve the livelihoods of people, families, and businesses in our State. It is vital for the safety and productivity of New Mexico that Congress looks to reform how we currently fund and complete infrastructure projects. New Mexico will greatly benefit from any positive improvements to infrastructure. At the same time, our nation faces extreme budget pressures. Any plan must be one that can work to improve and modernize the nation’s infrastructure without driving the United States into further debt. I look forward to working with the Administration and my colleagues in Congress to making the essential reforms to the nation’s infrastructure projects that will benefit New Mexico.”

Nancy Pelosi (D-CA, 12th)
February 12, 2018

“The budget is a statement of our values, but the President’s brutal collection of broken promises and staggering cuts shows he does not value the future of seniors, children and working families. After robbing from our children’s futures to enrich corporations and the wealthiest with the GOP tax scam, the White House budget is purpose-built to compound the cruelty. The President’s tired insistence on ripping away the promise of quality, affordable health care and his cruel focus on slashing vital investments in families’ economic security will dangerously hollow out our nation’s strength.

“After a full year of empty boasts, the President has finally unveiled a puny infrastructure scam that fully fails to meet the need in America’s communities. The Trump plan is to raise tolls on commuters, increase the burden on cities and states, sell our essential infrastructure to the whims of Wall Street, and yank away the protections that keep consumers safe and our air and water clean. At the same time, the Trump budget actually slashes billions of dollars from infrastructure investments that prevent deadly floods, connect rural communities, and create good-paying jobs across the country.

“Democrats are offering A Better Deal to Rebuild America: our bold, truly transformative $1 trillion plan to rebuild America’s broken infrastructure. Five times bigger than the Trump plan, Democrats’ agenda will create more than 16 million good-paying American jobs, unlock the economic potential of every community and bring money into the Treasury. While the White House and Republicans in Congress shamefully try to weaken the pillars of our national strength, Democrats will continue to fight for better futures for American families.”

Mark Pocan (D-WI, 2nd)
February 12, 2018

“Reading scripted remarks and tweeting out vague promises to invest our country will not build roads and bridges – it takes public dollars to do that. Americans deserve a serious public commitment to rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, but under the Trump Administration’s plan, communities across Wisconsin won’t get the resources we need. With a comparatively paltry investment from the federal government over ten years – less than one-tenth of 1% of GDP – and no dedicated funding for rural broadband, the Administration’s plan falls far short in resources, leaving many communities behind.

“The reality is that President Trump’s plan is nothing more than an attempt to sell off public resources to Wall Street, to members of Mar-a-Lago, and to foreign investors. We need a real, comprehensive public investment that goes beyond traditional infrastructure, and covers not just our roads and bridges, but our water systems, broadband, and clean, renewable energy, as the Progressive Caucus has put forward in our 21st Century New Deal for Jobs. We need a serious plan and funding commitment that prioritizes communities most in need and creates the millions of good-paying jobs, not more empty promises.”

David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 12, 2018

“Throughout his campaign and his first year in office, President Trump made countless promises to put forward a bold plan to put Americans to work repairing and modernizing our crumbling public infrastructure. In contrast to the many issues that divided Democrats and Republicans during the last election, infrastructure stood out as an area of common ground and potential bipartisan cooperation.

Unfortunately, the President’s infrastructure plan neither makes good on his promise nor reflects any attempt at bipartisan compromise. The proposal calls for $1.5 trillion in new investment, but it shifts the overwhelming majority of the costs to states and municipalities, forcing them either to raise taxes or to sell off public assets to private investors. The President’s budget, which was released on the same day, seeks to slash existing infrastructure programs to pay for new federal investment and to gut longstanding environmental protections and labor laws that protect workers on federal projects. This is more than just a mixed message: it is an abdication of the federal government’s role as an equal partner in major public infrastructure investments, and another giveaway to private investors and corporate polluters.

The President’s plan is fundamentally flawed, but I hope it jumpstarts a constructive, bipartisan debate about how best to meet our nation’s infrastructure needs. As the Ranking Member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, I look forward to participating in this debate and advocating for sustained federal investments in our roads, bridges, railways, transit systems, housing stock, and broadband networks. Democrats have put forward a $1 trillion plan that would revitalize our crumbling infrastructure and create more than 16 million high-quality jobs. If President Trump is serious about delivering on his promise, I encourage him and our Republican colleagues to ensure that any infrastructure legislation includes these ideas.”

On the Nominations of Eric Tostrud, Nancy Brasel to U.S. District Court of Minnesota

Erik Paulsen (R-MN, 3rd)
February 12, 2018

“Minnesotans will be reassured that they will be represented by two sound, reasoned, and experienced legal minds on the federal bench.

“Eric Tostrud’s temperament, intelligence, and firm grasp and expertise on a wide range of complex issues will make him an exceptional judge. Judge Nancy Brasel’s experience as a federal prosecutor and Hennepin County District Court judge will serve her well in her new role.”

On Trump Administration Proposed USDA Budget

Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
February 12, 2018

Rural America deserves a better budget. By cutting essential programs for rural businesses, housing, and more, this proposal severely weakens USDA Rural Development’s ability to support rural communities. I also have many questions about the Administration's alarming SNAP proposal, which would terminate SNAP nutrition education and make it harder for recipients to access a wide variety of healthy foods.

I am concerned by how farmers would fare under the proposed budget due to the reductions in funding for important conservation programs and farm loans. And while I am glad to see a funding increase for the National Organic Program to improve enforcement of the organic label, I’m troubled by the way this budget simultaneously suggests cutting other programs that support two of the fastest-growing agricultural markets—organic and local food.

In so many ways, this proposed budget for USDA—with its nearly 25 percent cut to discretionary programs—looks much like the damaging plan that the Administration put forth last year. Thankfully, the House Appropriations Committee worked in a bipartisan way to restore much of that funding in legislation it passed through the Committee last year, and I am optimistic we can do so again.

News from the Lawmakers

Trump Administration continues support of Pittenger national security efforts
Robert Pittenger (R-NC, 9th)
February 12, 2018
The Trump Administration continued strong support for two of Congressman Robert Pittenger’s signature national security efforts: strengthening review of foreign investments that threaten national security, and targeting sources of terrorism financing.

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Pittenger: Samaritan's Purse VP "perfect choice" for U.N. role
Robert Pittenger (R-NC, 9th)
February 12, 2018
Ken Isaacs has dedicated his life to serving the least, the forgotten, and the unwanted. He has served survivors of the Rwandan genocide, assisted Syrian refugees, and led relief efforts in dozens of countries including Liberia, Somalia, Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

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ICYMI: Reps. Price and Lowenthal Lead Effort to Promote Sustainability in Infrastructure
David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 13, 2018
Yesterday, the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) released its Sustainable Infrastructure Proposal, led by Representatives David Price (D-NC) and Alan Lowenthal (D-CA). The document serves as a blueprint for smart, environmentally sustainable infrastructure investment. The proposal stands in stark contrast to the recently released Trump Administration infrastructure plan that eviscerates core environmental safeguards, fails to meaningfully incorporate forward-looking sustainability and resiliency initiatives, and falls far short of the robust direct federal investment necessary to rebuild our crumbling infrastructure. The vast majority of Americans know that we can build and modernize infrastructure while keeping environment and public health protections in place. They expect us to do both, and that is what SEEC’s proposal is all about.

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