If You Want to Keep Your Medicaid, You Have to Have a Job

The President has done it again. He's offended people who would rather sit on their behinds and have babies and live on welfare, taking from, not contributing to, our society. It's evident in the reactions about the Medicaid work requirement.



Rosa L. DeLauro (D-CT, 3rd)

“President Trump’s latest action continues his campaign to shame and stigmatize our most vulnerable citizens. Work requirements do nothing to create jobs or raise wages for hard-working Americans. Instead, they put at risk the essential health care benefits millions of children, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities have access to every day. In fact, patients receiving life-saving therapies could have their access to those services removed if they do not work enough hours to remain eligible for Medicaid.”

“Requiring Medicaid recipients to work will do nothing to tackle poverty—it will only serve to cut off a lifeline for millions of Americans who depend on this program each year. We must do everything we can to ensure that we are lifting people out of poverty, not pushing them deeper into it. I fear that President Trump’s actions today will do just that. Our social safety net programs are a reflection of our nation’s values, and we cannot allow them to be unraveled. President Trump must immediately end his cruel assault on our nation’s most vulnerable citizens.”

Seriously? You mean, if they go to work, they won't get out of poverty? So, it doesn't help? I'm confused. I thought the reason they were impoverished was because they wouldn't work. I'm sorry, but I have to disagree. 

Matt Gaetz (R-FL, 1st)

“I am glad that the Trump administration is encouraging states to implement work requirements for able-bodied, childless adults who receive Medicaid. This common-sense policy, supported by a majority of Americans, will lift people out of poverty and dependence into the dignity and fulfillment of work. With millions of jobs unfilled in our country, and a booming economy that is creating new jobs daily, America needs workers.

In states that require able-bodied, childless adults to work, volunteer, or take classes in order to qualify for Medicaid, employment has grown and spending has plummeted. With America more than twenty trillion dollars in debt, it is irresponsible to borrow from China to pay for people who simply don’t want to work. Throughout my time in Congress, I have fought for work requirements for welfare, and was successful in my efforts to have this policy included in the House FY18 Budget.

Former President Obama prevented states from imposing work requirements; this misguided policy stole power from state governments, slowed an already-struggling economy, and discouraged Americans from finding gainful employment. I am glad to see that we are taking a new approach under President Trump, and following through on the promise of bold, conservative reform that Americans supported when they elected a Republican House, Senate, and President.”

I am glad to see someone agrees. People won't work if they don't have to. If I could get by with not working to pay my bills, you'd better bet I'd jump on that gravy train!

Gene Green (D-TX, 29th)

“Work requirements for Medicaid recipients are a cruel and counterproductive policy. The Trump Administration needs to work with Congress to keep Americans healthy and able to work, instead of making it harder for Americans to obtain and keep their health insurance. Terminating Medicaid coverage for someone who does not meet a work requirement will simply make it harder, not easier, to get or keep a job.”

“The lives of more than a million Texans who are enrolled in Medicaid would be impacted by a work requirement. I would also argue that the guidance is a misuse of the 1115 waiver allowed under federal law. 1115 waivers are intended to promote the objectives of the program. A work requirement would clearly be contradictory to that claim.”

What is cruel is taking my hard-earned money in order to pay for services for people who are perfectly capable of working as hard as I do for what I get.

Colleen Hanabusa, (D-HI, 1st)

“President Donald Trump and his Republican Party continue to fulfill their campaign promise of limiting access to affordable, quality healthcare for Americans struggling to pay for coverage. More than 344,000 people in Hawaii, including about 107,000 low-income children, benefit from Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Most of the 70 million Americans enrolled in Medicaid work hard to support their families. Telling states that the federal government will approve waivers that impose work requirements on Medicaid recipients only serves to target the neediest and most vulnerable among us, including a disproportionate number of women, minorities, and individuals dealing with chronic and debilitating illnesses. Healthcare is a right, not a political position, and I sincerely hope President Trump and his party recognize the need to help every American, not just those who can afford to pay.”

Andy Harris (R-MD, 1st)

“I applaud the Trump Administration’s decision to accept state proposals for Medicaid work and community engagement requirements for able-bodied, working age recipients. Entitlement programs like Medicaid were designed to provide temporary assistance, but have become laden with waste, fraud, and abuse. Work and community engagement requirements will encourage Medicaid recipients to continue pursuing new opportunities for success - so they can get the hand-up that they need.”

Updated: Reactions to the Presidents Choice of Words about Haiti

Apparently, the President has said some words about where our immigrants are coming from that offended people -- again.

The Ponder would like to know, When did the term "s***hole" become racist terminology? When did asking a valid question (regardless of the wording) become racist ideology? The President, in our opinion, has every right to question our policies of allowing people who are most likely coming here to live off the taxpayer dime rather than make a contribution for the betterment of our country. We want immigrants who are eager to live the American Dream, not suck the life out of it by burdening us with more taxes. That's not being racist, that's being prudent.

Leave it up to the Democrats (and a few RINOs) to play the race card, though.



Below are a list of reactions from the newsmakers:

Dwight Evans (D PA, 2nd)

“President Trump's continued hateful rhetoric is vile, reprehensible, and racist. Philadelphia is the city of brotherly love and sisterly affection. We, like most Americans, have our problems, but we work to make them better and that’s what has historically made our nation the envy of the world. If we want to be our brother’s and sister’s keeper we must strive to lift each other up, not tear each other down. The President’s destructive and divisive language continues to show his lack of understanding and appreciation for what makes our nation great--our diversity. And let me be clear, Haitians and Africans are real Americans too and any notion to the contrary is unjustified. America's rich history of diversity is something to be celebrated not attacked. Although I am not in any way surprised by the President’s comments, I am again disappointed to see his actions and tone run counter to the society we want to and have worked hard to live in.”

Lois Frankel (D-FL, 22nd)

“Our country has been built by the toil of immigrants. Donald Trump's reported bigoted remarks are disgraceful and embarrassing. He should apologize immediately and work with Republicans and Democrats to fix the DACA crisis that threatens the lives of hundreds of thousands of innocent DREAMers that call America their home.”

Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ, 11th)

“The President’s remarks about Haiti and other nations are deplorable and deserve universal condemnation.

“The ‘Dreamers’ are young people who were brought to our country through no fault of their own, often as young children, by their parents. For many, this is the only country they have ever known.

“I look forward to supporting legislation that provides a comprehensive solution to their plight, ensuring that those who have done nothing wrong can remain a part of this great country.”

Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI, 2nd)

“Growing up in Hawaiʻi, we learn about and believe in the aloha spirit—showing respect to others no matter their race or religion, what country they come from, how much money or education they have, or anything else. President Trump’s comments fly directly in the face of that aloha spirit and the values our country stands on. The very people that President Trump seeks to exclude are those who have contributed so greatly to making our country the strong nation that it is.”

John Garamendi (D-CA, 3rd)

“In 1783, George Washington wrote that the bosom of America is open to receive not only the opulent and respectable stranger, but the oppressed and persecuted of all nations and religions. A century later, Emma Lazarus wrote the words that welcomed the wretched refuse of teeming shores—words now inscribed on America’s most iconic beacon of hope and freedom. President Trump’s language is obviously coarse and corrosive. But his values fly in the face of the principles that have guided our country since the days of George Washington. Trump’s behavior and attitudes shame our nation on a daily basis.”

Raul Grijalva (D-AZ, 3rd)

“Disgusting remarks like these have become all too commonplace for this disgraceful president. With xenophobic, racist rhetoric spewing from the White House at regular intervals, Trump continues to poison national discourse on some of the most important issues facing our nation. Comments like these imperil our ability to reach any agreement on DACA, TPS, and common-sense immigration reform—but this is nothing new for Donald Trump.

“It should come as no surprise that a man who opened his campaign referring to Mexican immigrants as rapists and murderers or stating that African immigrants from Nigeria should ‘go back to their huts’ would not carry himself with the dignity that behooves the presidency.

“The individuals from the countries that Trump singled out in his despicable remarks are just as worthy of being included in our nation as those from any other country. No matter the bigoted character of his attitudes, statements, and actions, we will never hesitate to stand up for our values and defend the dignity of others.

“Republicans are at an important political crossroads, and they must make a decision on whether that will enable this abhorrent rhetoric, or stand up for basic human decency. Anyone—regardless of party affiliation—seeking to represent their constituents in Congress should condemn these remarks and reaffirm their commitment to serving all Americans, regardless of their national origin.”

Luis Gutierrez (D-IL, 4th)

As an American, I am ashamed of the President. His comments are disappointing, unbelievable, but not surprising. We always knew that President Trump doesn’t like people from certain countries or people or certain colors. We can now we say with 100% confidence that the President is a racist who does not share the values enshrined in our Constitution or Declaration of Independence.

He has embraced racists, white nationalists and neo-Nazis and makes excuses for them. He launched his campaign saying Mexicans are rapists and murderers. He has refused to address the crisis facing the American citizens of Puerto Rico. He has tried several times to bar people of certain religions or nationalities from legal entry to the U.S. He attacks professional sports stars to entertain his base and has boasted about his habit of groping women inappropriately. Now he has spent most of the last six months undocumenting immigrants who have work permits and deep roots in the U.S. by killing DACA and TPS.

This is the real Donald Trump and my biggest fear is that his voters will applaud him.

What you should be ashamed of is the Democrat policies about immigration that drove his voters to elect him in the first place.

Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL, 20th)

“President Donald John Trump’s comments about Haiti and African countries were offensive and below the dignity of the office of the President. The President has demonstrated time and time again that he lacks morality or compassion. His ignorant, misguided view of the world was on full display tonight.

“The President is constantly degrading the presidency, thereby degrading America’s image. We all know extraordinary people from Haiti, Africa, and Latin American countries. Fortunately, Donald John Trump doesn’t represent the views of all Americans.

“In the run up to the celebration of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life, I commend one of his comments: ‘Every person must decide whether he or she will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness.’

“Trump’s comments are the manifestation of destructive selfishness. He must apologize!”

Maybe Trump should apologize for using the term "s***hole". However, he should not apologize for asking the question. Perhaps he should have been more specific in what he was saying, using multiple words that mean the same thing, such as: "Why are we letting people from underdeveloped countries come here for the sole purpose of living off the taxpayer dime? What can they contribute? Why are we letting them in?" It is not racist to ask the question.

Randy Hultgren (R-IL, 14th)

“I strongly disagree with President Trump’s reported choice of words. Words like these diminish and undermine our standing in the world as a trusted partner and beacon of hope.

“The difficult humanitarian, economic and political situations in certain countries following natural disasters is exactly why I support a program for Temporary Protected Status which provides safe harbor following these unavoidable calamities. We must set good policy for our country while remaining a refuge to displaced peoples facing humanitarian crisis. I support the desire of TPS recipients living in the United States to return to the home they love where they can thrive. However, until their countries can adequately reintegrate their citizens, which U.S. law requires, we should extend protections for these individuals and families living here in the United States.”

Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX, 30th)

“The president’s most recent comments about the immigrants from Haiti and Africa are beyond disgraceful. The president’s ongoing war against immigrants appears to be solely directed toward those immigrants of color. America is America because of the slaves who were bought, purchased and shipped here unwillingly from Africa and Haiti to build the infrastructure that makes this country what it is today. And if the president needs a reminder the home where he resides, The White House was built by slaves—immigrants.

“No person’s merits or character should ever be attacked based on where they are from. I have been a strong advocate in protecting DREAMers, children who were unknowingly brought into this country by their parents, and those who benefit from Temporary Protection Status (TPS) who have fled civil unrest or natural disasters in search of a better life. My hope and continuous fight is that we will have the opportunity to fix our immigration system so it continues to be diverse and inclusive of those immigrants who are often overlooked from parts of the world such as Africa. May the president’s ignorance not impact the growth of ideas, innovation and development from immigrants who are willing to contribute to building a better union.”

Brenda Lawrence (D-MI, 14th)

As an American, I am ashamed of the comments made by the President. This nation – along with Michigan’s 14th district – was built by immigrants of all races, nationalities, and religions. These hardworking individuals should be welcomed and celebrated, not insulted with ignorant remarks. The President’s comments do not reflect the values of the American people and deserve the strongest condemnation from all sides.

While these comments are racist and shameful, they are unfortunately not surprising. These recent remarks are part of a larger anti-immigrant agenda. It is clear that President Trump would rather do away with the idea of the American dream than provide relief to hard working immigrants who want nothing more than to contribute to this country. The President must take responsibility and apologize for these reprehensible comments and work towards meaningful solutions for DACA and TPS recipients.

Sander Levin (D-MI, 9th)

“President Trump is sinking into lower and lower depths. We must not let him take our beloved nation with him. We must together repudiate his unquestionably intolerant remarks. Together we cannot tolerate his intolerance.

We cannot let anyone excuse the inexcusable. We must speak out against the unspeakable. Silence is not an option”

Pat Meehan (R-PA, 7th)

"If accurate as reported, the President’s words were offensive, divisive, unproductive and unbecoming of the office. They come at a time when important negotiations on immigration issues are at a critical point. It’s possible to fight for principles without resorting to hurtful rhetoric."

Jerrold Nadler (D-NY, 10th)

“Donald Trump’s history of divisive, bigoted, and racist remarks is nothing new – goes back a long way, from his discrimination towards minority tenants in New York City in the early 1970s, to his racist comments in a full page ad against the innocent Central Park 5 in the late 1980s.

“What makes this more dangerous now is that as President, Trump’s views and comments guide U.S. policy, and we MUST step up and speak out to prevent Trump’s racism and despicable rhetoric from defining who we are as a country, the way we deal with each other, and how we interact with the world.

“He knowingly and willingly associates and plays to extremist and divisive figures and rhetoric – seen throughout the campaign at his rallies, and in his appointment of people like Steve Bannon, Sebastian Gorka, and Stephen Miller, who help him appease the nationalist, alt-Right elements in his base and in our society.

“After Charlottesville and Trump’s comments failing to condemn the white supremacist neo-Nazi rally, blaming “both sides” for the violence, I introduced the first resolution of censure with House Judiciary Member Pramila Jayapal and CBC Member Bonnie Watson Coleman. Congressman Meeks and I moved to censure Trump in November after the President re-tweeted a British ultra-nationalist propaganda video encouraging anti-immigrant hatred. And now, after Trump’s latest remarks regarding American immigration policy towards Haiti, El Salvador, and African countries, Congress again is compelled to formally censure Donald Trump for his comments and to make clear that this is not the sanctioned policy or official position of the United States government.

“We need to be clear on what President Trump is doing here. He uses remarks like this to stir up peoples’ emotions; to play to his minority base of extremist supporters (i.e. Anne Coulter) who don’t want any solution for Dreamers and support the most nationalist, xenophobic and bigoted policies; and he wants to turn the subject away from other issues that show he is losing control as investigators close in, his influence diminishes, and his popularity continues to plummet.

“We are here today to fulfill Congress’s duty to officially condemn and separate itself and the U.S. government from President Trump’s racist remarks, and I am proud to be standing here with Chairman Richmond, the Congressional Black Caucus, every single Democratic Member of the House Judiciary Committee, and more than 130 of my colleagues to show that we will not stand quietly by and let this Administration continue to unravel our values and divide this country.”

Mark Pocan (D-WI, 2nd)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In bizarre Washington news of the last week, the raging controversy is whether the President of the United States referred to other countries and a continent as s---holes or s---houses.

As if either word means a drop of difference, especially when you insult other nations in the world as our President did.

Equally worrisome is that the leadership of this branch of government, the U.S. House of Representatives – a co-equal branch of government – has been complicit or silent about how to respond to the comments made by our President.

In fact, Speaker Paul Ryan took 19 hours and 53 minutes to respond – and with all that time – enough time to have driven from Washington to Dallas, Texas, or to watch the movie Jaws nine times – what was his stinging and necessary rebuke after that much time and thought?

“Unfortunate.”

The Speaker said the president’s comments were “unfortunate” and “unhelpful.” Look, it’s unfortunate when you walk outside and step in a puddle of water. This was more like walking into a global sized pile of s---.

We are not on the staff of the White House. We are a co-equal branch of government. And it’s about time we acted like it.

Saying nothing or basically nothing is unacceptable. We need to put our country before our political party.

Calling other countries, and even a continent, names like s---holes or s---houses puts our service members and our Americans overseas at greater risk. And weak words or silence makes Congress complicit with the President’s racist rhetoric.

And by the way, people outside of the beltway just think Congress is full of s---. Everyone else had the proper response to the President’s comments. That they were just pure “BS.”

I yield back.

Talk about undermining the President!:

READOUT OF ENGEL CALL WITH HAITI'S AMBASSADOR TO THE UNITED STATES

I happen to agree with the Vice President:

Related News:

Trump derides protections for immigrants from ‘shithole’ countries

Congresswoman Barbara Lee Cosponsors Resolution to Censure President Trump for Racist Remarks Against African Countries, Haiti and El Salvador

Click here for a pdf of the resolution.

Boyle Introduces STABLE GENIUS Act Requiring Presidential Candidates Undergo and Disclose Medical Examination

By Brendan Boyle (D-PA, 13th)

Seriously?

Washington, D.C. - January 12, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-13) introduced the Standardizing Testing and Accountability Before Large Elections Giving Electors Necessary Information for Unobstructed Selection (STABLE GENIUS) Act to require that all presidential candidates undergo a standardized medical examination and publicly disclose its results before the election. Specifically, Boyle’s legislation would require candidates whom have won the presidential nomination of a political party to file a report with the Federal Election Commission (FEC), as such candidates must do for a host of other campaign-related requirements, certifying that he or she has undergone medical examination by the medical office under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Navy and containing the results of the examination. All FEC filings are publically available online.

“The President believes he is a ‘stable genius.’ I do not,” said Congressman Boyle. “President Trump’s reckless, erratic behavior has exposed a critical flaw in our existing election process. Before voting for the highest office in the land, Americans have a right to know whether an individual has the physical and mental fitness to serve as President of the United States. While it is necessary to take the current President’s concerning behavior seriously and I support legislation to address these ongoing concerns, I believe we must also be proactive and do all we can to ensure a situation like this does not arise again.”
Boyle concluded, “My legislation provides a much needed safeguard to ensure that future presidential candidates meet the basic standards of a proper, uniform medical examination, and that this information is available to the American public before voting for the Office of the Presidency. While President Trump apparently considers himself a ‘stable genius,’ the American people deserve a thorough, standardized procedure to allow a medical professional to determine this.”

Congressman Boyle remains an outspoken defender of our democratic norms and leadership abroad, and holding the Trump Administration accountable to the American people. Boyle cosponsors H.Res.456, objecting to President Trump’s conduct in office, as well as legislation to require the president to disclose his taxes, disclose communications with the Russian government, and refrain from influencing U.S. policy toward Russia until the FBI’s investigation concludes. Additionally, Boyle cosponsors H.J.Res.120, legislation to prevent any president from pardoning himself or any member of his family, administration, or campaign staff. As co-chair of the Blue Collar Caucus, Congressman Boyle is fighting for economic opportunity for the middle class, and holding the President accountable for his promises to blue collar workers on labor protections, job security, outsourcing, trade, and manufacturing.

Reaction to FISA Vote

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act program was initially enacted with the focus of gathering intelligence on foreign actors but was expanded by the USA Patriot Act in 2001 to include surveillance of U.S. citizens.

Note from the editor:

I remember when the Patriot Act was first signed into law. I was one of the few who railed against it because of everything that is being railed against it today. I was attacked from all sides because it was shortly after 9-11 and people would rather give up freedom than security.

Benjamin Franklin once said "He who would give up essential liberty in order to gain a little temporary security deserves neither."

I have not changed my stance on this.

Rod Blum (R-IA, 1st)

“I respect the work of our intelligence community and law enforcement agencies to protect U.S. citizens from harm within the country and overseas, but I cannot support flagrant violations of the Fourth Amendment. I co-sponsored Congressman Amash’s proposed Amendment because I continue to be concerned about unauthorized government intrusion in private communications between U.S. citizens, and I believe this amendment would have addressed these underlying issues such as ensuring proper warrants are in place before obtaining information on U.S. citizens. Unfortunately, this amendment was not included in the final bill, and that is why I voted NO on continuing these unconstitutional surveillance practices.”

Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR, 1st)

“We all want the nation to be secure, but Americans’ privacy rights must not be sacrificed while protecting national security,” said Bonamici. “Our intelligence gathering infrastructure and the laws governing it need to strike a careful balance between national security and an individual’s right to privacy. This bill does not properly achieve that balance. It raises serious concerns about the potential for abusive warrantless searches that would undermine Americans’ Fourth Amendment rights. I’m disappointed that the House did not agree to bipartisan reforms to address those concerns.

“In an increasingly connected world, it is critical that the American government respect the privacy rights of Americans while protecting national security. I cannot support reauthorization without stronger safeguards to prevent the unconstitutional collection and use of our private communications.”

Judy Chu (D-CA, 27th)

“FISA includes flaws that were written for a different time. That is why, for years, we have been calling for a fix that would protect our citizens from FISA abuses. The bill that passed the House today is not that fix. While this bill does add new warrant requirements for law enforcement, those requirements are for display only. In fact, the FBI acknowledges that they will almost never be forced to use a warrant under this law to access e-mail or phone calls. This creates a real risk that the private information of American citizens could be handed over to other agencies without having to follow due process. Further, the warrant provision is further weakened by an undefined ‘national security’ exemption so ambiguous that I worry the government will use it to allow a number of purely domestic searches. We must protect the rights and privacy of American citizens.” 

Tom Cole (R-OK, 4th)

“I am extremely pleased that the legislation extending section 702 authority, which is critical to our national security, has been adopted by the House and passed, with my support,” said Cole. “S. 139 allows the federal government to track foreign terrorists on foreign soil. These surveillance activities are crucial to protecting American citizens and our troops stationed abroad.”
 
“I am also satisfied that there are sufficient measures included in the legislation to protect the privacy of American citizens. We have not seen any abuse of section 702 authority by intelligence agencies and law enforcement in the past, and I am confident that they will continue to perform with the highest professional standards in the future.”
 
“The debate over the section 702 authority has been good and healthy. I believe Congress has struck the right balance between protecting civil liberties and protecting our nation’s safety and security in this year’s FISA reauthorization.”

Suzan Delbene (D-WA, 1st)

Our first priority must always be keeping Americans safe and I believe we can find a balance between respecting the Fourth Amendment and protecting our national security. This legislation fails to make the critical reforms needed to address the privacy concerns of Americans, which is why I oppose it.

Keith Ellison (D-MN, 5th)

“In the last several years, we’ve seen Americans' civil rights and civil liberties rolled back, and religious minorities, immigrants and communities of color targeted most acutely. By codifying a warrantless surveillance program into law, and giving the U.S. government access to millions of Americans’ private emails, text messages and phone calls, S. 139 further jeopardizes the privacy rights for those communities, including many within my own district.

We must stand our ground against this continued erosion of our constitutional rights. I hope my colleagues will join me in voting to replace this bill with the USA RIGHTS Act, which reinstates essential Fourth Amendment protections."

Blake Farenthold (R-TX, 27th) 

“There are a lot of constitutional and ethical problems with this legislation. It is troubling that despite having a warrant requirement, the exceptions are so broad they eviscerate the rule,” said Congressman Farenthold. “Part of protecting the American people includes protecting their constitutional rights.”

John Faso (R-NY, 19th)

“Failure to extend the FISA Act would put our nation at risk, impacting our ability to investigate terrorist threats – even those which might be an immediate threat. In addition, FISA intelligence is frequently utilized to protect U.S. military forces and diplomatic missions from hostile action by terrorist networks. We cannot let our nation go unprotected against hostile terrorist entities. We must keep this authority, and I was proud to support this legislation today,” 

Paul A. Gosar (R-AZ, 4th)

"My first year in Congress was the first time I was faced with the decision to reauthorize sections of the Foreign Surveillance Intelligence Act (FISA). This law, enacted in 1978, nominally allowed for the collection of foreign intelligence on foreign agents suspected of terroristic activities or espionage. That all sounds legitimate. In concept, this law was intended to allow surveillance and spying on non-citizens who posed a terrorist threat to our country.

"In practice, the law has been repeatedly abused to spy on American citizens. Notable abuses date back to 2002, and most recently, it was used as a political weapon against Donald Trump and his campaign. The reason it can be abused so easily is that the President can authorize spying without a court order. There is a process to get a warrant from a secret tribunal, or FISA court, but this process is merely a rubber stamp.  Out of 22,990 applications for permission to spy between 1979 and 2006, only five were denied. That is the definition of a rubber stamp.  That is not an independent check and balance.

"In 2015, I voted against the USA Freedom Act, which I initially supported as it would have forced the FISA court to be more transparent and curbed the abuses that are still occurring. However, as is often the case, after the House passed a strong bill, the Senate weakened it substantially and I therefore was forced to withdraw my support. The fact that the abuses increased after passage of this law demonstrates my concerns were valid. As I said at the time: 

'The original Freedom Act, of which I’m proud to have been an original cosponsor, would have prevented the federal government from unconstitutionally spying on innocent Americans, ended the bulk collection of private information and required the FISA court, which operates in secrecy, to become more transparent and operate like a real judicial court. These are necessary reforms demanded by Americans and our Constitution. Unfortunately, however, this legislation was changed at the last minute. Key reforms in the original bill were stripped or weakened to such an extent that I could not in good faith continue to support it. I am disappointed that the House accepted this watered down piece of trash, which was endorsed and pushed by the Obama administration and fails to remedy serious government abuses.'

"I am not happy to say I told you so."

"In 2011, I was told I should vote for FISA reauthorization because the government agents had learned their lesson and would never abuse their power again. And they said it again in 2012. And 2013, 2014 and on and on. You get the point. Nothing has changed. Indeed, under Obama (after the so-called reforms), the abuse of this law reached criminal proportions where FISA was weaponized as a political tool to harass, spy and undermine our election process and to (unsuccessfully) help the party in power remain in power through the election of Hillary Clinton. Such spying on U.S. citizens under color of law is illegal and can result in five years in jail. 

"I am not holding my breath for the Trump Department of Justice to convene a grand jury and start the indictment process against the Obama officials who violated the law and the civil rights of Donald Trump and his campaign staff. I can only do what is in my power to do, which is to say enough. 

"I, along with more than 40 of my colleagues, led by Michigan Representative Justin Amash, have championed practical, constitutionally-sound reforms to the FISA program that would allow our intelligence and law enforcement agencies to effectively carry out their mission to keep our country safe while also upholding the bedrock constitutional protections American citizens have been guaranteed since the Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791. Unfortunately these reforms were not incorporated into the most recent reauthorization bill.

"When I was sworn in as the Representative for Fourth Congressional District of Arizona, I took an oath to defend the Constitution. Allowing warrantless spying on American citizens is a violation of the Constitution. This is why I voted against FISA 702 Reauthorization."

Joseph P. Kennedy, 3rd (D-MA, 4th)

“Balancing the delicate scales of privacy and security for the American people is Congress’s most solemn responsibility. Reauthorizing this surveillance program provided an overdue opportunity to ensure that our intelligence community maintained the tools necessary to keep us safe, while guaranteeing the civil liberties of our citizens. Instead, the bill approved today only slightly improved the status quo and failed to make the meaningful reforms this program required.”

Related news:

FISA, Davidson's Push to Uphold Constitutional Rights

ADVANCE ACT SIGNED INTO LAW BY PRESIDENT

By Pete Aguilar (D-CA, 31st)



Washington, D.C. - January 11, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- House Representative Pete Aguilar (D-CA, 31st) announced that the ADVANCE Act, his bipartisan bill to help connect military service members with high-demand jobs in the Inland Empire, has been signed into law by President Trump. The bill was included in a larger package of legislation, known as the Jobs for Our Heroes Act, and signed into law by the president on January 8, 2018.

“Members of our military dedicate their lives to the service of our nation, and we need to make sure that their service is rewarded with opportunities to succeed when they finish their military careers,” said Rep. Aguilar. He continued, “These men and women represent the best among us, and integrating them into the civilian workforce will benefit communities like the Inland Empire. This new law will ensure that happens.”

The ADVANCE Act changes requirements to make it easier for active duty military personnel, reservists and National Guardsmen to obtain commercial driver’s licenses, allowing them to transition more easily into the civilian workforce. The Jobs for Our Heroes Act was passed unanimously by the House of Representatives in December, 2017.


See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site

Federal judges rule North Carolina congressional map unconstitutional

A panel of federal judges threw out North Carolina's congressional map on Tuesday, ruling the Republican-drawn map an unconstitutional partisan gerrymander and ordering the General Assembly to redraw the districts before the U.S. House elections.

Read more about this from The Washington Examiner

Alma Adams (D-NC, 12th)

“This ruling is a victory for democracy. The Republican-controlled General Assembly has deprived North Carolina voters of constitutional districts for nearly a decade in order to maintain their control in state and federal government. I urge the General Assembly to swiftly comply with the Court’s order and I will continue to closely monitor this case for additional updates.”

President Trump Signs Young, Donnelly Bill to Improve Mental Health Services for Law Enforcement

By Senator Todd Young (R - IN)



Washington, D.C. - January 11, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- President Trump signed into law U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Joe Donnelly’s (D-Ind.) Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act. Donnelly and Young introduced the bill in the Senate in early April and it passed unanimously in May. U.S. Representatives Susan Brooks (IN-05) and Val Demings (FL-10) introduced the companion bill in the House of Representatives in late April, and it passed the House in November and cleared the Senate on December 21.

Senator Young said, “Our law enforcement officers put their lives at risk every day in order to keep us safe, and they can face significant stress and trauma. The President signing our bipartisan bill into law means that these brave men and women will have greater access to mental health services when they need them.”

Senator Donnelly said, “Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to serve and protect our communities, and it’s important we ensure they have access to mental health services. I’m proud President Trump has signed our bipartisan legislation into law because it will provide tools for law enforcement agencies to help support the mental health and wellness of these brave men and women.”

Representative Brooks said, “I’m grateful that the President signed into law an important bill I led in the House to support law enforcement. Our hardworking men and women in law enforcement deserve better access to mental health services that will allow them to safely cope with the stress and trauma they experience on the job. We place so much emphasis and attention on our police officers’ physical fitness, but we need to do more to ensure they are mentally healthy as well. This law makes grants available to initiate peer mentoring pilot programs, develops training for mental health providers specific to law enforcement mental health needs, and supports law enforcement officers by studying the effectiveness of crisis hotlines and annual mental health checks. It directs the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to share best practices used by the military to help soldiers with PTSD and other mental health challenges with local law enforcement agencies to better address mental health challenges faced by officers. Ensuring the safety of the law enforcement community in Indiana and across the country is critically important. I am proud to have led this bipartisan effort to support our nation’s police officers with my colleagues in the House, specifically Representatives Demings, Collins, Pascrell and Reichert as well as fellow Hoosiers in the Senate, Senators Donnelly and Young.”

Bryan Roach, Chief of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, said, “The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) is excited that legislation to assist and support Law Enforcement Wellness and Mental Health has passed the necessary review and rigor to be incorporated into law. The value of our officers’ mental health and wellness to the individual officer, the Department and the citizens they serve is meaningful. We strive to provide the best opportunities to succeed in our noble profession, and appreciate efforts of everyone involved with the creation and advocacy of this bill.”

Marion County Sheriff John Layton said, “With each passing year, law enforcement agencies across the country are strengthening their embrace and understanding of the role that mental health care plays in the communities that they serve. Critical Intervention Training - special training that helps law enforcement officers recognize and respond to individuals with mental health needs - is now a common component of training for new officers. Still, placing the needs of their communities above their own, a gap has occurred in mental health and wellness services for these heroic men and women who face dangerous, and even deadly, situations on a daily basis. The Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act goes a long way to close that gap. It is imperative that we provide robust mental health and wellness care to our law enforcement officers, so they can continue to serve each of their communities at their best. I am so pleased with the passage of this bill, and I’m grateful to Senator Joe Donnelly and Senator Todd Young, and all of Indiana’s representatives in Congress for their support.”

Rick Snyder, Indianapolis FOP President, said, “This is a significant step forward for our law enforcement profession in addressing the mental trauma officers suffer due to acute and repeated exposure to violence, threats of violence and traumatic events. This legislation will allow our communities to better understand these challenges so proper support may be made available to those on the front lines in our cities and towns across America. This legislation is also a great example of bipartisan work within Congress. We value and appreciate the leadership of Senator Donnelley, Senator Young, Congresswoman Brooks and Congresswoman Demings. We are collectively grateful to President Trump for signing this legislation into law and once again demonstrating his support for law enforcement nationwide.

Chuck Canterbury, National President of the FOP, said, “Our officers wear protective clothing and other equipment to keep themselves safe from physical harm, but they also face challenges to their mental health and well-being. It is time we take care of those who watch over and protect us. The Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act is now law and will help better support the men and women behind the badge. The FOP has been a leader on mental health for law enforcement officers, and we have been proud to work with Senators Donnelly and Young on this effort. The passion Senators Donnelly and Young show for the mental health and wellness of our law enforcement officers should be the standard for every member of Congress.”

Bill Johnson, Executive Director, National Association of Police Organizations, said, “State and local law enforcement officers are our nation’s first responders. They respond to our country’s greatest tragedies as well as violent and abhorrent crimes that unfortunately occur with some frequency in our communities. They have seen and experienced horrors that they cannot forget, yet they still put their lives on the line every day to protect and serve our communities. The Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act recognizes the stress and strain of the job and gives officers the support and resources they need to address their emotional and mental wellbeing. The enactment of this vital legislation is a victory for officers across the nation and we offer our sincere appreciation to Senators Donnelly and Young for their leadership on this issue and their commitment to ensuring officers have access to the best mental health services available.

William Owensby, President of the Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police, said, “Senator Donnelly’s support of Indiana law enforcement reached new heights as legislation authored by him was signed into law. The Senator was approached by the Fraternal Order of Police about helping to provide assistance to law enforcement who suffer from the effects of the stresses of their jobs and he immediately rose to the occasion. With strong bipartisan support from Indiana, the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act was made a reality. Many thanks for the unwavering support Senator Donnelly!"

The Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act authorizes grants to initiate peer mentoring pilot programs, directs the Departments of Justice and Health and Human Services to develop resources for mental health providers based on the specific mental health challenges faced by law enforcement, and supports law enforcement officers by studying the effectiveness of crisis hotlines and annual mental health checks.

It also directs the Departments of Defense (DoD), Justice, and Veterans Affairs (VA) to confer about existing DoD and VA mental health practices and services that could be adopted by law enforcement agencies.

The legislation had the support of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Officers (NAPO), the Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association.

Recognizing the stress and trauma that law enforcement officers experience and in an effort to support officers, IMPD created initiatives through the Office of Professional Development and Officer Wellness and started a peer mentoring program. These efforts by IMPD helped inspire Donnelly’s and Young’s bill.



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Thune Bills to Combat Human Trafficking Signed Into Law

By: Senator John Thune (R - SD)



Washington, D.C. - January 11, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the president signed his bipartisan legislation to combat human trafficking, the No Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act (S. 1532), and the Combatting Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act (S. 1536), of which he was a cosponsor.

“Now that the No Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act and the Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act have been signed into law, they will aid in the ongoing battle against human trafficking,” said Thune.

S. 1532 and S. 1536 would (respectively):

Disqualify individuals from operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for their lifetime if they used a CMV to commit a felony involving human trafficking.

Designate a human trafficking prevention coordinator at the U.S. Department of Transportation and would increase outreach, education, and reporting efforts at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.


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JANUARY IS NATIONAL SLAVERY & HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS MONTH

By Senator John McCain - (R - AZ)



Washington, D.C. - January 11, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) released the following statement in recognition of National Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness Month:

“In recognition of National Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness Month, we must reaffirm our commitment to eliminating all forms of modern day slavery and human trafficking. These are horrific crimes that undermine the most basic human rights, and target the most vulnerable and at-risk individuals in our society.

“I commend the Senate’s work to combat modern day slavery and human trafficking, including through the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act, which I am proud to cosponsor. I’m also proud of my wife Cindy’s longstanding effort to help victims of human trafficking and drive change both in Arizona and around the world.

“We have a long way to go to end this tragedy and restore the freedom of those exploited through these crimes. Let this month serve as a reminder that it is our duty to not only raise awareness, but to stop the victimization of all men, women and children.”


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SULLIVAN APPLAUDS ORDER TO EXPAND MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS AND CARE FOR VETERANS
Senator Dan Sullivan  -  (R - Ak)
January 10, 2018
“As an officer in the Marine Corps Reserve, I’ve personally witnessed the struggles – at times tragic – that some of our servicemen and women undergo as they search for care,” said Senator Sullivan. “It’s our obligation to pursue all of the causes and all of the factors that contribute to the scourge of veteran suicide, and bring it to an end. I am encouraged by President Trump’s announcement and decision to focus efforts on a particularly vulnerable group of servicemembers as they transition from military service to civilian life.”  
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Shaheen Statement on Federal Judge’s Ruling to Block Administration’s Actions on DACA
Senator Jeanne Shaheen  (D - NH)
January 10, 2018
“I’m relieved by the judge’s ruling to temporarily protect DACA recipients,” said Senator Shaheen. “However, this ruling should not diminish the urgency of reaching a long-term bipartisan solution to protect Dreamers who are terrified that their lives could soon be upended. It’s been very disappointing to see an agreement held hostage in order to extract concessions for the President’s expensive, and likely ineffective, border wall. It’s imperative that President Trump and Congressional Republicans engage in good faith discussions to allow Dreamers to live without fear of deportation.”
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DACA RULING AGAINST TRUMP SHOWS JUDGES ARE BIGGEST OPPONENT TO IMMIGRATION CRACKDOWNS
Newsweek
January 10, 2018
A year into his first term, nearly every one of President Donald Trump's major actions on immigration policy has been battled in court, and a judge's ruling this week against his Deferred Action and Childhood Protection (DACA) withdrawal is just the latest legal blow to his promises for extreme reform.
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In Response to Senators’ Questions, CDC Reveals Politically Charged List of “Words To Avoid”
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
In response to a letter led by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and co-signed by U.S. Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) that called for answers regarding reports of banned words used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the upcoming budget process, CDC acknowledged that it provides guidance on words to avoid using and suggests alternative terms. For instance, in an excerpt from an official document, CDC recommends the use of the colloquial term “Obamacare” over “ACA” or “The Affordable Care Act,” the official name for the law. Schatz and the co-authors of the letter slammed the use of such guidance, which favors more politically charged language. 
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Sanders Slams Trump's Border Wall Demand, Says We Must Protect Dreamers and Working Families
Senator Bernard Sanders (I - VT)
January 10, 2018
U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) questioned Sunday why President Donald Trump wants to shut down the government over an $18 billion border wall that the American people do not want and called on Congress to immediately fix the crisis the president precipitated when he ended protections for Dreamers in September.
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Rubio Presses State Department on Response to Attacks on U.S. Diplomats in Cuba
Senator Marco Rubio - (R - FL)
January 10, 2018
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations’ Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, and Global Women’s Issues,  chaired a hearing entitled “Attacks on U.S. Diplomats in Cuba: Response and Oversight.” The goal of the hearing was to establish the facts surrounding the attacks on U.S. diplomats in Cuba, and conduct oversight over the State Department’s handling of the attacks.
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​President Trump Pledges to Work with Chairman Roberts for an On-Time Farm Bill
Senator Pat Roberts- (R - KS)
January 10, 2018
After multiple meetings with President Donald J. Trump on issues of importance to rural America, U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, R-Kan., Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today joined the President onstage at the American Farm Bureau’s 99th annual convention in Nashville, Tenn.
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Bipartisan, Bicameral Small Business Committee Leaders Introduce Legislation Protecting Integrity of 7(a) Loan Program
Senator James E. Risch - (R - ID)
January 10, 2018
Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee Chairman Jim Risch (R-ID), House Small Business Committee Chairman Steve Chabot (R-OH) and respective Ranking Members Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Nydia Velázquez (D-NY) joined together to introduce the Small Business 7(a) Lending Oversight and Reform Act of 2018. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will increase the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) oversight authority over the 7(a) loan program. 
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Senators Urge SEC, DOJ to Investigate Intel CEO’s Stock Sales Despite Chip Vulnerabilities Knowledge
Senator Jack Reed - (D - RI)
January 10, 2018
U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and John Kennedy (R-LA) have asked the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) to investigate the sale of millions of stock and options by Intel Chief Executive Officer Brian Krzanich while the company was handling concerns about security vulnerabilities in its chips, but before the information was made public.  According to the Wall Street Journal: “The trade took place on Nov. 29, nearly six months after Intel was informed about the vulnerabilities, which could enable hackers to access user data in chips made by Intel and others. Mr. Krzanich sold shares and exercised stock options worth a total of $39 million, netting him nearly $25 million, according to regulatory filings made at the time.”
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​Updated: Reactions to Trump Administration’s Plan to Open Coasts to Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
Lots of people reacted to Trump's decision to expand offshore drilling:
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Nelson vows to fight Trump administration's offshore oil drilling plan
Senator Bill Nelson- (D - FL)
January 10, 2018
“This plan is an assault on Florida’s economy, our national security, the will of the public and the environment. This proposal defies all common sense and I will do everything I can to defeat it.”
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KAINE JOINS BILL TO PROTECT TPS RECIPIENTS, INCLUDING SALVADORANS TARGETED BY TRUMP ADMINISTRATION THIS WEEK
Senator Tim Kaine - (D - VA)
January 10, 2018
In the wake of the Trump Administration’s decision yesterday, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine co-sponsored the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and in Emergency (SECURE) Act to protect people who were displaced by dangerous conditions in their home country and came to live in the United States under Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Kaine spoke out this week against the Trump Administration’s decision to end TPS for Salvadoran immigrants displaced by natural disasters, including thousands in Virginia. The SECURE Act would allow qualified TPS recipients to apply for legal permanent residency.
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Trump Signs EO to Expand Broadband to Rural Communities
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
After speaking at the Farmer's Convention on Monday, the President signed an executive order to expand broadband to rural communities. This executive order directs federal agencies to remove obstacles to broadband deployment and reduce barriers to investment in broadband infrastructure. Specifically, the executive order directs agencies to evaluate the effectiveness of the application process to build out broadband infrastructure on federal property and ultimately streamline and expedite the review of these requests.
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Reactions on Bi-partisan Immigration Meeting
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
Trump held a meeting with members of Congress concerning the wall, and DACA, among other issues about immigration. Below are some of the reactions from Congress:
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Afghanistan Watchdog Releases Grassley-requested Audit of Defense Department Spending
Senator Chuck Grassley - (R - IA)
January 10, 2018
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, received the results of an audit he requested in 2016, along with then-Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), from the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR). The audit is the result of conscientious oversight efforts conducted by Grassley over several years of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), specifically Task Force for Business and Stability Operations (TFBSO).
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​Focus on Farmers
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
President Trump gave a speech on Monday at the American Farm Bureau Federation convention in Nashville. The main-stream media wanted to focus on just one thing he said, (I'm sure you have all seen it on the news, about flags and the national anthem). They refused to focus on all the other stuff he said, even though the speech was nearly 40 minutes in length. What he said about the flag and the National Anthem only occurred ONCE, in a 5 second comment. That is why I refuse to give credence to the news on television. Here at The Ponder, I think it is right that we show you what you miss by watching the news on TV, and not getting your information from the sources on the internet. 
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