Discussed Gowdy on CNN’s Outfront, “About eight hours ago, Adam Schiff and I looked Dan Coats in the eyes and we assured him that there would be no selective leaking of his testimony to us. And I’ll be damned if eight hours later, there aren’t three different leaks with what he told us.”
The Unpopular Truth
Thursday, July 27, 2017
One of Eight People Leaked Closed Door Testimony -- Trey Gowdy Not Happy
USA Politics Today
Discussed Gowdy on CNN’s Outfront, “About eight hours ago, Adam Schiff and I looked Dan Coats in the eyes and we assured him that there would be no selective leaking of his testimony to us. And I’ll be damned if eight hours later, there aren’t three different leaks with what he told us.”
Discussed Gowdy on CNN’s Outfront, “About eight hours ago, Adam Schiff and I looked Dan Coats in the eyes and we assured him that there would be no selective leaking of his testimony to us. And I’ll be damned if eight hours later, there aren’t three different leaks with what he told us.”
Wednesday, July 26, 2017
PRESIDENT TRUMP ANNOUNCES NO MORE TRANSGENDERS IN THE MILITARY
In a statement this morning, directly from his personal Twitter account, President Donald Trump shattered his predecessor's grand social experiment in the U.S. military. (Photo: President Trump speaks with General Mattis/Reuters/via Charisma News)
"After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States government will not accept or allow transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. military," he wrote. "Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail."
Congressmen React to Military Transgender Ban
Washington, D.C. - July 27, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) issued the following statement condemning President Trump’s cruel and discriminatory ban on transgender military service members from serving in the U.S. Armed Forces:
“Today’s attack by the Commander-in-Chief on our military’s active duty personnel is appalling,” Representative Nadler lamented. “The arguments against allowing transgender service members to serve openly in our military reflect the same arguments that have been used against every other group that has been prohibited from serving in our country’s history – including black and Latino men, women, gays, lesbians, and bisexuals. President Trump is attacking the very individuals he asks to risk their lives.”
Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) released the following statement on President Trump’s tweets on transgender Americans serving in the military.
“Tens of thousands of transgender Americans have bravely and selflessly served our military, risking their lives to defend the freedoms we enjoy every day. Like all Americans, they deserve the opportunity to wear the uniform regardless of their gender identity. President Trump’s bigoted decision will make America less safe and inhibit our military readiness. It is clear that President Trump is doubling down on his policies of hatred and it is the responsibility of all Americans – especially the Congress – to stand against this injustice.”
Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-20), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and a member of the House Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Equality Caucus, issued the following statement after President Donald Trump tweeted that transgender Americans will no longer be able to serve in the U.S. military:
“The President’s tweet attacking transgender service members is shameful and prejudiced. Those who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country should not face discrimination from anyone, let alone their Commander in Chief. Last year, the Department of Defense implemented a policy to allow transgender troops to serve openly in the military. Today’s guidance by President Trump, if carried out by the Department of Defense, to explicitly ban people who are already serving and wish to serve our country is a huge step back in the progress we have made in the name of diversity and inclusion. As member of the House Armed Services Committee and a veteran, I value every American who is willing and able to join the U.S. military. I urge the President to reverse his guidance, and to respect and support those who protect our country regardless of their gender identity.”
Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement in response to President Trump's tweets on banning transgender Americans from serving in the military:
"Our commander-in-chief should not ban Americans who are qualified to serve in our military and are willing to risk their lives for our country. This is an obvious attempt to distract from the Republicans' disastrous debate on health care."
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s proposed ban on transgender Americans serving in the military.
“Servicemembers should be accepted on the basis of their ability to fight, train, and deploy without discrimination. Many transgender Americans have served honorably and capably – and countless others are serving now and would seek to serve in the future. President Trump should be thanking these servicemembers and veterans for their dedication and commitment to our nation instead of barring them from service. This rash and surprising Tweet contradicts the Department of Defense’s previous policy decision to allow transgender servicemembers to serve openly, and constitutes official discrimination.”
"After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States government will not accept or allow transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. military," he wrote. "Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail."
Read more...
Congressmen React to Military Transgender Ban
Washington, D.C. - July 27, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) issued the following statement condemning President Trump’s cruel and discriminatory ban on transgender military service members from serving in the U.S. Armed Forces:
“Today’s attack by the Commander-in-Chief on our military’s active duty personnel is appalling,” Representative Nadler lamented. “The arguments against allowing transgender service members to serve openly in our military reflect the same arguments that have been used against every other group that has been prohibited from serving in our country’s history – including black and Latino men, women, gays, lesbians, and bisexuals. President Trump is attacking the very individuals he asks to risk their lives.”
Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) released the following statement on President Trump’s tweets on transgender Americans serving in the military.
“Tens of thousands of transgender Americans have bravely and selflessly served our military, risking their lives to defend the freedoms we enjoy every day. Like all Americans, they deserve the opportunity to wear the uniform regardless of their gender identity. President Trump’s bigoted decision will make America less safe and inhibit our military readiness. It is clear that President Trump is doubling down on his policies of hatred and it is the responsibility of all Americans – especially the Congress – to stand against this injustice.”
Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-20), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and a member of the House Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Equality Caucus, issued the following statement after President Donald Trump tweeted that transgender Americans will no longer be able to serve in the U.S. military:
“The President’s tweet attacking transgender service members is shameful and prejudiced. Those who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country should not face discrimination from anyone, let alone their Commander in Chief. Last year, the Department of Defense implemented a policy to allow transgender troops to serve openly in the military. Today’s guidance by President Trump, if carried out by the Department of Defense, to explicitly ban people who are already serving and wish to serve our country is a huge step back in the progress we have made in the name of diversity and inclusion. As member of the House Armed Services Committee and a veteran, I value every American who is willing and able to join the U.S. military. I urge the President to reverse his guidance, and to respect and support those who protect our country regardless of their gender identity.”
Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement in response to President Trump's tweets on banning transgender Americans from serving in the military:
"Our commander-in-chief should not ban Americans who are qualified to serve in our military and are willing to risk their lives for our country. This is an obvious attempt to distract from the Republicans' disastrous debate on health care."
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s proposed ban on transgender Americans serving in the military.
“Servicemembers should be accepted on the basis of their ability to fight, train, and deploy without discrimination. Many transgender Americans have served honorably and capably – and countless others are serving now and would seek to serve in the future. President Trump should be thanking these servicemembers and veterans for their dedication and commitment to our nation instead of barring them from service. This rash and surprising Tweet contradicts the Department of Defense’s previous policy decision to allow transgender servicemembers to serve openly, and constitutes official discrimination.”
Terry Sharpe: The Walking Marine
Terry Sharpe is planning his 2017 Walk to raise awareness of the current Veteran suicide rate, which stands at 22 per day — the equivalent of one Veteran committing suicide every 65 minutes. Terry at age 66, will walk from Summerfield, NC to Washington, DC to bring attention to this terrible plight. That is a trip of 300 miles, some very hard miles, but Terry wants to bring attention to the Veteran’s Issues. Terry will be joined on his walk by Micheal Boncek who is also an avid walker devoted to drawing attention to Veteran issues.
Read more...
Wisconsin retail tech company offers to microchip its staff
KTBS News
A Wisconsin company is offering to microchip its employees, enabling them to open doors, log onto their computers and purchase break room snacks with a simple swipe of the hand.
Three Square Market, also known as 32M, says it expects about 50 employees to take advantage of the technology. The chips are the size of a grain of rice and will be implanted underneath the skin between the thumb and forefinger.
A Wisconsin company is offering to microchip its employees, enabling them to open doors, log onto their computers and purchase break room snacks with a simple swipe of the hand.
Three Square Market, also known as 32M, says it expects about 50 employees to take advantage of the technology. The chips are the size of a grain of rice and will be implanted underneath the skin between the thumb and forefinger.
Read more...
Steve Scalise discharged a month after shooting
New York Post
House Majority Whip Steve Scalise – who was critically wounded in a shooting at a baseball practice last month – has been discharged from a Washington hospital.
MedStar Washington Hospital Center says the six-term Louisiana Republican was released from the hospital on Tuesday and is beginning “intensive inpatient rehabilitation.”
It isn’t identifying the facility.
The hospital says in a statement that Scalise (skuh-LEES’) was in good spirits and looking forward to returning to work once he completes his rehabilitation.
House Majority Whip Steve Scalise – who was critically wounded in a shooting at a baseball practice last month – has been discharged from a Washington hospital.
MedStar Washington Hospital Center says the six-term Louisiana Republican was released from the hospital on Tuesday and is beginning “intensive inpatient rehabilitation.”
It isn’t identifying the facility.
The hospital says in a statement that Scalise (skuh-LEES’) was in good spirits and looking forward to returning to work once he completes his rehabilitation.
Read more...
President Donald J. Trump Proclaims July 26, 2017, as a Day in Celebration of the 27th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act
ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, 2017
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
On the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), we celebrate the landmark legislation that marks our Nation's commitment to ending discrimination against people with disabilities. The ADA's recognition of the inherent dignity of disabled persons solidified America's status as the world leader in protecting fundamental rights. Today, we pay special respect to the contributions of the more than 56 million Americans living with disabilities, and we look forward to further advancing accessibility for all those who need it.
President George H.W. Bush signed the ADA on July 26, 1990, and for 27 years it has been instrumental in protecting the rights and liberties of people with disabilities and strengthening their access to everyday American life. Disabilities are an unavoidable part of the human experience veterans injured in service to their Nation, survivors of accidents and illnesses, children born with disabilities, and our elderly. Since its inception, the ADA has helped empower people living with disabilities by ensuring they have fair and just access to employment, government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, and public transportation.
Americans are justifiably proud of the ADA and its accomplishments, but more can be done to protect the rights and dignity of Americans living with disabilities. Disabled Americans in the workforce already contribute substantially to our Nation's productivity and prosperity. We must continue to empower them by breaking down obstacles that prevent their full participation in the public and economic affairs of our Nation. In addition, my Administration will encourage American ingenuity and technological advancements in medicine and science, which will give millions of Americans with disabilities opportunities to work, engage in commerce, and connect with others in ways we could not have imagined 27 years ago.
On the anniversary of the ADA, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering an environment that provides all Americans with the opportunity to pursue their American dream. Let us all take this time to refocus our efforts to support our fellow Americans and help them succeed, no matter the obstacles they may face.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2017, as a day in celebration of the 27th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities that celebrate the contributions of Americans with disabilities and to renew our commitment to achieving the promise of our freedom for all Americans.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand seventeen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-second.
DONALD J. TRUMP
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
On the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), we celebrate the landmark legislation that marks our Nation's commitment to ending discrimination against people with disabilities. The ADA's recognition of the inherent dignity of disabled persons solidified America's status as the world leader in protecting fundamental rights. Today, we pay special respect to the contributions of the more than 56 million Americans living with disabilities, and we look forward to further advancing accessibility for all those who need it.
President George H.W. Bush signed the ADA on July 26, 1990, and for 27 years it has been instrumental in protecting the rights and liberties of people with disabilities and strengthening their access to everyday American life. Disabilities are an unavoidable part of the human experience veterans injured in service to their Nation, survivors of accidents and illnesses, children born with disabilities, and our elderly. Since its inception, the ADA has helped empower people living with disabilities by ensuring they have fair and just access to employment, government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, and public transportation.
Americans are justifiably proud of the ADA and its accomplishments, but more can be done to protect the rights and dignity of Americans living with disabilities. Disabled Americans in the workforce already contribute substantially to our Nation's productivity and prosperity. We must continue to empower them by breaking down obstacles that prevent their full participation in the public and economic affairs of our Nation. In addition, my Administration will encourage American ingenuity and technological advancements in medicine and science, which will give millions of Americans with disabilities opportunities to work, engage in commerce, and connect with others in ways we could not have imagined 27 years ago.
On the anniversary of the ADA, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering an environment that provides all Americans with the opportunity to pursue their American dream. Let us all take this time to refocus our efforts to support our fellow Americans and help them succeed, no matter the obstacles they may face.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2017, as a day in celebration of the 27th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities that celebrate the contributions of Americans with disabilities and to renew our commitment to achieving the promise of our freedom for all Americans.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand seventeen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-second.
DONALD J. TRUMP
Wisconsin House Democrats Urge State Officials to Reject Presidential ‘Voter Fraud' Commission's Request for Sensitive Information
Washington, D.C. - July 26, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- In response to an appeal by the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity for sensitive information on Wisconsin voters, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04), Congressman Mark Pocan (WI-02), and Congressman Ron Kind (WI-03), wrote a letter to the Wisconsin Elections Commission and Wisconsin Secretary of State Doug La Follette urging them to disregard the Commission’s request.
“Let’s call the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity what it really is: A painfully transparent attempt by President Trump to substantiate his unfounded claims about voter fraud in the 2016 presidential election,” said Congresswoman Moore. “With Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach at the helm of this Commission – the architect of several restrictive voter suppression initiatives against communities of color for which he was sued by the A.C.L.U. on four separate occasions – I fear our country will once again see an influx of discriminatory policies reminiscent of the ‘grandfather clauses’ of the Jim Crow era. I simply cannot endorse the release of sensitive voter information to a Commission led by a man whose connections to organizations deemed ‘hate groups’ by the Southern Poverty Law Center reach back over a decade.”
“More than 8 months after the 2016 election, President Trump still cannot comprehend how he lost the popular vote to Secretary Clinton. Despite his place in the White House, he is still clinging to the false claim that there was widespread voter fraud and his sham President Commission on Election Integrity only serves to perpetuate that myth,” said Congressman Pocan. “President Trump’s sham commission will be used as a tool of discrimination and voter suppression, not as a way to strengthen and secure our electoral process. Wisconsin should join states across the country in rejecting President Trump’s demands to turn over data. Our voters deserve it.”
“It is absolutely outrageous that in 2017 we still have politicians who are trying to make it harder for Wisconsinites to vote,” said Congressman Kind. “I urge the Wisconsin Elections Commission, in the strongest terms possible, to refuse requests by the Trump Administration to turn over Wisconsinites’ private information.”
“Never before has the personal voting data of so many—over 200 million Americans—been compiled and stored in one source,” the Members of Congress wrote. “The collection of this information by the Commission creates an undue risk to the privacy rights of Wisconsin voters. While we note that your current position on this matter is to supply the Commission with publically accessible data and to charge a fee for the remaining information, we caution that your decision to even partially cooperate with this inquest exposes the Wisconsin electorate to significant, irreparable harm, especially in light of allegations of extensive efforts by Russia and others to interfere in our democracy. A price should not be placed on the privacy of our constituents.”
“Let’s call the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity what it really is: A painfully transparent attempt by President Trump to substantiate his unfounded claims about voter fraud in the 2016 presidential election,” said Congresswoman Moore. “With Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach at the helm of this Commission – the architect of several restrictive voter suppression initiatives against communities of color for which he was sued by the A.C.L.U. on four separate occasions – I fear our country will once again see an influx of discriminatory policies reminiscent of the ‘grandfather clauses’ of the Jim Crow era. I simply cannot endorse the release of sensitive voter information to a Commission led by a man whose connections to organizations deemed ‘hate groups’ by the Southern Poverty Law Center reach back over a decade.”
“More than 8 months after the 2016 election, President Trump still cannot comprehend how he lost the popular vote to Secretary Clinton. Despite his place in the White House, he is still clinging to the false claim that there was widespread voter fraud and his sham President Commission on Election Integrity only serves to perpetuate that myth,” said Congressman Pocan. “President Trump’s sham commission will be used as a tool of discrimination and voter suppression, not as a way to strengthen and secure our electoral process. Wisconsin should join states across the country in rejecting President Trump’s demands to turn over data. Our voters deserve it.”
“It is absolutely outrageous that in 2017 we still have politicians who are trying to make it harder for Wisconsinites to vote,” said Congressman Kind. “I urge the Wisconsin Elections Commission, in the strongest terms possible, to refuse requests by the Trump Administration to turn over Wisconsinites’ private information.”
“Never before has the personal voting data of so many—over 200 million Americans—been compiled and stored in one source,” the Members of Congress wrote. “The collection of this information by the Commission creates an undue risk to the privacy rights of Wisconsin voters. While we note that your current position on this matter is to supply the Commission with publically accessible data and to charge a fee for the remaining information, we caution that your decision to even partially cooperate with this inquest exposes the Wisconsin electorate to significant, irreparable harm, especially in light of allegations of extensive efforts by Russia and others to interfere in our democracy. A price should not be placed on the privacy of our constituents.”
House Passes Iran, Russia and North Korea Sanctions Bill
Washington, D.C. - July 26, 2017 (The Ponder News) --The House of Representatives approved H.R. 3364, the Countering Adversarial Nations Through Sanctions Act, by a bipartisan 419-3 vote.
U.S. Representatives Martha McSally (R-AZ) released the following statement on The Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, legislation passed with overwhelming bipartisan support to increase economic and political sanctions on Iran, Russia, and North Korea:
“Iran, Russia, and North Korea are our top adversaries—threatening our national security, disrupting global stability, and defying the principles of freedom, justice, and equality that America stands to protect. The bill that we passed today with my strong support is one of the toughest sanctions packages Congress has ever passed—and also one of the most necessary. These countries are dangerous. It’s time these bad actors face consequences. Additionally, this sanctions package empowers Congress to review and disapprove of any sanctions relief extended to Russia. Congressional review in this matter is essential and appropriate.”
Congressman Patrick Meehan (R-Pa.) issued the following statement:
“These sanctions put hostile regimes in Moscow, Tehran and Pyongyang on notice,” said Congressman Meehan. “For eight years under President Obama, accountability took a back seat to accommodation when it came to our adversaries on the world stage. Each of these regimes continues to pursue campaigns of aggression and belligerence, but today’s bipartisan vote shows they will not go unpunished.”
“These sanctions will hit these regimes where it will hurt, and they’ll limit our enemies’ access to the hard cash necessary to finance aggression, human rights abuses and support for terror. I’m pleased to see the legislation approved by the House and I hope the Senate acts to send it to the President’s desk for his signature promptly,” Meehan said.
Ranking Member of the Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats Subcommittee, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks, released the following statement on the House’s passage of H.R. 3346, the Russia-Iran-North Korea Sanctions Bill:
"It is quite telling that the first major bill to be sent to President Trump is one that limits his authority, because members of both parties in both houses of Congress cannot trust President Trump to act on behalf of America’s interests when it comes to Russia. Mere months ago, Trump gave away national secrets to Russian diplomats and sold out our allies in the Oval Office. With new details constantly emerging that shed light on this administration’s many lies regarding its cozy relationship with Russia, Congress voted overwhelmingly to strengthen sanctions on Russia.
“This bill sends a strong message to Russia and our allies: when the sitting President fails to do so, the US Congress will hold accountable anyone complicit in attempting to destabilize Western democracies.”
Rep. Tom O’Halleran voted pass the bipartisan Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act to impose sanctions on Russia, Iran, and North Korea.
“I am pleased to see broad bipartisan support on sanctions for countries who disregard international laws and basic human rights,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “We must make it clear that the actions of these three countries will not be tolerated anywhere, and this legislation goes a long way to hold them accountable.”
The legislation makes permanent existing sanctions on Russia over the country’s actions in Crimea and Ukraine and cyber attacks in the U.S., and it implements new sanctions on Russian-financed companies involved in off-shore oil projects and individuals doing business with the Russian military or intelligence agencies. Included in the legislation are sanctions on Iran over their ballistic missile program, support of terrorist groups, and human rights violations, and it expands sanctions on the North Korean government and countries and organizations working with the Kim regime.
“Our national security and the safety of our children is not a partisan issue,” continued O’Halleran. “We must continue to curb the rise of terrorism in the Middle East by preventing the sale of arms to and from Iran and halting the country’s ballistic missile program.”
Additionally, the legislation includes a bill co-sponsored by Rep. O’Halleran that combats the funding of terror organizations and requires President Trump to develop a strategy for combatting the financing of terrorism and related forms of illicit financing.
U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement regarding the passage of H.R. 3364, Russia, Iran and North Korea Sanctions Act.
"It speaks volumes that the first major bipartisan piece of legislation expected to come out of this Congress reins in this President’s authority. This tough package strengthens the ability of Congress to oversee the implementation of critical sanctions on some bad actors. Congress is sending a clear message to the world that we will not stand idly by as North Korea, Iran, and Russia threaten their neighbors and continue to undermine American interests at home and abroad," Rep. Pascrell said. “I call upon the Senate to pass the bill to hold these regimes accountable for their destabilizing actions and the President to then swiftly sign this sanctions package into law."
Two weeks ago, Rep. Pascrell called on House leadership to bring a legislative package of Russia sanctions up for a vote in light of remarks by a White House aide indicating the Trump Administration was preparing to return shuttered Russian compounds seized as punishment for Russia's election interference. Rep. Pascrell also authored the No Russian DACHA Act to ensure that sanctions relief only comes in exchange for Russia ceasing the behavior that prompted these sanctions.
In December, Rep. Pascrell wrote a letter to Congressional leadership asking lawmakers to take early action in the new Congress to confront Russia's geopolitical aggression. His letter stressed codification of economic sanctions against Russia for their occupation of Crimea.
Rep. Pascrell has also been closely following the growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Earlier this month, he held a roundtable discussion with Korean-Americans in his district to discuss possible legislative action, including need for increased sanctions.
Rep. Pascrell is a cosponsor of the Iran Ballistic Missiles and International Sanctions Enforcement Act (H.R. 1698), which expands sanctions against Iran with respect to the ballistic missiles program of Iran. This bill would use targeted sanctions to try and halt Iran’s ballistic missile program, requiring the President to identify and sanction individuals and entities contributing to Iran’s ballistic missile program.
U.S. Representatives Martha McSally (R-AZ) released the following statement on The Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, legislation passed with overwhelming bipartisan support to increase economic and political sanctions on Iran, Russia, and North Korea:
“Iran, Russia, and North Korea are our top adversaries—threatening our national security, disrupting global stability, and defying the principles of freedom, justice, and equality that America stands to protect. The bill that we passed today with my strong support is one of the toughest sanctions packages Congress has ever passed—and also one of the most necessary. These countries are dangerous. It’s time these bad actors face consequences. Additionally, this sanctions package empowers Congress to review and disapprove of any sanctions relief extended to Russia. Congressional review in this matter is essential and appropriate.”
Congressman Patrick Meehan (R-Pa.) issued the following statement:
“These sanctions put hostile regimes in Moscow, Tehran and Pyongyang on notice,” said Congressman Meehan. “For eight years under President Obama, accountability took a back seat to accommodation when it came to our adversaries on the world stage. Each of these regimes continues to pursue campaigns of aggression and belligerence, but today’s bipartisan vote shows they will not go unpunished.”
“These sanctions will hit these regimes where it will hurt, and they’ll limit our enemies’ access to the hard cash necessary to finance aggression, human rights abuses and support for terror. I’m pleased to see the legislation approved by the House and I hope the Senate acts to send it to the President’s desk for his signature promptly,” Meehan said.
Ranking Member of the Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats Subcommittee, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks, released the following statement on the House’s passage of H.R. 3346, the Russia-Iran-North Korea Sanctions Bill:
"It is quite telling that the first major bill to be sent to President Trump is one that limits his authority, because members of both parties in both houses of Congress cannot trust President Trump to act on behalf of America’s interests when it comes to Russia. Mere months ago, Trump gave away national secrets to Russian diplomats and sold out our allies in the Oval Office. With new details constantly emerging that shed light on this administration’s many lies regarding its cozy relationship with Russia, Congress voted overwhelmingly to strengthen sanctions on Russia.
“This bill sends a strong message to Russia and our allies: when the sitting President fails to do so, the US Congress will hold accountable anyone complicit in attempting to destabilize Western democracies.”
Rep. Tom O’Halleran voted pass the bipartisan Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act to impose sanctions on Russia, Iran, and North Korea.
“I am pleased to see broad bipartisan support on sanctions for countries who disregard international laws and basic human rights,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “We must make it clear that the actions of these three countries will not be tolerated anywhere, and this legislation goes a long way to hold them accountable.”
The legislation makes permanent existing sanctions on Russia over the country’s actions in Crimea and Ukraine and cyber attacks in the U.S., and it implements new sanctions on Russian-financed companies involved in off-shore oil projects and individuals doing business with the Russian military or intelligence agencies. Included in the legislation are sanctions on Iran over their ballistic missile program, support of terrorist groups, and human rights violations, and it expands sanctions on the North Korean government and countries and organizations working with the Kim regime.
“Our national security and the safety of our children is not a partisan issue,” continued O’Halleran. “We must continue to curb the rise of terrorism in the Middle East by preventing the sale of arms to and from Iran and halting the country’s ballistic missile program.”
Additionally, the legislation includes a bill co-sponsored by Rep. O’Halleran that combats the funding of terror organizations and requires President Trump to develop a strategy for combatting the financing of terrorism and related forms of illicit financing.
U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement regarding the passage of H.R. 3364, Russia, Iran and North Korea Sanctions Act.
"It speaks volumes that the first major bipartisan piece of legislation expected to come out of this Congress reins in this President’s authority. This tough package strengthens the ability of Congress to oversee the implementation of critical sanctions on some bad actors. Congress is sending a clear message to the world that we will not stand idly by as North Korea, Iran, and Russia threaten their neighbors and continue to undermine American interests at home and abroad," Rep. Pascrell said. “I call upon the Senate to pass the bill to hold these regimes accountable for their destabilizing actions and the President to then swiftly sign this sanctions package into law."
Two weeks ago, Rep. Pascrell called on House leadership to bring a legislative package of Russia sanctions up for a vote in light of remarks by a White House aide indicating the Trump Administration was preparing to return shuttered Russian compounds seized as punishment for Russia's election interference. Rep. Pascrell also authored the No Russian DACHA Act to ensure that sanctions relief only comes in exchange for Russia ceasing the behavior that prompted these sanctions.
In December, Rep. Pascrell wrote a letter to Congressional leadership asking lawmakers to take early action in the new Congress to confront Russia's geopolitical aggression. His letter stressed codification of economic sanctions against Russia for their occupation of Crimea.
Rep. Pascrell has also been closely following the growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Earlier this month, he held a roundtable discussion with Korean-Americans in his district to discuss possible legislative action, including need for increased sanctions.
Rep. Pascrell is a cosponsor of the Iran Ballistic Missiles and International Sanctions Enforcement Act (H.R. 1698), which expands sanctions against Iran with respect to the ballistic missiles program of Iran. This bill would use targeted sanctions to try and halt Iran’s ballistic missile program, requiring the President to identify and sanction individuals and entities contributing to Iran’s ballistic missile program.
TEACHING HEALTH CENTER PROGRAMS Legislation Introduced
Washington, D.C. - July 26, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) and Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (D-MA), along with Reps. Jeff Denham (R-CA), David Valadao (R-CA), Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA), and Derek Kilmer (D-WA), introduced the Training the Next Generation of Primary Care Doctors Act of 2017 to reauthorize the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) Program for three years. This legislation will also allow for the expansion of new programs within existing centers and the creation of entirely new teaching health centers while emphasizing the importance of establishing sustainable funding.
“Bringing more physicians to Eastern Washington is one of my top priorities,” said McMorris Rodgers. “Our rural and urban underserved communities struggle to access the medical professionals they need and Teaching Health Center programs like the Spokane Teaching Health Clinic will help create a new generation of rural doctors—trained right here in our community.”
“The benefits of Teaching Health Centers are widespread. They give aspiring primary care physicians – who are so crucial to providing personalized preventative care and ensuring health concerns are caught and treated early – the opportunity to train in a diverse setting,” said Tsongas. “And as I have seen in my own district at exceptional facilities like the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, Teaching Health Centers provide communities with the next generation of physicians for their area.”
“Expanding this program is critical to addressing the shortage of primary and specialty care physicians in rural and medically underserved communities,” said Denham. “This is one practical step toward ensuring we can both train and retain physicians in areas with the greatest need, such as California’s Central Valley.”
“As fewer medical school graduates pursue careers in rural America, Teaching Health Centers provide critical health care services many families rely on,” said Valadao. “By reauthorizing the THC Graduate Medical Education (GME) Program, and prioritizing rural and medically underserved areas, our bill will ensure our most disadvantaged communities, like California’s Central Valley, have access to the primary care services they deserve.”
“Developing pragmatic solutions that address the physician shortage crisis and encourage more bright, young medical students to practice in underserved and rural communities has been a top priority for me and my congressional district,” said Dr. Ruiz. “I have seen first-hand the dire effects of a lack of providers in underserved areas in my district. I am proud to work together in a bipartisan way to introduce the Training the Next Generation of Primary Care Doctors Act of 2017 that addresses the physician shortage and will help support and grow the much-needed next generation of providers in the Coachella Valley and across the nation.”
“Teaching health centers are vital to ensuring that medical professionals can get the training they require to practice in areas where they are needed,” said Kilmer. “I’m proud to be part of a bipartisan effort to keep bringing quality medical care to our rural communities. Folks shouldn’t have to spend hours in the car just to see a doctor.”
NOTE: Currently, the physician-to-population ratio in rural communities is stark. Only about 10% of physicians practice in these areas, even though almost a quarter of the population lives there. Compared to doctors who train in the traditional Medicare program, those trained at Teaching Health Centers are 82% more likely to practice primary care, 20% more likely to work in rural communities, and 55% more likely to work in underserved areas. This legislation will work to meet the needs of rural and underserved communities through access to primary care medical professionals.
“Bringing more physicians to Eastern Washington is one of my top priorities,” said McMorris Rodgers. “Our rural and urban underserved communities struggle to access the medical professionals they need and Teaching Health Center programs like the Spokane Teaching Health Clinic will help create a new generation of rural doctors—trained right here in our community.”
“The benefits of Teaching Health Centers are widespread. They give aspiring primary care physicians – who are so crucial to providing personalized preventative care and ensuring health concerns are caught and treated early – the opportunity to train in a diverse setting,” said Tsongas. “And as I have seen in my own district at exceptional facilities like the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, Teaching Health Centers provide communities with the next generation of physicians for their area.”
“Expanding this program is critical to addressing the shortage of primary and specialty care physicians in rural and medically underserved communities,” said Denham. “This is one practical step toward ensuring we can both train and retain physicians in areas with the greatest need, such as California’s Central Valley.”
“As fewer medical school graduates pursue careers in rural America, Teaching Health Centers provide critical health care services many families rely on,” said Valadao. “By reauthorizing the THC Graduate Medical Education (GME) Program, and prioritizing rural and medically underserved areas, our bill will ensure our most disadvantaged communities, like California’s Central Valley, have access to the primary care services they deserve.”
“Developing pragmatic solutions that address the physician shortage crisis and encourage more bright, young medical students to practice in underserved and rural communities has been a top priority for me and my congressional district,” said Dr. Ruiz. “I have seen first-hand the dire effects of a lack of providers in underserved areas in my district. I am proud to work together in a bipartisan way to introduce the Training the Next Generation of Primary Care Doctors Act of 2017 that addresses the physician shortage and will help support and grow the much-needed next generation of providers in the Coachella Valley and across the nation.”
“Teaching health centers are vital to ensuring that medical professionals can get the training they require to practice in areas where they are needed,” said Kilmer. “I’m proud to be part of a bipartisan effort to keep bringing quality medical care to our rural communities. Folks shouldn’t have to spend hours in the car just to see a doctor.”
NOTE: Currently, the physician-to-population ratio in rural communities is stark. Only about 10% of physicians practice in these areas, even though almost a quarter of the population lives there. Compared to doctors who train in the traditional Medicare program, those trained at Teaching Health Centers are 82% more likely to practice primary care, 20% more likely to work in rural communities, and 55% more likely to work in underserved areas. This legislation will work to meet the needs of rural and underserved communities through access to primary care medical professionals.
MCCOLLUM STATEMENT ON SENATE GOP VOTE TO PROCEED ON TRUMPCARE
Washington, D.C. - July 26, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement after Vice President Mike Pence and Senate Republicans voted to proceed to consideration of Trumpcare:
“By voting to advance Trumpcare, Vice President Mike Pence and Senate Republicans once again affirmed their vision of less health care for Americans and more tax cuts for billionaires.
“The stakes are high. If this bill passes, millions of Americans will lose coverage, premiums will skyrocket, and people with pre-existing conditions will be priced out of health care.
“The fight to protect our health care is not over. We must keep making our voices heard against Republicans’ shameful proposals.”
“By voting to advance Trumpcare, Vice President Mike Pence and Senate Republicans once again affirmed their vision of less health care for Americans and more tax cuts for billionaires.
“The stakes are high. If this bill passes, millions of Americans will lose coverage, premiums will skyrocket, and people with pre-existing conditions will be priced out of health care.
“The fight to protect our health care is not over. We must keep making our voices heard against Republicans’ shameful proposals.”
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