Tuesday, October 2, 2018

Spending Bill, NAFTA, Kavanaugh, Bank of America, Scams, E-cigarettes

News from the Lawmakers



In Case You Missed It: President Signed into Law Spending Bill with Three Heller Provisions
Senator Dean Heller (R - NV)
October 2, 2018
In case you missed it, President Trump last week signed into law the bipartisan, bicameral Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), Education, and Related Agencies appropriations bill (H.R. 6157), which includes three provisions authored by U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV). Specifically, Heller’s provisions will help Nevada’s veterans find jobs in the private sector, promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in Nevada’s schools, and provide support to pregnant women and their infants. This package also funds the government through December 7, 2018, providing much needed funding certainty.

Read more...



IHOEVEN STATEMENT ON U.S. REACHING DEAL ON NAFTA RENEGOTTIATION
Senator John Hoeven (R - ND)
October 2, 2018
Specifically, Hoeven worked to ensure that the agreement:

Eliminates Canada’s automatic downgrade of imported U.S. wheat to feed grade and ensures grading standards and services are non-discriminatory.

Additionally, the agreement:

Expands access to the Canadian market for U.S. poultry, eggs and dairy and eliminates Canada’s Class 6 and 7 dairy program.

Requires 75 percent of auto content to be produced in North America in order to be exempt from tariffs, up from 62.5 percent.

Makes needed modernizations on intellectual property, digital trade and financial services.

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Senator Lankford Statement on US, Mexico, and Canada Trade Agreement
Senator James Lankford (R-OK)
October 1, 2018
Oklahoma and the entire country will benefit from the Trump Administration’s agreement with Mexico and Canada. The decades-old NAFTA agreement needed re-negotiation to provide more markets for our farmers, businesses, and manufacturers. Since Canada and Mexico are the top-two countries for Oklahoma trade, it was especially important to get this deal done quickly and get it done right. This day will have lasting impacts on the economy and families across all of North America.

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Democratic Senators (Including Leahy): FBI Must Investigate All 3 Credible Allegations Of Sexual Assault Against Judge Brett Kavanaugh
Senator Patrick J. Leahy (D - VT)
October 1, 2018
Following reports that the White House is limiting the scope of the investigation into sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kamala Harris (D-CA), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) wrote White House Counsel Don McGahn and FBI Director Christopher Wray Monday demanding that the investigation include all three allegations received by the Senate Judiciary Committee, including claims brought forward by Julie Swetnick. The senators provided a list of individuals who must, at a minimum, be interviewed by the FBI based on facts that are already known.

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Senate Democrats Continue to Move Goalposts on Judge Kavanaugh’s Nomination
Senator Mitch McConnell (R - KY)
October 2, 2018
"I said that if we stop and listen, we can practically hear the Democrats trying to move the goalposts on Judge Kavanaugh’s nomination to the Supreme Court. Remember, before Judge Kavanaugh was even named, several Democrats on the Judiciary Committee indicated they’d oppose whomever the nominee might turn out to be."

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Menendez, Cortez Masto Slam Bank of America’s Policy of Questioning Customers’ Citizenship Status
Senator Robert Menendez (D - NJ)
October 2, 2018
U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), members of the Senate Banking Committee, requested information from Bank of America on their newly implemented policy of asking their customers’ citizenship status. According to recent consumer reports, if customers fail to respond or if Bank of America determines the customer has not adequately responded to their inquiry, the customer’s account is then frozen, leaving them with only the cash they have on hand.

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Sens. Moran, Casey Introduce Legislation to Help Prevent Seniors from Losing Money to Scams
Senator Jerry Moran- (R - KS)
October 1, 2018
U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the U.S. Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection – and Bob Casey (D-Penn.) – ranking member of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging – introduced the Senior Scams Prevention Act, S. 3522, to ensure retailers, financial institutions and wire transfer companies have the resources necessary to train employees to help stop financial frauds and scams on seniors.

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Durbin, Murkowski Urge FDA To Immediately Ban Kid-Friendly E-Cigarette Flavors, Restrict Online Sales
Senator Lisa Murkowski (R - AK)
October 2, 2018
U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), in a letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), urged the agency to immediately ban kid-friendly e-cigarette flavorings and restrict online sales of the addictive nicotine products. Durbin and Murkowski’s letter comes on the heels of the FDA’s announcement last month that—due to a public health “epidemic” of youth e-cigarette use—it would issue new enforcement actions on e-cigarette companies’ use of kid-appealing flavors, in order to better protect children and teens from using addictive and dangerous e-cigarettes.

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Friday, September 28, 2018

Kavanaugh

Announcements



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



News from the Lawmakers



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

Read more...




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

Read more...



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

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

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

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

Read more...



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more...



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

Read more...



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

I will vote to confirm Judge Kavanaugh.”

Read more...

Sunday, July 22, 2018

HOEVEN: FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHOULD REIMBURSE NORTH DAKOTA FOR DAPL PROTEST COSTS

Senator John Hoeven (R - ND)

Washington, D.C. - July 22, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem filed a claim with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers seeking $38 million to cover the costs related to the illegal protests surrounding the Dakota Access Pipeline. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven secured $10 million in Fiscal Year 2017 through the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Emergency Federal Law Enforcement Assistance program to help reimburse the state.

“The Army Corps of Engineers and other federal officials did not enforce the law, which allowed the illegal encampment to take place,” Hoeven said. “The State of North Dakota should not have to bear the resulting costs and that is why I have worked to secure funds to reimburse the state. I support the Attorney General in these continuing efforts to make the state whole and will assist however I can on behalf of our state’s taxpayers.”


Hatch Statement on New Council for the American Worker and the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board

Senator Orrin G. Hatch (R - UT)

Washington, D.C. - July 22, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), a member and former Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, issued the following statement after President Trump signed an executive order launching the New Council for the American Worker and the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board:

“The President’s executive order will help us prepare America’s workers for the jobs of the future. Investing in employer-led training is essential, which is why I have long supported apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and enhanced career skill-building opportunities. I plan to do my part in bringing employers, employees, and educational institutions together to strengthen our nation’s workforce.”

Background:

The President’s Executive Order established the President’s National Council for the American Worker and the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board to solve the new challenges faced by American workers.

  • The President’s National Council for the American Worker (Council) will provide a forum for the development of a national strategy to address urgent workforce issues. The Council will:
  • Develop a national campaign to raise awareness of workforce issues, such as the urgency of the skills crisis and the importance of STEM education;
  • Create a plan for recognizing companies that demonstrate excellence in workplace education, training, retraining policies, and workforce investment;
  • Help expand the number of apprenticeships and encourage increased investment in training and re-training American workers;
  • Recommend a specific course of action for increasing transparency related to education and job-training programs, and propose ways to increase available job data; and
  • Consider and implement the recommendations of the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board (Board), as appropriate.
  • The Board will draw upon the knowledge and expertise of leaders from outside government to develop recommendations on how to improve our country’s education and training.
  • The Board will play an important role in encouraging the private, education, and not-for-profit sectors to commit to investing in and re-training their workers.
  • The Administration is also calling on American companies, associations, and foundations to sign a pledge committing to invest in workers and students.

    Congress has responded to the needs of the labor market in the past few weeks by bringing America’s vibrant Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs into the 21stst Century. With Senator Hatch’s assistance, the Senate HELP Committee recently passed legislation that would help modernize the Carl D. Perkins CTE Act by aligning CTE programs in high school and college with current and future labor market needs. Thanks in part to provisions the Senator authored, the bill preserves state and local control over educational decisions, encourages dual and concurrent enrollment, and incentivizes innovative learning models to help students complete their education and immediately enter a rapidly evolving and highly technical workforce.

    In addition to supporting high school and college educational programs, American workers throughout their careers need to acquire the skills to meet the growing demands of a global economy. Senator Hatch will continue working with his colleagues in both the Senate and the House to bring forward legislation that will modernize and expand apprenticeships.
  • Sunday, July 15, 2018

    Graham: Trump Won't Repeat Obama's Mistakes

    Senator Lindsey Graham (R - SC)

    Washington, D.C. - July 14, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today said President Trump won’t repeat President Obama’s mistakes when it comes to dealing with the situation in Syria.

    President Trump is scheduled to meet with Russian President Putin on Monday and Syria is expected to be a topic of discussion. Graham noted several areas where he expects President Trump will take a tougher line than President Obama.

  • President Obama’s Mistaken Belief that Withdrawing American Troops would Make America Safer: This decision, which was hailed at the time as removing the United States from the region, directly led to the rise of ISIS. As ISIS gained power – including the establishment of its self-proclaimed ‘Caliphate’ headquartered in Raqqa, Syria – it also led to ISIS-inspired attacks in the United States and Europe.

  • President Obama Mistakenly Trusting Russia’s Putin and Syria’s Assad: The decision to charge Russia’s Putin and Syria’s Assad with the removal and destruction of chemical weapon stockpiles was considered an achievement that would keep the United States from a deeper engagement in the Syrian civil war. It would also help protect civilian populations in Syria from attacks. However, the agreement proved to be a farce as Syria did not destroy or remove all of his chemical weapons and Russia proved to be an unreliable policeman. Assad went on to launch chemical weapon attacks on locations including Ghouta, Aleppo, Khan Shaykhun, and other locations.

  • President Obama Mistakenly Placing Trust in Iran: President Obama came into office seeking a new, improved relationship with the Iranian regime, and history has shown that was a disastrous mistake. Obama’s desire for a nuclear deal with Iran was so great that he allowed Iran free reign in Syria. Iran has used billions of dollars in proceeds from the nuclear deal to increase its military might and expand its influence throughout the Middle East. Iran and its proxy – the terrorist group Hezbollah – now are on the borders of Israel and continue to threaten our close ally. There is now a ‘Shia-Crescent’ which stretches from Tehran to Beirut and is controlled by Iran.

    “President Obama’s Syria policy can only be described as a disaster,” said Graham. “Time after time he trusted and placed confidence in competitors – if not outright enemies – of the United States. And time after time it proved to be a mistake. Decisions President Obama made – many which were applauded by some at the time – proved to be disasters as time passed.

    “Unlike President Obama, President Trump is a strong leader who realizes that America’s national security interests must come first and foremost in any U.S. policy,” said Graham. “While Russia and Iran are pushing for the United States to withdraw, the ultimate ‘America First’ policy is to stay and keep our boots on the throats of radical Islamic groups like ISIS.

    “Withdrawal of American forces gives ISIS, and other radical Islamic groups, the breathing space they desperately need to regroup, reorganize, and reconstitute,” said Graham. “President Trump will not let them off the mat again to threaten the United States or the American homeland.

    “President Trump showed decisive leadership in sending a strong American force into Syria,” continued Graham. “Working with American allies, like the Kurds and local Syrian opposition forces, we have been successful and President Trump deserves great credit for what they have accomplished.

    “President Trump will not abandon our Kurdish and Arab allies, who were instrumental in nearly defeating ISIS, or allow them to be eventually taken over by other hostile actors within the region,” said Graham. “They have borne the overwhelming burden of the fight, all the while helping minimize American losses.

    “America’s competitors and enemies knew that President Obama was weak and indecisive,” said Graham. “They see President Trump as steadfast. This is a night and day difference between the two. I don’t expect that to change.”
  • Sen. Cruz Issues Statement Following Latest Hamas Attack on Israel

    Senator Ted Cruz (R - TX)

    Washington, D.C. - July 14, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement in response to the terrorist organization Hamas firing rockets and mortars into Israel:

    “The Palestinian terror group Hamas fired over 100 rockets and mortars at Israeli civilians today, sending tens of thousands of men, women, and children running into bomb shelters. These are the latest in what have become near-daily attacks by Iran-backed terrorists and forces on Israel's northern and southern borders. Iran and its terrorist proxies seek the destruction of Israel. The United States will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our Israeli allies and ensure they have what they need to defend themselves, including critical technologies like Iron Dome, to defeat these threats.”

    Boozman, Cotton Join Effort to Urge General Perna in Support of Red River Army Depot Assignment

    Senator John Boozman - (R - AR)

    Washington, D.C. - July 12, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- Arkansas’s U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton joined with Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Cornyn (R-TX), James Inhofe (R-OK) and James Lankford (R-OK) sent a letter to General Gustave F. Perna to support the Army’s assignment of Red River Army Depot in Texas as the depot source of repair (DSOR) for the Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) program, which provides enhanced force protection, survivability, mobility, and power generation for the next generation warfighter.

    “Red River’s technical experts maintained Army ground combat and tactical systems for multiple generations, representing an invaluable resource that would be extremely costly and time consuming to reproduce at an alternate location,” the senators wrote. “Their extensive experience rotating Bradleys into combat and training environments have endowed them with a firm understanding of the vehicle and the environments where it is employed. Fortunately for the Army, the AMPV is already benefitting from these highly skilled experts’ institutional knowledge. In a time when readiness is the Army’s top priority, bringing the AMPV to Red River would capitalize on existing capabilities and expertise while ensuring a minimal impact on readiness,” the senators wrote.

    Read the full letter below:



    July 12, 2018

    General Gustave F. Perna
    Commanding General
    Army Materiel Command
    4400 Martin Road
    Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898


    Dear General Perna:

    We write to support the assignment of Red River Army Depot (Red River) in Texarkana, Texas as the depot source of repair (DSOR) for the Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) program. The production and deployment of this new Army system provides enhanced force protection, survivability, mobility, and power generation for the next generation warfighter. The assignment of depot maintenance responsibilities and planning for the sustainment of the AMPV program is a critical decision in maximizing the system’s service life while, simultaneously, generating great efficiencies for the Army. Red River offers a turnkey solution that possesses all the components necessary to seamlessly transition to AMPV depot maintenance support.

    These components include trained personnel, tooling, production lines, and technical expertise from decades of experience working with BAE Systems, the original equipment manufacturer for the AMPV program. As the Army’s primary depot for ground combat and tactical systems sustainment maintenance operations, Red River has already integrated into the AMPV production process by disassembling, processing, and shipping Bradley Fighting Vehicles (Bradleys) to BAE’s production site for AMPV vehicle production. Due to these factors, Red River would be the most natural and cost efficient location for AMPV maintenance and sustainment.

    Red River’s technical experts maintained Army ground combat and tactical systems for multiple generations, representing an invaluable resource that would be extremely costly and time consuming to reproduce at an alternate location. Their extensive experience rotating Bradleys into combat and training environments have endowed them with a firm understanding of the vehicle and the environments where it is employed. Fortunately for the Army, the AMPV is already benefitting from these highly skilled experts’ institutional knowledge. In a time when readiness is the Army’s top priority, bringing the AMPV to Red River would capitalize on existing capabilities and expertise while ensuring a minimal impact on readiness.

    In addition to the workforce, Red River has been the Bradley’s DSOR since the 1980’s and the Center of Industrial and Technical Excellence since 2002. These designations, coupled with the 75 percent commonality that AMPV shares with the Bradley, make Red River the most effective and efficient choice for the maintenance and sustainment of this new vehicle. The cost to relocate these capabilities to another depot facility would result in a great loss of government funding, manpower, and intellectual resource.

    Red River plays a critical role in maintaining warfighter readiness and is in the best position to fulfill the role as the AMPV DSOR. We appreciate your careful attention to this matter and request that you keep our offices informed of any decisions concerning the AMPV DSOR designation at Red River.

    Sincerely,

    Sunday, April 29, 2018

    Plank, FAA, Iran, Korea, Sexual Assault, Russia, Lifeline, House Chaplain

    Announcements



    Mike Pompeo has been confirmed as Secretary of State



    News from the Lawmakers



    Rep. Bass Passes Measures to Raise Flight Altitudes and Increase FAA Accountability in FAA Reauthorization Bill
    Karen Bass (D-CA, 37th)
    April 27, 2018
    The House of Representatives passed a 6-year reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that included language by Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.) to raise flight altitudes, increase FAA accountability and enforce the FAA’s consideration of community concerns. The bill now moves to the Senate, where, if passed, it would be sent to the White House to be signed into law.

    Read more...



    BARLETTA VOTES TO HOLD IRAN ACCOUNTABLE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES
    Lou Barletta (R-PA, 11th)
    April 27, 2018
    Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11) voted in favor of H.R. 4744, the Iran Human Rights and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act. H.R. 4744 details human rights abuses and hostage-taking committed by the Iranian regime and requires the president to determine whether senior Iranian officials are responsible for such acts and if official Iranian businesses should be sanctioned for public corruption under existing law. It also imposes property-blocking and visa-denial sanctions for Iranian officials responsible for politically motivated detentions of U.S. citizens and residents, or abuses against Iranian expatriates. The measure passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote of 410 to 2.

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    BACON STATEMENT ON KOREA AGREEMENT
    Don Bacon (R-NE, 2nd)
    April 27, 2018
    “I remain hopeful regarding the agreement between North and South Korea to take steps toward ending their decades long war. The President has done a great job setting conditions for progress. However, I will retain the same cautionary approach to matters with North Korea based on their past negligence for keeping agreements, long pattern of disregard for human life, and their desire to intimidate other countries with their aggressive military approach. We must keep the pressure on Kim Jong-Un and not let up.”

    Read more...



    House Democratic Leaders Unveil A Better Deal: Tools to Succeed in the 21st Century
    Don Beyer (D-VA, 8th)
    April 27, 2018
    Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats held a press conference at Northern Virginia Community College to unveil the newest plank of their bold economic agenda, A Better Deal: Tools to Succeed in the 21st Century, which focuses on Democrats' commitment to investing in America's workers, pioneering future frontiers and modernizing government.

    Read more...



    Booker and Watson-Coleman Introduce Bicameral Resolution to Uplift Voices of Underserved Communities in Efforts to Prevent Sexual Assault and Support Victims
    Senator Cory A. Booker (D-NJ)
    April 27, 2018
    In identical resolutions introduced in the House and Senate, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) called on Congress to focus greater attention and resources on the prevention of sexual assault and violence and support for victims — particularly members of underserved communities who experience sexual violence at higher rates and are less likely to have access to justice, mental and emotional support resources after being victimized. Also sponsoring the resolution in the Senate are Senators Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Kamala Harris (D-CA).

    Read more...





    Blumenthal Statement on Republican House Intelligence Committee's Russia Report
    Senator Richard Blumenthal (D - CT)
    April 27, 2018
    “This report is a whitewash – without any plausible pretense of truth telling. It reeks of raw partisan politics. It offers the President a fig leaf fantasy of protection against the reality of wrongdoing. It conflates, contorts and conceals the facts at every critical turn. It would be a joke, if it were not such a deadly threat to our democracy.”

    Read more...



    Bennet Urges FCC Not To Undermine Lifeline Broadband Program
    Senator Michael F. Bennet (D - CO)
    April 29, 2018
    Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet has sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai urging him to leave intact 2016 reforms that modernized the Lifeline program by increasing access to broadband subsidies for low-income Americans.

    Read more...



    Beatty Statement on the Firing of House Chaplain Pat Conroy
    Joyce Beatty (D-OH, 3rd)
    April 27, 2018
    “For seven years, Father Conroy has provided spiritual guidance to all Members of Congress, regardless of political party. Speaker Ryan’s unilateral move to dismiss Father Conroy is unjustified, as he was elected by the entire House. That is why I joined a bipartisan coalition of Members of Congress in calling for an investigation into the motivations and actions behind the abrupt dismissal of Father Pat Conroy as 60th Chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives.”

    Read more...


    Related News:


    Why Did Paul Ryan Ax the House Chaplain?
    The Slatest
    April 26, 2018
    There hadn’t been much knowledge of Ryan’s decision until this morning, when House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi brought it up in a Thursday whip meeting. Shocked Democrats were in a “furor” over the issue. Pelosi, according to an aide, was given advance notice of the move, but made it clear to the speaker that “she disagreed with this decision.” AshLee Strong, a spokesperson for Ryan, told Slate that Pelosi was consulted on the decision, though the final decision was the speaker’s.

    So what gives?

    Read more...


    Saturday, February 17, 2018

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

    News from the Lawmakers



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

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

    Read more...



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

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

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

    Read more...



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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