Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

Trump Admin has been holding up Congressionally-appropriated funds to replace Illinois lead pipes, keep families healthy

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), a senior member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, sent a letter to Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem expressing “grave concern” over reports that DHS may hire private contractors to “locate, surveil, and report on individuals within immigrant communities for profit.”

In his letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi warned that the proposal would “outsource one of the government’s most coercive powers to actors who operate with little oversight and limited public accountability.” He wrote that such an arrangement “risks creating an enforcement apparatus that functions beyond the reach of ordinary checks and balances.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi cautioned that “once the state begins contracting out its power to police, it invites the very abuses, secrecy, and corruption our founders sought to prevent.” He added, “When citizens can no longer discern who acts in the name of government, trust gives way to fear. A government that rules through confusion and coercion rather than law and consent erodes its own legitimacy and the freedoms it exists to protect.”

The Congressman also outlined the dangers of performance-based enforcement contracts that would effectively establish a “bounty hunter” model: “When the government pays private contractors based on how many people they can find, detain, or deliver, it turns them into bounty hunters. In such a system built on quotas and cash rewards with minimal oversight, mistakes are not just possible—they are certain.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi cited recent incidents of discriminatory enforcement, including a case in Illinois where a U.S. citizen was detained by DHS officers who “refused to believe her U.S. passport was real—because her appearance did not fit their assumptions about what someone with her last name ought to look like.” He warned that allowing private individuals to perform similar functions “will inevitably chill civic participation and deepen fear among law-abiding residents who already feel watched and vulnerable.”

Drawing historical parallels, Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote that “when governments blur the line between official authority and private surveillance, societies inevitably pay a steep price in lost trust and personal freedom.” He added, “While today’s circumstances are different, any system that rewards private actors for reporting on one another risks repeating those same mistakes—undermining community cohesion, eroding the rule of law, and betraying American values.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s letter calls on DHS to answer key questions about the scope and legality of the proposed program, including:

• What statutory or regulatory authority allows DHS to delegate investigatory or surveillance functions to private contractors?
• What personal or location data would these contractors have access to?
• What oversight mechanisms and identification requirements would be in place to prevent harassment, trespass, or unlawful surveillance?
• Would contractors be authorized or incentivized to physically confront, detain, or pursue individuals?
• Why is DHS outsourcing address verification and document delivery rather than relying on trained federal agents?

Congressman Krishnamoorthi concluded by emphasizing that “outsourcing immigration enforcement to profit-driven contractors undermines the very trust between government and the people it serves, and risks normalizing a system incompatible with American values and due process.”

A copy of the letter is available here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

SCHAUMBURG, IL – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement in response to the Senate’s budget agreement:

“Time and again, Donald Trump has proven that his promises aren’t worth the paper they’re written on. From the start of this shutdown, I’ve said our focus must be on confronting the surge in health care costs unleashed by his administration. Across Illinois, I’ve met families pushed to the brink—and doctors and nurses doing everything they can to keep them healthy amid the chaos. The ability of the American people to afford health care must not depend on Donald Trump keeping his word. I cannot support any deal built on delay, deception, and empty promises.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), a senior member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Attorney General Pam Bondi urging the Trump administration to pursue testimony from Andrew Mountbatten Windsor in connection with ongoing investigations into Jeffrey Epstein’s network of sexual abuse and trafficking.

In his letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote that “survivors of Epstein’s crimes—and the American public—deserve full transparency and accountability from all who may have had knowledge of or participation in this criminal enterprise.”

The congressman emphasized that under the U.S.–U.K. Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT), the State and Justice Departments have clear authority to request cooperation from the British government to secure testimony from witnesses abroad. The treaty, he noted, provides for assistance in “the taking of testimony or statements of witnesses” and the “provision of documents, records, and evidence.”

“The most transparent and credible course of action would be for Mr. Mountbatten Windsor to appear voluntarily and provide full, sworn testimony regarding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and any knowledge he may possess about others involved,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote. He further urged that, should Mr. Mountbatten Windsor enter U.S. jurisdiction, the administration “must be prepared to compel his cooperation through lawful subpoena authority or other appropriate mechanisms.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi warned that “recent delays in the release of the so-called Epstein Files have only deepened public concern that the Administration may be shielding powerful individuals from scrutiny.” He added that “the pursuit of Mr. Mountbatten Windsor’s testimony represents an essential test of whether this administration will uphold the principle that no person—no matter how wealthy, well-connected, or titled—is above the law.” 

The congressman concluded by calling on the administration to ensure that Mountbatten Windsor’s testimony and all relevant records are made available to Congress and the public, writing: “Survivors of these horrific crimes, and the American people, deserve nothing less.”

The letter to Secretary Rubio and Attorney General Bondi is available here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement on the vote to fund the government:

“Today, after 43 days, the federal government is reopening. Make no mistake about it, this was a crisis manufactured entirely by the Republican Party. Republicans control the entire federal government, the Presidency, the Senate, and the House. For weeks, the American people paid the price for their dysfunction. Federal workers missed paychecks, families faced delays in lifesaving services, millions of people were left without the means to put food on the table, and small businesses suffered. 

“After dragging our nation through an avoidable shutdown, Republicans have doubled down on their cruel agenda: ripping health care away from 17 million Americans and dooming millions more to massive increases in health insurance prices, all to give tax breaks to their billionaire donors. I voted NO because this reopening deal does nothing to undo the damage Republicans have inflicted on working families, seniors, and children. Instead of protecting affordable health care, this bill locks in harmful cuts that weaken Medicaid, threaten community health centers, and put millions at risk of actually losing care.

“From the start of this shutdown, Democrats have fought to keep the government open and save lives by protecting access to health care, food assistance, education, and disaster relief. We stood united for a bipartisan, responsible budget that strengthens Medicare, expands telehealth, and makes health care more affordable for everyone. Congressional Republicans chose cruelty over compassion.

“We need a government that works for everyone, not just the wealthy and well-connected. I will not stop until every American has access to quality, affordable health care. This fight is not over.”

###

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

EVANSTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement in honor of Veterans Day:

“Today, on Veterans Day, I want to speak directly to the incredible men and women who have served our country: I see you, I honor you, and I am deeply grateful for your service to our country.  Serving in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard is not just a job, it is a commitment that comes with great risks, personal sacrifice, and time away from family and loved ones.

“I also know that the challenges for veterans do not end when you return home. I hear from veterans all the time who are struggling with injuries, post-traumatic stress, navigating VA services, or simply trying to make ends meet. The sad truth is that many veterans face these battles alone. That is unacceptable. I will always fight to make sure our veterans have the health care, resources, and dignity they deserve.

“It is unthinkable to see veterans’ benefits come under fire. Every extremist Republican attempt to cut these vital programs threatens the security of those who have given so much to our country. Not only do veterans deserve our respect and recognition, but they also deserve to know that we have their backs.

“Veterans are a part of our community, and we owe them not just our gratitude, but our action. If you or a veteran you know is in need of support, call my office at (773) 506-7100. My team and I will do whatever we can to help you access the resources and care you have earned. Today and every day, we have your back.”

###

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

Headline: Moolenaar Brings Funding to Community Projects

Last night, Congressman John Moolenaar voted for legislation that included funding for seven community projects in Michigan’s second congressional district at his request.

“For the last year, I have been working with community leaders to fund much-needed projects throughout the district. Last night, I included seven of these projects in the bill that reopened the government. These projects, whether buying a firetruck or expanding a childcare center, will provide much needed relief to Michigan families and I am looking forward to seeing them through to the end,” said Moolenaar. 

The community projects include: 

1. Four Lakes Restoration – Edenville Dam Architectural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Project. The bill provides $2,250,000 to install physical equipment that is necessary for the long-term operations and monitoring of the Edenville dam following the catastrophic flood in May 2020.
2. Central Montcalm Early Childhood Center Project. The bill provides $225,000 to revitalize, renovate, and expand classrooms at the Central Montcalm Early Childhood Center to promote the physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and creative development of children and infants through five years of age.
3. Mason County Road Commission New Facility Construction. The bill provides $2,000,000 to build a new operation facility. The current facility is 85 years old and has aged to the point of being an unsafe environment.
4. Clement Township Collaborative Community Project. The bill provides $137,000 to rehabilitate the Clement Township Fire Hall with HVAC, lighting, plumbing, and septic so it can be re-opened to provide Gladwin County with a much-needed community center supporting our seniors.
5. The City of Big Rapids Fire Truck Project. The bill provides $378,000 to buy a new fire truck (pumper tanker truck) to improve the safety of the community and firefighters.
6. Gardner Street Wastewater Upgrade. The bill provides $1,000,000 to help reconstruct East and West Gardner Street, extending to the Wastewater Treatment Plant, in Sparta. The reconstruction includes upsizing the sanitary sewer, enabling wastewater flow from the Applejack lift station.
7. Webber Township Lift Station. The bill provides $750,000 to construct a new lift station to support the re-opening of the North Lake Facility in Baldwin.

### 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

Headline: Moolenaar Votes to End Democrat Shutdown

Tonight, Congressman John Moolenaar voted for legislation that would end the Democrat-led government shutdown, support Michigan farmers, and ensure our veterans receive the care they deserve. 

“I voted to end the Democrat shutdown that should have never taken place. Republicans did our job weeks before the deadline to keep the government open, but Democrats continuously blocked the bill and cut off funding for Michigan families, the TSA, air traffic control, and the heroes of our military. During the Democrat shutdown, I continued my work, met with Michigan residents, and secured funding in this legislation that will help our farmers and care for our veterans,” said Moolenaar 

The legislation reopens parts of the government until January 30, 2026, while funding the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Legislative Branch for the remainder of the fiscal year. The legislation now goes to President Trump’s desk for his signature. 

In September, Moolenaar voted for legislation that would have kept the government open and protected vital services for families, but it was blocked by Senate Democrats. Moolenaar called on Senate Democrats to stop playing political games and join the House in funding the government responsibly.

### 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

Headline: Moolenaar: Common Sense Wins, Michigan to Terminate Gotion Project

Congressman John Moolenaar released the following statement in response to the State of Michigan placing Gotion, a CCP-affiliated company, in default on its agreement to build a battery component factory in Mecosta County:

“Despite Gotion’s rosy promises and influence campaign on local leaders, the residents of Green Charter Township repeatedly showed us they do not support a company beholden to the Chinese Communist Party setting up shop in their town. Two years ago, this community came together and recalled the officials who welcomed Gotion and the CCP to town. Instead of listening to the will of the people, the company decided to fight them; suing the resilient small town in a vain attempt to force its way in, and ridiculing those who did not support its project. While fighting the rural community, the company was derelict in its responsibilities to the State. Now that its contract with the State of Michigan and MEDC is set to be terminated, the people of Green Charter Township can finally move on from Gotion’s lies and broken promises.”

On September 17, the Michigan Strategic Fund notified Gotion the company was in default on its obligations established in its grant agreement with the state of Michigan: making no progress on its project in over 120 days, and by suing Green Charter Township. The state gave Gotion 30 days to resolve these issues, informing the company if it did not, its contract with the state would be terminated.

Gotion is the “wholly-owned and controlled” subsidiary of its Chinese parent company, Gotion High-Tech, and receives subsidies from the Chinese government. Congressman Moolenaar has worked with community leaders to oppose the Gotion project and fought in Congress to stop it. Earlier this year his NO GOTION policy became law. This policy prohibits taxpayer funding in the so-called “Inflation Reduction Act” from going to CCP-affiliated companies. Members of Gotion’s North America leadership attends CCP board meetings. The company also has ties to slave labor in China.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN)

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, released the following statement after the House of Representatives voted to reopen the federal government, ending Chuck Schumer’s and Democrats’ longest government shutdown in history.

“From the beginning of the Democrats’ Government Shutdown, beginning on September 19, when I voted for the clean, non-partisan Continuing Resolution (C.R.) to keep our government open, I have said that this government shutdown – purposely caused by Democrat politicians like Chuck Schumer – was indefensible and a farce on the American People. Shutting down the government is always wrong, yet Democrats chose to cause innocent Americans unnecessary pain for over 42 days, said Congressman Fleischmann.”

“For 42 days, Americans who rely on SNAP benefits have been in turmoil. For 42 days, federal workers like air traffic controllers, TSA agents, Border Patrol, and patriots in Oak Ridge who keep our nuclear deterrent secure have not been paid. For 42 days, Democrats have chosen to grind the basic functions of government to a halt, regardless of the consequences. For 42 days, the American People have paid the price for Democrats’ political games. We cannot ever let a shutdown of this magnitude and length ever happen again.”

“Tonight was one of the easiest votes I have taken in Congress. I will never vote to shut down our government and cause Americans needless pain. I am glad some Democrats have seen the error of their ways and worked with me and my Republican colleagues in the House and Senate to reopen our government.”

“With passage of this bill to reopen our government, we now have time before the new January 30 deadline to pass the remaining Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) appropriations bills, including my FY26 Energy and Water bill, which passed the House earlier this year. I hope Democrats will work with us to pass commonsense, bipartisan FY26 appropriations bills that meet the American People’s needs and will not force another needless government shutdown on our nation.”

###