Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) introduced the Northern Border Staffing and Security Enhancement Act, legislation aimed at bolstering security at the United States’ Northern Border. 

Specifically, the Northern Border Staffing and Security Enhancement Act will require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to submit a comprehensive Northern Border Threat Analysis to Congress every 5 years. Further, this legislation requires DHS to address staffing challenges at northern ports of entry and the retirement crisis looming at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). 

Of this legislation, Congressman Pete Stauber stated, “While apprehensions at our southern border have declined to historic lows, persistent challenges at our northern border have prevented similar success. Too often overlooked, the northern border is understaffed and underresourced, leaving Minnesota and our nation exposed to the risks associated with illegal immigration. This legislation ensures we are taking a data-driven approach to address these shortcomings and strengthen the security of our northern border.”

Congressman Langworthy stated, “I am honored to be the co-lead on this critical legislation to strengthen security along our Northern Border. With outdated threat assessments and a looming staffing crisis at our northern ports of entry, it is clear that urgent action is needed to protect our communities and our country. The Northern Border hasn’t seen a comprehensive threat analysis since 2017, and our strategy hasn’t been updated in over six years. Meanwhile, the CBP is already facing a shortage of nearly 6,000 officers—and is on track for a 400% retirement surge by 2028. This will leave our most vulnerable and geographically isolated border crossings dangerously understaffed and underprepared. I will continue fighting to ensure our region gets the resources, personnel, and strategic attention it deserves.”

House Republican Leadership Chairwoman Elise Stefanik stated, “The southern border might receive more media attention, but our northern border is essential to Upstate New York and North Country residents from invasion. I am working with DHS to update the Northern Border Threat Analysis and prioritize the staffing challenges that have left our state vulnerable to illegal migration including terrorists, drug traffickers, and gang members.”

BACKGROUND: 

Northern ports of entry face unique staffing challenges because they are located in isolated areas with harsh winters, scarce housing, and limited economic opportunity.  

Last year, then Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner Troy A. Miller testified before the House Committee on Appropriations that ports of entry face a 400% increase in retirements in 2028. All the while, terrorists attempt to cross the northern border more frequently than the southern border. If nothing is done, CBP will be devastatingly short of officers, and will be unable to perform its paramount mission. 

Since 2017, DHS released one Congressionally mandated Threat Analysis and has not updated its Northern Border Strategy since 2018.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) joined a press conference in front of the United States Capitol Building to condemn President Donald Trump’s travel ban and to reintroduce the NO BAN Act.

The Congresswoman emphasized how disastrous Trump’s racist travel ban will be. It will keep families separated and endanger lives.

Rep. Omar also joined her colleagues in reintroducing the NO BAN Act to prevent future presidents from holding the authority to suspend or restrict any group of immigrants from entering the United States by prohibiting religious discrimination from immigration-based decisions.

The full video can be found here.

Full transcript below:

“Make no mistake: This discriminatory policy is shameful and as history looks back at this moment, it will be a stain on our country. 

“Donald Trump’s proclamation is riddled with outright falsehoods, relies on debunked statistics, and is rife with internal contradictions. 

“He claims this is a way to make us safer, let me be absolutely clear: it won’t make us safer, it will separate families and endanger lives. 

“Because of this decision, our country will lose out on incredible contributions that people from these countries would’ve otherwise made to our neighborhoods and our society. 

“Contributions like becoming educators, doctors, and public servants. 

“This decision will not only hurt our country, it will have immediate disastrous implications. 

“For some Americans, it will mean their fiancés, or spouses or children will be banned from reuniting with them here. 

“It will mean family members will have to miss weddings and graduations and funerals. 

“Just as they did in their first term, with their repeated efforts to ban Muslims from coming to the United States, the Trump Administration is using national security justifications to prevent people they deem undesirable from entering the United States. 

“That means Muslims again, and it also means Black people.

“In his first term, Trump famously mused about why we didn’t have more Norwegians immigrants and fewer from what he called “shithole countries.” 

“Now, he’s banning people from 19 Black and brown countries based solely on their nationality and resettling White South Africans. 

“The racism is not exactly subtle.

“All 19 of the nationalities we are now banning have produced Americans that have displayed more patriotism and loyalty and contributed more to this country than Donald Trump and Stephen Miller could ever dream of.

“From the time I arrived in this country as a refugee with my family, I have never lost sight of the extraordinary generosity and hospitality of the United States that allowed us to begin our lives again here, and eventually led me to the United States House of Representatives.

“But I have also always known that the United States did not let us live here purely out of the expansive goodness of its heart. 

“We contribute to the economy, we contribute to the political and social life of this country, we join the military, we defend the freedoms enshrined in our founding documents with the passion that comes from having lived a life where those freedoms were not guaranteed.

“It is, and has always been, mutually beneficial, and we have always taken our part in that seriously. 

“The United States has never been a white nationalist country, and no matter how much Donald Trump and Stephen Miller try, it never will be. 

“This will be remembered, along with so much else they are trying now, as a shameful betrayal of the exact qualities that make America great.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

MINNEAPOLIS–Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement following the enforcement action that took place on Lake Street in Minneapolis yesterday. 

“Our community is on high alert, panicked, and scared after yesterday’s federal enforcement action on Lake Street. What we saw with the militarized force and unjust misuse of force created chaos that was on full display.

“While we do not have all the details, HSI confirmed it was part of a criminal investigation, not an immigration raid. Our office is in contact with officials at our local FBI, HSI, MPD, and Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office. While the investigation is ongoing, we might not be able to give more information immediately, but we will share available information as soon as we receive it.  

“We all have a duty to keep our neighbors safe and protect the most vulnerable in our community.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

WASHINGTON—Following the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder in her district, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) reintroduced a package of bills to address continued police brutality and misuse of force. The package includes crucial legislation that creates a federal agency to investigate misuse of force by police and a bill to protect protesters by making police violence against protesters a federal crime. It also includes a resolution condemning police brutality globally. 

“In the wake of the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder in my district, it is clear we still need to pass bold legislation to address systemic racism embedded within policing,” said Rep. Omar. “It is our moral responsibility to do everything we can to prevent future killings and ensure that police are held fully accountable when they commit violence against civilians. This package will bring us one step closer to a future where no one will live in fear of police violence.” 

The National Police Misuse of Force Investigation Board Act – This bill establishes a federal agency responsible for investigating all nationwide deaths occurring in police custody, officer-involved shootings, and uses of force that result in severe bodily injury. The agency will conduct unbiased, independent investigations and issue determinations of responsibility and recommendations for reform that will prevent future violence. Those findings will be admissible in court. Federal funding for law enforcement activities and equipment will be curtailed if a police department fails to take meaningful action on the Board’s policy and reform recommendations. You can read the bill here. 

The Protecting Our Protesters Act – This legislation allows any officer who kills or causes bodily harm to a civilian during the response to a protest to be charged with a federal crime. We must ensure that the constitutional right to protest is duly protected, not threatened or stifled by law enforcement officers. You can read the bill here.

Global Police Brutality Resolution – The resolution calls on Congress to stand with peaceful protesters around the world in their calls for justice and condemns police brutality wherever in the world it occurs. You can read the bill here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

On Thursday Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) spoke on the House floor to highlight the disastrous impacts of cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) passed under the Republican budget scheme last month. Watch the full video here.

Pappas shared a number of the stories from Granite Staters who rely on programs like SNAP and promised to continue to fight against these and other reckless cuts to vital services that Republicans have proposed in order to finance tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy. 

Read his full remarks below or watch the video here.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I rise today because the Republicans’ budget scheme, pushed through in the middle of the night last month, is putting school meals for hungry kids and food assistance for working families at risk. 

A constituent of mine, Martha from Somersworth, is raising her 15-year-old grandson and battling breast cancer while living on a fixed income.

Without SNAP, she wouldn’t be able to keep food on the table. 

Another constituent, Catherine, is a veteran from Manchester who has type 2 diabetes. 

She wouldn’t be able to afford the diet she needs to keep herself healthy without SNAP, and fears losing her benefits could put her life at risk if she’s unable to manage her blood sugar. 

And people across my district, from Newmarket to Gilford, tell me they wouldn’t be able to afford groceries without some help. 

It’s a betrayal of working families for Republicans to take away food so they can give tax breaks to billionaires. 

We must continue speaking out against these cuts and doing everything we can to stop a reckless, cruel budget from moving forward. 

I yield back.

 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Yesterday Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) spoke on the House floor to honor the life and legacy of Hope Salta Makris of Laconia, who passed away on May 29, 2025. For more than 80 years, Hope built and operated the NASWA Resort in Laconia and was dedicated to giving back to her community and improving the lives of those in the Lakes Region and beyond. 

In addition to running a landmark Lake Winnipesaukee destination and providing world-class hospitality to her guests, Hope was committed to championing causes important to her. She was a dedicated supporter of New Hampshire’s veterans and gave back to her state and community through a number of charitable organizations and volunteer efforts. 

Read his full remarks below or watch the video here.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I rise today to honor the life and memory of Hope Salta Makris, a pioneering businesswoman and community leader from Laconia.

The matriarch of the NASWA Resort, Hope helped run one of the Lakes Region’s most iconic establishments for more than 80 years as it grew from a few cabins to one of the region’s major resorts.

Countless visitors experienced her hospitality and generosity firsthand over the years, and they likely tried some of her signature baked goods. Along with her late husband, Peter, Hope made her mark on the community by supporting veterans, helping the Fire Department acquire new equipment, and being a leader in New Hampshire’s tourist economy.

New Hampshire owes Hope and the entire Makris family a debt of gratitude for the ways they have bettered our communities, particularly in the Lakes Region.

Hope leaves a profound legacy after a century of life and hard work, and I know others will continue to be inspired by her dedication and compassion to all those around her. 

I yield back. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Last night, the House passed the ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act, bipartisan legislation co-led by Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), which would require the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the National Council on Disability to collaborate to help people with disabilities pursue small business ownership and employment opportunities.

“Entrepreneurs and small businesses face a range of unique challenges, and we know a one-size-fits-all approach by government agencies to provide support they need is simply ineffective,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’m glad the House passed bipartisan legislation I helped introduce to require the SBA to provide individuals with disabilities equal access to pursue small business ownership and employment opportunities. I remain committed to ensuring our Main Street economy can grow and thrive, and I urge the Senate to swiftly take up this bill to deliver to improve support for our small businesses and entrepreneurs.”

Background:

The ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act would require SBA and the National Council on Disability to collaborate to help people with disabilities pursue small business ownership and employment opportunities.

Last summer, the ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act passed the House with bipartisan support. 

The ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act is supported by the Commission for Disability Employment.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Today Congressmen Chris Pappas (NH-01), Rudy Yakym (IN-02), Tim Burchett (TN-02), and John Garamendi (CA-08) introduced a bipartisan resolution expressing support for the designation of the week of June 2-8, 2025, as “National Trailer Safety Week” in the United States.

“This National Trailer Safety Week I am glad to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution highlighting the importance of trailer safety,” Rep. Pappas said. “Trailer safety and education, from recreational use to every day on the job, is critical to keeping everyone on our roads safe.”

“I’m proud to put forward this resolution highlighting the critical importance of trailer safety,” Rep. Yakym said. “In northern Indiana, the manufacturers I represent build everything from towable RVs to cargo and horse trailers. Promoting safe towing practices is key to keeping our roads safer and making sure people across the country can continue to enjoy the many advantages trailers offer.”

“I used to sell utility trailers and car haulers,” Rep. Burchett said. “I am happy to work with my colleagues to advocate for trailer safe-use practices. We need to continue working to keep our roads and highways safe for everyone.”

“Every year, 50,000 trailer accidents injure 21,000 Americans and kill hundreds,” Rep. Garamendi said. “I am honored to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution to raise awareness about trailer safety and help keep our roads safe. Trailer Safety Week is a critical opportunity to ensure that both manufacturers and drivers have the information they need to keep America’s roadways safe.”

“Trailer Safety Week strives to enhance roadway safety for all Americans, and we truly value the ongoing support and acknowledgment at the federal level,” Alex Stowe, National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) Executive Director said. “With nearly one million new trailers hitting our nation’s roads each year, accessible education on trailer safety is crucial. Whether you’re towing a boat for a weekend getaway or a utility trailer for work tasks, having the essential knowledge for safe towing is crucial. Trailer safety is synonymous to traffic safety, impacting everyone. We extend our gratitude to Representatives Yakym, Burchett, Garamendi, and Pappas for recognizing the significance of our Trailer Safety Week initiative and the role it plays in improving roadway safety.”

Read the full resolution here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

WASHINGTON — Speaker Johnson will travel to address a special session of the Israeli Knesset in Jerusalem on Sunday, June 22.

“It will be one of the highest honors of my life to address the Israeli Knesset at this fateful moment. Our ties run deeper than military partnerships and trade agreements. We’re bound by the same beliefs, the same psalms, and the same sacred pursuit of liberty,” Speaker Johnson said, announcing the trip.

“Today, the State of Israel and Jewish people around the world face grave threats, and it is our moral imperative to stand by our sister democracy. As terror and vile antisemitic ideology threaten Western Civilization, Israel must know that when America said, ‘Never Again,’ we meant it.”

Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana made the following statement:

“Mike Johnson is a great friend of the State of Israel and the Jewish people. From the moment he was elected, he not only expressed his support through words but also took decisive action, even at the risk of his position, to support Israel in its most challenging moments. I hold him in great esteem, believe he is highly deserving of addressing the Knesset, and look forward to hosting him and hearing his words to the nation.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tonight, Speaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries hosted a bipartisan vigil to honor the lives of Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, two Israeli embassy staffers who were killed in a violent act of antisemitism after leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum last month. Speaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries were joined by Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter; CEO of the American Jewish Committee Ted Deutch; Israeli embassy staff, and Members of Congress.

Watch Speaker Johnson’s remarks here

Below are Speaker Johnson’s remarks as delivered:

We gather tonight to honor the memory of two precious souls, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky. Our hearts go out to the families and friends of Sarah and Yaron, and all those who have come from the Israeli Embassy tonight and the AJC to honor their memory. We want to thank you all for being here.

We took every precaution to arrange this evening and ensure the safety of everyone in attendance. And sadly, that’s because it’s a dangerous time to be a Jewish American. The two innocent lives we honor today should still be with us. Sarah and Yaron were young, and they were in love. They led honorable lives of advocacy at the Israeli Embassy, and they devoted themselves to peace in the land that they so loved.

The monster who murdered them was not motivated by peace, but something very different. He went to a Jewish museum to hunt down Jewish people. And we want to be crystal clear tonight: this is targeted antisemitic terrorism. There are no shades of gray and there is no other way to describe it.

As we’ve seen in the week since, this violence is sadly not isolated. Just 10 days after these murders, a group of Jewish Americans, most of them elderly and one a Holocaust survivor, were pelted with Molotov cocktails in Boulder, Colorado. In Colorado and in our capital city we see two cold-blooded monsters separated by 2,000 miles, but united in their sick hatred of the Jewish people. It just defies understanding.

Both individuals chanted a slogan that is all too familiar on college campuses and city streets since the horrors of October 7^th: ‘Free Palestine.’ It’s the chant of a violent movement that has found common cause with Hamas, and it’s a movement that has lost hold of the difference between right and wrong, between good and evil, between light and darkness and barbarism.

The chants of the terrorists who pillaged Israel on October 7^th are almost indistinguishable from those of Hamas sympathizers here on our own shores. They proclaim that violence is righteous, that rape is justice and that murder is liberation. 

They have created a culture of lies that puts a bounty on the heads of peace-loving Jewish Americans. And the insidious spread of this violent ideology has emboldened the evil worldview of people like the one that took the lives of Sarah and Yaron.

Where is the outrage for these two young victims? There have been no national protests for them or the many victims of antisemitic violence all around this country, no calls in the streets to say their names. No chants for justice or peace.

We cannot let these depraved antisemitic terrorists silence us. We must stand up and protect our Jewish brothers and sisters. The Republicans and the Democrats here today stand united in that cause and condemning the violence and the rhetoric that directly aides and abets it. We have a responsibility to recommit ourselves to the cause for which Sarah and Yaron lived and for which they literally gave their lives. That is the cause of peace.

I am reminded of the scripture that says blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God. Tonight, we honor two of God’s children, tragically lost too soon. 

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