Brownley Introduces Legislation to Promote Bilingual Proficiency Among Students and Strengthen U.S. Workforce Competitiveness

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) announced the reintroduction of the Biliteracy Education Seal and Teaching (BEST) Act, a bill that establishes a federal grant program at the U.S. Department of Education to recognize high-level student proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in both English and a second language. Under this program, states would be able to establish or improve their own Biliteracy Seal programs to award seals to K-12 students.

This recognition not only boosts students’ global workforce competitiveness but also helps employers, colleges, and universities identify candidates with valuable bilingual skills. The initiative is also vital for U.S. diplomacy, intelligence, and military readiness by ensuring a workforce proficient in critical languages.

“Being proficient in two or more languages can be a critical advantage in today’s globalized, competitive economy. By supporting Seal of Biliteracy programs, we can better equip students with essential language skills that enhance their future opportunities and strengthen our national security,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “I have seen firsthand the benefits of this program across California, especially in my district, where bilingualism is very prominent. Preparing our students with multilingualism will open doors to success in both their academic and professional futures.”

“Proficiency in more than one language is a skill of great importance to our nation’s economy and businesses,” said Amanda Seewald, Executive Director of the Joint National Committee for Languages and the National Council for Languages and International Studies (JNCL-NCLIS). “The BEST Act will help implement and scale Seal of Biliteracy programs that provide this credential to American students. We thank Congresswoman Brownley for her continued leadership on this legislation and for furthering language education nationwide.”

Background

California’s State Seal of Biliteracy program was first established in 2011 when legislation sponsored by then-Assemblywoman Brownley was signed into law. Since then, over 500,000 high school students have graduated with this seal in California. In the 2023-2024 school year, 490 districts in California participated in the program. Since then, all 50 states and the District of Columbia have established their own statewide Seal of Biliteracy programs. 

The BEST Act is endorsed by the National Council for Languages and International Studies, National Education Association, California Language Teachers’ Association, and Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents. 

Read the full text of the bill, here.

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Brownley Introduces Legislation to Secure Immediate Housing Assistance for Disaster Survivors

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) introduced the Disaster Displacement Assistance Improvement Act, legislation to improve the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Displacement Assistance program. The bill ensures that disaster survivors can access critical housing support without delays caused by insurance determinations.

“In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, survivors who cannot return to their homes often need urgent financial assistance to secure a safe place to stay and begin rebuilding their lives,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “While FEMA’s Displacement Assistance program provides up-front funds to help with these immediate housing needs, current rules prevent assistance from reaching individuals with insurance unless it is confirmed that their policy does not cover similar expenses. Survivors often face delays in receiving timely responses from insurance companies, leaving them without the support they need to secure temporary housing. This bill removes this unnecessary red tape, ensuring that insurance is not a barrier to receiving critical assistance when it is needed most.”

Background

In 2024, FEMA launched the Displacement Assistance program to address the immediate housing needs of survivors who cannot return to their homes after a disaster. The program provides eligible survivors with up-front funds to assist with immediate housing options of their choice, such as costs associated with staying with family or friends, until they can secure rental housing and focus on long-term recovery. Displacement Assistance helps survivors transition from congregate shelters to more permanent housing solutions like hotels or rentals.

The Disaster Displacement Assistance Improvement Act seeks to improve the program by clarifying that insurance should not be considered a duplication of benefits when determining eligibility, ensuring that all those in need receive the assistance they deserve. FEMA’s current interpretation of the Stafford Act prevents the agency from offering Displacement Assistance to anyone with insurance unless they can confirm that their insurance policy does not cover the expenses typically covered by the program. However, Displacement Assistance is designed to address immediate needs after a disaster, and most survivors are unable to get a timely decision from their insurance company when they most need the assistance.

If enacted, the Disaster Displacement Assistance Improvement Act will ensure that survivors have access to Displacement Assistance, regardless of their insurance status, allowing them to receive this support alongside resources from FEMA’s Serious Needs Assistance program.

Read the full text of the bill, here.

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Read More (ICYMI: Steube Introduces Resolution Authorizing Use of Military Force Against Mexican Drug Cartels)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

March 25, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON – ICYMI: U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced a joint resolution yesterday authorizing the use of military force against certain Mexican drug cartels. This resolution will permit the Trump administration to utilize the U.S. military in the fight against Tren de Aragua, Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), the Sinaloa Cartel, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, the Northeast Cartel, the Michoacán family, the United cartels, the Cartel del Golfo, and the Clan del Golfo.

From Fox News:
“Congressman Greg Steube, R-Fla., is introducing a resolution today to empower the Trumpadministration to “take a sledgehammer” to the cartels by authorizing the president to use the “full force of the American military” against nine of the largest migrant criminal groups that have been wreaking havoc on American cities.  
“One of the criminal groups included in the resolution is Tren de Aragua – also known as “TdA” – which is an international gang tied to the murder of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley as well as the violent takeover of at least one apartment building in Aurora, Colorado, last year. The group is also suspected of having ties to Venezuelan socialist dictator Nicolás Maduro. 
“The resolution authorizes President Donald Trump to unleash the American military on Tren de Aragua, MS-13, the Sinaloa Cartel and several other gangs, which it says have “violated the territorial integrity of the United States” and present “a clear and evident danger” to the American people.”
With more Americans concerned than ever before about the border and opioid crises, swift and decisive action is needed to protect lives and defeat the cartels. More than 200 Americans die every day from fentanyl overdoses as Mexican drug cartels have established operations in all 50 states. Not only have the cartels trafficked in record amounts of narcotics, but their members have kidnapped and murdered U.S. citizens. 
“We can no longer ignore the deliberate invasion of Mexican drug cartels into our neighborhoods and communities. These are not ragtag bands of low-level lawbreakers but organized criminal enterprises that profit off death and addiction. Far too many innocent people have suffered at the hands of the cartels,” said Rep. Greg Steube. “Until such time that the Mexican government finally steps up and squashes the drug cartels who use Mexico as their home base, Congress must give President Trump and Secretary Hegseth the green light to take a sledgehammer to these criminal networks and their supply chains. My joint resolution will authorize the Trump administration to use the full force of the American military against the nine largest drug cartels operating out of Mexico.”
Read the full bill text here.

Read More (Steube and Panetta Introduce Honey Integrity Act to Establish Federal Honey Standards)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

March 14, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), joined by Rep. Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) as a cosponsor, introduced the Honey Integrity Act to establish a national standard for honey, enhance enforcement against fraudulent honey sales, and protect American beekeepers. The bill, led in the Senate by Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), strengthens consumer confidence in honey products without expanding government bureaucracy.
“I’m introducing the Honey Integrity Act in the House to crack down on the mislabeling and sale of fake products to American consumers. This bill establishes clear standards for honey and accountability for bad actors without adding more government red tape. Families have the right to know the honey they are buying is real. I thank Senator Tommy Tuberville for leading on this issue in the Senate and Rep. Jimmy Panetta for his support in the House. We must protect American honey producers and make sure consumers get the quality produce they pay for at the grocery store.” —Congressman Greg Steube
“Fraudulent honey imports undercut American beekeepers and mislead consumers. The Honey Integrity Act will help protect the industry by cracking down on adulterated honey and ensuring transparency in the marketplace.  Honey producers across the country, including those in California, work hard to ensure the integrity of their product and we need to give them a level playing field.” –Congressman Jimmy Panetta
“Honey producers across America work hard to deliver a pure, natural product, but bad actors are undermining our efforts by flooding the market with adulterated honey. I am proud to co-lead this legislation that will ensure accountability by requiring reports on enforcement actions through the establishment of the Honey Integrity Program. As a beekeeper myself, I will always fight to protect consumers and our domestic honey industry. By strengthening testing and transparency, we can crack down on fraud and defend the integrity of American honey.” –Congressman Mike Ezell
“Honey is one of nature’s greatest antioxidants, providing many wonderful health benefits. America’s beekeepers and honey producers work tirelessly to ensure that we have access to pure, quality honey. But sadly, the lack of uniform standards is creating loopholes that foreign honey producers are increasingly exploiting. Our honey producers deserve a level playing field, and Americans deserve to know exactly what they’re putting in their bodies. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to secure our nation’s honey industry, support our domestic beekeepers and increase food transparency for Americans.” –Senator Tommy TubervilleKey Provisions of the Honey Integrity Act:

Creates a Federal Standard of Identity for Honey: Requires the FDA to establish a formal definition and standard for honey to prevent mislabeling and ensure product integrity.
Enhances Federal Oversight: Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to submit a report to Congress detailing enforcement actions against adulterated and misbranded honey.
Mandates the Destruction of Adulterated Honey: Ensures that when fraudulent honey is identified, it is destroyed— protecting consumers and honest beekeepers.
Strengthens Consumer Protection Without Expanding Government: Holds fraudulent sellers accountable while avoiding unnecessary government expansion, fees, or regulatory burdens.
Accountability Without Government Overreach: The Honey Integrity Act creates the Honey Integrity Program, an enforcement mechanism to stop those who misrepresent or knowingly sells adulterated or misbranded honey. This program will be created without requiring additional federal employees or costly government programs.

The bill has received support from several organizations including the American Honey Producers Association and American Beekeeping Federation.
“The American Honey Producers Association applauds Representative Steube, Senator Tuberville, and Representative Panetta for introducing the Honey Integrity Act. For years, America’s beekeepers have sought adequate protections against adulteration of the honey supply on behalf of consumers and beekeepers alike. This legislation takes critical steps forward in addressing adulteration so that consumers can be confident that their honey is natural, wholesome, and healthy. The legislation will also help level the playing field for honest American beekeepers who have had to compete against adulterated products for too many years. We look forward to working with Congress and FDA in implementing this common-sense legislation to restore fairness in the marketplace and certainty for the consumer.” —Steven Coy, President, American Honey Producers Association
“As a commercial beekeeper from Montana and  president of the American Beekeeping Federation (ABF) a national organization representing beekeepers in all 50 states from hobbyists to commercial operations, on behalf of ABF we strongly support the Honey Integrity Act. ABF is grateful to Congressmen Stuebe and Panetta on their sponsorship of this critical legislation .  We were pleased to work closely with Congressman Stuebe a beekeeper himself, on the need for this legislation to protect U.S beekeepers and U.S. consumers from economically adulterated honey from entering the country.  ABF looks forward to working closely with the legislations sponsors to see this much needed legislation become law.” —Patty Sundberg, President of American Beekeeping Federation. Read the full bill text here.

Read More (Steube Reintroduces PAGER Act to Protect U.S. Funding from Hezbollah)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

March 05, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today reintroduced The Preventing Armed Groups from Engaging in Radicalism (PAGER) Act. This bill will prohibit aid and assistance to the Armed Forces of Lebanon until the governing authorities in Lebanon rescind their recognition of Hezbollah as well as their allied political wing, Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc, and affiliated militia group, the Amal Movement. “While the world celebrates the demise of Hassan Nasrallah, the United States must remain vigilant to the threat of Hezbollah. Until the people of Lebanon can live free of Hezbollah’s terror and persecution, long-term peace and stability in the Middle East will remain out of reach,” said Rep. Steube. “As the Trump administration works to forge closer ties between Israel and the Arab world, Congress must do its part to contain Iran and eliminate its terrorist network. My PAGER Act will ensure U.S. tax dollars never end up in the hands of Hezbollah.”The PAGER Act bars federal funding to the Armed Forces of Lebanon until the Secretary of State certifies to Congress that:

The Lebanese government no longer recognizes Hezbollah and other organizations linked to Iran.
Individuals affiliated with Hezbollah or other organizations linked to Iran are banned from serving in ministerial positions.
Lebanon is in compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 1559 to remove Hezbollah and other militia groups from their territory. 
The Lebanese Armed Forces terminates its relationship with Hezbollah, Iran, and all foreign terrorist organizations.
Lebanon destroys all weaponry supplied by Iran and its affiliates.
Lebanese courts agree to dismiss all charges against Americans unjustly persecuted for shedding light on Hezbollah’s influence.

The PAGER Act will also bar U.S. funding and support for the United Nations Development Programme in light of their corrupt financial ties to top Lebanese military officers. It will also provide Congress with biannual reports on Hezbollah’s status in the region. 
The bill has received support from numerous organizations, including The American Mideast Coalition for Democracy (AMCD) and The Endowment for Middle East Truth (EMET).
“The American Mideast Coalition for Democracy fully supports the PAGER Act put forward by Congressman Greg Steube (R-Fla.). AMCD believes that by pressuring the Lebanese government and Lebanese Armed Forces with a limited time to disarm Hezbollah and other militias, as has been called for by the United Nations in UNSC Resolution 1559 of 2004, progress can be made toward re-establishing a functioning, pluralistic civil society in Lebanon,” said Tom Harb, Co-Chair of the American Mideast Coalition for Democracy.  “AMCD applauds the fact that this bill will condition US funding to the LAF to positive action. The time limit is key to forcing the disarmament of Hezbollah, which has been delayed for years and has allowed the infiltration of the Lebanese government and armed forces by terrorists. AMCD commends Congressman Steube for taking this vital action to restore the sovereignty of Lebanon to its people and remove this terrorist organization which has intimidated and oppressed them for far too long.” 
“EMET applauds Congressman Greg Steube and the introduction of the PAGER Act. Unfortunately, although much of the leadership of Hezbollah has been defeated and marginalized by the Israeli Armed Forces, the new government of Prime Minister Naif Salam and President Joseph Aoun still has powerful strings attached to its Iranian Shia influence and to Hezbollah, just beyond the shadows,” said Sarah N. Stern, Founder and President of the Endowment for Middle East Truth.“The Lebanese Speaker of the House, Nabih Berri has very strong ties to Hezbollah and to its Hezbollah Shia ally, Amal. This enabled Hezbollah to name 4 Cabinet ministers, including the very important Ministry of Finance, Yassin Jaber, someone who is strongly affiliated with Hezbollah. Beyond that, we would like to see the Lebanese Armed Forces finally exercise some strength and disarm Hezbollah, which has been demanded by both UN Security Council Resolution 1559,which was introduced in 2004, and UN Security Council 1701, introduced in 2006. It is far time that the political, governmental, and economic infrastructure within Lebanon free itself of the Iranian and Shia influence of the Amal movement and of Hezbollah.”
Read the bill text here.

Read More (Rep. Greg Steube Reintroduces FEMA for America First Act to Restrict FEMA Benefits for Paroled Noncitizens, Asylees and Refugees)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

February 28, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON— U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) yesterday reintroduced the FEMA for America First Act, reaffirming his commitment to ensuring that federal disaster relief resources are reserved for American citizens. The bill seeks to amend current law by requiring that only noncitizens with lawful permanent resident status, asylees, and refugees actively working toward that status are eligible for FEMA benefits following a natural disaster.
“American citizens must be our priority when it comes to disaster recovery,” said Rep. Steube. “For too long, FEMA benefits have been extended to paroled noncitizens and individuals who entered our country under policies that many believe have put genuine Americans at a disadvantage. The current administration’s use of humanitarian parole has enabled those without a clear path to lawful permanent residency to tap into disaster relief funds. My legislation restores accountability and ensures that FEMA’s critical resources are directed first and foremost to American taxpayers and lawful residents.”
Under the proposed legislation, any noncitizen seeking FEMA assistance would need to hold a valid green card and meet taxpayer requirements. Similarly, asylees and refugees would be eligible only if they are actively progressing toward obtaining lawful permanent resident status.
Presently, federal law permits any noncitizen paroled into the U.S. for at least one year for “urgent humanitarian purposes” to qualify for FEMA benefits, a provision that has been exploited. Rep. Steube’s reintroduction of this legislation is a decisive step toward realigning FEMA’s mission with the needs of American citizens during times of crisis.Read the full bill text here.

Brownley Hosts Press Conference Condemning Republicans’ Harmful Medicaid Cuts

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Oxnard, CA – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) joined local healthcare leaders at the Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc.’s Karen R. Burham Health Center in Oxnard to denounce the Republican proposal for the largest Medicaid cuts in history – jeopardizing care for millions, including over 200,000 Ventura County residents.

“Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress are pushing through the largest Medicaid cut in history – nearly $1 trillion – to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest individuals in America,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “This egregious – and outright wrong – proposal rips health care away from tens of millions of people and raises costs for millions more, as emergency room visits will skyrocket, and uncompensated care will force providers to shift costs.

“This tax scheme will dismantle Medicaid – as we know it – for the 80 million Americans who rely on it. Medicaid is more than just health insurance. It is a lifeline for over 200,000 people in Ventura County and the Conejo Valley, including 80,000 children and 24,000 seniors. These individuals are now at risk of losing access to the care they depend on.

“We cannot – and we will not – stand by while Republicans in the House, Senate, and White House destroy a program that millions rely on to live with dignity,” Brownley continued. “Medicaid is a cornerstone of our commitment to providing healthcare to those who need it most. Every American deserves access to timely, affordable, high-quality care. That is why I will never stop fighting to protect Medicaid — for our children, for our seniors, and for everyone who depends on it.”

“Community health centers serve over 32,000,000 patients across the nation. Yet, we represent only 1% of the healthcare cost and we see about 10% of Americans across the nation. We are the nation’s largest primary care clinic system,” said Dr. Gagan Pawar, CEO of Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. “For many of our patients, it is the only means to receive lifesaving care. The expansion of Medi-Cal to more low-income individuals was a monumental step forward, and it is critical that we continue to expand and protect access to this essential program.”

“Lawmakers want to dismantle the country’s healthcare safety net by defunding Planned Parenthood and making steep cuts to Medicaid, a program that many Planned Parenthood Health Center patients rely on. These cuts threaten life-saving access to care everywhere throughout our community,” said Jenna Tosh, CEO of Planned Parenthood California Central Coast. “80% of our patients come to us with Medicaid. Make no mistake. People’s lives are on the line with these cuts.”

Congresswoman Brownley’s prepared remarks can be found here.

Photos from today’s press conference can be found here.

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Brownley Hosts Roundtable with Veterans to Discuss Impact of VA Cuts

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Health, hosted a roundtable to hear from local veterans about the impacts they’re experiencing related to workforce cuts in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

“The Trump Administration’s plan to cut over 80,000 employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs, in addition to the 2,400 VA employees who have already been terminated, is an alarming move that threatens the health and well-being of our nation’s veterans. These firings are a clear indication that this administration is not prioritizing the needs of the men and women who have bravely served our nation in uniform and is actively undermining the quality of care they receive,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “Today’s roundtable allowed me to hear firsthand from veterans and employees at the VA about the devastating impact of these cuts on their care and livelihoods.

“With the VA already facing staffing shortages, terminating additional VA employees will inevitably worsen delays for healthcare and benefits and make it even harder for veterans to access the care they deserve. The loss of essential staff – from medical professionals to support workers – will disrupt services, increase wait times, and place even more strain on an already overwhelmed system. These terminations directly undermine the VA’s solemn mission to deliver the highest-quality care to those who have bravely served our nation in uniform.

“I am extremely concerned about the lack of transparency surrounding these cuts,” continued Congresswoman Brownley. “The Trump Administration has failed to provide Congress with the basic information needed to understand the reasoning behind these cuts and their long-term consequences. It is unacceptable that we remain in the dark about how these decisions will affect the health, benefits, and care of our nation’s veterans.

“Cutting resources at the VA, including staff, means cutting the care and services veterans rely on every day. These cuts aren’t just numbers on a budget sheet – they mean longer wait times for appointments, fewer doctors and nurses to provide care, and more veterans falling through the cracks. After serving our country, we shouldn’t have to fight for the healthcare and benefits we’ve earned,” said Richard Camacho, Co-Founder of the Vietnam Veterans of Ventura County.

“Our commitment to our veterans should never be used as a bargaining chip to advance political agendas. Supporting the men and women who have served our nation must transcend partisan ideology because supporting veterans is always the right thing to do. We must do everything in our power to serve them as well as they have served us,” added Brownley.

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Brownley Statement on Trump’s Assault on Public Education

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s Executive Order to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education:

“A great nation is only as strong as the education of its people. The Department of Education plays a vital role in ensuring that every child – regardless of their background, where they live, or their ability – has access to a quality education. It enforces civil rights protections, provides support for students with disabilities, and helps millions of families afford higher education. Trump’s decision to dismantle the Department of Education is not just reckless – it is a direct assault on the future of our children, our economic competitiveness, and our country.

“Trump is wholly unqualified to make this decision. He has never attended a public school, sent his children to one, relied on federal student aid, or contributed in any meaningful way to strengthening public education. He has no understanding of the challenges that students, teachers, and parents face every day, yet he is using our children’s futures as pawns in his ideological games.

“This is not just a misguided policy choice. It is an act of deliberate sabotage. Eliminating the Department of Education will strip away critical protections for students, jeopardize funding for public schools, and leave millions of children – especially those from low-income families and marginalized communities – without the resources they need to succeed. It would unravel decades of progress in ensuring equal access to education and protections for students with disabilities.

“This reckless move threatens the futures of 50 million K-12 students, including 6.7 million in California. It would mean larger class sizes, fewer resources for teachers, and an education system that abandons those who need it most.

“Eliminating the Department of Education will also put 87 million students and parents at risk of losing the federal student aid they rely on to afford higher education, and it could result in many young people forgoing higher education in much needed fields, like engineering and medicine, harming our economic competitiveness, exacerbating the problems employers face finding qualified candidates.

“Time and time again, Trump has shown his disdain for public education – whether by pushing to defund schools, undermining teachers, or disregarding the needs of working families. His decision to dismantle the very agency responsible for ensuring equal educational opportunities is not just dangerous, but a complete abdication of leadership.

“This is not about politics. It’s about the fundamental promise of America – that every child, no matter their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. I refuse to stand by while Trump, a man who has never lifted a finger to support public schools, destroys the institutions that make the American Dream possible. I will fight relentlessly to protect our public schools, defend students’ rights, and ensure that education remains a national priority – not a casualty of reckless ideology.”

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Brownley Statement on Senate Passage of Republican Continuing Resolution

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) issued the following statement after Senate passage of H.R. 1968, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025

“I voted against the continuing resolution because it’s a blatant power grab by the White House, giving unchecked control to Donald Trump and his billionaire allies, like Elon Musk, to dismantle the federal government. The CR makes cuts across the board, devastating critical programs that American families rely on.

“Trump and Republicans are using the threat of a shutdown to strip away benefits from seniors, veterans, and working families – all to fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy. They have made it harder for Americans to access Social Security. They are dismantling Medicaid and Medicare, and they have already fired over 130,000 federal employees, with plans to cut 80,000 more at the VA alone. They have laid off workers maintaining our nuclear arsenal and shut down critical medical research labs. Instead of holding Trump accountable, Republicans are ceding their power and oversight, allowing his unchecked executive overreach to continue. Worse, they are empowering him further by giving him a blank check to continue this dangerous agenda, at the expense of our democracy and the American people.

“House Democrats put forward a responsible alternative – a short-term spending bill that would have allowed time for real negotiations while safeguarding critical programs. But instead of working toward a bipartisan solution, Republicans rammed through this extreme measure, ignoring the needs of the people they were elected to serve. By passing this CR, Republicans weakened Congress’ power of the purse and handed greater control over taxpayer dollars to Trump and his wealthy backers – with no oversight or guardrails.

“No one wants a government shutdown, but we are headed into disastrous times. Republicans are determined to cede their power and oversight to Donald Trump, abandoning their duty to the American people and allowing these dangerous actions to go unchecked. I will continue fighting alongside House Democrats to push back against this egregious overreach of power.”

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