MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Pete Aguilar (31 CD Ca)

The grant funding will allow CSUSB to strengthen its AI technology and workforce by upgrading its existing facility, purchasing advanced technology, creating an online portal for AI and VR training and expanding community outreach and events

Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) announced that he secured $1,031,000 in community project funding for CSUSB’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR) Research and Retraining Center, which provides students with opportunities for training with AI and VR technology. This grant funding will expand the Inland Empire’s AI and VR capabilities, strengthening the region’s cybersecurity, supply chain and logistics workforce. You can watch the full video of the press conference here and find photos from the event above and here.
“When I’m in Washington, I’m always working on ways to bring home federal dollars that help empower students, create jobs, and make life better for people in the Inland Empire,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “That’s why I am so proud to deliver $1 million in community project funding for CSUSB’s Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality Research and Retraining Center to help prepare our next generation for the new age of technology. This grant funding will strengthen our region’s technology and workforce by providing CSUSB students with opportunities for training in AI and VR technology. This is just the beginning. I’ll continue to fight for more funding to ensure our students in San Bernardino have the opportunities to succeed and build their lives right here in the Inland Empire.”
“We are deeply grateful to Congressman Pete Aguilar for his leadership and steadfast support of Cal State San Bernardino and the Inland Empire,” said Tomás D. Morales, President, California State University, San Bernardino. “This funding accelerates CSUSB’s leadership in AI and virtual reality research while expanding workforce development opportunities that directly benefit the Inland Empire’s growing technology and logistics sectors.”
“It was about a decade ago that I met Congressman Aguilar, and I had the opportunity to describe what we were trying to do in the Center for Cybersecurity on a local and national scale,” said Dr. Tony Coulson, Executive Director, Center for Cyber and AI, California State University, San Bernardino. “A lot of complexity there, a lot of different things. And he responded very plainly with me: ‘How can I help?’ That was it. How can I help? And what is amazing, having I’ve been around for a number of years, a lot of people say, ‘How can I help?’ and there’s not necessarily a big follow-up with that. But that’s not the case here. Rep. Pete Aguilar has done a lot in the area of cybersecurity workforce, and for our community, that cannot be understated.”
“AI is changing everything, everywhere, all at once,” said Dr. Vincent Nestler, Director, Center for Cyber and AI, California State University, San Bernardino. “Some people are going to make out like bandits, and some people are going to find themselves lost and confused. The purpose, really, of this grant is to try and figure out, what is that transition? What’s on the horizon that’s coming our way? How do we prepare the Inland Empire for that transition? If warehousing jobs go, where do those people go to work now? How do we transition them to make them successful Our effort is going to be to maximize this money with other things that we are ready to do, and to try and make sure that we’re that shining city on the hill that helps folks have a place to go to say, okay, what do I do now? I am grateful that we have a wonderful champion in the federal government like Rep. Aguilar who helps us continue to be successful and to launch people into the future.”
In January 2026, Rep. Aguilar helped pass the Commerce, Justice, Science, Energy and Water Development, and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026, which included $7.4 million in federal community project funding grants for seven projects in California’s 33rd Congressional District.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) appeared on Fox Business Network’s Kudlow to discuss the SAVE America Act, which will require voters to provide photo ID to vote and proof of citizenship to register to vote.

Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full interview. 
Highlights from Leader Scalise’s interview: On Democrats opposing common-sense measures to secure elections:“Look, I’ve worked closely with President Trump, with Chip Roy, a lot of other members that really care about this, frankly, most Americans. Look at the polling – in every demographic group, this polls over 70% because Americans recognize the sanctity of the vote is at risk. When you have either illegals voting because states don’t check, a number of states deliberately don’t want to check whether or not somebody’s here legally when they register, and then they mandate in some states that they can’t show picture ID. That’s a recipe for voter fraud, Larry. We need to fix it. We need to ensure that everybody’s vote is protected because one person, one vote only matters if you’re having these protections like the SAVE America Act.“Ask [Democrats] why they required [IDs] at their own Democrat National Convention. Why is it when you want to get on an airplane, Larry, nobody questions when you want to get on an airplane, you’ve got to show ID. Do they call that racist? Of course not. It’s common sense. And by the way, Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, every group you look at, including Democrats, say that this makes sense. It’s only Democrat politicians, especially in Washington, that are scared to death of this. What does that tell you, Larry? Is it that they are afraid that if you actually ensure that only people who are who they say they are can vote, what does that do to their business model as a party? Do they really need voter fraud in order for their politicians to get elected? I think this is going to expose a lot of things when you see this vote, Larry.”On President Trump’s support for the SAVE America Act:“Yes, it’s going to come up next week. You’re going to see it next week. We got President Trump delivering a State of the Union. But before that, we’re going to have a vote on the House floor on Chip Roy’s SAVE America Act. Look, President Trump named it. I was in the Oval Office with him about a week and a half ago when we were putting a bunch of these bills together. And this one, especially, he’s passionate about because he’s seen these problems.”

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

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA-26) joined U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), along with over 55 congressional colleagues in pressing Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on the impact of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency escalating violence in American communities on children. From detaining children to arresting parents, ICE’s actions are leaving children with potentially lasting physical and psychological trauma.   

“ICE and CBP operations that treat children like collateral damage threaten their physical and mental health and wellbeing… This disregard for child welfare undermines the government’s core child-protection obligations,” wrote the lawmakers. “Yet your agency does not appear to be taking any action to speak out against or investigate the impacts of the Trump Administration’s immigration agenda on children.”  

Under the Trump administration, children — both U.S. citizens and noncitizens — have been exposed to increasingly violent and intense immigration enforcement operations. After Donald Trump rescinded ICE’s sensitive locations policy on Day One, ICE has carried out raids at schools, day care centers — and even a child’s birthday party. ICE has also become more violent, employing military-style techniques in communities across the country. Even when children are not the direct target, their exposure to this violence can create lasting trauma.  

“[ICE and CBP’s] practices have triggered national outrage and risk traumatizing children and depriving them of access to education and basic services, with lasting consequences for their behavioral, physical, academic, and emotional wellbeing,” wrote the lawmakers.  

Five-year-old Minnesota resident Liam Ramos was detained for more than a week in a Texas facility after reportedly being used as “bait” to capture his father. Liam’s father said Liam was not eating well and was sleeping a lot and asking about his mother and classmates. 

In Massachusetts, a man suffered an apparent seizure while ICE agents attempted to detain his wife as their toddler cried within arm’s reach. Witnesses allege agents pushed him, struck him, and pressed on his neck while the child remained trapped between the adults.  

In Illinois, ICE agents forcibly detained a day care teacher in front of her students.  In another incident, masked agents deployed tear gas near an elementary school in Chicago, sending children running and teachers scrambling for cover. In Texas, ICE agents stormed a five-year-old child’s birthday party, where state and federal officers conducted an operation that resulted in the apprehension of 47 people, including nine minors — one of whom was just three years old.  

“Children’s exposure to traumatic ICE raids occurring in their communities across America can have lasting effects on their long-term health and development, including their behavioral and psychological wellbeing,” wrote the lawmakers.  

ICE operations are also hurting children’s academic and social development. In districts where ICE raids have occurred, schools are reporting declining student attendance and performance; in some schools, nearly half of students have been absent following school-based ICE raids. Early childhood providers have reported attrition from day care, after-school programs, and other community programs that typically serve as spaces for positive socialization, mental health counseling, and other forms of support.  

Immigration enforcement actions are also impacting children’s access to health care. Most health care workers report significant or moderate decreases in patient visits since January 2025; for the children that do continue to visit the doctor, they reportedly have declining physical and mental health. One doctor observed “abnormal weight gain trajectories” in children not getting exercise outdoors due to “fear of encountering ICE,” and another pediatrician reported that “minors [are] constantly crying during their well-child checks expressing their fear for themselves and their families.”  

“Given HHS’s responsibility for the health and wellbeing of children in the United States, we request any data your department has collected regarding the impact of immigration operations on children’s health and development,” wrote the lawmakers.  

The lawmakers noted HHS’s various programs, offices, and agencies that research and provide for children’s physical and mental health and wellbeing, and requested that Secretary Kennedy share any information HHS has regarding the impact of ICE and CBP operations on children’s mental health and development. 

Read the full text of the letter here.

Other signers include: Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT); and Representatives John Garamendi (D-CA-08), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-AL), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), Hank Johnson (D-GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), Al Green (D-TX-09), Becca Balint (D-VT-AL), Nanette Díaz Barragán (D-CA-44), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03), Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), Emily Randall (D-WA-06), Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Jill Tokuda (D-HI-02), André Carson (D-IN-07), Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), Seth Moulton (D-MA-06), Brendan Boyle (D-PA-02), Diana DeGette (D-CO-01), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Dwight Evans (D-PA-03), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Gil Cisneros (D-CA-31), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Valerie Foushee (D-NC-04), Adam Smith (D-WA-09), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ-03), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), Johnny Olszewski, Jr. (D-MD-02), Kelly Morrison (D-MN-03), Joe Neguse (D-CO-02), George Latimer (D-NY-16), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA-34), Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Chuy García (D-IL-04), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), James Walkinshaw (D-VA-11), Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05), and Jahana Hayes (D-CT-05). 

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Issues: 119th Congress, Healthcare, Immigration

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Pete Aguilar (31 CD Ca)

The grant funding will enable the Hope Through Housing Artificial Intelligence Innovation Lab to purchase new virtual reality equipment, drones, cameras and powerful servers for AI and software development. 

Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) announced that he secured $1,031,000 in community project funding for the Hope Through Housing Foundation’s (HTHF) Artificial Intelligence Innovation Lab. This grant funding will drive workforce and economic development in the Inland Empire by expanding community access to HTHF’s laboratory space, helping purchase cutting-edge computing technology and AI tools, and providing training tailored to workforce development for students in the region. You can watch the full video of the press conference here and find photos from the event above and here.
“As the Inland Empire grows, so should the opportunities for its residents,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “That’s why I’m proud to deliver over $1 million in community project funding for the Hope Through Housing Foundation’s Artificial Intelligence Innovation Lab. This lab will enable people in our region to build successful lives and contribute to our economy by giving them the chance to get jobs and apprenticeships in emerging and evolving technological fields like AI. I’ll keep fighting to deliver resources and ensure that the Inland Empire can become an innovation hub in all different areas, from manufacturing to transportation and beyond.”
“We welcome our partnership with Congressman Aguilar to invest in the future of our community,” said Jeff Burum, Chairman of the Board, Hope Through Housing Foundation. “For more than 30 years, National CORE and Hope through Housing have worked together to bring new opportunities to families across our region.”
“At Hope through Housing, we help our residents build a pathway to a stronger, more financially stable future,” said Alyssa Cotter, Executive Director, Hope Through Housing Foundation. “This grant will supercharge that effort, offering expanded options for instruction in high-tech tools for a vast number of growing industries. We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Aguilar for his support.”
“The timing is perfect for this program,” said Heather Parsons, Vice President of Philanthropy, Hope Through Housing Foundation. “The rapid changes coming for our economy require a training program that is resilient and responsive. Our Innovation Lab can serve as a catalyst for a new model of training programs. This is a big moment for Hope through Housing and the Inland Empire.”
In January 2026, Rep. Aguilar helped pass the Commerce, Justice, Science, Energy and Water Development, and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026, which included $7.4 million in federal community project funding grants for seven projects in California’s 33rd Congressional District. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) issued the following statement:

“Today, the last remaining limits on the world’s two largest nuclear arsenals disappear, and the world is now more vulnerable to nuclear escalation than at any point in the last fifteen years.

“Historically, agreements like New START were supported by Democratic and Republican administrations alike because they made the United States safer. Today, that system has frayed. We have a president who pays lip service to the existential risk of nuclear weapons, but hasn’t taken the necessary steps to reduce that risk. His Truth Social post from today at least signals an openness to strong and enduring arms control agreements; whether his administration follows through remains to be seen.

“Anyone who remembers past arms control negotiations understands the gravity of this moment. Putin’s Russia has repeatedly shown that it views nuclear weapons not simply as a deterrent of last resort, but also as a tool of political blackmail. As Congress’ Ph.D. physicist, I’ve been sounding the alarm on this issue for years and remain deeply engaged in working across the aisle to decrease nuclear risk. I am calling on both nations to abide by the numerical limits set under New START until a new agreement is signed.”

Congressman Foster leads 27 colleagues in the House on H.Res.100, condemning Russia’s suspension of its participation in New START and calling on the administration to pursue arms control talks with Russia and China. Last month, Congressman Foster hosted a Special Order Hour on the expiration of the New START Treaty, which can be found here. 

Before he became a Member of Congress, Foster worked as a high-energy physicist and particle accelerator designer at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab). He was a member of the team that discovered the top quark, the heaviest known form of matter. He also led the teams that designed and built several scientific facilities and detectors still in use today, including the Antiproton Recycler Ring, the latest of Fermilab’s giant particle accelerators.

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Source: {United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bobby Scott (3rd District of Virginia)

Headline: Scott Joins Reps. James Walkinshaw and Steny Hoyer, Sen. Chris Van Hollen to Launch Federal Workforce Caucus

WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, February 4, Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) joined Representatives James Walkinshaw (D-Va.), Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) to announce the launch of the Federal Workforce Caucus. The members are launching this Caucus to bolster efforts to protect federal workers and strengthen our merit-based federal civil service so these dedicated public servants can continue to deliver for the American people without political interference. The lawmakers were joined by Caucus member Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and federal employee union leaders and members at the announcement.

Additional members of the Caucus include U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), and Mark Warner (D-Va.) and U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-Va.), Sarah Elfreth (D-Md.), Glenn Ivey (D-Md.), Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), April McClain Delaney (D-Md.), Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.), Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Bobby Scott (D-Va.), Suhas Subramanyam (D-Va.), and Eugene Vindman (D-Va.).

“President Trump promised Americans that he would make their lives better; unfortunately, since taking office, the administration has only upended the lives of workers and their families,” said Congressman Scott. “The Trump administration’s reckless firing of thousands of civil servants – in some cases unlawfully – has left federal workers on edge and weakened public services. I am proud to support the Federal Workforce Caucus to ensure that workers’ collective bargaining rights are upheld and Americans can access the earned benefits and services they depend on.”

“As Co-Chair and Founder of the Federal Workforce Caucus, I’m proud to lead this effort to advocate for our dedicated federal workers and the good government values they uphold,” said Congressman Walkinshaw. “Virginia is home to nearly 150,000 federal workers, including more than 60,000 in Fairfax, who care for veterans, protect our food supply, respond to disasters, and keep essential programs running. Too often, they are treated as political targets instead of the backbone of an effective, nonpartisan civil service. This Caucus will be on the front lines defending merit-based public service and advancing policies to strengthen recruitment and retention, boost morale, and modernize pay and professional development. We will work every day to ensure government delivers world-class services for all Americans.”

“Federal workers deliver essential public services on behalf of the American people every day – they are the patriotic civil servants who care for our veterans, conduct food safety inspections, provide aid to communities struck by disaster, and so much more. But from day one, the Trump Administration has relentlessly attacked them and jeopardized the services they provide – as they pursue their ultimate goal of replacing qualified civil servants with political cronies who will do Trump’s bidding without regard for the law. We’re launching the Federal Workforce Caucus to stand united against this Administration’s attacks, to support our federal workers, and to protect the integrity of our merit-based civil service,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“Donald Trump and Russell Vought claim that our federal workers are ‘villains’ who ought to be ‘put in trauma.’ That’s dead wrong. Federal employees are patriotic professionals who provide vital services to the American people every day. I have fought to protect them from DOGE’s crusade, and Congress must do the same. That’s why I’m pleased to help found the Federal Workforce Caucus,” said Congressman Hoyer.

“Virginia is home to hundreds of thousands of hardworking public servants who keep our country safe and provide critical services to their fellow Americans,” said Senator Kaine. “As the Trump Administration attacks and vilifies this dedicated workforce, we must push back. I’m glad to join my colleagues in launching the Federal Workforce Caucus to protect and strengthen the federal workforce.”

“When federal workers take their oath, they don’t pledge allegiance to whoever is in the Oval Office, they pledge an oath to this nation and our constitution. They deserve our gratitude and respect, yet instead, this Administration has unleashed a witch hunt against our civil servants. The Federal Workforce Caucus is focused – through legislation, advocacy, and dialogue – on protecting our civil servants and allowing them to continue to serve the American people,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

“Federal workers in Virginia and across the country are the backbone of services Americans depend on,” said Senator Warner. “As the Trump administration continues to target federal workers and use them as political bargaining chips, it is critical for lawmakers to come together and defend the job security, pay, and benefits of our dedicated civil service.”

“Over the past year, people and communities have protested, lawyers have sued, and courts have issued orders to protect our civil servants. It is an honor today to mark the establishment of a bipartisan, bicameral congressional caucus to support the people who work for all us – our nonpartisan, merit-based civil service. The Congressional Federal Workforce Caucus could not come at a more pivotal time. As the Trump-Vance administration and its allies escalate threats to our nation’s elections, our nation’s communities, and our nation’s civil servants, it is time to use all tools our democracy provides to push back and move forward. We are grateful to these lawmakers for taking an important step to protect and strengthen the civil service not just for today, but for the ability to build the people-centered government we all will need in the future,” Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward in remarks at the event.

“After a traumatic year for the civil service, including a 43-day government shutdown and unprecedented mass firings, this Caucus is very timely. Your members’ expertise and commitment will amplify the voice of the federal civilian workforce when it matters most.  AFGE stands ready to support and work with the Caucus.  Our country depends on it,” said Eric Bunn, Sr., National Secretary-Treasurer, American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO (AFGE)

“The federal workforce has endured unimaginable harm, with over 300,000 employees separated, agencies wiped out and previously nonpartisan institutions politicized. Congress must stand for federal workers, and I believe the Federal Workforce Caucus will provide the venue to press for oversight and serve as a gathering place for all members who have constituents who rely on well-functioning government services,” said Max Stier, President and CEO, Partnership for Public Service.

“The federal workforce is essential to a legitimate democratic republic, yet our civil service is increasingly under attack – politically, structurally, and rhetorically,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. “These attacks weaken public accountability, lawful administration, and the quality of services Americans rely on every single day. The Federal Workforce Caucus will ensure the civil service is protected and strengthened, and critical services are delivered to the public while maintaining a skilled, apolitical workforce. Thank you to the co-chairs of the Caucus – Senator Van Hollen, and Representatives Walkinshaw and Hoyer – for your continued support of federal employees.”

“The federal public service workers who help keep our communities running deserve dignity, respect, and the security of knowing they’ll be paid on time,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “Unfortunately, anti-worker politicians continue to exploit them to push their extreme agenda. In the last year, federal workers have been fired arbitrarily, stripped of their collective bargaining rights, and furloughed without pay during the shutdown. I applaud the members of the Federal Workforce Caucus for their focus on restoring dignity and respect to these dedicated public servants. It also highlights why we need solutions like Sen. Van Hollen and Rep. Walkinshaw’s True Shutdown Fairness Act, which will ensure federal workers don’t miss a paycheck or get fired during a shutdown. On behalf of the AFSCME members and the hardworking federal public service workers we represent, we thank the Federal Workforce Caucus for having our backs.”

“IFPTE welcomes the launch of the Federal Workforce Caucus. Over the past year, our members who work for the federal government have witnessed unprecedented political interference, mass firings without cause, and unlawful efforts to deny federal workers their union rights and defund federal agency missions. Our democracy depends on a professional, nonpartisan federal civil service that serves the American public with accountability and integrity. We urgently call on Members of Congress in both chambers and both sides of the aisle to join the Caucus and work to uphold and protect merit system principles, due process protections, and a civil service that ensures that science and innovation, public health, safety, economic security, our national defense, and public services are delivered fairly, effectively, and effectively,” said Matthew Biggs, President of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE)

“NTEU applauds Senator Van Hollen and Representatives Hoyer and Walkinshaw for launching the Federal Workforce Caucus to highlight the work and challenges facing federal workers across the country.  Given the deluge of attacks employees have faced over the past year, from mass firings and illegal attempts to eliminate their union rights to threats against their pay and benefits, we appreciate the dedicated effort that this caucus will make to strengthen the nonpartisan civil service and ensure that federal employees are treated with dignity and respect so they can continue to provide the critical services the American people rely on,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President, NTEU.

The Federal Workforce Caucus will serve as a forum for Members to:

• Support and strengthen the federal civilian workforce and the merit-based civil service system so that it can continue to deliver for American families and businesses;
• Protect the integrity and nonpartisan character of federal employment;
• Advance policies that improve recruitment, retention, and workforce morale across federal agencies;
• Highlight stories that show how government programs and workers improve the lives of the American public;
• Develop and advance data-informed policies that encourage modernization and innovative practices across the federal workforce in areas such as pay competitiveness, workforce performance optimization, and professional development;
• Facilitate dialogue among Members of Congress, former and current federal employees, organizations, and unions representing federal employees, and subject-matter experts to inform efforts to modernize the federal government and attract the workforce needed to deliver for Americans. 

“Federal workers help families put food on the table, protect veterans healing from the wounds of war, and empower communities in the face of environmental crisis. Over the past year, they’ve faced unprecedented attacks – mass firings, union busting, and illegal interference with their work – meant to demoralize and deplete the civil service. Federal workers deserve full support from Congress to protect their bargaining rights and their right to do their jobs without political obstruction,” said Senator Markey.

“Our federal civilian workforce is made up of dedicated public servants who keep our government running.  While the Trump Administration fails to see the value in these public servants’ work, the Senate Federal Workforce Caucus, which we are launching today, stands with our government’s employees,” said Senator Durbin.

“The federal workforce is integral to our country and our communities, helping American families and businesses thrive. As this regime attacks federal workers and the critical work they do, I am proud to join this caucus, which will advance policies that support federal workers and the communities they serve,” said Senator Hirono. “As part of this caucus, I reaffirm my commitment to ensuring federal workers are recognized, protected, and receive the support they need to confront challenges and provide for the public.”

“Throughout the last year, President Trump and his administration have used dedicated federal public servants as political pawns. It’s unacceptable,” said Senator Blunt Rochester. “I’m proud to join this bicameral coalition in launching the Federal Workforce Caucus. To the nearly thousands of federal workers in Delaware and the millions around the country, we’ve got your back.”

“I am proud to be a part of the Federal Workforce Caucus to fight for the dedicated federal workers in our Commonwealth and across the country. Recent attacks on the federal workforce not only hurt our community, they hurt every single American by making it harder to deliver essential services and earned benefits. I am thrilled to be a part of this Caucus and look forward to continuing to champion federal workers,” said Congressman Subramanyam.

“Federal employees are the backbone of our national security, safe transportation, safe food, and clean water. But as our federal workforce remains under attack by the very people entrusted to lead it with massive purges designed to hollow out or eliminate key federal agencies, and through wanton cruelty targeting dedicated civil servants – I’m joining the Federal Workforce Caucus to stand up for our public servants. Over the years, I have fought to increase federal employees’ pay and expand their paid leave, and I will continue fighting to support the needs of the men and women who keep our country running,” said Congressman Beyer.

“Virginia is home to tens of thousands of federal workers, contractors, and service members who serve with a dedication to country, not political party. As their Representative, a 25-year Army officer, and as the husband of a former federal employee, I know that federal workers are essential to the success, safety, and stability of our nation,” said Congressman Vindman. “I will never back down from a fight to protect and honor those who choose a life of service. I am proud to be an inaugural member of the federal workforce caucus.”

“Our federal workforce serves as our nation’s backbone, providing services that address the needs and improve the lives of the American people. Yet this past year, the Trump Administration set out to traumatize the very people who show up every day to keep our air and water clean, our roads and travel safe and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “As the state with the second highest number of federal employees, Virginia has felt the devastating effects of this all-out assault in our communities and local economy. The Federal Workforce Caucus will forefront the interests of our civil servants in Congress, and I’m honored to continue this fight to ensure we afford them the rights, opportunities and dignity they deserve.”

“I’m pleased to join the Federal Workforce Caucus to stand with the dedicated public servants who keep our government working for the American people, tens of thousands of whom live in the nation’s capital,” said Congresswoman Norton. “A strong, merit-based federal civil service — free from political interference — is essential to effective governance and public trust. This caucus will play an important role in protecting federal workers and ensuring they can do their jobs with professionalism, independence, and integrity.”

“President Trump has berated, traumatized and mass-fired federal employees to destroy expertise and science and to remake our government in the image of his imbecilic incompetence,” said Congressman Raskin. “Our institutions were not built by generations of Americans to be broken up and sold for parts; they exist to serve the American people in every age. That’s why I’m proudly standing with my colleagues to establish the Federal Workforce Caucus to defend the professional civil service and the public servants who have helped build our amazing country.”

“The newly established bicameral Federal Workforce Caucus affirms a simple truth: good-paying federal jobs have helped build and sustain the middle class across the country, leveling the playing field while strengthening communities like ours in the Metropolitan Washington, DC area. Public service is the backbone of our country, and these careers should be an opportunity for dedicated Americans to serve the nation with honor while securing economic stability for their families. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to protect, support, and invest in the federal workforce that keeps America moving forward,” said Congressman Ivey.

“Federal workers are the lifeblood of our democracy, and they perform countless essential duties that our country simply could not go without,” said Congressman Mfume. “They fulfill these duties without fear or favor because they are hard-working, patriotic Americans. I have always been a proud supporter of federal workers, and I am proud to join the Federal Workforce Caucus to work with my colleagues in the Congress on ways to better support the people that make the American government work.”

“Federal workers are not political pawns — they are the dedicated public servants who keep our country running. After Trump’s firings wiped out nearly 25,000 federal jobs in Maryland last year alone, the stakes could not be more clear. I’m proud to serve as a founding member of the Federal Workforce Caucus to defend a strong, nonpartisan civil service, protect merit-based hiring, and invest in recruitment, retention, and modernization so the federal workforce can keep delivering for the American people,” said Congressman Olszewski.

“As the proud daughter of two civil servants and the representative to over 45,000 federal employees in Maryland’s Third District, I am excited to join the Federal Workforce Caucus. The sledgehammer of DOGE not only hurt our hardworking civil servants – it impacted the hundreds of critical services that everyday Americans pay for and rely on. Now more than ever, we must strengthen and rebuild our federal workforce to ensure we continue to recruit the best and brightest into the important tradition of public service,” said Congresswoman Elfreth.

“I’m honored to join as an inaugural member of the Federal Workforce Caucus. Our federal employees and institutions are under relentless attack, with their protections, credibility, and character being eroded with each passing day by this Administration. It’s on us as lawmakers to defend a merit-based, nonpartisan civil service and ensure the next generation feels empowered to answer the call to serve, not turned away,” said Congresswoman McClain Delaney.

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) announced that he secured an additional $15 million for district projects after President Trump recently signed the FY2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies appropriations bill into law.

“These targeted investments will advance vital transportation and infrastructure improvement projects that enhance public safety, improve transportation efficiency, and support local economic development,” said Congressman Pete Stauber. “President Trump’s signature on this bill delivers real, tangible results for the hardworking families and businesses in Minnesota’s Eighth District, and I am proud to have advocated for these critical projects.”

The projects include:

•    $5,000,000 for County Highway 32 Pedestrian and Safety Improvement Project
•    $5,000,000 for US Highway 8 Reconstruction
•    $5,000,000 for Gantry Crane Refurbishment Project

With this news, Congressman Stauber has officially secured every one of his 15 Community Project Funding requests for Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional District for FY26. The Congressman previously secured over $10 million in water projects signed into law through the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies and the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies appropriations bills, signed into law in January 2026 and November 2025, respectively. Those projects included:

•    $1,750,000 for The City of Duluth Water Treatment Plant Rehabilitation
•    $2,000,000 for City of Ely Drinking Water Supply Intake and Water Main Replacement
•    $1,061,000 for City of Nashwauk Third Street Infrastructure Improvements Project
•    $1,000,000 for Hibbing Water, Access, Treatment, Expansion, & Reliability Projects (Hib-WATER)
•    $1,000,000 for Kettle River’s Infrastructure Improvements
•    $330,000 for City of Cook Pond Improvements
•    $750,000 for Coleraine City-Wide Infrastructure Project
•    $750,000 for Keewatin City-Wide Infrastructure Project
•    $750,000 for Pine City Wastewater Treatment Pond System Upgrade
•    $750,000 for Mountain Iron/Eveleth Watermain Loop
•    $750,000 for Northern Township Wastewater Project
•    $1,370,000 for The City of Harris Municipal Water System Improvement and Water Main Looping Project

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

Following Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger’s recent actions to rescind Virginia law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration services, Virginia’s Republican Congressmen are speaking out. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-9) helped lead a letter with U.S. Representatives Rob Wittman (VA-1), Jen Kiggans (VA-2), John McGuire (VA-5) and Ben Cline (VA-6) expressing opposition to Executive Order Ten and Executive Directive One. 

In their letter, the Republican lawmakers detail the threats posed by illegal immigration, highlight the importance of cooperation between state and federal law enforcement and commit to working with Governor Spanberger to strengthen Virginia’s security.

They write in part:

“For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to restore the cooperation between state and federal law enforcement that existed under Governor Youngkin’s Administration that successfully removed a large number of dangerous criminals from the streets of Virginia. We appreciate your consideration and stand ready to work with you on solutions to strengthen Virginia’s security and put the interests of the Commonwealth first.”

For a full copy of the letter, see here.

BACKGROUND

Congressman Griffith’s initial statement in response to Governor Spanberger’s recent executive directive can be found here.

Congressman Griffith’s work this year to support law enforcement in Virginia’s Ninth District includes a recent letter to support corrections officers at USP Lee.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

Today, U.S. Representatives Rick Larsen (D-WA), Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), Jen Kiggans (R-VA), and Maxine Dexter (D-OR) introduced the Mammography Access for Veterans Act. This bipartisan legislation would expand veterans’ access to lifesaving breast cancer screenings through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

“Women are the fastest-growing group in the veteran population,” Rep. Larsen said. “As the number of women veterans rapidly increases, VA must continue to modernize its women’s health care services. This bill is one step toward ensuring women veterans around the country have access to lifesaving, preventative screenings for breast cancer.”

“Our veterans deserve access to the health care they need, particularly women who have served honorably, and this is just one of the drivers behind the bipartisan Mammography Access for Veterans Act,” Rep. Thompson said. “Early detection of breast cancer leads to better health outcomes and this legislation will save lives, especially of those veteran women living in rural areas, where access to mammography can often be limited.”

“As a pulmonary and critical care physician who served at the VA, I know early detection saves lives,” Rep. Dexter said. “No one—but especially our veterans—should worry about access to preventative healthcare. After all they’ve done for us, making breast cancer screenings more easily accessible is the least we can do.”

The Mammography Access for Veterans Act would expand veterans’ access to breast cancer screenings through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and would permanently authorize telehealth or telescreening mammography for veterans living in rural areas or states where VA does not offer full-service mammography care.

The Making Advances in Mammography and Medical Options (MAMMO) for Veterans Act was signed into law in 2022. As of June 2025, the MAMMO Act Pilot Program was responsible for over 7,000 mammography screenings across the United States.

Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chairman Jerry Moran (R-KS), Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Senator John Boozman (R-AR) introduced the Senate companion bill in December.

The Mammography Access for Veterans Act is supported by multiple veterans’ advocacy groups including Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Wounded Warrior Project, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), and Military Officers Association of America (MOAA).

“PVA supports the introduction of the Mammography Access for Veterans Act, which builds on the success of the VA’s telescreening mammography pilot and removes a critical access barrier for veterans who live where VA doesn’t offer full-service mammography,” said Heather Ansley, Chief Policy Officer at PVA. “Permanently authorizing tele mammography ensures timely, high-quality screening for veterans. We thank Congressman Thompson for championing this commonsense measure that improves care for veterans across the country.”

“The VA’s telescreening mammography program is a proven lifesaver that advances health equity for our veterans. DAV supports the Mammography Access for Veterans Act, which ensures that every state and Puerto Rico offers telescreening, full-service, or mobile mammography,” said Naomi Mathis, Deputy National Legislative Director at DAV. “By removing barriers to timely preventive care for women veterans and those with disabilities, this legislation can save more lives. We applaud Reps. Thompson, Larsen, Kiggins, and Dexter for their bipartisan leadership in expanding this critical program.”

“The VFW supports the Mammography Access for Veterans Act, which marks an important step to ensure that women veterans receive timely, preventative health care. Expanding mammography access supports early detection, improves outcomes, and addresses care gaps. Accessible, equitable, and responsive preventative care is what veterans deserve,” said Meggan Coleman, VFW National Legislative Service Associate Director. “This legislation is necessary, and it is vital to honor their service. The VFW appreciates Representatives Thompson, Larsen, Kiggins, and Dexter introducing this companion bill and looks forward to its passage into law.”

“The Department of Veterans Affairs’ Tele-Screening Mammography pilot program demonstrated improvements in both access to mammography screening services and communication times for women veterans awaiting results,” said Jose Ramos, WWP Vice President of Government and Community Relations. “WWP supports the Mammography Access for Veterans Act to expand breast cancer screening and treatment for women veterans, particularly those in rural areas. We thank Representatives Thompson, Larsen, Dexter, and Kiggans for their bipartisan leadership on this critical issue.”

“IAVA is thrilled to see such strong bipartisan, bicameral support for the Mammography Access for Veterans Act,” said Dr. Kyleanne Hunter, CEO of IAVA. “Most importantly, this bill will ensure timely and accessible breast cancer screenings nationwide, regardless of where someone lives. As a cancer survivor, I know how important early detection is, and this bill represents a clear show of solidarity and support for our women veterans – showing them that their service is honored through a tangible, actionable commitment to their health, both in and out of uniform.”

“MOAA strongly supports the Mammography Access for Veterans Act because no veteran should face barriers to essential preventative care. This legislation guarantees that every veteran – regardless of location – can access timely, high-quality breast cancer screenings through telescreening, mobile, or in-house programs. Building on the success of the MOAA-backed MAMMO Act enacted in 2022, this bill offers a commonsense solution that saves lives and reinforces VA’s commitment to veterans’ health,” said Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, President and CEO of MOAA.

In his time in Congress, Rep. Larsen has hosted more than 70 forums to hear directly from Northwest Washington state veterans about their needs, including five roundtables in September 2025. Following those conversations, he published ‘Listening to Veterans in Northwest Washington,’ a report capturing local veterans’ most pressing challenges and outlining policy recommendations for Congress and VA to address these concerns. Rep. Larsen submitted this report to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (HVAC) to ensure Northwest Washington veterans’ voices impact the policy-making process.

After hearing from local veterans about the lack of transportation options to VA health facilities, Rep. Larsen introduced the Veterans Access to Transit Act (VA Transit Act) to establish a Department of Transportation (DOT) pilot program to provide veterans with public transportation to VA facilities and veterans organizations.

You can access the full text of the Mammography Access for Veterans Act HERE.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

FRESNO, Calif. – Today, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) announced the passage of Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) funding legislation, which includes nine Community Project Funding awards totaling more than $11.2 million, and passage of the Interior and Environment (I&E) funding legislation which includes two Community Project Funding awards totaling over $2 million for water projects for the San Joaquin Valley. These awards follow four previously approved projects totaling $6.5 million, bringing the total FY2026 project funding for California’s 21st District to $19.8 million.The funding will support critical investments in transportation infrastructure, housing, food security, workforce development, clean energy, water infrastructure, and economic growth across the region.”For too long, families in the San Joaquin Valley have faced aging infrastructure, food insecurity, and limited access to housing and reliable transportation,” said Rep. Costa. “This funding directly responds to those challenges by investing in safer roads, cleaner air, expanded food access, workforce training, affordable housing, and critical water infrastructure. Together, these projects will create jobs, strengthen our local economy, and ensure our communities have the resources they need not just to get by, but to move forward.” 
COMMUNITY PROJECT FUNDING AWARDS — FY 2026 
TRANSPORTATION, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

$3.15 Million – Fresno Airport Improvement ActFederal funding would enable the City of Fresno to plan and design for the major expansion of Fresno Yosemite International Airport. As the region experiences increased demand for air travel, this project focuses on upgrading terminal infrastructure, improving passenger experience, and increasing operational capacity. 
$1 Million – Central California Food Bank Volunteer Center ExpansionIn partnership with the County of Fresno, the Central California Food Bank is constructing a 23,000-square-foot Volunteer Center to expand its hunger relief efforts across the Central Valley. Funding for this project would enhance volunteer capacity, provide job training for individuals facing barriers to employment, and increase access to healthy food through a new USDA Protein Repack Room. 
$2 Million – San Joaquin River Parkway Project Federal funds would enable the City of Fresno to extend the Lewis S. Eaton Trail by approximately 2.4 miles, expanding public access to 500 acres of open space along the San Joaquin River. This project would support multiple ADA-accessible entry points and recreational activities such as school tours, nature walks, and paddle trips, while preserving the future of the San Joaquin River parkway. 
$2 Million – Reedley College Ag Innovation CenterFederal funding would support the construction of the AgTEC Innovation Center at Reedley College, a hub for advancing agricultural technology. The center would provide space for ag-tech startups, offer certifications and hands-on training for farmworkers, while promoting innovation to help build a more sustainable food system in the Central Valley.  
$1.2 Million – Salt and Light Neighborhood Village Phase IIThe County of Tulare, in partnership with Salt+Light Works is building a Social Enterprise Hub at the Neighborhood Village, a 53-unit permanent supportive housing community in Goshen, California. Funding for this project would support expanding the Hub to include a grocery store, workforce development, and employment programs that empower residents in surrounding communities. 
$850,000 – Clean Air Mobility Network Fresno Metro Black Chamber/City of FresnoFederal funding would support a partnership between the City of Fresno and the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce to expand clean transportation access in various parts of the community. The project includes building EV charging infrastructure, launching a fleet of affordable electric bikes and scooters, and offering community-based education on clean mobility. 
$500,000 – Exeter Street ImprovementFunding for this project would revitalize Firebaugh Avenue from West Belmont Avenue to East State Route 65 in the City of Exeter. Revitalizing this one-mile section of arterial street would connect three major north-south corridors and improve the traffic flow of agricultural goods, while reducing congestion and emissions. This project also allows for rehabilitation and ensures ADA compliance for enhanced accessibility and safety. 
$250,000 – Fresno Area Business Development Incubator Project  This funding would enable the City of Fresno, in partnership with the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation, to establish a full-service business development incubator in a formerly vacant facility in Downtown Fresno. This project would provide local entrepreneurs and small business owners with critical resources, including technical assistance, financial literacy training, and access to capital to help grow their businesses. 
$250,000 – Visalia Riggin Ave WideningAs a major route serving the City of Visalia’s Industrial Park, this federal funding would improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and benefit thousands of workers who rely on Riggin Avenue for their daily commute. Specifically, it would expand the roadway from an undivided two-lane road to a four-lane divided corridor with a median, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, street lighting, and new traffic signals.

INTERIOR AND ENVIRONMENT

$1,092,000 – Woodlake Storm Drain Enhancement ProjectFederal funding would enable the City of Woodlake to install approximately 1,350 feet of 48-inch stormwater pipeline, connecting to the existing system to help prevent future flooding. The project is critical for protecting the community’s northwest quadrant, which was heavily impacted by flooding during the 2023 Atmospheric River storms.
$1,092,000 – Dinuba Water Tower Replacement ProjectThe City of Dinuba is replacing its outdated 70-year-old water tower with a new 500,000-gallon steel ground-mounted water tank. Funding for this project would improve water pressure, enhance fire protection, and ensure reliable water service for decades to come.

To learn about additional federal funding Rep. Costa secured for FY2026, click here.