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

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) introduced the bipartisan Benton MacKaye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study Act, which would authorize a study to designate a 287-mile trail linking Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina as a National Scenic Trail. A companion bill was introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC). The trail, which crosses mountains and valleys and passes alongside streams and waterfalls, is on federal land for 95 percent of its length and would be administered by the U.S. Forest Service.

“I am proud to lead this effort and work with my bipartisan colleagues in the House and Senate to designate the beautiful Benton MacKaye Trail as a National Scenic Trail. The Benton MacKaye Trail is an invaluable part of my district in East Tennessee that thousands of Tennesseans and Americans hike each year, and the trail connects some of the most beautiful and pristine parts of Tennessee with Georgia and North Carolina,” said Congressman Fleischmann. “The Benton MacKaye Trail deserves a National Scenic Trail designation. I call on my colleagues in the House and Senate to act quickly to pass our bipartisan bill and send it to President Trump for his signature.”

“The Benton MacKaye trail is deserving of consideration as a National Scenic Trail. I’m pleased to join my fellow Tennessean Congressman Fleischmann and Senators Tillis and Warnock on legislation to do just that,” said Rep. Steve Cohen. “National designation would mean increased tourism and enjoyment of the outdoors along the entire 287-mile stretch of the trail.”

“Completed in 2005, the Benton MacKaye Trail provides an exceptional opportunity for tens of thousands of people to get outdoors each year and experience the stunning beauty of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. The legislation introduced today, the Benton MacKaye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study Act of 2025, is a critical step forward in the process of evaluating the trail’s potential to become our nation’s 12th National Scenic Trail,” said Bob Cowdrick, President of the Benton MacKaye Trail Association. “This study would help protect our storied outdoor heritage for future generations, support local economies, and provide a wide array of recreation opportunities for everyone from day hikers to thru-hikers and solo trekkers to families. We are grateful to Congressman Fleischmann for championing this effort to preserve a trail that means so much to so many.”

In addition to Congressman Fleischmann’s support, H.R. 2768 is cosponsored in the House of Representatives by Reps. Steve Cohen (TN-09), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), and Lucy McBath (GA-06). The bill, introduced by Sen. Thom Tills (R-NC) in the Senate, is cosponsored by Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA).

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

Washington, D.C. – Speaker Johnson today announced a Congressional delegation, led by Majority Leader Scalise, along with Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) and a bipartisan group of their House colleagues, is traveling to the Vatican to attend the funeral service of His Holiness Pope Francis. The funeral will take place on Saturday, April 26, in St. Peter’s Square.

“I am humbled and honored to represent Missouri on this Congressional Delegation with Leader Scalise to the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis.  It was just a year ago yesterday that Ray and I were blessed to meet with the Holy Father at the Vatican and pray,” said Congresswoman Wagner.  “He has left a legacy of service and selflessness that will echo through future generations.  Tomorrow we will be mourning with those touched by his faith and devotion to the Greater Glory of God.” 

“Our prayers are with the many Christians who mourn the passing of Pope Francis,” Speaker Johnson said. “It is my honor to send this Congressional delegation, during which participating Members will celebrate the life of Pope Francis and the teaching of the Catholic Church. I’ve asked the House’s highest ranking Catholic, Majority Leader Steve Scalise, to lead this bipartisan group on this faith-filled visit.”

“I am honored to be asked to lead the Congressional delegation of the House Representatives to attend the funeral of Pope Francis at the Vatican this weekend. The Holy Father humbly devoted his life in service to the Church, and he was dedicated to spreading the Gospel of the Lord to the world,” said Leader Scalise. “As a lifelong Catholic, I am honored to represent the House in paying our respects and praying for the soul of Pope Francis, as Catholics all around the world grieve, and as Church leaders prepare to elect a new pope in the coming weeks.”

The Members of the Congressional delegation are:

1.         The Honorable Steve Scalise

2.         The Honorable French Hill 

3.         The Honorable Nancy Pelosi 

4.         The Honorable Brendan Boyle 

5.         The Honorable Ann Wagner 

6.         The Honorable Tom Suozzi 

7.         The Honorable John Joyce 

8.         The Honorable Pete Stauber 

9.         The Honorable Scott Fitzgerald 

10.       The Honorable Laura Gillen

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

Washington, D.C. – House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Subcommittee on Open-Source Intelligence Chairman Ann Wagner (R-MO) recently returned from a congressional delegation (CODEL) to Europe and the Middle East. The purpose of the CODEL was to hear from key U.S. allies on the security challenges they are facing and strengthen U.S. global alliances through strategic engagements. Chair Wagner and the delegation were hosted at a series of meetings with high-ranking country leaders. 

In the United Kingdom, Chair Wagner met with the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Foreign Secretary. They discussed shared security concerns with the U.S., including the desire to end the war in Ukraine and address Iran’s persistent fueling of terrorism throughout the world by way of its proxies: Hamas, the Houthis, and Hezbollah. 

In Jordan, the delegation met with His Majesty King Abdullah II and his key high-ranking officials to discuss their top national security concerns and how they view changes in the region. 

Lastly, the delegation visited Israel during Holocaust Remembrance Day and joined a powerful remembrance ceremony. Chair Wagner met with family members of the hostages taken on October 7^th by Hamas terrorists and reinforced the U.S. support for Israel’s efforts to return the hostages. Additionally, the delegation had the opportunity to meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu and discuss his continued efforts to return the Israeli hostages, defeat Hamas, and achieve stability in the Middle East. 

“I held an informative meeting in London with intelligence officials on our shared mission to stand up against the ongoing threats Russia, China, and Iran pose to innocents worldwide.  Our nations comprise a vital partnership where we share intelligence that keeps us ahead of our adversaries so we can confront threats before they reach us here at home. While in London, I was also able to have a productive meeting with St. Louis companies with business overseas where we spoke on our mutual economic interests.  As Chair of the Open-Source Intelligence Subcommittee, in addition to my duties as Co-Chair of the Abraham Accords Caucus, I especially appreciated meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu in Israel to underscore our commitment to helping Israel destroy Hamas, deter Iran, and ensure greater stability in the Middle East.  The threats facing the United States are real and they have the potential to threaten the very stability of our world that keeps our children safe,” said Chair Wagner. ” Our allies know the United States is a key partner for economic and security matters, but it was also encouraging to hear them recognize that the United States cannot shoulder the burdens of the world alone. Under the leadership of President Trump, nations across the globe are stepping up to protect our shared interests and defend against our adversaries.”

View pictures from Chair Wagner’s CODEL here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement after her Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives:

“It is undeniable that the People’s Republic of China is the single gravest threat to our national security and has its sights set on the full-scale invasion of Taiwan. The United States must not waver in our deterrence of this threat. We must stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners in the Pacific, and my Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act is a decisive step forward to ensuring peace through strength. This bill will deepen and expand U.S.-Taiwan relations at a critical moment in history.  I look forward to the Senate quickly taking up my legislation and putting this on President Trump’s desk so he can show China just how serious we are about combatting their reckless aggression.”

Background

The Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act would require the Department of State to conduct periodic reviews of its guidelines for U.S. engagement with Taiwan. These regular reviews and updates must:

1. Explain how the guidance deepens and expands United States-Taiwan relations, and reflects the value, merits, and importance of the United States-Taiwan relationship;
2. Give due consideration to the fact that Taiwan is a democratic partner and a free and open society that respects universal human rights and democratic values;
3. Ensure that the conduct of relations with Taiwan reflects the longstanding, comprehensive, and values-based relationship the United States shares with Taiwan, and contribute to the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

Washington, D.C. –  House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Subcommittee on Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) Chair Ann Wagner (MO-02) led a bipartisan group of OSINT Subcommittee members to the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) to hear how they are using open-source intelligence to support warfighters in their mission and to ensure a robust U.S. national security posture. While at DIA, the Members viewed a demonstration of the defense intelligence enterprises’ OSINT gathering capabilities. 

“It was impressive to hear how DIA is leveraging Open-Source Information to achieve its mission and most importantly, make sure the warfighter on the ground has the most up to date, accurate information needed to advance U.S. national security priorities and protect those fighting for our freedoms,” said Chair Wagner. “This visit reaffirms what we have been hearing from across the IC—it is absolutely critical to our nation’s security that OSINT is a primary intelligence discipline. Our subcommittee continues to examine how the IC can more effectively and efficiently use Commercially Available Information to create open-source intelligence products and counter our adversaries worldwide. I look forward to continuing this fact-finding mission next month in a subcommittee hearing.”

“The visit to DIA allowed Subcommittee Members to improve our firsthand understanding about how a key intelligence community element is reinvigorating and prioritizing OSINT for both the defense and national enterprise,” said Ranking Member Houlahan. “We are grateful to Director Kruse for sharing his vision for maximizing the value of OSINT, and the capabilities his team demonstrated show great promise for further leveraging OSINT as an integral part of the intelligence cycle.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

Ballwin, MO – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement on the passing of former Missouri Senator Kit Bond.

“Few people in Missouri politics have had more of a positive influence on our state and the nation than Senator Kit Bond.  A true statesman seemingly from a bygone era in today’s divisive world, Kit Bond devoted his life to public service, working with others to find the best ways to lift up Missouri and the nation, to make it a better place for those he was so honored to serve. He was a cheerful warrior who always had an encouraging word and a smile on his face, even in challenging times.
 
“After leaving elected office, Kit continued to advocate for our state and the policies he fought for throughout his career.  My happiest phone calls in recent memory were from Kit and Linda inviting Ray and me to dinner.  Sharing stories about Missouri politics, both past and present, spanning three decades, was always the highlight of the evening, and something I will miss dearly.
 
“At a time when it was hard for women to break into politics, Kit was a forward-thinking visionary who worked to promote and advance the careers of many women entering public service.  I was so honored to serve as Missouri Republican Party Chairman alongside Kit’s incomparable female Chief of Staff Julie Dammann and Speaker of the House Catherine Hanaway, advancing strong conservative policies that benefitted our state. 
 
“Ray and I are heartbroken to hear of his passing and our prayers are with his wife Linda, who took such incredible care of him and supported him always, as well as his son, Sam, and the entire Bond family.  Kit was a dear friend, a mentor, and I would not be where I am today were it not for his friendship, advice and support.  I will miss him every day.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he and Subcommittee Chairman Mark Amodei (NV-02) led the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security oversight hearing to collect testimony from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem on a range of pressing issues including securing the border, combatting fentanyl trafficking, strengthening personnel recruitment, and protecting critical infrastructure from cyber threats:

“In less than 100 days, we watched our southern border go from chaos to closed. The decisive actions and common-sense measures of the Trump Administration have led to a historic turnaround, driving illegal crossings to record lows and ensuring removal of dangerous criminals. President Trump, Secretary Noem, and the rest of his cabinet have delivered on the promise to have the most secure border in modern American history, and our nation is safer as a result. It is imperative that investments for effective border security and enforcement are strong, and I am dedicated to working with the members on the Appropriations Committee and across the Capitol to ensure the Department of Homeland Security is properly resourced,” said Congressman Cole.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement applauding President Trump for his success in negotiating a trade deal between the United States and the United Kingdom, which is our fourth largest trade partner:

“Today, President Trump delivered a historic U.S.-UK trade deal, which every American, no matter political party or ideology, should be happy to see. It will not only provide American companies with unprecedented access to British markets, but it will also bolster our national security. Specifically, this deal will create a $5 billion opportunity for new exports for U.S. farmers, ranchers, and producers, many of which I represent in Oklahoma’s Fourth District, as well as maximize the competitiveness and secure the supply chain of U.S. defense manufactures,” said Congressman Cole.

“Today proves that countries will come to the negotiating table. Congratulations to the Trump Administration, and I look forward to seeing the future trade deals to come,” said Congressman Cole.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams Ph.D. (NC-12), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development, and Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Bipartisan, Bicameral Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus, released a statement following President Trump’s executive order on HBCUs.

“I welcome all and every initiative to support our nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities because supporting HBCUs is not a partisan issue,” said Congresswoman Adams. “HBCUs are centers of achievement, excellence, and success, and have always punched above their weight, even in the face of historic underfunding.”

“In order to win the race in the 21^st century to remain the world’s leading innovative country, we must have robust investments in our HBCUs through bills like the FUTURE Act and HBCU PARTNERS Act, two bills I fought hard to have signed into law. We also need to ensure our state governments are fully funding our 1890s Land Grant HBCUs, something the executive order stressed the importance of,” Adams continued.

“We still have more work to do though, especially in holistic infrastructure investments at HBCUs, and I look forward to working with this administration and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass more impactful, bipartisan legislation for our HBCUs.”

“I’m a former college professor and I always told my students that we have to have a sense of urgency about the tasks in front of us. We need real timelines, and I am ready to work now. But, I must also say, if the administration dismantles our U.S. Department of Education, the future for HBCUs will further be in question. Let’s work together to ensure these institutions of higher education always remain HBCU Strong,” Adams concluded.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), founder and co-chair of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus, and Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Congressional Black Caucus Whip, held a roundtable discussion with Reps. Sewell (AL-07), Hayes (CT-05), Sykes (OH-13), Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Brown (OH-11), and Figures (AL-02), HBCU leadership, students, and advocacy organizations to highlight the impacts of Trump Administration policies on the HBCUs that have played a vital role in empowering Black students across the country. 

The roundtable included presidents from Howard University, Bowie State University, Morgan State University, and Virginia Union University and representatives from Texas Southern University, the United Negro College Fund, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and the 1890 Foundation to discuss student life concerns, academic access and funding, infrastructure and facilities, and the role of the federal government. 

“HBCUs have always punched above their weight, producing the leaders, innovators, and changemakers who move this country forward,” said Congresswoman Adams. “Despite their success though, they face historic underfunding that force them to do more with less. It’s time we meaningfully invest in HBCUs so they can continue serving their students for generations to come.”

“Our HBCUs continue to face systemic challenges that impact student success, campus quality-of-life, and institutional growth. Shamefully, the Trump Administration’s attacks on DEI initiatives and higher education funding have only made these challenges worse,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “Now is the time for policymakers, education leaders, and students to engage in direct dialogue about solutions to protect and uplift Black students.”