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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

May 8, 2025

BOLTON, MS – Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded two significant grants totaling more than $12.7 million to support Head Start programs in Mississippi’s Second Congressional District. The grants are awarded as follows: Hinds County Human Resource Agency – $9,595,720 Funding supports comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services under the Head Start program. Coahoma Opportunities, Inc. – $3,122,149 This grant will enable continued operation and enhancement of Head Start services in Coahoma County and surrounding communities. “These grants represent a vital investment in the future of our children and families,” said Congressman Thompson. “Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong success, and I am proud to support programs that ensure every child—regardless of their zip code—has access to quality care and education.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

May 8, 2025

BOLTON, MS – Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded more than $2.4 million in federal funds to support airport improvement projects in communities across Mississippi’s Second Congressional District. The grants, awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) FY25 Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program, will fund critical upgrades to improve safety, efficiency, and operations at six local airports. “These grants are meaningful investments in our district’s infrastructure,” said Congressman Thompson. “They help ensure our local airports can continue serving travelers, businesses, and emergency responders effectively while supporting jobs and economic growth right here at home.” The following airports will receive FAA funding: Indianola Municipal Airport– $448,310 Rehabilitates 5,000 feet of the existing access road to extend its useful life. (Applicant: City of Indianola)   Vicksburg Municipal Airport– $76,000 Replaces an aging emergency generator to ensure reliable airport power and prevent outages. (Applicant: City of Vicksburg)   John Bell Williams Airport – $855,000 Constructs three new 3,900 sq. ft. box hangars for aircraft storage to generate airport revenue and support self-sufficiency. (Applicant: Hinds Community College-Raymond)   Greenville Mid-Delta Airport– $380,000 Installs new cured-in-place pipes to improve structural integrity and bring the airport up to code. (Applicant: City of Greenville)   Cleveland Municipal Airport– $282,000 Supports Phase 3 construction of a 12,000 sq. ft. aircraft hangar and reimburses work completed in June 2024. (Applicant: City of Cleveland)   Yazoo County Airport  – $409,450 Reconstructs sod shoulders on Runway 17/35 to improve drainage and meet federal safety grading standards. (Applicant: County of Yazoo)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

I’m saddened by the passing of Pope Francis—a powerful voice for peace, tolerance, and stewardship of the Earth as our common home.

 

By centering the needs of the poor and marginalized and urging us to protect our planet, he exemplified the power of leadership to uplift both people and the world we share. His bold condemnation of racism as “an intolerable sin” challenged us all to pursue justice and compassion.

 

As we grieve this profound loss, may we honor his memory by continuing his mission of mercy, equality, and care for creation and all of humanity.

 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, May 6, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03) and Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA-40), Co-Chairs of the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus, hosted a free, bipartisan Financial Education Resource Fair on Capitol Hill. The event connected members of the public, Congressional staff and community stakeholders with trusted financial tools and expert guidance to promote financial security and wealth-building.

Representatives from more than 30 government agencies, nonprofits, and financial institutions were on hand to share strategies and resources on topics such as savings, budgeting, credit and debt management, retirement planning, investing, and fraud protection.

According to the 2024 Consumer Financial Literacy and Preparedness Survey by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, 80 percent of adults in the United States say they could benefit from additional guidance on everyday financial questions. Additionally, data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) shows that at least 14.2 percent of U.S. households—nearly 19 million—are unbanked or underbanked, lacking access to essential services like savings, lending, and other basic financial tools.

The event began with opening remarks from Congresswoman Beatty and Congresswoman Kim.  

“Every American deserves the knowledge and tools to navigate our financial system and make it work for them,” said Congresswoman Joyce Beatty. “That’s why I’m grateful to the organizations that joined us today to support attendees in their pursuit of financial education and empowerment. With the help of nonprofits, financial institutions, and government agencies committed to financial literacy, the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus is equipping Americans to achieve financial stability, grow wealth, and move closer to financial freedom.”

“Financial literacy is a lifelong journey,” said Congresswoman Young Kim. “I appreciate stakeholders joining us to share vital resources to help attendees learn more about financial education as we celebrate Financial Literacy Month. As Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus co-chair, I’ll keep working with bipartisan colleagues and the Trump administration on policies that help Americans grow their credit, get a leg up, and achieve the American Dream.” 

 

“CFP Board applauds the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus, and Co-Chairs Kim and Beatty, for bringing together key leaders committed to advancing financial education and literacy initiatives,” said Erin Koeppel, Managing Director of Government Relations and Public Policy Counsel at CFP Board. “Through our work to expand access to competent and ethical financial planning, CFP Board and CFP® professionals across the country share the caucus’ goal of expanding access to financial guidance and helping more Americans understand the resources available to them.”

 

“PBS LearningMedia is committed to helping students acquire knowledge and build the real-world skills they need to thrive in school and life. Interactives and games are powerful tools that make financial literacy both fun and meaningful.  We are honored that our work supports the goals of Representatives Young Kim and Joyce Beatty, the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus co-chairs.  By challenging students to think critically about financial decisions in an engaging, story-driven format, PBS LearningMedia resources help drive deeper learning that sticks,” Lori Brittain, Vice President PBS LearningMedia.

“First Command is committed to providing all U.S. service members – and their families — the financial tools they need to attain financial readiness and stability,” said First Command CEO Mark Steffe.“Ensuring military spouses can obtain employment and create a financial roadmap for their family is equally important, and we appreciate the diligent work the Congressional Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus performs in this endeavor. Today’s event highlights the important steps being taken to improve the livelihoods of our servicemembers, and we look forward to a long-lasting partnership with the Caucus.”

 

“TIAA is committed to securing retirements for millions more American workers, especially at a time when 45% of U.S. households are projected to run short of money in retirement. A greater understanding of how much monthly income a worker will need to replace to last throughout retirement is key to a secure financial future,” said Chris Spence, Head of Government Relations and Public Policy at TIAA. “We appreciate today’s event and collaboration with the Congressional Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus, particularly Representatives Beatty and Kim, for supporting increased access to financial education, literacy, and retirement savings resources.”

 

About the Congressional Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus

The Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus endeavors to provide Americans with the tools and resources necessary for economic stability, wealth generation, and prosperity. This caucus develops and advocates for comprehensive, result-driven strategies that empower individuals to make sound financial decisions, achieve their economic objectives, and secure a robust financial foundation for themselves and future generations. The caucus aims to promote education, policy development, and public-private collaboration to advance financial literacy.

 

For the full list of participating organizations, click HERE.

For additional photos from the event, click HERE

For video of Rep. Beatty’s remarks, click HERE.

For inquiries, please contact Christine Thompson at Christine.Thompson@mail.house.gov.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

WASHINGTON, DC – In a tense exchange during today’s House Financial Services Committee hearing, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) confronted Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on two critical issues: enforcement gaps in the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) rule and the years-long delay of the Harriet Tubman $20 bill.

When asked whether the BOI rule applied to U.S. nationals, Secretary Bessent responded, “No, ma’am. I am saying that we have bifurcated it, that U.S. nationals do not have to file and that foreign nationals do.”

Rep. Beatty pushed back:

“If we’re limiting enforcement of the rule just to the foreign entities, that creates a giant loophole whereby any foreign entity can register in the United States and evade or not do the BOI reporting requirements… It makes it easier for human and drug traffickers, cartels, terrorists, organizations, and other criminals to do business in the United States.”

 

She then asked for an update on the Harriet Tubman $20 bill. Secretary Bessent replied:

“Uh, no, ma’am. I, I can’t, but my staff will get back to you.”

 

To which Beatty responded:

“I want you to get back to me, because see, there seems to be an issue when it comes to things that affect people of color or people who live in poverty… My staff person didn’t ask them the question. I did.”

When the Chairman attempted to move on, Rep. Beatty stood her ground:

“I will not stop. I will not be silenced… I am a member of the United States Congress… I’m not gonna stop this morning until you respond to me.”

Watch the heated exchange HERE. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

Rep. Joyce Beatty Announces the Winners of the 2025 OH-03 Congressional Art Competition; Lauds the Creative Advocacy of All Student Participants

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s abrupt firing of Dr. Carla Hayden, the first African American and first woman to serve as Librarian of Congress:

 

“Dr. Carla Hayden is a trailblazer and a devoted public servant who transformed the Library of Congress into a more inclusive, accessible institution. Through her ‘Of the People’ initiative, she empowered more Americans—especially communities of color—to see themselves reflected in our national collections.

Abruptly ending her nearly decade-long service with a carelessly addressed email and no explanation is a profound insult to her contributions and leadership. She exemplifies the highest standards of public service, and our nation should be proud of her historic tenure.

To remove her without cause or courtesy is not only deeply disrespectful—it is yet another attack by President Trump on knowledge, culture, and Black leadership. I strongly condemn this unjust firing and stand with Dr. Hayden, whose impact will endure long after this shameful decision.”

 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) has announced Neeley Camejo, a sophomore at Hialeah Gardens Senior High School and a resident of Hialeah, Florida, as the winner of this year’s 2025 Congressional Art Competition for the 26th Congressional District. Neeley’s art, titled “Reverence in the Currents: An Esoteric Wonder,” was selected from among 175 entries submitted by students from 16 participating schools. Her piece will be displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol.

Student: Neeley Camejo, 10th Grade, Hialeah Gardens Senior High Art Teacher: Haydee Fernandez Salazar Medium: Alcohol Markers, Watercolors, Acrylic Paint, and Markers Description: “Reverence in the Currents: An Esoteric Wonder” – The piece showcases a large koi fish swimming gracefully, revealing a hidden beauty that no one would suspect; a deep respect for one of nature’s most beautiful creations.

Additionally, honorable mentions were awarded to the following three students, whose pieces will be displayed for one year in our offices in Washington, D.C., Miami, and Naples, respectively: Angela Troia, 11th grade, J.C. Bermudez Doral Senior High School, “Floreciendo” – Mixed media: colored pencils, alcohol markers, and paint; will be displayed in the Washington, D.C. office. Lorena Aragon, 11th grade, Youth Co-Op Preparatory Charter School “A Hero’s Embrace” – Charcoal on paper; will be displayed in the Miami district office. Samantha Mirabal, 12th grade, Mater Academy Charter High School “Gator in the Glades” – Acrylic paint on canvas; will be displayed in the Naples district office. For more information about the Congressional Art Competition, please visit:https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/youth-and-kids/art-competition

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI), issued the following statement following CHLI’s “Lifetime Leadership Award” to Secretary Marco Rubio, the highest-ranking Latino government official:

“Secretary Marco Rubio is a dear and close friend who has made our community extremely proud. President Donald J. Trump made an excellent choice in appointing him to serve as our Secretary of State­–he is an extraordinary, brilliant statesman and one of the most qualified and distinguished individuals to hold that position in decades.

“From our days together in Florida’s legislature to our collaboration on bicameral efforts, it has been an honor to work alongside him and to know him on a personal level. I have witnessed firsthand the discipline and dedication he brings to everything he does and represents. Secretary Rubio understands the importance of safeguarding our national security and is one of the staunchest defenders of the cause of freedom, especially in the face of anti-American, tyrannical regimes such as those in Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Iran, North Korea, and Communist China.

“Secretary Rubio’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and to building a stronger America. It is also a powerful reminder to our community, and to young people everywhere, that the American Dream is still alive and well, and that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. I also want to recognize his wife, Jeanette Rubio, whose support has been crucial every step of the way.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to him on receiving the CHLI Lifetime Leadership Award.”

Read Secretary Rubio’s remarks here

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

Miami Lakes, FL – The Office of Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) recently hosted the 2025 Congressional Art Competition at the Mary Collins Community Center in Miami Lakes. This event featured 175 original art pieces and drew in approximately 200 attendees, including students, teachers, principals, and local leaders.

Each spring, a nation-wide high school arts competition is sponsored by the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Artistic Discovery Contest is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in the nation, as well as in our Congressional District.

“I’ve been hosting the Congressional Art Competition for over 20 years, and each year, I am inspired by the remarkable talent and creativity from students in our community. This year was our best yet, with so many outstanding art pieces. I am truly amazed by the young, exceptional talent we have in Florida’s 26^th Congressional District,” said Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart.

For more information about the Congressional Art Competition, please visit: https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/youth-and-kids/art-competition