Congressman Cuellar Statement on U.S. Military Action in Venezuela

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

“Thirty-five years ago, the United States arrested Manuel Noriega, an indicted foreign leader tied to drug trafficking—an episode that underscored the importance of the rule of law even in times of conflict. Today’s capture of Nicolás Maduro, along with highly targeted strikes against narcoterrorist infrastructure, draws that historical parallel and reminds us that American strength lies not only in decisive action, but in restraint, judgment, and adherence to law.

“Today is an important moment for democracy, peace, and the future of children across Latin America and the United States. It offers hope to countless victims of narco-violence and supports our friends in Mexico and throughout the region who seek to live without fear, corruption, or criminal control. This moment also presents an opportunity for honest, moral leadership in Venezuela to begin the difficult work of restoring stability, accountability, and opportunity—outcomes that are in the shared interest of Venezuela, Mexico, Latin America, and the United States.

“I thank the men and women of our military and law enforcement for their courage and professionalism, and I urge that the next steps be guided by de-escalation, protection of innocent lives, regional stability, and respect for constitutional and international norms.”

Rep. Cline Statement on U.S. Capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06)

Rep. Cline Statement on U.S. Capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

WASHINGTON, January 3, 2026

Today, Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06) issued the following statement after the successful capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces. 

“Protecting our people, securing our border, and dismantling drug trafficking networks is non-negotiable. We will use every lawful tool available to stop this crisis, hold those responsible accountable, defend our sovereignty, and keep American families safe,” said Rep. Ben Cline.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and a Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

Wasserman Schultz on Maduro’s Capture

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

Wasserman Schultz on Maduro’s Capture

Washington, January 3, 2026

The capture of the brutal, illegitimate ruler of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, who oppressed Venezuela’s people is welcome news for my friends and neighbors who fled his violent, lawless, and disastrous rule. However, cutting off the head of a snake is fruitless if it just regrows. Venezuelans deserve the promise of democracy and the rule of law, not a state of endless violence and spiraling disorder.

Weston, Fla. – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), co-chair of the Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus, released the following statement on the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro:

“The capture of the brutal, illegitimate ruler of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, who oppressed Venezuela’s people is welcome news for my friends and neighbors who fled his violent, lawless, and disastrous rule. However, cutting off the head of a snake is fruitless if it just regrows. Venezuelans deserve the promise of democracy and the rule of law, not a state of endless violence and spiraling disorder. My hope is it offers a passage to true democracy and liberation. This action offers beleaguered Venezuelans a chance to seat their true, democratically elected president, Edmundo González. I’ll demand answers as to why Congress and the American people were bypassed in this effort. The absence of congressional involvement prior to this action risks the continuation of the illegitimate Venezuelan regime.”  

Congressman Cohen Announces $3.2 Million in Department of Transportation Grants to the University of Memphis

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced the University of Memphis will receive two grants totaling more than $3 million from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. One grant, for $2 million, will help bridge gaps in traditional commercial vehicle enforcement monitoring. The other, $1,232,003, will go toward testing passive radio frequency identification sensors to accurately read tire pressure and temperature on trucks.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

“I am pleased to see these investments in the safety and efficiency of our commercial truck fleets. Modernizing trucking will save costs and result in greater safety on our highways.”

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Krishnamoorthi, Preckwinkle, Cook County Leaders Warn ACA Tax Credit Expiration Will Double Premiums, Strain Cook County Health and Stroger Hospital

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) joined Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Dr. Lauren Smith, Chief Medical Officer, Donnica Austin-Cathey, Chief Hospital Executive–Stroger, and other Cook County leaders today at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County to warn that the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits at midnight will sharply raise health care costs and place severe strain on Cook County Health and its flagship safety-net hospital.

“Letting these ACA tax credits expire isn’t an accident—it’s a choice,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “Republican leadership must allow a vote to extend these credits and stop blocking action to protect Medicaid from devastating cuts. Without action, premiums will nearly double, families will lose coverage overnight, and Cook County Health and Illinois taxpayers will be forced to absorb the fallout.”

“At Cook County Health, we will help patients navigate coverage changes, and provide the care they need, but we can not do it alone.  Our efforts will not be able to offset the loss of federal support. Letting the Affordable Care Act subsidies expire will cost people in our community their insurance, their health, and in some cases, their lives. We urge policymakers to consider the consequences of allowing these subsidies to expire,” said Donnica Austin-Cathey, Chief Hospital Executive, Stroger Hospital, Cook County Health. 

More than 550,000 Illinois residents are enrolled in the ACA marketplace in 2025, including over 360,000 Cook County residents, roughly 90 percent of whom rely on premium tax credits to afford coverage. If the credits expire, average monthly ACA premiums in Cook County are projected to rise by about 95 percent, pricing many families out of insurance overnight.

Health care leaders warned that coverage losses will hit safety-net hospitals first. In 2023, charity and discounted care at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital totaled nearly $140 million, almost six times more than the next closest hospital in Illinois. Increased uncompensated care is expected to place additional financial pressure on Cook County Health and local taxpayers.

The ACA coverage cliff comes as Cook County Health faces additional strain from President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which cut Medicaid by more than $1 trillion nationwide and imposed new work requirements. More than 3 million Illinois residents—one in four statewide—depend on Medicaid, which accounts for approximately 56 percent of Cook County Health’s patient revenue. The system estimates it could lose $88 million annually in Medicaid reimbursements as patients lose coverage.

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NEWS: Rep. Jim Costa Delivers $6.5 Million in Federal Funding for Central Valley Communities

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This month Representative Jim Costa (CA-21) has secured $6.5 million in federal funding for four community projects included in the fiscal year 2026 agriculture funding package. These investments will strengthen key infrastructure and public safety initiatives across the Central Valley, helping to improve the quality of life for constituents in California’s 21st Congressional District.  
“Improving our Valley’s infrastructure is key to building a strong and more resilient community,” said Congressman Costa.  “These funds help improve public safety, strengthen critical infrastructure, and better the quality of life for Valley families. This is about delivering real results for our Valley.”
The four community project funding requests that Rep. Costa secured are as follows:  

$3.5 million for the Kaweah River Siphon Project by Tulare Irrigation District. This funding will replace the existing siphon, an underground pipeline that carries water underneath the river, that was damaged by the 2023 winter storms. Replacement of the siphon would boost groundwater recharge, improve the reliability of water deliveries, and enhance flood protection in the City of Visalia and surrounding communities.  
$1 million for the Orange Cove Police Department. This funding will enable the City of Orange Cove to build a new, modern police department headquarters to enhance public safety. The new facility will include senior housing and commercial space, a multi-use development that strengthens public services, supports local economic activity, and addresses housing needs.  
$1 million for Kingsburg Emergency Operations Center. This funding will enable the City of Kingsburg to build a new Emergency Operations Center, strengthening the region’s ability to respond to weather-related disasters and public safety emergencies.  
$1 million for the Parlier Police Department. This funding for this project will help the City of Parlier to fully renovate and modernize its police department. Key improvements include expanding the evidence room, replacing leaking roofs, and adding a public lobby to serve as a community space for outreach.  

BACKGROUND
Under guidelines issued by the House Appropriations Committee, each Representative may request funds for up to 15 projects in their community for Fiscal Year 2026. Projects are restricted to a limited number of federal funding streams, and only state and local governments and eligible non-profit entities are permitted to receive funding. Congressman Jim Costa submitted funding requests for important community projects in California’s 21st Congressional District to the House Appropriations Committee.  Four out of the fifteen projects requested were approved for funding. The government funding process remains ongoing as Congress continues to negotiate spending packages.   
To learn more about the full list of community projects Congressman Costa is advocating for, click HERE.  

Griffith Statement on Virginia Supreme Court Chief Justices

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

Griffith Statement on Virginia Supreme Court Chief Justices

Virginia Supreme Court Chief Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn is serving his last day in his role on the Court. Effective January 1, Cleo E. Powell will become the Court’s next Chief Justice. Justice Powell will be the first African American woman to serve as Chief Justice in the history of the Court.

U.S. Congressman Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“The Virginia Supreme Court is served by intelligent, thoughtful and hardworking legal experts. Thanks to Chief Justice Goodwyn’s exemplary service, the Court continued navigating the most pressing legal issues impacting Virginia communities. Chief Justice Goodwyn’s service on the Court is to be commended.

“Ms. Powell has a remarkable legal background, which includes her work as a distinguished visiting professor of law at the Appalachian School of Law in Grundy, Virginia. I wish Ms. Powell the best of luck as she assumes the role of Chief Justice.”

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December Recap: Chairman Griffith Urges Public Support of Health Care Initiatives

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

U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, made several engagements to help advance health care measures, tout federal agency initiatives and encourage funding support for rural health care in Virginia.

Chairman Griffith managed rule debate on the House floor to help advance a series of measures, most notably H.R. 6703, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act. This bill reflects House Republicans’ commitment to lower health care costs for all Americans. Additionally, Chairman Griffith spoke in support of measures that protect minors from dangerous, permanent procedures and shield federal Medicaid dollars from funding gender transition procedures. All three measures passed the House! More on Chairman Griffith’s remarks during rules debate can be found here.

As part of a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) roundtable on Lyme Disease, Chairman Griffith participated with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. The roundtable focused on Lyme Disease and other tickborne illnesses. Chairman Griffith expressed support for initiatives to help study tickborne illnesses and identify potential treatments. You can see Chairman Griffith’s remarks from the HHS roundtable here.

Additionally, Chairman Griffith joined the Republican members of the Virginia Congressional Delegation in a letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Oz to express support for Virginia’s application to access federal funds from the Rural Health Transformation Program. In the joint letter, the Delegation wrote in part, “We hope that you give this proposal by Virginia full consideration and look favorably on the initiatives they plan to undertake. The Commonwealth of Virginia is committed to helping individuals in rural communities receive the best possible care and working towards the stated goals of this Rural Health Transformation program.”

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Rep. Jim Costa Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winner

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

FRESNO, Calif. — Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) today announced Natalie Bonilla as the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for California’s 21st Congressional District. 
Natalie Bonilla, a senior at Selma High School, developed Community Support, a mobile app designed for both iOS and Android platforms. The app compiles critical community support resources—including hotline numbers, support groups, phone numbers, and nearby locations—to ensure individuals in the Central Valley can quickly access help during times of need.
Inspired by her own personal experiences, Natalie created Community Support to help reduce the stigma around seeking assistance and to make life-saving information more accessible to members of her community. The app provides a user-friendly way for individuals to locate urgent and non-urgent resources in one centralized place. 
Natalie built the app using Java and completed most of the coding at home and at school. Through the process, she navigated technical challenges such as adapting the app’s design across different devices and debugging code, gaining a deeper appreciation for the complexity and time required to develop a fully functional application. “Natalie’s app demonstrates how technology can be used to strengthen communities and support those who may be experiencing difficult moments,” said Congressman Jim Costa. “As one of America’s future leaders, Natalie has already shown creativity, persistence, and a strong commitment to service. I’m proud to recognize her achievement and look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next.” 
“I come from a family deeply involved in social services, which motivated me to continue helping others. I’m very grateful for this opportunity and honored to have been chosen as this year’s winner,” said Natalie Bonilla. “I was completely shocked and didn’t expect it at all. My teacher encouraged me to apply, even though I had a lot of doubts. When I received the news, I was incredibly happy.” About the App 
Community Support connects users directly to crisis hotlines and local support groups, allowing individuals to quickly find the assistance that best fits their situation. Natalie plans to expand the app in the future by adding additional resources, such as food and transportation services, and enhanced features to improve the user experience. 
The Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition sponsored by the Internet Education Foundation (IEF) that encourages middle and high school students nationwide to explore coding and STEM fields by creating original apps. The challenge has reached students from diverse, rural, and underserved communities across the country. 

Congressman Cohen Urges Governor Lee to Seek Millions in Summer Food Assistance for Children by Thursday’s Deadline

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) tonight wrote Governor Bill Lee a letter urging him to have the State of Tennessee apply for Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) funding for a Summer U.S. Agriculture Food Assistance Program for an estimated 700,000 children and not fail to apply for it as he did last year.

The U.S. Depart­ment of Agri­cul­ture’s Sum­mer EBT pro­gram provides $120 in food bene­fits to sup­port school-aged chil­dren who don’t have access to free or low-cost school meals dur­ing sum­mer months.

The letter reads in part:

“I concur with Senate Democratic Caucus Chair London Lamar and urge you to direct the Tennessee Department of Human Services to notify the U.S. Department of Agriculture of its intent to apply to the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer Program for Children (Summer EBT) before the deadline of January 1, 2026. 

“I wrote to you last year urging you to apply for these benefits. You chose not to, and the state instead ran its own program that cost much more to feed far fewer children. The state program fed 18,000 children and only reached 15 rural counties, while Summer EBT would have fed nearly 700,000 children and reached all 95 counties. 

“As you know, grocery prices are up tremendously. It is concerning you would turn down nearly $84 million meant to feed hungry children at a time when affordability should be the first issue on all our agendas. 

“I hope you will decide to apply for these important funds. There is no good reason to turn down aid for hungry children.”

See the letter here.

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