House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Meeks, Smith, Himes Release Statement on the Expiration of the New START Treaty

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee; Adam Smith, Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee; and Jim Himes, Ranking Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, today released the following statement on the expiration of the New START Treaty:

“The expiration of the New START Treaty — the last remaining nuclear arms control agreement between the United States and Russia — leaves the world’s two largest nuclear arsenals without legally binding constraints for the first time in more than 50 years.

“New START was not perfect, and Russia’s violations of the agreement and other treaties eroded global arms control norms. Nevertheless, the treaty directly advanced U.S. foreign policy and national security interests: it reduced the number of nuclear weapons, helped prevent a dangerous arms race, and provided U.S. national security agencies reliable, verifiable insights into Russia’s arsenal.

“The president must move urgently to negotiate a legally binding successor. President Biden bought critical time by extending New START, but Trump has largely squandered that runway by slashing the State Department’s arms control bureau and gutting the workforce responsible for negotiating these agreements. Failing to reach a legal New START successor will send a terrible signal both to Vladimir Putin and to China, which is engaged in its own nuclear buildup, and roll back the clock to the nuclear free-for-all of the Cold War.”

Riverside County Leaders Celebrate $67 Million for Local Projects Secured by Rep. Calvert in Funding Package

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

Today, local elected leaders throughout the 41st Congressional District celebrated the inclusion of more than $67 million for Riverside County projects in the appropriations package passed by the House of Representatives earlier this week and signed into law by President Trump. Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) secured the funding for the projects through the Community Project Funding process. 

At Rep. Calvert’s request, funding was included for the following 41st Congressional District projects:

  • $4 million for the Magnolia Avenue Widening Project in Corona
  • $1.7 million for the Corona Trails Improvement Project
  • $8 million for the Lake Elsinore Water Quality Project
  • $2.4 million for the Norco Recycled Water Distribution and Transmission Mainline Project
  • $5 million for the I-15 Express Lanes Southern Extension Project
  • $2.5 million for the Scott Road/Bundy Canyon Road Widening in Menifee
  • $5 million for the Quail Valley Septic to Sewer Conversion Project
  • $5 million for the French Valley Airport Contract Control Tower Project
  • $5 million for the I-10 Singleton Road Interchange Project in Calimesa
  • $5 million for the Indian Canyon Drive Project in Palm Springs
  • $3 million for the Inline Baggage Handling System Improvement Project at Palm Springs International Airport
  • $5 million for the Via Vail Roadway Improvement Project in Rancho Mirage
  • $5.6 million for the Cook Street Bridge Project in Palm Desert
  • $5 million for the Washington Street Pavement Resurfacing Project in La Quinta
  • $5 million for the Whitewater Channel Lining in Indian Wells

“The City of Corona appreciates Congressman Calvert’s leadership in securing federal appropriations for two high-priority infrastructure projects that align with local and regional mobility goals,” said Corona Vice Mayor Wes Speake. “Investments for the Magnolia Widening Project and Trails Improvement Project will close important multimodal gaps and expand access to trails, parks, and regional destinations—improving safety, mobility, and strengthening the quality of life for Corona residents.”

“On behalf of the City of Lake Elsinore, my colleagues and I would like to thank Congressman Ken Calvert and his office for securing this critical funding for the Lake Elsinore Water Quality Project,” said Lake Elsinore Mayor Robert E. Magee. “This funding will help augment the council’s substantial financial commitment to the Nanobubbler systems we have deployed across the lake. A cleaner, healthier lake strengthens lake Elsinore, our tourism, supports local businesses, and drives Lake Elsinore’s economic viability while enhancing the quality of life for our residents. This investment is not just about water quality—it’s about the future of Lake Elsinore and ensuring our city continues to grow, thrive, and remain a destination we are proud to call home.”

“Water conservation is an increasingly critical issue in California, and the City of Norco has proactively taken steps to address this challenge and implement recycled water infrastructure,” said Norco Mayor Robin Grundmeyer. “The federal funding secured for this project will significantly aid our efforts to construct a reclaimed water pump system, build a storage reservoir, and complete essential system improvements, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our local water system. These advancements will also enable us to provide a source of recycled water to the Naval Surface Warfare Center Corona, as well as to our community parks. This investment is not only a crucial step towards water sustainability but also a significant commitment to the future well-being of Norco. We appreciate Representative Calvert’s unwavering support for this project and his diligent efforts to secure this vital federal investment for Horsetown USA.”

“Thank you to Representative Calvert for securing $5 million for RCTC’s 15 Express Lanes Project Southern Extension,” said RCTC Chair and Cathedral City Mayor Raymond Gregory. “As Riverside County communities continue to grow along the nationally significant I-15 corridor, funding RCTC’s request will help move us closer to easing congestion and improving mobility for residents while bolstering our economy.”

“We appreciate Congressman Calvert’s continued commitment to bringing federal funds to our region and his support of Menifee,” said Acting Menifee Mayor Bob Karwin. “The Scott Road/Bundy Canyon Widening Project will provide significant improvements to this vital multi-jurisdiction corridor that connects Interstate 215 to Interstate 15, enhancing regional safety and circulation.”

“Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) is grateful to Representative Calvert for securing $5 million in federal funding for our Quail Valley Septic to Sewer conversion project, a critical wastewater project in an underserved community,” said Eastern Municipal Water District Board President Stephen Corona. “This infrastructure upgrade will improve downstream water quality throughout the watershed, public health, and the vitality of the community and our region.

“This $5 million federal investment is a major step forward for French Valley Airport and the region,” said Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington. “It moves us closer to delivering an air traffic control tower that will improve safety, support local jobs, and strengthen the continued growth of our regional aviation economy. I’m grateful to our Congressional delegation for their partnership and commitment to our community.”

“This federal investment is a major milestone for the City of Calimesa and a project that has been decades in the making,” said Calimesa Mayor Jeff Cervantez. “Completing the I-10/Singleton Road Interchange will correct a long-standing operational deficiency on one of our region’s most important transportation corridors, improve safety and traffic flow for residents and commuters, and unlock significant economic development opportunities on both sides of the freeway. We are grateful to Congressman Calvert for his leadership and support in securing this funding and for his continued commitment to improving infrastructure in Calimesa and the Inland Empire.”

“Securing funding for the Indian Canyon Drive Project and for an updated baggage handling system at Palm Springs International Airport is critical to maintaining safe, reliable access to our community,” said Palm Springs Mayor Naomi Soto. “On behalf of the City Council, our residents, and the millions of visitors who rely on these vital transportation gateways, we extend our gratitude to Congressman Calvert for his leadership and commitment to delivering these important investments. We are committed to ensuring Palm Springs remains a world-class destination, and that is now more possible with federal funding support.”

“Road closures on Indian Canyon Drive due to flooding and blowing sand have a significant negative regional impact on public health, safety, and the quality of life for both residents and visitors in the Coachella Valley,” said Riverside County Supervisor and CVAG Chair V. Manuel Perez. “This roadway is the most direct route to Desert Regional Medical Center, the region’s only Level I Trauma Center, and serves as a critical link connecting communities north of Interstate 10 to jobs, schools, medical facilities, and other essential services in the western Coachella Valley. The $5 million secured by Congressman Calvert to help construct a bridge that will keep the road open will deliver substantial benefits to the Coachella Valley. This investment will improve safety, reduce congestion, and save time and money for residents and visitors alike. On behalf of the Coachella Valley Association of Governments, we greatly appreciate Congressman Calvert’s leadership, support, and advocacy for this vital project.”

“The City of Rancho Mirage is most grateful and appreciative to Congressman Ken Calvert for securing $5 million dollars for the Via Vail Roadway Improvement Project, a vital component towards the city’s affordable housing mandate,” said Rancho Mirage Mayor Lynn Mallotto. “This funding, from the Transportation, Housing and Urban Appropriations, ensures continued progress in providing quality affordable housing to seniors, veterans, and those in the workforce.”

“Securing funding for the Cook Street Bridge advances Palm Desert’s commitment to making smart, long-term infrastructure investments,” said Palm Desert Mayor Evan Trubee. “By planning ahead and strengthening critical corridors like Cook Street, we’re building a more resilient city.”

“We are incredibly grateful to Representative Calvert for his unwavering support in championing the inclusion of $5 million in federal funding for the Washington Street Pavement Resurfacing, Ramp Improvements, and Drainage Improvements Project,” said La Quinta Mayor Linda Evans. “This significant investment, which was approved in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill, is vital for enhancing our city’s infrastructure, improving safety for our residents, and ensuring the continued flow of commerce in our community.  Washington Street is a primary artery in our city, and the approved funds allow us to move forward with critical drainage and paving work that will benefit our residents, businesses, and visitors.  We thank the President and Rep Calvert for recognizing the urgency of this project.”

“Congressman Ken Calvert delivered exactly what our region needed,” said Dr. Toper Taylor, Mayor of Indian Wells. “His work to secure federal funding for the Whitewater Channel Lining project is a major win for Indian Wells. Just as importantly, he moved quickly to convene a meeting on the Coachella Valley’s dust problem—an issue that affects public health, quality of life, and long‑term economic vitality. I appreciate his responsiveness and his commitment to helping us solve challenges that matter to our residents.  Ken Calvert is the most effective and impactful member of Congress I’ve had the privilege of working alongside.”

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Reps. Cleaver, Ross, Pocan, Sykes Reintroduce Legislation to End Prison Gerrymandering

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

(Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Mark Pocan (D-WI), and Emilia Sykes (D-OH) reintroduced the End Prison Gerrymandering Act. The legislation will help ensure equal representation for all by requiring the Census Bureau to count incarcerated people at their last place of residence rather than the prison in which they are held at the time of the Census.

Every ten years when the Census is conducted, incarcerated people are counted as residents of the places where they are imprisoned rather than the cities and towns they call home. This practice skews the population count and interferes with equal representation in virtually every state. Many states, including Missouri, have redistricting processes that use prison gerrymandering to give disproportionate representation to rural voters at the expense of voters in urban areas and communities of color. 

“The practice of prison gerrymandering puts the interests of partisan politicians above the wishes of our communities, using incarcerated Americans as unwilling pawns in the process,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The American people are sick and tired of partisan trickery that undermines the voice of voters, and I’m proud to join Representatives Ross, Sykes, and Pocan to introduce the End Prison Gerrymandering Act to outlaw this damaging practice once and for all.”

“North Carolina has a long history of manipulating voters’ places of residence to produce maps that benefit the party in power, including through prison gerrymandering,” said Congresswoman Ross. “Across the country, we are witnessing unprecedented attempts to rollback voting rights and dilute voters’ voices, particularly voters of color. Now more than ever, we need maps that are fair and ensure every voter can participate fully in our democracy. I’m proud to lead my colleagues introducing legislation that will end prison gerrymandering at the federal level.”

“Nearly no one would consider the facility in which they’re incarcerated home,” said Rep. Pocan. “The current Prison Gerrymandering practice is wrong, giving undue power to certain regions of the country and to elected officials who do not value their concerns. We must end this practice and count people from where they came and most likely will return to once their sentences are finished. I thank Congresswoman Ross for her leadership on this issue.”

“All Americans have a constitutional right to equal representation in their government. That’s why I am proud to co-sponsor the End Prison Gerrymandering Act, which will ensure incarcerated people are fairly counted in the places they call home, in communities where they have ties, family, and friends,” said Rep. Sykes. “This legislation will allow fair and accurate representation for all communities—rural, urban, and suburban— to create a stronger, more representative democracy.” 

The End Prison Gerrymandering Act is cosponsored by Representatives Chris Deluzio (D-PA), Don Beyer (D-VA), Summer Lee (D-PA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Chuy García (D-IL), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), and Madeleine Dean (D-PA). 

Official text of the End Prison Gerrymandering Act is available here

 

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

Davids, Cole Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Investigate History of Indian Boarding Schools

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

Washington, D.C. – This week, Congressional Native American Caucus Co-Chairs, Representative Tom Cole (R-OK-04) and Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), reintroduced H.R. 7325, the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act of 2025, to formally investigate, document, and report on the history and policies of Indian boarding schools, as well as the long-term effects that these institutions have on Native American peoples.

 

Cole, a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and the longest-serving Native American in the United States House of Representatives, and Davids, a member of the Wisconsin Ho-Chunk Nation and one of the first two Native women ever elected to Congress, are dedicated to offering answers and healing for survivors of these Indian boarding schools, the descendants of those survivors, and the entire Tribal communities of those survivors.

 

After reintroducing the legislation, the members of Congress released the following statements:

“I would not be here without the resilience of my ancestors and those who came before me – including my grandparents, who survived federal Indian boarding schools. Their experiences are not distant history; they shape our families and communities today. Establishing a Truth and Healing Commission would bring survivors, experts, federal partners, and Tribal leaders together to fully understand what happened to our relatives and to take meaningful steps toward a more honest and hopeful future for the next seven generations,” said Representative Sharice Davids, Member of the Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin and Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus.

“For years, Indian boarding schools forcibly removed Native children from their families, stripped them of their heritage, and, in many cases, took their lives. Yet, for far too long, little has been known about these Indian boarding schools, and these stories have been kept in the shadows. This silence cannot go on. We must bring light to this dark chapter in our nation’s history – and this bill is critical to doing that,” said Representative Cole, Member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus. “I would like to thank my Co-Chair, Congresswoman Davids, for her collaboration on this legislation, as we work to hopefully bring Tribal communities one step closer to the answers they deserve.”

Background:

 

From 1819 through the 1970s, the United States government implemented policies establishing Indian boarding schools across the nation. The purpose of these schools was to assimilate Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children by forcibly removing them from their families, communities, and cultural beliefs.

 

In total, there were more than 526 government-funded and church-run Indian boarding schools, and, by 1926, nearly 86 percent of Indian school-age children were forcibly attending these schools. Yet, little is known about what happened at these boarding schools or what happened to the Native children who attended them.

 

In Oklahoma alone, there were 76 federal boarding schools, making up about 19 percent of the total amount of boarding schools that existed. Federal boarding schools in Oklahoma were often overflowed due to intentionally mixing more than 30 different tribes in attempts to unsettle relations and prevent the speaking of common languages.

 

In Kansas, there were 14 federal boarding schools, including the Shawnee Indian Manual Labor School in Fairway in Kansas’ Third District, which is now preserved as the Shawnee Indian Mission State Historic Site. According to the Kansas State Historical Society, this school operated from 1838 to 1862 and enrolled nearly 200 children at it largest.

 

H.R. 7325 will establish a commission to formally investigate, document, and report on the histories of Indian boarding schools, Indian boarding school policies, and the long-term effect of those schools and policies on Native American peoples. The commission will develop recommendations for federal efforts based on the findings, as well as offer answers and healing for survivors, the descendants of survivors, and the communities of survivors.

Bilirakis Visits Free Tax Preparation Site in Pasco County to Promote New Tax Changes

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12)

Holiday, FL – Earlier today, U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis visited a federally-funded free income tax preparation site in Pasco County operated by IRS-certified volunteers. The program is sponsored by Seniors in Service Tampa, a nonprofit organization that mobilizes volunteers to provide essential services to the community.

Free tax preparation services are currently available at two Pasco County locations: the Regency Park Civic Center, located at 10240 Regency Park Boulevard in Port Richey, and the Holiday United Church of Christ, located at 4826 Bartelt Road in Holiday. These sites have served the community since 2005 ,and are staffed by experienced volunteers who average more than 10 years of service preparing tax returns.  The free tax preparation program is intended to assist low and moderate income individuals, including both working and retired residents, who need help filing their tax returns. Due to limited capacity, services are prioritized for individuals and families with incomes under $100,000. All tax returns are filed electronically, with refunds typically issued within 10 days to two weeks.

During his visit, Congressman Bilirakis thanked the volunteers for their longstanding service to the Pasco County community and highlighted recent efforts to simplify the tax filing process. He noted that, following the passage of the Working Families Tax Credit Act, taxpayers may now qualify for additional deductions, including income earned from tips or overtime pay, financing a new American-manufactured vehicle in 2025, and an additional $6,000 deduction for seniors aged 65 and older.

Tax preparation appointments are still available for Pasco County residents. To schedule an appointment online, visit events.seniorsinservice.org/taxprep. Residents may also call (813) 819-9864.

Congressional Scouting Caucus Introduces Resolution Celebrating Scouting America Day

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sanford D Bishop Jr (GA-02)

WASHINGTON – This week, the bipartisan Congressional Scouting Caucus, led by U.S. Representatives Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-18), and Pete Sessions (TX-17), introduced a resolution celebrating Scouting America Day.

Scouting America was incorporated in Chicago, Illinois, on February 8, 1910. Since then, millions of young men and women have joined Scouting and have learned the values of patriotism, courage, and self-reliance.

“I am proud to join my colleagues, fellow Eagle Scouts and co-Chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Scouting Caucus, Representatives Thompson and Sessions, in introducing today’s resolution,” Rep. Bishop said. “Congress continues to recognize that Scouting engages young men and women, instills in them values, builds their character, and promotes leadership. All of this makes our nation stronger from coast-to-coast, across industries, and in public service – from Congress and our courts to the White House and our Armed Forces as well as state and local governments throughout the country.”

“I have been involved in Scouting for more than 50 years, which has made a profoundly positive impact upon my life,” Rep. Thompson said. “The lessons learned from Scouting are invaluable. I am grateful for my colleagues on the Scouting Caucus for celebrating this cause and ensuring the legacy of Scouting will continue to grow for generations to come.”

“As an Eagle Scout, I know firsthand that Scouting America is more than an organization; it is a proving ground for character,” Rep. Sessions said. “For 116 years, Scouting has instilled duty to God, service to country, and responsibility to others in generations of young Americans. This resolution recognizes an institution that strengthens our communities, prepares leaders, and quietly builds the moral backbone of our nation, and I am proud to serve as a co-lead in honoring its legacy.”

 “On behalf of the entire Scouting movement, we extend our gratitude to the Scouting Caucus and to our nation’s leaders for this joint resolution recognizing Scouting America Day,” said Roger Krone, President and CEO of Scouting America. “Across the country each day, Scouts commit themselves to serving God and country. They hike, climb, shoot, paddle, and build character and leadership through service to their communities and to the nation. None of this would be possible without the steadfast support of our religious and civic partners and the dedication of more than half a million volunteer leaders.”

Read the full resolution text on Congress.gov.

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Crow, Neguse Conduct Unannounced Oversight Visit at Aurora’s ICE Facility

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

AURORA — Today, Congressmen Jason Crow (D-CO-06) and Joe Neguse (D-CO-02) conducted an unannounced oversight visit of the GEO ICE facility in Aurora.

Watch their video message here

The visit is their first since a federal judge granted Crow and Neguse emergency relief to visit federal immigration facilities unannounced, following the Trump Administration’s previous attempts to block them from doing so.

Under federal law, Members of Congress have the right to conduct unannounced oversight of DHS facilities used for immigration detention, including facilities run by ICE and those operated by private companies. Last month, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem secretly imposed a policy that Members of Congress must provide seven days’ notice before being granted access to federal immigration detention facilities, but Judge Jia Cobb last week temporarily ruled against the Trump Administration’s position.

In a joint statement, Congressmen Crow and Neguse said:

“The Trump Administration is trying to block Members of Congress from doing our jobs of conducting oversight. So we took them to court. The law is clear: Members of Congress have the right to conduct oversight of federal immigration facilities. 

“Last year was the deadliest year at federal detention facilities in decades. Billions of taxpayer dollars are being used to carry out a violent and lawless immigration agenda. Coloradans deserve transparency and accountability.”

Since his election to Congress, Crow has fought to promote transparency, oversight, and accountability in federal immigration detention centers. He introduced bipartisan legislation guaranteeing Members of Congress the right to conduct unannounced, in-person oversight visits of ICE detention facilities, including to check on any concerns related to public health and the humane treatment of detained individuals.

Today’s oversight visit was Crow’s eleventh at the GEO ICE facility in Aurora since 2019. Crow’s staff have also visited the facility more than 80 times to conduct oversight. Public reports of such visits, along with conditions at the facility, are published on Crow’s website.

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McGovern Condemns Political Violence, Alleged Attempt at OMB Director Vought’s Life

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA)

McGovern Condemns Political Violence, Alleged Attempt at OMB Director Vought’s Life

Washington, February 6, 2026

WASHINGTON—Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) made the following statement in response to a Maryland man’s alleged attempt to kill OMB Director Russ Vought:

“I always have—and always will—condemn political violence in all forms, regardless of whether it’s directed towards the left, center, or right. I’m disgusted by the reported attempt at OMB Director Vought’s life. This is not who we are. In America, we solve our differences with peaceful protest, public dissent, and elections—not violence.”

Amodei Announces Retirement

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-02)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Amodei released the following statement:

“Serving the people of Nevada has been the honor of my lifetime. Nobody is prouder of our Nevada Congressional District than me. Thank you for the honor. Every achievement worth doing began with listening to Nevadans and fighting for our values.

I came to Congress to solve problems and to make sure our State and Nation have strong voice in the federal policy and oversight processes. I look forward to finishing my term. After 15 years of service, I believe it is the right time for Nevada and myself to pass the torch.”

Dingell Requests Answers on Firings at the Department of Commerce

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) today sent a letter to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick demanding transparency about national security impacts following recent firings at the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), particularly within the Office of Information and Communications Technology and Services (OICTS). 

“Recent public reporting indicates that senior leadership within OICTS was removed or reassigned following internal pressure, including the placement of a senior official on administrative leave,” Dingell stated. “These developments have raised serious concerns about the Department’s commitment to sustaining expertise, momentum, and enforcement capacity in addressing technology threats posed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and other foreign adversaries.”

“As you know, OICTS was established during President Trump’s first term and has been widely viewed on a bipartisan basis as a critical office for securing U.S. technology supply chains, communications infrastructure, and Americans’ sensitive data,” Dingell continued. “The office played a central role in developing the rule restricting internet-connected passenger vehicles and related hardware and software with links to China or Russia, based on clear national security and data-security risks.”

“I have consistently supported BIS’s mission to protect the United States from foreign technological threats, including prior Department of Commerce actions to address risks posed by connected vehicles and communications technologies,” Dingell concluded. “These technologies are deeply embedded in our daily lives and critical infrastructure and are no longer hypothetical risks. Allowing foreign adversary technologies to enter our domestic market threatens not only consumer privacy, but U.S. economic security and national resilience.”

Read the full text of the letter here.