MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael McCaul (10th District of Texas)

WASHINGTON – Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) — chairman emeritus of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs — discussed his concerns about the future of Syria at a full committee hearing, titled “Syria at a CrossRoads: U.S. Policy Challenges Post-Assad.” McCaul directed his questions to Nadine Maenza, the former chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.

Click to watch

Remarks as delivered:

McCaul: Thank you, Mr. Chairman; thanks for holding this important hearing. We’re focused on a lot of other areas of the world right now, but we can’t let our eyes off the ball on Syria.

I remember when I chaired the Homeland Security Committee, watching the rise of ISIS and the caliphate was one of the most terrifying things I’ve seen in my career and my lifetime, and the threat it posed to the United States and our national security interests was real, as we saw foreign fighters entering Europe and the United States.

So here we are back in Syria again. All roads lead to Damascus. …

[The] March 10th agreement was done in part to satisfy conditions made by the Congress to lift the Caesar Act sanctions. Unfortunately, that document was not fully enforced. We saw an upscale in violence.

I was in Israel and I talked to the Druze Sheikhs there. They showed me videos of decapitations similar to what I saw when I chaired Homeland a decade ago when ISIS controlled Syria.

The SDF who was an ally of ours — we worked with the SDF to defeat ISIS — has been under advancement and attack by Syrian forces as well.

Most disturbingly, we saw prisoners from the prison in Eastern Syria being released to go God knows where. Thank God CENTCOM stepped in and removed 7,000 remaining ISIS detainees to Iraq, but we do not have a full accounting of what happened to those who actually got out. That is a nightmare scenario from a national security perspective.

I am pleased that there is a new agreement [signed on] January 30th in response to this uptick in violence against ethnic minorities, including Christians, in response to the attacks on the Kurds and SDF.

When the March 10th [agreement] called for integration and normalization, that was not happening. So now we have this new agreement, January 30th, an attempt to get back to normalization and integration between the ethnic minorities, SDF forces, and the new Syrian government.

Ms. Nadine Maenza, can I ask you: What is the status now of the implementation of the January 30th agreement?

Maenza: Thanks so much, congressman. I did get an update this morning from northeast Syria, and of course there’s great hope that this agreement will be successful. But currently, the Syrian government has not withdrawn troops, and they need to by the end of the day. While the governor of Hasakah was appointed and chosen, he’s assumed his responsibility, but the government hasn’t officially appointed him yet. You know, they also apparently are appointing people to different positions without consultation from the SDF. We also, of course, continue to see the siege of Kobani, which is dangerous at this point. And there’s supposed to be an exchange of detainees, and that isn’t also being facilitated, and there continues to be hate speech and rumors that are just adding a lot of tension to it.

… I think that we have not seen the Syrian government keep any of their deals with the SDF so far. But there is hope. I tell you what: they want this to work in the northeast. But … I fear that unless the international community and the U.S. in particular, is really strong on it, that might not happen.

McCaul. Well, my biggest concern is a return to the Islamic State. I am supportive of this new president. I want him to succeed. But I do not want a return to an Islamic State again in Syria.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04)

WASHINGTON — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today announced that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), a federal-state partnership funded by Congress, has approved a $264,432 grant for the Blount County Education Foundation to strengthen STEAM training programs for students in Blount County.

This project will expand hands-on learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) for more than 2,200 students. In total, the initiative represents a $903,003 investment, including $638,571 in local funding support alongside ARC’s federal contribution.

“I am proud that Congress continues to support the Appalachian Regional Commission and the important work it does in communities like Blount County,” said Congressman Aderholt. “This investment will help ensure our students have access to the technology, equipment, and training necessary to compete in today’s economy and pursue high-demand careers right here in Alabama.”

As a federally authorized and congressionally funded economic development agency, ARC invests in projects that expand opportunity and strengthen communities across Appalachia. This latest award reflects continued federal support for workforce development and education initiatives in Alabama’s Fourth District.

According to ARC, the grant will fund upgrades to technology, equipment, and educational resources to ensure equitable access to high-quality, hands-on STEAM learning experiences. The initiative will be carried out in partnership with the Blount County Board of Education and will include in-school and summer STEAM training sessions, as well as ongoing professional development for STEAM lab teachers.

Congressman Aderholt emphasized that strengthening education and workforce readiness is critical to supporting Alabama’s economic growth.

“Alabama continues to lead in industries such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace engineering, and cybersecurity,” Aderholt added. “By investing in STEAM education now, we are preparing the next generation of workers to fill these important roles and continue our state’s economic success.”

The Appalachian Regional Commission serves 423 counties across 13 Appalachian states and works to build community capacity and promote long-term economic growth.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Riley M. Moore is proud to announce that his office has officially recovered more than $5 million from the federal government for West Virginians since taking office on January 3, 2025. This milestone reflects the dedicated work of Congressman Moore and his district staff in cutting through federal red tape and delivering real results for Mountaineers across the Second District.

Congressman Moore’s casework team operates out of the Morgantown and Martinsburg district offices and is experienced in navigating federal agencies to resolve complex issues for constituents. The team stands ready to assist anyone facing challenges with federal programs or services.

Highlights of funding recovered for constituents include: 

• Over $2 million from the Internal Revenue Service
• Over $1.1 million from the Environmental Protection Agency
• Over $1 million from the Department of Agriculture
• Over $580,000 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency
• Over $557,000 from the Social Security Administration
• Over $95,000 from the Department of Veterans Affairs
• Over $80,000 from the Office of Personnel Management

Congressman Moore issued the following statement:

“My team and I are proud to announce that we’ve now recovered more than $5 million for West Virginians after just a little more than one year in office. This achievement underscores our commitment to delivering real results for hardworking families across the Second District.

I will never stop fighting for the great people of the Mountain State. If you or your family members are having trouble dealing with a federal agency, don’t hesitate to reach out to my office—we’re here to help.”

NEED HELP? Constituents can request assistance by calling Congressman Moore’s Morgantown office at (304) 350-6995 or his Martinsburg office at (304) 350-6987.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

Know Your Immigration Rights

If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08)

Southern Pines, NC – Today, Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09) announced that his Southern Pines and Fayetteville offices are accepting submissions from North Carolina’s Ninth District for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition.

“The Congressional Art Competition is a wonderful opportunity for our District’s high school students to showcase their artistic ability, and I look forward to seeing this year’s submissions,” said Rep. Hudson.

The 2026 theme, “America 250,” invites students to honor our country’s founding principles and the spirit of liberty that has shaped generations.

The 2026 Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students from North Carolina’s 9th District. The overall winner of the District’s competition will have their artwork framed and displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. In addition, the second and third place winners will have their artwork displayed in Rep. Hudson’s offices.

Art entered in the contest must be original in concept, design and execution and may not violate U.S. copyright laws. Work cannot be copied from an existing photo or image that was created by someone other than the student. Work must be in its original medium and cannot be a scanned reproduction of a painting or drawing. AI-generated art will not be accepted.

Art does not need to be framed upon submission. Our office will frame the winning piece before it is sent to Washington, D.C.

Artwork that is potentially inappropriate for display in the Capitol will not be considered. This determination will be made by a panel.

Additional guidelines can be found by visiting: https://hudson.house.gov/services/art-competition. 

Artwork must be submitted to Rep. Hudson’s Southern Pines or Fayetteville District Offices by 12pm on Friday, April 24, 2026 with a completed 2026 Student Release Form.

To request more information about the annual Congressional Art Competition, contact Rep. Hudson’s Southern Pines District Office at (910) 910-1924.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Thursday, Congresswoman Betty McCollum and House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin wrote to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons to express concern over a pattern of illegal and unconstitutional retaliation against Minnesotans’ lawful expression of their first amendment rights. 

“On January 16, an owner of Mischief Toy Store in Saint Paul was interviewed on ABC News about the store’s efforts to hand out free 3D printed whistles to support a ‘nonviolent form of protest and to alert everyone around that there is ICE activity going on.’ The owner described how ICE officers are raiding homes and kidnapping people at gunpoint, and how DHS operations are threatening the safety of all Minnesotans,” wrote Congresswoman McCollum and Ranking Member Raskin. “Just hours after this television interview aired, two plainclothes ICE agents visited Mischief Toy Store and served the business with a Notice of Inspection. The store, which has only five part-time employees and three owners, was ordered to turn over all I-9 documents. This does not appear to be an isolated incident. The timing of these enforcement actions raise serious concerns that DHS and ICE are using immigration enforcement to intimidate and punish those speaking out against the actions of the Trump administration in Minnesota.”

Representatives McCollum and Raskin are asking for a full accounting from DHS of the decisions and timing that led to the enforcement actions against Minnesota businesses and institutions that have spoken out against Operation Metro Surge and stood up for their communities.

Click here to read the full text of the letter on Congresswoman McCollum’s website.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

Headline: Carter tells DOT: Investigate Waymo’s use of remote foreign drivers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) this week sent a letter to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy urging the Department to investigate the use of foreign-based Remote Assistance Operators (RAOs) by autonomous vehicle companies, particularly Waymo, operating on public roads in the United States.

This letter comes after Waymo’s Chief Safety Officer stated, during a Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing and in sworn testimony, that the company employs remote vehicle operators located in the Philippines.

In the letter, Rep. Carter writes, “Decisions affecting traffic flow, emergency responses, and vehicle behavior on U.S. streets may be influenced—or directly controlled—by individuals who are not Americans, are not subject to U.S. jurisdiction, and may not understand English, our road signs, and American traffic laws. This raises serious and reasonable concerns about roadway safety, situational awareness, and national security.” 

The letter cites an October 2025 collision on the I-10 Freeway in California caused by an illegal immigrant commercial driver, which killed 3 and injured several others. 

Rep. Carter continues, “This issue is not about hindering innovation. Autonomous vehicle technology holds promise, but public trust depends on transparency, accountability, and prioritizing the safety and privacy of Americans above cost-cutting or convenience. A thorough review by the Department would help ensure that companies operating on U.S. roads are meeting appropriate safety, language, privacy, and security standards.” 

Read the full letter here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) announced that he has secured a total of $14,093,000 in federal funding for a slate of 15 community development and improvement projects across New York’s 20^th Congressional District. Tonko secured this critical funding as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 government appropriations packages, which were signed into law.

“I’m proud to have secured federal funding for this incredible slate of community projects in our Capital Region, each of which brings great promise for our communities,” Congressman Tonko said. “With key federal investments, these projects will help drive economic growth across our district and deliver support to those in our communities who need it most. For two years, my team and I have pushed hard to ensure these worthy projects were included in the federal spending package. Now, after a long and arduous process, I’m delighted to announce that that determined effort has been successful. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated local leaders who proposed and developed these initiatives, and I am eager to see how these federal dollars will help unleash our Capital Region’s untapped potential.”

Tonko championed funding for 15 local projects that will bring direct benefits to Capital Region residents. In alphabetical order, these include:

·         $250,000 for ADA-accessible sidewalks in Ballston Spa

·         $1,015,000 for a Community Corner creation in Mechanicville

·         $500,000 for Community Park improvements in Scotia

·         $1,000,000 for the Crossroads Center for Children in Schenectady for renovations and expansion

·         $1,000,000 for Glenville Hill Fire District No. 8 for essential building repairs and updates

·         $850,000 for Hudson Valley Community College in Troy for an Autonomous and Electric Vehicle Lab

·         $850,000 for Lincoln Park Southwest Gateway improvements in Albany

·         $1,031,000 for Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy for equipment and technology to support quantum innovation

·         $500,000 for the Town of Milton’s Town Hall expansion

·         $1,092,000 for the Town of Stillwater’s water main replacements

·         $2,000,000 for the Troy Public Library’s indoor air quality system improvements

·         $1,521,000 for the University at Albany’s CNSE 200mm Wafer Cleanroom equipment upgrade

·         $1,092,000 for the Village of Altamont’s wastewater treatment plant upgrades

·         $1,092,000 for the Village of Menands for water system improvements

·         $300,000 for Voorheesville sewage infrastructure improvements

More detailed descriptions of each project can be found HERE on Congressman Tonko’s website.

 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is honoring the life of the Reverend Jesse Jackson:

“The Reverend Jackson was an influential civil rights icon, who marched with and worked for the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. He was a trailblazing presidential candidate in 1984 and again in 1988, when he won 11 states in the Democratic primaries. An ordained Baptist minister, his historic campaigns helped set the stage for politicians to follow, and he was an enduring part of our nation’s story and public policy discussions for the past generation. 

“I was able to talk with him and shake his hand a few years ago at a funeral for a colleague in Congress. He will be missed.

“His many legacies include the voter registrations of millions of Americans, and efforts against poverty. He was a passionate advocate for his progressive beliefs, always helping clarify the national political debates of his time. In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded the Rev. Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

“He is the father of my current House colleague, Rep. Jonathan Luther Jackson, and we serve together on the Foreign Affairs Committee.

“My condolences to the entire Jackson family and the millions of Americans who have held him in high esteem for decades. May God be with and bless them in this time, and may God bless the United States.”

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

Griffith Statement on Passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson