Congressman Neguse Condemns Racist “Death Cards” Found in Eagle County, Demands Independent Investigation into ICE Activities

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

Lafayette, CO — Yesterday, Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse joined Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, as well as the Democratic members of Colorado’s House delegation in condemning alarming reports that families in Eagle County, Colorado, found “death cards” left in the cars of family members taken by ICE agents. These specific cards had the address and phone number of the Aurora ICE detention facility printed on them. The lawmakers called on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General to open an investigation and requested a full DHS briefing on the incidents and steps taken to prevent further intimidation of Latino communities.

“As the son of immigrants and the father of two young children, I am horrified by the abuses being committed by the Trump administration — from the streets of Minneapolis to right here in Eagle County. These outrageous, aggressive intimidation tactics are meant to stoke fear among our neighbors, and it is immoral and wrong. This administration must be held accountable, and we cannot allow this to continue unchecked,” said Congressman Joe Neguse.

Congressman Neguse has expressed extreme outrage regarding the Trump administration’s cruel and violent immigration policies. He joined Colorado’s democratic delegation in demanding an investigation into the murder of Alex Pretti, calling the shooting of the 37-year-old Minnesotan by an ICE agent, and the prior shooting of Renee Good, “horrific” and “abhorrent.” 

Neguse also sued the Trump administration for blocking Members of Congress from unannounced oversight visits to federal immigration detention facilities. Yesterday, a federal court granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) in the case — Neguse et al. v. ICE et al. — reaffirming Congress’s constitutional authority to investigate detention conditions and ensure accountability.

Full text of the letter is available HERE and below. 

Dear Secretary Noem,

We are writing regarding disturbing reports about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in Eagle County, Colorado. Reportedly, ICE agents in unmarked vehicles with attached sirens conducted imitation traffic stops and ultimately detained ten Latino individuals who are now being held at the Aurora Detention Facility. Additionally, according to multiple news reports and local community organizations, family members of the detained individuals found ace of spades cards inside multiple abandoned vehicles, printed with the address of the Aurora Detention Facility:

We are deeply concerned by the allegations that the federal agents were utilizing sirens to falsely act as local law enforcement. This behavior leads individuals to believe they are lawfully required to pull over for a traffic violation when in reality, the federal government has no authority over local or state traffic regulations. Federal agents acting in disguise as local law enforcement is misconduct and should be treated as such.

Moreover, the ace of spades card has long been known as the “death card” and has been used by white supremacist groups to inspire fear and threaten physical violence.  It is unacceptable and dangerous for federal law enforcement to use this symbol to intimidate Latino communities. This behavior undermines public trust in law enforcement, raises serious civil rights concerns, and falls far short of the professional standards expected of federal agents. 

We appreciate that Department of Homeland Security (DHS) condemned this conduct and directed the DHS Office of Professional Responsibility to investigate the incident. To ensure that ICE conducts operations in a professional manner that does not include racially-motivated intimidation tactics that undermine public trust in law enforcement, we request: 

  1. A formal and detailed briefing on ICE activities in Eagle County

  2. A written report detailing the findings of the ongoing DHS investigation into the incident

  3. An independent investigation by the DHS Office of Inspector General into the activities of the Denver Field Office, which oversees ICE activity in Eagle County

  4. Written confirmation of any disciplinary or corrective actions taken 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We respectfully request a response by February 13.

Sincerely,

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2026 Art Competition Underway

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

WASHINGTON — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 Fourth Congressional District Art Competition, inviting all high school students in Alabama’s Fourth District to showcase their artistic talent. The category winners will all receive scholarship offers to Wallace State Community College and the overall winner, the “Best of Show,” will also have their piece displayed in the United States Capitol.

Congressman Aderholt pictured with the 2025 “Best of Show” winner Natalie Jones of DAR High School, along with her art teacher Zan Edmonds.

Now in its 45th year, the Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide visual arts contest sponsored by the U.S. House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute. The program celebrates the creativity of high school artists across the country and gives young creators a unique opportunity to have their artwork displayed in one of the nation’s most iconic buildings.

“The Congressional Art Competition gives students across the 4th District a chance to share their creativity with the world,” said Congressman Aderholt. “I am continually inspired by the imagination and dedication these young artists bring to their work. I encourage all eligible students to participate and show the extraordinary talent we have in our district.”

Competition Details
• Eligibility: Open to all high school students, grades 9-12, residing in Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District, including homeschooled students.
• Submission Deadline: April 8 by 4:00 p.m. to Congressman Aderholt’s district offices.
• Guidelines: Students may submit original artwork in various media including painting, drawing, collage, prints, mixed media, photography, and computer-generated art.
• Judging: A panel of local art professionals will review all entries and select the winning piece based on creativity, skill, and originality.

The artist selected as “Best of Show” will have their work displayed in the U.S. Capitol for approximately one year, where it will be viewed by Members of Congress, staff, and visitors from across the nation and around the world. Additionally, the winning student will be honored at a reception in Washington, D.C. 

All category winners will receive a scholarship offer to Wallace State that may be used for any course of study offered at the college.

About the Congressional Art Competition
Since its inception in 1982, the Congressional Art Competition has encouraged more than 650,000 students to participate, fostering artistic talent and civic engagement among young Americans.

For official rules, entry forms, and submission details, please contact Congressman Aderholt’s office or visit: https://aderholt.house.gov/2026-art-competition

MATSUI & COLLEAGUES INTRODUCE WHALE CHARTS ACT, MODERNIZING WHALE HABITAT MAPPING AND DETECTION TOOLS TO PREVENT COLLISIONS

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11), Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03), Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), and Buddy Carter (R-GA-01) introduced the Whale CHARTS Act, bipartisan legislation that will direct the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to improve whale habitat maps and develop near-real time whale detection technologies to help prevent deadly collisions.

The Whale CHARTS Act is backed by a notable coalition of recreational fishing, boating, and conservation organizations aligned behind a shared goal: protect whales from vessel collisions using better data and tools, while ensuring mariners can keep doing their jobs safely and other ocean users can continue to enjoy recreation opportunities.

“For too long, whale protection has been treated like a zero-sum fight. This bill is about choosing a better way,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “With clearer whale maps and near real time detection tools, we can help captains avoid whales before a collision happens, protect endangered species, and keep fishermen on the water doing the work they love. That kind of progress only happens when people who care deeply about the ocean, from maritime workers to conservation advocates, come together to advance practical solutions.”

“Current predictive maps don’t give us a good picture of where whales are feeding and calving. That puts both these magnificent animals and boaters at risk of dangerous collisions,” said Congresswoman Malliotakis. “This legislation directs NOAA to conduct more research and mapping so we can protect our whales and keep our mariners and everyone who loves our waters safe.”

“Knowing where whales are in our waters is key to protecting whales and boaters alike,” said Congresswoman Dexter. “The Whale CHARTS Act will deploy the best available technology to improve whale tracking, helping prevent deadly collisions and protect these species for generations to come. This is a win-win policy for whales as well as for the people who work and recreate in marine waters.”  

“With a thriving global maritime industry, it’s critical that vessels can travel alongside whale populations without risking dangerous collisions,” said Congressman Buchanan. “The Whale CHARTS Act strengthens NOAA’s ability to map baleen and sperm whale habitats using better data and modern technology, protecting marine wildlife while keeping recreational and commercial boaters safe. As Co-Chair of the Animal Protection Caucus, I will always fight for solutions that safeguard animals without disrupting mariners and the public who rely on and enjoy our oceans.”

“Having dedicated a majority of my career to preserving the Chesapeake Bay, I know firsthand how crucial accurate data is to ensuring our work reflects a thoughtful balance between recreation and conservation,” said Congresswoman Elfreth. “I’m proud to co-sponsor the bipartisan Whale CHARTS Act to not only support conservation efforts for our critical marine mammals, but make our waters safer for our wildlife and our watermen.”

“The Whale CHARTS Act will protect whales and boaters alike by deploying cutting-edge technologies to better track and monitor migratory whales,” said Congressman Carter. “I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to prevent vessel strikes and better understand America’s marine wildlife.”

The Whale CHARTS Act directs NOAA, in consultation with the Marine Mammal Commission and non-federal stakeholders, to develop high-resolution maps showing where migratory whales are located today and where they may be in the future, as well as conduct surveys for understudied whale populations. It encourages NOAA to use modern data sources, including passive acoustic monitoring and satellite-based detection, to improve map accuracy. NOAA must make these maps readily available in formats commercial and recreational mariners can use onboard to help reduce collisions. 

The bill also establishes a grant program to fund tools that will improve the near-real time detection of migratory whales, reducing deadly collisions and other harmful interactions between ocean users and these iconic species. Finally, NOAA is required to publicly report on its mapping and surveying efforts, and on the effectiveness of the projects funded by the grant program.

Congresswoman Matsui is co-chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC), and co-chairs the SEEC Lands, Waters, and Nature Task Force. She previously led efforts to improve whale habitat mapping through NOAA’s annual budget.

Full legislative text can be found here.

The following organizations have endorsed the Whale CHARTS Act: American Sportfishing Association, Animal Welfare Institute, Center for Sportfishing Policy, Coastal Conservation Association, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, Defenders of Wildlife, Endangered Species Coalition, Environmental Investigation Agency, Guy Harvey Foundation, International Fund for Animal Welfare, International Game Fish Association, International Marine Mammal Project of Earth Island Institute, Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, National Marine Manufacturers Association, NRDC, Oceana, Ocean Conservancy, South Carolina Boating and Fishing Alliance, Sportfishing Association of California, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. Their statements can be found below

“Ship strikes remain a leading, preventable cause of whale deaths off U.S. coasts. Better data can help prevent ship strikes before they happen,” said Taylor Mann, Federal Policy Manager, Oceana. “With a growing ocean-based economy and more vessel traffic at sea, the Whale CHARTS Act is an important tool that will help us better understand and predict where whales are most likely to be, even as those patterns shift in a changing ocean. By expanding access to best available science, this act will support safer navigation and help maritime industries and whales coexist. Oceana applauds this bipartisan step to protect one of the ocean’s most iconic creatures.” 

“Recreational anglers are among our nation’s leading conservationists, with a deep and longstanding commitment to the health of marine ecosystems,” said Glenn Hughes, President and CEO of the American Sportfishing Association. “The Whale CHARTS Act, led by Representatives Matsui, Malliotakis, Dexter, Buchanan, Carter and Elfreth, will improve our understanding of whale ranges and movements, ensuring managers have sound data to better conserve these species while also helping to minimize vessel strikes. Better data leads to better outcomes for whales, ocean users, and the marine environment we all depend on.”

“The Whale CHARTS Act is smart legislation that recognizes conservation and access can advance together,” said Jeff Angers, president of the Center for Sportfishing Policy. “By investing in better data and real-world detection technologies, this bill takes a practical, science-based approach to reducing vessel strike risk while keeping America’s public waters accessible for responsible recreation.”

“Migratory whales and other large cetaceans have long been understudied despite being some of the most vulnerable marine mammals to threats caused by humans,” said Kathleen Collins, IFAW Senior Marine Campaign Manager. “IFAW has worked tirelessly in the pursuit of conserving many of these species, and we’re grateful to Representatives Matsui, Malliotakis, Dexter, Buchanan, Carter and Elfreth for recognizing the plight of these animals and championing the Whale CHARTS Act.”

“Animal Welfare Institute welcomes the reintroduction of the Whale CHARTS Act, a critically needed effort to strengthen our understanding of whale habitat use and support evidence-based conservation,” said Georgia Hancock Director & Senior Attorney of the Marine Wildlife Program. “Too many whale populations, including baleen and sperm whales, remain imperiled by human impacts, especially as climate-driven changes alter where they live and feed. This legislation would help ensure NOAA has the resources to produce high-resolution distribution and predictive maps essential for protecting whales and their vital habitat.”

“Representative Doris Matsui’s Whale CHARTS Act is an excellent way to protect whales and avoid conflicts with shipping and fishing interests,” said David Phillips, Executive Director, International Marine Mammal Project, Earth Island Institute. “Nobody wants to see dead whales. Shipping companies and fishermen alike depend on a variety of information provided by the federal and state governments and, often, nonprofit organizations about where whales are located and can be avoided. But identifying where the whales are, and what alternatives are available, costs money, so Rep. Matsui has come up with legislation to fill funding gaps. The International Marine Mammal Project of Earth Island Institute supports the Whale CHARTS Act to enhance protections for our great whales.”

“More accurate information in our decision-making related to ocean resources will reduce uncertainty,” said Ken Franke, President of the Sportfishing Association of California. “The Whale CHARTS Act seeks to fill that data gap by improving our understanding of whale locations to help avoid conflicts.”

“We are very grateful for the leadership of Representatives Matsui, Malliotakis, Dexter, Buchanan, Elfreth and Carter in introducing the Whale CHARTS Act,” said Chris Horton, senior director of fisheries policy for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. “The angling community cares deeply about the conservation of our marine environment, not just the fish we pursue. This bill offers genuine, effective solutions for preventing vessel strikes and ensuring the safety of both whales and those of us who spend time on the water.”

“We are grateful for Representatives Matsui, Malliotakis, Dexter, Buchanan, Elfreth and Carter for supporting a science-based approach to helping anglers and recreational boaters avoid whale strikes while allowing access to the waters that are so important for fishing and coastal economies,” said Joel Pedersen, CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “Recreational anglers are conservationists and that includes caring about populations of marine mammals, birds and fish beyond just the ones we enjoy catching. By using technology, sharing information and advancing the science needed to help anglers and boaters avoid whales, we can ensure ample, consistent access to public waters for fishing while protecting whales and all marine mammals.”

“The Whale CHARTS Act would fund important mapping improvements and detection technologies in whale habitats,” said Daniel Moss, senior government relations representative for Defenders of Wildlife. “Vessel strikes are one of the primary killers of whales, including critically endangered species. They are also dangerous for mariners, particularly in smaller boats. While speed restrictions are the only proven mechanism to reduce vessel strike risk, this bill will advance research that may ultimately make our waters safer for whales and mariners. We salute Rep. Matsui for her leadership in promoting whale conservation and mariner safety.”

“Critically endangered baleen and toothed whales continually experience every day the constant barrage of anthropogenic threats to their ability to find food and reproduce”, said CT Harry, Senior Ocean Policy Analyst with Environmental Investigation Agency. “Science-based legislation like the WHALE CHARTS Act is critically important for understanding how these highly charismatic and unique species are having to change their migratory routes to locate new feeding and breeding areas in order to survive”.

“America’s whales are facing a world of challenges right now, from vessel strikes to industrial development to an ocean that is changing all around them,” said Michael Jasny, Director of Marine Mammal Protection at NRDC. ” The bipartisan Whale CHARTS Act supports the science we need to save the species we love.”

“NMMA is grateful to Rep. Matsui and Rep. Malliotakis for introducing the Whale CHARTS Act that improves NOAA’s monitoring and mitigation program and balances protecting access for recreational boaters and the habitats of marine mammals,” said Robyn Boerstling, NMMA Senior Vice President of Government Relations and Chief Advocacy Officer. “The recreational boating industry deeply cares about protecting marine life and supports and encourages efforts by the government to partner with industry experts to further develop whale detection technologies.”

Smith Welcomes Treasury Guidance on 45Z

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chair of the Congressional Biofuels Caucus and a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement praising the Treasury Department’s release of official guidance for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit:

“During reconciliation, I fought to extend and strengthen the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit to empower our biofuel producers and prioritize innovation over arbitrary climate standards. I am grateful for this administration’s action in releasing timely official guidance to ensure that America’s producers can fully utilize the credit this tax year and in years ahead. Moving forward, I will continue to support policies that expand biofuels markets and unleash more affordable, homegrown American energy.”

Congressman Al Green’s H.R. 3716 – the Systemic Risk Authority Transparency Act Passes the House of Representatives

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Washington DC)—On Monday, December 1, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Al Green’s H.R. 3716 – the Systemic Risk Authority Transparency Act. This bill requires banking regulators and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to issue timely reports to Congress after a bank failure leading to a systemic risk determination by the Treasury Department, detailing what went wrong and why regulators took the actions they did. It mandates two detailed reports from each relevant entity to ensure transparency and help Congress improve the safety and soundness of similar institutions. 

You can access and listen to Congressman Al Green’s speech on his official YouTube page or by clicking here. The floor speech highlighted is also accessible on various social media platforms, including Bluesky,Facebook,Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter).  

Congressman Al Green Held a Press Conference Urging Immediate Swearing-In of the Winner of the Texas 18th Congressional District Special Election Amid Possible Government Shutdown

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Houston, TX) —Today, Thursday, January 29, 2026, Congressman Al Green held a press conference to address the seating of a new Member of Congress for Texas’s current 18th Congressional District, a seat that has been vacant for nearly a year, and to underscore the urgent need for the elected Member to be sworn in without delay amid a possible government shutdown. Congressman Green warned of the harmful impact continued delays would have on the district’s representation during the remainder of the 119th Congress, similar to what occurred with the delayed seating of Representative Adelita Grijalva. The letter is accessible by clicking here. The press conference took place via Facebook live stream.

Congressman Al Green stated, “The people of the 18th Congressional District have gone nearly a year without representation, and that must end as soon as possible. A government shutdown does not excuse delaying the swearing-in of a duly elected Member of Congress. Constituents deserve immediate representation, and House leadership has a clear responsibility to ensure the voters and voices of Texas’s 18th District are heard without further delay.”

Congressman Al Green to Hold a Press Conference Urging Immediate Swearing-In of Winner of January 31 Congressional Election

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Houston, TX) Today, Congressman Al Green will hold a press conference with live streaming, urging the immediate swearing-in of the winner of the 18th Congressional District Special Election amid a possible government shutdown. At the press conference, Congressman Green will share a letter with the public, sent to the Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, addressing this issue. The press conference will take place via Facebook live stream at 1:00 p.m. CT.

Congressman Al Green stated, “The people of the 18th Congressional District have gone nearly a year without representation, and that must end as soon as possible. A government shutdown does not excuse delaying the swearing-in of a duly elected Member of Congress. Constituents deserve immediate representation, and House leadership has a clear responsibility to ensure the voices of the 18th District are heard without further delay.”

Click here to watch the Facebook Live Stream of the event.

Congressman Al Green’s Statement Condemning the Attack on Congresswoman Ilhan Omar

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Houston, TX)—Today, Congressman Al Green released the following statement condemning the recent attack on Congresswoman Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, warning that the escalating actions and rhetoric of the DHS and ICE under the Trump administration have created a dangerous climate that threatens public safety and democratic norms. Congressman Green addressed this issue on the floor of the House on January 9, 2026, wherein he stated that he fears for the lives of the American people and his own. You can access his remarks by clicking here

Congressman Al Green stated, “I strongly condemn the attack on Congresswoman Omar. The harmful policies and rhetoric stemming from ICE and the DHS under the Trump administration, which continues to disseminate falsehoods that fuel hatred and foster invidious discrimination, have resulted in chaos on our streets and multiple deaths. This escalation in harmful conduct and rhetoric has resulted in a Member of Congress being physically attacked. Violence is unacceptable, and federal agencies, as well as the President, must be held accountable when their actions and rhetoric endanger lives and undermine our democracy.”

Moolenaar, Slotkin, Bergman, & Peters Secure National Drone Testing Site for Michigan

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

Headline: Moolenaar, Slotkin, Bergman, & Peters Secure National Drone Testing Site for Michigan

Today, the Department of Defense announced that the National All-Domain Warfighting Center (NADWC) in Michigan as a national unmanned aerial systems testing site. Congressmen John Moolenaar and Jack Bergman, and Senators Elissa Slotkin and Gary Peters helped secure the designation from the Department of Defense. 

“Michigan is ready to lead the nation in drone innovation, testing, and manufacturing,” said Moolenaar. “Today’s announcement is an important step forward as we reenergize Michigan’s defense manufacturing industry. It will harness Michigan’s private sector innovators, manufacturing expertise, and advanced training facilities to help strengthen our national security.” 

“When it comes to the next chapter of American defense innovation, I’m betting on Michigan,” said Slotkin. “From the assembly line to advanced manufacturing, our state has always stepped up. Today, as drones reshape our national security, Michigan’s selection as a national drone testing site further solidifies our state as the center of this transformation. Michigan is the proof that cutting-edge defense technology can be designed, tested, and built with American supply chains, right here at home.” 

“Unmanned aerial systems are now a critical component of modern warfighting,” said Bergman. “I’m proud that Northern Michigan’s defense assets will play a key role in ensuring our Service Members can test and refine the most advanced unmanned aerial technologies. The unique geography and unparalleled capabilities of the National All Domain Warfighting Center are truly world-class, and it is encouraging to see the Department of War fully recognize the potential of NADWC and the surrounding region. I look forward to continuing our partnership to ensure our warfighters have access to the best systems and training anywhere in the world.” 

“Drones play an integral role in modern-day warfare, and the National All-Domain Warfighting Center in Northern Michigan is an ideal training ground to test these technologies and help ensure we maintain our air superiority around the world,” said Peters. “I was proud to work alongside our Michigan delegation to push key Department of Defense officials and secure this new designation, which will only further cement Michigan as a key asset of our national defense strategy into the future.” 

NADWC, the largest joint training range east of the Mississippi River, spans nearly 150,000 acres and 17,000 square miles of special use airspace, providing year-round multi-domain drone testing.
 
  

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Oregon Lawmakers Demand Homeland Security Withdraw its Federal Agents from Portland After They Tear-Gassed Oregonians

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden today led a letter with U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley and U.S. Reps. Suzanne Bonamici, Andrea Salinas, Janelle Bynum and Maxine Dexter demanding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) withdraw its federal agents from Portland and stop inflicting violence on the American people in Oregon, Minnesota and nationwide.  

The letter from the Oregon lawmakers to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem comes after the federal forces deployed by the Trump administration unleashed harmful chemical munitions and life-threatening projectiles this past weekend in Portland on Oregonians exercising their First Amendment rights in broad daylight.  

“DHS agents indiscriminately launched tear gas, pepper balls, rubber bullets, and flash-bang grenades into a peaceful and planned gathering of labor groups, including nurses, teachers, and their families. We and our constituents watched in horror as federal agents aggressively tear-gassed children and elderly members of the community,” the lawmakers wrote. “The chemicals and projectiles used by your agents also threatened the health and safety of nearby residents.  These people presented no threat, violated no law, and posed no danger to federal agents.  Attacking our communities is not law enforcement: it is a blatant suppression of people’s constitutional rights.  No lawful justification exists for such reckless and excessive use of force.  We firmly oppose the actions of federal agents using deadly force against the very people they are sworn to protect and serve, and so should you.” 

Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Salinas, Bynum and Dexter said in their letter to Noem that her department’s continued violent suppression of free speech has led directly to the murder of two U.S. citizens in broad daylight in Minneapolis, and the reckless conduct of federal agents has led to the deaths of countless immigrants in DHS custody.  

“We have every reason to believe your continued lawless, paramilitary operations on our streets will be deadly for Oregonians,” they wrote. “This administration lacks any legal basis to continue its failed campaign of inciting violence in our communities, whether in Oregon, Minnesota, or anywhere else in America.  Your violence has already wounded and killed too many people in U.S. cities.  Therefore as elected representatives who swore the same oath you did to uphold the Constitution, we demand you immediately end using excessive force against our communities and withdraw your federal agents from Oregon.” 

“The Oregon congressional delegation will use every tool at our disposal to protect all community members, who deserve to feel and be safe,” the Oregon lawmakers concluded. “No one in our community should live in fear of federal agents attacking them on their streets as punishment for exercising their constitutional rights.  We will do everything in our power to defend the rights of Oregonians, including our immigrant communities, and we will work with our state and local community leaders, and partners across the nation, to continue peacefully countering the Trump administration’s lawless abuse of power.” 

The entire letter is here.

 

A web version of this release is here.