MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

WASHINGTON – Last week, President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) budget request, which proposes to cut NASA’s overall budget by 23% and cut NASA’s Science Mission Directorate (SMD) by 47%. This request would also terminate more than 40 space missions, including the Mars Sample Return mission led by Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), a first-of-its-kind mission to return samples from Mars to Earth and unlock groundbreaking insights into the planet’s history and the potential for past life.

Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Don Bacon (NE-02), who co-Chair the bipartisan Congressional Planetary Science Caucus, released the following joint statement in response:

“We are deeply alarmed that the Administration is once again proposing significant budget cuts to NASA and its science programs. NASA Science supports thousands of jobs and is essential to U.S. national security and leadership in space exploration, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. These drastic cuts would create enormous chaos and uncertainty for critical missions, the scientific workforce, and long-term research planning. At the same time, current funding for NASA Science has not kept pace with inflation, underscoring the need for more investment, not less. That is why, just weeks ago, we led over 100 bipartisan House Members in a letter to appropriators urging increased funding for NASA Science, and we will continue working on a bipartisan basis to ensure NASA receives the full, sustained funding it needs to lead the world in discovery and exploration.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (D-NC-12) released a statement condemning President Donald Trump’s words and actions regarding the war in Iran.

“President Donald Trump continues to engage our country in reckless wars, putting the lives of our military in harm’s way without an objective or even a clear exit strategy.

“My fear at the start of his military action in Iran led me to support H.Con. Res. 38, a concurrent resolution directing the President to terminate the use of U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities against Iran or any part of the Iranian government or military unless a declaration of war or authorization to use military force for such purpose has been enacted.

“The unhinged threats of ‘A whole civilization will die tonight‘ shows a lack of leadership,” said Congresswoman Adams.

“Under President Trump the cost of living at home continues to rise and our nation’s reputation gradually lowers around the world.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Following the release of President Trump’s budget, which completely eliminates LIHEAP, Pappas and 73 members are demanding the rejection of this proposal

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

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today sent a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner demanding immediate answers regarding President Donald Trump’s recent executive order directing the United States Postal Service to restrict the delivery of absentee and mail ballots based on a federally compiled eligibility list and new ballot envelope requirements.

In the letter, Krishnamoorthi warns that the order would force USPS into an unprecedented and deeply troubling role in federal elections.

“These directives would place USPS in an unprecedented gatekeeping role — effectively determining which voters will receive ballots — despite longstanding constitutional principles that reserve election administration to the states and Congress.”

The letter raises serious concerns that requiring USPS to rely on federal citizenship databases and cross-reference state voter rolls could create administrative failures, delays, and confusion just months before the 2026 midterm elections.

“Moreover, requiring USPS—an entity with no traditional role in voter verification—to integrate and reconcile these disparate systems would impose significant administrative burdens, introduce new points of failure, and likely create delays or errors that could undermine voter confidence and disrupt election administration, particularly in the lead-up to high-turnout federal elections.”

Krishnamoorthi also noted that the executive order appears to rest on claims of widespread mail-ballot fraud that have repeatedly been disproven, with no credible evidence to support efforts to restrict ballot access through federal intervention. The letter further warns that involving USPS in determining voter eligibility would break sharply from its longstanding role as a neutral, nonpartisan carrier of election mail.

In the letter, Krishnamoorthi requested a detailed response to the following questions no later than Monday, April 20, 2026:

1. What legal analysis has USPS conducted regarding its authority—or lack thereof—to implement the directives contained in this executive order?

2. Has USPS received formal guidance from the Department of Justice or other federal agencies regarding compliance, and will USPS make that guidance available to Congress?

3. What operational changes would be required for USPS to implement these directives, and what are the projected impacts on mail delivery timelines nationwide?

4. What steps will USPS take to ensure that eligible voters are not disenfranchised due to administrative errors, delayed updates, or conflicts with state election laws?

5. Will USPS commit to maintaining its longstanding role as a neutral carrier of election mail and decline any responsibilities that require the agency to determine voter eligibility?

The letter is available here.

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

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today sent a letter to President Donald Trump following the President’s White House meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, expressing deep concern over Trump’s recent statements threatening to withdraw the United States from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and warning that any unilateral withdrawal would be both illegal under current law and dangerous to American national security.

In the letter, Krishnamoorthi underscores that Congress has already enacted binding statutory language prohibiting any president from unilaterally withdrawing from NATO without the consent of two-thirds of the Senate or an act of Congress. 

“Any unilateral U.S. exit from NATO would be both strategically reckless and blatantly illegal under current law. Moreover, your rhetoric on this issue risks strengthening our adversaries at the expense of our own security.” 

The letter further warns that even rhetoric questioning America’s commitment to the alliance risks undermining NATO’s deterrent power at a moment of heightened global instability. 

“Abandoning NATO would undermine U.S. credibility with allies and partners worldwide, embolden adversaries such as Russia and China, weaken collective deterrence at a time of heightened global instability, and erode decades of bipartisan American leadership in building a stable international order.” 

Krishnamoorthi also stresses that Congress acted on a bipartisan basis to ensure that dismantling one of the most consequential alliances in American history cannot be done by executive action alone. 

“Congress has acted to ensure that dismantling one of the most consequential alliances in American history cannot be done by executive action alone, and doing so would be flagrantly illegal.” 

The Congressman concludes the letter by urging the President to reverse course and reaffirm America’s commitment to the alliances that have preserved peace and security for generations.

The letter is available here.

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

This week, Representatives Ken Calvert (CA-41) andMike Quigley (IL-05) introduced the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Reauthorization Act (ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act) of 2026. The ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act will help people living with ALS continue to access promising treatments and further advance the scientific understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Today, the ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act was noticed for a hearing at the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee on April 15, 2026. 

“The ACT for ALS was a landmark law that gave hope to Americans impacted by ALS,” said Rep. Calvert. “It’s now critical that Congress builds upon that milestone by passing the ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act to continue our progress in researching cures and treatments. The courageous and extraordinary ALS advocates who helped us pass the ACT for ALS are a source of inspiration and the reason we have reached this moment. I appreciate the leadership of my fellow ALS Caucus colleague Rep. Mike Quigley in sponsoring this bill and working together with me to advance these bipartisan solutions.”

“Every dollar put towards ACT for ALS programs has improved our understanding of ALS and allowed people living with ALS to access promising treatments. We made great progress during the first five years of these programs, but ALS remains a 100% fatal disease. The federal government must continue supporting efforts to end this disease once and for all,” said Rep. Quigley. “The passage of ACT for ALS was one of the greatest accomplishments of my career. I am proud to work alongside Congressman Calvert, Senators Murkowski and Coons, and the incredible organizations fighting neurodegenerative diseases to ensure this work continues.” 

Quigley and Calvert’s legislation will reauthorize ACT for ALS programs for 5 years, codify the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) interpretation of Expanded Access Program eligibility guidelines, require a new FDA 5-year Action Plan, and require a new GAO report on the implementation of ACT for ALS programs in 2030.

In the Senate, the ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act is led by Senators Lisa Murkowski (AK) and Chris Coons (DE).

“ALS is a disease that takes from us: it steals movement, communication, and tomorrows,” said Senator Coons. “ACT for ALS funds research to stop ALS from claiming more lives and futures, and to give hope and new treatments to those already fighting its cruelty. I am grateful to Senator Murkowski and Representatives Quigley and Calvert for their partnership on this bipartisan reauthorization bill.”

“ALS is indiscriminate and devastating. It can strike any of us—and it will take all of us working together to support those affected and help end this terminal disease,” said Senator Murkowski. “As an ALS Caucus Co-Chair, I’m honored to introduce the ACT for ALS Reauthorization, which will break down treatment barriers and accelerate the research and development of therapies for those living with ALS.”

This legislation has been endorsed by I AM ALS, the ALS Network, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the ALS Association.

“This bill is urgent – because ALS doesn’t wait, and neither can we,” said Andrea Goodman, CEO of I AM ALS. “Since 2021, ACT for ALS has driven historic progress: unlocking critical funding, expanding access to promising therapies, and accelerating the path toward a cure. The ALS community united to pass this landmark legislation once, and together with partners and advocates nationwide, we will do it again. We are deeply grateful to the I AM ALS volunteer community and to Representatives Quigley and Calvert for their leadership in reintroducing the bill and their commitment to progress.”

“Every day, we hear from individuals and families navigating the realities of ALS, where time is incredibly limited and options are few,” said Sheri Strahl, MPH, MBA, president and CEO of the ALS Network. “Families do not have the luxury of waiting. ACT for ALS has already helped lay the groundwork for a more coordinated and effective approach to ALS research and for expanded access to investigational therapies for those who cannot participate in clinical trials. Reauthorization is essential to sustaining this momentum and ensuring that people living with ALS have every possible opportunity for progress while the search for breakthroughs continues. We are grateful to Representatives Calvert and Quigley for their leadership in advancing this critical effort.”

“The ACT for ALS has become a real-world test of whether our research and regulatory systems can move at the speed our community needs. Early results are very encouraging, but reauthorization is necessary to truly fulfill its promise to our community. The legislation introduced this week is a chance to not only further accelerate our rare neurodegenerative disease drug development approach, but also to provide a blueprint for how rare disease innovation should work going forward,” said Sharon Hesterlee, PhD, President and CEO, Muscular Dystrophy Association.

“ACT for ALS has already changed what’s possible for people living with ALS – and our volunteers and staff fought to make this reauthorization even stronger. More accountability. Fewer barriers. Faster pathways to get promising treatments to the people who need them. This bill reflects what our advocates demanded and what people living with ALS deserve: a commitment from the federal government that matches the urgency of this disease,” said Calaneet Balas, President and CEO of the ALS Association.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) delivered a letter to Chairman James Comer, urging the rescission of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee’s subpoena to former Attorney General Pam Bondi.

“After the cooperative briefing delivered by former Attorney General Pam Bondi and careful consideration of the totality of circumstances surrounding our investigative work, I recommend the immediate rescission of the subpoena issued pursuant to Congresswoman Nancy Mace’s motion during the Committee Hearing on March 4, 2026,” wrote Congressman Higgins.

“Our Committee’s investigation has made measurable progress through legitimate legislative oversight, and we are pursuing the truth judiciously. The former Attorney General’s in person, voluntary briefing to Committee was forthcoming and demonstrated the Executive’s willingness to work with Congress in good faith,” continued the letter. “It is my considered opinion that the subpoena is not required, and in fact is injurious to our oversight mission.”

Read the full letter here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) was recently celebrated for achieving a 100% rating on Heritage Action’s Scorecard for the 119th Congress.

The Heritage Action Scorecard tracks votes and co-sponsorships of key legislation to measure how conservative Members of Congress are. Read Rep. Higgins’ full scorecard here.

“In my congressional service to We the People, I stand by Constitutionalist principles every day,” said Rep. Higgins. “I’m honored to be recognized as one of the most conservative Members of Congress, and I will continue to fight for traditional Christian values in the America First agenda.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

Discovery ChalleNGe Academy serves 200 students annually with high graduation and future employment rates

Harder sent letter to the Pentagon demanding reversal of plans to close program, kill jobs, and strangle millions in economic activity

SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY – Today, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) announced that following his demands for an immediate reversal, the Pentagon has backed off of plans to close Discovery ChalleNGe Academy (DCA), a local school that has helped over 1,200 students graduate and start successful careers. Harder stepped in on plans to terminate the school in a letter to the U.S. Department of War, which funds the program, and successfully secured a commitment to reverse the termination ahead of the upcoming school year.

“This program means better grades, diplomas, and lifelong career success for the kids in our community who are struggling the most, and it’s insane that Washington bureaucrats thought they could get away with messing with our kids’ futures,” said Rep. Harder. “Every student in our community deserves access to the resources and support that they need to thrive. That’s why I immediately called out attempts to permanently close Discovery ChalleNGe Academy, and I’m relieved to see quick results that will save the school from closure.”

DCA is a lifeline for struggling students in the Valley:

• High-Impact Intervention – Through a partnership with the California National Guard and the San Joaquin County Office of Education, DCA provides a structured, 22-week residential program for local at-risk youth aged 16-18.
• Educational Excellence – Students in the program see their GPAs double on average, can earn high school diplomas, develop a wide range of technical skills, and go on to lead successful careers in and outside of the military.
• Community Force Multiplier – DCA contributes over 27,000 hours of local community service, supports dozens of jobs, and doubles the economic impact of every dollar invested in the program.

“We’re grateful for Congressman Josh Harder’s swift and decisive action to secure this outcome, along with Governor Gavin Newsom’s support and the coordinated efforts of our congressional delegation, whose work ensures this program can continue delivering for California’s youth,” said General Matthew Beevers, Adjutant General of the California National Guard.

“We are extremely pleased with the news that students across Northern California will continue to have access to the transformative program that is the Discovery ChalleNGe Academy (DCA). This program’s impact extends beyond achievement in the classroom. It builds dependable, responsible high school graduates and citizens who strengthen their communities,” said Dr. Troy A. Brown, San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools. “We are thankful for all the supporters who spoke in support of DCA, especially Rep. Harder and his team for their advocacy and sense of urgency in preserving this life-changing program.”

Read the full letter here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)

This week, Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05) and Ken Calvert (CA-41) introduced the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Reauthorization Act (ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act) of 2026. The ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act will help people living with ALS continue to access promising treatments and further advance the scientific understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Today, the ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act was noticed for a hearing at the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee on April 15, 2026.

“Every dollar put towards ACT for ALS programs has improved our understanding of ALS and allowed people living with ALS to access promising treatments. We made great progress during the first five years of these programs, but ALS remains a 100% fatal disease. The federal government must continue supporting efforts to end this disease once and for all,” said Rep. Quigley. “The passage of ACT for ALS was one of the greatest accomplishments of my career. I am proud to work alongside Congressman Calvert, Senators Murkowski and Coons, and the incredible organizations fighting neurodegenerative diseases to ensure this work continues.” 

“The ACT for ALS was a landmark law that gave hope to Americans impacted by ALS,” said Rep. Calvert. “It’s now critical that Congress builds upon that milestone by passing the ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act to continue our progress in researching cures and treatments. The courageous and extraordinary ALS advocates who helped us pass the ACT for ALS are a source of inspiration and the reason we have reached this moment. I appreciate the leadership of my fellow ALS Caucus colleague Rep. Mike Quigley in sponsoring this bill and working together with me to advance these bipartisan solutions.”

Quigley and Calvert’s legislation will reauthorize ACT for ALS programs for 5 years, codify the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) interpretation of Expanded Access Program eligibility guidelines, require a new FDA 5-year Action Plan, and require a new GAO report on the implementation of ACT for ALS programs in 2030.

In the Senate, the ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act is led by Senators Lisa Murkowski (AK) and Chris Coons (DE).

“ALS is a disease that takes from us: it steals movement, communication, and tomorrows,” said Senator Coons. “ACT for ALS funds research to stop ALS from claiming more lives and futures, and to give hope and new treatments to those already fighting its cruelty. I am grateful to Senator Murkowski and Representatives Quigley and Calvert for their partnership on this bipartisan reauthorization bill.”

“ALS is indiscriminate and devastating. It can strike any of us—and it will take all of us working together to support those affected and help end this terminal disease,” said Senator Murkowski. “As an ALS Caucus Co-Chair, I’m honored to introduce the ACT for ALS Reauthorization, which will break down treatment barriers and accelerate the research and development of therapies for those living with ALS.”

This legislation has been endorsed by I AM ALS, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the ALS Association.

“This bill is urgent – because ALS doesn’t wait, and neither can we,” said Andrea Goodman, CEO of I AM ALS. “Since 2021, ACT for ALS has driven historic progress: unlocking critical funding, expanding access to promising therapies, and accelerating the path toward a cure. The ALS community united to pass this landmark legislation once, and together with partners and advocates nationwide, we will do it again. We are deeply grateful to the I AM ALS volunteer community and to Representatives Quigley and Calvert for their leadership in reintroducing the bill and their commitment to progress.”

“The ACT for ALS has become a real-world test of whether our research and regulatory systems can move at the speed our community needs. Early results are very encouraging, but reauthorization is necessary to truly fulfill its promise to our community. The legislation introduced this week is a chance to not only further accelerate our rare neurodegenerative disease drug development approach, but also to provide a blueprint for how rare disease innovation should work going forward,” said Sharon Hesterlee, PhD, President and CEO, Muscular Dystrophy Association.

“ACT for ALS has already changed what’s possible for people living with ALS – and our volunteers and staff fought to make this reauthorization even stronger. More accountability. Fewer barriers. Faster pathways to get promising treatments to the people who need them. This bill reflects what our advocates demanded and what people living with ALS deserve: a commitment from the federal government that matches the urgency of this disease,” said Calaneet Balas, President and CEO of the ALS Association.