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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

EVANSTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement in observance of Labor Day: 

“This Labor Day, I mark the tremendous progress of America’s workers and recommit to fighting for the justice, dignity, and fairness that all workers deserve in the workplace. As a dues-paying, proud union member myself, I know firsthand the power of collective action and the need to protect workers’ rights to organize, bargain, and thrive.”

“Labor Day is not just a celebration of our victories, but it is also a reminder of the work that needs to be done. The middle class was created by unions. They gave us the 40-hour workweek, fair wages, workplace protections, and the voice every worker needs. But these hard-fought victories are still in danger.

“What we are witnessing today from the Trump administration is an all-out assault on workers and unions. From appointing anti-union members to the National Labor Relations Board, to attacking federal worker protections, and even interfering with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, one of our most trusted sources of economic data. President Trump and his ultra-wealthy buddies are going out of their way to hurt working families.

“But we are not turning back. Workers are unionizing in record numbers across the country, pushing back against union-busting, and demanding more, and I stand with them every step of the way.

“Let us honor Labor Day not just with words, but with action. That means passing the PRO Act, raising the minimum wage, expanding the right to organize, and ensuring no worker is left behind. Today is not only about the legacy of labor, but its future.”

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

Headline: Congressman Moolenaar Introduces Patriot Week Resolution

Today, Congressman John Moolenaar introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate September 11 through 17 as Patriot Week. The legislation honors the victims of the 9/11 attacks and encourages each generation to reflect on our history and freedoms. 

“Patriot Week is a time to reflect on our nation’s founding values, encourage a deeper exploration of our nation’s history, and remember the innocent lives lost on 9/11. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution to recognize this week as Patriot Week; to encourage Americans to celebrate the freedoms we cherish and honor our Constitution,” said Congressman Moolenaar. 

Patriot Week was founded in 2009 by Judge Michael Warren of Oakland County, Michigan, and his daughter Leah to promote public awareness of our nation’s founding. Patriot Week begins on the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks and concludes on Constitution Day, September 17. Moolenaar’s resolution was co-sponsored by Congressmen Pat Ryan (D-NY) and John James (R-MI). Congressman Moolenaar’s Patriot Week resolution can be found here. 

Earlier this year, Moolenaar introduced the Adams Memorial – Great American Heroes Act, which recognizes our nation’s founding by constructing a monument in Washington, D.C. to our nation’s second President, John Adams, and his family. 

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

Headline: Moolenaar Votes to Support Service Members, Restore Peace Through Strength

Today, Congressman John Moolenaar voted in favor of H.R. 3838, the Streamlining Procurement for Effective and Delivery (SPEED) and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026. The legislation re-establishes peace through strength by supporting members of the military and their families, and restores the military’s focus on preparedness and warfighting. 

“The NDAA is vital to support our brave men and women in uniform and ensure our military remains the strongest fighting force in the world. This legislation restores peace through strength, deters our adversaries, and improves the quality of life of our troops with a well-deserved pay raise,” said Moolenaar. “I am grateful my amendments to compete with the Chinese Communist Party were included in the legislation. These amendments add crucial provisions that protect American taxpayer dollars from funding research that would directly benefit China’s military. I will continue my work to support our military and keep our country safe.” 

The National Defense Authorization Act is passed annually by Congress to direct policy and authorize funding for the Department of Defense. Five amendments submitted by Moolenaar were adopted and passed by the House. A list of his amendments lead by Moolenaar can be found below.

1. SAFE RESEARCH ACT OF 2025— The Securing American Funding and Expertise from Adversarial Research Exploitation Act of 2025— Prohibits federal research awards from going to individuals or institutions with affiliations or partnerships with hostile foreign entities, including those listed on U.S. government entity lists (e.g., the Department of Defense 1260H List and the BIS Entity List). Requires applicants to disclose past foreign ties, funding, and activities. Imposes ongoing restrictions on sharing research results with adversaries and mandates congressional notification of any national security waivers.
2. INITIATIVE ON STUDYING ADVANCED ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, NATIONAL SECURITY, AND STRATEGIC COMPETITION— Directs the Department of Defense to establish an initiative to prepare to fully harness the transformative potential of advanced artificial intelligence, modernize adoption plans, assess the national security and defense implications of advanced artificial intelligence, and analyze strategic competition factors relating to the People’s Republic of China’s pursuit of advanced artificial intelligence.
3. ASSESSMENT OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE OWNED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE DEPENDENT ON FOREIGN MATERIALS OR COMPONENTS— Directs the Secretary of Defense to develop and maintain a classified and prioritized list of high-risk DoD critical infrastructure dependent on materials or components from foreign countries of concern and conduct a comprehensive risk assessment. Requires biennial classified briefings to Congress with findings, strategies, and recommendations to strengthen supply chain resilience and reduce reliance on vulnerable foreign sources.
4. THINK TWICE ACT OF 2025— The Tracking Hostile Industry Networks and Kit While Thwarting Weapons Imports From Chinese Entities Act of 2025— Directs the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, to submit an annual report analyzing arms sales facilitated by entities in the People’s Republic of China, including their technical capabilities, proliferation risks, and impact on U.S. interests. Requires the report to include a strategy developed by the Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense to dissuade purchases of new Chinese weapons systems and defense equipment, including reforms to U.S. sales processes, information campaigns, and potential deterrent measures.
5. FUNDING FOR SMART SUSCEPTOR TECHNOLOGY— Authorizes $5 million through RDTE for Smart Susceptor Technology and offset by decreasing the Washington Headquarters Services account.

The legislation provides service members with a 3.8% raise, and codifies over 30 executive orders signed by President Trump earlier this year, including those restoring meritocracy, cutting wasteful spending, and securing the southern border.

More information about the FY26 NDAA can be found here. The legislation passed the House or Representatives in a bipartisan vote of 231 to 196.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN)

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) released the following statement following the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

“Charlie Kirk dedicated his life to America. He engaged Americans of all backgrounds, but especially young people, in the great democratic debate that is a cornerstone of our constitutional republic. Our Founding Fathers envisioned a democratic republic where political differences could be vigorously and freely debated, and Charlie exemplified this every day throughout his life.”

“The belief that anyone can speak their mind and engage in the political process without fear of violence is foundational to America. Every American must loudly and firmly condemn political assassination and make their voice heard that we cannot tolerate politically motivated violence to exist anywhere in our society. We have witnessed too many instances of political violence in our country – from the 2017 Congressional Baseball Shooting that targeted me and my colleagues, to President Trump’s two assassination attempts, the murders of two Israeli embassy staff in DC this past May, and now Charlie Kirk’s targeted shooting.”

“We must come together. We must reject political violence. We must pray for healing throughout our nation.”

“Please join me and Brenda in praying for Charlie, his wife, young children, and his loved ones.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

Washington, D.C. –  Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement after she voted in support of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act:  

“This week’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) advances my commitment to President Trump’s peace through strength agenda and restores American superiority worldwide.  The new Axis of Evil that is China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea continues to threaten global stability and American lives, and these adversaries must be deterred.  My vote on this legislation does just that by rebuilding a lethal fighting force that can better confront these bad actors and protect our national security.  The NDAA secures our border by supporting the fight against drug trafficking to the tune of $900 million, including $398 million for DoD support of Counter Narcotics operations.  This legislation supports our servicemen and women and their families with a much-needed raise that honors our commitment to their patriotism and many sacrifices in on behalf of our nation.  It also requires a sexual assault nurse examiner at all military medical facilities.

“We also fought to include critical funding for initiatives that will protect American communities from the threat of enemy attack, such as the cutting-edge Golden Dome missile defense system.   Also included is funding for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative that will further our military posture in the Indo-Pacific and blunt China’s ongoing aggression, and unprecedented support to help Israel address ongoing terrorist threats like Hezbollah and Hamas while stopping Iran from gaining a larger foothold in the Middle East.

“Our St. Louis region is well-represented in the NDAA, and I fought to include critical programs from our area such as 21 F-15EX tactical fighter aircraft, 14 T-7A trainer aircraft, and full funding for the Air Force’s F-47 and Navy’s F/A-XX 6th Generation Aircraft programs as well as for the Navy’s MQ-25 unmanned carrier-launched aircraft.  Also authorized is over $15 billion to restore our munitions stockpile, including JDAMs made here in Missouri.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of the National Defense Reauthorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. This legislation authorizes $862.6 billion for our nation’s national defense, in order to build a ready, capable, lethal fighting force to deter our adversaries and protect our homeland. After the legislation passed the House of Representatives, Congressman Cole released the following statement:

“During this time when our nation is facing so many threats from our adversaries, protecting our nation’s defense must remain a top priority. Today, I cast my vote to do exactly that. The Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA fundamentally reforms the defense acquisition system to equip our troops with needed capabilities in the quickest, most cost-effective manner, restores lethality and the warrior ethos to the military, secures America’s borders, improves servicemember quality of life by supporting the Trump Administration’s pay raise for our military members, builds and maintains the overmatch needed to deter China, and more – all while saving the taxpayers over $20 billion at the same time,” said Congressman Cole. “Today, Congress sent a clear message to the world: the United States stands strong, and our men and women in uniform stand ready to defend our nation.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement in remembrance of the tragedy that occurred in the United States of America on September 11, 2001:

“On September 11, 2001, our nation was forever changed when the United States was struck by horrific acts of terror at the World Trade Centers in New York City, the Pentagon in Virginia, and a field in Pennsylvania. Today, on the anniversary of this tragic day, I pause to remember and honor the 2,977 innocent lives lost too soon, the loved ones they left behind, the courageous first responders who acted with extraordinary bravery that day and continue to serve, the survivors who live with trauma to this day, and the countless Americans who came together in the face of tragedy to support one another,” said Congressman Cole.

“September 11, 2001 is a day I will truly never forget. While our country was deeply shaken, America itself was not broken. In the face of tragedy, we demonstrated resilience, unity, and strength – showing the world that even in our darkest hour, the United States will endure. That truth remains just as powerful today and every day,” said Congressman Cole. “So, as we remember and reflect on this horrific day, let’s do so with respect for those we lost, hope for a better future, and love for this great country we call home.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Lead Democrat of the U.S. Congressional Delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and Co-Chair of the Congressional European Union Caucus, released the following statement after Russian drones violated Polish airspace:

“Russia’s incursion into Polish airspace is a dangerous escalation and a direct test of NATO’s resolve. For the first time since the alliance was founded in 1949, allied forces engaged a hostile airborne threat, and NATO’s swift, united response sent a clear message of strength.

Vladimir Putin’s ambitions extend beyond Ukraine to the destabilization of NATO itself. Donald Trump’s refusal to hold Russia accountable and his undermining of our allies have only emboldened Putin. If President Trump truly wants to show he isn’t doing Putin’s bidding, he must condemn Russia’s aggression, back Ukraine, and stand with NATO. Anything less is weakness.”  

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

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) released a statement on the horrific school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, MN.

“My prayers are with the people of Minnesota, the victims, and their families after today’s horrific shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis,” said Congresswoman Adams. “Schools are supposed to be sanctuaries of education but in their first week back, two young students have already tragically lost their lives from another mass shooting.”

“America is the only developed country in the world where this continues to happen. We owe it to our children, teachers, and parents to act and we must act now. Their lives depend on it.”

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

WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Congresswomen Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Summer Lee (PA-12),and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) along with SenatorKirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), introduced the Closing the Meal Gap Act of 2025 aimed at addressing food insecurity by increasing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and allocating more funds to those with large medical and housing expenses.

The Closing the Meal Gap Act of 2025 changes the formula used to calculate SNAP benefits from the Thrifty Food Plan to the Low Cost Food Plan, increasing the average SNAP benefit amount. Currently, SNAP recipients receive an average of just $6.20 per person per day from the program and rising food costs consistently outpace SNAP benefits each year. In addition, the bill raises the SNAP standard medical deduction and SNAP shelter deduction caps, allowing recipients with large medical and housing expenses to access more SNAP funding.

“No one in America should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from, but SNAP benefits are simply not enough to put food on the table. As inflation and cost of living continue to rise, we should focus on strengthening SNAP, not making deep, reckless cuts that only worsen hunger in the United States,” said Congresswoman Adams, Senior Member of the House Committee on Agriculture. “The Closing the Meal Gap Act will help tens of millions of people—including seniors, people with disabilities, single mothers, veterans, and children—become more food secure and support their households. Hunger is a policy choice and today, we are choosing to provide for the people who need it most.”

“In the richest country in the world, it is unacceptable that over 40 million Americans, including 15 million children, still face hunger. We must do more to combat hunger in New York and across the nation,” said Senator Gillibrand. “That’s why I’m so proud to lead my Democratic colleagues in introducing the Closing the Meal Gap Act. By enhancing SNAP benefits, this vital legislation will help put food on the table for those who need it most. This is potentially life-saving, commonsense legislation, and I am determined to get it passed.”

“This legislation treats food as the fundamental necessity that it is,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “Our bill provides a long-overdue update to SNAP, ensuring the program meets the needs of families. Making access to nutritious foods easier, not harder, is a meaningful step towards ending hunger.”

“Hunger is a despicable policy choice in one of the wealthiest countries in the world,” said Congresswoman Lee. “As groceries are breaking budgets and wages remain stagnant, Trump and Republicans are shamelessly gutting SNAP and tearing food assistance from millions of families nationwide. That’s why I’m proud to reintroduce the Closing the Meal Gap Act with my colleagues to make life a little easier for working folks across the country and expand access to food assistance. Every Member of Congress should be taking meaningful steps to address the hunger crisis plaguing our country.”

“At a time when families are being crushed by the rising cost of living, Republicans have chosen to launch heartless attacks on SNAP slashing benefits and making it harder for millions to put food on the table,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “Hunger is not inevitable; it is the result of failed policies and misplaced priorities. The Closing the Meal Gap Act strengthens SNAP so families, especially those with children, and seniors don’t have to choose between paying rent, affording medicine, or eating dinner. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to fight back against these cruel cuts and make sure every household has access to the nutrition they need to live with dignity.”

The Closing the Meal Gap Act comes after Republicans in Congress made an unprecedented $186 billion in cuts to SNAP in their “One Big Beautiful Bill” earlier this year, threatening access to the lifesaving food security program for millions of Americans. The budget bill also cuts and restricts future updates to the Thrifty Food Plan, making the Low Cost Food Plan a better option to calculate benefits for SNAP recipients. In addition, it also removes internet service costs as an eligible deduction for SNAP benefits.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

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