Rep. Panetta Urges Administration to Reverse Cuts to Hispanic-Serving Institutions

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) joined 80 Members of Congress in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon opposing the Administration’s decision to rescind federal resources from Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), including Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), and divert them to other programs.

The Administration’s decision to rescind funding threatens programs that provide critical support to students at the University of California, Santa Cruz, California State University, Monterey Bay, Monterey Peninsula College, and Cabrillo College.  Since 2015, Hispanic-Serving Institution grants have supported services to over 13,000 students in California’s 19th Congressional District. 

The letter underscores how MSIs, including HSIs, educate millions of first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students across the country. The lawmakers warn that cutting resources to HSIs would disproportionately harm students who rely on these schools for affordable, high-quality higher education.

“In the 19th Congressional District, Hispanic-Serving Institutions like UC Santa Cruz, CSU Monterey Bay, Monterey Peninsula College, and Cabrillo College play a critical role in increasing access to opportunity for students across our community,” said Congressman Panetta. “This letter demonstrates the importance of HSIs to our progress as a nation.  That is one of the many reasons why we will continue to push back against these cuts and demand sustained federal investment in these types of colleges that are beneficial for our communities and our country.”

On September 10, the Administration announced that it would rescind and reprogram funding for Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions (Title V Part A) and Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans (Title V Part B) grants. These programs provide federally recognized HSIs with resources to expand academic offerings, strengthen student support, and improve degree completion. The HSI designation means that at least 25 percent of undergraduates at a given institution are Hispanic or Latino. 

The letter text can be read here

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Rep. Panetta Participates in Congressional Delegation to India to Strengthen Economic and Security Ties

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

San Jose, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) recently traveled to India as part of a congressional delegation to meet with senior government and business leaders and discuss trade issues.  As a member of the Trade Subcommittee of the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Panetta continues his fight to reclaim the Constitutional authority over trade by participating in these types of trade delegation trips.  Over the course of the visit, the delegation focused on how the United States and India can address shared economic and security challenges while deepening their long-standing partnership.

In discussions with Indian officials, the delegation focused on harmful tariffs by this Administration, the potential for a trade deal, changes to America’s H-1B visa program, and the ongoing tensions in South Asia, particularly Indo-Pakistan relations, and the need for continued dialogue and cooperation to promote regional stability.

“Our countries continue to face challenges when it comes to trade, tariffs, immigration, and security that impact both our economies and global stability,” said Rep. Panetta.  “This type of trade delegation trip demonstrates America’s will and desire to work with India to modernize our economic relationship and promote peace in the region so, ultimately, we can find solutions that serve our people and strengthen our shared values.  The Congressional visit reinforced that a strong U.S.-India partnership is essential not only for our nations, but for the broader international community.”

The delegation’s itinerary took them across India’s capital in New Delhi, the historic city of Agra, and the financial hub of Mumbai. The numerous engagements with Indian government officials, academics, and business leaders highlighted opportunities for collaboration on trade, technology, clean energy, and supply chain resilience that bolster the long-standing ties between the two democracies.

Rep. Panetta underscored that these international engagements inform his work back home in California’s 19th Congressional District, where access to global markets, fair trade, and workforce opportunities remain critical to the local economy.

Congressman Panetta and the Congressional Delegation at a meeting with Members of the External Affairs Committee in India’s Parliament 
Congressman Panetta and the Congressional Delegation aboard the INS Surat, Western Command, Mumbai

 

Congressman Panetta and the Congressional Delegation at a Meeting with Indian Business Leaders
Congressman Panetta at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, located at Raj Ghat in Dehli

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Quigley Statement on National Guard Deployment to Chicago

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

Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley released the following statement in response to Donald Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard to Chicago to support ICE enforcement activities:

“The people of Chicago are already reeling from escalatory ICE raids. Trump is now ratcheting up tensions when we should all be lowering the temperature. He is using our service members as political props during a shutdown where they are working without pay. The deployment of hundreds of ICE agents and National Guard troops is not only unnecessary, it’s costing us millions of tax dollars. None of it is making us safer. This isn’t about protection, it’s about power. 

“Deployment of National Guard troops to U.S. cities is illegal. As a Trump-appointed judge recently said, ‘This is a nation of Constitutional law, not martial law.’ I strongly support Governor Pritzker and Attorney General Raoul’s suit against the Trump Administration’s unconstitutional actions. I also recognize that the courts move slowly and the administration has a record of flouting the law. I continue to encourage my fellow Chicagoans to remain peaceful, know their rights, report wrongdoing, and continue pushing back.

“The city of Chicago and the state of Illinois will not stand by while the Trump Administration terrorizes our neighbors. I will continue to call for accountability and oversight of ICE and National Guard troops, and we will stand with our neighbors to peacefully protest Trump’s illegal actions.”

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Quigley Statement on the Anniversary of the October 7th Attacks

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

Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley released the following statement on the second anniversary of the October 7th attack on Israel.

“Two years ago today, Hamas abducted 251 innocent Israelis, and their brutal attack claimed 1,200 lives. Today, Hamas still holds 48 hostages in Gaza. For the people of Israel and for the global Jewish community, the grief and fear of that day is still raw. October 7th remains the worst attack on Jewish life since the Holocaust.

“In the aftermath of the 2023 attack, we have also seen a rise in antisemitism around the globe, including horrifying, violent assaults on Jewish individuals. It is imperative that we call out these acts when they occur and do our part to stamp out bigotry in all its forms.”

 

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Quigley & Pritzker Statement on Trump Withholding Billions in Funding for Chicago Transportation Projects

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

Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker released the following joint statement, after the Trump administration decided to withhold $2.1 billion in approved funding for the Red Line Extension and the Purple & Modernization Program:

“Trump and Project 2025 Architect Russ Vought are weaponizing the Republican Shutdown to try to cut billions in already-approved funding to expand and improve Chicago’s public transit system,” said Chicago Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05). “Trump’s effort to stop transportation infrastructure projects in Chicago and other cities will impact jobs, slow economic growth, and make life harder for millions of Americans. Chicagoans pay more in federal taxes than they will ever get in return. This is our money, and as a leader in transportation funding, I will fight to make sure we get it back.”

“At a time when federal agents are sowing chaos in Chicago, the Trump administration is holding bipartisan funding hostage,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Using transportation funding to score political points doesn’t just hurt the hardworking people who rely on public transit to get to work or school—it weakens our economy, drives away investment, and makes it harder for businesses to thrive. Illinois is entitled to this funding, and I will continue to stand up to these reckless attacks on Illinois working families and communities.  

Quigley Statement on Republican Government Shutdown

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

Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement as the federal government entered a wholly preventable shutdown, driven by the Republican majority’s refusal to negotiate with Democrats:

“Republicans had two choices: come to the table with Democrats or shut down the government. They chose to shut it down. American families will bear the consequences.

“Trump and Republicans are choosing to let low-income women and children go hungry while Trump wastes millions of taxpayer dollars sending hundreds of federal agents to Chicago. It could not be clearer that Republicans care more about political theater and spreading fear than they do about helping Americans.

“I’ve been very clear about my demands. Republicans must extend tax credits that make health care more affordable, restore Medicaid funding, and prevent Trump from making illegal cuts in the future.

“I want my constituents to know that my offices will be fully operational throughout this government shutdown. We are available to hear your comments and concerns, process casework, and help constituents navigate this hectic time.

“I will not stop fighting for my constituents. I am ready to negotiate a bipartisan deal at any time, but I refuse to cave to the demands of a wannabe king.”

Congressman Williams Introduces Legislation to Restore Efficiency and Transparency to the ATF

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) introduced the Reducing Unnecessary Slowdowns in Handling (RUSH) Act. This legislation codifies clear, statutory timelines for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to approve license and permit applications.

“Under the Biden Administration, we witnessed the weaponization of the agency’s approval process. By being inconsistent, burdensome, and lacking transparency, Biden’s ATF stood in the way of law-abiding citizens receiving permits they are eligible for,” said Congressman Roger Williams. “The RUSH Act will protect the efficiency, accountability, and fairness that the Trump Administration has worked to implement, without increasing government spending. It is our responsibility to ensure law-abiding Americans and businesses will not suffer unnecessary delays under future administrations.”

Click here to view the bill.

Background:

  • Under current law, the ATF has no statutory deadlines for license and permit approvals, leaving applicants uncertain and often waiting months without clear explanations.

  • The RUSH Act sets firm timelines: 60 days for Federal Firearms Licenses (FFLs) and 90 days for all other ATF-granted permits, including explosives licenses.

  • The bill mandates quarterly reports to Congress and the public outlining application processing times, reasons for denials, and reasons for delays.

  • By holding the ATF accountable, the legislation improves transparency and consistency without increasing federal spending.

Supporting Organizations: Institute of Makers of Explosives

Original Cosponsor: Barry Moore (AL-1)

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Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

Congressman Williams Co-leads Resolution Condemning Attacks on ICE Officers and Facilities

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), along with Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07), Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), and Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17), introduced a resolution condemning the growing wave of violent attacks against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers and facilities while reaffirming congressional support for ICE’s mission to protect national security and public safety.

This resolution comes in response to a string of recent attacks, including the September 24, 2025, deadly shooting at an ICE field office in Dallas, Texas, where detainees were struck, killing one and critically injuring two. Other recent incidents include riots at ICE facilities in Illinois and Oregon, bomb threats, and violent assaults against federal officers across the country.

Specifically, the resolution:

  • Condemns violent attacks and threats against ICE officers, facilities, and detainees.

  • Reaffirms Congress’s support for ICE’s mission and acknowledges the difficult and dangerous work its agents perform daily.

  • Calls on DHS, DOJ, and other federal and local law enforcement partners to investigate and prevent violence, strengthen coordination, and address digital threats such as doxxing of ICE personnel.

  • Urges public officials and media figures to reject rhetoric that incites hostility toward law enforcement and instead encourage responsible discourse. 

“The heinous targeted attacks on our ICE facilities and officers are unacceptable and must never be tolerated. These men and women put their lives on the line every day to uphold the rule of law, protect our borders, and keep American families safe,” said Congressman Williams. “I am proud to support this resolution, as we stand firmly behind ICE’s mission and will continue to support their critical work to defend our national security and enforce our immigration laws.”

“ICE officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our nation, enforce our immigration laws, and safeguard our communities,” said Congressman Fry. “It is unacceptable that ICE agents are being targeted for upholding the laws of this country. Congress must send a clear and unmistakable message: violent attacks will not be tolerated, reckless rhetoric will not be excused, and we will stand firmly with those who protect us every day.”

“Our ICE officers and facilities have been hit with an unprecedented wave of violent threats this year,” said Congressman Pfluger. “Radical leftists would rather see the criminal illegal aliens that the Biden administration let in our country continue to wreak havoc in our communities than support the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every single day to uphold our laws and defend American citizens. As Americans, we must protect our ICE agents and equip them with the tools, resources, and equipment they need to carry out their mission effectively. Any attack on our law enforcement will not be tolerated.”

“The attack in Dallas was a horrific act of political violence directed at those who put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” said Congressman Sessions. “I am grateful for the men and women of ICE and federal law enforcement who serve with courage every day no matter the circumstances. Political violence has no place in America, and we must stand united in condemning these attacks and support those who keep our nation safe.”

Fox Digital coverage can be found here.

Full text of the resolution can be found here.

Congressman Williams Pens Letter to United Nations Ambassador Waltz Condemning Recent Rhetoric Regarding Famine in Gaza

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) led a letter to Mike Waltz, Ambassador of the United States Mission to the United Nations, expressing significant concern about the United Nations’ rhetoric regarding the famine in Gaza.

“We are deeply concerned that the United Nations’ recent efforts to legitimize the terrorist-led Palestinian regime and its political theater,” said Congressman Williams. “As America’s voice at the U.N., we call on the Honorable Mike Waltz to resist efforts to whitewash Hamas’ human rights abuses. When the U.N. ignores a manufactured famine used to control a population, it abandons its founding principles. The United States stands with our biggest ally in the Middle East, Israel, and must make clear that terrorism cannot masquerade as humanitarianism.”

Background:

  • Read the full letter here.
  • Co-Signers: Barry Moore (AL-01), Greg Steube (FL-17), and Chuck Edwards (NC-11)

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Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

Pallone, NJ Democrats Demand Investigation Into Trump Admin’s Illegal Release of Rep. Sherrill’s Military Records

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)

Washington, D.C.– Congressman Frank Pallone (NJ-06) today led New Jersey’s Democratic congressional delegation in demanding an immediate investigation into the Trump Administration’s illegal release of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill’s military personnel records. The lawmakers called on the Chairmen of the Armed Services, Oversight, and Veterans’ Affairs Committees to open a full probe into what they describe as a dangerous effort to weaponize the federal government and meddle in New Jersey’s upcoming gubernatorial election.

“As a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Congresswoman Sherrill served our Nation with distinction and honor. The illegal release of any servicemember’s full, unredacted military records violates the Privacy Act of 1974. That is why your committees must launch investigations into this remarkable Trump Administration failure,” the members wrote.

Congresswoman Sherrill, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and former Navy helicopter pilot, served the nation with distinction before continuing her career as a federal prosecutor and now a Member of Congress. Her colleagues say the unlawful disclosure of her full, unredacted records – including her Social Security number and sensitive information about her family – represents a brazen abuse of power intended to tarnish her reputation for political gain.

“This unprecedented act is a serious violation of privacy – from putting her Social Security number on nearly every page to disclosing sensitive personal information about her family – and a blatant breach of clear protocols for handling sensitive and classified documents. This is a dangerous and corrupt attempt to weaponize the federal government for political purposes and meddle in New Jersey’s fall elections. Determining all individuals involved in this illegal act and punishing them to the fullest extent of the law is essential to restoring public trust and reassuring current and former servicemembers that their privacy will not be violated by their own government, nor will their military service be misconstrued for partisan gain,” the members wrote.

The letter underscores Congresswoman Sherrill’s bipartisan record of delivering results for New Jersey’s 11th District, particularly her work on the House Armed Services Committee on behalf of Picatinny Arsenal and military families. The Members pledged to assist the committees as they begin their investigative work and urged regular updates on progress.

The full New Jersey Democratic congressional delegation joined Pallone on the letter: Sen. Cory Booker, Sen. Andy Kim, Rep. Donald Norcross, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Rep. Herb Conaway, Rep. LaMonica McIver, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Rep. Nellie Pou, and Rep. Rob Menendez.

Full letter is here and below:

Chairmen Rogers, Bost, Comer, Wicker, Paul, and Moran: 

We write demanding the immediate opening of an investigation into the illegal release of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill’s military personnel records. As a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Congresswoman Sherrill served our Nation with distinction and honor. The illegal release of any servicemember’s full, unredacted military records violates the Privacy Act of 1974. That is why your committees must launch investigations into this remarkable Trump Administration failure.  

Today, we learned that records linked to Congresswoman Sherrill’s military service were illegally released as part of an unsuccessful attempt to tarnish her reputation. This unprecedented act is a serious violation of privacy –  from putting her Social Security number on nearly every page to disclosing sensitive personal information about her family – and a blatant breach of clear protocols for handling sensitive documents. This is a dangerous and corrupt attempt to weaponize the federal government for political purposes and meddle in New Jersey’s fall elections. Determining all individuals involved in this illegal act and punishing them to the fullest extent of the law is essential to restoring public trust and reassuring current and former servicemembers that their privacy will not be violated by their own government, nor will their military service be misconstrued for partisan gain.

Congresswoman Sherrill has a well-documented record of serving our country as an officer in the Navy, a federal prosecutor, and a Member of the United States House of Representatives. She has a proven track record as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, where she has worked diligently in a bipartisan manner to deliver results for Picatinny Arsenal and the constituents of New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District.

Under no circumstances should any veteran who answered the call of duty to serve our country have to worry about their sensitive military records being leaked and used as part of a political smear campaign. We demand that you open an investigation into this illegal act and use the full extent of your investigative authorities to shine a bright light on this inexcusable and illegal act. 

We stand ready to assist you in any possible way, and ask that you regularly provide us with updates as your committees work through the investigative process.

Sincerely,

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