MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) and Congressman Tom McClintock (CA-5), co-chairs of the Congressional Iran Human Rights and Democracy Caucus, today released the following statement:

“In yet another horrifying display of brutality, the Iranian regime has executed two political prisoners—Behrooz Ehsani, 69, and Mehdi Hassani, 48—early on Sunday, July 27. This act of repression underscores the regime’s relentless assault on human rights and its unyielding commitment to suppress dissent.

“These executions, carried out after a sham trial by the regime’s judiciary, were announced with a troubling lack of shame, reflecting the depths of the Iranian government’s disregard for human life and fundamental freedoms. 

“As Co-chairs of Congressional Iran Human Rights and Democracy Caucus, we stand in solidarity with the courageous individuals who continue to fight for justice and liberty in Iran. We must hold the Iranian regime accountable and support the people of Iran in their pursuit of freedom.

“We urge our colleagues and all those committed to human rights to speak out against these acts and to amplify the voices of the oppressed and reaffirm our commitment to the fundamental rights and dignity of all individuals.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

Calls on FAA to Disavow Flawed Evacuation Study, Implement EVAC Act, and Launch New Testing Effort

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN – Yesterday, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens visited Traverse City, Michigan to meet with farmers and growers to discuss the struggles they are facing from the Trump administration, and how she can work in Congress to fight for Michigan farmers to create jobs, protect Michigan agriculture, and lower costs.

Congresswoman Stevens spoke at the American Sugar Symposium’s 40th Annual Sweetener Symposium and then toured Michigan State University’s Northwest Michigan Horticultural Research Center, meeting with farmers and growers from the area.

See below for more:

 

Congresswoman Stevens spoke at the American Sugar Symposium’s 40th Annual Sweetener Symposium about the importance of manufacturing for sugar farmers, and her life’s work to bolster Michigan manufacturing.

 

Congresswoman Stevens met with farmers and growers and toured an orchard at the MSU Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Center to discuss how she can best help them as they struggle with rising costs caused by the Trump administration.

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

U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement calling for the United States to recognize a Palestinian state:

“I am deeply horrified by the reporting and images coming out of the Gaza Strip. The killing of civilians and the forced starvation of thousands are abhorrent and must come to an end. To date, more than 60,000 Palestinians have died in this conflict, half of whom are women and children. More than 130 people have died of hunger. More than 1,000 have been shot while waiting for aid. More than 145,000 have been injured. The situation is untenable.

“The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, whose operations violate fundamental humanitarian principles, has proven incapable of safely delivering the humanitarian aid necessary to prevent mass starvation. Israel must immediately shut down this failed aid delivery apparatus and allow independent international actors to manage aid delivery, stop limiting the entry of humanitarian aid, allow a massive surge in food and medical supplies to enter Gaza, and take additional drastic steps to coordinate and facilitate the delivery of aid by other trusted, independent aid organizations. President Trump should leverage his relationship with Netanyahu, follow through on his word, and spearhead a U.S. effort to set up safe, accessible food centers in Gaza.

“Since October 7, I have consistently upheld Israel’s right to defend itself and have repeatedly called on Hamas to immediately and unconditionally release the hostages, and I reiterate this call today. But how Israel conducts itself in this war matters greatly. Over the past 18 months, I have become increasingly concerned by the rhetoric coming from some members of Netanyahu’s cabinet. This includes individuals like Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, who have called for an end to humanitarian aid, “voluntary migration,” total occupation of the Gaza Strip, and the end of the effort to reach a two-state solution—all of which is tantamount to ethnic cleansing.

“The U.S. has failed to uphold and enforce international law. This must change. All future aid provided by the U.S. to Israel must face stringent oversight and review.

“I have also been deeply alarmed by the serious escalation in settler violence and settlement expansion in the West Bank. Israeli settler encroachment in the West Bank should come to an immediate end, violations and violence must be prosecuted fully by the Israeli government, and the U.S. government should sanction all perpetrators of this instability.

“The events of the last 20 months have made clear – Israelis and Palestinians will never be secure if the Israeli government continues to prevent the Palestinian people from having basic rights and dignity, with a state of their own, alongside Israel. The continuation of this conflict has empowered some of the worst forces in the two societies, and while those of us who want a better future for Israelis and Palestinians cannot wish it into existence, we can do our part to demonstrate a path towards a new horizon. 

“Decisive steps are necessary to ensure the prospect of a Palestinian state does not slip away. Today, I am calling for the United States to officially recognize a Palestinian state. This not only ensures a peaceful future for the region but also the safety and security of both Palestinians and Israelis. While recognition cannot in one sweeping stroke create a state, and much work remains to be done, I issue this call to reaffirm my commitment to Palestinian self-determination and to make clear that Americans remain dedicated to ensuring the rights of the Palestinian people to a national homeland are recognized, respected, and fulfilled.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

MISSION, KS — Today, Representative Sharice Davids brought together local leaders and transportation organizations for a roundtable discussion on the upcoming 2026 surface transportation reauthorization bill. The event is part of Davids’ ongoing efforts to ensure that Kansans have a strong voice in shaping national infrastructure policy.

“When we invest in infrastructure, we’re investing in our communities — safer roads, better transit, and more good-paying jobs,” said Davids. “The bipartisan infrastructure law, which included the last surface transportation reauthorization, launched more than 370 projects here in Kansas. I want to make sure the next bill reflects the real needs of our region, and that starts by listening directly to the local leaders I spoke with today.”

Surface transportation reauthorizations are critical pieces of legislation that determine how federal dollars are invested in highways, transit, rail, and safety programs over multiple years. These investments affect the daily lives of Kansans — reducing congestion, improving road safety, and supporting regional economic growth. Long-term planning also gives states and cities the certainty they need to move forward with large-scale, job-creating projects.

“The Chamber applauds Representative Sharice Davids and the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee for advancing the Surface Transportation Reauthorization bill,” said Libbey M. Tucker, Senior VP-Economic Development, Overland Park Chamber of Commerce. “This legislation delivers critical investments — like continuing support for improvements along U.S. 69, 167th Street reconstruction, College and Metcalf Boulevards, and other infrastructure enhancements — that directly benefit Overland Park’s residents and businesses by improving safety, reducing congestion, and spurring economic growth in our region. By ensuring stable, long term infrastructure funding, this bill helps strengthen the quality of life and competitiveness of our local community.”

“As Congress begins the process of reauthorizing our nation’s highway and surface transportation programs, Kansas Farmers Union (KFU) appreciates the opportunity to share priorities for the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization. Family farmers and ranchers depend on our nation’s highways, bridges, railways, and waterways to transport food, animals, and other agricultural products,” said Nick Levendofsky, Kansas Farmers Union Executive Director. “Throughout our history, Farmers Union members have relied on this system to move products to market and to reach export destinations that drive demand for U.S. agricultural products globally. This is why a robust transportation network is essential for rural America’s continued economic prosperity.”

“Surface transportation reauthorization is essential to sustaining infrastructure development in Kansas and nationwide,” said Aaron Frits, Incoming Director, Region 7, American Society of Civil Engineers. “As identified by ASCE, it fuels economic growth, supports businesses, and helps reduce the $3,300 annual cost per U.S. family caused by neglected investment. Reauthorizing this funding stream benefits every citizen and strengthens the economy.”

“Whether it be by road, rail or barge, safe and well-maintained transportation routes are vital for production agriculture to succeed,” said Ronald C. Seeber, President and CEO, Kansas Grain and Feed Association. “The modes enable the movement of farm inputs, grain, biofuels and livestock from the field to the consumer.  In Kansas, the role county, state and interstate roads play are incredibly important to facilitate short haul truck transportation, particularly of perishable products, while short line and Class I rail service play a pivotal role in moving bulk commodities over longer distances.  The 2026 reauthorization of the surface transportation act is essential for Kansas, our nation, and the world.”

“Reauthorization of the federal surface transportation program is critical for corn farmers that rely on safe, efficient highways, railways, and waterways to move their products from field to market,” said Taylor Williamson, Director of Policy and Regulatory Affairs, Kansas Corn. “Whether used domestically or destined for international markets, strong infrastructure is critical to ensure timely delivery, reduced costs, and maintain America’s agricultural competitiveness. We appreciate Representative Davids’ efforts to allow agriculture to remain engaged and have a voice in this issue.”

The bipartisan infrastructure law, which included the previous surface transportation reauthorization, has created more than 370 projects statewide. Championed by Davids through her work on the U.S. House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, the law has funded major efforts like the expansion of U.S. Highway 69, lead pipe replacement in Olathe, safety improvements in KCK, and the purchase of electric buses for KCATA. It’s been recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as the most fiscally responsible infrastructure bill in a decade, thanks to its blend of new revenues and cost-saving measures.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

Today, following the conclusion of last week’s National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) three-day investigative hearing into the tragic January midair collision between Flight 5342 from ICT to DCA with a military helicopter, Representative Sharice Davids issued the following statement:

“I’m grateful to the National Transportation Safety Board for their thorough, transparent, and thoughtful work,” said Davids. “Their diligence and professionalism reflect the seriousness of the midair collision that took 65 lives and the importance of ensuring our skies are safe for everyone — whether in commercial, general, or military aviation. With so many Kansas families connected to the aviation industry — through jobs, training, and innovation — we know firsthand how vital air safety is to our economy and our communities. I look forward to reviewing the findings and recommendations that come from this hearing and will continue working with both parties in Congress to support aviation safety and oversight.”

Background:

The public hearing examined airspace classification, pilot training, collision avoidance technology, and safety management systems in the wake of the Jan. 29, 2025, collision between a PSA Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter that claimed 65 lives.

Since the January 29, 2025 collision that claimed 65 lives, Davids has taken several steps to improve aviation safety:

• Met with the victims’ families in Wichita and pledged to be a voice for transparency and reform in the investigation.
• Pressed FAA and NTSB experts in a U.S. Transportation & Infrastructure Committee hearing on air traffic controller shortages and safety protocols.
• Toured the Olathe Air Traffic Control Center to highlight critical staffing needs and renew her call for increased investments in aviation safety infrastructure.
• Responded to initial NTSB recommendations with a commitment to act on any legislative fixes needed to keep passengers and crew safe.

Davids serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and has long championed bipartisan efforts to strengthen transportation safety standards, including by helping pass into law a bipartisan FAA reauthorization.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

SHAWNEE, KS — Today, Representative Sharice Davids completed a supply chain tour across Kansas’ Third District to highlight how supporting local farms and food businesses helps lower grocery prices for Kansas families. From farm visits to kitchen incubators to local grocery stores, Davids met with producers and entrepreneurs working to strengthen our local food system.

“When we invest in our local food systems, we’re not just supporting farmers and producers — we’re lowering costs at the checkout line, creating good-paying jobs, and making sure families in Kansas have access to fresh, healthy food,” said Davids. “I’ve heard from folks across the community who want more affordable options and more control over where their food comes from. Strengthening the local agriculture supply chain helps us do both. I’ll keep working to support the people who grow, raise, and sell food right here in Kansas.”

Why strengthening the local agriculture supply chain matters:

• Lowers grocery costs: Local food cuts out middlemen, reducing fuel, labor, and distribution expenses.
• Delivers fresher food: Produce grown and sold locally lasts longer, reducing waste and giving consumers more value for their money.
• Boosts local economies: Money spent on local food stays in the community, supporting small businesses and creating more jobs — 13 jobs per $1M in local sales compared to 3 in non-local.
• Builds resilience: A strong local supply chain is less vulnerable to global disruptions and price shocks.

“It is important to support local food producers because this keeps the money circulating in the local economy as well as helps to create more jobs,” said Brooke Franklin, Owner, Franklin General Store. “Local food has a shorter trip to make through the supply chain which makes for fresher, more nutrient dense food. Rep David’s work on the Agriculture Committee can help to bring more awareness to increase support for the local food supply chain and Kansas Farmers and food producers.”

“We appreciate the efforts of Representative Davids to keep food and essential supply costs within reason as local foods, whether grown, processed or packaged, keep communities and their economies strong and vibrant,” said Bryan Severns, Manager of Food Programs and Services, K-State Olathe. “These issues are especially important to the food-based businesses using The Food Innovation Accelerator at K-State Olathe as their operations are directly affected by price increases.”

“We appreciate Representative Davids’ support of Kansas farmers and the dedication to strengthening the local food supply chain,” said Beau & Crystal Stude, Owners, Courage Farms LLC. “The pandemic of 2020 revealed how fragile our food system is, highlighting the need for resilient, community-based agriculture. Representative Davids’ work on the Agriculture Committee helps ensure that Kansas families have access to affordable, reliable food while supporting the backbone of our rural economy.”

Today’s tour showcased the full scope of the Kansas ag supply chain, including:

• A visit to Courage Farms in Fontana, followed by a roundtable discussion with southern producers and small food business owners in Kansas’ Third District.
• A tour of the K-State Olathe campus kitchen incubator, where Davids met with local entrepreneurs bringing Kansas-grown food to market.
• A stop at the Franklin General Store in Shawnee, where Davids spoke with producers who supply the store with locally sourced goods.

Davids was joined on the tour by Kansas State Extension, Kansas Rural Center, K-State Olathe, Courage Farms, Grace Heritage Farms, Table View Farms, Lionberry, Casa Tampico, Mo Pie, Purple Meadows Lavender Farm, Black rose Coffee, Pat & Rachel’s Garden, Gibbs Road Farm, Franklin General Store, Art’s Molino & Market, and CST Sweets.

Davids has made lowering the cost of groceries for families and small businesses a priority in Congress, including by: 

• Supporting the bipartisan Healthy Poultry Assistance and Indemnification (HPAI) Act, which ensures fair compensation for all farms affected by avian flu, including those in both infected and buffer zones.
• Urging the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to begin enforcing the Robinson-Patman Act to prevent corporate price discrimination that is driving up grocery costs for consumers.
• Voting to pass the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act to shore up the food and agriculture supply chain, assure fair competition in the meat and poultry sectors, and lower food and gasoline costs for consumers.
• Supporting the Price Gouging Prevention Act, legislation ensuring large corporations can’t take advantage of consumers at the grocery store.
• Holding multiple roundtables with Kansas businesses, manufacturing, and technology leaders on how recent legislation to improve supply chains will help boost their business’ financial security.
• Working a “Sharice’s Shift” at a local Price Chopper, where she helped store employees unload deliveries from shipping trucks, stock grocery shelves, and bag groceries. 

To support Kansas producers, Davids has also embarked on a Farm Bill listening tour, where she visited a poultry and livestock operation in Anderson County, a co-op in Franklin County, a goat farm in Miami County, an organic vegetable farm in Johnson County, and an educational community farm in Wyandotte County. Davids also toured a Garnett-based renewable ethanol producer, participated in FFA activities at Spring Hill High School, served a school lunch at Black Bob Elementary in Olathe, spoke with industry leaders on financial support programs for farmers, toured a dairy farm in Garnett, and more.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

Last week, administration asked U.S. Supreme Court to allow research cuts

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California

Walnut Creek, CA – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) announced he will host a virtual town hall with special guest California Attorney General Rob Bonta on defending constitutional rights and protecting Californians from the Trump Administration’s harmful policies on Tuesday, August 5^th at 5:45 p.m. PT. 

Since President Trump was inaugurated in January, Attorney General Bonta has filed more than 30 lawsuits on behalf of Californians against the Administration’s illegal and unconstitutional policies. Congressman DeSaulnier and Attorney General Bonta will discuss recent successes in the courts and in Congress and the path ahead to check the President’s abuses of power. They will also take audience questions live. 

Virtual Town Hall 
Tuesday, August 5^th
5:45 – 6:45 p.m. PT
Hosted on Zoom 
Streamed to YouTube

To reserve your spot and receive a Zoom link or to request special accommodations, visit https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660. 

This will be Congressman DeSaulnier’s 240^th town hall and mobile district office hour since coming to Congress in January 2015.

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 after former Oklahoma Governor and longtime politician George Nigh passed away at the age of 98:

“It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of an Oklahoma political legend, former Governor George Nigh. Nigh served as Governor of Oklahoma on four separate occasions, two short stints when others left the office early followed by two full terms from 1979-1987. He also served four complete terms as Oklahoma’s Lieutenant Governor, several terms in the state House of Representatives, and five years as President of the University of Central Oklahoma in the 1990’s. 

“A talented public speaker, Nigh was a gifted politician, a gregarious and tireless campaigner, and an upbeat and optimistic leader. It was impossible not to like George Nigh and respect him as a person. Indeed, he may well have been the most personally popular political figure in Oklahoma history. He did not win every race he ran, but he was always a gracious loser and, more often, a magnanimous winner — two qualities that Oklahoma voters and political opponents appreciated. 

“Nigh had a quick and easy wit. When I told him on one occasion that he had been the speaker at both my high school graduation in 1967 and the ceremony where I was awarded my Ph.D in 1984, he immediately quipped, ‘I hope I didn’t use the same jokes twice!’ Then, when I reminded him that I had been his opponent’s deputy campaign manager in 1982 — an election in which my candidate became the only Republican gubernatorial nominee in Oklahoma history to lose all 77 counties — Nigh had a quick retort. ‘At least I helped you set a record that no one can break,’ he said with a grin.

“George Nigh and I belonged to different political parties and had some sharp political disagreements over the years. However, I always respected his personal decency, his sunny disposition, his commitment to public service, and his deep love for the people and the state of Oklahoma. I join his many friends and admirers in mourning the passing of a good man and a great Oklahoman,” said Congressman Cole.

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