Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)
GAINESVILLE, FL — Congresswoman Kat Cammack led 14 of her colleagues in a letter to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack about needed USDA actions to support farmers and rural communities devastated by Hurricane Helene. The letter requests FSA strike teams, the use of more accurate rainfall data, and disaster aid provided through block grants.
Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region at the end of September and made its way through the southeastern United States, impacting Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee.
“We write to request that the U.S. Department of Agriculture to take swift action to support our farmers and rural communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Specifically, we request that the USDA deploy Farm Service Agency (FSA) strike teams to the hardest-hit areas, providing much-needed personnel to assist with recovery efforts. Additionally, we urge the Risk Management Agency (RMA) to collaborate with local stakeholders and utilize regional rainfall data to ensure more accurate assessments for damage and crop insurance claims. Finally, we request that USDA disaster aid be provided to affected states through block grants. This will allow states the flexibility to administer relief tailored to the specific needs of their producers and communities. These actions will be critical to ensuring a swift and effective recovery for our agricultural communities,” write the lawmakers in the letter.
Florida Reps. Neal Dunn, Aaron Bean, Gus Bilirakis, Byron Donalds, Scott Franklin, Laurel Lee, Cory Mills, Mike Waltz, and Daniel Webster joined Rep. Cammack on the letter. Congressmen Rick Allen, Austin Scott, and Buddy Carter of Georgia, Virginia Foxx of North Carolina, and Morgan Griffith of Virginia also joined.
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
October 07, 2024
Transfer of $350 million in federal funding secured by lawmakers to FHWA moves MassDOT further toward replacing the Sagamore Bridge
Boston, MA – Continuing the momentum on replacing the Cape Cod Bridges, the Healey-Driscoll Administration signed a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the U.S. Department of the Army and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to move forward on rebuilding the Sagamore Bridge. Senator Warren has led efforts to secure these funds for the Bourne and Sagamore Bridges, pressing the federal government to take action to replace these crucial pieces of infrastructure.
Under the agreement, the USACE will transfer $350 million in federal funding secured through the 2024 appropriations bills to the Federal Highway Administration. The FHWA Eastern Federal Lands Division will use the funds to construct a portion of the new Sagamore Bridge as part of MassDOT’s overall replacement project.
The Sagamore Bridge is vital infrastructure supporting the economy of Cape Cod and surrounding communities and ensuring safe and reliable travel for residents, workers, and millions of annual visitors. The new MOA will help to further the current plan to begin construction on the Cape. The Sagamore Project is Phase 1 of the Cape Cod Bridges Program, rebuilding both the Sagamore and the Bourne Bridges while also making investments in other transportation infrastructure along the Cape Cod Canal and expanding travel options.
“We’re one step closer to replacing the Cape Cod Bridges—a decades-overdue project that will lift up the entire region,” said Senator Warren. “An investment this big is made possible only by teamwork, and it’s thanks to our strong federal, state, and local partnership that we were able to secure over $2 billion for the bridges. I’ll keep working closely with Senator Markey, Representative Keating, Governor Healey, and the delegation to get this crucial project to the next stage.”
“We continue to make important progress in our efforts to rebuild both Cape Cod Bridges. After securing $1.72 billion in federal funding, we’re now moving forward with an agreement with the U.S. Department of the Army and the Federal Highway Administration that will allocate a crucial piece of that funding and allow us to begin construction on the Sagamore Bridge,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We’re grateful to our MassDOT team, as well as our Congressional delegation and federal partnerships for their continued partnership and commitment to delivering this project for the people of Massachusetts.”
The project will help to spur economic growth and development, improving safety and quality of life for both the region and state. This project is critical to the Cape Cod economy, and the bridge will be a connector to other assets on a local, state, and national level.
Senator Warren, Senator Markey, Congressman Keating, and the Massachusetts delegation secured a total of $1.72 billion in federal funding for the bridge replacement project. In July, MassDOT won $1 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s (BIL) Bridge Investment Program, and in December 2023, MassDOT won $372 million from the BIL’s Federal Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant Program. Senator Warren, along with the Massachusetts Delegation, secured $350 million for the bridges in the Fiscal Year 2024 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, which was signed by President Biden. Governor Healey has also pledged $700 million in state support.
“This project has always been about partnership, and we thank the Healey Administration, the Congressional delegation and the Biden-Harris Administration for their unwavering support and funding. We look forward to working with partners and stakeholders in the region to begin the next steps to making this project a reality,” said Massachusetts Transportation Secretary & CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt.
Senator Warren has long advocated for federal investments in the Cape Cod Bridges project and other critical infrastructure projects across the Commonwealth:
In July 2024, Senator Warren, along with Senator Ed Markey, Rep. Bill Keating, and Governor Maura Healey, announced the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) had awarded the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and Army Corps of Engineers a billion-dollar grant to replace the Cape Cod Bridges under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Bridge Investment Program.
In March 2024, the entire Massachusetts congressional delegation sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, reaffirming their support for Massachusetts’ billion-dollar Bridge Investment Program (BIP) grant application to replace the Cape Cod Bridges, in light of the $350 million in funding from the FY 2024 funding package signed by President Biden and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s $372 million Mega grant.
In March 2024, Senators Markey and Warren and Congressman Keatingsecured $350 million for the Cape Cod Bridges in the Fiscal Year 2024 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act.
In December 2023, following the advocacy of the delegation, the Department of Transportation awarded Massachusetts a $372 million grant through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s National Infrastructure Project Assistance (MEGA) program toward the replacement of the Sagamore bridge.
In May 2023, Senators Warren and Markey and Representatives Keating and Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, urging him to exercise his authority to support installation resilience in order to provide funding for the replacement of the Bourne and Sagamore Bridges.
In March 2023, Senators Warren and Markey announced and applauded the inclusion of $350 million, toward a commitment of $600 million, in President Biden’s budget for the Bourne and Sagamore bridges.
Source: US National Republican Congressional Committee
The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –
October 7, 2024
Today, October 7th, marks one year since Israel was senselessly attacked by Hamas. What is Vindman’s response to this attack? Nothing but disgusting rhetoric toward America’s ally:
Hamas kidnapped, raped, tortured, and murdered women, children, babies, the elderly, and the disabled, yet Vindman has never apologized for this.
The question remains: Does Vindman still think Israel should “restrain its bloodlust”?
“This disgusting rhetoric by Vindman is precisely why he is unfit to serve in Congress. Anyone who sees Israel this way should not represent Virginia’s 7th District.” — NRCC Spokeswoman Delanie Bomar
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
October 07, 2024
Text of Letters (PDF)
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.) wrote to the CEOs of Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and General Mills, pressing their executives on the companies’ pattern of profiteering off consumers, both through “shrinkflation” and dodging taxes on the profits they made from that price gouging.
All three of these companies have shrunk the size of their packaging to squeeze profits out of their customers, and then paid a very slim federal income tax on their billions of dollars in profits. In other words, the companies are sticking the American people with the bill twice over, with American families (1) paying higher prices for smaller packages of food, and (2) paying their taxes while big corporations like PepsiCo avoid chipping in their fair share to run our country.
It is clear that these big companies are engaging in shrinkflation. In fact, reporting indicates that one of the key reasons that General Mills’ profits continue to grow is because they’ve shrunk some of their packaging. For example, the “Family Size” box of Cocoa Puffs went from 19.3 ounces to 18.1 ounces while charging the same price, at least initially. Similarly, PepsiCo replaced its 32 oz Gatorade bottle with a 28 oz bottle for the same price. And Coca-Cola has openly told its shareholders that it had “earn[ed] the right” to hike prices for consumers because of their company’s market power.
“Shrinking the size of a product in order to gouge consumers on the price per ounce is not innovation, it is exploitation,” wrote the lawmakers. “Unfortunately, this price gouging is a widespread problem, with corporate profits driving over half of inflation.”
While these companies continue to profit off consumers, the company is also turning around and paying less of those profits in taxes than the families it price gouges.
According to a recent report by the Institute for Taxation and Economic Policy, from 2018 to 2022, Coca-Cola made $13.4 billion but paid an average effective tax rate of just 13.5 percent, General Mills made $12 billion but paid an average effective tax rate of just 14.8 percent, and PepsiCo made $22.4 billion but paid an average effective tax rate of just 15 percent. These tax rates are even lower than the corporate tax rate that was reduced from 35 to 21 percent by President Trump and Congressional Republicans in 2017.
“We strongly oppose these corporate tax giveaways, and have fought to pass tax increases on big corporations, including the 15 percent minimum tax on billion-dollar corporations,” wrote the lawmakers. “No corporation should pay a lower tax rate than working Americans – especially when that same corporation turns around and gouges consumers on the other end through shrinkflation.”
As a champion for American consumers and a secure and healthy economy, Senator Warren has engaged in oversight of corporations for unfairly increasing prices for consumers. She has also been calling for more competition and stronger enforcement of antitrust laws to bring down prices for families:
On February 15, 2024, Senators Warren, Baldwin, Casey, and U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) reintroduced the Price Gouging Prevention Act of 2024, which would protect consumers and prohibit corporate price gouging by authorizing the FTC and state attorneys general to enforce a federal ban against grossly excessive price increases.
In December 2023, Senator Warren urged the FTC to block the Kroger-Albertsons merger, which would give the five largest food retail companies control of 55 percent of all grocery sales, allowing them to further control and ultimately raise consumer prices, while also reducing job competition, decreasing wages, and decreasing the bargaining power of organized labor.
In November 2023, Senator Warren called out TransDigm for its refusal to provide cost and pricing information needed to prevent price gouging of taxpayers and the Department of Defense.
In November 2023, Senator Warren expressed disappointment at the FTC’s decision to allow pharmaceutical giant Amgen to move forward with its acquisition of Horizon Therapeutics (Horizon) given the potential impacts on the price of medicine.
In the past few years, Senator Warren has urged the Biden administration to closely scrutinize other potentially anticompetitive mergers that could lead to higher prices for consumers and accelerate industry consolidation. She has led letters about the proposed mergers of Frontier and Spirit airlines, JetBlue and Spirit Airlines, Sanderson-Wayne, WarnerMedia-Discovery, and Amazon-MGM.
In March 2022, Senator Warren introduced the Prohibiting Anticompetitive Mergers Act to help stomp out rampant industry consolidation that allows companies to raise consumer prices and mistreat workers. The bill would ban the biggest, most anticompetitive mergers and give the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission the teeth to reject deals in the first instance without court orders and to break up harmful mergers.
In February 2022, at a hearing, Senator Warren called out corporations for abusing their market power to raise consumer prices and boost profits.
That same month, Senator Warren requested the Department of Justice to take aggressive action against corporations violating antitrust laws to hike prices for consumers.
In January 2022, Senator Warren questioned Federal Reserve nominee Lael Brainard about market concentration and price gouging driving inflation.
At a January 2022 hearing, Senator Warren pressed Fed Chair Jerome Powell on the role of corporate concentration in driving up prices for consumers during his renomination hearing to be Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.
In a New York Times op-ed published in April 2020, Senator Warren urged Congress to focus on cracking down on price gouging in its ongoing effort to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
In March 2020, Senator Warren joined her colleagues in urging the FTC to use its full authority to prevent abusive price gouging on consumer health products during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Joe Wilson (2nd District of South Carolina)
Washington, DC – Congressman Joe Wilson issued the following statement on thepassing of Joe Pinner:
“The passing of Joe Pinner, the beloved ‘Mr. Knozit,’ will be recognized as an institution who inspired so many young people to achieve the highest of their abilities. Roxanne and I will always cherish dear friends Peggy and Joe so devoted to the Midlands community betterment.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Joe Wilson (2nd District of South Carolina)
Washington, DC – Congressman Joe Wilson issued the following statement regarding today’s meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy:
“Inspiring to see Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Trump Tower in New York City today where these two soulmates support Peace Through Strength in contrast to War Through Weakness of Harris/Biden. Alliance of Trump and Zelenskyy further confirmed as Trump provided Javelin Missiles to deter war criminal Putin, as well as placement of American troops in Poland. Trump also blocked Nord Stream 2 to stop financial enabling of war criminal Putin.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Joe Wilson (2nd District of South Carolina)
Washington, DC – Congressman Joe Wilson issued the following statement regarding Iran’s missile attack on Israel:
“Iranian missile attack on Israeli civilians is tragically another example of Biden-Harris weakness leading to war. Trump achieved Peace Through Strength with sanctions on the terrorist regime which should be reimplemented to stop terrorist fundraising. Additionally, secondary sanctions should be placed on all customers of the murderous terrorists. No Biden-Harris response to the Iranian puppet Hezbollah murder of the three U.S. soldiers from Georgia on Jan. 28th reveals appeasement and puts all Americans everywhere in danger of murder.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Joe Wilson (2nd District of South Carolina)
Washington, DC – Congressman Joe Wilson issued the following statement regarding the anniversary of the October 7th attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists:
“On this somber anniversary, Americans reaffirm our unwavering support for Israel and the right of its citizens and Jewish people around the world to live in peace. Our prayers are with the hostages and their families on this and every day. We will not rest until we bring them home and achieve victory over the Iranian regime and its puppets.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)
October 07, 2024
WASHINGTON, DC— Today marks one year since Hamas’ brutal massacre. Hamas murdered more than 1,200 Israelis, took 251 hostages – including American citizens – and perpetrated horrific acts of sexual violence against civilians. The violence unleashed on October 7 has spiraled out of control, engulfing innocent Israelis and Palestinians who’ve had their lives upended and families torn apart. The extent of the suffering cannot be overstated – Holocaust survivors have found themselves once again under attack, and civilians in Gaza have endured unimaginable pain as Israel has waged its military campaign against Hamas this past year. A necessary first step in ending this crisis and securing a negotiated ceasefire is for Hamas to release all remaining hostages. After 365 long days, both Israelis and Palestinians deserve a chance at peace.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Collins (R-Georgia 10th District)
Hurricane Helene has devastated parts of our state, and I wish you and your family well as you recover from any damage sustained in your neighborhoods. If you have been impacted, please know that you are not alone. If you require assistance or information, please view the below resources.
Local Resources
State Resources
Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA): 404-635-7200
Report damage to GEMA.
Hurricane Helene Cleanup Hotline: 844-965-1386
Check current highway conditions.
Federal Resources
To report crop loss or seek assistance regarding your farm, please contact your local USDA Service Center or call 877-508-8364. The following are USDA disaster assistance resources and links:
Apply for FEMA Assistance online or check your status by phone at 1-800-621-3362.
How to Apply for Individual Assistance
Homeowners and renters in Georgia’s 10th Congressional District communities of Elbert, Butts, and Newton counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance. Individual Assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, immediate housing and food needs, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of Hurricane Helene.
There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA Appor call 800-621-3362.
Understanding Your FEMA Eligibility Letter
If you applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Helene, you will receive an eligibility letter from FEMA in the mail or by email.
The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.
You may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:
Proof of insurance coverage
Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
Proof of identity
Proof of occupancy
Proof of ownership
Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster
If you have questions about your letter, or disagree with the initial decision, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, if available, or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.
How to Appeal
The letter from FEMA will provide information on the types of documents or information that FEMA needs. It will also include an optional appeal form that you can use. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.
You can appeal any FEMA decision or award amount by sending documents that show you qualify and need more help, like estimates for repairs, receipts, bills, etc. Each decision letter you receive from FEMA explains types of documents that may help you appeal your FEMA’s decision or award amount for that type of assistance.
Supporting documents may include:
Receipts,
Bills,
Repair estimates,
Property titles or deeds, or
Any other information that may support the reasons for the appeal.
What should I include on documents I send to FEMA?
All documents you send to FEMA as part of your appeal should include your:
Full name,
Current phone number and address,
Disaster Number (DR-4821-GA for Tropical Storm Debby) (DR-4830-GA for Hurricane Helene) and FEMA Application Number written on all pages, and
Address of the disaster-damaged home.
Receipts, bills and estimates must include the business name and contact information to help FEMA confirm the information.
Can someone appeal for me?
Yes. If you send a written explanation for the appeal that is written by someone other than you, it must include their signature. FEMA will need your written permission to share information about your application. You can do this by completing an Authorization for the Release of Information Under the Privacy Act form and sending it to FEMA.
How can I send documents?
You can send appeals or supporting documents to FEMA by:
Uploading to your disaster assistance account at DisasterAssistance.gov,
Mailing to FEMA, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)
WASHINGTON – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) released the following statement:
“On October 7th, 2023, I was getting ready to board a flight from Saudi Arabia to Israel along with several of my colleagues on a Congressional delegation. Then came the first reports and the continuing confirmations of the brutal and deadly attacks by Hamas that killed more than a thousand Israelis and saw hundreds more dragged into Gaza to be held as hostages. Our hearts sank with the realization that this was Israel’s 9-11. We were redirected back to the United States.
“But we weren’t there long. I returned to Israel alongside my friend Sen. Joni Ernst and once there we immediately visited the kibbutzim ravaged by the terrorists who carried out an unprovoked slaughter of civilians. We saw the blood stains and bullet holes on the walls of homes, while others were completely burned to the ground. We saw the ransacked possessions of the residents and the scattered toys of children. We were shown residences and told ‘there were no survivors.’
“One year later – and with the support of its strongest friends – Israel has rallied and rebuilt, answered anguish with action, and turned the tide against terror. It is a remarkable achievement that may indeed be the hinge of history turning.
“This is the time to not only stand with Israel but also offer more than the repeated rhetoric of supporting its right to defend itself. We must defend Israel’s very right to exist and to live in peace and security with its neighbors. But it will be – to borrow a phrase from Ronald Reagan – peace through strength.
“On this October 7th – just as with the last one – we need to say loud and clear: Israel Must Win.”
Please see Congressman Issa’s Op-Ed in the Washington Examiner today.
Today’s announcement is really what happens when different levels of government, the city and the federal government, work together for the people who we represent.
September 27, 2024
We are here with Team Scarborough, with three outstanding Scarborough MPs, Gary, John and Jean. I want to say to everyone here in Scarborough, they love this amazing community. And it’s really great to have two great Scarborough city councillors, Jamaal and Parthi, and as I said, wonderful to be here with the mayor. Today’s announcement is really what happens when different levels of government, the city and the federal government, work together for the people who we represent.
Every single elected person here is elected by people in Toronto to represent them. And I think we’re also glad to be coming together to talk about something that we’re doing together to make life better for people here.
I want to start by talking just for a minute about some good economic news we’ve been having in Canada in recent weeks. Inflation in August was 2 per cent. That’s a bull’s eye right in the middle of the Bank of Canada’s target range for inflation.
And in fact, inflation has been within the Bank of Canada’s target range all of this year. We have now had three interest rate cuts. Canada was the first G7 country to cut interest rates for the first time. We were the first G7 country to cut interest rates for the second time. And we were the first G7 country to cut interest rates for the third time. That is real relief for Canadians.
Wages have outpaced inflation for the past 19 months in a row. We have also, over the past two weeks, seen some real progress on mortgages and on housing affordability.
Our government has announced that we will be raising the level for insured mortgages from $1 million to $1.5 million—really relevant in a city like Toronto—and increasing the amortization for first-time homebuyers and for people buying a newly built home to 30 years.
What that means practically is, if you are a first-time homebuyer, if you’re buying a newly built home, you’re going to be able to do that with a lower down payment and you’re going to have lower payments every single month, because we know how important it is that the dream of homeownership needs to remain in reach for people living in this amazing city.
And then, we had some more good news for people with mortgages. And that is the announcement by OSFI this week that if you already have a mortgage and you are renewing it and it is an uninsured mortgage, you do not have to requalify with a stress test to switch banks upon renewal.
That’s a really big deal. It is going to give people who see a renewal up ahead and are worried about it some real choice, some real options. If you have an insured mortgage, it is already the case that you don’t need to requalify with a stress test upon renewal. You can look around for the best deal you can get.
So that’s some really good news for Canadians. It’s really good news for the people of Toronto.
I am really happy that inflation was 2 per cent in August. For the past eight months in a row, inflation has been within the Bank of Canada’s target range, and the Bank of Canada has already reduced its policy rate three times.
And then we have even more good news that we’re here to highlight: an announcement about the TTC and electric buses. And I really want to start by thanking all of the people at the TTC who have made this possible, who run this incredibly important transit system every single day. It really is the circulatory system of our city.
And I want to give a special shout-out to an amazing guy I met this morning. His name is Tony, he’s an electrical technician, he’s worked here for 40 years. He’s the guy in charge of these amazing charging stations that we are about to see in operation. And he was so proud to tell me about the work that he and his colleagues have done putting this system in place and making this system work. And he also was proud to tell me about his family. He has three beautiful daughters and five amazing grandchildren. And he does this work so that they can live in an amazing city and to support them and build a wonderful family here. He’s been working here for 40 years. Thank you very much Tony.
So the good news. Thanks to the hard work of Tony and his friends and colleagues here, and thanks to investments by the City of Toronto and the Government of Canada, we’re making a $700 million joint investment of which the federal government is contributing half, the City of Toronto half, in 340 zero emission buses and the amazing charging system that we see here behind us. The first two vehicles are here today.
We’re going to get on them and show them off and I am really looking forward to it. This is so important. This is about providing great transit for people in Toronto. It means you can get to work, you can get to school, you can get to see your friends and have fun. It means doing it in a way that is clean and green, and I’m really glad that there are some people here from Nova because we’re also supporting great jobs in Canada building these amazing buses.
Today’s investment builds on sustained investment by the federal government in this amazing city, including in public transit. Since 2015, we have invested more than $10 billion, $10.4 billion to be exact, in public transit in Toronto. We are really, really proud to do that, and we’ve invested $30 billion in transit projects across the country. We’re a growing country and we need to be investing so people can get around.
So it’s such a great pleasure to be here, to congratulate and to thank the amazing people who work here and to celebrate what we’re doing together with the City of Toronto, with my Toronto caucus colleagues, to improve the lives of Canadians, of Torontonians.
The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, and the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages, Marc Serré, will speak at the 2024 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Conference of Mining Regions and Cities.
Later that day, Minister Wilkinson will make a funding announcement in support of critical minerals infrastructure projects in Ontario. He will be joined by Parliamentary Secretary Serré and Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament for Sudbury. A media availability will follow.
Date: Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Time: 12 p.m. ET
All accredited media are asked to pre-register for the funding announcement by emailing media@nrcan-rncan.gc.cano later than 2 p.m. ET on October 8. A dial-in line is available for media and will be provided upon registration.
While it may be easy for patients to misunderstand the role of physician assistants, those who work with PAs are well aware how integral they are to care teams across many specialties.
“They’re our backbone,” says Karen Curley, senior director of nursing, who oversees UConn Health’s operating room.
From left: Alex Shaw, Kaitlyn Hill, Martha Grajewski, Meaghan Trzasko, Allyson Satkowski, and Jeffrey Reut are among the physician assistants who are part of the surgical teams in UConn Health’s operating room. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo)
“A good PA in the OR is invaluable,” says Rosemary Swanke, UConn Health’s program director of advance practice staff.
UConn Health employs 73 physician assistants throughout both the inpatient and outpatient enterprises; 40 of them are credentialed to work in the OR, which has seen an upward trend in volume as the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have subsided.
Their title can sound misleading, as if they are assistants to physicians. But see them in action in and you’re likely to draw a different conclusion.
I’m able to connect with patients and get them feeling better on one of their potentially worst days. — Martha Grajewski
“Many of the PAs at John Dempsey Hospital work as first assist in the OR in a variety of specialty areas, including neurosurgery, general surgery, orthopedics, pulmonary/oncology, and thoracic surgery,” Swanke says. “The PAs working in the OR are highly skilled in advanced intra-operative techniques. They are very familiar with our surgeons and the specialized techniques used in the OR. They are able to anticipate the next step in the procedure and assist the surgeon, significantly improving the efficiency of each operative case.”
“First assist” refers to a surgical role that is performed intraoperatively with the surgeon. Knowledge of the procedure, anatomy, surgical equipment and technical skills are required of a proficient first assist. This role complements the surgeon by providing exposure, suturing, anticipating the needs of the surgeon, and clear communication with the operative team.
Alex Shaw is lead physician assistant in UConn Health’s Division of Neurosurgery. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo)
Alex Shaw, lead PA for neurosurgery, describes a typical day on the job.
“If I am covering inpatient or the operating room, I’m rounding on patients and then discussing plans with the attending neurosurgeon, potentially going into the operating room, completing tasks such as discharges, consults, admissions, bedside procedures such as drain removals, and completing any other floor tasks requiring provider follow-up or assessment,” Shaw says.
Both Shaw and Martha Grajewski, lead PA for general surgery, have been in their lead roles for the last three years, and with that comes additional responsibilities beyond clinical, such as scheduling, hiring, orienting, and educating.
They normally work three shifts per week of 12 to 14 hours, rotating through days, nights, weekends, and holidays. Grajewski describes a typical day shift in general surgery.
Martha Grajewski is lead physician assistant in UConn Health’s General Surgery Division. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo)
“We start rounding on our admitted patients at 6 a.m.,” Grajewski says. “Following rounds, patients are discussed with attendings and we sign out the plans to our team, who will execute the patient’s plans for the day. This can include procedures, discharges, orders, reviewing imaging, or updating patients and their families on progress. Our OR cases start at 7:30. Each day is different and may include covering cases in the OR, completing consults, providing postoperative care or bedside procedures.”
Physician assistants are licensed clinicians who undergo rigorous training. They can prescribe medications, manage acute and chronic diseases, and perform bedside procedures in addition to first assisting in the OR.
“The neurosurgery advanced practice providers under the exemplary leadership of Alex Shaw are truly exceptional colleagues in helping optimize patient care in the inpatient, outpatient, and OR settings,” says Dr. Ketan Bulsara, chief of UConn Health’s Division of Neurosurgery. “The physician assistants provide a unique perspective given their training background.”
Shaw has been a PA for eight years, all at UConn Health, starting in general surgery, and now in her fifth year in neurosurgery.
“Here at UConn Health, I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing PA and APRN teammates,” she says. “The attending physicians and colleagues I work with as well have greatly contributed to further learning that I may not have received at another institution.”
Grajewski has been a physician assistant for 20 years, the last 13 at UConn Health, entirely in general surgery. She oversees the inpatient PAs covering general surgery, vascular surgery, plastic surgery, thoracic surgery and trauma/emergency general surgery.
From left: Erin Peters, Trevor McCarthy, Alex Shaw, and Anya Sweeney are among UConn Health’s surgical physician assistants. (Photo provided by Alex Shaw)
“Martha expertly handles multiple administrative tasks and scheduling issues while supporting a diverse clinical service,” says Dr. Brian Shames, chief of UConn Health’s General Surgery Division. “Her clinical skills are exceptional and she is a mentor for all of the young PAs on our service. She is an incredible team member, and I cannot imagine our service without her.”
Grajewski enjoys the team aspect of her job, working with, among others, attendings, residents, medical students, and nurses on the hospital floors to achieve the best patient outcomes. And that’s what she finds rewarding about being a physician assistant.
“I’m able to connect with patients and get them feeling better on one of their potentially worst days,” Grajewski says.
“Every day, we can see the positive impact we make on patients’ lives,” Shaw says.
Swanke points out that UConn Health has PAs working at high levels of expertise beyond the OR.
“Many are very skilled at performing procedures outside the OR in the ICU, on the hospital units, in clinic and in the ED,” she says. “Some of the physician assistants work in the clinics, seeing patients preoperatively and postoperatively in addition to assisting in the OR. They have many roles and areas of expertise throughout the hospital.”
Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
Funding comes from the Department of Veterans Affairs Adaptive Sports Grant Program
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet welcomed over $1.6 million in federal funding from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for eight Colorado organizations that offer adaptive sports, recreational activities, and equine therapy for veterans and service members living with disabilities. The funding comes from the VA’s’ Adaptive Sports Grant Program, which supports more opportunities for disabled veterans to play recreational sports and activities customized to better fit their needs.
“Adaptive sports give our wounded veterans a community and outlet for mental health,” said Hickenlooper. “This funding makes it easier for our disabled vets to hit the slopes and enjoy all the outdoor activities that make Colorado special.”
“Our veterans have sacrificed so much to keep our country safe, and we owe them our support after they have served. Colorado veterans deserve to live a full and independent life, and this funding will help wounded heroes access athletics and other recreational activities,” said Bennet.
“These grants give Veterans life-changing opportunities to participate in adaptive sports in the communities where they live all across the country,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “We know adaptive sports and recreational activities can be transformational for Veterans living with disabilities, improving their overall physical and mental health, and also giving them important community with fellow heroes who served.”
VA has awarded over $119 million in grants through the Adaptive Sports Grant Program during the last nine years. This program is one of VA’s many initiatives dedicated to improving the lives of those who have served.
A full list of selected organizations is below:
Location
Project Name
Amount Awarded
Sports
Westminster
Adaptive Adventures
$748,510
Alpine Skiing, Climbing, Cycling, Dragon Boat, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Snowboarding
Snowmass Village
Challenge Aspen
$230,100
Alpine Skiing, Archery, Biking, Fly Fishing, Snowboarding
Denver
National Sports Center for the Disabled
$145,394
Air Gun, Alpine Skiing, Archery, Biking, Boating, Climbing, Fishing, Hiking, Nordic Skiing, Rafting, Snowboarding
Vail
Vail Veterans Foundation, Inc.
$72,515
Alpine Skiing, Fly Fishing, Horseback Riding, Rafting, Rock Climbing, Snowboarding, Ziplining
Crested Butte
Adaptive Sports Center of Crested Butte, Inc.
$180,320
Alpine Skiing, Backpacking, Biking, Canoeing, Climbing, Cycling, Kayaking, Nordic Skiing, Paddleboarding, Rafting, Snowshoeing
Breckenridge
Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center
$105,637
Air Rifle, Archery, Boccia, Cycling, Golf, Kayaking, Powerlifting, Rowing, Sitting Volleyball, Table Tennis, Wheelchair Basketball
Colorado Springs
Archery School of the Rockies Inc.
$94,416
Archery
Fruita
Harmony Acres Equestrian Center
$67,201
Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he has directed the suspension of tolls across Central Florida and West Florida, as well as Alligator Alley, in preparation for Hurricane Milton. By suspending tolls in the impacted area, Floridians and visitors will be better able to quickly and safely evacuate if and when directed by local officials. Tolls will be waived for seven days beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, October 7, 2024.
“At my direction, tolls are suspended today as of 10:30 AM,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “With evacuation orders imminent, this will help keep traffic moving and be one less thing for people to worry about ahead of Milton.”
“The Department is committed to ensuring motorists can get where they need to go as quickly and safely as possible, especially in preparation for a major hurricane. Suspending tolls across the central and west part of the state and Alligator Alley offers an additional option for families to easily get out of the storm’s direct path,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “As Floridians finalize their evacuation plans for Hurricane Milton, FDOT reminds travelers to check FL511.com for the latest traffic conditions and potential road and bridge closures.”
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise (FTE) will suspend toll collection at 10:30 a.m. EST on Monday, October 7, for a seven-day period, with tolls being reinstated on Monday, October 14, at noon. The suspension may be extended as needed depending on evolving conditions.
Facilities included within the suspension order include:
Collier and Broward Counties
Alligator Alley
Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco Counties
Suncoast Parkway
I-4 Connector
Selmon Expressway
Veterans Expressway
Gateway Expressway
275 Express
Pinellas Bayway
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
Osceola, Orange, Lake, Seminole, Sumter and Polk Counties
Turnpike Mainline between I-75 (MP 309) and Canoe Creek Service Plaza (MP 229)
S.R. 453
S.R. 451
Wekiva Parkway
Apopka Expressway
Beachline Expressway
Central Florida Greeneway
East-West Expressway
I-4 Express
Western Beltway
Osceola Parkway
Poinciana Parkway
Southern Connector Extension
Seminole ExpresswayPolk Parkway
Toll facilities for FDOT, FTE, Central Florida Expressway Authority, and Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority are included with this suspension.
FDOT is actively implementing Emergency Shoulder Use along Interstate 4 (I-4) and portions of Interstate 75 (I-75) to help facilitate the flow of traffic for travelers evacuating the storm’s potential impact area.
Florida’s 511 Traveler Information System is available for drivers to stay informed about roadway conditions during emergencies. This service is monitored and updated 24/7 by FDOT and includes traffic conditions, road and bridge closures, and other specialized alerts. To use Florida’s 511, visit the website at FL511.com or download the app on both Apple and Android devices.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01)
TULSA, OK – Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas.
“One year ago, Israel woke up to the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust,” said Rep. Hern. “Hamas launched a barrage of rockets, militants stormed the border, and paragliders descended on a music festival, attacking civilians, and leaving unimaginable horror in their wake. In the aftermath, American cities and college campuses became platforms for those sympathizing with terrorists and spreading antisemitic hate. But those who wish for Israel’s destruction will never succeed.
“With 97 innocent civilians, including Americans, still held hostage by Hamas, the U.S. must stand firmly with Israel to ensure every hostage is brought home. A year later, Israel remains under attack from Iran’s proxies—Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis—hellbent on wiping it off the map. America’s strength isn’t just in words; it’s in the doctrine that’s kept us safe: peace through strength. Now more than ever, the U.S. must stand with Israel and demonstrate unwavering resolve against those who seek chaos, death, and destruction.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gerry Connolly (D-Va)
Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA) released the following statement:
“Today marks one year since Hamas unleashed its brutal, horrific attack on Israel, murdering more than one thousand people and taking hundreds more hostage, including American citizens. Many of those hostages remain in captivity still, separated from their lives and families for 365 days.
As we honor the memories of those lost to Hamas’ terror, we must recommit ourselves to securing a deal that releases the hostages, puts an end to the humanitarian crisis, and establishes a durable ceasefire that brings a resolution to the conflict that has engulfed the region in death and destruction for too long. I stand with President Biden and Vice President Harris as they work tirelessly to achieve that goal.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)
CHARLOTTE – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) welcomed Vice President Kamala D. Harris to Charlotte, North Carolina on Saturday, as she arrived at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) to survey the damage wrought by Tropical Storm Helene.
“I spoke with Vice President Harris, and she is committed to providing whatever resources are required to help the people of North Carolina recover from Helene,” said Rep. Adams. “I am thankful to her and to President Biden for all the work they’re doing behind the scenes to help our state.”
Rep. Adams, who represents northern Charlotte and some surrounding towns, joined the Vice President on the tarmac at CLT, to welcome her to the region. CLT has benefited from over $200 million in federal funds supporting its expansion and modernization, thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) passed under the Biden-Harris Administration.
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Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gerry Connolly (D-Va)
Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA), the Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, wroteto Governor Glenn Youngkin and Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares to demand that the Commonwealth of Virginia cease its ongoing purges of voter rolls happening within 90 days of an election, as required by federal law. Connolly is also notifying US Attorney General Merick Garland and the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice of the ongoing voter purges in Virginia.
“I write to express my urgent concerns regarding implementation of Executive Order 35 and the Commonwealth’s potential violation of federal law,” wrote Connolly. “Specifically, I am alarmed by the ongoing purges of Virginia’s voter rolls within 90 days of an upcoming election, a practice that would violate the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) of 1993, which restricts states from conducting systematic voter roll purges within this timeframe.”
“The NVRA restricts states from systematically removing voters from voter rolls within 90 days of a federal election to prevent widespread disenfranchisement and ensure the integrity of the voting process,” Connolly continued. “This restriction is designed to protect voters from being wrongly purged close to an election, which could disrupt their ability to cast ballots.”
“Given the potential for errors in systematic voter purges, the rapid pace of the ongoing purges required by Executive Order 35, and the proximity to Election Day, the Commonwealth must cease any voter purging activities that violate federal law,” Connolly concluded. “I look forward to your immediate and personal attention to this matter to protect the integrity of our elections and ensure the Commonwealth is complying with federal law.”
Full text of the letter is available here and below.
Dear Governor Youngkin and Attorney General Miyares,
I write to express my urgent concerns regarding implementation of Executive Order 35 and the Commonwealth’s potential violation of federal law. Specifically, I am alarmed by the ongoing purges of Virginia’s voter rolls within 90 days of an upcoming election, a practice that would violate the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) of 1993, which restricts states from conducting systematic voter roll purges within this timeframe.
The NVRA restricts states from systematically removing voters from voter rolls within 90 days of a federal election to prevent widespread disenfranchisement and ensure the integrity of the voting process. This restriction is designed to protect voters from being wrongly purged close to an election, which could disrupt their ability to cast ballots.
This 90-day restriction helps minimize errors in purges. Voter roll purges can sometimes be based on inaccurate data, leading to the wrongful removal of eligible voters. The 90-day restriction provides a buffer to prevent last-minute mistakes that could deny people their right to vote, especially when the time to correct errors is limited.
The 90-day restriction also prevents disenfranchisement. If voters are removed from rolls too close to an election, they may not have enough time to correct the situation (such as re-registering or proving their eligibility). This buffer ensures eligible voters are not disenfranchised due to administrative errors or insufficient time to respond.
The 90-day restriction ensures election integrity. The law seeks to maintain stability and confidence in the voter registration system during a critical period leading up to elections. By limiting voter roll changes within this time frame, it prevents politically motivated purges that could unfairly target certain groups of voters or influence the outcome of an election.
The 90-day restriction also protects voters. The NVRA includes provisions to make voter registration easier, especially for groups that are often underrepresented, such as minorities and low-income voters. The 90-day rule helps prevent sudden, large-scale removals that might disproportionately affect these communities.
Given the potential for errors in systematic voter purges, the rapid pace of the ongoing purges required by Executive Order 35, and the proximity to Election Day, the Commonwealth must cease any voter purging activities that violate federal law.
I look forward to your immediate and personal attention to this matter to protect the integrity of our elections and ensure the Commonwealth is complying with federal law.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Katherine Clark (5th District of Massachusetts)
REVERE, MA — Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark released the following:
“One year ago, Hamas committed acts of evil, murdering more than 1,200 civilians — including forty Americans — and kidnapping hundreds more. Today, families are still mourning. Hostages are still being held by Hamas. We are witnessing a disturbing rise in antisemitism across the globe. The United States stands with Israel and its right to defeat Hamas and other terrorist organizations who threaten Israel’s existence.
“The conflict that has ensued in the Middle East as a result of this attack has caused unfathomable devastation. The death toll in Gaza is only mounting and the violence has spread to Lebanon. Innocent families have lost their homes, their loved ones, and their lives.
“We need a lasting ceasefire in the region. That is the only path to security for both the Israeli and Palestinian people.
“House Democrats are fighting to ensure the horrors of October 7 are never repeated — by upholding security, dignity, and self-determination for Israelis and Palestinians. I commend the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris as they work to bring home the remaining hostages, surge humanitarian aid, and forge a lasting peace in the region.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced that the Georgia Community Action Association, Inc. (GCAA) has been awarded $1.2 million as part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot (DDDRP). This federal funding will enable GCAA to expand its efforts to provide essential diaper supplies to families with low incomes, addressing a critical need for infants and young children across Georgia. This award comes during National Diaper Need Awareness Week and will help caregivers who struggle to maintain enough diapers to keep their children safe, dry, and healthy.
“Every child deserves access to basic necessities, and no family should have to choose between diapers and other essential needs,” said Congressman Hank Johnson.
The DDDRP, administered by the Office of Community Services (OCS) at HHS, is awarding $8.4 million to support seven new grant recipients to alleviate diaper need while connecting families to broader services that address the causes and conditions of poverty. In Georgia, GCAA will coordinate with local diaper banks and community action agencies (CAAs) to ensure a consistent supply of diapers and other diapering essentials for families in need. Additionally, the program will provide access to job training, housing services, and childcare assistance, helping families achieve long-term self-sufficiency.
Diaper Need in Georgia:
26% of children have parents who lack secure employment.
20.2% of children live below the poverty line.
Families face an average annual cost of $9,253 for center-based infant care.
The need for diapers is a growing concern for many families, with 45% of participants in the DDDRP reporting they often had to reduce spending on other essentials like food or utilities to afford diapers. The program’s goal is to provide more than just a solution for diaper need—it aims to support families’ overall well-being.
With this $1.2 million grant, GCAA plans to serve a wide sample of families across the state, in all 159 Georgia counties, utilizing partnerships with Head Start centers, faith-based organizations, and legislators to build a robust support network.
For more information about these grants, visit the Diaper Distribution Pilot homepage.
For more information about OCS’s other antipoverty programs, visit the OCS website or contact media@hhs.gov.
About Congressman Hank Johnson: Hank Johnson represents Georgia’s 4th Congressional District, where he is a staunch advocate for civil rights, public safety, and economic justice. Learn more at https://hankjohnson.house.gov/
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)
COVINGTON, GA – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today that Covington, located in Georgia’s 4th Congressional District, has been awarded $150,000 in grant funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s (BIL) Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. Covington is one of 17 Georgia communities to benefit from this $2.6 million investment aimed at reducing energy consumption, lowering emissions, and improving energy efficiency.
“Covington is leading the way in transitioning to clean energy with the addition of eight new electric vehicle charging stations,” said Congressman Johnson. “This funding will help make clean transportation more accessible and support our community’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint while creating more economic opportunities in Georgia’s Fourth District.”
The Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA), which administers the program, selected Covington’s project as part of a broader initiative to enhance energy efficiency across the state. Covington will use the funds to install charging stations in high-traffic areas is designed to support the growth of electric vehicles and make clean transportation more accessible to residents and visitors alike.
“This is just the beginning,” Congressman Johnson continued. “Investments like these are crucial for reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, improving air quality, and positioning our district and the state of Georgia as leaders in clean energy.”
Other projects across the state receiving funding include energy audits, building upgrades, and workforce development initiatives, with approximately 60% of the funding directed toward disadvantaged communities.
For more information about the EECBG Program and the energy efficiency projects being implemented, visit gefa.georgia.gov/EECBG.
About the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA): GEFA provides financing for energy, land, and water projects across Georgia. Since its establishment in 1986, GEFA has committed nearly $6 billion to local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to improve environmental infrastructure throughout the state.
About Congressman Hank Johnson: Hank Johnson represents Georgia’s 4th Congressional District, where he is a staunch advocate for civil rights, public safety, and economic justice. Learn more at https://hankjohnson.house.gov/
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)
DECATUR, GA – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today that Intown Community School, located in Georgia’s 4th Congressional District on Lavista Road, has been named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
This prestigious honor, awarded to just 356 schools nationwide this year, recognizes institutions for their overall academic excellence or significant progress in closing achievement gaps among student groups.
“Intown Community School’s designation as a National Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its students, teachers, staff, and families,” said Congressman Johnson. “This recognition reflects the school’s commitment to creating an environment where all students can excel, and I could not be prouder of their accomplishments. Intown is setting a strong example for schools across the district and the nation.”
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, now in its 41st year, has honored more than 10,000 awards to approximately 9,700 schools. Schools selected for this recognition serve as models of effective teaching and learning practices that can be emulated by educators across the country. The National Blue Ribbon School flag, presented during the recognition ceremony, is a symbol of the school’s exemplary performance and commitment to educational excellence.
Intown Community School will formally receive its award during the National Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony, which will take place in Washington, D.C., on November 7-8, 2024, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. At the event, each school will be presented with an award plaque and a flag in recognition of their outstanding achievement.
For more information on the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, please contact Program Director Aba Kumi at Aba.Kumi@ed.gov or (202) 401-1767.
About Congressman Hank Johnson: Hank Johnson represents Georgia’s 4th Congressional District, where he is a staunch advocate for civil rights, public safety, and economic justice. Learn more at https://hankjohnson.house.gov/
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Today, one year since terrorist group Hamas invaded Israel, Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and all Senate Republicans in fully condemning Hamas, calling for American hostages’ safe return home and reaffirming U.S. support for an enduring, prosperous Israel.
“For the past 12 months, the Israeli military has taken necessary actions to preserve its homeland and neutralize the threat of horrific Iran-backed, Hamas terrorism. In the face of ongoing Iranian aggression and rising antisemitism, the United States remains unwavering in our resolve to stand with Israel – our strongest ally in the Middle East,” Grassley said.
“This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” Ernst said. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”
Read the resolution HERE.
Grassley Stands with Israel:
Grassley has long worked to maintain and fortify the United States’ partnership with Israel. Since October 7, 2023, Grassley has led legislative efforts to reaffirm Israel’s right to self-defense, counter Iran’s terrorist regime and seek justice for victims of antisemitism. Learn more HERE.
Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
10.07.24
Washington, D.C. — On the one-year anniversary of the brutal Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) joined forty-eight of her Senate colleagues condemning the attacks, while supporting a path towards the survival and security of Israel, as well as the safe release of United States hostages from the Gaza Strip.
“Our prayers continue to be with the families and victims of the barbaric terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas one year ago,” said Senator Murkowski. “As on day one, we stand with our ally Israel as they defend their people and their sovereignty. We also continue to pray for those in the region and hope for a resolution that will bring a stop to hostilities, safe return of those taken hostage by Hamas, and an end to the rise in antisemitism here at home that has made Jewish Americans feel threatened. The United States is committed to providing Israel the resources they need to defend themselves and providing humanitarian aid to the innocent civilians caught up in Hamas’ deadly war of terror.”
You can read S.Res.890 below.
“Condemning the brutal Hamas-led terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and supporting an outcome that ensures the forever survival of Israel, the complete denial of the ability of Hamas to reconstitute in the region, and the safe release of United States hostages from the Gaza Strip.
Whereas Hamas is a foreign terrorist organization designated by the Secretary of State under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189), whose founding charter states a commitment to destroying Israel and any nation that would support it, including the United States;
Whereas, on October 7, 2023, Iran-backed Hamas terrorists led an attack on Israel, killing approximately 1,200 individuals, including 40 United States citizens, taking 251 individuals hostage, and launching thousands of rockets toward Israel;
Whereas Israel, like other sovereign states, has a right to defend itself;
Whereas, after a year of continued and growing hostilities by Iranian proxies, Israel has launched operations to defend its people, eradicate Hamas terrorists, and rescue hostages held in the Gaza Strip;
Whereas Iran-backed Hamas has proven that it has no desire for peace in the region and has repeatedly broken negotiated ceasefire agreements and initiated attacks against Israel; and
Whereas, since October 7, 2023, Iran-backed terrorists continue rocket attacks on innocent civilians, disrupting major shipping and trade routes throughout the region, lobbing attacks on United States personnel and bases across the region, and killing and injuring more than 186 troops: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Senate—
condemns Iran-backed Hamas for its brutal attacks on Israel;
condemns Iran-backed Hamas for killing and taking hostage United States citizens;
condemns Iran-backed Hamas for its use of rape as a weapon of war and for its inhumane treatment, torture, and killing of hostages;
condemns the destructive and antisemitic protests in which property has been damaged, flags have been torn down, burned, and replaced with Hamas flags, and Jewish Americans have felt their safety threatened; and
supports an outcome that will—
ensure the forever survival of Israel;
destroy the ability of Hamas to reconstitute any leadership role in the region; and
(C) safely release and return all United States hostages.”
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) released a video statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attacks that killed over a thousand Israelis and Americans. Cassidy, also joined U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and the entire Republican Conference in introducing a resolution condemning Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, supporting the forever survival of Israel, and calling for the safe release of American hostages.
“October 7 left an indelible mark on the Jewish State of Israel. In the last year, we have seen Hamas for the pure evil it is. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to stand with Israel, reinforce our efforts to bring all the remaining hostages, including American citizens, home, and pledge to always stand up to antisemitism,” said Dr. Cassidy.
“This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Senator Ernst. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”
The entire Senate Republican Conference stands united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war.The resolution reiterates Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasizes the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated.
The full transcript of Cassidy’s video is below.
October 7, 2023, left an indelible mark on the Jewish State of Israel.
Young men and women who started their day at a music festival ended it with fresh scars of war.
Israelis and Americans left their homes never to return, instead being raped, murdered, and taken hostage.
I was part of the first Congressional delegation to visit Israel after the horrific attacks. What I saw was a nation, accustomed to terrorist attacks, left in shock.
They had the same shock Americans experienced after 9/11.
I sat with the families who grieved for the loss of their loved ones and others who prayed for the safe return of their children held hostage.
In the last year, we have seen Hamas for the pure evil it is. While Israel tries to save as many lives as possible during the midst of war, Hamas continues to target innocent civilians and use Palestinians as human shields.
Sadly, we have also seen Hamas’s terrorist rhetoric take hold across our college campuses.
No Israeli should live in fear of bombs hitting their house, and no student should live in fear of walking across their campus.
Today, we reaffirm our commitment to stand with Israel.
We reinforce our efforts to bring all the remaining hostages, including American citizens, home.
And pledge to stand up to antisemitism always.
Background
As ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Cassidy is leading multiple legislative efforts to address antisemitism on college campuses in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks. This includes the Protecting Students on Campus Act, bipartisan legislation that ensures students know how to file civil rights complaints if they experience discrimination on college campuses. Cassidy has also repeatedly called on HELP Committee Chair Bernie Sanders (I-VT) to hold hearings on antisemitism to ensure universities and the Department of Education are protecting Jewish students from discrimination and harm.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)
Congressman Mike Lawler Releases Statement Slamming Supreme Court for Texas Abortion Ruling
Washington, D.C., October 7, 2024
Today, Congressman Mike Lawler slammed the Supreme Court’s decision to let stand a decision barring emergency abortions.
“When the life or health of an expectant mother is at risk during a pregnancy, there is no question that she should be allowed to receive a safe and legal abortion. Period. Full stop,” said Congressman Lawler.
“I do not and will not support any efforts to establish a national abortion ban, whether it be through Congress or the judicial system,” concluded Congressman Lawler. “The Supreme Court’s decision today is appalling and contradicts prior rulings.”
Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of the 118th Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.