NewzIntel.com

Category: Trumpism

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman DeSaulnier Announces Town Hall in Antioch

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

    Walnut Creek, CA – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) announced today that he will host an in-person town hall on Monday, June 30that 6:30 p.m. Topics to be covered include the Trump Administration’s attacks on our constitutional rights and the situation in the Middle East. 

    Town Hall
    Monday, June 30th
    6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
    Antioch, CA
    RSVP for Location

    The event is RSVP only and capacity is limited. To reserve your spot or request special accommodations, visit https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660. 

    This will be Congressman DeSaulnier’s 235th town hall and mobile district office hour since coming to Congress in January 2015.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman DeSaulnier Statement on Passage of Republican Budget Bill

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

    Legislation would strip health care from 17 million Americans, cause 18 million children to go hungry, and increase national debt by $4 trillion to give tax breaks to billionaires

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA) made the following statement upon passage of the Republican budget scheme (H.R. 1), a bill that harms tens of millions of Americans and raises their cost of living in order to make the ultrarich even richer. 

    “Republicans, more loyal to Donald Trump and their ultrawealthy donors than to their constituents, made clear what their priorities are. They’ve spent nearly six months focusing on finding ways to make the most vulnerable among us pay for tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. In the process, they have betrayed working families. The results: Americans will forego medical treatments, struggle to put food on the table, go into debt, and die. After exhaustive attempts to improve the bill and then several efforts to stall, I joined every House Democrat and a measly two Republicans in voting NO.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Biggs Issues Statement on House’s Passage of President Trump’s Big, Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05)

    Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act. Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ) issued the following statement:

    “Today, I voted to advance President Trump’s One Big, Beautiful Bill through the House of Representatives and to the President’s desk. I have worked directly with President Trump to advance his policy priorities, and I will continue to advance the America First mandate he was elected to deliver.

    “When President Trump signs the One Big, Beautiful Bill into law, he will be extending the historic tax cuts from his Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, and expanding them to reduce taxes on tipped wages, overtime, Social Security, and car loans. These tax cuts lower the economic burden on working-class American families, empower small businesses, and bring back jobs to our shores. The Big, Beautiful Bill also secures necessary funding for President Trump and his Cabinet to keep up their work in securing our border. 

    “My colleagues in the House Freedom Caucus and I worked diligently with President Trump and House and Senate Leadership to push for significant spending reductions and reforms to Medicaid and SNAP benefits. While there is always room to improve, the historic tax cuts and reforms in this bill move us in the right direction and will power our economy. 

    I will always stand shoulder-to-shoulder with President Trump as he continues to fight the bloated bureaucracy left behind by years of anti-American oligarchy. The fight to restore fiscal sanity has only just begun.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What They’re Saying: Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens Introduces the ‘Unearth America’s Future Act’

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

     

    “The ambitious bill is Stevens’ response to growing concern that the United States is overly dependent on China to power manufacturing in key strategic sectors.”

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  This week, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens announced her plan to introduce the Unearth America’s Future Act which would remake America’s mineral supply chain to lower prices, create jobs, and stop dependence on China.

    Congresswoman Stevens formally introduced the bill today.

    Here’s what Michiganders are hearing about this bill:

    Detroit News: With China dominating, Stevens bill seeks CHIPS-like federal effort on critical minerals
    By: Grant Schwab

    Democratic U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens will introduce a bill this week urging the federal government to play a more active role in reducing U.S. reliance on China for critical minerals.

    “This bill is about real results. It will lower costs and create jobs by bringing mineral production back home, supporting Michigan workers, and keeping our supply chains strong,” the Birmingham congresswoman and U.S. Senate candidate said.

    The package — called the Unearth America’s Future Act — would direct tens of billions of dollars in federal loans, tax credits and other funds into the next decade for initiatives to boost mining and refining of essential materials for the automotive, defense, health care and telecommunications industries.

    The ambitious bill is Stevens’ response to growing concern that the United States is overly dependent on China to power manufacturing in key strategic sectors. Those concerns only grew stronger after the Far East nation created a potentially “dire” situation for Michigan’s auto sector with export controls issued in response to President Donald Trump’s trade policies.

    “Donald Trump has pushed an agenda that puts our economy and national security at risk. They talk tough and make headlines but their policies have only caused prices to rise, weakened our manufacturing industries, and left America more dependent on China,” Stevens said in an emailed statement.

    The fourth-term lawmaker’s package is structured similarly to the CHIPS and Science Act, a signature legislative achievement of former President Joe Biden.

    Politico’s E&E News: Dems prepare bill to provide $10B for critical materials
    By: Hannah Northey

    House Democrats are planning to unveil legislation this week that would set aside more than $10 billion for critical material projects to counter China’s dominance.

    Reps. Haley Stevens of Michigan and Jim Clyburn of South Carolina say the proposal would rival any trade deal President Donald Trump reaches with Beijing because it would restore U.S. supply chains faster.

    The language, according to Stevens’ and Clyburn’s aides, is structured similarly to the CHIPS and Science Act, which former President Joe Biden signed into law in 2022.

    Michigan Advance: Stevens intros bill for critical materials to counter China
    By: Ben Solis

    U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) is working with her congressional colleagues to introduce legislation that will seek to counter China’s stranglehold on critical materials and set aside $10 billion to make it happen.

    Unveiled Tuesday, the Unearth America’s Future Act was described as a means to lower costs, create jobs and ensure Michigan workers and manufacturers are leading the way in critical mineral production.

    At present, the U.S. and many other nations are dependent on China for these materials, including cobalt, lithium and magnesium, which are needed in the manufacture of many high tech electronics. Stevens’ bill aims to fix that by putting money toward responsible domestic mineral production. The legislation would also support partnerships between government and private industry, with investments in innovation that would keep jobs in Michigan.

    “Donald Trump has pushed an agenda that puts our economy and national security at risk,” Stevens said in a statement. “They talk tough and make headlines but their policies have only caused prices to rise, weakened our manufacturing industries, and left America more dependent on China. This bill is about real results.”

    WEMU: Rep. Stevens tries to boost American mineral production efforts
    By: Colin Jackson

    “The industry for materials key to American manufacturing could receive extra government support under proposed legislation from a Michigan congresswoman.”

    “The bill is named the “Unearth America’s Future Act.” It would create new federal loans, tax credits, and programs to spur the domestic production and refining of critical minerals like copper, magnesium, and aluminum.”

    “The policy proposal is a response to concerns about China’s dominance in the market for precious metals, especially those used in goods like smartphones or vehicle batteries.”

    “Stevens said that makes both the country’s and Michigan’s current situations untenable.”

    “Leaving Michigan’s entire manufacturing base on the hook for materials coming from minerals that are refined in China, that’s a risk. And that’s not working,” she said.

    WDET – Detroit, MI 

    “Democratic representative Haley Stevens says her bill takes a different approach. ‘What this bill is, is focused on public-private partnerships, supply chain opportunities, as well as recyclability, which is something that’s getting a lot of traction in the critical material space right now.’

    Michigan Public Radio – Detroit, MI 

    “Democratic Representative Haley Stevens calls her bill a comprehensive plan. ‘This will increase our resilience here in the United States of America, but it will also increase our domestic production capabilities, which means lowering costs, lowering costs, lowering costs. We need to lower costs, and that’s what this bill is going to be about as well and job creation.’

    WJR-Detroit, MI

    “It’s not acceptable to have this reliance on China, and so I put forward legislation.”

    “This bill will actually lower costs, get us jobs and end up paying for itself.”

    “We all know that this current administration is eager to cut deals with other countries. I’m eager to cut deals for Michigan. I am eager to put proof in the pudding and put forward real industrial policy that will deliver for our state.”

    Here’s what stakeholders are saying about the bill:

    David McCall, President of United Steelworkers International: 
    “Erasing the People’s Republic of China’s global lead in critical minerals will require a balance of domestic and international efforts. The USW applauds Rep. Stevens’ work to develop domestic mining and manufacturing jobs while ensuring export financing supports projects that respect strong labor rights and maintain strict air and water quality standards.”  

    John Bozzella, President and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation:
    “A healthy and competitive auto industry in America supports our economic and national security. Representative Stevens’ Unearth America’s Future Act makes good sense on multiple fronts: it’s a policy to secure critical material supply chains that bypass China and are essential for national defense; it will further modernize our domestic industrial base; and will support American manufacturing, innovation and auto industry jobs.”

    Will Brown, Vice President of Government Relations & International Programs of the Aluminum Association:
    “This legislation is a significant step toward producing, collecting and securing more critical materials like aluminum in the United States. As one of only 11 mineral commodities included on the Department of Defense and all other government critical materials lists, aluminum is essential to modern life – in everything from cars, cans and smartphones to tanks and fighter jets. Congresswoman Stevens’ bill is a downpayment on American jobs, innovation and supply chain resilience.”

    Sarah Venuto, Executive Director of the American Critical Minerals Association:
    “The Unearth America’s Future Act recognizes the need for comprehensive legislative solutions aimed at catalyzing the growth of the U.S. domestic critical materials sector. China continues to demonstrate its persistent willingness to take any and all steps to maintain its monopoly over the global supply of critical materials. The U.S. must play a leading role in the diversification of these markets in order to ensure our economy is insulated from increased costs to consumers, delayed timelines for essential goods and services, and national security risks associated with our dependence on other nations for materials key to our defense sector. We applaud Representative Stevens for her continued leadership on the imperative nature of addressing these risks comprehensively and aggressively, and for continuing this important policy conversation. ACMA looks forward to working with Representative Stevens and Congress as this legislation is debated and considered.”

    Orit Frankel, CEO of the American Leadership Initiative: 
    “Congresswoman Stevens’s bill is a critical step to strengthening America’s national and economic security, while reducing our dependence on China’s critical mineral supply which China has withheld as leverage in the bilateral relationship.”

    Dinah McLeod, Director General of the Cobalt Institute:
    “Ensuring critical mineral projects have access to affordable finance often becomes a missing piece of the policy puzzle. Rep. Stevens’ Bill takes important steps to close the gap and get America growing its critical minerals capacity.”

    Alice Wu, Critical Minerals and Energy Supply Chains Policy Manager at the Federation of American Scientists: 
    “Geographic concentration in critical minerals supply chains puts American national security and our economy at risk. That risk has been made clear with recent trade disruptions such as the PRC’s changes to rare earth export license requirements. The Loan Program established by the Unearth America’s Future Act would reinvigorate investment in diversifying and onshoring critical minerals supply chains, while the public-private partnership would provide a flexible set of tools for the federal government to work with industry in mitigating project risks and supporting market stability.”

    Patrick Donnelly, Chief Commercial Officer of Anovion Technologies: 
    “Anovion Technologies considers this bill a vital step in strengthening the domestic battery materials industry. Synthetic graphite, which can account for up to 30% of the weight of a typical lithium-ion battery, is currently sourced almost entirely from China. Reducing reliance on China for this critical material is essential to securing the nation’s energy infrastructure, supporting the Department of Defense, and advancing the automotive sector.”

    Scott Monteith, CEO of Avalon Advanced Materials: 
    “The proposed legislation is a needed blueprint for how the United States government, in partnership with allies can spur economic growth and an innovation economy for the future. Avalon welcomes the bold initiative and looks forward to helping accelerate North American energy security.” 

    Matt Bedingfield, President of Mint Innovation:
    “Mint Innovation is a pioneering clean technology company that has developed a biotechnology to recover critical minerals from electronic waste. The Unearth America’s Future Act is a significant move forward for U.S. national security, bolstering domestic critical mineral production. The Unearth America’s Future Act’s definition of ‘Critical Minerals Manufacturing’ expands to the secondary market including recycled metals, improving mineral supply where traditional mining production will not meet growing demand. Additionally, greater access to funding by way of grants, loans, and research & development will support the growth of domestic critical minerals production across the entire supply chain. This will create new jobs for U.S. citizens, and improve the national and economic strength of the United States.”

    Teague Egan, CEO of EnergyX: 
    “This legislation is a pivotal step toward securing America’s leadership in the global critical materials market.  By aligning federal incentives, innovation, and workforce development, it positions the U.S. to lead globally while driving sustainable growth and industrial resilience at home.”

    Adam Handley, Executive Chair of Northern Minerals:
    “Ensuring access to critical minerals through strategic collaboration with allied nations and partners is vital to reducing reliance on single-source supply chains. We commend Rep. Stevens and the introduction of the Unearth America’s Future Act for rightly emphasizing the need for deeper international cooperation to build secure, resilient supply chains, and look forward to supporting its progress through Congress.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens to Introduce the ‘Unearth America’s Future Act’

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

     

    Bill will lower costs for Michiganders, create jobs, and end dependence on China by bringing the supply chain for critical minerals home to America

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Haley Stevens (MI-11) announced she will introduce the Unearth America’s Future Act, a bold new bill that will lower costs, create jobs, and make sure Michigan workers and manufacturers are leading by bringing the critical mineral supply chain home to America.

    Critical minerals are essential to everything from smartphones and automotives to military systems and clean energy technologies. Currently, the United States remains dangerously dependent on foreign suppliers, especially China, for these vital materials.

    The Unearth America’s Future Act takes direct action to fix that by supporting responsible domestic mineral production, promotes partnerships between government and private industry, and invests in next-generation innovation, all while keeping jobs in Michigan and reducing reliance on foreign adversaries like China.

    “Donald Trump has pushed an agenda that puts our economy and national security at risk. They talk tough and make headlines but their policies have only caused prices to rise, weakened our manufacturing industries, and left America more dependent on China,” said Congresswoman Stevens. “This bill is about real results. It will lower costs and create jobs by bringing mineral production back home, supporting Michigan workers, and keeping our supply chains strong.”

    The bill follows a three-part strategy:

    • Targeted federal incentives to boost domestic mineral production.
    • Investment in innovation to drive clean, efficient, and competitive manufacturing.
    • Fair and strong labor policy to protect American jobs and workers.

    This bill stands in sharp contrast to recent efforts by President Trump and Vice President Vance to roll back domestic mineral policies, undermine long-term energy independence, and allow China to continue to control production and the supply chain.

    The Unearth America’s Future Act is supported by the United Steelworkers and is supported by and was developed through collaboration with a wide range of industry, labor, environmental, and trade organizations.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kustoff Celebrates Final Passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) released the following statement after voting to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill in the House of Representatives: 

    “Today, House Republicans passed historic legislation that delivers on our promises to the American people,” said Congressman Kustoff. “As a member of the House Committee on Ways and Means, my colleagues and I have worked tirelessly to ensure working Americans get the tax relief they deserve. This bill will make permanent key provisions in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and enact President Trump’s agenda of no tax on tips, overtime, and social security. Small businesses will thrive with a reduced tax burden. Families will benefit from an enhanced and permanent Child Tax Credit.
     
    “The One Big Beautiful Bill will secure our border, unleash domestic energy production, and help get able-bodied Americans back to work. It will also ensure a more efficient federal government and execute the largest spending reduction in history. 
     
    “President Trump’s America First agenda will usher in a new era of growth, opportunity, and prosperity for the United States. I am proud to support this legislation and look forward to seeing it signed into law.”

    Congressman Kustoff spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in support of the One Big Beautiful Bill. Click here to watch his remarks.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Doggett Calls for Answers on Federal Cuts to Local National Weather Service Operations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX)

    Concerns raised with the Trump Administration, well before deadly floods in Central Texas, are still unanswered.

    Contact: Alexis Torres  

    Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Austin) requested immediate answers from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the agency responsible for the National Weather Service (NWS), about the impact of critical understaffing on the recent catastrophe in Central Texas. The Congressman is seeking information regarding how President Trump’s abrupt staffing cuts and hiring freezes may have affected forecasts and warning alerts in the NWS Austin/San Antonio office. One of the six vacant positions is the “Warning and Coordination Meteorologist,” who is responsible for planning, coordinating, and carrying out area-wide public awareness programs to mitigate death, injury, and property damage or loss caused by severe weather.

    Over the July Fourth weekend, Central Texas experienced disastrous flooding, which has taken at least 100 lives, including two 8-year-old Austinites among the more than two dozen young campers and counselors drowned at Camp Mystic. Rescue crews continue to search for survivors throughout the region.

    “For months, I have been sounding the alarm about the danger to Central Texans from the Trump staffing cuts and hiring freeze at the National Weather Service and NOAA,” said Rep. Doggett. “The Administration has been unresponsive to my repeated attempts to secure information about the extent of the harm it has caused to our local NWS office. Without complete and accurate information about what really occurred last week at NWS, we cannot prevent future catastrophes, like the loss of lives in the recent Kerr County flooding, which is causing such extraordinary pain to so many families.”

    In the letter, the Congressman wrote, “[a]lthough the NWS issued a flash flood warning at 1:14 AM, a repeat of this warning at 3:35am as Camp Mystic was being inundated, and a flash flood emergency at 4:03 AM, this catastrophe raises questions regarding what and when communications were sent to local disaster coordinators, what special flood statements were issued to the public, and what coordination occurred between NWS and local leaders.”

    On May 20, Rep. Doggett first contacted NOAA about severe understaffing at the NWS Austin/San Antonio office, which doubled from 11% to 22% after President Trump took office. The agency has not responded.

    Since the spring, Rep. Doggett has publicly warned about how the Trump administration’s federal cutbacks could negatively impact timely, accurate weather forecasts and operations. Today’s letter in full can be read here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Doggett’s Statement on Passage of Trump’s Big Ugly Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX)

    Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) released the following statement:

    “So many Republican colleagues seem to believe that their most important role is clicking their heels and saluting Trump. With the rare exception of Republican Senator Tillis, who recognized that ‘this bill will betray the promise Donald Trump made,’ they fell in line like automatons. Less health care access, higher electricity rates, and trillions more in national debt represent the price imposed to provide billions in tax giveaways to the superrich and their multinational corporations. Never have such an elite few gained so much from those who have so little. As we celebrate Independence Day, we must be mindful that we will not remain the land of the free unless we are indeed the home of the brave, determined to resist one-man rule.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Doggett and Texas Democrats Demand Answers on Stalled AmeriCorps Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX)

    Contact: Alexis Torres  

    Washington, D.C. — Amid the Trump administration’s drastic cuts threatening a wide range of community-based services, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) led members of the Texas congressional delegation in demanding answers from Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought on more than $3.5 million in stalled federal funding to local AmeriCorps partners. Some Texas organizations are in limbo, as they cannot access the federal support they were selected for—and need—because OMB has yet to make these congressionally authorized appropriations available. 

    “As Members of the Texas congressional delegation with AmeriCorps members and partner organizations serving in our districts, we are writing to request information regarding the status of Fiscal Year 2025 funds appropriated to the AmeriCorps agency. In 2024 alone, more than 17,200 Americans united to serve over 2,000 locations across Texas. These investments provide critical support to our communities, delivering essential services in healthcare, education, disaster relief, and community development,” wrote the lawmakers.

    The members specifically request that OMB provide information on the status and timeline of releasing federal funds for Texas initiatives designated under three national AmeriCorps programs:

    1. AmeriCorps State and National to address local needs through nonprofits, schools, community and faith-based groups, and more: Teach for America, Reading Partners, and OneStar Foundation.
    2. AmeriCorps Senior Companion to provide independent living support for homebound seniors and other adults: City of Corpus Christi, Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center of Houston, and Concho Valley Council of Governments.
    3. AmeriCorps Foster Grandparent to provide one-on-one mentoring and academic support to children with special or exceptional needs: City of El Paso, Senior Life Midland, and Concho Valley Council of Governments.

    The full letter with all signatories can be read here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Williams Leads Letter to AG Bondi Regarding Concerns with ICEBlock App

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), alongside Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-4), led a letter to United States Attorney General Pam Bondi expressing significant concern about the ICEBlock app, which was designed to alert users of impending U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. The use of this app constitutes a large-scale obstruction of justice and poses a serious threat to public safety and the safety of the ICE officers carrying out these operations.

    “As President Trump works to secure our borders and restore law and order, assaults against ICE Agents have reached alarming and unprecedented levels as demonstrated by the recent attack on the McAllen Border Patrol Station on Monday, July 7th,” said Congressman Williams. “Bad actors are now using tools like the ICEBlock App to undermine the integrity of our justice system and encourage people to interfere with and evade lawful operations that are designed to remove dangerous criminals from our streets. These actions jeopardize public safety and put our federal officers at serious risk. I am proud to lead this effort alongside my colleagues to fight for the safety of our federal law enforcement officers and uphold our immigration laws.”

    “I am deeply concerned with the ICEBlock app, which deliberately undermines the heroic efforts of ICE agents working to deport dangerous criminal aliens flooding our nation due to the previous administration’s reckless open-border policies,” said Rep. Pat Fallon. “The 690 percent surge in assaults on federal and ICE agents in just the first half of 2025 is a direct consequence of emboldened criminals, and this app only escalates the threat by broadcasting agents’ locations, inviting violence. ICE agents, operating under clear legal authority, are risking their lives to remove murderers, sex offenders, human traffickers, and potential terrorists from our streets. We cannot allow a smartphone app to jeopardize their safety or hinder their mission to restore public safety. It is crucial that the DOJ launch an immediate investigation into ICEBlock to assess its role in endangering our officers and take swift action to protect those who protect us.”

    Background:

    • Read the full letter here.
    • First covered by Fox.
    • Co-lead: Pat Fallon (TX-4)
    • Co-Signers: Randy Weber (TX-14), Tom Tiffany (WI-7), Mark Alford (MO-4), Michael A. Rulli (OH-6), Ryan Mackenzie (PA-7), Brad Finstad (MI-1), Eli Crane (AZ-2), John Rose (TN-6), and Addison McDowell (NC-6)
    • Supporting Orgs: Immigration Accountability Project and NumbersUSA

    ###

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Williams Announces Senior Staff Promotions

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, announced the promotion of Lauren Holmes to Chief of Staff and Katie Crane to Deputy Chief of Staff in his Washington, D.C. office.

    Lauren Holmes currently serves as Staff Director for the House Committee on Small Business and will now take on a dual role, leading Congressman Williams’ personal office. She previously served as the Deputy Staff Director for the Task Force on the Attempted Assassination of Donald J. Trump, as General Counsel for the House Committee on Small Business, and as Counsel for the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

    Katie Crane has been a key member of Congressman Williams’ team since 2018, most recently serving as Legislative Director. She holds a Master’s degree in Defense and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College, where she specialized in Irregular Warfare. With nearly a decade of experience on Capitol Hill, Crane brings expertise in legislative strategy, public policy, and team management.

    “Lauren and Katie are strong, proven leaders whose professionalism and experience make them uniquely qualified to lead our team,” said Congressman Williams. “Their steady judgment, strong work ethic, and deep commitment to the values of Texas’ 25th District will be instrumental as we take on the challenges ahead. I am confident in their ability to guide our office and continue our efforts to serve the American people and advance our shared mission to Make America Great Again.”

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise: OBBB Delivers on Trump’s Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Fox News’ Fox and Friends to discuss how President Trump and House Republicans are delivering on their promises through the One Big Beautiful Bill. Leader Scalise stated that despite Democrat leaders’ efforts, House Republicans are on track to deliver for struggling families who suffered under four years of Biden’s failed policies. Leader Scalise outlined how lower costs at the pump, a secure border, and rooting out the wasteful spending of taxpayers’ dollars are all promises made, promises kept.

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full interview. 
    On President Trump working with Republicans to pass an America First agenda:“Yeah, Charlie, great to be with you. Good morning. This bill has been on life support many times throughout the – this will be the fourth major vote on the House floor in this bill, and it’s always been tight. We have a tight majority, but we’ve always stuck together. We’ve come together when we’ve needed to. I will tell you, Donald Trump has been there every step of the way to make sure we got this bill to the next step. The final step is going to be getting it to President Trump’s desk in just the next [few] hours.“It was a lot of one-on-one conversations, some group meetings [to whip votes]. Look, I was up at 1:00 in the morning with President Trump on a call with a couple of members and the Speaker of the House. Every step of the way, President Trump has been right there talking to our members, walking them through why this bill is so important for the country. Look, this bill delivers on President Trump’s agenda. But remember, this was the American agenda that the voters gave us a mandate to go deliver so that we can help families get back up off their feet after four years of Joe Biden’s failed policies, lowering food costs at the grocery store, lowering energy costs, securing our border, opening up more energy production, ensuring there’s no tax increase.“Then, of course, President Trump went further and said, no tax on tips for those waiters and waitresses working hard hours. If you’re a shift worker working overtime, a cop working overtime, you’re not going to pay taxes on your overtime. All that’s in this bill and a lot more. We have school choice for low-income families who want better options for their kids. That’s in this bill.”On Democrats being out of touch with the needs of everyday Americans: “Well, Lawrence, I wish it would. But sadly, you can see, the Democrat Party is in disarray.It’s why right now they’re literally standing in the way on the House floor. They don’t want that waitress, who’s making $32,000 a year, that’s the average pay of a tip worker, they don’t want that waitress to get her own money back, to not have to pay taxes on tips. They want to keep that money in Washington and want to keep power in Washington, and they don’t want to give it away. Donald Trump wants to empower families in America. He wants to get a new renaissance, literally a golden age of America again, and it’s going to happen. The Democrats don’t want to be a part of it because the Socialists have taken over their party. But you know what? Most of America does not want socialism, and that’s why we won the majority, and that’s why we’re going to deliver on the promises that Donald Trump made and we made.“It’s going to end soon. But look, I think it’s good that America gets to see it’s the same lies, the same scare tactics that the American people rejected in November. They have not understood why the American people said, ‘We want Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress,’ and we’re going to deliver today. Once they finish all of their lies and bloviating, we’re going to deliver for those hardworking families. And this bill is going to deliver great benefits to American families. Starting day 1, July Fourth, tomorrow, Independence Day, is going to be a great day for America for a lot of reasons. We celebrate independence, but Americans are going to celebrate the renaissance and the new golden age of America.”On rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse in government spending:“Charlie, a lot of the early conversations, there were some members that wanted to change this bill again. We could go around 10 more times, and you’re going to basically end up in the same place. Let’s remember, there in this bill, House and Senate, $1.6 trillion in cuts to waste, fraud, and abuse. Most Americans want to get rid of waste, fraud, and abuse. Democrats in Congress don’t. But this bill does that. That’s historic. That had never been done before. And so by cleaning up a lot of that waste, it allows you to free up more tax cuts for families who are working. I’m talking blue-collar workers. So we deliver on all those things, but some members wanted to do more. I would want to do more. Let’s try it in the next bill. But you have to get this bill done first. And President Trump made that clear. Let’s get this bill signed and then go fight for the next things we want to do. We’re going to keep delivering wins for the American people.”On House Republicans delivering for American families:“Well, look, go look at the tape about two hours ago. One of the lead Democrats was sitting right behind Hakeem Jeffries, and he fell asleep. Hakeem’s speech was so boring. And they literally yanked him off the floor. They said, ‘Let’s get him out of here and replace him with another Democrat.’ They’ve had to replace him with a few others because he’s put so many people to sleep.“The American people are watching this. They know the theatrics and the lies, and they’re sick and tired of the lies. They want hope and optimism. That’s what Donald Trump ran on, is to say, ‘There is a better America.’ You don’t have to have four years of malaise under Joe Biden, where inflation is high, gas prices are high, you can’t even fill up your grocery cart, crimes out of control, illegals are running rampant, millions a year. We finally are fixing those problems, and this bill really delivers on the rest of those promises to get this country back on track, to bring hope back to people who want to control their own destiny.Democrats will stand in the way. That’s why they’re a party of the past. That’s why they’re a party of failure and socialism. Americans have rejected that.“God bless you. We’re going to get it done.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise: Republicans Address Biden’s Four Years of Failures

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    JEFFERSON, La.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) appeared on Fox Business Network’s Mornings with Maria to discuss how Republicans are getting the country back on track after years of decline under Joe Biden with the One Big Beautiful Bill. Leader Scalise highlighted how hardworking Americans will now have access to no tax on overtime, no tax on tips, strengthened social safety net programs, lower energy costs, and a stronger border. Additionally, Leader Scalise highlighted the work the House Oversight Committee is doing to expose the Biden Administration’s coverup of President Biden’s cognitive decline.

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full interview. 
    On the once-in-a-generation impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill:“Quite historic, Maria. It’s going to be great for American families who have been struggling. I mean, look, for four years, people struggled under Joe Biden, high inflation, high interest rates, high costs at the grocery store. All that is going to be turning around. You’re going to see, number one, more jobs, millions of more jobs will be created, trillions of more investment, people investing in America again because of this bill, stabilizing the tax code. Nobody gets a tax increase. I’d love, Maria, for every Democrat who’s out bashing this bill, ask them this basic question: Will you pay the higher tax rate that you voted for for all Americans? Because every Democrat voted ‘no,’ which means they voted for a higher tax rate for everybody in America. Will they pay that higher tax rate? Or are they going to take the benefits of this bill? There’s a lot of hypocrisy out there because this bill delivers a lot of great things for a lot of people. No tax on tips. One of the great hallmarks President Trump said that he would do on the campaign trail. Everybody who’s a tip worker is going to get it.“I’ll tell you something, Maria, I’ve been talking about with constituents just in the last few days back home that they didn’t even know about this bill. So not only do we say no tax on overtime, but let’s say you’re a cop, let’s say you’re a nurse, and you work overtime hours. This bill is retroactive to January to when Donald Trump took office. So all the taxes you paid on your overtime this year, you’re going to get that money back when you file your return. That’s going to be more money in your pockets. These are blue-collar workers.These aren’t the millionaires and the billionaires that the Democrats have been lying about this bill. This is blue-collar workers that get the benefits of this bill, plus more energy production, more border security. We revamp and modernize America’s whole air traffic control system. We’ve seen all these horrible reports. Laguardia being shut down for days, every air flight in America being canceled because we’re running off of floppy disks, for goodness’ sake. We fixed that in this bill. Sean Duffy, the great job he’s been doing over at transportation, they will now have the resources to modernize America’s air traffic control system. Every Democrat voted against that, Maria.”On combating Democrat lies over strengthened Medicaid for deserving Americans:“Well, we’re going to tell the truth while they’re out lying. We’ve always said, ‘If you keep lying about us, we’re going to keep telling the truth about you.’ They’ve been saying, ‘Everybody’s going to die. Every hospital is going to close.’ Well, a year from now, Maria, we’re actually going to be able to see results. It’s all the hyperbole that you saw them saying on the House floor. They were all lies. Disabled people will get better Medicaid under this bill because all of the fully able-bodied, the 35-year-old guy sitting at home playing video games in his mom’s basement, he’s going to have to go work because we put work requirements in place. And so he will not be crowding out disabled people in Medicaid. It’s a crowded program. It’s not the best form of health care right now. And so we’re going to make that program work better for the people that are truly disabled and needy, not for somebody who’s turning down work. And by the way, when he gets a job, he’s going to get health care with his job that’s better than Medicaid. So these are all components of the bill that they’ve been lying about. The truth is going to be something that the American people like because these are all things that President Trump campaigned on, and so did we.”On the Biden Administration’s coverups:“First, this is not somebody who has been stumbling over words, Maria. Everybody in America has watched his cognitive decline for years. Some in the far-left media act like that this was some new revelation at the debate where President Trump destroyed Joe Biden in the debate. It had been going on before that, and everybody knew about it, but the left was covering up, including the media in the left. And so let’s not play that game. “However, we’re really concerned about things like the use of the autopen. The autopen wasn’t just used to sign some congratulatory note for somebody who turned 100. They were signing pardons with the autopen, other really important documents. And then now there are people testifying saying, ‘Joe Biden probably didn’t even know it was being used.’ Well, if so, who was? Why was somebody using President Biden’s signature without President Biden’s own knowledge? We’re digging into things like that. His doctor raises a lot of questions when you’re asked, ‘Were you ever pushed into lying about Joe Biden?’ And you plead the fifth. It raises a lot of serious questions, Maria, and we’re going to keep digging to get answers.”On the disarray in the Democrat Party:“Yeah, Maria, people want to know the truth. The American people deserve to know the truth. And we have some people who are talking. There were some people in the Biden White House who are talking to Chairman [James] Comer’s committee. You were spot on in 2021. I have a number of my colleagues, we were all talking about this back then because you could see it. It wasn’t just something that we were trying to throw at the wall. It was something everybody that saw Joe Biden could see. They scripted him. They limited his schedule severely. They kept a really close bubble around him so people couldn’t talk to him. He didn’t do press conferences. Donald Trump does press conferences, everyday free-wheeling. But look, I have Republicans that went on Jake Tapper’s show to say he had a cognitive decline, and Jake Tapper read them the riot act, called him all kinds of crazy names. Now he’s got a book saying, ‘gee-whiz, we just realized it.’ No, he didn’t. He knew it back then, and he was playing pitbull for the far-left to attack any Republican who said there was a decline. The American people have figured this out.“The Democrat Party is still in denial. So, as you saw the clip from [Rep. Jasmine] Crockett, they’re trying to still cover up for it. They’re still in denial about why they lost the election. Their party is being run by Socialists. Go look in New York City. That’s who they are. That’s who their party is. And that’s not where the American people are. We’re fighting for blue-collar, hard-working families, and they’re still yelling lies about millionaires and billionaires and people dying in the streets, and they wonder why they keep losing elections.”On ICE agents making America safe again:“Well, first of all, it’s criminal. You are seeing President Trump and the Justice Department going aggressively after anybody who’s attacking ICE agents, whether they’re slashing tires or whether they’re ambushing and trying to murder them in shootouts. They’re going to do hard jail time. It’s a federal crime to attack and assault a federal officer. And so it’s being fueled by the left, though. Make no doubt about it, Maria. When you see Democrat politicians at the highest levels still out there publicly bashing ICE agents, the Democrat Party, who tried to defund police, is now trying to defund ICE. They want chaos. They don’t want rule of law. We are fighting for rule of law, and ICE agents are doing a wonderful job. These are heroes. These are people getting the pedophiles off of our streets, hardened criminals, gang leaders from foreign countries that Joe Biden let in. They’re the ones that are getting them out of our country to keep our community safe. And the Democrat Party wants to go after them. Shame on them, Maria.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Releases Video Touting OBBB Wins

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) released a video touting the wins in Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill. Leader Scalise highlighted the economic relief, border security, and energy independence achieved by President Trump signing this historic bill into law. To view the full video, click here.

    On promises made, promises kept through the OBBB:“For the last four years, America has been held back. We ran and said, ‘We’ll do something about it and we’ll fix it.’ America went to the polls in November and gave us this mandate – the House, Senate, and White House – to go deliver on all of the things that are in this bill, this One Big Beautiful Bill. This bill that’s going to deliver on so many promises that the American people asked us to do for them.“President Trump said that he was going to lock those tax rates in. Waiters and waitresses with no tax on tips. We get rid of all taxes on overtime pay for blue-collar workers. It’s going to lower inflation, create higher wages for families.“We fully fund President Trump’s effort to finish building the wall, give our Border Patrol Agents new technology so they can actually compete with the drug cartels of Mexico.“President Trump said that we were going to produce more American energy from ANWR in Alaska to the Gulf of America. In this One Big Beautiful Bill, those promises are kept.“You will see an American renaissance, a golden age in this country that we haven’t seen in generations, and we will get this economy moving again.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Talks One Big Beautiful Bill Passage

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) spoke following the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill – a key piece of legislation to unlock President Trump’s agenda. Leader Scalise discussed how President Trump and House Republicans delivered on their promises to provide American families with tax relief, more jobs, energy independence, and border security. Leader Scalise praised President Trump and Speaker Johnson for their leadership in unifying House Republicans around this once-in-a-generation bill.

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full remarks. 
    On delivering relief for American families:“What a beautiful day here in America. It is the golden age of America again. America is coming back. And I tell you, a lot of people wrote this bill off for dead. Nobody said it would be easy. But you know what? We didn’t come here to do easy things. We came here to do big things. We came here to make history. We came here to deliver on the promises we made to the American people to fight for them and to take power out of Washington and give it back to those families who have been struggling for way too long.”On Democrat scare tactics:“Now, we had a little bit of debate on the floor today. You got to see a difference between the two parties in Washington, maybe more crystallized than we’ve ever seen before. And I think that’s a good thing. I hope America watched all of it. Watched Democrats falling asleep behind their leader as he went on and on, trying to scare the American people with lies, with scare tactics, with depressing stories about things that will never happen unless Democrats keep running this country. But the American people said, ‘We will not live in fear.’ We are not a country of fear. We’re a country of hope. We’re a country of optimism. We’re a country that believes our brightest days are ahead, and they elected Republicans to deliver on those brighter days. And I think maybe their leader wanted to speak for hours and hours and break records because they wanted to stand in the way of history. But history is not going to be denied. We were elected with a purpose.”On passing President Trump’s agenda:“Donald Trump ran all around this country. He went to swing states that they said Republicans could never win. And he didn’t give different messages to different places. A lot of us traveled with the President. And the one thing you can say about Donald Trump is it doesn’t matter where he went. When you listen to his speech, it’s probably going to be a little bit longer than the paper that was written – might have been about a 15-minute-long speech because President Trump speaks from the heart. President Trump expanded our base. Wasn’t just the typical Republican voters. It was people of all walks of life, people who had given up on Washington because Washington gave up on them, and they finally saw a leader who was willing to fight for the hardworking people of this country.“That’s who Donald Trump has always been. And all the people that knocked Donald Trump ignore one important fact: There is no better, more passionate fighter for America and its hope and promise than Donald J. Trump.”On promises made, promises kept:“President Trump said at every stop, ‘If you elect me, if you give me a Republican House and a Republican Senate,’ these are the things I will do. It was historic in a lot of ways. It should be commonplace that a presidential candidate runs on specific things and then delivers on every single thing he ran on. He said, ‘I’m going to secure America’s border.’ His opponent said they were going to keep the border open. He said, ‘I’m going to actually make our country energy independent again.’ And then the war, the attack on American energy that we’ve seen for four years, crushed jobs, crushed the economy, forced families to pay too much for gasoline, and emboldened the enemies of our nation, like Russia, Iran, and others. And those days are over with this One Big Beautiful Bill. And President Trump said a lot of other things.“What the American people knew about not only electing Donald Trump, but about keeping this House majority and about electing a Republican Senate is that they said, ‘We’re going to entrust this group of people to go and be different and to deliver on those promises.’ And when you look through all the historic things in this One Big Beautiful Bill, the wins for hard-working families, win after win after win. It’s delivering on those promises. We are going to see economic growth. When Donald Trump signs this bill tomorrow on America’s birthday, the independence of our nation, you will start seeing historic growth like we’ve never seen before.”On House Republicans rallying around the OBBB:“I’ve been proud to work on a lot of important pieces of legislation. There is not one group of people, and there is not one bigger piece of legislation that will deliver more great benefits for the hard-working families who have been struggling in this country than this One Big Beautiful Bill. There’s a reason it was hard. There’s a reason that it wasn’t two committees like Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. It was 11 committees involved – historic. We made great historic reforms in education policy. First-ever repeal of a Second Amendment tax in the history of our country. A constitutional right being taxed, gone in this bill. You’ve heard about a lot of the other provisions. One of the things you didn’t hear about is school choice, federal school choice for the first time ever, so low-income families will have an opportunity to get their kids out of failing school rules. “Every Democrat voted against all of those things, and they’re going to have to explain that. Once the lies and the hot air and the long-winded speeches are over, people are going to go, ‘I’m better off today now that this bill signed into the law and all the things you said didn’t happen. But the great things that Donald Trump and this Republican majority promised did.’ And that’s the testament to the non-ending hard work of this group of people. And I will tell you, I’ve worked alongside a lot of leaders, and I’ve been blessed to be a part of leadership and majorities, mostly, minorities, too – it’s a lot more fun to be in the majority. But you get in the majority to do the big things, to do the hard work. And believe me, this was hard work. You all know it. You all know how many times this bill could have died if we just said, you know what? It’s probably not going to get there. There’s a lot of reasons why you could say it’s just going to fail. But this group always said from the beginning, and we told you this, and we meant it, failure is not an option because the American people are counting on us. There’s too much at stake. There was too much at stake from the very beginning, and we knew the power of what this bill will do for those families who are counting on us. And so every time it would have been easy to give up, we just thought about those families who entrusted us with their vote, and we had to deliver for them.”On the strong leadership of the Republican Party:“We figured out a way to come together, people you never would have thought showing up voting ‘yes.’ And I will tell you, all the leaders I’ve served with, I don’t think there’s one that held this group together – complicated majority, narrow majority, narrowest we’ve ever had. We had a two-vote majority at the beginning of this process. And Speaker Mike Johnson never one day wavered on his commitment. Donald Trump absolutely was our closer, and Donald Trump never stopped. Every day was there in the fight. Who do I need to call? What do I need to do? No President more directly engaged.“And believe me, tomorrow at the White House, you’re going to see a proud President who’s ready to deliver on his promise to the American people. But this bill wouldn’t be heading over to the White House tonight without the incredible Yeoman’s unwavering support of Speaker of the House, my dear friend, Mike Johnson, our leader.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Foster Statement on Military Action in Iran and Escalating Nuclear Threat

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL), Congress’ only PhD physicist, issued the following statement:

    “Make no mistake: We are in this situation because of President Trump’s careless decision to withdraw from the Iran Nuclear Deal during his first term. Under that agreement, we maintained adequate oversight over Iran’s nuclear program such that if they backed out, the U.S. and our allies would have at least a full year to respond militarily before Iran had enriched uranium for their first nuclear weapon. Because Trump pulled out of that agreement, Iran now has the ability to produce a weapon within weeks.

    “In the period since Iran has stopped full cooperation with nuclear inspectors, there was more than enough time for the Trump Administration to brief Congress on the situation and seek the permission Constitutionally required for military action. It is also inexcusable that Trump did not inform Congressional leadership before military action was taken.

    “Now is the time for diplomacy that must include an agreement to return all of Iran’s enriched uranium inventory to IAEA inspection. All parties must return to the negotiating table to ensure a safer future for the United States and the world.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Foster, Casten Lead Roundtable at Northern Illinois Food Bank to Discuss GOP SNAP Cuts Threatening 360,000 Illinoisans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

    **PHOTOS AND VIDEOS AVAILABLE**

    Photos and videos can be viewed here.

    Geneva, IL – Today, Reps. Bill Foster (D-IL-11) and Sean Casten (D-IL-06) led a discussion at Northern Illinois Food Bank in response to the GOP budget, signed into law last week, which includes nearly $200 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. 

    In Illinois, 1.8 million individuals rely on SNAP benefits annually. This bill changes eligibility requirements, putting an estimated 360,000 Illinoisans at risk of losing SNAP benefits.

    Reps. Foster and Casten, Northern Illinois Food Bank President and CEO Julie Yurko, DuPage County Board member Greg Schwarze, Kane County Board member Jarett Sanchez, local food pantry partners, and neighbors who rely on food assistance came together to discuss how this legislation will impact Illinoisans struggling to make ends meet and the hunger relief programs that provide essential food support.

    “I watched in disgust as Republicans celebrated passing a budget that puts 42 million Americans at risk of losing their food assistance or seeing it reduced,” said Rep. Foster. “With costs for everyday essentials surging under President Trump, these cuts threaten to push even more Illinoisans into food insecurity. In Congress, I will continue working to ensure the Northern Illinois Food Bank and local pantries have the resources and support they need to feed our neighbors.”

    “Hundreds of thousands of Illinoisans will go hungry because Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans cut food assistance programs in order to give their billionaire friends a tax cut,” said Rep. Casten. “Organizations like the Northern Illinois Food Bank and other local food pantries have played a vital role in our community. We owe it to the folks they serve to keep up the fight and ensure they have what they need to continue their work.”

    “While we are disappointed by the funding cuts to SNAP, we remain firmly committed to supporting our neighbors and network partners. Together, we will continue to advocate for lasting solutions that address the root causes of hunger and ensure every neighbor in Northern Illinois has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive,” said Julie Yurko, President and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Joins House Democrats in Challenging Trump’s Unlawful, Chaotic Imposition of IEEPA Tariffs in Appeals Court

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi joined 161 Members of Congress and 29 Senators in filing an amicus brief before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit challenging President Donald Trump’s sweeping and chaotic tariffs that were unlawfully imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The lawmakers’ brief stands up for Congress’s Article I executive legislative powers and argues that the IEEPA is not a tariff statute and that Congress did not intend or provide for the IEEPA to be used as a tariff statute. 

    The amicus brief was led by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Task Force Chair Joe Neguse, House Judiciary Ranking Member and Task Force Co-Chair Jamie Raskin, House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Gregory Meeks, and Ways and Means Ranking Member Richard E. Neal, as well as Senate Foreign Relations Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen and Senate Finance Ranking Member Ron Wyden. It was filed in the matter of Oregon, et al., v. Trump, et al., which was brought forth by 12 States’ Attorneys General. 

    In May, the Task Force successfully filed a brief in the same matter before the Court of International Trade (CIT). The CIT decision referenced our brief and struck down the President’s illegal tariffs under IEEPA. The Administration has now appealed the lower court’s ruling, and the matter is now before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. 

    The Constitution gives Congress, not the President, the authority to impose tariffs, and the President can only raise tariffs if Congress has clearly delegated its authority to him. Although IEEPA (enacted in 1977) grants the president authority to impose sanctions, block foreign assets, and regulate economic transactions in response to “unusual and extraordinary threats” originating abroad, it is not a tariff statute and has never been used that way. Congress knows how to delegate tariff authority and has clearly done so on a number of occasions. When Congress does delegate such authority, it imposes substantive, procedural, and temporal limits on the president’s power in order to avoid economic chaos and protect the American people. 

    The full brief is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Statement on House Passage of Budget Reconciliation Package

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) released the following statement after the House passed the budget reconciliation package, sending it to President Trump’s desk for final approval:

    “This package delivers a lot of what we’ve been pushing for years. It means more jobs and a stronger economy. It makes Social Security checks tax-free for most seniors, protects Medicare, makes sure tips and overtime pay aren’t taxed, and extends tax relief so families can hold on to more of what they earn. It also opens up more of our country for energy and timber production and takes care of the West’s water needs by fixing canals and building more storage. It funds actually securing the border so we can finally finish the wall, remove criminal illegal aliens and get this crisis under control. Importantly, it gets us back to the principle that if you’re a healthy able-bodied adult, you should be employed. I’m glad to see the House pass it and look forward to seeing it signed into law.”

    The budget reconciliation package is expected to be signed into law by the President in the coming days.

    Background:

    • Tax Relief for Working Americans: Extends significant tax cuts, including about a 15% cut for those earning $30,000–$80,000. Expands the Child Tax Credit and adds a senior tax deduction of $6,000 to offset taxes on Social Security. Also exempts tips and overtime from being taxed. The median family in California’s 1st District will save around $3,500 under this bill.
    • Helping Families Afford New Cars: Makes it easier for working Americans to purchase new vehicles by making interest on new purchases of American made cars deductible.
    • Strengthens Timber & Farming: Expands timber harvesting and strengthens crop insurance and conservation tools, without adding red tape.
    • Public Lands: No sale of federally managed public lands.
    • Water Storage Expansion: Invests $1 billion to upgrade and expand water storage and fix canals, helping the West store and deliver more water in wet years.
    • Rural Healthcare: Includes a new $50 billion fund to keep rural hospitals afloat as states change Medicaid formulas.
    • Medicaid & SNAP Reform: Requires able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) to work, volunteer, or pursue education for at least 80 hours per month. Ends benefits for 1.4 million illegal immigrants.
    • Protects Seniors: Does not touch Social Security or Medicare while adding additional tax deductions to help seniors.
    • Energy & Resource Development: Repeals Green New Deal-style handouts, expands American oil, gas, and mineral production.
    • Border Security & Immigration Enforcement: Fully funds Trump’s border wall, ramps up deportations, adds thousands of new ICE and Border Patrol agents.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Davids Speaks with Frontline Health Care Providers on Impact of Extreme Republican Medicaid Cuts

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

    KANSAS CITY, KS – Today, Representative Sharice Davids joined nearly 200 health care workers at Vibrant Health to discuss the harmful impact of recently enacted Republican Medicaid cuts. Davids heard directly from providers about how these cuts, which she voted against, will threaten all Kansas families’ access to affordable care — and reaffirmed her commitment to protecting the health and well-being of every Kansan, over billionaire tax giveaways.

    “Kansans shouldn’t have to pay more or travel farther for health care just so billionaires can get another tax break,” said Davids. “These Medicaid cuts will strip coverage from hardworking families, force rural hospitals to close, raise premiums, and reduce access to essential care for all children, seniors, and veterans. I voted against these cuts — and yes, I’m angry. But I’m also determined to keep pushing back against these extreme policies, lowering costs for Kansans, and protecting the care our communities count on.”

    “At Vibrant Health, our goal is to ensure that everyone in our community has access to high-quality healthcare,” said Patrick Sallee, President & CEO, Vibrant Health. “Many of the people we see in our clinics rely on Medicaid, many of them children, whose parents simply want them to grow up healthy and thrive. When families worry about the cost of care, they often delay or avoid essential preventive services. Cuts to Medicaid don’t just reduce coverage — they increase the barriers our patients face in staying healthy.”

    The law, signed last week by President Trump, includes the largest cuts to Medicaid in American history. According to the U.S. Congressional Joint Economic Committee, the new law will strip coverage from 92,937 Kansans, put six rural hospitals across Kansas at risk of closure, restrict reproductive health care, and increase Affordable Care Act premiums by $780 per year for Third District families.

    President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ Medicaid cuts will hit Kansas hard, with hospitals across the state projected to lose more than $78 million annually. The University of Kansas Hospital, Overland Park Regional Medical Center, and AdventHealth Shawnee Mission are among those facing the steepest losses. Medicaid covers one-fifth of hospital spending, so eliminating coverage for nearly 12 million Americans will significantly increase uncompensated care, including at Community Health Centers. Hospitals already operating in the red may not survive the added financial pressures of treating more uninsured patients without reimbursement.

    “Health Partnership Clinic is evaluating the impact that the recently passed bill will have on our organization and patients that we serve,” said Amy Falk, Chief Executive Officer, Health Partnership Clinic. “Any time there are potential cuts that may affect our funding, we do a thorough analysis and make the necessary adjustments that are needed, and sometimes these are not easy decisions. HPC remains committed to being here for the patients we serve in Johnson, Miami, and Franklin counties.”

    These harmful provisions in the law go far beyond health care. In the Kansas Third District alone, 15,000 households could lose access to emergency nutrition assistance, and local grocery stores — especially in rural communities — may be forced to close. Cuts to clean energy incentives could eliminate up to 10,000 good-paying jobs and increase utility bills by $670 per household. Meanwhile, the law adds $3.3 trillion to the national debt and gives massive tax breaks to billionaires, even as it raises taxes on hardworking families.

    Throughout her time in Congress, Davids has championed policies to make health care more affordable and accessible. She voted to cap insulin costs at $35 per month for Medicare recipients, extend tax credits that help families afford insurance through the Affordable Care Act, and cap annual out-of-pocket drug costs for seniors. She also supported giving Medicare the power to negotiate drug prices — saving 74,000 Kansans up to 79 percent — and led efforts to ban surprise medical billing and increase transparency from insurers to help patients avoid costly out-of-network care.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Davids Opposes Partisan Bill That Slashes Health Care, Food to Benefit Billionaires

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

    Today, Representative Sharice Davids released the following statement after voting against President Trump and U.S. House Republicans’ extreme budget that cuts health care and raises grocery prices for hardworking families to pay for tax giveaways for billionaires and ultrawealthy corporations. 

    “Simply put, President Trump’s extreme budget hurts everyone who isn’t already a billionaire,” said Davids. “It hands out tax giveaways to the ultra-wealthy while gutting Medicaid, raising grocery prices, and putting rural hospitals and reproductive health care at risk — all while adding trillions to the national debt. I was raised by a single mom in the Army, so I know what it’s like to live paycheck to paycheck. This proposal would only make it harder for families like the one I grew up in. Kansans deserve responsible leadership, not reckless cuts and partisan gimmicks — that’s why I’m focused on a commonsense, bipartisan path forward that actually lowers costs, supports small businesses, and grows our economy responsibly.”

    Background:

    President Trump and U.S. House Republicans pushed a budget that would make the largest cuts to Medicaid and emergency food assistance in American history — all to fund tax giveaways for billionaires. These extreme cuts would gut programs that help Kansans afford food and stay healthy. In contrast, Davids supports a commonsense tax framework to lower costs for Kansas’ hardworking families, support small businesses, and strengthen our long-term economy.

    How This Bill Hurts Kansans: Raising costs on the middle class so billionaires pay less

    • HIGHER Health Care Costs: The Joint Economic Committee estimates 92,937 Kansans will lose health care coverage under this reckless bill, including those on Medicaid. These cuts put six rural hospitals across Kansas at risk of closing and would increase Affordable Care Act premiums by $780 for people in Kansas’ Third District.
    • HIGHER Grocery Costs:In Kansas’ Third District alone, 15,000 households could lose access to the emergency food assistance they rely on through this bill. Also, local grocery stores nationwide may be forced to close due to lost revenue, worsening food deserts, especially in rural communities. These cuts would reduce farm income by more than $25 billion and threaten good-paying jobs.
    • HIGHER Utility Bills: Davids previously supported tax credits that are helping Kansans save on their energy bills, supporting farmers, and creating thousands of good-paying jobs across the state. But now, this budget proposal would gut those cost-saving policies — including some that even Republicans have backed. It’s projected to eliminate 10,000 manufacturing and energy jobs in Kansas and raise annual energy costs by $670 per household.
    • LOWER Reproductive Health Care Access: This bill would gut access to reproductive health care by putting nearly 200 Planned Parenthood health centers in 24 states at risk of closure — making it harder for 1.1 million patients to get lifesaving care like cancer screenings, birth control, abortion services, and more. 90 percent of those closures would happen in states where abortion is legal and protected, including Kansas.

    • HIGHER Deficit: The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget reported that this Trump-backed bill would add $3.3 trillion to the national deficit through 2034. Such high levels of borrowing could substantially boost interest rates, slow economic growth, and spark a debt spiral.

    • LOWER Taxes for Billionaires: The Republican budget actually raises taxes on the lowest-income families in the country, all while billionaires who already pay next to nothing in taxes get more breaks. The top 0.1 percent stands to gain $309,000, or $847 every day, in 2027 alone. This bill shows exactly where U.S. House Republicans’ loyalties lie: not with the hardworking Americans who sent them to Congress, but to Trump and their billionaire donors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Davids Unveils Comprehensive Tax Reform Framework to Lower Costs, Expand Economic Opportunity, Promote Fiscal Responsibility

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

    Rejecting the GOP Tax Scam, Rep. Davids is charting a new path forward

    Today, Representative Sharice Davids joined the New Democrat Coalition in unveiling a new Tax Framework aimed at advancing commonsense reforms that deliver better outcomes for Kansas’ hardworking families, support small businesses, and strengthen our long-term economy.

    The Framework stands in clear contrast to President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ extreme tax plan, which slashes health care and nutrition support for working families to pay for tax breaks for billionaires — adding $3.3 trillion to the national debt.

    “We should be focused on finding commonsense solutions that lower costs for hardworking families — not on extreme proposals that only benefit billionaires and the wealthiest corporations,” said Davids. “This new framework puts Kansas families and small businesses first by lowering costs, supporting job creation, and ensuring we grow the economy without adding to the national debt.”

    The Framework lays out a policy roadmap capable of amassing support on both sides of the aisle, including more than 20 pragmatic solutions that fall into one of three principles: lowering costs for middle class families and hardworking Americans; expanding economic opportunity and growing American jobs and businesses; and promoting fiscal responsibility and long-term economic security. 

    Framework Goals (read more here):

    1. Lower Costs for Working Families:
      • Support American Families and Children
        • Ex: Extend the expanded, refundable Child Tax Credit
      • Reward Work and Support Economic Mobility
        • Ex: Simplify and expand access to work-related tax benefits, including commuting and caregiving expenses
      • Make Higher Education and Training More Affordable
        • Ex: Update the tax code to recognize modern training and credentialing programs to support lifelong learning and upskilling
    2. Sustained Economic Growth and Grow American Jobs and Businesses:
      • Strengthen Innovation and Investment
        • Ex: Support tax incentives for domestic research and development and manufacturing
      • Support Small Business and Entrepreneurs
        • Ex: Modernize and simplify small business tax provisions to reduce compliance burdens and help startups and small businesses scale and compete
      • Promote Long-Term, Broad-Based Growth
        • Ex: Ensure international tax rules encourage U.S. investment and onshoring, keep IP in the U.S., and American companies are globally competitive
    3. Fiscal Responsibility and Long-Term Economic Security:
      • Lower annual deficits
        • Ex: Reject irresponsible tax policies that primarily benefit the wealthiest individuals at the expense of working families and the deficit
      • Stabilize and then reduce debt-to-GDP ratio
        • Ex: The more the U.S. spends on interest on the debt, the less it can spend on children, Social Security, Medicare, and defense

    This week, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are pushing a budget plan that gives tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy and large corporations while raising costs and cutting services for everyone else. Davids previously voted against a version of this bill because it would:

    • Gut Medicaid and force rural hospitals to close;
    • Increase grocery prices and put smaller grocery stores at risk of closing;
    • Cut clean energy tax credits that are saving Kansans money on energy bills and supporting domestic manufacturing;
    • Add $3-5 trillion to the national deficit through 2034;
    • Raise taxes on hardworking families to fund tax giveaways for billionaires.

    The New Democrat Coalition is a group of more than 100 forward-thinking, solutions-focused House Democrats committed to growing the economy, strengthening communities, and protecting our democracy. Representing more than half the Democratic Caucus, they work across the aisle to deliver real results on issues like health care, housing, and national security.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA:  Amo Led Discussion with Rhode Island Manufacturers Struggling because of Trump’s Erratic Trade Policy

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    85% of Rhode Island manufacturers say Trump’s tariffs are hurting their businesses in a new survey.

    PAWTUCKET, RI –  Monday, June 30th, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) led a roundtable discussion with six small, local manufacturers from across Rhode Island’s First Congressional District about the impacts of Trump’s chaotic tariff policy. Business leaders from LNA Laser Technology (Pawtucket, RI), Katrinkles (Providence, RI), Beehive Handmade (Warren, RI), Ward’s Manufacturing (Warren, RI), and S.K. Grimes (Woonsocket, RI) voiced fears that Trump’s sweeping, chaotic tariffs would irreparably harm their companies. The leaders shared they were less likely to hire Rhode Island workers or invest in research and development due to these policies.

    “Rhode Island manufacturers, workers and consumers are paying the price for Trump’s tariff chaos,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Thank you to the small businesses from across the First Congressional District who shared their stories at last week’s roundtable in Pawtucket. They made crystal clear Trump’s all-encompassing, volatile tariffs are having disastrous consequences on their companies – they can’t hire, invest, or plan for the future. Small businesses and their employees need clear, consistent policy to thrive. Republicans talk a big game about reshoring American manufacturing, but their extreme policies are undermining American job creators. I took these stories back to Washington to keep fighting for a commonsense trade policy that empowers Rhode Island workers and businesses.” 

    “It was an honor to meet with Congressman Amo at last week’s roundtable event, and to experience firsthand how hard he is working on behalf of Rhode Island’s manufacturers,” said Katy Westcott, owner of Katrinkles in Warren, RI. “At Katrinkles, we’re seeing customers now purchasing elsewhere to avoid extra fees, or avoiding ordering from the United States altogether. It was heartening to discuss the impact of tariffs on the industry at large, as well as effective strategies for response, with so many insightful fellow manufacturers.”

    “LNA Laser Technology supplies high quality lasers and systems for part identification and traceability to manufacturing industries across the country,” said Dan Gold, President and CEO of LNA Laser Technology in Pawtucket, RI. “Many components of our systems are sourced from abroad because they are not available domestically. The new tariff policies are driving the costs up significantly of critical components that ultimately gets passed on to the manufacturing end users. This not only impacts our ability to be competitive, it also punishes the US companies who are trying to invest in technology to improve and grow. My goal in talking with Congressman Amo was to share these real consequences and impacts so that he can hopefully work with his colleagues in Congress towards common sense exceptions in tariff policy that will promote investment in domestic manufacturing. If the goal is to help bring back manufacturing industries and jobs to the US, the current administration sweeping tariff policy is having the complete opposite effect.”

    “I’m grateful to Congressman Amo for taking the time to gather us, listen to our concerns, and genuinely engage on the challenges we face,” said Adam Dau, President of S.K. Grimes in Woonsocket, RI. “What struck me during the roundtable was that, despite the wide range of products, materials, and clientele we served, every business at the table was feeling the weight of a tariff system that is inconsistently applied—or in some cases, applied without clear rationale. That uncertainty makes it incredibly difficult to plan for the future or invest in growth. The current system stands in the way of continuing to strengthen Rhode Island’s already strong manufacturing base, and we’re encouraged by the Congressman’s efforts to change that.”

    “The tariffs are hurting American manufacturers at every level of the supply chain. Our material costs are increasing while our manufacturing customers are buying less,” said Kelly Ward, President of Ward’s Manufacturing in Warren, RI. “Businesses cannot make decisions when policies change every day and without warning. Many manufacturers are pausing projects until the federal government comes up with a definitive plan. The uncertainty is hurting the U.S. economy. My metal fabrication company, Ward’s Manufacturing LLC, has experienced a cost increase of up to 4x as a result of the tariffs. We have only two choices – either my company pays the tariff or the consumer pays the tariff. Either way, it’s Americans who pay.”

    “Rhode Island’s small manufacturing ecosystem is strong and vibrant,” said Matt Watson, Center Director of Polaris MEP, Rhode Island’s Manufacturing Extension Program. “We’re grateful to Congressman Amo for highlighting the real impacts these companies are facing and for exploring potential solutions to help ease future headwinds.”
     

    Background

    As Vice Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Congressman Amo, worked to force a voteto end the ‘so-called’ national emergency Trump is using to justify tariffs. If passed it would end reciprocal tariffs.

    In May 2025, Amo led 30 colleagues, alongside Congressman Greg Casar (D-TX) and Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), in calling on the Acting Inspector General of the State Department to review potential corruptionin trade negotiations with countries facing tariffs benefiting Elon Musk and Starlink.

    In April 2025, Amo signed an amicus brief in Oregon v. Trump supporting the argument that the Trump Administration abused emergency powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to unlawfully impose reckless, across-the-board tariffs.

    He also joined Congressman Steve Horsford (D-NV) in April 2025 to express alarm that Trump may be using trade policy to enrich insiders with advanced knowledge of pending trade actions or inactions.

    Amo signed a letter led by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA), and Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (D-CA) in a April 2025 addressed to Secretary Lutnick, Secretary Bessent, and USTR Ambassador Greer expressing concern about the Trump Administration’s tariffs opening the door to corruption.

    In February 2025, Amo joined Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA) in urging Trump to reconsider the proposed 25% tariffson imported building materials from Canada and Mexico. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo and Lofgren Demand Commerce Secretary Lutnick Appear Before Committee to Answer for NWS Staff Shortages

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    The demand for testimony comes as search and rescue efforts continue in Central Texas after horrifying flooding devastated the area. 

    Washington, DC –  Yesterday, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI), Ranking Member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Environment Subcommittee and Science, Space, and Technology Ranking Member, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) sent a letter to Department of Commerce Secretary Lutnick demanding he testify before the Committee to explain his plan to address staff shortages at the National Weather Service (NWS). The letter comes after the devastating flooding in Central Texas that has since called into question whether the Trump Administration’s mass firing and intimidation of federal employees may have impaired the ability of the NWS to carry out its mission.

    “We write to you to demand your testimony before the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology regarding staff shortages at the National Weather Service (NWS) and your plan to address them,” said the Members in the letter. “The NWS is a critical public safety agency. In addition to its role as the source of everyday weather data for the country, the NWS is charged with forecasting extreme weather events and communicating those forecasts promptly to the public in order to save lives and livelihoods. Americans rely on the NWS every single day to keep us safe. But the NWS is only as strong as its people. And under your leadership, the Department of Commerce (DOC) has overseen an indiscriminate wave of firings, deferred resignations, and early retirements that has thrown the NWS into crisis. The dangers arising from that crisis have been laid bare in the wake of the horrifying, tragic flooding that struck parts of Central Texas on July 4th. While it is too soon to draw definitive conclusions about what happened, it is already clear that this is precisely the type of situation in which the existence of a short-staffed, depleted NWS heightens the risk of tragedy. There will be more such extreme weather events – there always are. You must appear before the Committee immediately and explain to us how you intend to restore the NWS to full strength as quickly as possible so that the agency will be fully prepared to carry out its lifesaving mission when the next disaster strikes.”

    “It will take time to fully understand whether any part of this past weekend’s tragedy in Texas could have been avoided,” the Members continued. “We cannot rush to judgment based on the limited information available to us now. But it is apparent to us, Secretary Lutnick, that your actions to drastically slash staffing at the National Weather Service have increased the broader risks to Americans of extreme weather events by impairing the ability of the NWS to do its job. Simply put, you cut too deep. You refused to listen to the warnings from experts, from Congress, and from the NWS itself. And the flooding in Central Texas illustrates, in the most terrible fashion, the disastrous risks you invite by taking the lifesaving role of the NWS for granted.”

    Access the letter here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Amo Statement on Trump Administration Withholding Education Funds

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    “Trump’s assault on public education, teachers, and working families knows no bounds. By withholding $29 million from Rhode Island and billions in federal education funding already approved by Congress, he’s continuing his reckless crusade to dismantle the Department of Education. 

    I will keep fighting to unlock these funds that support thousands of multilingual learners, afterschool programs, teacher professional development, and adult education in our state because everyone deserves a chance to succeed.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Members Amo and Stanton Slam Trump’s Staffing Cuts to FEMA and NWS After Tragic Texas Flooding

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    With 120+ dead and 150+ missing, tragic Texas flooding highlights extreme danger of Trump’s staffing cuts to FEMA and the National Weather Service

    Providence, RI –  Yesterday, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee Subcommittee on Environment and Congressman Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Ranking Member of the Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management Subcommittee of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure hosted a virtual press conference to highlight the potentially deadly consequences of President Trump’s staffing cuts to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS).

    “My thoughts are with the families and survivors of the flash floods in Texas. Despite a lack of support from the Trump administration, National Weather Service staff kept local officials and the public informed throughout the deadly flooding. ” said Ranking Member of the Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee on the Environment, Gabe Amo (D-RI). “I’ve kept raising the alarm about the costs of cuts to our nation’s weather workforce and our ability to research and respond to climate-fueled weather disasters. Refusing to study extreme weather and purging our scientific workforce isn’t going to stop disasters and help families, it’s just going to undermine our ability to be prepared and save lives.”

    “My heart breaks for the families in Texas who have been devastated by these horrific floods,” said Congressman Greg Stanton (D-AZ). “Extreme weather is only becoming more frequent and more severe, from wildfires to extreme heat in Arizona to flash floods in Texas, the federal government must be fully staffed, fully funded and fully prepared to respond to these disasters. Texans and all Americans deserve a FEMA that is strong, capable and ready on day one, not one deliberately undermined by its own leadership. As we continue to pray for all of those affected, House Democrats will continue to relentlessly demand transparency and accountability for and on behalf of the American people, especially those experiencing unimaginable tragedy.”

    Watch the full press conference here. 

    Background

    On July 4, after heavy rain in the Texas Hill Country, the Guadalupe and other rivers breached their banks causing catastrophic flooding leaving more than 120 dead. 

    Ranking Member Amo and Ranking Member Stanton alongside Science, Space, and Technology Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) and Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA) sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) seeking answers on federal activity in preparation for and in response to the tragic floods. 

    Amo, Ranking Member Lofgren, and Science, Space, and Technology Oversight Subcommittee Ranking Member Emilia Sykes (D-OH) also sent a letter calling on Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick to testify before the Committee about the staffing shortages at the National Weather Service and their potential impact on the Texas flash floods. 

    Amo also joined Homeland Security Subcommittee onEmergency Management And Technology Ranking Member Timothy Kennedy (D-NY) in calling for answers from Acting FEMA Administrator David Richardson and Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for NOAA Laura Grimm about the status of FEMA and the National Weather Service’s preparedness for and response to the disastrous flooding in Texas. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The One Big Beautiful Bill Secures Major Wins for the American People

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —Today, H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), passed the House of Representatives in a vote of 218-214 with unanimous support from the Freedom Caucus. The passage of the OBBBA marks a major victory for the American people, President Donald Trump, and the House Freedom Caucus. From day one, HFC Members worked closely with the President, his team, congressional leadership, and conservative colleagues to strengthen this reconciliation package—making it more fiscally responsible and more conservative at every step. We have delivered Republican priorities with Republican votes and ensured Democrats cannot derail the America First agenda.

    Historic Border Wins: HFC was an early proponent of providing full border security and immigration enforcement funding in reconciliation. These priorities are now central to the OBBBA. The bill delivers historic investments to finish the border wall, ramp up deportations of illegal aliens, and support critical DHS personnel.

    Fiscal Wins: Republicans—led by HFC and fiscal conservatives—achieved over $1.5 trillion in deficit reduction, five times more than originally proposed at the start of this process. This is an historically unprecedented level of spending cuts, and we look forward to working with the White House to continue to cut waste, fraud, and abuse – reining in the Democrats’ out of control spending that fuels inflation. We remain determined to restore pre-pandemic federal spending levels, and there will be more developments on restoring fiscal sanity in the weeks to come.

    Ending the Green New Scam: The OBBBA will unleash American energy dominance by ending key “Green New Scam” subsidies for harmful wind and solar projects in President Trump’s term and opening up reliable energy production by reinstating oil and gas lease sales from Alaska to the Gulf of America. In fact, we believe our provisions will stop more than 90 percent of new “green” projects from getting taxpayer subsidies.

    Welfare Reform & Work Requirements: Republicans secured major mandatory spending cuts and reforms that conservatives have long sought, such as work requirements in entitlement programs like food stamps and in Medicaid – requirements of which were significantly tightened in negotiations prior to the original House passage of the OBBBA in June. The OBBBA cuts waste, fraud, and abuse in these programs, and takes meaningful steps to ensure that illegal aliens are not receiving benefits funded by federal tax dollars. 

    Medicaid: Critically, the OBBBA targets the “money laundering” by states through Medicaid provider taxes, a gimmick states can use to double or even triple their federal reimbursement funding. Many states take advantage of this scam to backfill their own unbalanced budgets and in some cases (e.g., California) use it to provide free healthcare to illegal aliens. The OBBBA phases down the provider tax safe harbor from 6% to 3.5% in Medicaid expansion states to halt this racket. Not only will this save hundreds of billions of dollars, but it will also discourage further growth of Obamacare’s ruinous Medicaid expansion that prioritizes the able-bodied over the most vulnerable Americans.

    Tax Cuts: The OBBBA delivers on and expands President Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, one of the President’s key campaign promises. This avoids the largest tax hike in history, provides new tax relief for hard-working Americans, and incentivizes economic growth and investment in America. HFC Members also secured key tax wins like ending the taxation of suppressors, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and establishing a remittance tax on illegal aliens sending cash abroad. 

    Bottom Line: The House Freedom Caucus fought to make this bill better at every stage—and we succeeded. We secured transformational wins for fiscal responsibility, border security, energy independence, welfare reform, and tax relief. We secured significant commitments on continuing to move the ball forward on the American First agenda, and thanks to President Trump’s leadership, the work to dismantle the Swamp’s agenda isn’t finished—it’s just getting started.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Kelly condemns Big, Ugly Bill: ‘Shame on House Republicans’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) condemned U.S. House Republicans for jamming through the Big, Ugly Bill to meet an arbitrary deadline. Due to the $1 trillion cuts to Medicaid, 17 million Americans will lose their healthcare, including nearly half a million in Illinois and almost 40,000 in the Second District.

    “House Republicans did the unconscionable: they passed the Big, Ugly Bill that would steal people’s healthcare, rob food out of children’s mouths, cut clean energy jobs, and flood our streets with dangerous weapons like gun silencers. After one call from President Trump, so-called hardline conservatives folded like cowards, voting to raise the deficit by $3.4 trillion. While House Republicans bent the knee to President Trump, every House Democrat stood up for the American people to vote no in one resounding voice.

    “If people do not have healthcare, they will die. That’s not hyperbolic – that’s fact. The Big, Ugly Bill rips healthcare away from 17 million people and closes hospitals, all the while exacerbating public health crises like maternal mortality and gun violence. President Trump promised not to touch Medicaid – but he lied, and House Republicans were complicit in his scam. Shame on House Republicans, and shame on President Trump for betraying the American people.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI, MULLIN, WHITEHOUSE, PADILLA REINTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO REDUCE OCEAN SHIPPING POLLUTION, MODERNIZE MARITIME INDUSTRY

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), Congressman Kevin Mullin (D-CA-15), and U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)and Alex Padilla (D-CA), reintroduced legislation aimed at reducing harmful pollution from the global shipping industry. Maritime shipping is a significant source of greenhouse gas pollution around the world and a major contributor to local air pollution in port communities.

     

    The bicameral International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act would address pollution from large cargo ships and oil tankers by charging a fee for greenhouse gases and other hazardous air pollutants emitted by these ships. The revenue from collected fees would be used to fund cleaner ships and port equipment, protecting our port communities and fighting climate change, while also revitalizing the U.S. shipping industry.  

    “The climate crisis isn’t a distant threat. It’s here, it’s accelerating, and it’s devastating communities across our state and our country,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “We must act quickly to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful air pollution across our economy. The International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act takes decisive action to slash pollution from cargo ships and provide urgently needed investment in clean maritime technology and infrastructure. While the International Maritime Organization made history this spring by approving a global net-zero shipping framework, President Trump tried to derail negotiations and continues to block any action to fight climate change. This bill would ensure the U.S. is leading—not lagging—on climate action. As Trump and his allies double down on climate denial and fossil fuel handouts, we’re fighting back with real solutions that protect public health and the planet.”

     

    “Communities near our ports—like those in the San Francisco Bay Area—bear the brunt of pollution from ships that fuel global trade,” said Congressman Mullin. “The International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act ensures that the global shipping industry does its part to reduce emissions. The revenue from these pollution fees will help speed the shift to cleaner ships and healthier ports. I’m proud to partner with Congresswoman Matsui to advance this policy that meets the urgency of the climate crisis while protecting the people and places most impacted by maritime emissions.” 

     

    “As climate change destroys lives and drives up costs for families, we need an all-hands-on-deck approach to avoid the worst consequences for communities, businesses, and the environment,” said Senator Whitehouse. “Encouragingly, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has put forward a global carbon price on shipping emissions. This legislation reinforces that work, further cutting harmful emissions while supporting the maritime innovators that are pioneering clean technologies to protect public health and can help put us on course to climate safety.”

     

    “California’s ports are the powerhouse of our country’s economy, moving critical freight and providing good-paying jobs, all while leading the nation’s decarbonizing efforts. But neighboring communities have been forced to shoulder the brunt of global shipping pollution for too long,” said Senator Padilla. “Our legislation would strengthen the sustainability of our shipping industry by reducing emissions in maritime transportation while simultaneously protecting coastal communities. The health of our communities and our planet requires us to be forward-looking and ambitious — we owe future generations nothing less than bold, transformative action.”

    The International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act would:

    • Impose a $150 per ton fee on greenhouse gas pollution emitted by ships carrying cargo destined for the U.S., as well as fees for nitrogen oxides ($6.30/lb.), sulfur dioxide ($18/lb.), and soot (PM2.5) ($38.90/lb.) that ships emit in U.S. waters. The fees would only apply to large foreign-flagged ships with 5,000 gross tonnage or more.
    • Provide critical funding to modernize the Jones Act fleet with low-carbon vessels, revitalizing and electrifying U.S. shipbuilding, and addressing and reducing pollutants in America’s port communities, along our coasts, and in our oceans.

       

    The International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act has been endorsed by EV Maritime, Friends of the Earth, GreenLatinos, Ocean Conservancy, Pacific Environment, San Pedro & Peninsula Homeowners Coalition, Sierra Club, 350 Bay Area Action, and 350 Brooklyn.

    “We applaud Senator Whitehouse and Representative Matsui for reintroducing the International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act of 2025,” said Antonio Santos, Federal Climate Policy Director, Pacific Environment. “This bill will ensure that the shipping industry pays its fair share in the fight against climate change. It will raise billions of dollars over the next decade, funds that would be reinvested into cleaner ships and port infrastructure, as well as maritime workforce training and development. The bill will curb the shipping industry’s massive pollution problem and help protect port communities that are disproportionately exposed to harmful emissions. Now is the time for the U.S. to show global leadership in the transition to a zero-emission shipping industry, and we call on Congress to pass this important legislation.”

    “Global shipping is responsible for 1 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions every year, equal to the emissions from 112 billion gallons of gasoline,” said Caroline Bonfield, Ocean Conservancy’s Shipping Emissions U.S. Policy Manager. “This pollution heats our ocean, drives climate change and chokes portside communities with toxic fumes. But the U.S. can chart a new course. The International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act would charge a fee to large ships offloading cargo at U.S. ports for their emissions, and use the funds to make critical upgrades here in the U.S., like electrifying ports, modernizing vessels and switching to cleaner fuel. Passing this bill would protect the ocean, reduce climate impacts and create cleaner air for millions of Americans living near ports. It would also make the entire U.S. maritime sector including American ships more efficient and competitive. Ocean Conservancy is grateful for the leadership of Representative Matsui and Senator Whitehouse on this critical issue. For the health of our ocean and our communities, we urge Congress to pass this common sense legislation.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE CHAIR THOMPSON LEADS AMENDMENT TO STRIKE TAX BREAK FOR SILENCERS, SHORT-BARRELED SHOTGUNS AND RIFLES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    Washington – Today, Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chair Mike Thompson (CA-04) introduced an amendment with 70 co-sponsors to stop Congressional Republicans’ proposal to spend $1.7 billion to make it easier for people to buy silencers, short-barreled shotguns, and short-barreled rifles. Read the amendment here. 

    “Congressional Republicans are bowing to the whim of the gun lobby by proposing we eliminate the $200 tax on silencers and easily concealable short-barreled rifles and short-barreled shotguns,” said Thompson. “We’ve regulated silencers and these guns for over 90 years for a reason. This tax was put in place in 1934 as part of a comprehensive effort to address their illegal use by criminal gangs. 

    “Congressional Republicans’ proposal to spend $1.7 billion to flood our communities with these firearms and make it easier for mass shooters and criminals to access these weapons makes our communities less safe. I urge my Republican colleagues to help us take up this amendment and strike down this ill-advised handout to the gun lobby.” 

    “Slashing taxes on silencers, short-barreled shotguns and rifles, and similar devices is a $1.7 billion gift to boost gun industry sales that will endanger law enforcement and our communities,” said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. “We urge every lawmaker in the House to put public safety ahead of gun industry profits and oppose this disaster of a bill.”

    “The House must take up and pass this important amendment. For 100 years, Republicans and Democrats agreed on commonsense safeguards to keep silencers and short-barreled firearms from falling into the wrong hands. Unfortunately, President Trump and today’s extreme Republicans put gun lobby CEO donors ahead of Americans’ safety and are fighting to make it easier for dangerous people to get these weapons. The gun lobby freely admits this is the first step in their plan to remove all safeguards keeping gun silencers away from criminals. Passing this provision would endanger law enforcement and the communities they risk their lives to protect—and Republicans know it,” said Emma Brown, GIFFORDS Executive Director. 

    “We know what these weapons do. We’ve lived through the lockdowns, the sirens, the funerals. We’ve seen the aftermath up close. The House has a choice: pass this amendment, or keep rewarding violence with taxpayer dollars. Anyone who votes against it should have to explain that choice to the families left behind after their children are murdered,” said Jackie Corin, Executive Director, March For Our Lives. 

    “After the assassination of a public servant in Minnesota and a heinous sniper attack on first responders in Idaho, it is outrageous that Trump’s allies in the Senate have passed a bill that puts countless lives at risk to line the pockets of gun industry executives. Making firearm silencers and other uniquely lethal weapons more accessible will increase violence and enable would-be mass shooters and assassins. Brady vigorously supports Representative Thompson’s amendment to reverse this dangerous provision and safeguard the American public,” said Kris Brown, Brady President. 

    “Stripping silencers from the National Firearms Act is not reform—it’s a reckless gift to the gun lobby that will endanger law enforcement, embolden mass shooters, and silence victims before anyone can respond. Silencers are not tools of self-defense—they are tools of assassination. Representative Thompson’s amendment to reverse this dangerous provision from the Republican funding bill is critical. The House must act immediately to keep silencers out of the hands of criminals and domestic terrorists. We cannot allow Donald Trump and his allies to dismantle 90 years of bipartisan safeguards just to appease gun manufacturers and extremist donors. Lives are on the line—and Congress must choose the people over the gun lobby,” said Po Murray, Chairwoman of Newtown Action Alliance. 

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