NewzIntel.com

Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray on Trump Blocking Disaster Relief for Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair, issued the following statement on the Trump administration blocking billions of dollars in disaster relief owed to victims and communities struck by disasters for unacceptable, political reasons.
    “When hurricanes or floods or fires destroy Americans’ homes and bring life to a screeching halt for entire communities, the federal government has a serious responsibility to help ensure families have somewhere to stay and communities can not only recover, but rebuild. Every day that promised relief is held up takes a real toll on communities just looking to get back on their feet. No one on the frontlines helping survivors rebuild their lives should be forced to take on new debt, lay off staff, and even halt their urgent work altogether because Trump and Musk have decided to choke off disaster aid. But that is exactly what is happening right now.
    “Blocking relief for disaster victims in order to scrutinize whether potential recipients of that aid align with any administration’s political views is reprehensible—and it is hurting real people in red states and blue states and everywhere in between. There should be no politics involved in helping Americans devastated by disaster. This disaster relief funding isn’t a piggy bank for Elon Musk—President Trump needs to get these taxpayer dollars to the communities that need them immediately.”
    The Trump administration is blocking $10 billion in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund Public Assistance for communities struck by disasters to respond and recover. This includes:
    $8.5 billion for disaster relief efforts provided to non-governmental organizations performing essential community services for emergency work to ensure public safety and for the repair, restoration, reconstruction, or replacement of an eligible facility damaged or destroyed by a major disaster.
    $1.3 billion for short-term, emergency shelter for disaster survivors. This funding goes to state, local, Tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments to cover costs associated with providing emergency shelter for survivors of disasters across the country.
    Nationwide, there are currently thousands of Public Assistance disaster awards being held up and under review by the Trump administration.
    As the Trump administration blocks disaster relief for Americans, it is also weighing plans to eliminate FEMA altogether.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Statement on Trump and Musk Moving to Permanently Abolish USAID

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair, issued the following statement on the Trump administration illegally moving to permanently shutter the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

    “Trump and Musk shuttering USAID leaves a dangerous void our adversaries will fill, punishes dedicated Americans who honorably chose to serve their country, and is quite literally causing preventable deaths all across the globe. Trump is carving out a foreign policy legacy of diminished U.S leadership, abandoned allies, starving children, spreading diseases, and millions dead. History will never forget if he succeeds. Trump is not just turning America away from the world—he is turning the world away from America. We cannot let him torpedo decades of hard-won goodwill and global progress.

    “USAID’s existence as an independent agency has long been enshrined in law and affirmed by bipartisan majorities in Congress year after year in annual appropriations, including in House Republicans’ full-year continuing resolution enacted into law just a few short weeks ago. Now, Trump and Musk want to make the destruction they have already wrought permanent by officially abolishing USAID. To achieve their detrimental goals lawfully, Trump and Musk would need to work with Congress and pass a law. Needless to say: they haven’t done that—they’ve merely sent us a heads-up.

    “It is impossible to fully measure—or undo—the harm Trump and Musk have already caused—both in terms of lives lost and America’s credibility on the world stage. While this administration claims that it will allow lifesaving aid to finally flow again—which we know it hasn’t yet—and claims it will carry out core USAID missions at the State Department instead, the simple fact is State lacks the capacity to immediately assume these responsibilities and it is incredibly difficult to rebuild what you just burnt to the ground. This lawlessness must end—people’s lives, our country’s security, and America’s word depend on it.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Wyden Sound the Alarm on Officials Bypassing Organ Donation List, “Skipping the Line” for Less Critical Patients

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) are demanding answers from Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) officials regarding a reported increase in organs allocated out of sequence, a practice known as “line skipping.” Grassley, a former chairman and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Wyden, current ranking member, cite an alarming New York Times report revealing that “last year, officials bypassed patients on organ waiting lists in nearly 20 percent of transplants from deceased donors. Those organs often went to patients who were not as sick or had not been waiting as long.”
    The letters were addressed to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Acting Administrator Stephanie Carlton and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Administrator Thomas J. Engels.
    “As the federal agency responsible for overseeing the [Organ Procurement Organizations] and the transplant centers, [CMS and HRSA have] a considerable responsibility for ensuring that these organizations do not engage in behaviors that undermine the system of equitable distribution of lifesaving organs. However, the Times found that at least some OPOs and transplant centers bypassed patients to reduce their work burden, increase their profits, and manipulate their performance measures without any apparent rebuke from CMS’s former leadership,” the senators wrote.
    The senators cite the astonishing example of LifeGift, a Texas-based OPO that skipped 15-year-old Marcus Edsall-Parr, who had been waiting for a transplant nearly his entire life, because Marcus’ case was difficult to match. LifeGift gave the kidney to an open offer at an Illinois hospital rather than transporting the life-saving organ from Illinois to Michigan for Marcus. Marcus’ doctors reportedly filed a complaint about the incident but have yet to receive a response.  
    “Marcus’s case is not an exception to the rule, but an example of an issue that has steadily increased in prevalence. Continued reports of unethical behavior within the organ donation system will undermine the willingness of Americans to give others the gift of life. Strengthening public trust in our nation’s organ donation system is a matter of life and death,” the senators continued.
    Grassley and Wyden’s letters to CMS Acting Administrator Stephanie Carlton and to HRSA Administrator Thomas J. Engels can be found here.
    Background:
    For nearly two decades, Grassley has engaged in bipartisan oversight of the organ transplant system and the government offices tasked with ensuring patient safety. Grassley first launched an investigation into the organ donation system as Finance Committee chair in 2005 and continued his inquiries, while gaining bipartisan support, during his chairmanship in 2020.
    Congress passed the Securing the U.S. OPTN Act as a result of Grassley and Wyden’s long-standing, bipartisan oversight. The bill, which was signed into law in 2023, resulted in the first competitive bidding process for Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) contracts in the program’s nearly half-a-century history and gave HRSA additional statutory authorities to improve management of this system.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, DeLauro, Larson Demand Reinstatement Of Terminated NOAA Employees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    March 28, 2025

    HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Friday joined U.S. Representatives John Larson (D-Conn.-01) and Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03) in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick demanding the reinstatement of over 800 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) employees who were terminated. The letter coincides with Coasts Week, observed the week of March 24th to highlight the critical importance of the nation’s shores and coastal waterways to community resilience and the economy.
    In Connecticut, employees at the Milford Laboratory, part of the National Marine Fishery Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center, were among those who were fired by the mass terminations at NOAA.
    “Mass firings, office closures, and the threat of budget cuts severely undermine NOAA’s work to share weather and climate forecasts, facilitate restoration and resiliency projects, and sustainably manage our ocean’s resources – especially in Connecticut,” the lawmakers wrote. “These attacks on NOAA are dangerous to human health and safety and economically nonsensical. Simply put, NOAA saves lives and taxpayer money.”
    Between 2021 and 2024, NOAA supported 15 projects across Connecticut to help bolster our $6.5 billion marine economy that 3,189 businesses and 61,385 employees rely on.
    “As a coastal state, Connecticut communities benefit greatly from a strong and fully staffed NOAA. Our state is directly threatened by rapid sea level rise, and has seen firsthand the impacts of severe storms on our coasts.  In 2012, Superstorm Sandy killed four Connecticut residents and cost over $350 million to recover from,” the lawmakers continued.
    “These indiscriminate firings are devastating to NOAA – to the critical work the agency does to protect our communities and to the dedicated employees themselves who have devoted their careers to public service. We demand that you immediately reinstate these federal workers and stop any action that undermines NOAA’s critical mission for the benefit of Connecticut, the national economy, and the planet,” they concluded.
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.
    Dear Secretary Lutnick,
    We write to express our deep outrage over the potentially illegal termination of over 800 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) employees and to call for their immediate reinstatement. Mass firings, office closures, and the threat of budget cuts severely undermine NOAA’s work to share weather and climate forecasts, facilitate restoration and resiliency projects, and sustainably manage our ocean’s resources – especially in Connecticut.
    These attacks on NOAA are dangerous to human health and safety and economically nonsensical. Simply put, NOAA saves lives and taxpayer money. The agency’s work informs severe storm warnings so people can prepare for natural disasters like tornados, flash floods, hurricanes, and wildfires. In the longer term, NOAA’s weather and climate data helps communities take action to reduce damage from extreme weather events. These resiliency measures drastically cut the cost of disaster recovery projects, reducing the burden on agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency and, ultimately, taxpayers.
    Between 2021 and 2024, NOAA supported 15 projects across Connecticut to help bolster our $6.5 billion marine economy that 3,189 businesses and 61,385 employees rely on. These projects advanced coastal resilience efforts to better prepare for severe storms, as well as habitat restoration and conservation initiatives to protect the bedrock of our seafood industry. Dismantling NOAA’s workforce puts this support in jeopardy.
    NOAA safeguards coastal resources and supports industries in coastal communities that inject $10 trillion annually into the U.S. economy. As a coastal state, Connecticut communities benefit greatly from a strong and fully staffed NOAA. Our state is directly threatened by rapid sea level rise, and has seen firsthand the impacts of severe storms on our coasts. In 2012, Superstorm Sandy killed four Connecticut residents and cost over $350 million to recover from. NOAA’s coastal resiliency projects work to mitigate that risk. In short, eliminating NOAA employees endangers the people of Connecticut, our businesses, and our critical infrastructure.
    We understand that mass terminations at NOAA have directly impacted employees in Connecticut, with staff at the Milford Laboratory, part of the National Marine Fishery Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center, among those who were fired. This is bad news for our state and the country. Focusing on aquaculture projects, NOAA staff at the Milford Lab were working on cutting-edge research to maintain the sustainability and economic viability of the U.S. seafood industry. Unjustly firing experienced employees decimates the institutional knowledge necessary to best carry out that work. In 2022, NMFS helped support 2.3 million fisheries jobs that generated $321 billion in sales. These job cuts will hurt commercial and recreational fishers, shellfish growers, and everyone down the supply chain whose livelihoods are tied to a healthy ocean. Further, a less effective and efficient domestic seafood industry will result in American consumers relying more heavily on imported sources of seafood.
    These indiscriminate firings are devastating to NOAA – to the critical work the agency does to protect our communities and to the dedicated employees themselves who have devoted their careers to public service. We demand that you immediately reinstate these federal workers and stop any action that undermines NOAA’s critical mission for the benefit of Connecticut, the national economy, and the planet.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy announces $8.6 million in Hurricanes Laura, Ida aid for south Louisiana

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $8,588,163 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants for Louisiana disaster aid. 

    “Hurricanes Laura and Ida devastated communities in south Louisiana. This $8.6 million will help Louisianians in Terrebonne Parish, Sulphur and Lake Charles recover from the heavy costs these storms caused,” said Kennedy.

    The FEMA aid will fund the following:

    • $2,871,224 to the Terrebonne Parish School Board for repairs to the Bourg Elementary, Mulberry Elementary and West Park Buildings resulting from Hurricane Ida damage.
    • $2,466,920 to the Terrebonne General Medical Center for management costs resulting from Hurricane Ida. 
    • $1,734,597 to demolish and replace facilities at Center Circle Park in Sulphur, La. that Hurricane Laura damaged.
    • $1,515,422 to the Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District to repair Hurricane Laura damage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Statement on Dismissal of Lawsuit Seeking o Shut Down Dakota Access Pipeline

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    03.28.25

    BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit brought by Standing Rock Sioux Tribe seeking to shut down operation of the Dakota Access Pipeline while the court-ordered environmental impact statement (EIS) process is ongoing.

    “The Dakota Access Pipeline is vital infrastructure for our state and nation, supporting North Dakota’s role as an energy powerhouse and strengthening U.S. energy security,” said Senator Hoeven. “Considering DAPL has been operating for years without incident and the layers of environmental review that this pipeline has already gone through, this decision is clearly overdue but the right call. We will continue our efforts to advance the Army Corps’ final EIS to provide certainty both for this important project and our state’s energy industry.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Meets With General Bussiere to Accelerate Sentinel ICBM Program, Ensure Minot has Upgrades Needed to Operate New Cruise Missile

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    03.28.25

    ***Click for video and audio.***

    MINOT, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today met with Gen. Thomas Bussiere, Commander of the Air Force Global Strike Command, at Minot Air Force Base as part of his efforts to keep the base’s nuclear modernizations on track. Hoeven stressed the need to ensure Minot has the facilities necessary to house and operate the new weapon systems, including the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and the Long Range Stand Off (LRSO) missile, as soon as they are fully developed. Accordingly, Hoeven urged Bussiere to work with him on:

    • Concurrently constructing facilities at all three missile bases to accelerate the Sentinel program and reduce costs.
      • This follows Hoeven’s efforts pressing the Department of Defense (DoD) to maintain the full ICBM fleet during the recent Nunn-McCurdy review.
    • Investing in upgrades to the base’s Weapons Storage Area and mission planning facilities, which are needed to support the new LRSO cruise missile.
      • The Air Force expects to operate the new missile in the early 2030s.

    “There are real, concrete steps we can take to accelerate our nuclear modernization programs, reduce the costs of the Sentinel program and ensure Minot is ready to field these missions as soon as the weapons systems are ready to deploy. Doing so is vital in ensuring our nation can continue to effectively deter the aggressions of our adversaries,” said Hoeven “Today’s meeting with General Bussiere is making sure key officials are on the same page and working with us on building the new missile facilities at the three ICBM bases and getting a plan in place to upgrade Minot’s facilities for the new cruise missile. We had a productive discussion, and I will continue working to move the ball forward on these important priorities.”

    As a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, Hoeven has been working to:

    • Accelerate the schedule for deploying the Sentinel by:
      • Identifying additional cost savings to address increased construction costs.
      • Pushing for concurrent construction of facilities at all three missile bases with officials at the DoD and Northrop Grumman.
    • Secure the Air Force’s commitment to budget and begin work on facilities for the LRSO carried on the B-52.
      • Hoeven authored a provision in the Senate’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Military Construction bill to help ensure Minot has the facilities needed to operate and maintain the new LRSO missile, which will be carried on the B-52, as soon as the weapon is ready to enter service.
      • The senator will continue working as the appropriations process proceeds in the 119th Congress to ensure the upgrades for Minot’s facilities move forward.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Statement on the Appointment of Sigal Chattah as Interim U.S. Attorney for Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) released the following statement strongly opposing the appointment of Sigal Chattah as Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada.

    “Sigal Chattah said our Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford should be hanged from a crane. She is an election denier who has advocated for political violence, suggested she would target her political enemies, and offered full support to many of President Trump’s blatantly illegal actions in office. U.S. Attorneys should be professionals who stand against corruption, serve as agents for justice, and understand that no one is above the law.

    “President Trump is abusing his power and bypassing Congress to insert a partisan political operative into this position because he knows Nevada’s Senators will not support her. U.S. Attorneys work for the American people, and it has been a tradition for every new administration – including during President Trump’s first term – to work with Nevada Senators to nominate and appoint a qualified candidate. By law, this appointment can only last 120 days. To all the dedicated public servants working in the District of Nevada, I will continue to support you and will fight to make sure we confirm a U.S. Attorney with integrity and a commitment to the rule of law.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Calls Out Trump’s Cuts To USDA While At Nourishing Hope Food Pantry

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 28, 2025

    CHICAGO — U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined leaders at Nourishing Hope’s Chicago headquarters to discuss the impact of the Trump Administration’s cuts to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) on food pantries and their ability to serve their communities.

    USDA halted $1 billion from the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program, which reimburses states for purchasing fresh produce from local farmers, which is then distributed to food pantries like Nourishing Hope. Without funding, the IL-EATS program, which is funded through USDA’s LFPA program, has been suspended, causing more than 175 small Illinois farmers and hundreds of food banks throughout the state to be left in the lurch.

    “The Trump Administration has already cut $1.5 billion from several crucial USDA programs that help food pantries like Nourishing Hope,” said Durbin. “Now, House Republicans want to cut SNAP and Medicaid by hundreds of billions of dollars in order to give billionaires a tax break. This is bad for Illinois and bad for America. I’ll continue fighting to protect families who are just trying to put food on their tables.”

    “Food pantries on their own cannot provide enough food for a family without the benefits of SNAP. Current SNAP benefits are already incredibly tight for families and seniors, with an average of $6.40/day in benefits. Cutting that already small allotment harms people who are already struggling to stretch that amount. Folks may need to make decisions about not paying for medication or utilities just to be able to buy groceries. When farmers, food banks, and food pantries who rely on USDA funding start struggling, it’s our food insecure neighbors who suffer. We need legislators to protect support networks like SNAP and to prevent cuts to USDA funding. 1 in 5 Chicago households are experiencing hunger today. The neighbors who come to Nourishing Hope for support can’t afford cuts to already vulnerable support systems like SNAP,” said Jennie Hull, Interim CEO of Nourishing Hope.

    Durbin joined U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), both members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, and 29 Senators in a letter demanding a reversal of USDA’s cancellation of food purchase programs across the United States, warning of the harmful impacts this move will have on both families and American farmers. Durbin and U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) also led a letter to press USDA for more information about the cancellation of previously-approved funding through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) for food banks and other emergency food providers. 

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Senate Judiciary Democrats Send Letter To Deputy Director Bongino Raising Concerns Over His Ability To Lead The FBI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 28, 2025

    Senators to FBI Deputy Director Bongino: “As the newly appointed Deputy Director, your past public statements raise concerns about your ability to impartially lead the Bureau and credibly command the respect of its workforce”

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) sent a letter to the Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Dan Bongino, raising serious concerns over his ability to lead the Bureau with FBI Director Kash Patel. Deputy Director Bongino is a former conservative political commentator, podcast host, and conspiracy theorist peddler. The position of the FBI Deputy Director is not Senate-confirmed.

    The Senators wrote, “As the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) finalizes its new leadership structure, we are deeply concerned that Director Kash Patel’s senior leadership team is unprepared forthe challenges of managing our nation’s premier law enforcement agency and its approximately 38,000 public servants.”

    “As the newly appointed Deputy Director, your past public statements—which include inflammatory remarks and unsubstantiated accusations against the FBI, including calling for the Bureau’s disbandment—raise concerns about your ability to impartially lead the Bureau and credibly command the respect of its workforce. Your record, on the other hand, does not reflect the expertise required to manage the FBI’s complex and expansive operations,” the Senators continued.

    In the letter, the Senators ask for clarification regarding Deputy Director Bongino’s past controversial comments including when he said on his podcast, “The only thing that is going to stop the FBI from doing what they’re doing now, which is become full-time activists and bouncers, in many cases, thugs for the Democrat [sic] party, is imposing real material losses on them (emphasis added). Fire everyone involved in this stuff. Everyone—no excuses. Disband the entity.”

    On November 14, 2024, Deputy Director Bongino described the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and the placement of pipe bombs outside of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Republican National Committee (RNC) headquarters as an “inside job” and said, “There is a massive cover-up, because the person who planted those pipe bombs—they don’t want you to know who it was, because it’s either a connected anti-Trump insider, or this was an inside job. Those bombs were planted there. This was a setup. I have zero doubt… And whoever goes into FBI… you better get an answer… about why.” He continued to say, “It is clear, this all adds up to they know who this person is. They just don’t want you to know who this it is. Later in the podcast, Bongino went on to say that “the FBI knew the entire time the identity of this person and then tried to unknow it, because it was an insider and an inside attack and a plot to, you know, stop Republicans from questioning the election results.”

    The Senators continued, “Your claim that the FBI is responsible for a cover-up is an extremely serious allegation that you have an obligation either to substantiate or repudiate. Now that you have access to the information you have long claimed that the FBI possesses, can you answer who was responsible for the pipe bombs on January 6, 2021 and provide evidence proving their identity to the public and Congress? If no, will you apologize to the men and women of the FBI for spreading this dangerous and irresponsible lie?”

    The Senators asked for clarification of these statements by April 11, 2025.

    The full text of the letter can be found here and below:

    Dear Deputy Director Bongino:

    As the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) finalizes its new leadership structure, we are deeply concerned that Director Kash Patel’s senior leadership team is unprepared for the challenges of managing our nation’s premier law enforcement agency and its approximately 38,000 public servants. As the newly appointed Deputy Director, your past public statements—which include inflammatory remarks and unsubstantiated accusations against the FBI, including calling for the Bureau’s disbandment—raise concerns about your ability to impartially lead the Bureau and credibly command the respect of its workforce. The Deputy Director oversees all FBI domestic and international investigative and intelligence activities and has historically been a career agent with extensive experience in the Bureau. Your record, on the other hand, does not reflect the expertise required to manage the FBI’s complex and expansive operations. To help address these concerns, we ask that you answer the following questions by April 11, 2025:

    1. You previously said, “We don’t just fire the people who did this. Everyone who stood by and did nothing while the Department of Justice and the FBI have been ravaged, ravaged by ‘corruptocrats’ [sic].Everyone gets fired. Everyone (emphasis added).” As Deputy Director, do you still believe that every one of the FBI’s employees who “stood by” should be fired? How do you intend to determine which of the FBI’s approximately 38,000 employees “stood by”?
    2. On September 26, 2022, you said on your podcast: “The only thing that is going to stop the FBI from doing what they’re doing now, which is become full-time activists and bouncers, in many cases, thugs for the Democrat [sic] party, is imposing real material losses on them (emphasis added). Fire everyone involved in this stuff. Everyone—no excuses. Disband the entity.” Now that you are a member of the Bureau’s senior leadership team, do you believe the thousands of personnel who report to you still need to suffer “real material losses”? Do you still believe the FBI should be disbanded? If yes, how do you plan on implementing such an agenda?
    3. On August 29, 2024, in response to the FBI releasing information about the Butler assassination attempt, you posted: “Folks, the FBI is at it again. I don’t trust these people at all.” How can the FBI’s career law enforcement personnel earn your trust in light of this statement? Conversely, how do you intend to earn their trust when you have spent years attacking their integrity?
    4. On November 14, 2024, you described the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol and the placement of pipe bombs outside of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Republican National Committee (RNC) headquarters as an “inside job” and said:

    There is a massive cover-up, because the person who planted those pipe bombs—they don’t want you to know who it was, because it’s either a connected anti-Trump insider, or this was an inside job. Those bombs were planted there. This was a setup. I have zero doubt…. And whoever goes into FBI… you better get an answer… about why.

    Now that you are inside the FBI, have you seen evidence to prove your implausible and outrageous allegation that the January 6 attack was an “inside job”? If yes, when do you plan to provide that evidence to the public and Congress? If no, will you apologize to the American people for perpetuating this baseless conspiracy theory?

    1. Earlier this year, you said on your podcast about the unsolved January 6, 2021 pipe bombs case:

    It is clear, this all adds up to they know who this person is. They just don’t want you to know who this it is. Later in the podcast, you went on to say that “the FBI knew the entire time the identity of this person and then tried to unknow it, because it was an insider and an inside attack and a plot to, you know, stop Republicans from questioning the election results.

    You then claimed that “they did conduct an investigation, a legitimate one, for probably a couple of weeks because a friend of mine, who’s a federal agent, was involved in it. And they told him, once they started to hone in on who it was, to stand down.” We are disappointed that the pipe bomb case remains unsolved, given the significant danger this threat presented to the public, staff, and elected officials at the RNC and DNC on January 6, 2021. Your claim that the FBI is responsible for a cover-up is an extremely serious allegation that you have an obligation either to substantiate or repudiate. Now that you have access to the information you have long claimed that the FBI possesses, can you answer who was responsible for the pipe bombs on January 6, 2021 and provide evidence proving their identity to the public and Congress? If no, will you apologize to the men and women of the FBI for spreading this dangerous and irresponsible lie?

    Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

    Sincerely,

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Leads Colleagues Warning About Devastating Impact of Trump Cuts to Mental Health Agency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Leads Colleagues Warning About Devastating Impact of Trump Cuts to Mental Health Agency

    Senators to RFK, Jr.: “We strongly urge you to reconsider these devastating cuts and instead work to ensure that SAMHSA and the American people have the resources they need to fully address their mental and behavioral health concerns”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), co-founder of the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus, led 12 Democratic Senators in warning Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. that additional staffing cuts at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) would have disastrous ramifications for millions of Americans struggling with mental and behavioral health challenges. The Senators expressed deep concerns about the Trump Administration’s threat to cut up to 50 percent of remaining SAMHSA staff after already letting go of 10 percent of employees earlier this year, including essential employees operating the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

    Many of SAMHSA’s crucial operations will be impacted by the Trump Administration’s planned workforce cuts, including nearly $7 billion in grant distribution to states, localities, and tribes, efforts to increase access to early intervention for mental health care, and support services for timely crisis care. These services include the SAMHSA-administered 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which has served over 14.5 million Americans in crisis since it went live in July 2022.

    The letter comes after RFK, Jr. announced a major restructuring of the HHS Department yesterday, including an unlawful plan to close down SAMHSA and merge its programs into his new “Administration for a Healthy America.”

    “We are deeply troubled that in the midst of our nation’s mental health and substance use crisis, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) saw fit to downsize the agency responsible for fighting these twin epidemics,” wrote the Senators. “In 2024, SAMHSA distributed over $6.9 billion to states, localities, and tribes to fund lifesaving mental health and substance use disorder programs. Further cuts to SAMHSA’s staff will hamper its ability to conduct appropriate oversight of these grants.”

    “We are also gravely concerned about the impacts of previous dismissals and future staffing cuts to the SAMHSA-administrated 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline,” continued the Senators. “Additional SAMHSA layoffs risk decimating the Lifeline and doing fundamental harm to the President Trump’s legacy.”

    The Senators emphasized that the Trump Administration’s previous firings have already forced two SAMHSA regional offices in Regions 4 and 5 to close, impacting access to care in the South and Midwest. As a result of these cuts, Americans in 14 states now lack access to any regional officials to help administer local grants and oversee lifesaving substance use and mental health programs in these communities.

    According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 48.5 million Americans aged 12 and older battled a substance use disorder in 2023, and 58.7 million Americans aged 18 and older experienced a mental health condition. Over the past 22 years, suicide rates have increased 36 percent, and suicide is among the leading causes of death for people ages 10-64. The programs SAMHSA administers are crucial to addressing the growing mental health crisis.

    “We strongly urge you to reconsider these devastating cuts and instead work to ensure that SAMHSA and the American people have the resources they need to fully address their mental and behavioral health concerns,” concluded the Senators.

    In addition to Senator Padilla, the letter was signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    Senator Padilla is a leading advocate for expanding mental health care access, especially for underserved communities. In 2023, Padilla and Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) launched the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus to serve as a forum for Senators to collaborate on and promote bipartisan legislation and solutions, hold events to raise awareness of critical mental health issues, and destigmatize mental health. Padilla and Tillis applauded the Federal Communications Commission for making critical improvements to the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to help callers access localized, lifesaving behavioral health resources, mirroring the main provision of the Senators’ Local 9-8-8 Response Act of 2023. 

    Additionally, Padilla recently introduced bipartisan legislation to combat the growing youth mental health crisis in America through early intervention and prevention services. Last year, Padilla passed a Senate resolution to raise the alarm about the mental health care crisis American children face and highlight the urgent need to increase our investment in mental health care for children and adolescents. Padilla previously introduced a trio of bills to address the unique mental health needs of military children, Latinos, and farm workers.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Secretary Kennedy:

    We write to express our deep concerns regarding the recent terminations of probationary staff at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). On February 14, 2025, approximately 10 percent of SAMHSA’s workforce was dismissed, and we understand that significantly more dismissals, up to 50 percent, are imminent at SAMHSA.

    According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 48.5 million Americans aged 12 and older battled a substance use disorder in 2023, and 58.7 million Americans aged 18 and older experienced a mental health condition. Over the past 22 years, suicide rates have increased 36 percent. Suicide is among the leading causes of death for people ages 10-64 and is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10-14 and 25-24. We are deeply troubled that in the midst of our nation’s mental health and substance use crisis, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) saw fit to downsize the agency responsible for fighting these twin epidemics.

    While all Members of Congress agree with ending waste, fraud, and abuse in the government, these recent dismissals do not serve that goal. As you know, a significant portion of SAMHSA’s mission is to provide grants and resources for states, Tribes, nonprofits, and community-based organizations. In 2024, SAMHSA distributed over $6.9 billion to states, localities, and tribes to fund lifesaving mental health and substance use disorder programs. Further cuts to SAMHSA’s staff will hamper its ability to conduct appropriate oversight of these grants. In short, further staff reductions will increase the risk of fraud, waste, and abuse, not decrease it.

    We hope that you share our strong view that between the over 10% of staff that was previously dismissed and the staff that participated in the Deferred Resignation Program, SAMHSA has experienced a significant staff reduction that is already imperiling its services and endangering the lives of countless Americans. As has been reported, two SAMHSA regional offices (Regions 4 & 5) have been forced to effectively close as there is no longer staff to run these offices. This has left Americans in 14 states without any access to regional officials to help administer local grants and oversee life-saving substance use and mental health programs in these communities.  

    We are also gravely concerned about the impacts of previous dismissals and future staffing cuts to the SAMHSA-administrated 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. As you know, President Trump signed into law the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020, which created the 9-8-8 Lifeline, that has served over 14.5 million Americans since it went live in July 2022. Additional SAMHSA layoffs risk decimating the Lifeline and doing fundamental harm to the President Trump’s legacy.

    Given the serious effects that previous layoffs have already had on SAMHSA’s workforce and the crippling effects further layoffs would have, we ask that you respond to the following questions in writing by April 4, 2025.

    1. Provide the total number of full-time equivalents SAMHSA had on January 17, 2025.

    2. Provide the total number of full-time equivalents SAMHSA had on February 13, 2025.

    3. Provide the total number of SAMHSA employees terminated on February 14, 2025, including the total number of Veterans.

    4. Provide the total number of SAMHSA employees who primarily work on the 988 National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline terminated on February 14, 2025.

    5. Provide the total number of SAMHSA employees who were terminated on February 14, 2025, and have since been reinstated.

    6. Will you abide by Judge Alsup’s March 13, 2025, order to reinstate probationary workers who were fired? If so, when will these reinstatements begin and how many employees will be reinstated? If not, why will you not abide by this court ruling?

    7. SAMHSA’s regional offices in regions 4 and 5 closed due to termination orders. Will you commit to reopening these offices public in these 14 states? If so, when will these offices be reopened and how many employees will return to each regional office?

    8. Will you commit to not conducting additional layoffs at SAMHSA? As President Trump noted in the March 6, 2025, cabinet meeting, staffing decisions will be led by Cabinet Secretaries, not DOGE.

    Therefore, we strongly urge you to reconsider these devastating cuts and instead work to ensure that SAMHSA and the American people have the resources they need to fully address their mental and behavioral health concerns.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan and Peters Introduce Resolution to Preserve Independent USPS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan

    03.28.25

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) introduced a bipartisan resolution to support the independence and critical public service mission of the United States Postal Service, emphasizing the essential role the Postal Service has played in connecting and serving Americans, especially in rural communities. Sens. Sullivan and Peters were joined in introducing the resolution by U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.).

    “In a state as vast as ours, with many remote communities only accessible by air or water, the USPS serves as an essential government agency that keeps postal services affordable for Alaskans,” Senator Sullivan said. “The Bypass Mail program—a lifeline for Rural Alaska that I have fought for since becoming a senator—allows the USPS to fulfill its universal service obligation to deliver goods and services to even the most remote parts of our state. I will forcefully oppose any action that threatens that program. I am glad to work with my colleagues from other rural states on this resolution to oppose the privatization of the Postal Service and ensure that this critical agency remains focused on its statutory requirement to reliably deliver mail to every household, no matter how remote.”  

    “Federal statute has long recognized that the Postal Service’s core purpose is ‘to bind the Nation together through the personal, educational, literary, and business correspondence of the people.’ In Alaska, where most communities are unconnected by road and where internet connectivity—when available—is often unreliable or prohibitively expensive, we rely on the USPS to deliver vital basic necessities, whether that is food, medicine, election ballots, spare parts, store inventory, or subsistence supplies,” said Senator Murkowski. “I am proud to co-sponsor this resolution again to reaffirm the significance of the United States Postal Service as an independent establishment of the Federal Government and to reject its privatization.”

    “For more than 250 years, the Postal Service has been a cornerstone of our nation, connecting every household and business across the country,” said Senator Peters. “Any efforts to undermine the Postal Service’s independence or privatize it would jeopardize affordable, universal mail service and harm the millions of Americans—especially veterans, small business owners, and rural communities—who rely on the Postal Service every day. This resolution reaffirms our commitment to keeping the Postal Service independent and self-sustaining, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital lifeline for all Americans.”

    “The privatization of the United States Postal Service would be devastating to Alaskans not only in remote communities, but throughout the state. The Postal Service currently serves all Alaskans, regardless of where they live. It serves many areas of the state that are not profitable for other shippers. If the Postal Service is privatized, it will significantly increase shipping costs throughout the state and be devastating to Alaska’s economy. All Alaska letter carriers of the National Association of Letter Carriers stands by Senator Sullivan in his efforts to keep the Postal Service a public service to all Alaskans,” said Chris Crutchfield, Alaska State Chair for the National Association of Letter Carriers.

    The full text of the resolution can be found here.

    BACKGROUND

    Since 1775, the United States Postal Service and its dedicated postal workforce have performed the essential government function of “providing postal services to bind the Nation together through the personal, educational, literary, and business correspondence of the people” and “rendering postal services to all communities” (39 USC 101). Across the nation today, 630,000 postal employees deliver the mail to more than 168 million residential and business customers, six days a week. The Postal Service is consistently the highest-rated government agency in nonpartisan opinion polls. It also plays a crucial role in our national security, protecting us from mail-borne threats.

    In support of the Postal Service, this bipartisan resolution expresses the sense of the Senate that Congress should take all appropriate measures to ensure the Postal Service remains an independent establishment of the Federal Government and is not subject to privatization. The resolution also recognizes:

    • The Postal Service is at the center of the $1.9 trillion mailing industry, which employs 7.9 million people in the United States.
    • The Postal Service is a self-sustaining, independent establishment that relies on revenue derived from the sale of postal services and products, not on taxpayer funds.
    • The Postal Service maintains an affordable and universal network, connecting rural, suburban, and urban communities.
    • Postal Service employees, including over 73,000 military veterans, are dedicated public servants who serve as the eyes and ears of our communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Statement on Trump Administration’s Move to Attack Collective Bargaining Rights for Many Federal Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan issued the following statement in response to the Trump Administration’s announcement that it is unilaterally ending collective bargaining for many hard-working employees across the federal government:

    “When unions can engage in collective bargaining, the middle class grows. The President could spend his time on efforts to lower costs for families. Instead, he keeps attacking the hard-working federal employees, many of whom are veterans, who provide critical services and keep Americans safe. It’s wrong, and it can’t stand.”

    Approximately 30 percent of federal employees are veterans. Senator Hassan helped introduce the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, which strengthens federal laws that protect workers’ right to join a union and bargain for higher wages and better benefits.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Recognizes Kenneth Chapman of Woodstock as March’s Granite Stater of the Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan recognized Kenneth Chapman as March’s Granite Stater of the Month. Kenneth retired this year after 50 years of service as Woodstock’s town moderator.

    After Kenneth was asked to moderator a special town election in 1975, he realized his passion for upholding democracy and continued to serve as Woodstock’s town moderator for 50 years, including through the 2025 town meeting season. During his service, Kenneth helped Woodstock grow and adapt to new technology while ensuring that Woodstock voters are able to freely and civilly participate in elections and town meetings.

    Kenneth’s half-century commitment to upholding the democratic process is an excellent reflection of New Hampshire’s commitment to safeguarding free and fair elections – the foundation of our democracy. His devotion to serving his community is why Senator Hassan named him March’s Granite Stater of the Month.

    Senator Hassan launched the “Granite Stater of the Month” initiative in 2017 to recognize outstanding New Hampshire citizens who go above and beyond to help their neighbors and make their communities stronger. To nominate a New Hampshire citizen to be a “Granite Stater of the Month,” constituents can complete the nomination form here.

    To read Senator Hassan’s statement for the Congressional Record, see below.

    I am honored to recognize Kenneth Chapman of Woodstock as March’s Granite Stater of the Month. Kenneth recently retired after serving as Woodstock’s town moderator for 50 years.

    Kenneth was raised to believe that service to his community and to others needed to be a priority. After settling in Woodstock as a young adult, Kenneth began attending school board meetings and joined different town committees. Kenneth enjoyed the ways in which the small town allowed him to directly feel the impact of his efforts to give back to his community. After being asked to moderate a special town election in 1975, Kenneth realized that he had a passion for upholding democracy and ran for the official role of town moderator. He continued to serve in this all-important role through this year’s town meeting season, marking fifty years in service to Woodstock.

    During his half century of service, Kenneth has had a tangible impact on his community. He has seen the town grow and adapt to new technology, personally overseeing the switch to more modern voting machines, even as he has continued to ensure that Woodstock voters freely and civilly participated in countless elections and town meetings. Over the years, Kenneth also helped his community as a nationally registered paramedic, as an incorporator and trustee of the North Country Center for the Arts, as a member of the Western White Mountains Chamber, and as a member of the Lincoln-Woodstock Cooperative School Board.

    Kenneth’s commitment to service as town moderator is an excellent reflection of New Hampshire’s commitment to safeguarding free and fair elections – the foundation of our democracy. And his devotion to serving the Woodstock community in countless other ways as well is a great example of the way Granite Staters take it upon themselves to work with their friends and neighbors to solve problems. I am proud to name Kenneth Chapman as March’s Granite Stater of the Month.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DMV Senators Announce MERIT Act to Reinstate Recently Terminated Probationary Federal Employees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – Today, Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined Sens. Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) in introducing the of the Model Employee Reinstatement for Ill-advised Termination (MERIT) Act. This timely legislation would reinstate recently terminated probationary federal employees and provide them back pay.

    “The Trump administration’s ongoing attacks on the federal workforce have hit Virginians especially hard. Not only have these senseless cuts and layoffs caused unnecessary pain for the federal workforce, but they are making us less safe in the process. Congress must act to undo this damage by reinstating federal employees who were unjustly fired and giving them the back pay they deserve,” said Sen. Warner. 

    “Trump and Musk’s illegal cuts to the nonpartisan civil service have disrupted government’s basic operation and disproportionately impacted veterans in Virginia and across the country,” said Sen. Kaine. “Reinstating these professional civil servants is critical for our economy and national security. That’s why I’m cosponsoring the MERIT Act, and will keep doing all that I can to fight for the patriotic Americans who have dedicated their lives to serving our communities through public service.”

    “This bill protects and restores the meritorious civil servants shamefully attacked by Donald Trump and Elon Musk. If DOGE were serious about rooting out unqualified workers, they’d focus on their own disastrous cabinet nominees: be it a Secretary of Defense who is leaking classified war plans, or a Secretary of Labor who isn’t clear on collective bargaining agreement enforcement, or a Secretary of Health and Human Services who believes our race should determine our vaccine schedules. We have a duty to stand by the patriotic civil servants who work day and night on behalf of the American people. Our bill is an important step towards restoring the full suite of services that our federal employees provide to the American people,” said Sen. Alsobrooks.

    “The Trump-Musk Administration’s illegal purge of federal employees is not only hurting our hard-working public servants — it is wreaking havoc on important services for all Americans. As we support efforts in the courts to reverse these dangerous attacks on federal employees and the work they do, we’re also fighting in Congress. This legislation will allow our federal workers to get back on the job so they can continue serving the American people,” said Sen. Van Hollen.

    “NFFE is fully supportive of the MERIT Act to reinstate illegally terminated federal employees, allowing them to return to work and continue delivering critical services for the American people,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. “These are dedicated public servants who care for our veterans, maintain our military readiness, protect our communities from natural disasters, and so much more. Congress must reverse the President’s unlawful and dangerous attempts to dismantle the civil service. Thank you to Senator Alsobrooks for her commitment to federal workers.”

    “Our union applauds Senator Alsobrooks for leading this bill to reinstate thousands of highly qualified federal employees who have been unjustly terminated as part of a Trump-Musk effort to dismantle federal agencies and public services. Not only were these mass firings a reckless misuse of taxpayer dollars and public resources, but these actions have been judged illegal by federal courts. So many of these talented federal workers are veterans, and experienced professionals who were recently promoted, but all of them were hired as federal civil servants due to their qualifications and their competency for the job,” said International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) President Matt Biggs.

    “The MERIT ACT is greatly needed at a time when so many in our federal workforce have been unjustly fired, and when thousands more, including SEIU members, are doing their jobs in the hostile, chaotic environment created by this administration and DOGE. Federal workers who provide critical services to our communities from agencies such as Veterans Affairs, the Department of Education and the Environmental Protection Agency are navigating through massive job layoffs while scrambling to pay rent, keep the lights on, and feed their families. SEIU is proud to support this bill that will reinstate DOGE-fired workers and ensure that they have backpay they’re due, so they can continue to provide vital services in good and bad times.” said SEIU President April Verrett. 

    The MERIT Act would reinstate federal employees, including probationary workers who were recently promoted or hired, who were fired from federal agencies and departments as part of the ongoing mass layoffs. The bill would provide back pay, treat the employees as “involuntarily separated without cause,” and require the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit to Congress a report on the number of workers fired and other information about the layoffs. 

    The MERIT Act has been endorsed by: 

    American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE)

    International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE)

    National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE)

    National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU)

    Service Employees International Union (SEIU)

    The American Federation of Labor (AFL)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cramer Introduce Legislation to Enhance Patient Advocacy for Rural Veterans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) introduced the Strengthening VA Patient Advocacy for Rural Veterans Act to enhance the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) patient advocate program to better support veterans receiving care in rural communities outside of the medical center setting – such as community outpatient clinics and other providers. The patient advocate serves as a bridge, working directly with VA staff to facilitate resolutions on behalf of all veterans. The measure also contains reporting provisions to enhance accountability and Congressional awareness of the issues veterans face when seeking care. 
    “Far too many veterans in rural parts of Nevada face barriers to receiving the VA medical care and support they deserve,” said Senator Rosen. “Our bipartisan legislation would help improve access to care and resources by establishing VA patient advocates specifically for rural veterans, helping to make sure that they can fully benefit from the VA and get any issues resolved no matter where they live.”
    “Patient advocates really play an important role in helping our veterans navigate the incredible VA red tape, it’s just outlandish, as it is with most bureaucracies,” said Senator Cramer. “What our bill does is it recognizes the unique challenges that are faced by particularly rural veterans, and then it provides targeted support through dedicated patient advocates to ensure they are able to access the healthcare they’ve earned, both in and from their more rural homes.”
    The Strengthening VA Patient Advocacy for Rural Veterans Act is supported by several organizations, including the Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion, and America’s Warrior Partnership. 
    Senator Rosen has been working to deliver for Nevada’s veterans. She has sent letters demanding that the VA reverse harmful plans to reduce its workforce, calling on the VA to permanently reverse layoffs, and pushing for answers regarding mass employee terminations at the VA. Earlier this month, Senator Rosen helped introduce legislation to reinstate veterans wrongfully fired by President Trump and Elon Musk. She also took to the Senate floor to oppose the actions of the Trump Administration and Musk to mass fire employees working at the VA. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Demands for USDA to Not Take Food Away from Food Banks and Hungry Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and a group of her colleagues are demanding answers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) about the cancellation of previously approved funding through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) for food banks and other emergency food providers. This cancellation would take food away from hungry Wisconsinites already facing high grocery prices and further hurt Wisconsin farmers who are being squeezed by tariffs and other cuts to domestic markets.

    “A cancellation of these funds could result in $500 million in lost food provisions to feed millions of Americans at a time when the need for food shelves is extremely high due to costly groceries and an uncertain economy,” wrote Baldwin and the lawmakers in a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins.

    “These cuts will deprive Americans of food assistance, emergency food providers of necessary support to carry out their work, and American farmers of vital domestic markets,” Baldwin and the Senators continued.

    TEFAP provides Wisconsinites with three to five days of free food assistance, and in 2024 alone, Wisconsin distributed over 21 million pounds of food through the program, serving over 618,000 households across 353 distribution sites statewide. The loss of this program would impact Wisconsinites across the state, and particularly those in rural, tribal, and low-income communities who are facing food insecurity and rely on this critical funding. 

    The letter was led by Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and co-signed by 24 other Senate colleagues.

    A full version of this letter is available here and below.

    Dear Secretary Rollins:

    We write regarding the reported cancellation of hundreds of millions of dollars in previously approved funding for food banks and other emergency food providers through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). A cancellation of these funds could result in $500 million in lost food provisions to feed millions of Americans at a time when the need for food shelves is extremely high due to costly groceries and an uncertain economy. If true, this major shift in a program utilized by emergency food providers in every state in the nation will have a significant and damaging impact upon millions of people who depend upon this program for critical food assistance.

    In addition, this program consists of purchases of U.S. commodities at a time when America’s growers and producers are struggling due to tariffs, proposed tariffs, animal disease and many other challenges.

    According to recent statistics, nearly one in every seven Americans have faced food insecurity. Many of these households turn to community and emergency relief organizations such as food banks and food pantries to help them obtain sufficient nutrition. In 2023 alone, 50 million Americans turned to emergency food providers, according to a report from Feeding America, America’s largest network of food banks. While food banks rely on a variety of sources (including private) to obtain food for distribution through their networks, federally purchased commodities are a key part of how they provide nutritious meals to Americans. 

    Due to this reported change, a number of us have heard that trucks delivering American-grown foods may not arrive. These trucks represent hundreds of thousands of nutritious meals containing poultry, fruits, vegetables, and dairy. If confirmed, the cancellation of this previously announced funding also comes on top of the cancellation of Local Food for School Program and the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program funding, which also helps farmers deliver nutritious foods to schools and food banks. These cuts will deprive Americans of food assistance, emergency food providers of necessary support to carry out their work, and American farmers of vital domestic markets.

    To help us understand USDA’s actions and their impact on communities around the country, we ask that you answer the following questions.

    1. Has USDA cancelled previously approved purchases of food provided through TEFAP? If so, what level of funding has been cancelled thus far and when will state agencies be notified of any cancelled TEFAP purchases?
    2. Does USDA plan to cancel additional purchases of food provided through TEFAP?
    3. Has USDA paused any TEFAP food orders or purchases? If so, what is the current status of those orders or purchases? Does USDA intend to un-pause these funds? 
    4. Please provide information on what types of funding, by commodity, have been cancelled and the financial impact of those cancellations on producers such as pork, chicken, turkey and dairy farmers.
    5. Is the funding announced on October 1, 2024 and detailed in the implementation memo that the Food and Nutrition Service sent to state agencies on December 2 rescinded?
    6. Does USDA intend to use Commodity Credit Corporation funds in Fiscal Year 2025 for future purchases that will be distributed through TEFAP? 

    We ask for a prompt response to these questions by the end of the week.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Slams Trump Administration Attempts To Close Social Security Offices, Limit Phone Support

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    So-Called “Department Of Government Efficiency” Listed 47 Social Security Administration Offices for Closure – Including 2 in New York

    DOGE’s Attacks on the SSA Have Resulted in Skyrocketing Wait Times and Website Crashes

    Trump Administration Official Claims That Only “Fraudsters” Would Complain About Missing Social Security Checks 

    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a press conference slamming the Trump administration’s plans to make it harder for seniors to access the Social Security benefits they have earned.

    The Social Security Administration (SSA) has already announced plans to cut 7,000 staff, despite the fact that SSA staffing is already at a 50-year low. Now, the so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” plans to limit phone support for seniors, forcing them to file certain claims online – a challenge for many older adults – or visit a Social Security Administration office in person, even though appointments for these visits can only be made over the phone. DOGE is simultaneously planning to shutter Social Security Administration offices across the country, including two in New York. These changes will decimate the Social Security system and deny seniors their hard-earned benefits. 

    “President Trump and Elon Musk are playing games with your retirement,” said Senator Gillibrand. “They are cutting the phone services that seniors rely on to apply for benefits, firing staff, and closing down the field offices—including the White Plains and Poughkeepsie offices right here in New York–where seniors go for help. These changes mean that you may not get your checks in time to pay your bills and that there may not be anyone at your local Social Security office to turn to for help. This is a cut to benefits in everything but the name, and I will be doing everything in my power to stop it.”

    Gillibrand was joined by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, State Senator Pat Fahy, Acting Director of the NYS Office for the Aging Greg Olsen, and Executive Director of the Association on Aging in New York Rebecca Preve.

    “After a lifetime of paying into the system, Americans count on Social Security to be there when they need it,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “We won’t let the Trump administration—or an unelected billionaire—jeopardize access to a benefit New Yorkers have earned without a fight. I’m proud to stand side-by-side with Senator Gillibrand to stand up for our seniors and continue the fight to protect Social Security for generations to come.”

    “DOGE’s plans to slash physical office capacity at SSA should be seen for what they are — part of a systematic effort to gut federal services and rob the American people so President Trump can provide more tax breaks for Elon Musk and his billionaire donors,” said Representative Paul Tonko. “These actions will lead to longer wait times over the phone and a reduced ability to accommodate in-person office visits, leaving millions of Americans unable to access the benefits they’ve earned. This attack on Social Security is just one more step in Trump and Musk’s cynical ploy to use the guise of ‘efficiency’ to dismantle the essential programs and services American families rely on.”

    “Over four million New Yorkers rely on social security,” said State Senator Patricia Fahy. “This will put the lives of millions of aging and disabled Americans at risk, as well as their families. Many New Yorkers have worked hard and served their communities for decades, and are now living in constant fear of having their benefits cut by an unelected billionaire. As Chair of the Senate Disabilities Committee I will continue to work hard to ensure that disabled New Yorkers continue to have their needs met in order to live full and happy lives.”

    “Cuts to Social Security threaten aging New Yorkers’ lives and livelihoods,” said New York Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero. “These are people who’ve spent their adult lives working and making our communities great places to live – they’ve planted roots, raised families, and shaped our neighborhoods. The Trump administration has taken a chainsaw to essential federal programs and departments, and we can’t stand back and let families and aging New Yorkers pay the price. I’ll never back down from fighting for New Yorkers and the benefits they deserve.”

    “Our seniors deserve easy, reliable access to their Social Security benefits without any unnecessary hurdles,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. “Forcing them to file claims online creates barriers for many who have limited internet access and digital literacy. We must protect phone and in-person services in order to ensure every senior gets the support they need.”

    “Vulnerable New Yorkers and Americans are suffering from these callous and heartless choices,” said Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham. “There are immediate and dire consequences from these sorts of decisions made by those in power. Over and over again, we see that those who bear the heaviest burdens are the powerless. Plus, the pain is always felt across party lines. In Albany County, we will continue to ensure that services remain robust and available to all and that belief and hope don’t succumb to ideology and ignorance.”

    “This is yet another short-sighted move by the Trump administration and DOGE that will be detrimental to the American people,” said Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan. “Americans work hard as they pay into Social Security, and they should be able to rely on their money to help keep food on the table, a roof over their head, and the lights and heat on. Limiting access to the Social Security Administration will be disastrous to older Americans living on fixed-incomes and I thank Senator Gillibrand for calling on the federal government to reverse course before those catastrophic impacts take hold.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Tells DoD Nominee: Commit to Research and Development Because “Technology Wins Wars”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King urged the Department of Defense (DoD) to commit significantly more attention to advancements in technology that reduce costs and win wars. In a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), King also pressed the DoD on what it is doing to combat brain trauma experienced by military service members and veterans.
    More specifically, King asked Mr. Michael Duffey, the nominee to be Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, if he would support research and development into new technology.
    King began the exchange, “Technology wins wars. The side that has the new technology prevails. Genghis Khan and the stirrup, the long-bow at Agincourt, the tank in World War I, the atomic weapon in World War II. My concern is we missed two of the major technologies of the 21st century. This isn’t a criticism of the current administration; it goes back 10 or 15 years. Hypersonics and directed energy. We have to catch up. The prior administration cut the budget for directed energy in half, which to me does not make sense. We’re spending $2 or $3 million per missile to knock $20,000 drones out in the Red Sea. Directed energy certainly ought to be an answer and I know there is work going on, but it should be accelerated. My request is you try and think ahead about acquiring the next technology, not just what we’ve always done. My most hated words in the English language are, ‘we have never done it that way before.’ I hope you’ll subscribe to a philosophy of trying to look to the future. Your thoughts? 
    Duffy responded, “Senator, thank you for the question. I’m thrilled to be sitting next to not only Dr. Meink, but Mr. Michael who will be at the cutting edge of the next generation of technology. I look forward to a partnership with both gentlemen on how do we advance that technology, how do we leapfrog our adversaries? I see my responsibility as how do we accelerate that and get it into the hands of the war fighter at a reasonable cost?”
    “One way to do that is smaller businesses,” King continued, “We’ve had testimony at this committee by smaller businesses and they have given up on the Pentagon acquisition process: too complex, too much red tape, too long. I hope in your administration you don’t turn away from fostering small businesses where a lot of innovation takes place.”
    Duffy replied, “I agree with that, Senator.”
    King then asked Mr. Keith Bass, the nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs, about his support for military service members that have experienced brain traumas and what the DoD can do to prevent these injuries.
    “I want to be sure that one of your priorities is brain health. The signature issue from the war on terror has been problems with blast overpressure and brain health long-term effects and I hope that is something you will pay significant attention to. There are ongoing studies in the department, but I want to also emphasize implementation of the results of those studies are important. I hope you will commit to me that brain health is something you will tend to in this position?” King asked.  “It is one of the most important maladies affecting our troops.”
    Bass replied, “Thank you, Senator, for your commitment to this issue. DoD is a leader in this space, and I will commit we will continue to look at ways and devote research to this issue and make sure we continue to make progress.”
    Following the Lewiston shooting, Senator King has been working with his colleagues to increase mental health funding and address brain injuries. He has introduced several pieces of legislation — some of which have become law — including the Precision Brain Health Research Act of 2025 and the Blast Overpressure Safety Act. This past summer, he wrote a letter to the Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Lloyd Austin urging the Department to expedite protection of servicemembers from weapon blasts and TBIs. Senator King has also consistently urged leaders of the Appropriations Committee to support the strongest possible funding for the Traumatic Brain Injury and Psychological Health Research program within the DoD Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDRMP).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner Pushes Federal Trade Commission, Justice Department to Address Rampant Fraud in Digital Advertising

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and a member of the Senate Banking Committee, wrote to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Andrew Ferguson and to Attorney General Pam Bondi expressing concern over continued prevalence of fraud in the digital advertising industry, highlighting how this fraud hurts U.S. Government (USG) customers, and therefore, American taxpayers.
    “The failures and misrepresentations of these verification vendors amount to far more than simple contradictions of their marketing puffery,” wrote Sen. Warner. “As publishers and advertisers rely on these services’ asserted ability to avoid bot traffic and deliver content to customers, these verification firms serve as cover for the systemic failure by key ecosystem stakeholders, potentially compromising a significant sector of the online ad market.”
    The phenomenon of digital fraud has skyrocketed in recent years, with reports indicating that as of 2023, digital fraud has grown to $84 billion, up from $7.4 billion in 2017.
    He continued, “Failure to meet the terms of contracts result in the misuse of taxpayer dollars, and undermine the efficacy of government public awareness and job recruitment campaigns. These failures drive inflated ad costs and reduced effectiveness for thousands of small and midsize businesses and charities that rely on digital advertising to succeed, and these increased costs trickle down to consumers who end up paying more for basic goods and services.”
    In his letter to the FTC, Sen. Warner requested the commission investigate this wide-spread fraud:
    Did verification vendors such as Integral Ad Science (“IAS”), DoubleVerify (“DV”), and HUMAN Security, among others, claim in their marketing materials to be able to perform real-time bot filtering and have the capability to prevent ads from serving to declared bots, such as those on the IAB Bots & Spiders List?
    Do these verification vendors receive access to the “User Agent” field in real-time programmatic ad auctions from demand side platforms like Google DV360 and the Trade Desk?
    Can the verification vendors’ pre-bid technology actually stop ads from serving to declared bots on the IAB Bots & Spiders List, or merely prevent ads from serving on website domains with historically high levels of bot traffic? If the latter, what evidence exists that can demonstrate specific websites are getting blocked, deliberately or inadvertently, from ad campaigns and thus de-monetized?
    If the verification vendors do not receive access to the User-Agent and cannot block declared bots, did these vendors make false advertising claims and engage in deceptive trade practices when promoting their pre-bid bot avoidance or suspicious activity blocking technology?
    What is the extent of the resulting financial harm to the United States government and non-profit advertisers, as well as to publishers that paid for this ineffective bot avoidance technology?
    Additionally, Senator Warner requested that the Justice Department investigate the following:
    Whether ad verification companies such as IAS, DV, and HUMAN have knowingly misrepresented their capabilities to federal government clients or government contractors, particularly regarding their ability to detect and filter bot traffic in real-time.
    Whether the ad verification firms involved in these failures violated the False Claims Act by charging the government – or government contractors – for services they did not deliver.
    Sen. Warner has been vocal about the harm caused by this continued fraud for years, and as the digital space continues to grow in reach and importance, he has stressed the need to reign it in. In 2016, Sen. Warner first called on the FTC to protect consumers from this digital fraud. In 2018, he expressed concern over its continued prevalence following a detailed reporting about inaction by the FTC and Google to curb these efforts.
    A copy of the letter to the FTC is available here. A copy of the letter to the DOJ is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Respond to Trump’s Latest Attack on the Federal Workforce

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner, Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) issued a statement in response to President Trump’s latest attack on the federal workforce – an executive order targeting collective bargaining rights:
    “This is just another attempt by President Trump to ‘traumatize’ and illegally fire federal workers. Collective bargaining makes the federal workforce stronger, and undermining these rights does nothing to improve our national security. In fact, this order will only make us less safe, as this executive order is only Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s latest gambit to make it easier to fire the people who ensure public safety, prepare for pandemics, respond to natural disasters, and much, much more. This political attack on our civil servants must not stand.”  
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Marshall, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Ratify Trump Executive Order Defining Male and Female

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Defining Male and Female Act of 2025to codify President Trump’s executive order establishing legal definitions of male, female, and sex to ensure they are based on biological reality rather than radical, left-wing ideology. The order entitled “Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government,” which clarifies that sex is determined at conception and ensures the federal government uses this sex dichotomy.
    “Common sense and science tell us there are two sexes,” said Dr. Cassidy. “You are born a male or a female.”
    “The Democrats’ radical transgender agenda is dangerous and wrong. We shouldn’t need legislation to tell us the basic reality that there are only two sexes, but here we are,” said Senator Marshall. “I’m thankful President Trump has made this a top priority and signed an Executive Order on his first day in office recognizing that there are only two sexes. Congress must ensure this historic action is written into law by passing the Defining Male and Female Act.”
    “Boys are boys, girls are girls, and gone are the days of woke nonsense like calling mothers ‘birthing persons.’ Supporting this legislation is a no-brainer and I’m proud to be restoring common sense in America,” said Senator Sheehy.
    “By affirming biological truth, we defend fairness in sports, safeguard women and children, and uphold the principles of Title IX as Congress intended,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “Because the other side spent four years pretending boys were girls, it’s time to restore common sense once and for all by establishing clear, legal, and biologically-accurate definitions of male and female.”
    “This bill is simple. It defines the most basic science. There are only two sexes: male and female,” said Senator Ricketts. “Defining males and females is an important step to helping protect our women and girls across America.”
    U.S. Representative Mary Miller (R-IL-15) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “Now more than ever, we must unite to uphold the truth and biological reality established by God that there are only two sexes,” said Representative Miller. “I am proud to stand alongside Senator Marshall in introducing the House companion to the Defining Male and Female Act to ensure our nation upholds common sense and puts an end to the Left’s dangerous and extreme sexual fantasies.”
    Specifically, the Defining Male and Female Act recognizes:
    The definition of male and female on the basis of a person belonging, at conception, to the sex characterized by a reproductive system with the biological function of producing eggs or producing sperm.
    The right of girls and women to sex-separate sports and scholarships.
    The sex separation of restrooms, locker rooms, dorm rooms, prisons, and shelters for victims of sexual assault.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What They Are Saying: Trump Cabinet Voices Support for Cassidy’s Trade, Manufacturing Bill to Hold China Accountable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    [embedded content]
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) released a new video featuring vocal support from several of President Trump’s Cabinet nominees for his Foreign Pollution Fee Act to level the playing field with Chinese manufacturing and expand American production. 
    During their confirmation hearings, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, and U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer all express interest in the proposal, noting that it aligns well with the Trump administration’s trade agenda. These exchanges come after Cassidy, joined by U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), released a new discussion draft of their Foreign Pollution Fee Act for public comment.
    A range of industries has expressed support for Cassidy’s efforts to craft a trade policy that strengthens U.S. manufacturers’ competitiveness and counter unfair competition from China, including the Steel Manufacturers Association, the American Iron and Steel Institute, the Portland Cement Association, the Aluminum Association, and the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America (SEMA) Coalition.
    “A strong border measure will allow American steel producers to benefit from the fact that they are global leaders in emissions efficiency. This can be a key part of any long-term solution to safeguard the domestic steel industry from the devastating effects of global overcapacity,” said Philip K. Bell, President, Steel Manufacturers Association. “We are encouraged to see Senator Cassidy and numerous Trump administration officials show aligned interest in advancing this policy design. We stand ready to work with them to advance a trade policy that helps U.S. steel manufacturers compete on a level playing field.”
    “Steel made in the United States is the cleanest in the world. Senator Cassidy has rightly determined that legislation is needed to hold foreign polluters accountable for their dirtier products, while enhancing the competitiveness of American steel manufacturers. AISI looks forward to working with him and others in Congress to craft a foreign pollution fee that applies to all imported steel products with higher emissions than products made the U.S., without imposing a carbon fee or tax on American manufacturers,” said Kevin Dempsey, President and CEO of the American Iron and Steel Institute.
    “American cement manufacturers believe that a well-constructed border measure will allow them to leverage their leadership in emissions efficiency. This is essential for any lasting strategy to protect the domestic cement industry from any global challenges,” said Mike Ireland, President and CEO of the Portland Cement Association. “It’s great to see Senator Cassidy and Trump administration officials expressing support for this policy approach. We are prepared to continue to collaborate with them to advance a trade policy that strengthens the competitiveness of U.S. cement producers.”
    “The SEMA Coalition supports Senator Cassidy’s 2025 Foreign Pollution Fee Act. For American solar manufacturers to compete on a level playing field and outcompete China, we need innovative border measures such as a foreign pollution fee. Any successful, long-term strategy to reshore the solar value chain must prioritize taking these steps to safeguard the domestic solar industry from the impacts of global overcapacity,” said Mike Carr, Executive Director of the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America (SEMA) Coalition. “We are grateful for Senator Cassidy’s leadership and look forward to working closely with him and the administration to advance trade and tax policies that ensure a level playing field with China and longevity for U.S. solar manufacturers and workers.” 
    The US aluminum industry produces some of the cleanest aluminum products in the world while facing ongoing pressure from international producers not subject to traditional market forces. Smart tariff policy recognizes this and provides incentives for both domestic and international production of cleaner aluminum.” said Will Brown, VP of Government Relations and International Programs, The Aluminum Association. “At the Aluminum Association, we look forward to continuing to work with Senator Cassidy to advance trade policies that strengthen the U.S. aluminum industry and its competitiveness in the global marketplace.”
     “According to recently released data from the US International Trade Commission (ITC), the carbon intensity of American-made Oil Country Tubular Goods (OCTG) is well below that of OCTG produced by China and its satellites. This environmental dumping combines with other forms of unfair trade practices that need to be addressed. Senator Cassidy’s legislation is a major step in holding foreign producers from China and its satellites accountable, as it not only strengthens American industries but also supports a cleaner, more competitive market for all,” said Luca Zanotti, Chairman of the United States OCTG Manufacturers Association (USOMA).         
    The Foreign Pollution Fee Act: 
    Combats China’s Exploitation of Trade Rules: By countering the unfair practices of non-market economies like China, ensuring American manufacturers can compete and thrive on a level playing field.
    Strengthens Global Supply Chain Resilience: Diversifying trade relationships will reduce dependence on adversarial nations, making supply chains more secure against geopolitical disruptions and enhancing national security.
    Revitalizes American Manufacturing: By discouraging imports of pollution-intensive goods, this policy will bring jobs back home, strengthen domestic industries, and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
    Expands U.S. Export Markets: As high-polluting countries modernize their industries, they’ll increasingly demand American-made inputs, feedstocks, and cutting-edge technologies, opening new opportunities for U.S. exports.
    Deepens Trade Ties with Allies: By promoting partnerships with nations that share our economic and environmental values, the Foreign Pollution Fee Act builds a coalition against predatory practices by the Chinese Communist Party, supporting emerging markets and allies alike.
    Rewards Leadership in Cleaner Manufacturing: By incentivizing international partners to adopt cleaner production methods while ensuring that domestic manufacturers maintain a competitive edge by continuing to lead in industrial decarbonization.
    Background
    Cassidy and Graham introduced an earlier version of their Foreign Pollution Fee Act to level the playing field with Chinese manufacturing and expand American production in 2023.
    The Foreign Pollution Fee Act was a key topic at Cassidy’s Louisiana Energy Security Summit in October 2024.The summit featured ten panels that explored protecting U.S. interests from unfair trade practices, Louisiana’s low-pollution manufacturing advantage, and the role of natural gas in strengthening U.S. geopolitical influence. Panelists included presidents and CEOs from Entergy, First Solar, Buzzi UnicemUSA, Orsted, and Aluminum Technologies, former Trump administration officials, and leaders from Louisiana trade associations and major energy and Fortune 500 companies. 
    In September 2024, he released the 3rd episode of Bill on the Hill, where he highlights his Foreign Pollution Fee Act and discusses China’s growing economy and military coming at the expense of the American worker. After hearing fellow Americans share their concerns, Cassidy presented his plan to address the nexus between economic development, national security, and the environment. 
    He penned editorials in Foreign Affairs, The Washington Times, and jointly in the USA Today Network discussing the geopolitical threat that China poses to U.S. global standing. 
    In 2023, the Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives unanimously adopted a resolution urging Congress to pursue an industrial manufacturing and trade policy to counter competition from China. Learn more here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $8.6 Million for Louisiana in Hurricane Ida, Laura Relief

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $8,588,163.29 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Hurricanes Ida and Laura relief.
    “This funding supports critical recovery efforts in South Louisiana—from restoring schools in Terrebonne Parish to rebuilding port infrastructure in Lake Charles,” said Dr. Cassidy. “These investments help communities come back stronger and better prepared for the next storm.” 
    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description
    $1,515,421.78
    Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to the Bulk Terminal Ship Loader #2 as a direct result of Hurricane Laura.
    $1,734,597.39
    Community Center and Playground District Number 2 of Ward 4
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to Center Circle Park facilities as a direct result of Hurricane Laura.
    $2,466,919.65
    Terrebonne General Medical Center LHA
    This grant will provide federal funding for management costs associated with eligible recovery projects as a result of Hurricane Ida.
    $2,871,224.47
    Terrebonne Parish School Board
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to facilities at Bourg Elementary, Mulberry Elementary, and West Park as a direct result of Hurricane Ida.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján: Attacks on Social Security Will Endanger Monthly Checks for Over Half a Million New Mexicans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Social Security Services Are Deteriorating for New Mexicans Who Rely On Monthly Checks To Get By
    Websites Crashing, Long Wait Times, And Firing 7,000+ SSA Workers Who Help Seniors, People with Disabilities, and Families Get Their Benefits
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) sounded the alarm on ongoing attacks on Social Security from Elon Musk and President Trump that will endanger monthly Social Security checks for over 500,000 New Mexico seniors, people with disabilities, and families who rely on their monthly checks to live, pay rent, buy food and make ends meet.
    This comes amid reports of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) core operations breaking down because of systematic attacks from the Trump administration and DOGE. In the past month, the SSA website has already crashed four times in 10 days, blocking millions from accessing their accounts, and forcing seniors to wait more than two hours on jammed phone lines. 
    “In every corner of our state, Social Security is vital to the livelihoods of thousands of New Mexicans,” said Senator Luján. “Right now, Elon Musk and President Trump are taking an axe to New Mexicans’ Social Security benefits by firing staff, closing field offices, and making it harder for seniors to access their benefits. Social Security is not a Ponzi scheme – it is a lifeline that thousands of New Mexicans rely on to get by. I have always fought to protect New Mexicans’ Social Security, and I will always continue to do so.”
    A county-by-county breakdown of Social Security beneficiaries across New Mexico can be found here for SSI and Old Age, Survivors, and Disability benefits.
    Read a report from Senate Democrats on how President Trump, Elon Musk and DOGE are trying to cut Social Security here.
    This week, Senator Luján pressed the nominee for Commissioner of the Social Security Administration on attacks to Social Security. Watch Senator Luján’s questions for the nominee here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons, colleagues press USDA to not take food away from food banks and hungry families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and 24 of their colleagues demanded more information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture about the cancellation of previously approved emergency food assistance funding for food banks and other emergency food providers. The administration has canceled at least 900,000 meals for the Food Bank of Delaware, harming our hungry neighbors already facing high grocery prices and as well as American farmers who are being squeezed by tariffs and other cuts to domestic markets.
    “We write regarding the reported cancellation of hundreds of millions of dollars in previously approved funding for food banks and other emergency food providers through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP),” the senators wrote. “A cancellation of these funds could result in $500 million in lost food provisions to feed millions of Americans at a time when the need for food shelves is extremely high due to costly groceries and an uncertain economy.” 
    “If true, this major shift in a program utilized by emergency food providers in every state in the nation will have a significant and damaging impact upon millions of people who depend upon this program for critical food assistance,” the senators continued. “In addition, this program consists of purchases of U.S. commodities at a time when America’s growers and producers are struggling due to tariffs, proposed tariffs, animal disease and many other challenges.”
    In addition to Senators Coons and Klobuchar, the letter was signed by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Angus King (I-Maine), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).
    The full letter is available here and below. 
    Dear Secretary Rollins: 
    We write regarding the reported cancellation of hundreds of millions of dollars in previously approved funding for food banks and other emergency food providers through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). A cancellation of these funds could result in $500 million in lost food provisions to feed millions of Americans at a time when the need for food shelves is extremely high due to costly groceries and an uncertain economy. If true, this major shift in a program utilized by emergency food providers in every state in the nation will have a significant and damaging impact upon millions of people who depend upon this program for critical food assistance. 
    In addition, this program consists of purchases of U.S. commodities at a time when America’s growers and producers are struggling due to tariffs, proposed tariffs, animal disease and many other challenges. 
    According to recent statistics, nearly one in every seven Americans have faced food insecurity. Many of these households turn to community and emergency relief organizations such as food banks and food pantries to help them obtain sufficient nutrition. In 2023 alone, 50 million Americans turned to emergency food providers, according to a report from Feeding America, America’s largest network of food banks. While food banks rely on a variety of sources (including private) to obtain food for distribution through their networks, federally purchased commodities are a key part of how they provide nutritious meals to Americans.  
    Due to this reported change, a number of us have heard that trucks delivering American-grown foods may not arrive. These trucks represent hundreds of thousands of nutritious meals containing poultry, fruits, vegetables, and dairy. If confirmed, the cancellation of this previously announced funding also comes on top of the cancellation of Local Food for School Program and the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program funding, which also helps farmers deliver nutritious foods to schools and food banks. These cuts will deprive Americans of food assistance, emergency food providers of necessary support to carry out their work, and American farmers of vital domestic markets. 
    To help us understand USDA’s actions and their impact on communities around the country, we ask that you answer the following questions. 
    1.            Has USDA cancelled previously approved purchases of food provided through TEFAP? If so, what level of funding has been cancelled thus far and when will state agencies be notified of any cancelled TEFAP purchases? 
    2.            Does USDA plan to cancel additional purchases of food provided through TEFAP? 
    3.            Has USDA paused any TEFAP food orders or purchases? If so, what is the current status of those orders or purchases? Does USDA intend to un-pause these funds?  
    4.            Please provide information on what types of funding, by commodity, have been cancelled and the financial impact of those cancellations on producers such as pork, chicken, turkey and dairy farmers. 
    5.            Is the funding announced on October 1, 2024, and detailed in the implementation memo that the Food and Nutrition Service sent to state agencies on December 2 rescinded? 
    6.            Does USDA intend to use Commodity Credit Corporation funds in Fiscal Year 2025 for future purchases that will be distributed through TEFAP?  
    The senators asked for a prompt response to these questions by the end of the week. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Joins Colleagues in Supporting Foresters Affected by Natural Disasters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) in reintroducing legislation to help America’s landowners recover from the loss of timber after natural disasters. The Disaster Reforestation Act amends and makes improvements to the tax code to allow forest owners to deduct the value of their timber prior to the loss caused by a natural disaster.
    Sen. Tuberville cosponsored this legislation in the 118th Congress.
    “Natural disasters can’t be stopped, but we can help those who are affected by them,” said Sen. Tuberville. “Taking care of Alabama’s foresters is crucial to our state’s industry. This bill lightens the load when our forest owners are hit by a storm. It’s encouraging to see my colleagues on both sides of the aisle coming together to help future foresters in the wake of disaster.”
    “Louisianans know too well the importance of natural disaster relief,” said Sen. Cassidy. “When their lives and communities are torn apart by storms, they need a fix like this.”
    U.S. Sens. Tuberville and Cassidy were also joined by U.S. Sens. Katie Britt (R-AL), Angus King (I-ME), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) in cosponsoring the legislation.
    This legislation is supported by the Alabama Forestry Association, American Forest Foundation, Arkansas Forestry Association, Association of Consulting Foresters, California Forestry Association, Florida Forestry Association, Forest Resources Association, Forestry Association of South Carolina, Georgia Forestry Association, Hardwood Federation, Iowa Coalition For Trees and Forests, Iowa Woodland Owners, Kentucky Forest Industries Association, Louisiana Forestry Association, Massachusetts Forest Alliance, Mississippi Forestry Association, National Alliance of Forest Owners, National Association of State Foresters, National Woodlands Association, North Carolina Forestry Association, Ohio Forestry Association, Oklahoma Forestry Association, Pennsylvania Forestry Association, Society of American Foresters, Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association, Southern Group of State Foresters, Tennessee Forestry Association, Texas Forestry Association, The Carbon Fund, Trees Forever, Virginia Forestry Association, Washington Farm Forestry Association, Washington Forest Protection Association, and Wildlife Mississippi.
    Read full text of the legislation here.
    BACKGROUND:
    Previous disaster relief policies and programs provide much-needed relief for agriculture crops and farmers, however, they do not provide any economic relief for farmers whose timber crops were destroyed. The Disaster Reforestation Act allows landowners to deduct the full value of timber destroyed during disaster events in the same way the tax code treats other crops.
    In the case of the loss of uncut timber from fire, storm, other casualty, or theft, the basis used for determining the amount of the deduction may not be less than the excess of the appraised value of the uncut timber determined immediately before the loss was sustained or over the salvage value of the timber.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Blumenthal, Hirono, Padilla Send Letter To Deputy Director Bongino Raising Concerns Over His Ability To Lead The FBI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 28, 2025

    Senators to FBI Deputy Director Bongino: “As the newly appointed Deputy Director, your past public statements raise concerns about your ability to impartially lead the Bureau and credibly command the respect of its workforce”

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Alex Padilla (D-CA), sent a letter to the Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Dan Bongino, raising serious concerns over his ability to lead the Bureau with FBI Director Kash Patel. Deputy Director Bongino is a former conservative political commentator, podcast host, and conspiracy theorist peddler. The position of the FBI Deputy Director is not Senate-confirmed.

    The Senators wrote, “As the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) finalizes its new leadership structure, we are deeply concerned that Director Kash Patel’s senior leadership team is unprepared forthe challenges of managing our nation’s premier law enforcement agency and its approximately 38,000 public servants.”

    “As the newly appointed Deputy Director, your past public statements—which include inflammatory remarks and unsubstantiated accusations against the FBI, including calling for the Bureau’s disbandment—raise concerns about your ability to impartially lead the Bureau and credibly command the respect of its workforce. Your record, on the other hand, does not reflect the expertise required to manage the FBI’s complex and expansive operations,” the Senators continued.

    In the letter, the Senators ask for clarification regarding Deputy Director Bongino’s past controversial comments including when he said on his podcast, “The only thing that is going to stop the FBI from doing what they’re doing now, which is become full-time activists and bouncers, in many cases, thugs for the Democrat [sic] party, is imposing real material losses on them (emphasis added). Fire everyone involved in this stuff. Everyone—no excuses. Disband the entity.”

    On November 14, 2024, Deputy Director Bongino described the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and the placement of pipe bombs outside of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Republican National Committee (RNC) headquarters as an “inside job” and said, “There is a massive cover-up, because the person who planted those pipe bombs—they don’t want you to know who it was, because it’s either a connected anti-Trump insider, or this was an inside job. Those bombs were planted there. This was a setup. I have zero doubt… And whoever goes into FBI… you better get an answer… about why.” He continued to say, “It is clear, this all adds up to they know who this person is. They just don’t want you to know who this it is. Later in the podcast, Bongino went on to say that “the FBI knew the entire time the identity of this person and then tried to unknow it, because it was an insider and an inside attack and a plot to, you know, stop Republicans from questioning the election results.”

    The Senators continued, “Your claim that the FBI is responsible for a cover-up is an extremely serious allegation that you have an obligation either to substantiate or repudiate. Now that you have access to the information you have long claimed that the FBI possesses, can you answer who was responsible for the pipe bombs on January 6, 2021 and provide evidence proving their identity to the public and Congress? If no, will you apologize to the men and women of the FBI for spreading this dangerous and irresponsible lie?”

    The Senators asked for clarification of these statements by April 11, 2025.

    The full text of the letter can be found here and below:

    Dear Deputy Director Bongino:

    As the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) finalizes its new leadership structure, we are deeply concerned that Director Kash Patel’s senior leadership team is unprepared for the challenges of managing our nation’s premier law enforcement agency and its approximately 38,000 public servants. As the newly appointed Deputy Director, your past public statements—which include inflammatory remarks and unsubstantiated accusations against the FBI, including calling for the Bureau’s disbandment—raise concerns about your ability to impartially lead the Bureau and credibly command the respect of its workforce. The Deputy Director oversees all FBI domestic and international investigative and intelligence activities and has historically been a career agent with extensive experience in the Bureau. Your record, on the other hand, does not reflect the expertise required to manage the FBI’s complex and expansive operations. To help address these concerns, we ask that you answer the following questions by April 11, 2025:

    1. You previously said, “We don’t just fire the people who did this. Everyone who stood by and did nothing while the Department of Justice and the FBI have been ravaged, ravaged by ‘corruptocrats’ [sic].Everyone gets fired. Everyone (emphasis added).” As Deputy Director, do you still believe that every one of the FBI’s employees who “stood by” should be fired? How do you intend to determine which of the FBI’s approximately 38,000 employees “stood by”?
    2. On September 26, 2022, you said on your podcast: “The only thing that is going to stop the FBI from doing what they’re doing now, which is become full-time activists and bouncers, in many cases, thugs for the Democrat [sic] party, is imposing real material losses on them (emphasis added). Fire everyone involved in this stuff. Everyone—no excuses. Disband the entity.” Now that you are a member of the Bureau’s senior leadership team, do you believe the thousands of personnel who report to you still need to suffer “real material losses”? Do you still believe the FBI should be disbanded? If yes, how do you plan on implementing such an agenda?
    3. On August 29, 2024, in response to the FBI releasing information about the Butler assassination attempt, you posted: “Folks, the FBI is at it again. I don’t trust these people at all.” How can the FBI’s career law enforcement personnel earn your trust in light of this statement? Conversely, how do you intend to earn their trust when you have spent years attacking their integrity?
    4. On November 14, 2024, you described the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol and the placement of pipe bombs outside of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Republican National Committee (RNC) headquarters as an “inside job” and said:

    There is a massive cover-up, because the person who planted those pipe bombs—they don’t want you to know who it was, because it’s either a connected anti-Trump insider, or this was an inside job. Those bombs were planted there. This was a setup. I have zero doubt…. And whoever goes into FBI… you better get an answer… about why.

    Now that you are inside the FBI, have you seen evidence to prove your implausible and outrageous allegation that the January 6 attack was an “inside job”? If yes, when do you plan to provide that evidence to the public and Congress? If no, will you apologize to the American people for perpetuating this baseless conspiracy theory?

    1. Earlier this year, you said on your podcast about the unsolved January 6, 2021 pipe bombs case:

    It is clear, this all adds up to they know who this person is. They just don’t want you to know who this it is. Later in the podcast, you went on to say that “the FBI knew the entire time the identity of this person and then tried to unknow it, because it was an insider and an inside attack and a plot to, you know, stop Republicans from questioning the election results.

    You then claimed that “they did conduct an investigation, a legitimate one, for probably a couple of weeks because a friend of mine, who’s a federal agent, was involved in it. And they told him, once they started to hone in on who it was, to stand down.” We are disappointed that the pipe bomb case remains unsolved, given the significant danger this threat presented to the public, staff, and elected officials at the RNC and DNC on January 6, 2021. Your claim that the FBI is responsible for a cover-up is an extremely serious allegation that you have an obligation either to substantiate or repudiate. Now that you have access to the information you have long claimed that the FBI possesses, can you answer who was responsible for the pipe bombs on January 6, 2021 and provide evidence proving their identity to the public and Congress? If no, will you apologize to the men and women of the FBI for spreading this dangerous and irresponsible lie?

    Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

    Sincerely,

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Sorenson, Murkowski Lead Bipartisan Call For Continued Support For Defense Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 28, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17), along with U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and U.S. Representative Blake Moore (R-UT-01), today led a bipartisan letter urging Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to maintain robust support for the Department of Defense’s Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC).

    The OLDCC administers crucial programs, including the Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP), the Defense Manufacturing Community Support Program (DMCSP), the Community Noise Mitigation Program, and the Public Schools on Military Installations (PSMI) program.  These initiatives provide important resources to state and local communities, helping to repair infrastructure, strengthen the defense industrial base, and support military readiness. Between Fiscal Years 2020 and 2024, Illinois has received $73 million in federal funding from OLDCC.

    “Grants from OLDCC provide communities across the country with the ability to tackle important projects to better support their local military installations that they otherwise would not have been able to fund themselves,” the lawmakers wrote.  “DMCSP grants have helped strengthen the U.S. defense industrial manufacturing base and prepare our national security workforce fortechnologies for the future.  In addition, the Mission Realignment program has been a lifeline to communities after base closures or reductions, helping revitalize the local economies of communities that faithfully supported our defense mission.”

    “OLDCC programs are also smart investments.  OLDCC collaborates with a wide variety of partners to support military readiness and resiliency while addressing community workforce and business needs.  In addition, it notably leverages non-federal contributions into the defense mission, demonstrating the utility of its grant programs in furthering taxpayer dollars,” the lawmakers continued.

    “We urge your continued support of all the vital programs administered by the OLDCC and we look forward to continuing to work with the Department of Defense to ensure that our state and local communities are able to support our defense missions,” the lawmakers concluded their letter.

    Since its inception, the OLDCC has provided technical and financial assistance to nearly every U.S. state and territory. In the last year alone, grants have funded projects such as sewer system upgrades, emergency backup generators, runway rehabilitation, and workforce development in the defense manufacturing sector. 

    “The Association of Defense Communities (ADC) has been a long time and staunch advocate for the Office of Local Defense and Community Cooperation (OLDCC),” said Karen Holt, President of the Alliance of Defense Communities. “This office serves as the critical link between the Department of Defense and defense communities across the country. OLDCC programs are instrumental in maintaining the readiness of our military installations, missions, service members, and the communities they call home. ADC greatly appreciates the leadership of Senator Dick Durbin, Senator Lisa Murkowski, Congressman Eric Sorensen and Congressman Blake Moore for leading this effort to advocate for maintaining OLDCC funding levels. OLDCC programs are core to the idea that national security starts at home.”

    Additional Senators signing onto the letter were U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    House Members who signed onto the letter were U.S. Representatives Ed Case (HI-01), Gerald Connolly (VA-11), John Garamendi (CA-08), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Jennifer Kiggans (VA-02), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), James McGovern (MA-02), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Robert Scott (VA-03), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Michael Turner (OH-10), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), and Delegate James Moylan (Guam).

    You can view the letter HERE.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 03/27/2025 Senate Democrats Block Blackburn Resolution Condemning Violence Against Tesla

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor before and after Senate Democrats blocked her resolution condemning the recent acts of violence, arson, and domestic terrorism committed against Tesla properties throughout the United States. Click here to read the full resolution.

    REMARKS AS PREPARED

    Elon Musk Is a Patriot for Tackling One of the Biggest Threats our Nation Faces: $36 Trillion in Debt

    Mr. President, there can be no doubt that Elon Musk is a patriot. 

    He has revolutionized entire industries with his companies—from PayPal and Tesla to SpaceX and Neuralink.

    Across his businesses, there are a lot of things he could be working on. But when President Trump asked him to join the administration, he answered the call and committed himself to serving the American people.

    In many ways, he is tackling one of the biggest threats our nation faces: our $36 trillion debt. 

    Elon understands that our fiscal path is unsustainable.

    Today, we are spending more money to service our debt than to fund our entire military.

    And as our debt grows, it will become more and more difficult to fund basic government functions.

    That’s why he is leading the Department of Government Efficiency: to rein in reckless spending and put our country on a better fiscal path.

    So far, DOGE has had a lot of success. In just two months, they have discovered $130 billion in potential savings by eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse across the federal government.

    They hope that number will reach $2 trillion by Independence Day next year—our nation’s 250th birthday.

    The Radical Left Is Targeting Elon Musk for Helping President Trump

    Every American should be applauding this effort. Our children and grandchildren’s future depends on it.

    But because Elon is helping President Trump, he has become a target for the radical Left—which has launched a domestic terrorism campaign against his company, Tesla. 

    In Las Vegas, suspects set Tesla vehicles on fire with Molotov cocktails.

    In Oregon, a man shot up a Tesla dealership.

    And across the country, Tesla owners have had their cars destroyed with arson and vandalism.

    Now, Democrat-aligned groups are organizing a “Global Day of Action” on Saturday to target Tesla.

    Democrats Are Eerily Silent While the Left Launches Domestic Terrorism Campaign Against Tesla

    The reason for this campaign is simple: In November, the American people rejected the Left’s radical agenda.

    They’ve lost the debate. But instead of making a better pitch to voters, they are trying to stop Republicans with violence and intimidation.

    The Democrats spent the last four years denouncing domestic terrorism and supporting electric vehicles, yet now they are eerily silent.

    And when they do comment, they celebrate Tesla’s setbacks.

    Tim Walz—Democrats’ failed vice presidential candidate—claimed he gets a daily “boost” from checking on Tesla’s stock price, which has declined amid the terrorism campaign.

    Democrat ally and late night host Jimmy Kimmel seemed to endorse the violence, sarcastically telling his audience, “Don’t ever vandalize Tesla vehicles.”

    Last week, Democrat congresswoman Jasmine Crockett said that all she wants for her birthday is to “see Elon taken down.”

    Democrats Must Condemn Political Violence Against Tesla

    This rhetoric is inexcusable. And as the world’s greatest legislative body, we should jointly condemn political violence.

    That’s why I am asking for unanimous consent to pass my resolution that condemns the horrific acts of violence, arson, and domestic terrorism committed against Tesla dealerships and facilities across the country.

    There is absolutely no reason why Democrats should oppose this resolution. They should join Republicans and let the United States Senate speak with one voice: political violence and domestic terrorism have no place in our country.

    MIL OSI USA News –