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Rep. Pramila Jayapal Criticized for Conduct During Congressional Hearing on Sanctuary Policies

Rep. Pramila Jayapal Criticized for Conduct During Congressional Hearing on Sanctuary Policies

During a congressional hearing on sanctuary policies, Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), ranking member of the immigration subcommittee, expressed frustration about the frequency of such hearings. Jessica Gorman, an 'Angel Mom' whose daughter Sheridan Gorman was allegedly killed by an individual who had illegally entered the U.S. and was released by Chicago authorities despite a warrant, admonished Jayapal and other members for their perceived insensitivity and lack of engagement. Gorman testified about her daughter's death, which she attributed to open-border and sanctuary policies. She noted that the alleged killer, Jose Medina, was released into the U.S. after indicating no fear of persecution if deported, and subsequently arrested for shoplifting in Chicago. Chicago police did not notify ICE, and Medina was later released, failing to appear in court. His active warrant was not shared with ICE, and he is now accused of Sheridan Gorman's murder. Gorman criticized members for being on their phones, sl...

Senator Richard Blumenthal Calls for Immigration Court Reform After Observing 'Purposeful Chaos' in Hartford

Senator Richard Blumenthal Calls for Immigration Court Reform After Observing 'Purposeful Chaos' in Hartford

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal recently attended immigration court proceedings in Hartford, Connecticut, where he reported witnessing what he described as 'purposeful chaos.' According to Senator Blumenthal, the court is grappling with severe understaffing and an overwhelming caseload. He observed an administrative judge presiding over cases remotely, and noted that many individuals appearing before the judge did not have criminal records and few had legal representation. Senator Blumenthal expressed concern that the system appears designed to expedite deportations, regardless of the merits of individual cases, and highlighted the challenges faced by individuals who do not speak English and lack legal counsel. He emphasized that the focus on detention and seizure of individuals needs attention, but also pointed to the procedural issues within the court system itself.

Congresswoman Budzinski Co-Leads Bipartisan House Postal Caucus

Congresswoman Budzinski Co-Leads Bipartisan House Postal Caucus

U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-Illinois) is co-leading the bipartisan House Postal Caucus alongside Representative Jack Bergman (R-Michigan). This caucus has seen rapid expansion, indicating a growing interest among lawmakers in addressing issues related to the United States Postal Service (USPS). The formation and growth of such a bipartisan group suggest a concerted effort to tackle challenges and improve operations within the postal system. The caucus provides a platform for members of Congress from both parties to collaborate on legislative solutions and oversight concerning postal services, which are vital for communities across the nation.

Trump administration proposes dropping huge swath of immigrants from US census

Trump administration proposes dropping huge swath of immigrants from US census

By Julia Harte Sept 9 (Reuters) - The Trump administration proposed on Wednesday changing the national census to include only U.S. citizens and permanent residents, a move that could significantly change how much political representation and federal funding each state receives. The U.S.

Arizona Republic

What did Charlie Kirk say and believe? A look back 1 year after death

What did Charlie Kirk say and believe? A look back 1 year after death

What did Charlie Kirk believe and say? Here's what to know on the first anniversary of his assassination.

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell Introduces Bill to Withhold Taxes from College NIL Earnings

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell Introduces Bill to Withhold Taxes from College NIL Earnings

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell has introduced the Protecting Student-Athletes from Unexpected Tax Liability Act. This proposed legislation aims to address the tax obligations of college athletes earning income through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements. The bill mandates that a portion of NIL payouts be withheld for federal tax purposes. Sewell stated that the initiative is designed to protect young athletes from unforeseen tax burdens and penalties, citing instances where athletes, unaware of their tax responsibilities, faced significant bills from the IRS after spending their NIL earnings. She highlighted a case where an 18-year-old athlete incurred a $320,000 tax bill on $750,000 in NIL income due to a lack of understanding regarding tax obligations and estimated quarterly payments. The legislation seeks to provide these athletes with the necessary tools and protections for a stable financial future.

Farm Aid’s Advocacy Helped Push the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987

Farm Aid’s Advocacy Helped Push the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987

organization dedicated to supporting family farms, owes its existence and enduring success to a core group of visionary musicians. These individual...

Congressmen Introduce 'Flock-Off Act' to Ban Federal Funding for Surveillance Cameras Amid Privacy Concerns

Congressmen Introduce 'Flock-Off Act' to Ban Federal Funding for Surveillance Cameras Amid Privacy Concerns

Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Eric Burlison (R-Mo.) have introduced the 'Flock-Off Act' in Congress, aiming to prohibit federal funding for Flock surveillance cameras. This legislative effort comes amidst a growing national debate regarding the balance between public safety and individual privacy. Cosponsor Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) has voiced strong opposition to the technology on the House floor, emphasizing concerns about the potential for a surveillance state in America. The debate centers on the use of AI-powered license-plate readers by Flock Safety, which proponents argue are crucial tools for law enforcement in identifying suspects and solving crimes, while opponents fear an expansion of surveillance that could lead to privacy abuses, including the tracking and deportation of undocumented immigrants by agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Several Bay Area cities have grappled with these issues, with some cutting ties with Flock Safety and others, like San Jose, Oakland, and Ri...

Congressional Delegation Led by Chairman Michael McCaul Reinforces Bipartisan Commitment to Australia-US Alliance

Congressional Delegation Led by Chairman Michael McCaul Reinforces Bipartisan Commitment to Australia-US Alliance

A Congressional delegation, spearheaded by Chairman Michael McCaul and including Ranking Member Gregory Meeks, Rep. Ami Bera, Rep. Jimmy Panetta, and Rep. Ann Wagner, recently engaged in discussions with AmCham Australia. The purpose of this gathering was to reaffirm the enduring bipartisan commitment to the Australia-US alliance. The delegation participated in a candid and forward-looking dialogue concerning the opportunities and challenges confronting both nations. The discussions underscored the belief that the strength of this bilateral relationship is rooted in the deep connections shared among their respective populations, businesses, and institutions. Leaders from both sides acknowledged the intrinsic value of this alliance, transcending partisan divides. This event highlights ongoing efforts to maintain and strengthen international partnerships vital to U.S. foreign policy and economic interests.

Congressman Mark Messmer Emphasizes Catholic Faith's Influence on Public Service

Congressman Mark Messmer Emphasizes Catholic Faith's Influence on Public Service

Republican Congressman Mark Messmer from Indiana highlights the significant role of his Catholic faith in guiding his life and work. According to the source, Messmer stated that he has always prioritized God, family, and community. A pivotal moment in his spiritual journey occurred during his time as a state legislator when he and his wife attended a Cursillo retreat. This retreat, focused on empowering Christian laypeople to become effective leaders and integrate the Gospel into daily life, ignited a profound passion and love for Christ and the Eucharist within him. Messmer maintains his spiritual grounding through daily Mass and a Friday morning prayer group. He also participates in a weekly group call with his family for spiritual reinforcement, as reported by the source.

Congress Considers Legislation to Address Youth Mental Health Risks from AI Chatbots and Social Media

Congress Considers Legislation to Address Youth Mental Health Risks from AI Chatbots and Social Media

Lawmakers in the U.S. Congress are actively developing and debating bipartisan legislation aimed at mitigating the mental health risks posed to young people by social media and AI chatbots. Several bills have been introduced, including the GUARD Act (S. 3062) by Senators Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), which seeks to implement age-verification requirements for AI companion platforms to restrict minor access. The SAFE KIDS Act (S. 4855), introduced by Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Adam Schiff (D-CA), proposes mandatory ongoing risk assessments, independent safety audits, and established crisis protocols to connect at-risk minors with external resources and notify parents. Additionally, the CHATBOT Act (S. 4407), led by Senate Commerce Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX) with Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Curtis (R-UT), and Schiff (D-CA), focuses on creating family accounts, requiring consent, and directing federal research into the potential harms of chatbots. These legislative efforts come amidst ...

Reps. Stefanik and Gottheimer Launch Bipartisan Caucus to Combat Campus Antisemitism

Reps. Stefanik and Gottheimer Launch Bipartisan Caucus to Combat Campus Antisemitism

Reps. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) have announced the formation of the Combating Antisemitism on College Campuses Caucus. This bipartisan congressional coalition aims to address the rising issue of antisemitism at institutions of higher education across the United States. According to press releases from their offices, the caucus will coordinate oversight of how universities respond to antisemitism, press institutions to protect Jewish students, faculty, and staff, and enforce anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies. The initiative also seeks to advance federal legislation targeting campus antisemitism and discrimination driven by the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Both lawmakers, a Catholic Republican and a Jewish Democrat respectively, expressed significant concern over the harassment and intimidation faced by Jewish students on campuses since October 7th, 2023, emphasizing the need for a unified approach to ensure a safe educational environment.