Featured Stories
Huffman, Raskin Introduce Resolution Reaffirming Church-State Separation Ahead of America's 250th Anniversary
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Jared Huffman, D-California, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Huffman, Raskin Introduce Resolution Reaffirming Church-State Separation Ahead of America's 250th Anniversary
This week, Representative Huffman (CA-02) and Representative Raskin (MD-08) alongside other democratic colleagues are introducing a resolution in honor of America's 250 th anniversary. As the United States prepares to celebrate its Semiquincentennial, the resolution recognizes the nation's long tradition of protecting religious liberty through a secular government, celebrates
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Jared Huffman, D-California, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Huffman, Raskin Introduce Resolution Reaffirming Church-State Separation Ahead of America's 250th Anniversary
This week, Representative Huffman (CA-02) and Representative Raskin (MD-08) alongside other democratic colleagues are introducing a resolution in honor of America's 250 th anniversary. As the United States prepares to celebrate its Semiquincentennial, the resolution recognizes the nation's long tradition of protecting religious liberty through a secular government, celebratesAmerica's growing religious diversity, and rejects efforts to use the power of government to impose any one religious belief on the American people.
This resolution comes at a pivotal moment for religious freedom in America. Last week, Trump's Religious Liberty Commission released a dangerous 224-page draft report proposing policies that would expand the role of religion in government and weaken safeguards that have protected religious freedom for generations. The commission is stacked with mostly right-wing Christian nationalists, and one conservative Jewish member, all of whom endorse claims that America was founded as a Chrisian nation.
"Last week Trump's so called Religious Liberty Commission released an absurd report launching a direct attack on one of America's greatest constitutional achievements: the separation of church and state," said Rep. Jared Huffman. " The Constitution doesn't belong to Christian nationalists, and it doesn't belong to Donald Trump. It belongs to all of us, and its promise of religious freedom protects every American, regardless of what they believe. No president, no matter how determined to erode our constitutional freedoms, can change what has always been at the heart of this country: a belief in liberty and freedom for all. That includes the freedom to worship as you choose, or not at all, without government interference or religious coercion. That's the America worth celebrating after 250 years, and it's the America we must continue to defend."
"Our Founders rebelled against centuries of state-controlled churches, religious warfare, Crusades, inquisitions, witchcraft trials, and other expressions of religious authoritarianism to create a secular Constitution," said Rep. Jamie Raskin. "As we mark America's 250th anniversary, our resolution is a necessary reminder to guard religious freedom, one of our nation's founding principles, from those seeking to destroy it by using the government to impose white Christian nationalism. Mr. President, read the Free Exercise and Establishment Clauses of our Constitution."
The resolution draws on the writings of Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, George Washington, and other Founders, as well as longstanding constitutional precedent, to underscore that religious freedom flourishes when government remains neutral in matters of faith. It also recognizes that the First Amendment's Establishment and Free Exercise Clauses have safeguarded Americans of every religion, and those of no religion, for nearly 250 years.
A full copy of the resolution can be found here.
In addition to Huffman and Raskin, the resolution is cosponsored by Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Gil Cisneros (CA-31), Sean Casten (IL-06), Emily Randall (WA-06), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Robert Garcia (CA-42).
The resolution is endorsed by Americans United for Separation of Church and State, American Humanist Association, Freedom From Religion Foundation, Secular Coalition, The Center for Inquiry, and Interfaith Alliance, and Baptist Joint Committee, Ex-Muslims of North America, Muslim Public Affairs Council, Jews for Secular Democracy, Society for Humanistic Judaism, Emgage, Vote Common Good, Sikh Coalition.
A full list of quotes from endorsed organizations can be found here (https://huffman.house.gov/imo/media/doc/cfc_resolution_reaffirming_church-state_separation2.pdf).
***
Original text here: https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/huffman-raskin-introduce-resolution-reaffirming-church-state-separation-ahead-of-americas-250th-anniversary
Neal Statement on the Trump Administration's Decision to Not Renew USMCA
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Massachusetts, ranking member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Neal Statement on the Trump Administration's Decision to Not Renew USMCA
Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement marking the six-year anniversary since the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) came into effect:
"When Congressional Democrats secured improvements to the USMCA, we insisted on a meaningful review process because we wanted to set trade policy on a new
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Massachusetts, ranking member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Neal Statement on the Trump Administration's Decision to Not Renew USMCA
Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement marking the six-year anniversary since the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) came into effect:
"When Congressional Democrats secured improvements to the USMCA, we insisted on a meaningful review process because we wanted to set trade policy on a newpath: one of evolution. The review was designed to ensure this agreement continued to live up to its fullest potential and grow with the needs of our workers and economy.
"USMCA serves as a stabilizing force for North America and is reflective of the will of Congress. That's how you strengthen competitiveness and deepen cooperation, rather than scoring cheap political points through an illegal tariff scheme and picking needless fights with some of our closest allies.
"As we mark the beginning of the six-year review, now is the time to pursue serious negotiations with our North American partners. Any updates to USMCA should strengthen outcomes for American workers and manufacturers in the same spirit that garnered support from each end of the political spectrum and brought this agreement over the finish line in the first place.
"The American people cannot afford more trade chaos, higher costs, and missed opportunities simply because this Administration mistakes their way for the best way. Let's do right by the people and follow the review process as outlined over six years ago."
* * *
Original text here: https://democrats-waysandmeans.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/neal-statement-trump-administrations-decision-not-renew-usmca
House Veterans' Affairs Chairman Bost Releases Statement on VFW Inciting Political Violence
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Mike Bost, R-Illinois, chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Chairman Bost Releases Statement on VFW Inciting Political Violence
Today, House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chairman Mike Bost (R-Ill.) released the following statement in response to recent suggestions of political violence from the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW):
"The recent inflammatory, fearmongering, and dangerous political rhetoric from the Veterans of Foreign Wars is inappropriate and must end immediately. As a congressionally
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Mike Bost, R-Illinois, chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Chairman Bost Releases Statement on VFW Inciting Political Violence
Today, House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chairman Mike Bost (R-Ill.) released the following statement in response to recent suggestions of political violence from the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW):
"The recent inflammatory, fearmongering, and dangerous political rhetoric from the Veterans of Foreign Wars is inappropriate and must end immediately. As a congressionallychartered organization, the VFW has a responsibility to uphold the honorable prestige that has been granted to them by Congress. That distinction carries with it a responsibility to promote patriotism, civic responsibility, and respectful public discourse while advocating on behalf of veterans. While I respect the First Amendment rights of every American, including those who work at VFW and have served in uniform, suggestions that VA's dedicated workforce - or the media - or anyone else are actively shooting and punishing servicemembers and veterans is unacceptable and creates a dangerous, politically charged environment that can put lives at risk," said Chairman Bost. "I am also troubled by VFW allowing this image and their logo to be used by a third-party company to sell apparel. As both an elected government official and a veteran myself, I take these allegations seriously. In today's political climate, we all have a responsibility to stand up - not stand down - to suggestions of political violence by anyone - let alone the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization. I strongly urge them and others in the veteran community to join me in doing the same. I call on the VFW to remove these images, discontinue the sale of associated merchandise, and reaffirm its commitment to fact-based advocacy that honors both our veterans and the democratic principles they served to protect."
* * *
Original text here: https://veterans.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7938
Larsen to Trump Admin: Continue USMCA Trade Deal to Create Jobs and Lower Prices
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSrep) -- Rep. Rick Larsen, D-Washington, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Larsen to Trump Admin: Continue USMCA Trade Deal to Create Jobs and Lower Prices
*
Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) sent a report to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer urging the continuation of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA). The report summarizes over a hundred meetings and conversations that Rep. Larsen's office has had with farmers, businesses, municipalities, ports and other stakeholders across Northwest Washington over
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSrep) -- Rep. Rick Larsen, D-Washington, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Larsen to Trump Admin: Continue USMCA Trade Deal to Create Jobs and Lower Prices
*
Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) sent a report to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer urging the continuation of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA). The report summarizes over a hundred meetings and conversations that Rep. Larsen's office has had with farmers, businesses, municipalities, ports and other stakeholders across Northwest Washington overthe past year.
"Continuing the USMCA deal will lower costs and create jobs in our communities by restabilizing the economic relationship between the U.S. and two of our largest trading partners," said Rep. Larsen. "Across conversations with the people I represent, I have heard how USMCA helps families and communities thrive. The United States should negotiate in good faith to enhance and renew USMCA, and fully enforce the provisions of the agreement to help lower prices and create more good-paying jobs."
Today, the required joint review of USMCA began, which USTR is leading together with Canada and Mexico. The Trump administration announced that the U.S. did not agree to renew agreement in its current form, opting instead to spend the coming months renegotiation the deal.
Rep. Larsen's report to Ambassador Greer summarizes local stakeholders' broad support for USMCA and top priorities to enhance the agreement during renegotiations:
* Providing predictability and reducing uncertainty when it comes to tariff rates, regulations and trade policy;
* Sustaining and facilitating integrated, tariff-free cross-border supply chains, particularly with Canada; and
* Ensuring WA-02 farmers, producers and businesses can compete in the United States and worldwide on a level playing field, addressing both tariffs and non-tariff measures.
Trade with Canada and Mexico supports 320,000 jobs in Washington state, according to the Washington Council on International Trade (WCIT). In the past six years, Washington state businesses saved $126 million in direct tariff costs thanks to USMCA ( WCIT ).
In Northwest Washington, the U.S.-Canada partnership is especially important. Trade between Northwest Washington and Canada supports 2,200 jobs in Whatcom County, 1,400 in Skagit County and 3,800 in Snohomish County ( Trade Partnership/Connect2Canada data ).
"President Trump's pointless tariffs and reckless rhetoric towards Canada have hurt families and businesses I represent," said Rep. Larsen. "Rising shipping and manufacturing costs, along with instability from constantly changing tariff policies, have pushed prices up for families and stopped companies and tourists from bringing their business to Northwest Washington."
This year, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appointed Rep. Larsen to be the top Democrat on the U.S.-Canada Interparliamentary Group, an organization that connects American and Canadian legislators to promote information sharing and better understanding on shared issues of concern.
Born and raised in Arlington, Washington, Rep. Larsen has a deep personal history with British Columbia and the U.S.-Canada relationship. As a member of Congress, he has been a leader on issues involving Canada, including trade, environmental protection in the Salish Sea and Pacific Northwest, the Arctic, security and border management.
Rep. Larsen's full report to Ambassador Greer is available HERE. The contents of this report reflect priorities and feedback on the USMCA review that stakeholders shared. The report is not an endorsement of each of these positions by Rep. Larsen.
* * *
INFODOC: https://larsen.house.gov/UploadedFiles/Larsen_USMCA_Joint_Review_Letter_July_2026.pdf
***
Original text here: https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4213
Keytruda Maker Merck Funded Clinical Trials at China's Military Sites
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party, issued the following news release on June 30, 2026:
* * *
Keytruda Maker Merck Funded Clinical Trials at China's Military Sites
Select Committee Launches Investigation into Merck's China Work
-
Chairman John Moolenaar of the Select Committee on China has sent a letter to Merck Chief Executive Officer Robert Davis asking the pharmaceutical company to provide more information about the company's clinical drug trials in China.
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party, issued the following news release on June 30, 2026:
* * *
Keytruda Maker Merck Funded Clinical Trials at China's Military Sites
Select Committee Launches Investigation into Merck's China Work
-
Chairman John Moolenaar of the Select Committee on China has sent a letter to Merck Chief Executive Officer Robert Davis asking the pharmaceutical company to provide more information about the company's clinical drug trials in China.Publicly available information on ClinicalTrials.Gov already shows the company has developed drugs in clinical trials at Chinese military hospitals, and in Xinjiang, China, where the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is conducting a genocide of Uyghur Muslims and other minorities.
Chairman Moolenaar has raised this as a concern dating back to his first year as Select Committee Chairman, when he sent a letter in August 2024 to FDA on this issue.
Merck sponsored:
* At least 31 trials that included hospitals in Xinjiang, China, with several that are still ongoing today, and
* At least 40 trials that included PRC military medical centers and hospitals.
Some of the drugs being developed in these experiments include treatments for Crohn's disease and arthritis.
In his letter, Moolenaar writes:
"Merck 's clinical trials held at PRC military hospitals raise significant questions related to how data developed through clinical trials at those hospitals could fuel the CCP's military biotechnology research, experimentation, and capability development.
...
While there is no evidence that Merck has engaged in illegal activity or wrongdoing, conducting clinical trials in China, and in Xinjiang and PRC military hospitals more specifically, exposes American companies to ethical and security risks--some of which even the most robust due diligence may not be sufficient to mitigate."
Moolenaar's letter concludes by asking Merck to provide the Select Committee with the following information:
* Company policies, regulations, strategies, or other guidance documents that outline Merck's Good Clinical Practice standards for the conduct of clinical trials, especially trials conducted in China, at PRC military hospitals, or in Xinjiang.
* Data on the number of clinical trials that Merck has conducted in China at PRC military hospitals, or in Xinjiang, since 2015.
* Information about Merck's due diligence processes to ensure the protection of IP and sensitive data at clinical trial and manufacturing sites in China at PRC military hospitals, or in Xinjiang.
* Details of all Merck licensing, equity, or joint venture deals with Chinese biotechnology companies since 2020.
Background
China's clinical trial system relies on rapid patient enrollment, which is three to five times faster than in the United States, due in a part to a lack of ethical safeguards regarding informed consent and voluntary participation.
In Xinjiang, widespread forced labor, forced medical testing, organ harvesting, and procedures on Uyghurs and other minority populations raise ethical concerns. Given the chilling violations of basic human rights in Xinjiang, it is reasonable to question whether clinical trial subjects there are participating voluntarily. Operating in this region demands heightened due diligence by Merck to ensure it is not unwittingly profiting off a system that is failing to protect the rights of participants.
In order to counter China and boost America's biotech companies, the Trump Administration recently announced the Food and Drug Administration is developing a pilot program for Phase 1 clinical trials that could cut the drug development and approval process in the U.S. by six to 12 months.
In May, Moolenaar advanced language in the 2027 Department of Agriculture funding bill that would prohibit "the FDA from accepting, reviewing, or considering any covered clinical data generated by a clinical investigation site" in China.
* * *
INFODOC: https://files.constantcontact.com/f0eecb46901/d7ed7fb1-95b9-4179-9143-4b18030f6fe5.pdf
* * *
Original text here: https://chinaselectcommittee.house.gov/media/letters/keytruda-maker-merck-funded-clinical-trials-at-china-s-military-sites
GLP-1 Maker Lilly Funded Clinical Trials at Chinese Military Sites
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party, issued the following news release on June 30, 2026:
* * *
GLP-1 Maker Lilly Funded Clinical Trials at Chinese Military Sites
Select Committee Launches Investigation into Lilly's China Work
-
Chairman John Moolenaar of the Select Committee on China (SCC) has sent a letter to Eli Lilly and Company Chief Executive Officer David Ricks asking the pharmaceutical company to provide more information about the company's clinical
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party, issued the following news release on June 30, 2026:
* * *
GLP-1 Maker Lilly Funded Clinical Trials at Chinese Military Sites
Select Committee Launches Investigation into Lilly's China Work
-
Chairman John Moolenaar of the Select Committee on China (SCC) has sent a letter to Eli Lilly and Company Chief Executive Officer David Ricks asking the pharmaceutical company to provide more information about the company's clinicaldrug trials in China. Publicly available information on ClinicalTrials.Gov already shows the company has developed drugs in clinical trials at Chinese military hospitals, and in Xinjiang, China, where the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is conducting a genocide of Uyghur Muslims and other minorities.
Chairman Moolenaar has raised this as a concern dating back to his first year as Select Committee Chairman, when he sent a letter in August 2024 to FDA on this issue.
Lilly sponsored:
* At least 11 trials that included hospitals in Xinjiang, China, with several that are still ongoing today, and
* At least 16 trials that included PRC military medical centers and hospitals.
Some of the drugs being developed in these experiments include drugs for Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
In his letter, Moolenaar writes:
"Lilly's clinical trials held at PRC military hospitals raise significant questions related to how data developed through clinical trials at those hospitals could fuel the CCP's military biotechnology research, experimentation, and capability development.
...
While there is no evidence that Lilly has engaged in illegal activity or wrongdoing, conducting clinical trials in China, and in Xinjiang and PRC military hospitals more specifically, exposes American companies to ethical and security risks--some of which even the most robust due diligence may not be sufficient to mitigate."
Moolenaar's letter concludes by asking Lilly to provide the Select Committee with the following information:
* Company policies, regulations, strategies, or other guidance documents that outline Lilly's Good Clinical Practice standards for the conduct of clinical trials, especially trials conducted in China, at PRC military hospitals, or in Xinjiang.
* Data on the number of clinical trials that Lilly has conducted in China at PRC military hospitals, or in Xinjiang, since 2015.
* Information about Lilly's due diligence processes to ensure the protection of IP and sensitive data at clinical trial and manufacturing sites in China at PRC military hospitals, or in Xinjiang.
* Details of all Lilly licensing, equity, or joint venture deals with Chinese biotechnology companies since 2020.
Background
China's clinical trial system relies on rapid patient enrollment, which is three to five times faster than in the United States, due in a part to a lack of ethical safeguards regarding informed consent and voluntary participation.
In Xinjiang, widespread forced labor, forced medical testing, organ harvesting, and procedures on Uyghurs and other minority populations raise ethical concerns. Given the chilling violations of basic human rights in Xinjiang, it is reasonable to question whether clinical trial subjects there are participating voluntarily. Operating in this region demands heightened due diligence by Lilly to ensure it is not unwittingly profiting off a system that is failing to protect the rights of participants.
In order to counter China and boost America's biotech companies, the Trump Administration recently announced the Food and Drug Administration is developing a pilot program for Phase 1 clinical trials that could cut the drug development and approval process in the U.S. by six to 12 months.
In May, Moolenaar advanced language in the 2027 Department of Agriculture funding bill that would prohibit "the FDA from accepting, reviewing, or considering any covered clinical data generated by a clinical investigation site" in China.
* * *
INFODOC: https://files.constantcontact.com/f0eecb46901/6593f88d-e2af-42a0-b846-83d5af4f7798.pdf
* * *
Original text here: https://chinaselectcommittee.house.gov/media/letters/glp-1-maker-lilly-funded-clinical-trials-at-chinese-military-sites
Husted Commemorates One Year of Working Families Tax Cuts Act
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Sen. Jon Husted, R-Ohio, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Husted commemorates one year of Working Families Tax Cuts Act
Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) today recognized one year since the Senate passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. Husted cast the deciding vote to pass the legislation.
"Over the past year, I've heard from Ohio workers and business owners about how the Working Families Tax Cuts Act has helped them. John Lane, co-owner of the Winking Lizard Tavern in Avon, said roughly 900 of their employees have benefited from the law. Shaun Ekker,
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Sen. Jon Husted, R-Ohio, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Husted commemorates one year of Working Families Tax Cuts Act
Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) today recognized one year since the Senate passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. Husted cast the deciding vote to pass the legislation.
"Over the past year, I've heard from Ohio workers and business owners about how the Working Families Tax Cuts Act has helped them. John Lane, co-owner of the Winking Lizard Tavern in Avon, said roughly 900 of their employees have benefited from the law. Shaun Ekker,CFO of Ohio Gratings, said the law has helped the company create more jobs. Whether you're raising a family, working overtime, earning tips or running a business, this law helps you keep more of what you earn, which is why I'm proud to have supported it," said Husted.
The Working Families Tax Cuts Act put more money back into the pockets of hardworking Ohioans by including:
* No tax on tips: More than 6 million taxpayers have benefited, providing relief for service workers who depend on gratuity.
* No tax on overtime: More than 25 million taxpayers have claimed the provision, giving essential workers--factory workers, linemen, police officers, nurses, and more--a new break on their hard-earned extra hours.
* A permanent 20% tax deduction for small businesses: Delivering $4,600 in average relief to 8 million entrepreneurs.
* Enhanced deductions for seniors: More than 30 million seniors have claimed the provision.
* An increased child tax credit of $2,200: More than 34 million families have claimed the provision.
* A partially refundable adoption tax credit of up to $5,000.
* Prevented a tax hike that would have cost the average family of four earning $80,000 about $1,700 MORE in federal taxes.
This law also gave employers the certainty they needed to invest, expand and hire more Ohio workers by:
* Making the 20% small business deduction permanent.
* Allowing full expensing for machinery, research and development and new factories.
* Reducing taxes for more than 12 million small business owners by an average of $7,000.
* Expanding write-offs for interest costs.
* Creating better-paying jobs and supporting Made-in-America manufacturing.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.husted.senate.gov/media/press-releases/husted-commemorates-one-year-of-working-families-tax-cuts-act/
Congressman Keith Self Introduces Bill to Protect U.S. Constitution from Sharia Law Ahead of America's 250th Anniversary
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas, issued the following news release:
* * *
Congressman Keith Self Introduces Bill to Protect U.S. Constitution from Sharia Law Ahead of America's 250th Anniversary
*
Congressman Keith Self (TX-03) introduced the Preserving Our Constitution Act, a bill ensuring that courts and adjudicative bodies in the United States do not recognize or enforce foreign laws, religious laws, customs, or practices that conflict with the Constitution of the United States and the laws made pursuant to it.
The Preserving Our Constitution Act is built upon the successful
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas, issued the following news release:
* * *
Congressman Keith Self Introduces Bill to Protect U.S. Constitution from Sharia Law Ahead of America's 250th Anniversary
*
Congressman Keith Self (TX-03) introduced the Preserving Our Constitution Act, a bill ensuring that courts and adjudicative bodies in the United States do not recognize or enforce foreign laws, religious laws, customs, or practices that conflict with the Constitution of the United States and the laws made pursuant to it.
The Preserving Our Constitution Act is built upon the successfulframework established by the American Laws for American Courts legislation enacted in numerous states across the country. These state laws were adopted to ensure fundamental liberties cannot be undermined through the application of parallel legal systems that conflict with the Constitution. Now it is time the federal government takes the same stance.
"The Constitution is the supreme law of the land," said Congressman Self. "Any legal or political doctrine that places itself above the Constitution threatens the stability and unity of the nation, and that's exactly what Shaira Law does. The rule of law requires one standard that applies to every person. The Constitution provides that standard. Allowing any competing legal system would erode the authority of the courts, weaken the protection of individual rights, and fracture our country."
Cosponsors: Reps. Eli Crane (AZ-02), Clay Fuller (GA-14), Scott Perry (PA-10), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Barry Moore (AL-01), and Pat Harrigan (NC-10).
The Preserving Our Constitution Act will:
* Prohibit federal courts and adjudicative entities from recognizing or enforcing foreign or religious laws, customs, or practices that conflict with the Constitution or federal law.
* Prevent courts from enforcing contracts that require disputes to be governed by incompatible foreign or religious legal systems, agreements forcing parties into foreign tribunals that do not provide constitutional protections, foreign court decisions based on laws inconsistent with fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.
* Reinforce fundamental American liberties by identifying practices incompatible with constitutional principles including forced or underage marriage, polygamy, female genital mutilation, restrictions on speech, religion, or religious conversion, discriminatory treatment based on sex, religion, ethnicity, or caste, and cruel or unusual punishments prohibited under the Eighth Amendment.
* Ensure Constitutional protections in international litigation by preventing courts from dismissing cases in favor of foreign jurisdictions unless those jurisdictions provide sufficient due process and equal protection safeguards.
***
Original text here: https://keithself.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-keith-self-introduces-bill-protect-us-constitution-sharia-law
Congressman Biggs Applauds Supreme Court Rulings on Women's Sports, Presidential Authority
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Arizona, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Congressman Biggs Applauds Supreme Court Rulings on Women's Sports, Presidential Authority
Congressman Biggs applauded the U.S. Supreme Court decisions this week in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Trump v. Slaughter.
In West Virginia v. B.P.J., a majority of Supreme Court Justices ruled that states passing laws to protect the integrity of women's sports are not in violation of the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and Title IX. Therefore, states taking action to separate
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Arizona, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Congressman Biggs Applauds Supreme Court Rulings on Women's Sports, Presidential Authority
Congressman Biggs applauded the U.S. Supreme Court decisions this week in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Trump v. Slaughter.
In West Virginia v. B.P.J., a majority of Supreme Court Justices ruled that states passing laws to protect the integrity of women's sports are not in violation of the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and Title IX. Therefore, states taking action to separatebiological men and women in sports arenas, including Arizona, are perfectly within the bounds of the U.S. Constitution and applicable laws. Arizona's Save Women's Sports Act has been under litigation and was being defended by the state legislature.
"Yesterday's ruling was a massive win for America, the law, science, common sense, and fairness for all," said Congressman Biggs. "It is fitting that, in the United States' 250th year, we have again restored order to the insanity threatening the integrity of women's sports. I'm so thankful for the individuals around the country who fought every day for girls dreaming about competing in various sporting events throughout their lives. Because of your efforts, our daughters and granddaughters can grow up in a nation that will protect their right to play sports in a safe and nurturing environment - not one marred by biological boys and men attempting to gain access."
Justice Brett Kavanaugh, in writing the opinion of the Court, stated, "The two States here-along with 25 other States, the IOC, the USOPC, and the NCAA-have concluded at this time that women and girls should be allowed to compete for those life-changing opportunities on an equal playing field, without fear of physical injury from biological males or being forced to compete against biological males. Consistent with Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause, we hold that the States may maintain women's and girls' sports for biological females. They may determine eligibility for women's and girls' sports based on biological sex. The Constitution and Title IX do not require an overhaul of women's and girls' sports throughout America.
In Trump v. Slaughter, the Court ruled that the President of the United States does, in fact, have the constitutional authority to fire a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Commissioner without cause, being that the FTC is under the executive branch - of which the President is the chief executive. The Court struck down a previous case, Humphrey's Executor v. United States, that had prevented President Roosevelt's 1935 attempt to fire an FTC Commissioner without cause.
"In the United States of America, all federal bureaucrats should answer to the President, who is elected by and accountable to the American people," said Congressman Biggs. "For too long, unelected bureaucrats have operated independently of oversight from the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. That chaos suffered a significant defeat with yesterday's ruling. I applaud the U.S. Supreme Court for getting this case and issue correct, restoring our three branches of government to more of the balance our founders intended with their inspired framework so many years ago."
Chief Justice John Roberts, delivering the opinion of the Court, wrote, " Humphrey's framework, in short, has not withstood the test of time. While Humphrey's was surely right to focus on 'the character of the office' at issue, and surely right to say that 'purely executive' powers must be controlled by the President, we long ago abandoned the notion that there are some powers that are only partly executive. Forty years have now passed, in fact, since we recognized that the FTC exercises executive power - and did so even in 1935, when Humphrey's was decided. And more than 200 years have passed since we recognized that the Constitution 'vests the whole executive power in the President' alone."
***
Original text here: https://biggs.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-biggs-applauds-supreme-court-rulings-womens-sports-presidential
Committee on Small Business Holds Hearing to Highlight How Small Businesses Have Shaped 250 Years of the American Dream
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, chairman of the House Small Business Committee, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Committee on Small Business Holds Hearing to Highlight How Small Businesses Have Shaped 250 Years of the American Dream
Today, Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX), Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, held a hearing titled "250 Years of American Legacy: Small Businesses and the American Dream" to highlight the vital role small businesses have played in strengthening communities, driving innovation, and shaping the American Dream
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, chairman of the House Small Business Committee, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Committee on Small Business Holds Hearing to Highlight How Small Businesses Have Shaped 250 Years of the American Dream
Today, Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX), Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, held a hearing titled "250 Years of American Legacy: Small Businesses and the American Dream" to highlight the vital role small businesses have played in strengthening communities, driving innovation, and shaping the American Dreamover the past 250 years.
"As we approach America's 250th birthday, it only made sense to hold a hearing focused on celebrating the small businesses that have shaped our nation's history and continue to drive its future," said Chairman Williams. "Small businesses embody the American spirit of hard work, innovation, and perseverance. Honoring their contributions over the past 250 years also means looking ahead by advancing policies to ensure that small business continue to carry the American Dream forward for the next 250 years."
--
Below are some key excerpts from today's hearing:
Chairman Williams: "Mr. Adornetto, you've successfully been in business for 68 years, across 2 generations. And, according to the Pizza Today, your business is "...in the top 100 independently owned pizzerias in the nation." My question is: what has enabled you to remain successful across multiple generations? And, as you look to the future, what lessons do you hope to pass down to the next generation that's sitting behind you to ensure that you continue for many years and many more generations to come?" Mr. Adornetto: "You know, as I said in my opening statement, Mr. Chairman -- thank you for the question by the way -- just the work ethic that was passed down to me from my grandparents. My father has helped us build that community and the great workforce we've had in the past and continue to have. Hopefully, in the future, we will have more workforce development. We need that in the hospitality industry, making sure people realize they can build a career in it. Obviously, access to capital and expansion will help greatly in continuing to achieve that award with Pizza Today in the future as well."
Rep. Meuser: "If you were sitting in my seat, if you were making some of these governmental rules and all, what would you think you need to make you grow better over the next five years?" Mrs. Shybunko-Moore: "Thank you, and I'm happy to hear that you're from Long Island. I think people now need to recognize that, first of all, small businesses and manufacturing, to me, are center-aisle issues. Everyone should support small manufacturing businesses. And at the end of the day, no matter what decisions are happening here, we still have to work every day, make our product, and feed, for ourselves, 90 families, right? At the end of the day, that's what I'm responsible for. So, I am always looking at the decisions being made here and ensuring that, again, expanding access to capital is always the key. I'd like to buy more equipment. I'd like to grow my capacity. I'd like to grow my capability. Continue to grow, expand, and support the U.S. defense industrial base. And then, obviously, create jobs that people can be proud of and that people can support their families on. So sometimes I have to stop hearing the noise that is sometimes out there and focus. I just have to continue waking up every morning and making the products that I make and meet the goals and production rates that I have."
Rep. Jack: "If I could ask you as well, Mr. Freeman, what more could Congress be doing to make life easier and more affordable for small businesses?" Mr. Freeman: "In a little bit of a different vein, access to capital. That is the biggest thing and has been the biggest challenge and hurdle for us. Is having access to capital sufficient for the growth that we have in front of us and the opportunity?" Rep. Jack: "I should ask, Mr. Adornetto?" Mr. Adornetto: "I would actually have to agree. Again, going through a restaurant remodel, one of the hardest challenges was to access capital and to get hands-on money to reinvest in an industry that sometimes banks don't want to open their pocketbooks for."
* * *
Original text here: https://smallbusiness.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407472
Comer, Sessions, Higgins, Biggs Continue Oversight of CIGIE Following GAO Report Uncovering Integrity Committee Failures
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. James Comer, R-Kentucky, chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Comer, Sessions, Higgins, Biggs Continue Oversight of CIGIE Following GAO Report Uncovering Integrity Committee Failures
House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.), Subcommittee on Government Operations Chairman Pete Sessions (R-Texas), Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement Chairman Clay Higgins (R-La.), and Congressman Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) are continuing their oversight of the Council
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. James Comer, R-Kentucky, chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Comer, Sessions, Higgins, Biggs Continue Oversight of CIGIE Following GAO Report Uncovering Integrity Committee Failures
House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.), Subcommittee on Government Operations Chairman Pete Sessions (R-Texas), Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement Chairman Clay Higgins (R-La.), and Congressman Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) are continuing their oversight of the Councilof the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE) after a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report identified significant failures in the Integrity Committee's handling of complaints against inspectors general and their staff. In a letter to CIGIE Chair Cheryl Mason, the Republican lawmakers raise concerns over CIGIE's ability to effectively investigate misconduct within offices of inspectors general and are demanding all documents and information to inform potential legislative reforms to the Integrity Committee.
"The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform is continuing its oversight of the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency. The Committee is concerned about recent findings made by the Government Accountability Office showing significant failures in how CIGIE's Integrity Committee reviews and investigates complaints against inspectors general and their staff. The issues identified raise serious questions about CIGIE's ability to effectively conduct investigations into misconduct and wrongdoing within offices of inspectors general. The Committee demands that CIGIE take immediate action to rectify these failures and is seeking documents and information to help determine the best legislative solutions to remedy concerns with CIGIE's Integrity Committee," wrote the Republican lawmakers.
For five years, the Committee has raised concerns about the lack of transparency and effectiveness of the Integrity Committee. In September 2024, the Committee requested that the GAO review the Integrity Committee's processes. GAO's findings validated the Committee's concerns, identifying repeated failures to provide Congress with statutorily required status updates; investigations that routinely exceeded the 150-day statutory deadline; improper complaint-screening practices; processing delays that unnecessarily prolonged investigations; inadequate documentation and oversight of investigative costs; and final investigative reports that, in some cases, did not accurately reflect the conclusions of the investigating Office of Inspector General.
"These systemic failures force the Committee to consider all options at its disposal, including removing or modifying the duty to investigate wrongdoing within offices of inspectors general from CIGIE. While the Committee reviews potential changes to remedy these failures, it is imperative that CIGIE immediately improve its investigation processes to address the issues found by GAO. CIGIE must provide Congress with timely, accurate and detailed updates on the status and outcomes of investigations," concluded the Republican lawmakers.
* * *
INFODOC: https://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/CIGIE-letter-070126.pdf
* * *
Original text here: https://oversight.house.gov/release/comer-sessions-higgins-biggs-continue-oversight-of-cigie-following-gao-report-uncovering-integrity-committee-failures/
Botox Maker AbbVie Funded Clinical Trials at Chinese Military Sites
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party, issued the following news release on June 30, 2026:
* * *
Botox Maker AbbVie Funded Clinical Trials at Chinese Military Sites
Select Committee Launches Investigation into AbbVie's China Work
-
Chairman John Moolenaar of the Select Committee on China (SCC) has sent a letter to AbbVie Chief Executive Officer Robert Michael asking the pharmaceutical company to provide more information about the company's clinical drug trials
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party, issued the following news release on June 30, 2026:
* * *
Botox Maker AbbVie Funded Clinical Trials at Chinese Military Sites
Select Committee Launches Investigation into AbbVie's China Work
-
Chairman John Moolenaar of the Select Committee on China (SCC) has sent a letter to AbbVie Chief Executive Officer Robert Michael asking the pharmaceutical company to provide more information about the company's clinical drug trialsin China. Publicly available information on ClinicalTrials.Gov already shows the company has developed drugs in clinical trials at Chinese military hospitals, and in Xinjiang, China, where the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is conducting a genocide of Uyghur Muslims and other minorities.
Chairman Moolenaar has raised this as a concern dating back to his first year as Select Committee Chairman, when he sent a letter in August 2024 to FDA on this issue.
AbbVie sponsored:
* At least 17 trials that included hospitals in Xinjiang, China, with several that are still ongoing today, and
* At least 16 trials that included PRC military medical centers and hospitals.
Some of the drugs being developed in these experiments include botox and a treatment for dermatitis.
In his letter, Moolenaar writes:
"AbbVie's clinical trials held at PRC military hospitals raise significant questions related to how data developed through clinical trials at those hospitals could fuel the CCP's military biotechnology research, experimentation, and capability development.
...
While there is no evidence that AbbVie has engaged in illegal activity or wrongdoing, conducting clinical trials in China, and in Xinjiang and PRC military hospitals more specifically, exposes American companies to ethical and security risks--some of which even the most robust due diligence may not be sufficient to mitigate."
Moolenaar's letter concludes by asking AbbVie to provide the Select Committee with the following information:
* Company policies, regulations, strategies, or other guidance documents that outline AbbVie's Good Clinical Practice standards for the conduct of clinical trials, especially trials conducted in China, at PRC military hospitals, or in Xinjiang.
* Data on the number of clinical trials that AbbVie has conducted in China at PRC military hospitals, or in Xinjiang, since 2015.
* Information about AbbVie's due diligence processes to ensure the protection of IP and sensitive data at clinical trial and manufacturing sites in China at PRC military hospitals, or in Xinjiang.
* Details of all AbbVie licensing, equity, or joint venture deals with Chinese biotechnology companies since 2020.
Background
China's clinical trial system relies on rapid patient enrollment, which is three to five times faster than in the United States, due in a part to a lack of ethical safeguards regarding informed consent and voluntary participation.
In Xinjiang, widespread forced labor, forced medical testing, organ harvesting, and procedures on Uyghurs and other minority populations raise ethical concerns. Given the chilling violations of basic human rights in Xinjiang, it is reasonable to question whether clinical trial subjects there are participating voluntarily. Operating in this region demands heightened due diligence by AbbVie to ensure it is not unwittingly profiting off a system that is failing to protect the rights of participants.
In order to counter China and boost America's biotech companies, the Trump Administration recently announced the Food and Drug Administration is developing a pilot program for Phase 1 clinical trials that could cut the drug development and approval process in the U.S. by six to 12 months.
In May, Moolenaar advanced language in the 2027 Department of Agriculture funding bill that would prohibit "the FDA from accepting, reviewing, or considering any covered clinical data generated by a clinical investigation site" in China.
* * *
INFODOC: https://files.constantcontact.com/f0eecb46901/95167463-1c78-4bef-b36b-9c49ffc10521.pdf
* * *
Original text here: https://chinaselectcommittee.house.gov/media/letters/botox-maker-abbvie-funded-clinical-trials-at-chinese-military-sites
Booker, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Invest America Host New Jersey Community Launch Event for Children's Investment Accounts
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Sen. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Booker, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Invest America Host New Jersey Community Launch Event for Children's Investment Accounts
NEWARK, NJ - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties CEO Carlos Lejnieks and Invest America founder Brad Gerstner for a community celebration marking the launch of children's investment accounts -also known as Trump Accounts -a transformational national initiative designed to help families build
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- Sen. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on July 1, 2026:
* * *
Booker, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Invest America Host New Jersey Community Launch Event for Children's Investment Accounts
NEWARK, NJ - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties CEO Carlos Lejnieks and Invest America founder Brad Gerstner for a community celebration marking the launch of children's investment accounts -also known as Trump Accounts -a transformational national initiative designed to help families buildlong-term financial security for children across America.
These accounts, building on proposals including Senator Booker's American Opportunity Accounts Act -known as "Baby Bonds" -are private, tax-advantaged, interest-bearing savings accounts available to every American child at birth. Each account is seeded with a $1,000 federal investment and can grow through contributions from family, friends, philanthropists, and employers who want to invest in the futures of their employees' children. The accounts officially go live on July 4.
"Today marks the beginning of a new generation of American children growing up with a stronger foundation to redeem the American Dream," said Booker. "I have fought for this idea for years, because it is the kind of big, bold idea that will have a tangible and transformational impact on our country. There are children born today, like those in the neighborhood where I live in Newark, whose parents work hard every single day but have never had the chance to build generational wealth. With a children's investment savings account, seeded with $1,000, those kids will have something that grows with them from birth, putting them on a path toward wealth-building that can help them afford college, open a small business, or buy their first home. When we invest in our children, we affirm their worth, we honor their dreams, and we declare that opportunity should never depend on the ZIP code you're born into or the wealth your family inherited."
"This is such an important policy conversation to have with the families in our communities, not only to spread awareness of the opportunity but as encouragement that there can be a path to college, no matter your situation," said Carlos Lejnieks, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties. "We are honored to partner with Senator Booker to get the word out and for his longtime support of our mentoring mission."
"Senator Booker has long understood and fought for children's investment accounts and was an early supporter of the Invest America Act," said Brad Gerstner, Founder of Invest America. "On July 4, every child born forevermore will get a Trump Account with a $1,000 free lifetime investment account. There are 1.1 million kids under 10 in New Jersey eligible to claim their account right now with at least $250 in the account. Claiming the account automatically makes each child a shareholder in the S&P 500 -companies like Apple, Walmart & Nvidia. With simple savings and compounding, the accounts can be worth $50,000 at 18, $200,000 at age 30."
Senator Booker has long championed Baby Bonds as a transformational tool to close the racial wealth gap and make economic opportunity a birthright for every American child. He first introduced the American Opportunity Accounts Act in 2018 and has pushed for its implementation throughout his time in the Senate. In December 2025, Booker and Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) sent a letter to Fortune 1000 CEOs urging them to support child investment accounts.
At today's event, parents and families received step-by-step guidance on how to enroll and activate their children's accounts. Leaders underscored the urgency of the moment: billions of dollars from the federal government and philanthropists are now available to families upon enrollment. Youth and community partners joined Senator Booker and Brad Gerstner for a conversation about how this program represents one of the most significant investments in children's futures in U.S. history.
***
Original text here: https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-big-brothers-big-sisters-and-invest-america-host-new-jersey-community-launch-event-for-childrens-investment-accounts
