Stories by H. B. Edwards on Federal Newswire

House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington commented on new data showing steady inflation rates for February 2026. He contrasted recent trends under different administrations while highlighting ongoing legislative priorities.

Senate Democrats maintain stance as Homeland Security funding impasse continues amid rising threats

Senate Democrats continue their position on Department of Homeland Security funding amid growing national threats. TSA agents face missed paychecks while airport disruptions increase nationwide. House Republicans urge passage of full-year DHS funding.

Durbin criticizes Trump administration judicial nominees and pardons at Senate Judiciary meeting

Senator Dick Durbin criticized President Trump's pardons of January 6 rioters and his nominations for key U.S. attorney positions during a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting. Durbin raised concerns about public safety and election integrity while urging opposition to certain nominees.

Comer asks GAO to review fraud in federally funded state-run programs

House Oversight Chairman James Comer has asked the Government Accountability Office for an investigation into possible waste and fraud within federally funded state-run benefit programs. The request follows ongoing probes into large-scale alleged misuse of funds in Minnesota's social services system.

Cantwell urges federal agencies to address counter-drone coordination failures after Texas incidents

Senator Maria Cantwell has urged key federal agencies to address recent failures in coordinating counter-drone activities after two incidents near Texas raised aviation safety concerns. Her letter calls for immediate action ahead of major upcoming events like the FIFA World Cup.

Ernst calls for Senate action to support small businesses in the pet industry

Senator Joni Ernst called for Senate passage of her bipartisan bill aimed at helping small businesses in the growing pet industry. The legislation would double loan limits for small manufacturers supporting pets. The Senate Small Business Committee continues its role in shaping fiscal policy.

Senators urge Department of Labor to reconsider proposed heat rule for workplaces

Senator Bill Cassidy led Republican senators in urging changes to a proposed federal heat rule affecting workplaces. The group argues current business practices already protect workers effectively without new mandates. The Senate HELP Committee plays a key role in shaping such policies.

Senators request independent audit of Justice Department’s Epstein Files redactions protocol

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators has requested an independent audit into how the Department of Justice handled redactions in releasing Epstein Files. The lawmakers are seeking answers about compliance with transparency laws meant to protect victims' privacy.

Boozman and Arkansas farm leader discuss building domestic demand for agricultural products

Senator John Boozman met with Arkansas farmer Nathan Reed to discuss expanding domestic demand for U.S. agricultural goods. Reed urged support for legislation aimed at boosting American cotton sales amid financial challenges faced by farmers.

Durbin delivers opening statement at Senate Judiciary hearing on birthright citizenship

Senator Dick Durbin delivered opening remarks during a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee hearing on birthright citizenship amid ongoing debate over President Trump's executive order seeking its repeal. The hearing highlighted constitutional issues surrounding citizenship rights for children born in America.

Senate Aging Committee to hold hearing on China’s role in U.S. drug supply chain

The Senate Special Committee on Aging will hold a hearing March 11 about China's control over America's drug supply chain. Lawmakers aim to address concerns about reliance on foreign-made pharmaceuticals affecting seniors' health.

Heinrich, Huffman, Markey lead lawmakers in opposing Arctic National Wildlife Refuge lease sales

Senator Martin Heinrich joined other lawmakers in sending a letter opposing new oil lease sales in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The group argues there is little industry interest or financial benefit from drilling there. They call for careful consideration of environmental impacts before moving forward.

Senate Aging Committee schedules hearing on China’s role in U.S. drug supply chain

The Senate Special Committee on Aging will hold a hearing examining China's influence over America's drug supply chain. Lawmakers aim to address concerns about foreign dependence for essential medications used by older Americans.

House Energy and Commerce Committee announces hearing on U.S. leadership in communications technology

The House Energy and Commerce Committee has announced a hearing focused on U.S. leadership in communications technology ahead of an international conference. The event aims to inform Congress about challenges facing American interests globally.

Senator Risch issues statement on Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day

Senator Jim Risch marked Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day with a statement honoring Americans held abroad. He highlighted recent actions by Congress and federal agencies aimed at bringing detainees home.

Senator Markey calls for transparency on economic impact of Iran conflict and rising costs

Senator Edward J. Markey has called for detailed information from federal officials about how President Trump's actions in Iran may affect U.S. consumers' costs. He requests updated projections from labor statistics authorities amid concerns over rising gas prices.

House Energy and Commerce leaders urge unified U.S. stance for 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference