Stories by H. B. Edwards on Federal Newswire

Senator Dick Durbin's effort on April 14 to honor former FBI Director Robert Muller was blocked by Senate Republicans following objections centered around Muller's legacy. The event reflects ongoing partisan tensions regarding Muller's work investigating Russian interference.

House committee chairmen demand ActBlue comply with subpoenas in ongoing investigation

House committee leaders have called on ActBlue's CEO Regina Wallace-Jones to provide all documents requested under past subpoenas amid an ongoing investigation into donor verification practices. The move follows allegations that ActBlue misled Congress about screening for foreign donations.

Grassley calls for clean FISA extension after DOJ agrees to oversight reforms

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley supports an extension of Section 702 after new Department of Justice reforms restore full congressional oversight over surveillance courts. Recent changes address previous concerns about transparency while maintaining key national security authorities.

House subcommittee to examine AI’s economic impact on workers and employers April 15

A House subcommittee led by Rep. Ryan Mackenzie will hold a hearing April 15 examining how artificial intelligence affects workers and employers. Witnesses from various organizations are set to testify before lawmakers consider future policies.

Chairman Garbarino and Rep. Fong lead cyber roundtable with CISA in Central Valley

Chairman Andrew R. Garbarino and Rep. Vince Fong hosted a cybersecurity roundtable in California's Central Valley alongside CISA officials last Friday. Discussions focused on addressing evolving cyber threats facing key infrastructure sectors through enhanced coordination between federal agencies/local partners.

Ernst’s reforms to SBIR-STTR programs are signed into law

Senator Joni Ernst announced that President Trump has signed major reforms into law updating SBIR-STTR programs. The changes prioritize small businesses in federal innovation funding while aiming for greater accountability and protection against foreign influence.

Ernst names Port Neal Welding Company as Small Business of the Week

Port Neal Welding Company has been recognized by Chair Joni Ernst as Small Business of the Week. The company was praised for over three decades of service in Iowa communities.

Boozman announces new deputy staff director and policy director for Senate agriculture committee

Senator John Boozman announced two key appointments for leadership roles on the Senate Agriculture Committee: Corey Brown Weber becomes Deputy Staff Director while Skylar Sowder returns as Policy Director. Both bring significant experience aimed at strengthening agricultural policy.

Senate Foreign Relations Committee schedules meetings and hearings for week of April 13

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee has scheduled key meetings during mid-April focused on nominations and international policy issues including reforms at the United Nations. The sessions reflect ongoing efforts by this longstanding legislative body—established in 1816—to guide American foreign relations.

VA reports 100,000 new veterans enrolled in health care in early 2026

By H. B. Edwards | Apr 11, 2026

More than 100,000 new veterans have signed up for Department of Veterans Affairs health care so far this year. Officials attribute this growth to recent improvements including expanded access and facility upgrades.

CBO reports $139 billion drop in federal deficit for first half of fiscal year 2026

The Congressional Budget Office reported a significant reduction in the federal deficit for early fiscal year 2026. House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington attributed these results to reduced bureaucratic waste and higher tariff revenues.

Senators urge end to Russian oil sanctions waiver ahead of expiration deadline

Senators led by Jeanne Shaheen urged Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent not to extend waivers allowing certain transactions involving Russian oil. They argued that continuing these waivers helps fund Russia's war efforts amid ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Chairman Guthrie discusses energy policy and grid reliability at CERA Week in Houston

Chairman Brett Guthrie participated in CERA Week discussions focused on U.S. energy infrastructure challenges. Legislative proposals were outlined aiming at improving grid reliability while addressing permitting issues. The House Energy and Commerce Committee's historical role was also highlighted.

Chairman Babin commends Artemis II crew after successful splashdown and mission

Chairman Brian Babin praised Artemis II's safe splashdown on April 10. The mission marks America's first crewed journey beyond low Earth orbit in over fifty years.

Allen announces hearing on Employee Benefits Security Administration policies and priorities