Beyer, Don RSS Articles

Democratic Leaders Release Statement Urging White House Not to Wait to Restart Stalled Russia Sanctions

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Senior House Democrat on the Joint Economic Committee, Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Richard Neal (D-Mass.-01), Ranking Member of the House Ways and Means Committee, and U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee released the following statement:

“Donald Trump already has ample authority to impose sanctions on the companies, individuals, and vessels propping up a Russian war machine that continues its deadly attacks on Ukraine. Congress does not need to greenlight new tariff authority for the President to impose those sanctions on Russia today. Delaying sanctions makes them less effective while the Kremlin continues to expand its schemes to procure foreign technology and funding. Ukrainians need our support now.

“We urge the President to use his broad, existing sanctions authorities to target the companies, individuals, and vessels that enable Russia’s war machine, including actors operating in or supporting any one of seventeen different sectors of the Russian economy. This is just one way the United States used to regularly sanction all types of targets to degrade Russia’s access to critical supplies and funds it needs to sustain its war on Ukraine.

“Open-source reports have identified numerous actors facilitating Russia’s procurement of critical goods and technology; setting up new payment mechanisms; generating revenue for its war machine; and enabling human rights abuses. This includes those who are circumventing the only sanctions President Trump has imposed under his Russia authority over 17 months. If the Administration keeps waiting, sanctions evaders will continue brazenly profiting while strengthening Russia’s hand.”

Beyer Hails Successful Launch Of Nancy Grace Roman Telescope

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representative Don Beyer (D-VA) today issued a statement applauding the successful launch yesterday of the SpaceX Heavy Falcon that will deliver NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Telescope to its target destination at the second Sun-Earth Lagrange point (L2). Beyer, former Chairman of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology’s Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics, previously led congressional efforts that successfully protected funding for the telescope’s development from two attempts to cancel the project, then called the “Wide Field InfraRed Survey Telescope (WFIRST),” during the first Trump Administration.

“It is thrilling and deeply gratifying to see the Nancy Grace Roman Telescope go up successfully, and I cannot wait to see the discoveries unlocked by this flagship scientific project for NASA,” said Rep. Beyer. “A decade ago, when I was new to Congress and serving on the House Science Committee, I asked then-NASA Administrator and former astronaut Charles Bolden what NASA’s purpose should be. Without hesitation he said, ‘science.’ That exchange stuck with me, and it was in my mind when I urged my colleagues to reject the Trump Administration’s efforts to cancel this project. I’m glad they listened, and I look forward to the things we will learn from this telescope over the lifetime of its mission as it explores exoplanets, dark energy, and the nature of the universe. I congratulate the team at NASA and all those who worked on this project on this success, with gratitude and hope for all we will learn in the time ahead.”

Per NASA: Named after NASA’s first chief astronomer, the ‘mother of the Hubble Space Telescope,’ the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will have a field of view at least 100 times larger than Hubble's, potentially measuring light from a billion galaxies in its lifetime. This observatory will also be able to block starlight to directly see exoplanets and planet-forming disks, complete a statistical census of planetary systems in our galaxy, and settle essential questions in the areas of dark energy, exoplanets, and infrared astrophysics.

Beyer Denounces Trump’s Idiotic Trade Attack On Canada

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA), the Senior House Democrat on Congress’ Joint Economic Committee and a member of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, issued the following statement today after President Trump imposed massive new tariffs on Canada:

“Trump’s trade war with Canada is doing lasting damage to one of our oldest and most important strategic alliances. It may take years to fix what Trump is breaking if it can be fixed at all, especially with his Cabinet members adding to his moronic ‘51st state’ references by giving brainless, ill-informed public commentary needlessly insulting the Canadians. In the meantime, Americans will see much higher prices on goods from our second largest trading partner. The stupidity of Trump’s tariffs and trade policies truly boggles the mind, and it is getting worse.”

Rep. Don Beyer serves as Senior House Democrat on the Joint Economic Committee, chairs the New Democrat Coalition’s Trade Task Force, and serves on the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee.

Beyer is the sponsor of the Congressional Trade Authority Act, which would rein in presidential abuses of authorities under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. He is the co-lead, with Rep. Suzan DelBene, of legislation to end abuses of International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariff authorities, and an original cosponsor of the Repealing Outdated and Unilateral Tariff Authorities Act, which would repeal Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930; the Reclaim Trade Powers Act, which would strike Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, a law that currently allows the President to impose sweeping 15% tariffs on all imports under a “balance of payments” crisis; and the Stopping a Rogue President on Trade Act, which would halt President Trump’s trade wars, repeal tariffs, and reclaim Congress’ lawful authority over tariffs.

Beyer, Valadao Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Federal Flood Response and Resilience

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA) and David Valadao (R-CA) today introduced the bipartisan National Flood Impact Reduction and Resilience Act to establish a coordinated federal program to improve the understanding of flood risks, advance more effective mitigation and resilience measures, and reduce the loss of life and property caused by flooding. The legislation is modeled on the success of the bipartisan National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program (NEHRP), which brings together public and private sector partners to coordinate emergency response and supports the research, development, and implementation of lifesaving earthquake risk reduction and safety measures.

“Communities across the country, including here in Northern Virginia, have experienced firsthand how disruptive and destructive flooding can be – but these losses are not inevitable. We have the expertise and resources necessary to save lives and prevent severe damage,” said Congressman Beyer. “Congress successfully established a coordinated federal program to reduce earthquake risk, and we should bring that same proven model to improve flood resilience. Our bill would strengthen coordination between the public and private sectors to ensure that our communities have the information and tools they need to prepare before the next flood.”

“Central Valley families and farmers know firsthand the devastating impact flooding can have on our communities, like we saw when Tulare Lake flooded in 2023,” said Congressman Valadao. “Instead of just reacting after a disaster strikes, it’s important we take proactive steps to reduce damage before the next flood. I’m proud to join Rep. Beyer in introducing the bipartisan National Flood Impact Reduction and Resilience Act to improve flood forecasting, strengthen infrastructure, promote better flood management and protections, and support federal coordination to help keep the Central Valley safe and resilient from these natural disasters.”

The legislation would establish the National Flood Impact Reduction and Resilience Program to develop and promote the adoption of flood impact reduction and resilience measures through coordinated federal action and partnerships with state and local governments, academia, and the private sector. The Program’s planning, management, and coordination would be overseen by the Interagency Coordinating Committee, chaired by the Chief of the Army Corps of Engineers and including senior representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the U.S. Geological Survey, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

The bill would also establish an Advisory Committee on Flood Impact Reduction and Resilience including representatives from research and academic institutions, industry standards development organizations, and state and local governments. The Advisory Committee would be tasked with assessing trends and developments in the science and engineering of flood impact reduction and resilience and evaluating the effectiveness of the Program.

Full text of National Flood Impact Reduction and Resilience Act bill is available here.

Northern Virginia Representatives, Democratic Leaders Open Investigation Into ICE Agents Threatening U.S. Citizen With Gun In Northern Virginia

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Northern Virginia Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), and James Walkinshaw (D-VA), along with House Oversight Committee Ranking Member Robert Garcia (D-CA), House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and House Homeland Security Committee Ranking Member Bennie Thompson (D-MS), today opened an investigation into an August 10 encounter in Falls Church, Virginia, during which a masked Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent pointed a gun directly at Carolina Molina, a U.S. citizen and Northern Virginia resident, without justification. The lawmakers sought answers and a full investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and review by the Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division, and demanded that the ICE agents involved in the encounter be placed on administrative leave pending the conclusion of the investigation and review.

Video footage recorded by Carolina Molina on August 10 shows unmarked vehicles blocking her car from the front and rear before masked ICE agents approach her. One agent then draws his firearm and points it directly at Ms. Molina. The agent is then heard accusing her of “following” and “recording” the agents before subsequently accusing her of attempting to run them over and threatening her with arrest—an accusation that is not supported by the available footage, which shows no attempt by Ms. Molina to run over or otherwise endanger the agents.

In a letter addressed to Attorney General Todd Blanche, FBI Director Kash Patel, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, and Acting ICE Director David Venturella, and copied to DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari, the lawmakers condemned the dangerous and unjustified escalation captured on video and demanded answers about the ICE agents involved, including their use of force and threats against Ms. Molina for exercising her right to record federal officers. The lawmakers also condemned DHS’s subsequent dishonest statements about the incident, including its characterization of Ms. Molina as an “anti-ICE agitator” and allegation that she “attempted to harm officers by weaponizing her vehicle.”

The Members wrote:

“This footage and the incident it depicts are deeply concerning. They echo the larger pattern of dishonesty and dangerous, unjustified escalation we have unfortunately seen from DHS agents across the country, which resulted in the tragic deaths of Ruben Ray Martinez, Renee Good, Alex Pretti, Joan Sebastian Durán Guerrero, and Lorenzo Salgado Araujo.”

…

“What happened to Carolina Molina cannot be dismissed as an ordinary interaction between ICE and a member of the public. We therefore request that the FBI conduct a formal investigation into this incident, and that the DOJ Civil Rights Division evaluates those findings. We also request that DHS immediately preserve all records related to this encounter – including body-worn camera footage, cellphone and vehicle footage, use of force and incident reports, and internal communications.”

Full text of the letter follows below, and a signed copy is available here.

***

Dear Attorney General Blanche, Director Patel, Secretary Mullin, and Acting Director Venturella:

We write to request an immediate Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigation and Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division review into the conduct of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during an enforcement operation in the Bailey’s Crossroads neighborhood of Falls Church, Virginia, on Monday, August 10, 2026. We urge you to place the agents involved in this incident on leave until the conclusion of the investigation and review of their conduct.

Videos shared with us by Carolina Molina, a U.S. citizen and Northern Virginia resident, depict a disturbing encounter in which masked ICE agents blocked her car with their vehicles, approached her car, and pointed a firearm directly at her without any provocation or threat posed by Ms. Molina to the agents. The videos captured on Ms. Molina’s dashcam and cellphone raise serious concerns about the agents’ unjustified escalation, use of force, blatant dishonesty, and call into serious question the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) subsequent response.

Carolina Molina was visiting immigration law offices in Bailey’s Crossroads on August 10, where she volunteered her services as a licensed professional counselor to immigration clients in need of mental health assessments. After seeing ICE agents operating in the vicinity, Ms. Molina attempted to leave the area. At this point, unmarked vehicles positioned themselves in front of and behind her vehicle, effectively boxing her in. Masked ICE agents then emerged from the vehicles and approached her car. One agent had drawn his firearm and pointed it directly at Ms. Molina.

In the videos recorded by Ms. Molina, an ICE agent with his gun pointed at her shouts at her for “following” them and for “recording” them. Then the ICE agent accuses her of attempting to run the agents over and threatens her with arrest. Another agent says, “I will testify and lock you up.” The claim of a deadly threat is obviously belied by both the video footage and their decision to leave her without detaining or charging her after she told them that she had dashcam footage of the encounter.

This footage and the incident it depicts are deeply concerning. They echo the larger pattern of dishonesty and dangerous, unjustified escalation we have unfortunately seen from DHS agents across the country, which resulted in the tragic deaths of Ruben Ray Martinez, Renee Good, Alex Pretti, Joan Sebastian Durán Guerrero, and Lorenzo Salgado Araujo.

ICE’s own policies provide clear standards against which this conduct must be evaluated. Under ICE Directive 19009.3—which governs the use of force and firearms by ICE personnel—officers are strictly prohibited from the use of excessive force. The Directive explicitly states that officers are to “use force only when no reasonably effective, safe, and feasible alternative appears to exist” and may “only use the level of force that is objectively reasonable in light of the totality of facts and circumstances confronting the authorized officer at the time force is applied.” It also states that violations of the policies and procedures outlined in the Directive “may be grounds for disciplinary action or other appropriate action.”

ICE Directive 19010.3 directs ICE agents to activate their body-worn cameras to capture footage at the start of enforcement activities or as soon as safely possible thereafter. The videos published by Ms. Molina show that at least three of the agents involved were equipped with body-worn cameras. Ms. Molina herself also recalls seeing the agent who brandished his gun press a button on his body-worn camera during the encounter. Ms. Molina’s dashcam video also depicts another agent recording the interaction on a cellphone and another taking a photo of her license plate. ICE should therefore have its own contemporaneous record of this encounter. The agency should immediately preserve all body-worn camera footage, cellphone footage, and other records relating to the incident, as required by ICE Directive 19010.3.

Just as concerning as the incident itself is DHS’s response to the incident. On August 11, DHS issued an unattributed statement referring to Ms. Molina as an “anti-ICE agitator” and claiming that she “attempted to harm officers by weaponizing her vehicle against them.” DHS further stated that Ms. Molina “could face criminal prosecution.” These are serious allegations, none of which are corroborated by the video footage publicly posted by Ms. Molina. The Department’s accusation that she was “weaponizing her vehicle” is particularly concerning, as it is identical to previous claims made to justify the use of deadly force elsewhere that later collapsed after the production of video evidence, just as this one has. The similarities suggest that Department personnel are intentionally, nefariously, and systematically engaging in illegal intimidation and violence against American citizens under cover of false claims of danger.

Ms. Molina’s dashcam footage shows the lead-up to the encounter, while her cellphone video captures the confrontation after ICE agents approached and surrounded her vehicle. Neither video shows any attempt by Ms. Molina to run over or otherwise endanger the ICE agents. The footage does, however, depict the ICE agents dangerously escalating the encounter by surrounding her vehicle and confronting her with a drawn firearm. The footage also captures ICE agents using intimidation rather than lawful enforcement to control members of the public who observe, criticize, or record their activities. Whatever the agents’ views of her conduct, criticism, and recording of federal agents in public do not justify federal officers escalating that encounter or threatening a civilian with a firearm.

What happened to Carolina Molina cannot be dismissed as an ordinary interaction between ICE and a member of the public. We therefore request that the FBI conduct a formal investigation into this incident, and that the DOJ Civil Rights Division evaluates those findings. We also request that DHS immediately preserve all records related to this encounter – including body-worn camera footage, cellphone and vehicle footage, use of force and incident reports, and internal communications. We also request answers to the following questions:

For DOJ and FBI:

Please confirm when we can expect the FBI and Civil Rights Division to start an investigation.

For DHS:

Who are the ICE agents depicted in the videos recorded by Carolina Molina? Please provide the names, titles, positions, and functions of each agent involved in the encounter.
Did the ICE agents involved in the incident with Ms. Molina receive training on safely stopping and approaching vehicles? If so, what specific training did they receive, and did their actions comply with ICE policies and procedures?
Please state whether these agents have faced any disciplinary actions for violating ICE’s use of force policies, improperly displaying a firearm, or otherwise endangering Ms. Molina and members of the public. If yes, who has faced discipline and on what grounds? If no disciplinary action has been initiated, why not?
Are these agents currently authorized and deployed to conduct immigration enforcement operations in public spaces?
Has any DHS supervisor, field office, or other oversight body opened an investigation into this incident? If so, which office was designated to review the incident? What is the status of that investigation and what are they investigating?
Was a use of force report or other incident report created as a result of the agent drawing and pointing his firearm at Ms. Molina? If so, was such a report completed? Provide a copy to our offices.
Has ICE determined whether the agent who drew and pointed his firearm directly at Ms. Molina complied with Directive 19009.3? If so, please identify the specific provisions supporting that determination.
ICE should have its own record of this encounter. Please provide our offices with all complete and unedited body-worn camera footage, cellphone and vehicle footage, and any other records relating to the incident.
1. If the body-worn camera did not record the encounter, please explain why not and whether the agent complied with all applicable requirements under ICE Directive 19010.3 governing body-worn cameras.
When ICE agents menaced Ms. Molina for the “offense” of “recording us,” was this violation of her First Amendment rights consistent with their training from the Department? Given the recurring pattern of ICE and other DHS agents menacing citizens for legally and constitutionally protected activities, what corrective actions will your agencies take to prevent systematic violations of Americans’ constitutional rights from continuing?

Please provide a response no later than Monday, August 31, 2026.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. We look forward to your response.

Beyer Warns Of Increased ICE Violence And Warrantless Detention In Northern Virginia

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Rep. Don Beyer today issued the following statement on recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) encounters in Northern Virginia:

“The injuries to Jose Mejia Hernandez and his account of how he received them are extremely disturbing, and I am seeking further details about what happened to him in Arlington. It essential to establish the facts in this case, and, if this is another instance of unjustified violence by ICE agents, to hold them accountable.

“My office has received reports of several other ICE encounters in Northern Virginia in the past 10 days that featured unjustified violence or apparently warrantless detention. The pattern that emerges in the descriptions is of ICE agents stopping people outside or on the street, asking for ID, and often responding with violence when their orders are questioned, regardless of whether those orders violate individuals’ rights.

“In the case of Carolina Molina, ICE agents were filmed pointing a gun at a citizen because she verbally challenged and filmed them, activities which are protected by the First Amendment. I look forward to meeting with Ms. Molina soon to hear her perspective on these events and discuss next steps.

“I urge Northern Virginians to exercise extreme caution. ICE agents are here, they are regularly ignoring their training and departmental regulations that call for deescalation, they are disappearing people, and they are all too frequently becoming out of control or violent. I thank constituents who have alerted my office to these activities, and encourage all residents to review and remember their constitutional rights. Our community is diverse and inclusive, and we must work together to ensure that our neighbors are safe and that peace, law, and order can prevail.”

Northern Virginians are reminded to Know Their Rights.

***

El Representante Don Beyer ha emitido hoy el siguiente comunicado sobre los recientes incidentes involucrando el Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE) en el norte de Virginia:

“Las lesiones sufridas por José Mejía Hernández y su explicación de cómo las sufrió son sumamente preocupantes, y estoy pidiendo más detalles sobre lo que le ocurrió en Arlington. Es fundamental esclarecer lo sucedido y si se trata de otro caso de violencia injustificada por parte de agentes de ICE, es imperativo que rindan cuentas.

“Mi oficina ha recibido denuncias de varios incidentes con ICE en el norte the Virginia en los últimos diez días, además de este, en los que se ha producido violencia injustificada o una detención aparentemente sin orden judicial. La tendencia que se percibe en las descripciones es que los agentes de ICE detienen a personas en la calle o en la vía pública, les piden identificación, y con frecuencia, responden con violencia cuando se cuestionan sus órdenes, independientemente de si dichas órdenes violan los derechos de las personas.

“En el caso de Carolina Molina, agentes de ICE fueron grabados apuntando con un arma a una ciudadana después que ella les recriminó verbalmente y los grabara, actividades que están protegidas por la Primera Enmienda. Espero reunirme pronto con la señora Molina para escuchar su versión de los hechos y discutir los próximos pasos a seguir.

“Mientras tanto, insto a los habitantes del norte de Virginia a que actúen con extrema precaución. Los agentes de ICE están aquí, ignoran sistemáticamente su entrenamiento y las normas del departamento que exigen la desescalada, están haciendo desaparecer a personas y, con demasiada frecuencia, pierden el control o se vuelven violentos. Agradezco a mis constituyentes que han alertado a mi oficina sobre estas actividades, y animo a todos los residentes a que revisen y recuerden sus derechos constitucionales. Nuestra comunidad es diversa e inclusiva, y debemos trabajar juntos para garantizar que nuestros vecinos estén seguros y que prevalezcan la paz, la ley y el orden.”

Se les recuerda a los habitantes del norte de Virginia que conozcan sus derechos.

Beyer: President Trump’s Policies are Doing Serious Damage to the American Economy

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representative Don Beyer, Senior House Democrat on the Joint Economic Committee, today issued the following statement after the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released its July 2026 jobs report, which found that the U.S. economy lost 23,000 jobs in July with previous job gains in May and June revised down by a combined 103,000 lower than previously reported. While the unemployment level edged down to 4.1 percent, that decline came as labor force participation fell again to 61.4 percent – its lowest level since February 2021 – with another 264,000 Americans leaving the workforce entirely.

“Today’s jobs report is deeply alarming and offers some of the clearest evidence yet that President Trump’s policies are doing serious damage to the American economy. Job creation has effectively ground to a halt, and businesses simply are not hiring at the pace a healthy economy demands. Wages tell the same troubling story: wage growth slowed to just 3.2 percent, its weakest pace in five years, while inflation has surged to 3.5 percent.

“None of this is happening in a vacuum. President Trump inherited a strong economy and has spent the past 18 months tearing it down. His chaotic tariffs have raised costs for American families and businesses while creating enormous uncertainty that discourages investment and hiring. His cruel and indiscriminate immigration policies are shrinking the labor supply and making it harder for businesses to find the workers they need, and his reckless war in Iran is imposing still more costs on working families, including higher prices at the gas pump.

“We are now seeing the consequences of these disastrous policies, which economists repeatedly warned would raise prices and weaken economic growth. Trump’s economy is not merely slowing down, it is moving backwards. Wages are failing to keep pace with inflation, businesses aren’t hiring, and discouraged Americans are leaving the workforce altogether.

“Yet Republicans in Congress continue to cede their constitutional authority rather than rein in the Trump Administration’s harmful economic policies or confront the President’s shameless corruption. As Americans struggle to afford groceries, electricity, housing, and health care, Donald Trump is abusing the presidency to enrich himself while insulating himself and his family immunity from tax audits. Republicans in Congress are standing by while working families pay the price. It is a complete disgrace and a profound dereliction of our duty to the American people.”

Beyer, Meeks Reiterate Concerns on Senate Passage of Russia Sanctions Bill

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA), Senior House Democrat on the Joint Economic Committee, and Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today issued the following statement upon Senate passage of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026:

“While we do not doubt the good intentions of our Senate colleagues’ work on the Sanctioning Russia Act, the fundamental concerns we’ve previously stated about this bill have not been addressed with its Senate passage. This bill’s sanctions still contain the broadest possible waiver authority for President Trump, who already has the power to impose these sanctions on Russia under U.S. law but has refused to do so.

“What the bill does grant, however, are sweeping new tariff authorities that the president could weaponize with abandon, as he has repeatedly done in the past. President Trump just last month recklessly imposed new 50% tariffs on our closest trading partner, Canada; there is no reason to believe he would not use the even larger tariffs authorized by this bill in a manner similarly harmful to our alliances and Americans’ wallets.

“We welcome our Senate colleagues’ urgent effort to support Ukraine and punish Russia for its continued illegal war, but this bill would not achieve those goals. Instead, it would allow President Trump to dodge holding Russia accountable and impose yet more tariffs in his destructive trade wars, leaving Americans to foot the bill.

“Though the Paul-Wyden amendment to strike the dangerous tariff authorities failed, the vote total demonstrates that continued refinement of the Sanctioning Russia Act is imperative before it can be sent to the president’s desk. We will continue to seek a path forward that remedies this bill’s flaws, and we remain ready to negotiate expeditiously with Congressional colleagues to achieve our common objectives. But the current text is unacceptable.”

Beyer, Walkinshaw, Subramanyam Conduct Unannounced Oversight Visit at Chantilly ICE Facility

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (VA-08), James Walkinshaw (VA-11), and Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) released the following statement after conducting an unannounced oversight visit yesterday evening at ICE’s temporary holding facility in Chantilly, Virginia.

“We exercised our right to direct congressional oversight over ICE facilities after hearing reports of overcrowding and lengthy stays at a facility designed for temporary processing.

“At the time of our visit, we did not witness overcrowding. ICE staff asserted that they are complying with a recent court order limiting stays at temporary processing facilities like Chantilly to 12 hours.

“Our oversight does not end with one visit. We will continue monitoring this facility and holding ICE accountable to ensure everyone in its custody is treated humanely and in accordance with the law.”

Beyer, DeGette, Raskin, House Democrats Demand AHRQ Reverse Cancellation of More Than $200 Million in Health Care Research Grants

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA), House Energy and Commerce’s Health Subcommittee Ranking Member Diana DeGette (D-CO), and House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD) today led 68 House Democrats in demanding that the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) immediately reverse the cancellation of more than 150 grants supporting over $200 million in critical health care research. Among the research projects affected by the cancellations are efforts to integrate behavioral health services into routine pediatric care; use telehealth to expand access to care and reduce costs, including in rural communities; improve postpartum care for patients with chronic medical conditions; and reduce the overuse of antibiotics following hospital discharge to combat antimicrobial resistance.

In a letter to AHRQ Director Roger Klein, the lawmakers noted that Congress provided AHRQ with $345.38 million in funding as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act, reflecting bipartisan support for the agency’s work to improve health care access, affordability, and quality. The lawmakers warned that the mass cancellation of grants may constitute an illegal impoundment of Congressionally authorized and appropriated funding and raised concerns that the agency failed to follow federal regulations governing the termination of awards.

“Given the disastrous impact of these notices, the potential procedural defects in issuing them, and our concerns surrounding AHRQ’s use of Congressionally-appropriated funds, we ask that you immediately withdraw these notices and fully fund the grantees that have waited for committed funds for over a year,” wrote the Members. “Additionally, we ask that you provide Congress with a comprehensive list of all awards for which notices referenced above have been issued and, for each of the canceled grants, list grant-specific information regarding the grantee’s progress, management practices, and other factors considered before issuing the notice.”

The letter is also signed by Representatives Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Wesley Bell (D-MO), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Troy Carter (D-LA), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Angie Craig (D-MN), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), Jacon Crow (D-CO), Danny Davis (D-IL), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), Mark DeSaulnier (D-WA), Maxine Dexter (D-OR), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Maxwell Frost (D-FL), John Garamendi (D-CA), Jesús "Chuy" García (D-IL), Dan Goldman (D-NY), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Adelita Grijalva (D-NM), Van Hoyle (D-OR), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Summer Lee (D-PA), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), John Mannion (D-NY), Doris Matsui (D-CA), April McClain Delaney (D-MD), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), Grace Meng (D-NY), Gwen Moore (D-WI), Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Jerry Nadler (D-NJ), Richard Neal (D-MA), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Kim Schrier (D-WA), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Lateefah Simon (D-CA), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Mark Takano (D-CA), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Dina Titus (D-NV), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), James Walkinshaw (D-VA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Frederica Wilson (D-FL) and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC).

Full text of the letter follows below, and a signed copy is available here.

***

Dear Director Klein:

We write to request the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Grants Management Office immediately reverse the mass cancellation of grants issued July 15, 2026. AHRQ has a statutory responsibility to support research to improve the quality and effectiveness of health services for the American people. The cancellation of more than 150 meritorious grants violates this duty and is likely an illegal impoundment of Congressionally-authorized and appropriated funds. The Grants Management Office also failed to follow federal regulations governing the termination of awards. We urge you to realign your Agency with federal law and the best interests of the American people and reverse these grant cancellations.

On July 15, 2026, AHRQ reportedly sent an estimated 150 cancellation notices to grant recipients. This action is expected to eliminate more than $200 million in lifesaving healthcare research that AHRQ funds as the lead federal agency directing studies into delivering care efficiently, effectively, and safely. At a time when the United States spends $5.3 trillion on healthcare annually, accounting for 18% of national gross domestic product, it is shocking that AHRQ would choose to end its support of that critical research.

Congress consistently authorizes and appropriates federal dollars to AHRQ, and most recently received $345.38 million in the FY26 Consolidated Appropriations Act, demonstrating bipartisan support for improving healthcare access, affordability, and quality, including in areas of priority for AHRQ like rural healthcare, artificial intelligence, and the prevention of healthcare associated infections. Examples of canceled research grants include programs to:

Integrate behavioral health services into routine pediatric care offerings.
Use telehealth to improve access and reduce costs of unscheduled care, making healthcare more affordable and accessible for the communities who rely most on telemedicine, including in rural areas.
Improve postpartum care in primary care settings for patients with chronic medical conditions.
Reduce overuse of antibiotics upon hospital discharge, reducing the well-recognized, long-term risks of antimicrobial resistance.

The above list is a small sample of the myriad topics addressed through canceled AHRQ grants that would improve healthcare quality, safety, and cost for the American people.

Withholding federal dollars from grant recipients across nearly 30 states without seeking Congressional approval under the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 is likely illegal and continues what is now a multi-year violation of federal law. The cancellation notices issued on July 15 fail to meet basic standards for grant cancellation notices. The notices cite 42 C.F.R. § 67.17(d) and 42 C.F.R. § 67.17(e), styling the notices as “non-awards” of future funding, rather than cancellations of ongoing research. However, the notices then assign recipients specific obligations under 2 C.F.R. § 200.344, which only applies when grants are canceled. The authorities to cancel ongoing grants provided under 42 C.F.R. § 67.17 require that specific factors are taken into account to cancel individual awards, including “the grantee's progress and management practices and the availability of funds.” Applying blanket language across up to 150 grants covering more than $200 million in awards is not consistent with careful consideration of individual grantees’ progress or performance.

Given the disastrous impact of these notices, the potential procedural defects in issuing them, and our concerns surrounding AHRQ’s use of Congressionally-appropriated funds, we ask that you immediately withdraw these notices and fully fund the grantees that have waited for committed funds for over a year. Additionally, we ask that you provide Congress with a comprehensive list of all awards for which notices referenced above have been issued and, for each of the canceled grants, list grant-specific information regarding the grantee’s progress, management practices, and other factors considered before issuing the notice. We request an update on AHRQ’s plans to withdraw these notices, as well as the full list of requested grantee information, no later than August 21, 2026.

Rep. Beyer Hosts Global Entry Enrollment Event

Sat, 17 May 2025 14:30:00 GMT

I’m hosting a Global Entry Enrollment Event for applicants who have been conditionally approved to complete the interview portion on Saturday, May 17 at the Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library in Alexandria. The event will run from 10:30 AM until 3:40 PM.

All conditionally approved Global Entry applicants can schedule this event from their Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account, using the location “Alexandria (IAD GE/Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library)”.

Ninth Annual Women's Conference: The Ripple Effects of Resilience

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 23:30:00 GMT

After postponing my Annual Women’s Conference due to the government shutdown in October, I’m pleased to share that we have confirmed a new date and look forward to gathering with you.

Please join me as I host my Ninth Annual Women's Conference: The Ripple Effects of Resilience on Thursday, January 15 at George Mason University’s new Fuse building at Mason Square. This event is free to the public but capacity is limited, so attendees are encouraged to register online here.

This year's event will bring together women leaders to share stories of perseverance, strength, and resilience in the face of the challenges confronting our country and community in these unprecedented times.

The discussion will feature Brooke Sydnor Curran, founder of Move2Learn; Lisa Jacobs, Executive Director of the Alexandria Tutoring Consortium; and Elizabeth Jones Valderrama, Executive Director of Offender Aid and Restoration (OAR). The discussion will be moderated by Nyree Wright, Executive Vice President of Crisis & Risk Communications at Edelman. I will also present this year's Clara Mortenson Beyer Women and Children First Award.

Congressman Beyer Hosts Constituent Services Event For Former And Current Federal Workers And Contractors

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Please join me for a constituent services event for former and current federal workers and contractors on Saturday, September 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Paragon Theaters in Falls Church.

This event, held in partnership with City of Falls Church Mayor Letty Hardi and the wellfed Team (former federal employees), will provide practical financial guidance alongside community and wellness support. Experts will lead a Financial Triage Workshop, sharing clear strategies for budgeting, expense tracking, and planning at every career stage, with time for Q&A.

There will also be space for connection and mental well-being, recognizing that resilience is built through both financial clarity and a supportive community. Refreshments and lunch will also be provided.

Please click here to RSVP.

POSTPONED: Ninth Annual Women's Conference: The Ripple Effects of Resilience

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Please join me as I host my Ninth Annual Women's Conference: The Ripple Effects of Resilience on Monday, October 6 at George Mason University’s new Fuse building at Mason Square. This event is free to the public but capacity is limited, so attendees are encouraged to register online here.

Alexandria Town Hall with NAACP

Sat, 28 Jun 2025 18:00:00 GMT

The NAACP Virginia District 8 proudly announces an engaging Town Hall Meeting scheduled for Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church, located at 606 S Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. This vital community conversation will feature distinguished guest speakers including Congressman Don Beyer, Alexandria City Councilman John Taylor Chapman, Arlington County Board Member Julius "JD" Spain, Jr., and Virginia Delegate Marcus B. Simon.

October No Kings Rally

Sat, 18 Oct 2025 18:30:00 GMT

No Kings rally in Market Square, Alexandria, featuring Mayor Gaskins, Olivia Troye, and other local leaders.

No Kings: Alexandria

Sat, 14 Jun 2025 19:00:00 GMT

No Kings rally at Market Square in Old Town, Saturday, June 14th.

Rep. Beyer's Telephone Town Hall

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 22:00:00 GMT

I'm hosting my next telephone town hall tomorrow night, Wednesday, June 4 at 6:00 p.m. to discuss the latest in Congress, the federal government, and Northern Virginia. To participate, sign up here: https://beyer.house.gov/forms/form/?ID=89

Rep. Beyer Holds Telephone Town Hall As Shutdown Looms

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 21:30:00 GMT

I'm holding a telephone town hall on Monday 9/29 at 5:30pm. I will discuss the impending lapse in federal appropriations and possibility of a shutdown, and take questions on the latest in Congress, Northern Virginia and more.

To participate, you can sign up here: https://beyer.house.gov/forms/form/?ID=90

Protect Our Medicaid Panel

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 17:30:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (VA-08), Virginia House of Delegates Majority Leader Charniele Herring, Chair of the Virginia House of Delegates’ Health and Human Services Committee Mark Sickles, and state Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-Alexandria), join a coalition of Virginia home care workers, doctors, and reproductive freedom advocates for a panel discussion to raise the alarm about how threatened Medicaid cuts would impact Northern Virginians.