U.S. House of Representatives Archives

Congressman Robert Aderholt joined Phil Williams of Rightside Media on Tuesday for a discussion focused on the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’s’ return to the U.S. House of Representatives following its passage in the Senate.

Aderholt (R-Haleyville) told Williams that while the legislation isn’t flawless, it is a step in the right direction and will prevent a historically steep tax hike from being implemented.

“Let me say there is no perfect bill that comes out of any legislative body that is run by man,” said Aderholt. “You know that from your time working in a legislative body. I know that there are always some issues in every bill. So what we have to be careful about is making sure that we don’t throw the baby out with the bath water. Obviously, there are things that those of us in the House wanted to see like the spending levels to be lower, but you know, we certainly don’t want to have the largest tax increase in American history either. So that is the fine line.”

The lawmaker believes the OBBB will pick up the necessary support in the House, even from those who have previously expressed concerns about the bill’s propensity to increase spending.

“At the end of the day, I think the Freedom Caucus will be on board,” Aderholt continued. “I think all of us want to make sure that we pay attention to out-of-control spending. It’s not just the Freedom Caucus. I think it’s every Republican member of Congress. So I think we’re all concerned about that, but at the same time, we certainly want to make sure that we try to fund the border wall, that we put more money in for defense. The Golden Dome is included in this, the adoption tax credit, as I mentioned, there are just so many good things in this bill that we can, I think, say is a job well done.”

“Again, it’s not perfect, but neither is any bill that I have ever seen come out of Washington, D.C. or any other legislative bodies.”

Rep. Aderholt previously voted in favor of the legislation when it was first introduced in the House of Representatives in May.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong has officially announced the launch of the Golden Dome caucus. The bipartisan group, according to the congressman, will work to advance America’s national defense and strengthen its space-based capabilities.

Members of the caucus will be responsible for supporting necessary policies and also advocating for funding to ensure that next-generation defense assets are available if needed.

“The current threat landscape demands immediate and decisive action,” Strong (R-Huntsville) said.

“President Trump has artfully highlighted the nation’s critical need for a next-generation missile defense, and we can’t risk this vision not becoming a reality. The formation of the House Golden Dome Caucus signals a new era of congressional commitment to this national security initiative.”

“North Alabama has played a key role in every former and current U.S. missile defense program and will undoubtedly be pivotal to the success of Golden Dome.”

U.S. Rep. Jeff Crank of Colorado joined Strong in launching the new caucus.

“Golden Dome will only be successful if we meet President Trump’s timeline,” said Crank. “This means that it is imperative that we, Members and stakeholders, are well informed and working together to revolutionize the missile defense of our great nation.”

Strong has previously expressed full confidence in his district’s ability to lead on such projects.

“A lot of that technology for Iron Dome, Huntsville, and Redstone Arsenal, North Alabama, played a big part in it,” said Strong. “The big thing we’re going to do is just be sure to say, ‘Look, this is what our scientists are able to do. This is what our electrical mechanical engineers are able to do.’ I think that we will be a part of the process. How deep we will be into that is still to be determined.”

President Donald Trump issued an executive order in late January to create the large-scale, multilayered missile defense system.

“Ronald Reagan endeavored to build an effective defense against nuclear attacks, and while this program resulted in many technological advances, it was canceled before its goal could be realized,” read the decree. “And since the United States withdrew from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty in 2002 and initiated development of limited homeland missile defense, official United States homeland missile defense policy has remained only to stay ahead of rogue-nation threats and accidental or unauthorized missile launches.”

The House Caucus will work closely with the Senate Golden Dome Caucus, chaired by Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT).

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

As lawmakers on Capitol Hill continue to negotiate President Donald Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’, the Senate’s version reportedly allocates millions in funding to North Alabama’s Marshall Space Flight Center and billions for projects being led by the NASA-affiliated entity.

Per the legislation posted by the Senate Commerce Committee on Thursday, MSFC will receive $100 million for infrastructure repairs and upgrades.

Additionally, the bill provides $4.1 billion for the Space Launch Systems of the Artemis IV and V missions. The SLS is the only human-related rocket available capable of transporting humans to the moon, and its development is being overseen by MSFC.

The center is also working on the development of the Gateway, a lunar-based space station. Under the bill, the program to create the facility will receive $2.6 billion.

The massive combined sum is part of a larger package that would provide an additional $9.995 billion in the current fiscal year for NASA. Those funds would be available for NASA to spend through fiscal year 2032.

https://x.com/jamiedupree/status/1930748876648046706

U.S. Senator Katie Britt, a staunch supporter of the Marshall Space Flight Center, understands its value and contributions to NASA-related research.

“The Marshall Space Flight Center is second-to-none,” Britt (R-Montgomery) said. “As the incredible men and women at NASA, along with their partners in the private sector, continue to make historic leaps that broaden our understanding and expand the limits of human achievement, we must ensure that their groundbreaking work is supported.”

She referenced the launch systems that Marshall is helping to create.

“While we need to ensure the cost effectiveness of the program, the SLS rocket—the most powerful in world history—is the only rocket currently capable of taking astronauts and large cargo directly to lunar orbit in a single launch. We will need multiple solutions and capabilities for assured access to space.”

The Senate’s version of the bill has so far received the support of the Aerospace Industries Association and the Coalition for Deep Space Exploration.

“As industry continues to push into new frontiers and outpace our competitors in space, this effort shows Congress is dedicated to moving forward with mission-critical programs and maintaining our space leadership,” Eric Fanning, president and chief executive of AIA, said.

The Marshall Space Flight Center in Redstone Arsenal employs more than 6,000 with 2,3000 civil servants. Founded in 1960, the operation is the largest NASA center in the country and has an annual budget of approximately $5 billion.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

Congressman Dale Strong sat down with Adam Thompson of Americans for Prosperity-Alabama Wednesday evening in Huntsville to discuss several topics, including the value of small businesses for both owners and employees.

Strong (R-Huntsville) spoke from personal experience on the subject.

“I came from a small business,” he told Thompson. “I think what’s unique about small businesses, and I know that there are several here that own small businesses. To sign the front of a check is a little bit different than signing the back of one.”

“I wish I had this dramatic story, but my family owned a gas and grocery store, and then we owned 12 Prevost 45-foot charter buses that went out all over this country. I only kept enough drivers and staff to run 12 buses.”

The lawmaker called small businesses the “foundation block of America.”

“You go in here, the harder you work, the more you make, the better you’re able to take care of your employees,” Strong said. “It’s hard work. You’re paying those quarterly taxes and keeping up with the county and the state and your LLC and all this. We’ve got to get America back to its roots, and that right there is small business.”

In the end, the value and success of a small business, according to Strong, are directly tied to work ethic.

“Let’s put more in the people’s back pocket so our economy can thrive. Let’s bring businesses back to America. We’ve got to get able-bodied Americans off the sidelines.”

The Congressman also referenced President Donald Trump’s highly touted ‘big, beautiful bill’, urging caution regarding its passage.

“We’re not till the goal line yet,” he said. “A lot of people have said they got it across the goal line. Let me tell you something, that goal line is not the House. The goal line will include the House, Senate, and the President. When he signs it, that’s when it’s across the goal line.”

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong confirmed Wednesday that he will seek re-election to the House of Representatives in 2026, ending speculation that he might enter the race for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“After prayerful thought and consideration, I have decided that the best way I can serve Alabama is to remain in the United States House of Representatives,” Strong (R-Huntsville) said in a statement. “For that reason, I will be seeking re-election to Congress in 2026 and no other office.”

Strong, who represents Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District, was elected to the House in 2022 after more than a decade as chairman of the Madison County Commission.

He serves on the powerful House Appropriations Committee and sits on three key subcommittees: Commerce, Justice, and Science, where he is vice chair; Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; and the Legislative Branch Subcommittee. Strong also chairs the Homeland Security Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee.

“Representing North Alabama in Washington has been the most rewarding experience in my career of public service,” Strong said. “I truly believe I am where the Lord wants me, and I want to continue to represent my community.”

Strong’s announcement came one day after U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville revealed he will not seek re-election to the Senate and instead plans to run for governor of Alabama in 2026.

Tuberville (R-Auburn), who was elected to the Senate in 2020, said he intends to serve the remainder of his term, which ends in January 2027.

His decision leaves Alabama’s Senate seat open in what is expected to be a closely watched Republican primary. The primary election is scheduled for May 26, 2026. The general election is Nov. 3.

Strong had been floated as a potential contender for the Senate seat, given his name recognition in North Alabama and alignment with key conservative priorities. His decision to stay in the House may help clarify the field for other candidates considering a run.

No major candidates have formally declared for the Senate race as of Wednesday, though announcements are expected in the coming weeks.

Courtesy of 256 Today

According to a report from 1819 News, Alabama Congressman Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) is considering a potential run for the U.S. Senate. His signal today follows Senator Tommy Tuberville’s announcement yesterday that he would not be running for re-election to the seat, opting instead to run for Governor of Alabama.

Moore says his staunch conservative record and productive relationship with President Trump make him a viable fit for the position.

“I am honored to be in the conversation as Alabamians begin to look at who they want to represent them in the United States Senate,” Moore said. “Our state is blessed with a number of strong conservative voices. I’m proud of the record I have built in the U.S. House as an effective conservative fighter and an ally to President Trump, with more than 6,400 federal agency cases resolved for my constituents.

“My family and I are praying and asking the Lord to guide us in this decision. As we seek His guidance, we’re listening to the people of Alabama and considering how we can best continue to serve this great state.”

Moore currently represents Alabama House District 1. He was first elected to Congress in 2020.

The party primary election for the open U.S. Senate seat will be held on May 19, 2026.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt is maintaining his push to improve the U.S. Postal Service with the recent reintroduction of legislation designed to increase the efficiency and reliability of the government agency. Aderholt is currently focused on improving the delivery of periodicals and newspapers throughout the United States, and he believes that his Deliver for Democracy Act will accomplish exactly that.

“For far too long, we’ve seen the United States Postal Service struggle to meet the expectations of the American people, particularly in delivering newspapers and periodicals in a timely manner,” said Aderholt (R-Haleyville). “As information moves faster than ever in today’s world, it is unacceptable that our postal system is falling behind. This legislation is about holding USPS accountable and ensuring they prioritize timely, reliable delivery.”

“The Postal Service has been a backbone of communication in our country since before the founding of our nation, and we must take action to restore the level of service that Americans expect and deserve. I am pleased to partner with Congressman Cleaver on this effort, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress to see this bill become law.”

According to Aderholt, the bill will accomplish three key objectives:

Require the USPS to either achieve at least a 95% on-time delivery rate for periodicals (as highlighted in their own plan) or an improvement of at least 2 percentage points to use its 2% surcharge authority for that class of mail;
Require USPS to annually report to the Postal Regulatory Commission on its progress, including on-time delivery data for newspapers in its periodical service performance measurement; and
Instruct the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study and submit a report to Congress on options for alternate USPS pricing schemes to improve the cost margins with periodicals.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

A pair of bills introduced by U.S. Rep. Dale Strong to strengthen homeland security practices were passed unanimously Monday by the U.S. House of Representatives.

The legislation was the SHIELD Against CCP Act and the Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act.

The SHIELD Act would create a dedicated DHS working group to address threats from China, Strong said in a news release. The group would be responsible for examining, assessing, and reporting on the range of nontraditional tactics used by China and DHS’s efforts to counter these activities.

“China is one of the biggest threats to our country, taking every opportunity over the last 4 years to exploit Biden’s open borders,” said Strong (R-Monrovia), who serves on the House Committee on Homeland Security. “This bill will ensure that DHS has a dedicated team actively working to combat this threat.”

The Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act would require the Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate to establish a process for safeguarding sensitive information in research and development projects, preventing unauthorized access and disclosure, the news release said. It would also require the Government Accountability Office to report to Congress on DHS’s compliance with governmentwide policies to safeguard research and development.

“Chinese espionage is one of our country’s greatest threats,” Strong said. “Preserving the integrity of DHS research and safeguarding innovation are essential to national security. This legislation strengthens protections against unauthorized access to sensitive information, ensuring the security of our nation’s research and development efforts.”

Courtesy of 256 Today.

January rarely affords what anyone would describe as good weather in Washington, but this January 6 was adequate and normal, though it was probably good to have a Republican cloth coat. The U.S. House of Representatives had convened at noon to consider routine matters, not the least of which was to accept the oath of office from Alabama Congressman George Grant, who, due to illness, was not able to be in town to take the actual oath with the other re-elected House members.

The Speaker adjourned the House momentarily, but at 12:55 he called the chamber back into session and instructed the doorkeeper to usher in the Vice President and members of the Senate. It was to be an unusual spectacle that rarely happens — a sitting vice-president would count the votes of the electoral college and announce his defeat.

Richard Nixon was not yet 50 years old, but he would have the unenviable task of following the law, putting on a brave face, and acting as if he was glad to be there. Clearly, he would rather have been in any other place, but he was compelled by duty to preside over the Joint Session of Congress and finalize the results of a presidential election he had lost.

And he hadn’t just lost but had been defeated by the very small margin of 0.02%, less than 120,000 popular votes, or half a vote per precinct. There were allegations of voter fraud in two states where the margin of victory was especially thin. John Kennedy had won Illinois by 8,858 votes giving him 27 electoral votes. In Texas, Kennedy received the state’s 25 electoral votes with a margin of victory of 46,257. If the votes had gone the other way, Nixon would have been president. There were also Hawaii‘s 3 electoral votes where the Kennedy win was a mere 115 votes.

Both Illinois and Texas had a history of voting irregularities. In his 1948 Senate race, Lyndon Johnson won the nomination of the Texas Democratic party by 87 votes. The tally sheet in the precinct that gave him the margin of victory showed Johnson’s voters had voted in alphabetical order using the same pen and handwriting. This slim margin of victory earned Johnson the moniker “Landslide Lyndon,” which he forever resented. But 12 years later, Johnson controlled Texas and his nomination as vice president was based on his ability to deliver the Lone Star state for the national ticket.

Illinois politics were controlled by Chicago Mayor Richard Daley who, like Johnson, knew how to count, deliver, and perhaps even manufacture votes when needed. His machine was as well-oiled as it was well-known to provide the margin of victory for his party.

Within a few weeks of the 1960 election, investigative journalist Earl Mazo started publishing what was slated to be a series of 12 articles examining voting irregularities. Mazo was convinced his work would earn a Pulitzer Prize, so he was crestfallen when Vice President Nixon called him and asked him to stop his work. Over protests, Nixon said, “Earl …. No one steals the presidency of the United States.” The articles were only spiked when Nixon convinced Mazo’s editors that an election contest could cause a constitutional crisis and damage the reputation of the country in the eyes of the international community. Nixon argued the Cold War did not need such a distraction. The articles stopped.

Even now, 64 years later, there are still questions about the integrity of the 1960 election. These questions and the possible unfairness, embarrassment, and humiliation of losing such a close race were no doubt in the back of Nixon’s mind as he mounted the rostrum to call the joint session to order.

As President of the Senate, the first order of business was to open electoral ballots from each state. Alabama was first and once its tally was read, Nixon asked that the formalities of opening and reporting the electoral votes of each state be dispensed with and delegated to Senate and House “tellers” to count the votes. There was a problem though with Hawaii because three groups in the state had submitted electoral ballots. Heading off a floor fight, Nixon directed that the votes of the Democratic electors be counted to the exclusion of the others. There were no objections.

After all ballots were opened and tabulated the announced results were 303 electoral votes for John Kennedy and 219 for Richard Nixon.

Nixon paused the proceedings and according to the Congressional Record said:

“This is the first time in 100 years that a candidate for the presidency announced the result of an election in which he was defeated and announced the victory of his opponent. I do not think we could have a more striking and eloquent example of the stability of our constitutional system and of the proud tradition of the American people of developing, respecting, and honoring institutions of self-government. In our campaigns, no matter how hard-fought they may be, no matter how close the election may turn out to be, those who lose accept the verdict and support those who win. [I]t is indeed a very great honor to me to extend to John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson … my heartfelt best wishes, as all of you work in a cause that is bigger than any man’s ambition, greater than any party. It is the cause of freedom, of justice, and peace for all mankind. It is in that spirit that I now declare that John F. Kennedy has been elected President of the United States, and Lyndon B. Johnson Vice President of the United States.”

Eight years later Nixon would win the presidency by defeating Vice President Hubert Humphrey. Humphrey declined to participate in the electoral count, choosing instead to attend the funeral of a friend.

Will Sellers is a graduate of Hillsdale College and an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of Alabama.

A bill before Congress sponsored by U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) related to the Poarch Band of Creek Indians (PCI) and its effort to establish parity with other federally-recognized tribes is the subject of an effort to raise baseless concern over the expansion of gambling in Alabama.

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians Land Act (HR 6180) is co-sponsored by U.S. Reps. Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham), Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) and Dale Strong (R-Monrovia). The one-page bill seeks to update the Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of 1934 to ensure that PCI lands taken into trust are treated the same as those of other tribes in response to a 2009 ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court.

“The sole purpose of my bill, HR 6180 – The Poarch Band of Creek Indians Land Act, is to update the Indian Reorganization Act to ensure Poarch Creek’s land taken into trust is treated the same under federal law as are sovereign lands of most other federally recognized Indian tribes,” U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl said.

The 2009 Carcieri ruling foundationally changed the interpretation of the Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of 1934 by determining that the federal government could only take lands into trust for tribes that were “under federal jurisdiction” at the time the IRA was enacted.

For PCI, recognized in 1984 by the United States, the ruling challenged the status of their lands and those of other tribal nations and their exemption from state laws, including gambling restrictions. That legal uncertainty brought about legislative actions by tribes, like HR 6180, which simply affirms the IRA applies to their existing lands.

In the wake of claims made by an anti-gambling legal scholar that the legislation would open the door to gambling expansion on all PCI lands in Alabama, U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl as well as the tribe itself, released information clarifying the basic intent of the legislation.

“I introduced my bill to ensure the Poarch Creek have a fair playing field so they can continue to do this work and further grow their impact,” Rep. Carl said.

“My bill has absolutely nothing to do with gaming, does not change a single law regarding gaming in Alabama, and does not change the federal oversight process for Indian Gaming. The federal government regulates Indian Gaming under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, National Indian Gaming Commission regulations, and an entire review process by the U.S. Department of the Interior.”

The stigma related to accusations of gambling expansion by tribes who utilize legislation to reestablish their trust status since the 2009 ruling is not new.

“There is a misperception that the Department commonly accepts off-reservation land into trust for gaming purposes. However, the facts show that of the 1,300 trust acquisitions since 2008, fewer than 15 were for gaming purposes and even fewer were for off-reservation gaming purposes,” Kevin Washburn, Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of Interior told Congress.

According to PCI, the Indian Reorganization Act authorizes the Department of the Interior to place tribal government-owned fee land into trust and nothing more. State and local governments are notified and have an opportunity to negotiate and work with the Tribe.

The PCI legislation currently before Congress has the support of all local governments that have Tribal trust lands in their areas, including the Elmore County Commission, the Escambia County Commission, the Montgomery County Commission Chair, the Montgomery City Council Chair, the Mayor of Atmore, as well as the Alabama House and Senate members who represent PCI constituency.

“Poarch Creek has invested into dozens of businesses all over Alabama and the world, including real estate, agriculture, education, health care, entertainment, and so much more,” Rep. Carl said. “This continued investment has created thousands of jobs and revitalized so many communities and families.”

A companion to the House bill (S3263) was also introduced by U.S. Senators Britt and Tuberville.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

In May, U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the IVF Protection Act, which has since been blocked by Senate Democrats who wield the power of the majority in the upper chamber. However, the U.S. House of Representatives will now consider the measure.

U.S. Reps. Scott Perry (R-PA) and Nancy Mace (R-SC) announced they’re introducing and advocating for companion legislation to Britt and Cruz’s bill.

According to Britt, the bill does not compel any person or organization to provide IVF services, and it permits states to implement health and safety standards regarding the practice of IVF. Under the language of the legislation, states would be ineligible to receive Medicaid funding if they banned access to IVF. The senators led a joint statement supporting full access to IVF signed by every Republican in the Senate.

“Along with Senator Cruz, I appreciate Representatives Perry and Mace leading this bicameral effort to ensure continued nationwide IVF access,” said Britt. “IVF helps aspiring parents across our nation start and grow their families, and our IVF Protection Act would preserve this pathway to parenthood for the millions of Americans who face infertility every year.”

“While Democrats prioritize scaring families, I’m proud to join my Republican colleagues in fighting for families.”

Senator Cruz also applauded the effort in the House but pointed out that Democrats have failed to take part in passing meaningful regulations protecting IVF treatments.

“IVF is a medical miracle that has brought the joy of parenthood to millions of families nationwide who may have never otherwise had the experience of having a child,” said Cruz. “I was proud to work with Sen. Britt to try to advance the IVF Protection Act in the Senate, and I applaud Reps. Perry and Mace for introducing it in the House.”

“It’s deeply unfortunate that Senate Democrats have put politics over people once again and objected to clear and strong federal protections for IVF.”

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

First-time political candidate Caroleene Dobson emerged victorious over former State Sen. Dick Brewbaker on Tuesday in a primary runoff election to become the Republican nominee for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District. Dobson will now compete with Mobile native Shomari Figures in the November general election to decide the fate of a newly-drawn district.

At time of post, according to unofficial results from the Alabama Secretary of State, over 105,000 ballots were cast, accounting for a total voter turnout of more than 7.5% with all 28 counties in the district reported.

Dobson, who says she ran for U.S. Congress to serve “Alabama’s families, farms, and fundamental values,” grew up on her family’s own multi-generational cattle farm in Monroe County, now part of the 2nd Congressional District.

“Thank you to each and every Republican voter in the Second District of Alabama,” Dobson said Tuesday night. “I am humbled by your outpouring of support and eagerness to join us in the fight for Alabama families. Because you believed in me and in my vision for our district, we are one step closer to saving our country.”

“I love this state,” Dobson added. “I was born here, and it is my Alabama roots and values that I will take to Washington to represent you.”

According to unofficial estimates, Dobson secured nearly 60% of total votes cast over Dick Brewbaker, a native and former elected official of Montgomery. Brewbaker secured around 67% of the vote in Montgomery County, while Dobson was able to similarly overperformed in Mobile County, at just under 69%.

Dobson currently practices real estate law in Montgomery. Her clients include homebuilders, retailers, small business owners, and family farms similar to the one she grew up on in Monroe County. She received the strong backing of the Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA), the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Forestry Commission, as well as local and state elected officials that include the totality of elected Republican sheriffs across the district.

“Alabama’s Second Congressional District needs someone who will fight for us, and I will,” Dobson said on Tuesday. “We can win in November, but I can’t do it alone.”

At time of post, around 37,000 Democratic voters cast their ballot on Tuesday compared to just over 25,000 Republican voters, according to unofficial data from the Alabama Secretary of State. In the November, Dobson and Figures will appear on the same general election ballot as President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer joined a group of fellow Republican legislators in issuing a no vote Thursday on a continuous resolution proposed by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.)

According to The Washington Post, Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) had originally reached a $1.66 trillion agreement to finance the government for the 2024 fiscal year. Congress, however, has run out of time to pass that particular proposal before federal funding expires on Saturday. As a result, some lawmakers suggested the continuous resolution which ultimately passed Thursday.

Under the new measure, legislators agreed to extend funding for four of 12 annual spending bills through March 1. The remaining eight have a Feb. 2 deadline.

Palmer addressed his no vote on the spending measure in a statement Thursday.

“Unfortunately, this CR continues to spend at the same unsustainable levels have opposed in the past,” he said. “At some point we must confront the reality that we have to reduce spending. I am disappointed we are still passing CRs.

“I will continue to push for sensible spending cuts and sensible fiscal policy.”

The House voted in favor of the continuing resolution by a margin of 314-108. Only two Democrats, Reps. Jakes Auchincloss (Mass.) and Mike Quigley (Ill.) voted against the measure.

Among the state’s congressional delegation, Reps. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile), Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) also voted against the bill. Reps. Robert Aderholt (R-Hayesville), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Dale Strong (R-Monrovia), joined Democrat Rep. Terri Sewell (R-Birmingham) in voting “yes.”

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.

Caroleene Dobson picked up another endorsement for her candidacy to represent Alabama’s newly-drawn Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District as a Republican. For Dobson, and for the group, this one hits home.

The Alabama Farmers Federation announced Dobson won the group’s influential backing.

“Caroleene is one of us,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “She grew up on a fifth-generation cattle farm in Monroe County and understands the challenges facing farmers and rural families. Caroleene’s intelligence and personal drive gave her the opportunity to further her education and make connections throughout the country, but she never forgot her roots.”

“Her devotion to faith, family and hard work will make her a strong voice for Alabama’s Second Congressional District as she goes toe to toe with those who are seeking to undermine the foundational values of our great nation,” Parnell said.

Dobson grew up working on her family’s cattle farm and competed in the National High School Finals Rodeo as a teen. She’s a member of the Alabama Forestry Commission and serves on the board of the Southeastern Livestock Exposition, which has sponsored Montgomery’s annual rodeo competition since 1958.

Dobson articulated why an endorsement from the Alabama Farmers Federation’s political action committees, Alabama FarmPAC and ELECT, is a big one for her personally.

“I was born and raised on our family farm in rural southwest Alabama and took part in the hard work and daily chores that go into feeding families across our state,” said Dobson. “Because we share deep agricultural roots and a common bond, the farmers of the Second Congressional District understand that I will always ensure their voices are heard in the committee rooms, corridors and chambers of the U.S. Capitol.”

“FarmPAC and the Alabama Farmers Federation embrace the traditional values and conservative beliefs of our state and its people, and I am thankful for the endorsement and support.”

Dobson currently practices real estate law with the Maynard Nexsen firm, where she represents clients including homebuilders, small business owners, and private landowners.

The Alabama Republican Primary will take place on March 5, 2024.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.

The GOP primary for a newly-drawn 2nd Congressional District has officially brought three contenders to the table: State Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Atmore), former State Sen. Dick Brewbaker (R-Pike Road) and Birmingham attorney Caroleene Dobson.

The federally-imposed district encompasses a Black voting age population of 48.7% intended to enhance competitiveness for the eventual Democratic nominee.

Montgomery businessman and former state lawmaker Dick Brewbaker made his candidacy official on Tuesday.

“I am a lifelong resident of this district. People who know me know that I will always stand up for what is right and never allow myself to get caught up in Washington’s games and political theatre,” he said in his announcement. “When I see what is happening to this country and what is happening in Congress, it is truly unbelievable, there is a massive disconnect with what is happening there and what is happening in the lives of everyday Americans.”

Brewbaker indicated that with a slim Republican majority in the House, what’s right for Alabama is right for the country.

“We just don’t need another Democrat Congressman from Alabama,” he said.

Brewbaker is a former teacher and the longtime President and CEO of Brewbaker Motors, a family-owned car dealership in Montgomery. He was a State Senator from 2010 until 2018 after serving two terms in the Alabama House.

Qualifying for both party primaries closes on Friday, November 10. Ahead of the deadline, three candidates have qualified. State Sen. Greg Albritton is running for the seat, despite speculation he does not actively reside in the district.

“I’ve represented this district for years, many of these counties,” Albritton said to Alabama Daily News. “I know the people, I know the problems. I’m the best one to represent this district and I intend to do so.”

“If elected, he will move his official address back to Range, in Conecuh County and within District 2. He’d previously moved to Atmore when his Senate district lines were changed, taking Conecuh County out,” Alabama Daily News reported.

Albritton says he’s all in. “It takes work to do,” he told AL.com. “That’s what I think I’m fairly good at. And I intend to work this sucker as hard as I need to to get the votes I need. And I think I can.”

Albritton, who currently serves as the Senate General Fund Committee chairman, was promoted in his initial media advisory as “a champion for fiscal responsibility and government accountability during his time in Montgomery.”

Caroleene Dobson, the first candidate to qualify for the GOP primary, has deep roots in Alabama’s agriculture and outdoors, now works as a real estate attorney for the Birmingham-based firm Maynard-Nexsen.

Dobson grew up working on her family’s cattle farm and competed in the National High School Finals Rodeo as a teen. Today, Dobson is a member of the Alabama Forestry Commission and serves on the board of the Southeastern Livestock Exposition.

“As a member of Congress, I will fight for our families, our farms, and our faith and preserve the bedrock values and moral backbone that have made our nation the greatest ever known,” Dobson said in her announcement. “It is time to give Washington, D.C. a good dose of Alabama common sense and go to battle against those on the far left who want to control how we use our property and what we do, think, and say.”

The 2024 primary election date is set for March 5, 2024.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

The U.S. House of Representatives voted mostly along party lines Friday to advance the $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill, averting a government shutdown.

In its final vote prior to the Christmas break, the chamber voted 225-201 to approve the Senate-led government funding bill. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) was the Alabama House delegation’s lone vote in favor of the measure.

Regarding Thursday’s vote in the upper chamber, U.S. Sens. Richard Shelby (R-Tuscaloosa) and Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) were split on the bill. Shelby, vice chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, voted in favor of the spending package.

Highlights of the bill include $858 billion in defense spending, $772.5 billion in domestic spending, $45 billion in aid to Ukraine, and $40 billion in natural disaster funding.

Republican members of Alabama’s federal delegation released statements shortly after the vote concluded slamming the massive $1.7 trillion measure.

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), member of the House Appropriations Committee, took exception to the process employed by Democrats to usher the legislation through Congress.

“While there were parts of this omnibus package that I endorsed and fought for, ultimately, Democrats pursued a process that made the package impossible for me to support,” said Aderholt. “This eleventh hour omnibus continues a reckless spending pattern. It will increase inflation, it fails to address the crisis at the border, and leaves Americans with sky-high energy costs.

“Going forward, I am hopeful that the new Republican-led Majority in the House will allow us to pass government funding bills on time, that address our nation’s most pressing problems and abide by the conservative principles which constituents in Alabama’s 4th Congressional District hold dear.”

According to U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover), chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee, approving “a $1.7 trillion spending bill days before Christmas is government at its very worst.”

“This over-4,000-page bill fails to address issues that matter most to the American people. Our border is left open during a record wave of illegal immigration,” said Palmer. “Almost $4 billion is spent on energy assistance programs while Democrats continue to vilify widely available forms of energy and drive-up costs.

“The $800 billion aimed at non-defense spending is the highest level in the history of the nation while our country is experiencing inflation at 7.1% compared to last year.”

While acknowledging “some good things” are included in the bill, U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) said “there are way too many bad things for me to support it.”

“This bill spends billions of taxpayer dollars on things like beefing up the IRS and the UN, while doing nothing to secure our southern border and stop the flow of deadly drugs into our communities, ease the burden of inflation on hardworking American families, or lower the cost of fuel,” said Carl. “These should be our top priorities, but this bill simply does nothing to address these issues.

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), lead candidate for the speaker’s gavel, publicly advocated for a deal on the appropriations package to be postponed until Republicans gained control of the House in January.

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) blasted the Senate Republicans who assisted Democrats in ensuring the bill met legislative approval.

“This bill not only continues or increases funding for the Biden administration’s most dangerous policies, but because the vote occurred after the November elections, Democrats were unshackled by accountability from the voters and free to include even more radical programs from their wish list,” said Moore. “I was encouraged at the overwhelming opposition from the American people to this disastrous legislation, but it was disappointing to watch so many of their elected representatives sign off on whatever was necessary to get home for the holidays.

“With so many Senate Republicans time and again unwilling to go to the mat for our voters, House Republicans must take the lead in the next Congress fighting for the interests of the American people.”

In praising the bill’s passage, Sewell said the measure’s provisions “are a direct reflection of the values that we as a nation hold dear.”

“[W]ith this year’s government funding package we’re uplifting working families, creating jobs, strengthening our economy, and protecting democracy at home and abroad,” said Sewell. “The package also makes key investments critical to the success of Alabama’s 7th District including in health care, broadband, wastewater infrastructure, food and housing assistance, Civil Rights historic preservation, and our cherished HBCUs.

“I’m thrilled that this package includes several of my own bills to strengthen and expand access to health care for Alabama’s rural communities. I know that these bills will make a big difference for our rural Alabamians and the health care providers who serve them.”

The fiscal year 2023 appropriations package now heads to the White House, where President Joe Biden is expected to sign the legislation into law.

Dylan Smith is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

U.S. Rep.-elect Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) announced Tuesday his complete slate of senior-level congressional staff appointments. The incoming congressman’s announcement follows his recent appointments for chief of staff and district director.

Chandler Shields, whose congressional experience dates back to 2017, will serve as Strong’s deputy chief of staff and scheduler.

A native of Monrovia, Shields began her career on Capitol Hill in the office of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.). In 2018, she moved to Sen. Richard Shelby’s (R-Tuscaloosa) office, where she served as the assistant to the chief of staff.

While serving Alabama’s senior senator, Shields assisted with office operations and held the position of legislative correspondent covering the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee portfolio.

In 2022, Shields transitioned into the nonprofit sector at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America to serve in the organization’s Resource Development and Government Relations Department. There, Shields managed projects for the nonprofit’s government relations’ advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill.

She also assisted the organization’s chief development & public affairs officer to head the organization’s strategic priorities to best serve its clubs. Shields holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations from the University of Alabama, where she specialized in nonprofit communication management. In 2020, she earned her master’s degree in public policy from Liberty University.

Shields has served as the vice president of the National Capital Chapter of the University of Alabama’s Alumni Association, a fellow of the Blackburn Institute, and leads Alabama’s Committee on Taste of the South.

Ella Sullins, a fifth-generation Huntsville resident, will serve as Strong’s legislative director. In this capacity, she will oversee the congressman’s legislative agenda. Sullins joins Strong’s staff after nearly five years of service in Shelby’s office, where she is currently a Legislative Assistant.

In her role with Shelby, Sullins advises the senator on matters concerning homeland security, law enforcement, the FBI, veterans affairs, and state and foreign operations. Her focus area relates to Shelby’s position as vice chairman and, previously, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

In addition, Sullins worked closely with the national security advisor in support of the senator’s defense, NASA, commercial space and military construction priorities across Alabama.

Ashley Satterfield, U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s (R-Auburn) military legislative assistant, will serve Strong in the same role.

Satterfield is leading the National Defense Authorization Act process for Tuberville and advises him on matters related to the Senate Armed Services Committee, space and foreign policy.

The Decatur native and Auburn University graduate held roles with U.S. Reps. Steven Palazzo (R-Miss.) and Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville).

Madison Neal, an anchor for WHNT 19 News, has been named Strong’s communications director. Prior to becoming an anchor, she served as a multimedia journalist and reporter.

During her four years in Tennessee Valley, Neal has cultivated contacts across the 5th Congressional District and reported on local issues.

Born and raised in central Alabama, Neal graduated from Cleveland High School in Blount County. She attended Troy University and graduated summa cum laude, earning a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism.

While at Troy University, Neal was inducted into numerous honor societies including Phi Kappa Phi, Mortar Board, Lambda Pi Eta, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Alpha Lambda Delta. She served as a Trojan ambassador and was a sister of Kappa Delta sorority. Neal also held the title of Miss Troy University and is the current Miss Alabama Volunteer.

The journalism professional’s passions include the nonprofit community and addiction awareness.

In Strong’s district operations, Ellen Reid and Somerville Town Councilman Josh Melson will serve as field representatives.

Hailing from Frankfort, Ky., Reid worked for the Republican Party of Kentucky and served as legislative liaison for former Gov. Matt Bevin.

Upon moving to North Alabama in the spring of 2021, she joined the Dale Strong for Congress campaign team. Reid holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a masters of public administration from Murray State University.

Melson has spent the last six years in the classroom as an agriscience educator and Future Farmers of America advisor. Along with the town council, Melson is a youth pastor and recently completed his chairmanship of the Morgan County Young Farmers.

Melson was recognized as the 2022 Young Farmers Excellence in Agriculture winner by the Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA) for his contributions to the agriculture industry. He formerly served as the area director for ALFA, where he served north central and northwest Alabama farmers, and assisted on agriculture issues and policies.

He also served a stint with the Alabama Cooperative Extension system as the extension coordinator for Lawrence County. In this role, Melson was actively involved in the Children’s Policy Council, Lawrence County Rotary Club, Moulton Chamber of Commerce, and served numerous agriculture programs and organizations.

Melson is a graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies of agriculture leadership and education, and a master’s in agriculture leadership.

The U.S. House of Representatives voted 350-80 Thursday to approve the fiscal year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

The must-pass legislation, which outlines how tax dollars will be allocated to the Pentagon, holds a price tag of $847 billion.

As the lead Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks) played a critical role in securing provisions within the NDAA that benefit Alabama’s defense industrial base.

“The U.S. Constitution tasked Congress with our nation’s most important responsibility – to provide for our national defense – the National Defense Authorization Act is a vital part of this responsibility,” he said. “This year’s NDAA makes critical investments in our military to maintain overmatch with China – from boosting deterrence to securing our supply chain this legislation demonstrates strength in the face of China’s threats.

“I am also proud that this year’s NDAA supports our servicemembers by repealing the COVID-19 vaccine mandate as well as providing a boost in servicemember pay and allowances to counteract the effects of Biden’s inflation.”

The congressman detailed how the House-approved NDAA would serve to enhance the Yellowhammer State’s standing as a vital player in national security.

“This year’s NDAA also continues to bolster the crucial role that Alabama plays in our national defense by reversing President Biden’s dangerous cuts to our missile defense, supporting the work done at the Anniston Army Depot and expanding and modernizing our shipbuilding, among other initiatives,” said Rogers. “I’m proud of the many provisions in this legislation that will fortify our national security and keep our nation safe.”

Rogers is poised to become the House Armed Services Committee chairman when the Republican-controlled chamber is seated Jan. 3.

FY2023 NDAA provisions relevant to Alabama, as provided by Rogers:

Community Funded Project for Anniston Army Depot DLA Warehouse
Community Funded Project for Auburn University Battery Research Program
Increase in authorized funds for Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) procurement
Increased in authorized funds for Stryker Upgrades
Includes historic levels of investment to accelerate depot and shipyard maintenance projects and expedite facility improvements across all services
Reverses President Joe Biden’s cuts to the procurement of new aircraft, combat vehicles, autonomous systems, missiles and ammunition
Authorizes $15.5 billion for military construction and military family housing projects throughout the United States and around the world
Includes $1.03 billion to support expansion and modernization of the shipyard industrial base
Improves the test and evaluation enterprise to expedite the fielding of advanced capabilities
Establishes a National Hypersonic Initiative, to accelerate the development of hypersonic missiles and catch-up to Chinese and Russian programs
Reverses the president’s cuts to missile defense
Extension of a Department of Defense Education Activity pilot program at Maxwell Air Force Base
Vehicle Inspection Station Community Funded Project for Maxwell Air Force Base
Community Funded Project for Montgomery Regional Airport Base F-35 Load Crew Training Facility

U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile), an ardent supporter of Coastal Alabama’s shipbuilding community, said the NDAA’s passage was “a win for Alabama and the United States of America.”

“My colleagues and I successfully fought back against President Biden’s reckless cuts to our national security and put an end to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate on all active and reserve servicemembers,” said Carl, a member of the House Armed Services Committee. “This bill ensures our armed forces are fully funded to combat growing threats around the world, gives our servicemembers a much-needed pay raise to combat inflation, and modernizes our military, all while cutting waste to save taxpayers billions of dollars.

“I was proud to vote yes, and I commend my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for seeing this bill across the finish line.”

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover), chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee, praised the work of Republicans to repeal the Pentagon’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for service members.

“It is critical that we continue to fund and strengthen our military, especially at this crucial time when China in particular is an ever-growing threat,” said Palmer. “This legislation repeals the unnecessary COVID vaccine mandate on our military which will help mitigate the slump in our recruitment and retention levels.

“The bill provides funding stability badly needed for our armed forces to prepare for future threats to our country. It also provides a nearly 5% pay raise for our soldiers, some of whom have been forced to use food stamps to make ends meet for their families during this record level of inflation.”

Palmer authored a provision to authorize funding for the Hoover-based National Computer Forensics Institute (NCFI) for an additional five years. The institute is a federal-state partnership, spearheaded by the U.S. Secret Service, that trains local and state law enforcement on matters relating to cybersecurity and computer forensics.

“[W]ith an increasing number of state sponsored attacks occurring online, NCFI will play a role in training those combating these actions,” he said. ‘I am proud to see Alabama’s Sixth District continuing to play an important role in our protecting our nation.”

UPDATE 2:22 p.m.:

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, lauded the removal of the bill’s “woke elements” that were supported by Democrats.

“I was proud to vote yes on the National Defense Authorization Act, NDAA, which authorizes funds for our military,” said Aderholt. “Even though Republicans are not yet in the majority in the House, we were able to strip the leftist, woke elements Democrats wanted to include. We were also able to put guardrails in to make sure the money Congress authorized for Ukraine is not wasted.

“But on top of all of that, we have increased funding for our military, we’ve continued our support for hypersonics, and we started the process of weaning our nation off of critical minerals that come from China and other unfriendly nations,” he continued. “This is crucial as China continues to strengthen its own military in the attempt to surpass us in strength and technology. I will continue to push for more spending on our military, because truly the most important vote members of Congress make is one to defend our nation.”

“I also want to thank my Alabama colleague, Rep. Mike Rogers, the incoming Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, for his leadership in shepherding this bill through the House. I look forward to working with him in the new Congress to continue to build and strengthen our nation’s defenses,” concluded Aderholt.

UPDATE 6:11 p.m.:

In a statement, U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) hailed the exclusion of the “experimental” COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

“Removing this unconstitutional vaccine mandate from the NDAA is a massive victory for my district and for our brave service members who do not want to be forced to take an experimental vaccine,” said Moore. “I am proud to have joined the Republicans who held the line and forced Democrats to compromise by voting against previous versions of this legislation which included the vaccine mandate and other poisonous policies that required women to register with the Selective Service and instituted red flag measures for servicemembers.”

“This legislation provides service members with a well-deserved 4.6% pay raise to combat Biden’s inflation, authorizes eleven new battle force ships to strengthen our Navy, provides resources for defense assistance to our great ally Israel, and invests $11 billion in resources to combat Chinese aggression,” he continued. “I’m thankful for my colleague Mike Rogers for his tireless work on this important legislation.”

Moore concluded, “Although the passage of this bill is a victory for our service members, the battle is not over. I will continue fighting for restoration with full backpay of the patriots who were purged from our military by Biden’s military vaccine mandate.”

Dylan Smith is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) was re-elected by his colleagues Tuesday to serve a third term as chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee (RPC).

Established in 1949, the RPC serves House Republicans in an advisory capacity on legislative proposals and to develop policy strategy. The committee also provides information to the House Republican Conferences on conservative policy solutions.

In a statement following his re-election as the committee’s 18th chairman, Palmer said this is “a pivotal time,” given the outstanding issues facing American families.

“I am very grateful for the support I received from my Republican colleagues to continue serving as the Chairman of the RPC,” said Palmer. “This is a pivotal time. Struggling families around the country are looking for leadership that will address their concerns.”

The committee’s role has been bolstered due to Republicans’ successful bid to retake the lower chamber of Congress, according to Palmer.

“Over the past four years, we have rebuilt the RPC into a policy think tank to provide Republican members of Congress with reliable information on the issues facing our nation,” he said. “With a new Republican majority in the House, the work of the RPC is even more important. The RPC staff and I are ready to meet the task.”

First elected to Congress in 2014, Palmer overwhelmingly defeated his Libertarian challenger during last week’s general election by a 84.7% to 15.3% margin. There was no Democratic opponent.

Dylan Smith is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

For more than 100 years, political history has revealed without deviation when a Democrat wins the presidency in a presidential year, in the following mid-term congressional elections Republicans make gains in the U.S. House of Representatives.

That truism has become more pronounced in the last few decades.

This history will be repeated in the upcoming Nov. 8 General Election. Every indication and polling suggest that the GOP gains will be significant.

In talking with people in the know in Washington, it appears to be a foregone conclusion that there will be major Republican gains in Congress. This prognosis is not only anticipated by Republican strategists but is even being acknowledged by Democrats on the Hill and throughout the nation.

Moreover, even the liberal mainstream media is cognizant of this GOP sweep on the horizon.

Currently, the Democrats have a slim 221 to 214 majority in the U.S. House. For some reason, probably because the tea leaves indicate a GOP takeover of the House, there is an inordinate number of Democratic congressmen retiring this year. This makes the pickups for the GOP more sustainable. Incumbency and seniority are omnipotent in Congress. Therefore, the likelihood of the GOP taking over the majority is enhanced by these retiring Democrats.

The conservative estimate by most experts is that there will be a 30- to 36-seat swing to the Republicans in November. If that estimate is accurate that would change the House from a 221 to 214 current Democratic majority to a Republican majority of 250 to 185.

This solid Republican majority would change the philosophical tilt in the national arena. In today’s polarized, toxic, partisan environment both parties’ members of Congress vote lockstep along party lines.

You may as well have a robot voting their congressional voting machines. It would be more efficient and economical. You would not have to have millions for congressional staffs or offices, which costs millions per congressman and their only duties anyway were to work to insure the congressman’s re-election every two years.

The early prognostication of a 30- to 36-seat pickup in Congress by Republicans has been tempered somewhat with the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. This issue is not a winner for the GOP. Most independent, a good many Republican, and almost all Democratic female voters are pro-choice.

The striking illustration of this pro-choice leaning was revealed this year when voters in ruby red Republican Kansas voted 60-40 against outlawing abortion in their state. This issue, along with the Democratic socialist bailout money, may have tempered the anticipated GOP congressional landslide.

However, President Joe Biden’s approval ratings are abysmal. He is at historical low polling approvals, especially among all important independent voters.

The primary reason for Biden’s demise and the obvious elephant in the room is the out-of-control economic inflation rate on consumer spending in the country. It is approaching a 10% level. This is devastating politically for Biden and the Democrats. Americans vote their pocketbook, especially in congressional elections.

Another detriment to Democrats is Biden’s first-year decision to completely disregard immigration laws and create carte blanche open southern borders for every undocumented immigrant to invade the country and offer them all of the welfare and government privileges and services of state tax dollars. This open-door infringement does not sit well with Republicans or independents and probably not with some minority Democrats.

The liberal social agenda of House Democrats regarding LGBTQ issues appear over the top to most mainstream Christian Americans. If truth were known, even Eastern religions are not comfortable with these overt favorable treatment towards social mores.

My observations of Southern African American people are that they are very Christian oriented and are Bible reading and do not adhere to this agenda, either.

This congruence of economic, social and deficit spending is dovetailing into a devastating mid-term congressional wipeout for Democrats. This tsunami will probably spill over into the U.S. Senate, also.

The Senate is 50 Democrats and 50 Republicans, dead even. Republicans could win a majority in the upper chamber. It will be close. The key senate battles will be in Arizona, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and our neighboring state of Georgia.

We will see in less than five weeks.

Alabama’s premier columnist and commentator, Steve Flowers has analyzed Alabama politics for CBS, PBS, ABC and the British Broadcasting Corp. Flowers has been an up-close participant and observer of the Alabama political scene for more than 50 years. He is generally considered the ultimate authority on Alabama politics and Alabama political history.

This past Friday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Democrat-sponsored “Assault Weapons Ban of 2022” by a vote of 217-213.

Every member of Alabama’s congressional delegation, besides U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham), voted against the sweeping measure.

The bill, which faces an uncertain fate in the U.S. Senate due to the chamber’s procedural rules, would ban some of the most utilized firearms and magazines in the United States.

The ban of so-called assault weapons prohibits the legal ownership of a variety of commonly used sporting rifles and home defense firearms. The legislation bans an array of semiautomatic firearms based on magazine capacity and characteristics that make a weapon capable of accepting a wide assortment of popular modifications.

Read the bill’s language in full here.

In a statement detailing his opposition to the bill, U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) asserted that the legislative measure was congressional Democrats’ most recent effort to curtail the constitutional rights of law-abiding American citizens.

“This unconstitutional mandate won’t make Americans any safer and will instead result in the disarming of thousands of lawful gun owners who simply want to protect their families and exercise their constitutional rights,” declared Moore in a release. “Instead of performing their most fundamental duty to protect your Constitutional rights, Democrats are hellbent on taking them away.”

“This direct assault on the Second Amendment will capture millions of sporting rifles, shotguns, and pistols simply because they have certain mechanical features that even the authors of the bill have demonstrated they don’t understand,” he noted. “This bill even bans pistol braces used by disabled Americans, including many veterans, to sport shoot and hunt.”

According to Moore, the majority party had used the legislation as a means to actively campaign for the midterm elections in an endeavor to score political points on the trail.

“Anyone willing to steal one of your rights would take away all of them,” added Moore. “If Democrats cared about keeping Americans safe and not increasing their own power and using the House floor to campaign, they would engage in real bipartisan conversation and pursue solutions where common ground exists.”

The South Alabama congressman stated his intentions of continuing his efforts to combat Democrats’ attempts to “seize power” from the American citizenry.

“I am committed to doing all I can to force Congress to seek productive and constitutional measures that keep Americans safe, and I plan to introduce legislation next month that will increase safety in schools while protecting Constitutional rights. This issue is too important for freedom-loving Americans to remain on the sidelines, and I will continue doing all I can to fight those seeking to seize power from the people and give it to the government,” concluded Moore.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

Included in the fiscal year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) are numerous provisions supporting Alabama’s robust defense industry.

U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, took to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday to encourage his colleagues to support the bill in a bipartisan manner.

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the NDAA for FY23. We’ve worked across the aisle on this bill, and I take great pride in it,” said Carl in addressing the chamber. “We have successfully fought back against the president’s cut in our defense budget, obviously due to inflation.”

Relating to South Alabama, the annual military appropriations package includes funding authorization for two Expeditionary Medical Ships that would be built by Austal USA in Mobile.

According to Carl, expanding the U.S. Navy’s fleet would provide the maritime branch with additional muscle to “counter threats” posed by the communist regime in China.

“For example, it gets the Navy back on track to building a large enough fleet to counter threats like China with 355 ships. This includes much-needed ships that will be built at Austal USA in Mobile, Alabama, and we are very proud of that,” he added. “It also takes care of our servicemembers and their families by giving a 4.6% pay raise to counter the Biden inflation.”

“I encourage my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to support the bill because it’s critical for the defense of this country,” concluded the congressman.

The NDAA, which earned committee approval last month in a 57-1 vote, is expected to be considered by the full body for passage Thursday night.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

In a Wednesday speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) railed against the Biden administration’s fiscal policies amid the inflationary state of the economy.

In his remarks, Moore slammed the administration’s messaging strategy as it related to the current inflation crisis.

“When it comes to the economy, the Biden administration continues to insist ‘all is well!’ His press secretary claims: ‘the economy is in a better place than it has been historically.’ Historically? Perhaps she needs a history book,” asserted Moore in the speech. “Inflation is at a 40-year high in our country.”

Watch:

The South Alabama congressman took exception to President Joe Biden comparing the United States’ inflation woes to those of other nations around the globe.

“President Biden himself makes the false claim that inflation is worse elsewhere in the world than here. Mr. President, the United States has worse inflation than Germany, France, Japan, Canada, India, Italy, Saudi Arabia – the list goes on,” added Moore. “What is the explanation? The Biden administration blames the pandemic and Putin, but each of those counties also have had to deal with those problems. Why is our inflation worse?”

Moore concluded his remarks by contending that conservative fiscal policies would serve to combat inflation.

“The answer is easy. Quit overheating our economy with government spending. Cut red tape and regulations hampering our industries. Let the American people keep more of their hard-earned money. Conservatives once warned against our country turning into Europe. Unless we change course, Europe will be worried about becoming us,” finished the congressman.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

The Mobile Chamber on Thursday announced that former U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne (R-Mobile) will become the organization’s next president and CEO, effective June 1, 2022.

Terry Harbin of Affordable Homes Gulf Coast LLC, who led the chamber’s 10-member search committee, spoke to the organization’s diligence in its selection of Byrne as its next CEO.

“After an extensive, nationwide search, we are excited to share that native Mobilian, former state Senator, former Chancellor of Alabama’s Community College System and former Congressman Bradley Byrne will become the next president and CEO of the Mobile Chamber,” said Harbin. “We had many outstanding applicants for this top-level leadership position, and the committee invested much time and due diligence in finding the next leader of the Mobile Chamber.”

Byrne will maintain his role as counsel for Adams and Reese, LLP.

In a statement, the former South Alabama congressman touched on his plans as leader of the Mobile Chamber.

“I am excited to be selected as president and CEO of the Mobile Chamber and to have the opportunity to lead this organization into the future,” stated Byrne. “I am eager to get started and am grateful to be surrounded by a supportive board and community partners with a vision for creating, growing and attracting businesses and quality jobs. The Mobile Chamber’s reputation is second to none, and we will continue to build on this foundation of excellence and be a champion for business growth and economic development.”

In the U.S. House of Representatives, Byrne was a member of the House Rules, Education and Labor, and Armed Services Committees. In 2007, he was named chancellor of the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education. Prior to serving in the Alabama Senate, Byrne was a member of the Alabama State Board of Education for two terms.

Mobile Chamber chairman Matt White hailed Byrne for his ability to “get things done.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Bradley as the Chamber’s new president and CEO,” stated White. “Throughout the state and in Washington, Bradley is recognized as a leader who knows how to get things done. He has all the tools we were looking for to support the business growth that will drive our economy in the years ahead.”

He continued, “On behalf of the board of directors, I extend our sincere appreciation to Bob for his efforts over the last seven months. Bob helped ensure a smooth transition. The Chamber continued its program of work and never missed a beat.”

Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson heaped praise upon Byrne for his extensive service in leadership positions.

“Today’s announcement is a slam dunk for the Chamber of Commerce and Mobile,” declared Stimpson. “Bradley has a proven track record in the areas of education, government, politics, and law. He brings a wealth of knowledge and relationships to the table, and I can’t think of a more distinguished leader to take on this critical role and help continue moving Mobile forward.”

University of South Alabama president Jo Bonner said that Byrne would be a “tremendous asset” to the organization.

“Having someone with Congressman Byrne’s experience, relationships and reputation along with his passion and lifelong commitment to helping grow Mobile and south Alabama – is a grand slam, not only for our Chamber, but for Mobile’s place as a leader throughout the Gulf Coast and the Southeastern United States,” advised Bonner.

“Bradley knows Montgomery, he knows Washington and perhaps more importantly, people who know him and have worked with him throughout the years and understand he is a consummate professional and will be a tremendous asset in this new role,” he added. “My hat is off to the Chamber for finding the best person to help position Mobile to continue to grow, prosper and lead.”

Interim president and CEO Bob Chappelle will resume his role as chief operating officer once Byrne assumes the position.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL