In this episode, we take you to Capitol Hill for another U.S. House Rules Committee hearing packed with critical debates. Lawmakers discussed the bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act (H.R. 8790) to address wildfire prevention, a resolution condemning the Afghanistan withdrawal, the Stop CCP Act imposing sanctions on Chinese officials, and the Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act targeting charitable bail funds. Tune in for a breakdown of the heated debates, partisan divides, and the legislative priorities shaping this pivotal hearing.

Watch the full U.S. House Committee on Rules hearing here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=2060373-e74bf56c7e053484a22249cb38935559&start=758&end=1055 

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In this episode, we take you inside a U.S. House Rules Committee hearing where two significant bills were under scrutiny. The "Crucial Communism Teaching Act" (H.R. 5349) seeks to enhance education about communism in schools but sparked debate over its omission of fascism. Meanwhile, the "Prove It Act" (H.R. 7198) aims to ease regulatory burdens on small businesses, but questions about its economic impact and Congressional Budget Office cost estimates fueled contention. Join us as we unpack the debates, explore the partisan divides, and examine the committee’s decision to advance both bills.

Watch the full US House Committee on Rules hearing here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=2060370-f830f7141b65c9c6ee0a2bee4f30f9d5&start=5143&end=5252 

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In this episode, we explore a U.S. House Rules Committee meeting tackling a range of contentious issues. At the forefront is the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which sparked sharp partisan debate over provisions impacting transgender service members and their families. The discussion also delves into the "Liberty in Laundry Act," aimed at limiting energy efficiency standards for appliances, and the "Judges Act," proposing new federal judgeships—its delayed passage drawing accusations of political posturing. Join us as we unpack the detailed debates, the emotional tributes offered by committee members, and the final votes shaping the future of these bills.

Watch the full US House Committee on Rules hearing here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=2060369-a4489492b70fee19242f0b78a21cd6d4&start=2195&end=2378 

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In this episode, we dive into a Congressional Rules Committee hearing, where two critical issues take center stage: gun violence and the debate over "midnight rules." The hearing opens with impassioned arguments on the urgent need for action to address gun violence, led by the Ranking Member’s fiery plea. The focus then shifts to a controversial bill aimed at expediting the review of executive branch regulations, dubbed a “midnight rules” maneuver by its critics. Join us as we unpack the heated exchanges, political tensions, and the committee’s decision to advance the bill under a closed rule.

Watch the full US House Committee on Rules hearing here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=2060368-f3c4442dcd47afcbf98dad63f51f6b56&start=615&end=794 

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In this episode, we delve into the urgent humanitarian crisis at the U.S. Southwest border, as explored in a recent joint hearing of the House Homeland Security Committee. Experts and officials testified about the surge in trafficked, exploited, and missing migrant children under the Biden-Harris administration. We unpack the systemic failures surrounding unaccompanied minors, from inadequate sponsor vetting and insufficient resources to the alarming loss of contact with tens of thousands of children. Shocking accounts of abuse—including sexual exploitation and organ harvesting—underscore the severity of the issue. Tune in as we explore the testimony, the call for bipartisan solutions, and the pressing need for comprehensive policy reforms to protect vulnerable migrant children.

Watch the full US House Committee on Homeland Security hearing here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=2060329-7d5893fcf2b8bc608c9fdc3602c368ec&start=2159&end=2536 

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In this episode, we unpack the key takeaways from a U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security hearing on the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's (CISA) "Secure by Design" initiative. Explore the proactive measures tech giants like Google are implementing to enhance cybersecurity, including multi-factor authentication and secure coding practices. Learn about the challenges of adopting Secure by Design principles, from addressing legacy systems to tackling operational technology (OT) complexities. We also discuss the critical issue of tech debt and the call for greater accountability from software vendors. Join us for a deep dive into the importance of public-private collaboration in building a safer, more secure digital future.

Watch the full Committee on Homeland Security meeting here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=2060328-360f2d4c17530ec6a7826571fa948330&start=1332&end=1547 

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In this episode, we examine the growing threat of malicious drone use, as highlighted during a recent U.S. House Homeland Security Committee hearing. Discover the alarming increase in drone sightings near critical infrastructure in regions like New York and New Jersey, and the pressing concerns surrounding their origins, intentions, and the challenges of detection. Hear expert testimony on the urgent need for advanced technologies, stronger interagency collaboration, and expanded legal frameworks to address these evolving threats—including the risk of drone weaponization. We also explore the delicate balance between safeguarding national security and upholding civil liberties in the age of drone technology.

Watch the full US House Committee on Homeland Security hearing here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=2060327-a9e4a54b314296e2bbcf1146a9b37fc1&start=6920&end=7487 

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In this episode, we dive into the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure's recent hearing on the critical shortage of Coast Guard icebreakers. With the Arctic's growing strategic importance—thanks to its natural resources and rising maritime traffic—the inadequacy of the U.S. fleet compared to Russia and China is a pressing concern.

We explore the challenges facing the Coast Guard's Polar Security Cutter program, from significant delays to funding shortfalls, and discuss the implications of the newly signed ICE pact for international collaboration. Join us as we unpack the urgent call for action to protect U.S. sovereignty and national interests in the Arctic.

Watch the full US House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure meeting here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=2060403-16553151d85aabb1993c1a459f1abd1c&start=1441&end=1969 

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In this episode, we delve into a vital holiday initiative launched by the Houston Police Department and several partner agencies to combat drunk driving. Learn how increased patrols, checkpoints, and impactful public awareness campaigns are being used to tackle impaired driving this season. Hear powerful personal accounts from victims of drunk driving accidents, shared to underline the devastating consequences and the importance of making responsible choices. We also discuss the role of organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in this collaborative effort to save lives and reduce fatalities during the holidays. Don't miss this crucial conversation about safety and responsibility.

Watch the full Houston Press Conference here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=1718817-d87e3e7466b3a7984e5493ca703ae4b7&start=660&end=717

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In this episode, we explore two courtroom stories that highlight the balance between law and compassion. A caregiver fights a speeding ticket incurred while rushing a client to the hospital, revealing challenges faced by essential workers. Meanwhile, a judge handles traffic violations with fairness and empathy, addressing personal circumstances and accountability for business-registered vehicles. Tune in for a closer look at the human side of traffic court.

Watch the full Municipal Court Hearing here: https://citizenportal.ai/Search/View?key=1697892-fb558884a2cc8f2045126ad844493ab4&start=3577&end=3673 

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