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CPC Taskforce Chair Ilhan Omar Condemns Bloated Pentagon Spending Bill, Highlights Amendments to Promote Peace

July 18, 2025

WASHINGTON — Representative Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chair of the Promoting Peace & Security Taskforce of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC), issued the following statement on H.R.?4016, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2026, which passed on a party-line vote: 

“Last night’s Republican spending bill further bloats an out-of-control Pentagon while doubling down on skewed priorities. This bill expands funding to a military deployed by Trump to launch unconstitutional wars while enriching well-connected private contractors with no safeguards. Meanwhile, this legislation attacks the right to access reproductive healthcare in the military and guts efforts to recruit diverse servicemembers who reflect the full range of America.

“The Pentagon has failed every audit since it became legally required to submit one in 2018. No other federal agency is thrown hundreds of billions of dollars with so little transparency. Meanwhile, Trump is illegally destroying agencies like the Department of Education and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which provide urgent resources to our children’s classrooms and protect Americans from corporate fraud.

“The Progressive Caucus will continue to push for a budget that prioritizes human needs and lifts up our communities at home—not endless wars abroad. I am proud of my CPC colleagues for putting forward commonsense alternatives to this Pentagon budget that advance peace, restraint and social justice. I urge Senate Democrats to impose meaningful checks on Trump’s unconstrained military during the appropriations process as this bill now moves to that chamber.” 

The following submitted amendments are a sampling of CPC Members’ efforts to improve the Defense Department Appropriations bill: 

 

Amendment #123 by Rep. Omar transfers $5 million from defense-wide operation and maintenance to chemical agents and munitions destruction account.

 

Amendment #168 by Rep. Omar transfers $5 million from Army aircraft procurement to Army environmental restoration

 

Amendment #126 by Reps. Omar, Tlaib, Gosar, and Biggs prohibits funds to carry out section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978.


Amendment #337 by Rep. Chuy Garcia prohibits the use of funds for transferring data and other records to DHS for civil immigration enforcement.

 

Amendment #342 by Rep. Chuy Garcia and Amendment #455 from Rep. Salinas prohibit the use of funds for the National Guard to enforce immigration laws.

 

Amendment #471 by Rep. Chuy Garcia and Amendment #475 by Rep. Nadler prohibit the use of funds for transferring any individual to the Migrant Operations Center at United States Naval Station at Guantanamo Bay. 

 

Amendment #509 by Rep. Kamlager-Dove prohibits the use of funds to implement the June 7 presidential memo activating the deployment of the National Guards to protect ICE personnel and federal property in Los Angeles.

 

Amendment #188 by Takano, Smith, Jacobs, Randall, Pappas, Torres, and Craig prohibits funds from being used to implement, administer, or enforce Executive Order No. 14183, which prohibits transgender people from serving in the military.

 

Amendment #397 by Rep. Friedman strikes section 8142 - prohibiting funding for execution of DOD memorandum on access to reproductive care.

 

Amendment #13 by Rep. Jacobs strikes Sections 8138, 8139, 8144, and 8145, which ban gender-affirming care, drag queen shows, and allows discrimination for people who do not support gay marriage. 

 

Amendment #200 by Rep. Tlaib strikes sections prohibiting programs relating to advancing racial equity and support for under-served communities and diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. 

 

Amendment 206 by Rep. Tlaib prohibits the use of funds for foreign security force training with respect to El Salvador.

 

Amendment #441 from Rep. Garamendi limits funding for the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program until Congress receives the Milestone B approval decision pursuant to section 4252(e) of title 10, United States Code.

 

Amendment #394 from Rep. Simon and Amendment #488 from Rep. Khanna and Rep. Massie prohibits fund from being used to introduce U.S. forces into hostilities in Iran in contravention of the War Powers Resolution.

 

Amendment #203 from Rep. Tlaib prohibits funds from being used in contravention of the War Powers Resolution with respect to Yemen.

 

Amendment #301 from Reps. Chuy Garcia, Castro, Velázquez prohibits funds from being used for unauthorized military force against Mexico.

 

Amendment #216 by Rep. Velázquez prohibits military action and/or regime change in the Western Hemisphere without Congressional authorization.


Amendment #213 from Rep. Tlaib prohibits the use of funds to maintain a U.S. military presence inside Syria after one year, unless otherwise Congressionally authorized.

Progressive Caucus Launches New Task Forces Aimed at Reclaiming a Democratic Majority in 2026

July 16, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC)announced four newly constituted Task Forces aimed at helping Democrats reclaim the House majority in 2026—with a sharp, populist, pro-working-class agenda that meets the moment.

These four Task Forces—focused on lowering costs, ending corporate greed, fighting corruption, and securing better pay and benefits—are part of a broader effort by the CPC to define a Democratic governing agenda that is clear, popular, easy to understand, and quickly delivers material benefits to working people. 

Among other work, the Task Forces will be focused on advancing a slate of policy proposals members have been working on internally for several months that are not only progressive, but also enjoy support from voters across the ideological and demographic spectrum—from suburban voters to non-college-educated to independents—and could be passed by a Democratic House after the midterms. New polling from Data for Progress finds these policies enjoy a supermajority and give a 9-point advantage for Democrats who lead with these themes compared to a generic Democratic message against a Republican opponent.

The four new Task Forces are:

 

    • Lowering Costs

Chair: Rep. Yassamin Ansari

 

    • Fighting Corruption

Chair: Rep. Dave Min

Vice Chair: Rep. Hank Johnson

 

    • Ending Corporate Greed

Chair: Rep. Becca Balint

 

    • Better Pay and Benefits

Chair: Rep. Emily Randall

Vice Chair: Rep. Mark DeSaulnier

In addition, CPC Deputy Chair Rep. Ilhan Omar will help lead the coordination of Task Force work and take over as Chair of the Caucus’s longstanding Peace & Security Task Force this Congress.

"Working people in America are getting screwed by corrupt politicians and big corporations that are driving costs up and keeping pay and benefits down,” said Rep. Greg Casar (TX-35). “Our four new task forces go directly at those big problems facing Americans: fighting corruption and corporate greed in order to lower costs and win better pay and benefits."

“In my home state of Arizona, families have been crushed by rising costs brought on by Trump and Republicans—whether it’s skyrocketing healthcare premiums, unaffordable housing, or the soaring costs of education, childcare, long-term care, and even just commuting to work,” said Rep. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03). “I’m honored to lead the Lowering Costs Task Force as one of the ways we’re fighting back to deliver bold policies that will help working families.”

“Whether it was prosecuting fraud at the SEC or teaching the next generation of advocates as a law professor at UC Irvine, I’ve spent my career fighting to uphold the rule of law and root out corruption,” said Rep. Dave Min (CA-47). “Americans are fed up with an economy and a government that are rigged in favor of the powerful and well connected while failing to serve working people. I’m proud to continue the anti-corruption fight in Congress and look forward to working with my colleagues in the Progressive Caucus to fight for transparency and fairness.”

“I came to Congress to unrig a system that makes it so hard for so many Americans to get a fair shot,” said Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL). “And today, I’m fired up to launch the Ending Corporate Greed Task Force alongside my progressive colleagues to do the real work necessary to build an America that gives people a real chance at an easier life. Corporate greed is at the root of so many of the struggles working people face. And it’s time we take back power over our rigged economy and fight back against the greed that makes everything harder for the rest of us. Because we have a vision for a reality where we can all afford to make rent, have affordable health care, get paid fair wages, and get an education without crippling debt. ”

“In my family and in my community, I’ve seen firsthand how good Union wages and pensions open doors to stability, to opportunity, to economic security. I’ve seen my grandparents, my teachers, my neighbors afford homes and vacations and childcare because they had good jobs. But over the years, affording a good life has gotten harder and harder,” said Rep. Emily Randall (WA-06). “Our neighbors deserve leaders who put people before profits and stand up for what’s right. They deserve leaders who understand that an economy that is centered on working people is a stronger economy for everyone. As Chair of the Better Pay and Benefits Task Force, I’m committed to fighting for fairer wages, stronger benefits, safer workplaces, and an economy that puts working people first – right at the center of our policies.” 

“In a time of record-breaking income inequality and rampant corporate greed, it is more important than ever that we as Democrats reassert and reinforce our commitment to working people,” said Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10). “As both a former union member and small business owner, I have seen firsthand how American workers have for too long been taken advantage of by big corporations and greedy CEOs. I am proud to help lead the Task Force for Better Pay and Benefits as Vice Chair to restore power to working people, the engine of our economy, so they can continue to be the best, most productive labor force in the world while living with the respect and dignity they deserve.” 

“I am thrilled to take over as Chair of the Promoting Peace and Security Task Force and follow in the footsteps of my mentor, the incredible Barbara Lee,” said Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05). “This task force is needed now more than ever to hold this corrupt administration accountable. Our task force will focus on limiting our global armed presence and instead investing in diplomacy that will allow us to reorient our engagement with the world.”

Progressive Caucus Chair Slams House Passage of GOP’s Billionaire Tax Scam

July 3, 2025

WASHINGTON — Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Rep. Greg Casar (TX-35) released the following statement after the House passed the GOP’s budget reconciliation package, sending it to President Trump’s desk:

“This bill is a betrayal of working Americans. So that billionaires can buy bigger Yachts, millions of working people will be unable to afford to go to the doctor, put food on the table, or keep the lights on.” 

“For years, Washington Republicans have talked a big game about becoming the party of working people. This vote should be the final nail in the coffin of that idea.

“In the end, Washington Republicans will simply betray the working class people they won over in the last election. They’ve done what they always do: take from the working class to give to the rich.

“As Democrats, we must make sure they never live that down.”

CPC Opposes Legislation Enabling Trump Corruption in Testimony to Financial Services Committee

June 24, 2025

Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Rep. Greg Casar (TX-35) submitted the following written testimony on behalf of the caucus to the House Financial Services Committee expressing opposition to legislation under its jurisdiction that would facilitate Trump's and his family’s corruption and self-enrichment:

“Two pieces of legislation—the CLARITY Act and GENIUS Act—contain a wide swath of concerning provisions. Members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus recently voted to officially oppose both measures as currently drafted, which allow the President and his family to enrich themselves, engage in corruption, and sell access to the White House through cryptocurrency. I urge you to take steps within your committee to close these loopholes and advance meaningful legislation with strong safeguards to protect consumers, our economy, and our national security while stopping President Trump’s corruption. We must ensure that no one can exploit the position of President of the United States for personal financial gain,” stated Chair Casar.

Read Full Testimony HERE.

Congressional Progressive Caucus Congratulates Oversight Ranking Member Election Winner Rep. Robert Garcia

June 24, 2025

Washington, D.C. — Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar (TX-35) issued the following statement on the results of the House Democratic Caucus election for Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee:

“Robert Garcia is a tough, smart progressive who will lead the charge in holding Trump, Musk, and big corporations accountable. We know he will be an excellent leader of Oversight Committee Democrats as they fight to hold this reckless administration accountable.

“Congratulations to Rep. Garcia, CPC members Reps. Crockett and Mfume, and Rep. Lynch, who ran strong campaigns and continue to be invaluable members of this committee.”

Congressional Progressive Caucus Statement on Israeli Strikes on Iran

June 13, 2025

WASHINGTON — Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar (TX-35) issued the following statement on Israel striking Iran:

“Netanyahu’s reckless strike risks provoking a wider war and pulling in the United States. Trump must oppose Netanyahu’s escalation and pursue a diplomatic path to deal with Iran’s nuclear program. Trump must not violate the Constitution by involving American troops in Netanyahu’s war without coming to Congress.”

Progressive Caucus Announces Formal Opposition to Crypto Legislation Enabling Trump Corruption

June 13, 2025

WASHINGTON — Following a survey of its members, the Congressional Progressive Caucus announced its official position opposing the GENIUS and CLARITY Acts as currently drafted, which allow the President and his family to enrich themselves, engage in corruption, and sell access to the White House through cryptocurrency. Republicans in both chambers of Congress are advancing these bills for floor consideration.   

The GENIUS Act (S.919) creates a federal framework for regulating stablecoins but fails to meet critical standards for anti-corruption and consumer protection. It includes a dangerous loophole that allows the President and family members to profit from stablecoins, enabling Trump’s crypto ventures—including a Trump-issued stablecoin used in a $2 billion UAE deal—to thrive unchecked. 

The House’s CLARITY Act (H.R. 3633) proposes a broader crypto market structure overhaul but similarly fails to address Trump’s financial conflicts of interest or impose adequate consumer protections. It enables corruption through pay-for-play schemes involving Trump’s personal cryptocurrency and memecoin, while undermining regulatory enforcement and shielding bad actors. With loopholes for decentralized finance, unclear treatment of memecoins, and weakened SEC authority, the bill poses serious risks to investors, national security, and the integrity of the financial system.

 

Progressive Caucus Statement on Trump’s Deployment of National Guard to Los Angeles

June 9, 2025

Washington, D.C. — Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar (TX-35) issued the following statement on Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles to respond to immigration protests:

“Trump politicizing and weaponizing the National Guard makes us all less safe and less free. His threat to deploy the Marines into the streets of an American city is an illegal and authoritarian escalation.

“Trump’s threats have nothing to do with keeping people safe—it’s about political theater. He’s scapegoating immigrants to distract from the GOP’s real agenda: ripping health care away from millions to pay for tax cuts for the ultra-rich.

“We will not be intimidated. Progressives are standing up to this administration, including by conducting lawful oversight at ICE detention centers in Los Angeles and across the country. We stand with Angelenos, and we stand with immigrant families everywhere. The President must return command of the National Guard to Governor Newsom.”

Progressive Caucus Statement on House Passage of GOP Budget

May 22, 2025

Washington, D.C. — Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar (TX-35) issued the following statement on passage of House Republicans’ reconciliation bill:

“Trump’s massive tax giveaway to billionaires is incredibly unpopular with the American people. That’s why Republicans passed it in the middle of the night, it’s why they’re lying to the cameras about what’s in the bill, it’s why they refuse to hold town halls. There will be a political price to pay for this vote to strip millions of Americans of their health care and nutrition support to fund handouts to the ultra-rich.

“But this fight is not over. Americans in red districts and blue districts will continue to stand up and speak out as the bill makes its way to the Senate and back to the House, and progressives will not back down until we take down this dangerous bill.”

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