Grassley Direct

Last week I spoke with Cindy Kohlmann on KDTH radio in Dubuque about what to anticipate in the new Congress. We discussed immigration, potential health care reform, my letter to VP-elect Pence about failures in the Department of Veterans Affairs, saving taxpayer money on prescription drugs, working with the incoming administration and the nomination of Senator Sessions to become U.S. Attorney General.

I hope you have a safe and happy holiday season.

Q&A: The People’s Business

Q. What are some highlights from the 114th Congress?
Q. What’s in store for the 115th Congress starting in January?

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The U visa program was intended to allow foreign nationals who fall victim to crime in the U.S. to remain here to assist in the investigation of that crime. It can be an important tool in investigation and prosecution, but the program has become distorted beyond its original intent by Obama Administration policies ignoring congressional limits and rampant fraud. I sent a letter with Chairman Goodlatte of the House Judiciary Committee to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson calling for an explanation.

Ever since the September 11 terrorist attacks, oversight of flight training by foreign nationals has been an issue of enormous national security importance. In a letter to the heads of both the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Aviation Administration, I expressed my concern that foreign nationals continue trying to use flight schools as a means to harm Americans, and asked what is being done to prevent exploitation of flight training programs. I also asked for more information on a recent incident involving a Jordanian national who crashed a small plane near critical infrastructure in Connecticut.

I announced this week that I will retain my seats on the Senate Judiciary, Finance, Agriculture and Budget Committees. I also expect to retain my position as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee. These committees have broad jurisdiction that will continue to be helpful in serving the best interests of Iowans, and I will continue to focus on the issues important to our state.

I nominated 34 Iowa students to be considered for appointments to the U.S. service academies. Appointments will be offered over the next few months, but I am glad to announce that two students have already been notified of appointments. The U.S. Naval Academy has notified a student from Marion and the U.S. Air Force Academy has notified a student from Davenport about appointments to those respective academies. Admission is very competitive and a great honor. I congratulate them and look forward to more young Iowans joining their ranks. 

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