Friends, Before we reach the end of the calendar year, we have important legislation to move through the House of Representatives, such as the renewal and reform of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which is set to expire at the end of the year. This law allows the U.S. government to conduct targeted surveillance on foreign persons located outside the United States to collect vital intelligence and maintain the safety of all American citizens. Since 2001, information gathered under this authority has helped to prevent terrorist and cyber-attacks domestically. However, in recent years, the federal government—particularly the FBI—has abused FISA privileges to surveil on Americans without a warrant (which should not occur). This week, the House Judiciary Committee approved H.R. 6570, the Protect Liberty and End Warrantless Surveillance Act, which included key reforms in the reauthorization of FISA Section 702 to curtail the FBI’s ability to use FISA to obtain private information about Americans without a warrant. The Committee passed H.R. 6570 by an overwhelming vote of 35-2, with support from both Democrats and Republicans, and it includes a warrant requirement, as well as a number of other reforms to curtail domestic abuses without hampering the ability of the intelligence community to keep up safe from foreign threats. It is crucial that Congress reauthorize this legislation to safeguard the American people. But, it is equally crucial that we preserve the Fourth Amendment while doing so.
As Benjamin Franklin famously said: “Those who would give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.” Good words. |
The House passed the Protecting our Communities from Failure to Secure the Border Act, which prohibits the federal government from using federally administered land to provide housing to any immigrants who have not been legally admitted into the United States. The House also passed the No Funds for Iranian Terrorism Act to impose new sanctions that permanently restrict the transfer of frozen Iranian funds that were set to be transferred to Iran through a hostage deal made by the administration. We must not allow Iran – who continues to sponsor terrorism – to have another cent. |
This week, I introduced the No Technology for Terror Act, which would permanently restrict the transfer of U.S.-originated technology and equipment to Iran, who uses these products for violence and terrorism against our servicemembers overseas and our allies. Specifically, this legislation would codify the extension of the foreign direct product rule to prevent U.S. technology from contributing to Iran and its funded terror proxies.
To learn more, click HERE. |
This week in the Committee on Education and the Workforce, we held a timely hearing on antisemitism across college campuses, where we discussed the impacts of antisemitism on Jewish students and the recent surge in antisemitism across the nation. We heard testimonies from the Ivy League presidents of Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania (UPENN), and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), as well as a Dr. Pamela Nadell, a professor of history and Jewish studies at American University. Harvard, UPENN, and MIT have been the site of some of the most vile antisemitic harassment. Together, we demanded answers from these campus leaders about their failure to address antisemitism from both faculty and students towards Jewish students on their campuses. Unfortunately, the history of antisemitism on college campuses is not a new phenomenon, and we addressed how these leaders can combat the rise of anti-Jewish sentiment.
While questioning Harvard President Dr. Claudine Gay, I demanded accountability for the lack of consequences for students spreading antisemitism on campus and the failure of the institution to acknowledge the undeniable, liberal bias. Actions speak louder than words and I see no actions being taken to protect all students on college campuses. |
On Tuesday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee, in coordination with the American Jewish Committee (AJC), held a press conference alongside the families of those who are being held hostage by Hamas following the terrorist attack on Israel on October 7th. It was a somber but necessary occasion to shed light on the plight of their loved ones. During the press conference, we emphasized the urgent need for action to secure the release of all hostages. The families spoke of their loved ones and the grueling, unimaginable conditions they are experiencing under the captivity of Hamas. We expressed our unwavering support for the families who are enduring unimaginable pain and uncertainty. We stand united in our commitment to doing everything in our power to bring these hostages back home safely. |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran with families of those being held hostage by Hamas |
|
Thanks to all who joined me for my eleventh tele-townhall on Tuesday night! Tele-townhalls are the perfect opportunity for you to voice your opinion and hear about what’s happening behind the scenes in Washington, D.C. As always, it was a pleasure to speak directly with you, hear your concerns, and answer your questions. |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran and his daughter during his 11th telephone townhall |
|
I had the tremendous opportunity to speak about the role my faith has played in my journey to Congress with Tony Perkins. My faith continues to be a guiding force in my decision to run for office and has provided me with strength and perseverance during challenging times. This program allowed me to openly discuss the values and principles that have influenced my actions as your representative.
I believe that faith and freedom are intrinsically connected. Our country was founded on the principles of liberty and religious freedom, and it is important that we continue to embrace and protect these fundamental rights. Tune in on Christmas Day to watch Tony Perkins' Faith and Freedom Christmas special and learn about mine and my colleague’s relationship with the Lord and how it guides us in the work we do every day. |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran filming for Tony Perkins' Faith and Freedom special |
|
On December 4th, 1915, Henry Ford set sail to end World War I (WWI) on his peace ship. The ocean liner, Oscar II, sailed across the Atlantic with peace activists aboard in an effort to end WWI. While at sea, there was an influenza outbreak and constant fighting among activists, bringing the group’s journey to end just four days after landing in Norway. |
Dealing with federal agencies can be complicated, and my office is here to help. If you need help with Social Security, the IRS, passport renewals, the VA, or other federal agencies – please do not hesitate to reach out to my office by calling (903) 561-6349 or visiting my website by clicking HERE.
It is an honor to be your voice in Congress. With gratitude, |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nathaniel Moran
Member of Congress
|
|
|
What is the official state flower of Texas? The Bluebonnet. |
What famous, female country singer grew up in Lindale, TX? Check next week’s newsletter for the answer to this week’s Texas Trivia question! |
|
