Last updated on Sat December 24, 2022 at 12:46 PM Washington DC time.
Israel - Palestine
Brown (D-OH-11) 12/23/2022: Twitter thread – “I am pleased that my legislation designating the Kol Israel Holocaust Memorial as a National Memorial was included in the omnibus bill. Dedicating this memorial as a National Memorial is a historic moment for the survivors who erected it & families who maintain it to this day. Link to image It is quite a blessing that the Kol Israel Holocaust Memorial bill's passage – my first to land on the President's desk – comes during the Festival of Lights, when we commemorate the perseverance of the Jewish people over adversity. My full statement: Rep. Brown Celebrates Bicameral Passage of Bill Designating the Kol Israel Foundation Holocaust Memorial as a National Memorial | Representative Shontel Brown”
Huffman (D-CA-2) 12/23/2022: Tweet – “Deeply disturbing. A Rush of Far-Right Initiatives by Israel's New Government Raises Concerns A Rush of Far-Right Initiatives by Israel's New Government Raises Concerns... | nyti.ms”
McCaul (R-TX-10) 12/23/2022: Twitter thread – “LR @RepMcCaul on the passage of the Dems' $1.7 trillion Omnibus bill⬇️ LR @RepMcCaul: “I support UKR unreservedly. Unfortunately, the Dems tacked the latest UKR aid to a reckless spending package and I couldn't vote yes. Next Congress, I will ensure there is more oversight & urge Biden to send UKR the weapons it needs, including ATACMS.” LR @RepMcCaul: “The Dem bill guts US law blocking funding to UN entities (like UNESCO) admitting ‘Palestine' as a member. There's no US natsec interest in rejoining UNESCO & it costs taxpayers tens of millions a year, which should be spent on REAL action countering the CCP.” LR @RepMcCaul: “This bill failed to fund critical support for Taiwan to deter CCP aggression around the island, despite an overwhelming bipartisan vote authorizing this support in the Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act (TERA), included in the NDAA earlier this month.” LR @RepMcCaul: “The Omnibus bill provides the first ever authority for direct US funding to support the International Criminal Court - even though the US is not a member - and the unaccountable ICC claims the right to investigate US troops.””
Lebanon
Balderson (R-OH-12) 12/23/2022: Twitter thread – “With only days remaining in the 117th Congress, the Democrats are engaged in a last-ditch spendthrift chock-full of policies that are out-of-touch with the priorities of everyday Americans. [1/7] At no time in modern history has the outgoing Majority in Congress - with one foot out the door - rammed through an omnibus spending package during a Lame Duck session. [2/7] This closing act will bring new spending totals, in just two short years of one-party Democrat control in Washington, to more than $5 trillion. [3/7] On November 8, the American people made their voices heard by voting in a new Republican Majority to the House of Representatives to curb the runaway spending that is fueling record-high prices and making our country less safe. [4/7] This reckless spending is a direct affront to the will of the voters. [5/7] The 4,126-page, $1.8 trillion spending spree takes the problem of record-high inflation from bad to worse and adds hundreds of billions more to our already massive national debt. [6/7] Among many ironies in this omnibus package is a provision barring @CBP from investing in proven methods to curb the flow of illegal drugs and migrants across our border while simultaneously investing $410M to secure the borders of Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Tunisia, and Oman. [7/7]”
Iran
Cassidy (R-LA) 12/23/2022: Tweet – “The Iranian regime is afraid and cowardly murdering its own people that choose to stand for their freedom. The regime has lost any shred of legitimacy it may have once clung to. #AmirNasrAzadani Exclusive: Iranian footballer is among dozens facing execution while the West is distracted by Christmas, supporters fear | CNN”
Cornyn (R-TX) 12/23/2022: Retweet of @ksadjadpour – “Protests have continued for 14 consecutive weeks in Zahedan (southeast Iran), despite having suffered hundreds of casualties. Their slogans denounced executions and @khamenei_ir and called for the release of political prisoners. Link to video”
Lamborn (R-CO-5) 12/24/2022: Twitter thread – “2022 has been marked by numerous accomplishments for the U.S. in national security space : ✅ 2nd @SpaceForceCSO ✅ @SpaceForceDoD 3rd birthday ✅ Artemis 1 success by @NASA ✅ 1st satellite in lunar orbit 2022 has also shed light on immense & worsening challenges we face in space : ❌ Biden Admin. unilateral destructive ASAT ban ❌ US over-classification of space programs ❌ China completes space station ❌ ISS forced to evade Russian space debris ❌ Iran advances in space launch I look forward to continuing to advocate for rapid advancements to advance our interests + deter and stay ahead of our competitors in space in the 118th Congress alongside @HASCRepublicans”
Pakistan
Sherman (D-CA-30) 12/23/2022: Twitter thread – “Good meeting with @JacksonLeeTX18 and #Pakistan Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari this week. We spoke about democracy and freedom of expression in #Pakistan. I want to thank my good friend @DrMahmood40 for his continued advice and advocacy on U.S.-Pakistan relations. Link to image We also discussed issues affecting Sindh, including the need to investigate the case of Dr. Anwar Laghari, a #Sindh activist who was assassinated in 2015 in Qasimabad.”
Jewish, Anti-semitism
Panetta (D-CA-20) 12/23/2022: Twitter thread – “This year's alarming rise in antisemitic incidents cannot be ignored. As celebrities attempt to mainstream antisemitism, we need to be clear that hate has no place in our communities or in our public discourse. Failing to condemn antisemitism, allows these hateful words to escalate into violence and senseless tragedy. We saw this in Jersey City, in Pittsburgh, in Poway, Colleyville and so many other communities here at home and around the world. As our communities celebrate Hanukkah, we need to recommit ourselves to this effort. Stand with our Jewish friends and neighbors against this rising tide, educate others, and work to build a world without antisemitism, bigotry, or discrimination. Antisemitism casts darkness amid Hanukkah lights... | washingtonpost.com”
Schatz (D-HI) 12/23/2022: Twitter thread – “My Communications Director is on vacay ask me anything. Link to reply@brianschatz Do you have a favorite Pokemon @jiminyjobbers55 I do not Link to reply@brianschatz How long is your flight home? @PugChiMom It's ten hours but usually not a direct nonstop. Link to reply@brianschatz which fallout new Vegas ending did you pick? @opinonhaver Idk what those words mean Link to reply@brianschatz Eggnog or mulled cider? You can only choose one. @maretorliss Cider Link to reply@brianschatz Best thing about not living in a place with -35° wind chills? @jessematheny_ The people Link to reply@brianschatz What's the best part of being a Senator from Hawaii? @david_darmofal The people Link to reply@brianschatz Best holiday snack? @mikeamessina Poke Link to reply@brianschatz is Die Hard a Christmas movie? @obamasghost7 No didn't Willis settle that? Link to reply@brianschatz did you watch the white lotus? @robcordero I didn't like it at first but was distracted so gonna give it another run. Link to reply@brianschatz favorite Ninja Turtle @DrewSav Defer to you sir Link to reply@brianschatz Who in the Senate do you feel like has the best sense of "where the voters are" i.e. understands where the D coalition is and where it is headed? @Sklarsky Chuck Schumer Link to reply@brianschatz Who in the Senate do you feel like has the best sense of "where the voters are" i.e. understands where the D coalition is and where it is headed? @Sklarsky And Sherrod Link to reply@brianschatz Will Hawaii continue to invest in high-capacity public transit projects? @DHNguyen01 Yes but we have to finish the one we are in the middle of. Link to reply@brianschatz Is it true that a disproportionate amount of your time as a senator or congressperson is spent fundraising in some capacity? @tupelojason It's worse for house members. For a member not “in cycle” it's probably 3 one hour events per week. But these stories about spending 75 percent of one's time fundraising never seemed like my experience. Link to reply@brianschatz If you could be a senator from any state other than Hawaii which state would you choose? @Dnlmsstch This is a trap Link to reply@brianschatz Can you guarantee me some warmth next month when we go back to Hawaii for vacation? Gonna be -10F here with the windchill tonight in NC 😅🥶 @shawnsaito I can guarantee you it will be beautiful and not freezing. Doesn't mean it won't rain. Link to reply@brianschatz What do you have planned for the weekend? Haven't heard about the volcano in a while. @pdevhecht Very little - jump in ocean, eat, hang w fam. Link to reply@brianschatz Hello. I have a question. Can you stop? Thx. @MikeInacay Michael you are on vacation enjoy it! Link to reply@brianschatz Latkes: shredded or grated? @JacobRubashkin Grated. Link to reply@brianschatz Despite being one of the Senate's most heartfelt and gifted orators, you don't do the talk show circuit. Why is that? @TweetsByBerto I don't stipulate to the first part of that question. TV is something I may do a bit more of but given my travel schedule and what a time commitment it is to do the shows I just haven't prioritized it. That may change, slowly. Haven't decided. Link to reply@brianschatz What is the best way to get out of a very depressing day? @NathanIWinston1 Exercise Link to reply@brianschatz Favorite Star Wars movie?! @Tyler_Eliades Hmmmm empire I think Link to reply@brianschatz Favorite clothing item @PenalvaCubana Whatever my softest cotton tee shirt is at any given time, and a pair of Birdwell board shorts. Link to reply@brianschatz Which is the worst Hawaiian island? @KevinMKruse Las Vegas. Link to reply@brianschatz Why didn't Dems raise the debt limit through reconciliation in the lame duck? @jackfitzdc We didn't have the votes Link to reply@brianschatz Thank you again for your key leadership on chronic #pain research and establishing VHA #Headache Centers of Excellence. @headachedoc This is a cool thing and will change a lot of lives. Link to reply@brianschatz Favorite Hawaii Island? @alisha_hg I can't answer that!! Link to reply@brianschatz What are you looking forward to in the next congress? @BidenHarrisFan More climate action. Link to reply@brianschatz Favorite bill passed in the last two years? @BidenHarrisFan IRA Link to reply@brianschatz Also what is your most cancellable holiday opinion? @mcbyrne Turkey is boring and should be replaced by duck at Thanksgiving Link to reply@brianschatz Should EPA go further, faster on using the Clean Air Act to rein in pollution in the power sector? @jamalraad Yes Link to reply@brianschatz What is your favorite politics book you'd recommend to the audience? @PMcgawesome All of Robert Caros books and anything by @AnandWrites Link to reply@brianschatz Top five best states @ppavnr Hawaii Link to reply@brianschatz Do you foresee a migration of government officials (congresspeople, federal institutions) to Mastodon or similar and away from Twitter? @riindael No Link to reply@brianschatz What was the biggest or fairest concession you felt was made to get the latest federal spending bill through? @Jordan_Dallas It was defense spending which made me uncomfortable but w Ukraine spending in it - fair enough . Link to reply@brianschatz Will you run for POTUS? @hotelkeys Never. Ever. Link to reply@brianschatz How many members of the Senate use transit or ride bikes regularly? @RonitADancis Very very few. A bunch walk to work. But many get driven in and use the time to start their meetings in the car. Link to reply@brianschatz Which Republican Senator would you most likely want to go on a road trip with? @shwayabdella I've got jokes but I'm gonna just pass. Link to reply@brianschatz When you get back to our beautiful islands- where's your go-to grindz spot? @MrAloha14 Keeaumoku Seafood. Link to reply@brianschatz What can you tell us about the incoming Governor of Hawaii? @ElliotEBK He's smart and decisive. Link to reply@brianschatz Can something be done to criminalize the abomination of so-called "Poke bowls" that are just a salad with a little raw fish on top? @BadExampleMan customers have too many flavor options and then people inevitably ask for a little bit of everything and it's confusing and nasty. And there's literally not enough fish. And usually the rice is 🫤. I'm sure there are exceptions and I'm sorry for even saying this! Link to reply@brianschatz Do you think nuclear is a useful tool to decarbonize the energy sector? Should government subsidize it in some fashion / encourage its use? @Gwpass1 Yes yes Link to reply@brianschatz Why haven't the Democrats disarmed the debt ceiling? Even with reconciliation, this needs to be taken off the tables - for both parties? What are your thoughts? @MSethG Because we don't hVe the votes to do that in that way rn Link to reply@brianschatz When do you think Hawaii will legalize cannabis? And what state models might inspire it? @JewsWondering Soon but not sure re the second part of your question . Link to reply@brianschatz do you like spam musubi @mendhamsliver Of course. People who don't like spam are usually people who haven't had it prepared properly or are just being a bit snobby. Link to reply@brianschatz thoughts on White Lotus S1? @LEBassett Re-starting it this holiday. I've been busy! Link to reply@brianschatz Thoughts on ranked choice voting and @DonBeyerVA's Fair Representation Act with multimember congressional districts? @tim_mellman @DonBeyerVA None yet. Link to reply@brianschatz @LEBassett senator, should they do a real housewives in Hawaii? @MrNateWatson @LEBassett They haven't? Link to reply@brianschatz What should our communities (and our leaders) do to increase access to affordable housing? @MaxGlick Legalize housing. Restrictive zoning has deeply right wing roots and the modern left has to embrace an abundance agenda for the next generation rather than let people who already have homes stop everyone else from sharing in the American dream . Link to reply@brianschatz can i do your tweets until they get back @ashleyfeinberg Sure will send pw rn Link to reply@brianschatz Where should I take my in-laws during our 48-hour layover in Honolulu next month? @Zachary_Cohen Assuming Oahu, seriously dm me and I will send ideas. Link to reply@brianschatz what's your favorite movie and/or TV show of the year @aoxamaxoa Still Ozark Link to reply@brianschatz Have you ever been to the Hawaii Bowl? @JoeySchmittPhD Yep Link to reply@brianschatz Did you alway know you wanted to be a Senator? If not, when did you know representing people in government was your calling? @nicholasrob23 Mid twenties I knew I wanted to be elected but the Senate job was not the plan. Link to reply@brianschatz Is there any chance for a permitting reform bill passing next Congress? @BlackMadness317 Absolutely Link to reply@brianschatz which other senator do you think you can 100% take in a fight? @mysteriousinscr For sure it's @ossoff Link to reply@brianschatz What's a piece of advice you'd share with people who want to get into politics but don't care for vitriol @Gabe203 Do it anyway. Link to reply@brianschatz Chances you're going to have access to the Twitter password once your communications director gets back to work? @EmExAstris He secretly loves this Link to reply@brianschatz Should the federal government increase investment in non-car infrastructure? (Biking, Public Transit, etc) @Alexcs114 Yes and we did. Link to reply@brianschatz I am in a binge reading session on the history of HI, I have read Unfamiliar Fishes, and Shoal of Time so far, do you have any other suggestions? @Lightguy911 Land and Power. Catch a Wave. Link to reply@brianschatz On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your interest in being a candidate for president one day? @june_yasemsky Minus 5 Link to reply@brianschatz Should Ukrainians be worried about America's continued support after the GOP comes to power in the House? @coco_chatel Yes but not overly worried. Link to reply@brianschatz Who do you like seeing in the subway more -- @burgessev or @bresreports @TalKopan @burgessev @bresreports @marianne_levine Link to reply@brianschatz Will the House be able to function at any reasonable level over the next two years, or should i give up hope? @ZingherPolisci Unclear Link to reply@brianschatz Wondering if you can recount from personal experience how a fav spot has ailed due to climate change? @HopperUsher Coral reef bleaching at my favorite surf spot Link to reply@brianschatz Leonard's or Pipeline Bakery malasadas? @evannordby Leonard's Link to reply@brianschatz Both my wife and I have never been to Hawaii. We also have a 1 and a half year old and are expecting another. We're thinking of taking a Hawaii baby moon. Any recommendations for where to go? @LionZoo13 You cannot go wrong. Each island is different and seriously there are no bad choices. Link to reply@brianschatz Best restaurant in DC according to you. @lvisxvii St Anselm or Rasica Link to reply@brianschatz Is Red Hill doing ok? @MichaelFromIL I would not say that. But we are determined to drain the tanks. Link to reply@brianschatz Do you play Magic? @angryantpile No Link to reply@brianschatz What's the worst Senate rule whose badness even politics dweebs underestimate? @Saving_TheDogs That we need to get sixty votes just to start considering legislation. Not to pass it, just to consider something. Link to reply@brianschatz What's the Jewish community in Hawaii like? @wickedmitch_ Small but thriving Link to reply@brianschatz Do you think the media should give @POTUS more credit for ALL the things he's accomplished in the last two years @asmclamb @POTUS Yes and @SenSchumer Link to reply@brianschatz Applesauce or sour cream? @AkselBen Sour cream. I used to have to take medicine w Apple sauce so it still kinda makes me gag Link to reply@brianschatz When are you planning to run for president? And will Murphy be your VP? @aredston1 Never. Link to reply@brianschatz Who's your favorite republican? @realoatmilk Don't want to get them in trouble w the base Link to reply@brianschatz Who are your favorite mainland sports teams? @Mi2Media Wizards Commies and right now Griz Link to reply@brianschatz Pie or cake? @jtackeff Pie - not a close call Link to reply@brianschatz Is Moneyball the best baseball movie of all time, and if not, what movie is? @RobbieSchles I think so. Link to reply@brianschatz What the best advice/truth you'd give to high school seniors and new voters about American government and democracy? (PS I already tell them to vote, so that answer is taken!) @jpchewning Democracy is not what we have it's what we do. Link to reply@brianschatz @emptywheel What is the best beach in Hawaii and why do you pick Kailua? @tweetingiswrong @emptywheel I do not pick Kailua beach and I'm not telling thousands of people to go to my favorite beach on this app. Link to reply@brianschatz Is this the most productive Congress that you've been a part of? @SadmanHasan1 💯 @BillyParvatam Jefferson Link to reply@brianschatz What's the best thing that happened to you this week? @lamoonfacedgirl The Omni passed and I didn't miss a flight Link to reply@brianschatz How many times on average a year do you travel from Hawaii to DC? That commute has gotta be brutal. @danwinesalot I've flown around 3 million miles in ten years. Link to reply@brianschatz How do you survive long flights? @BruneElections I sleep and sometimes I tweet! Link to reply@brianschatz Worst part about being a senator? @ShauryaPandya Travel Link to reply@brianschatz In the epic battles of @CoryBooker v @SenatorTester who do you think takes it? @CoreyBCantor @CoryBooker @SenatorTester I think Tester because he is more mean Link to reply@brianschatz Are you keeping track of what's happening at Red Hill? @phenomevo Every single day multiple times a day yes. Link to reply@brianschatz Equality Act when? @ParkerMolloy I don't know. I support it and want this to pass. Link to reply@brianschatz Second q — how confident are you about getting a bipartisan deal on permitting reform next congress? @ppavnr I wouldn't say I'm overconfident but we have to do it. Link to reply@brianschatz Sandy Beach or Makapu'u? @_DanMangan Makapuu I separated my shoulder at Sandys a few years back. Link to reply@brianschatz Which freshman senator are you most excited to work with next year? @aliemalie John F and also I've heard good things about Katie Britt. Link to reply@brianschatz What's your favorite antic for annoying your Comms Director? (Asking as a Comms director) @ThePolitiKat It's this one. Link to reply@brianschatz What the hell are we going to do about climate change now that 1.5 is no longer in the picture. @akornblatt Never ever give up. We just took the biggest action ever and now we have to get the permitting system to not be the bottleneck Link to reply@brianschatz What can you do at the federal level to assausge the Hawaiian housing crisis? @ChrisByBike I can get money for infrastructure and housing, and I do that, but we also need to make it easier to actually build housing. Link to reply@brianschatz 15 dollars min wage ? @malekkarim2 💯 Link to reply@brianschatz Do people really drink milk on the senate floor? @KMR31871 No but it is permissible but no coffee and yes I know how ridiculous that is Link to reply@brianschatz I like to go fishing. Like, a lot. Is there any nice freshwater places in Hawaii to fish? Never been @cmcalgary Yeah there's a lake on Kauai and at least one on Oahu. Link to reply@brianschatz Can we tie zoning incentives for more housing to federal money or alternatively get SCOTUS to abolish zoning to own the libs? @dajpearl IT IS IN THE OMNI AS THE BRAND NEW YES IN MY BACKYARD - YIMBY ACT Link to reply@brianschatz Which Dem Senator has the best sense of humor? @k_bombed Book Link to reply@brianschatz what's your take on telework for those who can? the state of Hawaii seems reluctant despite studies showing advantages in terms of life work balance, happiness- productivity among employees? @argeereyes My understanding is that it's happening in state govt Link to reply@brianschatz Best snack for the long flights to DC?? @ScotchCam I eat what they give me or if i really am thinking ahead I pack a bahn Mi @rebekahjolson @nycsouthpaw That's not accurate . Link to reply@brianschatz Should Hawaii have its own NBA team? @ddiamond I mean sure Link to reply@brianschatz thoughts on ICWA and Haaland v. Brackeen? anything Congress should do in response if it's ruled unconstitutional? @EddiePlaut We are monitoring closely. That is all I can say now. Unclear how they rule. Link to reply@brianschatz What convinced you to get into politics/run for office? @Mikeyeddy Climate Link to reply@brianschatz Most cancellable take about the Federal Government @iansandlerbowen It's not actually too large. Link to reply@brianschatz I want to take the family on vacation to the Big Island but my Gen Z kids say tourists are unwelcome by the locals and I want to be respectful if true. Thoughts? @lmf_tvtimes There is a lot of justified frustration about over tourism and people generally not behaving like guests - posting so called secret spots on IG and just behaving like it's their playground. But if you are polite and respectful and don't go where you aren't invited it's fine. Link to reply@brianschatz How many frequent flyer miles do you have? @kirsten_1982 It is a LOT Link to reply@brianschatz Shouldn't the Navy be responsible for all costs related to removing the Red Hill tanks? @SwombardiChron They are Link to reply@brianschatz Is the senate considering anything to combat the heavy increase of spam calls? @MushroomsOnMarz That's the FCC's job and they are working this Link to reply@brianschatz Do you think elected officials should note on social media posts/statements whether they or a staff member authors the message? @idaveprice Sure! This is me BTW Link to reply@brianschatz When will Hawaii football be nationally relevant again? @CamAlexander91 Unclear Link to reply@brianschatz What's the best system for storing Legos? @tristawinnie Throw them in a giant box Link to reply@brianschatz what do you find most annoying about new zealand? @ianbremmer That I've never been there Link to reply@brianschatz Have you ever flown out of Hana airport? It's so cool! (Link to twitter.com) @ShawnChittle When I was a child Link to reply@brianschatz Which senator is most universally hated by their colleagues? @UROCKlive1 Booker just kidding Link to reply@brianschatz Gas prices in Honolulu are still at $5.15. Can you offer any help at all? @zztype I do think it will drop but it's brutal I know. And honestly there is not that much an individual legislator can do on that since we are in the Asia market, so the price is stuck too high. Link to reply@brianschatz What are you excited about on the Indian Affairs committee next Congress? @danielwmatin Working w Lisa Murkowski and adding another D and getting whatever we didn't get done this congress completed early. Link to reply@brianschatz @MaxGlick Senator Schatz you should come to the next YIMBY gala in SF! @ArmandDoma @MaxGlick I might do that Link to reply@brianschatz these are the best threads. I'm a constituent residing in Kaimuki and I'm wondering Why not make habitat restoration a key component of the Ala Wai flood control reset? Wouldn't that be ideal to get Makiki/Manoa/Palolo buy in? Can you bring back a Chicken Madness w extra hots? @marcelhonore I think any big picture Ala Wai protection and watershed management plan should include ecosystem restoration. It has to be applied for separately from flood control. That's something we are changing in the law but meantime we need a local sponsor for ecosystem restoration. Link to reply@brianschatz What will Dems be able to do with 51 presumed Senate votes next year without a House majority? @tripgabriel Confirm a ton of judges. Subpoena people without Republican approval . Link to reply@brianschatz First thing I should eat when I get home to O'ahu tomorroe? @aileenburns Oxtail Link to reply@brianschatz @mikemckinnon Favourite food? Jello colour? @KWilsonMG @mikemckinnon Raw fish. No jello but thank you. Link to reply@brianschatz How can we tell if the prepackaged coffee is actually good/Kona? @nayyeroar Just read the label it's all there they are required to put the percent hawaii coffee. If you want 100 percent look for it, and also all islands have coffee. Kona is great, but there's excellent Ka'u, Oahu, Maui, and Kauai coffee. Link to reply@brianschatz NY or Chicago Pizza? @CleanAirMoms NY Link to reply@brianschatz Should I be following you? If so, why? @itsafronomics Do whatever you want! Link to reply@brianschatz Thoughts on limiting number of times congress members can get re-elected? @JoshGoFTW Not for it. Congress needs institutional knowledge to prevent the lobbyists from running the place. Link to reply@brianschatz Have you ever been to Da Crack on Kauai? One of the best burritos I've ever had in my life, to this day. @JTasTasTas No but will look for it Link to reply@brianschatz Will you help us get the Afghan Adjustment Act done next year? @shawnjvandiver Absolutely this was one of the biggest disappointments of the whole congress. Link to reply@brianschatz Odds of codifying Roe (or at least passing additional protections of any kind) in this upcoming session of Congress? @atima_omara Zero with a Republican house . Link to reply@brianschatz Do you think declaring the homelessness crisis a state of emergency — like Hawaii did in 2015 — did anything to help the situation on the ground? Make the issue more visible? Redirect funds easier? Looking for any sort of perspective. - A housing reporter in New England. @AlexaGagosz I defer to the Governor on this kind of thing. I know he's meeting w his team and weighing options, and I trust his judgement. Link to reply@brianschatz Thoughts on adding one year to the term of federal elected officials? President - 5 years Senate - 7 years House - 3 years 🤔 @marcaross No Link to reply@brianschatz When I lived in Hawaii in 1993-1994, there was some talk about developing geothermal energy and reducing dependence on imported oil. How much progress has been made on this idea? Also: what's one thing about Hawaii that yr Senate colleagues just don't understand? @TCurry_Himself There's still Geothermal power but it was extremely controversial and has not expanded. Link to reply@brianschatz favorite fy ‘23 earmark ? @jmart The stuff that went small nonprofits that have never received federal funding before is a big deal to me. Link to reply@brianschatz Are the bad guys worse or better than we know @etamny I think there is more decency and normalcy than you might think but the stuff that you see that looks like fascism is every bit as bad as it looks. Link to reply@brianschatz Two part question: Pt 1: How does Hawaii have 4 interstate highways? Pt 2: When can we expect high-speed rail to connect Hawaii w/ the mainland? @JeremyKossen 1) we are entitled to federal funds like every other state 2) 🤔 Link to reply@brianschatz How can we get Americans to bike on a national level? Are there road standards we can change? Cities aren't pulling their weight. @JonathanEby People can do whatever they want. But I want to make non car transportation as easy as possible don't treat cars like they matter more than people. like, I am sometimes a driver, sometimes a biker, sometimes a pedestrian so the point is to just have a system that makes sense. Link to reply@brianschatz Best time to visit Hawaii? @Gemma__RN Honestly it barely matters. I would pick the “shoulder season” just for price. Link to reply@brianschatz Favorite Pizza topping? @AlbenBarkleyFan anchovies Link to reply@brianschatz Which is the best island? @drvolts Dude I'm a politician Link to reply@brianschatz Is there any planning for ocean level rise that will make major roads impassable in Hawaii? For example: Kam Hywy on the North Shore and Kalanianaole Hywy on Oahu. @Christi60702693 Yes the office of state planning is point on this but we are all working together on climate adaptation. On Maui we are starting our first coastal Highway realignment. Link to reply@brianschatz How many Senators write their own tweets? @DanaHoule Without any staff fewer than five. Lots of members draft their own stuff and put them through a review process. I think it's likely only me and grassley and Murphy and Booker who actually control the account. But I have t asked a single member so I'm guessing. Link to reply@brianschatz Assuming it eventually happens, when do you think we'll see a permanent telehealth extension? @_BenLeonard_ I imagine the next extenders package is an ideal time for that. Link to reply@brianschatz Do you remember meeting Richard Ha and me when you were Lt. Governor? He told me then “That guy is going places.” @RRapier I remember that meeting hope you are well. Link to reply@brianschatz Ketchup on a hot dog yay or nay @mattlindner Is this controversial? I think it's fine. Link to reply@brianschatz What's your favorite cheese? @AnthonyMKreis Brie, cheddar, pecorino Link to reply@brianschatz Do Hawaiians take the pro bowl seriously? It seems like a vacation to me. @3fecta No one takes the Pro Bowl seriously although we are always happy to host football. Link to reply@brianschatz Favorite superhero? @HoustonKeene Wolverine Link to reply@brianschatz favorite senator of the opposing caucus @isilanorien Lisa, Susan, Mitt, Tillis, Cassidy, Thune, Young - there are several that I like. Link to reply@brianschatz When will we see the same action on abortion rights that Congress just took to protect marriage rights? @KristiCCoulter With R house it's not going to codified until we win both chambers again . Link to reply@brianschatz I'll be in Hawaii filming a movie in February. Will the weather be nice? @the_devik Of course Link to reply@brianschatz Where is that shore break in your banner picture and is that you barreled? @jan_itsallgoode Sandys and yes Link to reply@brianschatz How many times have your seen the movie NORTH SHORE (1987) ?? Drop a quote: @zuttermeister Once”
Sinema (I-AZ) 12/23/2022: Tweet – “Antisemitism has no place in our country. Glad the President heard our calls and created a federal task force to counter and raise understanding about antisemitism and its threat to the Jewish community and all Americans. Federal Task Force Countering Antisemitism Created Following Sinema's Urging... | sinema.senate.gov”
Afghanistan
Bacon (R-NE-2) 12/23/2022: Tweet – “Devastating consequence after devastating consequence in Afghanistan and in the reactions of our adversaries due to the totally botched withdrawal by this Administration from Afghanistan. One of the worst national security disasters in my lifetime. Taliban suspend university education for women in Afghanistan | CNN”
Coons (D-DE) 12/23/2022: Tweet – “Failing to pass the Afghan Adjustment Act this year will be remembered as one of the great moral failings of this Congress. We have to do right by the people who supported us in so many ways for 20 years. Link to video”
Fischbach (R-MN-7) 12/23/2022: Tweet – “This is just heartbreaking and it is a direct result of Biden's failed withdrawal from Afghanistan. Taliban suspend university education for women in Afghanistan | CNN”
Lieu (D-CA-33) 12/23/2022: Twitter thread – “This article confirms, again, that the only way the war in Ukraine ends is by crushing Russian forces in Ukraine. We need to provide Ukraine with tanks and more air assets. Folks who believe Putin needs an off-ramp or wants to negotiate don't understand he lives in fantasyland. Link to quoted tweetMr. Putin, current and former Russian officials and people close to the Kremlin say, remains fully committed to bringing Ukraine to heel and is ready to mobilize Russia's economy and population for years to succeed. (Putin, Isolated and Distrustful, Leans on Handful of Hard-Line Advisers... | wsj.com) Link to reply@tedlieu Where is the peace process? @bluetroll21 Based on this article it won't happen. There's only two outcomes: Russia conquers Ukraine or Ukraine defeats Russian forces. Link to reply@tedlieu He only has an off ramp if one is offered to him. You don't want this to end. @IsDrainBamaged Based on this article, the only off ramp is Putin conquers Ukraine. That is something Ukraine will never agree to. I want the war to end as quickly as possible. Which means we need to give Ukraine everything they need to win the war quickly. Link to reply@tedlieu There exists an off-ramp: Russia leaves Ukraine. Can happen anytime. @XE1000A Yes Link to reply@tedlieu That's so delusional. Russia hasn't even put forward the majority of its forces and it has nukes in the end. @nrkemper False. The public reporting is that Russia has put forward the majority of its forces. Link to reply@tedlieu Putin is demented. He forgot the Afghanistan debacle. And that 9-year failure cost the country fewer deaths than less than a year in #Ukraine. (Link to twitter.com) @JackPolakoff Correct Link to reply@tedlieu . War is NEVER the answer. @scheriedee That's why we need to stop Putin now. Because he will continue the war to other countries. Link to reply@tedlieu Warmonger gonna warmonger. @drsarc Do you support letting Putin conquer Ukraine?”
Swalwell (D-CA-15) 12/23/2022: Tweet – “A tragic reminder that what frightens extremists the most is a girl with a book. Education is hope — sadly the Taliban is taking that away — violating women's rights and preventing girls in Afghanistan from having a future. Link to quoted tweet'We can't go to school? Why?': Afghan woman outraged after the Taliban government suspended university education for all female students in Afghanistan in its brutal clampdown on rights and freedoms of Afghan women. @amanpour reports: (Watch: Protests erupt in parts of Afghanistan after Taliban suspends university education for women | CNN)”
Waltz (R-FL-6) 12/23/2022: Retweet of @Fla_Pol – “U.S. Rep. @MichaelGWaltz is petitioning @POTUS on behalf of an asylum seeker at the #USBorder Reporting by @AnneBoca Mike Waltz petitions Joe Biden on behalf of Afghan commando arrested near the border... | flapol.com #FlaPol”
Waltz (R-FL-6) 12/24/2022: Retweet of @JackCarrUSA – “Today's DANGER CLOSE episode features selections from interviews with combat veterans and journalists on the war in Afghanistan. @tobyharnden @peterbergencnn @CraigMWhitlock @SeanParnellUSA @michaelgwaltz @HorseSoldierUSA Find it via the link: Best of Danger Close: The Afghanistan Files... | m.youtube.com Link to image”
Other - Middle East
McCaul (R-TX-10) 12/23/2022: Twitter thread – “Last month, Americans voted for a Republican House majority to keep the Biden administration in check. Yet in the final hours of their one-party rule, Democrats rammed through 4,155 pages that will fund their failing agenda for another year. (1/3) While families struggle to afford food and gifts this holiday season, Democrats are spending $1.7 trillion on their own Christmas wish list, which includes a ridiculous $410 million for border security in the Middle East—& zero additional dollars for border security in TX. (2/3) I look forward to working with House Republicans in the new year to stop President Biden's radical agenda, secure our border, and bring back the economy Americans deserve. (3/3) McCaul Slams Democrats' Lame-Duck Spending Spree | Congressman Michael McCaul”