​Dear Friend,

The Homeland Security bill was separated from the other 11 appropriations bills last fall at the request of Democrats, who raised concerns about deportation and border operations. In hindsight, that decision made an already difficult process even harder. It was a mistake not to handle it along with the other 11 bills like Defense, Agriculture, Interior, and others. Since that time, the fundamental disagreement over this administration’s policy on the border and immigration has created partisan gridlock. It has been, so far, impossible to come up with something that strikes any kind of fact-based balance.

The situation was further complicated by the shootings in the Twin Cities in January, and since then both sides have traded talking point political barbs, with no real process taking shape. The House has passed, three times, the original funding bill that was agreed upon in a bicameral, bipartisan fashion, that bill has been largely ignored.

Last Friday, at three in the morning, with only a handful of people on the floor, the Senate used a procedure called unanimous consent, where the person in the chair relied on a voice vote to move forward a bill that excluded funding for ICE and Border Patrol. They immediately sent that to the House and left town.
To be clear, this bill is not the same bill that was proposed by Rep. Rosa DeLauro, but since truth has very little to do with a lot of what people say around here, Democrats are claiming some sort of victory with this
Senate jam bill.

What you have here is no changes in immigration policy, for which TSA, FEMA, USCG, Secret Service, and CISA have allegedly been shut down for a record 48 days. Nothing has changed in a policy sense for ICE and Border Patrol and Border Patrol operations. They continue to be fully funded as a result of last year’s reconciliation bill. If you’re confused, you should be.

So, we’re back to where we started. Last Friday night, the House passed a bill to fully fund Department of Homeland Security for two months. It’s my hope that we can recognize that what we’ve been doing isn’t working.

I feel an obligation to apologize on behalf of the entire Congress. This has certainly not been anything resembling responsible focus on policies or problem solving. The collateral damage to federal employees was apparently just for sport because nobody has any trophy out of this other than thumping their chest on TV and misleading people.

However, one thing that has not wavered is that I, along with my colleagues in the House, voted four times to fully fund Homeland Security operations globally, support the efforts of this administration, and pay all our federal employees.

KEEP IN TOUCH

The obsession with political sport is dumb, but here we are. I’ll be in touch. 

Thank you for subscribing to the Amodei Report. I look forward to continuing to keep you up to date on the issues you care about most.

For additional information, please call my Washington office: (202) 225-6155, or Reno office: (775) 686-5760, or visit my website at Amodei.house.gov.

To receive updates on what I am doing in Washington and Nevada’s 2nd District follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

​Dear Friend,
 
I hope you’ve all had a strong start to the new year and are staying consistent with the goals you set on January 1. The beginning of this year has delivered plenty of new developments, and maybe even a few surprises. So, in the interest of saving you time, let’s dive right in.

 MILITARY OPERATIONS IN IRAN
 
For 47 years, the Iranian regime has sown seeds of terror and destruction against the West and our values, while viciously oppressing its own people. With every passing day that we fail to confront this radical regime and its proxy groups, they move one step closer to their goal of destabilizing the free world. As a leader of the free world, we have a responsibility not only to say that Iran cannot be nuclear-armed, but to promise that it never will be.
 
The time has come to make it clear that radical regimes seeking to undermine democracy, while enthusiastically chanting “Death to America”, will be met with the strength of America and its allies. 

God bless our troops and our partners as they work to protect our nation and defend the freedoms we hold dear.
 
ONGOING DHS SHUTDOWN
 
On January 22, the House passed the FY26 Homeland Security bill which was reached through bipartisan, bicameral negotiations. While the shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good are tragic, the investigations are ongoing and we will see what they produce. Shutting down DHS makes less than no sense when there are measures already in place to investigate any potential wrongdoings.

 At a time of heightened unrest around the world, using policy disputes to shut down our own departments is beyond irresponsible, and the consequences could be serious. Now is the time for Congress to get off its hands and fully fund the agencies that protect our people.


THE STATE OF THE UNION IS STRONG
 
While we all know you should never say mission accomplished, the mission is going well.
What missions are you talking about you might inquire? The ongoing work by Congress and this Administration to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pockets.
 
Tax season is here, and this year you will see direct benefits from the Working Families Tax Cuts we passed last year. The average tax cut per filer is $3,750. According to the IRS, Americans are receiving an average refund of $4,000, an 11% increase.
 
With childcare costs still described as untenable and often exceeding housing payments, we delivered real relief by expanding the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 and making it permanent.
 
Purchased an American-made vehicle? You may qualify for up to a $10,000 tax credit. And not to mention No Tax on Tips, No Tax on Overtime, and No Tax on Social Security.
 
At the grocery store, staples like eggs, cheese, milk, butter, and fresh fruits and vegetables are in far better shape than they were a year ago. We’re not ignoring the fact that there’s still work to be done on other items like coffee and beef.
 
So, how’s that gas mission looking? Whether you are driving to school, to work, or anywhere in between, and while we still have not fully solved the issue of being trapped by California refinery warfare, the average price in Nevada is a lot better than it was this time last year. In fact, drivers across the country are now paying less than three dollars a gallon for regular gas on average.
 
Housing supply and healthcare costs remain major challenges, but there is no doubt that the focus is squarely on those issues. We look forward to continuing the work to provide relief for all Americans, including the folks right here in Nevada. To see what Republicans in the House have done on these issues, check out H.R. 4317 and H.R. 1157.
 
While we have made real progress for working families, we will continue to keep an eye on issues and solutions that directly address affordability challenges.

EVERYTHING THAT GETS UBER POLITICIZED GETS DESTROYED


The Supreme Court dealt a blow to one of President Trump’s top priorities: tariffs. There’s no question we as a nation have been taken advantage of by unfair trade policies for years. One fact that is too often overlooked is that we are running the largest trade deficit in history. The goal of correcting that imbalance is something we should all be able to agree on. We want American industries, farmers, and businesses to compete and thrive. And that requires leveling the playing field.
 
Here in Nevada, our sheep producers are being pushed to the brink of extinction because trade conditions have allowed Australia to dominate the global sheep meat market, accounting for over 50% of total world exports as of 2023-2024. In 2024 alone, the U.S. imported over 309 million pounds of lamb which is a nearly 30% increase from the prior year. As a result, over 70% of lamb consumed in the U.S. now comes from foreign sources, while domestic production has dropped by over 60% since its peak in the 1990s.
 
I introduced a bill, which gives a voice to the concerns of our local producers, to impose a 30% tariff on lamb and sheep products from Australia and New Zealand, and we’re hopeful that consideration and awareness of this issue will give our folks a fighting shot.
 
While the President’s first play didn’t reach the end zone, that doesn’t mean the playbook is empty. His administration remains committed to pursuing negotiations with foreign leaders to secure equitable trade agreements. At the end of the day, it is not only risky for our economy to depend so heavily on imported goods, but also dangerous to build long-term reliance on products we are fully capable of producing ourselves. 

KNOW ANYBODY WHO’S RETIRING? 

Before you ask, no, I’m not terminal, and I can still run across the street to avoid getting run over. After 15 strong years representing CD-2, I thought it was the right time to pass the torch. We’ll see what the field looks like once the filing deadline passes, and I look forward to supporting the person who’s best qualified for the job.
 
It’s truly been the honor of my lifetime to represent you and the place I call home, but I still have work to finish before hanging up the cleats.
 
And for those of you wondering what I’ve got set up after I leave: simply nothing!

Washington, D.C. – Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Mark Amodei released the following statement following yesterday’s oversight hearing on the potential impacts of a DHS shutdown:
“Under the leadership of Chuck Schumer, progressive Democrats are now demanding that Congress weaken interior immigration enforcement or risk shutting down the entire Department of Homeland Security,” said Chairman Mark Amodei.

“If you think that’s acceptable because you oppose ICE or Border Patrol operations, it’s worth remembering that DHS funds far more than immigration enforcement. Threatening to shut it down puts core national security functions at risk.

“The Coast Guard, which carries out critical maritime search-and-rescue missions, would be sidelined. FEMA’s emergency preparedness and disaster recovery efforts would be delayed and disrupted, even as states across the country are still dealing with historic winter weather. At a time of heightened global tensions, DHS cybersecurity and communications capabilities would shift from proactive to reactive defense. During the last shutdown, Americans saw firsthand what happens when TSA operations are disrupted: longer wait times, widespread flight cancellations, and unnecessary chaos. Some lawmakers are apparently willing to see that happen again. 

“None of these consequences have anything to do with immigration enforcement.

“While I’ve previously said ICE needs to refocus on its core mission, that pivot is already underway. Under Tom Homan’s leadership, tensions in Minnesota were successfully deescalated through engagement with local officials, leading to the conclusion of surge operations in the state and the deployment of body cameras for personnel remaining on the ground.

“It’s also important to note that ICE still has resources funded in the One Big Beautiful Bill if the third shutdown in less than 100 days takes place. At the same time, a continuing resolution does little to resolve the issue, as it keeps funding at FY25 levels, which are actually higher than what’s proposed for FY26.
“Policy disagreements are not the responsibility of the appropriations process; rather, they should be taken up with the authorizing committees. I urge my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to reflect on the lessons of the longest government shutdown in history, which proved it accomplishes nothing.”

Watch the full hearing here. 
 
Read Chairman Amodei’s full remarks here.

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mark Amodei announced the inclusion of $34.85 million in 
appropriations for the continued development and expansion of the ShakeAlert West Coast earthquake early warning system, with language specifically directing the United States Geological Survey to initiate the expansion of the program into Nevada. 
 
This funding was secured in H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water 
Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026, which was signed 
into law by the President on January 23, 2026. 
 
“While neighboring states already have the tools and technology to warn residents of 
potential earthquakes, Nevada has lagged behind,” said Rep. Mark Amodei. “This funding will equip our state’s experts with the resources they need to implement a proven system 
that keeps Nevadans safe and communities prepared for seismic activity. I appreciate the 
University of Nevada for its leadership and advocacy on this issue, and it was an honor to 
work alongside them to secure the funding that will bring ShakeAlert to Nevada.”
 
“We thank Representative Amodei for his leadership in advocating for this funding to 
advance research and create much needed infrastructure for earthquake emergency 
response in Nevada,” said Brian Sandoval, President, University of Nevada.
 
"The possibility of ShakeAlert expanding to serve Nevada is really exciting,” said Christie 
Rowe, Director of Nevada Seismological Laboratory. “We will help the USGS develop a 
plan that fits Nevada's people, industries, and infrastructure to offer the best warning 
system possible. We are so grateful for the support from Nevada's congressional 
delegation that resulted in this critical step toward earthquake early warning for Nevada."
 
"The ShakeAlert system was designed in such a way that it could be expanded to other U.S. 
regions with high earthquake risk,” said Robert de Groot, Coordinator for 
Communication, Education, Outreach, and Technical Engagement for the ShakeAlert 
Program. “Possibilities could include the populated areas across high-risk regions of 
Nevada, Alaska, Utah, the New Madrid Seismic Zone, the Puerto Rico region, and 
elsewhere. Development of a technical implementation plan would be the first step in a 
multi-step process for ShakeAlert rollout to parts of Nevada."
 
Background
ShakeAlert works by detecting the fastest seismic waves close to an earthquake as soon as it starts. Computer algorithms compare the signals from several seismic stations and 
confirm that a large earthquake has occurred and trigger an alert. For areas farther away 
from the source of the earthquake, the alert arrives via cell phones and WEA Alerts before 
damaging seismic waves reach that location. 
 
The precious seconds of warning allow people to Drop, Cover and Hold to protect 
themselves, and allow trains, water supply systems, emergency services, manufacturing, 
schools, and health care facilities to put emergency measures in place or stop delicate 
procedures just before shaking begins.

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Amodei released the following statement:
 
"Serving the people of Nevada has been the honor of my lifetime. Nobody is prouder of our Nevada Congressional District than me. Thank you for the honor. Every achievement worth doing began with listening to Nevadans and fighting for our values.
 
I came to Congress to solve problems and to make sure our State and Nation have strong voice in the federal policy and oversight processes. I look forward to finishing my term. After 15 years of service, I believe it is the right time for Nevada and myself to pass the torch."

Washington, D.C. – Today, Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Mark Amodei released the following statements on the developments in Minnesota:

"A pivot to ICE’s core mission in Minnesota is needed. Prioritizing the most dangerous criminal aliens and focusing enforcement on individuals who have gone through due process and have final orders of removal is the stated core mission. Over the past 60 days, we’ve been compiling data to better understand the internal culture and operational decisions that existed prior to the recent fatal shootings in Minneapolis.

The fact that Tom Homan, along with CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott and former Deputy CBP Commissioner and Acting ICE Director Ron Vitiello, have been sent to assess the situation is an encouraging indicator that a pivot is happening; led by career law enforcement professionals, who have served under both Republican and Democratic Administrations. Those are the people who are now in charge in Minnesota. Additionally, Governor Walz talking on the phone with the President to coordinate efforts is another step in the right direction. What we’ve seen in the last 72 hours looks completely different from before, and that shift must continue. I look forward to the shooting investigation results in both instances in a timely manner.
That said, there is another player in the room who has not been exemplary, and that is the local agitators and politicians who have encouraged the continued interference with immigration enforcement operations. They share equal responsibility for creating a warzone mentality on the ground. State, local, and federal agencies must unify their efforts, leveraging their distinct authorities and resources to restore safety and order in Minnesota.

For those calling to shut down the Department of Homeland Security under the belief that it would be wise for the nation, I beg to differ. It is beyond reckless to shut down FEMA during unprecedented winter weather events that affect approximately 30 states. Sidelining the Secret Service, impeding Coast Guard operations, disrupting TSA during an already strained travel environment, and weakening CISA, who is responsible for critical cyber security protection, would defy logic and public safety.

The loss of any American life is tragic, and my thoughts are with the loved ones of both Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti. As the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman, I expect thorough and transparent investigations into what went wrong and immediate actions to ensure something like this never happens again.

I look forward to having bipartisan conversations with Mr. Homan and his team in the coming days."​

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 7147, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026. With the passage of this bill, along with H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, the House completed its work on government funding for the fiscal year. Homeland Security Subcommittee Chairman Mark Amodei issued the following statement after its passage in the House of Representatives:
 
“When we look back to a year ago and the disaster at the border the Trump Administration inherited, it’s clear the voices of the American people were taken seriously when they went to the ballot box with the hope of more secure borders, streets free of drugs and violent criminals, and the peace of mind that comes with safer communities,” said Chairman Mark Amodei. 
 
“This funding addresses every aspect of our national security where the United States could be vulnerable. It strengthens protections across air, land, maritime, and emerging cyber domains, while supporting innovation, training, and modern technologies needed to stay ahead of bad actors and adversaries.
 
“It’s also fiscally responsible, saving taxpayer dollars by cutting programs and offices that pursue missions unrelated to security of the homeland and refocusing resources on initiatives that truly keep Americans safe.
 
“The road to restoring regular order was not an easy one, but Chairman Cole’s leadership and commitment to the process brought us to this point. I want to thank my colleagues on the committee and the subcommittee staff for their partnership and hard work in getting this across the finish line.”
 
Key Takeaways:

• Enhances resources to detect and counter the spread of deadly drugs, like fentanyl, that poison our communities. 
• Supports security preparation and planning for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, America250, the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, and other National Special Security Events. 
• Funds the 2026 pay raise and avoids a Coast Guard recruiting pause.
• Sustains funding for 22,000 Border Patrol agents. 
• Counters China by increasing the Coast Guard’s Indo-Pacific footprint. 
• Bolsters custody operations to detain and deport all criminal and removable aliens. 
• Improves baggage screening equipment at airports.
• Invests in unmanned systems to improve maritime domain awareness.
• Enables the staffing of critical positions at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to counter the threat from China. 
• Eliminates handouts to non-governmental organizations that facilitated the Biden border crisis.  

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed a third package of two full-year FY26 appropriations bills, including Financial Services and General Government, and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs.
 
“Chairman Cole is leading an effort many doubted was possible and one that has not been accomplished in some time: restoring regular order in the appropriations process. With the passage of today’s third minibus, the House has now advanced more than half of the twelve appropriations bills required to reach the finish line. Each of these bills has been finalized through good-faith negotiations in both chambers and on both sides of the aisle.
 
“This two-bill package protects Americans by combating illicit drugs entering our country, promotes stability by focusing resources on allies that advance U.S. interests, and enhances accountability by preventing adversaries from exploiting U.S. assistance. It also modernizes government operations by reining in a weaponized IRS, bolsters economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship and small business development, and counters malign cyberattacks by strengthening technology defenses.
 
“Not only is this a fiscally responsible package that cuts billions in spending, it demonstrates a stronger approach to governing that delivers cost-saving results for taxpayers.”
 
You can find the bill text here.

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives took another meaningful step toward restoring regular order by advancing the bipartisan, conferenced Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026.
 
Rep. Amodei was able to secure $17.8 million for 10 locally driven projects across Northern Nevada in this minibus.
 
“This bipartisan, bicameral funding package reflects the diligent work of Appropriators to keep progress moving forward and prevent chaos from derailing our responsibilities. With a few bills still to finalize, the passage of three additional Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills sets the year off on strong footing and moves us closer to our goal of restoring regular order.
 
“This package focuses on priorities that matter to Americans nationwide. It invests in public safety, supports access to affordable and reliable energy, strengthens deterrence against foreign adversaries, ensures National Parks remain open and accessible, responsibly stewards taxpayer dollars, fully funds programs families and communities rely on, and much more.
 
“Also included is funding for 10 essential projects across Northern Nevada. I’m grateful to the subcommittee chairs for their thoughtful consideration and for recognizing the value these investments will bring to improve the lives of Nevadans in CD-2.”
 
FY26 Community Project Funding Awardees 
Included in Interior and Environment:
​
Recipient: Reno-Sparks Indian Colony
Amount: $2,224,000
Project Name: Hungry Valley Water Pipeline Installation
 
Recipient: Gardnerville Ranchos General Improvement District
Amount: $2,000,000
Project Name: Gardnerville Ranchos South District Pipeline Replacement
 
Recipient: City of Fernley
Amount: $2,000,000
Project Name: Fernley Water Treatment Plant
 
Recipient: City of Elko
Amount: $2,000,000
Project Name: City of Elko Water Storage Tank
 
Recipient: Lyon County
Amount: $1,938,000
Project Name: Dayton Sewer Main and Manhole Rehabilitation Project
 
Recipient: City of West Wendover
Amount: $2,000,000
Project Name: Water Transmission System PCCP Pipeline Replacement Project
 
TOTAL INTERIOR PROJECT FUNDING: $12,162,000
Included Commerce, Justice, Science:
 
Recipient: City of Reno
Amount: $1,200,000
Project Name: Reno Police Department’s Real Time Information Center
 
Recipient: Douglas County
Amount: $400,000
Project Name: Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Mobile Command Center
 
Recipient: City of Fallon
Amount: $1,000,000
Project Name: Fallon Police Department Dispatch and Emergency Response Communication Network and Records Management System 
 
Recipient: Washoe County
Amount: $3,000,000
Project Name: Northern Nevada Mobile Intelligence Response Vehicle
 
TOTAL CJS PROJECT FUNDING: $5,600,000
Background: 

• By moving these next three bills forward, this measure keeps the Committee on track to complete all 12 FY26 appropriations bills.
• Gone are the days of bloated, backroom omnibuses. Thanks to Republican governance, funding decisions will move through a deliberate, member-driven process that emphasizes transparency, accountability, and timely consideration.
• Differences between the House and Senate versions of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies; and Interior, Environment and Related Agencies appropriations bills were reconciled through bipartisan, bicameral negotiations led by House and Senate appropriators.
• The package contains no poison pills.
• This package is part of an agreement that keeps total FY26 spending below the level projected under the current continuing resolution, delivering real savings for American taxpayers.

Text of the three-bill package is available here.

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mark Amodei released the following statement after celebrating the annual Capitol Christmas Tree lighting.

This year’s tree was selected from the Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, marking the first time Nevada has been represented in this tradition. 

“Watching a tree, grown in the heart of Nevada’s Second Congressional District, light up the West Lawn of the Capitol stands as one of the most memorable and meaningful moments of my service in Congress,” said Rep. Mark Amodei. “Nevadans know the beauty of our state, and this year, for the first time since this tradition began, that beauty was shared with the nation.

“I’d like to extend a special thank you to everyone who was involved, from the selection of the tree to its careful journey to Washington, D.C. This was a proud day for Nevada, and I was honored to be part of it.”