Representative James Walkinshaw highlighted the one-year anniversary of the "One Big Beautiful Bill," criticizing its impact on Virginians and advocating for policies that support working families and protect healthcare. He also announced new bipartisan legislation aimed at strengthening national cybersecurity defenses and called for the release of approved foreign assistance funds.
Walkinshaw stated that the "One Big Beautiful Bill," signed into law by President Trump a year ago, has resulted in "historic cuts to health care and food assistance while providing another round of tax breaks for billionaires and big corporations." He noted that in Virginia's 11th District, 10,005 people are projected to lose health coverage due to Medicaid cuts. "I have opposed this law from the beginning because I believe your tax dollars should lower costs, protect health care, support working families, and create opportunity," Walkinshaw said, vowing to continue fighting for affordability and accountability.
In a bipartisan effort, Rep. Walkinshaw and Congressman Don Bacon introduced the Cybersecurity Logging Enforcement and Accountability Reporting (CLEAR) Act. This bill aims to strengthen national cybersecurity by requiring the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to identify and report cybersecurity gaps to Congress, providing a plan for remediation, and publishing an unclassified public summary. This initiative follows a government watchdog report indicating DHS is not fully meeting federal cybersecurity standards.
Additionally, Rep. Walkinshaw joined a bipartisan group of Members of Congress urging the Administration to release nearly $19 billion in foreign assistance approved by Congress. These funds are intended to combat disease, address humanitarian crises, strengthen allies, and advance U.S. national security interests, with a September deadline approaching for their potential expiration.
The Congressman also reported on local initiatives, including a Passport Intake Day hosted with Congressman Suhas Subramanyam and the Washington Passport Agency, bringing services to Fairfax and Loudoun Counties. He encouraged residents to celebrate the Fourth of July safely, adhering to Fairfax County fireworks regulations, and highlighted community events like the Fairfax County Park Authority's drone show and a naturalization ceremony in Vienna. Walkinshaw also shared warnings about extreme heat expected in the region, advising residents to use cooling centers and take precautions. He affirmed his commitment to carrying the voices and priorities of his community in Congress.