Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

RealClear Defense OP-ED: A Quantum Public Private Leap for America

Mon, 166 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

America must spur a quantum leap in our quantum computing capabilities. President Trump’s recent announcement that the Department of Commerce will invest more than $2 billion into America’s quantum computing sector while taking direct equity stakes to accelerate U.S. leadership marks a turning point in the global race for technological supremacy. The message is unmistakable and long overdue: quantum technology is no longer a theoretical research project confined to university laboratories. It is now a strategic national priority directly tied to America’s economic strength, military dominance, and national security.

Over a decade ago, in my second term of Congress, I served as Chair of the Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee. This is considered a prestigious policy leading position because it focuses not on legacy defense systems and companies of the past century, but instead looks to the future, with an eye towards investment in cutting edge defense capabilities with nascent and fast developing technologies to win not only wars of today, but wars of the future. My office was one of the earliest in Congress to discuss the importance of quantum and we continue to lead by advancing strategic prioritization and funding for this advanced technology. And now after a decade, this investment is bearing real fruit with a geographic quantum center of excellence and innovation in my home district in Upstate New York.

Quantum computing matters because it has the potential to solve extraordinarily complex problems exponentially faster than today’s traditional computers by harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics. Instead of processing information solely as binary 0s and 1s, quantum systems use qubits capable of representing multiple states simultaneously unlocking unprecedented computing power for logistics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, materials science, advanced manufacturing, and national defense. The nations that lead in quantum technology will shape the strategic balance of the 21st century.

America’s next military advantage will not be determined solely by tanks, aircraft, or naval fleets. It will be determined by which nation leads in quantum computing, quantum networking, quantum sensing, and secure communications technologies. Quantum systems have the potential to transform encrypted communications, optimize military logistics, improve battlefield awareness in GPS-denied environments, strengthen cyber defense, accelerate artificial intelligence, and fundamentally reshape modern warfare.

The Department of War has made clear that we are in an era of renewed strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party and other adversaries. Beijing is investing aggressively in quantum technologies because it understands exactly what is at stake. If America fails to lead in this domain the consequences will extend far beyond economics, they will directly impact deterrence, intelligence superiority, and battlefield readiness.

Recognizing the urgency of this challenge, Congress took an important step forward through passage of the bipartisan National Quantum Initiative Act, which established the first coordinated federal framework for advancing quantum research across the Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The legislation acknowledged that maintaining American leadership in quantum science beyond just laboratory experimentation was essential to protecting both our economic competitiveness and our national security.

That is why I worked in Congress to build a full-scale national quantum ecosystem supporting not only quantum computing itself, but also quantum networking infrastructure, photonic semiconductor manufacturing, workforce development, quantum sensing, and secure communications systems capable of supporting military operations in contested environments.

I was proud to help lead these efforts through the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act, legislation designed to establish a Principal Quantum Advisor within the Department of War and create a Defense Quantum Technology Testbed to accelerate the transition of quantum technologies from research to operational capability. The legislation recognizes a simple reality: the Pentagon needs a deliberate, coordinated strategy to identify, prototype, scale, and deploy quantum systems across the military services before our adversaries do.

Congress has also supported DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, a first-of-its-kind effort aimed at rigorously evaluating competing approaches to utility-scale quantum computing and identifying which technologies can solve real-world national security problems. In recent defense appropriations bills, I worked to secure significant federal investments supporting quantum research, networking infrastructure, and advanced computing initiatives at the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome, New York which has emerged as one of the nation’s premier hubs for quantum innovation.

Through sustained investment that I delivered in Congress over the past decade, Rome Labs has become a national center for collaboration among government researchers, universities, private industry, and defense partners working to deploy next-generation quantum capabilities. Investments in the Extreme Computing Facility and the Innovare Advancement Center have helped establish a cutting-edge ecosystem dedicated to secure communications, quantum networking, photonic chips, and advanced computing architectures.

Those investments are now producing tangible operational results.

Last year, IonQ, a leader in quantum computing and networking commissioned a groundbreaking trapped-ion quantum networking system at AFRL Rome, delivering enterprise-grade quantum capabilities directly supporting Department of War research and development missions. The deployment marked a major milestone in America’s effort to operationalize quantum networking technologies critical to secure communications, advanced sensing, and future battlefield coordination.

I also worked to fund advanced quantum networking infrastructure linking laboratories and testing facilities while advancing entanglement-distribution networks capable of enabling highly secure communications across both fixed and mobile platforms. These efforts represent some of the most advanced Department of War quantum networking initiatives currently underway anywhere in the country.

At the same time, partnerships between AFRL Rome and companies like PsiQuantum are accelerating development of photonic quantum computing systems and advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities here in the United States. These collaborations are helping ensure that the technologies defining the future are designed, manufactured, and deployed by America not outsourced to foreign competitors.

Scaling the supply chain to support the quantum industry as it matures is also important. Partnerships between Rome Labs and Interlune, the leading commercial company dedicated to securing the U.S. supply chain for critical materials, like helium-3, for quantum computing, are crucial. These critical materials will be necessary to ensure our quantum future as we scale from 100s of qubits to millions of qubits. A reliable, secure, and domestic supply chain is the key to ensuring our future success.

The broader lesson is clear: maintaining technological superiority requires more than isolated research grants. It requires a coordinated national strategy that aligns Congress, the Department of War, private industry, academia, and regional innovation ecosystems around a shared objective of achieving operational quantum advantage.

That strategy is exactly what I have worked in Congress to deliver and what President Trump’s new $2 billion quantum initiative reinforces. By making direct investments into American quantum companies and strengthening domestic quantum manufacturing capacity, the administration is recognizing what many of us in Congress have argued for years: quantum technology is foundational to America’s future economic and national security leadership.

From the laboratories of Rome, New York, to the warfighters stationed at Fort Drum, Upstate New York is helping build the next generation of secure communications, resilient networks, advanced sensing platforms, and utility-scale quantum systems that will define future military capability.

The strategic competition unfolding today will determine whether the United States or the Chinese Communist Party leads the next era of technological innovation. America cannot afford complacency. We must continue investing aggressively, scaling rapidly, and deploying operational quantum systems capable of preserving our military, technological, and economic superiority for generations to come.

The future of national defense will belong to the nations that master quantum technology first. America must continue to invest in this historic and strategic quantum leap.

Rep. Elise Stefanik is the Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership and a senior member of the House Armed Services and Intelligence Committees. She represents New York’s 21^st Congressional District, home of Fort Drum and the Air Force Research Lab in Rome, NY.

Read on RealClear Defense: https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2026/06/15/a_quantum_public-private_leap_for_america_1188587.html

Stefanik Leads Intelligence Committee Review of Post 9/11 Intelligence Reforms

Fri, 156 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

House Republican Leadership Chairwoman Elise Stefanik led an Intelligence Committee hearing to discuss the progress made on intelligence-related recommendations made in the 9/11 Commission Report and identify possible gaps and areas for improvement. This hearing is part of a year-long bipartisan review of the 9/11 Commission Report recommendations ahead of the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks later this year.

Read a full transcript of her opening statement as prepared for delivery:

Elise Stefanik: Thank you to Chairman Crawford, Ranking Member Himes, and my Co-Chair Congressman Gottheimer for working with me to convene today’s vitally important hearing. This is our FIFTH hearing or briefing as part of this commission.

Twenty-five years ago, our Nation endured the September 11th terrorist attacks that were beyond comprehension and forever changed the course of American history.

In the aftermath of 9/11, it became clear that our national security and intelligence architecture needed to evolve to meet a rapidly changing threat landscape. The reforms that followed strengthened coordination, intelligence sharing, and our ability to detect and disrupt threats on our homeland.

Today’s hearing is an opportunity to examine those reforms, assess what has worked, identify areas that require modernization, and ensure we continue adapting to emerging threats of today and the future.

The purpose of this commission is to review the effectiveness of the reforms that emerged from the 9/11 Commission Report and to evaluate whether our intelligence and national security institutions are fully equipped to address today’s challenges and tomorrow’s threats.

While the world has changed dramatically over the past twenty-five years, one reality remains constant: America continues to face determined adversaries who seek to exploit vulnerabilities and undermine our national security.

We are now confronting a rapidly evolving threat environment that includes advanced drone technologies, foreign malign influence operations, cyberattacks, biothreats, and artificial intelligence developments with profound national security implications.

Congress has a responsibility to confront these issues directly. We must ensure that our national security and intelligence institutions remain agile, forward-looking, and prepared to stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape before our adversaries can exploit gaps.

Today we are joined by a panel of witnesses who played significant roles in strengthening our intelligence community and national security framework in the years following 9/11.

Thank you all for being here today. I look forward to your testimony and to a thoughtful discussion on how we continue protecting the American people in an increasingly complex threat environment.

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Stefanik Advances Historic Wins for Fort Drum, Rome Labs, Upstate New York, the North Country, and America in the FY27 National Defense Bill

Fri, 156 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, House Republican Leadership Chairwoman Elise Stefanik, a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, voted to advance the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 out of Committee.

“Today, as a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, I was proud to help lead and shape this year’s national defense bill to strengthen our military in the face of rapidly evolving threats. This legislation restores peace through strength by rebuilding our defense industrial base, modernizing our military acquisition system, accelerating emerging technologies, and increasing the readiness and lethality of America’s fighting force,” said Chairwoman Stefanik.

“As the leading advocate for Fort Drum, the 10th Mountain Division, Rome Labs, and Upstate New York, I am proud to announce that I secured critical provisions and funding priorities that will strengthen our national security, support military families, expand cutting-edge defense innovation, and reinforce New York’s 21st Congressional District as a cornerstone of America’s defense and technological superiority. These provisions directly support President Trump’s America First national security agenda and ensure the United States remains the strongest military power in the world.”

The FY27 NDAA authorizes $1.15 trillion in investment in national defense modernization, emerging technologies, military readiness, missile defense, and servicemember quality of life - areas that I have led on throughout my tenure in Congress.

The House version of the NDAA will next be considered by the full House of Representatives.

Chairwoman Stefanik secured numerous provisions to support Fort Drum, the 10th Mountain Division, Rome Labs, Upstate New York, military families, America’s defense industrial base, and our strategic allies, including the following:

Strengthening Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division

Directs the Secretary of the Army, in coordination with the Commanding General of the 10th Mountain Division, to provide a briefing to the House Committee on Armed Services regarding next-generation weapons systems and Army modernization efforts.
Supports continued multi-domain operational modernization and experimentation activities benefiting Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division.
Requires the Secretary of the Army to establish a plan to diversify counter-unmanned aircraft systems to better protect American forces from evolving drone threats.
Supports operational experimentation and advanced lethality modernization initiatives benefiting close combat formations.
Supports continued investments in multi-domain operational readiness and contested environment modernization.

Delivering Major Wins for Rome Labs, Upstate New York, and the North Country

Secured more than $38 million in committee-approved funding and authorizations supporting quantum computing, quantum networking, defense innovation, operational experimentation, and next-generation military technologies.
Secured $10 million to support quantum entanglement distribution research, advancing next-generation secure military communications and resilient networking capabilities.
Secured $10 million to demonstrate a Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Quantum System, strengthening America's ability to operate in contested environments where GPS may be degraded or denied.
Secured $5 million for Ion-Trap Quantum Computer research supporting next-generation Air Force applications and operational capabilities.
Secured $3 million to expand Defense Innovation Unit ONRAMP activities that accelerate the transition of innovative technologies from startups and nontraditional defense contractors to warfighters.
Authorizes $2.5 million for the Future Flag Operational Experimentation Testbed supporting Air Force Research Laboratory Rome and operational experimentation activities conducted in Lewis, New York.
Authorizes $2.5 million for Photonic Quantum Computing research and operational transition activities associated with Air Force Research Laboratory Rome.
Authorizes $2.5 million for Distributed Quantum Networking Testbed and Quantum Cloud Computing Environment activities supporting secure military communications and operational resilience.
Authorizes $2.5 million for Autonomous Battle Management Across the Full Spectrum of Conflict (ABaMASC) supporting next-generation operational command and control capabilities.
Supports continued Air Force Research Laboratory quantum modernization initiatives and operational experimentation efforts.
Supports advanced LiDAR-enabled Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) technologies to improve force protection against emerging drone threats.
Directs the Department of Defense to provide a report on the use of rare earth magnets and recognizes the importance of establishing a secure domestic supply chain for critical materials and permanent magnets.
Directs the Department of Defense to provide a report regarding domestic production capabilities for aluminum-lithium alloys manufactured in Massena, New York.
Supports strengthening the Northeast defense innovation ecosystem and opportunities for nontraditional defense contractors.
Supports expansion of quantum networking, artificial intelligence, operational experimentation, and defense innovation partnerships across New York’s 21st District.

Supporting Military Families and Servicemembers

Supports the largest pay raise and compensation improvements for servicemembers and their families, strengthening recruitment, retention, and military readiness.
Includes provisions to reduce challenges military families encounter when relocating across state lines, particularly regarding school enrollment, credit transfers, academic continuity, and access to special education services.
Supports Department of Defense Impact Aid programs that help school districts serving Fort Drum military families meet the unique needs of military-connected students.
Requests a pilot program focused on improving childcare workforce compensation and expanding access to affordable, high-quality childcare for military families.
Requires a report evaluating Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) policies regarding student cell phone usage and screen time impacts to support student achievement and well-being.
Strengthens military housing oversight and quality-of-life initiatives to improve living conditions for servicemembers and their families.
Expands support for spouse employment, educational opportunities, and family readiness programs that help military families thrive while serving our nation.

Supporting America’s Ally Israel

Requests a report on the current status, condition, and adequacy of the War Reserves Stockpile for Allies–Israel (WRSA-I) to ensure critical readiness and deterrence capabilities.
Modifies and extends the United States-Israel Anti-Tunnel Cooperation Program through 2028 to strengthen joint efforts against terrorist tunnel networks.
Modifies and extends United States-Israel Counter-Unmanned Systems (C-UAS) cooperation authorities to improve defenses against evolving drone threats.
Authorizes robust funding for United States-Israel cooperative missile defense and security programs, reinforcing America's commitment to Israel's security.
Establishes expanded emerging technology cooperation initiatives with Israel focused on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, quantum technologies, automation, and other critical defense capabilities.
Strengthens bilateral defense research, development, testing, and evaluation efforts to accelerate innovation and maintain our shared technological edge.
Reinforces the strategic partnership between the United States and Israel in the face of growing threats from Iran and its terrorist proxies.

Confronting Communist China and Foreign Adversaries

Prohibits defense companies from contracting with the Department of Defense if they work with Chinese military companies or their subsidiaries.
Secured inclusion of the Trucking Security and CCP Disclosure Act, requiring motor carriers transporting Department of Defense freight to certify that they are not owned, controlled by, or maintaining significant business relationships with Chinese military companies identified under the Department of Defense's Section 1260H list.
Establishes a Secure Defense Freight Carrier Registry to strengthen national security vetting of motor carriers handling Department of Defense freight and help prevent adversary-linked entities from accessing sensitive military supply chains.
Establishes additional safeguards involving Department of Defense research and post-employment restrictions.
Clarifies that projects removing Communist Chinese port crane hardware and software remain eligible for federal grant funding.
Supports efforts to strengthen domestic critical mineral, semiconductor, microelectronics, and rare earth supply chains.
Supports strengthening America’s strategic position in the Indo-Pacific and confronting Chinese military aggression.

Keeping Pace with Emerging Technologies in the 21st Century

Supports accelerated modernization of artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, autonomous systems, and advanced operational experimentation.
Encourages expanded use of secure communications technologies supporting Special Operations Forces and contested environment operations.
Supports continued modernization of defense software acquisition and emerging technology procurement.
Authorizes the Department of Defense to expand Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) activities to strengthen innovation partnerships and accelerate operational technology transition.
Supports operational experimentation involving advanced autonomous systems, AI-enabled battle management, and secure quantum communications.

Strengthening America’s National Defense

Supports acquisition reform initiatives to reduce bureaucracy, accelerate modernization, and improve efficiency for taxpayers.
Supports continued investments in missile defense modernization and next-generation air and missile defense architecture.
Authorizes robust investments supporting force readiness, operational modernization, and advanced military technologies.
Supports efforts to strengthen America’s defense industrial base and secure critical supply chains.
Advances policies designed to ensure the United States maintains military superiority against adversarial threats.

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Stefanik, Cotton Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Propel America's Robotics Superiority, Protect U.S. National Security

Fri, 86 Mar 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, along with Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY), introduced the American Security Robotics Act to propel and protect America's robotics superiority while safeguarding U.S. national security and citizens' data.

"One of America’s greatest strengths is the ingenuity of our people—our visionaries, inventors, engineers, and dedicated workers. We must continue to promote and propel America’s robotics superiority while safeguarding our privacy and national security from adversaries. This is why I am introducing bicameral, bipartisan legislation with my colleague, Senator Cotton," said Stefanik.

“Robots made by Communist China threaten Arkansans’ privacy and our national security. Our bill will ban the federal government from buying and operating these devices made in countries that wish us harm,” said Cotton.

“The Chinese Communist Party has shown that they are willing to lie and cheat to get ahead at the expense of the American people and our national security. They are running their standard playbook—this time in robotics—trying to flood the U.S. market with their technology, which presents real security risks and threats to Americans’ privacy and American research and industry. We must protect our country from these threats, starting with a ban on the federal government buying this CCP technology,” said Schumer.

The American Security Robotics Act would:

Ban federal government from procuring and operating unmanned ground vehicle systems manufactured by foreign entities of concern, including humanoid robots and autonomous patrol technology.

Read the bill text HERE.

Stefanik Statement on Trump Administration Lawsuit Against Harvard

Fri, 79 Mar 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, released the following statement:

"This is the absolute correct decision by the Trump Administration to sue Harvard for failing to protect Jewish students.

This is after years of Congressional oversight work that I was proud to lead in holding Harvard accountable."

Truman Scholarship Foundation Board Member Elise Stefanik Introduces Legislation to 'Clean House' of Organization's Radical Left-Wing Bias

Thu, 71 Mar 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), a designated Republican appointee to the Truman Scholarship Foundation's Board of Trustees, introduced the Truman Scholarship Clean House Act which would affect top-down change and help rid the foundation of its deeply embedded left-wing bias.

"It is unfortunate and inappropriate that the Truman Scholarship Foundation continues to award scholarships to radical left-wing students—even criminals— rather than address the glaring political imbalance within its organization. Multiple data analyses have revealed the systemic underrepresentation of conservative scholarship recipients. I shared my concerns earlier this year at the board meeting. My legislation would finally reform the Truman Scholarship Foundation to promote an ideologically diverse class of recipients and ensure that only law-abiding students receive these scholarships," said Stefanik.

The Truman Scholarship Clean House Act would radically reform the scholarship program by:

Firing the current Board of Directors
Firing the current Executive Secretary
Empowering President Donald Trump to select the majority of the new Board of Directors (with advice and consent of the Senate, consistent with current law)
Requiring that interviewers who select Truman winners must be approved by a supermajority of the board to prevent highly biased individuals from serving as an interviewer
Requiring that no more than half of each board of interviewers who select Truman winners may be from the same political party, to prevent interview panels from being dominated by one political party
Codifying that only US citizens (or US nationals), not illegal immigrants, are eligible for the Truman scholarship

The legislation would also establish a code of conduct that scholarship applicants must meet with requisites including:

Not serving as the leader of a student organization that has been suspended for misconduct
Not having been suspended or expelled by their institution for violating the student code of conduct
Not having been convicted of a felony
Requiring that scholarships will be revoked from any Truman winner who fails to abide by the above terms

Stefanik released a letter last year to the organization's Board of Trustees, urging immediate action to address troubling patterns of political imbalance in the Foundation’s scholarship award process.

The House Education and Workforce Committee will mark up the Truman Scholarship Clean House Act next week, the first step toward advancing the legislation into law.

Read the bill text HERE.

Stefanik, Cotton Introduce Legislation to Ban CCP-Sponsored Companies from Receiving U.S. Defense Contracts

Thu, 71 Mar 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, and Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced the Trucking Security and CCP Disclosure Act to ban Communist Chinese entities from receiving sensitive U.S. transportation contracts, while also prohibiting Chinese nationals from operating trucks carrying Department of War (DoW) cargo.

“Most Americans would be shocked to learn that U.S. law does not already prohibit Communist China's military from receiving transportation contracts tied to American defense projects. This bicameral legislation closes that loophole by establishing a clear firewall between the Chinese Communist Party and Department of War contracts. American tax dollars should never benefit our greatest adversary at the expense of U.S. national security,” said Stefanik.

“Communist China continues spying on American military technology by exploiting truck drivers handling Department of War cargo. My bill will require anyone handling military freight to be properly vetted to ensure our adversaries cannot gain access to valuable information,” said Cotton.

As senior Members of the Armed Services Committees and Intelligence Committees, Stefanik and Cotton are working to include the Trucking Security and CCP Disclosure Act in the FY'27 National Defense Authorization Act.

Read the bill text HERE.

'Significant Security Vulnerabilities': Stefanik, Scott Sound Alarm on China-Backed Company for Misleading Customers, Targeting Military Consumers

Mon, 61 Mar 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) sent a letter to Department of Commerce (DOC) Secretary Howard Lutnick and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr, urging a formal investigation into the CCP-sponsored Anker Innovations for inviting potential foreign surveillance into Americans' homes and targeting military consumers.

"Anker, through its Eufy brand, has a documented history of significant security vulnerabilities related to its security camera business and has been accused of misleading the public about these issues. In 2025, the State of New York secured a $450,000 settlement from companies distributing Eufy home security products after finding that “video streams from the cameras were not always securely encrypted and could be accessible to anyone with the relevant link without authentication," the lawmakers wrote.

" . . . Anker offers many of these systems on U.S. military exchange websites, and for direct sales. Anker also provides up to a 20% discount on its Eufy products to current and former U.S. military, their spouses and dependents. While these are retail sales, rather than direct Department of War procurement, the FCC has previously noted that the presence of high-risk network-connected devices in sensitive physical locations can constitute a security risk," they continued.

As senior Members of the House Armed Services Committee and Senate Armed Services Committee, respectively, Stefanik and Scott also requested that the DOC and FCC respond to questions concerning Anker Innovation’s ownership structure and whether its products transmit data to servers located in China.

Today's letter highlights Stefanik's broader policy priority to combat CCP influence that poses heightened risks to U.S. national security and consumer safety.

Read the letter HERE.

Stefanik Statement on Operation Epic Fury

Sat, 59 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

SARATOGA, N.Y. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, released the following statement:

"As a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Select Committee on Intelligence, I have always been consistent that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons capabilities that would threaten the national security of the United States. Iran is the world’s largest sponsor of terror and has targeted, killed, and wounded U.S. service members and civilians throughout the Middle East over the past decades including soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division. Additionally, the sick Iran regime controlled by the blood-thirsty ayatollah terrorists have destroyed a nation, continued to pursue nuclear weapons threatening America and all of humanity, slaughtered innocent Iranians, and shed blood across the Middle East including of Americans.

I know President Trump has to make some of the most difficult decisions imaginable and there is no decision more serious that military action to protect our national security and American lives.

God Bless our brave men and women in uniform. The American people are praying for your safety."

Stefanik, Kean, Tenney Renew Push to Invest in Warfighting Capabilities at Fort Drum

Thu, 57 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Representatives Elise Stefanik (NY-21),Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), and Claudia Tenney (NY-24) sent a letter to Daniel Driscoll, Secretary of the Army, renewing their call for the Army to establish a Close Combat Innovation Cell (CCIC) in partnership with the North Country's 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum and Picatinny Arsenal.

"We urge the Army to take the next practical step and allocate $20 million out of last year’s budget reconciliation package’s $500 million for 'development, production, and integration of' counter-UAS funding to sustain and expand CCIC activities executed by Troika Solutions’ Accelerated Capabilities Team (ACT), in direct partnership with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center (DEVCOM AC) at Picatinny Arsenal and the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum. This is a prudent, immediate-use investment that aligns resources to a proven construct, leverages existing infrastructure and authorities, like OTAs that are supported by President Trump, and delivers near-term operational impact while informing longer-term programmatic decisions," the lawmakers wrote.

Their letter follows the Army's completion of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) briefing and report that confirmed a CCIC would improve close combat lethality and adaptability in contested, multi-domain environments.

Stefanik and Kean previously sent a letter to Driscoll this past October, expressing their support for the Army's Memorandum of Agreement between the 10th Mountain Infantry Division at Fort Drum, U.S. Army's DEVCOM AC, and Picatinny Arsenal to establish a CCIC.

Read today's letter HERE.

Stefanik Statement on State of the Union

Tue, 55 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, released the following statement:

"It was an honor to attend President Trump’s State of the Union where he highlighted the significant results that he has worked with Congress to deliver to the American people including the largest tax cut in history, a secure border, and a peace through strength national security agenda that supports our men and women in uniform. As always, the incredible stories that President Trump shared about the American heroes seated with the First Lady were inspiring. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Olympic Caucus and the Representative of Lake Placid where the famed Miracle on Ice took place 46 years ago, my favorite part was honoring the incredible Team USA hockey gold medalists - they are American icons and heroes. America couldn’t be prouder of them. They have continued the extraordinary legacy of the 1980 Miracle team and inspired a nation and a new generation."

Stefanik, Mannion, Bipartisan New York Delegation Urge Domestic Gallium Production at Air Force Research Lab in Rome, NY

Wed, 49 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - New York Representatives Elise Stefanik (NY-21), John Mannion (NY-22), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Nick Langworthy (NY-23), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), Mike Lawler (NY-17), and Claudia Tenney (NY-24) sent a bipartisan letter to Michael Cadenazzi, the Pentagon's Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy, urging the Department of War to partner with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in Rome, NY to invest in a domestic source of gallium—a rare earth mineral critical to U.S. national security and advanced technologies.

"We are concerned by the United States' dependence on foreign sources for gallium, particularly China, which currently holds a 98 percent share of the global supply and has imposed an export ban on shipments to the United States. This monopoly presents a significant supply chain vulnerability with implications for defense readiness and technological competitiveness, especially as geopolitical tensions increase. It is essential for U.S. national security that we support domestic advanced materials science research on the gallium extraction process and establish a secure and resilient domestic gallium supply chain here in the U.S. capable of meeting projected demand," the lawmakers wrote.

Last month, Stefanik, a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, successfully delivered $541.8 million in defense wins, including $329.8 million for Rome's AFRL.

Read the letter HERE.

Chairwoman Stefanik, Senator Welch Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Preserve Lake Champlain Basin

Thu, 43 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, and Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) Enhancements Act of 2026 to reauthorize the Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) for five years to support the health and conservation of the Lake Champlain Basin. This legislation will also promote transparency in creating an oversight process within the Environmental Protection Agency and the Lake Champlain Steering Committee to evaluate the efficacy of LCBP’s fiscal agent and ensure the program’s needs are properly met by its fiduciary.

"Throughout my time in Congress, I have a long, bipartisan record of delivering results for the Lake Champlain region. Upstate New Yorkers rely on the Lake Champlain Basin for clean drinking water, and millions of Americans each year witness the beauty of its wildlife habitats and participate in efforts to restore its watershed. I’m grateful to work alongside Senator Welch on this legislation to invest in the longevity of Lake Champlain, ensuring future generations can continue to cherish and depend on this natural resource," said Stefanik.

"Lake Champlain is an important part of Vermont’s culture. The Lake Champlain Watershed is a designated resource of national significance, provides drinking water to an estimated 250,000 people, and is home to shipwrecks, Revolutionary War-era forts, and abundant aquatic ecosystems. That’s why investing in the Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program, which has supported conservation, healthy ecosystems, and thriving rural communities, is vital," said Welch. "I’m proud to partner with Rep. Stefanik on this effort to support the important work of the LCBP and ensure it continues for years to come."

Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL) and Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) are also co-sponsors, reflecting support for this legislation from Lake Champlain's entire Congressional Delegation.

"Lake Champlain is at the heart of so many Vermont communities, and protecting its health requires strategic and sustained interstate commitment," said Balint. "The Lake Champlain Basin Program plays a crucial role in that work, strengthening our ecosystems and helping our region adapt to the impacts of climate change. I’m proud to support this reauthorization so the LCBP can continue driving vital conservation work for Vermonters and our neighbors on the other side of the basin."

Stefanik has long advocated for Lake Champlain and successfully delivered $10 million in funding last month for the Great Lake Fishery Commission to preserve and protect Lake Champlain in the North Country and to invest in an educational and outreach center.

Read the bill text HERE.

Stefanik Urges Federal Investigation into NYC Department of Health's Alleged Taxpayer-Funded 'Working Group' that Accused Israel of 'Genocide'

Wed, 42 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21) sent a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. urging an immediate federal investigation into reports alleging that employees of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health) used taxpayer-funded time, personnel, and facilities to hold an antisemitic "Global Oppression and Public Health Working Group" meeting.

Stefanik additionally requested that HHS and the Office of Inspector General:

1. Open a formal investigation into whether federally funded resources, including staff time, equipment, or facilities, were used to organize, host, or promote the reported Global Oppression and Public Health Working Group meeting at NYC Health;

2. Assess compliance with Title VI and related HHS civil rights requirements, including whether the activity created or contributed to a hostile environment for Jewish employees or members of the public;

3. Evaluate whether senior NYC Health leadership or external political officials reviewed or approved the activity, and whether proper grant administration and internal controls were followed;

4. Determine whether corrective action, enforcement measures, or recovery of federal funds are appropriate.

Stefanik has repeatedly condemned the spike in violence against Jews in New York City where antisemitic hate crimes are up 182% just one month into Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration.

Read the letter HERE.

Stefanik Passes Bipartisan Bill Named After North Country Veteran and Family to Enhance Veterans’ Access to VA Benefits

Mon, 33 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, delivered the following remarks ahead of her legislation, the Ernest Peltz Accrued Veterans Benefits Act, passing the House of Representatives.

Remarks as prepared for delivery:

"Thank you, Madam Speaker, and thank you to Chairman Bost. I rise today in support of my legislation, the Ernest Peltz Accrued Veterans Benefits Act H.R. 3123. I also want to thank Ranking Member Takano for his comments and support.

I represented the Peltz family for well over a decade, and that included Ernest Peltz, a World War II veteran and American hero, who died a few years ago between Christmas and New Year's. At that time, I heard from his son, Charles Peltz, who found himself caught in a maze of bureaucratic VA red tape. Instead of being able to focus on honoring the life and service of his father, the Peltz family was forced to contend with a system that failed the very veteran it was designed to serve.

Hero Ernest Peltz did everything right: He served admirably and honorably in our military. He continued a lifetime of public service. He applied for his accrued veterans pension benefit, and the Department of Veterans Affairs approved it while he was still alive. Yet due to a processing error, the VA did not deposit the funds until after Mr. Peltz’s passing. In an even more troubling turn, the VA then clawed those funds back—even though Ernest Peltz was alive at the time his benefit was approved and fully earned.

As a result, Ernest's family was left to shoulder the financial burden of his father’s care on their own, compounding grief with stress, uncertainty, and frustration. In short, the Peltz family was penalized for the VA’s mistakes. This is unacceptable.

That’s why I first introduced the Ernest Peltz Accrued Veterans Benefits Act two Congresses ago. For years, I’ve worked closely with the Peltz family, veterans service organizations, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle—like Congressman Ro Khanna—to craft legislation to correct this moral wrong. My bill eliminates the burden on a veteran’s surviving family by ensuring that the veteran is entitled to receive their pre-approved pension benefits within the month that death occurs.

I represent New York’s 21st Congressional District—serving the largest number of veterans in any district in NY State. That’s why I’m proud to take action to make sure no family mourning the loss of a beloved veteran has to deal with VA red tape and bureaucratic mistakes.

This commonsense bipartisan legislation honors the legacy of World War II veteran Ernest Peltz and takes a critical step toward improving the VA’s effectiveness and accountability.

In passing my legislation, Congress can rightfully honor veterans for their service and guarantee their families the dignity and respect they have earned.

I want to particularly thank Ernest’s son, Charles Peltz, who is a friend and tireless advocate of this legislation. I urge a “yes” vote on my bill and yield the floor."

Stefanik Statement on President Trump's Nomination of Kevin Warsh as Fed Chair

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

SARATOGA, N.Y. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, released the following statement:

"This is a very smart nomination by President Trump of Kevin Warsh as Fed Chair.

Kevin is a longtime friend and he is a fellow Upstate NY native. He is exactly the right leader at this time to right the ship at the Fed and get our economy back on track for the hardworking families and small businesses across America."

Stefanik Celebrates U.S. Mint's Commemoration of Oneida Indian Nation War Heroine Polly Cooper with 2026 Native American $1 Coin

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

SARATOGA, N.Y. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, celebrated the U.S. Mint's release of its 2026 Native American $1 Coin in commemoration of Oneida Indian Nation's Revolutionary War heroine Polly Cooper.

"I am proud to see the U.S. Mint honoring the remarkable patriot Polly Cooper of the Oneida Indian Nation with this year’s Native American $1 Coin. As a born and raised Upstate New Yorker, it is especially meaningful to see our shared history celebrated in this way. The Oneida Indian Nation bravely fought alongside the Continental Army and provided critical support for the patriots throughout the Revolutionary War—including the food and supplies Polly Cooper carried to Valley Forge—making the Oneida people among America’s very first allies," said Stefanik.

"The Oneida people became America’s First Allies on some of the bloodiest battlefields of the Revolutionary War," said Oneida Indian Nation Representative Ray Halbritter. "One-third of our ancestors at that time were lost to these conflicts, yet their lives were given proudly for the right of all to sovereignty and self-determination. As we look ahead to the 250th anniversary of the United States, the recognition of this legacy and of Polly Cooper’s contributions to serves as a great source of pride for our people, as well as for all Upstate New Yorkers and all Americans who strive to uphold these principles."

Stefanik is proudly ushering in America’s 250th anniversary as New York and communities nationwide prepare for patriotic celebrations this July.

Stefanik Delivers $12 Million in Funding for North Country Housing, Economic Development Projects

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, successfully delivered $12 million in funding for housing and economic development projects across Upstate New York and the North Country in the federal appropriations bill.

"I am proud to deliver $12 million in federal funding for housing and critical economic development projects in our district. From the Lake Champlain-Lake George Regional Planning Board’s North Country Housing Initiative to Montgomery County’s Business Development Center construction at the old Beech-Nut factory to the Village of Cobleskill’s Grandview Drive Project, I have worked to deliver funding for these projects for years. This significant investment will serve as a catalyst for economic growth across Upstate New York for decades to come. Throughout my time in Congress, I have consistently fought to deliver real results and have secured nearly $1 billion in federal funds invested directly into our district,” said Stefanik.

Funding recipients include:

Lake Champlain–Lake George Regional Planning Board’s North Country Housing Initiative

$5,000,000 to increase the stock of workforce housing in Clinton, Essex, Hamilton, Warren, and Washington Counties through community outreach, completion of site-specific pre-development, and the construction and rehabilitation of new and existing units.

"The $5 million grant secured by Congresswoman Stefanik for the Lake Champlain–Lake George Regional Planning Board represents a transformative investment in the future of the Adirondacks and North Country," said Executive Director Beth Gilles. "The North Country Housing Initiative confronts the real barriers to workforce housing—outdated zoning, steep pre-development costs, and insufficient funding to build and renovate homes for middle-income, year-round residents. Addressing these challenges together is essential to keeping our communities vibrant and our workforce rooted here year-round."

Montgomery County’s Business Development Center Construction at the Former Beech-Nut Site

$4,000,000 to support the redevelopment of the historic former Beech-Nut site in Canajoharie, NY, into a mixed-use development that includes affordable workforce housing.

"This funding is a major milestone for the future of Canajoharie and Montgomery County," said County Executive Pete Vroman. "The redevelopment of the former Beech-Nut site at Exit 29 has been a long time coming, and this grant will help move that vision forward by supporting the critical site work needed to unlock the property’s full potential. Thanks to Congresswoman Stefanik’s leadership in securing this funding, we are one step closer to transforming this historic site into a destination that includes housing, commercial activity, and a walking trail that honors our past while building toward our future."

Village of Cobleskill’s Grandview Drive Project

$3,000,000 to make the area surrounding the Cobleskill Regional Hospital more efficient and safer for pedestrians and traffic.

Stefanik Delivers More Than $541 Million in Defense Wins for Upstate NY, Secures $329 Million for Air Force Research Lab in Rome, NY

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership and senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, successfully delivered $541.8 million in defense wins—including $194 million for the New York Air National Guard’s “ski bird” planes and $329.8 million for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL Rome) in Rome, NY. AFRL Rome’s work in surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence, and quantum information science is key to American national security dominance in critical emerging technologies.

"I am proud to have secured more than $541 million in defense wins through this year’s appropriations process to further strengthen Upstate New York as a frontline defender of American innovation and security. From modernizing the 109th Airlift Wing’s LC-130J ‘ski bird’ fleet, to major investments in quantum computing, critical mineral sources, and next-generation battle technologies at AFRL Rome and Griffiss Institute, these funds reinforce our region’s role as a national leader in military readiness. These historic funding levels will spur further economic growth across NY21 and preserve our country’s national security for generations to come," said Stefanik.

"Congresswoman Stefanik’s success in securing millions for the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome is a tremendous win for Oneida County, the Mohawk Valley, and our nation’s defense," said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. "AFRL Rome and the Griffiss Institute are cornerstones of innovation in emerging technologies like quantum science, intelligence, and advanced battle management, while also serving as major economic drivers for our region. I thank Congresswoman Stefanik for her steadfast advocacy and leadership in ensuring Upstate New York remains at the forefront of national security, research excellence, and high-tech job creation."

"AFRL Rome, the Griffiss Institute, and New York Air National Guard’s 109th Airlift Wing are critical assets that serve a valuable purpose in the region, state, and nation," said New York Senator Joseph Griffo. "I appreciate Congresswoman Stefanik’s advocacy and efforts to deliver this important funding."

"Continued federal support for advanced research at Rome Lab is strengthening technologies critical to our national security and reinforcing Rome's role in next-generation innovation," said Heather Hage, President and CEO of Griffiss Institute. "We appreciate the leadership, including Representative Elise Stefanik, in advancing investment in quantum networks that are developed, tested, and transitioned here in the Mohawk Valley for national impact."

Stefanik delivered the following key defense wins:

$194,000,000 for procurement and engineering of new LC-130J "ski bird" planes for the New York Air National Guard’s 109th Airlift Wing.
$12,500,000 for quantum computing efforts at the Griffiss Institute in Rome, NY.
$10,000,000 to develop a secure domestic source of the critical mineral gallium in Upstate.
$9,000,000 for the development of Agile, Assured, and Autonomous Battle Management Network and Readiness Accelerator (3A-BMN) technologies at AFRL Rome.
$8,000,000 for portable ground launched cruise missiles.
$5,000,000 to support photonic quantum computing efforts at AFRL Rome.
$5,000,000 to support the expansion of AFRL Rome’s Distributed Quantum Networking Testbed and Quantum Cloud Computing Environment.

Stefanik Delivers $10 Million to Fund Great Lake Fishery Commission, Establish Lake Champlain Outreach Center

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) successfully delivered $10 million in funding for the Great Lake Fishery Commission (GLFC) to preserve and protect Lake Champlain in the North Country and to invest in an educational and outreach center.

"I am committed to preserving NY21's cherished environments, protecting our wealth of natural resources, and combating harmful invasive species that threaten Lake Champlain's wildlife habitats. This $10 million will benefit efforts against invasive species to uphold the watershed’s biodiversity and strengthen our local economy. The funding will also help create an outreach space for Upstate New Yorkers and visitors to learn, engage, and actively participate in the restoration of Lake Champlain and its watershed for years to come," said Stefanik.

Stefanik has long advocated for Lake Champlain and previously sent a letter urging the Lake Champlain Basin Program and the GLFC to establish a center for outreach and educational efforts on the New York side of Lake Champlain.