Dear Friend,

I wanted to provide an update on the work I am doing in the House of Representatives to represent the great people of Maryland's First Congressional District and to advance commonsense, conservative legislation in Washington, D.C.

Ending the Partial Government Shutdown

On Wednesday, the House approved the Senate Amendment to the House Appropriations bill, ending the four-day partial government shutdown and allowing federal operations to resume. Congress has now passed 11 of the 12 appropriations bills through the end of this fiscal year. Only the Department of Homeland Security bill needs to be funded past February 13 to avoid lapses in the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Transportation Security Administration, Border Security and enforcement, as well as the Coast Guard. We will continue working on remaining funding priorities to prevent future disruptions.

Accelerating Domestic Critical Mineral Development

This week, the House passed legislation to strengthen America’s ability to produce the critical minerals that power modern technology, energy systems, and national defense. The United States remains heavily dependent on foreign processing and supply, creating vulnerabilities that affect both economic stability and national security. The bill directs the Department of the Interior to fast-track mining projects that are already in the pipeline, clear regulatory delays that have kept responsible domestic production stalled, and identify federal lands where development can move forward efficiently. It also prioritizes the recovery of minerals from existing sites and byproducts, ensuring the country makes better use of resources already available. By accelerating domestic production and improving long-term geological mapping, this legislation helps reduce reliance on imports, strengthen supply chains, and support American industry for the future.

District Updates

Meeting with Cecil County Students Leading the Fight Against Substance Abuse

This week, I had the opportunity to sit down with Cecil County students participating in CADCA’s youth substance prevention initiative. These young leaders are helping build a culture where students look out for one another and speak openly about the risks of drug use. Programs like this demonstrate how powerful peer leadership can be in addressing substance abuse in our schools. Their commitment to supporting classmates and promoting healthier choices is making a real difference for families and communities, and it reflects a level of responsibility and courage that deserves recognition.

Working with the World Food Programme to Support Global Food Aid

I met with World Food Programme Executive Director Cindy McCain during her visit to Washington to discuss the organization’s ongoing humanitarian efforts and the critical role the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee plays in supporting global food assistance. She provided an update on the World Food Programme’s work, and we talked about how continued collaboration can strengthen food security efforts around the world.

Strengthening the Fight for Global Religious Freedom

I participated in the 2026 International Religious Freedom Summit during their Capitol Advocacy Day, joining fellow Members of Congress, Summit Co-Chairs Ambassador Sam Brownback and Katrina Lantos Swett, and advocates working to defend religious liberty worldwide. The situation in places like Nigeria is a reminder that people are still being targeted for their religious beliefs, and it demands continued action.

In The News

SiriusXM Patriot: Stacy on the Right

This week on SiriusXM Patriot’s Stacy on the Right, the discussion focused on election integrity and protecting the vote in federal elections. Voter ID should be required to protect the process, and illegal aliens should not be counted in the census. These are views shared by a large percentage of Americans, and it is time to follow through for the American people.

SiriusXM Patriot: The David Webb Show

I joined the SiriusXM Patriot show with David Webb to discuss immigration enforcement and the reality that millions of people entered the United States illegally. While the priority should be removing the worst criminal offenders first, the bottom line is straightforward: those who enter illegally may need to return to their home country and follow the proper legal process if they want to come to the United States. An immigration system only works when the law is enforced consistently.

WBOC: Congressman Harris urges NOAA to declare fishery disaster for Maryland oystermen

This week, I sent a letter to NOAA requesting an economic fishery disaster declaration for Maryland’s oyster industry following a punishing season for watermen in Maryland’s First District. Severe weather and market pressures sharply limited harvesting and put real financial strain on families and small businesses that depend on the oyster trade. I am pushing the agency to move quickly so federal relief can reach the communities in my district that rely on this industry.

How We Can Help

If you have ever had any issue with a Federal agency, like the IRS, the VA, Social Security, Medicare, or passports, please don’t hesitate to contact my office. My office teams are ready to assist you. If you are interested in purchasing a flag that has been flown over the U.S. Capitol, for a special person or special occasion, please visit my website or call my office at 202-225-5311. Below are links to services my office offers and we hope to hear from you.

Sincerely,

Andy Harris, M.D.
Member of Congress

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