The House addresses government efficiency, debates NASA’s SLS program, updates on Rep. Larson’s health, and relaunches the Friends of Ireland Caucus.
In the past 24 hours, the U.S. House of Representatives has been involved in several notable events:
- Debate Over Government Efficiency Initiatives: During the inaugural House subcommittee hearing for Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Representative Robert Garcia criticized Musk’s hiring practices and made cultural references that drew public attention. The hearing highlighted tensions regarding the administration’s efforts to streamline government operations. the-sun.com
- Consideration of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) Program: Discussions emerged about potentially canceling or phasing out NASA’s costly SLS program. Such a move could test the administration’s commitment to government efficiency and impact jobs in states reliant on SLS-related employment. Lawmakers from these states are defending the program, citing national security and competition with China’s lunar ambitions. reuters.com
- Health Update on Representative John Larson: Connecticut Representative John Larson experienced a complex partial seizure while delivering a speech on the House floor. He attributed the incident to a previous heart valve replacement surgery and has been prescribed medication to prevent future occurrences. Larson plans to resume his duties promptly. apnews.com
- Relaunch of the Congressional Friends of Ireland Caucus: Representatives Mike Kelly and Richard Neal announced the relaunch of the bipartisan Congressional Friends of Ireland Caucus in the 119th Congress. This group aims to strengthen diplomatic relations between the U.S. House of Representatives and Irish leaders. kelly.house.gov
Bibliography:
- “Rep Robert Garcia slammed over ‘ridiculous’ Kendrick Lamar remark at Doge hearing as critics fume ‘this guy is a joke!'” The U.S. Sun, February 12, 2025. the-sun.com
- “Cutting moon rocket would test Musk’s power to slash jobs in Republican states.” Reuters, February 12, 2025. reuters.com
- “Connecticut Rep. John Larson says a complex partial seizure caused him to stop speech on House floor.” Associated Press, February 12, 2025. apnews.com
- “Chairmen Kelly, Neal relaunch Congressional Friends of Ireland Caucus in 119th Congress.” House.gov, February 13, 2025. kelly.house.gov
