Hamadeh, Abe RSS Articles

Congressman Abe Hamadeh Applauds Trump Administration’s Shift from Aid to Trade with Israel

Tue, 03 Nov 2026 05:00:00 GMT

President Trump’s announcement to end aid to Israel mirrors House Resolution introduced By Congressman Hamadeh

WASHINGTON D.C. – Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ08) has issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump' announcement today that aid to Israel will end at the end of the year:

“President Trump is right: the future of our relationship with Israel has to be trade, not aid. That’s the message I and my colleague Congressman Marlin Stutzman delivered to Prime Minister Netanyahu in Jerusalem earlier this year, when we laid out the case for ending the $3.8 billion in annual military aid, so Israel buys American weapons and defense technology with its own money.

America First has never meant America alone. It means strong partners, not permanent dependents. Peace through strength. Commerce, not blank checks. That’s how we put the American people first.”

In June 2026, Congressman Hamadeh and Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) introduced a House Resolution to transition the United States-Israel relationship away from one of traditional foreign assistance to one of trade.

BACKGROUND

Congressman Hamadeh is a Member of the House Armed Services and Veterans’ Aﬀairs Committees, who is committed to President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda by shaping an America First foreign policy that provides long-term stability across the globe.

Congressman Hamadeh is the co-author of the bipartisan Promoting Education on the Abraham Accords for Comprehensive Engagement (PEACE) Act, which aims to strengthen U.S. diplomatic engagement by institutionalizing training on the Abraham Accords and other normalization agreements at the U.S. State Department.

Congressman Hamadeh Applauds Federal Policy Change Clarifying Overseas Voting Eligibility

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) is applauding a federal policy change clarifying that civilian U.S. citizens living abroad who have never resided in the United States are not eligible for voting protections under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA).

The change follows an August policy paper issued by the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP), which determined that UOCAVA, a 1986 law protecting voting rights for military personnel and eligible Americans living overseas, does not extend federal voting protections to citizens who have never established residency in the United States.

As a result, FVAP has removed a checkbox from the federal voter registration and absentee ballot request form that previously accommodated U.S. citizens born and living abroad who have never resided in the United States.

According to FVAP, "Several states may have incorrectly interpreted UOCAVA to require them to allow never-resided citizens to vote--despite state law that prohibits voting by individuals who have never lived in the state."

FVAP is now advising state election officials to "immediately review and correct relevant guidance to reflect the federal requirements of UOCAVA."

The agency further clarified that citizens who have never resided in the United States do not qualify for UOCAVA protections because they cannot establish that they were domiciled in a state before leaving the country.

The policy change does not affect U.S. military personnel. Instead, it primarily concerns individuals who acquired American citizenship through their parents but have never established residency in any U.S. state.

Currently, only 12 states prohibit voting by U.S. citizens who have never resided in the United States.

In August 2025, Congressman Hamadeh introduced the Proving Residency for Overseas Voter Eligibility (PROVE) Act, legislation addressing how nonmilitary U.S. citizens living abroad may participate in federal elections when they cannot establish qualifying residency in a U.S. state.

Under the PROVE Act, overseas citizens who cannot establish a qualifying state residency connection through themselves, a spouse, parent, or legal guardian would still be permitted to vote in federal elections through the District of Columbia, without having to prove residency in the District.

While FVAP's policy clarification establishes that citizens who have never resided in the United States are not entitled to federal voting protections under UOCAVA, Congressman Hamadeh's PROVE Act would provide those citizens with an alternative pathway to participate in federal elections through the District of Columbia.

For more insight into Congressman Hamadeh’s position on the matter read: The Pentagon Is Right on Overseas Voting. Now Congress Must Finish the Job, here.

Congressman Hamadeh Encourages Students to Compete and Be Recognized Through Art, Science, Civics, and Physical Fitness Opportunities

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - With important deadlines fast approaching, Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) is encouraging students across Arizona’s 8th Congressional District to take advantage of several opportunities to showcase their talents, demonstrate academic excellence, and earn congressional recognition.

From computer science and fine arts to military service, civic achievement, and physical fitness, Congressman Hamadeh is offering students multiple opportunities to challenge themselves, compete with their peers, and receive recognition for their accomplishments.

2026 Congressional App Challenge — Deadline: October 26

The deadline for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is Monday, October 26, 2026, at 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Last year’s winning app, Chronos, was developed by BASIS High School students Vignesh Nagarajan and Raghav Senthil Kumar. Chronos is a smart scheduling application designed to integrate multiple calendar platforms, including Google Calendar, Outlook, and Apple Calendar.

The Congressional App Challenge is an initiative of the U.S. House of Representatives and is widely recognized as one of the nation’s premier student computer science competitions. Members of Congress host district-wide competitions that encourage middle and high school students to develop innovative applications.

Students may submit computer programs written in any programming language and designed for any computer-based platform.

Additional competition information and submission instructions are available through the Congressional App Challenge website.

U.S. Service Academy Nominations — Deadline: October 30

Students seeking a congressional nomination from Congressman Hamadeh to attend one of the nation's prestigious U.S. service academies must submit their completed application packages for the Class of 2031 by 3:00 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026.

Congressman Hamadeh looks forward to nominating exceptional student leaders, scholars, and athletes from Arizona’s 8th Congressional District to four of the nation's five service academies:

· U.S. Military Academy — West Point, New York

· U.S. Naval Academy — Annapolis, Maryland

· U.S. Air Force Academy — Colorado Springs, Colorado

· U.S. Merchant Marine Academy — Kings Point, New York

The fifth institution, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, does not require a congressional nomination.

Admission to a U.S. service academy is among the most competitive and prestigious educational opportunities available to graduating high school students. Cadets and midshipmen receive a world-class education, extensive leadership training, and preparation for careers of service to their country.

Most graduates incur a minimum five-year active-duty service obligation, although requirements vary by academy and program.

A congressional nomination is an essential step in the admissions process for four of the five academies, but it does not guarantee an appointment. Each academy makes its own admissions decisions based on academic achievement, leadership potential, physical fitness, character, and other qualifications.

2027 Congressional Art Competition — Students Encouraged to Prepare Now

Great art takes time. That is why Congressman Hamadeh is encouraging students to begin preparing their entries for next year's Congressional Art Competition.

Each spring, members of the U.S. House of Representatives sponsor the Artistic Discovery Contest, a nationwide competition celebrating the creativity and artistic talents of students in their congressional districts.

The competition is open to eligible students in grades 8–12 within Arizona's 8th Congressional District, including students enrolled in public, charter, private, homeschool, online, and alternative learning programs.

Emily Chen, a homeschool student, won the 2026 AZ-08 Congressional Art Competition with her artwork titled United in Dreams.

Her winning artwork earned a place in the United States Capitol, alongside artwork from students representing congressional districts throughout the country, where it could be viewed by visitors from across the nation and around the world.

Details about the 2027 competition, including submission requirements and deadlines, will be available on Congressman Hamadeh's website early next year.

In the meantime, Congressman Hamadeh encourages parents, guardians, and teachers to share this opportunity with talented young artists and help them begin preparing their entries.

Congressional District 8 Civics Initiative — No Deadline

Congressman Hamadeh's Congressional District 8 Civics Initiative is an ongoing student recognition program designed to promote civic literacy, constitutional understanding, and academic excellence among Arizona's high school students.

The Arizona Civics Test is a state-mandated requirement for high school graduation and the High School Equivalency Diploma.

High school students who earn a score of 95 or higher on the Arizona Civics Test are eligible to receive formal recognition from the Office of Congressman Abraham Hamadeh.

Participation is open to eligible students attending public, charter, private, and homeschool institutions throughout Arizona's 8th Congressional District.

There is no application deadline, allowing students to seek recognition after achieving the qualifying score.

Additional information is available on Congressman Hamadeh's official website.

Congressional District 8 Fitness Challenge — No Deadline

The Congressional District 8 Fitness Challenge is another ongoing recognition program designed to encourage physical fitness, personal discipline, and healthy lifestyles among students.

Aligned with the reestablished Presidential Physical Fitness Test, the initiative recognizes students who demonstrate achievement in key areas of physical fitness.

Participants who successfully meet the established fitness benchmarks for core strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and upper-body strength are eligible to receive an official Certificate of Recognition from the Office of Congressman Abraham Hamadeh.

The program has no participation deadline, providing students with an ongoing opportunity to set fitness goals, improve their physical conditioning, and earn recognition for their accomplishments.

Congressman Hamadeh Celebrates the Next Generation

“Providing opportunities for the young people of Arizona's 8th Congressional District is one of the greatest joys of serving in Congress,” said Congressman Hamadeh.

“During my time in office, I have had the privilege of meeting remarkably talented, dedicated, and determined students who are eager to share their creativity, knowledge, and accomplishments with the world," stated Congressman Hamadeh. "Whether they are developing innovative technology, creating extraordinary works of art, pursuing military service, mastering the principles upon which our nation was founded, or committing themselves to healthy and disciplined lifestyles, these young Arizonans represent the very best of our future."

“I encourage every student, parent, guardian, and educator in our district to explore these opportunities. Our young people have tremendous potential, and I want to make sure they have every opportunity to succeed, achieve their goals, and receive the recognition they deserve,” concluded Congressman Hamadeh.

Students and families can learn more about these programs by visiting Congressman Hamadeh's official website at Hamadeh.House.gov.

Congressman Hamadeh Encourages Students to Submit Applications for Service Academy Nominations Before Deadline

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) is encouraging graduating high school students in Arizona’s 8th Congressional District who are interested in attending one of the nation’s prestigious U.S. service academies to submit their applications for a congressional nomination before the October 30, 2026, deadline.

Completed application packages for the Class of 2031 must be submitted to Congressman Hamadeh’s office no later than 3:00 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026.

Congressman Hamadeh looks forward to nominating exceptional student leaders, scholars, and athletes from Arizona’s 8th Congressional District to four of the nation’s five U.S. service academies: U.S. Military Academy (West Point) — West Point, New York; U.S. Naval Academy — Annapolis, Maryland; U.S. Air Force Academy — Colorado Springs, Colorado; and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy — Kings Point, New York.

The fifth institution, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, does not require a congressional nomination for admission.

“As a former U.S. Army officer, I understand firsthand the tremendous honor and responsibility that come with serving in our nation's Armed Forces,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “Our service academies represent the very best of American military tradition, providing an exceptional education while developing the leadership, character, and discipline necessary to serve our great nation. It is a distinct privilege to help outstanding young men and women from Arizona’s 8th Congressional District pursue their dreams of attending one of these prestigious institutions.”

Admission to a U.S. service academy is among the most competitive and prestigious educational opportunities available to graduating high school students. In addition to receiving a world-class education and extensive leadership training, graduates accept a commitment to serve their country following graduation. Most graduates are required to serve a minimum of five years on active duty, although service obligations vary by academy and program.

While a congressional nomination is an essential step in the admissions process for four of the five academies, it does not guarantee an appointment. Each academy makes its own final admissions decisions based on academic achievement, leadership potential, physical fitness, character, and other qualifications.

Students seeking a congressional nomination for the Class of 2031 must submit their completed application packages to Congressman Hamadeh’s district office by 3:00 p.m. on October 30, 2026.

Students and parents or guardians with questions about the application process are encouraged to contact Jonah Rominski in Congressman Hamadeh’s office at Jonah.Rominski@mail.house.gov or (623) 776-7911.

Congressman Hamadeh Applauds Department of War for Decision to Support Troops in Harm’s Way through Increased Combat Pay

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON D.C. – In June, Congressman Hamadeh was proud to introduce the Combat Pay Protection Act. Now, he is pleased to learn that that the Department of War issued a memo in July outlining plans that went into effect today, October 1, to increase Hostile Fire Pay and Imminent Danger Pay to $450 and $275 per month respectively.

Congressman Hamadeh introduced the Combat Pay Protection Act because he believes that America’s warfighters should be paid the same way members of Congress are.

Combat pay has not increased since 2003. Currently, America’s warfighters’ combat pay amounts to only $7.50 per day, capped at $225 per month. That is barely enough to buy a large coffee while serving in harm’s way.

An identical amendment was offered by Congressman Hamadeh and included in the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by unanimous voice vote of his colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee.

“I am grateful that President Trump and his administration is providing this increase in pay for our men and women serving in combat, hazardous, and high-risk assignments,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “This increase is long overdue and a wise investment in America’s warfighters and military families.”

As a former U.S. Army Reserve Intelligence Officer, Congressman Hamadeh crafted legislation to usher in an historic modernization of military compensation.

Background:

According to the Department of Defense Military Compensation Background paper (2018) Pays, Allowances, Gratuities, and Benefits Summary: “Hostile Fire Pay (HFP) and Imminent Danger Pay (IDP) often collectively referred to as Combat Pay -- have not been increased since 2003, despite their central role in compensating servicemembers operating in hostile environments. These pays remain capped at $225 per month, or less than $8 per day, regardless of inflation, increased risk exposure, or evolving deployment tempos. In real terms, the $225 monthly rate for Hostile Fire Pay and Imminent Danger Pay in 2003 is equivalent to about $375 today, yet the statutory rate remains unchanged.”

Hamadeh CATFISH Act Aims To Protect Seniors From Financial Fraudsters

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Abe Hamadeh has introduced the CATFISH Act of 2026, legislation designed to strengthen protections for senior citizens and other vulnerable Americans targeted by increasingly sophisticated online fraud schemes.

Bill Would Credit All Active Time To Early Retirement

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Recently introduced House legislation would allow all active service to count toward reduced-age retirement for National Guard and Reserve members.

House Passes Hamadeh-Backed Bill To Strengthen Federal Fraud Enforcement

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Legislation cosponsored by Arizona Congressman Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ08) that would establish a permanent fraud enforcement division within the U.S. Department of Justice passed the House last week.

Vital Information for U.S. Citizens Traveling in the Middle East

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The following information is provided by my office from the U.S. Department of State:

Due to tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex with the potential for unforeseen escalation.

Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise heightened vigilance and be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions. Iranian-supported Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including civilian airports. This military conflict has the potential to escalate rapidly. Americans outside the Middle East should seriously reconsider travel to and through the region.

Those who do travel to or from the region should monitor information about airport and airline operations. U.S. diplomatic facilities, including outside the Middle East, have been targeted. Iran and groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas or at locations associated with the United States and Americans throughout the world, including U.S. businesses and other institutions.

For Country Specific Assistance:

Bahrain:

U.S. Embassy Manama: +973-1724-2700, ManamaConsular@state.gov

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs Call Center: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) or +1-888-407-4747 (from U.S./Canada).

Egypt:

U.S. Embassy Cairo: + 20-2-2797-3300

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs Call Center: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) or +1-888-407-4747 (from U.S./Canada).

Iran:

Embassy of Switzerland Foreign Interests Section in Tehran: tehran.fi@eda.admin.ch

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs Call Center: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) or +1-888-407-4747 (from U.S./Canada).

Israel, West Bank, and Gaza:

Israel Police: call 100

Israel Ambulance: call 101

U.S. Embassy Jerusalem: JerusalemACS@state.gov

U.S. Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv: TelAvivACS@state.gov

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs Call Center: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) or +1-888-407-4747 (from U.S./Canada).

Jordan:

U.S. Embassy: Amman, Jordan

Al-Umawyeen 37, Amman, Jordan

Phone number (emergencies during business hours): +962 6 590-6000

Phone number (emergencies after business hours): +962 6 590-6500

Email: Amman-ACS@state.gov

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs Call Center: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) or +1-888-407-4747 (from U.S./Canada).

Kuwait:

Call 112 in case of emergency requiring police, ambulance, or fire services.

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs: call +1-202-501-4444 from abroad or +1-888-407-4747 when calling from the U.S. and Canada.

U.S. Embassy Kuwait: KuwaitACS@state.gov.

Lebanon:

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs: call +1-202-501-4444 from abroad or +1-888-407-4747 when calling from the U.S. and Canada.

U.S. Embassy Beirut: +961-4-543-600, BeirutACS@state.gov

Oman:

Dial 9999 for emergency services in Oman

U.S. Embassy Muscat, Oman: 968 2464-3400; MuscatACS@state.gov

U.S. Department of State: call 202-501-4444 from abroad or 888-407-4747 when calling from the U.S. and Canada

Qatar:

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs Call Center: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) or +1-888-407-4747 (from U.S./Canada)

U.S. Embassy Doha: + 974-4496-6000, ACSDoha@state.gov

Saudi Arabia:

U.S. Embassy Riyadh

Abdullah Ibn Hudhafah As Sahmi Street Roundabout no. 9, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Telephone: (966) (11) 835-4000

Email: RiyadhACS@state.gov

U.S. Consulate General Jeddah

Al Safa Street, Al Muhammadiyah District, near new American School building, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Telephone: (966) (12) 220-5000

Email: JeddahACS@state.gov

U.S. Consulate General Dhahran

The Consulate is located off King Saud bin Abdulaziz Road on the corner of Salah Addin Al Ayoubi Road and Abu l’baba Al Aslami Street.

Telephone: (966) (13) 839-5700

Email: DhahranACS@state.gov

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs Call Center:

+1-202-501-4444 (from abroad)

+1-888-407-4747 (from U.S./Canada)

UAE:

Dial 999 for emergency services in UAE.

Contact the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai by visiting https://ae.usembassy.gov/services/, scroll down to the U.S. Citizen Services Navigator, and clicking on your preferred location.

U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi emergency number: +971-2-414-2200

U.S. Consulate General Dubai emergency number: +971-4-309-4000

U.S. Department of State Consular Affairs Call Center: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) or +1-888-407-4747 (from U.S./Canada)

Congressman Hamadeh Introduces the CATFISH Act to Protect Seniors from Financial Fraudsters

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) introduced the CATFISH Act of 2026, legislation aimed at protecting senior citizens from financial fraudsters.

Congressman Hamadeh introduced the bill in response to constituent concerns about the increasing number of cases in which vulnerable senior citizens are targeted by criminals using fake online identities, known as “catfishing,” to steal money or personal data.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation advises that these “catfishing” con artists are present on most dating and social media sites. Identity theft through this method is becoming a national crisis.

In 2024, Americans age 60 and older reported losing $2.4 billion to fraud, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Experts estimate that the true annual cost of fraud against seniors exceeds $82 billion, as many victims never report their losses.

These “catfish” schemes are commonly operated by transnational criminal organizations, which rely on prepaid gift cards, digital payment platforms, and cryptocurrency transfers to move stolen funds beyond the reach of victims and law enforcement.

“My team has received many requests for assistance from constituents who have been victimized themselves or are loved ones of seniors who have been victimized by these sophisticated criminals. The stories are heartbreaking,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “For too many seniors, these losses mean depleted retirement accounts, delayed medical care, diminished independence, and financial devastation that is unrecoverable. These often-devastating crimes can be prevented, and my legislation aims to do just that.”

The CATFISH Act of 2026 would:

• Train frontline employees to recognize fraud
• Provide seniors with fraud warnings before money is lost
• Establish anti-fraud standards for financial institutions
• Encourage best practices to prevent losses
• Study additional remedies for victims of fraud