Roundup of Ohio news from Washington

Jim Jordan named one of 30 most powerful in D.C.

Jordan and Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Niles, are among the 30 most powerful people and groups in Washington, according to Politico, a Washington, D.C. publication. Jordan was cited for his work on the conservative House Freedom Caucus. Ryan, who unsuccessfully challenged House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., at the end of last year, was cited because he is one of a trio of young, ambitious Democratic lawmakers thought to be future leaders of the party.

Of Rep. Jordan, Politico staff wrote: “ Even though he’s no longer head of the Freedom Caucus, conservatives look to Jordan, a former college wrestler, for advice on everything from policy to tactics. How he comports himself in the Trump era ― and if he ever ascends to the chairmanship again ― will be worth watching.”

The full list is at http://www.politico.com/magazine/playbookpowerlist/2017

Turner wins honor from Army

Rep. Mike Turner, R-Dayton, last week received the U. S. Army Decoration for Distinguished Civilian Service Award – the highest civilian award presented by the Army.

The award honors Turner as a “tireless advocate for Army equities” who “demonstrated steadfast support for increased Army end strength.”

“This support was instrumental in ensuring the Army is best positioned to meet the challenges of the future,” the award reads.

It also honors Turner for his fight to end sexual assault in the military and for his “unwavering commitment” to the Army.

Turner received the award from Secretary of the Army Eric Fanning, a Centerville High School graduate.

The Department of the Army Decoration for Distinguished Civilian Service was created in 1956. It consists of a gold medal, lapel button and certificate. This award recognizes distinguished service toward the accomplishment of the Army’s mission.

Jordan, Davidson take on Facebook live

Reps. Jim Jordan, R-Urbana and Warren Davidson, R-Troy, teamed up last week for a Facebook Live discussion on their views of the Affordable Care Act, which both hope to repeal during this Congress.

During the roughly 20 minute video, the two vowed that health care will be “better and less expensive” after the law is repealed.

“It is truly a fire,” said Jordan. “Let’s have the firefighters come in and put out the fire and fix this thing. And the way you fix it is first get rid of every single bit of Obamacare. And then put in place those policies that empower people.”

Davidson, meanwhile, said Congress would ensure a smooth transition to the replacement law.

To watch the Facebook Live video, visit https://www.facebook.com/repjimjordan/posts/10154887524871460

Portman wants stronger action on Russia

In the wake of reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin orchestrated an effort to hack e-mails belonging to the Democratic National Committee, Sen. Rob Portman joined Republican Sens. John McCain of Arizona, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Marco Rubio of Florida along with Democrats Richard Durbin of Illinois and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota in unveiling tougher penalties on Russia than the Obama administration imposed earlier this year.

“Russia must be held accountable for its illegal annexation of Crimea, its ongoing aggression inside Ukraine, and its extensive disinformation and propaganda campaigns against the United States and our allies,” Portman said.

The bill could create a conflict with incoming President Donald Trump who has said he wants better relations with Putin. The measure would include “mandatory visa bans and asset freezes” on anyone who helps or sponsors efforts “for undermining the cybersecurity of public or private infrastructure and democratic institutions.”

Dayton mayor heading to D.C.

Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley will join three other Democratic mayors Tuesday in Washington on how cities will deal with the new Trump administration.

The session will be sponsored by the Democratic-leaning Center for American Progress Action Fund and will also include Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray, and Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.

Turner to head subcommittee

Turner will once again head the House Armed Services Committee’s Tactical Air & Land Subcommittee, his office announced last week. This will be his second time leading the subcommittee..

“My top priority remains repealing sequestration and restoring military readiness and capability with respect to air and land forces through effective modernization strategies,” Turner said. “I will continue to fight to equip our warfighters with the resources they need to carry out their mission and keep our nation safe.”

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