110th Congress

Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) introduced binding legislation that would restrict the president's dangerous escalation of the Iraq War and set firm deadlines for a redeployment of American troops. Thompson's bill is companion legislation to a bill introduced earlier this week in the Senate by Senator Barack Obama (D-IL).

“A realistic plan for ending this war is long overdue,” said Thompson. “This bill draws a hard line with the Iraqi government by giving them firm benchmarks for securing their country and making it clear that the U.S.'s involvement is coming to a close.”

Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) was appointed Chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence's Subcommittee on Terrorism, Human Intelligence, Analysis and Counterintelligence for the 110th Congress. Intelligence Committee Chairman Silvestre Reyes (D-TX) announced subcommittee assignments earlier this week. Thompson will also serve on the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee.

Last night, Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced the appointment of Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) to the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Thompson, who is entering his fifth term of Congress, will also continue to serve on the Ways and Means Committee.

Today, Congressmen Mike Thompson (D-CA) and George Radanovich (R-CA), co-chairs of the Congressional Wine Caucus, joined the Wine Institute, the National Grape and Wine Initiative, WineAmerica and the Winegrape Growers of America to release an unprecedented study on the impact of wine, grapes and grape products on the American economy.

Today, the House overwhelming passed a bill (HR 4) repealing the current prohibition on negotiating the prices of Medicare prescription drugs. The bill, co-sponsored by Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA), will require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct cost-saving negotiations with pharmaceutical companies. These negotiations are expected to result in real savings for 22 million Americans enrolled in Medicare.

Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) and 252 Democratic and Republican Representatives voted to pass the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act (HR 3). The bill, which expands federal research on devastating diseases like Alzheimer's, diabetes and various cancers, is the third piece of legislation in the Democratic Majority's “100 Hours” agenda. Thompson was an original co-sponsor of the bill.

“The vote signifies a federal commitment to exploring every possible option available for curing these terrible illnesses,” said Thompson in a statement. “Today, we cast a vote for hope.”