Press Releases

"For years, Israelis have lived under the constant threat of rockets from Hamas-controlled Gaza. In this year alone, over 800 rockets have been fired from Gaza into southern Israel, threatening the lives of all those who live there. Peace is only attainable if Hamas ceases these unjustifiable attacks. However, until then, Israel should be allowed to defend itself against these acts of terror. We must continue to support our strongest democratic ally in the region and encourage others to do so, as well."

"More and more Americans are discouraged with the job market. Today's jobs report indicates unemployment has increased to 7.9 percent, a sign the Administration's policies are impeding economic recovery. Instead, Americans are finding part-time jobs that pay less and have an uncertain future. We need economic policies that encourage growth and allow businesses to hire more Americans to get this country back to work."

"Today, the Tampa Bay area lost a great leader and a great friend. Sam was steadfast in his commitment to our community, and his contributions helped our area grow and develop into the great place we know and love today. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time."

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"In order to keep terrorists out of our country, Congress previously blocked the President's dangerous plan to close Guantanamo Bay and bring terrorists onto U.S. soil for trial in civilian courts. This $165 million purchase demonstrates not only defiance of the will of the American people, but could also open the door to transferring detainees. This latest circumvention of Congress is deeply troubling, and I stand committed to working with my colleagues to ensure these dangerous terrorists are not moved to our Homeland."

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Washington, DC (September 27, 2012) – Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-09), member of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, Chairman of the Congressional Hellenic-Israeli Alliance and member of the Congressional Anti-Terrorism Caucus, today sent a letter to the President and Ministers of the Commission of the European Union, urging the Commission to include Hezbollah on the European Union's list of terrorist organizations.

"We must never forget the selfless sacrifices of America's true heroes – the men and women of our Armed Forces. They have defined the meaning of patriotism and heroism, and they embody the American spirit that has forged a better and brighter future for our Nation's children and grandchildren. On the third Friday of September, we pay tribute to the lives and contributions of the more than 83,000 Americans who are still listed as Prisoners of War or Missing in Action. No matter how much time has passed, we remain committed to bringing these brave men and women home."

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Washington, DC (September 19, 2012) – The U.S. House of Representatives passed today the Veterans Fiduciary Reform and Honoring Noble Service Act (H.R. 5948), which includes language sponsored by Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-09), Vice-Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, to ensure that our Nation's veterans receive proper burial in the absence of next of kin or adequate finances.

"I am deeply saddened and outraged by the attacks which led to the brutal murder of Ambassador Stevens and three Americans in Benghazi. I strongly condemn this horrific act, and my thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those killed serving our country. Authorities in the region must condemn these senseless acts and commit to bringing those responsible for the deaths of our diplomats to justice.