Representative Deborah Ross

Ross Calls on DHS, ICE to Abandon Plans for Eastern NC Immigration Detention

Wed, 217 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

Raleigh, N.C. – Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) demanded that the Trump administration abandon its reported plans to open an immigration detention facility in Hertford County, North Carolina by the end of the year. In a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Congresswoman Ross urged the agencies to abandon the proposal, citing the facility's troubling history, the burden it would place on local communities, and the administration’s documented record of mistreating detainees.

The proposed detention center would be located at the former Rivers Correctional Institution in Winton, a privately operated prison previously managed by The GEO Group. During its years of operation, the facility faced repeated complaints regarding inadequate staffing, poor medical care, unsafe conditions, and other serious deficiencies.

Congresswoman Ross warned that reopening the facility comes amid a pattern of troubling conduct by federal immigration authorities:

"Reopening the facility under The GEO Group’s ownership as an ICE detention center raises legitimate concerns that the same poor conditions could persist. I am especially concerned given your agencies’ recent practices of detaining and mistreating legal residents and even U.S. citizens,” she wrote.

In the letter Congresswoman Ross also emphasized that reopening the facility would place additional strain on local law enforcement, emergency medical services, fire departments, health care providers, utilities, and other public services in the surrounding communities, forcing local taxpayers to shoulder the costs created by the Trump administration’s decision.

Full text of the letter is available here.

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Ross, Miller, Davis Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Virtual Opioid Treatment for Veterans

Thu, 211 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02), Carol Miller (WV-01), and Don Davis (NC-01) introduced the Virtual-Based Opioid Treatment for Veterans Act. This bipartisan legislation would establish a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pilot program that would connect veterans with opioid use disorder (OUD) to community-based virtual treatment providers when the VA cannot provide timely care directly.

The legislation would expand access to evidence-based treatment for veterans with OUD when distance, long wait times, transportation challenges, or provider shortages make it difficult to receive in-person care at a VA facility.

Despite the effectiveness of treatment, requiring in-person appointments can make it difficult for patients to begin and remain in care. These challenges are especially significant for the more than 4.4 million veterans who live in rural communities, where travel distances are longer and local specialists are often scarce.

“When a veteran is ready to seek treatment for opioid use disorder, a long drive, a months-long waiting list, or a lack of nearby specialists should never stand in their way,” said Congresswoman Ross. “More than 300,000 veterans in North Carolina live in rural areas where accessing care can be especially difficult. The VA has already demonstrated that telehealth can help veterans begin and remain in opioid treatment. My legislation builds on that success by ensuring veterans and their families can access the care they need – no matter their zip code.”

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much in service to our country, and they deserve timely access to the care they have rightfully earned,” said Congresswoman Miller. “Too many veterans struggling with opioid addiction face barriers to treatment because of long wait times or a lack of access to in-person care. This bill provides a commonsense solution by expanding access to life saving treatment through telehealth, if and only when veterans cannot receive timely care at a clinic. I am happy to support this legislation and urge my colleagues to help get it across the finish line.”

“Eastern North Carolina is home to more than 56,000 veterans and generations of servicemembers and military families who strengthen our communities through their service and leadership,” said Congressman Davis. “When veterans are seeking treatment, distance, transportation challenges, provider shortages, or long wait times should never keep them from receiving the care they have earned. The Virtual-Based Opioid Treatment for Veterans Act would connect veterans to community-based virtual care when the VA cannot deliver timely treatment, helping to close gaps in our rural communities while preserving the VA’s central role.”

The legislation would direct the VA to establish a two-year pilot program through the Veterans Community Care Program to connect eligible veterans with qualified virtual opioid treatment providers when VA facilities cannot provide timely care. The pilot would supplement, not replace, care delivered directly by the VA.

VA research supports expanding virtual treatment options. A national study of more than 17,000 veterans receiving buprenorphine found that patients who received at least some care through telehealth were significantly more likely to remain in treatment for at least 90 days than those treated exclusively in person.

The bill is endorsed by the Veterans Resilience Project of NC, Veterans Life Center of NC, North Carolina Medical Society, Behavioral Health Association of Providers, Project VBOT, Breaking Barriers to Substance Use Recovery, Addiction Professionals of NC, and International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium.

Bill text is available here.

Ross, Foushee, Panetta Introduce Legislation to Support Foreign Language and International Education Programs

Tue, 209 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced the Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act to support foreign language and international education programs at colleges and universities by reauthorizing Title VI of the Higher Education Act. For decades, the Title VI/Fulbright-Hays programs have provided a strong foundation for international, research, and world language studies, especially in less commonly taught foreign languages that hold strategic importance for the United States.

Despite their proven importance, this administration has taken steps to undermine and dismantle these critical programs. The President’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Budget proposed zeroing out funding for international education programs at the Department of Education. The department has separately proposed eliminating the regulations governing Title VI and Fulbright-Hays, potentially allowing the administration to eliminate these programs entirely. The Higher Education Act has not been reauthorized since 2008.

The United States lags far behind European nations and other countries in foreign language proficiency, with approximately 10% of Americans speaking another language proficiently compared to 65% of Europeans. As demand grows for professionals with language skills and cross-cultural expertise in fields such as health, cybersecurity, and engineering, America’s competitiveness depends on our ability to communicate across languages and cultures.

“In Congress, I’m proud to represent world-renowned universities, colleges, and HBCUs, home to students driving cutting-edge research and innovation,” said Congresswoman Ross. “At a moment of unprecedented global competition, the United States cannot afford to fall behind in foreign language proficiency or international education. Yet the Trump administration has sought to eliminate funding for critical programs and attempted to dismantle key federal education funding entirely. It’s clear we must invest in the language and international education programs that strengthen our national security, expand opportunity, and keep America competitive.”

“Keeping Americans prepared to enter the workforce must include access to foreign language education. Continuing to struggle to keep pace with other nations in language education will threaten our global leadership and our ability to equip the next generation with the proper tools to become civil leaders,” said Congresswoman Foushee. “I’m proud to work with Congresswoman Ross and Congressman Panetta on this legislation that will make critical investments in language education to ensure our nation’s continued leadership for years to come.”

“Language education can broaden horizons and expand opportunities for Americans within our borders and beyond,” said Congressman Panetta. “As the co-chair of the America’s Languages Caucus, I’m proud to support the Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act, which would extend language programs that are critical to building a workforce ready to compete around the world. By investing in language and international education programs today, we ensure our nation can continue leading the world and the global economy.”

Specifically, the Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act would:

Reauthorize and extend programs for international education and foreign language studies, including National Resource Centers, Language Resource Centers, Undergraduate International Studies, Centers for International Business Education and Research, and American Overseas Research Centers.
Reauthorize Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowships, allowing graduate students to receive stipends for studying foreign languages.
Extend and update the International Research and Innovation program, including establishing a national database on international and foreign language education.
Reauthorize and update programs for international business skills and education, including renaming and expanding activities in professional and technical training curricula. It will be called Professional and Technical Education for Global Competitiveness.

The Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act is endorsed by the following organizations (as of 7/13):

Alliance for International Exchange
American Council of Learned Societies
ACTFL: American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages
American Councils for International Education
American Historical Association
American Political Science Association
Association for Slavic, East European, and Eurasian Studies
Association of International Education Administrators
Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities
Centers for International Business Education and Research
Consortium of Social Science Associations
Council of National Resource Centers for International and Area Studies (CNRC),
Council of Graduate Schools
Joint National Committee for Languages
Modern Language Association
NAFSA: Association of International Educators
National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities
National Humanities Alliance

The legislation was previously introduced by former Congressman David Price. Bill text is available here.

Congresswoman Ross Statement on House Republicans’ Partisan NDAA

Wed, 203 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Republican leadership rejected Camp Lejeune Amendment...

Congresswoman Ross Votes Against Republicans' $73 Billion Handout for Trump’s War in Iran

Wed, 203 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) released the following statement after voting against Republicans’ partisan budget reconciliation resolution, which would provide the administration $73 billion in funding to continue waging Trump’s illegal war with Iran while doing nothing to lower costs for American families:

“Every American is feeling the cost of Trump’s war with Iran and his reckless policies that continue to drive up costs across the board. Whether it’s at the gas pump or the grocery store, Americans are stretched too thin. They need relief–not a blank check to fund an illegal war with no strategy or endgame.

“Republicans’ latest budget comes just over a year after they passed the largest cuts to healthcare and food assistance in our nation’s history. The so-called ‘Big Ugly Law’ ripped away healthcare coverage for over 8 million Americans and bankrupted rural hospitals across the country. More than 177,000 North Carolina families and children have lost access to food assistance–all so Republicans could fund tax breaks for the richest Americans.

“A budget is fundamentally a statement of values. This budget resolution sends a clear message that Trump and Congressional Republicans would rather bankroll a war of choice in the Middle East than invest in Americans’ healthcare, food assistance, and economic security.

“The American people deserve better. I will keep fighting this reckless, cruel budget every step of the way.”

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Congresswomen Ross, Foushee, Adams Demand Answers from Duke Energy on Trump Admin Deal to Cancel Offshore Wind Lease

Tue, 202 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, North Carolina Congresswomen Deborah Ross (NC-02), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), and Alma Adams (NC-12) demanded answers from Duke Energy after the company accepted $129 million from the Trump administration to abandon the Carolina Long Bay offshore wind lease. As Duke seeks to raise energy prices by 11.6%, this deal appears to send a message that Duke Energy prioritizes the President’s favor over providing clean, affordable energy to North Carolinians.

The lawmakers outlined how these payments appear to demonstrate a concerted effort by the Trump administration to pay companies to abandon the offshore wind energy market and instead invest in oil and gas production.

They wrote, “In recent months, multiple offshore wind projects and lease areas across the country have been canceled by the Trump administration in exchange for payouts to the leaseholders and promises to reinvest those funds into fossil fuel projects and infrastructure. These payouts come on the heels of court orders halting the Trump administration’s attempts to unilaterally block these projects. Your company’s acceptance of this payout from the Trump administration now strikes many observers as a quid pro quo.”

They went on to outline how Duke Energy’s decision will hurt North Carolina’s economy, workforce, and clean energy goals.

“The Carolina Long Bay project represented one of the best opportunities to develop offshore wind energy off North Carolina’s coast,” they wrote. “Your company’s decision to terminate its lease will have impacts beyond this single project. It may affect future private investment, workforce development, transmission planning, and public confidence in North Carolina’s ability to develop new sources of clean electricity.”

The members are demanding answers from Duke Energy about this payment, including all documents and communications related to its withdrawal from the Carolina Long Bay offshore wind lease.

In May, Congresswoman Ross led her colleagues in demanding answers from the Trump administration about nearly $2 billion in payouts to energy companies to terminate offshore wind projects.

In addition to being a Co-Chair of the Congressional Offshore Wind Caucus, Congresswoman Ross is the Ranking Member of the Energy Subcommittee on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. Offshore wind development has been one of her signature issues in Congress, including successfully pushing to repeal the 10-year offshore wind leasing moratorium off the coasts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida through the Inflation Reduction Act.

Full text of the letter is available here.

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Ross Leads Lawmakers in Calling for Federal Review of Russian Election Interference Tactics Ahead of 2026 Midterms

Mon, 201 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) led a bipartisan letter urging the administration to assess how Russia's increasingly sophisticated election interference tactics in Europe could threaten the integrity of the 2026 U.S. midterm elections.

In the letter, the lawmakers point to Russia's recent interference campaigns targeting elections in Moldova and Armenia, which relied on coordinated disinformation operations, artificial intelligence (AI), cyberattacks, deepfakes, and other covert influence tactics to undermine democratic institutions.

They warn that these evolving methods should serve as a warning as the United States prepares for the November 2026 elections.

The lawmakers wrote: "Russia has continued to develop its election interference strategy by combining traditional influence operations with coordinated online disinformation campaigns and targeted usage of artificial intelligence. Although these attempts ultimately failed to achieve their apparent political goals, they highlight Russia’s willingness to devote substantial financial and technological resources to invisible influence campaigns against democratic elections.”

Specifically, the lawmakers request that DOJ and CISA review the tactics Russia employed in the Moldovan and Armenian elections, evaluate whether similar threats could target U.S. elections, and assess whether additional safeguards are needed to protect American voters from foreign interference.

Congresswoman Ross serves as a Co-Chair of the Congressional Moldova Caucus, along with Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17). Last year, the Co-Chairs warned of Russian interference ahead of Moldova’s parliamentary elections.

The letter was cosigned by Representatives Brad Schneider (IL-10), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Eugene Vindman (VA-07), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), and Don Davis (NC-01).

Full text of the letter is available here.

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Congresswoman Ross Leads NC Delegation in Introducing Resolution to Honor the Carolina Hurricanes’ Stanley Cup Victory

Wed, 182 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) introduced a House resolution congratulating the Carolina Hurricanes on winning the 2026 Stanley Cup Championship, the franchise's first Stanley Cup title in 20 years, and recognizing the team's extraordinary impact on North Carolina both on and off the ice. She was joined by Representatives Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Addison McDowell (NC-06), Alma Adams (NC-12), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Don Davis (NC-01), Greg Murphy (NC-03), Tim Moore (NC-14), David Rouzer (NC-07), Mark Harris (NC-08), and Virginia Foxx (NC-05) as original co-sponsors.

"The Carolina Hurricanes didn't just bring the Stanley Cup back to Raleigh. They brought our entire state together," said Congresswoman Ross. "From inspiring the next generation of hockey players to supporting veterans, raising millions for charitable causes, and standing with Western North Carolina communities after Hurricane Helene, this organization has shown what it means to lead with courage and compassion. This resolution celebrates an unforgettable championship season and recognizes the lasting impact the Hurricanes have had on our state. Congratulations to every player, coach, staff member, and Caniac who helped make history."

The Hurricanes defeated the Las Vegas Golden Knights in six games to capture the Stanley Cup after an impressive postseason that included sweeping both the Ottawa Senators and Philadelphia Flyers before defeating the Montreal Canadiens to win the Eastern Conference.

Beyond the championship, the resolution highlights the Hurricanes' positive impact across North Carolina, including their support for youth hockey programs, veterans and wounded warriors, disaster relief efforts following Hurricane Helene, and the significant economic boost generated for Wake County during the Stanley Cup Final. It also formally recognizes Raleigh as a hockey town and North Carolina as a hockey state, affirming that hockey belongs in the South.

Text of the resolution is available here.

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Congresswoman Ross Statement on Supreme Court Birthright Citizenship Decision

Tue, 181 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) released the following statement on the Supreme Court’s ruling to uphold birthright citizenship:

“Today, the Supreme Court upheld one of our nation’s fundamental rights: if you are born here, you are an American citizen and entitled to the rights and protections guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment to our Constitution.

“For more than a year, the Trump administration has repeatedly sought to erode immigrants’ rights by undermining due process, targeting lawful residents, and attempting to redefine who belongs in this country. Its effort to end birthright citizenship was among its most extreme attempts to ignore the plain text of the Constitution and divide Americans based on who they are and where they come from. Today, the Court rejected that effort.

“Birthright citizenship is enshrined in the Constitution and no president has the authority to unilaterally strip it away. The United States has been strengthened by those who come here in search of opportunity, and today's decision reaffirms that our Constitution, not the president, defines who is an American.”

Congresswoman Ross Denounces Harmful Supreme Court Ruling to End TPS for Haitians and Syrians

Thu, 176 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) released the following statement on the Supreme Court’s ruling to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians and Syrians:

“Today’s ruling ignores our nation’s history and values. For centuries, immigrants have come to America for a better life under the threat of violence and persecution in their home countries. The Supreme Court betrayed that tradition and has turned its back on our longstanding commitment to protecting those in need.

“For no logical or moral reason, the Court has stripped away legal status from thousands of families who played by the rules, worked hard, and have become a part of communities across the country. By siding with the Trump administration’s cruel anti-immigrant agenda, the Supreme Court has made it easier to uproot families and send vulnerable people back to dangerous conditions without making Americans any safer or more prosperous.

“North Carolina knows the strength that immigrants bring to our communities. People from all over the world have moved to our state to work hard, strengthen our economy, and build a future for their families.

“These families deserve certainty, dignity, and the chance to continue calling America home. Congress must pass legislation to provide security and certainty for individuals here under Temporary Protected Status. I will continue to help our immigrant communities.”

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Representatives Ross, Panetta, DeLauro Introduce Bill to Deliver Faster Relief for Taxpayers

Thu, 176 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02), Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), and House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) introduced a bill to improve transparency between taxpayers and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax refund claims.

Currently, there is no requirement that the IRS pay or deny refund claims within a set timeframe. As a result, claims can spend years in the IRS’ queue without a decision, leaving taxpayers with no clear answers or recourse. The bill requires the IRS to respond to tax refund claims within one year of receiving a taxpayer’s return. It also ensures that any refund paid after that period is adjusted for inflation and includes interest to compensate taxpayers for the delay.

IRS employees work diligently to serve taxpayers and process refund claims, but their work has been undermined by staffing cuts under the Trump administration. Thousands of IRS employees have been laid off, resulting in fewer claims processed and growing backlogs. Since 2019, the number of backlogged tax claims has doubled to more than two million. This bill will create a clear process to ensure refund claims are paid or denied in a timely manner, with taxpayers guaranteed a sufficient explanation for any IRS decision.

“Americans in North Carolina and across the country work hard for every dollar they earn, and they deserve prompt responses when they file their tax returns,” said Congresswoman Ross. “At a time when too many families are stretched thin by rising costs, they should not be left wondering whether they will receive the money they are owed. This bill will help ensure tax refunds are processed in a timely manner and require the IRS to provide clear explanations of its decisions to the American taxpayers.”

“We are in a cost-of-living crisis,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “Americans are living paycheck to paycheck – if the government is responsible for a late refund, they should ensure that Americans are made whole because of it. I am fighting to put more money in working and middle-class Americans' pockets – to help them get ahead and thrive.”

“The backlog in cases at the IRS has left way too many hardworking taxpayers waiting way too long for their hard-earned refunds,” said Congressman Panetta. “Our RETURN Act would help restore accountability, efficiency, and transparency by requiring the IRS to respond to refund requests within one year and explain the reasoning behind any denial. This legislation would help ensure a more responsive tax system so that all Americans can efficiently and effectively receive their tax returns.”

Bill text is available here.

Ross Helps Advance Landmark Housing Legislation to Lower Costs and Speed Disaster Recovery

Wed, 175 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) voted to pass the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a landmark bipartisan package that will help lower housing costs by accelerating housing production, getting homes to the market quicker, and supporting buyers and renters. Now that it’s passed both houses of Congress, the legislation heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

The updated version of this package includes a major priority for Congresswoman Ross, the Reforming Disaster Recovery Act, which would create a disaster recovery fund to allow the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to predictably assist communities after major disasters.

“As I travel around Wake County, the number one issue I hear about is the skyrocketing cost of housing,” said Congresswoman Ross. “Families can’t afford to keep a roof over their heads. The dream of homeownership is out of reach for young people. Seniors living on fixed incomes are struggling to make ends meet. And too many North Carolinians are being priced out of communities they helped build.

“I am extremely relieved that essential disaster support was added back into this legislative package. After Hurricane Helene, Western North Carolina saw homes destroyed, and countless families still haven’t been able to return. This essential provision will help ensure communities can access federal housing assistance more quickly and predictably after disaster strikes.

“This package is an historic achievement that will increase housing supply, bring down costs, and help more families find an affordable place to call home. I will keep up the fight for affordable housing and work to deliver real and immediate federal support to any community affected by natural disasters – in North Carolina and across the country.”

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Ross, Hurd, Beyer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen AI Security and Vulnerability Reporting

Tue, 174 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02), Jeff Hurd (CO-3), and Don Beyer (VA-08) introduced the AI Flaw Reporting and Security Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen the security of artificial intelligence (AI) systems. The bill would create a voluntary federal reporting program through which AI developers can disclose vulnerabilities in their models, enabling coordinated efforts to identify, manage, and responsibly disclose flaws before they can be exploited.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) operates the National Vulnerability Database (NVD), an authoritative dataset that organizations across the world use to identify and address cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The AI Flaw Reporting and Security Enhancement Act would direct NIST to create similar processes for the reporting of AI flaws and vulnerabilities. It also directs NIST to engage with the private sector and assist with developing methods for detecting, monitoring, and remediating AI flaws.

The AI Flaw Reporting and Security Enhancement Act would also direct NIST to bring together stakeholders to study AI flaws and vulnerabilities across sectors and assess the reporting and response infrastructure developed by the bill. NIST would then be required to submit its findings to Congress within three years.

“I’m proud to represent much of the Research Triangle Park, home to organizations and institutions that are driving innovation in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity,” said Congresswoman Ross. “AI is already shaping how we work, communicate, and access information, and we must put appropriate safeguards in place to address the risks that come with this rapidly evolving technology. That’s why I introduced the bipartisan AI Flaw Reporting and Security Enhancement Act. This commonsense legislation will help us better identify and address vulnerabilities in AI systems while advancing the responsible development of this technology.”

“America should lead the world in artificial intelligence, and that leadership starts with secure and reliable systems,” said Congressman Hurd. “This bipartisan bill creates a practical framework to identify and address vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, helping strengthen trust in AI while supporting continued innovation. I’m proud to work across the aisle to ensure the United States remains the global leader in developing and deploying these technologies.”

“As AI technologies continue to advance at an unprecedented pace, AI systems face growing threats that can expose sensitive data, create new cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and beyond,” said Congressman Beyer. “Congress cannot afford to fall behind in addressing these emerging risks and ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place. Our legislation would establish a centralized reporting mechanism for potential security and safety vulnerabilities in AI systems, allowing for timely and coordinated action to mitigate risks.”

Bill text is available here.

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Q&A: What Deborah Ross saw inside the ICE processing facility in Cary

NC Newsline by Ahmed Jallow — Mon, 166 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross says the complaints her office receives about immigration detention rarely involve the ICE processing facility in Cary.

Instead, Ross said, concerns typically arise after people are transferred to the Stewart Detention Center in Georgia, where North Carolinians can spend months in federal custody.

Ross recently toured the Cary facility with Rep. Valerie Foushee as part of a congressional oversight visit. She said the site functions primarily as a short-term processing center where people are held for only a few hours before being transported elsewhere.

NC Newsline spoke with Ross about what she observed during the visit, and why she is pushing for a congressional inspection of the Georgia facility.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Can you describe what you saw during your visit to the Cary facility?

Ross: It’s not a big processing center. It’s just a small facility. There are two things that go on in the facility, and we went through every nook and cranny.

There’s an ICE processing facility where they bring in people who have been picked up by ICE and process them before they go to the Stewart facility in Georgia. People come in through a secure bay and then go to a processing area. There are three holding cells — one for women and two for men. One of the men’s holding cells is for people who are violent offenders because they don’t want somebody who overstayed a visa in a cell with a violent criminal.

People stay in those holding cells only a couple of hours, and then a van picks them up and takes them to the Stewart facility in Georgia. We saw everything, including cameras that allowed us to see into the holding cells. At the time we were there, there were not many people in the cells, and there were not many people being processed. It was actually kind of a quiet situation.

They’re equipped to process people, but those people don’t stay for a long time, so it’s not like they have beds or anything like that.

I’ve been to processing facilities at the border in Texas. This was not anything like that.

The other part of the building is Homeland Security. It may help ICE, but it deals with things such as drug trafficking, human trafficking and cybersecurity. We went to that part of the facility, too, and talked to the person in charge, who has worked there for five years.

Why did you decide to visit the facility?

I wanted to see what was happening in my district. That’s not the first time I’ve been to that facility.

Before the Trump administration, that facility was considered a friendly facility for people who had immigration issues they were trying to resolve. In the past, our area wanted a Homeland Security and ICE facility because, without one, people would have had to drive to Charlotte to do normal things such as international adoptions and visa extensions.

I’ve been to that facility before. I just hadn’t been there under the Trump administration, so I wanted to see the difference between something that could do helpful things and a place that might not be doing helpful things.

This is not the first time I have visited facilities. I went to McAllen, Texas, and I went to the wall in Texas when I first got on the immigration subcommittee. I’ve seen the big facilities, but I wanted to see what the experience would be for somebody in my district.

Now I need to go to where people get transferred because that’s where there are abuses, where people aren’t getting medical care and where I hear about different problems. That’s where Fatima, the woman from Wendell who had done everything right, went, and then we had to get her back from Georgia.

I think it’s important that I go and see where people go, because when my office is contacted, it’s almost never about the facility in North Carolina. It’s always about the facility in Georgia.

Did you ask about medical care or other basic needs for people being processed there?

We brought up whether people have access to their medications and whether they are being taken care of.

Compared with where I went in Texas, this facility was cleaner and nicer. They didn’t have a doctor on staff because people are there only for a brief period of time.

What I saw was people moving through the system, not a place where people were sleeping or showering. They told us they give everybody a meal there.

When I went to Texas, we saw multiple cells with people on the floor, sleeping with Mylar blankets and not having enough clothing. We saw the whole thing, and that is why I want to go to the Georgia facility. Unless somebody was having a seizure or something like that, they’re just not there long enough for it to become an issue.

How are people transported from Cary to the Stewart Detention Center in Georgia?

They said it’s usually a small van. When we were there, we did not see any of the transport.

What we did see was a secure bay where vehicles come in for drop-off and pick-up so people are not exposed outside. It’s the same as at a police station, where people are brought into a secure bay to make sure everything is secure when they’re getting in and out of the vehicle.

What we saw was where a vehicle would bring a person in and the stages they would go through. If a vehicle came to transport them somewhere else, they wouldn’t be out in a parking lot.

Did you discuss overcrowding?

We asked about that, but they said right now it’s not happening. Because they don’t keep people for very long, they said they haven’t had that situation, and we didn’t witness it.

When I went to Texas, I witnessed overcrowding. They told us it was much better than during the first Trump administration, but it was still heartbreaking to see what was going on. There was a whole holding cell for pregnant women.

When I went to this facility, it seemed more like you were going to your local police department.

Were you able to speak with anyone being held there?

No.

We have a ruling from a federal judge that says we’re allowed to conduct unannounced inspections, so they can’t turn us away. But we do not have the right to interfere in their business.

There weren’t many people to talk to anyway. What we could do was observe what was going on, but we couldn’t insert ourselves into the process.

When we go to Georgia, we’re going to have a list of people who have had medical difficulties or other problems, and we’ll be able to inquire about what’s going on with people who are staying there for a longer period of time. That’s why we want to go to Georgia.

What are your plans for visiting the Georgia facility?

We are trying to set up the Georgia visit so that it is very clear that many eyes are on it, rather than just showing up for an hour and leaving.

We are involving the Georgia delegation. We tried to do this last year, but there was a scheduling problem, so we’re very focused on doing it.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal is insisting that we get the maximum access. She has been outstanding in her work on this, and she is very committed to working with me, Rep. Valerie Foushee and the Georgia delegation.

About how many people were in the holding cells during your visit?

Fewer than five.

What is your reaction to the additional funding [approved last week] for ICE and Homeland Security?

It’s a waste of money, and it’s an abuse of power.

https://ncnewsline.com/2026/06/15/qa-what-deborah-ross-saw-inside-the-ice-processing-facility-in-cary/

Ross, Raskin, Khanna Demand Answers on Secretive BOP Policy Change Following Ghislaine Maxwell Prison Transfer

Fri, 163 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

The new letter comes after probe from lawmakers on Maxwell’s transfer to ‘Club Fed’...

Democrats demand answers over DOJ’s prison policy change tied to Ghislaine Maxwell

MSNow by Kevin Frey — Fri, 163 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

House Democrats want answers about a recent policy change at the Federal Bureau of Prisons, arguing leaders at the Department of Justice are trying to “cover their tracks” following the August transfer of Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell to a lower-security facility.

That new policy, which was published last month and has not been previously reported, dictates that “in certain circumstances, the Attorney General may exercise authority to designate or redesignate the place of a prisoner’s imprisonment.”

Democrats argue the expansion of federal authority over inmate placement is a major departure from previous policies, which they say vested more authority in the Bureau of Prisons and placed specific restrictions on where inmates could be held — including taking into account whether the prisoner is a sex offender.

Rep. Deborah Ross of North Carolina, a Democratic member of the House Judiciary Committee, said the “clear implication” is that — under the old rules — the Department of Justice violated the Bureau of Prisons own rules when it “transferred Ghislaine Maxwell to Club Fed, where sex offenders are not allowed to be.”

“Since it violated the policy for who can do prison transfers, they’re trying to cover their tracks retroactively,” Ross alleged.

Last year, Maxwell was transferred from a low-security facility in Florida to a minimum-security camp in Texas, shortly after she met with then-Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who said he wanted to talk about what she knows about Epstein.

Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence for her role in a scheme to sexually exploit and abuse minors. She has appealed for President Donald Trump to grant her clemency.

“I don’t think it takes a rocket scientist to figure out what they’re doing,” Ross said of the DOJ.

Amping up pressure on the Trump administration for answers, Ross sent a letter, shared first with MS NOW, to the Federal Bureau of Prisons Friday morning.

In it, Ross asks the agency to explain what prompted the policy change and how it was developed. She also asks for the bureau to detail how many times the Attorney General has intervened regarding a prison designation or redesignation decision.

“Given Congress’s responsibility to oversee the federal correctional system and ensure that BOP policies are evidence-based, transparent, and consistent with statutory requirements, we require answers on how and why your Bureau decided to give the Attorney General the authority to unilaterally transfer inmates and disregard the BOP evaluation of an inmate’s safety classification,” Ross writes in the letter.

The letter also says the new policy “raises troubling questions about the scope of the Attorney General’s asserted authority, the circumstances under which this authority may be exercised, and the potential effects on institutional operations, fairness, transparency, and consistency in federal prisoner placement decisions.”

“Especially in light of Maxwell’s transfer,” the letter continues, any policy update “warrants careful scrutiny by Congress and the public.”

The letter is co-signed by Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland, who is poised to become the next chairman of the House Judiciary Committee if Democrats win control of the chamber in November, and Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., who spearheaded the congressional effort to force the release of the Epstein files.

MS NOW separately reached out to the DOJ and the Federal Bureau of Prisons to ask for an explanation for the policy change. Neither agency responded.

The demand for answers from House Democrats comes as Blanche, Trump’s pick to serve as the next Attorney General, is staring down the Senate confirmation process.

Ross told MS NOW that, provided the Bureau of Prisons does not respond to their House inquiry, Democrats will urge their Senate colleagues to ask Blanche about the prison policy change when it comes time for his confirmation hearing.

“We hope it comes up,” she said.

Getting to the bottom of the policy revision, she said, will also likely be part of Democratic efforts next year to conduct oversight of the Trump White House and its handling of the Epstein case should they win control of the House and the committee gavels in November’s midterms.

“You can be sure of it,” she said.

https://www.ms.now/news/democrats-demand-answers-doj-prison-policy-ghislaine-maxwell

Representatives Ross, Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Promote Energy Independence and Security in Moldova

Wed, 161 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02) and Mike Lawler (NY-17), co-chairs of the Congressional Moldova Caucus, introduced the Promoting Oversight With Energy Resilience for Moldova, or the POWER Moldova Act of 2026. This legislation would help Moldova build more secure and independent energy infrastructure by tracking progress on key energy milestones and encouraging information sharing on new energy technologies. Energy independence in Moldova would improve its security and strengthen its role as a reliable strategic partner to the United States and democratic bulwark against Russian influence and aggression.

Moldova has made large strides in reducing its dependence on Russian energy, including through participation in the Vertical Gas Corridor, a regional initiative to diversify energy supply and reduce reliance on Russia. Moldova’s need for independent energy sources was further highlighted following Russian attacks on Ukraine’s civilian energy infrastructure in March 2026, in which the Moldovan government declared a 60-day state of alert.

The POWER Moldova Act would encourage the Moldovan Ministry of Energy to work with the U.S. Departments of State and Energy to increase the country’s renewable energy production by instituting a reporting requirement. This legislation follows the introduction of Representatives Ross and Lawler’s legislation, the 2023 U.S.-Moldova Defense Partnership Act, which would help assist Moldova in its defense needs amidst Russia’s war against Ukraine.

“Moldova continues to stand strong in the face of Russian interference and aggression,” said Congresswoman Deborah Ross. “To protect their sovereignty and the security of the region, we must ensure Moldova can access long-term, reliable sources of energy. My home state of North Carolina has served as a strategic partner to Moldova for over 30 years. Supporting Moldova’s energy independence strengthens democratic partners and creates opportunities for deeper cooperation that benefit both North Carolinians and the Moldovan people. I will continue working with Congressman Lawler to promote a secure future for the people of Moldova and strengthen the U.S.-Moldova partnership for years to come.”

“The United States and Moldova have maintained a strong partnership for over three decades, a relationship that has taken on renewed importance amid the Sandu Administration’s work on European integration and Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine” said Congressman Lawler. “This legislation will provide Congress with a clearer understanding of where our relationship is strong and where we can be more helpful to our partner to ensure long-term resilience in the face of regional threats.”

Bill text is available here.

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Congresswoman Ross Votes Against $70 Billion Blank Check for Trump’s Immigration Policies

Wed, 161 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) released the following statement after voting against Republicans’ partisan budget reconciliation package, which would give Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) $70 billion to execute the Trump administration’s cruel immigration agenda.

“Instead of taking action to lower costs for the American people, Republicans have passed a blank check to ICE and CBP, without any of the meaningful reforms that the public supports.

“In North Carolina and across the country, federal immigration agents have terrorized our communities – abducting people off the streets, separating families and children, deporting legal residents, violating due process rights, and even killing U.S. citizens. We all want safe communities – but Trump’s ICE and CBP are operating without regard for the law or the Constitution.

“This egregious package fails to include any real reforms to rein in Trump’s lawless immigration policies. Instead of helping working families afford housing, groceries, and healthcare, Republicans have chosen to spend billions more empowering a corrupt administration that repeatedly ignores the law and violates fundamental rights.”

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U.S. Rep. Ross pushes bill to give independent musicians power to collectively negotiate with AI and streaming services

WUNC News by Brian Burns — Fri, 149 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

Congresswoman Deborah Ross leads a panel discussing the Protect Working Musicians Act of 2026 at The Pour House in downtown Raleigh, N.C. (Left to right: Shirlette Ammons, Rissi Palmer, Tift Merritt, Mariah Czap, Congresswoman Deborah Ross, Laura Ballance)

A new bill put forward by U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross, D-Wake, aims to empower independent musicians as they face growing issues and concerns with both streaming platforms and artificial intelligence companies.

The Protect Working Musicians Act of 2026 would give independent artists power to collectively negotiate with corporations like Spotify and the AI companies that scrape music from the service. As it currently stands, independent artists have little ability to negotiate for fair compensation from these companies.

"What our bill does is give the power to the musicians to be able to collaborate, work together, and negotiate with the big guys, and not be picked off one after the other," Ross said Thursday at a roundtable event at The Pour House in downtown Raleigh.

"The music industry does not always respect (their) work. We know that AI steals their intellectual property, and the only way that they are going to be able to stick up for themselves is by being able to work together."

Joining Ross at the roundtable was a panel of musicians, record label owners and promoters who support the effort. Durham-based country musician Rissi Palmer was one of them.

"As much as everyone wants to talk about there being opportunities within AI, all I see is a new way to steal and a new way to cut us out, and I'm not okay with that," she said. "I am in a genre that is predominantly white and predominantly male. A lot of my advocacy work is for people of color within that space, just to have equal time and equal space and equal platform. What we're seeing now, especially in country (music), is that AI is allowing a new type of Black face. What you can do is steal someone's essence, you can steal their voice, their sound, their soul, and put a white face on it, package it, and it gets more attention."

Singer-songwriter Tift Merritt also joined Ross at The Pour House. As co-chair of the Artists Rights Alliance, Merritt recently organized a campaign to urge AI companies to pursue licensing deals and partnerships rather than build platforms without regard for copyright law.

"I'm here because I think that music is a canary in the coal mine for a whole lot of issues that the creative labor force is facing," she said. "The streaming wages were negotiated in back door deals between major labels and Spotify. We were not at the table. Now with AI, they are training on us to replace us, which is not fair use. Spotify has made it very clear that they have no interest in labeling AI content, because the more content there is on their site, the longer you will stay on it, and the better it is for them. It is absolutely past time for us to have the right to boycott, strike, and collectively bargain because this entire industry is built on our backs."

The bill is co-sponsored by Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tennessee, and Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas. It's also backed by labor unions like the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television & Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), and trade organizations like the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM).

"The Protect Working Musicians Act is as urgent today as it was when it was first introduced in 2023," said A2IM CEO Ian Harrison. "The explosion of AI and the continued dominance of a handful of streaming giants make it clear that independent artists need real tools to advocate for themselves. A2IM is proud to stand behind this reintroduction and will continue fighting until working musicians have the rights and protections they deserve."

Ross noted at the roundtable that it would be difficult for the bill to pass this year, given the Republican majority in Congress.

https://www.wunc.org/wunc-music/2026-05-29/ross-independent-musicians-collectively-negotiate-ai-streaming-services

Rep. Ross introduces bill to give indie musicians collective bargaining power

Axios Raleigh by Zachery Eanes — Thu, 148 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

Surrounded by award-winning musicians, U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross, a Democrat from Wake County, made the case Thursday for legislation that would give musicians more power to collectively bargain against music streaming and artificial intelligence companies.

Why it matters: At a press conference at the Pour House in Raleigh, local musicians like Tift Merritt, Shirlette Ammons and Rissi Palmer, as well as Merge Records co-founder Laura Ballance, said low payouts on streaming platforms are making it harder for artists to make a living.

On top of that, they worry that AI companies are using their art without compensation to train models that make music that will crowd out human artists.

Driving the news: Earlier this month, Ross introduced the "Protect Working Musicians Act of 2026," which she says would give independent musicians more of an ability to collectively bargain over streaming payouts or compensation from AI companies for training their models off their songs.

Friction point: AI artists have even begun charting on country music charts, Axios Nashville reported. And the AI music company Suno, which allows users to create full pieces of music with AI, recently raised money at a $5 billion valuation.

"All I see is a new way to steal and a new way to cut [musicians] out, and I'm not OK with that," Palmer, a country artist from Durham, said.

Zoom in: Merritt, a singer-songwriter from Raleigh, said that streaming platforms have fundamentally changed how musicians make money.

- If 100,000 streams is only worth $300, it makes it harder to justify going into debt to produce an album. Artists on major labels can often negotiate better rates than independent artists, she added.

-"The streaming wage was negotiated in backdoor deals between major labels and Spotify," she said. Independent musicians "were not at the table."

What's next: The bill is unlikely to pass this year, Ross admitted, but she is hopeful it could gain more momentum if Democrats take a majority in the House.

https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/05/28/rep-ross-introduces-bill-to-give-indie-musicians-collective-bargaining-power