John H. Rutherford

Rutherford Statement on President Trump’s Recreational Fishing Executive Order

Position: The release supports the President's executive order on recreational fisheries, including improved federal recreational fishing data, expanded state-federal management partnerships, and longer recreational seasons for South Atlantic red snapper. It also endorses the Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act, which the representative introduced.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on President Donald Trump’s Executive Order (EO) 14430, Restoring American Saltwater Angling and Recreation: “As Co-Chair of the South Atlantic Red Snapper Task Force, I am pleased to see President Trump sign an EO to strengthen management of our fisheries, advance science-based conservation, support artificial reef development, and expand recreational access to our fisheries,” saidRutherford. “It’s critical we improve data collection to better manage our fisheries and extend recreational fishing seasons for the anglers and coastal businesses that rely on these seasons.” Rutherfordcontinued, “This EO directs federal agencies to improve recreational fisheries data, strengthen state-federal partnerships, expand access for recreational anglers, and modernize the way America’s fisheries are managed. I have long encouraged the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to address the real concerns surrounding accuracy of federal recreational fishing estimates, particularly in the South Atlantic red snapper fishery. Every year, I hear from anglers that the red snapper are so abundant it is all they can catch. Yet, each year, they only receive a couple day long federal season. Our anglers and coastal businesses should not have to pay the price for uncertainty in our broken federal data collection system. President Trump’s EO directly addresses these concerns by directing NOAA to establish a threshold for unreliable federal estimates and consider replacing them with more precise state-collected data.” “The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act, which I introduced in the House, to better meet regional and state fishing needs, empowers state management of recreational fisheries data programs, increase data transparency, and expand fishery-independent science. This legislation closely aligns with changes made in this EO. The EO directs federal agencies to modernize electronic reporting, explore new technologies for fisheries science, and streamline regulation and permitting. States, like Florida, have demonstrated that they can collect high-quality fisheries data. With the help of President Trump, we are one step closer to Making Fishing Great Again.” Issues:CongressEnvironment

Rutherford Statement on the 2026 South Atlantic Red Snapper Season

Position: The release welcomes the announcement of a 14-day 2026 South Atlantic recreational red snapper season enabled by new Exempted Fishing Permits, and calls for using the season to collect data and build toward a longer recreational season in 2027 and beyond. It also expresses support for data-driven methods and for sustaining coastal economies that depend on the fishery.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries’ announcement of the 2026 recreational red snapper fishing season in the South Atlantic in which the agency issued new Exempted Fishing Permits (EFPs) requested by Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Florida’s red snapper recreational fishing season in the South Atlantic will open for fourteen days this year from October 9th through October 22nd. “Finally, the long-awaited South Atlantic red snapper season is here, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of Florida’s beautiful waters and go fishing,” saidRutherford. “While it is fewer days than we hoped for, this season is a great opportunity for us to learn more about the red snapper fishery, collect high-quality data, and lay the groundwork for a longer and more predictable recreational season in 2027 and the years to come. “As a co-chair of the South Atlantic Red Snapper Task Force, I remain committed to advocating for proven methods of collecting reliable data, expanding sustainable harvests, and supporting our coastal economies that depend on this fishery. I look forward to continuing to work with President Trump, Secretary Lutnick, Governor DeSantis, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) to fight for recreational anglers in our community and across the Great State of Florida. Together, we can Make Fishing Great Again." Find more information about Florida's recreational red snapper season on FWC's website here. Issues:Environment

Rutherford Introduces U.S. Secret Service Police Act Honoring Fallen Officer Coffelt

Position: The release announces the introduction of a bipartisan bill to rename the U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division to the U.S. Secret Service Police and honor Officer Leslie Coffelt, who was killed in 1950 defending President Truman.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Monday, U.S. Congressmen John H. Rutherford (FL-05), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Michael Guest (MS-03), and Ed Case (HI-01) introduced the bipartisan Officer Leslie Coffelt U.S. Secret Service Police Act of 2026 to honor fallen U.S. Secret Service Officer Coffelt and rename the “United States Secret Service Uniformed Division” to the “United States Secret Service Police” to better align with their day-to-day work and clarify their duties to the American people. On November 1, 1950, Officer Leslie William Coffelt was killed outside the Blair House, near the White House, while defending President Harry S. Truman from an armed attack. Shots were fired outside the Blair House while the President was inside. Officer Coffelt was shot three times in the abdomen, but bravely fired one last round at the assailant, stopping him before he could reach the front door. Sadly, Officer Coffelt lost his life in service to our country. To this day, Officer Coffelt is the only U.S. Secret Service officer or agent to die while protecting a president. The U.S. Secret Service Uniform Division is responsible for protecting the White House complex, the Vice President’s residence, the Treasury Department, and other foreign diplomatic missions in the Washington, D.C. area. Officers also travel globally to help establish secure perimeters for the President, Vice President, and other visiting foreign heads of state. Since it was established, the Uniformed Division has grown both in size and scope of responsibility to include specialized teams such as Counter Sniper, Emergency Response, K-9, and more. “Throughout its history, the Uniformed Division has been comprised of individuals who embody honor and integrity,” said Rutherford. “While the threats that the Secret Service faces have changed, their commitment to protecting and serving our leaders and institutions has not. Officer Leslie Coffelt embodied that commitment to service, and that is why I am proud to be joined by my colleagues in the House to honor his service and sacrifice with this bill. Renaming the Uniformed Division to the U.S. Secret Service Police is a commonsense step as the Service continues to evolve.” “Renaming the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division as the United States Secret Service Police is a commonsense update that better reflects the law enforcement work these officers carry out every day,” said Moskowitz. “These men and women serve our country honorably, protecting the President, Vice President, our nation’s institutions, and the public. This change will help clarify their duties to the American people and recognize the vital role they play in keeping our country safe.” “The men and women of the Secret Service Uniformed Division carry out a vital police mission every day, protecting the White House, the Vice President’s residence, foreign diplomatic missions, and securing sites for our nation’s leaders across the country and around the world,” said Guest. “Renaming the division as the U.S. Secret Service Police properly recognizes their mission, professionalism, and service.” “The men and women of the U.S. Secret Service have long embodied the highest ideals of duty, honor and service, standing ready to protect our leaders, our institutions and our nation,” said Case. “This legislation ensures that the name of the current Uniformed Division reflects the core law enforcement role that its officers perform every day.” Secret Service Chief Richard Macauley said, “The transition from Uniformed Division to Secret Service Police represents far more than a name change, it marks the modernization, evolution, and professionalization of our force. As we commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary, we honor our proud legacy while embracing a future shaped by innovation, enhanced operational readiness, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation, its leaders, and its institutions. We are especially grateful for the bipartisan effort of Congressmen Rutherford, Moskowitz, Guest, and Case whose advocacy and support helped make this historic modernization possible.”

Rutherford, Cuellar Introduce the Bipartisan FAST Act

Position: Introduces the bipartisan FAST Act to provide federal law enforcement officers with free TSA PreCheck enrollment, arguing it would improve travel efficiency and airport security without compromising TSA PreCheck standards.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – During National Police Week, U.S. Congressmen John H. Rutherford (FL-05) and Henry Cuellar (TX-28) introduced the Federal Agents Secure Travel (FAST) Act to give federal law enforcement officers free Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck to make airport security more efficient, support our federal law enforcement officers, and make air travel safer for all Americans. “Our federal law enforcement officers dedicate themselves and their careers to keeping Americans safe and upholding the rule of law,” said Rutherford. “They go through extensive and rigorous background checks prior to employment, making them the perfect candidates for expedited, safe travel through TSA PreCheck. Having more federal law enforcement officers in the air and in our airports makes air travel safer for all Americans, as does promoting efficient security protocols. That’s why I introduced the bipartisan FAST Act with Congressman Cuellar to support our law enforcement officers by providing them with access to safe, efficient air travel.” “Federal law enforcement officers are already trusted to uphold the law, protect our communities, and meet rigorous security standards,” said Cuellar. “They should not have to navigate unnecessary red tape or pay additional fees to access TSA PreCheck. This bipartisan bill is a commonsense step to improve efficiency, support our federal agents, and maintain the strong security standards that keep the traveling public safe.” The FAST ACT has been endorsed by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association. “Federal law enforcement officers are entrusted with protecting our nation and responding to threats at a moment’s notice, both on and off duty,” said Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA) National President Mathew Silverman. “The FAST Act provides these officers with access to expedited airport security screening, which is a practical and well-deserved benefit that recognizes their service, enhances travel efficiency, and helps ensure they can move quickly when operational or personal circumstances require. We thank Reps. Rutherford and Cuellar for their continued leadership and steadfast commitment to the federal law enforcement community.” Many federal law enforcement officers travel as part of their official duties. This new benefit would make it easier for those officers to travel, while not compromising the high standards of the TSA PreCheck program. The bill is modeled off a program that gives servicemembers and Department of War civilians access to free TSA PreCheck. Issues:Congress

Rutherford Statement on CR to End DHS Shutdown

Position: Congressman Rutherford supports the Continuing Resolution to fund the Department of Homeland Security, arguing that it maintains critical funding for law enforcement agencies including ICE and CBP, which he views as essential to national security and border enforcement.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Saturday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on the Continuing Resolution (CR) to reopen and fund the Department of Homeland Security: “Over the last 40 days, Senate Democrats have held our Department of Homeland Security, and the safety and security of the American people, hostage,” saidRutherford. “They have denied more than 100,000 American families billions in take-home pay, stopped critical training for U.S. Secret Service, FEMA, TSA, and the Coast Guard, hindered investigations into drug trafficking, cybercrime, child exploitation, and human trafficking, halted preparations for major upcoming events like the FIFA World Cup and America 250, and created chaos at our nation’s airports.” “The bill that the Senate passed, in the dead of night with only five Senators present in the Chamber, defunds law enforcement by reducing funding for CBP and ICE to ZERO and leaves us exposed to critical attacks and open borders, endangering the lives of American citizens. This is unacceptable. While I would rather see a full-year funding bill pass than a CR, I will not vote to defund ICE and CBP. That is why I voted yes on the CR last night to extend funding for these critical agencies until May 22, 2026. “The hardworking men and women at TSA, FEMA, CISA, Customs and Border Protection, Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, ICE, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Coast Guard must be paid for the important work they are doing right now to keep Americans safe. National security is neither a game nor a political bargaining chip. Last night, I was proud to vote to pay law enforcement, protect the American public, and reopen the Department of Homeland Security on the House floor.” Issues:Congress

Rutherford Statement on Operation Epic Fury

Position: Congressman Rutherford expresses support for Operation Epic Fury, a U.S. military operation in Iran, citing the Iranian regime's history of state-sponsored terrorism, nuclear weapons development, and human rights abuses. He states support for President Trump's military action and expresses confidence in Trump's leadership on national security.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Saturday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on Operation Epic Fury, the U.S. military operation in Iran: “The Iranian regime has set the table for Operation Epic fury through their forty-seven years of state sponsored terrorism and murder of American citizens. The Iranian regime has continued their pursuit of “death to America” through their continued development of nuclear weapons capable of striking America. “Tens of thousands of Iranian people have been violently murdered by the Iranian regime for seeking freedom and basic human rights. It’s clear: this evil regime seeks to kill and must be obliterated. “The President, and many before him, have given Iran every opportunity to make a deal for peace to end this long conflict, but the Iranian regime has time and time again refused. Now, the hour of freedom is at hand. “For the freedom of the Iranian people, and the safety and security of the entire world, I stand behind President Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and our U.S. military servicemen and women. “Our world is safer with President Trump as Commander in Chief. Today, and every day, I pray for our troops and the Iranian freedom fighters.” Issues:Congress

Rutherford Statement on the Final Four FY26 Appropriations Bills Passage

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05), member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on the House passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act and the Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act: “With the passage of these final appropriations bills, Congress will deliver core tenets of American strength to the American people, including combat-ready forces, a secure border, effective education and health systems, and modern transportation. That’s why I was proud to vote for, and pass, the final four full-year funding bills in the House today. “These bills will cut billions of dollars in wasteful spending, delivering real savings for Americans. It also brings a lot of great wins to our area, including funding to support road and airport infrastructure in Northeast Florida." Included in this legislation are Rutherford’s priorities to: Restore American military superiority Increase pay by 3.8% for all servicemembers Reduce Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves to improve quality of life for servicemembers and their families Support our military installations in Northeast Florida Provide funding for the procurement of three E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft made in St. Augustine Defund DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) programs, Critical Race Theory, and abortion-related travel within the Department of War Counter adversaries like China by strengthening American air, land, and maritime security Prevent terrorists, criminals, and illegals from crossing our border Stop fentanyl and transnational crime by strengthening DHS counter-drug, human trafficking, and child exploitation enforcement Safeguard American taxpayer dollars by cutting waste and reducing federal bureaucracy Protect the right to life by prohibiting taxpayer funding for abortion on demand Modernize American transportation infrastructure and air traffic control Improve transportation safety and mobility nationwide by investing in highways, ports, and airways Boost FEMA disaster relief and firefighter grants to keep communities safe and resilient Safeguard Social Security by enhancing frontline customer service and program integrity Protect American job creators Combat homelessness, preserve affordable housing, and address health and safety risks Prioritize funding for rural health to help Americans access critical care Support President Trump’s America First agenda Learn more here. Issues:Congress

Rutherford Statement on FY26 FSGG and NSRP Appropriations Act Passage

Position: Rutherford voted in favor of the FY26 Financial Services and General Government and National Security appropriations bill, citing priorities including spending cuts, national security strengthening, support for small business funding, drug trafficking prevention, and alignment with Trump administration policies.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05), member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on the House passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act: “We must protect the American taxpayer, advance government efficiency, strengthen national security, and promote America First priorities,” said Rutherford. “That’s why I was proud to vote yes on this bill to deliver strength abroad, security at home, a smarter government, and stronger financial security for the American people.” “This bill cuts billions in spending, delivering real wins and savings for Americans. It also brings a lot of great wins for Northeast Florida, including funding for the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) fund to support entrepreneurship and small businesses in our area and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program to stop the flow of dangerous illegal drugs into our communities. As an honorary Rotarian, I am proud this bill maintains funding to fight for global eradication of polio and against AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria worldwide." Included in this legislation are Rutherford’s priorities to: Realign funding to national security priorities while eliminating $9.3 billion in wasteful spending, restoring fiscal discipline and accountability Implement President Trump’s priorities, including his “Make America Safe Again” agenda Fortify safeguards and bolster cybersecurity to stop terrorists, criminals, and hostile actors from exploiting the U.S. financial system Protect Americans from deadly drugs like fentanyl and combat human trafficking in Latin American by investing in the International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement Restore American strength and deterrence, reasserting peace through strength and ending Biden-era weakness on the world stage Protect American innovation and scrutinize foreign investments through the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) Force accountability at the United Nations Eliminate DEI, woke programming, Green New Deal mandates, and divisive gender ideology provisions that undermine core agency missions Stand by our allies, including Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Taiwan Protect Christian communities from religious persecution by restricting funding to Nigeria Uphold American values, protect free speech, and preserve longstanding pro-life protections Learn more here. Issues:Congress

Rutherford Statement on FY26 NDAA House Passage

Position: Congressman Rutherford voted in favor of the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act, citing support for military pay increases, improved housing infrastructure, enhanced recruitment and retention, border security funding, and elimination of DEI programs as key reasons for his support.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on the House passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “As our country faces growing threats worldwide, it is important that we ensure the men and women who defend our nation in uniform have the resources they need to fulfill their mission at home and abroad. That is why I was proud to vote YES to pass this year’s defense bill to improve our servicemembers’ quality of life, bolster our military readiness, strengthen recruitment and retention of our armed forces, and deliver for our military families. “This year’s defense bill furthers my commitment to supporting our troops and keeping America safe by: Providing a 3.8% military pay raise for all servicemembers Investing and improving military housing infrastructure to improve living conditions for our servicemembers and their families Codifying President Trump’s Executive Orders like the Golden Dome program Fully funding the deployment of National Guard and active-duty troops in support of Border Patrol activities at the southwest border Reforming military construction to increase efficiency and reduce costs Eliminating Biden administration-era DEI programs Authorizing the procurement of four E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes “Additionally, this bill includes support for vital construction projects at Northeast Florida military installations that will improve readiness and servicemember quality of life. If we want to keep America safe, we must provide for our military and their families. I was proud to vote in favor of this year’s NDAA and look forward to seeing it signed into law." Please find the bill summary here. Issues:CongressMilitary and Veterans

Rutherford Introduces Bipartisan Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Bill

Position: The release advocates for modernizing federal fisheries data collection methods, particularly reforming NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) to improve accuracy, increase state management authority over recreational fisheries data, and enhance transparency in fishery science.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) introduced H.R. 5699, the Fisheries and Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025, to better meet regional and state fishing needs, empower state management of recreational fisheries data programs, increase data transparency, and expand fishery-independent science. Rutherford was joined by Representatives Darren Soto (FL-09), Mike Ezell (MS-04), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Daniel Webster (FL-11), Troy Carter (LA-2), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Russell Fry (SC-07), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Vern Buchanan (FL-16), and Mike Haridopolos (FL-08) in the House. “For too long, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has relied on outdated data collection methods through the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), which has significantly overestimated recreational fishing activity,” said Rutherford. “In a 2023 study, NOAA acknowledged that MRIP has overestimated recreational fishing effort by 30 to 40 percent. These inflated numbers resulted in unnecessarily short seasons, abrupt fishery closures, and economic harm to coastal communities, even when stocks are healthy. We have seen firsthand how damaging short red snapper seasons have been for our coastal communities. That’s why I am proud to introduce the bipartisan Fisheries and Data Modernization and Accuracy Act to modernize data collection and accuracy of our fisheries so we can make better, more informed decisions about Florida’s recreational fishing seasons going forward. I’m committed to Making Fishing Great Again!” "Florida’s fisheries are vital to our economy, our culture, and our way of life," said Soto. "We’re ensuring that fishermen, scientists, and coastal communities have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information possible to keep our fisheries strong and sustainable for future generations.” “I’m proud to help lead the Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act because our coastal communities deserve fisheries data they can trust. This bill puts better tools in the hands of our states, increases transparency, and strengthens the science we rely on to manage our resources. When we improve the data, we improve the future of recreational fishing across the Gulf and the entire country,” said Ezell. “Florida’s anglers and coastal communities deserve fisheries management that reflects what they actually see on the water. The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act modernizes MRIP, elevates high-quality state data, and strengthens stock assessments. Together, these reforms reduce uncertainty, support fair seasons, and protect the coastal economy our families and local businesses rely on,” said Moskowitz. “Floridians expect fisheries to be managed responsibly, with decisions guided by reliable and up-to-date data,” said Webster. “Yet for too long, flawed data has resulted in shortened seasons and increased uncertainty for anglers and coastal communities. This bill is a commonsense approach to improve the quality of data to ensure management of fisheries reflects the real health of stocks and gives states a stronger voice in the management of recreational fisheries.” “For too long, federal fisheries management has been held back by outdated and inaccurate figures that simply don’t reflect what’s happening on the water. When federal data shows that recreational fishing effort has been overestimated by as much as 40 percent, it’s clear that the status quo is hurting both fishermen and coastal communities in Louisiana that depend on sustainable fisheries. The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act finally brings our science and management tools into the 21st century. By empowering states to run their own high-quality data programs, expanding independent stock assessments, and increasing transparency across the board, this bill ensures we base decisions on reliable science—not guesswork. Better data means healthier fisheries, longer fishing seasons, and a stronger coastal economy. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting these long-overdue reforms," said Troy Carter. “When fishery management decisions are based on highly uncertain data, the effects for fish stocks, anglers, businesses, communities and the economy can be unnecessarily severe,” said American Sportfishing Association. “ASA commends Congressman Rutherford for introducing the Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act, which is major step toward improving recreational fisheries data and improving confidence in scientific information used for fisheries management. Background This bill establishes a standing committee through the National Academies to advise on recreational fisheries science and improve transparency. It creates a grant program to assist states in establishing state-led data collection programs, prioritizing efforts that cover high-risk fisheries. It requires NOAA to create and regularly update stock assessment plans at least every five years for all priority stocks and report on missing data. The bill also directs NOAA to contract with independent entities, such as universities, to conduct absolute abundance surveys. Finally, this legislation increases transparency in fisheries science and decision-making by requiring scientific and statistical committees to allow public participation. The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act was endorsed by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), and the Center for Sportfishing Policy (CSP), Bonefish and Tarpon Trust (BTT), and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Issues:Environment