Category: News

BY MANUEL MARSELIAN

In recent years, Armenia’s national basketball team has given fans plenty of reasons to get excited. From Armenia to Los Angeles and communities throughout the Diaspora, the team’s performances have brought people together around a sport with considerable potential. Yet behind that growing enthusiasm, the domestic game is still building the foundation needed to sustain it.

The challenge is turning excitement over the national team into lasting opportunities for young Armenian players to develop, compete and pursue their own international ambitions. That work is taking place in Armenia’s ProBasket A-League, where clubs are working to strengthen the domestic game and establish a more sustainable future for basketball.

 In a phone conversation, Ara Pogossian, founder and president of the Armenian Basketball A-League and a board member of the Armenian Basketball Federation, discussed the league’s evolution, the challenges facing Armenian clubs and the opportunities ahead. Pogossian previously served as managing director of Urartu, a role now held by his son, giving him firsthand experience in both club management and league administration.

The A-League’s story is about more than standings and championships. It is also about the clubs, communities and supporters working to give Armenian basketball a stronger footing.

A League Takes Shape
The Armenian A-League launched in 2017 with seven clubs: Artsakh, Artik, Engineer, FIMA, Grand Sport, Shirak and Urartu. Artsakh won the inaugural championship, setting an early competitive standard for a league that would see several different clubs lift the trophy.

Over the following seasons, Aragats, Vahakni City, Erebuni, Artik, BKMA and Urartu also emerged as champions. 

Erebuni won the 2024 to 25 championship, while Urartu defeated Hadis to claim the 2025 to 26 title. The changing list of champions reflects a competition in which multiple clubs have had opportunities to succeed, even as teams face the financial and organizational challenges of remaining active.

For Pogossian, the league’s value extends beyond deciding a champion. It provides a domestic platform where Armenian players can gain experience and prepare for higher levels of competition, including the national team. Sustaining that opportunity, however, depends on the clubs themselves and their ability to build programs that last.

Artsakh: A Team Rooted in Its Community
Among the clubs that helped shape the A-League’s early years, Artsakh stood out for its connection to the basketball community in Stepanakert. The team had an academy and developed local players, giving young athletes opportunities to train, compete and pursue the sport at a higher level.

Pogossian remembered Artsakh as a “very quality team” that remained competitive for approximately two years. Its contribution extended beyond league results, with some players going on to represent Armenia.

The academy was central to that work. While the senior team competed for championships, its youth program gave local players a place to develop their skills and a potential path toward higher-level competition. Artsakh demonstrated how a club outside Yerevan could contribute to the wider basketball community by developing talent at home.

Its progress, however, could not be sustained amid the wartime conditions affecting Artsakh. The club was ultimately unable to continue, ending a project that had established itself as a competitive presence and helped develop players for Armenian basketball.

Artsakh’s story illustrates both the promise and vulnerability of community-based sports. A club can develop talent and build local enthusiasm, but preserving that progress requires the stability and resources to keep its programs operating over time.

The Community Behind the Team
Other A-League clubs show how local traditions and institutional partnerships can help sustain basketball.

Artik has a longstanding basketball tradition, and donor support has helped maintain its gym, which seats approximately 300 spectators. The venue gives the team a place to compete and provides local supporters with a gathering point around the sport.

BKMA offers a different model. Founded in 2020 through cooperation involving the Basketball Federation and the Ministry of Defense, the club gives young servicemen an opportunity to continue playing basketball during their military service. Rather than putting their development entirely on hold, players can remain involved in organized competition.

These clubs have different foundations, but both contribute to the league by keeping teams active and giving players opportunities to compete. Their experiences also underline the importance of support beyond the court, whether it comes from local donors or institutional partnerships.

Making Room for Armenian Players
One of the A-League’s central challenges is balancing competitive standards with opportunities for Armenian talent.

Rosters can include up to 12 players, with a maximum of six foreign players. Teams must also have at least two local-category players on the court. That category includes eligible ethnic Armenians who do not hold Armenian passports, as well as certain non-Armenian permanent residents.

The rules allow clubs to draw from a wider talent pool while preserving opportunities for players connected to Armenia. Foreign players can bring experience and different approaches to the game, but Armenian players also need meaningful playing time if the league is to serve as a development platform.

A trial requirement that would have placed three local-category players on the court was discontinued because of concerns about the quality of play. Pogossian believes the idea could be revisited in two or three years as youth development improves.

Although U12, U14, U16 and U18 competitions fall under the Armenian Basketball Federation rather than the A-League, they are essential to the league’s long-term growth. These youth programs help develop the next generation of Armenian players and create a potential pathway to senior competition. Stronger cooperation between the federation and A-League clubs, along with continued investment in coaching and player development, can help ensure that young talent has opportunities to progress to the highest levels of the game.

Some Armenian players have also pursued opportunities abroad. Yura Melikyan played in Kazakhstan, Latvia and Switzerland before joining Bulgarian club Balkan. Other players associated with Armenian basketball’s development include Tigran Mkrtumyan, David Khachatryan, Daniel Gevorgyan and Arkadi Mkrtychyan.

Their experiences illustrate the possibilities available to players who continue developing beyond one club or competition. The A-League can provide a place to gain experience before moving abroad, while also offering a competitive environment for those who want to continue playing in Armenia.

When American Teams Join the A-League
The arrival of American teams is adding an international dimension to Armenia’s A-League. US Titans and Phoenix Perception joined the competition in the 2025 to 26 season, bringing teams from the United States into Armenia’s domestic basketball environment.

Their participation creates opportunities for American players to compete in a different setting, gain international experience and potentially pursue further opportunities in Europe or elsewhere. For players seeking to advance in a highly competitive American basketball system, playing in Armenia can provide valuable game experience, although the benefits depend on playing time, development and performance.

The arrangement can also benefit the A-League by introducing players with different basketball backgrounds and playing styles, adding another dimension to the competition. At the same time, international participation needs to complement the development of Armenian players and preserve opportunities for local talent.

The longer-term potential extends beyond the court. The involvement of American teams could help establish connections between Armenian basketball and basketball organizations in the United States, creating opportunities for future collaboration, player development and exchange.

Keeping the Clubs on the Court
For Armenian basketball clubs, financial stability affects more than day-to-day operations. It can determine whether a team can compete beyond Armenia’s domestic league. The financial burden of participating in European club competitions remains a major obstacle, limiting opportunities for Armenian teams to test themselves against international opponents.

According to Pogossian, clubs do not receive direct state funding. Some benefit from municipal assistance, while others rely on private sponsors and individual supporters. Without dependable financial backing, the additional expenses associated with European competition can be difficult to absorb.

Diaspora support has already played a role in Armenian basketball. The Armenian Basketball Friends Foundation, established in the United States by Rex Kalamian, supports the sport and demonstrates how connections abroad can contribute to its development.

Sponsorship opportunities, however, can change. An earlier partnership with a betting company ended after advertising restrictions created obstacles for that source of support, illustrating how changes in the sponsorship landscape can affect clubs with limited budgets.

Player salaries reflect the league’s financial realities. According to figures discussed by Pogossian, average monthly salaries are approximately $400 to $500. In earlier years, the highest-paid players could earn between $2,500 and $3,000 per month, generally involving high-profile foreign players from the United States or Russia. Those salaries are now rare, as clubs place greater emphasis on balanced spending rather than committing large sums to individual players.

The cost of maintaining a team extends well beyond player salaries. Urartu’s estimated total expenses for the 2025 to 26 season were approximately $55,000 to $60,000. This figure covers overall club operations, not just the player payroll, and illustrates the financial commitment required to sustain a team throughout a season.

For Armenian clubs, the challenge is not simply to remain active in the domestic league, but to build the financial capacity to pursue broader competitive opportunities. Greater support from sponsors, municipalities and diaspora organizations could help cover operating costs, strengthen rosters and make European competition more attainable. Reliable, long-term partnerships would give clubs greater stability while creating opportunities for Armenian basketball to gain international experience and visibility.

The Need for a Home
Facilities are another important part of the league’s development. Access to suitable courts affects practice schedules, game organization and the ability to run youth programs.

The closure of Olympavan has added uncertainty, with its reopening unclear. Shengavit offers limited seating, while the Sports Management Center and the Mika complex have been used for basketball activities and competition.

When facilities are limited, clubs must find ways to share court time and accommodate both senior teams and younger players. This can make scheduling difficult and restrict opportunities for consistent training.

There are potential opportunities outside Yerevan. Improvements to facilities in Artik and Gyumri, including the complex named after wrestler Artur Aleksanyan, as well as developments in Vanadzor, could help broaden access to the sport. Renovations have also been reported at the FIMA hall, although the current status of those improvements needs to be confirmed.

Pogossian has described efforts to develop a dedicated basketball complex with two or three courts. Much of the required funding has reportedly been secured, while discussions with the government have focused on identifying suitable land and a location.

Such a facility could accommodate practices, youth competitions, camps and league games, giving clubs a more consistent environment in which to train and compete. As the A-League looks to expand, reliable access to courts will be important for both existing teams and any new clubs hoping to join.

The 2026 to 27 Season: A Broader Regional Competition

The A-League is preparing for an expanded competition in the 2026–27 season, scheduled to run from October 31, 2026, through late March 2027. The proposed lineup features 10 teams from Armenia, the United States and neighboring countries, giving the domestic league a broader international character.

The six Armenian clubs are BC Urartu, BC Hatis, Yangs BC, HAT BC, BKMA and BC Artik CrossNation. They are expected to be joined by BC Phoenix from the United States, BC Barsi from Kazakhstan, BC Tbilisi BTB from Georgia and BC Nomad from Kyrgyzstan.

The participation of foreign clubs is significant beyond the expansion of the schedule. Their decision to compete in Armenia reflects confidence in the A-League as a platform for organized domestic basketball. It also creates a multinational competitive environment in which Armenian teams can face opponents with different playing styles, basketball backgrounds and approaches to the game.

The planned format begins with an initial round, followed by a split into two groups of five and another group stage before the playoffs. An All-Star event and a Super Cup are also planned, with approximately 82 games expected over the season.

For Armenian players, the expanded lineup could provide more consistent opportunities to test themselves against a wider range of opponents without leaving the domestic competition. The league could also strengthen regional connections, build relationships with clubs abroad and raise Armenia’s profile as a destination for competitive basketball.

The format brings additional demands, including travel, scheduling, finances and player availability. Its success will depend on the participating clubs’ ability to complete the season and maintain a suitable level of competition. If those challenges are managed effectively, the expanded A-League could strengthen the domestic game while demonstrating that Armenian basketball can attract teams from across the region and beyond. 

A Longer-Term Vision
Pogossian’s ambitions extend beyond the current lineup. He would like to see basketball organizations established or strengthened in Yerevan, Charentsavan, Gyumri, Vanadzor, Kapan and Kajaran.

His vision centers on clubs with strong local backing and youth academies that feed into senior teams. Young athletes would have a clearer route from early training to organized competition, with the most promising players able to pursue opportunities with the national team or continue their careers abroad.

Achieving that goal will require sustained investment in coaching, facilities and club administration. It will also depend on local supporters and organizations viewing basketball as a long-term community project rather than an effort that relies on a few dedicated individuals.

The diaspora can contribute funding, equipment, expertise and connections with basketball programs overseas. The most effective support will be that which helps Armenian clubs become more stable and gives them the resources to develop players over time.

The excitement surrounding Armenia’s national team has created an opportunity for basketball to reach more people. Turning that enthusiasm into lasting progress will depend on the strength of the domestic game: clubs that can endure, players who can develop and communities that remain invested in their teams.

Ultimately, Armenian basketball’s future will be shaped not only by what the national team achieves abroad, but by what clubs build across the country, season after season, one club at a time.

Can the Preservation of Cultural Heritage be Regarded as Separatist Activity, and the Artists Who Represent that Heritage be Labelled Dangerous?

YEREVAN — The Artsakh Cultural Preservation Center NGO announced that the World Festival Association has cancelled the official invitation for two Artsakh ensembles affiliated with the organization to participate in an international festival scheduled to take place in Vienna in November: the Artsakh State Orchestra of National Instruments and the “We Are Our Mountains” State Song and Dance Ensemble.

Following the official invitation, the ensembles spent approximately three months preparing intensively for the festival and developing a special program.

On 21 October, the organizers informed the ensembles that their participation had been cancelled. In subsequent written correspondence between Apres Margaryan, President of the NGO, and Zoran Strezovski, President of WOFA, the latter stated that a letter received from an embassy had described the cultural groups as “dangerous” and called for their invitations to be withdrawn.

On 23 October, Zoran Strezovski provided further clarification, stating that, according to his account, several embassies had intervened, accusing the ensembles of engaging in “separatist activity” in their country and recommending that they not be invited to the festival.

The Artsakh Cultural Preservation Center NGO categorically rejects these allegations and the labels attributed to its artists.

Since the forced displacement of the Armenian population of Artsakh in 2023, one of the organization’s missions has been to preserve Artsakh cultural ensembles and support the continuation of their professional activities.

These ensembles are living bearers of Artsakh’s intangible cultural heritage. UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage recognizes performing arts as one of the principal domains of intangible cultural heritage.

In 2025, Artsakh artists successfully participated in international festival programs organized under the auspices of CIOFF in Italy, receiving positive recognition and certificates. CIOFF is an official partner of UNESCO and is accredited to provide advisory services to the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Artsakh artists forcibly displaced from their homeland have already been deprived of the opportunity to create and perform within their natural cultural environment. Restricting their participation in international cultural events on the basis of political allegations raises serious concerns about potential violations of their cultural rights.

The organization has contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia and international human rights organizations, requesting that the circumstances of the incident be examined and that support be provided for the protection of Artsakh artists’ cultural rights.

The NGO has also requested that the President of WOFA identify the embassies involved and provide the factual basis for the allegations made against the ensembles. He has promised to provide further details by official email; however, these details have not yet been received.

The Artsakh Cultural Preservation Center NGO will continue to pursue a full clarification of the incident and the protection of Artsakh artists’ cultural rights.

Community Members Invited to Complete Survey Documenting the History of Armenian Los Angeles 

LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles City Planning’s Office of Historic Resources, in collaboration with the USC Dornsife Institute of Armenian Studies, has commenced work on the Armenian American Historic Context Statement, a landmark initiative to document, preserve, and celebrate the history and heritage of Armenian Americans in Los Angeles. As part of this effort, community members are invited to complete a survey identifying places that hold historical, cultural, or personal significance to the Armenian American community. Survey responses will help ensure that the project reflects the richness and diversity of Armenian experiences in Los Angeles.

To learn more about the project and complete the survey in person, the general public is invited to a community workshop on Sunday, October 25, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Hollywood Neighborhood City Hall, 6501 Fountain Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028. 

The event is co-hosted by Los Angeles City Planning’s Office of Historic Resources, Los Angeles City Council District 13, and the USC Dornsife Institute of Armenian Studies.

RSVP to attend the community workshop. 

Can’t attend? Complete the survey online.

BY LOUISA JANBAZIAN

Paramus, N.J. – The Armenian Missionary Association of America held its 107^th Annual Meeting Banquet on Saturday, October 17, at the Teaneck Marriott at Glenpointe in Teaneck, New Jersey. Bringing together friends of the AMAA and representatives of Armenian Evangelical churches and unions from around the world, the evening celebrated the theme “Our Lasting Impact on Generations” and honored two distinguished individuals whose decades of service have made lasting contributions to the organization and the Armenian Evangelical community: Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian, former Executive Director of the Armenian Evangelical World Council and former AMAA and AEUNA Board member, and Dr. Nurhan Helvacian, former AMAA Board member and Treasurer.

The evening began with a warm welcome from event Co-Chairs Lucienne Aynilian and Anita Buchakjian. Dr. Michael Voskian served as Master of Ceremonies, guiding the evening’s program with warmth and grace. Greg and Garen Loshkajian performed the national anthems, followed by an invocation offered by Rev. Joseph Garabedian, Pastor of the Armenian Presbyterian Church in Paramus, New Jersey.

Banquet MC Dr. Michael Voskian AMAA President Gary R. Phillips, Esq.

Following a video presentation, “The Transforming Impact of the AMAA,” Serge D. Buchakjian, AMAA CEO/Executive Director, welcomed the guests and reflected on the organization’s enduring mission and the difference it continues to make in communities around the world. “Everything you just saw… Every child helped; Every student given an opportunity; Every church strengthened; Every life transformed… You are part of that story. This is your AMAA. Be proud of it. Help us tell its story. And together, with God’s guidance, let us write the next chapter,” Mr. Buchakjian said.

Mr. Buchakjian then introduced His Excellency Narek Mkrtchyan, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the United States, who addressed the gathering. Ambassador Mkrtchyan expressed his appreciation for the AMAA’s longstanding commitment to Armenia, highlighting its contributions to relief efforts and education in the aftermath of the devastating 1988 earthquake and its continued support for the rebuilding and development of the homeland.

AMAA CEO-ED Serge D. Buchakjian Ambassador Narek Mkrtchyan

The first honoree of the evening was Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian, whose decades of faithful leadership and dedicated service have left a profound mark on the Armenian Evangelical community.

Rev. Dr. Krikor Youmshajekian, current Executive Director of the AEWC, presented a tribute on behalf of the Council, while Rev. Hendrik Shanazarian, Minister to the Armenian Evangelical Union of North America , offered a tribute on behalf of the Union.

Honoree Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian Receives AEWC gift

Reflecting on Rev. Dr. Tootikian’s 23 years of leadership with the AEWC, Rev. Dr. Youmshajekian said: “Twenty-three years is a long time to devote yourself to this ministry. During those years, Rev. Tootikian poured his heart into this Council. He served with diligence, commitment, and genuine passion. This was never just a position for him—it was a calling. He carried the responsibilities of leadership with wisdom, humility, and integrity, always seeking what would best serve the churches and advance the work of God’s Kingdom.”

Rev. Shanazarian emphasized that the true measure of Rev. Dr. Tootikian’s legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments. “What we celebrate most tonight is not the impressive list of positions, degrees, publications, or honors. We celebrate a life of faithful service, a lifetime devoted to teaching and communicating the Christian faith and our Armenian heritage,” he said.

A special tribute video followed, featuring photographs of Rev. Dr. Tootikian throughout his life, from childhood to the present day. Representatives of the AEWC, AMAA, and AEUNA then presented him with special gifts in recognition of his many years of service and leadership.

In his heartfelt remarks, Rev. Dr. Tootikian expressed his sincere gratitude to the AMAA for organizing the celebration and recognizing his 67 years of service. He also gave thanks to God for the privilege of serving the Armenian Evangelical community and contributing to its spiritual growth and enduring mission.

Following dinner, AMAA President Gary Phillips, Esq., introduced the evening’s second honoree, Dr. Nurhan Helvacian, in recognition of his dedicated service as an AMAA Board member and Treasurer.

Mr. Phillips highlighted Dr. Helvacian’s commitment to the organization, his faithful stewardship of its resources, and his valuable contributions to advancing the AMAA’s mission. Quoting Saint Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians, he said, “‘It is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.’ Nurhan, you have proven more than faithful.”

Honoree Nurhan Helvacian, Ph.D. Honoree Dr. Nurhan Helvacian receives gift

Following a special video presentation celebrating Dr. Helvacian’s service and contributions to the AMAA, he was presented with a special gift in recognition of his many years of faithful service.

Accepting the honor, Dr. Helvacian expressed his gratitude for the recognition and reflected on the privilege of serving alongside so many dedicated individuals. “With heartfelt gratitude I accept this recognition of my service to the AMAA as its Treasurer. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with so many devoted and faithful people. I thank the Lord for that opportunity. Indeed, it has been my honor and privilege to serve this wonderful organization that dedicates itself to doing God’s work on earth,” Dr. Helvacian said.

The tribute was followed by a musical presentation by Zulal, an a cappella trio known for its interpretations of Armenian folk music. The group delighted guests with three Armenian folk songs, adding a special musical touch to the evening’s celebration.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Buchakjian expressed his sincere appreciation to the event Co-Chairs Lucienne Aynilian and Anita Buchakjian for their outstanding leadership, as well as to all committee members for their hard work and dedication. He also recognized the AMAA staff in New Jersey, California, Montreal and Yerevan for their efforts in making the evening a success. “Above all, my heartfelt thanks go to each and every one of you for being here tonight, for your generosity, and for your continued support of the AMAA and its mission. It is your commitment and friendship that make evenings like this so meaningful,” Mr. Buchakjian said.

The banquet concluded with the singing of “Hayr Mer” (“The Lord’s Prayer”), led by Greg Loshkajian, followed by the benediction offered by Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian, President of both the Armenian Evangelical World Council and Haigazian University.

The evening served as a meaningful reminder of the lasting impact that faithful service, Christian leadership, and a shared commitment to the Armenian Evangelical community can have across generations. 

Founded in 1918 in Worcester, Massachusetts, the Armenian Missionary Association of America was incorporated as a nonprofit charitable organization in New York in 1920 and is recognized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Today, AMAA serves Armenian communities in 22 countries around the world, including Armenia. Through its three pillars – Evangelism, Education, and Humanitarianism – AMAA cares for the whole person by nurturing faith, expanding opportunity, and strengthening communities. For additional information, please visit the AMAA website.

Louisa Janbazian is the AMAA Public Relations and Communications Director.

Nationwide November 5th Online Forum to Chart Path Forward

WASHINGTON – Fresh off the November 3rd midterm elections, the Armenian National Committee of America will host a nationwide online townhall meeting bringing together Armenian Americans to review our impact at the ballot box and set forth our community’s advocacy agenda for the two years leading up to the 2028 Presidential and Congressional elections.

More than one hundred new Members of Congress are expected to take office this January and the ANCA’s national, regional, and local teams are already working with advocates in all fifty states to put Armenian American priorities in front of every one of them.

The ANCA Nationwide Townhall takes place Thursday, November 5th at 9 p.m. E.S.T. via Zoom, under the banner “Our Work Starts Now: Post-Midterm Analysis and Action.” To register for the free online event, visit the ANCA website.

The Townhall will report how ANCA-endorsed candidates fared, review the outcome of the ANCA’s targeted races, and outline the community’s strategy for engaging returning legislators and newly elected Members from their first day in office.

“Armenian Americans spent this cycle generating political capital – grading Members of Congress, endorsing our allies, and taking on candidates who crossed our red lines – shaping the legislative environment in support of our priorities,” said ANCA National Grassroots Director Gev Iskajyan. “The work starts on November 5th, as we take stock of what our votes delivered and pivot to the challenges and opportunities ahead. Every new Member of Congress will hear from Armenian Americans in their district before they cast their first vote.”

Watch Iskajyan’s video invitation to the ANCA Nationwide Townhall.

Hitting the Ground Running in the 120th Congress
The 120th Congress, convening in January 2027, will look markedly different from the one sworn in last year. At the close of the 2026 primary season, ninety-nine seats, eighty-three in the House and sixteen in the Senate, were guaranteed to have a different Member than at the start of 2025, according to NPR’s congressional retirement tracker, with that number expected to rise as dozens of incumbents face competitive general elections. The cycle produced sixty-eight retirements, eleven senators and fifty-seven House Members, the second-highest departure count since 1992. That turnover gives Armenian Americans an early opening to set expectations with lawmakers who have yet to build a record on these issues.

The ANCA’s priorities for the new Congress include:

• Freeing Armenian hostages held by Azerbaijan in Baku.
• Securing the right of return for Armenians forcibly displaced from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), under international guarantees, and protecting Artsakh’s Armenian Christian heritage.
• Enforcing Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act and ending all U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan.
• Sanctioning Azerbaijani officials responsible for war crimes under the Global Magnitsky Act.
• Strengthening Armenia’s security and sovereignty, including through a deeper U.S.-Armenia defense partnership and an end to Azerbaijan’s occupation of sovereign Armenian territory.
• Ending Turkey’s denial of the Armenian Genocide and advancing Armenian Genocide education nationwide.
• Defending Jerusalem’s Armenian Quarter and Christian communities across the Middle East.

ANCA Election Hub: Endorsements, Report Cards, and Races to Watch
On October 14th, the ANCA released its 2026 Congressional Report Cards and sixty-four endorsements, grading every U.S. Senator and Representative across more than seventy pro-Armenian legislative metrics.

The endorsements and grades are featured on the ANCA Election Hub, along with detailed information on target races, the latest news from key contests, and sign-up for ANCA election alerts.

Townhall participants will hear results and analysis from the races the ANCA has prioritized this cycle:

• Texas’ 28th District: Rep. Henry Cuellar, graded “F,” tops the ANCA’s list of targets after a federal indictment charging him with accepting bribes from an oil company controlled by the Government of Azerbaijan. President Trump pardoned Cuellar in December 2025. The ANCA has endorsed Judge Tano Tijerina.
• New Hampshire Senate: The ANCA has endorsed Rep. Chris Pappas, graded “A,” against former Sen. John E. Sununu, whose family holdings include a major stake in Anglo Asian Mining, which operates on Artsakh lands from which Armenians were forcibly displaced.
• Michigan Senate: With Armenian Caucus champion Sen. Gary Peters retiring, the ANCA has endorsed Dr. Abdul El-Sayed for the open seat.
• New York’s 17th District: Rep. Mike Lawler, graded “A-,” co-led the Lawler-Pallone-Bilirakis-Amo letter demanding full enforcement of Section 907.
• California’s 22nd and 40th Districts: Rep. David Valadao, graded “A+,” a leader of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, faces a competitive race, while Rep. Young Kim, graded “A-,” is endorsed over Rep. Ken Calvert, graded “B-,” in a member-versus-member contest.

Register for the free November 5th Townhall online.

· October 23, 2026

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