Grassley Backs Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations’ Subpoenas to AT&T, Verizon and Lumen for Records Identifying Arctic Frost Targets

WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) on cover letters to three telecommunications companies that PSI is subpoenaing as part of Congress’ oversight of Arctic Frost. PSI’s subpoenas to AT&T, Verizon and Lumen require the companies to provide records identifying the full extent of individuals whose phone records Jack Smith targeted, including members of Congress.

“We’re still learning just how far Jack Smith’s fishing expedition went. These subpoenas from the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations will shine additional light on whose phone data Smith requested, including which members of Congress were impacted,” Grassley said. “I thank Senator Johnson for his longstanding partnership in our oversight of Arctic Frost.”

“Over the last year, Chairman Grassley and I identified hundreds of individuals and entities that Jack Smith swept into his massive partisan dragnet, including Charlie Kirk’s Turning Point USA and elected officials,” Johnson said. “In response to these subpoenas, I expect the telecom companies to identify even more people Jack Smith ruthlessly targeted as he weaponized the federal justice system against law-abiding patriots.”

Find PSI’s subpoenas below:

AT&T

Verizon

Lumen

Learn more about Grassley’s Arctic Frost oversight:

December 10, 2025: Grassley Exposes Jack Smith’s Lack of Candor to the Court

December 8, 2025: Senate Judiciary Committee Plans Series of Arctic Frost Hearings for 2026

November 12, 2025: Grassley, Johnson Press for Full Disclosure of Jack Smith Subpoenas

October 29, 2025: NEW: Jack Smith Subpoenaed Records for Over 400 Republican Targets As Part of Arctic Frost

October 23, 2025: Grassley Responds to Jack Smith Request for a Hearing

October 23, 2025: Grassley Reveals Garland, Monaco, Wray Gave Personal Sign-Off to Open Arctic Frost

October 14, 2025: Grassley Demands Telecommunications Companies, Federal Entities Turn Over All Records Provided to Jack Smith

October 10, 2025: Grassley and Johnson Lead Colleagues in Seeking Release of All DOJ, FBI Records Detailing Biden Administration’s Targeting of Sitting Members of Congress

October 10, 2025: ICYMI: Grassley Oversight of Arctic Frost Yields Ongoing Results and Draws National Attention

October 6, 2025: Biden FBI Spied on Eight Republican Senators as Part of Arctic Frost Investigation, Grassley Oversight Reveals

September 16, 2025: Grassley Opens Senate Judiciary FBI Oversight Hearing, Releases Additional Records Demonstrating Political Weaponization and Misconduct at Biden FBI

April 8, 2025: Grassley, Johnson Release Additional Arctic Frost Records Detailing Sweeping Anti-Trump Investigation

March 14, 2025: Grassley, Johnson Release Records Showing FBI Obtained Trump, Pence Cell Phones, Conducted Sweeping Interviews to Advance Anti-Trump Arctic Frost Investigation

February 3, 2025: Grassley Underscores FBI Supervisor Misconduct in Trump-Targeted Arctic Frost Investigation

January 30, 2025: Grassley Opening Statement on Kash Patel’s Nomination to be FBI Director

January 30, 2025: Grassley, Johnson Make Public Whistleblower Records Revealing DOJ and FBI Plot to Pin Trump in Jack Smith Elector Case


Grassley Echoes Iowa Attorney General Bird’s Call for Answers on Small Refinery Exemptions

Click HERE for video

WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin echoing concerns raised by Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird regarding Small Refinery Exemptions (SREs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

In the letter, Grassley is urging the EPA to investigate allegations that small refiners are manipulating the RFS program by falsely claiming economic hardship to the EPA in order to be exempted from blending renewable fuels or buying renewable fuel credits.

Video of Grassley discussing the letter can be found HERE.

“Attorney General Bird’s letter raises meaningful questions about Small Refinery Exemptions. Iowa’s biofuel producers need timely answers about the health of their industry. For 20 years, the Renewable Fuel Standard has supported biofuels producers, family farmers and rural communities. Its integrity is essential for long-term success. I thank Administrator Zeldin for hearing my concerns for the biofuel industry, and I urge him to fully investigate these allegations,” Grassley said.

The full text of the letter can be found HERE or below.

January 14, 2026

The Honorable Lee Zeldin

Administrator

Environmental Protection Agency

1200 Pennsylvania Ave, N.W.

Washington D.C. 20460

Dear Administrator Zeldin,

On October 29, 2025, the Attorneys General of Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota wrote to you along with Attorney General Bondi, Secretary Wright, and Chairman Atkins to raise concerns about the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) administration of Small Refinery Exemptions (SRE) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

While SREs ought to be granted in very rare occasions of extreme hardship which few refineries may ever show, the EPA may grant SREs to refineries that produce no more than 75,000 barrels per day of average crude oil and which show “disproportionate economic hardship” in satisfying required volume obligations. The concerns raised by the Attorneys General included oil refineries artificially idling their plants to satisfy the 75,000 barrels per day requirement and refineries claiming disproportionate economic hardship to the EPA while simultaneously claiming exceptional financial performance to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and shareholders. Both issues go against the spirit of the RFS and undermine its integrity.

While SREs ought to be granted in very rare occasions of extreme hardship which few refineries may ever show, the EPA may grant SREs to refineries that produce no more than 75,000 barrels per day of average crude oil and which show “disproportionate economic hardship” in satisfying required volume obligations. The concerns raised by the Attorneys General included oil refineries artificially idling their plants to satisfy the 75,000 barrels per day requirement and refineries claiming disproportionate economic hardship to the EPA while simultaneously claiming exceptional financial performance to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and shareholders. Both issues go against the spirit of the RFS and undermine its integrity.

For 20 years the Renewable Fuel Standard has supported biofuels producers, farmers, and rural communities and its integrity is essential for sustaining that support. Please answer the following questions to reinforce the integrity of the RFS:

Have the Attorneys General received a response to their letter from the EPA?

Has the EPA or any other federal agency investigated the concerns expressed by the Attorneys General?

Will the EPA take the concerns of the Attorneys General into consideration in future rulemaking on the RFS including by cross-referencing filings with other federal agencies such as the SEC?

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to receiving your timely response.

Sincerely,

Senator Charles E. Grassley

CC:

The Honorable Pamela Bondi, Attorney General of the United States

The Honorable Christopher Wright, Secretary of Energy

The Honorable Paul Atkins, Chairman, Securities and Exchange Commission


Grassley Presses for Answers Amid Widening Minnesota Fraud Scandal

WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is calling on federal agencies to provide answers in the wake of widespread government fraud and whistleblower retaliation allegations in Minnesota.

In a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Grassley requested additional information regarding the Minnesota fraud investigation, the new Assistant Attorney General for fraud position and plans to investigate fraud in other states. Grassley also wrote to the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Departments of Treasury, Health and Human Services (HHS), Education, Agriculture (USDA), Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regarding potential nationwide fraud in public grant programs, suspicious financial transactions in Minnesota and the agencies’ efforts to safeguard taxpayer dollars.

Grassley is urging the federal agencies to protect and empower whistleblowers – including those who were reportedly retaliated against by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s administration, according to congressional testimony.

“As you are aware, public reporting has emerged regarding deplorable fraud schemes in Minnesota that deliberately targeted federal programs designed to assist children with autism, the elderly and small businesses,” Grassley wrote. “Any attempt to steal taxpayer money is utterly unacceptable; however, these crimes are especially heinous when they target programs which support Americans struggling to care for their children or elderly relatives.”

Specifically, Grassley pointed to allegations of extensive fraud in Medicaid, Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) program. Grassley also requested information on Treasury’s ongoing investigation into stolen Minnesota tax dollars that may have been diverted to terrorist organizations, and recent statements from DHS officials that alleged “nearly $700 million in cash [was] detected in passengers’ luggage leaving the Minneapolis airport [over] the last two years.”

Read Grassley’s letters below:

DOJ and FBI

USDA

SBA

Treasury

HHS

Education

DHS and TSA

Background:

On December 28, 2025, FBI Director Kash Patel announced the FBI had deployed personnel and investigative resources to Minnesota to “dismantle large-scale fraud schemes exploiting federal programs.” On January 6, 2026, the Trump administration froze approximately $10 billion in federal funding for programs in Minnesota, New York, California, Illinois and Colorado, citing fraud concerns. On January 8, 2026, the Trump administration announced the creation of a new division for national fraud enforcement and the appointment of a new Assistant Attorney General focused on fighting fraud.

Grassley welcomed the Assistant Attorney General announcement and last week joined the entire Senate Republican Conference in demanding accountability from Walz.


WATCH: Senator Hassan Calls out Republican “Gaslighting” and Stands Up for Women’s Health Care Access at Senate Hearing

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) forcefully defended a woman’s fundamental freedom to make her own reproductive health care decisions and called out the “gaslighting at the highest level” from Republicans attacking mifepristone access during a Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee hearing today. Senator Hassan exposed the hypocrisy of Congressional Republicans who claim to protect women while simultaneously voting to gut Medicaid, defund Planned Parenthood, and create maternal health deserts that deny women access to essential care.

To watch Senator Hassan's hearing questions, click here.

Senator Hassan began by calling out the reality of what Republican abortion bans have created for women across the country. “To say that women shouldn’t be able to get this medication through the mail misses the point that abortion bans have created maternal health and reproductive health deserts in this country,” she said. “When you say a woman should go consult with a physician, there are women who would have to travel hours in this country, miss work, find a babysitter, if they have a car to begin with” because of policies that Congressional Republicans supported, including cuts to Medicaid that are closing rural health centers, and abortion bans.

Senator Hassan shared her personal experience of miscarriage to illustrate the complexity of reproductive health care and push back on Republican claims that mifepristone is unsafe because it can be physically and emotionally difficult, pointing out that a miscarriage itself is physically and emotionally difficult: “When I had a miscarriage at 12 weeks, it was painful, and it was hard, and it was emotional, and mifepristone had nothing to do with it. I didn’t use mifepristone, I had to have a D&C. So, the gaslighting here is extraordinary.”

Addressing the challenges facing women in maternal health deserts created by the very policies that Republicans support, Senator Hassan asked about telehealth’s role in providing safe reproductive care. Dr. Nisha Verma, an OB/GYN in Georgia and a fellow for Physicians for Reproductive Health, confirmed that telehealth has made care more accessible and emphasized that “what is really the issue here is when people need additional care, they can’t get it in their communities without fear of being criminalized.”

Senator Hassan has been a leader in fighting to protect women’s access to comprehensive reproductive health care, including mifepristone, and to ensure that all women can make their own decisions about their bodies and their health care. On the three-year anniversary of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v Wade, she joined a group of Senators to reintroduce legislation that would guarantee a woman’s right to access reproductive health care. Senator Hassan also spoke on the Senate floor to criticize the decision by the Senate’s Republican leadership to hold a vote on legislation to restrict a woman’s fundamental freedom to access reproductive health care instead of working in a bipartisan manner to lower the cost of living.

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Watch: Hawley Grills Pro-Abortion Doctor Over Refusal to Say Men Can’t Get Pregnant

WASHINGTON — This morning, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) questioned Dr. Nisha Verma of Physicians for Reproductive Health, simply asking if men could get pregnant. The witness evaded answering the Senator’s questions, claiming to take care of patients with “different identities.”

Senator Hawley asked Dr. Nisha Verma, an OB-GYN witness called by Democrats, “Can men get pregnant?”

Dr. Verma replied, “I do take care of patients with different identities. I take care of many women. I take care of people with different identities. And so that’s where I paused. I think, yeah, I wasn’t sure where you were going with that.”

Senator Hawley responded, “the goal is just the truth… the goal is just to establish a biological reality. You just said a moment ago that science and evidence should control, not politics. So, let’s just test that proposition, can men get pregnant?

Dr. Verma responded again saying, “I take care of people with many identities… I also think yes-no questions like this are a political tool-”

Senator Hawley interjected saying, “No. Yes-no questions are about the truth, Doctor. Let’s not make a mockery of this proceeding. This is about science and evidence… The United States Supreme Court just heard arguments yesterday at great length on this question. This is not a hypothetical question. This is not theoretical. It affects real people in their real lives.

Senator Hawley continued, “and for the record, it’s women who get pregnant, not men. We are here about the safety of women and science that shows that this abortion drug causes adverse health events in 11% of cases. That’s 22 times greater than the FDA label. Another fact you haven’t acknowledged, and yet you won’t even acknowledge the basic reality that biological men don’t get pregnant. There’s a difference between biological men and biological women. I just, I don’t know how we can take you seriously and your claims to be a person of science, if you won’t level with this on this basic issue, I thought we were past all of this. Frankly, I can’t believe we’re still here talking about this.”

Senator Hawley concluded, “it is not polarizing to say that women are a biological reality and should be treated and protected as such. That is not polarizing. That is truth. It is also, by the way, the United States Constitution, which offers unique protections to women in a variety of circumstances as women, and your refusal to recognize women as women and men as men, is deeply corrosive to science, to public trust and yes to constitutional protections for women as women.”


Senator Heinrich Statement on Senate Republicans Blocking ACA Tax Credit Extension, Raising Health Care Premiums on American Families

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement after Senate Republicans blocked House-passed legislation to extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits for three years. With Senate Republicans blocking this bill and ensuring the ACA tax credits expired on December 31, 2025, President Trump threatening to veto this bill, and Republicans in the New Mexico state legislature refusing to call on Trump to address skyrocketing health care costs, Republicans are effectively raising the cost of health care for American families.

“Working families are being crushed by the affordability crisis and soaring health care costs — and instead of helping, Republicans have slammed the door on extending the ACA tax credits. Their decision will force American families to pay more for the care they rely on or become uninsured altogether. When it comes time to actually deliver for families, Republicans walk away. That level of callousness is infuriating.

“I will keep fighting to rein in Trump’s affordability crisis and permanently extend the ACA tax credits. American families deserve lower costs and a health care system that doesn’t force them to choose between paying their bills and staying healthy.”

Heinrich remains unwavering in the fight to permanently extend the ACA tax credits and lower health care costs for families.

In the most recent government shutdown, Trump and Republicans chose not to work with Heinrich and Democrats to extend the ACA tax credits, shut down the government for 44 days — the longest government shutdown in American history — and pass a government funding bill that failed to extend the ACA tax credits.

Heinrich repeatedly voted for a government funding bill that included an extension of the ACA health tax credits and urged Congressional Republicans to come to the negotiating table to engage in good faith bipartisan negotiations with Democrats to extend these tax credits and reopen the government.

Heinrich also joined Senate Democrats to introduce the Lower Health Care Costs Act, legislation to extend the enhanced premium ACA tax credits for three years and protect New Mexicans from Trump's affordability crisis. Senate Republicans blocked the Lower Health Care Costs Act just as the ACA tax credits were set to expire in December 2025 — effectively raising the cost of health care for families. BeWell New Mexico estimates that over 6,300 New Mexico enrollees will be impacted if the enhanced advanced premium tax credit is not extended by July 2026.

Heinrich voted to pass the American Rescue Plan in 2021, which authorized initial enhancements to the premium tax credit to make health insurance more affordable for more people and increase subsidies for working, middle-income families in New Mexico. In 2022, Heinrich voted to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which extended the enhanced premium tax credit through 2025.

In addition to voting for the Lower Health Care Costs Act, Heinrich cosponsors the Health Care Affordability Act of 2025 to make the enhanced Advance Premium Tax Credit permanent and build upon record health care marketplace enrollment.

Recently, Heinrich hosted a roundtable to hear directly from New Mexicans whose premiums will rise significantly as a result of Congressional Republicans’ refusal to extend the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits.

In September 2025, Heinrich hosted a press conference with BeWell New Mexico and the New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty to highlight how the health care crisis, created by Trump and Republicans, will hike health care premiums if Republicans allow the ACA premium tax credits to expire.

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Hirono Announces Class of 2030 Nominees to the United States Service Academies

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) announced the nomination of 29 Hawaii students to U.S. military service academies for the Class of 2030. The nominees will advance for consideration by each academy’s director of admissions.

“Each year, Hawaii students from all walks of life apply to our military service academies with aspirations of serving our country,” said Senator Hirono. “I’m impressed by the strong applications we received from young people across our state, and I’m proud to nominate this cohort of students to attend our nation’s military academies and to represent our state.”

Today’s announcement includes Senator Hirono’s nominations for the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy uses a separate application process. Members of Congress submit nominations to the four service academies for their respective states. Each academy’s director of admissions then selects from the submitted lists of nominees, who are measured on their scholastic achievement, leadership experience, school involvement, athletic and extra-curricular activities, community contributions, and volunteer or employment experiences. Nomination does not guarantee appointment.

Senator Hirono’s Class of 2030 Academy Nominations are:

U.S. Naval Academy

Luke Barner, Radford High School

Elizabeth Gillaspie, Maryknoll School

William Kayes, Seabury Hall – Maui

Malakai Keawe-Correa, Hilo High School

Joseph Lapinad, Punahou School

Clarence Loomis, Kalaheo High School

Liam Martin, Punahou School

Lyla Matthews, Radford High School

Malia McCoy, Punahou School

Charlotte Nakagawa, Kamehameha Schools - Kapalama

Parker Noland, Punahou School

Talis Noya, Kalaheo High School

Caleb Parsons, Moanalua High School

Ezekiel Schulz, Radford High School

Derrick Ung, Aiea High School

U.S. Air Force Academy

Luke Barner, Radford High School

Juliet Caston, Campbell High School

Julian Cortez, Seabury Hall – Maui

Adam Ettlich, Homeschool

Timothy Iha, Pearl City High School

William Kayes, Seabury Hall – Maui

Kailee Lambert, Kalaheo High School

Clarence Loomis, Kalaheo High School

Lyla Matthews, Radford High School

Hayden Noland, Punahou School

Talis Noya, Kalaheo High School

Johanna Roggenkamp, University of Hawaii at Hilo

Ezekiel Schulz, Radford High School

Juneau Stickley, Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School – Hilo

Derrick Ung, Aiea High School

U.S. Military Academy at West Point

Jacob Blaze Cabuhat, Punahou School

Julian Cortez, Seabury Hall – Maui

Malakai Keawe-Correa, Hilo High School

Kailee Lambert, Kalaheo High School

Lilynoe Lee, Keaau High School – Hilo

Clarence Loomis, Kalaheo High School

Liam Martin, Punahou School

Jazmine Mayo, Aiea High School

Malia McCoy, Punahou School

Talis Noya, Kalaheo High School

Juneau Stickley, Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School – Hilo

Christopherjay Tenorio, Aiea High School

Derrick Ung, Aiea High School

Kennedy Wardlaw, Maryknoll School

Joseph Yeates Kahuku, High School

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

Elizabeth Gillaspie, Maryknoll School

Malakai Keawe-Correa, Hilo High School

Kailee Lambert, Kalaheo High School

Clarence Loomis, Kalaheo High School

Elvis Miller, Kamehameha Schools – Kapalama

Parker Noland, Punahou School

Ezekiel Schulz, Radford High School

Cru Spalding, Kamehameha Schools – Maui

Christopherjay Tenorio, Aiea High School

Kennedy Wardlaw, Maryknoll School

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HYDE-SMITH, SLOTKIN INTRODUCE BILL TO EXPAND BROADBAND ACCESS IN RURAL AMERICA

Senators Move to Extend USDA Support for Middle Mile Broadband Projects for Another Five Years

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), with U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), today introduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize a U.S. Department of Agriculture program that is instrumental in improving access to broadband service in Mississippi and the rest of rural America.

The Middle Mile for Rural America Act (S.3633) proposes a five-year (2026-2031) reauthorization of the middle-mile infrastructure program to help connect rural communities to high-speed internet.

“If we’re going to ensure reliable, high-speed broadband service to people in rural areas, we must look at the whole, which includes critical middle-mile projects. This is a small, but significant USDA program that fills a gap to help ensure reliable and affordable service for rural homes and businesses,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “I expect this reauthorization to be approved so that electric cooperatives, like those in Mississippi, can continue their work to expand broadband service.”

“High-speed internet isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity,” Senator Slotkin said. “By strengthening USDA support for targeted broadband projects, this bipartisan bill helps lower costs and bring reliable, high-speed internet to rural Michigan and communities across the country, so people can work, learn, and stay connected.”

The 2018 Farm Bill expanded the authority of the USDA Rural Utilities Service to fund loans, loan guarantees, and grants for stand-alone middle-mile broadband projects, which previously could only be supported indirectly as part of last-mile projects.

This change, among other things, prompted 17 Mississippi electric cooperatives to collaborate on improving and expanding middle-mile infrastructure improvements to increase resiliency and reduce the costs of connecting unserved and underserved areas across the state. It has also been used similarly in other states.

National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (NRECA), American Farm Bureau Federation, and Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi have endorsed S.3633, which could eventually be incorporated into a broader farm policy bill.

“Middle mile broadband infrastructure is critical to connecting rural America with quality, high-speed internet access. However, access to these networks is not a guarantee, and without a middle mile connection the cost to build last mile infrastructure can increase and the quality and reliability of broadband service in rural areas could be impacted,” said Louis Finkel, NRECA Senior Vice President of Government Relations. “We applaud Sens. Hyde-Smith and Slotkin’s leadership on the Middle Mile for Rural America Act and their recognition of this important infrastructure for rural connectivity.”

U.S. Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) and Rep. Josh Riley (D-N.Y.) introduced companion legislation (HR.5037) in the House.

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Lawmakers introduce bipartisan rural broadband access bill

By AG DAILY Reporters

A bipartisan group of lawmakers is pushing to extend federal support for broadband infrastructure aimed at improving internet access in rural America.

U.S. Sens. Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., introduced the Middle Mile for Rural America Act, legislation that would reauthorize a U.S. Department of Agriculture program supporting middle-mile broadband projects for another five years.

The bill proposes a reauthorization covering fiscal years 2026 through 2031, extending authority under the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to fund middle-mile broadband infrastructure that connects rural communities to high-speed internet networks.

“If we’re going to ensure reliable, high-speed broadband service to people in rural areas, we must look at the whole, which includes critical middle-mile projects,” Hyde-Smith said. “This is a small, but significant U.S. Department of Agriculture program that fills a gap to help ensure reliable and affordable service for rural homes and businesses.”

Hyde-Smith said she expects the reauthorization to move forward, allowing electric cooperatives to continue broadband expansion efforts.

“I expect this reauthorization to be approved so that electric cooperatives, like those in Mississippi, can continue their work to expand broadband service,” she said.

Slotkin emphasized the role broadband access plays in rural economic participation and daily life.

“High-speed internet isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity,” Slotkin said. “By strengthening USDA support for targeted broadband projects, this bipartisan bill helps lower costs and bring reliable, high-speed internet to rural Michigan and communities across the country, so people can work, learn, and stay connected.”

The USDA’s Rural Utilities Service gained authority to support stand-alone middle-mile broadband projects under the 2018 Farm Bill. Prior to that change, middle-mile infrastructure could only be funded indirectly through last-mile broadband projects.

That expansion prompted 17 Mississippi electric cooperatives to collaborate on improving middle-mile infrastructure to increase resiliency and reduce costs associated with connecting unserved and underserved rural areas. Similar projects have been implemented in other states.

The legislation has received endorsements from the National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, the American Farm Bureau Federation, and Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi.

“Middle mile broadband infrastructure is critical to connecting rural America with quality, high-speed internet access,” said Louis Finkel, senior vice president of government relations for NRECA. “However, access to these networks is not a guarantee, and without a middle mile connection the cost to build last mile infrastructure can increase and the quality and reliability of broadband service in rural areas could be impacted.”

Finkel praised the bipartisan effort behind the bill.

“We applaud Sens. Hyde-Smith and Slotkin’s leadership on the Middle Mile for Rural America Act and their recognition of this important infrastructure for rural connectivity,” he said.

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House by Reps. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa, and Josh Riley, D-N.Y.


First Year in the Senate

First Year in the Senate
First Year in The Senate – January 2026 Newsletter


Senator Justice Recaps First Year in Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Justice released his annual report highlighting his first year serving West Virginia in the Senate:

“What a ride it’s been this year, and what an honor it’s been to serve our great state in the United States Senate. We’ve accomplished so much, and we’re just getting started. You sent me here, and I approach this job with one goal – not to seek a committee chair or the latest hot tip, but to make life better for West Virginians. Next time you’re in Washington, swing by and say hello, because I truly love our state and love seeing folks from back home while serving as your Senator. Thank you for your confidence in me, West Virginia!” said Senator Jim Justice.

Read Senator Justice’s annual report

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Kaine, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Strengthen U.S. Critical Mineral Mining Workforce

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and colleagues introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Critical Mineral Mining Education Act, legislation that would help build a workforce pipeline to support the United States’ growing domestic critical mineral mining industry and strengthen U.S. science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education programs.

“Access to critical minerals is crucial to our national security, supply chains, and overall economy. We must do more to boost this sector to ensure we can compete with China and other adversaries,” said Kaine. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation to grow and strengthen our critical minerals workforce.”

The People's Republic of China (PRC) has dominated the global critical mineral supply chain for the last three decades. At the same time, U.S. mining and mineral engineering programs have significantly declined. American programs are graduating only about 300 new mining engineers per year, far below what is needed to fill the workforce gap. The PRC, meanwhile, is home to more than 38 mineral processing schools and upwards of 44 mining engineering programs.

Specifically, the Critical Mineral Mining Education Act would address this issue by:

Establishing a critical mineral mining fellowship program to send U.S. undergraduate and graduate students overseas to top mining institutions in select countries.

Establishing a visiting mining scholars program to bring foreign mining academics and professionals to the U.S. to help build and expand mining education programs at U.S. universities.

Authorizing $10 million annually for each of the 10 years following enactment of the legislation for the two new international exchange programs.

In addition to Kaine, this bill is introduced by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), John Curtis (R-UT), and Tim Scott (R-SC). Companion legislation is led in the House by U.S. Representatives Johnny Olszewski (D-MD-02), Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), Ami Bera (D-CA-06), and Young Kim (R-CA-40).

Full text of the bill is available here.

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Kaine, Schumer, & Schiff Slam Use of Procedural Motion to Sidestep Their Venezuela War Powers Resolution

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) slammed Republicans’ procedural motion to sidestep their War Powers Resolution to block the use of the U.S. Armed Forces to engage in hostilities within or against Venezuela unless authorized by Congress. The Senate voted 52-47 to advance the legislation last week, and then President Donald Trump lashed out at the Republicans who crossed the aisle to vote for it.

Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, said: “If President Trump were confident in the merits and legality of his deeply unpopular Venezuela war, he wouldn’t have bullied members of his own party into using an obscure procedural trick to avoid a public debate about it. The White House knows it has lost the American people on this issue—within 24 hours of the Senate’s vote last week to advance my bipartisan war powers resolution, Trump publicly canceled a second wave of strikes on Venezuela.

“In the days since, the White House has spent an enormous amount of time and effort trying to justify its actions, including by issuing a public commitment that it will not put boots on the ground in Venezuela in the future without congressional approval. Trump himself directly reiterated that commitment, and Secretary Rubio made a promise, to a Republican Senator, to come before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

“We’re going to work to ensure that those commitments are honored, and we’re going to file a whole lot more war powers resolutions to stop the President from taking military action against the many other countries he’s threatened.”

Leader Schumer said: “Last week, a bipartisan group of Senators challenged Donald Trump and his administration after their brazen and unconstitutional regime change in Venezuela. Unfortunately, Donald Trump has spent the last few days bullying and cajoling Republican members into changing their vote. The American people don’t want endless wars that risk the lives of American servicemembers and cost the taxpayers billions. Americans don’t want military adventurism and prolonged conflict with no plan, no transparency, and no articulated goals. It’s shameful that Republicans refused to assert our constitutional authority over military force. But this will not be our last War Powers Resolution if Trump continues on this path. And next time, I urge our colleagues to stand with the American people.”

Schiff said: “Senate Republicans just narrowly blocked consideration of the resolution to put a check on the President's military actions in Venezuela. We will not give up. Congress must prevent our troops from being put in harm’s way to secure access to another country’s oil.”

Kaine, Paul, and Schiff previously introduced a bipartisan resolution to prevent the use of military force within or against Venezuela, but it narrowly failed. Kaine and Schiff also introduced a similar measure focused on repeated strikes in the Caribbean Sea that the Trump Administration has carried out without congressional authorization, killing dozens of unknown individuals. The legislation did not gain enough Republican support to pass.

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Warner & Kaine Introduce Legislation to Rename Loudoun County Post Office After Hero Firefighter Trevor Brown

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) introduced legislation today to rename a Sterling, Va. post office as the “Firefighter Trevor Brown Post Office Building.” This legislation honors the service of Firefighter Trevor Brown – a husband, father of three, and youth soccer and baseball coach who lost his life in the line of duty on February 16, 2024, while investigating reports of a gas leak that resulted in a catastrophic explosion as firefighters began their investigation.

“Trevor Brown was a heroic firefighter who spent his career running towards danger in an effort to save lives and protect members of his own community. It is an honor to introduce this legislation to rename a Sterling, Va. post office in his honor and in remembrance of his courage, bravery, and service through the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company,” said the senators.

This bill was also introduced in the House of Representatives by U.S. Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) and the Virginia congressional delegation. The United States Postal Service (USPS) facility is located at 46164 Westlake Drive in Sterling, Virginia.

Full text of this legislation is available here.

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Warner, Kaine & Democratic Colleagues Join Effort Challenging Attempts to Suppress Mail-In Voting

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, a former civil rights lawyer, (both D-VA), joined their Senate Democratic colleagues in filing an amicus brief in the case of Watson v. Republican National Committee, a landmark mail-in voting case that will be argued before the U.S. Supreme Court later this year. The Supreme Court’s decision in the case could determine whether vote-by-mail in Virginia will be thrown into chaos.

In 2024, the Republican National Committee (RNC) challenged a Mississippi law that allows ballots postmarked by election day to be received up to five days after election day, arguing that this law violates federal law setting the timing of elections. If the Fifth Circuit’s ruling is affirmed by the Supreme Court, vote-by-mail in more than a dozen states – including Virginia – will be thrown into disarray as huge numbers of voters, particularly rural, military, and overseas voters, could be disenfranchised.

“Many states, including Virginia, have adopted sensible policies to allow mail-in ballots to be counted so long as they are postmarked no later than Election Day,” the senators wrote. “The Fifth Circuit’s ruling undermines the viability of these laws and threatens the disenfranchisement of voters, especially those living abroad or in rural areas.”

The amicus brief filing comes days after the Trump Administration’s latest attempt to suppress mail-in voting. Closures and consolidation of U.S. Postal Service (USPS) facilities, as well as a recent rule change by the USPS, will result in mail being postmarked less frequently on the day it is received. As a result, mail-in ballots received by the USPS near or on election day could receive a delayed postmark and be invalidated.

The amicus brief was led by U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Alex Padilla (D-CA). Warner and Kaine were joined by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) in filing the amicus brief.

The full text of the amicus brief is available here.

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King, Murkowski, Senate Arctic Caucus Co-Chairs, Lead Meeting with Foreign Ministers from Denmark and Greenland

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), co-chairs of the United States Senate Arctic Caucus, hosted a delegation from the Kingdom of Denmark to emphasize the importance of deescalating tensions following recent comments from the executive administration about acquiring Greenland.

Attendees of the meeting included Ambassador of Denmark to The United States, Jesper Møller Sørensen; Greenlandic Minister of Foreign Affairs and Research, Ms. Vivian Motzfeldt; Danish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Lars Løkke Rasmussen; Permanent Secretary of State, Mininnguaq Kleist; Head of the Greenland Representation to the United States and Canada, Mr. Jacob Isbosethsen; Deputy Head of Greenland Representation to the United States and Canada, Ms. Rebecca Joy Lynge; Permanent Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Jeppe Tranholm-Mikkelsenl; Counselor, Foreign & Security Policy, Ms. Bodil Riisom Pedersen, among others.

“In today’s meeting, the Denmark and Greenland coalition reiterated to us that they are fully prepared to cooperate with the United States in any way to expand our national security presence in Greenland – an agreement which goes back 75 years. So, I want to reiterate there is no need whatsoever for the United States to own or occupy the country of Greenland in any way, shape or form to protect our important national security interests in the Arctic,” Senator King said. “It was a very productive meeting and I'm hopeful that the administration will finally realize that taking Greenland over by a military force is almost unthinkable –to attack essentially a NATO ally. That would be the greatest gift to Vladimir Putin that this country could possibly bestow. I'm hopeful, again, that the White House was listening today and that they respect the sovereignty of Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark.”

“Respect for the sovereignty of the people of Greenland should be non-negotiable, which is why I was grateful for the opportunity to engage in direct dialogue with today’s Foreign Ministers from Denmark and Greenland,” said Senator Murkowski. “Meetings like the one held today are integral to building stronger relationships with our allies that will continue to endure amid a shifting geopolitical landscape. The United States, Denmark and Greenland should be able to count on each other as partners in diplomacy and national security.”

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King Releases Statement Following Rumors of Imminent Federal Law Enforcement Activity in Maine

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator King (I-ME) released the following statement in response to growing concerns of imminent federal law enforcement activity in Maine:

“Like many in Maine, I have begun to hear rumors of imminent federal law enforcement activities coming to our state. Given the videos and headlines we have seen from operations conducted in other states – many of them reckless, heartless, and irreversibly destructive – I share the same worries many of you have.

“Maine believes in law and order. We enjoy that order because our state and local law enforcement authorities place a priority on lawful and timely responses to clear criminal threats.

“Abraham Lincoln once reminded Americans in the face of conflict to have faith that ‘right makes might, and in that faith let us do our duty as we understand that.’ In the days ahead, I want to encourage everyone to look out a little closer for one another and be mindful of the rights that our Constitution gives to every man, woman, and child in this nation. If you witness any lawlessness done cloaked in the cause of federal law enforcement, please alert your local leaders, state officials, and federal delegation.”

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Luján Announces Nominations to U.S. Service Academies for 2025

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M) announced student nominations from New Mexico to enter the United States Service Academies.

“New Mexico has a proud tradition of service across every branch of our military, and I’m honored to nominate some of our state’s best and brightest to our United States Service Academies,” said Senator Luján. “These young leaders have distinguished themselves through academic excellence, character, and a deep sense of duty. Each student has demonstrated a commitment to serving our state and country, and I know they will continue to make New Mexico proud.”

United States Air Force Academy

Hannah Aldrich of Cedar Crest

Tanner Colburn of Albuquerque

Mia Herrera of Santa Fe

Lance Jayme of Alexandria

Andrew Kevan of Rio Rancho

Alejandro Lucero of Albuquerque

Joshua Marquez of Tijeras

Helen Musolf of Santa Fe

Melissa Orozco of Albuquerque

Jack Ritzman of Las Cruces

Arden Rogers of Las Cruces

Mauricio Salazar of Albuquerque

Mickey Widner of Albuquerque

Caleb Williams of Las Cruces

Aubrey Ytuarte of Rio Rancho

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Samantha Brasher of Las Cruces

Aidan Ciro of Artesia

Nathan Duffield of White Rock

Mia Herrera of Santa Fe

Ethan Hilton of Farmington

Aaron Lopez of Rio Rancho

Danira Madrid of Albuquerque

Abelardo Montoya of Lovington

Quanah Morning-Star of Cochiti Pueblo

Helen Musolf of Santa Fe

Isaiah Ocampo of Socorro

Mauricio Salazar of Albuquerque

Luke Sanchez of Albuquerque

Nicholas Sirignano of Rio Rancho

Colin Zhang of Albuquerque

United States Military Academy

Angelica Barbero of Pecos

Luke Brown of Albuquerque

Griffin Burak of Albuquerque

Margaret Collins of Las Cruces

Cooper Donati of Farmington

Judah Daffron of Taos

Caleb Gustafson of Tijeras

Abigail Johnson of White Sands

Tanner Kilgore of Albuquerque

Quanah Morning-Star of Cochiti Pueblo

Jack Ritzman of Las Cruces

Andrew To of Las Cruces

Evani Velasquez of Aztec

Leah Wallace of Albuquerque

Colin Zhang of Albuquerque

United States Naval Academy

Emily Archuleta of Ranchos de Taos

Margaret Collins of Las Cruces

Kenneth Graves of Edgewood

Aidan Haddox of Rio Rancho

Noah Jackson of Las Cruces

Matthew Johansson of Albuquerque

Michael Kokulis of Albuquerque

Soo Lee of Albuquerque

Danira Madrid of Albuquerque

David McGaughy of Artesia

Helen Musolf of Santa Fe

Joziah Otero of Tucumcari

Dorothy Young of Albuquerque

Aubrey Ytuarte of Rio Rancho

Colin Zhang of Albuquerque

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Luján Statement on Senate Republicans Voting to Block Consideration of War Powers Resolution

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after Senate Republicans voted to block consideration of a bipartisan War Powers Resolution that earned bipartisan support last week:

“Just last week, the Senate voted with bipartisan support to advance a war powers resolution. Now, under threat from President Trump, Senate Republicans have reversed course. Instead of allowing Congress to reassert its constitutional authority over matters of war, they voted to block further consideration of a bipartisan resolution that would have prevented President Trump from taking further military action in Venezuela without congressional authorization.

“President Trump and Congressional Republicans are not putting America first. These actions put our servicemembers in danger, bring us closer to another needless war, and undermine Congress’ constitutional authority.”

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McConnell Delivers Remarks on NATO, Greenland, and the Credibility of U.S. Alliance Commitments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor:

“For years, the most pressing concern about the future of NATO was whether and when European allies would take the obligations of collective defense more seriously. But today, the biggest questions about the most successful military alliance in the history of the world have to do with United States:

“Whether America still recognizes our interests as an anchor of trans-Atlantic security, an arsenal of democracy, and a global leader – not a regional power.

“I need to make a number of points here. And it’ll be useful to begin with some history:

“The Second World War claimed tens of millions of lives, displaced tens of millions more, and left the old world crippled by food shortages and hyperinflation. And after defeating Hitler’s genocidal bid for world domination, America’s leaders understood that our interests and those of our European allies were linked, whether we liked it or not.

“As George Marshall put it in 1947, quote, “the United States should do whatever it is able to do to assist in the return of normal economic health in the world, without which there can be no political stability and no assured peace.”

“American security and stability depended on European security and stability. Not least because conflict with Nazi Germany was succeeded immediately by the threat of conflict with the Soviet Union. Millions in Eastern Europe had gone from living under Nazi tyranny to living under Soviet tyranny.

“And the American people understood the stakes:

“In 1947, more than three quarters of Americans rejected the idea that the Soviet Union was merely building its defenses against future attack. Instead, they reported they thought Russia was bent on conquest.

“In 1948, two thirds of Americans said America and western European friends should join a mutual defense pact.

“By 1949, with the North Atlantic Treaty in the works, the question got more specific: Would the American people support, quote, “a promise of mutual aid from all members of the alliance if any single member nation is attacked”?

“This was a higher bar – the commitment that would become Article 5 – and yet, an even bigger majority of respondents again said yes. Of course, there was still controversy and opposition. There were still isolationists ignoring the lessons of the decade.

“But after years of neglect for the national defense… After the folly of appeasement and the failure of deterrence… After pouring the equivalent of 37% of America’s GDP into the Arsenal of Democracy and burying 400,000 American servicemembers in the process… The American people knew the costs of war. And they knew they’d rather preserve the peace.

“Of course, they didn’t intend to do it alone. Americans told pollsters that their early skepticism toward post-war alliance commitments stemmed from a fear that allies would rely too heavily on American leadership.

“This would be a recurring theme. But, importantly, for much of NATO’s history, the U.S. leaders most concerned about burden-sharing were also fierce defenders of the alliance. They criticized allies because they wanted NATO to work – not because they wanted to score political points at home.

“Take our former colleague, Sam Nunn. On multiple occasions, including the 1974 and 1985 NDAAs, he pushed to force allies to carry more of the costs of U.S. forward deployment. And yet, when a majority leader of his own party tried to force a phase-out of U.S. troops from Europe, our former colleague from Georgia fought back… because he understood the value of American leadership and the importance of European security to our own.

“The strength of the trans-Atlantic alliance is contingent on its leaders taking collective defense seriously. That’s why I’ve always called out laggards and urged European allies to share more of the burden. But I’ve also given credit where it’s due. And the simple truth is that our allies have undertaken a profound transformation:

“This year, Poland will spend 4.8% of its GDP on defense. Estonia and Lithuania will spend 5%, and Latvia will hit that goal in 2027. Alongside Nordic neighbors like Norway and Denmark, who have deployed to harm’s way alongside American comrades, NATO’s newest members, Sweden and Finland, are each on track to meet the alliance’s new spending target years ahead of schedule.

“Germany has dramatically increased defense spending and even amended its constitution to allow for deficit spending on defense. Whether Europe’s largest economy is serious about its defense transformation is no longer up for debate.

“Not every ally is making such impressive progress. But no one can claim ignorance of what’s at stake. As Poland’s Prime Minister put it bluntly, the choice facing Europe is, quote, “money today or blood tomorrow.” Perhaps that’s why – in addition to investing heavily in their own defenses – European allies are continuing to dwarf America’s assistance to Ukraine… by a factor of 10 to 1.

“Our allies’ long holiday from history is over. That’s good news. And it must continue. But what about America?

“European allies continue to grow their defense budgets, but ours have stayed flat across successive Administrations. We’re the ones leaving capacity unused and political will untapped. We’re talking; not doing.

“The President was right to call for a major increase in defense spending. But the annual defense budget request from OMB this year doesn’t keep pace with inflation. The FY26 topline won’t come close to covering growing costs and requirements – like the multi-year munitions contracts the Department of Defense rightly wants to sign.

“We should keep the cost – and value – of America’s own commitment to the trans-Atlantic alliance in perspective. Take the year 1982, right in the thick of the Reagan buildup that won the Cold War. In FY82, sustaining U.S. military operations in Europe accounted for less than 6.5% of defense outlays.

“Remember: Winning World War II meant surging defense spending to 37% of America’s gross domestic product. But at the climax of the Cold War, when we were spending 6% of GDP on defense, sustaining a deterrent military presence in Russia’s backyard took up less than 6.5% of the annual defense budget.

“That sounds a lot less like an entangling alliance than a smart investment in preventing catastrophic war. But what did the American people say?

“Well, in 1989, with the Soviets on the ropes, 75% said that NATO ought to be maintained beyond victory. Thirty years later, in 2019, an even greater majority gave the same response… Even before Putin’s escalation in Ukraine.

“What about now? With Russia waging a war of conquest – and China, Iran, and North Korea pitching in – has NATO outlived its useful life? Is the notion of U.S. interests in Europe just “a Cold War relic”? Or, to paraphrase some of Moscow’s most useful idiots, has NATO’s existence and growth provoked Putin’s aggression?

“Let’s get a few things straight:

“For decades, America and our allies bent over backward to welcome Russian participation at NATO, including through the Partnership for Peace program, and to integrate Russia into the global economy. America sent billions of dollars in economic assistance and encouraged massive investment of private capital in the hopes that Russia would choose to live in peace with the nations it formerly enslaved and with the West.

“Putin has repeatedly rejected such peaceful coexistence. He’s chosen bloody neo-Soviet empire-building, instead. To the extent that NATO has grown, it’s been in response to Russian aggression.

“If Putin is looking for someone to blame for Sweden and Finland’s accession to the alliance… he ought to look in a mirror. His own brutality has validated the decisions of sovereign nations to join NATO and align with the West.

“As for the utility of the alliance for our interests: America’s adversaries are choosing to work together. Responding by going it alone would be strategic malpractice. Courting Russia and its GDP of 2.5 trillion dollars… At the expense of longstanding bonds with Europe and its GDP of 27 trillion dollars? That doesn’t even align with U.S. economic interests, let alone our values.

“Last year, Europe invested three-and-a-half trillion dollars directly in the United States. In recent years, two thirds of our European allies’ growing investments in foreign military technologies have been in American-made systems. Together, we make up nearly half of the global economy. If we’re serious about global competition with China, these are relationships worth tending. These are allies we ought to be working with, not against…

“…Which brings me, Mr. President, to the matter of Greenland.

“The President is right that Arctic security is a central concern in our strategic competition with major adversaries. And he’ll find similar interest in Arctic security among allies like Denmark, which is investing billions of dollars in its own capabilities in the region.

“America’s recognition of Denmark’s political and economic interests in Greenland dates back to World War I. The Danes have been close partners in the Arctic since World War II. And brave Danish soldiers fought and died in America’s wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

“There is no ambiguity here. Close ties with our northernmost allies are what make America’s extensive reach in the Arctic possible. And I have yet to hear from this Administration a single thing we need from Greenland that this sovereign people is not already willing to grant us.

“Unless and until the President can demonstrate otherwise, then the proposition at hand today is very straightforward: incinerating the hard-won trust of loyal allies in exchange for no meaningful change in U.S. access to the Arctic.

“That’s allies – plural. Because this is about more than Greenland. It’s about more than America’s relationship with its highly capable Nordic allies. It’s about whether the United States intends to face a constellation of strategic adversaries with capable friends… or commit an unprecedented act of strategic self-harm and go it alone.

“Make no mistake: All of the good progress the President has made in pushing allies to spend more on defense… The increased burden-sharing… The demand for American-made capabilities… All of it would be for nothing if his Administration’s ill-advised threats about Greenland were to shatter the trust of our allies. Following through on this provocation would be more disastrous for the President’s legacy than withdrawing from Afghanistan was for his predecessor.

“Mr. President, the American people know this. Just 17% say they think trying to take control of Greenland is a good idea. Instead, they understand intuitively that strong alliances make America more secure:

“The Reagan National Defense Survey, conducted late last year, found that 68% of Americans hold a favorable view of the trans-Atlantic alliance… And 76% support Article 5 and a U.S. military response in the event of an attack on a NATO ally. In just six months, that measure grew by 5%.

“And here’s the most interesting finding: Among Americans who initially said they would support a U.S. withdrawal from NATO, nearly one in five changed their minds when they learned how our European allies are stepping up their commitments to collective defense.

“Mr. President, I’m happy to provide these findings to anyone in Washington who still bets against the future of the trans-Atlantic alliance. But the American people, who already understand the stakes, may not be so patient.

“They’re telling anyone who will listen that when they say peace through strength, they mean what President Reagan meant:

“Leading with moral clarity… and distinguishing clearly between aggressors and victims.

“Investing in the Arsenal of Democracy… and equipping friends who fight for themselves.

“Preparing to win wars… And upholding the alliances that deter them.”


CBO Tells Merkley: Trump Administration Attempt to Rename the Department of Defense Could Balloon to $125 Million

Without Action from Congress, Trump’s Move to Rename the Department of Defense is Unofficial and a Deliberate Waste of Taxpayer Money; Department of Defense Refused to Share Financial Data with the Congressional Budget Office Regarding this Vanity Project

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) told U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, that the Trump Administration could spend upwards of $125 million in its attempt to rename the Department of Defense (DOD). Similar to Trump’s attempt to rename the Kennedy Center after himself, without action by Congress to pass legislation to legally rename DOD, the President’s executive order is an unofficial and symbolic designation.

“Instead of prioritizing bringing down the cost of groceries or health care, Trump and his cronies are focused on vanity projects like renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War – potentially costing American taxpayers upwards of $125 million,” said Ranking Member Jeff Merkley. “Simply put: Trump does not have the authority to rename DOD without an act of Congress. This move is performative government at its worst and does nothing to advance national security or help service members and their families.

“Trump continues to make it clear that he has no interest in helping working Americans get ahead. He continues to claim that the affordability crisis we’re facing is a hoax, all while he wastes money renaming agencies and renovating the White House, covering it in gold. Meanwhile, working Americans are dealing with the repercussions of the Republicans’ Big, Ugly Betrayal law that makes families sicker and poorer while giving handouts to billionaires. It’s just more of Trump’s families lose, and billionaires win agenda,” Merkley continued.

In September, Merkley led nine of his Senate colleagues, including Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, in calling on CBO to probe the cost of Trump’s executive order renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War. DOD refused to respond to CBO’s inquiry and did not share any financials on what has already been spent on this project.

To put this into perspective, the average monthly benefit per participant in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is about $187 per month. Reallocating the wasteful cost of renaming DOD to the SNAP program would ensure more than 55,500 Americans could be fed for a year.

The full response from CBO can be found HERE.

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Merkley, Colleagues Urge U.S. to Maintain Focus on Human Rights, Good Governance in Relationship with the Philippines

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee—led U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) in urging U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to ensure human rights and good governance are cornerstones of the U.S.-Philippines relationship.

“As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between the United States and the Philippines, we are reminded that alliances are strongest when they are anchored in shared values. That requires holding even our close partners to a high standard on human rights and the rule of law,” the Senators wrote to Secretary Rubio.

“A durable alliance requires clarity: accountability for mass atrocities cannot be optional. The road to accountability starts with full, transparent, and impartial investigations into the crimes committed by the Duterte regime, alongside ongoing commitments to protect human rights by the Marcos administration,” they continued. “The United States should make clear that deepening security cooperation must go hand in hand with concrete progress on human rights protections, rule-of-law reforms, and accountability for past abuses. Our security cooperation should reinforce – not overlook – those efforts.”

They concluded, “Strengthening our alliance requires more than shared security interests; it requires shared principles, and sustained action to uphold them.”

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Secretary Rubio:

We write to express our continued concerns about the human rights situation in the Philippines and to urge the State Department’s full and robust advocacy for good governance and human rights in all interactions with the Government of the Philippines.

As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between the United States and the Philippines, we are reminded that alliances are strongest when they are anchored in shared values. That requires holding even our close partners to a high standard on human rights and the rule of law.

In that context, the extrajudicial killings and other abuses perpetrated under the Rodrigo Duterte government during its so-called “war on drugs” put significant strain on our alliance and threatened to undermine the values that bind our two nations. Although Duterte’s trial is proceeding at the International Criminal Court, Filipinos who suffered abuses at the hands of his government have yet to see true accountability. Estimates of the death toll during Duterte’s anti- drug campaign vary, from more than 6,000 acknowledged by the Philippine National Police to as many as 30,000 cited by human-rights groups. The Marcos administration has made little meaningful effort to investigate or prosecute those responsible for the killings committed during Duterte’s rule.

Meanwhile, human rights violations such as the “red-tagging” of human rights groups and journalists, enforced disappearances, and unlawful killings continue under the Marcos administration. The State Department’s 2024 Human Rights Report concluded that “the overall human rights situation in the [Philippines] did not change in a clearly sustainable and systematic way” in the preceding year.

A durable alliance requires clarity: accountability for mass atrocities cannot be optional. The road to accountability starts with full, transparent, and impartial investigations into the crimes committed by the Duterte regime, alongside ongoing commitments to protect human rights by the Marcos administration. The United States should make clear that deepening security cooperation must go hand in hand with concrete progress on human rights protections, rule-of-law reforms, and accountability for past abuses. Our security cooperation should reinforce – not overlook – those efforts.

Championing shared values of good governance and human rights is important not only as we celebrate this historic milestone in our defense alliance, but also as the Philippines takes up the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Chair in 2026. The Philippines’ leadership role in ASEAN brings heightened responsibility to model respect for human rights and due process.

Mr. Secretary, we urge you to raise human rights and good governance at all levels with the Marcos administration. We also urge you to hold the Government of the Philippines accountable for continued investigations and prosecutions of the human rights violations committed under the Duterte administration and press for commitments to improve human rights protections in the Philippines moving forward.

Strengthening our alliance requires more than shared security interests; it requires shared principles, and sustained action to uphold them.

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Merkley: Senate Fails to Stand Up to Trump’s Unconstitutional Strikes Against Venezuela

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley —a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee—today released the following statement after the Senate voted to block U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA)’s War Powers Resolutionaimed at stopping unauthorized U.S. military action in Venezuela:

“The Trump Administration has repeatedly misled the American people about its plans for Venezuela, sending our nation down a dangerous path. The Administration has failed to provide many of the answers Congress is rightfully owed and made clear it has no plan to ensure the will of the Venezuelan people is honored, or that power is transferred to legitimate democratic leadership. The continued lack of honesty should outrage all of us, but instead of standing up to Trump, Senate Republicans blocked yet another attempt to rein in our warmonger president.

“There is no clear path forward, no timeline, and no explanation of how the Trump Administration intends to avoid further instability or escalation. Instead, the Administration appears to be prioritizing profits for Big Oil over democracy and the rule of law.

“In the face of Trump’s stonewalling and recklessness, it is our constitutional responsibility to prevent the United States from being pulled into another open-ended war. We must not continue to fail this test.”

Previously, Merkley took to the Senate Floor in an attempt to pass his Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025, legislation he leads with Senator Kaine, that would prohibit the use of federal funds for any use of military force in or against Venezuela without explicit Congressional authorization. Merkley’s bill does not prevent the United States from acting to defend itself or its citizens from an armed attack or threat of an imminent armed attack, pursue lawful counternarcotics operations, or provide humanitarian assistance to the Venezuelan people. Senate Republicans ultimately blocked Merkley’s bill.

To learn more about the Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025, including the full text of the legislation, click here.

Merkley also partnered with Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) to introduce the Protecting Taxpayers from Risky Investments in Venezuela Act. Their bill would prevent American taxpayer dollars from being used to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure without Congressional approval.

Full text of the Protecting Taxpayers from Risky Investments in Venezuela Act can be found by clicking here.

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VIDEO: Sen. Moran Pays Tribute to the Life of Kansas WWII Veteran Horace “Jim” Sharp

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) today spoke on the Senate floor to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Kansan Horace “Jim” Sharp, of Morris County, a World War II veteran who passed away at the age of 101.

“Jim was an authentic American hero,” said Sen. Moran. “Sometimes I think we look for heroes, and we can’t seem to find them. We do not have to look past Jim Sharp. He was a hero to his nation, to his community, to his family and his friends. May Jim’s legacy not be forgotten, his service honored, and we say to him in these days, thank you for your service. We respect you, and we are grateful."

Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks

Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks as Delivered:

“Mr. President, I rise today to honor the passing of a 101-year-old Kansan, World War II veteran and American hero, Horace ‘Jim’ Sharp.

“Mr. Sharp was born in Morris County, Kansas, and he spent his early years tending to the family farm – not an unusual thing in Kansas, and certainly not in his generation. At 19, Jim surrendered his farm deferment, courageously volunteering to serve his nation in the United States Army during World War II.

“Through his service, Jim fought in the Battle of the Bulge as part of Company B, 18th Infantry Regiment, First Infantry Division. It was during that battle that Jim earned three battle stars and a Bronze Star. Although injured by shrapnel during the battle, Jim never received treatment, thus never receiving the Purple Heart.

“Following Jim’s combat service, he served as a guard during the Nuremberg trials, and shortly after returning home to Kansas following the war’s end, Jim would marry his wife, Marilyn, with whom he would raise their three children and enjoy 69 years of marriage.

“Following the passage of the G.I. Bill, Jim attended Kansas State University where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Jim then applied his degree by building a career in data processing, eventually retiring as the information systems manager for the Kansas Farm Bureau, while also teaching information systems classes at Kansas State University and at Fort Riley.

“Jim’s life of service continued well after his time in the military. His dedication to his faith and his community showed itself in so many ways.

“Jim was an active member at his local Methodist Church. His accolades also include being a founding member and the first president of the Northeast Kansas Battle of the Bulge organization, where he raised funds to support the preservation of the Manhattan, Kansas, Peace Memorial Auditorium and K-State World War II Memorial. Jim’s World War II service is also featured at Fort Riley’s First Infantry Division Museum, honoring his story and his service in the Nuremberg exhibit there.

“Jim was an active member of the Kiwanis, his local VFW and American Legion, and many other local organizations improving his community and aiding those in need.

“Living to be 101 is remarkable in and of itself, but Jim used that life – that long life that he was given – to accomplish so much more. His life of courage, sacrifice and compassion served as an inspiration to all who knew him, and he is being dearly, dearly missed.

“My prayers and concerns, care, are with his children, Janet, Doug and Brian; his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren – the entire Sharp family.

“It was my honor to see them as we celebrated Jim’s 100th birthday at the American Legion in Manhattan, Kansas, now just about a year ago.

“Jim was an authentic American hero. Sometimes I think we look for heroes, and we can’t seem to find them. We do not have to look past Jim Sharp. He was a hero to his nation, to his community, to his family and his friends.

“May Jim’s legacy not be forgotten, his service honored, and we say to him in these days, thank you for your service. We respect you, and we are grateful.”

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Co-Chairs of Arctic Caucus Host Nordic Foreign Ministers in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Angus King (I-ME), co-chairs of the Senate Arctic Caucus, hosted a delegation from the Kingdom of Denmark to emphasize the importance of de-escalating tensions following recent comments from the executive administration about taking over Greenland.

Attendees of the meeting included the Ambassador of Denmark to the United States, Jesper Møller Sørensen; Greenlandic Minister of Foreign Affairs and Research, Ms. Vivian Motzfeldt; Danish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Lars Løkke Rasmussen; Permanent Secretary of State, Mininnguaq Kleist; Head of the Greenland Representation to the United States and Canada, Mr. Jacob Isbosethsen; Deputy Head of Greenland Representation to the United States and Canada, Ms. Rebecca Joy Lynge; Permanent Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Jeppe Tranholm-Mikkelsen; Counselor, Foreign & Security Policy, Ms. Bodil Riisom Pedersen, among others.

“Respect for the sovereignty of the people of Greenland should be non-negotiable, which is why I was grateful for the opportunity to engage in direct dialogue with Foreign Ministers from Denmark and Greenland,” said Senator Murkowski. “Meetings like the one held today are integral to building stronger relationships with our allies that will continue to endure amid a shifting geopolitical landscape. The United States, Denmark and Greenland should be able to count on each other as partners in diplomacy and national security.”

“In today’s meeting, the Denmark and Greenland coalition reiterated to us that they are fully prepared to cooperate with the United States in any way to expand our national security presence in Greenland – an agreement which goes back 75 years. So, I want to reiterate there is no need whatsoever for the United States to own or occupy the country of Greenland in any way, shape or form to protect our important national security interests in the Arctic,” Senator King said. “It was a very productive meeting and I'm hopeful that the administration will finally realize that taking Greenland over by a military force is almost unthinkable — to attack essentially a NATO ally. That would be the greatest gift to Vladimir Putin that this country could possibly bestow. I'm hopeful, again, that the White House was listening today and that they respect the sovereignty of Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark.”

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Murkowski: “Congress has an obligation to ask hard questions before—not after—hostilities escalate.”

Washington, DC — This evening, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) issued the following statement on tonight’s point of order vote regarding Senate Joint Resolution 98:

“This evening, I, for the fourth time, voted in favor of the War Powers Resolution for Venezuela.

“Nicolás Maduro was a brutal dictator who ruled through repression, corruption, and violence, and his removal from power makes the United States, the Western Hemisphere, and the Venezuelan people safer. The professionalism, discipline, execution, and courage of the U.S. servicemembers who carried out the near-flawless operation deserve great credit.

“But even when an action is justified and its outcome welcomed, the Constitution is clear that Congress is a co-equal branch of government with an essential role in decisions that place the United States on a path toward sustained military involvement. Excluding Congress from that process risks eroding public trust and blurring strategic objectives.

“While the administration argues that the Venezuelan regime is now complying and that hostilities are no longer imminent, no meaningful end state has been articulated, and U.S. forces and assets remain fully postured in the region. That posture, and operations leading up to it, demonstrate the very kind of continued military involvement the War Powers Resolution was designed to address.

“Senator Kaine’s resolution does not prejudge policy outcomes, nor does it diminish the President’s ability to respond to an attack on the United States or our forces. Instead, it reaffirms Congress’s Article I responsibility to authorize hostilities and ensures that decisions of this magnitude receive appropriate debate and oversight. I voted against this point of order to remove privileged status from the War Powers Resolution because when American lives and military force are at stake, Congress has an obligation to ask hard questions before—not after—hostilities escalate.”

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Murphy, Crow Lead Bicameral Group Of Democrats To Introduce Bill To Protect First Amendment Rights, Safeguard Americans From Politically Motivated Harassment And Prosecutions

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Jason Crow (D-Colo.-6) on Wednesday led Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and Representatives Greg Casar (D-Texas-35), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.-06), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.-14) and Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.-10) in introducing the No Political Enemies (NOPE) Act, legislation to protect individuals and organizations, including non-profits, faith groups, media outlets, and educational institutions, from politically motivated harassment and prosecution by the federal government. The NOPE Act would reaffirm the constitutionally protected right to free speech, and establish an affirmative defense and provide additional legal tools for those targeted in politically motivated prosecutions or civil enforcement actions. The bill would also create an accountability structure for any government agency or executive branch employee that uses federal funds to suppress protected speech by making them personally, criminally liable for violations of the Anti-Deficiency Act and allowing victims of political targeting to sue them in their personal capacity.

Less than a year into President Trump’s second term, there are hundreds of documented instances of the administration using the vast powers of the federal government to go after its perceived political enemies. Earlier this week, the Department of Justice opened an investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell because he refused to cede the Fed’s independence. After U.S. Senator Mark Kelly released a video that didn’t align with the regime’s agenda, Trump’s Department of Defense launched a military investigation targeting the decorated combat veteran. And following the horrific murder of Charlie Kirk, President Trump quickly exploited the tragedy to crack down on his critics’ free speech, even deploying the FTC to attempt to jawbone ABC into taking Jimmy Kimmel off the air.

“President Trump - and the loyalists who carry out his orders - think they can weaponize the federal government to target people who speak out against the regime with total impunity,” said Murphy. “They’re going after elected officials and public figures, but their real goal is to intimidate the millions of everyday Americans who oppose Trump’s political agenda into silence. Our bill gives those who are speaking truth to power the tools they need to defend themselves if the regime comes after them – and includes serious, enforceable legal consequences for the Trump loyalists who are carrying out his campaign of retribution. This bill shouldn’t be controversial. If Democrats and Republicans can’t agree on the basic idea that the president can’t use government employees and funds to go after his political enemies, then we are closer than ever to losing our democracy.”

“I went to war three times for this country to defend the rights of every American, including those who I may disagree with, because that is who we are as a country. The President is trying to use the full force of the federal government to suppress free speech rights. I won’t remain silent as the President and his administration go after their political opponents and stifle dissent,” said Crow.

The No Political Enemies Act’s key provisions include:

Clear Statement of Congressional Policy: Would enact a clear statutory declaration that no federal executive branch official may initiate or direct investigative, regulatory, or enforcement actions against Americans to suppress or burden constitutionally protected speech or association (i.e., “politically motivated” targeting).

Statutory Defense in Political Targeting Cases: Would create an affirmative defense in criminal prosecutions or civil enforcement actions. If a defendant presents substantial evidence that protected speech or association was a motivating factor, the burden shifts to the government to prove that legitimate, non-protected grounds justified the action. As part of this inquiry, the court may grant expedited discovery into government motivations. This provides a tool for those wrongly targeted to get meaningful access to evidence, corrects the imbalance of proof, and allows courts to quickly dismiss abusive actions.

Narrow Statutory Bivens Remedy to Deter Targeted Political Retaliation: Would establish a cause of action allowing individuals to sue federal officials for damages when their First Amendment rights are violated due to politically motivated targeting. The bill would immunize officials who demonstrate the target’s speech was not constitutionally protected, but end existing immunities for federal employees from lawsuits in their personal capacity.

Attorney Fee-shifting to Deter Meritless Politically Motivated Enforcement: Would require the U.S. government to pay reasonable attorney's fees and costs to individuals and organizations who prevail in criminal prosecutions or civil enforcement actions if they can demonstrate the government's action was substantially motivated by a desire to suppress their constitutionally protected speech or association.

Prohibition on Use of Funds for Politically Motivated Targeting: Would prohibit the use of federal funds for any investigatory, regulatory, or enforcement action initiated or pursued to suppress protected speech. Violations would trigger the Anti-Deficiency Act, creating administrative and potential criminal liability, and allow private parties to seek to prevent the use of such funds.

“Freedom of speech is the bedrock of American democracy and as the Trump administration drives America towards authoritarianism, it is more important than ever to affirm the rights of the people to stand up and speak out for what they believe,” said Schumer. “The NOPE Act would protect citizens and organizations from political persecution at a time when Trump uses the Department of Justice and other agencies as attack dogs to target his perceived enemies. Congress must protect the power of the First Amendment and pass this critical legislation.”

“Freedom of speech is sacrosanct in America. President Trump’s attempt to control our speech – whether by condemning and threatening Democratic Senators, cancelling Jimmy Kimmel, or setting out of office messages for furloughed employees – is a full on five alarm fire. This President is abusing and politicizing the executive branch because he wants to distract Americans from his failing economy and broken campaign promise to make things more affordable. The NOPE Act reaffirms what we know and will never stop fighting for: our democracy depends on our freedom of speech,” said Alsobrooks.

“President Trump is escalating his campaign to silence dissent and weaponize his office against anyone who disagrees with him. The right to free speech, enshrined in the Constitution, is a bedrock of our democracy. This legislation imposes additional safeguards to protect Americans from politically-motivated prosecutions. It stops Presidential punishment for exercising constitutional rights,” said Blumenthal.

“The Trump administration’s blatant disregard for our Constitution is eroding the bedrock values upon which our country is built. Congress must act to stop this Administration’s assault on people and organizations simply because they don’t agree with their point of view,” said Booker. “This legislation offers a clear roadmap to protect non-profits, faith groups, media outlets, educational institutions, and others from politically motivated harassment and prosecution by the federal government. This isn’t about whether you are on the Right or the Left—every person and every organization has a right to free speech and to express their views without harassment or persecution. We cannot sit by and watch Trump desecrate the Constitution and undermine our fundamental right to free speech, even if the views expressed are unpopular, controversial, or simply disliked by him.”

“The Trump Administration is relentlessly attacking free speech – trying to shut down opposition by throwing the full weight of federal law enforcement against those who dare to challenge them. This politically-motivated weaponization of government clearly violates the First Amendment and demands action from the Congress. This legislation will help provide additional safeguards to protect Americans’ free speech rights from a lawless administration,” said Van Hollen.

“The President and his Administration have shredded the fundamental principle that in America, we don’t punish our political opponents — we protect free speech,” said Padilla. “History warns us that when leaders try to weaponize the government against members of Congress or entertainers like Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert simply for questioning authority or voicing their disagreements, it’s a sign of weakness, not strength. The NOPE Act will make essential reforms to help protect the constitutionally protected right to free speech for all Americans.”

"From targeting media companies to nonprofit organizations to universities, Donald Trump’s administration has been pushing to silence and intimidate the president's critics. Now more than ever, we need to reaffirm our Constitutional rights and prohibit the president from weaponizing the federal government against people who disagree with his administration. With this bill, we’re fighting back to ensure we continue to protect the American people’s rights and freedoms,” said Schiff.

“Over the last year, we’ve seen an escalating crackdown from this Administration on the right of every person to do what they want and say what they think within the bound of our laws and due process,” said Smith. “Today, my colleagues and I reaffirm our commitment to upholding the most American of values: that our speech, our words and our principles are protected.”

“President Trump’s relentless harassment of those who speak out against his Administration’s disastrous agenda is a dangerous move toward authoritarianism and a direct attack on free speech,” said Welch. “Defending First Amendment rights is essential to ensuring that the American people can place their faith and trust in our democratic institutions.”

“Free speech isn’t just a core American value—it’s a foundation for democracy,” said Merkley. “As Trump continues his authoritarian assault on the First Amendment, Congress must defend the rights of all Americans by protecting the freedom and free speech we all hold dearly.”

“Today in America, we face the biggest free speech crisis in modern history. The president is abusing his power to silence people who disagree with him or his billionaire friends, and too many of our wealthiest and most powerful institutions are bending the knee. Congress must change the law to protect the rights of all Americans to speak and be heard,” said Casar.

“The Constitution is not a buffet line where you take what you like and ignore the rest. It is binding in full, even when it is inconvenient. We cannot defend constitutional rights only when they align with our politics and abandon them when they do not," said Houlahan. "If we allow political retaliation to replace the rule of law, we undermine the very democracy we are sworn to protect. The No Political Enemies Act is about restoring a simple principle: that no one in power gets to use the machinery of government to silence political opposition.”

“Trump campaigned on upholding freedom of speech, but continues to prosecute and harass political dissidents,” said Ocasio-Cortez. “The No Political Enemies (NOPE) Act will protect individuals, organizations, journalists, educators and educational institutions from harassment and prosecution by the federal government. We should not need legislation to protect one’s constitutional right to free speech, but we will never stop working to protect the American people from oligarchs and fascists.”

“The Trump Administration is scaring people into silence. Ridiculing reporters and blocking them from the White House, suing and extorting settlements from the media, threatening ABC over Jimmy Kimmel, taking funding from nonprofits, and intimidating businesses who cave to their demands. In America, we don’t bow to kings,” said Frost.

The bill is endorsed by Protect Democracy, Americans Against Government Censorship, the Campaign Legal Center, Public Citizen and MoveOn.

“President Trump is carrying out an unprecedented campaign of retribution against his political opponents–this is what autocrats do to cement their grip on power,” said Justin Vail, Counsel at Protect Democracy. “In a democracy, the president cannot use the vast powers of government to silence critics. The genius of the No Political Enemies Act is that it empowers everyday Americans with new tools to defend themselves against political targeting and hold government officials accountable for attacks on their free speech, regardless of who the president is.”

“The Trump administration is openly breaking the law and weaponizing the machinery of government to punish its critics and silence dissent. The No Political Enemies Act is a good step that gives important protections to Americans who speak out against the government, strengthening their rights to free speech and creating more accountability for politicians that abuse their power,” said Cole Leiter, Executive Director of Americans Against Government Censorship. “Over the last year, we have seen historic efforts to use the power of government to silence the president's political opponents. No American should fear they will be the victim of a weaponized government, and legislative action should be a cause for bipartisan agreement and action.

“Abusing government power to attack political opponents should be a hard NOPE,” said Adav Noti, Executive Director at Campaign Legal Center. “As threats to the rule of law grow, Americans are increasingly at risk of retaliation and intimidation for speaking their mind. The right to criticize and challenge government actions is not just protected by the Constitution — it is a cornerstone of American life. The No Political Enemies Act is an essential step toward protecting that foundational principle. This important legislation will prohibit the government from targeting individuals and domestic groups for their protected speech and political activities, as well as give Americans new tools to defend their rights. CLC thanks the sponsors of this bill for their leadership and urges Congress to pass the NOPE Act without delay."