ICYMI: On The Don Lemon Show, Kelly Discusses the Trump Administration’s Attacks on Americans’ Constitutional Rights

“This is to send a message to every journalist out there that isn’t one of their sycophants, that they should stop doing their jobs because they view you and me as the opposition.”

“It’s not going to stop unless we continue to speak out about it.”

In case you missed it, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly spoke with journalist Don Lemon this week about the Trump Administration’s attacks on Americans’ constitutional rights, including how Lemon’s arrest and the Pentagon’s efforts to censure and demote Kelly are meant to intimidate journalists and chill free speech. Kelly emphasized that it’s on all of us to stand up, step up, and keep fighting for our rights and our democracy.

Sen. Kelly speaks to Don Lemon on The Don Lemon Show.

Watch the full interview here. See key excerpts below:

On the Trump Administration’s abuses of Americans’ constitutional rights:

“They crossed the line with me with my First Amendment freedom of speech rights. I didn’t think they would lock up a journalist doing his job, but they’re willing to take some steps that are deep into the authoritarian playbook, and it’s really disturbing and it’s troubling and it’s dangerous, and I really worry about the future of our democracy if this continues. Freedom of the press, religion, freedom of speech… they’re ticking through them here with regards to the First Amendment, but the others: going into people’s homes without warrants, taking away due process from people. Now we have these roaming bands of ICE agents just violating people’s rights across the country.”

On how Don Lemon’s arrest is one example of the Trump Administration trying to chill free speech:

“You’re just an example that they want to send to all journalists. They want to get that reporter out there, whether it’s some young, brand new person at a journalism school, or some person that’s been doing this for 30 years, 40 years, to make a decision not to write the story, not to ask the question, not to go to the place where they can get the information so they can share it with the American people so we can continue to have a democracy beyond this 250 years. They’re trying to chill free speech.”

On the Trump Administrations’ attempts to stop people from holding them accountable:

“You were not violating the law. You were doing your job. This is to send a message to every journalist out there that isn’t one of their sycophants, that they should stop doing their jobs because they view you and me as the opposition. And if you’re not with this President, he looks at you as the enemy, and he is taking steps to try to chill and stop us from doing what we are hired to do.”

On how these abuses won’t stop unless we all step up and keep speaking out:

“Don, it’s got to stop. But it’s not going to stop unless we continue to speak out about it. And I really hope that despite the chilling effect that it has on journalists, what happened to you, I also know that there are others out there that it will get them to double down and continue to do their jobs. It’ll chill some, but there’ll be some people that will step up. They’ll step up at this moment, because our democracy is really on the line here.”


Kelly Presses Trump for Action to Lower Food Costs for Arizona Families

“Arizona families cannot continue to bear the cost of rising food prices.”

Today, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly pressed President Trump on how his administration’s actions are driving up already high food costs for families across Arizona and the country, despite the President’s repeated claims that grocery prices are “all down” and promise to lower costs for working families.

In his letter, Kelly details how tariffs, weak enforcement against corporate price-fixing, and cuts to food assistance and agricultural programs are keeping food prices high and putting added pressure on families, farmers, workers, and small businesses across the food supply chain.

“Despite your repeated claims that when ‘you look at groceries, it’s all down,’ a year into your second term grocery prices remain high. In fact, December 2025 saw the biggest month-to-month jump in food prices since October 2022. You campaigned on a promise to lower costs for Americans, but little progress has been made—hardworking families in Arizona and across the nation still face high prices at the checkout line,” said Kelly in his letter.

Kelly warned that the administration’s blanket tariff policies are directly increasing food prices and harming domestic producers: “They impact nearly every product entering the United States, including produce, meat, dairy, and canned goods. When used in a smart way, tariffs can be an important tool that create American jobs and strengthen American manufacturing, which reduces costs by creating reliable domestic supply chains. However, your Administration’s reckless approach is creating chaos—making it impossible for companies to plan long-term domestic investments and instead are solely serving as a tax on working families and business, increasing costs when people are already struggling. In addition to raising costs, your polices have led to retaliatory tariffs that hurt local agricultural producers, like the Arizona dairymen I met with in Tempe last year, putting American jobs at risk.

Kelly also urged the administration to immediately reinstate the Tomato Suspension Agreement, warning that its termination is raising prices and threatening jobs: “Terminating the TSA will not address the core factors impacting domestic tomato growers; rather, this decision just increases U.S. retail prices for tomatoes and threatens nearly 50,000 jobs in Arizona alone. I urge you to immediately reinstate the Tomato Suspension Agreement and rescind your universal tariffs on agricultural items in order to protect consumers and lower food prices. We need strategic trade policies that lower costs, strengthen our economy, and support American jobs-not ones that make life more expensive.”

Kelly further raised concerns about corporate price-fixing in the food industry, calling for stronger enforcement and accountability: “In the last 25 years, the most dominant food and agribusiness companies have been fined over $2 billion for price-fixing and other anti-competitive practices. Large food companies are not being held accountable. […] To ensure wealthy corporations are not artificially hiking prices and causing undue harm on buyers, we must strengthen antitrust enforcement and the penalties corporations face when they engage in these practices. I encourage you to direct the Department of Justice and the FTC to aggressively investigate and prosecute corporations that engage in price-fixing, market manipulation, or other anti-competitive behavior.”

Kelly also warned that proposed cuts on food assistance programs will worsen food insecurity and hurt small grocery stores, farmers, and food suppliers across Arizona: “SNAP allows hardworking Americans who would otherwise struggle to put food on the table. While American families are already struggling to afford their grocery bills, your One Big Beautiful Bill Act makes steep cuts to the food assistance programs that help them stay afloat. […] Nearly 80 percent of SNAP dollars are spent at traditional grocery stores. SNAP cuts reduce sales and negatively impact small, independent grocery stores and stores in low-income and rural areas, leading to a domino effect of job losses across the food supply chain.”

Kelly urged the administration to reverse these policies and work with Congress to lower food prices: “Arizona families cannot continue to bear the cost of rising food prices. I encourage you to take swift action and work with us to lower the price of food for American families. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.”


WATCH: In SASC Hearing, Kelly Raises Alarm as Arms Control Treaty with Russia Set to Expire Today

“I really worry about the future for our kids and our grandkids living in a world where we have multiple countries with potentially thousands and thousands of nuclear weapons.”

This week, during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on the expiration of the New START treaty, the last major U.S.–Russia nuclear arms control treaty, Arizona Senator and Navy combat veteran Mark Kelly pressed witnesses on how the U.S. can maintain strategic stability, warning that a rush toward a costly Golden Dome missile defense could undermine deterrence and spur an unconstrained nuclear buildup by Russia and China. The treaty is set to expire today, February 5, 2026.

Kelly warned that the administration’s push for a costly Golden Dome missile defense could undermine mutual deterrence: “That challenge is getting more complex as New START approaches expiration. At the same time, this administration is trying to throw billions or hundreds of billions eventually, at this Golden Dome concept, a homeland missile defense supposedly scaled to counter full salvoes of nuclear ballistic missiles from both Russia and China. Physics favors the offense. Intercepting ballistic missiles with decoys present, at hypersonic speeds, and mid-course or terminal phase is extremely hard. Countermeasures are cheap. Tests are scripted, and real adversaries adapt. A defender must stop everything. The attacker only needs a few to get through. In my view, missile defense can undermine mutual deterrence, and I think a shield can be a false sense of security.”

Kelly also raised concerns that spending $1 trillion on an unreliable system could put future generations at risk in a post-New START treaty world: “I am very concerned that we could throw $1 trillion at a problem that ultimately, we will find is unsolvable, that we will not be able to get a four nines kind of reliability out of it. And we just wind up encouraging our adversaries to build more ballistic missiles, more warheads. And then this problem ultimately grows out of control. I mean, we’ve seen this before. We’ve got the numbers down. And I really worry about the future for our kids and our grandkids living in a world where we have multiple countries with potentially thousands and thousands of nuclear weapons.”

Sen. Kelly questions Admiral Richard during a SASC hearing.

Click here to download a video of Kelly’s remarks. See the transcript below:

Sen. Kelly:

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Good morning, everybody. Thank you for being here. Admiral Richard, during your tenure at STRATCOMM, you underscored the growing challenges of deterring two nuclear armed peer adversaries at once. That challenge is getting more complex as New START approaches expiration. At the same time, this administration is trying to throw billions or hundreds of billions eventually, at this Golden Dome concept, a homeland missile defense supposedly scaled to counter full salvoes of nuclear ballistic missiles from both Russia and China. Physics favors the offense. Intercepting ballistic missiles with decoys present, at hypersonic speeds, and mid-course or terminal phase is extremely hard. Countermeasures are cheap. Tests are scripted, and real adversaries adapt. A defender must stop everything. The attacker only needs a few to get through. In my view, missile defense can undermine mutual deterrence, and I think a shield can be a false sense of security. So, here’s the question. In a world without arms control limits and with two major adversaries potentially expanding their nuclear arsenals, what are the strategic implications for pursuing this kind of defense?

Admiral (ret.) Charles A. Richard, USN:

Senator, first, I would support, additional defenses, air and missile defenses for the United States in terms of the way it enhances our security. I think the success of the Israeli system is an example—the technical challenges that you just described can be addressed.

Sen. Kelly:

You feel they can be addressed at scale, with full salvoes of ICBM?

Adm. Richard:

I do. Absolutely, because the goal is not to—you’re not going to intercept every single weapon going in, but you will intercept enough of them that one will drive your opponent to have to consider a much larger attack than they might otherwise have. There’s a deterrent value in that alone. And then, introducing a lack of confidence on the part of your opponent that their attack is going to be successful, yet they will carry all the consequences of having started it, I think enhances our security.

Sen. Kelly:

But, Admiral, would you agree, decoys are pretty cheap?

Adm: Richard:

I would agree decoys are pretty cheap. I would agree that there are ways to discriminate through that. I also think directed energy is pretty cheap. And so, I think there is a technological competition not unlike other ones we’ve had in our history that we can win.

Sen. Kelly:

Yeah. And I’m not opposed to a missile defense. What we have at Fort Greely, having 44 interceptors for a Rogue Nation concept makes perfect sense to me. And I think that’s where our investment should be. I think the risk—I think we often underestimate that risk. But when you look at the math on this, the number of interceptors, especially if we’re going to put them in space, space-based interceptors, the math becomes unworkable rather quickly. And all Russia or China needs to do is expand their magazine depth. And in my view, and I want to get the ambassador’s opinion on this. Ambassador, do you feel this is a destabilizing approach?

Ambassador Rose E. Gottemoeller:

It depends on what the “this” is, Senator?

Sen. Kelly:

Well, the Golden Dome system that we could spend upwards of $1 trillion on to build a system of space-based interceptors to try to intercept a full salvo of nuclear weapons from Russia and or China.

AMB Gottemoeller:

I support what we agreed and recommended in the Strategic Posture Commission report. That is, limited missile defenses against, conventional and nuclear threats to the United States integrated air and missile defense, I stress, because there are also a lot of air breathing systems. We spent a time this morning talking about Russian exotic systems. These new nuclear propelled systems are not on a ballistic trajectory.

Sen. Kelly:

Right.

AMB Gottemoeller:

They are air breathers, and they come in under that ballistic trajectory. So, I think we need to take a comprehensive look at this, including the very long experience the Russians have with countermeasures of all kinds, and figure out what will buy us the most effectiveness in countering limited, opportunistic, attacks on our critical targets.

Sen. Kelly:

Yeah, I agree with you on the limited opportunistic attacks. We need something. I am very concerned that we could throw $1 trillion at a problem that ultimately, we will find is unsolvable, that we will not be able to get a four nines kind of reliability out of it. And we just wind up encouraging our adversaries to build more ballistic missiles, more warheads. And then this problem ultimately grows out of control. I mean, we’ve seen this before. We’ve got the numbers down. And I really worry about the future for our kids and our grandkids living in a world where we have multiple countries with potentially thousands and thousands of nuclear weapons. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

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For Immediate Release: February 5, 2026

CONTACT: Press@Kelly.Senate.Gov


King, Barrasso Bill Improving National Park Safety Passes out of Committee, Heads to Senate Floor

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and John Barrasso (R-WY) today announced that their bill to improve national park safety has passed out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee unanimously. Their Making National Parks Safer Act would equip National Park Service (NPS) 911 call centers with Next Generation 911 (NG911) technology, strengthening emergency response capabilities, supporting dispatch center operations, and enabling responders to receive text messages, images, and videos in addition to phone calls. The bill now heads to the Senate Floor for further consideration and potential passage.

The National Park Service operates 41 call centers nationwide. Call centers operate on outdated systems and have little interoperability and emergency redundancy capabilities with the other law enforcement agencies.

“People travel from across the globe to experience the natural beauty of America’s public lands — from Maine to Montana and across the nation,” said Senator King, Co-Chair of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee. “However, vital emergency response infrastructure is critical to ensure a safe visitor experience for those enjoying our public lands and National Parks. The bipartisan Making National Parks Safer Act will help upgrade National Park Service call centers and give visitors a little more peace of mind when they’re relaxing and looking at our gorgeous natural treasures.”

“Wyoming is blessed with the most beautiful national parks in the nation. Folks travel from all over the world to enjoy them—especially Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons,” said Senator Barrasso. “It is vital that visitors have access to the latest emergency response technology. Today’s committee vote brings thisbipartisan bill one step closer to delivering increased speed and accuracy for emergency responders. This will ensure visitors can continue to enjoy the great American outdoors without worry.”

Specifically, The Making National Parks Safer Act would;

Directs the National Park Service to assess the current implementation status of NG911 systems at existing emergency communications centers and estimate costs to install and maintain NG911 systems.

Provides a report on the results of the assessment and identify certain jurisdictional, technological, and legal issues that may affect implementation of NG911 systems.

Requires the National Park Service to develop a plan to install NG911 systems at existing centers, after consultation with relevant stakeholders and authorities.

King and Barrasso are joined on the legislation by U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO).

As a lifelong advocate for conservation and Chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, Senator King is among the Senate’s most prominent voices advocating for conservation. Senator King helped lead the passage the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) into law; the legislation that included the Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF). Because of his work, in 2020, Senator King was awarded the inaugural National Park Foundation (NPF) “Hero” Award. Since the creation of the LRF, Senator King has pushed park leaders to discuss funding maintenance efforts, maintaining a sufficient NPS workforce, and managing growing park visitation. Recently, Senator King pressed a Department of the Interior.

Senator King’s work on the National Parks Subcommittee is the culmination of more than four decades of work on land conservation efforts in Maine, including helping to establish the Land for Maine’s Future program in 1987 and supporting extensive conservation projects during his time as Governor. Under King’s leadership in his eight years as Maine governor, he put more Maine land under conservation than in the state’s 175 year history.

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Klobuchar Recognized by the Major County Sheriffs of America as Legislator of the Year

Senator Klobuchar receiving the Legislator of the Year Award from Sheriff Bill Brown of Santa Barbara County, California, President of the Major County Sheriffs of America Association

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) was recognized by the Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA) as the Legislator of the Year for championing legislation to benefit law enforcement agencies nationwide. Klobuchar was one of two legislators to receive the award, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) was honored as the other recipient for this year.

Klobuchar was selected for the Legislator of the Year award for passing her Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act into law to help police and firefighters who get sick from being exposed to toxic substances and her work to advance Next Generation 9-1-1 to help ensure that states and local governments can deploy upgraded 9-1-1 systems across the country.

“It was an honor to present Senator Klobuchar with the Major County Sheriffs of America’s (MCSA) Legislator of the Year award. Her bipartisan leadership - including the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, which honors the sacrifice of fallen public safety officers and helps protect their families, as well as her work to advance Next Generation 911 modernization and continued support for the COPS Program - reflects a strong commitment to public safety and to working with Sheriffs on practical solutions. We thank her for her continued support and partnership and look forward to continuing our work together,” said Sheriff Bill Brown, President, MCSA.

“I always believe that courage around here is not standing by yourself, yelling at people in a speech in the Chamber, but courage is whether you're willing to stand next to someone you don't always agree with for the betterment of this country,” said Klobuchar. “That is the philosophy I learned from the work that I did with law enforcement which allowed me to come to the Senate and think about things in a very different way. So I cannot tell you, at this moment, in our own state and in our country, how much this means to get this award.”

Klobuchar has long been a champion of legislation to provide law enforcement with the tools and resources to do their jobs and advance public safety.

In December, Klobuchar’s Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act was signed into law. The bipartisan legislation expands access to federal support for the families of firefighters and other first responders who pass away or become permanently disabled from service-related cancers.

Klobuchar is the co-chair of the Senate Next Generation 9-1-1 Caucus and, in 2021, introduced legislation to accelerate federal efforts to modernize the nation’s 9-1-1 systems. This funding will help ensure that states and local governments can deploy next generation 9-1-1 systems across the country. The upgrades are urgently needed to help move the country’s largely outdated 9-1-1 call centers and related technology into the digital age. The bill will help enable 9-1-1 call centers to handle text messages, pictures, videos, and other information sent by smartphones, tablets, and other devices when faced with an emergency.

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Luján, Gillibrand, Cohen, DeSaulnier, Ross Introduce Legislation to Protect Drivers from Fatal Tractor Trailer Truck Accidents

The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 would require side underride guards on new trucks and direct additional research and data collection about underride crashes

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and U.S. Representatives Steve Cohen (D-TN-9), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), and Deborah Ross (D-NC-2) introduced the Stop Underrides Act 2.0, legislation to help prevent deadly truck underride crashes.

An underride crash occurs when a car slides under a large truck, such as a semi-trailer, during an accident. When these crashes happen, a car’s safety features are rendered useless because most of the car slides under the trailer and the trailer undercarriage crashes straight through the windows and into the passengers. The passengers in the car often suffer severe head and neck injuries, including decapitation. These accidents are frequently fatal, even at low speeds.

Studies and pilot programs show that a simple barrier attached to the lower area of a truck, called an “underride guard,” would help prevent a car from sliding underneath a truck in an accident. Under current federal law, unlike the rear of a truck, underride guards are not required to be on the sides or front of trucks. The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 would expand on current restrictions by instructing rulemaking to require side underride guards on new trucks, improving data collection, and directing additional research on underride crashes.

“I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing life-saving legislation to make our roads safer,” said Senator Luján. “The Stop Underrides Act will help prevent deadly underride crashes and protect families from tragic, preventable loss. I’m proud to partner with my colleagueson this important issue, and I look forward to working to get this bill signed into law.”

“Truck underride guards are one of the best and easiest solutions for protecting passengers during collisions with large trucks,”said Senator Gillibrand. “The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 is commonsense legislation that will protect passengers and make our roads safer. I look forward to working across the aisle to get this passed.”

“The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 would help prevent these terrible and too-often fatal truck-trailer accidents by ensuring that cars can no longer slide underneath trucks,” said Representative Cohen. “In introducing this legislation, I’m reminded of my constituents Randy and Laurie Higginbotham who lost their son in an underride crash in Memphis in 2014. The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 builds on important progress made in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and will save lives by helping to end these fatal crashes.”

“With truck underride collisions claiming the lives of at least 300 people per year, the time to act on reforms is now. Small changes will make a big difference, and we cannot leave any room for error,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “I am proud to join my colleagues in advancing this bill to put an end to these avoidable tragedies.”

“Requiring trucks to have underride guards is a simple way to prevent hundreds of deaths on our roads,” said Congresswoman Ross. “These guards are a proven, effective safety measure that will reduce underride crashes as well as severe injuries and fatalities caused by underrides. I have heard directly from families in my district about the lives this improvement could save. I’m proud to introduce legislation that will prevent vehicle fatalities and make our roads safer for drivers in North Carolina and across the country.”

Specifically, this bill would:

Require the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to finalize rulemaking requiring side underride guards on commercial trucks.

Restart the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Advisory Committee on Underride Protection, to provide recommendations for how to reduce underride crashes and severe injuries and fatalities caused by underrides.

Require the DOT to publish a website making underrides research accessible to researchers, industry, and advocates.

Instruct the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to conduct a study on the prevalence of underride incidents, including those involving the fronts of large trucks.

Instruct the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study of the implementation of NHTSA’s 2022 rear underride rule and provide suggestions to better improve the rule.

Instruct NHTSA to review its Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) and correct crashes in the database that should have been classified as an underride but were not.

Instruct NHTSA to create free, on-demand web-based training for state and local law enforcement to better identify and document underride crashes.

In addition to Luján and Gillibrand, the Stop Underrides Act 2.0 is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

This bill is supported by the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, America Walks, AnnaLeah & Mary for Truck Safety, Cascade Bicycle Club, Casey Feldman Foundation, Center for Auto Safety, EndDistractedDriving.org, Families for Safe Streets, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, League of American Bicyclists, Institute for Safer Trucking, Kids and Car Safety, Ride Illinois, Ride of Silence, Road Safe America, Sylvia Bingham Fund, Safe Routes Partnership, Stop Underrides, and Truck Safety Coalition.

The full text of the bill can be found here.

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Senator McCormick Secures More Than $270 Million in Federal Funds for Pennsylvania

Funding to Support Public Safety, Infrastructure, Education, Healthcare, and Community Restoration

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 5, 2026 – Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today announced he has secured more than $270 million in federal funding for projects across Pennsylvania, supporting critical needs and advancing key priorities throughout the Commonwealth. These federal funds will support projects across public safety, infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic development, and environmental restoration, giving Pennsylvanians the resources to improve critical services, advance opportunities, and enhance quality of life across the Commonwealth.

“This funding delivers real results for Pennsylvanians,” said Senator McCormick. “It helps communities advance important projects and ensures taxpayer dollars are put to work where they are needed most. This money would have been spent by those in Washington, D.C. regardless. My goal is to steer these tax dollars home to worthy projects rather than leave these decisions to unelected bureaucrats.”

A full list of projects funded include:

Allegheny County Economic Development – Mon Valley Strategic Blight Removal (Allegheny County): To remove blighted, hazardous structures to encourage future development and positive economic impact ($1,200,000)

Allegheny County Police and Fire Training Academy (Allegheny County): To purchase public safety equipment and upgrade training facilities ($1,000,000)

Army Corps of Engineers – Montgomery Lock (Upper Ohio, Allegheny and Beaver Counties): To improve lock condition and capacity at three Ohio River lock and dam sites ($183,829,000)

Army Corps of Engineers – South Central PA Section 313 (Allegheny County): To upgrade storm and wastewater infrastructure ($12,000,000)

Army Corps of Engineers – Whitehall Section 219 (Lehigh County): To replace stormwater pipes ($1,000,000)

Bedford County Rural Assistance (Bedford County): To expand rural business training and support ($350,000)

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania TechVentures Lab Initiative (Northampton County): To renovate facilities for life science and technology businesses ($4,800,000)

Bethlehem Police Department (Northampton and Lehigh Counties): To purchase public safety technology and equipment ($700,000)

Bloomsburg YMCA (Columbia County): To create a Resource Hub for the Bloomsburg YMCA ($875,000)

Borough of Emporium (Cameron County): To repair and upgrade Town Hall building ($508,000)

Borough of Forest Hills (Allegheny County): To improve storm and wastewater system ($500,000)

Borough of Palmerton (Carbon County): To construct new police station ($550,000)

Borough of Sewickley Road Safety Improvement Plan (Allegheny County): To monitor and eliminate the current threats to roadway infrastructure ($250,000)

Bucktail Medical Center (Clinton County): To increase service lines and update severely outdated equipment at a critical access hospital ($949,000)

Carlisle Borough for Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements (Cumberland County): Installs wastewater treatment plant improvements ($1,943,000)

Catalyst Connection – Pennsylvania AI Data Centers & Energy Future (Allegheny County): To identify, assess, and develop a manufacturing supply chain in Southwestern Pennsylvania for AI data centers and associated energy needs ($600,000)

Centre County First Responders (Centre County): To purchase radio equipment for police, fire, and emergency medical services ($1,000,000)

Chesapeake Bay Environmental Restoration and Protection – Wildwood Lake Restoration (Dauphin County): To prevent flooding in Dauphin County ($500,000)

Chesapeake Bay Environmental Restoration and Protection (York County): To reduce flooding and improve water quality at Tyler Run Creek ($500,000)

City of Meadville (Crawford County): To replace outdated force main on French Creek ($750,000)

Cranberry Township (Butler County): To replace waterline along Route 19 main commercial corridor ($1,000,000)

Crary Hose Company Volunteer Fire Department (Potter County): To construct new fire station and emergency evacuation center in Westfield Borough ($1,286,250)

Dry Tavern Sewer Authority (Greene County): To install wastewater treatment plant improvements ($591,000)

DuBois Regional Airport Pavement Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Jefferson County): To rehabilitate the taxiways, apron, access road, and parking lot ($4,190,000)

Friendship Hose Co. No.1 (Schuylkill County): To construct new fire station in Orwigsburg Borough ($2,225,000)

Gannon University – Biomedical Laboratories (Erie County): To build two laboratories for cancer treatment, education, and research on Gannon’s campus ($500,000)

Guilford Township Authority for Marion Wastewater System (Franklin County): Completes wastewater system upgrades ($2,000,000)

Hermitage Municipal Authority (Mercer County): To upgrade three wastewater pump stations in Wheatland neighborhood ($913,600)

Innovation Works New Accelerator Model Project (Allegheny County): To support entrepreneurs with business and technical expertise ($750,000)

Johnston-Cambria County Airport Hangar Site (Cambria County):To support site development for a new hangar facility ($1,984,000)

Juniata College – Advanced Chemistry Instrumentation for Pennsylvania Students (Huntingdon County): To purchase chemistry lab equipment to prepare students to participate in a STEM workforce ($400,000)

City of Johnstown Police Department Crisis Intervention (Cambria County): To establish Crisis Intervention Team program for mental health and substance use disorder response ($250,000)

King’s College (Luzerne County): To purchase equipment for cybersecurity lab development ($300,000)

Lancaster Airport Authority (Lancaster County): To expand the existing terminal at Lancaster Airport ($5,000,000)

Lehigh-Carbon Community College (Lehigh County): To upgrade the mechatronics lab and create a new robotics lab at Lehigh Carbon Community College ($463,000)

Lehigh County: To purchase radio and public safety communications equipment for law enforcement ($500,000)

Machinery Control Development Center (Cumberland County): To support the mission of Naval Supply Systems Command at Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg ($15,000,000)

Meadville Fire Department Mobile Health Unit (Crawford County): To develop a Mobile Integrated Health Unit and EMS training within the Meadville Fire Department ($1,180,000)

Mercyhurst University (Erie County): To modernize training facilities and simulation-based learning for future nurses and physician assistants ($880,000)

Monroeville Municipal Authority (Allegheny County): To replace sections of water distribution system ($1,092,000)

Moshannon Valley EMS and Training Facility (Centre County): To provide a facility for agricultural and community activities ($2,074,716)

Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa (Beaver County): To construct separate storm and wastewater systems to replace combined system ($900,000)

Old Lycoming Township Volunteer Fire Company (OLTVFC) Regional Emergency Services Hub Enhancements (Lycoming County): To expand and renovate Old Lycoming Township Volunteer Fire Company’s Regional Emergency Services Hub building ($1,345,000)

PennDOT – Carbon County Bridge Replacement (Carbon County): To replace a bridge in Carbon County ($1,119,000)

PennDOT – Country Club Road Bridge Replacement (Butler County): To replace a bridge and complete intersection realignment work ($1,901,000)

PennDOT – Johnstown Dellwood Street Bridge Project (Cambria County): To repair the Dellwood Street Bridge($806,000)

PennDOT – SR18 Wilmington Road Betterment (Lawrence County): To restore and resurface a critical roadway in Lawrence County ($2,000,000)

PennDOT – Verona Road Bridge Replacement (Allegheny County): To replace Verona Road Bridge to improve corridor safety and reliability ($850,000)

PennDOT Versailles Avenue Viaduct Replacement (Allegheny County): To replace the Versailles Avenue Bridge ($850,000)

The Pennsylvania State University – Pennsylvania Addiction Action Network (Statewide): To establish a network for all 67 counties’ leadership to coordinate the utilization of the 20-year $1.7B opioid settlement to Pennsylvania ($750,000)

Reading Area Community College (Berks County): To expand the current space for manufacturing training ($2,000,000)

Scranton Police Department (Lackawanna County): To purchase technology and public safety equipment ($500,000)

Shippensburg Police Department (Cumberland County): Purchases public safety equipment to support police operations ($298,127)

The Exodus Road – Combatting Youth Exploitation (Philadelphia County): To support training activities for law enforcement and at-risk youth to combat online exploitation ($350,000)

The Learning Lamp (Cambria County): To improve early childhood education programs ($100,000)

University City Science Center (Philadelphia County):To assist small businesses and entrepreneurs seeking SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) assistance ($400,000)

University of Pittsburgh Police Department (Allegheny County): To purchase communications equipment for campus police operations ($300,000)

University of Pittsburgh Western Pennsylvania Shared Quantum Information Core (Allegheny County): To purchase equipment and materials for quantum science research and development at University of Pittsburgh ($400,000)

Warren County Emergency Radio Tower (Warren County): To upgrade emergency communication systems and radio tower serving Warren and surrounding counties ($550,000)

Wayne and Pike County Career and Technical Center (Pike County): To help construct a new Career and Technical Center ($3,000,000)

Wyoming County Healthcare Center Pharmacy (Wyoming County):To support facility improvements and the build-out of a pharmacy within Wyoming County Healthcare Center in the rural community of Tunkhannock ($2,346,849 and $543,000)

York County Law Enforcement Multi-Office Public Safety Equipment (York County): Purchases public safety equipment to support law enforcement operations ($400,000)

Projects were submitted by local governments, nonprofit organizations, and other eligible public entities, selected in accordance with the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations’ fiscal year 2026 guidelines, and are designed to provide targeted federal support where it is needed most.

“A robust local manufacturing supply chain for AI Data Centers has the potential for significant job growth and economic impacts, leading to community benefits well beyond the construction and operation of data centers. Catalyst Connection looks forward to working with Senator McCormick and his team to engage local suppliers for the benefit of businesses, workers, families and communities,” said Petra Bracko Mitchell, President and CEO of Catalyst Connection.

“Thank you to Senator McCormick for his bipartisan partnership and for delivering critical investments for our Police and Fire Academy that strengthen public safety across the county,” said Sara Innamorato, Allegheny County Executive. “This and the additional funding for strategic blight removal in the Mon Valley will help keep our communities safe, bolster economic development, and move our region forward.”

“As we continue to advocate for the advancement and improvement of our local community, this funding is both necessary and greatly appreciated. I see the award of these funds as a step in the right direction for Cameron County,” said James D. Moate, County of Cameron Commissioner.

“That is wonderful news. This funding represents an important investment in Emporium Borough’s Town Hall and the community it serves. We appreciate the support for projects that strengthen local infrastructure and help ensure our public facilities remain safe, accessible, and functional for residents,” said Jessica Herzing, Commissioner Chair for the County of Cameron.

“We are grateful to Senator McCormick for his support and for recognizing the critical role Mercyhurst plays in addressing the healthcare workforce shortage. This investment strengthens nursing and physician assistant education while delivering real value for patients and communities,” said Kathleen A. Getz, PhD, President of Mercyhurst University.

“This funding will improve the efficiency of the wastewater collection system in the merged Wheatland Neighborhood of Hermitage, by eliminating a pump station that has reached its useful life. We are grateful for the strong support of Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman, and Congressman Mike Kelly, in making this appropriation possible,” said Duane Piccirilli, President, Hermitage Board of Commissioners.

“This initiative closes significant coverage gaps in our emergency communications system. Improved communications are essential to ensuring the safety of our first responders while also enhancing the level of response that can be provided to residents and visitors. As outdoor recreation grows as a sector of our economy, we’re particularly pleased that this project will expand emergency radio coverage on portions of the Allegheny National Forest. We’re grateful to Sen. McCormick for sharing in the vision of what we’re looking to accomplish with this project and his advocacy in securing this funding on our behalf,”said Public Safety Director Ken McCorrison.

“We are deeply appreciative of this support of our First Ascent Biomedical lab. These funds obtained through Sen. McCormick’s efforts will immediately support new jobs in Erie, Pa., at First Ascent as well as aid the development of two academic programs designed to fill gaps in the region’s healthcare workforce for years to come,” said Dr. Walter Iwanenko, President of Gannon University.

“Sen. McCormick has been one of Pennsylvania’s strongest advocates for building a thriving innovation economy. His leadership in securing significant investment in AI and power infrastructure underscores that commitment,” said Ven Raju, President and CEO of Innovation Works. “This earmark is yet another testament to his support for organizations like Innovation Works that help build and scale technology companies—creating jobs, transforming communities and reshaping regions.”

“This federal investment represents a transformational step forward for emergency medical services in Meadville and for rural communities across Pennsylvania. With Senator McCormick’s support, we will be able to expand paramedic education within our department, place new response vehicles and advanced life-saving equipment into service and build a Mobile Integrated Health program that connects residents to care faster and more effectively than ever before. As rural EMS systems continue to face staffing and sustainability challenges, initiatives like community paramedicine and telehealth allow us to meet people where they are — improving outcomes, reducing strain on hospitals, and strengthening the overall healthcare system. This funding will help ensure that our firefighters and paramedics have the tools, training, and technology necessary to deliver high-quality care to our community every day. We are grateful to Senator McCormick and our federal partners for recognizing the importance of innovative, fire-based EMS solutions and investing in the future of rural emergency response,” said Evan D. Kardosh, Fire Chief of the Meadville Fire Department.

“Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services is grateful to have the strong support of Senator McCormick to help us secure Congressionally Directed Funds. The receipt of these funds will help us realize the completion of a new facility that will house our public safety education and training center as well as our EMS headquarters. As a rural emergency medical services organization, Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services will use this facility to propel the future of emergency medical care to the entire Moshannon Valley covering Clearfield and Centre Counties and give individuals within Central Pennsylvania a more accessible location for public safety education and training which will improve our workforce and subsequently emergency care to a part of rural Pennsylvania. We are blessed and thankful for Senator McCormick to be a partner to ensure the safety and education for our community,” said Fredrick J. Ferguson, B.S. NRP, Moshannon Valley EMS Chief/Executive Director Paramedic and EMT Educator.

“The DuBois Regional Airport serves Jefferson, Clearfield, Elk, Clarion, and surrounding counties, and this project represents an important investment in a critical community asset that ensures safe airline operations, a positive customer experience, and continued access to the nation’s air transportation system for rural Pennsylvania,”said Bob Shaffer, Airport Manager, Clearfield-Jefferson Counties Regional Airport Authority.

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Sens. Moran, Cortez Masto Introduce Legislation to Boost Tourism Between United States, Mexico & Canada

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) – members of the Senate Travel and Tourism Caucus – recently introduced the USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act to bolster the U.S. tourism and travel industry by supporting collaboration between the United States and Canada and Mexico, America’s two largest trading partners.

“Travel and tourism are essential to America’s economy, supporting millions of jobs and connecting communities in Kansas and across the country,” said Sen. Moran. “As Co-chair of the Senate Travel and Tourism Caucus, I look forward to working with USTR to make certain USMCA supports efforts to bolster cross-border travel, reduce unnecessary travel barriers and strengthen the U.S. travel economy.”

“Travel and tourism are vital not only to Nevada’s economy, but to the economy of the United States as a whole,” said Sen. Cortez Masto. “As we’ve seen over the past year, tariffs, trade, and international cooperation play a large role in either promoting or deterring international travel. As partners in this historic trade agreement, it’s critical that we do what we can to invite Canada and Mexico to support the American travel industry.”

“Travel is America’s top services export and a critical engine for jobs and economic growth in every state,” said Erik Hansen, Senior Vice President, Head of Government Relations, U.S. Travel Association. “As the United States faces a decline in international visitation, this bipartisan legislation would ensure travel and tourism are prioritized in the upcoming USMCA joint review. Creating a Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group will deepen cooperation with Canada and Mexico, strengthen North America’s competitiveness, expand travel exports, and support the millions of American workers and businesses that rely on travel. U.S. Travel Association applauds Senators Cortez Masto and Moran for their leadership in introducing this legislation and urges swift action to help keep the United States the world’s top destination."

The USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act would require that the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) advocate for the establishment of a Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group as part of the upcoming Joint Review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The USMCA, which took effect in 2020, established joint working groups for other industries, but tourism and travel are not currently represented.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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Sen. Moran Secures $20 Million in Federal Resources for The University of Kansas Health System

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies – secured $20 million in federal resources for The University of Kansas Health System (TUKHS) in the five-bill appropriations package that was approved by Congress and signed into law by the President on Tuesday.

“From treating cancer to conducting life-saving research to providing care for patients with a wide range of medical needs, The University of Kansas Health System is making a lasting difference in the lives of patients and their loved ones,” said Sen. Moran. “These federal resources will be used to purchase equipment for the new KU Cancer Center to help fight and cure cancer and will support the expansion of the psychiatric-safe emergency department at the main hospital campus, making upgrades to provide life-saving resources and care for patients in Kansas and the region.”

“Senator Moran’s support of Kansas’s only academic medical center has been instrumental in our transformation into a national healthcare destination, particularly for cancer research and care,” said Bob Page, president and CEO of The University of Kansas Health System. “This funding recognizes the hope cellular therapy provides for cancer patients and their families, and the opportunity to more quickly and effectively offer this care to patients from Kansas, across the country and around the world.”

“Kansans and people across our region deserve access to the best possible health care close to home,” said Tammy Peterman, president of the Kansas City Division for The University of Kansas Health System. “Our physicians, nurses and care teams work in challenging situations every day with patients experiencing a mental health crisis. This funding will help create dedicated spaces for those patients in need of specialized mental health care, recognizing the needs of both patients and care providers. We are grateful for Senator Moran’s support of our teams, patients and the opportunity to continually improve how we deliver care.”

Federal resources secured for KU Cancer Center:

The legislation includes $10 million for The University of Kansas Health System to purchase equipment for the new KU Cancer Center building.

Last month, Sen. Moran secured $36 million in federal resources to complete construction of the new KU Cancer Center building. With the $10 million for equipment included in the latest appropriations package, Sen. Moran has secured a total of $115 million in federal investments since 2022 to construct and equip the new facility.

In May 2025, Sen. Moran participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new cancer center, which will bring expanded cancer care and research together in one place.

Federal resources secured for TUKHS main hospital campus:

The legislation includes $10 million for The University of Kansas Health System to help cover construction costs for the expansion of the psychiatric-safe emergency department at the main hospital campus, as well as the purchase of equipment and supplies for the project.

These federal resources will help the main hospital campus better support the needs of patients experiencing severe mental health challenges, and the expansion will increase the capacity for care in the emergency department’s psychiatric liaison services (PLS) unit, sexual assault forensic exam unit and general emergency services unit with a resuscitation area.

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Murray, Randall, Cantwell, Strickland Introduce Bill to Restore Control of Permanent Trust to Puyallup Tribe

Murray: “As a voice for Washington state’s Tribes, I will always fight to make sure our Tribes have a seat at the table and the support they need from the federal government.”

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, joined Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Representatives Emily Randall (D, WA-06) and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10) in introducing the Helping Our People Act of 2026, or “kʷaxʷad tiiɫ ʔiišədčəɫ,” in the Native Twulshootseed language of the Puyallup Tribe. This bicameral legislation would allow the Puyallup Tribe to withdraw and directly manage its Permanent Trust — restoring Tribal self-determination and ensuring the funds are used as intended to benefit Tribal members.

“It is essential that we as a nation meet our obligations to our Tribes, and that includes honoring Tribal sovereignty and strengthening Tribal self-determination,” said Senator Murray. “Our new legislation will make a simple but important fix and cut red tape by allowing the Puyallup Tribe to directly manage its Permanent Trust for the benefit of Tribal members. As a voice for Washington state’s Tribes, I will always fight to make sure our Tribes have a seat at the table and the support they need from the federal government.”

“This legislation simply modernizes the 1989 Settlement Act to match today’s federal standards for Tribal trust management. This is a straightforward fix that brings an outdated statute into alignment with current federal practice. It cuts red tape, improves financial efficiency and ensures Tribal members, not overhead, receive the benefit of the fund,” said the Puyallup Tribal Council. “We thank Senator Cantwell, Senator Murray, Congresswoman Randall, and Congresswoman Strickland for their full support of our sovereignty and self-determination in the management of our trust funds.”

“This bill brings the Puyallup Tribe’s trust fund management in line with current federal policies, improves financial stewardship, and ensures revenues are benefitting the Tribal community,” said Sen. Cantwell.

“The Puyallup Tribe deserves the same authority as other Tribes to manage its own trust funds,” said Representative Randall. “By restoring control of Tribal finances, this bill advances self-determination for the Puyallup Tribe and honors Tribal sovereignty. This is about keeping our word and correcting a long-standing inequity.”

“Allowing the Puyallup Tribe to directly manage their Permanent Trust is long overdue,” said Representative Strickland. “This act affirms and recommits the Puyallup Tribe’s self-governance and sovereignty – now and into the future.”

In 1989, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians Settlement Act established a $22 million Permanent Trust for the Tribe. However, the Trust has remained under the control of the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), limiting the Tribe’s ability to manage and grow these funds for the benefit of its community.

The Indian Trust Fund Management Reform Act (ITFMRA), enacted after the Puyallup settlement, allows Tribes to manage their own trust funds under a Department of the Interior–approved plan. This bill would correct a technicality that currently excludes the Puyallup Trust from the ITFMRA.

The Helping Our People (kʷaxʷad tiiɫ ʔiišədčəɫ) Act of 2026 is a step toward honoring Tribal sovereignty, promoting self-governance, and ensuring that long-standing federal commitments to Tribal Nations are fulfilled.

Senator Murray has always been a strong advocate for Washington state Tribes throughout her career in the U.S. Senate and has fought to prioritize the needs of Tribal communities in Washington state across government funding bills. Murray helped secure major investments for Tribal infrastructure, housing, energy, ecosystem restoration projects, and education in the Fiscal Year 2026 funding bills she passed into law.

The full bill text is available HERE.

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Padilla, Balint, Watson Coleman Aim to Bolster Mental Health Care Workforce Through New School Programs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), co-founder of the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus, and Representatives Becca Balint (D-Vt.-AL) and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.-12) introduced the Mental Health Career Promotion Act to bolster the behavioral and mental health care workforce pipeline by providing students with educational opportunities to learn about and pursue careers in the field. The bill would create the Behavioral and Mental Health Career Promotion Grant Program, administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), to provide funding to schools to establish mental health career promotion programs for high school and community college students.

Millions of students across the country struggle with their mental health, with two in five reporting persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in the last 30 days, and one in five reporting that they have seriously considered attempting suicide in 2023. Despite the severity of these challenges, many students go untreated because they do not know where to seek help and there are not enough trained mental health professionals available to meet the growing demand.

“Far too many people struggling with their mental health are left to suffer in silence because of our nation’s severe shortage of qualified providers,” said Senator Padilla. “As this crisis grows — especially among teens — we must meet students where they are at by expanding resources for students to learn about careers in mental health care. Our bill does exactly that by investing in the next generation of the nation’s mental health workforce.”

“Right now, we are in the middle of a mental health crisis without enough professional support to meet the need,” said Representative Balint. “That shortage shows up every day in our schools, our families, and our communities. This bill aims to address that by creating clear pathways into mental health careers for high school and community college students, connecting them early with mentorship, training, and hands-on experience with local providers. The goal is a stronger, more sustainable mental health workforce that can meet people where they are and deliver care when it’s needed most.”

“Mental healthcare, like so many other professional fields, is facing a shortage of skilled professionals,” said Representative Watson Coleman. “As millions of Americans struggle with their mental health, the number of therapists and counselors can’t meet the needs of those looking for assistance. I’m proud to co-lead the Mental Health Career Promotion Act with Rep. Balint. This important piece of legislation will create a pipeline for students in high school and community colleges to explore a career in mental health services. We will be investing in the future of not only these students but to all the communities they will serve with their expertise in mental and behavioral health.”

“The American Psychological Association applauds Senator Padilla and Congresswoman Balint for introducing the Mental Health Career Promotion Act, which would help encourage our nation’s students to pursue careers in mental health,” said American Psychological Association CEO Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD. “Introducing young people early to the benefits of working in mental health fields, including psychology, can help ensure the future of this critically needed workforce.”

“In 2023, suicide was the second leading cause of death for teens and young adults age 15-24, underscoring the urgent need to strengthen prevention efforts and build a robust and responsive mental health workforce,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). “AFSP strongly supports the Mental Health Career Promotion Act. Expanding exposure to mental health careers and mentorship opportunities for high school students is an important investment in the future of the mental health workforce. We thank Senator Padilla for his leadership and commitment to advancing the mental health and well-being of our nation’s youth.”

According to the most recent data from the Department of Health and Human Services, more than half of all Americans live in a Mental Health Professional Shortage Area. This challenge is only expected to get worse: between 2021 and 2026 the total number of mental health professionals in the United States is projected to decline by 13 percent while demand for these professionals is expected to increase by over 50 percent.

To help address these challenges, the Behavioral and Mental Health Career Promotion Grant Program’s funding would create partnerships between high schools and community colleges with a community-based mental or behavioral health authority to educate and promote careers in mental health. Specifically, this grant program would:

Provide educational presentations to students that increase exposure to and knowledge of the mental health field;

Coordinate internship and externship opportunities for students who are interested in mental health;

Arrange opportunities for students to interact with and shadow mental health care professionals; and

Establish student mentorship opportunities in mental health.

Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) are cosponsoring the bill. Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.-AL) is cosponsoring the House companion legislation.

The Mental Health Career Promotion Act is endorsed by organizations including American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, National Council for Mental Wellbeing, Jed Foundation, National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI), and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Senator Padilla is a leading advocate for expanding mental health care access. In 2023, Padilla launched the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus to serve as a forum for Senators to collaborate on and promote bipartisan legislation and solutions, hold events to raise awareness of critical mental health issues, and destigmatize mental health. Over the past year, Padilla has repeatedly condemned the Trump Administration’s efforts to dissolve or purge staff at SAMHSA, emphasizing the disastrous ramifications of these cuts for millions of Americans struggling with mental and behavioral health challenges.

Previously, under the Biden Administration, Padilla applauded the Federal Communications Commission for making critical improvements to the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by adopting the main provisions of his Local 9-8-8 Response Actof 2023. Additionally, Padilla introduced bipartisan legislation last year to combat the growing youth mental health crisis in America through early intervention and prevention services. Padilla has also introduced legislation to address the unique mental health needs of Latinos, military children, and farm workers.

A one-pager on the bill is available here.

Full text of the bill is available here.

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Peters and Kim Report Finds Trump Administration’s National Guard Deployment in D.C. Costs Taxpayers More Than
One Million Dollars A Day, Does Little to Combat Violent Crime

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the HSGAC Subcommittee on Disaster Management, District of Columbia, and Census, released a new report showing that President Trump’s deployment of the U.S. National Guard in Washington, D.C. has cost taxpayers more than $330 million—nearly $1.65 million each day—in the seven months since activation while producing no measurable impact on public safety. According to the senators’ report, this substantial cost to taxpayers will likely represent only a fraction of the total price tag for the full operation, which does not have a scheduled end date.

“Protecting public safety is essential, but this deployment has spent hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars without making our nation’s capital any safer,” said Senator Peters. “The Trump Administration’s decision to keep the National Guard in our nation’s capital without clear goals, measurable outcomes, or an end date diverts critical resources away from important national security and public safety missions that keep our communities safe.”

“This report shows that President Trump is spending hundreds of millions from working families’ pockets to keep the National Guard in D.C. with no clear strategy, no evidence of effectiveness, and no end in sight,” said Senator Kim. “If this administration was truly prioritizing the safety of our communities, it'd allow the National Guard to instead focus on their core military responsibilities and work together with congress to get local law enforcement and leaders in D.C. the funding and resources that they need from the federal government.”

The Guard is currently on track to spend more than $602 million per year on this deployment. For comparison, the entire approved operating budget for the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in fiscal year 2026 is $599 million. With the expenditures on the National Guard, the Trump Administration is essentially doubling the budget of local law enforcement with little actual improvements to public safety. If those federal dollars were instead directed to local law enforcement, the District of Columbia would have additional resources to address crime and public safety more effectively, especially by focusing support on the neighborhoods experiencing the highest levels of violence.

In addition to the exorbitant costs, the prolonged deployment has raised serious concerns about Guard readiness, including the ability for Guard units to conduct regular training and prepare for other missions like the upcoming America 250 celebrations. The report also found that more than three dozen officers with the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) have at various times been forced to go on leave from MPD to deploy with the Guard, limiting the actual number of D.C. police available to protect public safety during an ongoing staffing shortage. Meanwhile, this mission has pulled senior national security and counterterrorism officials away from their core responsibilities at a time when their expertise is urgently needed elsewhere.Tragically, one servicemember died and another was gravely injured in a targeted attack during this deployment, and a third servicemember died after suffering a medical emergency while off duty.

The senators’ report also identifies the potential for privacy and civil liberties issues stemming from the Guard’s use of analytics and social media monitoring tools, including Palantir’s Maven Smart System, Dataminr First Alert, Meltwater, and Cision. While staff did not find evidence of misuse, the deployment in American cities of tools acquired by the Department of Defense, ostensibly for national defense use in primarily overseas settings, underscores broader concerns about the Administration’s increasing militarization of civilian spaces, especially the Nation’s Capital.

Read the Full Report

Read the Executive Summary, Findings, and Recommendations

In September 2025 and January 2026, staff from Peters and Kim’s offices conducted oversight visits to the D.C. National Guard headquarters, and Senator Kim visited in October 2025, after the Department of Defense (DoD) failed to respond to Committee inquiries about the deployment. The report details information collected through multiple visits and from conversations between Committee staff and National Guard leadership.

Anyone seeking to provide further information to the Committee may find additional details about how to contact Ranking Member Peters’ staff here.

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Peters Urges Air Force to Provide the Necessary Resources & Attention to Ensure Timely Arrival of New F-15EX Fighter Mission at Selfridge Air National Guard Base

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), a member of the Armed Services Committee, urged the Air Force to provide the necessary resources and attention to ensure the on-time delivery of the new F-15EX fighter jets to Selfridge Air National Guard Base. In a letter to U.S. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink, Peters called for expanded funding for the F-15EX training pipeline program, conducted primarily at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, where Selfridge’s current A-10 pilots will need to undergo transition training for the F-15EX mission. Peters underscored that well-resourced personnel training is essential to the timely F-15EX beddown and continued operational readiness at Selfridge.

“As Selfridge prepares to accept these brand-new F-15EX aircraft, timely training for its transitioning A-10 pilots is vital to ensuring on time F-15EX beddown,” Peters wrote. “As these skilled A-10 pilots transition to operating F-15EXs, they must undergo a rigorous training course at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina to ensure Selfridge’s skilled pilots can transition their current skills to these new airframes... As the Air Force balances the F-15EX training pipeline against other training and non-training needs, I strongly urge the Air Force to provide the proper resourcing and attention to the F-15EX training pipeline to ensure on time arrival of Selfridge’s F-15EXs in 2028.”

Peters also emphasized Selfridge’s strategic importance in defending our homeland and its highly experienced flight personnel, as well as Michigan’s world-class military training infrastructure.

“At the heart of Michigan’s defense footprint, Selfridge is a strategic location for border security and homeland defense. Its critical location responds to threats to our homeland coming from the north through Canada and the Great Lakes region,” said Senator Peters. “Selfridge’s unparalleled access to training ranges and airspace ensures relevant and applicable training for its pilots and maintainers. Annually, Michigan hosts Exercise Northern Strike, the largest reserve component, live-fire, joint and all-domain exercise in the continental United States.”

A copy of the letter can be found here.

Peters has made supporting the future of Selfridge Air National Guard Base a top priority. Prior to the F-15EX basing announcement last April, Peters sent a letter urging the Air Force to base a new fighter mission at Selfridge. Last year, Peters introduced bipartisan legislation seeking to preserve the U.S. Air Force’s fighter force structure and support the recapitalization of Air National Guard fighter missions, including at Selfridge. Last March, he also led a bipartisan, bicameral resolution to honor the 108th anniversary of Selfridge Air National Guard Base and commemorate the thousands of men and women who have worked and trained at Selfridge since its inception. In January 2024, Peters helped announce that the U.S. Air Force selected Selfridge to host a new squadron of twelve KC-46A refueling tankers. This announcement came shortly after Peters led a bipartisan, bicameral group of Michigan delegation members in urging then-U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall to select Selfridge for a new squadron of these next-generation tankers, which will be deployed by the U.S. Air Force for at least the next 50 years.

To further strengthen Selfridge’s role in U.S. national and homeland security efforts, Peters established the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Northern Border Mission Center last year. Peters secured $3 million in March 2024 to operate this Center at Selfridge, where it is collocated with current DHS components. The Center, which DHS has already stood up, will coordinate with state, local, and Tribal governments, and other key stakeholders, to ensure DHS and its operational components are able to fulfill their security mission at the Northern Border.

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As Trump Admin. Continues to Unlawfully Hide Full Epstein Files, Reed Urges Republicans to Join Democrats in Taking Legal Action to End Epstein Cover Up

WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to prevent the Epstein files from being wrongfully withheld from the American people, Senate Minority Leader Schumer Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today asked for unanimous consent on legislation that would allow the U.S. Senate to sue the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) for its failure to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Senate Republicans objected.

Senator Schumer noted that “according to the Department of Justice’s own admissions, maybe half of all the available Epstein files have been released” and many documents have been overly redacted. But DOJ deputy attorney general, Todd Blanche, who served as Trump’s criminal defense lawyer, told reporters last week that the Administration’s release marks “the end of a very comprehensive document identification and review process to ensure transparency to the American people and compliance with the act.”

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) stated: “The Trump Administration’s lack of disclosure is completely insufficient. The American people deserve the truth and the Trump Administration must comply with the law.

“If people had all the documents, they would have answers about how Epstein and his accomplices sexually abused girls with impunity for decades and landed a sweetheart plea deal from a former member of Trump’s cabinet who was then serving as a U.S. attorney. Jeffrey Epstein avoided federal prosecution once and now Trump’s DOJ appears to be trying to cover up the facts to avoid scrutiny and accountability.

“DOJ acknowledges that Epstein “harmed over one thousand victims” and yet this Administration also wants to declare ‘case closed’ prematurely.

“This issue is not going away. Epstein’s victims will continue their fight for justice, transparency, and accountability. This should not be a partisan issue. At its heart, this case is about a gross abuse of power. Today, it sure seems like some in the Trump Administration are misusing their position of authority to cover up the truth and hide the facts.”


Ricketts Highlights ROAD to Housing Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,U.S.Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted the ROAD to Housing Act, which aims to make home ownership a possibility for all Americans.

“Across Nebraska, rural housing is in high demand. When I was Governor, I took steps to address this. We passed a rural workforce housing bill,” said Senator Ricketts. “As Senator, I am advocating for this proven Nebraska solution for the rest of the country.”

“The ROAD to Housing Act is a landmark achievement for Nebraskans. My Senate Banking Committee colleagues and I already passed it out of committee. The vote was bipartisan and unanimous. Now, we’re working to pass it into law,” said Senator Ricketts.

Watch the video here.

TRANSCRIPT:

Senator Ricketts: “Nebraska is the best place in the world to live.

“But for so many potential first-time homebuyers, the market has become out of reach.

“This year, the average age of a first-time homebuyer is 40 across the country.

“But in 2016, just a decade ago, the average first-time homebuyer was 31.

“Why is the age of an average homeowner increasing?

“That’s because buying a home has become less affordable.

“Red tape and regulations drive up the cost of housing.

“This makes it more difficult for first-time homebuyers.

“By one estimate, regulations account for nearly 25% of the cost of a single-family home.

“For a typical apartment development, it’s even worse.

“Regulations account for 40% of the cost.

“That means fewer families can achieve the American dream.

“I am fighting to provide more opportunity for hardworking Nebraskans.

“With more available housing supply, we can make the Good Life more affordable for everyone.

“Across Nebraska, rural housing is in high demand.

“When I was Governor, I took steps to address this.

“We passed a rural workforce housing bill.

“We created a $7 million Rural Workforce Housing Fund and later added $10 million more.

“Nebraska communities applied for grants, typically to make low-interest loans.

“These funds helped homebuilders come to a rural community to build houses and apartment buildings.

“They helped cover construction costs, down payment assistance, and technical assistance.

“This program was simple and successful.

“Housing is a barrier for people taking jobs in rural communities.

“We made it easier for rural communities to build housing.

“As Senator, I am advocating for this proven Nebraska solution for the rest of the country.

“I’m working with my Republican colleagues to make it easier to build homes.

“The Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream (ROAD) to Housing Act is a landmark achievement for Nebraskans.

“My Senate Banking Committee colleagues and I already passed it out of committee.

“The vote was bipartisan and unanimous.

“I applaud Chairman Scott for his leadership on this bill.”

“Now, we’re working to pass it into law.

“The House also passed its version of the bill almost unanimously out of committee as well.

“ROAD to Housing Act puts us on the path to make home ownership a possibility for all Americans.

“The housing bill includes my bipartisan Streamlining Rural Housing Act.

“The Streamlining Rural Housing Act will enhance efficiency and lower costs.

“When I was Governor, Nebraska’s community-driven rural housing development program successfully built more homes.

“However, the program faced burdensome and conflicting federal regulations.

“In rural communities, financing for homes often draws on both the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Each has their own process.

“Their regulations overlap, creating confusion and more red tape.

“The Streamlining Rural Housing Act will cut through this red tape.

“It will help to streamline duplicative review and inspection processes between HUD and USDA.

“By eliminating delays for approvals, we can build housing in rural Nebraska faster.

“More housing options also means more affordable options keeping more money in your pockets.

“The Streamlining Rural Housing Act is just one piece of how we are making housing more affordable.

“I co-sponsored the bipartisan Rural Housing Service Reform Act.

“The bill will improve existing loans, grants, and rental assistance to rural communities.

“Veterans will also benefit from the ROAD to Housing Act.

“I co-sponsored both the VA Home Loan Awareness Act and the Veterans Affairs Loan Informed Disclosure (VALID) Act.

“These will help more veterans become homeowners.

“They will make it easier for veterans to access the resources they need to benefit from the VA Home Loan Program.

“I also co-sponsored the Housing Supply Frameworks Act, led by Rep. Mike Flood in the House.

“This will allow HUD to provide assistance to help state and local governments develop best practices on zoning and land-use policies.

“Senate Republicans are working to enable more Nebraskans to become homeowners.

“The Working Families Tax Cuts permanently raises the low-income housing tax credit.

“The bill gives Nebraskans an extra 12% in tax credits to build more affordable housing.

“This historic investment in America helps local governments, housing developers, and hardworking Nebraskans.

“People seeking affordable housing will have the resources they need to develop their communities.

“Eliminating conflicting requirements and enhancing efficiency will build more homes in Nebraska.

“We will stop delayed approvals and poor communication.

“We won’t hold builders back.

“Common-sense housing reform benefits rural communities and hardworking Nebraskans.

“It benefits local businesses and creates jobs.

“We need to make housing more affordable.

“That’s why I am fighting to pass the ROAD to Housing Act into law.

“Together, we can continue building the Good Life.”


VIDEO: Ricketts Discusses Resilient Water Infrastructure, Threat of Communist China’s Cyber-Attacks

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, during a Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed the threat of cyber-attacks on American water infrastructure. Ricketts addressed the threat posed by Communist China and the importance of resilient water infrastructure.

“In Nebraska, our water and wastewater utilities manage and protect our state’s groundwater. They provide critical services to Nebraskans. We’ve talked about how it impacts the states that you’re from, the security is increasingly at risk from foreign adversaries seeking to undermine critical infrastructure and threaten public safety through cyber-attacks on our water systems,” said Ricketts. “Communist China has actively been involved in targeting wastewater systems, critical infrastructure in every community across the US. In 2024, the EPA’s [Office of the Inspector General] found that nearly 100 drinking water systems, serving 26.6 million people had critical or high-risk cybersecurity vulnerabilities… These vulnerabilities leave utilities exposed to cyber criminals and foreign adversaries.”

“It’s important that rural water systems have the tools, resources, and technical support necessary to defend against these cyber and foreign threats. Yet, many small and rural communities face significant barriers in accessing these tools and resources,” said Ricketts. “Just yesterday, I met with the Nebraska Rural Water Association, who shared some of these challenges — such as the staffing shortages we’ve discussed and reduced technical capacity to protect our water systems, our food supply, and, ultimately, our national security. We must ensure rural communities are equipped to build and maintain resilient water infrastructure.”

Watch the video HERE.


Rounds: South Dakota Native Royce Williams Set to Receive Medal of Honor

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today announced that President Donald Trump is awarding Wilmot, South Dakota native and retired U.S. Navy Captain E. Royce Williams with the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor in the United States. This follows a decade of research and requests from Rounds’ team following the declassification of Williams’ combat files in 2016.

“Royce Williams is a real-life Top Gun, a true American hero and will now be a recipient of our nation’s highest military award, the Medal of Honor,” said Rounds. “I was pleased that following the declassification of his dogfight with Soviet planes, Captain Williams' Silver Star was upgraded to a Navy Cross after I met with then-Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro. These awards were hard-earned and well-deserved. A provision in this year's National Defense Authorization Act allowed President Trump to award the Medal of Honor. I’m pleased that President Trump and his team made the determination that Captain Williams is deserving of this honor and I’m looking forward to celebrating this momentous occasion.”

The Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act included a provision that exempted Williams’ case from a requirement that the Medal of Honor be awarded within five years of the combat incident and allowed President Trump to award Williams with a Medal of Honor. This provision was sponsored by Representative Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), who represents the congressional district in California where Williams now resides. Williams will be honored at a ceremony at the White House, with the exact date to be determined.

BACKGROUND:

On November 18, 1952, then-Lieutenant Williams led three F9F Panthers against seven Soviet MiG-15s, which according to the U.S. Naval Institute, were “superior to the F9F in almost every fashion.” His mission, which was the only direct overwater combat between U.S. Navy fighters and Soviet fighters during the Cold War, led to the protection of Task Force 77 from enemy attack. Capt. Williams’ heroic actions were classified due to rising tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union at the time.

After the engagement was declassified in 2016, Rounds’ office spent years conducting research, sending formal requests for records and maintaining communication with various stakeholders on behalf of Capt. Williams. On February 19, 2021, Rounds sent a letter to then-Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas Harker seeking assistance in obtaining gun camera film from Williams’ mission. Rounds also sent a letter to the Archivist of the United States David Ferriero to request an expedited search for Williams’ records on May 25, 2021. On July 12, 2021, Rounds met with then-incoming Secretary of the Navy Del Toro and asked the Navy to review Williams’ case. Rounds followed up with Secretary Del Toro asking for his personal review of the case on August 18, 2021.

In 2023, following repeated engagement with Secretary Del Toro, Williams’ Silver Star Medal was upgraded to a Navy Cross, which is the Navy’s second-highest military decoration. Rounds and his staff have remained engaged with the Navy and the National Archives and Records Administration related to Williams’ case.

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Schatz, Britt, Colleagues Press Meta For Answers On Delayed Protections For Children

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) wrote to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg asking why the company delayed rolling out protections for young users even after it knew of the grave risks its platforms posed to children. Citing evidence from a court filing unsealed late last year, the senators pressed the company for answers on why it delayed launching its “private by default” feature for young users and how it reviews and acts on reports of sex trafficking and child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on its platforms.

“In the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California’s consideration of Social Media Adolescent Addiction/Personal Injury Products Liability Litigation, a recently unsealed plaintiff’s brief revealed new information about Meta’s knowledge of risks to the wellbeing and safety of young users on its platforms,” wrote the senators. “The documents allege that Meta employees were aware of potential and ongoing harms to young users, including impacts to attention and emotional wellbeing, exposure to inappropriate contact by adults, and challenges to taking down sex trafficking and child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on its platforms. These developments are alarming, and we are deeply concerned by allegations that Meta was not only aware of these risks, but may have delayed product design changes or prevented public disclosure of these findings.”

Earlier this year, Schatz and Britt introduced the Kids Off Social Media Act which prohibits children under the age of 13 from using social media and bans algorithmic targeting for users under the age of 17.

A copy of the letter is below and available here.

Dear Mr. Zuckerberg,

Following recently unsealed evidence regarding Meta’s online safety practices towards children, we write to urge Meta’s commitment to prioritizing user safety over engagement. To that end, we request additional information about the company’s online safety practices, including expectations for public transparency and clarification of its trust and safety protocols.

In the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California’s consideration of Social Media Adolescent Addiction/Personal Injury Products Liability Litigation, a recently unsealed plaintiff’s brief revealed new information about Meta’s knowledge of risks to the wellbeing and safety of young users on its platforms. The documents allege that Meta employees were aware of potential and ongoing harms to young users, including impacts to attention and emotional wellbeing, exposure to inappropriate contact by adults, and challenges to taking down sex trafficking and child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on its platforms. These developments are alarming, and we are deeply concerned by allegations that Meta was not only aware of these risks, but may have delayed product design changes or prevented public disclosure of these findings.

To that end, we respectfully request responses to the following questions by March 6, 2026:

Please elaborate on Meta’s protocol for disclosing risks associated with user wellbeing and safety to both its users and to the public.

Please elaborate on Meta’s evaluation of trade-offs between engagement and user safety and wellbeing in its product design, as well as its trust and safety protocols, that impact users under the age of 18.

What policies or risk frameworks inform this decision-making?

What is the process for considering internal warnings and recommendations based on evidence of user harms?

What teams or individual roles are responsible for making these decisions that inform user safety experience?

Has Meta ever seriously considered targeting new products or platform experiences for prospective users under the age of 13?

What is Meta’s process for reviewing and incorporating internal warnings and recommendations regarding user wellbeing and safety?

Why did Meta delay launching its “private by default” feature for users under the age of 18?

What teams, departments, or individual roles were responsible for the delay in this feature launch, despite internal recommendations to proceed?

Please elaborate on Meta’s knowledge of how use of its platforms can impact the wellbeing of young users.

When did Meta first identify evidence or research linking its products to increased depression, anxiety, or other mental wellbeing harms for users under the age of 18?

Has Meta ever halted any research or studies linking its platforms or products to undesirable outcomes, such as higher rates of anxiety, depression, or reduced emotional wellbeing?

Has Meta ever prevented any public disclosure of research or studies linking its platforms or products to undesirable outcomes, such as higher rates of anxiety, depression, or reduced emotional wellbeing?

Has Meta conducted any research on what percentage of users under the age of 18 exhibit “problematic use?” If so, what is this percentage? Additionally, how does Meta categorize and assess the severity of problematic use on its platforms?

In July 2025, Meta rolled out additional safety features for minors. When did the development of these additional safety features begin? Were any of these features previously delayed or halted because of concerns of reduced engagement?

Will Meta release the design details and findings of its “deactivation study?”

Meta alleged that design flaws prevented its public release of the “deactivation study.” What prevented Meta from re-designing and re-conducting the study?

Please elaborate on Meta’s protocol for reviewing and acting on reports of sex trafficking and CSAM on its platforms.

What is Meta’s process for allowing users to report sex trafficking or CSAM content on its platforms?

What is Meta’s process for reviewing and acting on user reports of sex trafficking or CSAM content on its platforms?

Has Meta ever had a policy that required a minimum number of user reports of sex trafficking or CSAM content before an perpetrating account is permanently banned?

Please direct any follow up questions to our offices. Thank you for your prompt attention to these matters.

Sincerely,

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Schatz Hails Crucial, Lifesaving Investments In National Security, State Department Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, highlighted the critical and lifesaving investments the subcommittee made in its FY26 bill that was signed into law this week. Speaking on the Senate floor, Schatz noted that the investments in global health, humanitarian aid, and economic and development assistance would benefit Americans for years to come.

“This bill will save lives all around the world. It will strengthen our alliances and partnerships at a moment when global instability is at an all-time high. And crucially, it will make Americans safer here at home,” said Ranking Member Schatz. “It’s proof that there is still broad, bipartisan support for America showing up in the world, not just with tanks and guns, but with food and lifesaving care and economic assistance. And we do that not just because we’re the indispensable nation and it’s the right and moral thing to do, but because projecting power, in all its forms, is smart and strategic and makes us safer and more competitive.”

Ranking Member Schatz continued, “There will be a lot more work to do in the months and years ahead to rebuild American foreign assistance, but this week marks a very important first step.”

A transcript of Senator Schatz’s remarks is below. Video is available here.

Among the bills in the funding package that was signed into law yesterday was the State and Foreign Operations appropriations bill. And while people are understandably focused elsewhere, I want to take a moment to talk today about what's in the so-called SFOPS bill and why it matters. Because, simply put, this bill will save lives all around the world. It will strengthen our alliances and partnerships at a moment when global instability is at an all-time high. And crucially, it will make Americans safer here at home.

As Ranking Member of the subcommittee, I saw in real-time the destruction and devastation wrought by Donald Trump's illegal dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development. Estimates are that more than 760,000 people, including 500,000 children, have died over the past year since American assistance suddenly vanished, 760,000 people. Worse, millions more are expected to die in the next five years if the current trend continues.

And so it is in that context that this bill is essential. It is proof that there is still broad, bipartisan support for America showing up in the world, not just with tanks and guns, but with food and lifesaving care and economic assistance. And we do that not just because we're the indispensable nation, and that it's the right and the moral thing to do – although that would be enough – but also because projecting power, in all of its forms, is smart, it is strategic, and it makes us more safe and more competitive.

In this bill, there are vital investments in global health, humanitarian aid and economic and development assistance. There's more than $9 billion for global health programs to help fight HIV/AIDS, malaria, TB, and polio. The funding also supports vaccination efforts that the administration tried to eliminate and strengthens maternal and child health programs.

The bill includes close to $7 billion for development programs focused on economic resilience, education, water and sanitation, and disaster mitigation. And there's a reason why we've funded these programs for decades. Yes, our partners want them. Yes, they employ tens of thousands of Americans. But more than that, these programs benefit our national interests in unique ways. For instance, it's because of USAID’s war legacy work in Vietnam that we share a strong security partnership today. It is thanks to our disaster risk mitigation programs in the Pacific Islands that we have as much access to the region as we do. So it's not as if we just invest this money and hope for the best. This is not charity. It pays off over years and decades.

This bill also rejects the administration's efforts to retreat from multilateral institutions like the United Nations. It ensures that we can pay our treaty dues to international organizations, restores voluntary funding for organizations like UNICEF, and fully meets our commitments to multilateral development banks that focus on economic development. Relatedly, the bill includes billions of dollars in funding to allies and partners across the globe, including those in the Indo-Pacific and Eurasia, who are working to counter Chinese influence and Russian aggression.

Now, I want to be clear, this bill is definitely not the bill that I would have written if it were up to me. There are steep cuts to really important programs, and we're asking our diplomats and our partners to navigate a riskier world with fewer resources. The cuts to humanitarian assistance are especially disappointing, and they are the result of the administration effectively shutting down the U.S. Refugee Admissions program, slowing assistance for those impacted by conflict, and reprioritizing funds for its own agenda. Our international broadcasting grantees are also experiencing significant cuts, even as they try to provide essential information and services in Ukraine, Iran, and across the Indo-Pacific.

And I want us to understand what happened in the spring around DOGE and USAID. A lot of people are not tracking some of these funding areas, but for instance, this is about getting our message out in Ukraine. This is about countering the government of China's propaganda in the Indo-Pacific. And this is about people in Iran having access to the internet through VPNs that we help them to get. And so some of these programs, if you're just like a tech guy and you've been assigned to find things to cut, and you read a line item and you say ‘75 million for what? VPNs in the middle. What's that?’ That's what this is. All of these programs serve our national interests.

That said, there was nothing inevitable about this bill. We are here today, a year on from the wholesale evisceration of the American foreign assistance enterprise, enacting a bipartisan law because members on both sides were committed to preserving this enterprise. And so I want to thank Senators Graham, Murray and Collins, as well as Representatives Diaz-Balart and Frankel, for their partnership in negotiating the bill. It was one of the toughest negotiations and most important negotiations I've ever been involved in. And I also want to thank the incredible staff here in the Senate who work tirelessly to get this done. On the Democratic side, that's Alex Carnes, Sarita Vanka, Kali Farahmand, and Drew Platt. And on the Republican side, Paul Grove and Paul Denaro. This would not have been possible without all of you.

And now the hard work of implementation and oversight begins. We can appropriate as much money as we want, but we need experienced people to administer these funds. And so, to that end, while rejecting the administration's request to close USAID as an independent agency, this bill sustains investments in our diplomatic workforce and provides new hiring authorities for the State Department in order to properly manage the additional assistance.

And on oversight, we've closed loopholes and added new transparency requirements so the Congress can better track the use of funds and ensure that they're being spent as intended. Just last week, Secretary Rubio committed to faithfully implementing this bill, and now it's on all of us to work together to make that true.

There will be a lot more work to do in the months and years ahead to rebuild American foreign assistance. But this week marks a very important first step.

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