Rep. Salinas Leads 27 Colleagues in a Letter Demanding Answers on ICE, CBP Agent Trainings

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) led 27 of her colleagues in a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons, and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Rodney Scott demanding answers about training standards for ICE and CBP agents. The letter comes amid a growing number of reports of dangerous conduct, civil rights violations, and deadly use-of-force incidents by federal agents. The lawmakers raised serious concerns about whether training requirements have been reduced, whether agents are adequately prepared to handle firearms, de-escalation, and interactions with children and vulnerable populations, and whether insufficient oversight is putting communities at risk.

This letter is signed by 27 Members of the New Democrat Coalition, which Salinas serves as the Leadership Member At Large.

Click here or see below for the full letter:

Dear Secretary Noem, Acting Director Lyons, and Commissioner Scott:

As members of the New Democrat Coalition, we are writing to request answers from Secretary Noem, Acting Director Lyons, and Commissioner Scott about the training that ICE and CBP agents receive. This request follows a flurry of reports that ICE and CBP agents are using dangerous practices and violating the law.

In August 2025, ICE officials said that newly hired ICE agents without a background in law enforcement receive training for six days a week for eight weeks at the Federal Law Enforcement Center in Georgia. This includes training on using firearms, deescalation techniques to prevent the use of force, and twelve hours learning about the Fourth Amendment and the Immigration

and Nationality Act of 1952. They also learn when they are permitted to enter someone’s house, and how to decide if someone can be removed from the country.

Although Acting Director Lyons has said that he has not lowered the training threshold for ICE agents, there is substantial evidence that contradicts this claim. Specifically, it has been reported that the training for ICE agents was significantly reduced, and agents are no longer required to learn Spanish for five weeks. Other shortcuts have also been reported, including an error with ICE’s AI tool that incorrectly identified applications with previous law enforcement officer experience. As a result, around 200 new ICE agents were sent to field offices without proper training. In another incident, new hires showed up for training despite failing to complete the agency’s full vetting process.

Additionally, ICE agents have demonstrated egregious practices that point to a larger issue beyond poor judgement from individual agents. On September 25, 2025, a video captured an ICE agent dropping his gun and then proceeding to point it at bystanders. Additionally, there have been at least 40 examples of ICE agents using chokeholds, which are federally banned due to the high potential for deadly consequences. Moreover, a report from October 16, 2025, found at least 170 incidents of ICE detaining U.S. citizens, including over 20 citizens who were held for more than a day. And since September 2025, ICE and CBP officers have shot twelve people, resulting in the death of four people. This is simply unacceptable.

Although we are just beginning 2026, there have already been more than a handful of incidents that have shocked the country. On January 7, 2026, ICE shot Renee Good, a U.S. citizen, and then prohibited a doctor who was near the scene from coming to her aid. She later died. On January 20, 2026, ICE agents used a five-year-old boy, Liam Conejo Ramos, as bait in attempt to lure other family members to come outside their home. ICE agents later detained him alongside his father. Additionally, on January 13, 2026, ICE agents violently detained two U.S. citizens who were working at Target. And most recently, CBP agents shot and killed Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse who worked at the VA, after claiming that he “approached” agents with a gun. Video evidence shows that Mr. Pretti never had a gun in his hand, only a phone.

It is not just our constituents who are concerned about the conduct of ICE and CBP officers. Just recently, leaders from several Minnesota law enforcement agencies expressed their concern about the lack of oversight and accountability of ICE agents. One police chief disclosed that ICE agents “boxed in” an off-duty officer while she was driving and demanded documentation proving that she was a U.S. citizen. This is incredibly reckless behavior that undermines public trust in local law enforcement and local law enforcement’s ability to keep their communities safe.

Given the significant number of reports of ICE and CBP agents using abusive tactics, the American people deserve to know if these egregious violations of citizen and immigrants’ rights are a direct result of inadequate training or a reflection of ICE and CBP’s policies and directives. Therefore, we request your answers to the following questions:

1. Since 2024, have ICE and CBP reduced the length of training for their agents?

How long is the training period for newly hired agents without a law enforcement background and for agents with a law enforcement background?

Are these trainings in person or virtual?

Since December 2024, have there been changes to the training materials?

Are ICE and CBP agents required to receive training on constitutional rights?

How long is this training? Which parts of the U.S. Constitution are covered?

Do ICE and CBP agents receive training on deescalation, use of force, and banned chokeholds?

If yes, how much time is spent on each of these topics and what is included in these trainings?

Do ICE and CBP agents receive training on interactions with children?

If yes, what is the content of this training?

Are ICE and CBP agents trained on gun safety best practices including when there are crowds and unarmed people?

If yes, please describe what is included in these trainings.

Do ICE and CBP agents receive any training for interactions with Native Americans?

If agents do not receive this training, please explain why.

Do ICE and CBP agents continue to attend trainings after they are hired?

If yes, what is the cadence of these trainings and examples of content?

We look forward to receiving detailed answers to our questions by Friday, February 27, 2026. Thank you for your time.

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Representative Salinas, Senator Merkley Host Press Conference Promoting ICE Accountability Legislation

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Click here for a full recording of the event

Woodburn, OR – Today, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) held a joint press conference in Woodburn, OR, to share the stories of victims of ICE overreach and to promote their recently introduced bill, the ICE and CBP Constitutional Accountability Act. Senator Merkley and Congresswoman Salinas were joined by speakers Isa Peña of Innovation Law Lab, Nancy Lopez Flores from SEIU, and Ximena Van Dyke of Unidos Bridging Community. The group was also joined by Jess Montoya of Oregon For All and Reyna Lopez from PCUN.

Nancy Lopez Flores read a statement from Maria, a U.S. citizen and Rep. Salinas’ constituent who was a victim of ICE abuse.

The ICE and CBP Constitutional Accountability Act would make the federal government civilly liable when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers violate one’s constitutional rights, thereby creating a cause of action against the federal government. Additionally, it mandates that any damages awarded in such cases be first drawn from funds from Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which handed more than $150 billion to ICE, CBP, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for immigration enforcement.

“From Minnesota to Oregon, we’ve witnessed ICE and CBP abuse their power, incite violence, and violate our constitutional rights,” said Rep. Salinas. “Earlier this month, federal officials tear gassed children, workers, and even dogs who were protesting at the ICE field office in Portland. Without accountability, there are no consequences. And without consequences, they will keep violating the Constitution. That’s why this bill is so important. If ICE or CBP officers violate someone’s constitutional rights, the victim can sue the federal government to hold them civilly liable. When we choose accountability, we can put an end to Trump’s abuse.”

“All Americans should be outraged that Trump’s lawless federal agents are trampling on the Constitution and terrorizing our communities,” said Sen. Merkley. “ICE and CBP must face consequences if their agents wrongfully violate citizens’ rights to protest and free speech, search people’s homes without a warrant, or deny due process. Our ICE and CBP Constitutional Accountability Act simply allows people to hold federal agents accountable when they violate the Constitution.”

Alongside Senator Merkley, Rep. Salinas has continued to speak out against ICE overreach. She has conducted oversight visits of the ICE field office in Portland, Oregon, and the ICE detention facility in Tacoma, Washington. Recently, Salinas and Merkley led Oregon’s Democratic congressional delegation in a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons opposing any plans to open or expand ICE detention facilities in Oregon, including so-called “soft-sided” or repurposed facilities.

Full text of the ICE and CBP Constitutional Accountability Act can be found by clicking here.

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Reps. Scholten, Levin Introduce Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), alongside U.S. Representative Mike Levin (D-CA-49), introduced the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act to protect waterways in Michigan and across the country from harmful plastic pollution.

“In West Michigan, we care deeply about protecting the rivers and lakes our communities rely on every day,” said Rep. Scholten. “That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act, which would require the EPA to set clear rules to prevent microplastics from entering our waterways in the first place. This commonsense step will help keep our environment clean, protect wildlife, and preserve the natural resources that make Michigan such a special place for generations to come.”

The bill would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue a rule that prohibits the discharge of plastic pellets and other types of plastic into our nation’s waters. Currently, the EPA does not have an established federal rule to address plastic pellets specifically, and most states do not have meaningful regulations to combat plastic pollution. When dumped or spilled into the ocean and our waterways, plastic pellets absorb toxic chemicals and attract harmful bacteria that threaten marine life. Seabirds, fish, and other wildlife often mistake pellets for food, ingesting these hazardous substances.

“Our entire coastal district relies on pristine waterways to support the local economy, bolster tourism, sustain wildlife, and provide recreational opportunities,” said Rep. Levin. “Plastic pellets not only pollute our waterways and our coastline, but they also endanger public health. The damage they cause is preventable. Our Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act would end the discharge of plastic pellets into our nation’s waters and protect our treasured natural resources. I thank Rep. Scholten for her partnership on this bill, and I look forward to it moving through the legislative process.”

The bill is endorsed by the American Bird Conservancy, Environment America, Environment California, Environment Michigan, Oceana, Ocean Conservancy, PIRG, Surfrider, and 5 Gyres.

“Plastic pellets in the environment can harm birds that confuse this type of pollution for food,” said Annie Chester, Policy Director at American Bird Conservancy. “The Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act would prohibit discharges of plastic pellets, safeguarding waterways that birds and people rely upon. American Bird Conservancy thanks Reps. Levin and Scholten for championing this legislation.”

“Plastic pollution is everywhere—from the beaches of California to Pennsylvania’s top trout streams, and from the Great Lakes down to the Gulf Coast of Texas. Sometimes, it’s obvious, for example, ubiquitous plastic grocery bags. But perhaps a bigger problem is something much smaller—the hard-to-notice plastic pellet. When animals ingest this plastic, they can get sick and even die. We should be doing everything we can to stop plastic pollution, but shockingly, some companies still dump and spill large quantities of plastic pellets directly into our waterways. That’s why it’s urgent that Congress pass the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act,” said Lisa Frank, Executive Director, Environment America.

“Oceana thanks Representatives Mike Levin and Hillary Scholten for addressing plastic pollution by reintroducing the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act," said Christy Leavitt, Senior Campaign Director at Oceana. “Plastic pellets can easily spill or wash into our oceans, rivers, and lakes, and they are extremely difficult to clean up because of their small size. These tiny pieces of plastic contribute to the growing plastic pollution crisis and flood of plastic into our oceans and fresh waterways. Congress should pass this much needed bill to protect our coasts, communities, and wildlife.”

“Hundreds of citizen scientists participating in last year's International Plastic Pellet Count found nearly 50,000 plastic pellets in waterways around the world in just a matter of minutes, primarily in the United States. That's just the tip of the iceberg: an estimated 10 trillion plastic pellets end up in our oceans each year. Plastic pellets can escape into the environment at every step of the supply chain, and despite their small size, cause big problems for our environment, especially our waterways, where they can harm wildlife and public health. U.S. PIRG is calling on Congress to pass the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act to address this often unseen threat,” said Grace Vickers, Beyond Plastic Associate at PIRG.

“Some of the most harmful plastic pollution is also the hardest to see,” said Jenna Schwerzmann, Plastic Pollution Initiative Coordinator with the Surfrider Foundation. “Our oceans are already overwhelmed with plastic at the end of its life; plastic producers should not be adding to that burden by allowing preventable losses of virgin plastic before it even becomes a product. The Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act is a commonsense step to stop this pollution at its source and hold polluters accountable.”

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Rep. Sewell, Ways and Means Members Call for Investigation into Leak of Immigrant Taxpayer Information

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Ranking Member of the Ways and Means Oversight Subcommittee, along with Reps. Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), and Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), led 14 of their Ways and Means Democratic colleagues in calling on the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration to investigate the leak of 47,000 taxpayers’ confidential information by the Internal Revenue Service to the Department of Homeland Security.

Despite strict privacy laws protecting taxpayers, the IRS agreed last April to share sensitive information, including names and addresses, of individuals who were being targeted for immigration enforcement. This agreement is just another example of the Trump administration recklessly and unlawfully violating the rights of immigrants and working families. Federal courts have since held that sharing this private data violates taxpayers’ rights.

“When agencies take advantage of public trust by illegally sharing taxpayer data, it creates an environment wherein undocumented individuals are not comfortable complying with tax law,” the Members wrote. “Undocumented immigrants have paid taxes for years with assurances that they can safely do so – this illegal action has pulled the rug out from under working individuals who are trying to comply with the law.”

In addition to Sewell, Sánchez, Thompson, and Gomez, the letter was signed by Representatives Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), John Larson (D-Conn.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Suzan K. DelBene (D-Wash.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Gwen Moore (D-Wis.), Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), Don Beyer (D-Va.), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), Brad Schneider (D-Ill.), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Stacey Plaskett (D-V.I.) and Tom Suozzi (D-N.Y.).

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Acting Inspector General Hill:

As members of the Committee on Ways and Means, we ask the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) to immediately investigate the leak of confidential taxpayer information of 47,000 individuals reported today by the Washington Post in this morning’s article entitled IRS improperly disclosed confidential immigrant tax data to DHS.

Not only does this action endanger working, tax paying individuals who contribute to our economy, but it disincentivizes tax compliance for everyone. When agencies take advantage of public trust by illegally sharing taxpayer data, it creates an environment wherein undocumented individuals are not comfortable complying with tax law. Undocumented immigrants have paid taxes for years with assurances that they can safely do so – this illegal action has pulled the rug out from under working individuals who are trying to comply with the law. We are seeing an increasing rise of violence and illegality in President Trump’s immigration enforcement; it is highly unprecedented and completely inappropriate that the Department of the Treasury should take part in such efforts.

Since February 2025, we have been deeply concerned that confidential taxpayer information protected by Section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code was being unlawfully and unjustly disclosed to or accessed by other government agencies. In fact, just last week, the Department of the Treasury responded to a letter from many members of this committee, alongside other Members of Congress, stating that they “share[d] our commitment to taxpayer privacy.”

On February 16, 2023, Chairman Jason Smith wrote to the Department of Treasury regarding a previous disclosure of private information, which has now resulted in the President suing the Internal Revenue Service for $10 billion. We similarly ask the following:

“Therefore, I request that TIGTA commit in writing that it will complete the following actions:

Conduct a comprehensive and timely investigation.

Produce a report that summarizes TIGTA’s investigation with findings and recommendations.

Provide these Members with a full copy of TIGTA’s unredacted report.

Make as much of that report public as possible, consistent with 26 U.S.C. § 6103.”

Thank you in advance for your attention to this request. We look forward to learning the results of your investigation.

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Stanton Statement on Secretary Noem’s SAVE Act Press Conference in Arizona

PHOENIX – Today, U.S. Congressman Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) issued the following statement following Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s press conference in Arizona on election security:

“Trump and his allies have spent six years trying to cast doubt on the outcome of the 2020 election in Arizona. They've turned up nothing.

Today he dispatched his disgraced DHS Secretary Noem to once again push the Big Lie here in Phoenix — this time, using the SAVE Act to advance their dangerous and deeply troubling goal to “nationalize elections.” As usual, Arizona Republicans are enabling it every step of the way.

Trump's refusal to accept the results of any election that doesn't go his way is an existential threat to our democracy — and is one of the many reasons voters have lost faith in him.”


Rep. Subramanyam, Oversight Ranking Member Garcia Demand Lord Mandelson Answer Questions on Jeffrey Epstein

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representatives Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) and Robert Garcia (CA-42), Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform,wrote to Lord Peter Mandelson, the former British Ambassador to the U.S., to request that he submit to questioning by the Oversight Committee as part of the ongoing probe into Jeffrey Epstein, his accomplices, and enablers.

The members said, “While you no longer serve as British Ambassador to the United States and have stepped down from the House of Lords, it is clear that you possessed extensive social and business ties to Jeffrey Epstein and hold critical information pertaining to our investigation of Epstein’s operations. Given the appalling allegations regarding Epstein’s conduct, we request that you make yourself available for a transcribed interview with Committee staff regarding the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein and his co-conspirators.”

In the letter, the members point out several instances where Lord Mandelson was photographed or mentioned in the 3.5 million files that have been released. These files include Mandelson messaging Epstein with insider information hours before European governments announced a 500-billion-euro deal, and Epstein transferring sizable sums of money to Mandelson and his partner.


Lee, Solar Leaders, and Advocates Discuss Her Bipartisan Legislation to Cut Solar Permitting Red Tape

Watch and Download Video of Press Conference

LAS VEGAS, NV – Today, at Sol-Up, Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03) joined Steve Hamile, Sol-Up Chief Operation Officer and Nevada Solar Association Chair, and Allison Pharr, solar homeowner and Solar United Neighbors Rural Organizing Associate, to discuss her Streamlining Home Installation of New Energies (SHINE) Act, which would make local permitting for residential solar and other home energy systems better, cheaper, and faster.

“Residential solar energy isn’t just an environmental boon—it’s an economic imperative. The SHINE Act will cut red tape and benefit Nevada homeowners and businesses alike” said Congresswoman Susie Lee. “Too often, outdated permitting processes create unnecessary delays and added costs for Nevadans looking to install rooftop solar. The SHINE Act is a bipartisan, common-sense solution to cut red tape and help homeowners access cleaner, cheaper energy faster.”

On average, Nevada homeowners with residential solar save approximately $1,500 on their annual utility bill. By cutting red tape and helping more homeowners install rooftop solar, this bill could help southern Nevadans save hundreds each year.

“For too long, families ready to invest in solar have had to face delays caused by outdated local permitting processes. The SHINE Act helps expand a standardized permitting process that will clear backlogs and empower local governments with the tools to speed up approvals, lower costs, and support Nevada’s clean-energy economy. This is a win-win for everyone involved. Local governments can save time and money, businesses can move faster, and homeowners get to enjoy clean energy sooner. Nevada has led before on solar innovation and this bill helps ensure we keep leading,” said Stephen Hamile, Chair of the Nevada Solar Association.

"For the rural communities I work with, the SHINE Act is a practical, common-sense solution. It cuts red tape, lowers upfront costs, and helps families take control of their energy future. Ultimately, it means paying less upfront for clean energy upgrades—and seeing the savings sooner," said Allison Pharr, solar homeowner and Solar United Neighbors Rural Organizing Associate.

The SHINE Act authorizes $20 million annually for four years to enable the Department of Energy to provide technical assistance, training, and adoption grants to state, local, and Tribal governments for the implementation of a streamlined permitting and inspection process for home-based distributed energy systems. The leading solution, called Solar Automated Permit Processing Plus (SolarAPP+), is a free, online permitting platform originally developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to provide instant permits for code-compliant residential solar and battery storage systems.

Nevada leads the nation in solar power potential, ranks sixth in the nation in total solar capacity, and ranks fifth nationally in solar generation. Nationwide, permitting delays for rooftop solar and other residential energy systems are making this transition more costly and time-consuming for homeowners, businesses, and local governments alike. Of the more than 20,000 local permitting jurisdictions across the country, only about 400 have adopted automated permitting solutions to date.

The SHINE Act is endorsed by the Solar Energy Industries Association, Advanced Energy United, Permit Power, Solar United Neighbors Action, Sunrun, the Nevada Conservation League and national League of Conservation Voters, and the Nevada Solar Association.

As southern Nevada’s sole representative on the House Natural Resources Committee, Congresswoman Lee is doing everything possible to protect Nevada’s public lands and parks, combat climate change, and build a clean energy economy.

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Tonko Statement on Repeal of EPA’s Endangerment Finding

AMSTERDAM, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) released the following statement on yesterday’s repeal of the EPA’s “endangerment finding” — the long-standing, scientifically proven conclusion that greenhouse gas pollution warms the planet and harms public health — by the Trump administration:

“The repeal of EPA’s endangerment finding is a giant step backward in our fight to secure a livable planet for future generations. With this action, Donald Trump and his administration have made climate denial the official policy of the United States by once again placing polluter profits ahead of the well-being of American families. While countless Americans suffer from the negative health effects of unchecked corporate pollution and millions more face the extreme weather, wildfires, and droughts it causes, Trump and Lee Zeldin are showing nothing but contempt for their struggles. This policy will only make big polluters richer — and American families will pay the price.”


New Dem Housing Chair Norma Torres Supports New Dems Affordability Agenda to Lower Costs for Working Families

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma Torres, Chair of the New Democrat Coalition Housing, Infrastructure, and Transportation Working Group, helped unveil the New Democrat Coalition’s Affordability Agenda, a comprehensive plan to lower five of the biggest costs facing hardworking Americans: health care, housing, energy, family care, and groceries.

After promising to lower prices “on day one,” President Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans have failed to deliver meaningful relief. They have driven prices up through chaotic tariff policies and stripped away health care from millions of Americans. As a result, families continue to feel the strain of higher costs and economic uncertainty.

The New Dem Affordability Agenda offers a clear alternative, rolling back harmful policies that drive up prices, promoting competition and small businesses, cutting unnecessary red tape to build more housing and energy infrastructure, and strengthening programs that help families make ends meet.

“Affordability is about whether working families can build a stable life,” said Congresswoman Torres. “You should be able to afford a home, put food on the table, pay your bills, and access health care without going into debt. The New Democrat Coalition’s Affordability Agenda lays out practical, commonsense steps to lower costs and restore opportunity for families across the country.”

The Agenda outlines next steps to advance these policies in Congress and urges the Administration to reverse policies that have contributed to higher prices.

You can read the full Affordability Agenda here.

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Congressman Van Drew Hosts Assistant Secretary of the Army to Discuss Beach Replenishment

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Van Drew hosted Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Adam Telle, along with federal, state, and local officials, to evaluate the erosion along the Jersey Shore following a year of damaging hurricanes and nor'easters. The visit focused on beach replenishment, long-term storm protection, and ensuring South Jersey receives the federal attention it deserves.

"This was an important visit for South Jersey," said Congressman Van Drew. "What matters is this: they are here, they are listening, and they understand what is at stake. The Assistant Secretary saw firsthand the damage our shore communities are dealing with, and he understands how important the Jersey Shore is to our economy and to the families who live here. They announced a significant investment into our shoreline of tens of millions of dollars, and it is only beginning of the process to bring more major funding our way. I want to thank Assistant Secretary Telle for coming down and taking the time to walk the beaches with us, meet with our mayors, and talk with the Army Corps about this. We are looking forward to continuing to work closely with him, the Army Corps, and all our local partners to make sure this gets done the right way.

"At the same time, we have to think long term. That is why I have introduced the Coastal Trust Fund Act," Congressman Van Drew continued. "We need a stable, reliable funding stream for beach nourishment and storm risk reduction to better prepare us for future storms and erosion. We are also looking at lower-cost options for dredging and replenishment, including equipment from Europe that could potentially make this work more efficient and more affordable. If we can bring in better technology and have it operated by our local workforce, that means creating jobs right here in South Jersey while getting the sand back where it belongs. This is about protecting South Jersey today while also making sure our beaches are here for generations to come."

"President Trump loves the people of New Jersey, and we are here today to ensure that we understand their challenges and deliver the resources needed to reduce their flood risk following the storms in recent years," said Adam Telle, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. "Jeff Van Drew has been a tireless advocate for reducing coastal storm risk in this critical part of our country, and we will soon be unveiling our Building Infrastructure, Not Paperwork initiative, which will accelerate the delivery of flood safety and economic prosperity for communities across our Nation."

Click here to read more about the Coastal Trust Fund Act.


Congressman Van Drew Announces Authorization of Cape May Seawall Project

Cape May, NJ - Today, Congressman Van Drew announced that the Cape May City Seawall Flood Mitigation Project has officially been authorized to move forward, securing more than $24.3 million to protect one of the most vulnerable areas along the Jersey Shore.

"I just heard directly from the Secretary of Homeland Security's office that this project has officially been authorized," said Congressman Van Drew. "This is a major breakthrough for Cape May and for our entire shoreline. This section of Cape May was identified after Hurricane Sandy as a serious weak point, and that vulnerability has not gone away. The next major storm is not a matter of if, but a matter of when. This seawall project is making sure we are not caught unprepared. Thank you to the administration for making our coastline a priority. This has been a big week for our shore. I am proud to keep delivering real results and making sure South Jersey gets the attention it deserves."


Rep. Gabe Vasquez Pushes Bill to Bring More Doctors and Specialists to New Mexico’s Rural Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On February 9, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) cosponsored the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act, a bill that would make it easier for New Mexicans to see the doctors and specialists they need by increasing the health care workforce.

“New Mexicans shouldn’t have to spend hours driving, or weeks waiting, just to see a doctor or medical specialist when they’re sick,” said Vasquez. “Bringing more doctors to our state to finish their training is a commonsense solution that targets shortages so New Mexicans can stay healthier with quality care close to home.”

The Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act will expand Medicare-supported medical residencies by 14,000 positions over the next seven years. Increasing residency opportunities will combat health care worker shortages by boosting the number of trained physicians who enter the workforce to serve New Mexicans.

Studies show that medical residents who spend 50% or more of their training time in rural settings are at least five times more likely to later practice medicine in a rural community. New Mexico needs more doctors — especially in rural areas — and this bill will help address one of the root causes of the provider shortage.

Representative Vasquez has worked tirelessly to improve health care access for New Mexicans and boost the health care workforce in rural communities. His efforts include:

Opposing the Republican tax law, which is putting rural hospitals across southern New Mexico at risk of closing, all in order to pay for tax breaks to billionaires.

Cosponsoring the Rural Physician Workforce Production Act to expand medical education pathway programs that train and place physicians in rural communities.

Supportingthe Conrad State 30 and Physician Access Reauthorization Act, a bill that reauthorizes and expands the Conrad State 30 program to allow foreign-trained physicians to remain in the U.S. if they agree to practice in rural or medically underserved communities.

Cosponsoring the Modernizing Rural Physician Assistant and Nurse Practitioner Utilization Actto align state and federal regulations allowing Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners to practice independently or with reduced supervision to address provider shortages in rural areas.

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Vindman Secures MILLIONS for Law Enforcement and Public Safety in Virginia’s Seventh District

Washington, D.C. — Last week, President Trump signed into law $2,750,000 in federal funding secured by Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) for law enforcement and public safety projects in Virginia’s Seventh District.

“I was proud to secure millions of dollars to support local law enforcement agencies across Virginia’s Seventh District, ensuring they have the resources they need to protect families and respond effectively when it matters most,” said Vindman. “These investments strengthen public safety while supporting the officers who serve with professionalism and dedication every day. My team worked closely with local law enforcement leaders to deliver this funding, and I’m grateful for their partnership in keeping our communities safe.”

These investments include:

Modernizing patrol radio systems in Stafford County;

Installing emergency call boxes along Culpeper’s Trail Network;

Upgrading rural communications abilities for the Caroline County Sheriff’s Office; and,

Securing a Unified Mobile Command Center for Madison County first responders.

Vindman worked directly with local officials and community leaders across Virginia to solicit these requests, move these projects forward, and make sure they were included in this federal funding legislation.

Summaries of funding for the public safety and law enforcement projects signed into law for Virginia’s Seventh District are below.

STAFFORD

Vindman secured $1,039,000 for the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office to replace 345 mobile radios installed in patrol vehicles. The project will enable faster and clearer communication through the new radios, allowing Stafford County Sheriff personnel to arrive quickly to dispatched locations and better provide support for and protection of life and property. These new mobile radios will bring additional features and new technology that is not available with existing radios, including a third radio frequency band, Long-Term Evolution (LTE) connection, and playback in the field.

TOWN OF CULPEPER

Vindman secured $245,000 for the Town of Culpeper to install Emergency Call Boxes throughout the Culpeper Trail Network. These solar-powered call boxes would provide direct access to emergency services, allowing users to report incidents quickly and receive immediate assistance when needed. The boxes would also be equipped with security camera monitoring capabilities, which would be strategically placed along the Culpeper Trail Network — a series of walking trails throughout the town that connect neighborhoods to downtown.

This project aims to enhance public safety and ensure peace of mind for residents and visitors using Culpeper’s parks and trails by improving response times, deterring criminal activity, and supporting a safe, accessible outdoor environment for all members of the Culpeper community.

CAROLINE

Vindman secured $967,000 for critical equipment and infrastructure upgrades for the Caroline County Sheriff’s Office. This funding will modernize the department’s radio communication system by upgrading to interoperable devices capable of working in rural areas, particularly providing reliable coverage in and around Caroline County school buildings and over school Wi-Fi. The current radios lack this capability, creating gaps in communication during emergencies. This investment addresses a significant officer safety concern while strengthening coordination and improving public safety for the broader community and local schools.

MADISON

Vindman secured $500,000 for the Madison County Sheriff’s Office to purchase and deploy a Unified Mobile Command Center. This vehicle would be used by all Madison County first responders to establish operational command, communications, and coordination between agencies during critical events. It will provide resources supporting the individual needs of law enforcement, emergency medical services, and fire personnel in a collaborative setting — such as search and rescue missions, large event security, and major crime scenes.

BACKGROUND

For FY2026 the U.S. House of Representatives reopened the Community Project Funding process, allowing Members of Congress to request targeted federal investments for local projects. Congressman Vindman worked closely with community leaders across Virginia’s Seventh District to identify and submit requests that reflect the needs of the region.

Community Project Funding is designed to strengthen the federal appropriations process by centering local input and collaboration. Through this process, Members of Congress partner directly with the communities they represent to advance projects that are planned, supported, and led at the local level.

To qualify, projects must be submitted by a locality or non-profit and meet the eligibility requirements of existing federal grant programs. Submissions must demonstrate strong community support, ensuring that funded projects are responsive to local needs and have backing from the communities they serve.

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Wasserman Schultz, Blumenthal Reintroduce Jaime’s Law to Combat Gun Violence

Washington DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) announced the reintroduction of Jaime’s Law, a commonsense bicameral piece of legislation that would require instant background checks to prevent criminals from illegally purchasing ammunition.

Watch Wasserman Schultz's full press conference with Fred Guttenberg, gun violence advocate and father of Parkland shooting victim Jaime Guttenberg, here.

Under current law, dangerous individuals such as violent criminals and domestic abusers are prohibited from purchasing a firearm as well as ammunition. However, unlike firearms, federal law does not require a background check to prevent the illegal purchase of ammunition. Jaime’s Law would close this loophole by requiring buyers to either provide a license for the firearm or undergo an instant background check using the FBI National Instant Background Check System (NICS) before purchasing the ammunition. NICS is the same quick and easy process that applies to the purchase of firearms.

Jaime’s Law is named in honor of Jaime Guttenberg, one of 17 victims murdered in the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018.

“No family should endure the heartbreaking agony of losing a loved one to gun violence. Yet every day, families across America still endure this torment, and the lifetime of anguish it brings. Thankfully, more of those impacted by it are joining courageous parents like Fred Guttenberg and other gun safety advocates, to demand that Congress confront this public health crisis,” said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz. “That’s why I'm proud to reintroduce Jaime’s Law, named in honor of Fred’s talented and compassionate daughter. This crucial legislation is part of the multifaceted legal approach we need to finally end the gun violence epidemic. A required background check to buy ammunition is already in place. But closing this loophole, to actually enforce that law, can and will save lives."

“This legislation closes a dangerous loophole by requiring background checks on purchases of ammunition—a commonsense solution to combat the epidemic of gun violence in our country. Eight years ago, Jaime Guttenberg’s mom and dad received a phone call that is every parent’s worst nightmare. Named in her honor, this legislation imposes life-saving background checks on ammunition purchases to prevent more senseless tragedies from devastating American families and plaguing our communities,” said Senator Blumenthal.

“This Saturday will be 8 years since the Parkland shooting and the murder of my daughter. Because of what happened to my family and our community, I have spent the following years working to reduce gun violence. Because of the work done during the Biden Presidency, gun violence has come down significantly. We proved that effective policy and government can work to enhance public safety and reduce the risk of gun violence,” said Fred Guttenberg, founder of Orange Ribbons For Jaime. “In spite of the efforts of this administration to undo so much of that life saving work, recently the President and his cabinet recognized the reality of gun violence and too many guns on our streets. While I do not expect them to take any action on that, perhaps this administration and Congress could join us with support for Jaime's Law. Jaime's Law seeks to do nothing more than extend background checks to ammunition. We are a nation awash in weapons. However, they do not work without ammunition. Let's work together to pass Jaime's Law this year.”

“It’s simply common sense that individuals prohibited by law from purchasing ammunition should be unable to buy it, but the Brady Background Check system does not allow for background checks on ammunition purchases — weakening our nation’s ability to prevent senseless tragedies,” said Mark Collins, Director of Federal Policy at Brady. “Jaime’s Law will expand the background check system to allow for background checks to be run ahead of ammunition purchases and ensure that only licensed vendors can sell ammunition to the public. Brady applauds Senator Blumenthal and Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz for honoring Jaime Guttenberg and all of those lost to preventable gun violence with the reintroduction of this important legislation.”

Many states, like Connecticut, Illinois, New Jersey, California, and New York, led the way in requiring a background check to obtain a license to purchase or possess ammunition. Yet we know gun safety measures save far more lives when they are enacted nationwide, and purchasers don’t evade background checks by crossing state lines, or shopping for lax state regulations. Various experts point to enforcement of existing ammunition prohibitions as one of the most non-invasive, yet effective strategies for curbing gun violence.

Find the full bill text here.

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From the Front: February 13, 2026

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Senator Baldwin Introduces Legislation to Guarantee Paid Sick Leave to American Workers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced she joined her colleagues in introducing the Healthy Families Act, legislation that would guarantee all American workers paid sick leave. The bill would ensure that every American worker has up to seven paid sick days each year, to be used to recover from their own illnesses or care for a child or family member.

“At a time when Wisconsin families are already squeezed by rising costs, the last thing they should have to worry about is having to choose between caring for themselves or a loved one and earning a paycheck,” said Senator Baldwin. “Every Wisconsin worker deserves the dignity and security knowing that if they, or their child gets sick, they can do the right thing and stay home and not put their livelihood in jeopardy.”

The U.S. today remains the only major country in the world that does not provide paid time off for short-term illnesses. Currently, nearly 27 million workers lack any paid sick time entirely, including 20% of the private sector workforce and 7% of the public sector workforce. Things are worse for low-income workers and households, with just 58% of low-income, private-sector workers able to access paid sick days. Without guaranteed paid sick leave, workers are forced to make untenable choices between getting a paycheck and keeping their jobs on the one hand and caring for their own and their family’s health on the other.

Workers without paid sick leave are three times more likely to delay or forgo necessary health care for themselves and nearly twice as likely to forgo medical care for their families compared to working adults with paid sick days. However, workers with access to paid sick leave are 28% less likely to suffer nonfatal occupational injuries, and employers who provide paid sick leave see 25% less turnover in their workforce. According to a study by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, a universal paid sick days policy would reduce preventable visits to the emergency room and result in cost savings of $1.1 billion per year, including $500 million in savings for public health insurance programs like Medicare and Medicaid.

The Healthy Families Act would:

Guarantee every worker in America up to seven paid sick days each year, to be used to recover from their own illnesses, access preventive care, provide care to a sick family member or attend school meetings related to a child’s health condition or disability.

Simplify how employers calculate paid sick leave. Workers would earn a minimum of one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked, up to a minimum of 56 hours per year.

Allow employers to use their existing policies if they exceed minimum standards.

Allow victims of domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault to use their paid sick days to recover or seek assistance.

The Healthy Families Act is endorsed by 88 organizations, including AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), United Auto Workers (UAW), Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), National Nurses United (NNU), International Association of Machinists (IAM), Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division-International Brotherhood of Teamsters (BMWED-IBT), Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen-International Brotherhood of Teamsters (BLET-IBT), the Teamsters Rail Conference, Transport Workers Union (TWU), Communications Workers of America (CWA), United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), National Education Association (NEA), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), National Partnership for Women & Families, A Better Balance.

This legislation is led by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT).

Full text of this legislation is available here.

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Wyoming’s Ty Checketts Testifies in Support of Barrasso’s Grasslands Grazing Act

Senator Barrasso introduced Ty before the Senate ENR Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s Public Lands, Forests, and Mining Subcommittee, welcomed Newcastle, Wyoming rancher Ty Checketts to testify on the importance of federal grazing rights at a subcommittee hearing this week.

Mr. Checketts, who is also the Association of National Grasslands President, endorsed Senator Barrasso’s Grasslands Grazing Act. The legislation will ensure ranchers who have grazing permits on National Grasslands are treated the same as permittees on other federal land, such as National Forests and Bureau of Land Management allotments.

Senator Barrasso introduced Mr. Checketts to the committee prior to his testimony.

“I am honored to introduce Mr. Ty Checketts. Ty is the President of the Association of National Grasslands and a Wyoming native from Newcastle. His wonderful wife Becky has also joined him this morning,” said Barrasso. “Ty ranches on his family operation where they run 1,000 head of Black Angus on about 65,000 acres of both public and private land. He is also a member of the Wyoming Stock Growers Association. Ty also holds a seat on the board of the Public Lands Council and is a member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Ty – I am grateful that you are here today and thank you for representing ranchers across the U.S.”

During the hearing, Barrasso highlighted how the Grasslands Grazing Act will give Wyoming ranchers like Ty the certainty they need that their grazing permits will be approved in a timely manner.

“In Wyoming, cattle graze on the Thunder Basin National Grassland. It encompasses a little over half a million acres. My bill helps bring regulatory clarity for grazing permits from the U.S. Forest Service,” said Barrasso. “Ranchers across the West depend on access to grazing on our National Grasslands. They deserve to have certainty that their grazing permits will be approved in a timely manner. The Grasslands Grazing Act will give Wyoming’s ranching families the stability they need to keep their operations running strong.”

Click here to watch Mr. Checketts’ remarks.

In his testimony, Checketts talked about how ranchers in the West depend on access to grazing rights on National Grasslands.

“Without the ability to graze on National Grasslands, there would not be enough forage for my livestock, nor enough private land to access additional forage, to be able to ranch in Wyoming. Many Western and midwestern states are in the same situation – the federal government owns or controls so much of these states that integrating federal lands grazing allotments is the only way to have cattle and sheep production at scale,” said Checketts. “This access must be predictable and consistent, which unfortunately has not been the case for grazing associations and direct permittees whose authorizations emanate from the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act of 1937.”

Checketts went on to endorse S. 2787, the Grasslands Grazing Act, and urged the committee to support it.

“The proposed legislation simply seeks to give National Grasslands permittees the same due process rights that the Bureau of Land Management and National Forest permittees currently enjoy. S. 2787 will provide for stable and secure ten-year grazing agreements and permits. The modification sought by this legislation will, in fact, create a more uniform, equitable and less confusing framework for the relationship between the Forest Service managers and their rancher partners across the western portion of the United States. I thank you for your consideration and urge the Committee to advance this bill,” continued Checketts.

You can read Checketts’ entire committee statement here, and listen to Senator Barrasso’s questions here.

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Bennet, Hickenlooper Urge International Olympic Committee to Allow Women to Compete in Nordic Combined

Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper sent a letter to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to support the future of the Nordic Combined by not only continuing to include the sport in future winter games, but by allowing women to participate and compete for medals.

“Nordic Combined has been part of the Winter Olympics since the first Games in 1924. In Colorado, ski jumping and cross-country skiing are staples of winter sports. Jumps were built across our state, including at Steamboat Springs’ Howelsen Hill, the oldest continuously operating ski area in North America,” wrote the senators.

The senators also expressed concern about reports that the IOC may remove the men’s Nordic Combined rather than creating a women’s event. They emphasized that legacy sports make the Olympics more meaningful because of the rich history they provide.

“The women’s World Championships only began in 2020, making this a relatively new competitive landscape for elite female athletes. However, the sport has made remarkable progress in a short time, the talent is undeniable, and the potential for these women to add to the U.S. medal count is real. Right now, three American women, Alexa Brabec, Annika Malacinski, and Tara Geraghty-Moats rank 2nd, 10th, and 11th in the world, respectively. All three U.S. women would be serious medal contenders if given the opportunity to compete at the Olympics,” continued the senators.

Alexa Brabec and Annika Malacinski are both women’s Nordic Combined athletes from Steamboat Springs, Colorado. This Olympic Winter Games, they are sitting on the sidelines as their counterparts on the men’s Nordic Combined team, including Annika’s brother, compete.

“Women’s Nordic Combined deserves a place in the Olympics, and expanding that opportunity for these athletes is the right choice over eliminating tradition. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss how we might work together to achieve this important goal,” concluded the senators.

The full text of the letter is available HERE and below.

Dear President Coventry,

As we celebrate the Winter Olympics, we write to encourage you to support the future of Nordic Combined by continuing to include the sport in future games and expanding participation to women.

Nordic Combined has been part of the Winter Olympics since the first Games in 1924. In the U.S. State of Colorado, ski jumping and cross-country skiing are staples of winter sports. Jumps were built across our state, including at Steamboat Springs’ Howelsen Hill, the oldest continuously operating ski area in North America.

Despite this rich heritage, women are still excluded from Olympic Nordic Combined competition. The women’s World Championships only began in 2020, making this a relatively new competitive landscape for elite female athletes. However, the sport has made remarkable progress in a short time, the talent is undeniable, and the potential for these women to add to the U.S. medal count is real. Right now, three American women, Alexa Brabec, Annika Malacinski, and Tara Geraghty-Moats rank 2nd, 10th, and 11th in the world, respectively. All three U.S. women would be serious medal contenders if given the opportunity to compete at the Olympics. We are also deeply concerned by reports suggesting the International Olympic Committee (IOC) may remove men’s Nordic Combined rather than add the women’s event. This would erase a century-old Olympic tradition instead of expanding opportunity. While Nordic Combined doesn’t command the audience that figure skating or alpine skiing do, legacy sports are the very essence of what makes the Olympic movement meaningful. They tell the story of where we’ve been and who we are.

Women’s Nordic Combined deserves a place in the Olympics, and expanding that opportunity for these athletes is the right choice over eliminating tradition.

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss how we might work together to achieve this important goal.

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Blackburn & Blumenthal Demand Answers from Toy Maker for Exposing Sensitive Data Involving Children to the Public

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) sent a letter to the Chief Executive Officer of Miko, Inc., launching an investigation into why the company exposed sensitive data involving children through an unsecured, publicly accessible dataset. This dataset reportedly contained thousands of responses to children’s questions or instructions from the company’s AI-powered toys, often including names and details of conversations.

The company took down the publicly accessible dataset after receiving the Senators’ letter. Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal also sent letters to FoloToy and Curio Interactive, Inc. following up on theirprevious probe asking what safeguards these companies have in place to protect kids from sexually explicit, violent, or otherwise inappropriate content.

AI-Powered Toys Enable Collection, Retention, and Monetization of Sensitive Data Involving Children

“As a toy manufacturer, the safety of children must be your highest priority. Toys powered by artificial intelligence raise serious concerns about the data privacy and security of American families, particularly when those products are designed for use by children. These technologies may enable the collection, retention, and monetization of sensitive data from children and their families, raising troubling questions about data mining practices and the use of that information. Children lack the ability to understand or consent to how their data may be stored, shared, or ultimately used without their knowledge. The risks are further exacerbated with chatbot features capable of generating inappropriate, manipulative, or emotionally coercive messages, particularly when those systems encourage prolonged engagement or make it difficult for children to disengage.”

Miko Released Sensitive Data in Publicly Accessible Dataset, Putting Kids at Risk

“Based on your responses, the staff of our offices conducted cybersecurity testing of a Miko 3 robot through a network capture of its communications with Miko, Inc. services. On that preliminary testing, we found that Miko, Inc. had left accessible to the public what appears to be all of the audio responses of the toy, providing anyone the ability to download Miko’s portion of thousands – if not tens of thousands – of discussions with children going back to December 2025. This basic cybersecurity lapse, and the toys’ frequent communications back to Miko, Inc., call into question whether your company adequately protects the privacy and security of children’s and the toy’s data, and whether it engages in the data minimization practices promised in its response to our letter.”

Click here to download the full letter to Miko, Inc.

Click here to download the full letter to FoloToy.

Click here to download the full letter to Curio Interactive, Inc.

RELATED


ICYMI Video: Blumenthal Presses Trump ICE Chief on Secret ICE Policy Authorizing Federal Agents to Enter Homes Without a Judicial Warrant

[WASHINGTON, DC] – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), yesterday pressed Todd Lyons, Acting Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), on a policy memo he wrote authorizing federal immigration agents to enter American homes without a judicial warrant in order to effectuate civil immigration arrests.

During an oversight hearing in the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Blumenthal questioned Lyons about the memo, which was made public via a whistleblower disclosure received by Blumenthal. The policy outlined in Lyons’s memo is directly contrary to longstanding legal interpretation of the Fourth Amendment.

“To bang down a door, barge into someone’s home, if you are the FBI, or a local officer, you need a judicial warrant from a judicial officer, a judge, who is going to find or not, probable cause, which has a specific meaning under the law. These ICE agents are banging down doors doing the same thing without that kind of judicial warrant,” Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal pushed back on Lyons’s assessment of case law allowing for the use of administrative warrants under certain circumstances, “It does not abrogate the Fourth Amendment. It does not say that ICE agents or CBP agents can simply bash down doors and barge into people’s homes, terrorize their children, detain and arrest people without a judicial warrant and there is nothing different about what ICE does as to compared to the FBI or the local police that would justify. The policy that they are acting under in fact is the result of a memo that you issued in May, you are familiar with it.”

During the hearing, Blumenthal secured a commitment from Lyons that he would provide Blumenthal with a copy of an email transmitting the memo to ICE personnel. Following the hearing, Blumenthal sent a letter to Lyons requesting a copy of the email by Tuesday, February 17, 2026. A copy of Blumenthal’s letter to Lyons is available here.

The full transcript of Blumenthal’s exchange with Lyons is below. The video is available here.

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT): Thanks, Mr. Chairman. Thank you all for being here today and answering our questions. I don’t want to talk about new laws. I want to talk about a very old one. The Constitution of the United States specifically, the fourth amendment. This picture is of ICE Agents forcing their way into the Minneapolis home of Garrison Gibson. Banging down the door, detaining Mr. Gibson in front of his wife Teyana and their 10-year-old daughter and niece who happened to be there at the time. I don’t know whether you’re familiar with what happened here. It’s one of many, many, many similar incidents that have happened all around the country. And it was done pursuant to what is called an administrative warrant. I’m going to hold up a copy of that warrant. Signed by an SDDO, who is I believe a member of the ICE workforce, another agent, a supervisory detention and deportation officer. Not a judge, correct?

Todd Lyons: Correct, Senator.

Blumenthal: So, in effect, this is not a warrant. It’s a permission slip. It’s a green light from another ICE agent to go bash down a door, smash into a home, detain and arrest someone, without a judge finding probable cause and without any sort of objective independent finding. Is that correct?

Lyons: No, sir. So, the I205 is the arrest warrant, but the I205 is based on executable final order issued by an immigration judge.

Blumenthal: And that order is from an immigration judge who is part of the executive branch. Not an independent judge. But the warrant issued is simply a permission slip. Now, let’s be very clear, you were a local police officer.

Lyons: Yes, sir.

Blumenthal: To bang down a door, barge into someone’s home, you are the FBI, or a local officer, you need a judicial warrant from a judicial officer, a judge, who is going to find or not, probable cause, which has a specific meaning under the law. These ICE agents are banging down doors doing the same thing without that kind of judicial warrant. What is so different about ICE that it regards itself as an exception to the Fourth Amendment and the requirement for a judicial warrant is a Fourth Amendment requirement?

Lyons: We don’t, Senator. There is a case law, U.S. versus Lucas 2007, which is out of the eighth district of Minnesota which authorizes the entry in a home to catch a fugitive based on administrative warrant.

Blumenthal: I beg your pardon, sir. It does not abrogate the Fourth Amendment it does not say that ICE agents or CBP agents can simply bash down doors and barge into people's homes, terrorize their children, detain and arrest people without a judicial warrant and there is nothing different about what ICE does as to compared to the FBI or the local police that would justify. The policy that they are acting under in fact is the result of a memo that you issued in May, if you are familiar with it.

Lyons: Yes, sir.

Blumenthal: That’s your signature which says in effect that they don’t need judicial warrants. They can act on the basis of the 205 warrant that you’ve just described, which is administrative, not judicial. Why did you keep this memo secret?

Lyons: I didn’t keep the memo secret, sir. It was blasted out to –

Blumenthal: We learned about it when two whistleblowers came to us and said that you were using it as a basis for the policy. It was never announced publicly. It was never released to the press or the American people. Why did you keep it secret?

Lyons: Sir, I didn’t keep it a secret. If sending an email to a workforce of 30,000 people is keeping something secret, it is a bad secret.

Blumenthal: It never reached those people.

Lyons: Yes, sir, it did.

Blumenthal: Well –

Lyons: The email did send. Yes, sir. I can work with your committee or your staff to get that.

Blumenthal: Let me move to another topic. You stated on Tuesday quote “no U.S. citizen is subject to immigration enforcement and that doesn’t happen. If a U.S. citizen is detained in the course of the immigration investigation, they are quickly released.” I asked unanimous consent that the report that we did, the ranking member staff did entitle unchecked authority that documents 22 U.S. citizens being detained and assaulted by immigration agents as well as written statements from eight U.S. citizens who have been detained, shot at and nearly killed by ICE agents who came

U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY): Without objection.

Blumenthal: Thank you. So, let’s take George Retes for example. He is an army veteran, a father from California trying to go to work. He says he was tear-gassed and held for three days without charges. Is he lying?

Lyons: Senator. ICE wasn’t involved in that arrest Sir.

Blumenthal: Were you mistaken when you said that no U.S. Citizen is subject to immigration enforcement?

Lyons: No, sir.

Blumenthal: Well, who’s lying? You or him?

Lyons: Sir, I’m speaking for the men and women of ICE in my operation, I didn’t arrest that individual sir.

Blumenthal: But the facts contradict what you said. Will you admit that you don't know for example about Aliya Rahman, a disabled woman from Minneapolis? She came to this hearing and testified before our spotlight forum, violently dragged from her car, detained without medical attention until she passed out. Is she lying or are you lying?

Lyons: No, sir, she’s not lying.

Blumenthal: Well, then you were mistaken when you said no U.S citizen has been detained.

Lyons: No Sir, I said no U.S. Citizen subject to immigration law and deportation or removal, ICE does detain-

Blumenthal: Well, that is a circular argument. She wasn’t subject to immigration law because she is a U.S Citizen, but she was detained and that contradicts directly as does your statement applied to Marimar Martinez who was almost killed, shot seven times by CBP agents. It is true of Dayanne Figueroa, who told us she was violently dragged from her car after dropping her son at school thrown into a van and detained. Is she lying?

Lyons: No, sir. Sir, you know I’ve worked personally with you on many cases, when you came to me especially in Connecticut when I was a field office director in New England. You know I’m transparent and we do not lie. So, to say that we are lying is incorrect, Sir.

Blumenthal: I asked you first whether you were mistaken when you said that no U.S citizen, I’m quoting, “is subject to immigration enforcement” enforcement. I would call that misconduct enforcement by your agent.

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Senator Blumenthal: Week in Review 2/6/2026-2/13/2026

Slamming Violent & Invasive ICE Tactics

[WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), yesterday pressed Todd Lyons, Acting Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), on a policy memo he wrote authorizing federal immigration agents to enter American homes without a judicial warrant in order to effectuate civil immigration arrests.

During an oversight hearing in the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Blumenthal questioned Lyons about the memo, which was made public via a whistleblower disclosure received by Blumenthal. The policy outlined in Lyons’s memo is directly contrary to longstanding legal interpretation of the Fourth Amendment.

“To bang down a door, barge into someone’s home, if you are the FBI, or a local officer, you need a judicial warrant from a judicial officer, a judge, who is going to find or not, probable cause, which has a specific meaning under the law. These ICE agents are banging down doors doing the same thing without that kind of judicial warrant,” Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal pushed back on Lyons’s assessment of case law allowing for the use of administrative warrants under certain circumstances, “It does not abrogate the Fourth Amendment. It does not say that ICE agents or CBP agents can simply bash down doors and barge into people’s homes, terrorize their children, detain and arrest people without a judicial warrant and there is nothing different about what ICE does as to compared to the FBI or the local police that would justify. The policy that they are acting under in fact is the result of a memo that you issued in May, you are familiar with it.”

During the hearing, Blumenthal secured a commitment from Lyons that he would provide Blumenthal with a copy of an email transmitting the memo to ICE personnel. Following the hearing, Blumenthal sent a letter to Lyons requesting a copy of the email by Tuesday, February 17, 2026. A copy of Blumenthal’s letter to Lyons is available here.

The video of Blumenthal’s exchange with Lyons is available here.

On Twitter/X, Blumenthal further slammed Lyons for the violent tactics used by ICE agents and his lack of awareness for the harm such tactics are having on U.S. citizens.

“Either all the US citizens being detained by ICE are lying (unlikely) or Todd Lyons has no idea what he’s saying when he claims NO US Citizen is subject to immigration enforcement,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal joined MS NOW’s Morning Joe to discuss the inhumanity of ICE agents and the dangerous tactics being promoted by top DHS officials.

“Americans need to know what is happening. But they know enough right now to demand reforms. And that's what we're fighting to do. We have ten simple, straightforward reforms that American people are demanding,” said Blumenthal on Morning Joe. “I won't vote for any funding for DHS, the Department of Homeland Security, or ICE or the Customs and Border Patrol, unless these demands are met. Not that they're my demands—the American people are demanding, and Republicans need to listen to the American people who've been watching the hearing that I led just this last week: a woman on her way to church to donate clothing, shot seven times because she was stopped at a an ICE checkpoint; a woman in Minneapolis, disabled woman, dragged from her car, denied medical care; a young man in California, his car shot numerous times, he narrowly escaped injury and death. These kinds of incidents are all over the country. Americans are beginning to understand that any of us, anytime, anywhere, can be subject to this kind of brutal violence and inhumanity.”

The full interview can be found here.

Protecting Americans from Skyrocketing Electricity Costs

Blumenthal and U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) introduced the Guaranteeing Rate Insulation from Data Centers (GRID) Act to stop data centers from driving up energy costs.

Over the last several years, data center construction has taken off, creating enormous strains on our energy infrastructure. This AI-fueled boom shows no signs of slowing down—in fact, data centers’ demand for power is expected to double over the next four years. Blumenthal and Hawley’s new bill would require data centers to have their own power sources, ensuring that the costs of their business are not passed on to American consumers.

“Our GRID Act stops Big Tech’s AI-driven drain on family’s pocketbooks,” said Blumenthal. “The rapid buildout of power-hungry data centers is straining our electrical grid—driving up demand and causing Americans’ energy bills to skyrocket. Our bipartisan bill ensures consumers have priority on the grid and do not have to pay a penny more because of burdensome data centers. Families should not be forced to bankroll Big Tech’s electricity and infrastructure costs.”

The GRID Act would:

Guarantee no increase in consumer utility prices due to data centers.

Guarantee consumers first priority on the grid.

Ensure new data centers use energy from power generation sources that are separate from the grid, with a 10-year off-ramp for existing data centers to find an alternative power source.

Establish new transparency measures so that data center operators publicly disclose their current and future utility usage and other related information.

The full bill text can be found here.

Investigating Anthony D’Esposito for Potential Hatch Act Violation

Blumenthal called for an investigation into Anthony D’Esposito, Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), for potentially violating the Hatch Act. Following recent reporting that D’Esposito intends to seek the Republican nomination for his previously held Congressional seat, Blumenthal wrote today to Acting Special Counsel Jamieson Greer, raising concerns that D’Esposito is running for political office despite continuing to serve as DOL Inspector General.

“As you know, Mr. D’Esposito was confirmed to be Inspector General on December 18, 2025. As Inspector General, Mr. D’Esposito is covered by the Hatch Act, which limits certain political activity by federal employees. The Hatch Act expressly prohibits an employee like Mr. D’Esposito from being a candidate for nomination or election to public office in a partisan election, such as a candidate in an electoral race for the House of Representatives,” Blumenthal wrote in a letter to Greer.

“The American people deserve inspectors general who are dedicated to rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse at the agency, not who are there simply to move on to the next opportunity. As the acting leader of the Office of Special Counsel, if you find Mr. D’Esposito to have violated the Hatch Act, you must demand the President remove him from his position and hold him accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” Blumenthal concluded.

Blumenthal previously questioned D’Esposito about his intentions to run for Congress during his nomination hearing, at which point D’Esposito still had an active campaign website and was soliciting donations. The video and transcript of Blumenthal’s exchange with D’Esposito is available here.

The full text of Blumenthal’s letter to Greer is available here.

On the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee

Ranking Member Blumenthal stressed his concerns with the skyrocketing cost of community care, which is provided when the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is unable to deliver health care to veterans in an accessible or timely manner.

Blumenthal pressed VA Chief Financial Officer Richard Topping on the disproportionate funding increase for community care, relative to VA direct care: “Since 2019, the funding for the VA community care program has increased from $9 billion to more than $48 billion in the VA fiscal year 2026 request. That’s an increase of 530%. That’s a staggering increase, wouldn’t you agree?” When Topping agreed it was a significant increase, Blumenthal continued: “Over that same period, funding for VA direct care has increased by far less, about 200%...Why the disparity?”

Blumenthal asked Topping to explain why the rate of increase in spending on community care has far outpaced the rate of increase in the number of veterans served by community care. When Topping was unable to answer this question, Blumenthal replied: “…[W]e need to answer those types of questions. You don’t have answers right now. You say that the program isn’t designed to provide those kinds of answers, but anyone running a health care program would say we really ought to be answering those questions, wouldn’t you agree?”

In December, Blumenthal and his Democratic colleagues introduced the Honor Act—sweeping legislation to reform and improve VA health care that includes provisions requiring community care providers to meet the same training and quality standards required of VA providers.

A video of Blumenthal’s opening remarks is available here.

Blumenthal further called for improved care for veterans on Twitter/X.

“Supporting VA community care is no substitute for VA direct care. Both deserve more resources to assure full access & gold standard quality,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal Bulletin

Blumenthal traveled to the Munich Security Conference.

Blumenthal released a statement on Trump eliminating environmental protections for Northeast Canyong and Seamounts Marine National Monument.

Blumenthal released a statement after RTX was awarded a $230.6 million contract to support the production of F135 engines.

Blumenthal introduced a bill to stop deceptive and dangerous gun marketing.

Blumenthal demanded Trump stop making teaching and social work degrees unaffordable.

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Booker, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Supporting the Iranian People as Protests Face Violent Regime Crackdown

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As Iranians take to the streets demanding basic freedoms, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined a group of colleagues led by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and U.S. Senator James Lankford (R-OK) in introducing a bipartisan resolution condemning the Iranian regime for suppressing its citizens’ right to peacefully assemble and highlighting its long pattern of censorship, intimidation, and violent crackdowns against its own people.

“The United States Senate continues to stand with the Iranian people in their struggle for dignity and basic human rights. I am proud to join this resolution condemning the Iranian regime’s brutal violence against its own citizens peacefully protesting, including mass killings, arrests, and torture, and I commend the bravery and resolve of the Iranian people who have risked their safety to pursue freedom and a society unchained from oppression,” said Senator Booker.

Joining Senators Booker, Shaheen, and Lankford in co-sponsoring the resolution are U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Hoeven (R-ND), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Andy Kim (D-NJ), and Dick Durbin (D-IL).

The resolution outlines the regime’s sweeping crackdown since protests began in late December, including mass arrests, internet blackouts, and the killing of peaceful protestors in the streets. It also details Iran’s long history of violently suppressing dissent and affirms the Iranian people’s right to assemble freely and determine their own future.


Booker, Durbin Demand Answers Following Trump Administration's Removal of DOJ Antitrust Chief Gail Slater, Warn of Political Interference in DOJ’s Lawsuit Against Live Nation/Ticketmaster

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, and Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote a letter to President Donald Trump after Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division announced her resignation on social media, with subsequent reports indicating that she was terminated. Ms. Slater’s removal underscores a troubling pattern: sidelining senior antitrust enforcers while aligning with powerful corporate interests that raise prices, depress wages, and crowd out small businesses, leaving families and workers to shoulder the consequences.

“The timing of this decision, particularly in light of imminent enforcement actions and pending litigation, raises serious concerns about potential improper influence. Of immediate concern is the Department’s lawsuit against Live Nation/Ticketmaster, which alleges the company illegally inflated concert ticket prices and engaged in conduct that harmed both artists and consumers,” the Senators wrote.

This week, Semafor reported that Live Nation executives and lobbyists had been negotiating with senior officials at the Department, allegedly circumventing the Antitrust Division, to avert a trial over whether the company operates an illegal monopoly that has driven up concert prices.

The Senators demanded the Trump Administration to immediately release the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission report on live event ticket pricing that was transmitted to the White House in September 2025 but has yet to be made public.

“Withholding its findings while the DOJ’s enforcement decisions appear to shift behind closed doors only deepens public skepticism and fuels the perception that powerful industry interests are being shielded from scrutiny. If the Administration is truly committed to lowering prices and promoting fair competition, there is no legitimate justification for keeping this analysis from Congress and the American people. Failure to release it will only reinforce the growing perception that enforcement decisions are being shaped by backroom deals that reward powerful corporations while leaving American families to bear the cost,” the Senators continued.

"Americans were promised lower prices, fair competition, and an end to corporate gatekeeping, not a system where powerful insiders can negotiate enforcement outcomes behind closed doors. If the Administration intends to stand by its commitments, it must immediately release this report,” the Senators concluded.


Booker, Durbin Demand Answers on Trump Administration's Removal of DOJ Antitrust Chief Gail Slater

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, and Dick Durbin, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi after Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division announced her resignation on social media, with subsequent reports indicating that she was terminated. Booker and Durbin requested extensive documentation and communications related to Ms. Slater’s removal, ongoing antitrust litigation, and any contacts between Department officials and outside political actors.

“The timing of this decision, particularly in light of imminent enforcement actions and pending litigation, not only raises serious concerns about potential improper influence or political intervention but also deepens the cloud already hanging over prior actions that have undermined confidence in the Division’s independence. It comes on the heels of the resignation of Mark Hamer, Ms. Slater’s second-in-command, and reinforces a troubling pattern in which senior Antitrust Division officials appear to be sidelined when their enforcement decisions conflict with the interests of President Trump or his allies,” the Senators wrote.

“For these reasons, we have serious concerns that Ms. Slater’s absence places the Department’s case against Live Nation/Ticketmaster for illegally inflating ticket prices at extreme risk of political interference and leaves the Division’s review of the Netflix-Warner Bros. merger and Paramount’s hostile bid vulnerable to undue influence at a critical moment,” the Senators continued.

This week, Semafor reported that Live Nation executives and lobbyists had been negotiating with senior officials at the Department, allegedly circumventing the Antitrust Division, to avert a trial over whether the company operates an illegal monopoly that has driven up concert prices.

“Taken together, these developments raise grave concerns that enforcement decisions are being shaped through backchannel negotiations and political pressure, rather than through the independent and even-handed application of the law,” the Senators wrote.

The Senators requested that DOJ provide the following information by February 17, 2026:

All information and documents concerning communications between any Department of Justice official or employee and the following individuals or categories of individuals: Mike Davis; Kellyanne Conway; Richard Grennell; Michael Rapino; Larry Ellison; David Ellison; any lobbyists or representatives acting on behalf of corporate parties with interests before the Antitrust Division; President Donald J. Trump; Stephen Miller; and any other White House or Administration officials. This request encompasses communications conducted through official or personal devices or accounts where official business was discussed.

The information and documents requested shall include, but are not limited to, communications relating to (a) the removal of Gail Slater, (b) the Department’s litigation involving Live Nation/Ticketmaster, or (c) the Department’s review of the proposed Netflix-Warner Bros. transaction or Paramount’s hostile bid. For each communication, please identify the date, participants, and mode of communication (including email, text message, phone call, video conference, messaging application, or in-person meeting).

All information and documents reflecting internal discussions, deliberations, or decision-making within the Department of Justice regarding the removal of Gail Slater, including briefing materials, decision memoranda, draft statements, calendar entries, and communications among political appointees and career staff.


Booker Joins Coons, 12 Senators in Urging Senate Appropriations Leadership to Advance Long-Term Funding for Amtrak

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined a group of 13 Senate colleagues in sending a letter, led by U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), to the leadership of the Senate Commerce and Appropriations Committees urging them to include advance appropriations for Amtrak and passenger rail programs in the next surface transportation reauthorization bill expected later this year.

The senators asked for funding for Amtrak from fiscal year 2027 through at least FY31, emphasizing that long-term funding is key for sustaining progress made under the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and for addressing the Northeast Corridor’s capital backlog.

“Throughout 2025, Amtrak has focused on delivering reliable, high-quality service – surpassing systemwide customer service goals, expanding its network, and increasing network capacity. As a result, Amtrak experienced unprecedented ridership across its network,” the senators wrote. “Amtrak’s capability to make responsible, strategic investments in its infrastructure and equipment has the company on track to achieve operational profitability.”

The lawmakers highlighted the IIJA’s historic $66 billion investment in passenger and freight rail, including $22 billion for Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor and National Network. That funding has supported major projects such as the Connecticut River Bridge replacement, the B&P Tunnel replacement in Baltimore, and the rollout of NextGen Acela trains, all while driving record ridership and revenue growth across Amtrak’s network.

“The trainset’s construction generated over 1,300 new jobs across 29 states, with nearly all of its components made in America,” the senators added. “Amtrak is advancing its stations toward full ADA accessibility by 2029. Nineteen stations across the country reached compliance in 2025, with another 50 stations targeted for FY26.”

Despite this progress, the senators wrote that the Northeast Corridor still faces an estimated $84.1 billion state-of-good-repair backlog by 2040. Without advance appropriations beyond FY26, Amtrak’s ability to complete multi-year projects efficiently and to meet growing passenger demand could be at risk.

The letter was also signed by U.S Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).

To read the full letter, click here.


Boozman, Lankford, Shaheen Lead Bipartisan Resolution as Iranian Protests Face Violent Regime Crackdown

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), James Lankford (R-OK) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced a bipartisan Senate resolution condemning the Iranian regime for suppressing its citizens’ right to peacefully assemble and long pattern of censorship, intimidation and violent crackdowns against its own people.

The resolution outlines the regime’s sweeping crackdown since protests began in late December, including mass arrests, internet blackouts and the killing of peaceful protestors in the streets. The measure also describes authorities’ violent suppression of dissent in addition to affirming the Iranian people’s right to assemble freely and determine their own future.

“The Iranian regime’s brutal attacks against its own people are disturbing and inhumane,” said Boozman. “The United States unequivocally condemns it and reaffirms our support for the Iranian people hoping for freedom from government oppression and the possibility for a better life.”

“The Iranian regime has a long record of threatening Americans and our allies while denying its own people the most basic freedoms,” said Lankford. “For weeks, security forces have fired live rounds into crowds, overwhelmed hospitals and morgues, and carried out mass arrests as Iranians gathered to assemble peacefully in protest. Innocent civilians, including children and bystanders, have been killed in the streets. The United States stands with the Iranian people in their pursuit of freedom and will continue to condemn the regime for its ongoing human rights abuses against its own citizens.”

Joining Boozman, Lankford and Shaheen on the resolution are Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Hoeven (R-ND), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Andy Kim (D-NJ).

Organizations supporting the resolution include AIPAC, American Jewish Committee, Jewish Institute for National Security of America, FDD Action and Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans.

You can read the full resolution here or below:

Condemning the Government of Iran for its suppression of the right of Iranians to peacefully assemble.

Whereas, on December 28, 2025, protests began in Iran in response to enduring economic hardship;

Whereas, in December 2025, the annual inflation rate in Iran reached 42.2 percent;

Whereas, on December 29, 2025, the Iranian rial hit a record low of 1,430,000 Iranian rials per one United States dollar, further causing economic strife for everyday Iranians;

Whereas the protests have spread throughout Iran’s capital of Tehran, all 31 provinces of Iran, and at least 100 other cities and towns nationwide in the country’s largest protests since 2022;

Whereas the first deaths were recorded on January 1, 2026, when at least seven protestors were shot and killed;

Whereas, on January 3, 2026, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said that “rioters must be put in their place;”

Whereas, beginning on January 8, 2026, the Iranian regime implemented near-total internet blackouts across the country, including both intranet access and external internet access as well as cellular services;

Whereas the Iranian regime uses censorship and internet blackouts as a tool of repression against the Iranian people;

Whereas the United States has long supported tools to ensure Iranians have access to the means to circumvent the censorship of the regime and access to news and information free of the regime’s interference, including through the Open Technology Fund, Radio Farda, and the Middle East Broadcasting Networks;

Whereas, on January 10, 2026, the Attorney General of Iran, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, said that anyone taking part in protests and those who “helped rioters” would be considered an “enemy of God,” a capital offense in Iran;

Whereas, as of February 10, 2026, there have been at least 6,126 deaths, with credible reporting of up to 30,000 deaths, including 86 children and 49 civilians who were not demonstrating, and 41,800 arrests of protestors have been reported;

Whereas hospitals, medical centers, and morgues have been overwhelmed with injured and dead protestors;

Whereas medical professionals inside Iran have reported receiving hundreds of patients who were injured by live rounds of ammunition from security forces;

Whereas Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei holds ultimate authority over Iran’s security agencies and has overseen and orchestrated countless human rights violations against Iranian citizens and dissidents since 1989;

Whereas the Iranian regime has used its security forces to crack down on protests through violent means, including through extrajudicial killings—

(1) in 1999, when at least three students were killed, several students disappeared, and at least 1,500 people were arrested following passage by the Iranian Parliament of censorship legislation and the subsequent closure of a reformist newspaper;

(2) in 2009, when dozens of people were killed and opposition candidates were arrested following protests over fraudulent elections;

(3) in 2017, when protests began as a result of increasing food prices and the deepening economic crisis, resulting in 20 deaths and hundreds of arrests;

(4) in 2019, when Iranian security forces killed approximately 1,500 people and detained 8,600 in response to protests over fuel; and

(5) in 2022, when more than 500 protestors were killed and 22,000 were detained after Mahsa Amini died while in the custody of the Morality Police after being detained for wearing a hijab “improperly,” prompting thousands of women to lead the Women, Life, Freedom effort in the streets of Iran;

Whereas the regime has a history of disproportionately cracking down on religious and ethnic minorities, including Christians, Baha’is, Zoroastrians, Jews, Sunnis, agnostics and Kurds;

Whereas Iranian civilians’ unprecedented nationwide protests and bravery, confronted with the regime’s unprecedented widespread extrajudicial killing of thousands and disruption of all electronic communication, have profoundly destabilized the country and constitute changed conditions in Iran;

Whereas the regime continues to persecute citizens who it disagrees with by using criminal statutes like “insulting the Prophet,” “insulting Islam,” “rebellion against God,” and “corruption on earth;”

Whereas the Government of Iran continues to attempt to suppress protestors, including through means of—

(1) extrajudicial killings;

(2) forced disappearances;

(3) torture;

(4) sexual and gender-based violence;

(5) arbitrary detention and imprisonment;

(6) severe restrictions on free expression,

(7) internet blackouts, censorship, and prohibition of virtual private networks;

(8) criminalization of libel; and

(9) severe restrictions of religious freedom; and

Whereas the people of Iran have continued to fight for their basic human rights in the face of violence and oppression: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate—

(1) strongly condemns the Government of Iran’s continued killing of protestors and bystanders;

(2) condemns the Government of Iran for its suppression of Iranians’ basic human rights, including their right to peacefully assemble;

(3) commends the courage of the Iranian people to protest amid increased and harsh persecution from the Government of Iran;

(4) calls on the Government of Iran to hold free and fair elections and allow the people of Iran to determine their own future; and