Walkinshaw, Kaine Lead 21-Member Letter Demanding Force Analysis and Answers on Peace Corps Reorganization, Staffing Cuts

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) and U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va) led a 21-member letter to Peace Corps Acting Director Richard Swarttz requesting detailed information about the agency’s ongoing plans to reduce staff and reorganize its structure.

The lawmakers warned that pairing an “ambitious plan to increase the number of volunteers to 8,000 per year by 2030” with “significant staff reductions at Headquarters and overseas posts” raises “serious concerns about whether the Peace Corps can meet its statutory responsibilities and safeguard Volunteers in the field.”

Joining Congressman Walkinshaw and Senator Kaine on the letter are Senators Cory A. Booker (D-NJ.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Andy Kim D-Nj.), Jeff Merkley (D-Or.), Alex Padilla (D-Ca.), Brian Schatz (D-Hi), Chris Van Hollen D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Or.), as well as Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-Dc) and Representatives Donald S. Beyer Jr. (D-VA-08), Ed Case (D-HI-01), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), Glenn F. Ivey (D-MD-04), James P. McGovern (D-MA-02), Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA-03), and Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10).

The lawmakers described an agency “already strained by understaffing” and raised alarm that staff losses due to the Department of Government Efficiency have left the Peace Corps with “fewer people to carry out its core mission.” They also expressed concern about the agency moving forward with Reduction in Force (RIF) plans amid ongoing questions from the Peace Corps Union and Members of Congress.

“Before any further workforce reductions or restructuring proceed,” the lawmakers wrote, “Peace Corps Headquarters must conduct a force analysis to demonstrate it has the personnel, expertise, and operational capacity to meet statutory requirements and maintain the safety and security of Peace Corps Volunteers worldwide.”

The letter requests “thorough answers” to questions about how the Peace Corps plans to meet statutory responsibilities and support Volunteers “given the current staff limitations,” what steps the agency is taking to ensure staff are supported to fulfill the agency’s mission, and how the Peace Corps will ensure it can “review, place and support” an increased volume of applicants “to the highest standards.” The lawmakers also asked why the agency is proceeding with RIFs rather than waiting for “natural attrition and term time-outs,” noting that prior plans stated “natural attrition would be sufficient to reduce staff.”

The text of the letter is available below and here.

Mr. Richard Swarttz

Acting Director

Peace Corps Headquarters

1275 First Street NE

Washington, DC 20526

Dear Mr. Swarttz,

We write to request information about the Peace Corps’ ongoing plans to reduce staff and reorganize the agency structure. Recent plans shared by the agency include an ambitious plan to increase the number of volunteers to 8,000 per year by 2030. Yet those goals have been paired with significant staff reductions at Headquarters and overseas posts over the past year, raising serious concerns about whether the Peace Corps can meet its statutory responsibilities and safeguard Volunteers in the field. The agency faces major headwinds, including a reduced U.S. diplomatic presence globally and insufficient investment in the prosperity and development of local communities we serve abroad, despite the post Covid-19 demand from our country partners for volunteers. Before any further workforce reductions or restructuring proceed, Peace Corps Headquarters must conduct a force analysis to demonstrate it has the personnel, expertise, and operational capacity to meet statutory requirements and maintain the safety and security of Peace Corps Volunteers worldwide.

At the start of the Trump Administration, Peace Corps Headquarters contained approximately 953 employees and 1,100 open positions—an agency already strained by understaffing. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) then accelerated a deliberate hollowing out of the Peace Corps’ capacity. After the government-wide “Fork in the Road” deferred resignation offer in early 2025 began thinning ranks, DOGE intensified the pressure and in March 2025, supervisors were urged to compile lists of personnel and programs to cut, turning the Peace Corps into a target for downsizing rather than a mission to be rebuilt.

By May, personnel were pushed again toward the Deferred Resignation Program and threatened with termination if they did not accept. Under that campaign, approximately 250 employees took the offer. The outcome has been stark – since the beginning of the Trump Administration, the Peace Corps has lost roughly 40 percent of its personnel, losses consistent with DOGE’s cut-first agenda, leaving the agency with fewer people to carry out its core mission.

In September 2025, the Peace Corps Union received an official notice of intent to involuntarily separate 26 Bargaining Unit Employees and 11 non-Bargaining Unit Employees to reach a stated goal of 575 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff at Headquarters. The Union notice period began on September 23, 2025, but was tolled during the government shutdown which lasted from October 1, 2025, to November 12, 2025. The Union met with Agency leadership once the government reopened and was informed verbally that the Reduction in Force (RIF) notice and negotiation period would move forward immediately. At that time, the Peace Corps Union filed a formal grievance against the agency as the language in the Continuing Resolution that was passed on November 12 prohibited additional RIFs from moving forward. The Peace Corps responded by agreeing to toll negotiations until the end of the Continuing Resolution on January 30, 2026. The recent statements made by the agency’s senior leadership indicating that they are pursuing RIFs has deeply concerned the Peace Corps Union and Congress, especially given the current challenges Peace Corps staff have faced while attempting to uphold the Agency’s mission and support Peace Corps Volunteers.

In light of these concerns, we respectfully request thorough answers to the questions below:

How is the Peace Corps planning to ensure it can meet its statutory requirements and support the well-being of its Volunteers abroad given the current staff limitations faced by the agency?

What concrete steps is the agency taking to ensure federal staff are fully supported to complete the work necessary to fulfill the statutory requirements of the agency?

What steps is the agency taking to ensure that if they are successful in increasing the number of applications coming in, that they will be able to review, place and support those applicants as volunteers, to the highest standards?

Why is the agency proceeding with a RIF plan rather than waiting for natural attrition and term time-outs to occur given that the original plan submitted by Peace Corps to the Office of Personnel Management and the Office of Management and Budget stated that natural attrition would be sufficient to reduce staff?

How does the agency plan to ensure that following statutory requirements are met:

a) Recruiting and placing qualified volunteers.

b) Providing adequate healthcare and safety for volunteers.

c) Ensuring adequate response in the event of sexual assault of volunteers. Especially as it pertains to volunteers being able to work with the Office of Victim Advocacy.

d) Supporting the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program for return Peace Corps Volunteers.

e) Ensuring volunteers receive adequate training abroad.

f) Consistently and accurately report data to Congress.

Prior to implementing any additional workforce reductions or restructuring actions, we request that the agency conduct a comprehensive force analysis and provide concrete evidence and justification for how the current reorganization and RIF plans will improve agency efficiency while ensuring compliance with the aforementioned statutory requirements. Thank you for your attention to this urgent request.

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Rep. George Whitesides Announces Antelope Valley College President As State of the Union Guest

WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Rep. George Whitesides (CA-27) announced that he will be joined by Dr. Jennifer Zellet, President of Antelope Valley College, at the State of the Union. Dr. Zellet has been the President of the Antelope Valley College since 2022.

“I am honored to be joined by Dr. Jennifer Zellet at the State of the Union, and to shine a spotlight on the amazing resources our community colleges provide to students across the district,” said Rep. Whitesides. “Dr. Zellet’s focus on preparing young people for the modern workforce ensures that everyone who wants to pursue higher education and technical training has the ability to do so, even in today’s rapidly evolving environment. She has been a tremendous partner during my first year in office, and I look forward to working with her to make sure that every student in our area can succeed.”

“It is a privilege to represent California Community Colleges, particularly the dedicated employees at Antelope Valley College who serve students and the community of the Antelope Valley,” said Dr. Jennifer Zellet. “Our certificates and degrees make life-changing contributions to our students and their families, and we are committed to this essential service.”

Over the past year, the Administration has proposed a series of harmful cuts to public education. Rep. Whitesides has fought back against these dangerous policies, advocating to Education Secretary Linda McMahon to maintain California’s annual pre-K through post-secondary public education funding, and championing policies like the “Individuals with Disabilities Education Act” and the “Youth Workforce Readiness Act.”

Additionally, the Congressman successfully secured funding for the Basic Need Center (BaNC) at the Santa Clarita Community College District’s Valencia Campus, which currently provides 400-600 lower-income students with foodbank services and meal vouchers every day in northern Los Angeles County. This funding will enlarge and enhance the current facility to serve additional students through access to food and community resources.

Antelope Valley College services approximately 16,000 students, offering an Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees in 71 fields as well as certificate programs in 59 vocational areas.

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The 27th district is home to more than 700,000 people across the Antelope Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, and San Fernando Valley. It includes northern Los Angeles County communities like Santa Clarita, Palmdale, Lancaster, Porter Ranch, Granada Hills, Acton, Agua Dulce, Stevenson Ranch, Castaic, and Sun Village. I am honored to serve the people from these communities. Learn More


Wittman Raises Concerns Following Largest Wastewater Spill in U.S. History

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) sent a letter to Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser following the failure of the Potomac Interceptor along the Clara Barton Parkway in Montgomery County, Maryland, which resulted in nearly 243.5 million gallons of wastewater spilled in the Potomac River.

In the letter, Rep. Wittman raised urgent concerns about the downstream impacts to the Chesapeake Bay and emphasized the risks to water quality, marine life, and Virginia’s seafood and tourism industries.

“This unprecedented wastewater spill poses serious threats to regional ecosystems and important operations that drive Virginians’ way of life and economy,” said Rep. Wittman. “As vice chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee and co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force, I am committed to ensuring a full accounting of what occurred, immediate mitigation of environmental impacts, and long-term safeguards to prevent this from happening again.”

In addition to sending the letter, Rep. Wittman has engaged with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Park Service (NPS) to assess response efforts and determine what additional federal support may be necessary to protect the Bay.

The Potomac Interceptor serves communities throughout the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region. Because the Potomac River flows directly into the Chesapeake Bay, a spill of this magnitude presents serious ecological and public health concerns. The Potomac River is a primary source of drinking water for the region, and the volume of this discharge underscores the need for rapid containment, transparency, and accountability. Untreated sewage can contaminate waterways, harm marine habitats, and pose health risks to people and wildlife through exposure to bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants.


From the Front: February 20, 2026

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Baldwin Releases Statement on SCOTUS Ruling Striking Down Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement after the Supreme Court issued a ruling blocking President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs:

“For nearly a year, Americans have felt the pain of Donald Trump’s reckless trade war – families paying more at the checkout counter, farmers cut off from markets, and manufacturers forced to pay increased input costs. The on-again-off-again trade war has simply been chaos for Wisconsin families and businesses. Today, we saw the Supreme Court rein in this lawless president and slap down his out-of-control tariffs, but the increased costs and uncertainty that Wisconsinites are still navigating is irreversible and will have long lasting impacts. I’ll do everything I can to help Wisconsin businesses, farmers, and families navigate the path ahead, but I hope this resounding rejection of Donald Trump’s trade war brings an end to the economic turbulence that has threatened too many Made in Wisconsin farms, small businesses, and manufacturers over the past year.”

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Senator Banks Tours River Ridge Commerce Center, Holds Roundtable with Southeast Indiana Leaders

New Albany, IN – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) toured the River Ridge Commerce Center in Jeffersonville and held a roundtable with community leaders from across Southeast Indiana at Indiana University Southeast (IUSE).

The roundtable included IUSE Chancellor Dr. Debbie Ford, Ivy Tech Sellersburg Chancellor Travis Haire, state representatives, county commissioners, law enforcement, economic development officials, and area business leaders.

See more photos here.

Background:

The River Ridge Commerce Center is 6,000 acres of master-planned industrial and commercial land built on the former Indiana Army Ammunition Plant site. The center is home to dozens of companies and supports more than 13,000 jobs.

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Bennet, Colleagues Call on Secretary Burgum to Halt Creation of Unified Wildfire Agency

Denver — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Conservation, Climate, Forestry, and Natural Resources, joined U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, in sending a letter calling on the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum to halt efforts to create the DOI’s new U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS), citing potential life-or-death consequences that could come as a result of decoupling wildfire management from land management agencies, and emphasizing a number of concerns related to recent reductions in staffing, combined with improperly severing wildfire management from land stewardship.

The Trump Administration has restructured firefighting efforts at the DOI without transparency or the necessary congressional approval of funds to create the new program.

“We are concerned that the DOI is advancing a rapid and consequential restructuring of wildfire management without adequate analysis, transparency, or planning to prevent disruption during what is expected to be a significant fire season or to safeguard long-term wildfire preparedness,” the lawmakers began.

“While consolidation could be an effective strategy to improve efficiency and coordination, the Administration’s approach risks diverting critical resources and funding away from land management agencies without any public plan to replace those capabilities. Equally troubling, the Department has not provided Congress with any information detailing how decoupling wildfire management from land management agencies is expected to improve the health of public lands, enhance communication and coordination, or better protect lives and private property from catastrophic wildfire,” the lawmakers continued.

“The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) relies on an integrated workforce of land managers, scientists, fuels specialists, and field staff to plan and implement vegetation management, hazardous fuels reduction, grazing programs, habitat conservation, and post-fire recovery,” the lawmakers underscored. “Further reductions in staffing, combined with improperly severing wildfire management from land stewardship, will undermine the agency’s capacity to manage landscapes proactively.”

The lawmakers concluded by urging the DOI to halt the creation of the USWFS and demanding answers to the lawmakers’ questions.

In 2025, Bennet joined U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) to urge U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Chief Tom Schultz to address persistent staffing shortages and mounting setbacks to wildfire risk reduction efforts across the West and the country. Bennet also joined Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Hickenlooper, Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) as well as U.S. Representative Jason Crow (D-Colo.) to reintroduce the Protect the West Act which would invest $60 billion in forests across the West to help reduce wildfire risk, restore watersheds, protect communities, and reduce wildfire suppression costs.

Alongside Bennet and Ranking Members Heinrich, Klobuchar, and Merkley, U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) as well as U.S. Representatives Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, and Maxine Dexter (D-Ore.) signed the letter.

The text of the letter is available HERE and below.

Dear Secretary Burgum:

We write to request information regarding the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) consolidation of its wildfire programs into a new U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS).

In response to the President’s direction, on January 12, 2026, you issued Secretary’s Order (SO) 3488, Establishing the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. This SO directs the DOI to consolidate wildfire programs and establish the USWFS within the Office of the Secretary, transferring all DOI wildland fire operations from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Wildland Fire, and Office of Aviation Services into this new entity.

We are concerned that the DOI is advancing a rapid and consequential restructuring of wildfire management without adequate analysis, transparency, or planning to prevent disruption during what is expected to be a significant fire season or to safeguard long-term wildfire preparedness.

This sweeping consolidation has been announced without providing an implementation plan that outlines how operational continuity will be ensured in the short term, or how restructuring will avoid long-term disruption to wildfire preparedness, response, and recovery. While consolidation could be an effective strategy to improve efficiency and coordination, the Administration’s approach risks diverting critical resources and funding away from land management agencies without any public plan to replace those capabilities.

Equally troubling, the Department has not provided Congress with any information detailing how decoupling wildfire management from land management agencies is expected to improve the health of public lands, enhance communication and coordination, or better protect lives and private property from catastrophic wildfire.

These concerns are particularly acute at the Bureau of Land Management, which has already lost thousands of employees through DOGE’s mismanagement. The removal of an additional 3,000 employees would leave the agency operating with nearly half the workforce it had on January 20, 2025, significantly impairing its ability to carry out its multiple-use mandate. The BLM relies on an integrated workforce of land managers, scientists, fuels specialists, and field staff to plan and implement vegetation management, hazardous fuels reduction, grazing programs, habitat conservation, and post-fire recovery. Further reductions in staffing, combined with improperly severing wildfire management from land stewardship, will undermine the agency’s capacity to manage landscapes proactively.

We are also concerned about how the National Park Service will continue to protect park resources and ecological integrity, the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ will continue to uphold trust responsibility to safeguard tribal lands and cultural resources and how the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will manage and protect National Wildlife Refuges to sustain fish and wildlife habitat, and biodiversity in fire-prone landscapes.

Mismanagement of fire management has life-or-death consequences and places billions of taxpayer dollars at risk. Suppression alone cannot be the sole strategy for addressing wildfire, and swift structural changes that undermine planning, prevention, preparedness, and recovery will only worsen outcomes.

Under the recently enacted appropriations law and accompanying congressional direction, the Department is required to participate in a study examining the impacts of consolidating U.S. Forest Service and Department of the Interior wildfire programs.

We want to be clear: the appropriations act does not authorize the transfer of U.S. Forest Service firefighting functions to the Department of the Interior. Any such transfer would require explicit congressional authorization and approval, regardless of the study’s findings.

In light of these questions and concerns, we request you delay any further implementation of the unification effort until Congress receives responses to the following questions.

Please provide a detailed list of the positions, functions, and duty stations proposed to be consolidated or “unified” under the U.S. Wildland Fire Service, including identification of positions currently housed within each DOI land management agency.

For positions proposed for consolidation, where will employees be located, and will they remain at their current duty stations long-term? Please identify any anticipated relocations, reclassifications, or changes in reporting structure.

How does the Department plan to implement new USWFS branding, including uniforms, equipment, vehicles, and insignia? In responding to this question, please provide a cost estimate and identify the funding sources for these expenses.

What pay structure will apply to USWFS personnel? Specifically, will salaries and supplements follow the same structure used in prior DOI consolidation efforts where DOI receives the base salary, plus $10,000 and a 10 percent supplement from the home agency?

Many land management agencies rely on collateral-duty positions partially funded by fire accounts. How will the Department ensure that these positions, and the scientific, public engagement, and land stewardship functions they support, remain fully funded and operational within the land management agencies following consolidation?

How will the Department ensure continued coordination between the USWFS and land management agencies on forest and rangeland management priorities, including hazardous fuels reduction, vegetation management, and long-term landscape resilience?

1. How will responsibilities for vegetation management, fuels reduction, invasive species and noxious weed treatment, and habitat objectives be coordinated to ensure alignment with agency missions and science-based land management?

2. How will the Department prevent the loss of in-house fuels specialists, land managers, and scientific staff from land management agencies as a result of this consolidation?

Who will have decision-making authority over wildfire resource allocation, fuels treatment priorities, and prescribed fire planning under the new structure?

Will land management agencies retain authority over fuels management and vegetation treatment decisions on land under their jurisdiction, consistent with their statutory missions, scientific expertise, and trust responsibilities? If so, how will they be funded and how will you ensure they have adequate staff to undertake this management?

How will the Department ensure clear lines of communication and operational coordination between the USWFS and DOI land management agencies during wildfire preparedness, response, recovery, and resilience planning?

Has the Department solicited feedback from state, local, and Tribal governments regarding the proposed consolidation? If so, please summarize the feedback received and explain how it has informed the Department’s approach.

What lines of communication and chain of command directives have you put in place to ensure seamless communications with all local, state and federal partners?

What training or rollout are you offering to local, state and federal partners with this transition as fire season gets underway?

Wildfire seasons are getting longer and more dangerous with each passing year. How will the Department ensure that the readiness of DOI firefighters, who make up roughly 30% of the federal wildland firefighting workforce, will not be further undermined by the consolidation?

We look forward to your timely response on this important matter.

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Blackburn Presses Apple on Suppression of News Articles from Conservative Publications

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook, pressing him on reportingthat Apple News has systematically suppressed news articles from right-leaning publications while amplifying articles from left-leaning publications. In the letter, Senator Blackburn requested all internal data on the distribution of stories from outlets across the political spectrum featured on the platform over the last year.

Last Month, Apple Posted Zero Stories from Right-Leaning Outlets and 440 Stories from Left-Leaning Outlets

Blackburn Echoes FTC Chairman Ferguson’s Concerns that Apple’s Systematic Suppression May Violate Consumer Protection Rules

“The Federal Trade Commission, under the leadership of Chairman Andrew Ferguson, recently sent a letter to your company calling on Apple to review its policies and warning that the systematic suppression of viewpoints—regardless of political affiliation—could violate consumer protection rules. I echo Chairman Ferguson’s concerns. Apple News is automatically installed on Apple devices and was purportedly ranked the most popular news application in the United States, Canada, and Australia in January. You have a responsibility to offer access to information without favor or bias toward one political party.”


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

[Hartford, CT] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) 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 their previous probe asking what safeguards these companies have in place to protect kids from sexually explicit, violent, or otherwise inappropriate content.

“As a toy manufacturer, the safety of children must be your highest priority,” the senators wrote. “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.”

“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,” the senators continued. “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.

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Blumenthal Statement on Supreme Court Decision Striking Down Trump Tariffs

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement today after the Supreme Court ruled that President Donald Trump does not have the unilateral authority to issue sweeping tax hikes on consumer and household necessities in the form of tariffs without Congressional approval:

“This rebuke to Trump is a relief for American families and businesses. The Supreme Court has delivered a serious and absolutely necessary rejection of Trump’s lawless trade war. Now, consumers and businesses deserve refunds for the deep suffering Trump’s illegal tariffs have inflicted.”

“Trump’s unilateral tariffs were not only illegal, they were devastating to consumers buying cars to commute to work, groceries to feed their families, energy to heat their homes, even clothing for their kids. The Trump tariffs were a disaster for big and small businesses that paid the price – literally. This kind of economic harm might not have been painful for the millionaires and billionaires in the Trump Cabinet, who claim it’s no big thing, but it deeply hurt average, everyday Americans.”

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Senator Blumenthal: Week in Review 2/13/2026-2/20/2026

Slamming Trump’s Tariffs After Supreme Court Decision

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement today after the Supreme Court ruled that President Donald Trump does not have the unilateral authority to issue sweeping tax hikes on consumer and household necessities in the form of tariffs without Congressional approval:

“This rebuke to Trump is a relief for American families and businesses. The Supreme Court has delivered a serious and absolutely necessary rejection of Trump’s lawless trade war. Now, consumers and businesses deserve refunds for the deep suffering Trump’s illegal tariffs have inflicted.”

“Trump’s unilateral tariffs were not only illegal, they were devastating to consumers buying cars to commute to work, groceries to feed their families, energy to heat their homes, even clothing for their kids. The Trump tariffs were a disaster for big and small businesses that paid the price – literally. This kind of economic harm might not have been painful for the millionaires and billionaires in the Trump Cabinet, who claim it’s no big thing, but it deeply hurt average, everyday Americans.”

Advocating for Our National Security & Alliances Abroad

Blumenthal, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined a bipartisan bicameral delegation led by U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) to attend the Munich Security Conference (MSC).

“At this critical moment for our national defense, I am eager to speak directly with our European allies to reaffirm our support for NATO and to our shared security goals,” Blumenthal said. “I look forward to continuing conversations about our common commitment to Ukraine’s brave fight against Putin’s bloody assault – vital to our own national interest and to Europe’s.”

The MSC is widely considered the world’s leading forum for international security policy. The conference is a “marketplace of ideas” where initiatives and solutions are developed and opinions are exchanged. It also provides a venue for diplomatic initiatives and ideas to cooperatively address the world’s most pressing security concerns.

Blumenthal further expressed support for our European allies and urged recommitment to supporting Ukraine in the war against Russia on Twitter/X.

“We’re talking bluntly but positively with European leaders here at the Munich Security Conference. Europe hopes, indeed hungers, for reassurance that America is a reliable ally, after Trump rants about invading Greenland, abandoning Ukraine & more.Strong European support for Ukraine—mirroring ours. Ukraine’s fight is their fight, & ours.Rubio fell flat. His headliner speech sought to calm rifts—but vague platitudes & bromides lacked substance & specificity. Barely any mention of Ukraine, Russia or China,” wrote Blumenthal on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal also traveled to Ukraine and met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and highlighted the need for the United States to continue to back Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s murderous invasion. He also accompanied U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Chris Coons (D-DE) on the first Congressional Delegation to Odesa since the start of Russia’s full scale invasion in 2022.

“Approaching the 4th anniversary of Russia’s savage, slaughtering invasion, Ukrainian’s are enduring unspeakable suffering with unstoppable bravery & strength.Match Ukrainian courage with action. Their resolve & resilience demand more than rhetoric—to stop Putin’s killing & kidnapping, bombing hospitals & homes, abducting tens of thousands of kids, war crimes & inhumanity. The face of 21st century evil.Ironclad security guarantees are a lynchpin to any peace agreement, deterring Russia from repeating cruel attempts to conquer this brave country. No strength, no peace. A war criminal, that’s all Putin understands,” wrote Blumenthal on Twitter/X.

“In Kyiv & now Odesa, I’m deeply moved to witness the destruction wrought by Russia met with unstoppable Ukrainian grit & grace. America should match their courage with ours—weapons not just words, sledgehammer economic pressure, like my Russia sanctions bill,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

“My visit to Ukraine convinces me that redoubled U.S. support—more than rhetoric—is essential to Ukraine’s battlefield strength & peace. The Ukrainian Navy is fighting with a determination & skill that is of the highest caliber. We must provide them the tools they urgently need,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal advocated for Connecticut businesses as an essential part of our country’s efforts to support our European allies.

“We need a strong NATO alliance. I’m at CT’s Pratt & Whitney in Rzeszów Poland where engine parts for the most advanced fighter jets are made & sent to East Hartford. This collaboration is key to help our European allies push back against Russia’s murderous aggression,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

“I was shocked to learn that Putin is purposely targeting American businesses—bombing more than half of the 600 with operations here. It’s open season on American plants & offices in Ukraine,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

On the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee

Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Blumenthal released a statement following the Trump Administration’s decision to halt its new interim final rule at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that would immediately change how veteran disability ratings are evaluated. This rule would lower disability ratings and compensation awards for disabled veterans by not taking into account their baseline conditions. While VA Secretary halted the rule, he has not outright rescinded it.

“While I’m encouraged the Secretary has temporarily walked away from his short-sighted policy to slash disability benefits for thousands of veterans, this rule must be permanently rescinded. This proposed policy would do nothing but reduce the compensation veterans are due, and scare them into avoiding the life-improving medication they need – harming their physical and mental health. I will be introducing legislation to align VA policy with the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims’ ruling that a veteran’s disability rating must be strictly based on that veteran’s underlying condition.”

Earlier this week, Blumenthal joined Veterans Service Organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV), in raising concerns over this rule.

Blumenthal slammed the Trump Administration’s dangerous decision to end a policy aimed at preventing veterans who are at-risk to themselves or others from buying firearms:

“Guns are used in the vast majority of veteran suicides. The Trump Administration’s decision to abruptly end a policy that prevents troubled veterans or those requiring a fiduciary to manage their affairs from buying firearms is dangerous and reckless. This Administration should be focused on measures that will actually help end veteran suicide and make our communities safer. Eliminating this policy and weakening the NICS background check system altogether is a disastrous decision that will have potentially tragic impacts for years to come.”

For the last 30 years, the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) list has included veterans who have serious mental health disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. This policy is intended to protect from the irreversible harm that can result when someone in crisis has access to a firearm. VA made these determinations through a comprehensive process with robust due process protections built in. VA Secretary Doug Collins and Attorney General Pam Bondi announced they will stop reporting these veterans to this background check system and remove all past VA reports.

Protecting Against Political Prosecutions

Blumenthal and U.S. Representative Dan Goldman (D-NY) introduced new legislation to enact guardrails to prevent the Trump Administration and future Administrations from misusing the justice system to target or coerce political opponents.

“Under President Trump, traditions of professionalism at the Department of Justice have been trashed – requiring legislation to prevent weaponization of political revenge. Norms have been subverted and career prosecutors defending the rule of law are fired and replaced by political henchmen,” Blumenthal said. “This legislation installs safeguards— beginning with a right of action against federal officials who engage in malicious prosecution and personal or political targeting. Some of these reforms are sweeping, because the threat we face is broad and unprecedented. There must be accountability for federal officials who use the vast power of prosecution for personal or political ends. These reforms will make our justice system fairer for all Americans.”

Blumenthal Bulletin

Blumenthal reintroduced Jaime’s Law to combat gun violence.

Blumenthal and U. S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) demanded answers from a toy maker for exposing sensitive data involving children to the public.

Blumenthal honored the passing of Carolyn Vermont.

Blumenthal met with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.

Blumenthal congratulated Connecticut’s Mac Forehand on his Olympic silver medal.

Blumenthal wished a peaceful Ramadan to all who observe.

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Capito Commends Trump EPA’s Repeal of Biden Era Attacks on Coal

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, applauded the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) repeal of the Biden-era Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) rule, which placed unreasonable standards on America’s coal- and oil-fired power plants.

“I applaud the Trump EPA’s continued efforts to overturn burdensome Democrat regulations that have placed lasting hardship on American families and workers. The Obama Administration’s 2012 MATS rule was one of the biggest blows against West Virginia in the war on coal, putting an indescribable strain on our dedicated coal miners, their families and communities and our entire state. The Biden Administration only made matters worse when it included an even more stringent MATS rule in its package of regulations aimed at eliminating coal from our nation’s energy mix. Building on last week’s announcements, this latest action from the Trump EPA further demonstrates President Trump’s and EPA Administrator Zeldin’s support of the affordable and reliable electricity that coal provides,” Chairman Capito said.


PHOTOS: Capito Tours CDS Projects in Bluefield and Princeton

MERCER COUNTY, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a leader on the Senate Appropriations Committee, made stops in Bluefield and Princeton, W.Va. to tour community projects, view ongoing revitalization efforts, and receive updates on plans for projects supported by Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) investments she helped secure.

To begin the day, Senator Capito traveled to Bluefield, W.Va. where she met with city officials and community stakeholders to discuss economic development priorities and tour several key sites that are a part of the city’s ongoing revitalization efforts. Stops included Mercer County Airport, The Emergency Services Campus, and Hotel Thelma to learn more about proposed improvements and future plans.

“The City of Bluefield is in the middle of an exciting revitalization period— one that I have been proud to support through the Appropriations process,” Senator Capito said. “I appreciated the opportunity to see firsthand how federal resources are helping drive revitalization across the community. Through the CDS process, I’ve worked to support local priorities that strengthen downtown, expand opportunity, and improve quality of life for families and businesses. Bluefield has momentum, and I’m proud to partner with local leaders to keep that progress moving forward.”

“We were very honored to host Senator Capito today as she has been instrumental in assisting us in moving Bluefield forward. We are very excited about the forward-progress we are making and none of this would be possible without the senator’s help and willingness to work with us. It is a team effort moving southern West Virginia forward, and we truly appreciate all she does for us,” Cecil Marson, Bluefield City Manager, said.

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) tours key sites in Bluefield, W.Va. on Friday, February 20, 2026.

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) tours key sites in Bluefield, W.Va. on Friday, February 20, 2026.

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) tours key sites in Bluefield, W.Va. on Friday, February 20, 2026.

Next, Senator Capito traveled to Princeton to visit the Princeton Municipal Building where she reviewed progress on CDS-supported projects benefiting the Community Center and Police Department. Local officials provided updates on the broader effort that began in 2017 to consolidate the city’s administrative offices, including Public Works, the fire department, and the police department, into a single facility. The project is intended to improve coordination among departments and foster a more efficient way to better serve residents.

“It’s great to be back in Princeton to see the continued progress on the community center and police department—two projects I was proud to support through the Congressionally Directed Spending process. By housing these essential services under one roof, the city will be better equipped to respond to community needs and deliver service to residents effectively,” Senator Capito said.

“On behalf of the City of Princeton, I would like to thank Senator Capito for taking time out of her busy schedule to receive updates on the City’s Wavepool, Community Center, and Police Department Projects. Senator Capito has been, and continues to be, an advocate for our community and for new incredible facilities, which will provide an array of quality public services to our area. Public projects take many partners to be successful, and Senator Capito has delivered on many opportunities that will help realize crucial projects. Again, we thank her and her team,” Samuel Lusk, City of Princeton Economic Development Director, said.

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) tours the Princeton Municipal Building in Princeton, W.Va. on Friday, February 20, 2026.

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) tours the Princeton Municipal Building in Princeton, W.Va. on Friday, February 20, 2026.

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) tours the Princeton Municipal Building in Princeton, W.Va. on Friday, February 20, 2026.


Cassidy Helps Deliver Tax Relief for Louisianans Hit by Winter Storm

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for extending the tax filing deadlines for Louisianans effected by Winter Storm Fern. This announcement comes after Cassidy urged the IRS to do so. These taxpayers now have until March 31, 2026, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments.

“Families and small businesses are still recovering. Now they have breathing room to do so before worrying about taxes,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Background

Widespread power outages and business disruptions—particularly in Louisiana—occurred just ahead of critical IRS reporting deadlines, making timely compliance difficult or impossible for many taxpayers. Cassidy pushed to extend the deadline for affected families and businesses.

Cassidy, alongside all members of Louisiana’s congressional delegation, also expressed support for Governor Jeff Landry’s request for an expedited federal Major Disaster declaration following Winter Storm Fern, which impacted Louisiana from January 23–27, 2026, causing widespread power outages, road closures, and water system disruptions across northern Louisiana.

Cassidy released a statement following President Trump’s approval of this request.

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Senator Collins, Bipartisan Group Urge Timely Delivery of TRIO Programs at Education Department

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) led a bipartisan group of Senators in writing to U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to urge the timely delivery of federal funds from TRIO grant programs. TRIO is a long-standing set of federal programs that help approximately 840,000 students prepare for, enter, and graduate from college — specifically low-income and first-generation students.

“Unfortunately, in recent years, the Department of Education has failed to award grants to TRIO recipients in sufficient time,” the Senators wrote. “For example, last year, the Department of Education delayed releasing more than $600 million in federal funding for over 2,000 TRIO programs, which impacted over 650,000 low-income, first-generation students.”

“These delays can result in increased strain on program administrators and, more importantly, students,” they continued. “By delaying the execution of these programs, programs may be forced to make difficult decisions, including laying off staff or scaling back services. This has a direct impact on the timeliness and quality of TRIO services, and it may result in students losing access to the help they need to succeed in college.”

“As such, we ask that the Department of Education launch the grant competition for Talent Search and Educational Opportunity Centers by March 1, 2026, so that award notices can be released no later than June 30, 2026, and programs can begin promptly on September 1, 2026,” the Senators concluded.

The complete text of their letter can be read here.

At a Senate Appropriations hearing last year, Senator Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, questioned Secretary McMahon on the proposed elimination of TRIO programs in the President’s 2025 budget proposal. In response, the Secretary committed to work with Congress, acknowledging that Congress controls the purse strings, while expressing a willingness to renegotiate grant terms to strengthen accountability and oversight. The Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations bill signed into law earlier this month included $1.2 billion for TRIO programs.

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Senator Collins’ Statement on SCOTUS Striking Down Emergency Tariffs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement after the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down emergency tariffs imposed by the President:

“Today’s Supreme Court ruling reaffirms that only Congress has the constitutional authority to impose tariffs, and the President can only do so under a clear and limited delegation of authority from Congress. My votes against the President unilaterally imposing tariffs on Canada reflected the same conclusion as well as my belief that these tariffs often harm Maine’s economy and consumers.”

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Cramer Applauds EPA Repeal of MATS Amendments, Reinstatement of Lignite Subcategory

***Click herefor audio.***

BISMARCK, N.D. – Following through on a promise made in the opening months of President Donald Trump’s second term, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the repeal of the Biden-era 2024 Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) amendments. These amendments dramatically increased restrictions on emissions limits, which was especially impactful on North Dakota’s lignite coal power plants.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, released the following statement celebrating the repeal of the MATS amendments:

"The final MATS rule is not simply just a victory for ratepayers around the country or even just for the coal industry in general. It’s really a victory for the rule of law and the administrative process, which of course is so important. Instead of this charade that’s been dominated by climate zealots who simply want to end fossil fuels or the coal industry at all costs, President Trump and Administrator Zeldin actually followed the science, the law, and the constitutional principles of cooperative federalism, which I’ve been talking about since my first day in office. This final rule maintains that balance and harmony between the environment and the lignite industry, which produces the all-important dispatchable power, 24 hours and 7 days a week baseload power, for the entire Midwest. We’ve got the cleanest air in the country and we produce its most affordable electricity. Thank you President Trump for not imposing federal mediocrity upon North Dakota’s excellence."

Jonathan Fortner, President and CEO of the Lignite Energy Council, joined Cramer in celebrating the repeal, saying "This is a significant and welcome step toward restoring balance in federal energy policy. The existing MATS standards are effective. They protect public health and have driven real emissions reductions, while allowing coal plants to continue delivering affordable, around-the-clock power. This is a major victory for reliable energy, grid stability, and the communities that depend on coal generation. The Lignite Energy Council has pushing for the repeal of this ruling since it was first announced. Implementing the 2024 version would have threatened the livelihood of our power plants and our workforce, raised electricity prices for North Dakotans, and threatened the 12,000 direct and indirect jobs related to the industry."

North Dakota lignite coal is a significant driver of the state’s low consumer energy prices, and the state enjoys the lowest-cost energy in the nation. The EPA’s final rule repeals the 2024 amendments to MATS and reverts to standards set by the Obama administration in 2012. The Biden administration admitted the 2012 standards protected public health. Yet it then issued new amendments to require installation and adoption of continuous monitoring technology, which was initially used for detection of particulate matter rather than mercury. The Biden amendments required costly mitigation methods unproven at the scale needed for lignite plants like those in North Dakota. Cramer and then-Congressman Kelly Armstrong expressed these concerns in a letter to the Biden EPA, and requested the reversal of the amendments.

This final rule also restores the regulatory subcategory for lignite coal. Once again ignoring the EPA’s findings, the Biden rule eliminated the subcategory previously created to align its regulatory approach with the physical and chemical characteristics of lignite coal. North Dakota’s Lignite Research Program meticulously researched the characteristics of lignite coal to lay the foundation for the reimplementation of the subcategory, which EPA had originally adopted in 2012.


DOW Awards $11 Million Contract Modification for PARCS Operations at Cavalier Space Force Station

***Click here for audio.***

BISMARCK, N.D. – A key missile defense warning and tracking radar system based in North Dakota received a big boost this week, when the U.S. Department of War (DOW) increased its contract with InDyne Inc. by $11,847,426. The funding will support work at Cavalier Space Force Station’s Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS), which tracks more than half of all objects orbiting Earth and serves as one of the first lines of defense against incoming missile attacks.

Cavalier is home to the 10th Space Warning Squadron, which operates and maintains PARCS. The radar enables Cavalier Space Force Station to provide missile warning and space surveillance data to North American Aerospace Defense Command, United States Space Command, and other combatant commanders.

“The early-warning and missile tracking capabilities of PARCS up at Cavalier Space Force Station is a legacy, it’s a North Dakota legacy, it’s a national security legacy, and a real cornerstone of national defense and central to our missile defense framework in our country,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), chair of the Senate Armed Services (SASC) Airland Subcommittee. “This contract modification provides additional support for PARCS operations, and it also importantly reinforces North Dakota’s role in protecting the nation. Maintaining our strategic advantage in space and missile defense is essential to the country and North Dakota is essential to the mission.”

The contract modification raises the total awarded amount to $42,511,249, bringing the cumulative face value to $72,886,894 for the base and all options. Work is expected to be completed by February 2027.


Curtis Statement on SCOTUS Tariff Decision

SALT LAKE CITY, UT—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) issued the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court’s Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump decision:

“Today’s ruling affirms, despite all the noise of the moment, that the Founders’ system of checks and balances remains strong nearly 250 years later. Several questions remain unanswered, including what happens to the revenue already collected and how the Administration may use alternative authorities to impose tariffs. Looking ahead, it is critical that we provide the clarity and predictability businesses need.”


Duckworth Reacts to VA Retreating from Enforcing the Project 2025 Ambush Rulemaking That Threatens to Prevent Veterans from Seeking or Accessing the Health Coverage They Earned

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC)—today released the following statement after U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins announced the VA would be “halting enforcement” of its new interim final rule that puts millions of Veterans’ disability ratings and care at risk and shockingly disincentivizes our nation’s heroes from both seeking earned coverage for service-connected disabilities and following recommended treatments. This comes less than 24 hours after Duckworth demanded Collins rescind and apologize for implementing this shameful rule change.

“Just the other day, Secretary Collins described the grave concerns over this new rule that I, my Democratic colleagues, numerous VSOs and a multitude of Veterans raised as ‘fake news.’ Now, he’s backtracking on this disastrous rule change—because he knows it could be used to harm our heroes’ access to care, and because Veterans across the country called him on his bullshit.

“It’s deeply troubling that VA will only be ‘halting enforcement’ of its disastrous new rule. If Secretary Collins truly takes our Veterans’ concerns seriously—as he claims—then he would rescind the rule entirely. I’m going to keep the pressure up and do everything in my power to deter the VA from ever again implementing this shameful backdoor to cutting our heroes’ benefits.”

Three days ago, the VA shamefully circumvented the normal rulemaking process and implemented without public comment a new interim final rule that would change the way the VA determines disability rating from measuring the disability itself to measuring how the disability presents during a specific appointment—meaning if a Veterans is actively treating their injuries and their symptoms appear improved in that snapshot of time, that Veteran could receive a lower disability rating than they would have without treatment.

The PACT Act was a historic, overwhelmingly bipartisan victory that enabled Veterans who were exposed to toxic burn pits and similar hazardous environments during their service—which can lead to cancer and other devastating ailments—to finally get the care they need covered by the VA. But in order to claim this new coverage, a Veteran would need a new disability review, which would take place under the new rule and could counterintuitively result in Veteran’s disability rating actually being downgraded despite Congress’s clear intent in the PACT Act.

Duckworth has been a fierce leader and advocate for improving our Veterans’ and servicemembers’ access to the care they need. Last week, she led Senate Democrats in demanding VA Secretary Doug Collins to immediately reverse the VA’s new draconian abortion ban. Last September, she reintroduced legislation that would improve Veterans’ access to contraception and increase efficiency and cost-effectiveness for contraceptive products at the VA. A few weeks prior, Duckworth sent a letter to VA Secretary Collins demanding he block ICE from stealing VA resources at Hines VA Hospital in Chicago.

Duckworth also joined U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) in reintroducing legislation to help make it easier for our Veterans who struggle with infertility to build their families. Earlier last year, Duckworth railed against the Trump Administration for indiscriminately firing Veterans Crisis Line workers and introduced her Protect Veteran Jobs Act with U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) to reinstate the thousands of Veterans who were fired in Trump’s mass layoffs—an effort Republicans shamefully blocked in March.

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Duckworth Statement After the Supreme Court Struck Down Trump’s Illegal Tariffs

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today issued the following statement in reaction to the Supreme Court striking down Donald Trump’s illegal tariffs in a 6-3 decision:

“Trump’s illegal tariffs were a self-inflicted economic catastrophe caused by one wannabe dictator’s greed, vanity and hunger for power. They forced millions of Americans to pay more for groceries, toys and so many more everyday essentials, squeezed small business owners and pushed farmers to make impossible decisions just to survive. His tariffs stole billions from American small businesses, farmers and consumers—and he must give that money back.

“After months of pain in American pocketbooks, this decision proves Trump hurt the middle class for nothing. It won’t put the $1,700 that the average family has already spent back in their pockets. And after losing this case with two of the three Justices he appointed voting against him, Trump just reiterated that he will find other ways to force the American people to pay even higher prices in the months ahead.

“It could not be more obvious that Trump was always lying when he promised to lower costs. He simply is not interested in doing anything but raise prices for Americans, even if it could mean circumventing the Supreme Court.”

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Durbin Statement On The Supreme Court Striking Down President Trump’s Tariffs

CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement after the Supreme Court dealt a blow to the Trump Administration by ruling against the President’s sweeping tariff policy:

“Despite his promises to ‘lower costs on Day One’ and that his tariffs would somehow ‘liberate the American taxpayer,’ in reality, the misguided Trump Tariff Tax on goods imported into the United States created a burden on families and businesses. Any suspicion that these tariffs were legitimate under existing law disappeared when President Trump announced a dramatic increase on Swiss tariffs because he did not like their leader’s attitude.

“Today’s ruling is a win for the American people and, in a rare instance, shows the Supreme Court can use its constitutional authority to stop the corruption and chaos of the Trump presidency.”

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Gallego Statement on the 2026 State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) released the following statement on attending President Trump’s upcoming State of the Union address:

“This administration continues to disregard the rule of law and the Constitution while failing to lower costs for American families. I have more productive ways to spend two hours than listening to more lies. I’ll pass.”


ICYMI: Gallego Joins Lettuce Farm Workers in Yuma

YUMA – Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) joined workers in Yuma County to harvest produce with the Growers Company, at a local lettuce farm. Yuma, the “Winter Lettuce Capital of the World,” produces 90% of the U.S.’ leafy greens from November to April. The workers start their day by waking up at 2 a.m. to travel to the lettuce fields.

Before the sun rose, Senator Gallego met with the harvesters who showed him every step that goes into keeping produce sections across the nation stocked.

Workers start the day off by stretching and sanitizing before heading to their stations in the fields. Once there, the labor-intensive harvest begins.

Throughout his visit, Senator Gallego spoke with workers and Growers Company staff, including Mark Rodriquez about the necessary role work visas and ensuring Arizona has access to water rights plays into keeping groceries affordable for the entire country.

Watch more on Senator Gallego’s visit on Arizona’s Family and HERE.


Gillibrand Statement On Supreme Court Striking Down President Trump’s Tariffs

Today, in response to the Supreme Court’s decision striking down President Trump’s tariffs, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement:

“The Supreme Court confirmed today that beyond just being reckless and vindictive, President Trump’s tariff scheme was also unconstitutional. The president bypassed Congress, hiking prices on everyday goods and crushing family budgets and local businesses across America. These tariffs are a hidden tax on you, paid by hardworking Americans, not foreign countries. Families in New York have already seen their costs go up by $4,200 because of the Trump Tariff Tax and can’t afford any more financial strain. I urge President Trump to respect this ruling, reimburse our small businesses for these illegal taxes, end these harmful tariffs immediately, and focus on lowering the cost of living for American families.“

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Gillibrand Statement On UAP Disclosure

Today, after President Trump announced that he is directing his administration to release files related to unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs), U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement:

“This is good news, and I am encouraged to see the president lend his support to this effort. I have been pushing for years for increased disclosure and transparency around UAPs. My work to establish and strengthen the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office has already brought about significant progress in improving interagency coordination, data collection, and engagement with the public, but there is still more to be done and the American people’s interest in UAPs only continues to grow. I urge the administration to follow through on this directive and I will keep fighting to elevate this issue in Congress so that we can reduce the stigma around reporting and ensure UAP records are being properly disclosed and made public.”

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Schumer, Gillibrand Announce $21+ Million In Fed Funding To Upgrade NFTA Bus Facilities Across Western New York

Investment Will Rehabilitate Critical Bus Infrastructure To Improve Energy Efficiency, Reliability, And Safety For Riders Across Western New York

Funding Was Secured Under The FY2026 Buses & Bus Facilities Program Which Schumer Fought To Boost In Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law

Schumer, Gillibrand: Western New York Is In The Fast Lane For Bus Facility Improvements!

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $21,600,000 in federal funding for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA). The grant, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and awarded through the Federal Transit Administration’s FY26 Buses & Bus Facilities Program, will help replace the roofing system across three NFTA-Metro bus garages. This will help Western New York realize energy savings to meet the current energy code.

“New federal funding is putting Western New York’s bus facilities in the fast lane for improvements. I’m proud to deliver more than $21 million in federal funding for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority to upgrade its bus facilities,” said Senator Schumer. “This major federal investment, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, will pave the way for long-term reliability, safety, and energy efficiency of NFTA’s bus garages and help maintain reliable service for Buffalo and Western New York.”

“This $21.6 million in federal funding I have secured will modernize critical bus facilities, improve reliability, and help ensure Western New Yorkers can get where they need to go safely and efficiently,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’ll keep fighting to make sure transit agencies across our state have the resources they need to maintain strong, dependable service for the communities they serve.”

“We extend our sincere gratitude to U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer andKirsten Gillibrand for this critical funding to support needed improvements at our bus garages,” said NFTA executive director Kim Minkel. “Their leadership and continued commitment to public transportation will have a lasting positive impact on our workforce, and community we proudly serve. This investment strengthens the very backbone of our transit system, ensuring our fleet is maintained safely, efficiently, and reliably for the thousands of riders who depend on us every day.”

NFTA operates transit services from its Babcock, Cold Spring, and Frontier garage locations. The roofing systems at all three garages are between 23 to 35 years old, with two of the three systems being original to the 1980s buildings. Manufacturers’ warranties at all three garage locations have expired. Based on NFTA analysis and a roof assessment, replacement of all three roofing systems is necessary for long-term reliability, safety, and energy efficiency at the NFTA-Metro bus garages. The project will also include installation of new code-compliant components, including a vapor barrier, insulation, membrane, flashings, curbs, walk paths, fall protection systems, smoke vents, and access hatches. These improvements will enhance facility safety and generate energy savings in line with modern energy codes. As the NFTA continues to advance its Battery Electric Bus Deployment Program and integrates additional advanced technologies into its fleet, maintaining garage facilities in good condition is critical to supporting reliable and modern transit service.

The grant was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and awarded through the Federal Transit Administration’s FY26 Buses & Bus Facilities Program. Senators Schumer and Gillibrand fought to include over $5.5 billion in funding for the Bus and Bus Facilities program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to fund local transit systems.

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Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Major $28.8 Million In Fed Funding For New Bus Transit Facility In Utica

Investment In New Bus Maintenance & Storage Facility Will Pave The Way For Future Expansion Of Transit Service In Oneida County & Throughout Mohawk Valley

Funding Was Secured Under The FY2026 Buses & Bus Facilities Program, Which Schumer Fought To Boost In Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law

Schumer, Gillibrand: Oneida County Is In The Fast Lane For A New Bus Facility!

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced that they have secured a whopping $28,800,000 in federal funding for the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority (CNYRTA) to construct a new bus maintenance, storage, and administrative facility in Utica, serving all of Oneida County and communities across the greater Mohawk Valley. The grant, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law – championed by the senators – was awarded through the Federal Transit Administration’s FY26 Buses & Bus Facilities Program, and brings the total BIL investment in the City of Utica up to more than $53 million.

“Thanks to this massive federal investment, Utica is officially gearing up for a brand new public transit facility that will put Oneida County in the fast lane for the modern bus system residents deserve. I’m proud to deliver this major $28 million investment for the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority to improve bus transit for Utica and Oneida County,” said Senator Schumer. “This major federal investment, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, will pave the way for new economic growth, create good-paying jobs, and drive the future of public transportation for the Mohawk Valley.”

“This $28.8 million in federal funding I have secured will support a new facility to enhance bus service, improve reliability, and help ensure Oneida County residents can get where they need to go safely and efficiently,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’ll keep fighting to make sure transit agencies across our state have the resources they need to maintain strong, dependable service for the communities they serve.”

“We are greatly appreciative of this funding which will be used to build a new transit facility in Utica. Our current facility is prone to seasonal flooding, which occasionally makes it difficult for us to provide transportation services for our community. This new facility will increase the reliability of our service, improve the working conditions for our dedicated workers, and also allow us to consider alternate propulsion systems for Oneida County,” said CNYRTA CEO Chris Tuff. “On behalf of CNYRTA and the millions of riders we serve each year, I would like to thank Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for their leadership in securing this major investment to transform our region’s public transportation.”

“The news that CNYRTA’s new public transit facility – their Mohawk Valley regional hub – will be constructed in Utica is transformational to the Utica/Rome metro area. Not only will the influx of major construction feed our near term economy with jobs, but its permanent contribution to our transportation infrastructure will be paramount to attracting new growth for the future of the city,” said Michael P. Galime, Mayor of Utica. “Congratulations to CNYRTA on this huge win, and my immense appreciation to Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for making this possible with their tireless advocacy and willingness to work across the aisle when it comes to supporting the people of Utica and the Mohawk Valley.”

The proposed facility will address critical operational needs and provide the foundation for a modern, resilient, and service-ready transit future in Utica, Oneida County, and across the Mohawk Valley. Strategically located and designed, the project will accommodate future expansion opportunities of transit service into adjacent counties, including Herkimer and Madison. By centralizing operations and upgrading its physical infrastructure, CNYRTA is taking a critical step toward building a more efficient, environmentally sustainable, and regionally integrated transportation network.

The grant was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and awarded through the Federal Transit Administration’s FY26 Buses & Bus Facilities Program. Senators Schumer and Gillibrand fought to include over $5.5 billion in funding for the Bus and Bus Facilities program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to fund local transit systems.

Schumer has long led the charge to modernize the City of Utica’s aging transportation infrastructure and revitalize the city’s historic downtown. In 2024, after personally calling and writing the Secretary of Transportation to fight for Utica, Schumer proudly delivered a highly competitive $1.8 million BIL investment to fix Utica’s infamous and outdated Genesee Street traffic signals. Earlier that year, Schumer secured a $4.6 million BIL investment for Utica’s Broad Street Corridor Project through the Federal Highway Administration’s Transportation Alternatives Program. In 2022, following direct advocacy to the Transportation Secretary, Schumer secured an $18.2 million BIL investment through the U.S. DOT’s highly competitive Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program for Utica’s North Genesee Street Gateway Bridge & Multi-Modal Connector Project.

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Capitol Hill Report, 02-20-26

Audio from this afternoon’s call is available HERE.

Topics include: the Supreme Court’s tariff decision, immigration, Iran, the SAVE Act and the Epstein Files.


Grassley Launches 46th Year of Annual 99 County Meetings with Q&As in 13 Counties

WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) hit the ground running this week to begin his 46th consecutive year of meeting face-to-face with Iowans in every county.

Grassley started his annual 99 county meetings on Tuesday in Union County with a tour of a local business, followed by a question-and-answer session with employees. Grassley then held 12 additional county meetings, hearing from Iowans in Ringgold, Taylor, Adams, Page, Pottawattamie, Montgomery, Fremont, Mills, Harrison, Shelby, Audubon and Cass counties.

“Dialogue is the essence of representative government. You can’t have representative government without speaking to your constituents,” Grassley said. “I appreciate the opportunity to meet directly with Iowans in all 99 counties, answer their questions and hear what’s important to them. I’m looking forward to more meetings throughout the year. As always, I’ll bring Iowans’ views back with me to the policymaking tables in Washington.”

The Working Families Tax Cuts and its benefits to Iowa’s farmers, rural hospitals and small businesses was a frequent topic of discussion, as Iowans learn more about how the law puts money back in their pockets.

Follow Senator Grassley on his 46th annual tour of Iowa HERE. To view Grassley’s photos and posts from each meeting, search #99CountyMeetings on X and Instagram.

Background:

For 46 years, Grassley’s annual 99 county meetings have been scheduled using the same formula, including open town hall meetings, as well as meetings with Iowans at factories, hospitals, schools, service clubs and small businesses. After each county meeting, Grassley makes himself available for 15 minutes to answer questions from local reporters. Iowans set the agenda; no question is off-limits.

Grassley makes it a priority to hear from a cross-section of Iowans, including those who can’t take time off work or school to attend town halls. His tireless efforts to meet Iowans where they work, study and live continues to set the standard for representative government. Iowans can also contact Grassley’s office at any time to share their views or request assistance with federal agencies via his website. Every Iowan can expect a response from the senator.


Grassley Statement on Supreme Court Tariff Decision

WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today issued the following statement regarding the Supreme Court’s decision on tariffs:

“While Congress gave some of its authority on importations to the president when it passed the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), the Supreme Court has determined that Congress did not authorize President Trump’s use of tariffs. I’m one of the only sitting members of Congress who was in office during IEEPA’s passage. Since then, I’ve made clear Congress needs to reassert its constitutional role over commerce, which is why I introduced prospective legislation that would give Congress a say when tariffs are levied in the future.

“President Trump is a very skilled negotiator, and I want him to continue to be successful in expanding market access. He’s already succeeded in deals, including getting American beef into Australia, ethanol and beef into England, rice into Japan and pork into Taiwan. I appreciate the work he and his administration are doing to restore fair, reciprocal trade agreements. I urge the Trump administration to keep negotiating, while also working with Congress to secure longer-term enforcement measures so we can provide expanded market opportunities and certainty for Iowa’s family farmers and businesses.”


Q&A: Raise the Volume, Lower the Debt

Q: Why do you keep raising the volume in Washington about the nation’s debt?

A: America will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence this year on the Fourth of July. We are blessed to live in the land of opportunity and have an obligation to pass on the promise of prosperity for generations to come. Just consider, in 1776 a 33-year-old was tasked with writing what became our nation’s founding charter. The Declaration of Independence launched the American experiment in self-government; putting power in the people’s hands. Thomas Jefferson became our nation’s third president and prioritized fiscal discipline. He viewed debt as a threat to the American experiment, endangering civic responsibility and government stability. This Founding Father observed “public debt as the greatest of the dangers to be feared.”

If Thomas Jefferson were to read the latest report on the nation’s debt, he surely would roll in his grave. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) is the independent scorekeeper for Congress, crunching numbers to determine how policies will impact the federal budget. Its most recent analysis shows how the nation’s finances are on an unsustainable track. Although there’s a glimmer of good news the Trump administration and Republican-led Congress have worked to rein in bloated Biden era spending, our efforts are overshadowed by the sea of red ink from the ballooning cost of entitlement programs. Whereas the Biden administration’s poorly named Inflation Reduction Act cranked the spending spigot wide open, Congress worked with the Trump administration to strengthen fiscal integrity measures for Medicaid to ensure the program serves vulnerable populations the program was designed to serve. I’m also working to root out fraud and wasteful spending. For example, sophisticated fraud schemes in Minnesota and elsewhere that siphon taxpayer dollars away from kids with autism, the elderly and small businesses put critical government services at risk, undermine the public trust and fuel even more deficit spending.

Q: What concerns you the most about the national debt?

A: That Washington won’t stop digging a bigger hole. As a senior member of the Senate Budget Committee, I’ve led efforts to restore fiscal sanity to the federal budget to spare the American people from inflation and the crippling debt burden that comes from overspending. I often say to get out of the fiscal hole we’ve dug ourselves into, we must stop digging. If Washington’s gravy train continues down these tracks, net interest payments will crowd out spending on national defense, infrastructure and services for the American people. In fiscal year 2026, net interest payments are on path to reach $1 trillion and the federal budget deficit will reach $1.9 trillion. The CBO projects within 10 years net interest payments will double to $2.1 trillion and the annual deficit will careen beyond $3 trillion. While revenues are expected to grow from 17.2% to 17.8% of gross domestic product (GDP), that’s no match for federal spending that is on pace to increase to 24.4% of GDP, an unprecedented level of spending in peacetime. That would put the federal debt at 120% of GDP in a decade, shattering the World War II era record of 106.1%, and is projected to continue to grow even higher.


Senator Hassan Calls for Investigation into Secretary Noem Following ICE Director’s Testimony

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) is calling on the Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General to open an investigation into Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem after the head of the U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement testified under oath that Noem’s improper comments “put a bias” onto the ongoing investigations into the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

Last week, during a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing, Senator Hassan pressed ICE Director Todd Lyons on comments that Secretary Noem and Stephen Miller made in the immediate aftermaths of the shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti referring to the incidents as acts of domestic terrorism. Under questioning from Senator Hassan, Director Lyons admitted that “any comments that are made publicly, privately, texts, email... is gonna put a bias on the information” on the investigation – saying, in essence, that Secretary Noem and Stephen Miller’s characterizations of Renee Good and Alex Pretti as domestic terrorists biased the ongoing investigations into their deaths.

“I write to you today to request that your office open an investigation into whether statements made by senior Trump Administration officials regarding the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti biased, impeded, or otherwise improperly affected DHS investigations into the killings of Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti,” wrote Senator Hassan in a letter to DHS Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari. “Mr. Lyons’s comments bring to light an issue that merits immediate investigation. The head of ICE, a subordinate agency to the Department of Homeland Security, gave sworn testimony that clearly illustrates that the statements made by Secretary Noem and Mr. Miller, the two top Homeland Security personnel within our government, biased or impeded the investigations related to Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti.”

“Mr. Lyons also confirmed that, to his knowledge, Renee Good and Alex Pretti were not domestic terrorists – further highlighting just how improper and detrimental to the independent rule of law Ms. Noem and Mr. Miller’s comments were,” continued Senator Hassan.

Senator Hassan outlined a number of issues that the investigation should seek to address, including how these public statements have impacted the investigations into the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, whether Department of Homeland Security policies or regulations were violated, and whether statements made by investigators in the aftermath of the shooting differed from what Secretary Noem and Stephen Miller publicly said.

Click here to see the full letter sent to DHS Inspector General Cuffari, or see below:

Dear Inspector General Cuffari:

I write to you today to request that your office open an investigation into whether statements made by senior Trump Administration officials regarding the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti biased, impeded, or otherwise improperly affected DHS investigations into the killings of Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti.

On January 7, 2026, Renee Good was shot and killed by an officer of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Roughly two hours later, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) X account posted the following statement: “Today, ICE officers in Minneapolis were conducting targeted operations when rioters began blocking ICE officers and one of these violent rioters weaponized her vehicle, attempting to run over our law enforcement officers in an attempt to kill them—an act of domestic terrorism.” Roughly one hour later, Stephen Miller, Deputy White House Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor, retweeted a video of Ms. Good’s killing along with the words “domestic terrorism” via his X account. That same day, roughly eight hours after Ms. Good was killed, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem held a press conference where she described the actions of Ms. Good immediately prior to the shooting, stating in part “this appears as an attempt to kill or to cause bodily harm to agents. An act of domestic terrorism.” Four days later Secretary Noem posted the following statement on her Secretary of DHS official X account: “You don't get to change the facts because you don't like them. What happened in Minneapolis was an act of domestic terrorism. Acts of domestic terrorism like this should be condemned by every politician and elected official. It shouldn’t be hard or remotely controversial.”

On January 24, 2026, Alex Pretti was shot and killed by a Border Patrol Agent and a Customs and Border Protection Officer. A little over three hours later, Deputy Chief of Staff and Homeland Security Advisor Miller re-posted a statement on X from a Member of Congress that discussed Mr. Pretti’s killing, accompanied by the following statement (in part) from Mr. Miller: “A domestic terrorist tried to assassinate federal law enforcement and this is your response?” Slightly more than four hours later, Secretary Noem, while speaking at a press conference about the killing of Mr. Pretti stated, “this individual who came with weapons and ammunition to stop a law enforcement operation of federal law enforcement officers committed an act of domestic terrorism. That’s the facts.”

Following the shootings of Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti, the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs held an oversight hearing. On February 12, 2026, while testifying before the Committee, Todd Lyons, the Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was asked whether Secretary Noem and Deputy Chief of Staff Miller’s comments impeded or biased the investigations into whether Renee Good and Alex Pretti were domestic terrorists. During the course of this questioning, Mr. Lyons stated that “any comments that are made publicly, privately, texts, email uh, or Instagram posts, whatever, is gonna, is gonna put a bias on the information.” Mr. Lyons’s comments bring to light an issue that merits immediate investigation. The head of ICE, a subordinate agency to the Department of Homeland Security, gave sworn testimony that clearly illustrates that the statements made by Secretary Noem and Mr. Miller, the two top Homeland Security personnel within our government, biased or impeded the investigations related to Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti. Mr. Lyons also confirmed that, to his knowledge, Renee Good and Alex Pretti were not domestic terrorists – further highlighting just how improper and detrimental to the independent rule of law Ms. Noem and Mr. Miller’s comments were.

In light of Secretary Noem and Deputy Chief of Staff Miller’s public statements calling Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti domestic terrorists, and the fact that the leader of ICE subsequently testified to Congress that comments like these inject bias into investigations, I call on you to conduct an inquiry into the impact these statements may have had on federal investigations related to the shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Your inquiry should, at a minimum, seek to address the following issues:

How public statements about Renee Good and Alex Pretti made by Secretary Noem may have impacted the ability of government investigators, including government investigators within the Department of Homeland Security, to conduct an objective, independent investigation into the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

What, if any, Department of Homeland Security policies or regulations may have been violated by Secretary Noem’s statements.

What, if any, improper influence may have been exerted on investigators within the Department of Homeland Security by senior leaders of the Department, to include Secretary Noem, with regard to investigations related to the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

What, if any, improper influence may have been exerted on investigators outside of the Department of Homeland Security by Department of Homeland Security leadership, including Secretary Noem, with regard to investigations related to the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

Any potential adverse actions or punishments that Department of Homeland Security investigators or employees who are/were associated with any investigations related to the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti may have been subjected to in relation to:

Any statements or opinions these investigators or employees may have expressed regarding Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti that differed from public statements by senior Trump administration officials, to include Secretary Noem and Deputy Chief of Staff Miller.

Any courses of investigation these investigators or employees may have proposed or pursued regarding the deaths of Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti.

Any recommendations to address potential issues identified.

I look forward to your prompt response to my request.

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