Warner, Colleagues Launch Federal Workforce Caucus

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner joined his colleagues in launching the Federal Workforce Caucus. The members are launching this Caucus to bolster efforts to protect federal workers and strengthen our merit-based federal civil service so these dedicated public servants can continue to deliver for the American people without political interference. The lawmakers were joined by Caucus member Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and federal employee union leaders and members at the announcement.

Additional members of the Caucus include U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Edward Markey (D-MA) and U.S. Reps. James Walkinshaw (D-VA), Steny Hoyer (D-MD), Don Beyer (D-VA), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Mike Lawler (R-NY), April McClain Delaney (D-MD), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Johnny Olszewski (D-MD), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Bobby Scott (D-VA), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), and Eugene Vindman (D-VA).

“Federal workers in Virginia and across the country are the backbone of services Americans depend on,” said Sen. Warner. “As the Trump administration continues to target federal workers and use them as political bargaining chips, it is critical for lawmakers to come together and defend the job security, pay, and benefits of our dedicated civil service.”

“Federal workers deliver essential public services on behalf of the American people every day – they are the patriotic civil servants who care for our veterans, conduct food safety inspections, provide aid to communities struck by disaster, and so much more. But from day one, the Trump Administration has relentlessly attacked them and jeopardized the services they provide – as they pursue their ultimate goal of replacing qualified civil servants with political cronies who will do Trump’s bidding without regard for the law. We’re launching the Federal Workforce Caucus to stand united against this Administration’s attacks, to support our federal workers, and to protect the integrity of our merit-based civil service,” said Sen. Van Hollen.

“Virginia is home to hundreds of thousands of hardworking public servants who keep our country safe and provide critical services to their fellow Americans,” said Sen. Kaine. “As the Trump Administration attacks and vilifies this dedicated workforce, we must push back. I’m glad to join my colleagues in launching the Federal Workforce Caucus to protect and strengthen the federal workforce.”

"When federal workers take their oath, they don’t pledge allegiance to whoever is in the Oval Office, they pledge an oath to this nation and our constitution. They deserve our gratitude and respect, yet instead, this Administration has unleashed a witch hunt against our civil servants. The Federal Workforce Caucus is focused – through legislation, advocacy, and dialogue – on protecting our civil servants and allowing them to continue to serve the American people," said Sen. Alsobrooks.

“Over the past year, people and communities have protested, lawyers have sued, and courts have issued orders to protect our civil servants. It is an honor today to mark the establishment of a bipartisan, bicameral congressional caucus to support the people who work for all us – our nonpartisan, merit-based civil service. The Congressional Federal Workforce Caucus could not come at a more pivotal time. As the Trump-Vance administration and its allies escalate threats to our nation’s elections, our nation’s communities, and our nation’s civil servants, it is time to use all tools our democracy provides to push back and move forward. We are grateful to these lawmakers for taking an important step to protect and strengthen the civil service not just for today, but for the ability to build the people-centered government we all will need in the future,” Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward in remarks at the event.

“After a traumatic year for the civil service, including a 43-day government shutdown and unprecedented mass firings, this Caucus is very timely. Your members’ expertise and commitment will amplify the voice of the federal civilian workforce when it matters most. AFGE stands ready to support and work with the Caucus. Our country depends on it,” said Eric Bunn, Sr., National Secretary-Treasurer, American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO (AFGE)

"The federal workforce has endured unimaginable harm, with over 300,000 employees separated, agencies wiped out and previously nonpartisan institutions politicized. Congress must stand for federal workers, and I believe the Federal Workforce Caucus will provide the venue to press for oversight and serve as a gathering place for all members who have constituents who rely on well-functioning government services,” said Max Stier, President and CEO, Partnership for Public Service.

The federal workforce is essential to a legitimate democratic republic, yet our civil service is increasingly under attack – politically, structurally, and rhetorically,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. “These attacks weaken public accountability, lawful administration, and the quality of services Americans rely on every single day. The Federal Workforce Caucus will ensure the civil service is protected and strengthened, and critical services are delivered to the public while maintaining a skilled, apolitical workforce. Thank you to the co-chairs of the Caucus – Senator Van Hollen, and Representatives Walkinshaw and Hoyer – for your continued support of federal employees.”

“The federal public service workers who help keep our communities running deserve dignity, respect, and the security of knowing they’ll be paid on time,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. "Unfortunately, anti-worker politicians continue to exploit them to push their extreme agenda. In the last year, federal workers have been fired arbitrarily, stripped of their collective bargaining rights, and furloughed without pay during the shutdown. I applaud the members of the Federal Workforce Caucus for their focus on restoring dignity and respect to these dedicated public servants. It also highlights why we need solutions like Sen. Van Hollen and Rep. Walkinshaw's True Shutdown Fairness Act, which will ensure federal workers don't miss a paycheck or get fired during a shutdown. On behalf of the AFSCME members and the hardworking federal public service workers we represent, we thank the Federal Workforce Caucus for having our backs."

"IFPTE welcomes the launch of the Federal Workforce Caucus. Over the past year, our members who work for the federal government have witnessed unprecedented political interference, mass firings without cause, and unlawful efforts to deny federal workers their union rights and defund federal agency missions. Our democracy depends on a professional, nonpartisan federal civil service that serves the American public with accountability and integrity. We urgently call on Members of Congress in both chambers and both sides of the aisle to join the Caucus and work to uphold and protect merit system principles, due process protections, and a civil service that ensures that science and innovation, public health, safety, economic security, our national defense, and public services are delivered fairly, effectively, and effectively," said Matthew Biggs, President of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE)

“NTEU applauds Senator Van Hollen and Representatives Hoyer and Walkinshaw for launching the Federal Workforce Caucus to highlight the work and challenges facing federal workers across the country. Given the deluge of attacks employees have faced over the past year, from mass firings and illegal attempts to eliminate their union rights to threats against their pay and benefits, we appreciate the dedicated effort that this caucus will make to strengthen the nonpartisan civil service and ensure that federal employees are treated with dignity and respect so they can continue to provide the critical services the American people rely on,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President, NTEU.

The Federal Workforce Caucus will serve as a forum for Members to:

Support and strengthen the federal civilian workforce and the merit-based civil service system so that it can continue to deliver for American families and businesses;

Protect the integrity and nonpartisan character of federal employment;

Advance policies that improve recruitment, retention, and workforce morale across federal agencies;

Highlight stories that show how government programs and workers improve the lives of the American public;

Develop and advance data-informed policies that encourage modernization and innovative practices across the federal workforce in areas such as pay competitiveness, workforce performance optimization, and professional development;

Facilitate dialogue among Members of Congress, former and current federal employees, organizations, and unions representing federal employees, and subject-matter experts to inform efforts to modernize the federal government and attract the workforce needed to deliver for Americans.

“Federal workers help families put food on the table, protect veterans healing from the wounds of war, and empower communities in the face of environmental crisis. Over the past year, they’ve faced unprecedented attacks – mass firings, union busting, and illegal interference with their work – meant to demoralize and deplete the civil service. Federal workers deserve full support from Congress to protect their bargaining rights and their right to do their jobs without political obstruction,” said Sen. Markey.

“Our federal civilian workforce is made up of dedicated public servants who keep our government running. While the Trump Administration fails to see the value in these public servants’ work, the Senate Federal Workforce Caucus, which we are launching today, stands with our government’s employees,” said Sen. Durbin.

“Public servants deliver essential services on behalf of the American people. I am proud to join this caucus supporting federal employees and solidifying our dedication to a fortified, innovative workforce. Their service is crucial to promoting the well-being and safety of our country, and they deserve the best assistance we can offer—supporting our public servants is an investment in our country,” said Sen. Blumenthal.

“The federal workforce is integral to our country and our communities, helping American families and businesses thrive. As this regime attacks federal workers and the critical work they do, I am proud to join this caucus, which will advance policies that support federal workers and the communities they serve,” said Sen. Hirono. “As part of this caucus, I reaffirm my commitment to ensuring federal workers are recognized, protected, and receive the support they need to confront challenges and provide for the public.”

“Throughout the last year, President Trump and his administration have used dedicated federal public servants as political pawns. It’s unacceptable,” said Sen. Blunt Rochester. “I’m proud to join this bicameral coalition in launching the Federal Workforce Caucus. To the nearly thousands of federal workers in Delaware and the millions around the country, we’ve got your back.”

“As Co-Chair and Founder of the Federal Workforce Caucus, I’m proud to lead this effort to advocate for our dedicated federal workers and the good government values they uphold,” said Rep. Walkinshaw. “Virginia is home to nearly 150,000 federal workers, including more than 60,000 in Fairfax, who care for veterans, protect our food supply, respond to disasters, and keep essential programs running. Too often, they are treated as political targets instead of the backbone of an effective, nonpartisan civil service. This Caucus will be on the front lines defending merit-based public service and advancing policies to strengthen recruitment and retention, boost morale, and modernize pay and professional development. We will work every day to ensure government delivers world-class services for all Americans.”

"Donald Trump and Russell Vought claim that our federal workers are 'villains' who ought to be 'put in trauma.' That's dead wrong. Federal employees are patriotic professionals who provide vital services to the American people every day. I have fought to protect them from DOGE's crusade, and Congress must do the same. That's why I'm pleased to help found the Federal Workforce Caucus," said Rep. Hoyer.

“President Trump has berated, traumatized and mass-fired federal employees to destroy expertise and science and to remake our government in the image of his imbecilic incompetence,” said Rep. Raskin. “Our institutions were not built by generations of Americans to be broken up and sold for parts; they exist to serve the American people in every age. That’s why I’m proudly standing with my colleagues to establish the Federal Workforce Caucus to defend the professional civil service and the public servants who have helped build our amazing country.”

“The newly established bicameral Federal Workforce Caucus affirms a simple truth: good-paying federal jobs have helped build and sustain the middle class across the country, leveling the playing field while strengthening communities like ours in the Metropolitan Washington, DC area. Public service is the backbone of our country, and these careers should be an opportunity for dedicated Americans to serve the nation with honor while securing economic stability for their families. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to protect, support, and invest in the federal workforce that keeps America moving forward,” said Rep. Ivey.

“Federal workers are the lifeblood of our democracy, and they perform countless essential duties that our country simply could not go without,” said Rep. Mfume. “They fulfill these duties without fear or favor because they are hard-working, patriotic Americans. I have always been a proud supporter of federal workers, and I am proud to join the Federal Workforce Caucus to work with my colleagues in the Congress on ways to better support the people that make the American government work.”

“Federal workers are not political pawns — they are the dedicated public servants who keep our country running. After Trump’s firings wiped out nearly 25,000 federal jobs in Maryland last year alone, the stakes could not be more clear. I’m proud to serve as a founding member of the Federal Workforce Caucus to defend a strong, nonpartisan civil service, protect merit-based hiring, and invest in recruitment, retention, and modernization so the federal workforce can keep delivering for the American people,” said Rep. Olszewski.

“As the proud daughter of two civil servants and the representative to over 45,000 federal employees in Maryland’s Third District, I am excited to join the Federal Workforce Caucus. The sledgehammer of DOGE not only hurt our hardworking civil servants – it impacted the hundreds of critical services that everyday Americans pay for and rely on. Now more than ever, we must strengthen and rebuild our federal workforce to ensure we continue to recruit the best and brightest into the important tradition of public service,” said Rep. Elfreth.

"I’m honored to join as an inaugural member of the Federal Workforce Caucus. Our federal employees and institutions are under relentless attack, with their protections, credibility, and character being eroded with each passing day by this Administration. It’s on us as lawmakers to defend a merit-based, nonpartisan civil service and ensure the next generation feels empowered to answer the call to serve, not turned away," said Rep. McClain Delaney.

“I’m pleased to join the Federal Workforce Caucus to stand with the dedicated public servants who keep our government working for the American people, tens of thousands of whom live in the nation's capital," said Rep. Norton. "A strong, merit-based federal civil service — free from political interference — is essential to effective governance and public trust. This caucus will play an important role in protecting federal workers and ensuring they can do their jobs with professionalism, independence, and integrity.”

"I am proud to be a part of the Federal Workforce Caucus to fight for the dedicated federal workers in our Commonwealth and across the country. Recent attacks on the federal workforce not only hurt our community, they hurt every single American by making it harder to deliver essential services and earned benefits. I am thrilled to be a part of this Caucus and look forward to continuing to champion federal workers,” said Rep. Subramanyam.

“Federal employees are the backbone of our national security, safe transportation, safe food, and clean water. But as our federal workforce remains under attack by the very people entrusted to lead it with massive purges designed to hollow out or eliminate key federal agencies, and through wanton cruelty targeting dedicated civil servants – I’m joining the Federal Workforce Caucus to stand up for our public servants. Over the years, I have fought to increase federal employees’ pay and expand their paid leave, and I will continue fighting to support the needs of the men and women who keep our country running,” said Rep. Beyer.

"Virginia is home to tens of thousands of federal workers, contractors, and service members who serve with a dedication to country, not political party. As their Representative, a 25-year Army officer, and as the husband of a former federal employee, I know that federal workers are essential to the success, safety, and stability of our nation,” said Rep. Vindman. "I will never back down from a fight to protect and honor those who choose a life of service. I am proud to be an inaugural member of the federal workforce caucus.”

"President Trump promised Americans that he would make their lives better; unfortunately, since taking office, the administration has only upended the lives of workers and their families,” said Rep. Scott. “The Trump administration’s reckless firing of thousands of civil servants – in some cases unlawfully – has left federal workers on edge and weakened public services. I am proud to support the Federal Workforce Caucus to ensure that workers' collective bargaining rights are upheld and Americans can access the earned benefits and services they depend on.”


Warnock Statement on 200,000 Georgians Dropping ACA Health Care Coverage

According to the AJC, over 200,000 Georgia Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace policyholders have dropped their coverage—a shocking 14% drop

The coverage loss is due to the Washington GOP’s passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which allowed 1.2 million Georgians’ health care premiums to double

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released the following statement after the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid revealed that over 200,000 ACA Marketplace policyholders have dropped their coverage. This number does not account for the hundreds of thousands of Georgians who’ve been pushed into new health plans with sky-high deductibles that effectively make their coverage unusable.

“This is what happens when Washington Republicans fight for billionaires and not ordinary people. Last fall, over one million Georgians logged onto Georgia Access to find that their health care premiums had doubled, for some, it had tripled or quadrupled. The numbers don’t lie: Washington Republicans took away health care for hundreds of thousands of Georgians to give a tax cut to the wealthy. Ordinary Georgians need relief, and I’m going to stay in this fight.”


Warnock, Warren Blast OMB Director Vought Over Proposed Rule to End Discrimination Protections

In a letter to OMB Acting Director Russell Vought, Senators Reverend Warnock and Banking Ranking Member Warren urged Vought to rescind a proposed rule that would end discrimination protections at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau around lending

The Equal Credit Opportunity Act’s disparate impact test protects historically discriminated-against groups from lending policies that would otherwise impact their ability to access credit

Senator Warnock and lawmakers: “This proposal would gut longstanding civil rights protections, widen the wealth gap, and increase housing, credit card, car loan, and other borrowing costs by undermining ECOA’s core purpose of ensuring everyone has fair and nondiscriminatory access to credit”

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Banking Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) led an effort, alongside eight of their Senate Democratic colleagues, urging Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Acting Director Russell Vought to rescind a proposed rule that would end discrimination protections at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA)’s disparate impact test has been used for over 50 years to combat some of the most nefarious forms of discrimination and ensures every American has fair and nondiscriminatory access to consumer and business credit.

“The Trump Administration’s wrongheaded attempts to destroy this longstanding tenet of our civil rights protections — and your defense of those actions — is callous, unjust, and yet another handout to industry on the backs of American consumers. ECOA prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, marital status, race, color, religion, national origin, age, and source of income in credit transactions. In some cases, lending discrimination is explicit: a lender makes clear to an individual that they are being denied credit, or offered worse terms, as a direct result of a protected characteristic. In many cases, however, discrimination is less explicit: a policy or pattern of behavior by a lender can produce discriminatory outcomes, whether or not the lenders intention is to discriminate,” the lawmakers wrote.

The ECOA is a federal civil rights law that protects individuals from discrimination by lenders based on defining characteristics. The Trump Administration’s proposed rule would eliminate longstanding fair lending protections and make it easier for creditors to deny Americans without providing a clear explanation as to why they are being denied.

“The CFPB’s proposed rule would eliminate longstanding fair lending protections, increase housing and lending costs, and undermine ECOA’s original purpose and decades of progress toward closing the wealth gap. Given our concerns, we urge you to rescind the CFPB’s proposed rule and provide a briefing on your efforts to do so,” the lawmakers conclude.

In addition to Senators Warnock and Warren, the letter was signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Jack Reed (D-RI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Edward Markey (D-MA), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

Copy of the letter can be found HEREand below.

“Dear Acting Director Vought:

We write today to urge you to rescind the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)’s proposed rule to end the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA)’s disparate impact test, which would prohibit the agency from blocking lending policies that have an unfair impact on historically discriminated-against groups. Despite what you claimed in an op-ed last week, this would open the floodgates for discrimination in all consumer lending, including mortgages, credit cards, and car loans. It would also stop lenders from establishing Special Purpose Credit Programs (SPCP), which are designed to expand homeownership access those same marginalized communities. This proposal would gut longstanding civil rights protections, widen the wealth gap, and increase housing, credit card, car loan, and other borrowing costs by undermining ECOA’s core purpose of ensuring everyone has fair and nondiscriminatory access to credit.

The disparate impact test has been used for over 50 years to combat some of the most nefarious forms of discrimination and has been upheld by the Supreme Court repeatedly. The Trump Administration’s wrongheaded attempts to destroy this longstanding tenet of our civil rights protections and your defense of those actions—is callous, unjust, and yet another handout to industry on the backs of American consumers.

ECOA prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, marital status, race, color, religion, national origin, age, and source of income in credit transactions. In some cases, lending discrimination is explicit: a lender makes clear to an individual that they are being denied credit, or offered worse terms, as a direct result of a protected characteristic. In many cases, however, discrimination is less explicit: a policy or pattern of behavior by a lender can produce discriminatory outcomes, whether or not the lender’s intention is to discriminate. These cases are examples of disparate impact: practices that adversely affect one group of people of a protected characteristic more than another, even if the policy or practice may seem neutral on its face. By focusing on the consequences of seemingly neutral policies and practices, disparate impact analyses help uncover discrimination that is prohibited under the law, regardless of intent.

Disparate impact analysis is a critical piece of civil rights enforcement, including under ECOA. In passing and amending ECOA, Congress made clear that focusing only on intentional, explicit discrimination was not sufficient to address inequity in the credit market. Congressional Committee reports explicitly stated that agencies should not only look at the creditor’s intentions, but also at the effects of policies and practices. For the last 45 years, federal courts have consistently upheld disparate impact claims under ECOA.

Indeed, as our economy, housing, and lending markets have evolved over time, including through the introduction of new technologies that give borrowers less face-time with lenders and less insight into decision-making practices, the vast majority of ECOA cases rely on disparate impact analysis. ECOA and the CFPB’s implementing regulations explicitly require lenders to thoroughly review policies, procedures, and outcomes for disparate outcomes. Yet, the CFPB’s proposed rule seeks to upend many decades of legal precedent, including Congressional intent, to advance the Trump Administration’s unsubstantiated ideological crusade to dismantle disparate impact protections across the federal government.

According to one former CFPB attorney, “the disparate impact legal doctrine was a crucial tool allowing the government to uncover intentional discrimination by banks and mortgage originators, which could become much harder if the federal government ceases to enforce it.” Moreover, the National Fair Housing Alliance stated, “if this change is enacted, this means lenders could freely use credit models that exclude hardworking people.”

The rollback of disparate impact enforcement under ECOA will also increase housing and other borrowing costs, which is particularly unacceptable during the current housing and affordability crisis. Research has shown that protected classes of borrowers under ECOA, including women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ couples, often experience higher denial rates or are charged higher fees and interest rates compared to similarly situated borrowers or even other borrowers with worse credit histories. For example, between 2018 and 2023, Black mortgage applicants were more than 2 times more likely to be denied than White applicants with similar profiles, while Latino and Asian mortgage applicants were 1.5 and 1.2 times more likely, respectively, to be denied compared to White applicants. Similarly, “[s]ole female applicants are [nearly 30%] more likely to be denied a mortgage than sole males.” Another study found that between 1990 and 2015, “same-sex applicants are 73.12% more likely to be denied, and they tend to be charged up to 0.2% higher fees/interest [compared with otherwise similar, different-sex applicants].”

The CFPB’s proposed rule would also stop lenders from establishing Special Purpose Credit Programs (SPCP), which Congress explicitly authorized under ECOA to provide affordable credit to historically discriminated-against groups, in order to help build wealth and close wealth gaps. To address long-standing disparities in the mortgage market, the CFPB and other federal agencies issued SPCP guidance beginning in 2021 that gave lenders more certainty about how to properly implement SPCPs in a way that is consistent with fair housing and lending laws. The CFPB’s latest proposed rule would roll back this progress and instead stop lenders from relying on protected characteristics under ECOA to determine eligibility for SPCPs, creating a standard for implementing an SPCP that is virtually impossible for any creditor to satisfy.

The CFPB’s proposed rule would eliminate longstanding fair lending protections, increase housing and lending costs, and undermine ECOA’s original purpose and decades of progress toward closing the wealth gap. Given our concerns, we urge you to rescind the CFPB’s proposed rule and provide a briefing on your efforts to do so by February 10, 2026.”


As Congress Negotiates DHS Funding, Warren Slams DHS’s Lack of Accountability On Agents' Use Of Violent Force Against U.S. Citizens

Warren: “It is not a surprise that ICE agents seem to think that they are above the law because Donald Trump, JD Vance, and the Republicans are treating them like they are above the law.”

Warren: “It is Congress’s responsibility to step up and say we are going to put new rules in place for ICE, but most of all, we’re going to demand accountability for those who break the law.”

Video of Exchange (YouTube) | Renée Good’s Family Testimony (YouTube)

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) questioned witnesses in a spotlight forum held by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Robert Garcia (D-Calif.) on the violent tactics used by agents of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the lack of accountability following instances of misconduct. At the forum, Renée Good’s two brothers testified on her behalf.

This spotlight forum follows months of violent and abusive tactics used by ICE agents, including the murder of Renée Good and Alex Pretti in January. Recent comments from the Trump administration raise concerns that ICE agents are being told to behave illegally when conducting immigration enforcement. Vice President J.D. Vance has reportedly told agents they have “absolute immunity” from any repercussions. This week, Senator Warren led her colleagues in a push for an expedited probe of ICE’s violence after a watchdog confirmed an investigation.

Among these witnesses was Ms. Marimar Martinez, a U.S. citizen who was shot five times by Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) agents on her way to a doctor’s appointment. At the forum, Ms. Martinez confirmed that she has not been informed of any investigations against the agent who shot her and that the agent left the state after the shooting, making it more difficult to pursue an investigation.

Senator Warren criticized the Republican Party for attempting to expand ICE’s federal budget, “an amount that is larger than most countries' military budgets.” When asked whether there had been any halt in ICE’s “slush funding” in response to the killing of Renée Good, the Good family’s legal attorney, Mr. Antonio Romanucci, confirmed that he was “not aware of any money being frozen as a result of what is happening in Minneapolis or any of the other cities.” Mr. Romanucci also called for a public investigation to ensure accountability.

Senator Warren highlighted Congress’s duty to ensure there are consequences when ICE agents break the law, as well as the importance of independent investigations similar to local officer-involved shootings.

“It is Congress's responsibility to step up and say we are going to put new rules in place for ICE, but most of all, we're going to demand accountability for those who break the law,” concluded Senator Warren.

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Warren Sounds the Alarm on Google’s New AI Shopping Partnerships

Warns partnership’s data-sharing threatens privacy, could lead to collusion, exploitative pricing for consumers

“I am deeply concerned that Google could use its AI shopping partnerships to increase profits for Google and its business partners at the expense of consumers’ best interests.”

Text of Letter (PDF)

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wrote to Google CEO Sundar Pichai with concerns over Google’s new retail shopping partnerships and plan to integrate its artificial intelligence (AI) model, Gemini, into its shopping services.

“I am concerned that these partnerships and Google’s integration of Gemini into its shopping service could allow Google and its retail partners to exploit sensitive user data to violate consumer privacy and manipulate consumers into spending more and paying higher prices,” said Senator Warren.

On January 11, 2026, Google announced new partnerships with Shopify, Etsy, Wayfair, Target, Walmart, and other retailers to implement a new AI standard termed the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), allowing AI agents at different retailers “to talk to each other across every step of the shopping journey.” As part of the new partnerships, Google plans to integrate UCP into Gemini, allowing users to shop through the Gemini chatbot or through Google Shopping’s Gemini feature. The partnerships will allow businesses to present individualized offers for shoppers based on their Google account data.

“Google already possesses unprecedented troves of user search and AI chat data, and such intimate data could be merged with both user data from other Google services and third-party retailer data to drive consumer behavior in an exploitative manner,” said Senator Warren.

For example, Google could take advantage of sensitive health or financial data to convince vulnerable customers to spend more or to purchase a product from one of Google’s partners instead of a competitor. Google has already admitted it will use sensitive data to help retailers upsell consumers.

“I am also concerned that Google and its retail partners’ AI agents could leverage user data to display personalized prices, adjusting the price to the highest amount a user is likely to pay…Google’s UCP could also result in tacit collusion between retailers to raise prices, as AI agents are given an implicit goal of maximizing profits for their respective platform,” wrote the senator.

Senator Warren also raised concerns about the amount and types of user data that will be shared between Google and third-party retailers. Google has told retailers that its AI agent will have access to users’ accounts and “independently plan, reason, and act on [the retailer’s] behalf, under [the retailer’s] supervision.” Yet, Google has indicated it plans to hide consumers’ ability to choose which retailer data is shared with the AI agent “in the consent screen shown to the user.”

“Online shoppers have a right to clear explanations on how prices are determined, which products are shown to them, and whether their private data is being used to exploit them,” said Senator Warren.

Senator Warren asked Google to clarify what consumer data it will provide to retail partners; how sharing consumer data will affect customized pricing and offers for users; whether users will be informed if they’re being upsold on a product; what options users have to opt out of personalized recommendations or upsells; whether Google will give retail partners' products preference while demoting competitors; and what guardrails Google will implement to ensure AI agent pricing is not deceptive, predatory, discriminatory, or exploitative; by February 17, 2026.

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Warren, Wyden, Blumenthal Call on Federal Regulators to Investigate Meta, Google, NVIDIA “Reverse Acqui-hire” Deals

In “de facto” mergers, Big Tech firms license technology, siphon top talent from smaller rivals

“If left unchecked, these types of arrangements between Big Tech companies and smaller AI developers…risk[] driving up prices and choking off innovation”

Text of Letter (PDF)

Washington, D.C. — In a new letter today, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee; Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee; and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights, urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to enforce antitrust laws by investigating recent Big Tech “reverse acqui-hire” transactions, which, the senators warn, appear to be designed to evade antitrust scrutiny and risk further consolidating the Big Tech industry.

“The FTC and DOJ should not allow these companies to avoid the typical reviews that your agencies apply to acquisitions and mergers,” said the senators.

In January 2026, FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson announced the agency would investigate Big Tech acquihires. The senators highlighted three recent “reverse acqui-hire” deals, which involved Big Tech firms hiring top talent from smaller competitors and acquiring minority stakes in those competitors or licensing their technology, stopping just short of a formal acquisition or merger.

In June 2025, Meta announced a deal with Scale AI, in which Meta hired Scale AI’s CEO and acquired a large minority stake in the company, as part of its plan to start a new artificial intelligence (AI) research lab. Weeks after the deal was announced, Scale AI cut 200 full-time employees and ended work with 500 contractors, leading one investor to compare Scale AI to a “gutted fish.”

In July 2025, Google struck a deal with Windsurf, a start-up that developed an AI coding assistant, poaching its two co-founders and licensing the company’s technology. The deal also saw Windsurf’s research and development team join Google as well. The remaining parts of the company were later acquired by Cognition AI.

In December 2025, NVIDIA announced a new $20 billion licensing deal for Groq’s inference chip technology. As part of the deal, Groq’s founder, president, and other staff will join NVIDIA. The senators noted that the deal allows NVIDIA, which already dominates the market for AI training chips, to expand its foothold in the market for AI inference chips.

“[These deals] function as de facto mergers, allowing the companies to consolidate talent, information, and resources, all while apparently attempting to bypass the scrutiny typically applied to mergers and acquisitions,” wrote the senators.

The senators argued that these deals may present “significant competitive concerns” because of the market power they give to the Big Tech companies.

“If left unchecked, these types of arrangements between Big Tech companies and smaller AI developers will accelerate consolidation of the AI sector, which in turn risks driving up prices and choking off innovation,” said the lawmakers.

“The FTC and DOJ have a responsibility to enforce the nation’s antitrust laws in order to protect consumers, small businesses, and workers, and should not allow Big Tech to engage in acquisition strategies that are designed to limit competition in violation of federal law,” wrote the senators.

The senators called on the two agencies to closely scrutinize Big Tech “reverse acqui-hire” deals and block or reverse the deals if they violate antitrust laws. Senators Warren and Wyden previously wrote to the FTC and DOJ under the Biden administration, urging them to crack down on anticompetitive behavior in the AI industry, including “reverse acqui-hires.”

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NEWS: Vermont Delegation Statement on ICE Detention of Vermont Pastor and Nursing Assistant

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Vermont Congressional Delegation, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and U.S. Representative Becca Balint (VT-At-Large), today released the following statement:

“We are horrified to learn of the detention of Vermont pastor and nursing assistant Steven Tendo by ICE outside of his workplace today — just days ahead of a regular check-in with immigration authorities. Pastor Tendo fled persecution and torture in Uganda and has lived peacefully in Vermont for many years as a valued member of our community. People like Pastor Tendo are exactly who our asylum system is meant to protect. We join together with many Vermonters in calling on the Trump administration to ensure Pastor Tendo is allowed to return to Vermont and that he is immediately afforded full due process, including the right to contact his attorney while his appeal is considered.”

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Welch, Senate Democrats Blast Trump's Drug Pricing Fraud, Lay Out Agenda for Lower Prices

As Drug Prices Continue to Go Up and Republicans Give Hand Outs to Big Pharma, Democrats Offer Bold Vision to Lower Drug Costs for All Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), along with Finance Committee members U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), in holding a press conference to outline Senate Democrats’ plans to build on existing reforms and deliver lower health prescription drug prices to all Americans. The Senators also highlighted a new flash report on President Trump’s broken promise to lower drug prices.

“The President loves to talk a big game and make promises to working families about lowering prescription drug prices. But in reality, his Administration has done nothing to address the crisis. All he’s done is kicked people off their health insurance—including by ending the ACA’s premium tax credits. Families and businesses have been left holding the bag,” said Senator Welch. “Democrats are determined to bring prices down, and we’re willing to work with anyone to find concrete ways to do it. We’re going to lower health care costs and ensure everyone can access affordable, life-saving, and pain-relieving medication.”

“There is no greater fraud than Donald J. Trump when it comes to lower drug prices,” said Senator Wyden. “Our doors are wide open to anybody who wants to take the bold next step forward on lowering drug costs for Americans. Let’s supercharge Medicare negotiations, leave middlemen nowhere to hide their shameless profiteering, and end the Trump and RFK Jr. chaos while restoring the prestige of the research and science community. Today is an important step for Democrats to show there’s a better way to lower Americans’ health care costs.”

The Senators announced a new effort to rein in Big Pharma’s outrageous price increases, lower costs for consumers, guarantee predictability for patients, and reduce wasteful government spending that pads the profits of big corporations. In a letter to their Senate colleagues, the Senators outlined three goals that will be a priority for Senate Democrats:

Lowering the prices drug manufacturers charge, including an expansion of Medicare negotiation;

Reducing out-of-pocket drug costs by continuing to crack down on middlemen; and

Restoring and bolstering American innovation.

Watch a livestream of the press conference below:

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Miss. Delegation Urges Trump to Approve Major Disaster Declaration for Mississippi

WASHINGTON – The Mississippi congressional delegation today shared their strong support for Governor Tate Reeves’ request for a major disaster declaration after deadly Winter Storm Fern struck the state from January 23 through January 27, 2026.

U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., Trent Kelly, R-Miss., Michael Guest, R-Miss., and Mike Ezell, R-Miss., sent President Trump a letter endorsing the governor’s request for an expedited major disaster declaration for 36 counties and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians for individual federal assistance and disaster unemployment. The message also contains a request for public assistance to help local governments in 38 counties and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. If approved, the major disaster declaration would unlock additional federal resources to supplement state recovery efforts, including debris removal.

“We are grieved that preliminary reports indicate that 26 lives have been lost in our state. Nearly 200,000 homes lost power, and many residents remain without electricity. Initial damage assessments point to widespread destruction of homes, businesses, and community facilities,” the lawmakers wrote.

The letter follows a preliminary disaster assessment, which highlights the tragic loss of life and the extent of damage to Mississippi communities

“State and local resources, along with those of volunteer organizations, are insufficient to meet Mississippi’s recovery needs. Strong federal support and coordination will be essential to help communities recover and rebuild,” the lawmakers continued.

Read the full letter below.

“Dear President Trump,


Proposed ICE Facility Threatens Byhalia, Mississippi Economy and Infrastructure

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary, Kristi Noem. He expressed opposition to a proposed DHS plan to purchase a warehouse in Byhalia, Mississippi, and to convert it into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center. The warehouse is designed as an industrial site to attract economic investment in Mississippi. Converting this site into an ICE detention facility would strain the existing local infrastructure and foreclose on economic opportunities better suited for this site.

Below is the full text of the letter.

“Dear Secretary Noem:

It has come to my attention that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is in the final stages of acquiring a warehouse facility in Byhalia, Mississippi, and intends to convert it into an ICE detention center. While I support the enforcement of immigration law, I write to express my opposition to this acquisition and the proposed detention center.

This site is currently positioned for economic development purposes. It represents an opportunity for job creation, private investment, and long-term economic growth in Marshall County. The county is already experiencing meaningful growth and increased interest from employers seeking to locate or expand in North Mississippi. Preserving limited, development-ready industrial sites is essential to sustaining this growth. Converting this industrial asset into an ICE detention center forecloses economic growth opportunities and replaces them with a use that does not generate comparable economic returns or community benefits.

The proposed conversion also raises serious feasibility concerns. Detention facilities impose substantial and specialized infrastructure demands—including transportation access, water, sewer and energy costs, staffing, medical care, and emergency services. From my understanding, the ICE detention facility would have a capacity exceeding 8,500 beds. Existing medical and human services infrastructure in Byhalia is insufficient to support such a large detainee population. Establishing a detention center at this site would place significant strain on local resources.

Additionally, many of my constituents have voiced concerns regarding the public safety, medical capacity, and economic impacts this center would impose on their communities. Proceeding with this acquisition without adequately addressing these issues disregards community input.

I strongly urge ICE to reconsider this acquisition and the development of a detention center in Byhalia, Mississippi. I look forward to your prompt response and request that you keep me informed of this acquisition and any future ICE contracting proposals affecting the state of Mississippi. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”

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Wyden Expresses “Deep Concerns about CIA Activities” in Classified Letter

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, the longest-serving member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, today transmitted a classified letter to CIA Director John Ratcliffe regarding CIA activities.

“I write to alert you to a classified letter I sent you earlier today, in which I express deep concerns about CIA activities,” Wyden wrote in an unclassified letter to Ratcliffe.

Read the unclassified letter here.

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Alford Delivers Almost $23 Million for Fourth District Through Fiscal Year 2026 Government Funding Process

Today, Congressman Mark Alford issued the following statement after securing almost $23,000,000 million in targeted federal investments for Missouri’s Fourth District in the appropriations process for fiscal year 2026.

“Missouri’s growth requires strategic investment,” said Congressman Alford. “The kind that strengthens infrastructure, advances research, supports rural health care, and prepares the workforce of tomorrow.As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I’ve worked to make sure Missouri’s Fourth District is not left behind in that equation. For the upcoming fiscal year, we’ve secured nearly twenty-three million dollars in targeted federal investments for the Fourth District. These are not giveaways. They’re investments with measurable returns in jobs, innovation, healthcare access, and long-term economic resilience. To put it simply: we’re turning the Show Me State into the Grow Me State.”

Congressman Alford delivered $22,839,700 in Community Project Funding for Fourth District communities, including:

$6,000,000 for the Skyhaven Airport expansion at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg

$6,000,000 for the Workforce Training Center for Agriculture Advancement at State Fair Community College in Sedalia

$4,200,000 for safe and reliable reactor operations at the University of Missouri in Columbia

$3,000,000 for an agriculture animal genetics facility at the University of Missouri in Columbia

$1,622,500 for a regional maternal health center at Golden Valley Memorial Hospital in Clinton

$750,200 for the Missouri Rural Health Innovation Center at Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia

$750,000 for the sally port at the Missouri Law Enforcement Center in St. Claire County

$397,000 for the White Road Bridge replacement in Oak Grove

$120,000 for Peculiar Police Department radios

Community Project Funding is a way for Members of Congress to direct federal money to specific local projects in their districts as part of the annual appropriations, or government funding, bills. This gives Members a tool to address real community needs, with new rules aiming to reduce waste and increase transparency compared to the previous earmark process.

Congressman Alford is the only Missourian on the powerful House Appropriations Committee, which controls the purse strings for the entire federal government. He is the only appropriator to sit on four subcommittees, which include:

Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, where he serves as Vice Chair

Commerce, Justice, and Science

National Security, State Department, and Related Programs

Financial Services and General Government

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Ansari Introduces Legislation to Rein In ICE, Demand Accountability

WASHINGTON – Today, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) introduced a comprehensive package of legislation to hold U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) accountable for terrorizing communities under the direction of Donald Trump and Kristi Noem.

“I’ve visited the Eloy Detention Center three times, and have witnessed firsthand the severe neglect and deteriorating health of the people being held there–including U.S. citizens, asylum seekers, DACA recipients, and green card holders,” said Ansari. “I’ve also been on the ground in Arizona and watched ICE terrorize our communities—rolling into our neighborhoods fully geared and ready to deploy tear gas and other violent tools of repression. My legislative package is a significant step toward reining in ICE, holding this unchecked agency accountable, and draining the slush fund Republicans handed over in the Big Ugly Bill.”

Ansari’s set of bills includes her Drain ICE Act, Stop Inhumane Conditions in ICE Detention Act, and Studying Disastrous Impacts of Mass Deportation Act:

Ansari’s Drain ICE Act (H.R. 7346) would rescind and repeal the $75 billion in funding for ICE via the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” with important findings on the Trump Administration’s mass deportation agenda established by Congress.

Ansari’s Stop Inhumane Conditions in ICE Detention Act (H.R. 7347) would mandate reporting requirements about detainees in immigration detention facilities. It would require DHS and ICE to regularly report on detainee health conditions, standards of care, and any outbreaks or deaths in custody. It also mandates contract reviews in cases of abuse and requires annual audits by the DHS Inspector General, including specific oversight of gender-related medical care.

Ansari’s Studying Disastrous Impacts of Mass Deportation Act (H.R. 7345) would direct the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office to conduct a study on the harmful long-term economic impact of the Trump Administration’s immigration policies.

Ansari’s Drain ICE Act is cosponsored by 37 Members of Congress, including Representatives Nanette Diaz Barragan (CA-44), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Shontel M. Brown (OH-11), Andre Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), John Garamendi (CA-08), Goldman (NY-10), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Jennifer McClellan (MD-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Emily Randall (WA-06), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Janice Schakowsky (IL-09), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Nikema Williams (GA-05).

The legislation is also endorsed by Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), The Center for Gender & Refugees Studies (CGRS), Church World Service (CWS), and Detention Watch Network (DWN).

Ansari’s Stop Inhumane Conditions in ICE Detention Act is cosponsored by 38 Members of Congress including Representatives Nanette Diaz Barragan (CA-44), Andre Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Summer Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Jennifer McClellan (MD-04), Grace Meng (NY-06), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Emily Randall (WA-06), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Janice Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Dina Titus (NV-01), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Nikema Williams (GA-05).

The legislation is also endorsed by Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), The LIBRE Initiative, The Center for Gender & Refugees Studies (CGRS), and the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ).

Ansari’s Studying Disastrous Impacts of Mass Deportation Act is cosponsored by 27 Members of Congress including Representatives Nanette Diaz Barragan (CA-44), Andre Carson (IN-07), Gil Cisneros (CA-31), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Summer Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Sarah McBride (DE-At Large), Jennifer McClellan (MD-04), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Janice Schakowsky (IL-09), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Nikema Williams (GA-05).

The legislation is also endorsed by The Center for Gender & Refugees Studies (CGRS), Church World Service (CWS), and the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ).

SUPPORT FOR ANSARI’S LEGISLATION

“Taken together, these three bills are practical steps towards reining in ICE abuses by repealing nearly $75 billion in funding for ICE; promoting transparency and accountability for health care at detention centers; and chronicling the devastating long-term economic impacts of the Trump administration’s disastrous immigration policies. As an organization dedicated to upholding the rights of asylum seekers, including those fleeing gender-based violence, CGRS welcomes these measures to address some of the worst impacts of the administration’s abusive approach to immigration enforcement. At a moment when the American people are demanding that DHS’s unchecked power be curbed, these bills show Rep. Ansari is listening and willing to re-assert Congress’ responsibility as a co-equal branch of government,” said The Center for Gender and Refugee Studies (CGRS).

“The LIBRE Initiative supports the Stop Inhumane Conditions in ICE Detention Act of 2026 because accountability is not optional—it is a constitutional responsibility. Article I of the U.S. Constitution vests all legislative powers in Congress and clearly implies Congress’s authority to conduct oversight of the executive branch. This legislation requires the Department of Homeland Security and ICE to provide clear, consistent, and timely information to Congress and the public regarding conditions of care in their facilities. Transparency is essential to effective governance and to ensure the public’s trust in our institutions,” said Sandra Benitez, Executive Director of The LIBRE Initiative.

“The Stop Inhumane Conditions in ICE Detention Act reflects a core Jewish obligation of Pikuach Nefesh—the mandate to protect human life above almost all else. Every person is created b’tzelem Elohim, in the image of God, and deserves dignity including appropriate medical care. By requiring accountability around health conditions, standards of care, and deaths in detention, this bill takes an essential step toward ending neglect and ensuring that our immigration system reflects our shared moral responsibility to protect human life,” said Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, Director, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC).

“The Studying Disastrous Impacts of Mass Deportation Act responds to a deep moral crisis in our nation,” said Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC). “Shaped by a long history of migration, displacement, and the search for safety and opportunity, the Jewish community understands the profound communal consequences of forced removal. By directing a rigorous study of the national and regional economic impacts of mass deportation, this bill brings much-needed transparency and moral clarity to a debate that too often ignores the real costs borne by families, workers, and communities.”

“We commend Rep. Ansari for introducing legislation to curb abusive immigration enforcement and are proud to endorse the Stop Inhumane Conditions in ICE Detention Act and Drain ICE Act. Asian Americans are the only racial group that is majority foreign-born, and as such, all immigration policies deeply affect the wellbeing and safety of our communities. We have seen this through the cruel raids, detentions, and deportations that have brutalized our communities and torn families apart under this administration. Demanding accountability and reducing funding for ICE is the first step in putting a stop to the inhumane treatment of immigrants in this country,” said John C. Yang, President and Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC).

“The Trump administration’s mass deportation agenda is wreaking havoc on our communities,” said Danilo Zak, Director of Policy at Church World Service (CWS). “In the wake of the $75 billion that Congress allocated for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last year, masked federal agents continue to commit widespread abuses throughout the United States. Religious communities across the country collectively decry the Trump administration’s violent and repressive actions – including targeting resettled refugees, detaining children and families, and killing newcomers and U.S. citizens alike. CWS thanks Rep. Ansari for introducing the Studying Disastrous Impacts of Mass Deportation Act to provide lawmakers and the public with actionable data on the economic and public safety impacts of immigration enforcement. We also thank the Representative for leading the Drain ICE Act, which would rescind the record-setting allocation for ICE in last year’s megabill. We urge Members of Congress to join with Rep. Ansari and heed the call of our congregations and communities by cosponsoring and passing these vital bills.”

“We welcome Representative Ansari's ‘Drain ICE Act’– a sorely needed step to rein in ICE violence by revoking billions of dollars that the agency received in last summer's reconciliation bill. ICE should never have gotten that money, which it has used to violently attack communities and expand its abuse ridden detention system to never before seen levels, including efforts to purchase warehouses to imprison human beings. Congress must act to stop ICE from continuing down this path of destruction,” said Setareh Ghandehari, Advocacy Director at Detention Watch Network.

ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND

In January 2026, Ansari joined over two dozen other House Democrats for a shadow hearing titled “Kidnapped and Disappeared: Trump’s Deadly Assault on Minnesota.” Ansari’s visit to Minneapolis came one week after Renee Nicole Good was killed by ICE in Minneapolis.

In November 2025, Ansari traveled to Los Angeles with House Democrats on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee for a congressional field hearing titled “Due Process for All: Exposing Trump’s Mass Deportation Machine.” The hearing addressed and documented unlawful detentions and abuses by federal immigration agents. More than 200 people attended the hearing.

In November 2025, Ansari conducted her third oversight visit to the Eloy Detention Center in central Arizona, where she reported horrific conditions inside the facility. During the visit, Ansari met with Arbella “Yari” Marquez, who has been suffering from leukemia. Ansari witnessed Yari extremely ill, including an instance in which she vomited blood.

In September 2025, Ansari held a press conference at the U.S. Capitol to demand humane treatment and accountability at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities. Ansari highlighted alarming conditions at the Eloy Detention Center in Arizona and called for urgent medical care for her constituent, Arbella “Yari” Rodríguez Márquez, who has leukemia and is not receiving adequate medical care.

In July 2025, Ansari conducted her second oversight visit to the Eloy Detention Center. Ansari met with two of her constituents whose families she has corresponded with, as well as a list of detainees who voluntarily signed up to speak with her inside the facility. All told, 98 people signed up to speak with her.

In July 2025, Ansari was scheduled to conduct her second oversight visit to the Eloy Detention Center, an ICE facility in central Arizona. Despite complying with the newly imposed guidance by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Ansari received notification that she was denied access to meet with her detained constituents less than 24 hours before the scheduled visit.

In May 2025, Ansari, along with Arizona’s Democratic Delegation, sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons demanding answers following reports that ICE abruptly detained multiple individuals who were attending their scheduled immigration court hearings in Phoenix.

In May 2025, Ansari conducted her first oversight visit to the Eloy Detention Center. While inside, Ansari heard stories that confirmed reports of dehumanizing treatment towards detainees, dirty and uninhabitable living conditions, and a lack of medical and mental health care.

In April 2025, Ansari traveled to El Salvador to demand due process for Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was unlawfully deported by the Trump Administration.

In February 2025, Ansari introduced her first piece of legislation, H.Res.126, titled “Celebrating the Legacy and Contributions of Immigrants and Opposing Discriminatory Immigration Policies.”

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Ansari, Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Promote Internet Freedom and Access to Information in Iran

WASHINGTON – Today, Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) and Eric Swalwell (D-CA), along with Representatives Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Dave Min (D-CA), and Stephanie Bice (R-OK) introduced the bipartisan Internet Reach and Access Now Act (IRAN) Act to promote internet freedom and access to information in Iran.

According to the Freedom House Index, Iran has the third-worst internet freedom score in the world.

"President Trump has said 'help is on the way' for Iranian people. Ensuring internet access would actually help people immediately--allowing them to access unbiased information, organize, and get in touch with loved ones. This is bipartisan, noncontroversial, and not militarily invasive; it can actually get done fast," said Rep. Ansari.

“Oppressive regimes fall when the illusion of their power breaks, and the people of Iran are ready to break through,” said Rep. Swalwell. “Iranians want freedom, a mission I’ve always supported. That’s why I introduced the Internet Reach and Access Now (IRAN) Act, to expand access to free internet for the Iranian people. Open internet access is a powerful tool for change and empowers the people to stand against the regime. Iranians want what people everywhere want: the freedom to choose their own future.”

The IRAN Act Would:

Require the Secretary of State to implement and regularly update a comprehensive strategy to promote internet freedom in Iran, coordinating across federal agencies.

Require the State Department to update the Comprehensive Strategy to Promote Internet Freedom and Access to Information in Iran, which was required by the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 (22 U.S.C. 8754).

Adds three new objectives to the comprehensive strategy to ensure the strategy more accurately reflects technologies used by Iranian civil society. The new objectives are:

Evaluating the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), satellite internet, and direct-to-cell (DTC) satellite technologies by civil society and human rights activists in Iran and developing strategies for increasing the accessibility of such technologies;

Working with Treasury and Commerce to ensure that enforcement of sanctions does not prevent companies from providing the technology and other tools necessary to access the open internet;

Assessing the ability of the Iranian regime to cut off all access to the internet and developing strategies to circumvent internet blackouts.

Require all new or modified satellite or direct-to-cell internet licenses granted by the FCC refrain from disabling or geo-blocking satellite or DTC coverage over the land territory of Iran, except where explicitly required by Federal law or other applicable regulations.

Require the Secretary of State, acting through the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor to establish programs to provide cybersecurity training and commercially available digital safety tools to assist Iranians in circumventing the Iranian regime’s repressive censorship tools.

Authorize the appropriation of $15,000,000 per year for FY2027 and FY2028 to fund the aforementioned technologies in Iran, especially VPNs.

“The Iranian regime’s recent nationwide internet blackout, imposed as tens of thousands of peaceful protesters were killed, underscores the urgent need for Congress to strengthen internet freedom tools for the Iranian people. The updated IRAN Act takes a critical step forward by expanding access to satellite, direct-to-cell, and other technologies that keep civilians connected when the regime attempts to silence them. PAAIA appreciates the bipartisan leadership behind this legislation and strongly supports its swift passage. Ensuring Iranians can remain online during moments of mass repression is essential to protecting human rights,” said Morad Ghorban, Director of Government Relations & Policy, Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA).

IRAN Act is endorsed by – Public Affairs Associations of Iranian Americans (PAAIA), FDD Action, Lantern, Psiphon, and NetFreedom Pioneers.

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Ansari, Stanton, Grijalva, Kelly Demand Answers on Measles Outbreak at Arizona Immigration Detention Facilities

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), along with Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons demanding urgent answers about the reported measles outbreak affecting individuals detained at the Florence Detention Center and Florence Correctional Center.

“Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread rapidly in congregate settings. It is critical that your agencies act swiftly, transparently, and in coordination with state and local public health authorities to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread,” the lawmakers write.

At least three individuals in federal custody in Arizona have tested positive for measles, and Arizona’s Department of Health Services reports at least 31 additional cases statewide in 2026 alone. This is not the first time measles has spread at an ICE detention center in the state. In 2016, an outbreak at an ICE detention center in Pinal County saw more than 30 cases among detainees and nine staff members, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

At least three individuals in federal custody in Arizona have tested positive for measles, and Arizona’s Department of Health Services reports at least 31 additional cases statewide in 2026 alone. This is not the first time measles has spread at an ICE detention center in the state. In 2016, an outbreak at an ICE detention center in Pinal County saw more than 30 cases among detainees and nine staff members, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The lawmakers' letter requests detailed information on more than two dozen questions, including:

The number of confirmed and suspected cases among detained individuals and staff;

Medical capacity and care being provided to detainees;

Isolation and quarantine measures being implemented;

Access to legal representation for detainees during quarantine measures;

Vaccination rates and availability of MMR vaccines;

And coordination with state and local public health authorities.

The letter is available HERE.

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President Trump Signs into Law Arrington Bill to Rein in PBMs and Lower Drug Costs

Washington, D.C. – President Trump has signed into law H.R. 7148, a legislative package that includes House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington’s (TX-19) Better Deals and Lower Prices Act. The new law delivers long-overdue transparency and accountability to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and helps lower prescription drug costs for American businesses and working families.

“While America leads the world in medical innovation, our prescription drug delivery system has fundamental flaws that cost patients and taxpayers alike. This week, President Trump took a BIG step in addressing this by signing my Better Deals and Lower Prices Act into law.

“By increasing transparency around prescription drug pricing and pharmacy benefit manager practices, this new law empowers consumers with the information they need to make informed decisions, spurs much-needed competition into the health care market, and ensures taxpayer dollars are spent in the most cost-effective way.

“The result? Lower prices, lower premiums, and a system that works for both patients and taxpayers.

“I’m proud to have led on these commonsense reforms that will drive down health care costs and deliver better deals for hardworking American families.” - Chairman Arrington.

Background:

Many companies do not have the resources to negotiate back and forth with drug manufacturers on the cost and quantity of the drugs they require for their employees.

Traditionally, PBMs filled this function, and while companies don't have to contract with a PBM to develop their drug benefit, virtually all of them do.

Over time, and due largely to a lack of oversight and transparency, the 3 Largest PBMs have grown to control 90% of the market - while patients and employers face mounting barriers to understanding how PBMs negotiate for them, and whether the deal they're getting is as good as they think.

This means two things:

Companies can't act as rational consumers and compare PBM net price data across the market, or "shop around," and

Working Americans with employer sponsored insurance (roughly 160,000,000 of them) are paying higher premiums than they need to.

The Better Deals and Lower Prices Act will address this by requiring PBMs to share net price data from all drugs regardless of class to employers that request it, allowing businesses small and large to access the same information and shop effectively.

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Related News

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Arrington Delivers Historic Rural Health Investment, Texas Awarded Largest Allocation in Nation

December 30, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases


Arrington Secures Over $30 Million for West Texas Projects While Cutting Federal Spending

Washington, D.C. – President Trump has signed into law H.R. 7148, a legislative package that funds critical national priorities and delivers more than $30 million in community project funding for West Texas. The law provides targeted investments to expand the I-27 Ports-to-Plains Corridor, improve Lubbock Preston Smith Airport, and upgrade key facilities at Texas Tech - while reducing federal discretionary spending

“This week, President Trump signed legislation that reduces year-over-year federal discretionary spending while delivering significant resources for West Texas.

“This includes over $30 million in combined investment in TX-19 for infrastructure development to expand the I-27 Ports-to-Plains Corridor, much-needed improvements for Lubbock Preston Smith Airport, and key facility upgrades that strengthen Texas Tech’s position as a world-class institution.

“I am proud to have worked with my colleagues and President Trump to secure these resources that will strengthen the safety, security, and economic growth of our region, while reducing federal spending overall.

“Since being elected Chairman of the Budget Committee, Republicans have cut record spending including $400B to date from the operating budget and $1.5T in waste and fraud from entitlement programs.” – Chairman Arrington.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Establish student mentorship opportunities in mental health.

Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) are cosponsoring the bill in the Senate.

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

A one-pager on the bill is available here.


Reps. Begich, Gillen Lead Bipartisan Aviation Weather Safety Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Feb. 5, 2026 – Congressman Begich (R-AK) and Congresswoman Laura Gillen (D-NY) introduced H.R.7275, the Aviation Weather Safety Improvement Act. This bipartisan legislation would require the Director of the National Weather Service (NWS) to coordinate with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), on staffing needs for Center Weather Service Units across the nation to facilitate the safe movement of aircraft.

“In Alaska, aviation is a critical link in the global supply chain. From bush flights serving remote villages to the nonstop cargo traffic moving through Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, safety and reliability must always come first. That’s why I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort alongside Congresswoman Gillen,” said Congressman Begich. “The Aviation Weather Safety Improvement Act strengthens coordination among the FAA, the National Weather Service, and air traffic controllers to ensure Center Weather Service Units are adequately staffed and equipped to support the safe and efficient movement of aircraft. With Anchorage among the busiest cargo airports in the world, we have a responsibility to lead on aviation weather safety and make sure Alaska remains the hallmark of reliability and excellence in our national airspace system.”

“Long Island is home to one of the busiest and most complex airspaces in the nation, placing enormous demands on our aviation safety infrastructure. For this reason, adequate staffing of air traffic controllers and meteorologists is critical. Yet many are under tremendous strain from staffing shortages, posing a serious risk to both safety and reliability in our aviation system,” said Congresswoman Gillen. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan legislation to strengthen coordination and ensure aviation meteorologists are physically present at FAA Air Route Traffic Control Centers. Their expertise is essential to monitoring rapidly changing weather conditions and providing real-time guidance that keeps flights safe and on schedule across the country.”

"The FAA Managers Association strongly supports the introduction of the Aviation Weather Safety Improvement Act of 2026,” said Mike Smith, President, FAA Managers Association (FAAMA). “Representing over 1,500 managers and supervisors across the FAA, we serve as stewards of our nation's air traffic safety. In this role, FAAMA recognizes the key impacts that timely and accurate weather information has on aviation safety. With staffing levels for Center Weather Service Units at FAA Air Route Traffic Control Centers across the country at concerningly low levels, we urge the FAA, National Weather Service and Congress to take an active role in seeking to remedy this situation. We specifically applaud Reps. Gillen and Begich for their leadership on this issue and encourage the Committee to take up this key legislation as soon as possible."

This bill is endorsed by the FAA Managers Association and the National Weather Service Employees Organization.

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Bilirakis and Patronis Introduce Legislation to Expand Homeownership Opportunities for Younger Generations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis and Congressman Jimmy Patronis introduced the Save for Success Act, legislation designed to help first-time homebuyers achieve the dream of homeownership by allowing distributions from qualified tuition programs to be used for qualified housing expenses.

“For countless Americans, the goal of buying a first home has become increasingly out of reach even for those who have worked hard and played by the rules,”said Congressman Bilirakis. “Families are budgeting carefully, saving responsibly, and planning for their future, yet rising costs continue to put homeownership beyond their grasp. The Save for Success Act provides a practical solution by giving first-time buyers greater access to the savings they have already earned and set aside. Owning a home offers more than shelter-it provides stability, pride, and a lasting connection to a community. This legislation is about expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and ensuring the American Dream remains attainable for the next generation.”

“For too many young families, saving for a first home feels further out of reach every year,” said Congressman Patronis. “The Save for Success Act makes it more affordable for first-time homebuyers to purchase their first home by giving them greater flexibility to use the savings they have already set aside. Homeownership does not just benefit families, it strengthens our communities because when people have a stake in their neighborhood, they care more about schools, public safety, and local infrastructure. It is time to give our younger generations the opportunity to live the American Dream and build stronger, more vibrant communities.”

The Save for Success Act would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to include “qualified housing expenses” as eligible costs for distributions from qualified tuition programs. These expenses would include costs paid by a first-time homebuyer to purchase a principal residence, such as closing costs and mortgage payments. Under the legislation, a first-time homebuyer is defined as an individual who, along with their spouse if married, did not own a principal residence at any time during the three-year period preceding the purchase. The terms “principal residence” and “purchase” follow existing federal tax definitions. The proposed changes would apply to eligible distributions made after December 31, 2026.