Graham Statement on Supreme Court Tariff Decision

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after the Supreme Court’s 6-3 ruling in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump.

“While I accept the Court’s ruling, I believe that President Trump does have many options regarding keeping existing tariffs in place under authorities beyond the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). I support President Trump’s decision to fight refunds. I did not think they are necessary or appropriate, and I’m sure that they will be subject to much litigation.

“As to the power of tariffs on the national security front, it is undeniable what President Trump has been able to do by using and threatening tariffs. One of the chief reasons that our border is so secure is President Trump threatened to put tariffs on countries that were allowing illegal immigrants to pour in through our southern border and held them accountable for the problem. When it comes to finding fentanyl and other dangerous products coming into the country, President Trump has used tariffs extremely effectively.

“However, the most obvious example of how tariffs can affect national security involves the case where President Trump put a 25 percent tariff on India for purchasing cheap Russian oil to fuel Putin’s war machine. Before the war, India was buying approximately 3 percent of their oil from Russia. After the war began and it became so cheap, India’s total purchases of Russian oil went up to almost 30 percent. When President Trump decided to impose a 25 percent tariff on products coming into the United States from India because they chose to buy cheap Russian oil that propped up Putin's war machine, India -- to its credit -- dramatically reduced the amount of oil it has purchased from Putin.

“The Russian economy is definitely under siege, and it is my hope that Congress will move forward with the Russian sanctions bill that I've been working on with Senator Blumenthal for over a year now that would allow sanctions and tariffs to be imposed by the president against countries who buy cheap Russian oil, propping up Putin's war machine. This legislation has a three-year sunset and is tied to the Russian-Ukraine conflict in terms of tariff power. The economic tools given to the president in this legislation to push Putin to the table, I believe are indispensable.

“It is imperative we take up the Russian sanctions bill quickly as President Zelensky and others in the region have said it would be a great momentum builder to try to end the bloodbath.”


Luján Statement on Supreme Court Striking Down President Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs

Santa Fe, N.M. — U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, issued the following statement on the Supreme Court striking down President Trump’s sweeping tariffs:

“Instead of lowering costs for American families as he promised, President Trump ignited a global trade war the moment he took office. His sweeping, reckless tariffs are responsible for driving up prices and hurting small businesses and working families across New Mexico and the country. Yet Republicans have stayed silent, choosing loyalty to President Trump over standing up for our constituents or the economy.

“This Supreme Court decision is an important step forward. Now, the Trump administration must provide certainty to American small businesses by refunding the costs they have endured and take real steps to repair our economic relationships around the world.”

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McConnell Statement on Supreme Court Tariff Ruling

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement following the Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision invalidating the executive’s use of International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs unilaterally:

“Today, the Supreme Court reaffirmed authority that has rested with Congress for centuries.

“As a matter of policy, the empty merits of sweeping trade wars with America’s friends were evident long before today’s decision. The American people already know that when Washington throws up artificial barriers, building and buying here at home become more expensive. Kentuckians whose livelihoods depend on auto manufacturing, agricultural commodity markets, or demand for bourbon whiskey understand this painful reality better than most.

“But as a matter of Constitutional authority, there is now no room for doubt: the use of IEEPA to circumvent Congress in the imposition of tariffs – already without precedent – is also illegal.

“Congress’ role in trade policy, as I have warned repeatedly, is not an inconvenience to avoid. If the executive would like to enact trade policies that impact American producers and consumers, its path forward is crystal clear: convince their representatives under Article 1.”

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Merkley: Any Military Action Against Iran Requires Congressional Authorization

“Despite Trump claiming to be a president who would choose peace, we are once again watching a Republican president drag us into another war in the Middle East. Any decision to launch military action without congressional authorization would violate the Constitution, undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts, and risk putting American troops and innocent civilians in the crossfire.

“I strongly condemn the Iranian regime’s repression at home and abroad—which includes human rights abuses against the Iranian people and its support for violent proxies in the region—but these realities do not justify unilateral U.S. military action or regime change, nor do they override the Constitution. They certainly do not give the President the authority to move this country toward another war on his own, which doesn’t make Americans safer or put ‘America First.’

“Only Congress has the constitutional authority to declare war. That power does not belong to any one president.The American people, including our men and women in uniform, deserve a full debate about the objectives, the risks, and the consequences of any potential war with Iran.


Merkley Applauds Supreme Court Ruling to Overturn Trump’s Reciprocal Tariff Policy

Washington, D.C. — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that President Trump exceeded his authority to impose the broad, misguided reciprocal tariffs that he put in place in April. Following the ruling, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, released the below statement.

“Today is a win for farmers, small businesses, and hardworking, middle-class families across the country,” said Ranking Member Jeff Merkley. “For months, Trump’s illegal and chaotic tariffs have harmed American consumers and businesses, leaving them to foot the bill for rising prices due to Trumpflation. While Trump continues his ‘families lose, billionaires win’ agenda, we’re using every tool at our disposal to fight back against his reckless policies and build an economy where families thrive, and billionaires pay their fair share.”

In June, the Congressional Budget Office told Merkley that if the Trump Tariffs were to remain in place, they would slow economic growth, boost inflation, and hurt working- and middle-class families. These tariffs have amounted to a regressive $2.5 trillion tax hike on American families.

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Wyden, Merkley, Dexter, Colleagues Demand Accountability for Israel’s Detention and Abuse of Palestinian-American Teenager Mohammed Ibrahim

This week marks one year since Israeli forces arrested and detained Mohammed Ibrahim, a U.S. citizen, for ten months

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Maxine Dexter today joined Senate and House colleagues to demand accountability for the Israeli military’s nearly ten-month detention of Mohammed Ibrahim, a Palestinian-American minor.

On February 16, 2025, U.S. citizen and Florida resident Mohammed Ibrahim was arrested in his home in the town of al-Mazraa ash-Sharqiya, near Ramallah in the West Bank, at 3 am by heavily armed Israeli soldiers. For nearly ten months, the then 15-year-old boy was detained without trial and denied visitation from family. He was finally released on November 27, 2025. The lawmakers highlight how his physical and psychological abuse by Israeli soldiers underscores Israel’s systematic denial of basic rights and due process to Palestinian detainees, especially minors.

“Following his arrest and during his time in custody, we received periodic reports from Mohammed’s family and U.S. Consular officers regarding Mohammed’s treatment by Israeli soldiers. He and the Palestinian minors detained in the same cell were beaten, threatened, pepper sprayed in the face, and denied adequate food and medical care for, in Mohammed’s case, more than nine months. Mohammed lost a third of his body weight and was covered in scabies, as were the others,” the lawmakers wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. “One of his cellmates, 17-year-old Walid Ahmad, who was never charged with a crime, died. His autopsy findings showed signs of prolonged malnutrition, untreated colitis, injuries likely caused by blunt trauma, and scabies. After his release, Mohammed described in detail the brutality and humiliation he and his cellmates were subjected to—mistreatment that no one should be forced to endure, least of all a 15-year-old.”

“This type of abuse, which has become commonplace in the West Bank and Israeli prison facilities, must stop. There has been case after case of Palestinians, including hundreds of children, swept up in the Israeli military justice system, where they are not only denied basic rights of due process but subjected to systematic physical and psychological abuse. While such abuses are never permissible, we are especially concerned that cases involving abuse of U.S. citizens in the West Bank be thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are brought to justice,” the lawmakers concluded.

In their letter, the lawmakers request immediate answers from Rubio to the following questions:

Has anyone from the State Department met with Mohammed since his release to hear from him directly about his treatment by Israel Prison Service (IPS) authorities? If not, why not?

Has the State Department requested the Government of Israel to conduct a thorough, impartial investigation of the abuse that he and the other minors who were detained with him were subjected to?

Have any IDF or IPS personnel been punished for the abuse of Mohammed Ibrahim?

This letter follows an initial letter sent in October 2025 letter that Merkley led and signed by Wyden and Dexter to press the Trump administration on the detention of Mohammed Zaher Ibrahim.

This latest letter was led by U.S. Senators Peter Welch, D-Vt., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and U.S. Representative Kathy Castor, D-Fla. In addition to Wyden, Merkley and Dexter, the letter was cosigned by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and U.S. Representatives Don Beyer, D-Va., Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., Maxwell Frost, D-Fla., Greg Casar, D-Texas, and Jim McGovern, D-Mass.

The full letter is here.

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Sen. Moran Joins Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Streamline FAA Type Certification Process for AAM Aircraft

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation – joined his colleagues in introducing the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act, bipartisan legislation to improve the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) type certification process for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft. This legislation would bolster FAA bandwidth to prevent gridlock and increase transparency in the certification process, strengthen the U.S. aviation industry and further American global aviation leadership. This legislation was also cosponsored by Sens. Peter Welsh (D-Vt.), Tedd Budd (R-N.C.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M), John Curtis (R-Utah), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) and Todd Young (R-Ind.).

“Streamlining FAA type certification processes for advanced aviation technologies like advanced air mobility will help to strengthen America’s global leadership in aviation innovation,” said Sen. Moran. “This bipartisan legislation would support emerging aerospace technologies and bolster the aviation industry in Kansas and across the country by removing unnecessary gridlock and increasing transparency in the type certification process.”

“Building on generations of leadership in aviation, American companies are spearheading electric aircraft innovation,” said Sen. Welch. “That includes companies like Vermont’s Beta Technologies, which completed its historic, first-ever electric flight last year in South Burlington. Streamlining FAA certification processes and creating more transparency for emerging AAM companies like Beta is critical to chipping away at gridlock to keep up with our allies. I’m proud to join my colleagues on this bipartisan legislation that will bolster the United States’ storied legacy of global leadership in aviation—and support American ingenuity and American jobs.”

“Innovative aircraft like eVTOLs promise to revolutionize America’s aviation system, but the certification process for new entrants to our airspace lacks clarity and efficiency, delaying next-generation advanced air mobility development,” said Sen. Welch. “I am pleased to join Sen. Welch, Rep. Nehls, and our colleagues to introduce legislation that will ensure the FAA prioritizes timely certification of novel aircraft, allowing manufacturers to focus their efforts on developing their groundbreaking technology, not bureaucratic hurdles.”

“American innovators are shaping the future of flight, and Congress must ensure our regulatory framework keeps pace with that innovation,” said Sen. Curtis. “This bipartisan bill brings greater clarity and accountability to the FAA certification process, helping Advanced Air Mobility companies compete, grow, and keep the United States at the forefront of the next generation of flight. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on this bipartisan effort to help American companies compete and succeed.”

“The United States is no stranger to innovation, and we must continue to protect our competitive edge in aviation,” said Sen. Lummis. “The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act strengthens American leadership in aerospace by promoting innovation and development without compromising safety. I’m proud to work alongside Senator Welch and Senator Budd to keep America at the forefront of aviation and ensure our leadership in the skies.”

“America is the birthplace of aviation, whose innovative spirit has led to the likes of Chuck Yeager and Neil Armstrong forging new frontiers for science and industry,” said Sen. Sheehy. “As a lifelong aviator, father to an aspiring pilot, and founder of an aerospace business, I firmly believe America can and must maintain aviation dominance. By streamlining bureaucracy, increasing transparency, and giving innovators the certainty they need to move at the speed of competition — without compromising safety – the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act will help accomplish this critical mission.”

“Advanced Air Mobility platforms will revolutionize the American economy,” said Sen. Young. “The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act is a crucial step to securing American drone dominance. Our bill will provide much needed clarity and certainty as we seek to establish American leadership in these critical technologies and lay the groundwork for the future of air transportation.”

Specifically, this legislation would:

Establish standard expected timelines for the FAA’s type certification process for AAM aircraft for the agency to respond to petitions for exemptions of aircraft type, and to develop means of compliance for aircraft outside of the existing types of AAM aircraft.

Set transparent and reliable standard expected ranges of time for the issue paper process, so that type certification applicants know how long reviews will take, reducing uncertainty and delays.

Direct the FAA to define when an issue paper is required in the certification process, while providing flexibility for the agency on complex safety issues.

Direct the FAA to report to the relevant congressional committees on the status of implementing the certification regulations and managing workload.

Clarify when the FAA can delegate routine compliance findings to qualified personnel, allowing agency experts to focus on complex, safety-critical issues.

Update delegation guidance for type certification to cover new and novel technologies related to AAM, including eVTOL aircraft.

The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act is endorsed by the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA), Archer Aviation; Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), Beta Technologies, Boeing, General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), Joby Aviation, National Air Transportation Association (NATA), National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), Professional Aviation Safety Specialists, AFL-CIO (PASS), Vertical Aviation International (VAI) and Wisk Aero.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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Moreno Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on President Trump’s Tariffs

WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) released the following statement on the United States Supreme Court’s ruling on President Trump’s tariffs.


Senator Murray: “Good Riddance to Trump’s Erratic Tariff Regime, Nothing Short of Economic Arson”

Senator Murray has been outspoken about the harm Trump’s tariffs are causing in WA—one of the most trade-dependent states in the country; Murray has held numerous events in every corner of the state to hear from businesses, farmers, and border communities about effects of Trump’s trade war

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) issued the following statement in response to the 6-3 Supreme Court decision ruling against Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to unilaterally impose tariffs.

“No doubt the President is somewhere throwing a tantrum over this Supreme Court Decision, but the law is clear and the law won. Small businesses across Washington state are breathing a sigh of relief thanks to this decision. Trump’s erratic tariff regime was nothing short of economic arson. On a whim, the President would upend entire industries and drastically drive up costs or block our small businesses from markets they depended on—it was sheer stupidity that cost us jobs and drove up prices for just about everyone.

“While this decision puts an important leash on an out-of-control White House, we have to recognize that so much damage has already been done. And all year, Republicans blocked Democrats from simply repealing Trump’s destructive tariffs out of pure cowardice and a slovenly deference to a President determined to set our economy on fire. Good riddance.

“Undoubtedly, Trump will look for new ways to impose tariffs and hurt American small businesses—he should just give it up and Republicans should work with us to make sure he does. In Congress, I’ll keep fighting back against Trump and Republicans’ anti-small business, anti-consumer policies—Democrats are fighting for commonsense policies that grow the economy for everyone, support the middle-class, and make life more affordable.”

Washington state has one of the most trade-dependent economies of any state in the country, with 40 percent of jobs in the state tied to international commerce. In 2024, Washington exported $57.8 billion of goods, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), making Washington state the 9th-largest state exporter of goods last year. Washington state is also the top U.S. producer of apples, blueberries, hops, pears, spearmint oil, and sweet cherries—all of which risk losing vital export markets due to retaliatory tariffs from key trading partners including Canada.

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Padilla, Schiff Secure $22 Million for Beale Air Force Base

YUBA COUNTY, CA — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) announced that they secured $22 million in federal funding for Beale Air Force Base, part of $25 million Padilla helped secure for three projects across the North State through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills. This funding is part of the $241,794,366 in total Congressionally Directed Spending funding that Padilla delivered for California for FY 2026.

The bipartisan funding for Beale Air Force Base, secured by Padilla, Schiff, and the late Representative Doug LaMalfa, will go toward the Multi-Domain Operations Complex project. This project supports the base’s operation and serves as a critical foundation to sustain Beale’s mission and long-range strategy.

“This surge in federal funding for Beale Air Force Base is crucial to protecting our national security and bolstering military readiness at one of our state’s premier bases. I appreciate Senator Schiff and the late Congressman Doug LaMalfa’s partnership in securing this critical investment,” said Senator Padilla. “I will continue working across the aisle to deliver lasting improvements for Northern California communities and invest in our troops and veterans.”

“As the West Coast remains on the front line of deterring adversaries in the Pacific and the home of the nation’s technological innovation, supporting Beale Air Force Base in Congress remains a bipartisan priority for our California delegation,” said Senator Schiff. “And with the Air Force’s selection in May of Beale for testing of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft, the funding we secured will reinforce the base’s new mission and support thousands of jobs in Yuba County. I was proud to work with Senator Padilla and the late Congressman LaMalfa to secure this important funding, and of the efforts of the dedicated servicemembers that I had a chance to meet at Beale last year.”

Padilla also secured federal funding for two additional North State projects:

Veterans Memorial Hall Improvements Project – $1.50 million: This project improves the conditions of the Veterans Memorial Hall in Del Norte County by providing ADA compliance and clean air and warming shelter infrastructure.

Police Radio Upgrades (Sutter County) – $1.50 million: This funding will be used to purchase new multiband radios and improve communication between law enforcement and emergency response agencies.

More information on these appropriations bills is available here, here, and here.

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Padilla Secures Nearly $10 Million for Six Projects Across Greater Sacramento Region

SACRAMENTO, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) announced that he secured over $9.8 million in federal funding for six projects across the Greater Sacramento Region through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills. This funding is part of the $241,794,366 in total Congressionally Directed Spending funding that Padilla delivered for California for FY 2026.

“I am proud to help secure millions in federal funding to support transformative projects that will deliver lasting improvements for communities across the Greater Sacramento Region,” said Senator Padilla. “These investments will support local governments and non-profits working on the ground in our communities. They will bolster our water supply and infrastructure, provide critical support services for individuals with disabilities, and expand adult education opportunities. As Californians struggle with the rising cost of living under President Trump’s harmful economic agenda, these crucial investments will make a tangible difference for Sacramento residents.”

Projects across the Greater Sacramento Region that will receive federal funding include:

Sacramento Area Environmental Infrastructure (Roseville, CA) – $5.30 million: This project provides Roseville with access to contracted surface water resources during times of drought or emergency. The project includes the construction of a raw water pipeline and pumping facilities to connect an existing Placer County Water Agency intake, along the upper American River, to Roseville’s Barton Road Water Treatment Plant.

Arden Service Area Water Supply Project – $1.09 million: Sacramento County’s Arden Service Area Water Supply Project would equip the existing Arden Way well with a well pump, chemical injection system, hydropneumatics tank, and advanced instrumentation and operational controls, delivering potable water to the Arden Park Vista distribution system.

Walnut Grove Water System Improvements – $1 million: This funding will improve water resources and infrastructure in the community of Walnut Grove.

Programming and Supportive Services for Individuals with Disabilities, Including Equipment (Meristem, Inc.) – $1 million: This funding will develop a pilot program of best practices for delivering independent living skills to prepare adults with autism and other developmental disabilities for increased independence and meaningful employment.

Expanding an Adult Learning Program, Including Purchasing Technology and Providing Financial Aid – $901,000: This funding for the “Comebacker” program will help expand the Los Rios Community College District’s adult learners program. The program provides adults returning to education with an opportunity to complete degrees and certificates in high-demand fields such as computing, engineering, and health care.

Real-Time Information Center Enhancements – $581,000: This funding will support advanced technology to ensure community safety during critical events in the City of Elk Grove.

More information on these appropriations bills is available here, here, and here.

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Padilla Secures Over $15 Million for Eight Projects Across the Inland Empire

PALM SPRINGS, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) announced that he secured over $15.4 million in federal funding for eight projects across the Inland Empire through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills. This funding is part of the $241,794,366 in total Congressionally Directed Spending funding that Padilla delivered for California for FY 2026.

“I am proud to help secure millions in federal funding to support transformative projects that will deliver lasting improvements for Inland Empire communities,” said Senator Padilla. “These investments will support local governments and non-profits working on the ground in our communities. They will help protect the air quality and ecosystem around the Salton Sea, streamline the Palm Springs Airport passenger experience, bolster mental health care, and improve public safety in the region. As Californians struggle with the rising cost of living under President Trump’s harmful economic agenda, these crucial investments will make a tangible difference for Inland Empire residents.”

Projects across the Inland Empire that will receive federal funding include:

Salton Sea Research Project – $4 million: This funding will support a project to expand, stabilize, and restore emerging wetlands in a way that also addresses dust pollution near the town of Bombay Beach along the Salton Sea.

Palm Springs International Airport Inline Baggage Handling System Improvement Project – $3 million: This project upgrades the inline baggage handling system at Palm Springs International Airport to improve passenger processing efficiency and security screening.

New Victorville Police Station Technology Advancement to Develop Real Time Crime and Viewing Center – $3 million: This funding will support the development of a real time crime and viewing center to enhance criminal investigation, police response, and crime prevention.

Facilities and Equipment to Construct a Behavioral Health Facility (Ridgecrest Regional Hospital) – $1.80 million: This funding will be used to create a new facility dedicated to mental and behavioral health services.

Imperial Streams Salton Sea Feasibility Study – $1.76 million: This project will support continued work on the Salton Sea/Imperial Streams Feasibility Study, which is proceeding under the Corps’ ecosystem restoration authority.

Heli-hydrant Project – $1 million: This funding will support additional heli-hydrants to protect the community of Jurupa Valley.

Rural Mental Health Program (Barstow Community College District) – $750,000: This funding will help establish a program to provide comprehensive mental health services to benefit students and the general population.

Water Reuse Projects (Hi Desert Water District) – $150,000: This project will implement water reuse strategies to produce a sustainable recycled water supply and preserve groundwater storage within Warren Valley basin.

More information on these appropriations bills is available here, here, and here.

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Padilla Secures Over $24 Million for 25 Projects Across Los Angeles and Orange County

LOS ANGELES, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) announced that he secured over $24.3 million in federal funding for 25 projects across Los Angeles and Orange County through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills. This funding is part of the $241,794,366 in total Congressionally Directed Spending funding that Padilla delivered for California for FY 2026.

“I am proud to help secure millions in federal funding to support transformative projects that will deliver lasting improvements for Los Angeles and Orange County communities,” said Senator Padilla. “These investments will support local governments and non-profits working on the ground in our communities. They will help address water quality challenges, strengthen public safety and emergency response efforts, improve affordable housing options, and support critical workforce development initiatives. As Californians struggle with the rising cost of living under President Trump’s harmful economic agenda, these crucial investments will make a tangible difference for Southern California residents.”

Projects across Los Angeles and Orange County that will receive federal funding include:

San Gabriel Basin Restoration Fund – $3.24 million: This funding will be used to continue cleanup activities underway and to address cleanup of orphan sites and non-“Record of Decision” projects where there is no responsible party identified or where the responsible party does not have the resources to do the work.

Solar and Energy Storage for Central Library – $1.70 million: This project will install innovative solar and energy storage systems on Pasadena’s Central Library to provide renewable energy and enhance grid resilience.

Community Crisis Response Program – $1.49 million: This funding will be used to expand the City of Long Beach’s Community Crisis Response Program, which responds to non-emergency 911 calls.

Nueva Maravilla Extreme Heat Measures-Cooling Equipment and Installation – $1.20 million: This funding supports the installation of cooling equipment at the Nueva Maravilla Public Housing Development in East Los Angeles.

Water Bank Study (Las Virgenes Municipal Water District) – $1.09 million: This funding will support the delivery of desalinated water through submerged reverse osmosis technology.

The Crisis and Incident Response through Community-led Engagement (CIRCLE) Program – $1.06 million: This funding will help the CIRCLE unarmed response program expand to more neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

West LA Real Time Crime Center – $1.03 million: This funding will improve the capabilities of the West Los Angeles and Pacific Divisions of the Los Angeles Police Department to stand up Real Time Crime Centers and expand their sensor network across the community to deter crime and assist in criminal apprehension.

Orange County Flood Futures Project – $1.03 million: The Orange County Flood Futures Project will identify and evaluate modifications to flood channels, dams, and their operations that would result in increased natural supplies of sand to area beaches during storm events.

Advanced Equipment for Lancaster Police Department – $1.02 million: This funding will cover various equipment, including two multi-terrain performance vehicles, public safety cameras, drug testing equipment, and updated dispatch consoles.

The Village Renovation Project – $1 million: This project supports The People Concern’s Village Renovation Project to provide supportive housing for vulnerable individuals.

Contract Ready LA – $1 million: This project provides training and certification assistance to help Los Angeles small businesses qualify for federal contracts.

San Gabriel River Water Quality Improvement Project – $1 million: This funding will support efforts to mitigate trash migrating from the San Gabriel River watershed into the Pacific Ocean.

Healthcare Workforce Training, Including Tuition, Fees, Equipment, and Training Materials (AltaMed Health Services Corporation) – $995,000: This funding will support the inaugural health care workforce partnership with the University of La Verne and the Annenberg School of Nursing.

Workforce Training, Including Transportation (Los Angeles Conservation Corps) – $969,000: This funding will go toward education and training, administered by the Corpsmember Development Department.

Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Pacoima Warehouse Renovation – $968,000: The funding will be used to purchase materials for essential renovations to the Pacoima Warehouse for the Los Angeles County Fire Department to provide lifesaving supplies and tools to over 300 fire department locations throughout Los Angeles County.

Inside Safe Program – Acquisition and Capital Improvements – $850,000: This project supports Los Angeles’ Inside Safe program in acquiring housing and improving services.

City of La Palma – Public Safety Center – $850,000: This project modernizes existing infrastructure used by both the La Palma Police Department and the La Palma Fire Department to improve public safety with better resources like security cameras and sensors, ensuring that law enforcement is well-equipped to address the evolving needs of the community.

South Laguna Beach Fire Station Replacement – $850,000: This project replaces the South Laguna Fire Station, a 1940s-era facility that no longer meets modern emergency service standards.

Sister Cedars Senior Housing – $815,000: This project supports the Los Angeles House of Ruth with its Sister Cedars Senior Housing assisted living facility in Northridge.

Improving Firefighting Education, Including the Purchase of Equipment (Rio Hondo Community College District) – $790,000: This funding will help purchase equipment to ensure cadets are prepared to fight fires in a variety of structures.

The Chrysalis Center’s Workforce Training (May Include Scholarships and Other Supportive Services) – $405,000: This funding will help Chrysalis expand its employment program at the San Fernando Valley Pacoima site via job readiness, case management, and supportive services to help clients reach stability and security.

Advanced Traffic Controllers at the Future Metro L Line Norwalk and Lambert Stations Areas – $250,000: This project installs advanced traffic signal controllers near future Metro L Line stations in Norwalk and Lambert to improve traffic flow and transit coordination.

Clean Power Alliance Power Ready Program for Critical Public Facilities Improvements – $250,000: This project provides backup power systems and electrical infrastructure upgrades for critical public facilities through the Clean Power Alliance.

Community and Senior Center Complex Enhancement (City of Stanton) – $250,000: The project scope includes improvements and ADA enhancements to the Senior Center area restrooms, entry lobby, and hallways. Improvements include repainting and replacement of doors, lighting fixtures, flooring, counter tops, ceiling tiles, mirrors, toilets, and urinals.

STEM Education Programming (Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers) – $236,000: This project provides monthly immersive STEM experiences in four classrooms, eight activities per year, serving up to 200 students per session directly within the school day, eliminating accessibility barriers, and fostering a sense of belonging for over 2,000 students.

More information on these appropriations bills is available here, here, and here.

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Padilla Secures Over $32 Million for Seven Projects Across San Diego County

Padilla and Schiff secure $26 million in federal funding for San Luis Rey Flood Control Project to support Oceanside’s flood mitigation efforts and to protect residents, businesses, and infrastructure

SAN DIEGO, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) announced that he secured over $32 million in federal funding for seven projects across San Diego through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills. The influx of federal funding includes $26 million Padilla and Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) helped deliver for the San Luis Rey River Project in Oceanside, California. The new federal investment will increase flood protection for the Oceanside community by repairing the San Luis Rey River levee system and removing sediment and sand in the river channel. This funding is part of the $241,794,366 in total Congressionally Directed Spending funding that Padilla delivered for California for FY 2026.

“Oceanside residents depend on the San Luis Rey River Project to protect their homes, schools, and businesses from devastating flooding,” said Senator Padilla. “After years of project delays, this surge in bipartisan federal funding Senator Schiff and I fought for will make critical levee repairs and remove dangerous sediment buildup to mitigate flood risk for vulnerable Oceanside communities. I am proud to help secure millions in federal funding to support transformative projects across the region that will deliver lasting improvements for San Diego County residents.”

“I’m proud to deliver federal investments that will go directly towards making critical flood protection improvements in Oceanside,” said Senator Schiff. “For decades, the Oceanside community has been at the mercy of aging flood protection systems that threaten residents, the local economy, and infrastructure in the region. These federal dollars will underwrite work toward mitigating those flood risks. I’m proud to have joined my colleagues Senator Padilla and Representative Levin, as well as local leaders, in this effort to secure this major investment in Southern California.”

“For too long, Oceanside’s flood protection system has been unable to adequately protect residents, businesses, and infrastructure,” said Representative Mike Levin (D-Calif.-49). “This funding will start to make much needed improvements. It will begin the work to upgrade the system, fix the levees, and provide much needed flood protection that will mitigate risk to nearby residents. I look forward to this funding coming to our community and making a real difference.”

“On behalf of the City of Oceanside, I wholeheartedly thank Senators Schiff and Padilla for including $26M in critical funding for the San Luis Rey River Flood Control Project in the appropriations bill,” said Oceanside Mayor Esther Sanchez. “This long-overdue investment will finally allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to move forward in completing the project, including strengthening levees, removing sediment that can be used toward sand replenishment on our starved beaches, and restore reliable flood and fire protection for our residents and businesses. Senators Schiff and Padilla’s exceptional leadership is delivering results for Oceanside’s safety and resilience.”

The San Luis Rey River Project Flood Risk Reduction Project was originally authorized in 1970 to provide a 250-year level of flood protection. Delays in construction over decades have caused the projects costs to increase, leading to a dip in flood protection to a 70-year level, slipping far below the 250-year level of protection envisioned in the project authorization. Funding for this project will go directly toward geotechnical investigations, levee repairs, and sediment removal to reduce the risk of flooding for the Oceanside community.

Other projects across the San Diego region that will receive federal funding include:

Pediatric Mental Health Services (Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego) – $2 million: This funding for Rady Children’s Mental Health Integration Program, which integrates primary care and mental health care by embedding mental health clinicians in pediatric primary care practices. Last year, Padilla and Representative Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.-51) heard from health care leaders, families, and pediatricians at Rady Children’s Hospital on how massive federal cuts to Medicaid’s budget would strain services and raise health care costs for millions of Californians.

SPRINTER Platform and Track Enhancement Project – $1.20 million: This project enhances SPRINTER commuter rail platforms and track infrastructure in North County San Diego for improved safety and service.

San Diego Homeless Shelter – $1 million: This project supports the City of San Diego’s homeless shelter construction, programs, and funding.

Water Line Replacement (Fallbrook Public Utility District) – $1 million: This project will help replace an 80-year-old pipeline in the district’s service area encompassing downtown Fallbrook.

Expanding Educational Opportunities for Community College Students, Including Purchasing Equipment – $655,000: This funding will support greater access to workforce training and strengthen child care and basic needs support at Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges.

STEM Education Programming (Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers) – $236,000: This project provides monthly immersive STEM experiences in four classrooms, eight activities per year, serving up to 200 students per session directly within the school day, eliminating accessibility barriers, and fostering a sense of belonging for over 2,000 students.

More information on these appropriations bills is available here, here, and here.

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Padilla Secures Over $37 Million for 16 Projects Across the Central Valley

FRESNO, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) announced that he secured over $37.2 million in federal funding for 16 projects across the Central Valley through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills. This funding is part of the $241,794,366 in total Congressionally Directed Spending funding that Padilla delivered for California for FY 2026.

“I am proud to help secure millions in federal funding to support transformative projects that will deliver lasting improvements for Central Valley communities,” said Senator Padilla. “These investments will support local governments and non-profits working on the ground in our communities. They will strengthen access to safe, clean water and sanitation, including by making long-needed water transmission infrastructure upgrades for the Tule River Tribe. As Californians struggle with the rising cost of living under President Trump’s harmful economic agenda, these crucial investments will make a tangible difference for Central Valley residents.”

Projects across the Central Valley that will receive federal funding include:

Intake Structure and Pipeline Improvement – $14.60 million: This project replaces aging water transmission infrastructure and ensures reliable, safe water access for the Tule River Tribe.

Medical Education, Including the Purchase of Equipment (UC Merced) – $3.50 million: This funding will be used to support nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, physical therapy, and medical programs to train future physicians and health professionals.

Kaweah River Siphon Resiliency Project – $3.50 million: This project conducts design, permitting, and construction of a siphon on the Tulare Irrigation District’s main intake canal.

Grangeville Boulevard Grade Separation Project – $2 million: This project will fund a grade separation at Grangeville Boulevard in Hanford to eliminate railroad crossing conflicts and improve traffic safety.

Mendota Community Center Project – $2 million: This funding supports the City of Mendota in building its new community center.

New Well Project – $2 million: The project aims to drill a new well to provide a reliable and safe drinking water source, ensuring sustainability for the community’s water system in Kings County.

Modesto & Empire Terminal Railroad Positive Train Control Installation – $1.93 million: This project installs positive train control safety technology on the Modesto & Empire Terminal Railroad to prevent train-to-train collisions.

South MLK Sewer Project – $1.50 million: This project will modernize and expand the wastewater system along Cottonwood Road/MLK Drive to support the construction of over 5,000 new housing units in southeast Bakersfield.

South Trunk Sewer Project – $1.50 million: This funding will consolidate small sewer systems at multiple mobile home parks to resolve public health and water quality concerns.

North Fork Water System Project – $1.10 million: This funding will support the consolidation of water systems into one larger community system, provide treatment to address arsenic contaminants, and address water storage for fire flow.

Water Tower Replacement – $1.09 million: This project replaces this old end-of-useful-life water tower with a 500,000-gallon steel ground-mounted water tank, which will drastically increase the water available to a major portion of the City of Dinuba.

Water System Intertie – $1 million: This funding for a bidirectional pipeline will allow the Chowchilla Water District and the Le Grand Athlone Water District to share water in certain years.

Mariposa County 6th Street Pedestrian Bridge Project – $737,000: This project builds a pedestrian bridge on 6th Street in Mariposa County to provide safe school and community access.

Facility Construction (Gustine Unified School District) – $366,000: This funding will be used to establish wellness centers at Gustine Middle and Gustine High School to house behavioral health programming for students and families.

City of Huron Police Vehicle Conversion Project – $280,000: This project converts the Huron Police Department vehicle fleet to hybrid or electric vehicles to reduce fuel costs.

Goshen Sewer Study – $150,000: This project includes a feasibility study for the Goshen Community Service District to conduct an analysis to identify alternatives to address the volume, chemical makeup, and future disposal options for their wastewater, and the feasibility of the connection to a future North County Sewer treatment facility.

More information on these appropriations bills is available here, here, and here.

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Padilla Secures Over $4.5 Million for Four Projects Across the Tahoe Region

TAHOE, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) announced that he secured over $4.5 million in federal funding for four projects across the Tahoe region through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills. This funding is part of the $241,794,366 in total Congressionally Directed Spending funding that Padilla delivered for California for FY 2026.

“I am proud to help secure millions in federal funding to support transformative projects that will deliver lasting improvements for communities around Lake Tahoe,” said Senator Padilla. “These investments will support local governments and non-profits working on the ground in our communities. They will improve response efforts for medical, fire, and power emergencies, while bolstering Tahoe’s water infrastructure. As Californians struggle with the rising cost of living under President Trump’s harmful economic agenda, these crucial investments will make a tangible difference for Tahoe residents.”

Projects across the Tahoe region that will receive federal funding include:

Facilities and Equipment to Renovate Emergency Facilities (Mono County) – $1.34 million: This funding will enable Mono County to repair and upgrade EMS stations in Bridgeport, Walker, and June Lake. Planned improvements include installation of modernized HVAC systems, flooring, roofing, enhanced climate-control equipment, and updated medical supply storage.

Bishop Fire Ladder Truck – $1.21 million: This funding will help purchase a ladder truck for the Bishop Fire Department to improve firefighting capabilities for multi-story structures.

Water Infrastructure Improvement Project – $1.14 million: This funding will help replace an aged and failing water system in Tahoe City.

Mono County Emergency Backup Generators – $900,000: This funding will support the purchase and installation of emergency generators in communities across Mono County.

More information on these appropriations bills is available here, here, and here.

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Padilla Secures Over $60 Million for Six Projects Along the Central Coast

Padilla and Schiff secure $54 million in federal funding for Watsonville and Pajaro’s flood protection efforts to safeguard residents, businesses, and infrastructure

PAJARO, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) announced that he secured over $60.3 million in federal funding for six projects along the Central Coast through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills. The influx of federal funding includes $54 million Padilla and Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) helped deliver for the Pajaro River Flood Risk Management Project in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties. The new federal investment will increase flood protection for Watsonville and Pajaro residents by reconstructing failing flood control levees along the Pajaro River and its tributaries. This funding is part of the $241,794,366 in total Congressionally Directed Spending funding that Padilla delivered for California for FY 2026.

Shortly after the storms breached the Pajaro River levee in 2023, Senator Padilla surveyed the damage along Highway 1 and met with families, small business owners, and farmers in Watsonville and Pajaro impacted by the extreme storms and flooding in California.

“Nearly three years ago, I visited Pajaro and Watsonville where I met with residents and saw firsthand their lives upended by catastrophic flooding that wiped out entire homes, farms, and businesses. Since then, I have pushed for sustained federal investment not just to rebuild the Central Coast communities devastated by historic flooding, but to protect the region from future disasters,” said Senator Padilla. “As atmospheric rivers grow more frequent and severe, this new funding boost will help create new flood walls and rebuild more resilient levees along the Pajaro River. I won’t stop fighting in Congress for even more funding to address the inequities in our infrastructure in Pajaro and beyond.”

“I’m proud to deliver federal funding for critical flood protection improvements for communities across our state that are most at risk,” said Senator Schiff. “Watsonville and Pajaro residents have waited decades for upgraded flood protection systems, and experienced significant damage and even loss of life in the process. It’s time that these federal dollars reach the Watsonville and Pajaro community as we work to mitigate flood risk and damage to residents, businesses, and local infrastructure. This investment would not be possible without the leadership and partnership of Senator Padilla, Congressman Panetta, Congresswoman Lofgren, and local leaders fighting to ensure this critical project receives the federal resources it needs.”

“The residents and businesses along the Pajaro River have been waiting for necessary flood protection for far too long,” said Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18). “In September, I was proud to announce nearly $40 million for levee and floodwall construction in Watsonville, and I’m proud to have submitted this additional $54.8 million as one of my community projects this year. That’s going to help save lives and property, and I’m thankful for the extraordinary leadership Senators Padilla and Schiff have both shown by prioritizing this project as well.”

“For far too long, the people Watsonville and Pajaro have been left vulnerable to devastating floods that have damaged homes, taken lives, and destroyed livelihoods,” said Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.-19). “Together with Senators Schiff and Padilla and Rep. Lofgren, we have worked hard to ensure that the federal government has stepped up and provided the funding necessary for proper flood protection of the communities along the Pajaro River. The partnership at all levels of government to make the Pajaro River Flood Risk Management Project a reality is something we can all be proud of on the Central Coast of California.”

The funding announcement comes after President Trump’s Army Corps work plan zeroed out hundreds of millions of dollars for key California waterway construction projects, including the Pajaro River Flood Risk Management Project — steering hundreds of millions to red states instead. Padilla and Schiff blasted Trump’s outrageous, overtly political decision at the time, and have continued to fight for Pajaro to get the levee upgrades it urgently needs.

Other projects along the Central Coast that will receive federal funding include:

Salinas Firefighter Training Tower Facility – $2 million: This funding supports the City of Salinas Fire Department in constructing a new training tower facility.

Guadalupe Union School District – Making Way for Room to Play Project – $1.97 million: This project will construct an outdoor play area attached to the Early Learning Center, which is currently under construction and will be the only center of its kind in the region.

Paso Robles Spaceport Training and Research Center – $1 million: This funding will bolster aerospace workforce development by helping establish a state-of-the-art complex that integrates education programs, research facilities, and industry partnerships.

Senior Center Facility Improvements in Guadalupe – $275,000: This project will establish a much-needed recreational space, including a new track, athletic basketball courts, and outdoor volleyball courts.

City of Soledad Streetscape Enhancement Project – $250,000: This project supports the City of Soledad in revitalizing its downtown through strategic streetscape enhancement.

Senator Padilla has fought tirelessly for Central Coast communities devastated by atmospheric river flooding. He and Representative Lofgren successfully led the California Congressional delegation in urging the Biden Administration to approve a Major Disaster Declaration following a relentless string of atmospheric rivers. In spring of 2024, Padilla urged the Biden Administration to prioritize sustained federal investment in the Pajaro River Flood Risk Management Project to protect disadvantaged communities along the central coast of California.

More information on these appropriations bills is available here, here, and here.

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WATCH: Padilla Denied Entry to Otay Mesa Detention Center by ICE

SAN DIEGO, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, was denied entry to Otay Mesa Detention Center in San Diego while he attempted to exercise his Congressional oversight role amid reports of inhumane conditions individuals detained at the facility are facing. Padilla was turned away by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials from conducting a critical oversight visit into the private CoreCivic facility and meeting with local ICE leadership amid President Trump’s mass detention and deportation campaign. The warden also refused to meet with the Senator. Padilla did not give advanced notice to the facility prior to his oversight visit.

Under ICE’s watch, detained individuals at Otay Mesa are struggling with poor nutrition, sickness, inadequate medical care, and severe overcrowding. Multiple reports last year uncovered that Otay Mesa is approximately 100 people over capacity — between October 1 and November 10, the facility held an average of 1,456 people in ICE custody, exceeding CoreCivic’s contractual capacity of 1,358. ICE refused to provide even basic information without approval from ICE headquarters, including how many people are being detained.

Detained individuals at Otay Mesa have been throwing notes attached to lotion and shampoo bottles out of the facility to shed light on these horrific conditions during a weekly vigil held by a coalition of seven local groups. The groups have been gathering for the last 15 weeks every Sunday outside of Otay Mesa to protest the conditions inside.

“I came to Otay Mesa today to see firsthand the inhumane conditions detained individuals at the facility are facing, but Donald Trump’s ICE continued to refuse any oversight of their cruelty. If individuals at Otay Mesa are actually ‘well taken care of,’ as Secretary Noem claims, then what does this Administration have to hide?” said Senator Padilla. “Detained individuals are throwing handwritten notes over the walls and fences to get the word out about their conditions: a severe lack of healthy food, large holding rooms without doors or even windows, constant sickness, and wholly inadequate medical care. Every single person inside that facility — the overwhelming majority of whom have no criminal record — is a human being deserving of respect and decency, with basic standards for accessing health care, food, and legal counsel. The American people deserve better than Trump’s out-of-control ICE and CBP. And I will keep fighting and keep fulfilling my responsibility as a United States Senator to provide oversight until they get it.”

ICE rejected Padilla’s entry into the Otay Mesa Detention Center as the number of immigrants detained by the agency has swelled to over 66,500, after reaching 73,000 earlier this year — more than ever before in U.S. history. After 32 people died in ICE custody in 2025, the deadliest year since 2005, at least eight individuals have already died in their custody this year.

Last week, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem held a press conference at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry where she claimed that individuals held at the nearby facility are “well taken care of” and given food and medical attention despite notes from detained individuals claiming otherwise.

The Otay Mesa facility operates under less stringent and protective standards and still has not been inspected by the DHS Office of Inspector General since 2021. At the time, the DHS Inspector General found that Otay Mesa did not meet standards for grievances, segregation, or staff-detainee communications.

On February 9, San Diego County’s public health officer announced the county’s intent to investigate potential violations at the private facility, sending a letter to the facility’s senior warden “assert[ing] the county’s authority to examine health and safety conditions inside the privately operated immigration detention facility.” The county officials were also denied entry today. Representative Juan Vargas (D-Calif.-52) previously tried to gain access to Otay Mesa, which is in his district, to inspect the facility, but was denied entry.

Today’s attempted visit comes after Padilla and Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) conducted an oversight visit last month to the largest detention center in California, located in California City, to learn firsthand of the concerns surrounding the inhumane conditions detained individuals are facing at the private, for-profit facility. The Senators investigated reports of unsanitary and unsafe facility conditions, inadequate medical and mental health care, insufficient access to legal counsel, a severe lack of accommodations for people with disabilities, and the unnecessary use of solitary confinement. Last week, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction ordering ICE to provide better access to health care and counsel to people detained at the facility.

Senator Padilla has strongly opposed President Trump’s cruel and indiscriminate mass deportation agenda and denial of basic services for detained individuals. Last week, Padilla joined Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and 20 other Senate Democrats in sounding the alarm on the dramatic increase in deaths in ICE detention, with over 30 deaths since the start of the Trump Administration. In January, Padilla joined Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) in introducing the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act to end the use of private, for-profit detention facilities, prohibit the practice of detaining families, and ensure due process for detained individuals. Last year, Padilla cosponsored the Restoring Access to Detainees Act, a bill to ensure the Department of Homeland Security allows detained noncitizens to contact legal counsel and their families.

Video of Padilla’s remarks following his attempted tour can be watched here and downloaded here. Padilla’s remarks in Spanish are available here.

Additional photos and b-roll footage from the event are available here.

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As Trump Seeks Unprecedented Control of Elections, Reed Announces RI Sec. of State Amore as 2026 State of the Union Guest

WASHINGTON, DC -- With President Donald Trump threatening to “nationalize” the 2026 elections, U.S. Senator Jack Reed announced that his guest at the 2026 State of the Union will be Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore.

A lifelong East Providence resident, Secretary of State Amore plays a critical role safeguarding the integrity, accuracy, and security of Rhode Island's elections.

Under the Constitution, U.S. elections are decentralized and governed by states and administered by county and municipal officials in thousands of precincts. But as President Trump continues to falsely claim he won the 2020 election and seek an advantage in future elections, he is also pushing to assert unprecedented presidential control over voting. Since the start of Trump’s second term, his Administration has sought states’ voter rolls with private voter information, including driver’s license numbers and partial Social Security numbers.

Rhode Island is one of 24 states the Trump Administration is suing to try and get unredacted personal information about their voters. In September, Secretary Amore volunteered to hand over the public voter list, but not the private, personal identifying information the Trump Administration was requesting.

Senator Reed stated: “I appreciate Secretary Amore standing up for Rhode Island’s interests and I am honored to have him as my guest. President Trump still can’t seem to get over the simple fact that he lost the 2020 election fair and square, and then lost again in the appeals process in every court in the land where he had ample opportunity to demonstrate voter fraud or wrongdoing, but utterly failed to provide evidence. We must keep elections free, fair, and secure and fortify our voting systems from attacks. Secretary Amore has been a leader on this front. We’ve got to take a principled stand for election integrity and I am pleased to have him as my guest at this year's State of the Union. Election authority belongs with the states, not the president.”


Reed Cheers SCOTUS Ruling Against Trump’s Abuse of Tariff Powers as a Win for American Families & Businesses

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in Learning Resources v. Trump and Trump v. V.O.S. Selections, Inc. that the Trump Administration abused its authorities under emergency economic power legislation to impose broad-based tariffs, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) hailed the decision as a significant victory for American families, businesses, and the U.S. economy.

Reed, who joined an amicus brief in the cases against the Trump Administration and supported successful bipartisan Senate bills to nullify Trump’s broad-based tariffs, noted that the ruling is a major victory over executive overreach but still does not apply to all of Trump’s chaotic and costly tariff policies. It only covers tariffs against Canada, Mexico, and China, the worldwide “Liberation Day” tariffs, and other specific ones against countries such as Brazil, where President Trump invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA), through which the Trump Administration has collected an estimated $175 billion – almost entirely paid for by Americans.

Reed says he wants to see a fair process established so that much of that money goes back to the people who were unfairly forced to pay it.

Senator Reed stated:

“This is a win for the American people and our Constitution, which forbids exactly what President Trump has been doing.

“Today, the Supreme Court struck down President Trump’s misuse of emergency powers that he used to wrongfully impose broad-based tariffs under the false cloak of an “emergency.” This should provide a welcome measure of relief to American consumers and businesses who were being forced to pay higher prices due to Trump’s tariff taxes. It also represents a major blow to the Trump Administration’s executive overreach and attempts to wield power outside of its constitutional authority.

“Trump’s chaotic tariff taxes have hurt a lot of small businesses and they deserve economic relief. Instead of fighting American businesses, I urge the White House to quickly refund Americans for the money they’ve lost due to these illegal tariffs. I also urge President Trump to work with Democrats to help lower prices by cancelling his other harmful tariffs, which are still costing Americans around $800 per year.”

Chief Justice John Roberts was joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, Neil Gorsuch, Amy Coney Barrett and Ketanji Brown Jackson in the majority. Justices Clarence Thomas, Brett Kavanaugh and Samuel Alito dissented.


Reed: Investments in Submarine Production Lead to 3,500 New Jobs Coming to Quonset Point

NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI -- After years of federal investment to boost submarine construction, the United States is ramping up production of nuclear-powered submarines like the ones built at shipyards in Quonset Point in Rhode Island; Groton, Connecticut; and Newport News, Virginia. The U.S. Navy’s goal is to deliver two Virginia-class submarines a year, as well as construct Columbia-class nuclear ballistic-missile submarines – a new fleet of ballistic missile submarines that will replace the aging Ohio-class boats. They are now the Navy’s number one acquisition priority.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, and a champion of the Submarine Industrial Base (SIB), helped include an additional $1.9 billion for the Virginia-class submarine program in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (H.R. 7148) to help make up for shortfalls in the Defense Department’s budget request. Reed says this is a major win for the Ocean State’s long-term employment and industrial growth and is projected to net 3,500 new jobs at Electric Boat’s Quonset Point location in the coming year.

Reed, who also helped lead the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 (S.1071), which includes authorities needed to support the construction of the Columbia-class program, said the federal funding, along with previous investments in strengthening the Submarine Industrial Base, means the recent hiring boom at General Dynamics Electric Boat (EB) can continue.

“I’m pleased to see the modernization and workforce investments we’ve made pay off in terms of bringing more good-paying jobs to Rhode Island and enticing workers to fill these jobs. This is part of a multi-year, multi-billion dollar drive to accelerate shipyard production and we’ve already seen significant workforce expansion at Quonset,” said Senator Reed. “The high, sustained demand for these world-class submarines means a steady stream of work and increased port-related activity at Quonset for years to come. EB’s hiring needs are persistent and long-term. These high-tech, state-of-the-art submarines are critical to national security, and we must continue to strengthen the U.S. submarine industrial base.”

Senator Reed and other Ocean State lawmakers will attend Electric Boat’s annual legislative breakfast meeting on February 23, where EB President Mark Rayha is expected to offer more details about the company’s plan to hire 8,000 workers in the coming year – including 3,500 Rhode Island-based positions -- and articulate a broader strategy for submarine production moving forward in order to meet the delivery goals of one Columbia-class and two Virginia-class submarines per year.

Over the last three years, EB has been averaging 4,000 hires annually as the company has grown its labor force in Rhode Island and Connecticut. The 8,000 projected jobs this year are a marked increase over last year's projection of 3,000 new hires. The company also loses some workers every year due to attrition, retirements, and other factors.

Currently, EB’s workforce exceeds 24,000 employees across all of its work sites, which are mainly in Connecticut and Rhode Island. The company’s web site currently lists over 900 job openings for positions based in Rhode Island and is looking to fill positions in metalwork, electronics, plumbing, painting, and other manufacturing skills trades as well as administrative, engineering, and management positions.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth touted the EB hiring boom when he visited Rhode Island earlier this month. However, what Secretary Hegseth did not mention is the fact that Congress had to throw the Navy a lifeline to fix budgetary shortfalls resulting from Republicans’ budget reconciliation bill. In addition to the $1.92 billion for Virginia-class submarines, Congress approved a total of $1.5 billion in maritime industrial base funding to boost supplier capacity, technology and infrastructure, outsourcing, and workforce training.

Currently, there are only 47 attack submarines in the U.S. Navy’s fleet against a requirement of 66 and at a time when the Trump Administration is engaging in more conflicts across the globe.


Reed Opposes Preemptive Attack on Iran, Urges Restraint and Adherence to U.S. Law

WASHINGTON, DC — Reports this week indicate that President Trump is considering major, sustained U.S. military action against Iran. The administration has accelerated the deployment of substantial military assets to the region, including two aircraft carrier groups, dozens of naval vessels, and hundreds of aircraft.

In response, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today urged the administration to carefully weigh the full consequences of military action before proceeding. Senator Reed stated:

“A preemptive attack against Iran at this time would be a strategic misstep, and I am concerned that such recklessness could spark an uncontrolled conflict. Military strikes on Iran would risk igniting a wider regional war, endangering American forces across the Middle East, and destabilizing global markets in ways that would harm everyday Americans. Despite demands from myself and others, I have seen no credible proposal from the administration regarding the strategic objectives of military action against Iran, the logistics of such an operation, nor what a ‘day after’ plan would look like.

“The American people do not want another costly war, particularly when viable economic and diplomatic tools remain available to achieve our objectives without putting American lives at risk. Further, Congress alone holds the power to authorize war, yet the administration has failed to engage with Congress during this latest military build-up.

“It is easy to start a war; finishing one is much harder. Before any military action is considered, President Trump must come before the American people, explain why any conflict would be necessary, be honest about the risks and costs, and present a clear strategy with a defined endgame.”


Sen. Rick Scott Introduces SNAP Data Transparency and Oversight Act to Stop SNAP Fraud and Abuse

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced the introduction of his SNAP Data Transparency and Oversight Act. This legislation will ensure the U.S. Department of Agriculture has timely access to state-administered Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) data to combat waste, fraud, and abuse within the system, which follows reports of states like California refusing to comply with federal oversight and enforcement. Senator Scott’s bill requires state agencies to provide recipient-level and case file information upon request as a condition of participation in SNAP to strengthen program integrity and prevent fraud by reinforcing federal oversight authority.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The American people are sick and tired of seeing their tax dollars, intended for critical programs like SNAP, completely wasted and abused instead of being used to help families in need. Even worse, Democrat-run state like California seem totally fine with being complicit in the fraud instead of allowing the federal government necessary oversight to address it. That should end now. My bill requires states to provide the necessary data for stronger oversight and accountability, so we do not allow bureaucracy or political agendas to stand in the way of preventing fraud and protecting taxpayer funds.”

Senator Tommy Tuberville said, “I appreciate President Trump and Secretary Rollins’ efforts to cut out waste, fraud, and abuse from the SNAP system. It’s important that we ensure these taxpayer-funded benefits are going to those who truly need them. I’m proud to join my good friend Senator Rick Scott in this legislation to create more transparency and accountability when it comes to SNAP enforcement.”

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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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Shaheen Statement on SCOTUS Ruling on President Trump’s Abuse of Emergency Powers to Impose Sweeping Tariffs

**Last year, Shaheen led more than 30 U.S. Senators in filing an amicus brief challenging the President’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act**

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and a senior member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, released the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court decision finding that President Trump does not have the authority to impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) law. The ruling is in line with the argument Shaheen and more than 30 of her Senate colleagues and 171 House colleagues made in a bipartisan Amicus Brief she filed with the Supreme Court last year.

“Today marks a major step towards providing relief to Americans who have been forced to pay higher prices or lost sales due to the President’s illegal, reckless trade war. I am relieved that the Supreme Court sided with the more than 200 members of Congress I led in filing an Amicus Curiae brief arguing that the tariffs the President has imposed under IEEPA are unlawful. I urge the Administration to act swiftly to pay refunds of these unlawfully collected tariffs, and hope wholesalers and large corporations work to pass those refunds on to families and small businesses.

“Despite promising as a candidate to lower prices, President Trump has done the opposite in office with his chaotic and costly trade war, which has made every aspect of life more expensive for Americans. And throughout the last year, I have also heard from countless Granite State small businesses about the extraordinary challenges they’ve faced as a result of this haphazard, on-and-off-again trade war. That helps explain why our economy has actually lost tens of thousands of manufacturing jobs since the President started his trade war. I hope the Administration will take this opportunity to listen to the concerns of families and businesses alike and rethink these misguided policies, rather than straining to find new ways to unilaterally raise taxes on the American people.

“Should the Administration be unwilling to listen, I will continue to forcefully push back against these misguided trade policies to protect New Hampshire businesses and families.”

In January of last year, before President Trump took office, Shaheen introduced the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes on Imported Goods Act to shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States by clarifying that the President does not have the authority to levy sweeping tariffs under IEEPA—while preserving IEEPA’s authority for sanctions and other tools. Shaheen then led three amicus briefs arguing that the tariffs imposed under IEEPA are unlawful.

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Slotkin Announces Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield as State of the Union Guest

Sheffield Made History as first Black woman elected as Detroit’s mayor

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) announced that Mayor Mary Sheffield will be her guest at the 2026 State of the Union. A lifelong Michigander, Mayor Sheffield served on the Detroit City Council for 12 years and was elected president from 2022 – 2026. In January, she became the first woman to be sworn in as the 76th mayor in Detroit’s 300-year history.

Last year Slotkin delivered the response to President Trump’s joint address to Congress. You can watch that speech here.

“Detroit is back and Mayor Sheffield represents the next generation of leadership that is working to strengthen the middle class and continue to grow our city’s economy,” said Senator Slotkin. “Her election was historic, and I am thrilled to have her as my guest to the State of the Union. Mayor Sheffield and I are committed to working together to ensure Washington is delivering for Detroit.”

“I’m honored to be Senator Slotkin’s guest at the State of the Union, representing the people of Detroit. Senator Slotkin is the real deal: a CIA analyst who did three tours in Iraq, who came home to Michigan and introduced the National Housing Emergency Act to build four million homes. Her tenure in Congress has proven bold ideas and common ground aren’t mutually exclusive. What we need from Washington is straightforward: real investment in housing, safe streets, and good jobs for working families. Those aren’t partisan priorities; they are kitchen table priorities. I’m hopeful we’ll hear a plan that meets this moment,” said Mayor Mary Sheffield.

President Trump will deliver the State of the Union speech on Tuesday, February 24, to a joint session of Congress and their guests.

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Slotkin Statement on Supreme Court Ruling Declaring Some of President Trump’s Tariffs Illegal

Slotkin, Peters, Walberg and Huizenga Call on President Trump to Deliver Aid to Michigan Communities Impacted by Deadly Tornadoes

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI), along...

Slotkin Joins Colleagues in Raising Concerns to the USDA on Reliability of Data Reports

WASHINGTON – Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined 10 Democrats on the Senate Agriculture Committee in raising...

Slotkin Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Support Outdoor Rehabilitation for Veterans

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Slotkin, Colleagues Press Trump Administration on Decision to Ease Russia and Iran Sanctions

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined 24 Senate colleagues...

Slotkin, Young, Schiff, Curtis Lead Bipartisan Bill to Stop Insider Trading from Government Officials on Prediction Markets

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Todd Young (R-IN), Adam Schiff (D-CA) and John Curtis...

Slotkin Statement After Voting Against Mullin Nomination for DHS Secretary

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Last night, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Homeland Security and...

Republicans Block Slotkin Effort to Pass TSA Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) took to the floor of the Senate to pass by...

Slotkin Statement on Iran War Powers Vote to Rein in President Trump’s War of Choice

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last night, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services...

WATCH: In Committee Slotkin Presses Secretary of Homeland Security Nominee Markwayne Mullin on ICE and Elections

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Homeland Security and...

Slotkin Joins Senate Colleagues in Demanding DHS Reduce Delays for DACA Renewals

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Catherine...


Statement from U.S. Senator Tina Smith on the Supreme Court’s Decision to Strike Down President Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) released the following statement after the Supreme Court ruled against President Trump’s sweeping tariffs in a 6-3 decision:

“These tariffs caused an entirely unnecessary and avoidable trade war that hurt a lot of Minnesotans. The President abused his power to make a complete mess of our trade systems, and regular people and small businesses paid the price, and I think the money collected from these illegal tariffs should go back into their pockets,” said Senator Smith. “American producers being hurt by trade cheats deserve serious remedies. Instead, the President wasted nearly a year on his futile effort to impose blanket tariffs, rather than policies that would withstand legal scrutiny. Although the Supreme Court’s decision provides some relief, it won’t amount to much if Republicans continue to subject the American economy to the whiplash of this President’s chaotic trade approach.”

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Alaska Delegation Commends Revocation of PLOs 5150, 5180

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA—U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan and U.S. Congressman Nick Begich (all R-Alaska) today released the following statements of support after the Department of the Interior (Interior) announced the partial revocation of Public Land Orders (PLO) 5150 and 5180. This decision will open up 2.1 million acres of land within the Dalton Utility Corridor north of the Yukon River, nearly all of which the State of Alaska has “top-filed” to fulfill its outstanding land entitlement under the Alaska Statehood Act. Lands that are not ultimately transferred to the State will remain federal and become available for multiple use.

“For decades, the federal government has left obsolete PLOs in place to keep tens of millions of additional acres of Alaska locked up as de facto conservation areas. These designations have held back statehood land selections and resource development, giving the federal government a toehold to delay or reject important projects while depriving our state of crucial opportunities for jobs and revenues,” Murkowski said. “So, I’m glad these PLOs are on their way out. These revocations will help facilitate opportunity for Alaskans by enabling the rightful transfer of these lands to Alaska. I thank Secretary Burgum, Deputy Secretary MacGregor, and their teams for their continued hard work to restore balance in federal land management across our state.”

“Lifting PLO 5150 has long been a priority of Alaska’s leaders for many years, including going back to my time as Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources,” said Sullivan. “Among the federal lands entangled by PLO 5150 are those that include significant portions of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System and the Dalton Highway corridor, as well as the future route of the Alaska LNG pipeline—critically important acreage that we’ve long fought to secure for our State. I want to thank Secretary Burgum for taking this important step today in lifting this outdated land withdrawal and bringing us closer to ensuring that Alaska controls the lands that support resource development on the North Slope and much of the land over which the state’s most important piece of infrastructure sits.”

“The recent action on PLO 5150 and 5180, resulting in the long awaited conveyance of Alaska pipeline corridor, provides assurances needed for the next wave of Alaskan energy infrastructure investment,” Begich said. “The pipeline is Alaska’s economic lifeline and because of the work of this Congress and this administration the pipeline will continue to create jobs, opportunities, and important state revenue for the next generation of Alaskans. Alaska has a right to produce, and Alaska has a right to benefit from our God-given resources.”

In the early 1970s, Interior unilaterally withdrew tens of millions of acres of Alaska land through PLOs. These executive withdrawals have been left in place for decades, even after the passage of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) in 1980. ANILCA formally withdrew more than 100 million acres for conservation purposes and explicitly affirmed that it provides “sufficient protection for the national interest in the scenic, natural, cultural and environmental values on the public lands in Alaska.”

Alaska’s congressional delegation has pushed for the lifting of PLOs for many years, and several were finally lifted during the first Trump administration. The Biden administration, however, rejected the removal of PLOs across 28 million acres in Alaska, keeping them intact as part of their generally unlawful efforts to “conserve millions of acres of lands and waters in Alaska.”

On his first day back in office, President Trump issued Executive Order 14153, “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential,” which directed the Secretary of the Interior to “evaluate changes to, including the potential recission of, Public Land Order 5150, signed by the Assistant Secretary of the Interior on December 28, 1971, and any subsequent amendments, modifications, or corrections to it.”

Secretary Doug Burgum subsequently issued a Secretarial Order for the implementation of that work. For the past several months, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has conducted a public process to determine whether to revoke PLO 5150 and PLO 5180, both in the Dalton Utility Corridor, leading to today’s decision.

The delegation continues to encourage the Trump administration to lift PLOs in place around the state. This would be in accordance with a 2004 law authored by Murkowski, the Alaska Land Transfer Acceleration Act, that led to a 2006 BLM report to Congress finding that the vast majority of withdrawals in Alaska “have outlived their original purpose.” At the time—now 20 full years ago—BLM reported that withdrawals on 152.18 million out of 158.96 million acres—95 percent—“could be lifted consistent with the protection of the public’s interest.”

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Warner Applauds Supreme Court Ruling Striking Down Trump's Illegal Tariffs

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court voting 6-3 to strike down President Trump’s sweeping tariffs imposed on products Americans buy from other countries:

“Today’s ruling is a win for American families who have been paying the price for Donald Trump’s reckless tariff agenda. Let’s be clear: tariffs are a tax on American consumers and small businesses already struggling to keep up with rising costs. As families struggle to afford groceries, rent, and everyday essentials, President Trump doubled down on a blanket tariff policy that drove up prices across the board and injected unnecessary chaos into our economy. His whiplash approach has also undermined trust with our allies and opened the door for China to present itself as a more reliable trading partner than the United States.

“We need a smarter, targeted approach to trade that actually strengthens American competitiveness and helps workers without punishing the very people it’s supposed to help – and one that respects Congress’s role in setting trade policy. Today’s decision is an important step toward restoring some economic sanity for hardworking Americans.”

Sen. Warner has been a consistent voice in Congress pushing back on President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, which he has criticized as a tax on American families and small businesses. Warner has joined Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) and other colleagues in advancing bipartisan legislation to repeal the administration’s tariffs on Canada imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The measure passed the Senate with bipartisan support and a version of the bill was subsequently approved by the U.S. House of Representatives, reflecting growing congressional opposition to tariff policies that have raised costs for consumers, strained relationships with key allies, and disrupted cross-border trade.

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Senate Intel Vice Chair Warner Denounces Politicization of Intelligence Products

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) retracted and revised 19 intelligence products based on a recommendation from political appointees on the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board (PIAB):

“The strength of the Intelligence Community has always depended on its ability to deliver objective, apolitical analysis, grounded in rigorous tradecraft and insulated from political pressure. That standard must be upheld, and analytic integrity should always be taken seriously, but those judgments must be made by intelligence professionals and not subject to politics.

“The President’s Intelligence Advisory Board plays an important advisory role, but it is not a substitute for the independent analytic judgment of the CIA and the broader Intelligence Community. When a politically appointed body appears to be dictating what analysis is acceptable, it risks eroding confidence in the objectivity of our intelligence.

“Moreover, today’s action does not exist in a vacuum. It is part of a broader and deeply troubling pattern in this administration: sidelining career experts, undermining inconvenient intelligence assessments, and allowing political considerations to override professional judgment. When political appointees appear to dictate what analysis is valid, it threatens the credibility, reliability, and independence of the Intelligence Community itself.

“Congress has a duty to ensure that our intelligence remains independent, rigorous, and free from political interference. Protecting that independence should not be a partisan issue – it is a national security imperative. Our country depends on the Intelligence Community’s ability to provide honest, fearless analysis, even when it is uncomfortable or inconvenient for those in power.”

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