HYDE-SMITH ISSUES STATEMENT IN ADVANCE OF THE STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS

Miss. Senator Commits to “Doing the Work of Governing” to Continue Helping American Families, Businesses

VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Issues Statement in Anticipation of the State of the Union Address.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a statement issued in advance of President Trump’s State of the Union Address tonight, U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today said she and her Republican colleagues are committed “to doing the work of governing because we recognize that families and businesses are concerned about the long haul.”

Hyde-Smith’s statement praises accomplishments secured during the first year of President Trump’s second term but also looks forward to the challenges ahead.

“The job is not done, and President Trump’s challenge is for us to keep working to do more to strengthen our country – whether that be fairer trade, secure elections through the SAVE America Act, long-range solutions to help American farmers, or improving access to rural health care,” Hyde-Smith said. “I look forward to that work. Unlike the Democrats who want to stop anything associated with President Trump, Republicans will continue working with the President to strengthen our economy, expand opportunity, and protect our nation.”

The following is Hyde-Smith’s full statement:

Tonight, Americans will hear a simple truth: After a year of unified Republican leadership, our nation is safer, stronger, and more secure. This is the result of promises made and promises kept under the America First agenda.

After four years of chaos at the border, rising crime, and high inflation, we acted. President Trump moved quickly to secure the border, restore order, and put American families first, because a secure nation is the foundation for a strong economy and safe communities.

We’re delivering real relief to working families. As our ‘Working Families Tax Cut Act’ – the largest tax cut for middle-class families in American history – is fully implemented this year, more hardworking Mississippians will keep more of what they earn.

We’ve cut red tape, unleashed American energy, and fueled new investment. Orders for long-lasting manufactured goods jumped more than five percent at the end of last year – a clear sign of business confidence. Inflation has eased from its peak, GDP growth has continued for three straight quarters, and families are regaining stability.

My Republican colleagues and I are committed to doing the work of governing because we recognize that families and businesses are concerned about the long haul.

The job is not done, and President Trump’s challenge is for us to keep working to do more to strengthen our country – whether that be fairer trade, secure elections through the SAVE America Act, long-range solutions to help American farmers, or improving access to rural health care.

I look forward to that work. Unlike the Democrats who want to stop anything associated with President Trump, Republicans will continue working with the President to strengthen our economy, expand opportunity, and protect our nation.

The state of our union is safer, it’s stronger, and it needs to keep moving in the right direction.

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Hyde-Smith visits FCMH after helping save facility

By Paul Keane, Franklin Advocate

Franklin County Memorial Hospital thanked and honored Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith for her efforts in making the Critical Care Access designation for the facility.

Hyde-Smith was able to introduced legislation into a recent appropriations bill that made the designation permanent. That designation from the Center for Medicaid and Medicare expired on Jan. 15 despite a year-long effort by local, state and federal officials to have the ruling overturned.

The bill was signed as part of a mini-omnibus package to keep the federal government open.

Stepping into the facility, Hyde-Smith was greeted by employees and Allied Health students from the Franklin County Career and Technical Center. As she walked in, the crowds lining the hallways cheered for her.

"I wanted our key employees and these high school Allied Health students who shadow our staff to be able to tell you thank you," said FCMH CEO Mike Boleware. He also recognized Kendall Moore, a member of Hyde-Smith's staff, for her tireless efforts in getting the language inserted into the bill.

Earlier in the day, during the groundbreaking for the entrance road to the Okhissa Lake Lodge, Hyde-Smith told the audience about the efforts to save the hospital.

"We had gone down every avenue to try and keep this hospital open," she said. "I was exhausted and red in the face, but we were not losing this battle over a dumb little rule that affected two hospitals — one in California and one in Franklin County, Mississippi.

"Told people that it was a dumb rule and I would just change the law. I wasn't sure if I could change the law or not but I was going to try."

The senator was able to attend the bill signing in the White House, but not without a small glitch.

"There was ice on streets and sidewalks of Washington that day, and I had already fallen once," she said. "I had gone home to Brookhaven and picked up some mud-grip boots and was wearing them on the day of the bill signing.

"I covered up my feet behind the Resolution Desk so that the press wouldn't make a big story out of what shoes I was wearing. I was just so honored to be able to talk about Franklin County and the hospital to the President."

It also took a lot of hard work from many people — along with an assist from a higher power — to make the change a reality.

"The chances of the language to keep that hospital open was slim," she said. "The chances of that language remaining in the bill were not 1 in 100, not 1 in 1,000 — it was 1 in 1 million.

"I've told everyone that it was only because of the praying people of Franklin County that the language remained in that bill."

Hyde-Smith reiterated the story for everyone at the hospital.

Boleware said the hospital not only provides jobs to the area but also helps local businesses and helps with the quality of life for the community.

Hyde-Smith — who paused to obviously say a short prayer for a patient who was being air flighted to another facility — said just the hospital itself is vital.

"When you have a motorcycle accident, you don't want to have to drive 30 miles," she said. "When your child spills bleach in their eyes, you don't want to have to drive 30 miles for treatment."

State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney said he found it a little unbelievable that the designation was being removed from the hospital, a move that nearly caused the closure of the facility.

"When I first heard that CMS was thinking about closing this hospital, I thought it was a joke," he said. "There was no way that could be happening. No way they were taking Critical Care Access from Franklin County Memorial Hospital — the only hospital in the state with a chronic vent program in Mississippi.

"This is a great rural hospital, and rural hospitals are the backbone of healthcare in Mississippi. This hospital takes care of the chronic vent needs for the entire state of Mississippi and even over into Louisiana. A lot of folks have been working and praying for you on your behalf."

Meadville Mayor Lane Reed presented Hyde-Smith with a key to the town, saying, "This hospital is an economic driver for our area and it means so much to our community."


Okhissa Lake Lodge project takes major step forward with groundbreaking

By Paul Keane, Franklin Advocate

Steady steps toward an end goal brought local, state and federal leaders together Friday to break ground on the entrance road to the Okhissa Lake Lodge project.

Officials and community members all came together at the site for the lodge and convention center on Okhissa Lake to formally break ground on the roadway that will lead visitors to the facility which will also feature a Robert Trent Jones golf course. The facility will be in Franklin County and located within the town limits of Meadville.

"One of the things I've heard this morning is step by step," said Meadville Mayor Lane Reed. "We had to build a lake first, then build a dam, then stop up the dam so the water would get there.

"Many of you have been here 20-25 years or even 35 years and have seen this project move forward. I've often heard that incremental steps result in exponential results. Today is a testament to that."

Rev. Rickey O'Quinn offered prayer to start the event, pointing out that he also conducted the opening prayer for the groundbreaking of Okhissa Lake. "I had a lot of hair back then, and they were black," he said with a chuckle.

Former Congressman Chip Pickering — who has been a part of the development team for the facility — said Friday's groundbreaking was a major step toward the fruition of the project.

"It's been a long road but we are the destination and I couldn't be happier, more proud or more joyful as we celebrate that work that's been done," he said. "This is the groundbreaking for the road where we will have a world class resort, conference center and place that all of Mississippi can be proud.

"The process started a long time ago. Senator Thad Cochran, The Franklin Advocate and (newspaper owners at the time) the Webbs felt that we could have a gateway to the Southwest Mississippi area. Bill Dance designed the lake that is spring fed with clear water and is the deepest lake with the highest dam in Mississippi."

After the recession of 2008 hampered the project, Pickering said things picked back in roughly a decade ago.

"In 2017, Wade Creekmore wanted to have a place for the Franklin Chess Center to have a place to host tournaments where people from around the country could come and stay, see a beautiful place and see the great people of the community he loved," he said. "He wanted to build something to host those things. From that conversation with Wade Creekmore came the Scenic River Development alliance.

"(Senator) Cindy (Hyde-Smith) has been a tireless champion of this project. We wouldn't be here today without her assistance. This vision is better than the first vision. This vision is more than we ever imagined in the beginning.

"It is the local community, the Southwest Mississippi region, state officials, federal officials and a private partnership in Hyatt that makes this vision better than we ever hoped for."

Scenic Rivers Development Alliance Director Joseph Parker pointed out that this project is only the start of potential growth for the region that includes Franklin, Pike, Amite, Wilkinson and Walthall Counties.

"When Scenic River was formed, it was just one of those good ideas on how we could help Southwest Mississippi become more relevant," he said. "We needed to do things together. You've heard of the Golden Triangle and other alliances around the state, but Southwest Mississippi never had a group truly working together. You all here today are part of the Scenic Rivers Alliance and you are working together."

Parker said he envisions the facility being something not seen before in the state and especially in the region.

"We're going to build a magnificent, a beautiful facility that will attract people from all around the world," he said. "We've assembled a fantastic professional team to move this forward.

"The real thrill of this is you all working together. When this first started, we were told it wouldn't happen. Time and time again we've heard that now here we are."

The Alliance was formed in 2018 by legislative measure, and Parker said the group is now poised to accomplish some very positive things for the area.

"This is going to be a magnificent place," he said. "This was started so many years ago and we have just been moving forward step by step, passing the torch.

"This is not just a good idea any more — it's reality. It's going to be a beautiful facility, but this is just one project. You all are coming together so that we can do the next thing and the next thing for Southwest Mississippi. Saying that site development would begin soon after the road is completed, Parker again praised the efforts of Wade Creekmore.

"There is something special about him for me," he said. "When we would talk about the project, we did it in a group setting. Every time, without fail, he would always pull me off to the side.

"He didn't want to talk about the project. He would ask about my family, my health and things about my life. He was a special man."

Franklin County Board of Supervisors President Dr. Pat Larkin also praised the efforts of Hyde-Smith while saying it takes a partnership of many groups in order to make a project of this magnitude come about.

"I appreciate the attitude and compassion that you have for Southwest Mississippi," Larkin said of Hyde-Smith. "This is a partnership. We as a board — all five us us — are 100 percent committed to what you see going on here.

"This is bigger than Franklin County. There is something being built here that nowhere else in the nation — I said nation — will have. We are going to have it sitting right here."

Larkin also referenced the Robert Trent Jones golf course that is going to be part of the resort.

"I am not a golfer, but apparently golfing is real important to a lot of people," he said. "We're going to have a Robert Trent Jones golf course and a Bill Dance lake. If that doesn't get your fire lit, then your wood is wet.

"It's bigger than Franklin County, and we ecstatic to have this."

Mississippi USDA Rural Development Director Dane Maxwell said he received a call from Hyde-Smith shortly after he was appointed to the position by President Donald J. Trump.

"We are proud to be a partner in this," he said. "Thank you allowing me to give you money, which is what I do."

Rochelle Hicks with the Mississippi Development Authority said the facility will be a huge boost for tourism to the area and the state.

"I can't imagine what an amazing place this will be to invite our tourist to visit," she said. "Outdoor tourism is one of the top things visitors come to Mississippi to do, and this will compliment that nicely.

"This destination will offer visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves into this area with boating, fishing, hiking and the simple joy of being outdoors. I have no doubt this is the only project of its type in the state."

Representing Hyatt Resorts, Rica Lisslo said she and her company were proud to be a part of the partnership and were looking forward to developing this project.

Hyde-Smith said she can't wait to enjoy the amenities of the resort.

"I can just envision sitting on the porch in a swing reading a book titled 'Moments,'" she said. "There have been so many moments that have happened during this process.

"This happened by the praying people of Franklin County. Even from the beginning of it, to think that Franklin County is getting a Hyatt? I would just tell people to hang on and wait."

She added that the addition of the Robert Trent Jones golf course came about because another location in the state fell through.

"I got to meet Robert Trent Jones, Jr., at the announcement of a golf course in Jackson," she said. "The funding for that project was taken out of the bond bill that year.

"I called Robert Trent Jones soon after that and told him there was another place in Mississippi where a Robert Trent Jones golf course would be perfect for. I told him about this project.

"He said that there were two states — Mississippi and South Dakota — where he doesn't have a golf course and that he wanted one of his courses in each state. I told him that Southwest Mississippi wants one."

While saying she appreciated the gratitude and praise, Hyde-Smith said it wasn't only her that brought the resort this far along.

"I have touted this all over the state and all over the country," she said. "Miracles happen for praying people. Wade Creekmore was an angel sent from heaven who was determined this project was going to work.

"We told (Lieutenant Governor) Delbert Hosemann that we needed $10 million for this project, and he came through. There have been many people working on this project, and I get such a big smile when I talk about this project."

In a prepared statement, Governor Tate Reeves said the project is a big victory for both Meadville and the area.

"The Lake Okhissa Lodge project is a tremendous win for Meadville and all of Southwest Mississippi," he said. "This investment highlights the incredible outdoor resources in this part of our state and will help bring more visitors, more jobs and more economic opportunity to the

local community.

"Projects like this ensure that rural areas such as Meadville continue to grow while preserving the natural beauty that makes this region so special."

Franklin County Chamber of Commerce President Brad Jones said the project shows what teamwork can produce.

"Starting construction of the entrance road illustrates how private business, government, foundations, non-profits and chambers can work together to develop rural areas," he said. "With rural travel increasing post-COVID, business opportunities throughout Southwest Mississippi will grow with this project."

Franklin County Economic Development District Executive Director Catherine Sanders echoed similar sentiments.

"Incremental progress — starting with land acquisition and now construction — will soon lead to a lodge and conference center that brings 165 full-time jobs, construction jobs, spin-off industries and housing starts," she said. "With work beginning today, real dollars will flow into the Scenic Rivers Region."

During the ceremony, it was also announced that 10 rooms at the resort will be reserved for family members who have a loved one going through the chronic ventilator program at Franklin County Memorial Hospital.


Senator Justice Applauds President Trump’s State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Justice released a statement following President Trump’s State of the Union Address:

“What we heard tonight wasn’t just talk, but a celebration of all President Trump has accomplished since taking office. Under President Trump’s leadership, America is back on the right track. We’ve secured the border, stood with our men and women of law enforcement, cut wasteful spending in Washington, built a stronger economy for our hardworking families, supported our vital energy sector, and put the American Dream back in reach for Americans across the board. Hats off to President Trump, because we’ve moved mountains, and we have a whole lot of momentum at our backs to carry us forward,” said Senator Jim Justice.

BACKGROUND:

During the address, President Trump emphasized:

Strengthening border security and supporting the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to keep America’s borders secure.

Reinforcing law and order in communities nationwide.

Cutting government waste and ensuring hardworking taxpayers’ dollars are used efficiently.

Lowering healthcare costs for families.

Expanding American energy production to increase energy independence.

Celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of America’s independence.

Among President Trump’s State of the Union guests were Spc. Sarah Beckstrom’s parents, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, and his mother, Melody Wolfe.

These West Virginia heroes received Purple Hearts tonight for their bravery.

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Senator Justice Honors West Virginia Heroes and Purple Heart Recipients Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew Wolfe at President Trump’s State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Justice released a statement following President Trump’s moving tribute to West Virginia National Guardsmen, Andrew Wolfe and the late Sarah Beckstrom – both of whom received the Purple Heart for their service:

“Having Sarah’s parents in the chamber tonight was deeply moving. Sarah represents the best of West Virginia, and her family’s courage and grace remind us of the sacrifices our service members and their families make every single day. Andrew is an absolute fighter and has epitomized true resilience in the face of insurmountable odds. His mother, Melody and her faith in both her son and the Good Lord above exemplifies the unbreakable spirit and deep faith that define West Virginia at its core. Both these Guardsmen are well suited to receive the Purple Heart for their bravery. We stand with Andrew and honor Sarah’s memory; we keep our military families in our prayers, and we will always support the brave men and women who protect our country,” said Senator Jim Justice.

BACKGROUND:


Kaine Announces Guest to 2026 State of the Union

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) announced that he will be joined at President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address by Dr. Cameron Roberts, DDS, to spotlight recent cuts to Medicaid and their effects on providers and patients. Dr. Roberts is a licensed dentist in Harrisonburg and serves as a Board Member of Augusta Regional Dental Clinic, which provides care to Virginians, including many on Medicaid and without insurance.

“I’m grateful that Dr. Cameron Roberts will travel from Harrisonburg to join me at this year’s State of the Union to shine a light on the fear and uncertainty providers and patients are embroiled in because of a bill that was passed last year that dramatically cut Medicaid funding,” said Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. “The Shenandoah Valley is already grappling with the closure of three rural clinics because of that legislation. No patient should have to worry about whether they can afford a needed visit to the dentist or the doctor, nor should providers be left wondering whether they’re going to be able to continue providing services to their communities. We must continue to do all that we can to call attention to the disastrous impacts of these cuts and keep pushing to reverse them so that millions of Americans can get the care they need.”

“I am honored to be here with Senator Kaine to bring more awareness to the challenges free and charitable clinics are facing across the nation at this time,” said Dr. Roberts.

Dr. Roberts is a Board Member and the Dental Director at Augusta Regional Dental Clinic. He has volunteered at the clinic since 2020 and has served on the board since 2021. He is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University and previously practiced dentistry in the Richmond area.

Kaine strongly opposed the 2025 reconciliation bill, which was passed by Congress without a single Democratic vote, that made massive cuts to Medicaid and has sounded the alarm about its effects on Virginia, including stripping health insurance from about 323,000 Virginians and gutting federal funding for providers. Last July, Kaine introduced legislation to undo the damage caused by the law.

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Video: Kaine Delivers Annual Reading of Washington’s Farewell Address on Senate Floor

VIDEO OF KAINE’S REMARKS IS AVAILABLE HERE.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) delivered the annual reading of President George Washington’s 1796 Farewell Address. Washington’s letter to “Friends and Citizens” formally marked his retirement and cleared the way for the peaceful transfer of power to the next President—one of the most important moments in American history. In the letter, Washington also called for national unity, warned against the rise of political factions, and called for the American people and their elected leaders to focus on civic virtue for the good of the nation.

“I rise today honored to continue an important Senate tradition,” said Kaine. “Each year beginning in 1896, on a day near in time to George Washington’s Birthday, a Senator — alternating between parties — stands on the floor of the Senate to read Washington’s Farewell Address, presented 100 years earlier as our first President neared the end of his second term.”

“During the 130 years of this tradition, seven Virginia Senators have preceded me in reading the address, which was written by the archetypal son of our Commonwealth, with the assistance of close confidantes Alexander Hamilton and another Virginia native son James Madison. Those Virginians who’ve read the Farewell Address on the Senate floor are: John Daniel, Claude Swanson, Carter Glass, John Warner (twice), Paul Trible, Chuck Robb, and George Allen,” Kaine continued.

“It is particularly appropriate that this year’s reading is delivered in the Senate chamber hours before President Trump is set to deliver his State of the Union Address in the House chamber,” said Kaine. “Washington’s words demonstrate a mixture of wisdom, patriotism, and selflessness that should serve as a model for all Presidents, and set the expectations of all Americans for how a President should approach the sacred trust of serving as America’s chief executive.”

The annual reading of Washington’s letter began on February 22, 1862. Since 1896, the Senate has observed Washington's birthday yearly by selecting one of its members, alternating parties, to read the 7,641-word address in legislative session. Kaine is the first Virginia Senator to deliver the reading in 25 years. After the reading, Kaine inscribed his name and brief remarks in a black, leather-bound book maintained by the Secretary of the Senate. The book’s first entry, dated February 22, 1900, bears the signature of Ohio Republican Joseph Foraker. Washington was born, lived most of his life, and died in Virginia.

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Warner & Kaine Announce Federal Funding to Improve Buses Across Virginia

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced nearly $35 million in federal funding to modernize bus fleets and facilities across Virginia, including replacing and rehabilitating buses, purchasing new vehicles, and upgrading transit infrastructure. This funding is awarded through the Department of Transportation’s Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program, which was significantly expanded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that the senators helped negotiate and pass.

“We are thrilled to announce this funding which will bring state-of-the-art buses to the Petersburg and Hampton Roads areas,” said the senators. “Modern and accessible public transportation systems are critical in helping Virginians get where they need to go in a reliable and cost-efficient manner.”

The program grants will be distributed as follows:

Petersburg Area Transit will receive $23,820,750 to purchase replacement buses and construct operations and maintenance facilities.

The Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads will receive $10,620,000 to purchase replacement buses.

Warner and Kaine have long supported efforts to modernize Virginia’s infrastructure and aging public transportation systems and to fund lower emission vehicles. In November, the senators announced $70 million in federal grant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Low- or No-Emission Program to improve Virginia’s bus systems and reduce their emissions. Additionally, the senators announced over $50 million in federal funding in 2024 to purchase new low-emission hybrid buses under Fairfax County’s fleet replacement plan. In 2023, they secured more than $171 million in funding to invest in American-built, low-emission buses and bus facilities.

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Warner & Kaine Introduce Legislation to Require Refunds of Trump’s Illegal Tariffs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) introduced legislation to require full refunds of Trump’s illegal tariffs, after they were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday by a 6-3 vote. To date, the Trump administration has collected an estimated $175 billion in illegal tariff revenue, raising taxes on products from nearly every country on earth, and jacking up prices for American families. The Tariff Refund Act of 2026 would require the full refund, with interest, of those funds.

“Trump’s reckless tariffs have driven up costs for families, consumers, and small businesses, and the money that Americans have lost as a result of these illegal taxes needs to be returned to them. I’m proud to introduce this legislation that will prioritize providing relief to local businesses and working families,” said Warner. “As prices rise to new heights under the Trump administration, I will continue fighting to make the cost of living affordable for Virginians.”

“I am glad the Supreme Court ruled against President Trump’s ridiculous abuse of emergency power to impose broad-based, cost-raising taxes on American consumers and businesses,” said Kaine. “These tariffs were a mistake from the start, which is why I led the charge to challenge them in the Senate. Now, I’m glad to team up with my colleagues to press the Administration to fully refund Americans for the costs President Trump forced on them.”

The Tariff Refund Act of 2026 would ensure that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) completes the payment of refunds quickly and prioritizes the interests of small businesses in that process. Importantly, the bill would ensure that importers are not required to take costly administrative steps to receive a refund of the tariffs unlawfully collected by the Administration. The bill would also direct CBP to coordinate with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide information and technical support. Finally, the bill’s reporting requirements would provide Congress, which has constitutional authority over trade and tariffs, with proper oversight over the refund payment process.

The Trump administration previously recognized that it must refund, with interest, any duties determined to have been unlawfully collected. However, it is unclear what timeline, process, or other guidelines the administration would follow to provide refunds—and the lack of a clear, accessible process would necessarily advantage large importers with resources to dedicate to outside counsel and consultants.

In addition to Warner and Kaine, this bill was led by U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Coons (D-DE), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angus King (I-ME), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Michael Bennet (D-CO).

A copy of the bill text is here.

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Kelly Announces Arizona Veteran as Guest at State of the Union Address

Today, Tuesday, February 24, 2026, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly will attend the State of the Union address with former Navy Commander and fellow Desert Storm veteran Martin Sepulveda.

A seventh-generation Arizonan, Sepulveda has dedicated his life to public service, serving in combat overseas and continuing that mission at home as a former Chandler City Councilman, president of the Chandler Historical Society, and founder of Sepulveda Group, Inc., an Arizona-based veteran-owned small business.


Kelly, Colleagues File Brief with Supreme Court to Protect Birthright Citizenship Against Trump Attacks

Last week, Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and 25 of their Senate colleagues filed a brief requesting that the U.S. Supreme Court protect birthright citizenship and strike down President Donald Trump’s unconstitutional attempts to take it away. Alongside colleagues from the House of Representatives, the senators filed an amicus brief in Trump v. Barbara, currently before the Supreme Court, with oral arguments scheduled for April 1, 2026.

The senators argue that Trump’s Executive Order to strip automatic citizenship from children born in the United States violates the U.S. Constitution and over a century of Supreme Court rulings, as well as laws enacted by Congress.

“If you’re born in the United States of America, you are an American. Donald Trump thinks he can rewrite our Constitution and target children who have never lived anywhere else and are as American as my own kids. We’re fighting to keep that from happening and to protect the rule of law,” said Kelly.

“The U.S. Constitution is clear: children born in the United States are American citizens,” said Rosen. “We’re submitting this brief requesting that the Supreme Court upholds the Constitution and puts an end to Donald Trump’s illegal attempt to revoke citizenship from children born in the United States once and for all.”

“The Supreme Court must uphold well-established law and century-old precedent that children born in America are U.S. citizens,” said Durbin. “Children born here have only ever known America as their home—and they are just as American as every other citizen. President Trump can’t rewrite the Constitution by royal fiat.”

The amicus brief was also signed by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeffrey Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).


King Cosponsors Bill to Return Unconstitutional Tariff Fees to Maine Small Businesses, Urging Corporations to Pass on Refunds to Consumers Who Paid Them

WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is cosponsoring legislation that would return tariff revenue to the pockets of small businesses and encourage large corporations to pass on those refunds to their consumers, after months of bipartisan opposition pointing out that tariffs amount to additional taxes on Americans. The Tariff Refund Act of 2026 would require full refunds of the Trump Administration’s tariffs after they were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in a 6-3 ruling last week, a ruling Senator King considered a “civics lesson” for Congress and the President.

“Over the last year, American businesses or consumers paid $134 billion to cover the Trump administration’s costly, complicated, and unconstitutional tariffs. Now that the policy has been thrown out by a 6-3 Supreme Court decision, Americans – including the thousands of small businesses and Maine people who footed the bill for this policy – deserve their money back,” said Senator King. “In response to the Supreme Court’s decision deeming the tariffs unconstitutional, it’s time to return the excess revenue to the folks who bore the burden. The Tariff Refund Act of 2026 would help alleviate the higher costs and prices caused by the illegal tariffs over the past year and, in turn, reinstate the taxing authority back to Congress, as Article One, Section Eight of the Constitution clearly states.”

The Tariff Refund Act of 2026 would ensure that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) completes the payment of refunds quickly and prioritizes the interests of small businesses in that process. Importantly, the bill would ensure that importers are not required to take costly administrative steps to receive a refund of the tariffs unlawfully collected by the Administration. The bill also directs U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to coordinate with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide information and technical support. Finally, the bill’s reporting requirements would provide Congress, which has constitutional authority over trade and tariffs, with proper oversight over the refund payment process.

More specifically, the bill:

Requires CBP to pay refunds of all tariffs that were unlawfully imposed by the President under IEEPA and paid by importers—even if the importation has already been finalized and closed (“liquidated”) by CBP.

Sets a deadline of 180 days after enactment for CBP to process all refunds.

Requires CBP to pay interest on the refunded amount.

Directs CBP to prioritize small businesses when paying refunds and to coordinate with the SBA to provide key information on the refund process to small businesses.

Requires CBP to report every 30 days to relevant congressional committees on the status of refunds until CBP has completed the payment of all refunds.

Directs CBP to issue guidance on how to address duty drawback claims.

Expresses the Sense of Congress that importers, wholesalers, and large corporations should pass on those refunds to their customers.

Joining King on the legislation are U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Coons (D-DE), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Michael Bennet (D-CO).

Senator King has been outspoken in his opposition to President Trump’s tariffs since they were imposed last year, including in his statement following the Supreme Court’s decision deeming the tariffs unconstitutional. Last June, Senator King joined an amicus brief opposed to an appeals’ court stay on a lower court ruling the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs illegal. In July, he joined an additional amicus brief in support of the Court of International Trade’s ruling that the IEEPA tariffs are illegal ahead of its hearing in the federal appeals circuit court. In September, Senator King cosponsored a Joint Resolution of Disapproval (JRD) to terminate the underlying emergency at the Northern border and eliminate tariffs on Canada, and cosponsored a JRD to terminate the underlying emergency with respect to the Brazilian tariffs. In October, ahead of the hearing before the Supreme Court, Senator King joined an amicus brief in support of plaintiffs arguing that tariffs imposed under IEEPA are illegal. As recently as last month, Senator King referred to the White House’s “illegal tariffs” in a statement expressing concern over the administration’s overreaching ICE operations in Maine, as well as its threats against Greenland.

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Ahead of Trump’s State of the Union, Luján Exposes Reality of Trump’s First Year Back – Costs, Chaos, and Corruption

Video of Senator Luján’s Remarks Available HERE

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Senate Democrats held a press conference ahead of President Trump’s State of the Union to highlight the chaos and cruelty of his first year back. During the press conference, Senator Luján highlighted President Trump’s devastating cuts to critical nutrition programs and underscored how the President’s policies are driving up grocery prices and making life harder for millions across America.

An excerpt of Senator Luján’s remarks are below:

Look, when you all are at the grocery store, just like people all over the country, you know if food is more expensive or if it’s not. And the reason I say that is as Senator Klobuchar reminded us moments ago, President Trump keeps calling all of this a hoax.

The notion that food is more expensive, that everything President Trump promised would be less expensive is now more expensive, and all he’s doing is putting more and more dollars in his own pocket.

What Donald Trump is doing is just making life harder for each and every one of you. For each and everyone of the people across America. For each and every one of us.

His administration cut food assistance at a level that we’ve never even imagined could occur. Grocery prices remain high for some seniors, veterans, families, moms and dads, grandmas and grandpas, and kids, to simply pay more for less.

All of this while we’ve heard time and time again, and we see it, all he’s doing is finding ways to make himself richer.

Take a dollar from the American people and put it in his pocket. That’s all he cares about.

Senator Luján announced earlier in the day that he would not be attending President Trump’s address, saying, “After years of division, attacks on the rule of law, and policies that make life more expensive for New Mexico families, I expect more of the same. I won’t stand by as he puts politics over people. My focus remains where it always has been: delivering for New Mexico.”

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Luján Statement on President Trump’s State of the Union Address

WATCH: Luján Joins Democratic Leadership Press Conference Ahead of Trump’s SOTU

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s State of the Union address:

“President Trump’s State of the Union summed up his first year back in office: chaos, corruption, and higher costs for the American people, fueled by division and hateful rhetoric instead of a real plan to make life more affordable. Rather than acknowledging the pain families are facing, the President pointed fingers while patting himself on the back.

“The Trump administration has cut health care and food assistance for millions, allowed ICE to terrorize our communities and American citizens, and made life harder and more expensive for New Mexicans. The American people can see through the lies. My focus remains on doing what’s right for New Mexico and fighting for our values and our future.”

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Lummis Welcomes Trump-Pardoned Wyoming Mechanic Troy Lake as State of the Union Guest

Washington, D.C. — Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) announced today that Troy Lake, a Wyoming mechanic who was unfairly prosecuted under the Biden administration before receiving a presidential pardon from President Trump, will join her as a special guest at tonight’s State of the Union Address.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Troy Lake to Washington, D.C. as my guest for President Trump’s State of the Union Address this evening,” said Lummis. “Troy is a hardworking American who was unfairly targeted by the Biden Justice Department simply for maintaining diesel engines in school buses, ambulances, and fire trucks to keep them operational in Wyoming’s harsh climate. President Trump made the right call in pardoning him, and we’re both looking forward to attending tonight’s address and hearing about the administration’s accomplishments over the past year and plans for the future.”

Senator Lummis and Troy Lake in Senate Dining Room on February 24, 2026.

Background:

Senator Lummis sent a letter to President Trump on September 30, 2025 requesting a pardon for Troy Lake. President Trump pardoned him on November 7, 2025.

In early October, Senator Lummis welcomed Fox News to Wyoming to highlight Troy Lake’s case and discuss her legislation aimed at preventing this kind of government weaponization against other hardworking mechanics. Watch here.

Senator Lummis introduced the “Diesel Truck Liberation Act” in October to put an end to the Obama-Biden EPA’s war on truck owners and mechanics. The bill was inspired by the Biden administration’s weaponized prosecution and imprisonment of Troy Lake.

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McConnell on Four-Year Anniversary of Russian Escalation in Ukraine

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement on the four-year anniversary of Russian escalation in Ukraine:

Four years ago today, Vladimir Putin escalated Russia’s unprovoked war against Ukraine with a violent blitzkrieg designed to quickly subdue and subjugate a free and sovereign Ukraine. This plan failed, and his addled dream of swift neo-Soviet conquest has become instead a brutal and inconclusive war that has succeeded in tanking Russia’s economy, expanding NATO, prompting America’s allies to invest more urgently in defense, and trading more than a million casualties for a small fraction of Ukrainian territory.

In four years, Ukraine has forged defenses of hardened veterans, determined to defend their homes and families, and placed itself at the cutting edge of military technology and tactics. But while Ukraine’s heroes hold the line, her civilians spend a fourth straight winter in darkness and cold, and thousands of her abducted children sit in Russian captivity.

Ending this war is a noble and urgent goal. But the price and nature of peace matters a great deal to Ukraine, America, and the West. Securing a just, stable, and enduring peace will require two things: that we accurately assign blame where it belongs (Russia) and that we speak the only language Putin seems to understand (strength).

Today, America’s European allies continue to shoulder the greatest share of material assistance to Ukraine. But there remains no substitute for the American-made systems capable of forcibly changing Putin’s calculus. Sustained support to Ukraine’s defense is the best way to achieve and secure a peaceful outcome to this terrible war. If America is to lead the way to peace, then we ought to settle an open question while we’re at it and clearly demonstrate the credibility of our commitments and our threats.


SENATOR MCCORMICK TO BRING PENNSYLVANIA UNITED STEELWORKERS VICE PRESIDENT JASON ZUGAI AS GUEST TO 2026 STATE OF THE UNION

WASHINGTON, February 24, 2026 – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania) today announced that he will bring Jason Zugai, former President and current Vice President of the United Steelworkers (Local 2227), as his guest to the 2026 State of the Union. This honor comes just months after the historic U.S. Steel-Nippon partnership was finalized in June 2025, a deal that strengthens Pennsylvania’s steel industry and safeguards thousands of American jobs.

“Jason Zugai is a third-generation steelworker who embodies the heart of the Mon Valley and the proud tradition of American steel,” said Senator McCormick. “The U.S. Steel-Nippon Agreement is a landmark achievement, ensuring that this iconic American company remains under U.S. leadership while protecting and creating thousands of Pennsylvania jobs. I’m honored to bring Jason as my guest to the State of the Union to highlight the incredible work of steel workers and showcase how President Trump’s administration has championed strengthening American manufacturing.”

Senator McCormick first met Jason Zugai during his campaign for U.S. Senate in 2024, where they discussed the critical importance of the U.S. Steel-Nippon deal for Pennsylvania workers. McCormick promised that once elected, his first meeting as U.S. Senator would be with Jason. Senator McCormick kept that promise, engaging closely with Jason and steel leaders to advocate for the $14 billion investment that now secures the future of U.S. Steel.

The U.S. Steel-Nippon agreement is a win for our economy, national security, and the hardworking people of Pennsylvania. Senator McCormick is proud to stand alongside President Trump in fulfilling their shared commitment to rebuild American manufacturing and deliver for U.S. workers.

Senator McCormick has consistently emphasized that one of his top priorities is preserving and expanding jobs in the Mon Valley while ensuring that U.S. Steel remains under American control. Bringing Jason Zugai to the State of the Union offers an opportunity to spotlight these efforts and celebrate the people driving Pennsylvania’s steel revival.

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SENATORS MCCORMICK AND ROSEN INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO EXPAND INTERNET ACCESS FOR IRANIAN CIVILIANS AND COMBAT IRAN’S HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES

WASHINGTON, February 24, 2026 – Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) today introduced the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026,bipartisan legislationdesigned to increase pressure against the Islamic Republic of Iran after the regime locked down the internet and killed tens of thousands of its own citizens during mass protests throughout the country.

The legislation takes a coordinated approach to confronting the regime’s repression, targeting four key areas: expand internet access for Iranian civilians amid regime blackouts and repression, identify and enforce sanctions on human rights abusers and their enablers, support U.S. broadcasting and human rights programming, and strengthen cybersecurity tools for Iranian journalists, human rights activists, and civil society.

“The Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026 builds on America’s efforts to stand with the Iranian people against a regime that is economically, militarily, and morally bankrupt,” said Senator McCormick. “This bipartisan legislation will expand internet access amid regime blackouts and repression, enforce sanctions on human rights violators including their enablers, and promote human rights documentation and accountability.”

“The people of Iran have been forced to live under a repressive regime that has used censorship and internet blackouts to weaken efforts by its people to fight back,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to support the brave Iranian people through expanding internet access, transparent broadcasting, and human rights programs. Iran’s future must be shaped by its people, who deserve to have their rights protected and free access to information.”

Specifically, theIran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026 will:

Designate the Secretary of State as lead official for advancing internet access and digital freedom in Iran, coordinating all related U.S. government initiatives and updating reporting requirements under the Comprehensive Iran Internet Freedom Strategy.

Evaluate civilian use of tools such as VPNs and direct-to-cell satellite technology; ensure sanctions do not block Iranian civilians’ access to open internet technologies; and develop strategies to counter regime-imposed internet blackouts.

Update existing congressional reports on expanding internet access in Iran, covering satellite-based communications, drone-related risks, and analysis of telecommunications providers operating in Iran.

Increases funding for the Iran Internet Freedom Grant Program to at least $20 million annually from fiscal years 2027 to 2030.

Establish a State Department-led interagency working group to develop rapidly deployable technologies capable of bypassing internet shutdowns and network disruptions imposed by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Create a process for senior congressional leaders to identify and potentially sanction foreign individuals suspected of supporting Iran’s human rights abuses, censorship, or repression, including suppliers of surveillance or internet shutdown technology.

Direct the Secretary of State to develop a strategy expanding U.S. broadcasting and human rights programming for Iran, including support for independent media, civil society, and uncensored news access.

Require the Government Accountability Office to report to Congress on grant oversight, program effectiveness, and recommendations to improve spending transparency and accountability under the Near East Regional Democracy account for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.

Establish programs to strengthen cybersecurity training and digital safety tools for Iranian journalists, activists, and civil society, including multilingual materials warning civilians about regime-controlled apps and phishing threats, with quarterly congressional reporting and independent evaluation.

Read the full bill text here.

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Senate Democrats Introduce The American Homeownership Act To Stop Wall Street’s Housing Grab and Get Homes Back into the Hands of Families

Bill ends tax breaks and housing benefits for Wall Street, corporate landlords and reinvests the savings into building new housing and helping Americans achieve homeownership

Bill Text | Fact Sheet

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, and 16 Democratic Senators are introducing The American Homeownership Act to rein in corporate landlords and get housing back into the hands of the American people. The bill would end tax breaks and other housing benefits for Wall Street landlords and reinvest the savings to increase the supply of affordable housing, bring down housing costs, and support homeownership for real people. The bill will also empower antitrust enforcers to prevent the kind of corporate buy-ups that squeeze out families trying to buy their own homes or afford their rent.

The American Homeownership Act is co-sponsored by Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation, and Community Development, Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Christopher Murphy (D-CT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-VT)

The American Homeownership Act is endorsed by American Economic Liberties Project, American Federation of Teachers, Americans for Financial Reform, Communications Workers of America, Consumer Action, Grounded Solutions Network, National Community Reinvestment Coalition, National Housing Law Project, National Low Income Housing Coalition, and Private Equity Stakeholder Project.

“America is in a housing crisis – and we need to tackle it from every angle. I’ve introduced the biggest bipartisan housing supply reform in decades. Today Democrats are introducing legislation to stop Wall Street from snapping up homes in bulk and jacking up rent for families,” said Ranking Member Warren. “This bill will take on predatory landlords while making investments to increase housing supply and boost homeownership for Americans.”

“Hedge funds are driving up home prices and rents across America as they gobble up single-family homes. They are a significant factor in killing the dream of home ownership and must be stopped,” said Ranking Member Merkley. “Even President Trump has acknowledged the problem. I’ll work with anyone, on either side of the aisle, who is serious about driving down home prices and rents.”

“This legislation helps combat the housing crisis plaguing our country by ending major tax breaks for Wall Street landlords and investing in affordable housing—putting power back in the hands of American families. Big corporations are buying up homes and subjecting individuals to skyrocketing housing prices, unaffordable rent, unfair fees, and cruel evictions. This bill ends major federal tax deductions and other benefits for Wall Street landlords and reinvests those tax savings to build more housing and lower costs, helping more Americans achieve the dream of homeownership. If President Trump is serious about prioritizing American families over corporate interests, this legislation is the answer,” said Senator Blumenthal.

“Owning a home is a key way for Americans to lay down roots, build equity, and establish long-lasting community. But while Americans are struggling with skyrocketing costs of living, high rent prices, and limited housing availability, Wall Street executives are profiting,” said Senator Hirono. “This legislation reigns in Wall Street Executives and corporate landlords to make home ownership a possibility for millions of more Americans. By eliminating corporate tax incentives and investing in affordable housing supply, we can put home ownership back in the hands of working families.”

“As working Americans suffer under this housing crisis, we have a broken tax code that continues to only favor the select few. More and more families across New Jersey and our country will be generations away from being able to buy a home if we do not act. This bill is an important step to level the playing field and make sure there is a healthy supply of homes built for what families need at a fair price they can afford.” said Senator Kim.

“Housing is a human right, not an opportunity for Wall Street to turn a quick buck. Private equity firms that extract wealth from our communities have no businesses owning family homes, and the federal government has no businesses giving tax breaks to those companies. I’m proud to cosponsor this legislation that ends favorable tax treatment for Wall Street while investing in affordable housing,” said Senator Markey.

“We have to build millions of new homes to fix the housing crisis – but we also need to stand up to the private equity billionaires who buy up homes and apartments just to jack up prices for working Americans,” said Senator Murphy. “Our bill forces big corporate buyers to either stop squeezing out family homeowners or pay tax penalties that go towards building new affordable housing. We don’t have to allow greedy corporations to make it impossible for Connecticut families to make rent or buy a home, and I’m proud to support legislation that puts a stop to it.”

“Republicans in Congress and Donald Trump have set up the current tax code to incentivize and reward corporate landlords and private equity to swoop in and buy up affordable homes across the country with all-cash offers that regular people can’t compete with. Why is our economic system rigged in favor of these corporations and wealthy investors who don’t need our help, and not designed to help working families? I’m glad to be joining Senator Warren and my colleagues to introduce this important bill to address housing affordability for regular Americans. Instead of delivering returns for Wall Street, we’re focused on making sure families looking to buy homes can find a place within their budget.” said Senator Smith.

“Wall Street and private equity giants are buying up growing shares of housing – squeezing out families from homeownership and taking advantage of renters. This legislation closes tax loopholes that have encouraged corporate landlords to take over housing markets and puts those savings toward the development of good homes that more Americans can afford,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“Vermonters are amongst the hardest hit by the affordable housing crisis–our state has the fourth-highest rate of homelessness in the country. That crisis is made worse when we have private equity firms out-bidding hardworking families on affordable housing options,” said Senator Welch. “We need to combat institutional influence in the housing market to ensure everyday Americans can find and afford a safe place to live.”

“Our government has the resources to ensure that everyone has a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home. But Wall Street investors have bought up neighborhoods of single-family homes, apartment buildings, and manufactured housing communities. They extract profit at the expense of poor and working families by hiking rents, tacking on hidden fees, neglecting repairs, pursuing baseless evictions, and ignoring tenant concerns. Families should be in control of their homes, not faceless corporate landlords. Senator Warren’s American Homeownership Act is a first-of-its-kind effort, taking on corporate ownership of multifamily developments to shift power back to tenants and provide affordable opportunities for first-time homeowners. We’re committed to fighting alongside Sen. Warren to combat the corporate takeover of our housing system and beyond.”– Shamus Roller, Executive Director of the National Housing Law Project

“The Private Equity Stakeholder Project is proud to endorse Senator Warren’s vital legislation,” said Chris Noble, Policy Director at PESP. “For too long, Wall Street landlords have been able to have their cake and eat it too: enjoying lucrative tax breaks for buying up rental properties then raking in profits by hiking rents and imposing junk fees on hard-working American tenants. The federal government shouldn’t be giving handouts to Wall Street landlords or bailing out private equity firms while Americans everywhere struggle to pay rent. The American Homeownership Act is an essential step toward preventing private equity and other corporate landlords from profiting from the housing affordability crisis.”

“The American Homeownership Act seeks to limit the role speculative investment plays in shaping housing opportunity in this country,” said Renee Willis, President and CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition. “This legislation is an important step toward ensuring that housing serves people, not speculative profit, and that people with the lowest incomes can secure quality, accessible, and affordable homes in communities of their choice. I applaud Senator Warren’s and her co-sponsors’ leadership in putting forth legislation to establish a level playing field where low-income families aren’t overpowered by large investors with short-term goals.”

“Grounded Solutions Network greatly appreciates Ranking Member Warren’s leadership in working to address the impact of large institutional investors on our housing market. Private equity firms and others often outmaneuver and outbid first-time homebuyers and the nonprofits seeking to keep housing affordable. This bill will make housing less profitable for these institutions and rebalance tax priorities to increase funding for more stable and affordable housing for American families. In particular, we look forward to working with Senator Warren to leverage the bill’s recognition of housing initiatives that ensure lasting affordability.” – Doug Ryan, VP of Housing Policy, Grounded Solutions Network

“Wall Street shouldn’t be outbidding families for the keys to their own homes,” said NCRC President and CEO Jesse Van Tol. “This bill puts that money back into building affordable housing and helping first-time buyers. Let’s help people own homes, not investors.”

“In the midst of a severe housing affordability crisis, the government wastes billions in taxpayer dollars subsidizing rich Wall Street landlords instead of boosting housing supply. This bill strips out those tax breaks, redirects the savings to building affordable housing, and gives antitrust enforcers better tools to prevent market concentration before it becomes entrenched,” said Laurel Kilgour, Research Manager at the American Economic Liberties Project. “Congress should send this legislation to the President’s desk, and he must sign it immediately.”

“This legislation gets at the heart of the problem—lack of access to affordable homes,” says Ruth Susswein, Consumer Action’s director of consumer protection. “This bill will tax those corporate investors who’ve been devouring the single-family housing market and turn those tax dollars into sorely needed new housing to help make owning a home achievable again.”

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Sen. Moran Response to State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) released the following statement in response to President Trump’s State of the Union address:

“The State of the Union offers a unique opportunity for the American people and Congress to hear directly from the President about his or her vision for the future of our country. Tonight, President Trump spoke to the challenges facing our nation, while highlighting the progress that has been made to bolster our border security, lower taxes for American families and strengthen our standing on the global stage.

“Early in his second term, President Trump took quick action to address the crisis at our southern border and stop the flow of deadly drugs, human traffickers and thousands of migrants from illegally entering the U.S. President Trump has continued to prioritize our national security and send a clear message to our adversaries that threats to the U.S. and our allies will not go unanswered. As we enter the 250th year of our nation’s history, I am committed to working with President Trump and my colleagues to continue to deliver positive results for Kansans and for the American people.”

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VIDEO: Sen. Moran Reaffirms U.S. Support for Ukraine on Fourth Anniversary of Russia’s Unprovoked Invasion

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today spoke on the Senate floor to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and emphasize the importance of continued support for Ukraine from the United States and its allies as Russia’s ongoing aggression reaches its fifth year.

“Vladimir Putin believed his so-called military operation would be over in two weeks, but as the fifth year of the war begins, Russian forces have fought Ukraine longer than they fought the Germans in World War II,” said Sen. Moran. “Because of the bravery and innovation of the Ukrainians, aided by American and European support, Vladimir Putin’s objective to conquer and control the Ukrainian government remains unobtainable. His war is a strategic failure.”

“Ukrainians are coming out of the most difficult winter yet, with temperatures at the most frigid of the war, and the Russian bombing campaigns aimed at energy infrastructure have taken a toll. Instead of being convinced to sue for peace on Putin’s terms, Ukrainians remain unwavering in their commitment to remain an independent and sovereign nation,” continued Sen. Moran. “We must commit to share in their resolve. I say that again: we must commit to share in their resolve and support the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom.”

Sen. Moran today joined Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) in introducing a bipartisan Senate resolution to mark the four-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Full text of the resolution can be found here.

Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks

Sen. Moran’s full remarks as delivered:

“Mr. President, today marks the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Vladimir Putin believed his so-called military operation would be over in two weeks, but as the fifth year of the war begins, Russian forces have fought Ukraine longer than they fought the Germans in World War II.

“Because of the bravery and innovation of the Ukrainians, aided by American and European support, Vladimir Putin’s objective to conquer and control the Ukrainian government remains unobtainable. His war is a strategic failure.

“While the Russian military is making incremental gains in the east part of Ukraine, it is at exorbitant expense. Since the invasion began in February 2022, four years ago, Russian forces have seized only 12 percent of Ukrainian territory. Because of the way they fight – and how Ukrainians defend – Russian forces simply cannot achieve breakthroughs after the breach of Ukrainian positions.

“Today, nearly 20 percent of the Donbas remains out of Putin’s grasp, and Russian forces, already struggling to take territory, face the ‘Fortress Belt’ of the region’s remaining cities.

“Putin has abused his country’s manpower advantage by employing a strategy of attrition with devastating consequences. Russian forces have suffered 1.2 million casualties in four years, and one-third of those are estimated to have come in the last year alone.

“A recent report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies observes, ‘No major power has suffered anywhere near these numbers of casualties or fatalities in any war since World War II.’

“As these casualties mount, the monetary cost to lure new recruits is increasing. Russian regions are increasing their signing bonuses for contract soldiers, indicating that Russian recruitment is beginning to struggle to meet its goals. From the war’s beginning, when Putin was resorting to mobilizing convicts, now, average Russians do not want to fight in this war.

“Russia’s economy has been degraded as the war has been prolonged. The move to impose sanctions on Russia’s energy companies last year, which should have happened earlier in the war, has made it more difficult to export oil, the foundation of the Kremlin’s budget.

“Moscow has had to offer buyers steep discounts of 25-30 percent below market value, increasing their budget deficit to 2.5 percent of GDP.

“Sustaining Putin’s war depends upon China’s continued support. Beijing purchases nearly half of Russia’s crude exports and provides critical dual-use technologies for Russian materiel.

“Putin is overseeing a war effort that is succeeding in feet rather than miles, and it is coming at considerable cost to the future of his country. This is no time to permit him to claim a victory, either on the battlefield or at the negotiating table. We must share the resolve of the Ukrainian people and make certain that Putin’s invasion remains the blunder it was when it started four years ago.

“While both Washington and Brussels have engaged in public debate, Putin should not mistake that debate for disengagement.

“The United States continues to provide substantial military and intelligence support, and our allies have increased their contributions. There must be no doubt in Moscow about our enduring commitment to Ukraine.

“The U.S. expanded intelligence sharing last October to assist Ukraine in targeting energy infrastructure deep inside Russia, and the United States lifted range limitations on certain weapons. Likewise, our European allies have stepped up to assume some of the financial support for the war, most recently agreeing to a $105 billion loan for Ukraine.

“There is much more I believe both sides of the Atlantic can do to assist Ukraine. I called for providing Tomahawk missiles last summer, and the European Union should use Russian foreign reserves to help pay for Ukraine’s war efforts.

“Congress should enact sanctions to discourage the purchase of Russian oil. Last March, before the Senate Intelligence Committee, CIA Director John Ratcliffe told me, ‘I want to say that, with regard to the Ukrainian resistance, the Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian military have been underestimated for a period of several years….I’m convinced they will fight with their bare hands if they have to.’

“Ukrainians are coming out of the most difficult winter yet, with temperatures at the most frigid of the war and the Russian bombing campaigns aimed at energy infrastructure have taken a toll. Instead of being convinced to sue for peace on Putin’s terms, Ukrainians remain unwavering in their commitment to remain an independent and sovereign nation. We must commit to share in their resolve. I say that again: we must commit to share in their resolve and support the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom.”

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ICYMI: Murkowski Helps Pass Legislation Addressing Affordability and Transparency in Health and Reauthorizing Key Programs

Washington, DC — Earlier this week, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) helped pass H.R. 7148, which includes legislation that extends critical healthcare and public health programs and implements long sought after health policy reforms. The bill includes a multitude of critical “health extenders” designed to reauthorize key public health programs and Medicare/ Medicaid payment policies, including an extension of Medicare telehealth flexibilities through December 31, 2027. It also includes new reforms, including several that will increase transparency and control prescription drug prices.

Background:

H.R. 7148 was the last appropriations package of Fiscal Year 2026, which included five of the final six spending bills. The bill also included new legislation intended to address affordability in the health system and reauthorization of key programs

Addressing Affordability and Improving Efficiency in the Health System

Requires hospitals to use a separate identification number for off-campus outpatient departments to improve billing clarity and oversight of services provided in a hospital setting or in an outpatient clinic

Expands Medicare coverage to include new cancer screening tests, external infusion pumps, and certain home infusion drugs that patients cannot administer themselves.

Includes the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care provision, which requires states to create a clear process for out-of-state pediatric providers to enroll in Medicaid and CHIP and treat eligible children, improving timely access to specialty care.

Increases transparency in generic drug approvals by requiring the FDA to disclose which ingredients make a generic drug different from the brand-name version.

Establishes new rules for pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that change how they are paid and require clearer reporting on prescription drug spending to improve transparency.

Under Medicare Part D, PBMs are prohibited from earning payments tied to the price of a covered drug.

Requires PBMs to clearly define and consistently apply drug pricing terms in contracts with Medicare Part D plans.

Requires PBMs to provide annual reports to Medicare Part D plans with detailed information on drug prices and related costs.

Gives Medicare Part D plans new authority to audit PBMs.

For private employer-sponsored health plans, promotes clearer reporting on prescription drug prices and costs.

Requires PBMs to share detailed prescription drug spending data with employer health plans at least twice a year.

Ensures reporting includes total drug costs, rebates, discounts, and pricing practices.

Requires disclosure of how drugs are placed on formularies and the reasons behind those decisions.

Requires disclosure of benefit designs that steer patients toward pharmacies owned or affiliated with PBMs.

Requires health plans to provide enrollees with a plain-language summary of prescription drug spending.

Requires all prescription drug rebates and discounts to be passed through in full to employers or health plans.

Reauthorization of Critical programs: These programs strengthen the health care workforce, expand access to essential medical and social services, support vulnerable populations, and advance public health and prevention efforts while promoting innovation and flexibility in care delivery across communities.

The Community Health Center Program and the National Health Service Corps programs are reauthorized through December 31, 2026, expanding access to primary care and supporting the health care workforce.

The Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Program is reauthorized through fiscal year 2029, increasing training opportunities for primary care providers in community-based settings.

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is extended through December 31, 2026, providing continued support for low-income families and children.

State-based maternal mortality review committees are reauthorized through fiscal year 2030, strengthening state efforts to identify and prevent maternal deaths.

Public health and prevention initiatives addressing preterm birth are reauthorized through fiscal year 2030, promoting healthier pregnancies and improved birth outcomes.

Updates and reauthorizes the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, which supports mental health and suicide prevention resources for health care professionals.

The Priority Review Voucher program for Rare Pediatric Diseases is extended through fiscal year 2029, encouraging the development of treatments for rare childhood conditions.

Medicare telehealth flexibilities are extended through December 31, 2027, alongside policy reforms designed to expand patient access to telehealth services.

Extends a number of Medicare programs including the low-volume hospital payment adjustment, the Medicare-dependent Hospital program, Medicare ground ambulance add-on payments, and the Work Geographic Practice Cost Index Floor.

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Murphy Announces People's State of the Union Guest, Fereshteh Ganjavi, Afghan Refugee And CT Nonprofit Founder

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday announced he has invited Fereshteh Ganjavi as his guest for the People’s State of the Union, a rally on the National Mall counterprogramming President Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress.

A refugee from Afghanistan, Ganjavi is the Founder and Executive Director of Elena’s Light, a Connecticut-based nonprofit dedicated to helping refugee women and children integrate into the United States, and whose services include Know Your Rights trainings, ESL and citizenship test classes, legal assistance, and health and wellness programs.