Senator Collins Delivers Keynote Address at “State of Maine” Transfer Ceremony in Portland

Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos

PORTLAND, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered the keynote address at the formal signing ceremony marking the transfer of the new National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV), the “State of Maine,” to Maine Maritime Academy (MMA). This ceremony officially transferred the operation of the vessel from the U.S. Maritime Administration to MMA.

This $330 million ship will be MMA’s newest training vessel, equipped with two full-sized bridges and engine rooms. In addition to being used to train MMA students, the vessel is designed to help with federal humanitarian efforts. Senator Collins, the godmother of the “State of Maine,” is considered the ship’s guardian and protector, offering blessings for safe journeys ahead.

“This new ship will help provide rigorous instruction and crucial maritime training for MMA students for decades to come,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “I am proud to serve with former Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao as co-sponsor and as godmother of the new ‘State of Maine.’ We have arrived at this glorious day after a long voyage that was not without its treacherous shoals. In 2019, as Chair of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, I worked hard to secure $300 million for this ship. Brokering the agreement between the House and the Senate for that appropriations bill was a challenging task that required months of negotiation and advocacy.”

“It was my goal from the beginning to ensure that Maine Maritime Academy received the exact same kind of ship as Massachusetts Maritime Academy,” she continued. “MMA students and instructors are exceptional, and they deserve full and equal resources to continue to do their jobs effectively. Thanks to Secretary Chao, I was able to secure additional funding to meet that goal.”

“From the urgent need for merchant mariners during World War II to the 21st century challenges of national security, the global economy, science, technology, energy, and the environment, Maine Maritime Academy has always risen to the challenge. The new “State of Maine” we celebrate today carries on that heritage. May all who sail on her always have fair winds and following seas,” Senator Collins concluded.

In 2019, when Senator Collins was Chair of the Senate Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, she negotiated and authored the Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) Transportation and Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill that included $300 million for the construction and acquisition of this new training vessel for Maine Maritime Academy. Senator Collins strongly opposed the Administration’s proposal earlier that year that requested only $205 million to construct a training vessel smaller than the ship funded the year prior for Massachusetts Maritime Academy.

Earlier this year, Senator Collins also secured $3,970,000 in federal funding for Maine Maritime Academy in the FY26 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill. This funding will support small vessel workforce training programs and the purchase of advanced simulation equipment aboard the “State of Maine.”

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Senator Coons celebrates advancement of Count the Crimes to Cut Act

WASHINGTON – Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) celebrated the Senate Judiciary Committee’s voice vote to advance the Count the Crimes to Cut Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill aimed at addressing the bloated federal criminal code.

The Count the Crimes to Cut Act will help create a modern federal criminal code that ensures federal resources are used in a way that best supports public safety. Currently, the full scope of criminal liability remains unknown to citizens, businesses, and even lawmakers. There is no complete, accessible list of all federal crimes. The federal code includes thousands of offenses.

Senator Coons is joined by original co-sponsors Senators Mike Lee (R-Utah), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). This bipartisan bill, which already passed the House of Representatives by voice vote, restores transparency and accountability to the federal criminal code.

“We need to reexamine the sprawling system of federal crimes and penalties tucked into new laws and lingering in old ones that Congress has created over decades,” said Senator Chris Coons. “I’m glad my colleagues on the Judiciary Committee moved this bipartisan, commonsense bill forward, so lawmakers can determine the reforms needed to make the law fairer, saner, and more effective.”

Under the Count the Crimes to Cut Act:

The attorney general must report a list of all federal criminal statutory offenses, including the elements for each offense, the potential criminal penalties, prosecution data from the past 15 years, and mens rea requirements for each criminal regulatory offense

Heads of key federal agencies must also produce reports on the criminal regulatory offenses enforceable by their departments

Both the Department of Justice and other relevant federal agencies must establish publicly accessible online indexes of these offenses for easy reference

The bill has been endorsed by the Due Process Institute, the National District Attorneys Association, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Federal Defenders, Families Against Mandatory Minimums, the R Street Institute, and Right on Crime.


Ahead of Upcoming USMCA Review, Cortez Masto Pushes for Inclusion of Her Bipartisan Bills to Support Travel, Tourism, and Supply Chain Security

Washington, D.C. – Ahead of the July 2026 review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) sent a letter to U.S. Trade Ambassador Greer highlighting Nevada’s priorities and pushing for the inclusion of two of her bipartisan bills. In the letter, she urges Ambassador Greer to focus on actions that will strengthen the trade agreement while encouraging more collaboration on travel and tourism, as well as on actions to curb the risk of investments by the Chinese Communist Party in North American supply chains.

“The USMCA governs America’s trading relationships with our two largest trading partners, Canada and Mexico, together accounting for nearly $2 trillion in annual goods and services trade and supporting millions of American jobs. Last year, I surveyed Nevada businesses and workers about the USMCA and found that feedback was overwhelmingly positive,” said the Senator. “There was broad consensus that the agreement supported jobs in the U.S. as well as helped diversify away from China while maintaining access to key export markets. Respondents also felt strongly that failure to support USMCA would undermine U.S. growth and impair investment. I agree.”

The Senator goes on to push for the creation of a formal Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group under the USMCA, which she proposed earlier this year in bipartisan legislation Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kansas). “The [U.S. travel and tourism] industry is under stress…including a 26 percent decline in Canadian visitors alone,” she said. “For tourism-dependent states like Nevada, these losses translate directly into reduced economic activity, layoffs in the hospitality and service sectors, and diminished tax revenues.” A formal USMCA travel and tourism working group would provide a dedicated, trilateral venue to reduce cross-border travel barriers, coordinate visa and entry policies, harmonize traveler-facing regulations, and promote North America as a tourism destination.

In the letter, the Senator also calls for the inclusion of her bipartisan Protecting the USMCA from Harmful Chinese Investment Act in the upcoming USMCA joint review. Her bill with Senator McCormick (R-Pa.) would direct the U.S. Trade Representative to prioritize North American alignment on foreign investment screening by ensuring Canada and Mexico work with the U.S. to curb the risk of investment from China. “I urge USTR to incorporate [my bill] as a formal joint review negotiating objective and to elevate investment security throughout the review process” she concluded.

The full text of the letter can be found here.

Senator Cortez Masto is a fierce advocate for Nevada’s travel and tourism economy. She has repeatedly raised concerns and demanded the Trump Administration consider and reverse their policies and make constructive plans for strengthening the travel and tourism industry. Cortez Masto has also led efforts in Congress to stand up to the Chinese Communist Party’s influence and protect American national and economic security. Earlier this year, Cortez Masto passed the FIGHT China Act to safeguard America against the growing threat posed by Communist China by prohibiting and requiring notification of U.S. investment in certain technologies in China.

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Cortez Masto Leads Amicus Brief Defending Taxpayer Privacy Against IRS-DHS Data Sharing

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and her colleagues in the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) led 115 House and Senate Democrats in filing a bicameral amicus brief standing up for taxpayer privacy in the case Center for Taxpayer Rights v. IRS, currently before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.

The Democratic lawmakers argued that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) implementation of bulk data transfers to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for immigration enforcement violates the privacy protections of taxpayers enshrined by Congress in section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code.

“The IRS’s decision to share taxpayer data with DHS is in direct contradiction with the law and does absolutely nothing to keep Americans safe. Instead, it has struck fear in hardworking immigrant communities and led to a lack of trust in government to protect taxpayer privacy. I urge the Court to swiftly hold this Administration accountable for its violations of the law,” said Senator Cortez Masto.

For nearly 30 years, across administrations of both parties, the IRS has publicly assured taxpayers their data would be protected, reflecting Congress’s repeated decision to ensure taxpayer data is secured with the strongest data privacy safeguards in federal law. This brief is part of a sustained, coordinated effort to defend the taxpayer privacy protections Congress established nearly fifty years ago.

“The data sharing here was illegal and threatens federal government revenues, adversely affecting all taxpayers. It would also compromise taxpayer privacy and raise the possibility of grave consequences for individuals misidentified by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”), chilling participation in the tax system, impacting our constituents, and destroying public trust,” the lawmakers wrote.

Read the full brief HERE.

Senator Cortez Masto has repeatedly demanded answers from the Trump Administration on the IRS’ cruel and illegal plans to share sensitive taxpayer information with the Department of Homeland Security.

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Curtis, Shaheen Lead Bipartisan Delegation to Taiwan

Senators urged leaders to adopt special defense budget, affirmed U.S. support for Taiwan amid growing China threat

TAIPEI—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), SFRC Ranking Member, led a bipartisan Congressional delegation to Taiwan to emphasize Congress’ leading role in the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and affirm American support. While meeting with top government officials, the senators urged the passage of the Special Defense Budget proposed by Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te amid increasing threats of aggression from China.

Joining Curtis and Shaheen in the delegation were Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV). Photos from the visit can be downloaded here.

“China is actively preparing a move of aggression to force unification with Taiwan, a sovereign democracy. Because of Taiwan’s location and pivotal role in the global economy through its innovative high-end semiconductors, an attempted attack on Taiwan could trigger a $10 trillion global economic shock, immediately contracting the U.S. GDP by roughly 10 percent. That catastrophe would hit American factories, businesses, and households harder than the Great Depression, and a successful invasion of Taiwan would fundamentally change our world and put global freedom and democracy at risk for current and future generations,” said Senator Curtis.

“The U.S. fully supports President Lai’s Special Defense Budget request and encourages its adoption by the Legislative Yuen. The $40 billion proposal is a direct assessment of the capability gaps that Taiwan needs to deter and, if necessary, defeat China. Taiwan must urgently adapt its defense strategy by focusing on asymmetric warfare and technological innovation,” Curtis continued.

Over two days, the delegation met with Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-Lung, National Security Council Secretary General Joseph Wu, and President of the Legislative Yuan (LY) Han Kuo-yu and a cross-partisan group of LY members. The delegation also toured the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology to review Taiwan’s efforts to enhance asymmetric defense production domestically.

Background:

Since the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) came to power in 1948, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) government has pursued unification with Taiwan. At a 2022 CCP gathering, President Xi Jinping recommitted to that policy, saying “… [W]e will never promise to renounce the use of force, and we reserve the option of taking all measures necessary.” Xi has instructed his military to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027. To this end, the PRC regularly engages in both naval-based military demonstrations surrounding Taiwan and “gray zone” noncombat operations to erode Taiwan’s military advantages and readiness.

In an effort to both deter Chinese aggression and make necessary defensive capability improvements, Taiwan has taken steps toward adopting an “asymmetric” defense strategy, the goal of which is to make Taiwan impossible for the PRC to quickly subdue. President Lai has said he aims for Taiwan to spend 5% of GDP on defense. In November 2025, the Lai Administration proposed a “special budget” of around $40 billion to be allocated over eight years to supplement Taiwan’s regular defense budget. The LY is currently considering the proposal as well as counterproposals from the opposition political parties.

In a statement issued on March 31, 2026, Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, formally denounced the Senators’ delegation to Taiwan, saying in part that the United States should cease all contact with Taiwan and “stop sending any wrong signals to ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces.” Though the PRC has never ruled any part of Taiwan, it still claims that the Taiwanese government are “separatists” and that Taiwan is a “breakaway province” of China.

The Taiwan visit was part of a broader Congressional delegation to Indo-Pacific allies, including stops in Tokyo and Seoul for engagements with their governments, U.S. embassies, and the U.S. military.

Curtis speaks Mandarin Chinese and served a two-year mission in Taiwan for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.


Durbin Celebrates New Pediatric Dental Surgery Center In Southern Illinois

MARION – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today held a press conference at the future home of Shawnee Health Children’s Dental Center to discuss the need for high-quality, accessible dental care in southern Illinois and how this new center will support the region. Thanks in part to the federal support and attention Durbin brought to this project, Shawnee Health was able to secure philanthropic funding from the Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation for this dental center.

More than three million Illinoisans have Medicaid, but only 24 percent of dentists accept Medicaid. In Illinois, more than two million people live in communities with a shortage of dental providers. Nine counties in the state have only one dentist. For example, there is one dentist for 15,000 people in Lawrence County.

“Any parent knows that pediatric dental care is not a luxury, it’s essential,” said Durbin. “When I heard from Mayor Harvey that some children in the area were waiting up to a year for dental treatment, I knew something had to be done. I am thrilled that with groups like Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation and constant community support, we have been able to make the Shawnee Health Children’s Dental Center a reality.”

“We are so thankful to Senator Durbin for his unwavering support for oral health, for sharing the vision with Shawnee Health and for his compassion for children. Because of the full circle support from Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation, Senator Durbin, Mayor Harvey, Mayor Absher, our hospital partners and our fellow community health centers, hundreds of children across southern Illinois will have access to advanced dental services in an appropriate setting without months of delays,” said Christina Carney, CEO of Shawnee Health.

Last week, Durbin and U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) reintroduced the bipartisan Rural America Health Corps Act. The legislation will address growing health disparities by incentivizing more health professionals to serve and plant roots in rural communities, by increasing funding through the National Health Service Corps’ (NHSC) scholarship and loan repayment for dentists and other providers who serve in rural areas. In 2021, Durbin secured $1 billion in additional funding for the NHSC to expand the health care workforce in Illinois.

Last month, Durbin reintroduced the Promoting Dental Health Act, which would reauthorize the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Oral Health program to support states in data collection, water fluoridation, educating dental health professionals, and community outreach programs. Currently, Illinois does not receive any of the $20.25 million in direct grants, due to the fact that the Oral Health program is not adequately funded to serve every state.

In November 2023, Durbin sent three oversight letters to DentaQuest, Envolve, and Avesis – three companies that administer dental benefits for Medicaid managed care companies (MCOs) in Illinois – to seek answers on barriers to providing dental care to Medicaid enrollees. The letters raised concerns and investigated certain insurance practices that can limit and discourage provider participation in Medicaid, which exacerbate existing reimbursement rate challenges.

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Ernst Honored for Service to State and Nation by Iowa Senate

WASHINGTON — Today, as U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) made her annual visit to the Iowa statehouse, she was honored by the Iowa Senate for her longstanding, dedicated service to her state and nation.

Led by Iowa State Sen. Dan Zumbach (R-Ryan), the chamber introduced a resolution commending Ernst for her 23 years of military service, her roots in local and state government, making history as the first woman from Iowa elected to federal office and the first female combat veteran in the United States Senate, and for working as a tireless champion to promote the voices and values of Iowans.

Download photos here.

“Answering the call to serve my nation and the great state of Iowa has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Ernst. “While that service requires no recognition, I’m moved that the folks in the Iowa Senate, including many past colleagues and lifelong friends, took the time to say thank you in such a thoughtful and meaningful way.”

Full remarks on the resolution delivered by Zumbach:

“Today, I am also very proud to introduce a dear friend of mine, and this person truly needs no introduction in this chamber. She is someone who has dedicated her life to public service. For more than twenty-three years, she served with distinction in the United States Army, notably as a company commander during Operation Iraqi Freedom and retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Iowa Army National Guard.

“She has broken historic barriers as the first woman from the State of Iowa elected to federal office and the first female combat veteran to serve in the United States Senate. Her tenure in public service, from Montgomery County Auditor to our very own Iowa State Senator, and now representing us as a United States Senator, has been defined by a steadfast commitment to fiscal responsibility, famously vowing to "Make ’Em Squeal" by eliminating government waste and protecting the hard-earned dollars of every taxpayer.

“She remains a tireless champion for Iowa’s agriculture heartland, advocating for biofuels, the Renewable Fuel Standard, and the removal of heavy regulations to ensure that Iowa’s farmers and small businesses may thrive.

“She continues to prioritize the safety of our nation and the well-being of those who defend it by modernizing our military, expanding rural telehealth care, holding the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs accountable, and providing vital resources for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

“She is a proud native of Red Oak and daughter of Montgomery County. She was raised with the strong Iowa values of hard work, service, and sacrifice, graduating at the pinnacle of her class at Stanton High School and continuing her education at Iowa State University.

“Throughout her career, she has remained a devoted defender of the sacredness of life, the Second Amendment, and the fundamental principles of local control in education, all while maintaining her home in Red Oak near her land and family. When serving alongside her in the Iowa Senate, she would always turn to her grandmother’s tattered Bible that sat on her desk for guidance.

“Today, I would like to welcome back to the Iowa Senate, Senator Joni Ernst.”

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Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Zeb’s Smokehouse

RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Zeb’s Smokehouse of Taylor County. Throughout the 119thCongress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in each of Iowa’s 99 counties.

“Zeb’s Smokehouse represents the very best of Iowa’s entrepreneurial spirit. By turning their dream into reality, Zeb and Andrea created a business that serves farmers, feeds families, and strengthens rural America,” said Chair Ernst. “Through strong relationships with local farmers and producers, this small business knows how to meat the needs of their community.”

Since 2015, Zeb’s Smokehouse has grown from a simple dream into a trusted wild game processing operation that also offers quality cuts of locally raised beef and pork. Their unique farm to table service reflects a deep commitment to supporting local farmers and livestock producers, helping families preserve traditions that have been part of rural life for generations.

Stay tuned as Chair Ernst continues to recognize outstanding Iowa small businesses with her Small Business of the Week award.

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Gallego in War on the Rocks: ‘The Trump Administration Had No Plan for the War with Iran’

WASHINGTON – In an op-ed published in War on the Rocks this morning, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), a Marine combat veteran who served in Iraq, argues that Trump started a war in Iran with no explanation, plan, or endgame, and it’s young working-class Americans who will pay the price. Since the start of Trump’s military action in Iran, Gallego has been speaking out to underscore the human cost of war.

Read the op-ed below:

War on the Rocks: The Trump Administration Had No Plan for the War with Iran

21 years ago, I was a Marine infantryman in Anbar province, western Iraq, carrying so much gear that I could barely feel my legs. My job was to go town to town, search houses, and try to stop insurgents before they stopped us. Every day, someone was trying to kill us — improvised explosive devices buried in the roads, mortars in the middle of the night, and random rocket propelled grenades fired from rooftops. And even two years into the war, there was no clear direction, no clear definition of victory, and no real plan for what came next.

I lost my best friend there. I watched young men die for a mission that was never clearly justified to the American people. I came home with post-traumatic stress disorder that I still live with every day.

That war lasted almost 9 years, cost $3 trillion, destabilized the Middle East, led to a civil war, damaged America’s credibility, stole more than 4,000 sons and daughters from their families, and created a generation of veterans who will never be the same.

I thought the politicians who sent us to Iraq learned something from that legacy. But watching what is happening now with Iran and hearing the shifting explanations from the administration feels like déjà vu.

President Donald Trump has started a war in Iran with no explanation, plan, or endgame. We’re repeating the same mistakes of the past, and it’s young, working-class Americans who will pay the price again.

Over the past month, we’ve heard multiple, shifting, and contradictory reasons for why U.S. military intervention in Iran was supposedly necessary. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said we had to strike because Israel was about to attack, which makes no sense. We’re the most powerful country in the world — we decide when we go to war, not Israel. Vice President JD Vance said it was about taking out their nuclear program, which the administration supposedly did last June. But that nuclear program was actively being negotiated just weeks ago. And don’t forget that it was Trump who tore up the 2015 deal to curb Iran’s nuclear program in the first place.

Now Trump says this is about punishing the Iranian regime for its violence against its own people, but if he suddenly cares about human rights in Iran, bombing the country and walking away is the worst possible way to help the people living there.

When you ask Trump’s closest advisors why we’re going to war, you get five different answers. It’s clear that they don’t even know what the actual goal is, either.

On the first day of the war, the United States killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei — this is a good thing. He ran a brutal regime that tortured, imprisoned, and murdered tens of thousands of Iranians who demanded freedom. But if removing him was the objective, why didn’t the administration have a strategy to ensure that whoever took his place would be someone we could work with? How were they planning to prevent the hardliners in Tehran from taking power? Those are the questions that should have been answered before starting a war.

Instead, Iran has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei, the former leader’s son, to lead the country. Mojtaba is seen as even more hardline than his father. Instead of helping the Iranian people, we’ve strengthened the very regime that oppresses them. Why? Because the Trump administration had no plan then, and it still has no plan now.

Now, Trump is saying that on top of the 13 American servicemembers already killed over the past month, we should expect more Americans to die. He’s already deployed 2,500 Marines to the Middle East and the White House is saying there could even be a military draft. Why? Because the Trump administration had no plan, and it still has no plan now.

The war has predictably driven oil prices up by nearly 50 percent. Trump’s solution to the problem he caused is to ease sanctions on Russia so they can sell more oil. At the same time, U.S. officials have confirmed that Russia is providing intelligence to Iran to help target American servicemembers. We started a war with Iran, and we’re now indirectly helping them shoot us.

Why? Because the Trump administration had no plan, and it still has no plan now.

It’s American taxpayers who are the ones paying the bill. This war is costing over $1 billion a day. Imagine what that money could do if we invested it in our schools, housing, and families. Think about how many more people could afford to keep their health care with that money.

Everywhere I go, I meet people being crushed by the cost of living. They can’t pay for groceries or bills. But Trump has done nothing to address the issues Americans are struggling with at home. He’s only made them worse. He claims to be “America First,” but when it comes to the problems families actually care about — like the cost of living, housing, and health care — Americans are clearly last.

I’m Team America, too. That means asking before sending our troops into harm’s way: How is this actually in our country’s best interest? Right now, I don’t see how it is.

We could have helped the Iranian people in other ways. The United States negotiates with bad actors all the time without going to war. We trade with China and condemn its human rights abuses against the Uyghurs. We could tighten sanctions or strengthen our regional alliances to build deterrence. Recognizing Iran as a threat and supporting the Iranian people does not require bombing their country and putting our troops at risk without a clear strategy, defined objectives, or an exit plan.

I know from lived experience that when wars are launched without a plan, the people who pay are never the politicians who started them. It’s the American people. It’s the kids from working-class neighborhoods who enlisted.

The legacy of the Iraq war lives on in every veteran. We cannot repeat its mistakes.


Gallego Leads Homeland Security Committee Dems in Demanding Answers on Corey Lewandowski’s Alleged ‘Pay-to-Play’ Scheme at DHS

WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) led Democrats from the Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee in demanding answers over reports that former Department of Homeland Security (DHS) advisor Corey Lewandowski solicited personal payments from companies in exchange for government contracts. In a series of letters sent to DHS and contractors GEO Group and Salus Worldwide Solutions, the Senators raised concerns that Lewandowski’s alleged conduct may violate federal bribery and ethics laws.

“Recent reporting describes a troubling pattern of alleged pay-to-play conduct by Mr. Lewandowski. According to the report, in one instance, during the presidential transition, Mr. Lewandowski reportedly told the founder of GEO Group, a major private prison company that runs detention facilities for DHS, that he would need to be paid in exchange for protecting and growing the company’s DHS contracts,” the Senators wrote. “The report further alleges that a marketing firm abandoned plans to pursue DHS contracts after being told by representatives of Salus Worldwide Solutions, whose CEO has close ties to the Trump administration, that hiring a consultant tied to Mr. Lewandowski was a condition of being selected for the work.”

“If true, this conduct constitutes a blatant abuse of public trust and a violation

of federal bribery and procurement integrity laws and regulations,” the Senators continued.

The Senators also raised concerns that Lewandowski may have been directly involved in reviewing or influencing contracts worth more than $100,000 despite previous testimony from DHS leadership that he had no such role.

“Federal law is unambiguous: it is illegal for any public official to corruptly demand or accept anything of value in exchange for being influenced in the performance of any official act,” the Senators concluded. “It is essential that the public maintains full confidence in the integrity of federal spending, ensuring that all contracts are awarded through a competitive, merit-based process that upholds the highest ethical standards, rather than personal influence.”

In addition to Gallego, Committee Ranking Member Gary Peters (D-MI) and Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) also signed the letter.

Read the full letter to DHS HERE.

Read the full letter to GEO Group HERE.


Capitol Hill Report, 03-31-26

Audio from this morning’s call is available HERE.

Topics include: Cancer rates in Iowa, the SAVE America Act, Grassley’s 99 county meetings, Iran and congressional power.


Hagerty Announces Staff Promotions, Additions

WASHINGTON— Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) announced several changes to his staff in Washington, D.C.

“I’m pleased to announce these promotions and welcome new members to my staff,” said Senator Hagerty. “Their experience and dedication will help ensure our office continues delivering results for Tennesseans.”

Promotions

Jillian Cantrell is now serving as Legislative Assistant to Senator Hagerty, managing the Healthcare, Education, Labor, Pensions, and Veterans’ Affairs portfolio. Cantrell previously served as Legislative Aide, Legislative Correspondent, and Staff Assistant to Hagerty. She is a graduate of Washington and Lee University, where she received bachelor’s degrees in both biology and politics. She is a native of Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Cecilia Ann Hutton will serve as a Legislative Correspondent to Hagerty, assisting in the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Rules portfolio. She previously served as a Staff Assistant in Hagerty’s Office. She graduated from the University of Tennessee with a bachelor’s degree in political science and history. She is a native of Athens, Alabama.

Additions

Sean McCarthy now serves as Legislative Aide to Senator Hagerty, assisting on issues related to emergency management, economic development, fiscal responsibility, federal budget and appropriations portfolio. Most recently, he served as a Congressional Liaison Specialist for U.S. Customs and Border Protection under President Trump. He is a graduate of the College of William & Mary. McCarthy’s family has lived in Knox County since 2021.

Mary-Hunter Brown is now serving as Staff Assistant to Hagerty. Brown served as an intern in Sen. Hagerty’s DC office in the fall of 2025. She graduated summa cum laude from Rhodes College with a major in Political Science and a minor in Psychology. She is currently pursuing a master’s in political communication from American University and is a native of Nashville, TN.

Varsha Dasari is now serving as a Staff Assistant to Hagerty. Dasari joins from Congressman Kevin Hern’s (OK-01) office, where she served as an intern. She graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in government through the Liberal Arts Honors Program.

Peter ‘Mackie’ Rich is now serving as Legislative Correspondent to Hagerty. Rich recently graduated from Columbia University with degrees in classics and math. He grew up in The Plains, Virginia.

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Hagerty Raises Concerns on FINRA’s Increased Member Firm Fees

WASHINGTON – Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, sent a letter to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) expressing concern about FINRA’s decision to increase member firm fees and the need to ensure that the self-regulatory agency remains as transparent and accountable as the markets it oversees.

“We write to express our concerns regarding the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s (FINRA) decision to increase member firm fees by $450 million, or about five percent on a compounded annual basis, through 2029 (the “Fee Increase”), which was approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in January 2025,” Hagerty wrote. “The Fee Increase comes just three years after FINRA increased fees by $225 million starting in 2022.”

“Importantly, we note that the Fee Increase was premised in part on FINRA’s expectation that it would need to implement and enforce certain SEC rule proposals promulgated under former Chairman Gary Gensler that were appropriately – and predictably – withdrawn by the SEC under Chairman Atkins’ leadership in June 2025, including the Use of Predictive Data Analytics, Regulation Best Execution, and the Order Competition Rule,” Hagerty continued.

A copy of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear Mr. Cook:

We write to express our concerns regarding the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s (FINRA) decision to increase member firm fees by $450 million, or about five percent on a compounded annual basis, through 2029 (the “Fee Increase”), which was approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in January 2025. The Fee Increase comes just three years after FINRA increased fees by $225 million starting in 2022. As described below, we question FINRA’s strategy to raise member fees rather than pursue other options to address its large operating expenses, much of which (e.g., employee compensation) are likely avoidable. FINRA’s desire to consistently increase member fees by hundreds of millions of dollars, among other actions, is a concerning sign that its operations and approach to regulation have expanded beyond its limited statutory authority to protect investors from fraud and advance confidence in the securities market.

We note that these fee increases come despite the brokerage industry shrinking. Notwithstanding FINRA’s argument that the Fee Increase is necessary to address “the continued growth in the breadth and complexity of FINRA’s regulatory obligations,” the brokerage industry has significantly contracted over the last 20 years and the number of FINRA registered broker-dealers has declined each year from 2006 through 2023, from 5,026 to 3,298 (-34%) over that period. Moreover, the number of FINRA registered representatives has also declined over the last decade to 628,392 in 2023, off almost 2% from a peak of 639,442 in 2015 (and down over 4% since 2006). Meanwhile, the number of SEC registered investment advisers – which are not regulated by FINRA – reached a record high 15,396 in 2023, a 47% increase since 2006.

Second, another member fee increase is not necessary to address FINRA’s burgeoning operating expenses, most of which are driven by outsized and increasing compensation costs. According to FINRA, “ninety percent of FINRA’s operating expenses are driven by compensation and technology costs.” In 2023, the average compensation and benefits per employee rose by 4.7% to $233,500, up from $223,000 in 2022 – this compares to around $160,000 in basic earnings on average for an employee in the financial industry according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The increase in compensation at FINRA has coincided with growth in FINRA’s workforce from 3,900 to 4,200 employees during the same period. The total compensation and benefits expenses for FINRA increased by 12.8%, reaching $981 million in 2023 compared to $870 million in 2022, which makes up an outsized 62% of expenses according to FINRA’s most recent annual report. Moreover, FINRA’s CEO has made between $3.46 million and $3.84 million in compensation and benefits each of the last three years, and FINRA’s eight highest paid employees (including the CEO) make over $1.75 million on average.

Third, in addition to reviewing its compensation and benefits programs, we believe FINRA can do (and should have done) more to proactively address its operating expenses before proposing additional member fee increases. For example, FINRA should address the costs associated with legally suspect programs which have included, among other things, a Diversity Leadership Council, annual Diversity Leadership Summit, and multiple affinity groups. FINRA should also critically assess the costs associated with a number of other programs including, but not limited to, its lobbying expenditures ($850,000 to 21 lobbyists in 2025); operating leases; “Research and Development” program; “Creatathon” events; employee Award of Distinction program; professional development partnerships with Georgetown University and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania for FINRA employees; internal mentoring programs such as eDriven, reverse mentoring and Inspired to Lead; and video production costs. It does not appear that FINRA addressed additional cost-cutting measures in its analysis of available alternatives.

Importantly, we note that the Fee Increase was premised in part on FINRA’s expectation that it would need to implement and enforce certain SEC rule proposals promulgated under former Chairman Gary Gensler that were appropriately – and predictably – withdrawn by the SEC under Chairman Atkins’ leadership in June 2025, including the Use of Predictive Data Analytics, Regulation Best Execution, and the Order Competition Rule.

Please respond to the following questions no later than May 1, 2026:

To help manage costs, FINRA recently engaged “a third party to conduct operational reviews across core business and support functions to assess our effectiveness and efficiency and identify opportunities for improvement and potential cost savings.” Please describe (i) the total expenses incurred by FINRA in connection with this third party engagement; (ii) all recommendations to reduce costs proposed by the third party and the associated dollar value of such savings; and (iii) which recommendations FINRA has fully implemented as of the date of this letter. Please also produce any reports prepared by the third party.

Please provide a description of all real estate owned or leased by FINRA including, but not limited to, the total cost of each location, how many staff are assigned to each location, and the number of days each employee reports to each location on average each week in each of 2023, 2024, and 2025 year-to-date.

Please detail any technical efficiencies that FINRA has employed (for example, artificial intelligence) that can help reduce costs, including compensation costs.

Please detail the impact on FINRA’s budget of its current deferred compensation and retirement benefits programs (including any early retirement packages), the growth of the benefits on average, per employee over each of the past 5 years, and to the extent payments are still being made, any former retirement benefits programs.

Please detail the current composition of FINRA’s front office (including, but not limited to, the office of the CEO and his direct reports) and provide compensation information for each person and a rationale for the role that person performs.

Sincerely,


Hickenlooper Calls for Passage of Bill to Ban Conversion Therapy Nationwide

Comes after SCOTUS ruling to overturn ban in Colorado

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper called for the passage of his Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act, which would ban conversion therapy nationwide.

Hickenlooper’s demand is in response to the Supreme Court’s decision in Chiles v. Salazar, a decision rejecting a Colorado law that protects youth from the inhumane practice of conversion therapy. This decision puts the safety and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ Americans around the country at risk.

“Conversion therapy is cruel and inhumane, plain and simple. This SCOTUS decision is dangerous for LGBTQ+ Americans,” Hickenlooper wrote on his social media accounts following the Supreme Court decision. “Our LGBTQ+ community deserves safety, acceptance, and love. We won’t ever let up in our fight for a better nation.”

Hickenlooper, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, has consistently fought to ban conversion therapy and ensure that LGBTQ+ people have access to high-quality health care.

The Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act is endorsed by the Congressional Equality Caucus, Human Rights Campaign, PFLAG, American Academy of Pediatrics, Equality California, National Association of School Psychologists, Christopher Street Project, and Advocates for Trans Equality.

Full text of the bill is available HERE.

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Hickenlooper, Colleagues Insist Trump Admin Create Common-Sense Tariff Refund Program

Colorado businesses paid over $760 million in illegal tariffs last year

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, along with 18 of his Senate Democratic colleagues, demanded Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Rodney S. Scott implement an automatic tariff refund process to return the illegal taxes the president took from small businesses and families.

The Trump admin’s proposed refund process, known as the Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) system, creates extra, unnecessary burdens for small businesses who are already struggling under their illegal tariffs. The senators urged the administration to use existing records to automatically refund small businesses instead of forcing small businesses to opt-in. The letter comes as Americans still haven’t received their tariff refunds a month after the Supreme Court struck down the president’s IEEPA tariff-taxes.

“Small businesses should not have to do additional work to receive refunds on what amounted to illegal tariff payments. The [Court of International Trade], the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court have spoken. Every cent of illegal IEEPA tariffs must be returned. The only question is whether CBP will make that process as simple and equitable as possible, or whether it will implement a complicated and unfair system through which large corporations and Wall Street will benefit financially,” the senators wrote.

The senators requested answers to the following questions by April 10, 2026:

How does CAPE comply with the CIT order that the government issue tariff refunds?

How does CAPE comply with representations from Administration attorneys in court that it would promptly, and at no cost to businesses, issue refunds if the tariffs were struck down?

Why did CBP develop CAPE rather than repurpose the existing ACE system to automatically issue refunds? Please provide any documents analyzing the shortcomings of repurposing the ACE system to automatically issue refunds.

Why is CAPE “opt-in,” requiring affirmative action by tariff payers?

Why does CAPE require importers to identify entry summaries when CBP already has that information?

How will CBP ensure that each step of the refund process is transparent and accessible to small businesses?

Will there be a formal appeal system for businesses that dispute the amount of the refund issued by CBP?

Hickenlooper, a former small business owner, is an outspoken opponent of Trump’s reckless tariff-taxes and how they’ve increased prices for working families. He recently introduced the Tariff Refund Act of 2026, which would fully refund businesses who paid the administration’s illegal tariffs, and the Small Business RELIEF Act to exempt small businesses from the admin’s sweeping tariffs and provide refunds for the tariffs they already paid.

Hickenlooper also signed onto an amicus brief challenging the Trump administration’s illegal tariffs that was ultimately considered by the Supreme Court. In October, he helped pass a bipartisan Senate resolution to end President Trump’s reckless 50% tariffs on Brazil.

Last summer, Hickenlooper chaired a field hearing of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee in Denver to highlight the strain the outdoor recreation industry is facing under the Trump administration’s chaotic tariffs.

Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

Dear Commissioner Scott,

On February 20, the Supreme Court struck down tariffs that the Trump administration was collecting from American businesses under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Now that the Court of International Trade (CIT) has ordered tariff refunds to proceed, we are calling on the Trump administration and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to automatically issue refunds using the records CBP already possesses, and not through CBP’s proposed Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) system. The unfinished CAPE system would require those seeking refunds to affirmatively “opt-in” in order to get their money back. This approach would impose unnecessary burdens on small businesses and individual importers, and it risks denying them the relief to which they are entitled. If we are to truly make whole those who wrongly paid for the Trump administration’s unlawful tariffs, CBP must fully automate the refund process.

According to CBP, CAPE is a new module within CBP’s Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system designed to process IEEPA tariff refunds at scale.1 Under the proposed system, importers and customs brokers must affirmatively submit a “CAPE Declaration,” a web-based claim that requires businesses to upload files identifying the “entry summaries” that document each import shipment and the tariffs paid on it. Furthermore, in order to receive any refund, importers must separately register for CBP’s Automated Clearing House (ACH) electronic payment system. Only entities that comply with this burdensome process can receive refunds.

CAPE is an opt-in system, one that places the burden of obtaining a refund squarely on those who were wronged, not on the government that unlawfully collected their money in the first place. CAPE’s opt-in nature will disproportionately harm small businesses. Legal experts following the CAPE rollout have already raised concerns that requiring importers to opt in and provide documentation, rather than having the government use its own records to issue refunds automatically, risks leaving many businesses in the lurch. Many large companies have legal teams, customs brokers on retainer, and the administrative capacity to file and pursue claims such as these. Small businesses often have none of these resources. Many are unaware that CAPE exists, or that they must affirmatively act to receive a refund on tariffs that the Administration illegally collected. Others lack the technical infrastructure, records retention systems, or staff expertise to submit a complete and accurate CAPE declaration. Even if small businesses are able to complete the declarations, this takes time and money away from operating or expanding their businesses. The result will be that small businesses — which had no choice but to pay these illegal tariffs and were least able to absorb the cost — will be the least likely to recover what they are owed.

There is no principled reason for the Trump administration to conduct the refund process this way. CBP already has the payment records it needs to issue refunds. As of March 4, 2026, CBP reported that more than 330,000 importers had paid or deposited approximately $166 billion in IEEPA tariffs across more than 53 million entries. All of those payments are recorded in CBP’s own ACE system — the same system within which CAPE is being built. If the government has records of every entry on which illegal tariffs were collected, it necessarily has records of every entry on which a refund is owed. Requiring businesses to file declarations to identify those entries is an unnecessary process that seems designed to discourage and reduce the number of refunds the government must ultimately pay.

CAPE also creates new vulnerabilities for financial exploitation. The system includes a feature allowing importers to designate third parties to receive refunds on their behalf. This is precisely the mechanism that investment banks and other buyers of tariff claims — who are already offering small businesses as little as twenty cents on the dollar to purchase their refund rights — are positioning themselves to exploit. A cumbersome opt-in process that disadvantages small businesses while enriching Wall Street intermediaries is not justice. It is an extension of the original harm.

We therefore urge CBP to redesign the CAPE system so that it uses the records already in ACE to automatically identify and issue refunds to all importers, without requiring any affirmative claim or opt-in. Moreover, the Trump administration should prioritize refunds to small businesses, which are least able to absorb the economic impact of these tariffs. To the extent that CBP needs additional information, such as payment routing details, it should proactively reach out to collect that information from the businesses that paid the tariffs. The government wrongfully collected this money. It should bear the burden of returning it. Small businesses should not have to do additional work to receive refunds on what amounted to illegal tariff payments.

The CIT, the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court have spoken. Every cent of illegal IEEPA tariffs must be returned. The only question is whether CBP will make that process as simple and equitable as possible, or whether it will implement a complicated and unfair system through which large corporations and Wall Street will benefit financially. To help Congress and the public better understand how CBP intends to implement the tariff refund process, please respond to the following questions in writing by April 10, 2026:

1. How does CAPE comply with the CIT order that the government issue tariff refunds?

2. How does CAPE comply with representations from Administration attorneys in court that it would promptly, and at no cost to businesses, issue refunds if the tariffs were struck down?

3. Why did CBP develop CAPE rather than repurpose the existing ACE system to automatically issue refunds? Please provide any documents analyzing the shortcomings of repurposing the ACE system to automatically issue refunds.

4. Why is CAPE “opt-in,” requiring affirmative action by tariff payers?

5. Why does CAPE require importers to identify entry summaries when CBP already has that information?

6. How will CBP ensure that each step of the refund process is transparent and accessible to small businesses?

7. Will there be a formal appeal system for businesses that dispute the amount of the refund issued by CBP? We urge you in the strongest possible terms to avoid any additional burden on small businesses of the type CAPE would impose and instead promptly implement an automated tariff refund system.

Sincerely,

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Hoeven: HUD Renews Continuum of Care Funding for YWCA in Fargo & Abused Adult Resource Center in Bismarck

Senator Passed Legislation to Renew Homelessness Grants; Additional CoC Grants Reviews to Begin April 1

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven announced the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Continuum of Care (CoC) program has awarded two North Dakota organizations over $450,000. The awards come as a result of legislation that Hoeven worked to pass as a member of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Committee, with grants being renewed for:

YWCA Cass Clay – Transitional Housing – $225,284

YWCA Cass Clay – Supportive Housing Program (SHP) – $155,258

The Abused Adult Resource Center of Bismarck – Transitional Housing – $83,561

“These Continuum of Care grants are extremely import to combat homelessness, and we appreciate the organizations and leaders that provide those services,” said Hoeven. “That’s why we worked to pass legislation to ensure this funding will be in place for the current Fiscal Year, as we continue working to provide certainty for these providers in future years. We welcome HUD following through on our legislation for the Q1 grants, and we look forward to the additional renewals that will move forward in Q2.”

Hoeven has been working with YWCA Cass Clay CEO Erin Prochnow and others to renew the CoC grants for homelessness service providers in North Dakota. Hoeven passed legislation directing HUD to renew CoC grants, beginning with grants that expire in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026. Grants expiring in Q1 must be renewed no later than today, with those expiring in Q2 and Q3 to be reviewed starting April 1 and July 1, respectively.

Additional grants for Fraser, Ltd., the Grand Forks Housing Authority and the Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Center in Dickinson will begin the renewal process on April 1. In addition, Hoeven is working with HUD Secretary Scott Turner, who Hoeven hosted to review housing needs in North Dakota last year, as well as HUD Regional Director Tim Geitner and HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary for Special Needs Assistance Caitlyn McKenney to ensure the grants are renewed in future years to provide certainty to homelessness service providers across the state.

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Senator Justice Attends the 2026 Mining Symposium and Coal Show

CHARLESTON, WV – Today, Senator Jim Justice released a statement following his visit to the West Virginia Coal Association Annual Mining Symposium and Coal Show:

“West Virginia is a coal state through and through, and I could not be more proud of our hardworking energy producers. Attending the West Virginia Mining Symposium today gave me the opportunity to hear directly from the men and women who keep this industry running, and to better understand just how I can keep fighting for West Virginia coal jobs and our miners in Washington. These folks work their tails off and power our country every single day and I’ll always have their backs,” said Senator Jim Justice.

BACKGROUND:

Today, Senator Justice attended the West Virginia Coal Association Annual Mining Symposium and Coal Show.

Senator Justice has always been a staunch supporter of the coal industry in West Virginia, from his time as governor, and now as Senator and a member of the Senate Energy Committee.

During his time in Washington, Senator Justice has introduced legislation such as the Energy Choice Act in order to protect the use of energy sources without undue regulation by state or local governments.

Additionally Senator Justice introduced and passed the National Miners Day Resolution to show appreciation and honor the accomplishments and sacrifices of the miners in our nation and local communities.

The West Virginia Coal Association Annual Mining Symposium and Coal Show is March 31 – April 1, 2026, at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center.

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Senators Justice, Welch, Hyde-Smith, Schiff Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Boost Housing Affordability in Rural Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, Senators Jim Justice, Peter Welch (D-VT), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Fostering the Availability in Rural Markets of(FARM) Home Loans Act of 2026. This legislation would modernize housing assistance eligibility requirements and help nearly 30 million homebuyers access rural housing assistance for the first time.

“I’m so proud to be working on the FARM Home Loans Act, which helps rural communities gain greater access to home loans. All over rural America, folks just want to own a home, raise their families, and build something that lasts. This bill helps increase competition for credit and opens that door for over 230,000 West Virginians to do just that. The Farm Credit System is ingrained in our farming communities and has a big role to play in continuing to create opportunities for the next generation in rural America,” said Senator Jim Justice.

“We’re in the midst of an affordable housing crisis, and Vermonters are amongst the hardest hit. Making farm credit loans more accessible is vital to addressing this crisis and will help millions of rural families experience the joy of homeownership for the first time,” said Senator Welch. “Congress must pass our bipartisan legislation to expand rural housing assistance and make homeownership a reality for rural communities in Vermont, West Virginia, and across America.”

“It is too hard for too many people to land a home mortgage by coming up with traditional down payments, especially in rural communities. The FARM Home Loans Act would change that by allowing the Farm Credit System to broaden the use of its flexible lending assistance to help qualify tens of thousands of rural families and individuals in Mississippi for homeownership,” saidSenator Hyde-Smith. “I support this bipartisan effort to bring outdated population eligibility limits into the 21st century.”

“Our country is facing a severe housing crisis, and it’s time for Congress to act. I’m proud to join Senators Welch and Justice to introduce this bipartisan legislation to help more rural communities obtain the financial support they need to buy a home,” said Senator Schiff.

“Senators Welch and Justice are leading the way to ensure rural home buyers have adequate credit choices. The Farm Credit Council thanks these Senators for their commitment and leadership on this issue. Too often, families struggle to find a lender willing to finance a home in rural areas because of the unique qualities of rural properties,” said Christy Seyfert, President and CEO, Farm Credit Council. “The FARM Home Loans Act will allow Farm Credit to serve homebuyers in communities up to 10,000 people, improving access to mortgage credit in rural America. Farm Credit is committed to the continued vitality of rural communities, and we appreciate the Senators for introducing this bill to help more families put down roots in rural America.”

BACKGROUND:


Warner, Kaine Urge Boost to VA Construction Funding to Meet Growing Veteran Demand

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) are pressing the administration to significantly boost funding for Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities, warning that years of underinvestment will increasingly leave Virginia veterans without the care access they’ve earned. In a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Douglas Collins, the senators urged the administration to align its Fiscal Year 2027 budget request with the VA’s own identified infrastructure needs, including expanding access to care and modernizing aging facilities in order to better meet the health care needs of Virginia’s large and growing veteran population.

For many years, funding submissions have fallen short of the VA’s own identified maintenance and modernization needs. For example, in Fiscal Year 2026, the White House budget request covered less than five percent of the VA’s identified 10-year construction and maintenance needs. In their letter, the senators called for funding levels that more accurately reflect the long-term needs of Virginia’s sizeable veteran community.

The senators began, “We write to urge that in the President’s upcoming Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 budget request, as well as future budget requests, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) include significantly increased funding for the expansion and modernization of the VA’s infrastructure portfolio nationwide.”

While the impacts of this inadequate funding are being felt across the country, Virginia’s large population of veterans and their family members means the Commonwealth is particularly affected. The recent opening of outpatient clinics in Spotsylvania and Chesapeake as well as the reapproval of a Hampton Roads clinic lease initially authorized under the PACT Act – all of which were fought for by Sens. Warner and Kaine – have made strides in delivering care to veterans.

The senators continued, “But still, more must be done. In recent years, for example, the VA conducted market analysis looking at the Department’s asset portfolio nationwide. This was an extensive review, examining the current and future healthcare needs of veterans nationwide, analyzing whether the infrastructure laydown was aligned geographically with where veteran populations were projected to shift over the coming decades, and whether the quality of those facilities could appropriately serve those communities.”

The senators noted that the VA’s analysis of veterans’ health care needs led to numerous findings and recommendations, including:

In Northern Virginia, the VA projected a 7.8% increase in the enrolled veteran population within the next 10 years, which will increase the demand for outpatient primary care, mental health, specialty care, dental care, and other VA services. It was concluded that additional clinics in Prince William, Loudoun, and Fairfax counties would support this increased demand.

In Central and Eastern Virginia, the VA concluded that existing and projected demand would support additional clinics in Petersburg, Chesterfield, and Hanover County.

In Hampton Roads, the VA concluded that existing and projected demand would support the broad modernization of the Hampton VA Medical Center as well as the establishment of a new medical center in the region.

In Southwest Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley, the VA concluded that existing and projected demand would support the broad modernization of the Salem VA Medical Center as well as the establishment of a new clinic in Bedford.

“These significant infrastructure needs are multiplied around the country, in areas where veterans may be having to travel long distances, wait weeks for medical appointments, or receive care in aging facilities. Beyond quality and timeliness of care, these infrastructure backlogs also force short-term and inefficient solutions upon the VA, necessitating increasingly more funding toward ongoing maintenance of outdated facilities,” the senators wrote.

The senators concluded the letter by pressing for upcoming FY 2027 funding requests presented to Congress to be better aligned with projected veteran care needs in Virginia and across the country. They also requested to be provided with follow-up briefings and information regarding OMB and the VA’s strategy for delivering on needed facility investment aligned with the VA’s own conclusion of construction and modernization needs.

Sens. Warner and Kaine have long fought to expand health care access and benefits for Virginia’s nearly 700,000 veterans. The senators were supporters of the PACT Act, which expanded health care and resources for toxic-exposed veterans by providing $5.5 billion in funding for 31 new VA facilities across the country and streamlining the process for the VA to execute on new leases, removing bureaucratic hurdles and cutting down on some of the frustrating delays to these facilities’ completion. In addition to the PACT Act, Sen. Warner introduced the BUILD for Veterans Act of 2023, legislation to modernize and streamline the delivery of VA medical facilities and other infrastructure projects, bolster its workforce, and save taxpayer dollars by expediting the disposal or repurposing of unused and vacant buildings owned by the Department. In 2023, Sen. Warner also sent a letter to then-OMB Director Shalanda Young urging for OMB to allow the VA greater ability to prioritize the infrastructure funds in their requests to Congress.

Read the full letter here and below.

Dear Director Vought and Secretary Collins:

We write to urge that in the President’s upcoming Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 budget request, as well as future budget requests, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) include significantly increased funding for the expansion and modernization of the VA’s infrastructure portfolio nationwide.

It has been the case for many years – and across political parties – that annual budget submissions have fallen far short of levels needed to keep pace with the VA’s own identified infrastructure needs. In the FY 2026 budget submission, for example, the VA estimates that implementation of its ten-year capital infrastructure plan would cost at least $187 billion – yet the request made to Congress was only $7.8 billion for relevant infrastructure accounts, or less than five percent of that identified long-term need.

This is a nationwide issue – but the impacts are felt locally by each of the men and women who rely on healthcare through the VA. Virginia consistently ranks near the top of the list in terms of veteran population, in both gross and per capita terms. In addition to demographics and the military’s significant presence across the Commonwealth, we are proud that across the federal, state, and local levels, there has been bipartisan commitment to help support this population.

Despite this support there still exists a critical need for additional investment to align the supply of care offered through the VA, with the sizable – and growing – demand from veterans in Virginia. In recent years we’ve made progress in addressing that gap – following lengthy authorization and approval fights, extended advocacy efforts across multiple administrations, and multi-year construction processes, new outpatient clinics opened in Virginia in Spotsylvania and Chesapeake. We were also glad that last year, an additional clinic – first authorized under the Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act – was reapproved by Congress and a lease was then awarded by the VA.

But still, more must be done. In recent years, for example, the VA conducted market analysis looking at the Department’s asset portfolio nationwide. This was an extensive review, examining the current and future healthcare needs of veterans nationwide, analyzing whether the infrastructure laydown was aligned geographically with where veteran populations were projected to shift over the coming decades, and whether the quality of those facilities could appropriately serve those communities.

This data is notable in that it represents the VA’s own analysis of a challenge that many of us have been working to address for years – we need both broader and deeper investment in VA infrastructure nationwide. That is certainly true in Virginia. The VA’s market analysis made the following findings and recommendations about infrastructure need in Virginia-

Washington VAMC market – The VA assessed that this region, covering much of northern Virginia, was projected to see a 7.8 percent increase in enrolled veteran population over the ten-year projection window, and demand for outpatient primary care, mental health, specialty care, dental care, and rehabilitation therapies; inpatient mental health services; and long-term care, are all projected to increase. The report analyzed that demand in this region could support establishing a new clinic in each Prince William, Loudoun, and Fairfax counties.

Richmond VAMC market – This market covers large portions of central and eastern Virginia with current clinics across Charlottesville, Emporia, Fredericksburg, and in Henrico County. The report analyzed that demand in this region could support establishing a new clinic in each Petersburg, Chesterfield, and in Hanover County – in addition to the recently opened Health Care Center in Spotsylvania.

Hampton VAMC market – This market covers the Hampton Roads region of Virginia with current clinics across Chesapeake, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach. The report analyzed that demand in this region could support broad modernization of the Hampton VAMC, as well as establishment of an entirely new Medical Center in the region – in addition to the recently opened clinic in Chesapeake.

Salem VAMC market – This market covers portions of southwest Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley with current clinics across Danville, Lynchburg, Staunton, Tazewell, and Wytheville. The report analyzed that demand in this region could support broad modernization of the Salem VAMC in addition to establishing a new clinic in Bedford.

While those listed above are specifically analyses within Virginia, the report also makes notable recommendations for additional facilities in neighboring states – North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, and West Virginia – which are vital for access to care for many of our constituents.

These significant infrastructure needs are multiplied around the country, in areas where veterans may be having to travel long distances, wait weeks for medical appointments, or receive care in aging facilities. Beyond quality and timeliness of care, these infrastructure backlogs also force short-term and inefficient solutions upon the VA, necessitating increasingly more funding toward ongoing maintenance of outdated facilities.

We therefore urge you, in both this upcoming FY27 budget and in future years’ requests, to present Congress with funding requests in the Major Construction, Minor Construction, and Non-Recurring Maintenance accounts, that are better aligned with the significant projected veteran care needs in Virginia and around the nation. We also request that you provide us written information and follow-up staff briefing on OMB and VA’s strategy for executing on needed facility investment, keeping pace with the Department’s own analysis on construction and modernization need.

We appreciate your attention to this matter, and look forward to continued engagement with the Department on it going forward.

Sincerely,

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Kelly Introduces Legislation Honoring Arizona Marine Veteran Nicholas Douglas Quets, Strengthening Safety for Americans Traveling Abroad

Quets was murdered by a cartel in Mexico in 2024; legislation would improve traveler safety and coordination

Quets is honored on March 31st, what would have been his 33rd birthday

Last week, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly introduced three bills, a resolution honoring Nicholas Douglas Quets, theNicholas Douglas Quets United States–Mexico Rapid Response for Victims of Crime Act, and theNicholas Douglas Quets Border Travel Safety Act, to honor Arizona Marine Corps veteran Nicholas Douglas Quets and address gaps in traveler safety and cross-border coordination highlighted by his murder in Mexico in 2024. March 31st would’ve been Quets’ 33rd birthday.

Quets, a Tucson native and Marine Corps veteran, was murdered on October 18th, 2024, while traveling with friends in the Mexican state of Sonora. His death underscored the risks posed by cartel violence, gaps in traveler information, and insufficient coordination between U.S. and Mexican authorities following serious crimes.

“Nick served his country with honor, and his loss is a tragedy for Arizona,” said Kelly. “We owe it to his family and to every American traveling abroad to better protect them and strengthen coordination when crimes occur.”

“Thank you to Senator Mark Kelly and his amazing team for having the courage, leadership, and integrity to submit compelling legislation in memory of our beloved Nicholas Douglas Quets, who would have been 33 years old today. Our family’s goal since the cowardly targeted attack against Nicholas, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, on October 18th, 2024, by Sinaloa Cartel affiliated narcoterrorists has been to use the tragedy as the precipitating catalyst for meaningful change in terms of national security, border security, accountability and action against evil, which threatens us all on both sides of the border. When enacted, each bill will help protect the homeland and while ensuring justice for any American unfortunate enough to suffer violent crime in Mexico. The actions codify a common sense approach which is years overdue, and we’re grateful to see the legislation introduced attributable to Senator Kelly’s leadership. In an era where political division is portrayed as rampant, particularly when tied to our shared border with Mexico, it’s incredibly comforting to be represented by a senator who prioritizes the security of Arizonans as well as all other Americans. Our family and our state are incredibly fortunate to be represented by Senator Kelly, a man of conviction always seeking practical, common-sense based objective solutions for the betterment of us all,” said Douglas Quets, Nicholas Quets’ father.

Specifically, the three bills include:

A resolution honoring Nicholas Douglas Quets and condemning cartel violence:

A Senate resolution honoring Quets’ life and service, expressing condolences to his family and loved ones, condemning the violent actions of the Sinaloa Cartel and other transnational criminal organizations, and reaffirming the United States’ commitment to combating cartel violence.

The U.S.-Mexico Rapid Response for Victims of Crime Act, which would:

Require the United States government to work with Mexico to establish a binational rapid response protocol for serious crimes against U.S. citizens in Mexico to:

Improve coordination between U.S. and Mexican authorities through timely notification and secure communication; and

Create procedures for evidence preservation and sharing, investigative coordination, extradition coordination, joint training, and family communication; and

Require regular reporting to Congress on progress and implementation.

The Nicholas Douglas Quets Border Travel Safety Act, which would:

Require clear, visible warning signage at land ports of entry and routes along the southern border that:

Alerts travelers to nearby dangerous areas identified in Department of State travel advisories; and

Provides up-to-date safety information, including digital resources, to help travelers make informed decisions;

Ensure coordination with State and local transportation and public safety agencies; and

Require reports to Congress on implementation and on future modernizations to warning signage.

Read to full resolution here.

Read the U.S.-Mexico Rapid Response for Victims of Crime Act bill text here.


Kim Joins Homeland Security Committee Democrats in Demanding Answers on Corey Lewandowski’s Alleged “Pay-to-Play” Scheme at DHS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) joined his fellow Democrats on the Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee in demanding answers over reports that former Department of Homeland Security (DHS) advisor Corey Lewandowski solicited personal payments from companies in exchange for government contracts. In a series of letters sent to DHS and contractors GEO Group and Salus Worldwide Solutions, the senators raised concerns that Lewandowski’s alleged conduct may violate federal bribery and ethics laws.

“Recent reporting describes a troubling pattern of alleged pay-to-play conduct by Mr. Lewandowski. According to the report, in one instance, during the presidential transition, Mr. Lewandowski reportedly told the founder of GEO Group, a major private prison company that runs detention facilities for DHS, that he would need to be paid in exchange for protecting and growing the company’s DHS contracts,” the Senators wrote. “The report further alleges that a marketing firm abandoned plans to pursue DHS contracts after being told by representatives of Salus Worldwide Solutions, whose CEO has close ties to the Trump administration, that hiring a consultant tied to Mr. Lewandowski was a condition of being selected for the work.”

“If true, this conduct constitutes a blatant abuse of public trust and a violation of federal bribery and procurement integrity laws and regulations,” the Senators continued.

The Senators also raised concerns that Lewandowski may have been directly involved in reviewing or influencing contracts worth more than $100,000 despite previous testimony from DHS leadership that he had no such role.

“Federal law is unambiguous: it is illegal for any public official to corruptly demand or accept anything of value in exchange for being influenced in the performance of any official act,” the Senators concluded. “It is essential that the public maintains full confidence in the integrity of federal spending, ensuring that all contracts are awarded through a competitive, merit-based process that upholds the highest ethical standards, rather than personal influence.”

In addition to Senator Kim, Committee Ranking Member Gary Peters (D-MI) and Senators Ruben Gallego (D-NM), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), John Fetterman (D-PA), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) also signed the letter, with Senator Gallego leading the effort.

Read the full letter to DHS HERE.

Read the full letter to GEO Group HERE.

Read the full letter to Salus Worldwide Solutions HERE.

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Senator Kim Brings Care Agenda to Visits in Atlantic City

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ – Today, Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) brought his mission to improve caregiving to stops across Atlantic City. The visits placed a spotlight on some of New Jersey’s most vulnerable populations, including seniors, the homeless, and non-traditional students.

“I leave Atlantic City inspired by the incredible work I saw; in every corner of our state, we have community ready to serve and provide help to those who need it,” said Senator Andy Kim. “Today’s visits also reinforced how much work is left to do to bring proper care to our most vulnerable and those who take care of them every day – as a federal partner I will keep pushing to ensure resources are flowing back home to those who need it.”

Senator Kim started his day with a tour of AtlantiCare, a nursing home alternative which serves Atlantic and Cape May County seniors. He was joined by President and CEO Michael Charlton for a roundtable discussion with healthcare professionals, care recipients, and their families to learn about AtlantiCare’s Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Senator Kim also heard directly about challenges in accessing and providing care for seniors, an issue he has personally experienced after recently becoming the primary caregiver to his father who has Alzheimer’s.

“Senator Kim’s visit to AtlantiCare, our Federally Qualified Health Center, and our PACE program highlights the strength of community-based care in meeting people where they are,” said Michael Charlton, President and CEO, AtlantiCare. “We are proud to be a national leader in delivering integrated, compassionate services that improve access, support healthier lives and help families and seniors receive the care they need with dignity. This is the vision of the future for healthcare rooted in community, driven by innovation, and focused on better outcomes for every patient we serve.”

Later in the morning, Senator Kim met with students and faculty of Atlantic Cape Community College’s Atlantic City campus, including President Barbara Gaba. A campus focused on workforce development, Senator Kim ended his visit with a conversation with non-traditional students. He heard about how these students utilize the hands-on training programs to prepare for their futures while navigating their responsibilities at home.

“The highlight of the visit was Senator Kim’s meeting with our students. They spoke candidly about what’s impacting their lives, and Senator Kim listened with intention,” said Dr. Barbara Gaba, President, Atlantic Cape Community College. “At Atlantic Cape, this is exactly the kind of exchange we champion – where students are heard, and real conversations happen.”

Senator Kim spent the afternoon with the Atlantic City Rescue Mission – an organization that in on the frontline of Atlantic City’s housing crisis. He toured the facility and spoke with staff on the challenges they face. Following a severe winter that consistently triggered Code Blue emergencies, Senator Kim discussed the additional support needed for the Rescue Mission to better provide life-saving protections for the homeless population across Atlantic City.

“Every person who comes to us carries a unique story – our role is to meet them where they are, understand their challenges, and walk with them toward stability, healing, and independence,” said Dan Brown, CEO and President of Atlantic City Rescue Mission. “We are deeply grateful for everyone who stands with us, including Senator Kim – but there is more work to be done. Together, we can ensure that no one in our community is overlooked or left behind.”

And to round out his day, Senator Kim sat and answered questions at New Jersey Chamber of Commerce’s ReNew Business Summit where he discussed his vision for New Jersey’s business sector, using combined strengths of the state’s private and public companies to make New Jersey the top state for innovation in the years to come.

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Luján Statement on Being Named as James Beard Foundation Impact Award Honoree

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Food and Nutrition, Specialty Crops, Organics, and Research, released the following statement after being named a 2026 James Beard Impact Award honoree:

“I am deeply honored to receive this award from the James Beard Foundation. My work to protect and improve federal nutrition programs is driven by the folks back home in New Mexico working tirelessly to fight hunger in our communities every day. To these advocates in New Mexico and across the country—thank you for informing the work I do.”

“In a country as abundant as the United States, allowing our friends, family, and neighbors to go hungry is a policy decision, not an inevitability. SNAP is our best tool in the fight against hunger, helping millions of Americans — including one in five New Mexicans — put food on the table. I look forward to continuing the work to fight hunger and ensure no family in America goes hungry.”

The James Beard Impact Awards program recognizes changemakers actively working to push for standards that create a more equitable, sustainable, and economically viable restaurant industry and food system for producers, workers, and consumers alike.

During the government shutdown, Senator Luján led the Senate Democratic Caucus in introducing bipartisan legislation that prevents the Trump administration from illegally withholding available funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). During debate on the Republican Budget Betrayal, Senator Luján spearheaded efforts to reverse the bill’s drastic cuts to food assistance. In November 2025, Senator Luján led the Senate Democratic Caucus in introducing the Restoring Food Security for American Farmers and Families Act, legislation to repeal the devastating $187 billion cuts to SNAP passed into law as part of the Republican Budget Bill.

Together with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, Senator Luján convened a Spotlight Forum titled “Hunger by Design: The GOP’s Assault on SNAP” to underscore the devastating impact of Congressional Republicans’ plan to gut SNAP.

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Markey Investigation into Autonomous Vehicle Companies’ Use of Remote Assistance Operators Reveals Serious Safety Gaps, Lack of Transparency

Report (PDF) | Responses from Automakers (PDF) | Letter to NHTSA (PDF)

Washington (March 31, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today published a report, Remote Backseat Operators: Revealing the Autonomous Vehicle Industry’s Reliance on Human Remote Assistance Operators, that reveals a stunning lack of transparency from autonomous vehicle (AV) companies around their use of Remote Assistance Operators (RAOs). Although the exact RAO role and performance vary by manufacturer, RAOs intervene when an AV confronts an uncertain or dangerous driving condition or situation. Senator Markey's investigation, which he launched in February, exposed a patchwork of safety practices across the industry, with significant variations in operator qualifications, response times, and overseas staffing.

As a result of the report, Senator Markey sent a letter to Jonathan Morrison, Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), urging NHTSA to investigate the AV industry’s RAO practices. Senator Markey also announced today that he is working on legislation to impose strong, enforceable regulations around the AV industry’s use of RAOs.

“Autonomous vehicle companies make big promises about the safety of their self-driving cars, but it turns out that human workers still play a critical role with this technology,” said Senator Markey. “My investigation revealed a wide range of concerning practices, from employees assisting vehicles from overseas to wide variations in communication lag times between vehicles and human operators. These operations demand urgent federal regulation. I’m calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to investigate, and I am working on legislation to impose strict guardrails on AV companies’ use of remote operators.”

Senator Markey continued, “Autonomous vehicle companies have long boasted they can eliminate road fatalities caused by human error. Now it is time they are honest about their technology’s reliance on human help.”

In February, Senator Markey sent letters to seven major autonomous vehicle companies – Aurora, May Mobility, Motional, Nuro, Tesla, Waymo, and Zoox – requesting detailed information about their remote assistance operations. The letters included 14 questions about each company’s remote assistance operation, including questions on the frequency of human intervention, location of their operations, qualifications for RAOs, latency of connection between vehicles and RAOs, and cybersecurity standards.

Senator Markey’s report is based on the companies’ answers to his questions and is the first detailed examination of the AV industry’s use of RAOs.

The report’s findings include:

Every AV company refused to disclose how frequently their RAOs intervene to help their self-driving cars.

Waymo is the only AV company that uses overseas RAOs.

Waymo is the only AV company in which a substantial share of its RAO workforce does not hold a U.S. driver’s license.

Latency between AVs and RAOs varied across companies, indicating that companies are making their own determinations about the latency threshold that constitutes a safety risk.

Although every company claimed that its autonomous driving systems would ignore dangerous advice from RAOs, a recent investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) into an incident involving a Waymo AV casts doubt on this claim.

Senator Markey will soon be introducing legislation that responds to the safety gaps uncovered in his report. This legislation will establish much-needed standards around the location of RAOs, vehicle-to-RAO latency, RAO qualifications, and robust reporting requirements.

On February 3, 2026, Senator Markey opened an investigation into use of remote assistance by the seven major autonomous vehicle operators. At a Senate Commerce Committee hearing a day later – in response to questioning by Senator Markey – Waymo's Chief Safety Officer Mauricio Peña revealed that Waymo relies on remote assistance operators located overseas.

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Markey, Ocasio-Cortez Blast Trump Administration Attempt to Pay $1 Billion in Taxpayer Funding to Kill Offshore Wind Projects

Letter Text (PDF)

Washington (March 31, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, today wrote to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum in opposition to the Trump administration’s decision to pay TotalEnergies, a French energy company, nearly $1 billion in U.S. taxpayer money to cancel two offshore wind facilities off the East Coast of the United States. The lawmakers asked the Administration to stop this pay-off, which will keep much-needed American-made power off the grid, and to explain the statutory authority and funding source of the proposed transfer. The wind farms could have produced enough electricity to power more than one million homes and businesses in New York and New Jersey, and approximately 300,000 in North Carolina.

In the letter, the lawmakers wrote, “With the TotalEnergies payoff, the Trump administration promises an extraordinary transfer of taxpayer dollars to a foreign company to halt private offshore wind development and prop up fossil fuel company exports and profits. It has done so with no explanation of its authority—or the source of the funding—to transmit $1 billion to a private company. Moreover, TotalEnergies has made clear it will plow these taxpayer-funded proceeds into expanded oil and gas development, including a Texas liquefied natural gas export facility, effectively using U.S. public funds to ship American energy overseas, strain domestic supply, weaken grid reliability, and expose American families to higher and more volatile prices.”

The lawmakers requested responses to questions by April 10, 2026, that include:

What specific statutory authority permits the Department of the Interior to use taxpayer funds to compensate TotalEnergies for relinquishing valid offshore wind leases?

What is the source of the funds for this payment, and did Congress appropriate them for this purpose?

What specific evidence supports the Administration’s assertion that these offshore wind projects pose a national security concern?

How does the Department reconcile those national security claims with recent federal court decisions finding insufficient evidence to support them?

What analysis has the Department conducted on how canceling these offshore wind projects will affect domestic energy supply, grid reliability, and consumer electricity and fuel costs?

What analysis has the Department conducted on how canceling these offshore wind projects will affect offshore wind workers, including workers in the offshore wind supply chain?

In December 2025, Senators Markey and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Secretary Doug Burgum and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth demanding access to the Department of Defense classified reports that the Department of Interior cited in its decision to announce a pause on leases for all large-scale offshore wind projects under construction in the United States.

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Senator Marshall Meets with Leaders Across Northwest Kansas

Salina – On Monday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), spent the day meeting with health care providers, community leaders, and workforce development partners across northwest Kansas to discuss strengthening rural health care, expanding housing opportunities, supporting technical education, and growing Kansas’ energy economy.

Highlights from the visit include:

Lincoln County Hospital

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Senator Marshall toured Lincoln County Hospital, a rural critical access hospital that has served the region since 1952. The facility provides inpatient care, emergency services, outpatient care, imaging, laboratory testing, rehabilitation therapies, and operates rural health clinics in nearby communities. Senator Marshall highlighted his efforts to strengthen rural hospitals through FY26 appropriations, provider tax support, and investments secured through the Rural Health Transformation Fund.

Housing Opportunities, Inc.

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In Russell, Senator Marshall visited a new affordable housing development led by Housing Opportunities Inc., a nonprofit that manages more than 250 units across central and western Kansas. The new project has added 24 units for low-to-moderate income seniors, with rents below fair market rates to ensure affordability for residents on fixed incomes. Discussions focused on work to expand housing supply in rural communities and the recent Senate passage of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act to cut red tape, increase supply, and lower housing costs.

Development Services of NWKS

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At Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, Senator Marshall met with staff to learn more about their Employment Connections program, which helps individuals with disabilities build job skills and find employment opportunities across 18 counties in northwest Kansas.

Kansas is one of seven states to participate in the National Expansion of Employment Opportunities Network initiative, an organization that administers housing assistance programs that help individuals live independently and remain active in their communities.

Cedar Bluff Fish Hatchery Sight

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Senator Marshall also visited the Cedar Bluff Reservoir and Damn, part of the Bureau of Reclamation’s flood management system in northwest Kansas. Originally constructed under the 1944 Flood Control Act as part of the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program, the reservoir plays a key role in flood control, water management, and irrigation across northwest Kansas.

Local leaders discussed the importance of the reservoir for the regional water supply, particularly during recent drought conditions. In 2025, the reservoir released water to nearby communities, including Hays and Russell, for the first time in a decade.

NW Tech Grove County Welding Center

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In Grove County, Senator Marshall toured the Fort Hays | NW Tech welding center, which provides hands-on technical education and industry-recognized certifications for regional high school students preparing for careers in the skilled trades.

Senator Marshall highlighted his legislation, the Connecting Small Businesses with Career and Technical Education Graduates Act, which helps connect trade school graduates with small business job opportunities. He has also introduced the American Workforce Empowerment Act, which expands the use of 529 savings accounts to cover career and technical education programs, apprenticeships, and workforce training.

Western Plains Energy

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Senator Marshall concluded the day with a conversation with Western Plains Energy leadership to discuss biofuels policy, year-round E15 sales, and updated Renewable Volume Obligations. The discussion focused on strengthening ethanol markets and supporting Kansas farmers and rural energy producers.

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