Van Hollen, Alsobrooks Announce $1 Million to Boost Invasive Blue Catfish Processing

Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks (both D-Md.) announced $1 million for BSA Seafood LLC. in Caroline County, Maryland, to process invasive blue catfish harvested from the Chesapeake Bay. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP), an initiative that Senator Van Hollen created through the American Rescue Plan in 2021. Senator Van Hollen and Team Maryland later worked to fund the program through appropriations legislation and ensure that the Department prioritized Maryland seafood businesses that process blue catfish in administering this funding.

“Invasive blue catfish are one of the biggest threats to the health of the Chesapeake Bay and those who count on the Bay for their livelihoods, which is why I’ve been working for years to provide federal resources to tackle this challenge. This $1 million investment is an example of those resources being put to use where they are needed most – here in Maryland – supporting our watermen in harvesting blue catfish and helping our local seafood companies to get it onto Americans’ dinner tables. This will bolster our efforts to eat our way through this problem, while supporting local business and strengthening the Bay we all cherish – a true win-win,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“I have vowed to do everything I can to protect our Chesapeake Bay – the heart of Maryland. The Bay fuels Maryland's economy, generates tourism, and provides wildlife habitat. Invasive, wild-caught catfish are creating a significant threat to the Bay and causing ecological damage. I am glad to see we are investing federal dollars into solving this issue and look forward to eliminating the threats caused by this invasive species once and for all,” said Senator Alsobrooks.


Van Hollen, Colleagues Press Rubio on Delay in Onboarding of Diplomats into U.S. Foreign Service

Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) was joined by 21 of his colleagues in writing to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding their concerns with the State Department’s indefinite delay in onboarding Thomas R. Pickering and Charles B. Rangel fellows into the U.S. Foreign Service. Having completed either of these two highly competitive fellowships, these Americans are well-equipped with the skills and expertise to be effective foreign service officers – but over 50 fellows have yet to be invited to complete their formal onboarding. In their letter, the Senators stress that this delay risks wasting millions of taxpayer dollars that have been invested in the fellows, impacting our diplomatic capacity, and jeopardizing future recruitment efforts needed to maintain a well-functioning diplomatic corps in the long term.

Senator Van Hollen was joined on this letter by Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.).

“We write with deep concern regarding the State Department’s indefinite delay in onboarding Thomas R. Pickering and Charles B. Rangel fellows into the U.S. Foreign Service. This delay in onboarding mission-ready fellows undermines U.S. diplomatic readiness, wastes congressionally appropriated taxpayer dollars, and directly harms these outstanding Americans while simultaneously discouraging future talent from applying to the Foreign Service. We urge you to include all eligible Pickering and Rangel fellows in the remaining A-100 orientation classes of 2026, provide an explanation for this indefinite onboarding delay, and clarify the situation for future cohorts of public servants,” the Senators began.

“As you know, the Thomas R. Pickering and Charles B. Rangel fellowships are the State Department’s “flagship initiatives for recruiting top-tier talent” for the U.S. Foreign Service. The fellowships have an annual acceptance rate of under 5% and fellows are selected from all over the country, collectively representing the best and breadth of our nation,” they continued. “The longer these ready-to-serve fellows are delayed in their onboarding the more we compromise our national security interests, diplomatic capacity, and leadership on the world stage.

“We request that you include all remaining eligible Thomas R. Pickering and Charles B. Rangel fellows in the remaining A-100 orientation classes of 2026. There are 50+ fellows ready and waiting to serve the United States in the Foreign Service. Taxpayers have invested millions of dollars in these diplomats. Now, you must let the State Department reap the benefits,” they wrote, going on to list the following questions for Secretary Rubio’s response regarding the delay in onboarding:

How many Thomas R. Pickering and Charles B. Rangel fellows from the 2023 and deferred 2022 cohorts remain in the onboarding pipeline?

How many fellows have been onboarded from these cohorts at the time of response to this letter?

What is the reason for the delay in onboarding Pickering and Rangel fellows?

What criteria is being used to determine which fellows are selected for immediate onboarding?

Please outline the steps the State Department will take to better manage these fellowships to prevent delays for future cohorts.

Contractually, Pickering and Rangel Fellows may be subjected to a reimbursement obligation to the United States Government if they are unable to fulfill the obligations of the fellowships. Are fellows subjected to this reimbursement obligation if they are not able to complete the fellowship obligations due to State Department delays and through no fault of the fellows themselves?

How much in congressionally appropriated taxpayer dollars would be wasted if fellows are unable to complete the fellowship obligations due to State Department delays and through no fault of the fellows themselves?

How many Pickering and Rangel fellows have served and are currently serving in the U.S. Foreign Service?

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

Dear Secretary Rubio,

We write with deep concern regarding the State Department’s indefinite delay in onboarding Thomas R. Pickering and Charles B. Rangel fellows into the U.S. Foreign Service. This delay in onboarding mission-ready fellows undermines U.S. diplomatic readiness, wastes congressionally appropriated taxpayer dollars, and directly harms these outstanding Americans while simultaneously discouraging future talent from applying to the Foreign Service. We urge you to include all eligible Pickering and Rangel fellows in the remaining A-100 orientation classes of 2026, provide an explanation for this indefinite onboarding delay, and clarify the situation for future cohorts of public servants.

As you know, the Thomas R. Pickering and Charles B. Rangel fellowships are the State Department’s “flagship initiatives for recruiting top-tier talent” for the U.S. Foreign Service. The fellowships have an annual acceptance rate of under 5% and fellows are selected from all over the country, collectively representing the best and breadth of our nation. All Pickering and Rangel fellows obtain two-year graduate degrees funded by the State Department in a field of study that is relevant to a career in the U.S. Foreign Service, attend numerous professional development programs to enhance their understanding and skills for Foreign Service careers, and complete two internships – one abroad at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate and one domestic, at the State Department headquarters for Pickering Fellows and with a member of Congress for Rangel fellows. The U.S. government invests over $100,000 on average per fellow to complete the fellowships and train to serve as U.S. diplomats.

As of 2022, these two merit- and need- based fellowships have increased the number of Foreign Service generalists from underrepresented groups by 33% and the number of women by 6%. Pickering and Rangel fellows are uniquely qualified to serve in the U.S. Foreign Service as they have not only successfully met the standards required by the State Department of all Foreign Service Officers, but have also benefitted from the additional enrichment, mentorship, and support of these fellowship programs.

The Pickering and Rangel fellowships are among the diplomatic fellowship programs codified by Congress and were reauthorized in the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, on a bipartisan basis. Despite the investments and bipartisan support for these fellowships, we have heard reports that onboarding invitations for fellows in the 2023 and deferred 2022 cohorts largely remain on hold. Only a small fraction of the eligible fellows have received orientation invitations while the majority have waited for months with little to no communication, explanation, or transparency from the State Department. These highly qualified and talented Americans have completed the rigorous academic, professional, and skills requirements of these fellowships to embark on careers in the U.S. Foreign Service. They have also obtained and maintained the proper medical, security, and suitability requirements of Foreign Service Officers. The longer these ready-to-serve fellows are delayed in their onboarding the more we compromise our national security interests, diplomatic capacity, and leadership on the world stage.

We request that you include all remaining eligible Thomas R. Pickering and Charles B. Rangel fellows in the remaining A-100 orientation classes of 2026. There are 50+ fellows ready and waiting to serve the United States in the Foreign Service. Taxpayers have invested millions of dollars in these diplomats. Now, you must let the State Department reap the benefits. Furthermore, we request responses to the following questions by April 19, 2026.


Warner, Senate Democrats Unveil Plans to Lower Health Costs Amid Trump's Broken Promises to Americans

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and eleven Senate Democrats today announced a new initiative to lower the cost of health care and improve health coverage for American families.

The letter, sent to Senate colleagues and signed by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Peter Welch (D-VT), outlines plans to reverse Republicans’ health care cuts and lower costs for patients, make health insurance simpler, and end insurance company gaming by taking on corporate greed.

“It is no surprise that Americans are increasingly questioning whether a system that incentivizes and rewards profit-seeking behavior is compatible with one that places the health and financial well-being of patients and families first,” the senators wrote. “Republicans have spent the past year making these problems worse by passing the largest health care cuts in history and pursuing administrative actions that further destabilize health insurance markets. Trump and Republicans have used their majority to increase Americans’ health care costs and put new barriers between families and the care they need. Democrats can enact reforms that put patients over profits and consumers over complexity.”

The letter describes three goals that will be the focus for policy development among the group in the coming weeks and months:

Reverse Republican cost increases and reimagine a better path

Make health care simpler for families

Take on corporate greed

In contrast to these efforts, Republicans have spent their time in power on a campaign to make health insurance cost more while delivering less care to American families. In July 2025, Trump and Republicans passed the largest cut to health care in American history, totaling more than $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. These cuts, in addition to their refusal to extend middle class tax credits for health care at the end of last year, will increase premiums, rip away services like care at home and cause tens of millions to go without health insurance, which drives up costs for all Americans.

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

Dear Colleague,

America’s for-profit health insurance system is fundamentally broken. As premiums continue to skyrocket faster than wages, Americans are more dissatisfied with their health insurance than they have been in 20 years. Families are paying more and getting less, often finding that their health insurance is not there for them when they need it most. Half of all adults with Affordable Care Act (ACA) or employer-sponsored coverage are unhappy with their premiums and out-of-pocket costs. A majority experience problems using their health insurance, including challenges finding in-network providers and unexpected coverage denials.

At a time when over one-third of adults with health insurance report delaying or skipping care altogether due to cost, the largest for-profit health insurance companies in America reported over $71 billion in profits in 2024. As one in five American households report struggling with medical debt, the CEOs of America’s seven largest insurance companies received over $146 million in combined compensation in 2024.

Republicans have spent the past year making these problems worse by passing the largest health care cuts in history and pursuing administrative actions that further destabilize health insurance markets. Health insurance has become harder to get, more expensive to keep, and more difficult to use, as for-profit insurance companies continue to rake in record profits, execute stock buybacks, and pay massive bonuses to their executives. And this disparity will only grow in the coming years as the damage caused by President Trump and Republicans continues to take effect. It is no surprise that Americans are increasingly questioning whether a system that incentivizes and rewards this profit-seeking behavior is compatible with one that places the health and financial well-being of patients and families first.

The American people need relief from rising premiums and deductibles that are forcing families into financial ruin. They also want an insurance system that doesn’t require them to jump through hoops and hack through red tape every time they need care, and they expect their elected officials to root out the business practices and middlemen that harm the very people that for profit insurance companies receive billions in taxpayer funding to serve. Trump and Republicans have used their majority to increase Americans’ health care costs and put new barriers between families and the care they need. Democrats can enact reforms that put patients over profits and consumers over complexity.

Senate Finance Committee Democratic staff will develop policies that lower costs, make it simpler to get and use insurance, and rein in shameless profiteering by corporate insurance companies. Alongside the co-signers of this letter, I invite you to be a part of this bold vision. We are working on policies that aim to deliver on the following three goals:

Reverse Republican Cost Increases and Reimagine a Better Path: The devastating consequences of Trump’s and Republicans’ health care cuts are playing out in real time. Over the past year, Republicans have passed legislation and issued regulations that make insurance harder to buy and more expensive to keep. Because of their refusal to extend tax credits that help people buy their own insurance, over one million people have lost their health insurance so far this year, and that number will continue to grow. For people who buy coverage through the ACA, premiums have doubled, on average, and millions have been forced into plans with skyrocketing deductibles and out-of-pocket costs just to stay insured. Americans with health insurance through their employer experienced the largest cost increase in over 15 years. Over the course of this year, many American families will learn in real time that the coverage they have does not protect them from unaffordable health care costs at a time of crisis. To address these challenges, we must not only reverse the Republican cuts, but also build a better system that will bring relief to American families who have seen their costs go up across the board and are struggling to afford care. Members will develop policies to:

Ensure that people can easily enroll in and afford coverage that meets their needs;

Rein in the unsustainable annual spikes in deductibles and out-of-pocket costs Trump and Republicans are piling on American families;

Expand pathways to coverage for low-income people, including those who rely on private insurance in states that have not expanded Medicaid, and explore the benefits of giving all Americans access to Medicare-type choices for health care;

Get rid of junk insurance plans and end the constant cycle of higher premiums, skyrocketing deductibles, and shrinking networks; and

Eliminate surprise tax bills levied on working people who buy their own insurance.

Make Health Care Simpler for Families: A majority of Americans have reported experiencing problems using their health insurance, including provider network issues, denied claims, and delayed care due to administrative hurdles, and 73 percent of the public cites delays and denials of services and treatments as a major problem. In order for people to enroll in a plan that works best for them, they need to be able to easily compare all options they are eligible for and know whether those options are meaningfully different, similar to the approach used in the Medigap program. In order for people to benefit from the health insurance they pay premiums for, that insurance needs to be there for them when they get sick. To make insurance work for the taxpayers and consumers who are paying for it, Members will develop policies to:

Make sure people can get the insurance they are eligible for through a one-stop shop, and protect people from losing coverage each year due to costs or red tape;

Simplify and standardize plans and benefits so people can make apples-to-apples comparisons of high-quality options;

Ensure that patients do not face undue hurdles or delays accessing the care they need; and

Hold Big Insurance accountable for practices that generate profits by stepping in between patients and their doctors to delay or deny access to care.

Take on Corporate Greed: Americans are asking for a fair shake. They don’t want to be nickeled and dimed or buried in red tape by the same companies that collect thousands of dollars in premiums from them each year. They also want to know that if they get sick, they will be protected from financial ruin by insurance conglomerates that spend millions on executive compensation and billions on stock buybacks. Republicans have ignored these calls, but Democrats will not. Members will develop policies to:

Put patients over profits by making sure federal dollars are being used to drive enrollee satisfaction and quality care, not corporate profits, executive compensation, and stock price;

End the shell games Big Insurance exploits to raise prices, eliminate competition, and place unaccountable middlemen between patients and affordable care;

Eliminate Big Insurance gaming of the medical loss ratio that hides their profits, and ensure that those dollars are spent on providing care and lowering costs for customers; and

Stop corporate insurance companies and third parties from making money by acting as unaccountable middlemen that delay care and deny claims.

In the coming weeks and months, we plan to release more details about the above policies. We invite any interested colleagues to join us by participating and providing input into this effort. We want to make sure the Senate is prepared to take action on these issues the next time Democrats have an opportunity to enact the bold, meaningful change the American people seek.

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Warren, Mamdani Team Up to Call for Universal Child Care as Essential “Basic Infrastructure” in New USA Today Op-Ed

“With universal child care, we can transform our economy, transform the lives of parents and children, and transform how Americans see government.”

Op-Ed in USA Today

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani published a new op-ed in USA Today calling for the Democratic party to commit to making universal child care a central part of its platform.

The pair highlighted that investments in child care would have enormous economic benefits, with an estimated return of $13 for every dollar spent on early childhood care.

“[I]t will be felt when our economy is energized by parents who can stay in their jobs, by businesses that can attract and retain top talent who might otherwise be priced out of this city, and by an increase in economic activity to the tune of tens of billions of dollars,” Warren and Mamdani wrote.

They highlighted that the push for universal child care is already underway in New Mexico and Quebec, Canada, with the latter program resulting in a 13 percent increase in women’s participation in the workforce.

“The case for universal child care is overwhelming. It’s the kind of investment Wall Street would tout,” they wrote.

They also called for paying child care workers a living wage.

“By committing to build child care infrastructure, we also have an opportunity to invest in child care workers and to ensure that they are paid commensurate with their training and experience…We invest in firefighters and road maintenance crews by paying a living wage; we should make the same investments in people who care for our babies,” Warren and Mamdani wrote.

“We should not have to dust off history books to find examples of the Democratic Party leading with courage and ambition. With universal child care, we can transform our economy, transform the lives of parents and children, and transform how Americans see government. We’re in the fight to get it done,” they concluded.

Read the full op-ed here and below:

Mayor Mamdani, Sen. Warren: Everyone benefits from universal childcare

March 18, 2026

The two of us live very different lives. One of us is a grandmother to three exceptional grandchildren. The other receives near-daily phone calls from his mother asking when the grandchildren will arrive.

And yet, despite those differences, we share a simple conviction: every family in New York City —and in America—has a right to child care.

In January, New York City announced a historic new investment in universal child care. Through a partnership struck between City Hall and Governor Kathy Hochul, free, universal child care will soon be expanded to every two and three-year-old across the five boroughs. Even for a city that constantly reinvents itself, this is a seismic shift.

It will be felt in the lives of children who grow up happier and healthier, with kids who attend preschool, now nearly 6% more likely to attend college. It will be felt by families who suddenly have an additional $20,000 or more per year—per child—in their pockets.

And it will be felt when our economy is energized by parents who can stay in their jobs, by businesses that can attract and retain top talent who might otherwise be priced out of this city, and by an increase in economic activity to the tune of tens of billions of dollars.

The case for universal child care is overwhelming. It’s the kind of investment Wall Street would tout: every dollar spent on early childhood care can return as much as $13. It restores the workforce. After Quebec introduced universal child care, women's participation in the workforce increased by 13%.

And it addresses one of the greatest threats to our economy: families being pushed out of the places they call home.

Child care isn’t just care. It’s basic infrastructure, as essential to a thriving society as roads, bridges, and public transit—the foundation upon which a vibrant, flourishing society can be built.

The change New York City will soon experience is already underway in New Mexico, which launched a groundbreaking universal child care program last November. But this progress shouldn’t be limited only to states that begin with ‘New.’ Every family—from Alaska to Florida—deserves the same opportunity.

If we want to protect the American Dream, we begin with child care.

Affordable child care means parents are no longer forced to choose between raising their children and keeping their jobs. It means better outcomes for kids. And frankly, for all of us.

By committing to build child care infrastructure, we also have an opportunity to invest in child care workers and to ensure that they are paid commensurate with their training and experience. Currently, these workers are caught in a squeeze: wages are inadequate, but parents cannot afford to pay more. The result is that nearly 60 percent of child care centers are short-staffed. We invest in firefighters and road maintenance crews by paying a living wage; we should make the same investments in people who care for our babies.

In fact, universal child care may be one of the most powerful tools we have to make life more affordable for American families.

As the Democratic Party heads into the midterms—before gearing up for a historic Presidential contest in 2028—we should build our platform around policies that are both incredibly popular across party lines and materially improve working people’s lives. Americans have been clear about their biggest concern: affordability.

Universal child care answers that concern directly. For decades, the Republican Party has championed a trickle-down economic theory that enriches billionaires, deepens inequality, drives up inflation, and leaves working families in the dirt. It’s time for a different approach, one that puts a dignified life within reach by investing public dollars to improve the lives of working people.

That’s what it actually means to spread prosperity. And that is exactly what universal child care does.

At its best, government makes people’s lives better.

When Franklin D. Roosevelt enacted the New Deal, government made people’s lives better. When Lyndon B. Johnson pursued the Great Society, government made people’s lives better.

When New York City delivers free, universal child care, government will once again make people’s lives better.

But when the government hands out more tax cuts to millionaires and billionaires, it improves life for only a handful of the richest people in this country—while making life harder for millions more.

We should not have to dust off history books to find examples of the Democratic Party leading with courage and ambition. With universal child care, we can transform our economy, transform the lives of parents and children, and transform how Americans see government. We’re in the fight to get it done.

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Warren, Schumer, Wyden Demand Trump Terminate Illegal Tariffs, Deliver Relief From Iran War’s Higher Costs

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs (BHUA) and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.); and U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, today released the following statement:

“Donald Trump’s economy is a full-blown disaster, and working families need relief now. Trump promised to lower costs ‘on Day One,’ but he’s doing the exact opposite: stealing taxpayer dollars with his illegal tariffs, while his war of choice in Iran burns through billions of dollars abroad and drives up prices at home. Donald Trump must immediately terminate his destructive tariffs, refund the unlawfully collected tariff money, and bring his Iran war to an end to prevent even further economic disaster.”

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Warren, Wyden, Schumer, Democrats Publish Report Revealing Trump, Republicans Stripped Health Care Access, Raised Costs for Americans With “Defund” Planned Parenthood Provision

In six months since Trump and Republicans "defunded" Planned Parenthood, breast exam visits fell by 25% compared to the same period in a previous year, delaying detection and life-saving preventive care

Text of Report (PDF)

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden, Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) led 23 colleagues in publishing a new report revealing the harm Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress have caused to Americans in the six months since their dangerous provision to “defund” Planned Parenthood buried in their Big, Beautiful Bill went into effect. The report reveals that, in addition to acting as a backdoor abortion ban, the “defund” provision has ripped away Americans’ access to essential services — including primary care, birth control, cancer screenings, and wellness exams — and raised health care costs.

“Six months later, we’re seeing exactly how Donald Trump and Republicans’ political stunt is hurting Americans and driving up health care costs. This is more than a backdoor abortion ban — it’s also ripping away Americans’ access to essential services like primary care and cancer screenings,” said Senator Warren. “Nobody benefits when people are getting fewer critical exams, paying more for care, or fully forgoing the health care they need. We need to fight back against Republican attacks on Americans’ health care and make sure they can’t make this dangerous provision permanent.”

“Republicans used their Big Ugly Bill to fulfill their fantasies of defunding Planned Parenthood all so they could secure their Fox News talking points. This report lays bare exactly how the GOP’s war on reproductive health care is denying women the life-saving health care they depend on and demonstrates the urgent need to prevent the further erosion of the rights of women to make their own health care decisions,” said Senator Wyden.

“Last year — Republicans forced their unpopular and radical policies on the country with a backdoor nationwide abortion ban. Despite claiming to believe that states should dictate abortion policy, Republicans are pushing their anti-choice agenda on communities across the U.S.," said Democratic Leader Schumer. “In the months since the ‘Big, Ugly Betrayal’ became law, American families have already started feeling the pain of Republicans’ efforts to defund Planned Parenthood: care is worse, costs are higher, and barriers for patients are more significant. Although these cuts last for only a year, our report has found that the impact of this lack of funding could be permanent and far-reaching. Democrats won’t let this stand. Senate Democrats are fighting tooth and nail for women’s right to choice and access to safe, affordable, and available health care.”

The report found that the “Defund” Planned Parenthood provision has:

Interrupted care, raised health care costs, and worsened provider shortages, creating immediate and significant barriers for patients in need of health care;

Hit low-income patients and patients in rural and medically underserved areas the hardest;

Functioned as a backdoor abortion ban — even in states where abortion is legal; and

Shifted costs onto patients, providers, and states, forcing them to absorb the financial and operational burden of lost federal funding without sustainable alternatives.

The report also found that Republican attempts to permanently defund Planned Parenthood will leave patients with nowhere else to turn.

New data in the report shows the number of people accessing care at Planned Parenthood health centers dropped sharply in November and December of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024:

The number of breast exam visits fell by 25% in December, increasing the risk of delayed breast cancer detection and avoidable, more serious illness.

The number of visits for birth control pills fell by 20% in November.

Visits for IUDs and other long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) dropped by 41% in November and 36% in December — the steepest decline across all services measured.

On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law with a one-year provision to bar federal Medicaid funding from reimbursing non-profit family planning and reproductive health providers that provide abortions, outside of long-standing narrow exceptions. Established federal law already bans the use of federal funds to provide abortions, but the “defund” provision blocked federal Medicaid reimbursement for all non-abortion services furnished by the health care providers singled out by the law. In addition to Planned Parenthood, two independent organizations – Maine Family Planning and Health Imperatives – have been barred from receiving Medicaid funds.

Prior to the “defund” provision, nearly half of all visits to Planned Parenthood health centers were by patients who relied on Medicaid to cover the cost of care. Now, tens of thousands of Americans have been forced to forgo essential health care, including birth control, cancer screenings, STI testing and treatment, and more at Planned Parenthood health centers. Twenty-three Planned Parenthood health centers have closed since the provision went into effect. The provision is set to expire on July 4, 2026.

“President Trump and his backers in Congress ‘defunded’ Planned Parenthood to make it harder for everyone, everywhere to get an abortion. They did so knowing their actions would make birth control, wellness exams, cancer screenings and other essential health care more expensive and harder to get for millions of people,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund. “In the six months since the law took effect, the real cost of their actions has become clear: Over twenty Planned Parenthood health centers have been forced to close, and tens of thousands of people now have few, if any, options to get the lifesaving care they need. We are grateful to Senate Minority Leader Schumer and Senators Warren and Wyden for leading on this report and amplifying the real-life harms of ‘defunding’ Planned Parenthood health centers. This work, and this fight, have never been more urgent, as Republicans in Congress call to make the ‘defund’ law permanent."

The following Senators also joined the report: Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.).

“Everyone deserves to see the health care provider of their choice, whether you’re getting an annual exam or having an abortion,” said Rachana Desai Martin, Chief U.S. Program Officer at the Center for Reproductive Rights. "Because of the defund provision, our client Maine Family Planning can no longer accept Medicaid, which half of their patients rely on. People across the country, especially in rural areas, are having a harder time accessing affordable care from a provider they trust. We deserve better.”

“The defunding provision is part of a broader, orchestrated attack on people with low incomes, and organizations like Health Imperatives, which provide sexual and reproductive health care and comprehensive supports—including housing and emergency shelter—to survivors of human trafficking, sexual assault, and domestic violence,” said Julia Kehoe, President and CEO of Health Imperatives. “If the defunding provision becomes permanent, it will put basic human rights, and our ability to meet them, at risk.”

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Welch, Durbin, Raskin, Scanlon Press DHS, State Dept on Trump Admin’s Continued Targeting of Student Mahmoud Khalil’s First Amendment Rights

Evidence overwhelmingly shows Trump Administration’s continued efforts to deport Mr. Khalil, a U.S. permanent resident, violated his constitutional rights to free speech and due process

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on The Constitution, today led Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), and Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Constitution and Limited Government Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05) in calling on the Department of Homeland Security and Department of State to end all attempts to target and punish Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student and legal permanent resident.

On March 8, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials arrested and detained Mr. Khalil, a lawful permanent resident of the United States. All available evidence demonstrates that Mr. Khalil—along with other students expressing similar views—was targeted because of his involvement in political protests at Columbia University related to the war in Gaza.

Senators Welch, Durbin, and Reps. Raskin and Scanlon were joined by 39 bicameral lawmakers.

In their letter, the lawmakers highlight that the Columbia University protests attended by Mr. Khalil and cited by the Trump Administration as a basis for his deportation were overwhelmingly non-violent expressions of views in opposition to the conduct of the Israeli government in Gaza: “In fact, a Department of State cable discussing options to deport Mr. Khalil notes, ‘we are not aware of any prior arrests or citations for Khalil regarding unlawful activity.’ The United States has a long history of non-violent student protests, such as those in opposition to the Vietnam War and civil rights abuses. While crimes and violence can and should be prosecuted, speech and views at such protests are clearly protected by the Constitution. Indeed, at no time since Mr. Khalil’s arrest last year has the administration claimed that it has relied on anything other than Mr. Khalil’s First Amendment protected speech to target him.”

“These protests represented positions that were in line with majority views of Americans at the time on issues such as support for humanitarian aid in Gaza and disapproval of Israeli military actions,” the lawmakers continued. “Yet, you have made legal claims that the expression of these same views by students in the United States represented a credible threat to the foreign policy interests of the United States. Federal Judge William Young found in January that you engaged with the President in an ‘unconstitutional conspiracy’ against Mr. Khalil and other students like him for their advocacy against the war in Gaza, noting that ‘These cabinet secretaries have failed in their sworn duty to uphold the Constitution.’”

The lawmakers conclude: “We urge you to end all attempts to punish Mr. Khalil for his constitutionally-protected activities. At a minimum, you must ensure your Departments fulfill their constitutional and statutory duties and afford Mr. Khalil the opportunity to have his current habeas case heard in full.”

Joining Senators Welch and Durbin on the letter in the Senate are Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).

In addition to Reps. Raskin and Scanlon, the letter is signed in the House by Reps. Jim McGovern (D-MA-02), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Becca Balint (D-VT-AL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ-10), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Bennie Thompson (D-MS-02), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Greg Casar (D-TX-35), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX-37), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-AL), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Diana DeGette (D-CO-01), Hank Johnson (D-GA-04), Al Green (D-TX-09), Deborah Ross (D-NC-02), Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09), Mark Pocan (D-WI-02), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), and Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10).

Following Mr. Khalil’s unlawful arrest and detention, Senator Welch led colleagues in demanding answers and all written material from DHS and the State Department about Mr. Khalil’s case.

Read and download the lawmakers’ full letter to the Department of Homeland Security and State Department.

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Welch Joins Eleven Senate Democrats to Unveil Plans to Lower Health Costs Amid Trump’s Broken Promises to Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Health Care, today joinedSenate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and ten Senate Democrats in announcing a new initiative to lower the cost of health care and improve health insurance coverage for American families. The letter, sent to Senate colleagues, outlines plans to reverse Republicans’ health care cuts and lower costs for patients, make health insurance simpler, and end insurance company gaming by taking on corporate greed. Learn more about Senate Democrats’ flash report on Trump’s broken promise of lower health costs.

“It is no surprise that Americans are increasingly questioning whether a system that incentivizes and rewards profit-seeking behavior is compatible with one that places the health and financial well-being of patients and families first,” the Senators wrote. “Republicans have spent the past year making these problems worse by passing the largest health care cuts in history and pursuing administrative actions that further destabilize health insurance markets. Trump and Republicans have used their majority to increase Americans’ health care costs and put new barriers between families and the care they need. Democrats can enact reforms that put patients over profits and consumers over complexity.”

In July 2025, President Trump and Congressional Republicans passed the largest cut to health care in American history, totaling more than $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. In addition, Republicans in Congress and President Trump refused to extend middle class tax credits for health care at the end of last year. As a result, premiums will increase, patients will lose services like care at home, and tens of millions will be forced to go without health insurance, driving up costs for all Americans.

Joining Senators Welch and Wyden on the letter are Sens. Mark Warner (D-Va.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Tina Smith (D-Minn.).

Read and download the full text of the Senators’ letter.

Last month, Senator Welch joined Senate Democrats in releasing a plan to take on the high cost of prescription drugs, amid Trump’s continued smoke and mirrors and broken promises to rein in Big Pharma:

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

Congressional Democrats have repeatedly urged their Republican colleagues to work with them to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits and protect access to care for millions. Senator Welch helped unveil Senate Democrats’ plan to extend the tax credits for three years, but Republicans opposed the bill. Senator Welch was part of a bipartisan working group fighting to extend the credits, and spoke with President Trump and Secretary Kennedy in the Oval Office about the urgent need to extend the credits. So far, the president and Congressional Republicans have refused to act.

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Wicker, Welch, Hageman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Examine Use of AI Speech-to-Text Technologies in Federal Courts

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman (R-WY-AL) today introduced the Research and Oversight of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Courts Act of 2026, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to establish a task force composed of judicial experts to examine the use of AI speech-to-text and automatic speech recognition (ASR) technologies in the United States federal courts.

“Artificial intelligence capabilities continue to expand and become part of daily life. Federal courts have begun using this technology to improve their processes. This legislation would examine the legal, technical, and constitutional implications of AI in the U.S. judicial system. Ensuring accuracy is critical to fair justice,” said Senator Wicker.

“As the Senate’s only former public defender, I know it firsthand: Court reporters and captioners are irreplaceable. When it comes to the use of AI in the courtroom, there are still substantial privacy and civil liberty concerns that need to be addressed. Accuracy, privacy, and security are paramount,” said Senator Welch. “It is critical we allow experts who are actively working in the courts to weigh in on use of emerging AI speech-to-text services and technologies.”

“Artificial intelligence is being integrated into every aspect of our society in the 21st century, including our court systems,” said Rep. Hageman. “As an attorney for over three decades, I know our justice system demands precision and security. Congress must protect the integrity of our courts with vigorous oversight that remains up to date with emerging technologies.”

The Research and Oversight of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Courts Act would establish a new task force to assess civil liberty implications, as well as privacy and accuracy concerns, of using AI speech-to-text technology and automatic speech recognition technology in federal courts. The 15-member task force would consist of members employed by the federal government, including representatives who are actively serving as a federal judge or prosecutor, a clerk of a court, or who work at the National Institute of Justice or the Administrative Office of the United States Courts.

The Research and Oversight of AI in Courts Act would create a task force to review:

The benefits and risks of AI speech-to-text and automatic speech recognition technologies;

The impact on court record accuracy and litigants’ constitutional rights;

Cost implications for courts and litigants; and

Cybersecurity and data integrity risks, including vendor selection guidance and privacy safeguards.

The task force will be required to submit a report to the Attorney General and Congress on its findings. The report is due 18 months after the establishment of the task force.

The Research and Oversight of AI in Courts Act is supported by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA).

“Court reporters undergo extensive training and certification to provide the precise, secure transcription services our justice system requires,” said Dave Wenhold, Executive Director, NCRA. “While technology continues to evolve, human expertise remains irreplaceable in capturing complex legal proceedings.”

Read and download the full text of the bill.

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Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on NORTHCOM and SOUTHCOM Posture for FY 2027

Watch Video Here

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to examine the posture of U.S. Northern Command and U.S. Southern Command amid evolving homeland security threats, increasing great power competition in the Western Hemisphere, and ongoing efforts to strengthen border security and counter transnational criminal organizations.

General Gregory M. Guillot, USAF, Commander, United States Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command, and General Francis L. Donovan, USMC, Commander, United States Southern Command, appeared before the committee.

In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker emphasized that protecting the U.S. homeland is the federal government’s top priority, highlighting the evolving threats posed by China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and transnational cartels. The Chairman also underscored the importance of strengthening coordinated homeland defense efforts, advancing initiatives such as Golden Dome, and supporting NORTHCOM and SOUTHCOM in securing the border and countering malign influence and illicit trafficking across the Western Hemisphere.

Read Chairman Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered.

Thank you all for being here. The committee meets today to receive testimony on the posture of?United States Northern Command and United States Southern Command. We are joined by General Gregory Guillot from U.S. Northern Command and General Frank Donovan from U.S. Southern Command. I want to thank our witnesses for appearing today and for their decades of service to our nation. Thank you gentlemen.

Protecting the homeland is the first and most important duty of the federal government. Without a credible and effective homeland defense, there can be no United States of America for our 250th anniversary.

During the Cold War, the Soviet Union represented the only true threat to the United States homeland. Today, the threat environment is much more complicated. Both Russia and China possess a range of nuclear, conventional, space, and cyber capabilities that threaten the U.S. homeland. Iran and Sunni jihadis remain intent on carrying out terrorist attacks in America. Tehran and Pyongyang have conducted cyberattacks against our critical infrastructure. And cartels are using innovative methods to traffic drugs and humans across our borders. All these adversaries share a common goal: to reduce our influence in the Western Hemisphere and to harm Americans at home.

To counter these threats, we need a coordinated homeland defense strategy. It must weave together conventional defenses and new partnerships with allies and partners in our region. We certainly appreciate our allies and partners.

We are poised to make great progress on Golden Dome and similar efforts to protect the homeland from incoming drone and missile threats. I enthusiastically support these efforts. Golden Dome will reduce the threat posed by ballistic and cruise missiles from Russia, China, and North Korea. I look forward to hearing how General Guillot is working with the Golden Dome team to make these defenses a reality. In particular, I would like to learn how his coordination with the Joint Interagency Task Force-401 will help counter the threat of small drones.

I also applaud NORTHCOM’s professionalism in support of the Department of Homeland Security. This has helped reinforce our border and helped stop virtually all illegal immigration. A singular achievement.

We know that homeland defense does not stop at our border with Mexico. More than 100,000 Americans are killed annually in drug-related deaths. These immense and tragic losses come at the hands of South American cartels. Cartels contribute to violence, undermine regional stability, and are linked to human trafficking, weapons smuggling, and financial crime. I commend SOUTHCOM for its execution of Operation Southern Spear, which is helping to stop narco-terrorists from bringing drugs onto our shores. It is also deterring future traffickers from attempting the same. I hope General Donovan can expound on the department’s efforts to coordinate more closely with our Central and South American partners to fight back against the cartels.

China, Russia, and Iran all target the Western Hemisphere in their influence operations. Xi Jinping seeks to control telecommunications systems, critical infrastructure such as the Panama Canal, and major deepwater ports such as Chancay in Peru. China has also expanded defense cooperation across South America through arms sales, police training, and space and cyber partnerships.

Likewise, Russia is selling arms, providing military advisors, and expanding intelligence cooperation to South American nations. In exchange, it gets permission to deploy Russian military aircraft and naval vessels to the region. Together, China and Russia exploit local corruption and partner with hostile authoritarian regimes, like Cuba and Nicaragua. They build influence and gain political leverage to target the United States close to home.

We must resist these malign influence campaigns in our neighborhood. That's what we’re about today. I would like to hear General Donovan’s ideas about how we can do so, especially through increased coordination with the Economic Defense Unit, intelligence community, and the Office of Strategic Capital. So, expect that question.

I commend the Trump administration for the decisive action it has taken to reassert U.S. interests near the homeland, including the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. I strongly support a more aggressive counter-drug strategy. This must emphasize border security, cripple the cartels, and expand security partnerships with Latin American countries in order toeliminate safe havens for the illicit networks that plague our hemisphere.


Wyden, Merkley, Senate Democrats Unveil Plans to Lower Health Costs Amid Trump's Broken Promises to Americans

Amid Republican Attacks on Health Care That Raised Premiums and Worsened Coverage, Senate Democrats Offer Path to the Next Generation of Health Reforms to Benefit American Families

Text of the Letter (PDF)

Washington, D.C. – Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and eleven Senate Democrats – including Senator Jeff Merkley, D-Ore. -- today announced a new initiative to lower the cost of health care and improve health coverage for American families.

The letter, sent to Senate colleagues and signed by Senators Mark Warner, D-Va.; Jon Ossoff, D-Ga.; Raphael Warnock, D-Ga.; Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del.; Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis.; Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.; Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich.; Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.; Tina Smith, D-Minn.; and Peter Welch, D-Vt. outlines plans to reverse Republicans’ health care cuts and lower costs for patients, make health insurance simpler, and end insurance company gaming by taking on corporate greed.

“It is no surprise that Americans are increasingly questioning whether a system that incentivizes and rewards profit-seeking behavior is compatible with one that places the health and financial well-being of patients and families first,” the senators wrote. “Republicans have spent the past year making these problems worse by passing the largest health care cuts in history and pursuing administrative actions that further destabilize health insurance markets. Trump and Republicans have used their majority to increase Americans’ health care costs and put new barriers between families and the care they need. Democrats can enact reforms that put patients over profits and consumers over complexity.”

The letter describes three goals that will be the focus for policy development among the group in the coming weeks and months:

Reverse Republican cost increases and reimagine a better path

Make health care simpler for families

Take on corporate greed

In contrast to these efforts, Republicans have spent their time in power on a campaign to make health insurance cost more while delivering less care to American families. In July 2025, Trump and Republicans passed the largest cut to health care in American history, totaling more than $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. These cuts, in addition to their refusal to extend middle class tax credits for health care at the end of last year, will increase premiums, rip away services like care at home and cause tens of millions to go without health insurance, which drives up costs for all Americans.

Last month, Wyden and Senate Democrats released a plan to take on the high cost of prescription drugs, amid Trump’s continued smoke and mirrors and broken promises to rein in Big Pharma.


Wyden, Merkley, Warren, Schumer, Democrats Publish Report Revealing Trump, Republicans Stripped Health Care Access, Raised Costs for Americans With “Defund” Planned Parenthood Provision

In six months since Trump and Republicans "defunded" Planned Parenthood, breast exam visits fell by 25% compared to the same period in a previous year, delaying detection and life-saving preventive care

Text of Report (PDF)

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) led 23 colleagues – including Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) -- in publishing a new report revealing the harm Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress have caused to Americans in the six months since their dangerous provision to “defund” Planned Parenthood buried in their Big, Beautiful Bill went into effect.

The report reveals that, in addition to acting as a backdoor abortion ban, the “defund” provision has ripped away Americans’ access to essential services — including primary care, birth control, cancer screenings, and wellness exams — and raised health care costs.

“Republicans used their Big Ugly Bill to fulfill their fantasies of defunding Planned Parenthood all so they could secure their Fox News talking points. This report lays bare exactly how the GOP’s war on reproductive health care is denying women the life-saving health care they depend on and demonstrates the urgent need to prevent the further erosion of the rights of women to make their own health care decisions,” said Senator Wyden (D-Ore.).

“Republicans’ ‘Big, Ugly Betrayal’ law cruelly defunded Planned Parenthood, yet another part of the Republican crusade to deny women the right to make their own health care decisions,” said Senator Merkley (D-Ore.). “Planned Parenthood is an essential provider of health care services across the nation, and our report makes it clear that we must keep fighting to maintain funding and access to the full range of health care, including access to reproductive care, for all Americans.”

“Six months later, we’re seeing exactly how Donald Trump and Republicans’ political stunt is hurting Americans and driving up health care costs. This is more than a backdoor abortion ban — it’s also ripping away Americans’ access to essential services like primary care and cancer screenings,” said Senator Warren. “Nobody benefits when people are getting fewer critical exams, paying more for care, or fully forgoing the health care they need. We need to fight back against Republican attacks on Americans’ health care and make sure they can’t make this dangerous provision permanent.”

“Last year — Republicans forced their unpopular and radical policies on the country with a backdoor nationwide abortion ban. Despite claiming to believe that states should dictate abortion policy, Republicans are pushing their anti-choice agenda on communities across the U.S.," said Democratic Leader Schumer. “In the months since the ‘Big, Ugly Betrayal’ became law, American families have already started feeling the pain of Republicans’ efforts to defund Planned Parenthood: care is worse, costs are higher, and barriers for patients are more significant. Although these cuts last for only a year, our report has found that the impact of this lack of funding could be permanent and far-reaching. Democrats won’t let this stand. Senate Democrats are fighting tooth and nail for women’s right to choice and access to safe, affordable, and available health care.”

The report found that the “Defund” Planned Parenthood provision has:

Interrupted care, raised health care costs, and worsened provider shortages, creating immediate and significant barriers for patients in need of health care;

Hit low-income patients and patients in rural and medically underserved areas the hardest;

Functioned as a backdoor abortion ban — even in states where abortion is legal; and

Shifted costs onto patients, providers, and states, forcing them to absorb the financial and operational burden of lost federal funding without sustainable alternatives.

The report also found that Republican attempts to permanently defund Planned Parenthood will leave patients with nowhere else to turn.

New data in the report shows the number of people accessing care at Planned Parenthood health centers dropped sharply in November and December of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024:

The number of breast exam visits fell by 25% in December, increasing the risk of delayed breast cancer detection and avoidable, more serious illness.

The number of visits for birth control pills fell by 20% in November.

Visits for IUDs and other long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) dropped by 41% in November and 36% in December — the steepest decline across all services measured.

On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law with a one-year provision to bar federal Medicaid funding from reimbursing non-profit family planning and reproductive health providers that provide abortions, outside of long-standing narrow exceptions. Established federal law already bans the use of federal funds to provide abortions, but the “defund” provision blocked federal Medicaid reimbursement for all non-abortion services furnished by the health care providers singled out by the law. In addition to Planned Parenthood, two independent organizations – Maine Family Planning and Health Imperatives – have been barred from receiving Medicaid funds.

Prior to the “defund” provision, nearly half of all visits to Planned Parenthood health centers were by patients who relied on Medicaid to cover the cost of care. Now, tens of thousands of Americans have been forced to forgo essential health care, including birth control, cancer screenings, STI testing and treatment, and more at Planned Parenthood health centers. Twenty-three Planned Parenthood health centers have closed since the provision went into effect. The provision is set to expire on July 4, 2026.

“President Trump and his backers in Congress ‘defunded’ Planned Parenthood to make it harder for everyone, everywhere to get an abortion. They did so knowing their actions would make birth control, wellness exams, cancer screenings and other essential health care more expensive and harder to get for millions of people,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund. “In the six months since the law took effect, the real cost of their actions has become clear: Over twenty Planned Parenthood health centers have been forced to close, and tens of thousands of people now have few, if any, options to get the lifesaving care they need. We are grateful to Senate Minority Leader Schumer and Senators Warren and Wyden for leading on this report and amplifying the real-life harms of ‘defunding’ Planned Parenthood health centers. This work, and this fight, have never been more urgent, as Republicans in Congress call to make the ‘defund’ law permanent."

The following Senators also joined the report: Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.).

“Everyone deserves to see the health care provider of their choice, whether you’re getting an annual exam or having an abortion,” said Rachana Desai Martin, Chief U.S. Program Officer at the Center for Reproductive Rights. "Because of the defund provision, our client Maine Family Planning can no longer accept Medicaid, which half of their patients rely on. People across the country, especially in rural areas, are having a harder time accessing affordable care from a provider they trust. We deserve better.”


Wyden, Warren, Schumer Demand Trump Terminate Illegal Tariffs, Deliver Relief From Iran War’s Higher Costs

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee; U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs (BHUA) and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; and U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) today released the following statement:


Yakym Introduces Resolution to Honor Lou Holtz

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02) introduced a resolution (H.Res.1122) to honor the incredible life and legacy of Coach Lou Holtz. Yakym was joined by fellow Indiana Congressmen James Baird (R-IN-04) and Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), as well as Pat Fallon (R-TX-04) and Mike Kelly (R-PA-16).

“Coach Holtz was a legend in every sense of the word, a national championship-winning coach, a bestselling author, a beloved media personality, and an inspiration to countless people around the world,” Rep. Yakym said. “This is one small way we can honor a legacy that touched so many lives, including my own. I’m deeply grateful for the mark he left on his players, on Notre Dame, and on everyone fortunate enough to know him.”

“Lou Holtz was a legendary Hoosier and dedicated football coach who shaped Notre Dame’s football players and their traditions for generations,” Rep. Baird said. “His passing is a monumental loss for Hoosiers. I am proud to help introduce this resolution to honor his legacy centered around faith, family, character, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.”

“Lou Holtz was not just a legendary football coach,” Rep. Messmer said. “More importantly, he was a man of deep faith. His dedication to his players, his family, and to God are what solidify him as America’s beloved Coach. We Hoosiers were blessed to have had him lead the Fighting Irish and will forever quote his wonderful sayings as an homage to the great leader that he was.”

“Coach Lou Holtz spent decades investing in college athletes, demanding their best on the field and shaping them into men of character, faith, and perseverance off it,” Rep. Fallon said. “I am deeply grateful for the profound impact he made on my life and the Fighting Irish program. A lifelong patriot, Coach Holtz’s legacy will continue to be celebrated as the ultimate standard of leadership and mentorship.”

“Both on and off the field, Coach Holtz exemplified what it means to be a leader,” Rep. Kelly said. “During his tenure as head coach of University of Notre Dame football program, he was incredibly successful. But perhaps more importantly, he helped to set up young men for a successful life once their college football career had ended. He will be greatly missed.”

Full text of the resolution can be found HERE.

Earlier this week, the Senate unanimously passed a similar resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN.), Jim Banks (R-IN.) and Chris Coons (D-DE).

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Ansari Conducts Dual Oversight Visits to Florence Correctional Center and Eloy Detention Center

Mr. Damas' death was a clear case of medical negligence at the hands of ICE.

I have called for a full and independent investigation into the death of Emmanuel Damas, including release of Mr. Damas’ full medical examiner’s report, a complete timeline of his medical complaints to staff, and all medical records related to the care he received while in ICE Custody.

My heart goes out to the Damas family - who should have never experienced such a tragedy perpetrated by the US government with hard earned American tax dollars.

I also visited the Eloy Detention Center today.

I met with my constituent, Arbella “Yari” Rodriguez Marquez, who has leukemia and has also endured severe medical neglect for more than a year.

The only positive news I can report there: Yari is getting better medication since our advocacy and she can now walk with the help of a walker again. The ligaments in her arms and legs are still feeling the impacts of months of medical neglect. Outside doctors are still testing her for a variety of conditions such as lupus, Lymphoedema, leukemia and arthritis.

One alarming detail that is new: she has grown small dark spots all over back and stomach. Doctors suspect it may be from the dirty clothes provided at the facility.

We also spoke to a Latvian woman named Maya who has been waiting for a year for proper foot surgery and medication. She was air transported to hospital back in June of 2025 because of medical neglect. “I grew up in the former Soviet Union,” said Maya, “it was rough. But at least people had a heart. Nobody here at this facility has a heart. They don’t care.”

While she’s been in ICE custody, Maya’s husband died because of the physical and emotional toll, her kids, who are toddlers, were sent to foster care in Frederick, Maryland, and she has no family or lawyer to advocate for her.

In the facility’s chapel, we spoke to over 30 men who confirmed some of the horrifying conditions we all have heard.

The water from the sinks is chlorinated. Detainees fight for ICE, that they let melt because there is the only source of filtered water.

A bottle of water costs more than $2, a cost that detainees simply can’t afford.

It often takes 3 or more days to see doctors. A 26 year old Armenian man we spoke to has been waiting for a year for dental care. He has a tooth infection and could be the next Emmanuel Damas.

One of the most powerful testimonies I heard today was from 46-year-old Felipe. He has lived and paid taxes in Phoenix for over 20 years — he has no criminal record and this administration won’t offer any pathways for legal work.

And today, he is still an undocumented worker, but working for a U.S. prison at $2 an hour. But he doesn’t deserve drinking water?

This is modern day slavery supported by a failing immigration system — and an administration that isn’t interested in fixing it.

I heard from an Iranian asylum seeker who fled here with his daughter during Iran’s 2022 protest movement - who’s terrified of being sent back to Iran where he could be killed by the regime, but described being treated as “animals” in ICE custody. “I often wake up with nightmares, sleeping on the floor, wondering, what crime did I commit to be treated like this?”

I heard from a young, LGBTQ+ Russian man who said he’d been threatened with rape if he didn’t sign self-deportation papers.

The Trump administration only cares about making private prison companies richer. Just this week, it was reported that Corey Lewandowski, the top aide to outgoing DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, sought payments from companies seeking contracts with the Department of Homeland Security. I’m working on new legislation as we speak to investigate and stop this astounding corruption.

The Trump Administration is wasting billions of your taxpayer dollars, torturing and killing innocent people in the process. Meanwhile, Americans can’t afford housing, healthcare or childcare. But instead of funding any of these things - Donald Trump and Republicans ripped away Medicaid from millions of Americans and handed $75 billion dollars to ICE.

DHS and ICE cannot and should not expand in Arizona. Period.

Every time I visit these detention facilities, it brings me to tears. It’s sickening. It’s traumatizing. It’s deeply un-American. I could go on. But here are next steps from my end:

First, I will not rest until there’s an independent investigation into the death of Emmanuel Damas. There have been a record number of deaths under the Trump regime in ICE custody and it cannot stand.

Second, I will be a hell no on funding to ICE. There’s a discharge petition on the House Floor right now, led by Democrats, to separate ICE funding from the rest of DHS. Republicans are refusing to pay hardworking Americans at FEMA and TSA who actually keep us safe because they refuse to negotiate or make any changes to ICE’s lawless, violent practices.

Third, I continue to urge my colleagues to sponsor my two bills – the DRAIN ICE ACT – which would rescind ICE’s $75BN dollar slush fund – as well as the Stop Inhumane Conditions in ICE Detention Act, which aims to improve conditions, oversight, and transparency in ICE detention centers.

Fourth, release Yari now so she can get the treatment she needs.

And finally, it shouldn't be that damn difficult to provide clean drinking water, clothing, and humane conditions. ICE and companies like CoreCivic and Geo Group quite literally have billions of dollars and yet are choosing to treat human beings like animals. Enough.

I will keep fighting until the American people know the truth about what is happening inside ICE detention centers.

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Arrington Calls for an Article V Constitutional Convention as U.S. National Debt Hits Record Breaking $39 Trillion

Washington, D.C. – Today, House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) released the following statement as the U.S. national debt crossed the $39 trillion mark, an unfortunately historic and deeply troubling milestone in our nation.

“America is now $39,000,000,000,000 in debt—yes, $39 trillion. It took roughly 200 years to accumulate the first $1 trillion. Now we add that in a matter of months. Every child in America today carries a $530,000 share of this debt—a crushing legacy we must reverse. To add insult to injury, we spend more than $1 trillion a year just on interest to service our debt, more than the entire defense budget. The national debt continues to pose an existential threat to the future of our nation.

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Balderson, Carey, Taylor Introduce Resolution Honoring Fallen Ohio Servicemembers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Troy Balderson (OH-12), Mike Carey (OH-15), and Dave Taylor (OH-2) introduced a resolution honoring the lives, service, and sacrifice of six servicemembers killed during a March 12 air refueling mission over western Iraq in support of Operation Epic Fury. Three of those servicemembers were part of the Ohio Air National Guard.

“Our nation is forever grateful to Capt. Koval, Capt. Angst, and Tech. Sgt. Simmons for their commitment to defending freedom,” said Balderson. “They answered the call to serve—and did so with courage and selflessness. We grieve alongside their families, stand with their fellow servicemembers, and remain forever indebted for their sacrifice.”

“The tragic deaths of six Airmen during a combat mission in the Middle East is a devastating loss for our country and our communities here in Ohio. My prayers are with the Gold Star families grieving their loved ones. America is protected by brave heroes who volunteer to serve, and their sacrifice will not be forgotten,” said Carey.

“Captain Curtis Angst, Technical Sergeant Tyler Simmons, and Captain Seth Koval made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation, and we owe a debt of gratitude to heroes like them. My heart is with their families as they grieve this unthinkable loss, and I will continue to stand resolutely behind our courageous service members as they prove time after time that America is the land of the free and the home of the brave,” said Taylor.

Servicemembers from the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, OH, were Capt. Seth R. Koval, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons.

From the 99th Air Refueling Squadron in Birmingham, AL, were Maj. John A. Klinner, Capt. Ariana G. Savino, and Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt.

Full text of the resolution can be found HERE.

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Beyer, Matsui, Lieu, Jacobs, McClain Delaney Introduce Legislation to Repeal White House AI Moratorium

U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), and April McClain Delaney (D-MD), today introduced the Guaranteeing and Upholding Americans’ Right to Decide Responsible AI Laws and Standards (GUARDRAILS) Act to repeal President Donald Trump’s executive order entitled “Ensuring a National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence,” which is designed to establish a moratorium on state-level artificial intelligence policies. This legislation would prohibit the executive order from taking effect to ensure states can enact commonsense safeguards to protect the American public in the face of rapidly evolving AI technologies. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) is introducing companion legislation in the Senate.

President Trump’s executive order would kill responsible safety reforms without providing any federal protections or AI governance requirements to replace the state laws it seeks to preempt. This executive order was followed by the White House’s National AI Policy Framework, which reinforces the administration’s commitment to preempting state-level AI laws without the establishment of clear, enforceable guardrails to address the urgent risks posed by AI systems – in addition to attempting to limit Congressional regulatory action.

“In today’s lawless, Wild West artificial intelligence environment, states have been leading the charge to implement safeguards addressing serious risks ranging from algorithmic bias to data privacy and consumer protection. But the Trump White House aims to kill state AI laws without setting even minimally acceptable federal guardrails, exposing the American public to the growing risks accompanying completely unchecked artificial intelligence,” said Rep. Don Beyer. “Until federal action ensures safe and responsible AI development, deployment, and use, states must retain the ability to implement policies to protect the American public.”

“Embracing the amazing possibilities of AI can’t come at the cost of leaving Americans vulnerable to its profound risks, which is exactly what President Trump and Republicans are trying to do,” said Sen. Brian Schatz. “Preventing states from enacting common-sense regulation that protects people from the very real harms of AI is dangerous. Congress has a responsibility to get this technology right, but states must be allowed to act in the public interest in the meantime.”

“Republicans keep trying to strip states of the ability to enact commonsense AI safeguards—at a time when there are no meaningful federal protections in place,” said Rep. Doris Matsui. “President Trump’s executive order is illegal coercion: it threatens states with costly lawsuits and tries to hold hostage the BEAD dollars Congress provided to connect every American to affordable broadband. As Ranking Member of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, I won’t let the Administration weaponize broadband funding to bully states out of enforcing their AI laws. That’s why my colleagues and I are introducing this bill to repeal the order, and I will keep using every tool Congress has to stop this overreach and protect the public.”

“Congress has the responsibility to establish a national framework for AI and any attempt by Donald Trump to create laws through executive order is a sham. It is Congress' responsibility to check this overreach of the presidency,” said Rep. Ted Lieu. “Pleased to work with my friend, Congressman Beyer, to make clear that Congress has the responsibility to create AI policy at the national level. Americans deserve a set of AI guardrails that promote responsible innovation, and doing that through Congress ensures the true interests of the American people are honored. I welcome any effort by the Administration to work with, and not around, Congress to establish a federal AI framework.”

“President Trump’s laissez-faire approach to AI regulation and trampling on states’ AI rights is incredibly dangerous for Americans’ rights and safety,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs. “Congress should be proactively creating the rules of the road to protect people while encouraging innovation – instead of taking the back seat to President Trump and his Big Tech donors. But in the meantime, we can’t wait, so I’m proud to co-lead the GUARDRAILS Act to repeal Donald Trump’s AI moratorium. We can’t let Donald Trump’s corruption stand in the way of protecting Americans and people around the world, spurring innovation, and fostering public trust.”

“I’ve built my career advocating for digital protections for our most vulnerable Americans, including children and seniors, from cyber threats like fraud, data breaches, deepfakes, and more. Businesses do better—and strive to do better—when commonsense laws are in place to guide their decisions," said Rep. April McClain Delaney. “Trump's Executive Order fails to recognize the important role states play in shaping the policies that drive U.S. competitiveness and innovation. It could not be more clear: the Administration is actively seeking ways to make the internet a more dangerous place.”

The legislation is cosponsored in the House by Representatives Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Becca Balint (D-VT), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Sean Casten (D-IL), Judy Chu (D-CA), Gil Cisneros (D-CA), Angie Craig (D-MN), Maxine Dexter (D-OR), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), Bill Foster (D-IL), Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Laura Friedman (D-CA), Ro Khanna (D-CA), John Larson (D-CT), Sarah McBride (D-DE), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Rob Menendez (D-NJ), Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Luz Rivas (D-CA), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Mark Takano (D-CA), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC).

Text of the Guaranteeing and Upholding Americans’ Right to Decide Responsible AI Laws and Standards (GUARDRAILS) Act is available here.

Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) serves as co-Chair of the Congressional Artificial Intelligence Caucus. He was one of a handful of members selected to serve on the bipartisan Task Force On Artificial Intelligence, convened by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Speaker Mike Johnson. He is the author of the AI Foundation Model Transparency Act and a lead cosponsor of the CREATE AI Act, the Federal Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Act, and the Artificial Intelligence Environmental Impacts Act.


Beyer, Norton, Thompson Demand NPS Halt Removal of Critical Commuter Bike Lanes

Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA), Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), and Congressional Bike Caucus Co-Chair Mike Thompson (D-CA) led a group of House Democrats in demanding that the National Parks Service (NPS) immediately halt or block any plans to remove the two-way protected bike lane running from the Tidal Basin to Constitution Avenue, a vital commuter route for DC-area residents.

In a letter addressed to NPS Acting Director Jessica Bowron, Members noted that removing the bike lanes will limit transportation options and increase danger for cyclists, pedestrians, and cars alike. Members also stressed the need for immediate action with the National Cherry Blossom Festival and America 250 celebrations approaching, both of which are readily accessible through the bike lanes.

“The bike lanes are part of a broader safe cycling corridor along 15th Street. Those lanes are an essential travel route for commuters from Virginia, D.C., Maryland, and visitors across the country, who rely on them to access jobs, NPS sites along the National Mall, and the Capitol complex,” wrote the Members. “Allowing or actively working to remove these lanes will reverse a decade of improved bike access to those sites and intentionally cut off public access to their elected representatives and public lands.”

The letter is signed by Representatives Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Bill Foster (D-IL), Dave Min (D-CA), Scott Peters (D-CA), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Darren Soto (D-FL), and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI).

Full text of the letter follows below, and a signed copy is available here.

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Dear Acting Director Bowron:

We write regarding reports that the National Park Service (NPS) will be participating in, facilitating, or allowing the removal of the two-way protected bike lane on NPS land from the Tidal Basin to Constitution Avenue. That removal cannot proceed.

NPS must immediately reverse course and stop the removal of the bike lane. Failing to do so would indicate that NPS is either refusing to responsibly administer its D.C. lands, or that it is unable to protect those lands against interference from other federal agencies. In either case, NPS must act to protect transportation access to our nation’s capital, recreation access ahead of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, and safety for all road users.

The bike lanes are part of a broader safe cycling corridor along 15th Street. Those lanes are an essential travel route for commuters from Virginia, D.C., Maryland, and visitors across the country, who rely on them to access jobs, NPS sites along the National Mall, and the Capitol complex. Allowing or actively working to remove these lanes will reverse a decade of improved bike access to those sites and intentionally cut off public access to their elected representatives and public lands.

Many of those commuters and visitors would continue to need access to this corridor. By removing the bike lanes, NPS would also force remaining bicyclists to share walkway space with pedestrians or roads with cars, creating danger for pedestrians, bikers, and cars alike. The D.C. Department of Transportation has found that the bike lane corridor reduced bike crashes by 69%, crashes causing injuries by 52%, and all crashes by 46%. Ahead of America 250, removing one of the safest and most convenient ways of accessing historical NPS sites along the National Mall will make the celebrations less accessible and more dangerous for all visitors.

According to posted signage, construction on the Ohio Drive portion could begin as early as today. It is imperative that NPS immediately take action to responsibly steward its own lands and stop the removal of this essential transportation corridor.


Casten Hosts Roundtable to Highlight Sheldon Peck Homestead Historic Site

Lombard, IL — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) hosted a roundtable with historians, preservationists, and local leaders to highlight the importance of historic sites and stories that have shaped our nation’s history. The roundtable was co-hosted by Landmarks Illinois and the Lombard Historical Society and took place at the Sheldon Peck Homestead in Lombard.

“The Sheldon Peck Homestead is a notable place in both American and Illinois’ history. Sheldon and Harriet Peck were not only outspoken abolitionists, but they also provided shelter to freedom seekers along the Underground Railroad,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “Now more than ever, as the Trump Administration attempts to erase our nation’s past, it’s important to preserve and honor places like the Peck Homestead. It’s past time the Peck Homestead is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.”

The Peck Homestead is registered on the National Park Service Network to Freedom as a verified stop on the Underground Railroad. Congressman Casten, along with experts and local leaders, participated in a discussion on the importance of the Peck Homestead, other historic sites in Illinois, and why naming the Peck Homestead to the National Register of Historic Places would benefit the local community.

"The Sheldon and Harriet Peck Homestead in Lombard should be included in the National Register of Historic Places,” said Bonnie McDonald, President & CEO of Landmark Illinois. “The fact that this documented Underground Railroad site, which is included in the Network to Freedom, has been determined ineligible for National-Register listing proves that preservation practices must evolve. Landmarks Illinois has been working hard to do just that. We thank Rep. Casten for joining us in this work and for his commitment to ensuring the Peck Homestead receives the recognition it deserves. The National Register of Historic Places was created to recognize significant places across the nation, its territories, and tribal lands that tell our country's collective story. The lack of places included in the National Register that tell our full history, like the Peck Homestead, must be rectified."

"The Sheldon Peck Homestead is one of the most important historic sites in Lombard and an essential part of Illinois history,” said Alison Costanzo, Executive Director of the Lombard Historical Society. “For decades, the Lombard Historical Society and our community have worked to preserve this place and the stories it holds, from Sheldon Peck’s legacy as a nationally recognized folk artist and abolitionist to the story of 'Old Charley,' a freedom-seeking man connected to the household. Since the 2012 review, we have undertaken additional research, archaeology, and documentation to address the questions raised during the earlier nomination process. As our nation approaches America 250, this is the right moment to ensure that places like the Peck Homestead — where the ideals of democracy, freedom, and civic courage were lived out — are recognized as part of our national story."

Other attendees of the event included Jeanne Schultz Angel from the Midwest Underground Railroad Network and Illinois Association of Museums, Sara Faddah and Dario Durham from 77 Flavors of Chicago, Jeffrey Nevins from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and Sara Phalen from the West Chicago City Museum, Illinois America 250 Commission.

Photos and videos from the roundtable can be found here.

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Congressman Cohen’s Statement on President Trump’s Visit to Memphis

MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) released the following statement in advance of President Trump’s scheduled visit to Memphis on Monday to discuss the work of the Memphis Safe Task Force, a multi-agency federal effort addressing crime since last September:

“With everything going on in the world – war in Iran and its disruption of oil shipments and gas price spikes, war in Ukraine, and who knows what in Venezuela and Cuba – the President has decided it’s a good time to come to Memphis and talk about the Memphis Safe Task Force.

“I was and remain concerned about the image the surge in federal manpower and the presence of the National Guard sends the country, and its effect on local tourism and business generally. Crime is going down but it had been declining before the task force arrived thanks to the cooperative efforts of Mayor Paul Young and Police Chief Cerelyn Davis. In fact, crime is down worldwide.

“I have been critical from the start of the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on our streets. Memphis doesn’t have an immigration problem and ICE has not been arresting and deporting ‘the worst of the worst.’ It has instead disrupted the lives of hard-working people in our community and traumatized whole neighborhoods. I continue to encourage ICE to leave and allow National Guard members to return to their families and communities.

“In the long run, what we need from the President is a commitment to improve affordable housing, enhance educational opportunities, strengthen workforce development efforts, address the affordability crisis, reduce poverty, and help provide for a stronger and more effective police force by making funding available to bring us up to our manpower goals and standards. If he committed to those goals, his visit to Memphis could be both important and historic. However, his administration’s efforts to dismantle the social safety net suggest that will not be the purpose of this trip. Unless he is talking about long-term investments to support our community, his trip will not have been beneficial to Memphis.

“It is a bad idea for him make a hasty visit to Memphis now given the worldwide crises he has caused or worsened.”

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Dingell, Tlaib, Carson Introduce Resolution Recognizing Eid al-Fitr

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), and André Carson (D-IN-07) introduced a resolution recognizing Eid al-Fitr, the observance of the conclusion of Ramadan. The Representatives extended their hope for peace and prosperity to Muslim communities celebrating, as well as their hopes for renewed unity and compassion amid this season of reflection.

“As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, this is a time for us all to remember the importance of compassion, justice, and generosity,” Dingell said. “This year, as we mark Eid al-Fitr, I am proud to recognize the contributions of Muslim Americans to every part of our society, and I am praying for peace for those in our community and around the world.”

“As we mark the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, that comes at the end of the holy month of Ramadan, may we also remember all of the families who have lost loved ones and all those celebrating Eid on top of the rubble of their masjids and homes," said Tlaib. "As we gather together, let us keep showing up for each other, speaking out against injustice, and caring for our communities. May this Eid al-Fitr bring us closer to a future grounded in justice and human dignity for all people.”

“Muslim Americans helped build this country. Muslims Americans have always been and will always be part of the fabric of our country” said Congressman Carson. "Our bill is about recognizing and uplifting these important holidays, but I also hope it sends a clear message to all Muslim Americans: you belong, and our community values you. As millions of Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, this bill is a chance to promote inclusion and tolerance of all people and all religions – the bedrock of our American values.”


Dingell, McGovern Introduce Legislation Supporting Americans Fleeing Other Countries Amid Crises

Today, U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Jim McGovern (D-MA-02) introduced legislation to protect American citizens evacuating foreign countries during a crisis. The Leave No Americans Behind Act would end the practice of charging fees from Americans evacuating foreign countries in times of crisis.

“We have a responsibility to get Americans out of harm’s way, no questions asked, and no strings attached,” said Dingell. “These fees place a real financial burden on people during an already traumatic time, while providing only a marginal amount of revenue. The government shouldn’t be charging fees to Americans in distress during a crisis outside of their control.”

“Our government’s top job ought to be ensuring the safety of the American people at home and abroad,”said McGovern. “It’s outrageous and unacceptable that the evacuation of Americans during a crisis comes with strings attached. I’m proud to partner with Representative Dingell to make sure that Americans in danger can focus on getting to safety—not on whether they can afford to pay for an unexpected and unplanned emergency evacuation.”

Current State Department policy requires American citizens who are being evacuated from a foreign country to sign a promissory note obligating them to repay to the US government the equivalent price of a commercial flight from the area from which they are being evacuated. These evacuation fees typically cost hundreds of dollars, and the federal government will put a hold on an evacuee’s passport until this amount is repaid.

Dingell and McGovern first introduced the Leave No Americans Behind Act in 2018. Concerns about this practice resurface every time there is a major evacuation of U.S. citizens from a foreign country, like we are currently seeing across the Middle East. These fees provide a minimal amount of revenue to the federal government in a typical year, with less than $1 million collected from FY2015 – FY2018.


Reps. Dunn and Soto Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Effective Cancer Treatments

WASHINGTON, DC–Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02) and Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) have introduced the Facilitating Access to Innovation in Cancer Care Act (FAIC Act) to ensure cancer patients on Medicare can access the most effective treatments available.

Recent breakthroughs in cancer care have produced innovative therapies that improve patient outcomes while reducing long-term healthcare costs. However, flaws in Medicare’s current payment structure have prevented many of these treatments from reaching patients, instead favoring older, less effective options. The FAIC Act addresses this issue by requiring Medicare to reimburse certain cancer drugs separately, rather than bundling them into procedure payments that discourage their use.

CMS has acknowledged for years that bundled payment policies can restrict access to necessary treatments. While the agency took steps in 2025 to reverse this policy for certain diagnostic drugs, it has not extended the fix to cancer therapies. The FAIC Act would correct this gap by ensuring these medications are reimbursed appropriately under Medicare Part B.

Importantly, the legislation is budget-neutral under Medicare’s outpatient payment system.

“As a physician, I have seen firsthand the impact that innovation can have on patient outcomes,” said Congressman Dunn. “This bill ensures Medicare keeps pace with innovation so patients can receive the most effective care. By addressing this issue, we can improve outcomes, reduce recurrence, and ultimately lower costs for patients and taxpayers alike.”

“I am honored to work with Dr. Dunn on this effort to ensure Medicare beneficiaries have access to cancer treatments and diagnostics,” said Rep. Soto. “Cancer patients are a uniquely vulnerable population, and equitable access to treatments regardless of insurance coverage is critical to ensuring their cancer does not spread or return."

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