Hickenlooper, Bennet Demand Secretary Kennedy Reverse Changes to CDC and FDA Websites that Promote False Information About Autism

Measles cases in U.S. topped 1,200, predominantly in unvaccinated children

Colorado currently has 11 reported measles cases

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, Michael Bennet, and 11 of their Senate colleagues recently sent a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to demand the department reverse changes to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) websites that promote false and dangerous information about autism. In recent months, Secretary Kennedy directed the CDC to change its website to include false information suggesting a link between vaccines and autism. Secretary Kennedy also directed the FDA to remove warnings from its website about unapproved and potentially dangerous products and therapies falsely marketed as treatments for autism.

“Using the power of public health agencies to promote an ideology that will put children at risk and is simply unacceptable,” wrote the senators.

“Rather than focus on ensuring families have accurate information, you and others in the Trump administration have chosen to promote unproven drugs like leucovorin, a known cancer medication, for the treatment of autism,” they continued.

“The American people deserve better. We demand that you provide accurate medical information and reverse the changes to CDC and FDA’s websites immediately,” the senators concluded.

Hickenlooper and Bennet both voted no on RFK Jr.’s nomination. Hickenlooper has been a fierce critic of the admin’s senseless attacks on American science. He called out RFK Jr.’s latest efforts to undermine Americans’ access to safe vaccines, helped launch an investigation into RFK Jr.’s decision to replace the ACIP experts, raised alarm about the mass firings at HHS, and demanded answers on how the firing of IVF researchers at the CDC will impact families seeking fertility treatment.

Earlier this year, he also questioned RFK Jr. on his public anti-science views and plans regarding transparency in NIH studies during RFK Jr. ‘s HELP confirmation hearing. Hickenlooper voted no on RFK Jr. ‘s nomination.

Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below.

Dear Secretary Kennedy:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently changed the information on their websites related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This comes after multiple actions by you and others in the Trump administration to promote unproven ASD treatments and use agency resources to perpetuate false information linking vaccines and autism. Using the power of public health agencies to promote an ideology that will put children at risk and is simply unacceptable.

At your direction, the CDC changed its website, “Autism and Vaccines,” to include false information suggesting a link between vaccines and autism. These changes masked in scientific language are dangerous and deceptive. The website declares that “the statement ‘Vaccines do not cause autism’ is not an evidence-based claim” and goes so far as to accuse health authorities of “ignor[ing]” evidence to the contrary, both of which are demonstrably false. It was reported that these changes were not made by scientists and public health experts at CDC but rather by political appointees at HHS at your specific direction.[1] This level of political overreach to change scientific information to reflect conspiracy theories is dangerous and puts Americans’ health at risk.[2]

Additionally, the FDA removed a longstanding informational webpage that warned consumers about unapproved and potentially dangerous products and therapies falsely marketed as treatments for autism. The deleted page, titled “Be Aware of Potentially Dangerous Products and Therapies that Claim to Treat Autism,” had explained that there is no cure for autism, outlined evidence-based treatments for symptoms, and listed a variety of examples of bogus interventions such as chelation and other unapproved remedies that can pose serious health risks. Its removal is incredibly concerning as it eliminates a clear, science-based resource aimed at protecting patients from misinformation and unsafe practices, raising questions about your commitment to accurate and transparent public health guidance amid broader debates over health communication at FDA and CDC.

Rather than focus on ensuring families have accurate information, you and others in the Trump administration have chosen to promote unproven drugs like leucovorin, a known cancer medication, for the treatment of autism. You even went so far as to direct the manufacturer to submit a new supplemental application to expand the label of this drug, despite the lack of scientific evidence historically required for such a change.[3] Several researchers have raised concerns about the dangers of expanding leucovorin for use among individuals with autism spectrum disorder and just yesterday, the FDA backed down from expanding its approval for autism.[4] Despite the FDA relying on a systematic review of the literature yielding the strongest data supporting this conclusion, the Trump Administration’s rhetoric about the promise of leucovorin for people with autism resulted in doctors being inundated with calls and requests from parents seeking prescriptions.[5]Making these claims without sufficient large-scale studies and evidence studying its long-term effects, misleads millions of families, gives false hope, and puts children in significant danger.

These actions are yet another example of your attempts to undermine science and put Americans’ health at risk. The American people deserve better. We demand that you provide accurate medical information and reverse the changes to CDC and FDA’s websites immediately.

Sincerely,

[1] CBS News, CDC website is changed to include false claim about autism and vaccines, (Nov. 20, 2025)https://www.cbsnews.com/news/cdc-website-change-vaccines-autism/

[2] The New York Times, Kennedy Says He Told C.D.C. to Change Website’s Language on Autism and Vaccines, (Nov. 21, 2025),

[3] Reuters, Why is leucovorin being considered as a treatment for autism?,https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/why-is-leucovorin-being-considered-an-autism-treatment-2025-09-22/

[4] Washington Post, FDA scales back vision for drug it touted as possible treatment for autism,https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2026/03/10/leucovorin-autism-fda-approval-trump/

[5] Id.

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Hickenlooper, Colleagues Demand Better Data on AI Workforce Impact

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper joined a bipartisan group of his Senate colleagues to urge the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Census Bureau to expand data collection and public reporting on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the U.S. workforce.

“Over the last several years, the enhanced capabilities of artificial intelligence have resulted in its increased application and adoption across many and varied industries and occupations. Predictive machine learning systems and generative AI have already created evolutions within the labor market due to those tools’ ability to perform tasks and functions that ordinarily require human intelligence. The emergence of autonomous technologies, including agentic AI and robotics integrating AI, present opportunities for a dramatic shift in the nature of work,” the senators wrote.

The senators continued: “However, reporting from across the private sector, academia, and media depict an uncertain picture of artificial intelligence’s current and potential impact on the workforce, with some use cases demonstrating a high probability of job disruption and others making the case for employment growth. Recent reporting has generated an increased focus on artificial intelligence’s effect on new labor entrants. As such, it is imperative that the federal government serves as an agile, objective, and reliable source of information regarding the significant labor market changes that this technological advancement presents.”

Hickenlooper understands that AI has the ability to transform our economy, but workers need a roadmap to navigate new developments. He introduced the AI Workforce PREPARE Act to increase visibility of how AI is affecting the workforce so that we can find the way forward together.

Hickenlooper has also chaired two hearings of the Senate Help, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee’s Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety, focusing on training workers on AI and the potential of AI to transform the workplace.

Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

Dear Secretary Chavez-DeRemer, Acting Commissioner Wiatrowski, and Mr. Cook:

We write to strongly urge the federal government’s statistical agencies to prioritize the collection, analysis, and dissemination of high-quality, timely data regarding artificial intelligence’s (AI) impact on the labor market.

Over the last several years, the enhanced capabilities of artificial intelligence have resulted in its increased application and adoption across many and varied industries and occupations. Predictive machine learning systems and generative AI have already created evolutions within the labor market due to those tools’ ability to perform tasks and functions that ordinarily require human intelligence. The emergence of autonomous technologies, including agentic AI and robotics integrating AI, present opportunities for a dramatic shift in the nature of work.

However, reporting from across the private sector, academia, and media depict an uncertain picture of artificial intelligence’s current and potential impact on the workforce, with some use cases demonstrating a high probability of job disruption and others making the case for employment growth. Recent reporting has generated an increased focus on artificial intelligence’s effect on new labor entrants.

As such, it is imperative that the federal government serves as an agile, objective, and reliable source of information regarding the significant labor market changes that this technological advancement presents. As it stands, the federal government’s statistical agencies’ data, research, and measurement on artificial intelligence significantly lags behind non-governmental labor market data. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has begun incorporating artificial intelligence impacts on employment projections and has published occupational case studies on these efforts. The U.S. Census Bureau has added artificial intelligence tailored questions to its Business Trends and Outlook Survey and Annual Business Survey. While we applaud these initial steps, we call on your agencies to build upon these actions swiftly and considerably.

Specifically, we direct your attention to the Joint Explanatory Statement that accompanied the Department of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (Pub. L. 119-75), which states the following:

“The agreement recognizes the value of understanding how artificial intelligence affects our workforce and encourages BLS to evaluate the impact of artificial intelligence on the economy, including job loss, creation, and displacement.”

In response to this directive, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Census Bureau should identify opportunities to fully leverage existing data collection efforts, including, but not limited to, integrating additional artificial intelligence questions into surveys, continuing the incorporation of occupational classification systems into reports, linking cross-agency data measurement to produce comprehensive reports, partnering with non-public entities to produce additional public use statistics, and increasing the frequency of published reports.

Specifically, we point your agencies to several opportunities where surveys can be expanded to better understand the impact of artificial intelligence:

The Current Population Survey (CPS) serves as the primary source of near real-time labor force statistics and is a cornerstone of the monthly jobs report. BLS should consider adding supplemental surveys focused on artificial intelligence and task specific questions.

The Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) produces monthly and annual estimates of job openings, hires, and separations. While this survey serves as an important measure of labor demand, it does not currently provide an understanding of labor demand by occupation and how this may be changing with artificial intelligence adoptions. We recommend that JOLTS add questions on the occupations and wages of both new hires and workers who separate from employers and how many hires, job postings, and layoffs are directly related to the business’ use of AI.

The National Longitudinal Survey follows the lives of a sample of American youth. By establishing a new cohort and adding questions related to artificial intelligence, we can understand long-term trends.

At a time when the U.S. workforce is approaching an inflection point due to the acceleration of artificial intelligence, adaptable and responsive federal statistical agencies are necessary in guiding labor market participants, researchers, and policymakers on how to properly respond to this moment.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,


Hickenlooper, Colleagues Press Trump Admin on Public Health Risks After Withdrawal from World Health Organization

Trump’s decision to leave WHO comes after several concerning actions that weaken American public health and science

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, along with 19 of his Senate colleagues, demanded answers from Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO).

“This reckless decision to leave WHO puts Americans at risk. Beyond the immediate damage to public health and biosecurity, withdrawing leaves the United States weaker on the global stage,” wrote the senators. “Any perceived short-term cost savings pale in comparison to both the human and economic costs of slower detection of disease, diminished control of outbreaks, and worsening global health.”

The senators requested information on the steps the U.S. is taking to fill gaps in disease tracking and surveillance, ensure continuity of global disease response coordination, and comply with agreements related to the smallpox stockpile. The senators also request written justification for the administration’s failure to meet WHO financial obligations.

Last month, Hickenlooper demanded the Trump administration immediately reverse its recent politically-motivated termination of $600 million of public health grants for Colorado and other states. Hickenlooper has been very outspoken against Trump and Kennedy’s weakening of America’s public health system and their attacks on science and what it means for our communities and future pandemics.

Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

Dear Secretary Kennedy and Secretary Rubio:

We are writing to express serious concern over the decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 22, 2026. WHO plays a critical role in alerting the United States and the world to emerging threats, containing dangerous pathogens, and preventing the spread of disease across the globe. As a founding member of WHO in 1948, the U.S. has served as a leader in global health, contributing significantly to many of its greatest achievements: increasing routine vaccine access from 5% of infants in 1974 to 84% worldwide in 2024; leading global efforts to eradicate the smallpox virus; and coordinating the international response to major outbreaks such as Zika in the Americas, Ebola in West Africa, and COVID-19 across the globe. This shortsighted and reckless exit diminishes U.S. leadership globally and puts the country at increased risk from public health and biosecurity threats.

The U.S. withdrawal from WHO makes Americans less safe from infectious diseases by limiting access to information about emerging threats. As a member of WHO, the U.S. participated in, and had access to, vital disease and health care tracking systems, including: the Global Surveillance and Monitoring System for substandard and falsified medical products; the Early Warning, Alert and Response System for diseases emerging from humanitarian emergencies; and the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), a critical system for monitoring flu activity and developing flu vaccines. According to the President of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, Dr. Ronald G. Nahass: “Global cooperation and communication are critical to keep our own citizens protected because germs do not respect borders.” The decision to withdraw limits our real time access to data on emerging pathogens, hampers research and slows our ability to respond to future threats.

The U.S. withdrawal also raises the risk of biosafety and biosecurity threats for Americans. Following smallpox eradication in the 1980s, the only remaining smallpox virus samples are located at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta and in Russia’s State Research Centre of Virology and Biotechnology. Per international agreement, WHO controls research related to the smallpox virus, sets standards for how the U.S. and Russian repositories are managed and protected, and governs the inspection and compliance agreements for the U.S. and Russia. In the past, CDC staff participated in inspections of the Russian stockpile. By withdrawing from WHO, the U.S. has lost its voice in these and other critical decision processes that govern these smallpox stockpiles and other biosafety and biosecurity frameworks. When the U.S. fails to comply with its obligations under international agreements, it opens the door for Russia to choose not to comply, as well.

Lastly, as part of the withdrawal, the U.S. is refusing to pay its outstanding debts to WHO, totaling nearly $280 million for 2024 and 2025.The abrupt nature of this decision, without a clear transition plan, risks disrupting critical health programs across the world that rely on predictable U.S. funding. These disruptions could lead to worsening health outcomes, economic challenges and even political instability in countries where WHO operates. Dr. Judd Walson of Johns Hopkins University said: “As countries experience worse health—more mortality and morbidity—economic conditions worsen as sick populations can’t work, and the economic situation of already poor countries deteriorates further. Political instability follows, with mass migration, war, and conflict, and now things start spilling over borders.” In other words: any perceived short-term cost savings pale in comparison to both the human and economic costs of slower detection of disease, diminished control of outbreaks, and worsening global health.

This reckless decision to leave WHO puts Americans at risk. Beyond the immediate damage to public health and biosecurity, withdrawing leaves the United States weaker on the global stage. In its formal response, WHO stated that the decision will leave “both the United States and the world less safe,” emphasizing that the organization remains impartial and acts with respect for national sovereignty. In the same statement, the organization has made clear that it remains open to U.S. reengagement – an invitation the U.S. would do well to seriously consider. While bipartisan advocates acknowledge WHO warrants reform, retreating from this institution diminishes American leadership at a moment when sustained engagement is critical to protecting U.S. interests and security.

We demand answers to the following questions about the short- and long-term implications of withdrawal from WHO.

Please describe the steps you have taken to fill the gaps in disease tracking and surveillance resulting from the lack of U.S. participation in the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System and similar programs at WHO.

How much funding has the Department of Health and Human Services spent to replace disease tracking and surveillance capabilities previously performed by WHO?

How much funding does the Department of Health and Human Services anticipate will be required to fully replace disease tracking and surveillance capabilities previously performed by WHO?

What formal, coordinated, transition plan has the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of State developed to ensure continuity of global disease surveillance, outbreak reporting, and emergency response coordination following withdrawal from WHO?

Please explain what steps were taken to clarify agreements around the smallpox stockpile prior to the decision to withdraw from WHO.

Will the U.S. still recognize WHO governance of inspection and compliance agreements for the smallpox stockpile in the U.S.?

How will the CDC confirm that Russia is complying with its obligations relating to its own smallpox stockpile?

Will the CDC still be allowed to participate in inspections of the Russian smallpox stockpile?

Please provide a written justification for your failure to meet the financial obligations to WHO prior to withdrawal as required by 22 U.S.C. § 290c.

We appreciate your prompt cooperation in this matter.

Sincerely,

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Husted joins bill to expand capital for American manufacturers

“By expanding growth capital for our manufacturers, we can bring jobs back to Ohio and the products we use every day back to our shores.”

WASHINGTON – Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) joined Sens. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Chris Coons’ (D-Del.) bipartisan Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act. The bill would expand access to growth capital for small U.S.-based manufacturers.

Rep. Roger Williams (R-Texas) leads the companion bill to the Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act in the U.S. House of Representatives, which passed the House on Dec. 1, 2025.

“The best way to bring down costs for working families is to bring back ‘Made in America.’ With the help of this bill, Ohio’s manufacturing industry is ready to take on the task. By expanding growth capital for our manufacturers, we can bring jobs back to Ohio and the products we use every day back to our shores,” said Husted.

“In Iowa and across the country, Main Street is roaring back under President Trump. I am proud to work with Administrator Loeffler and Chairman Williams to continue unleashing American industry by allowing small manufacturers to grow and equipping Iowa small business to lead the way. Today marks a major step in bringing back ‘Made in America,’” said Ernst.

“Every big business started as a small business that just needed a little help to grow. This bipartisan bill builds on years of work to give small manufacturers access to the funding they need to invest in their American dream. This is how we keep manufacturing jobs in America and help communities up and down Delaware thrive,” said Coons.

“I want to thank Administrator Loeffler and my colleagues in the House and Senate for their partnership on this crucial legislation, as we support America’s small businesses, which make up nearly 99% of all U.S. manufacturers. The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act provides small business owners the capital they need to expand, modernize, and compete. We must continue to support and empower the job creators who keep our communities thriving. Together, we will continue driving the America First Agenda forward and creating an environment where the success of Main Street is a priority,” said Williams.

The SBA guarantees a portion of loans made by private lenders to reduce risk and help small businesses access financing for working capital, equipment costs, real estate, expansion, refinancing and exports. The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act would:

Raise the standard SBA 7(a) and 504 loan limit for small manufacturers to $10 million.

Double the Export Working Capital Program cap from $5 million to $10 million.


Husted leads bill to support family-owned farms

“Ninety-five percent of farms in Ohio are family-owned and operated, and they shouldn’t be penalized by outdated rules for securing their families’ and their farms’ future.”

WASHINGTON – Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) and Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) introduced the USDA Loan Modernization Act. This bill would remove outdated eligibility barriers that prevent modern family farms from accessing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan programs.

“Ninety-five percent of farms in Ohio are family-owned and operated, and they shouldn’t be penalized by outdated rules for securing their families’ and their farms’ future. This bill would modernize USDA loan rules so they reflect how family farms operate today and ensure they can continue to grow and pass their legacy on to the next generation,” said Husted.

Statements of support:

“We appreciate Sens. Jon Husted and Tommy Tuberville for their leadership in introducing the USDA Loan Modernization Act. For too long, outdated eligibility rules have created unnecessary barriers for families working to pass their farms down to the next generation. By expanding loan access, this legislation will ensure that taking over the family farm remains a reachable reality rather than a financial impossibility.” – The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation.

“Farm Credit Mid-America thanks Senators Husted and Tuberville for recognizing the challenges some farming operators face in gaining access to important USDA loan programs. Young and beginning farmers face a number of challenges in getting started or continuing their family legacy in agriculture. This legislation will provide them with critical tools that will help support the next generation of agriculture,” said Tara Durbin, Chief Lending Officer, Agriculture, Farm Credit Mid-America.

There are around 76,500 farms in Ohio, and 95% of them are family-owned and operated.

Many Ohio family farms use LLCs or partnerships to protect family assets, reduce risk and plan for the future. Current FSA loan rules require one person to hold a majority stake and personally run the farm, which can disqualify well-run farms simply because of how they’re structured.

The USDA Loan Modernization Act would update loan eligibility standards to better reflect the structure of today’s multi-generational, family-owned farms, expanding access to guaranteed and direct operating, emergency and real estate loans for producers across the country.


Tuberville, Britt join GOP senators urging Labor Department to withdraw Biden-era heat rule

GCM Staff Report

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Alabama, joined Sen. Katie Britt, R-Alabama, and 14 other Republican senators in urging the U.S. Department of Labor to scrap a proposed federal heat safety rule they say would impose sweeping mandates on businesses across the country.

In a letter to Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, the senators argued the Biden administration’s proposed rule governing heat injury and illness prevention would create rigid federal requirements that ignore differences in workplace conditions, industry practices and regional climates.

The proposal, issued in 2024, would require businesses in both indoor and outdoor settings to follow detailed rules tied to temperature thresholds. The regulation includes mandatory rest breaks, new safety staffing requirements, heat monitoring standards and extensive recordkeeping obligations.

The senators wrote that many states already deal with extreme heat and have developed workplace strategies that protect employees without imposing what they described as a broad federal mandate.

“We represent the states of Louisiana, Idaho, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri, Texas, and Montana which have experience with high temperatures and whose workplaces have already developed strategies for protecting workers,” the senators wrote. “Protecting workers from a common and easily understandable workplace hazard does not require a prescriptive rule that will cause confusion and, in several circumstances, may even undermine worker safety. Workers and businesses thrive when there are clear standards that are flexible, understandable, and pragmatic.”

The letter argues the proposed rule could disrupt industries ranging from construction and energy to manufacturing and delivery services. Under the proposal, additional safety requirements would take effect at 80 degrees and intensify at 90 degrees, including a mandatory 15-minute rest break every two hours once temperatures reach the higher threshold.

Lawmakers said those requirements could unintentionally create new hazards. For example, they warned roofers could face greater fall risks if required to repeatedly climb down from elevated worksites during mandatory breaks.

Businesses working outdoors may also face conflicts with local noise ordinances that prohibit early morning work, limiting their ability to adjust schedules to avoid peak heat. The senators said mobile workers, including delivery drivers, could struggle to find safe locations for breaks or access cooling areas and water supplies during routes.

The letter also raises concerns about work that cannot easily pause, such as pouring concrete or repairing infrastructure after storms. Interruptions caused by temperature triggers could force workers to extend shifts in the heat or affect the quality of time-sensitive projects.

Under the proposed rule, companies would also be required to appoint heat safety coordinators responsible for overseeing compliance. The senators said the regulation’s requirement that each coordinator supervise no more than 20 workers could force businesses to create new positions solely to meet the mandate, increasing costs particularly for small companies.

Additional concerns focus on the rule’s acclimatization requirements. New employees or workers returning after more than 14 days away would be required to gradually increase heat exposure over three to four days. Lawmakers argued that could discourage hiring workers already accustomed to heat-intensive jobs or disrupt common work schedules in industries such as energy, where employees often follow “14 on, 14 off” rotations.

The proposal would also require businesses with more than 10 employees to develop a detailed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Plan for each worksite. The senators said the site-specific documentation requirements could create compliance challenges for industries with constantly changing job locations such as construction.

They also criticized the rule’s training, hazard alert and water supply mandates, saying the requirements could increase monitoring costs and paperwork while providing little additional safety benefit.

The letter notes that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration already has authority to address heat hazards through its National Emphasis Program and the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Federal inspectors have conducted more than 7,000 heat-related inspections under the program, issuing more than 1,300 hazard alert letters and 60 citations.

The senators said those existing tools allow OSHA to evaluate each workplace individually rather than enforcing a universal rule.

Along with Tuberville and Britt, the letter was signed by Sens. Jim Banks of Indiana, Ted Budd of North Carolina, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, John Cornyn of Texas, Mike Crapo of Idaho, Steve Daines of Montana, Joni Ernst of Iowa, Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi, Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, James Lankford of Oklahoma, Jim Risch of Idaho, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, Tim Sheehy of Montana and Thom Tillis of North Carolina.

The group urged the Labor Department to reconsider the proposed regulation as the rulemaking process continues and focus instead on what they described as practical approaches that prioritize worker safety without imposing what they called burdensome federal mandates.


Kelly Demands Hegseth Clarify “No Quarters” Comment, Reaffirm Troops Have Duty to Refuse Illegal Orders

Read more on NBC News here

Today, U.S. Navy combat veteran and Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) demanded clarification from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth after he publicly said that “no quarter” would be given to enemies of the United States, a phrase with clear meaning under the Law of Armed Conflict, referring to denying enemy combatants the opportunity to surrender and instead killing them. Kelly said that it “is expressly prohibited under international law, including the Geneva and Hague Conventions and would be a war crime punishable under the War Crimes Act of 1996 (18 U.S.C. 2441).”

Kelly wrote,“Your statement that ‘[w]e will keep pushing, keep advancing, no quarter, no mercy for our enemies’ has called that commitment into question. Because members of the United States Armed Forces are legally obligated to comply with the law of armed conflict—and equally obligated not to follow unlawful orders—public statements by senior civilian leaders carry significant weight and can create confusion if they appear inconsistent with those legal obligations.”

“Although you have publicly tried to censure me for restating the legal duty of members of the military not to follow illegal orders, that is not only U.S. military law, but it is also a longstanding legal principle on which every service member is trained during their service. Every member of our Armed Forces swears an oath to support and defend the Constitution, and they are taught to understand that unlawful orders must not be carried out,” Kelly continued.

“Our troops deserve certainty that their leadership gives the utmost respect to the laws that govern armed conflict and has a clear understanding of the importance of the reciprocal rules of engagement that protect their lives. I look forward to your prompt response; I’m sure the over two million service members currently under your command do so as well,” Kelly concluded.


Senator Kim Remembers the Five-Year Anniversary of the Atlanta Spa Shootings, Decries Hate on Visit to Shooting Sites

ATLANTA, GA – Today, Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) released the following video from Atlanta, Georgia in remembrance of the 8 lives stolen in the mass shooting outside of Atlanta five-years ago today: Soon Chung Park, Hyun Jung Grant, Suncha Kim, Yong Yue, Delaina Ashley Yaun, Paul Andre Michels, Xiaojie Tan, and Daoyou Feng.

“It’s the fifth anniversary, and I just think about the continued challenges that we face when it comes to violence and hatred in our country, not just that facing the Asian community, but so much else…So often, we forget about the dangers that we face, the tragedies that occurred, but it’s important that we show this isn’t just important to those here in Atlanta, but it’s important to those of us around the country to stand up against hate in all forms.”

Watch

(Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Bluesky,Threads, Substack)

Senator Kim first visited the sites in the aftermath of the shooting in 2021. In today’s video he reflected: “It was unbelievably powerful to be here. This whole area here was covered in flowers and signs, people, their hearts pouring out…So many people were fearful about the violence affecting the Asian American community at the time. I was asked to come down here by the families of the victims, and I met with them shortly after coming and paying my respects here, to hear their stories about their moms, about their family, about, you know, their concerns about the violence and just how tragic this was.”

In his message, the Senator also recognized the continued challenges to combat hate in our country: “I have colleagues of mine in Congress that are literally attacking pluralism and diversity in our nation, saying that that is not something that we should have, that pluralism is a lie, and I just find that to be so grotesque and disgusting. And it leads often to this type of violence and division within our society.”

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King, Colleagues Re-Introduce Bipartisan Bill Expanding Resources for Public Health Emergency Preparedness

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is re-introducing legislation to strengthen and expand wastewater monitoring systems as a method to track and prevent serious public health emergencies. The Public Health Response and Emergency Detection through Integrated Wastewater Community Testing (PREDICT) Act would authorize wastewater infectious disease surveillance efforts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Wastewater monitoring analyzes sewage to detect viruses and bacteria circulating in a community. Individuals infected with diseases such as measles, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza A can shed viral or bacterial material through everyday activities, even if they do not show symptoms. Tracking wastewater helps public health officials identify potential outbreaks earlier and respond quicker to protect communities.

“Protecting the health of Maine people—and all Americans—is essential to the health of our communities, and information and research is the key to getting and staying ahead of threats,” said Senator King. “By building on the lessons we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, the PREDICT Act will expand the scope of wastewater study to better detect infectious diseases from our communities before they become widespread. I am proud to re-introduce this bill and work together with my colleagues across the aisle on smart, science-focused legislation that will work to prevent dangerous public health emergencies.”

More specifically, the PREDICT Act would:

Direct the CDC to award grants to state, tribal, and local health departments, educational institutions, nonprofits, and public-private partnerships to establish, maintain, or improve wastewater monitoring activities..

Support advanced testing capabilities so laboratories can detect new pathogens quickly and simultaneously track multiple infectious diseases using consistent testing methods.

Improve coverage and transparency by ensuring nationwide geographic representation and create a timely, accessible data dashboard for state and local public health officials.

Promote innovation and flexibility by directing the CDC to issue guidance supporting new technologies and adaptable surveillance systems.

Require a national strategic plan outlining how the CDC will strengthen wastewater monitoring nationwide and maintain an early-warning system capable of detecting emerging health threats.

In addition to King, the legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Corey Booker (D-NJ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Budd, Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Tim Scott (R-SC).

“As we’ve seen in recent years, the threat of infectious disease and public health crises remains an ongoing challenge that requires a well-prepared public health system. Wastewater surveillance systems are vital tools that help warn communities early,” said Senator Booker. “I’m proud to lead the charge and work across the aisle to reintroduce this legislation so we can continue protecting our communities from the spread of disease and ensure public health officials have the tools they need to detect threats early and keep people safe.”

“Improving our ability to track the spread of infectious diseases through our wastewater systems is becoming increasingly important for not only the health and the safety of American families, but also our national security. I am proud to join Senators Booker and Scott in introducing this critical legislation to strengthen our nation’s readiness and increase public transparency to help prevent serious public health emergencies,” said Senator Budd.

“Wastewater often provides early warning signs that infectious diseases could be spreading through our communities. Early detection tools are the first line of defense for families and public health officials. We must keep these monitoring capabilities up-to-date. This legislation would improve current methods to track the spread of infectious diseases and put better measures in place to prepare for public health emergencies,” said Senator Wicker.

“Wastewater monitoring provides communities with an early warning when infectious diseases are spreading,” said Senator Scott. “As South Carolina continues responding to the measles outbreak, it’s clear that early detection tools are critical to protecting families and helping public health officials respond quickly to emerging threats. The PREDICT Act builds on proven methods to track infectious diseases, improve transparency, and ensure our nation is better prepared for future public health emergencies.”

“Verily is proud to support the PREDICT Act as a vital step toward ensuring a robust national public health capability that provides transparent and trusted real-time data for decision-making. This legislation bolsters the tools every community needs to identify infectious disease threats to prevent illness across the nation,” said Dr. Andrew Trister the Chief Medical and Scientific Officer at Verily.

Senator King is a leader on improving our infectious disease monitoring and prevention efforts. In addition to being a previous author of the PREDICT Act, Senator King has led previous letters in Fiscal Years (FY) 2026, 2025, and 2024 advocating for increased funding and improvements to the CDC’s infectious disease wastewater surveillance work. Senator King also successfully included in the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (Sec. 733) a provision that would require the Department of Defense to initiate an infectious disease wastewater surveillance pilot program. Senator King is a co-lead on the Kay Hagan Tick Act, which has improved tickborne disease monitoring efforts under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Additionally, Senator King has previously authorization efforts of the SMASH Act, which has provided authorities for CDC to fund mosquito prevention programs.

Senator King also worked to strengthen public health infrastructure and provide the necessary healthcare and medical resources to Maine communities. King worked to negotiate the American Rescue Plan which provided critical funding for vaccine distribution efforts, in addition to helping states and communities survive the economic toll of the pandemic. He also stressed the need to continue exercising the Defense Production Act (DPA) authorities to boost domestic manufacturing of critical COVID-19 resources when demand wanes to ensure the country can respond to unforeseen pandemic developments in the future, and he similarly urged the administration recently to better address domestic capacity to manufacture supplies for future response to infectious disease threats.

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With Oil Prices Spiking, Klobuchar Renews Calls for Year-Round E15

Klobuchar calls on Congressional colleagues to finally pass year-round E15.

WASHINGTON – In a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing, Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) renewed calls to make E15 available to sell year-round. Since the outbreak of war in Iran, gas prices have risen sharply, causing pain at the pump for Americans.

"With gas prices spiking, now's the time to make E15 available year-round,” said Klobuchar. “It will help lower costs and decrease our dependence on foreign oil."

A video of Ranking Member Klobuchar’s questions during the hearing is HERE.

In the hearing, Klobuchar heard directly from agriculture leaders about the need to strengthen domestic commodity markets and reduce costs at the pump. E15 is about 25 cents lower per gallon than regular gasoline.

Klobuchar has long been a strong advocate for investing in renewable fuel infrastructure, increasing American biofuel production, and upholding the Clean Air Act’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

In April 2025, Klobuchar and Senator Grassley (R-IA) led a bipartisan letter urging the EPA to strengthen the RFS by raising Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) levels for biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels. The letter also pushed back against the flagrant abuse of Small Refinery Exemptions (SREs) and asked that all gallons waived by legitimate waivers be accounted for in the final RVOs.

In July 2025, Klobuchar, along with Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), introduced the Ethanol for America Act to improve access to E15 by confirming the compatibility of E15 with existing underground fuel storage and dispensing equipment. The bill would ensure business owners are not required to make costly and unnecessary infrastructure changes to sell ethanol blends up to 15 percent.

In February 2024, Klobuchar and Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) led a group of 40 bipartisan members of Congress urging the Biden Administration to act quickly to ensure that the model used to determine eligibility for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) tax credits unlocks the potential held by farmers, ethanol producers, and airlines to reduce carbon emissions from aviation.

In January 2024, Klobuchar, along with Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced the Farm to Fly Act. This legislation would help accelerate the production and development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs and allow further growth for alternative fuels to be used in the aviation sector, creating new markets for American farmers.

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Luján, Budzinski Introduce Legislation to Strengthen the Resilience of the U.S. Food Supply Chains

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, introduced the Grocery, Farm, and Food Worker Stabilization Grant Program Act, legislation that would create a new, permanent grant program to provide stabilization payments to farm, grocery, and meatpacking workers in the case a major disaster.

In 2021, the United States Department of Agriculture created the Farm and Food Workers Relief (FFWR) Grant Program to help farm, grocery, and meatpacking workers with COVID-19 pandemic-related health and safety costs. The FFWR Grant Program distributed nearly $680 million in competitive grant funding to farm, grocery, and meatpacking workers for expenses incurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Grocery, Farm, and Food Worker Stabilization Grant Program Act would create a new, permanent grant program similar to the FFWR Grant Program to provide stabilization payments to farm, grocery, and meatpacking workers in the case of a natural disaster or other disaster as determined by the President or Governor of the impacted state.

“Across the country, our farm, grocery, and meatpacking workers show up day in and day out to perform the demanding and often dangerous work necessary to keep our communities fed,” said Senator Luján. “The COVID-19 pandemic showed us exactly how fragile our food supply chains can be, and we must learn from the past and work to strengthen the resilience of our food system. That is why I am partnering with Representative Budzinski on this legislation that would provide the vital support our farm, grocery, and meatpacking workers need to ensure our communities stay fed in times of disaster and crisis.”

“During disasters, workers at grocery stores, farms, and meatpacking plants are on the front lines, ensuring families in Illinois and across the country continue to have access to safe, reliable food,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “With global instability on the rise, there’s no better time to strengthen the resilience of our food system. I’m proud to partner with Senator Luján and grateful for the support of the UFCW as we work to protect the workers who keep our food system running and our families fed.”

“We are proud to endorse the Grocery, Farm and Food Worker Stabilization Grant Program Act. This legislation would create a program to compensate millions of workers across the food supply chain who risk their lives to keep families fed when disaster or crisis strikes. While the now-terminated Farm and Food Workers Relief (FFWR) Grant Program provided some relief to frontline food workers during the pandemic, it would be a grave mistake to ignore the lessons we’ve learned regarding just how vulnerable our food chain can be. Permanent programs are needed to ensure these essential workers are adequately supported, and families continue to have access to food and supplies in times of crisis. We applaud Sen. Luján (D-NM) and Rep. Budzinski (D-IL) for their leadership,” said UFCW International President Milton Jones.

The Grocery, Farm, and Food Worker Stabilization Grant Program Act is endorsed by the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW).

Full bill text is available here.

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Luján, Heinrich, Leger Fernández Announce Release of $120 Million in Funding for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian Affairs, announced that the Bureau of Reclamation has expedited the release of $120 million in funding for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project from its Reclamation Water Settlements Fund.

This announcement directly follows Senator Luján’s questioning during a Senate Indian Affairs Committee hearing last week where he pressed Scott Cameron, the Acting Commissioner of Bureau of Reclamation, regarding the hold up in distributing the $120 million in approved funding through the Reclamation Water Settlements Fund.

“Ensuring that the Navajo Nation, City of Gallup, and Jicarilla Apache Nation have access to safe, clean, and reliable drinking water is vital for the health and well-being of rural and Tribal communities,” said Senator Luján. “This year, I was proud to help raise the cost ceiling in the Reclamation Water Settlements Fund so that the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project could access $120 million in much needed funds. Raising the cap was critical, but the funding was not guaranteed. That is why last week, I pressed the Acting Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation to dedicate that funding immediately. I received a commitment from the Bureau of Reclamation that they would prioritize the project, and today, I am proud to announce that the Bureau of Reclamation has expedited the full $120 million in funding to support the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project. This is a critical step forward, and I remain committed to seeing this project through to completion.”

“Dependable water supplies are critical to the long-term health and safety of Tribal communities,” said Senator Heinrich, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee. “This much-needed $120 million from the Bureau of Reclamation builds on the $55 million I recently secured and got signed into law through my work on the Senate Appropriations Committee. Together, these investments will help deliver clean, reliable water to Tribal communities and the City of Gallup. And I will continue holding the federal government accountable to its trust and treaty obligations and fighting for the resources needed to complete long-overdue water infrastructure projects across New Mexico.”

“Too many homes and businesses on the Navajo Nation and Jicarilla Apache Nation still lack indoor plumbing,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. “Gallup and other communities don’t have the water infrastructure they need for their health care, businesses, and residents. This $120 million funding moves us closer to the day when these communities can turn on a tap and trust that water will flow. This happened only because we were able to raise the project’s budget ceiling in the FY26 appropriations bill in both the House and Senate. It shows how good relationships and the powerful story of this project make things possible — even in a Congress that sometimes feels broken beyond repair. I’m grateful to my Republican and Democratic colleagues on appropriations for listening to the stories of the people that need the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.”

Background:

Senators Luján and Heinrich and Congresswoman Leger Fernández have long supported efforts to fund and complete the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.

Senator Luján introduced the original Navajo-Gallup Water Supply legislation in the House of Representatives when he represented New Mexico’s 3rd Congressional District. That original authorization was part of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009.

The Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project settled the Navajo Nation’s water rights in the San Juan Basin of New Mexico and funded the design and construction of the waterline to reach an estimated 250,000 people by the year 2040. Upon completion, the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project will provide a long-term, sustainable water supply from the San Juan River to roughly 43 Chapters on the eastern Navajo Nation, the southwestern portion of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, and the City of Gallup, which currently rely on a rapidly depleting groundwater supply of poor quality.

In January 2026, Senators Luján and Heinrich secured $55 million to support the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project in the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development appropriations bill. Senators Luján and Heinrich and Congresswoman Leger Fernández also raised the project’s cost ceiling to allow the Bureau of Reclamation to release $120 million for Fiscal Year 2026 for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project through its Reclamation Water Settlements Fund.

In July 2025, Senator Luján pressed nominee for Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, Billy Kirkland, on commitment to fund and complete the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.

In March 2025, Senator Luján passed the Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project Amendments out of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. The bill amends the Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project to ensure it has the resources and time needed to reach completion to deliver drinking water to northwestern New Mexico communities.

In January 2025, Senators Luján and Heinrich and Congresswoman Leger Fernández announced $120 million for Fiscal Year 2025 for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project using funding from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s Reclamation Water Settlements Fund.

In August 2024, Senators Luján, Heinrich and Congresswoman Leger Fernández welcomed a $267 million Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project contract to design and build the San Juan Lateral Water Treatment Plant in northwest New Mexico. The plant is the largest and most important feature of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.

For more information about the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project, click here.

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ICYMI: Senator Markey and Former CDC Director Rochelle Walensky Op-Ed in Newsweek: “America Is Getting Sicker, Not Healthier, Under Trump and RFK Jr.”

Read the full piece in Newsweek

Washington (March 16, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security, and Dr. Rochelle Walensky, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director under President Joe Biden, published an op-ed in Newsweek titled, “America Is Getting Sicker, Not Healthier, Under Trump and RFK Jr.”

Senator Markey and Dr. Walensky detail the damage that Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has done to Massachusetts’ and the country’s health infrastructure as he has sown seeds of distrust in medicine and science, particularly vaccines, and taken a sledgehammer to life-saving research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other health and research institutions. Under RFK Jr.’s tenure, in Massachusetts alone, the flu has already killed 300 people, including eight children; NIH disrupted funding to 18 clinical trials, affecting 13,000 patients; and two Massachusetts hospital systems were unable to recruit a single infectious disease trainee, reflecting a growing shortage of infectious disease physicians.

America Is Getting Sicker, Not Healthier, Under Trump and RFK Jr.

By Edward J. Markey and Rochelle Walensky

Published March 14, 2026

“President Trump and RFK, Jr. promised to “Make America Healthy Again.” But instead, the administration has done quite the opposite—hollowing out our nation’s health agencies, promoting vaccine mis- and disinformation and leaving us less prepared for the next public health emergency. The measles outbreaks make it obvious: we are fighting yesterday’s diseases—not tomorrow’s. America is getting sicker, not healthier.”

Read the full opinion piece in Newsweek.

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Senator Markey Blasts Trump Administration Plan to Allow Deepwater Drilling in the Gulf of Mexico

Washington (March 16, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), the leading Congressional investigator into the BP oil spill disaster, blasted the Department of the Interior’s approval of BP’s Kaskida project, a $5-billion offshore oil project in the Gulf of Mexico, which will have significant negative consequences for nearby communities and ecosystems.

In 2010, as then-Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment, Senator Markey led a bipartisan Congressional delegation to the Gulf of Mexico to assess the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and its impacts. Senator Markey also chaired the first congressional hearing to investigate the spill.

“The Trump administration’s approval of BP’s latest deepwater oil drilling project is part of Trump’s Big Oil payback campaign that is polluting communities and seeing countries bombed, all to reap profits for his fossil fuel donors. BP, the company responsible for the Deepwater Horizon disaster – the worst oil spill in U.S. history – does not have adequate safety measures in place to contain a disastrous high-pressure spill from their new project, and, Congress has not managed to pass any significant safety legislation to protect communities and ecosystems from the impacts of deepwater drilling since the Deepwater Horizon explosion.

“In August, I warned that approving this project could lead to a catastrophic oil spill of millions of barrels – an estimate echoed by BP’s own numbers. And now, as Trump’s illegal and reckless war in Iran creates chaos in global oil markets and hikes the price of gasoline for Americans nationwide, oil producers in the Gulf of Mexico are poised to bring in windfall profits by exporting their product abroad to the highest bidder – while their destruction stays at home. It’s time to stop Trump’s Big Oil criminal enterprise.”

Senator Markey has long been an opponent of the dangers of offshore drilling, leading his colleagues in calling on the Trump administration to protect the coastlines of the United States from offshore oil drilling. In August 2025, Senator Markey, House Natural Resources Ranking Member Jared Huffman (CA-02), Vice Ranking Member Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), and Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee Ranking Member Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) wrote to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) urging the agency to reject BP’s proposed Kaskida project in the Gulf of Mexico. Senator Markey has cosponsored the COAST Anti-Drilling Act (S. 1486), which would permanently prohibit the Department of the Interior from issuing leases for the exploration, development, or production of oil and gas in the North Atlantic, Mid-Atlantic, South Atlantic, and Straits of Florida Planning Areas of the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.

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Sen. Moran Statement on Passing of Ron Rahjes

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement on the passing of Ron Rahjes of Kensington:

“I am saddened by the passing of my friend Ron Rahjes, who I knew for more than 30 years. His life is an example of the difference one person can make in their community and in the lives of others. Born and raised in Kensington, Ron was passionate about preserving the rural way of life in Kansas, working on the family farm, supporting the agriculture community and graduating in the very first class of the Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership Program. He was a man of faith, a devoted member of his church and a beloved husband and father. Ron never met a stranger, and he treated everyone with respect and kindness. Robba and I are praying for his wife Cynthia and their children and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed.”

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Murray, Senators Investigate Social Security Agency’s Customer Service Chaos Reaching “New Extremes”

Trump’s Social Security head has disrupted Social Security staffing, services

Nearly two-thirds of Social Security employees report customer service has declined in the past year

Senators: “Your forced staff reassignments are harming Social Security beneficiaries, endangering the accuracy of claims, and wasting taxpayer dollars.”

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, joined Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ranking Member of the Special Committee on Aging, Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Committee on Finance, in launching a new investigation into the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) ongoing customer service crisis reaching new extremes, the latest from Senate Democrats’ Social Security War Room. In a new letter to Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano, the senators raised concerns that his staffing cuts and staff reassignments have left the agency unable to “fully serve” the nearly 75 million Americans who rely on the program.

“(Staff) reassignments are band-aid solutions to patch over ongoing service problems that have plagued the agency under your leadership,” wrote the senators, highlighting ongoing staffing shortages and field office closures.

Staff cuts have left the agency with an average of only one field office representative per nearly 4,000 beneficiaries—a ratio that is 12 percent higher than it was before the cuts. With over 100,000 people visiting their local SSA office every day, these staffing reductions translate to declining customer service. According to a recent survey of SSA employees, nearly two-thirds reported that “service quality had declined in the past 12 months” and 70 percent reported “service speed had declined.”

Over the last year, the Trump administration has slashed SSA’s workforce by over 7,000 employees, causing some rural field offices to close. At the same time, SSA is short-staffing field offices in an effort to eliminate 15 million in-person field office visits, forcing seniors and people with disabilities to wait even longer for an appointment or wait hours on the phone to speak with a live agent.

Instead of fixing those problems, Bisignano has attempted to cover up the mess by reassigning employees and seeking technological shortcuts to paper over staff shortages. Some of those reassignments include pulling expert employees away from SSA’s “disability adjudication, financial and management, field office services, risk and quality, digital services and chief information officer units” to help answer SSA’s national phone line.

“This entire process of firing and pushing out call service staff, re-assigning other employees to serve as call center staff, and now rehiring a whole new set of inexperienced call service staff…is a costly, wasteful process that only adds to the customer service chaos,” wrote the senators.

Reassigned employees are reportedly now only receiving three hours of training before starting on the SSA help line, despite the agency claiming they would receive eight hours of training. Employees familiar with handling the phone line say that eight hours of training is “insufficient due to the complexity of issues that can arise on a call.” The impacts of this lack of training are already becoming apparent — with literal life and death consequences. Newly reassigned employees have reported that they are receiving alarming guidance on handling callers expressing suicidal thoughts, including reminding callers “that suicide is only one option.”

Bisignano’s past responses to Congress about staff reassignments and field office wait times failed to provide details on the number of employees reassigned or clarify the length of their reassignments. He has also failed to answer the senators’ metric-specific questions on the initial results of reassignments.

“Your forced staff reassignments are harming Social Security beneficiaries, endangering the accuracy of claims, and wasting taxpayer dollars. When SSA pulls employees away from already understaffed field offices or from processing backlogs in claims, customer service and the timely delivery of benefits suffer,” wrote the senators.

The senators asked Bisignano to provide information about the ongoing staff reassignments and customer service problems at SSA by March 27, 2026.

Senate Democrats’ Social Security War Room coordinates Democrats’ fight to defend Social Security, encourages grassroots engagement by providing opportunities for Americans to share what Social Security means to them, and educates Senate staff, the American public, and stakeholders about Republicans’ agenda and their continued cuts to Americans’ Social Security services and benefits.

The full letter is available HERE.

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Padilla, Curtis Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Save Our Sequoias Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), co-chair of the Senate Wildfire Caucus, and John Curtis (R-Utah) introduced the Save Our Sequoias Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to protect giant sequoias from the growing threat of wildfires, insects, and disease. Representatives Vince Fong (R-Calif.-20) and Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Giant sequoias, the world’s largest trees, are found in roughly 70 groves across 37,000 acres in California. Over the last century, dangerous fuel buildups around giant sequoia groves have led to massive destruction from increasingly intense wildfires. In the last decade, nearly 20% of these iconic trees have been lost.

This bill would enhance interagency coordination, accelerate forest restoration efforts, and provide important resources to land managers to guard these ancient trees from further destruction. It would help reverse the damage caused by catastrophic wildfires and restore the resilience of giant sequoias groves — which provide critical ecological, scientific, and cultural benefits.

“For millennia, giant sequoia trees have been a cornerstone of California’s rich natural heritage, offering stunning recreation opportunities, vibrant natural habitats, and critical protections from wildfires and climate change,” said Senator Padilla. “However, immense fuel buildups, forest mismanagement, increasingly long wildfire seasons, and other threats from insects and disease have decimated nearly a fifth of these ecological marvels in the past decade alone. We must work across the aisle to strengthen the resiliency of these groves to ensure these California icons endure for generations to come.”

“Wildfires across the nation are burning longer and hotter than ever before, due to outdated forest management policies and increased fuel build-up,” said Senator Curtis. “Land managers need the tools, coordination, and resources to reduce wildfire risk, restore forests, and ensure the next generation of growth can flourish. The Save Our Sequoias Act is an important complement to our broader bipartisan effort to manage and maintain our vibrant natural resources.”

“California’s Giant Sequoia groves are a symbol of our state’s natural heritage in the Central Valley, and we need to take immediate action to preserve them for future generations,” said Representative Fong. “I was proud to lead this bipartisan bill in the House and thank Senator Padilla for spearheading this important effort in the Senate. This legislation will return resilience to our forests by streamlining science-based management and enhancing collaboration between state, federal, and tribal partners. Our iconic Giant Sequoias are a true national treasure and must be protected.”

“For generations, the majestic giant sequoia has provided innumerable cultural, environmental, and recreational benefits to humans,” said Representative Peters. “Unfortunately, insufficient land management and climate change have led to increasingly severe fires that threaten the survival of giant sequoias and the stability of the climate. In just one year, the California wildfires that threaten the Sequoias contributed more to climate change than the state’s entire power sector. Our Save Our Sequoias Act charts a new path forward in federal forest and wildfire policy to combat climate change and ensure the giant sequoias stand safely in their natural habitat for years to come.”

Speeding up science-based forest treatments will boost resilience, improve water and air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and protect vital habitats. Specifically, the Save Our Sequoias Act would:

Establish a comprehensive reforestation strategy to regenerate giant sequoias in groves destroyed by recent wildfires, helping to ensure their long-term survival.

Codify existing emergency procedures and maintain robust scientific analysis to accelerate necessary forest treatments.

Codify the Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition, an ongoing collaboration between federal, state, Tribal, and local land managers.

Establish a Giant Sequoia Health and Resiliency Assessment to prioritize forest management projects, track progress, and study the trees’ health and resiliency over time.

Create a protection fund through the National Park Foundation to promote the resiliency of giant sequoia groves.

The Save Our Sequoias Act is endorsed by groups including Save the Redwoods League and the Tule River Tribe.

“Save the Redwoods League is grateful for Senator Padilla’s leadership to advance restoration and reforestation efforts across the giant sequoia range, where nearly 20% of mature giant sequoias have perished in recent years due to extreme wildfires,” said Ben Friedman, Director of Government Affairs and Public Funding at Save the Redwoods League. “By officially declaring this crisis as an emergency, this bill will help Save the Redwoods and our Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition partners boost the fire resilience of the most at-risk groves. We look forward to working with Senators Padilla and Curtis to pass science-driven legislation that provides the resources necessary to accelerate much-needed restoration work for these iconic forests.”

“The Tule River Tribe is thankful to Senator Padilla for introducing this bipartisan legislation,” said Chairman Neil Peyron, Tule River Tribe. “The bill empowers resourceful experts and stewards to employ critical resiliency efforts to combat the very real threat of fire that plagues our sacred Sequoia groves.”

In the aftermath of the catastrophic Southern California fires, Padilla has introduced more than a dozen bills to help prevent and respond to future wildfires. Last year, he and Senator Curtis introduced the Senate version of the Fix Our Forests Act, bipartisan legislation to combat catastrophic wildfires, restore forest ecosystems, and make federal forest management more efficient and responsive. Last January, Padilla introduced a suite of bipartisan bills to strengthen wildfire recovery and resilience, including the Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act, the Fire Suppression and Response Funding Assurance Act, and the Disaster Housing Reform for American Families Act. In February, Padilla introduced bipartisan legislation to create a national Wildfire Intelligence Center to streamline federal response and create a whole-of-government approach to combat wildfires. He also announced another package of three bipartisan bills to bolster fire resilience and proactive mitigation efforts, including the Wildfire Emergency Act, the Fire-Safe Electrical Corridors Act, and the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act. On the one-year anniversary of the Los Angeles fires, Padilla and Senator Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) announced bipartisan legislation to establish a new grant program to help local communities defend themselves from the growing danger of wildfires.

Full text of the bill is available here.

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Padilla, Schiff, Swalwell, Colleagues Demand Answers After Deaf Six-Year-Old Deported Without Hearing Devices

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) joined U.S. Representatives Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.-14), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.-44), Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.-15), and Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.-12) in demanding answers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State following the deportation of a Hayward mother and her two young children, including her six-year-old son, Joseph, who was removed from the country without his assistive hearing devices.

The lawmakers outlined serious humanitarian and due process concerns surrounding the deportation of Lesly Rodriguez Gutierrez and her children after they appeared for a routine immigration check-in in San Francisco. According to the family’s attorney, Rodriguez Gutierrez complied with the law and presented herself for the required check-in, where she and her children were detained and swiftly deported to Colombia.

Joseph had been learning American Sign Language and attending school in the United States before the deportation. According to the family, his removal from his community and support system has led to severe isolation and distress. The family has filed applications for humanitarian parole that would allow them to return to the United States while Joseph’s medical and educational needs are addressed and the circumstances of the deportation are investigated.

“The deportation of six-year-old Joseph Londono Rodriguez and his family is inhumane and inexcusable. Donald Trump’s out-of-control ICE and CBP continue terrorizing California communities through indiscriminate immigration enforcement, going as far as disappearing a deaf first-grader without his hearing aids during a routine immigration check in,” said Senator Padilla. “The cruelty and lawlessness have to end. We’re demanding the Trump Administration bring Ms. Rodriguez Gutierrez and her sons back immediately to a safe community away from isolation where Joseph can receive the specialized accommodations and continuity of care he needs.”

“The deportation of a deaf child seeking asylum and his family from the Bay Area is yet another tragic example of how Donald Trump’s indiscriminate immigration raids are targeting the most vulnerable among us,” said Senator Schiff. “Joseph Londono Rodriguez should be at home in California, and we will do all we can to reverse this.”

“What did this family do wrong?” said Representative Swalwell. “The deportation of a young deaf child without the assistive hearing devices he needs is dangerous. Sadly, there appears to be no line this administration won’t cross. I’m past frustration. I’m outraged. We will not allow this treatment to continue. My colleagues and I are demanding answers, and we demand them now.”

“There is no excuse for ICE to have taken away 6-year-old Joseph’s hearing aids. None. To take away a young child’s tools that help him to hear is a cruelty that is both disgusting and pointless. Shame on DHS and ICE. They must work to bring the family back to the US and get Joseph the care he needs and deserves,” said Representative Barragán.

“It’s really unconscionable to deport a deaf six-year-old without his hearing devices. This administration claimed that they were targeting the worst of the worst with their immigration policies, and yet they’re going after disabled children. The Gutierrez family was trying to follow the law, and they need to be returned to their home in Hayward,” said Representative Lofgren.

“Deporting a six-year-old deaf child while refusing to let him retrieve his hearing aids is a truly shameful example of the Trump Administration’s utterly inhumane and chaotic approach to immigration. I am hard of hearing and know firsthand how essential hearing aids are, yet I can still only imagine the terror and unnecessary trauma this poor child endured under DHS. I have also visited the California School for the Deaf where this young child attended, and my heart breaks for his family and the entire community. I join my colleagues in demanding DHS immediately answer why they failed to follow disability protections and explain the legal basis for ICE’s ridiculously cruel actions in this case,” said Representative Mullin.

“The Administration’s treatment of the Rodriguez Gutierrez family and their deaf 6-year-old son is cruel, unnecessary, and sickening. As the first congenitally blind Member to serve in Congress, I join my California colleagues in demanding answers and holding the Department of Homeland Security accountable for their disturbing treatment of minors with disabilities — so this never happens again,” said Representative Simon. “No government that calls itself humane would treat people like this, and we will keep pushing until this deportation machine that is terrorizing families is stopped.”

The lawmakers called on DHS and the State Department to immediately work with the family’s legal representatives to facilitate the family’s return to the United States through humanitarian parole, allowing Joseph to regain access to the specialized care, services, and stability he needs while the circumstances of the deportation are reviewed.

The California lawmakers requested detailed information from the Trump Administration, including:

The legal basis for detaining and deporting Rodriguez Gutierrez and her children after appearing for a scheduled immigration check-in.

Evidence supporting claims that she “agreed” to deportation and whether she had access to legal counsel before any such agreement.

What assessment, if any, was conducted regarding Joseph’s disability and his need for assistive hearing devices.

Why immigration officials withheld the child’s hearing devices during the deportation process.

Whether DHS complied with federal disability protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act, which require reasonable accommodations and continuity of care.

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Acting Secretary of Homeland Security and Secretary Rubio:

We write to express our outrage at the recent deportation of Lesly Rodriguez Gutierrez and her two young children from Hayward, California to Colombia, including her six-year-old son, Joseph, who is deaf. According to the family’s attorney, the family presented for their immigration check-in in San Francisco, as required by law, where they were taken into custody, detained, and deported to Colombia. They followed the law, but they were still punished.

Particularly troubling is the fact that Joseph, a six-year-old child with a hearing disability, was removed from the United States without his assistive hearing devices. The deportation of a young child with a disability, without his aids, under these circumstances raises serious humanitarian and due-process concerns. Children with disabilities require continuity of care, specialized support, and appropriate accommodations—none of which occurred when this child was deported without his medical devices. Removing a six-year-old deaf child from the United States without the basic medical and assistive equipment he relies on is unacceptable.

While U.S. immigration laws are complex, the United States has long recognized the importance of humanitarian considerations, particularly when children and individuals with disabilities and medical devices are involved. The circumstances surrounding this family’s detention and rapid deportation are unacceptable.

We strongly urge that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State urgently work with the family’s legal representatives to facilitate the family’s return to the United States through humanitarian parole so that Joseph can access the medical support, services, and stability he requires as the circumstances of his detention and deportation can be thoroughly reviewed.

This case needs urgent answers. Accordingly, we request information on the following:

1. What is the legal basis for the detention and expedited deportation of Ms. Rodriguez Gutierrez and her children after appearing for a scheduled immigration check-in?

a. In prior statements about this case DHS has claimed that Ms. Rodriguez Gutierrez “agreed” to her deportation and removal. Please provide evidence of this agreement.

b. Did DHS provide Ms. Rodriguez Gutierrez the opportunity to have a legal consultation prior to alleged agreement?

2. What assessment was conducted regarding Joseph’s disability and his need for assistive hearing devices and specialized support?

a. Who conducted this assessment?

3. Why did immigration officials withhold Joseph’s assistive hearing devices from a 6-year-old child during the deportation process?

4. DHS policies require compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which mandate reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, and ICE detention standards require continuity of medical care and access to necessary assistive devices during detention and removal. In this case, a six-year-old deaf child was deported without his hearing devices. Why did DHS not comply with this law?

5. How many minors with disabilities have been deprived of their assistive devices, including but not limited to wheelchairs, prosthetics, hearing devices, or other necessities during the deportation process?

This case raises serious concerns about the treatment of vulnerable families and children in immigration proceedings. Ms. Rodriguez Gutierrez reports that Joseph is struggling since their detention and arrival in Colombia. Joseph was learning American Sign Language. His removal from our community has caused deep isolation as he’s no longer afforded the ability to attend a school with friends, teachers, and a support system that he can effectively communicate with. This has caused a concerning change in his demeanor and even his appetite.

The family has filed applications for humanitarian parole that would allow them to return to the United States to properly address Joseph’s needs and allow the family to live in an environment that is safe and supportive. We urge your agencies to review this matter immediately and work with the family’s legal representatives to ensure that humanitarian protections are upheld.

We request a response as soon as possible. Given the urgency of the matter, we expect a response to our questions and action to remedy this egregious situation by March 20, 2026.

Sincerely,

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Peters & Slotkin Press National Weather Service for Answers on Lack of Tornado Watch Alert for Southwest Michigan Tornadoes

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Elissa Slotkin (MI) are pressing the National Weather Service (NWS) for answers after the agency issued no tornado watch alert ahead of the four March 6, 2026 tornadoes that devastated Southwest Michigan communities, claiming the lives of four people and injuring more than 20 others. In a letter to NWS Director Ken Graham, the senators asked for clarity into what prevented NWS from issuing the watch and what changes are necessary to improve NWS’ ability to provide timely and accurate forecasting, predictions, and alerts moving forward.

“We mourn for those who lost their lives to this storm, and we stand fully prepared to work with the impacted families and communities to begin the process of rebuilding and recovering,” Peters and Slotkin wrote. “At the same time, we seek to better understand how this tragic event unfolded and what changes are required to better protect public safety and avoid such tragic loss of life during future extreme weather events.”

The storm included four separate tornadoes across Cass, St. Joseph, Calhoun, and Branch Counties. The Branch County tornado, in particular, was the strongest tornado to hit Michigan in nearly fifty years, reaching max speeds of 160 mph. Despite the storm’s severity, NWS reportedly did not issue a tornado watch alert prior to the first tornado touching down. The senators asked Director Graham to clarify what led to NWS’ failure to adequately warn the public and if the Trump Administration’s self-inflicted staffing shortages, which have impacted Michigan’s five forecasting offices, contributed to this outcome.

The senators asked, “Was a lack of staff and/or resources a contributing factor to NWS’s inability to issue a tornado watch alert ahead of the March 6 tornadoes? What, if anything, would have allowed the responsible NWS offices to identify the supercell that produced these tornadoes more quickly and, in turn, issue a tornado watch alert ahead of the first touchdown?”

The senators also expressed their willingness to work alongside NWS to determine what steps can be taken to better protect Michigan communities from extreme weather events in the future.

You can read the full letter here.

Peters is leading bipartisan legislation that would help ensure NWS can continue to provide 24/7 weather forecasting in communities across the United States. Specifically, the bill would exempt critical NWS positions from any executive orders imposing a hiring freeze, allowing the agency to adequately staff positions that are essential to notifying the public of extreme weather events that could be detrimental to people or property.

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Senator Peters Helps Senate Pass Bipartisan Legislation to Make Housing More Affordable

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped the Senate pass the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, bipartisan legislation that would make progress to bring housing costs down for Michigan families by growing the current housing supply and improving federal programs that help communities develop new housing projects. The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives.

“In nearly every Michigan community, the message I’m hearing from my constituents is the same, housing costs are too high,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to join a bipartisan group of my Senate colleagues in passing this bill, which makes important reforms that will expand housing stock in our communities, helping to lower costs and putting the American dream of homeownership within reach for families across Michigan and the United States.”

This comprehensive package includes numerous reforms, including provisions to:

Create new grant programs to help make critical home repairs that modernize our current housing stock.

Require the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to increase multifamily loan limits to match housing market costs.

Reauthorize the HOME Program and allow for new flexibilities to convert run-down buildings into new housing units.

Expand eligible uses of the Community Development Block Grant Program to include affordable housing construction.

Reauthorize the Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery Program.

Lift existing caps on the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program. This provision will help additional public housing authorities to convert legacy Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) projects into Project Based Rental Assistance Housing.

Reform the USDA’s Rural Housing Service Program to preserve housing units in rural areas.

Peters has previously called for action to address the affordable housing crisis in Michigan. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Peters has also secured federal funding for affordable housing projects across Michigan.

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Senator Schmitt Calls for Passage of SCAM Act to Expand Denaturalization Process on Fox News

Slams Democrats for Defunding DHS, Leaving America Vulnerable to Terror Attacks

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) joined Fox News’ America’s Newsroom to call for passage of his SCAM Act to expand the denaturalization process and slam Democrats for their refusal to fund the Department of Homeland Security, leaving America vulnerable to attacks here at home.

Watch the full interview HERE.

Senator Schmitt on the SCAM Act:

“The Democrats ultimately are more obsessed with defunding ICE than they are protecting the American people. This is part and parcel of Trump Derangement Syndrome. We should be funding the Department of Homeland Security at this moment; the risk is certainly heightened. The Democrats are playing petty politics about it. And look, the fact is, Joe Biden and the Democrats let in 15 million people here illegally. We do not know who a lot of these people are. There are tens of thousands of murderers, hundreds of thousands of violent criminals that are in our communities because of Democrat policies. And so, we need to make sure DHS is funded. The deportations need to continue. We also need to expand the category, Dana, of people who can be denaturalized and sent home, who are, you know, reforming the legal immigration system, because I’ve got a bill called the SCAM Act that would allow us to do that. If you’ve committed acts of terrorism, if you’ve committed the welfare fraud like we saw in Minneapolis, if you’re part of a cartel, if you’re engaged in that kind of activity, we can denaturalize you and send you home. Sadly, right now it’s very difficult to do that. It’s very rare, and so we need to close the border, which has effectively been done. The deportations need to continue, and we need to open up the process for denaturalization.”

Senator Schmitt on Democrat Policies Failing to Keep Americans Safe:

“They’re trying to appease their radical base. I mean the party, I don’t know any other word to say it, they’ve become radicalized. And you know, it was defund the police a few years ago, now it’s defund ICE. They’ve been at war with law enforcement now for the better part of a decade, and it’s making Americans less safe. And just to put that in perspective, what are sanctuary jurisdictions Dana? What are they really? It is when a local government or local officials refuse to tell federal law enforcement like ICE, when a convicted rapist or murderer is being released from prison. That’s what it is. Think about how sick that is. That’s what they’re willing to do, because they care more about not deporting people than the safety of Americans in their own communities. So, this is an inverted morality. It’s nuts.”

Senator Schmitt on DHS Shutdown Hurting American Workers:

“It’s possible. Look, they’re now on their second paycheck of not receiving a second paycheck. And if you stay connected, unlike the Democrats, you stay connected to real people’s lives, most people can’t do that, right? Some people are going to look for other jobs. They’re going to leave. These people have been charged with keeping the homeland safe. The idea that the Democrats are holding that funding hostage for their radical agenda of defunding ICE is totally nuts. It’s not popular with the American people. My hope is that they’ll come to their senses. We’re going to go to the SAVE America Act this week. We’re going to also continue to try to fund DHS, the Democrats are on the wrong side of both of these big, important issues.”

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Sen. Tim Scott participates in fireside chat on the legacy of Robert Smalls at Fort Moultrie

CHARLESTON, S.C. — This weekend, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) co-hosted The Faith and Politics Institute’s Annual Pilgrimage in Charleston, South Carolina alongside Congressman James E. Clyburn (D-SC-06). Sen. Scott participated in a fireside chat reflecting on the life and legacy of Robert Smalls against the historic backdrop of Fort Moultrie. The event followed a brief tour of the fort and brought together more than 200 participants, including several Members of Congress.

The conversation, titled “The Greatness of this Country That Produced Robert Smalls,” featured historian Bernard Powers of the College of Charleston and was moderated by Robert Traynham of the Faith and Politics Institute. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, this year’s congressional pilgrimage offered Members of Congress and leaders a powerful opportunity for reflection and growth.

“Standing in Charleston, where Robert Smalls sailed himself from slavery to freedom, reminded all of us that the promise of America is not just a place, it is an idea, a story, and a people. The Faith and Politics Pilgrimage brought Members of Congress and our communities together across every difference to wrestle honestly with that story, and to recommit ourselves to the more perfect union it demands of us,” said Sen. Scott.

“It was my pleasure to welcome my Congressional colleagues, partners, and community members to the 2026 Faith and Politics Institutes’ Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage. As we came together in my home state of South Carolina, I was inspired by the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. when he intoned: ‘We must keep moving. If you can’t fly, run; if you can’t run, walk; crawl; but by all means keep moving,’” said Rep. Clyburn. “Movement defines the American story which encompasses African American history in which this state has played a pivotal and powerful role. South Carolina is inextricably linked to the struggles as well as the achievements of our great nation. During this pilgrimage, we recognize and properly honored the past, but also acknowledged the present and embraced opportunities for positive change.”

“Hosting this bipartisan pilgrimage in Charleston was both a privilege and a responsibility,” said Robert Traynham, president, Faith & Politics Institute. “As we reflected on the theme One Country, One Destiny, we were reminded that understanding our history, especially in places as consequential as Charleston, is essential to building a more perfect union.”

Born into slavery in Beaufort, South Carolina, Smalls famously commandeered the Confederate transport ship Planter in 1862 and delivered it to Union forces, securing freedom for himself and others aboard. He later served with distinction in the Union Navy before representing South Carolina’s Lowcountry in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Participants gathered to reflect on Smalls’ legacy and the enduring lessons his life offers about leadership, perseverance, and the ongoing pursuit of a more perfect union.

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Shaheen Helps Introduce Bipartisan Fiscal Commission Act

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) recently helped introduce the Fiscal Commission Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen America’s fiscal health and stabilize the nation’s finances for future generations. The bill would create a bipartisan, bicameral fiscal commission tasked with finding legislative solutions to stabilize spending and stabilize the federal debt, which now exceeds $30.8 trillion. The bill is led by U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Angus King (I-ME).

“Our soaring federal debt already adds more than $1,000 to the cost of a typical mortgage—and for the first time, federal interest payments are expected to reach $1 trillion this year, making it our nation’s third largest expense. To ensure America lives up to its promise for generations to come, Congress must do more to address our country’s climbing debt,” said Senator Shaheen. “Our commonsense legislation establishes a bipartisan commission to generate practical solutions that will help reduce our deficits and return us to a sustainable path that advances opportunities for all Americans to get ahead.”

The national debt now exceeds $30.8 trillion, which now exceeds the entire U.S. economy. The reconciliation bill passed this year is projected to add more than $4 trillion to the deficit, and it’s projected that the federal government will spend more than $1 trillion on interest on the debt alone in 2026, making it a larger expenditure than Medicare and national defense, and second only to Social Security.

Under the Fiscal Commission Act:

A 16-member bipartisan, bicameral commission consisting of 12 elected officials and four outside experts would be established

The Speaker of the House, House Minority Leader, Senate Majority Leader and Senate Minority Leader each appoint four individuals to the Commission, of which three must be members from their respective chambers and one must be an outside expert

The Commission would produce a report and propose legislation aiming to improve the long-term fiscal condition of the Federal Government, stabilize the ratio of public debt to GDP within a 15-year period and improve the solvency of Federal trust funds over a 75-year period

The Commission would be required to vote on approval of the report and legislative language by May 17, 2027

Any report or legislative language produced by the Commission must be approved by a majority of the 12 elected official members, with at least two being from each party

If the Commission approves proposed legislative language, it would receive expedited consideration in both chambers

While 60 votes would be required to invoke cloture prior to final passage in the Senate, only a simple majority would be needed for the motion to proceed, which would be privileged

In addition to Shaheen, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Coons (D-DE), Todd Young (R-IN), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Mark Warner (D-VA) are cosponsors of the legislation.

Click HERE to view a one-pager on the Fiscal Commission Act.

Click HERE to view bill text.

Shaheen remains committed to fiscal responsibility and has led efforts in the Senate to tackle the national debt. Along with Shaheen’s historic support for the Fiscal Commission Act, Shaheen has also introduced the bipartisan Biennial Budgeting and Appropriations Act to reform the way Congress allocates federal dollars and strengthen oversight of government spending.

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