Barrasso Praises Markwayne Mullin to Lead the Department of Homeland Security

“Markwayne Mullin is ready to lead. He is ready to serve with seriousness and character. He will be a leader who makes our country safer.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) today spoke prior to voting to confirm Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) to be Secretary of Homeland Security.

Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.

Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:

“The Senate will soon confirm Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma to be the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. The sooner he’s on the job, the safer, stronger, and more secure America will be.

“Markwayne is a servant leader in the truest sense.

“His hometown is Westville, Oklahoma. The population is only 1,300 people. He’s the youngest of seven children. When he was 20 years old, he stepped up to save his dad’s plumbing company. He turned it into one of the largest in the state.

“Markwayne is a father, a fighter, a Christian, and someone others can count on. He has served in the House and the Senate. I am fortunate to work closely with Markwayne on a day to day basis. He is a trusted member of our Whip team.

“Markwayne is tough. He is hardworking. He works with others to solve problems. You always know where you stand with Markwayne Mullin. On the Whip Team, he played a critical role in passing the largest investment in American security in 40 years. He has been consistent in his commitment to enforce our laws and strengthen our border.

“Once confirmed, he will bring the same focus, urgency, and consistency to lead the Department of Homeland Security. At his confirmation hearing, Markwayne laid out a clear vision. He said: ‘My goal is for people to understand we’re out there, we’re protecting them, and we’re working for them.’ That’s exactly what he should do – and will do.

“The Department of Homeland Security exists to protect the American people from danger. From counterterrorism to disaster relief to border security, the Department protects our communities from terrorists, illegal drugs, and cyberattacks. Markwayne understands the full weight of that critical mission.

“Markwayne also understands the importance of trust. He has made it clear he will be open, communicative, cooperative, and committed to working with others to get the job done right.

“Even Senate Democrats who might disagree with him politically acknowledge Markwayne’s stellar character. Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii said this month, ‘I like him personally.’ Senator Chris Coons of Delaware says Markwayne is ‘well liked.’ Senator Peter Welch of Vermont served with Senator Mullin here in the Senate as well as the House. He said of Markwayne, ‘He’s respected, he’s honest, and he’s competent.’ At the confirmation hearing, Senator Ruben Gallego of Arizona said Markwayne is ‘upstanding’ and qualified. That kind of respect speaks to Markwayne’s character.

“As the Senate considers Markwayne’s nomination, we cannot ignore the situation facing the Department of Homeland Security. Right now, the Department of Homeland Security is shut down. Senate Democrats shut it down by withholding its funding. Senate Democrats have voted five times to block full funding for the Department of Homeland Security.

“Many employees are working without pay. Others have been furloughed.

Families are struggling to afford basic needs. TSA agents are quitting and calling in sick in rising numbers. As a result, wait times at major airports are rising as well.

“We’ve seen terrorist attacks in New York, Virginia, Michigan, and Texas. Pro-Iran cyber hackers successfully attacked a major medical company in Michigan. This situation is dangerous. The warning lights are flashing red. Democrats would rather pander to protect illegal immigrant criminals than pay to protect the American people.

“Markwayne Mullin is ready to lead. He is ready to serve with seriousness and character. He will be a leader who makes our country safer. He will secure our borders. He will fight terrorism. He will protect our cyber space. He will safeguard our communities. He will support the individuals who keep our country safe.

“Today, the Senate will confirm him. Then, the Senate must fully fund the Department of Homeland Security. The safety and security of the American people depend on it.”

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Bennet, Durbin, Grassley, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Strengthen U.S.-Baltic Security Cooperation

Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, joined Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Co-Chairs of the Senate Baltic Freedom Caucus, to introduce the Baltic Security Assessment Act, legislation requiring the Secretaries of State and Defense to report to Congress on emerging threats posed to the Baltic countries: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The report must detail the role of malign actors such as Russia, Belarus, China, and Iran. Additionally, the report requires reporting on the U.S. and NATO regional deterrence posture and opportunities to enhance bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the United States and the Baltic countries, including through the Baltic Security Initiative (BSI) Bennet helped codify last year.

“Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are among NATO’s most committed allies – spending more on their own defense, as a share of GDP, than nearly anyone else in the alliance” said Bennet. “The Baltic Security Assessment Act will help ensure the United States stays ahead of emerging threats in the region and make clear that we will meet any aggression against NATO territory with firm resolve.”

“Not only do I have strong personal ties to the region, but the Baltic countries are essential NATO partners in upholding democratic values and transatlantic security. Our bill encourages coordination between Congress and the Administration on the threats posed to the Baltic countries by bad actors such as Russia, Belarus, China, and Iran. Considering the Trump Administration’s foreign policy views, we must remain steadfast in support of the NATO alliance and the Baltic States as they work to combat increasing Russian aggression around the region,” said Durbin.

“The United States, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are all united by the principles of democracy and the free market. For decades, these Baltic nations have contributed to the region’s security and stability, and it’s critical for America to stand with them against Putin’s ongoing aggression. This bipartisan legislation will strengthen our ties with the Baltics by ensuring the United States carefully assesses the evolving threats they face and identifies ways to bolster deterrence against Russia’s continued attempts to encroach on NATO territory,” said Grassley.

Bennet has consistently fought to strengthen U.S.-Baltic security cooperation amid Russia’s threats of aggression.

Bennet worked with colleagues to secure language in the Fiscal Year 2026 Senate National Defense Authorization Act, which was signed into law in December 2025, codifying the BSI and enhancing regional planning and cooperation. This language authorizes $350 million for the BSI for each fiscal year through 2028 and was based on the Baltic Security Initiative Act, which Bennet introduced with colleagues in March 2025.

In September 2025, Bennet also urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to immediately reverse the Trump Administration’s decision to terminate BSI and Section 333 funding, which are critical and long-standing security assistance programs.

In addition to Bennet, Grassley, and Durbin, U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), John Boozman (R-Ark.) Susan Collins (R-Maine), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Chris Van Hollen (D-M.D.), Jacky Rosen (D-N.V.), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) cosponsored the bill.

The text of the bill is available HERE.

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Blackburn Joins President Trump in Memphis to Tout Success of Memphis Safe Task Force

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after joining President Trump in Memphis to highlight the remarkable progress the Memphis Safe Task Force has made in restoring law and order. Compared to the same period last year, Memphis has seen a 43% reduction in overall crime.

“Before the Memphis Safe Task Force, Memphians could not walk outside without fear of being robbed, assaulted, or murdered as criminals and gangs turned neighborhoods into war zones. Under President Trump, those days are in the rearview mirror,” said Senator Blackburn. “For years, I have worked with state and local officials in Memphis to get this historic city the federal resources it needed and turn the tide of violence once and for all. Law-abiding citizens deserve safe cities, and President Trump has made the Make America Safe Again movement a hallmark of his agenda.”

Click here to download photos of Senator Blackburn at this event.

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COLUMN: President Trump Is Making Memphis Safe Again

PHOTO: Blackburn Joins Attorney General Bondi for Memphis Safe Task Force Briefing, Serves Dinner to Task Force Members


Blumenthal, Colleagues Challenge FCC to Conduct Full Review of Foreign Investment Concerns in Paramount & Warner Bros. Merger

[Hartford, CT] — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) joined Senate colleagues in a letter demanding a thorough review of the proposed $111 billion merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery, amid reports of substantial foreign investment embedded in the transaction.

The letter, led by Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and joined by Senator Blumenthal, Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Democratic Minority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), addresses Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr expressing deep concern that sovereign wealth funds from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Tencent Holdings are providing billions in financing for the merger.

“This constellation of foreign investment from China and from Gulf states, with complex and sometimes competing relationships with the United States, demands rigorous, not perfunctory, review,” wrote the senators.

The senators also expressed grave concerns about Tencent Holdings having a stake in the parent company of CBS News and CNN. The company’s relationship with the Chinese Communist Party, along with the Chinese government’s law requiring domestic technology companies to cooperate with state intelligence services on demand, creates multiple avenues for foreign influence over America’s journalists and content.

“Paramount’s representations that these investors will hold no governance rights demand careful independent verification. Even as non-governing partners, their massive investment creates significant opportunity for soft power and influence over CNN’s editorial decisions and business priorities. That concern extends beyond our borders. CNN International is distributed in over 200 countries and territories, and CNN Newsource is the world’s most extensively relied-upon news service, partnering with over 1,000 local and international news organizations around the world. The potential for foreign government influence over American journalism at home and abroad is not hypothetical. It is structural, and it is unchecked,” the senators continued.

The senators are urging the FCC to take the following steps:

Conduct a full and independent Section 310(b) review of all foreign ownership interests in this transaction, including Tencent and all Gulf sovereign wealth funds, before any approval is granted.

Deny any confidentiality requests to Paramount and require it to publicly file all instruments documenting the foreign investment commitments in this transaction including equity commitment letters, subscription agreements, side letters, and any commercial agreements between the foreign investors and the combined entity.

Issue a public request for information and public comment specifically focused on the foreign investment components of this transaction.

Coordinate with CFIUS, the Department of Justice National Security Division, and relevant intelligence agencies before concluding that any component of the financing is risk-free.

Reject the premise that a deal of this magnitude that involves the broadcast licenses for CBS, significant news operations including CNN, and major content distribution infrastructure, warrants only minimal FCC involvement.

“The FCC’s foreign ownership review process exists for exactly this moment. American broadcast infrastructure is not merely a commercial asset; it is a critical component of our national information environment. The Communications Act charges the Commission with protecting the public interest. We urge the Commission to honor that charge,” the senators concluded.

To read the full text of the letter, click here.

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Blumenthal Statement on $15.38 Billion Contract for Electric Boat

[Hartford, CT] — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released a statement following the announcement that Electric Boat has received a $15.4 billion contract modification to support its work on Columbia-class submarines.

“This $15.38 billion is a boon for both our national defense and our state’s economy. Today’s announcement is huge news for the talented workers at Electric Boat and its supply chain companies who produce the world’s best submarines — ensuring our military has the best tools and technology to succeed. I am thrilled to see their hard work and expert engineering recognized yet again by the Department of Defense, and will keep advocating for strong contracts for Connecticut defense manufacturers,” Blumenthal said.

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***Livestream***Tomorrow: Blumenthal & Robert Garcia to Receive Public Testimony from Children Brutalized by DHS Agents

[WASHINGTON, DC] – On Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 3 PM ET, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, and U.S. Representative Robert Garcia (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, will hold a bicameral public forum to receive testimony on the how violent tactics, a disregard for laws and constitutional rights, and new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policies have harmed children in America.

The following young Americans will offer testimony about their personal experiences being assaulted or separated from their families by DHS agents:

Arnoldo Bazan: Arnoldo is a 16-year-old U.S. citizen from Houston, Texas. Arnoldo was assaulted by federal immigration agents on his way to school; he sought treatment at a nearby hospital for neck injuries described by the hospital as resulting from being beaten and choked. He still experiences physical and mental side effects.

Fernando Hernández García: Fernando is an 18-year-old U.S. citizen from the Rio Grande Valley in Texas. He has been living on his own and separated from his family since his younger sister, Sara, who is also a U.S. citizen, was removed to Mexico after being detained while on her way to Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston to seek treatment for a novel medical condition; she had surgery to remove a brain tumor in 2024.

Ana Michelle Ramirez Sanan: Michelle is an 18-year-old U.S. citizen from Chelsea, Massachusetts. Michelle was restrained by a DHS agent after her mother and autistic 13-year-old brother, also a U.S. citizen, were dragged from their car and detained. DHS agents then violently arrested Michelle’s 50-year old mother, who has legal status and has lived in the U.S. for over twenty years, in front of her and her brother.

The following mothers will offer testimony about how DHS agents assaulted them and their children:

Anabel Romero: Ms. Romero is a U.S. citizen from Gooding, Idaho and mother of three. During an immigration raid, Ms. Romero was separated from her 6- and 8-year-old children at gunpoint; she and her 14-year-old daughter were then assaulted and zip-tied. Ms. Romero’s teenage daughter will not be testifying but will be joining her at the forum.

Adreina Mejia: Ms. Mejia is a U.S. citizen from Arleta, California. She and her special needs 15-year-old son were separated, held gunpoint and then handcuffed by DHS agents outside of a local high school.

The following school administrator will offer testimony about the impact of current DHS policies on schools and schoolchildren:

Zena Stenvik: Ms. Stenvik is the Superintendent of Columbia Heights Public Schools, a school district just north of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father were one of several families in the school district terrorized by DHS agents during the “surge” in Minnesota.

WHO: U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT)

U.S. Representative Robert Garcia (D-CA)

Members of the Senate and House of Representatives, including members Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations and the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform

Three young Americans, two mothers, and a school superintendent who witnessed or experienced DHS agents violently assaulting and detaining children

WHEN: Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 3 PM ET

WHERE: G50 Dirksen Senate Office Building

Washington, DC

LIVESTREAM: A livestream will be available here.

Tuesday’s event is the fourth public forum Blumenthal and Garcia have hosted as part of their ongoing inquiry into the lawless and abusive tactics used by federal immigration agents.

In December, Blumenthal and Garcia received testimony from five U.S. citizens who were assaulted, detained, and denied their constitutional rights by DHS agents.

In early February, the members hosted a forum focused on the violent tactics and disproportionate use of force by DHS agents, featuring three U.S. citizens who were violently assaulted and the brothers of Renee Nicole Macklin Good, a U.S. citizen and resident of Minneapolis, Minnesota who was shot and killed by an Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in January.

In late February, Blumenthal and Garcia hosted their third bicameral forum on constitutional violations and abuses by ICE featuring Ryan Schwank, a whistleblower who spoke publicly for the first time about his experience as an instructor for the incoming “surge” of new ICE recruits, and a U.S. citizen whose home was forcibly entered by ICE agents without a judicial warrant.

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STATEMENT: On Senator Mullin’s Nomination to be DHS Secretary

Washington, DC – U.S.Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), the ranking member of the Senate Coast Guard, Maritime, and Fisheries Subcommittee, today released a statement after voting against the confirmation of U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) to be Secretary of Homeland Security.

“Tonight, I voted against confirming Senator Mullin as President Trump’s next Secretary of Homeland Security.

“In addition to immigration enforcement, DHS includes everything from the Coast Guard, to TSA, to FEMA – this is not a position that allows for on-the-job training. That is only amplified by the fact that the department is currently enduring an extended Republican shutdown.

“I still have not seen anything that makes me confident that Senator Mullin would take this critical department to the next level, or that he would instill the confidence the American people want to see. As a matter of fact, given how loyal Senator Mullin has been to President Trump, I think we can expect to see more of the same dysfunction at DHS under his leadership. This was a missed opportunity for a new direction.”

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Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester represents Delaware in the United States Senate where she serves on the Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; and Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.


STATEMENT: Senator Blunt Rochester on the Passing of Former Delaware Senator Nancy Cook

Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) today released a statement on the passing of former Delaware Senator Nancy Cook.

“I’m mourning a major loss for Kent County, and our state as a whole—the passing of former Delaware Senator Nancy Cook.

“Beyond being a legendary and trailblazing legislator, Nancy was a mentor to so many, myself included. I’ll be forever grateful for her guidance and miss her deeply, but I know that her legacy lives on through us.

“I’m keeping her family and all those who knew and loved her in my prayers.”

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Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester represents Delaware in the United States Senate where she serves on the Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; and Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.


Booker and Kim Statement on Appointment of Robert Frazer, U.S. Attorney for New Jersey

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Andy Kim (D-NJ) issued the following statement after federal district judges in New Jersey appointed Robert Frazer to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey:

“Since the White House’s failure to name a capable U.S. Attorney nominee over 14 months has had a detrimental impact on cases before our courts, federal district judges in New Jersey have today exercised their lawful authority to appoint Robert Frazer, a longtime federal prosecutor, to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. While our repeated efforts to work with the President to appoint a qualified individual to the role, who could be confirmed by the Senate, were ignored or rebuffed, we support the District Court’s decision to fill the position and allow the U.S. Attorney’s Office to fulfill its critical law enforcement responsibilities before the people of New Jersey suffer any further harm.

“We remain deeply frustrated that the White House refused to engage in the normal process of consulting with home-state senators on this appointment. That process exists for a reason–it ensures that the people chosen to serve as our nation’s top prosecutors have the qualifications, independence, and commitment to justice that the job requires. None of this turmoil was necessary.

“For over a year, the Trump Administration did everything in its power to circumvent the law and sideline the Senate’s constitutional role to advise and consent on U.S. Attorneys. First, the Administration installed the President’s personal lawyer to lead the office, and when multiple federal courts found that appointment unlawful, the Administration cobbled together an unprecedented three-person leadership structure that was likewise struck down by the court. At every turn, this Administration chose loyalty over legality, and federal judges–appointed by presidents of both parties–rejected those unlawful maneuvers.

“The people of New Jersey deserve a U.S. Attorney’s Office focused on keeping them safe, not one mired in constitutional crisis because the Administration refused to follow the rule of law. The Office can now at long last move past the chaos and partisanship of the past year and return to its critical mission: combating violent crime, fighting public corruption, dismantling drug trafficking networks, and protecting the rights of all New Jerseyans.

“We look forward to meeting with Mr. Frazer to discuss how we can work together to best serve the people of our state.”


Booker, Schumer, Durbin, Blumenthal, Hirono, Whitehouse, Warren Challenge FCC to Conduct Full Review of Foreign Investment Concerns in Paramount & Warner Bros. Merger

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Democratic Minority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) are demanding a thorough review of the proposed $111 billion merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery, amid reports of substantial foreign investment embedded in the transaction. Booker, who serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, led colleagues in a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr expressing deep concern that sovereign wealth funds from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Tencent Holdings are providing billions in financing for the merger.

“This constellation of foreign investment from China and from Gulf states, with complex and sometimes competing relationships with the United States, demands rigorous, not perfunctory, review,” wrote the senators.

The senators also expressed grave concerns about Tencent Holdings having a stake in the parent company of CBS News and CNN. The company’s relationship with the Chinese Communist Party, along with the Chinese government’s law requiring domestic technology companies to cooperate with state intelligence services on demand, creates multiple avenues for foreign influence over America’s journalists and content.

“Paramount’s representations that these investors will hold no governance rights demand careful independent verification. Even as non-governing partners, their massive investment creates significant opportunity for soft power and influence over CNN’s editorial decisions and business priorities. That concern extends beyond our borders. CNN International is distributed in over 200 countries and territories, and CNN Newsource is the world’s most extensively relied-upon news service, partnering with over 1,000 local and international news organizations around the world. The potential for foreign government influence over American journalism at home and abroad is not hypothetical. It is structural, and it is unchecked,” the senators continued.

The senators are urging the FCC to take the following steps:

Conduct a full and independent Section 310(b) review of all foreign ownership interests in this transaction, including Tencent and all Gulf sovereign wealth funds, before any approval is granted.

Deny any confidentiality requests to Paramount and require it to publicly file all instruments documenting the foreign investment commitments in this transaction including equity commitment letters, subscription agreements, side letters, and any commercial agreements between the foreign investors and the combined entity.

Issue a public request for information and public comment specifically focused on the foreign investment components of this transaction.

Coordinate with CFIUS, the Department of Justice National Security Division, and relevant intelligence agencies before concluding that any component of the financing is risk-free.

Reject the premise that a deal of this magnitude that involves the broadcast licenses for CBS, significant news operations including CNN, and major content distribution infrastructure, warrants only minimal FCC involvement.

“The FCC’s foreign ownership review process exists for exactly this moment. American broadcast infrastructure is not merely a commercial asset; it is a critical component of our national information environment. The Communications Act charges the Commission with protecting the public interest. We urge the Commission to honor that charge,” the senators concluded.


ICYMI: Booker Introduces Senate’s Second War Powers Resolution

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced a war powers resolution seeking to withdraw U.S. forces from this reckless and unauthorized war of choice with Iran. Booker was joined by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

SEE FOR YOURSELF:

New Jersey Globe

“Booker and a handful of other senators have taken the lead on Democrats’ newest push to rein in the ongoing war in Iran”

March 19, 2026

By: Joey Fox

Senator Cory Booker and a handful of other senators have taken the lead on Democrats’ newest push to rein in the ongoing war in Iran.

The New Jersey senator and five of his colleagues, collectively dubbed the “Senate Six,” have spent the last few weeks making the case to the media and to their fellow senators that President Donald Trump’s strikes in Iran are unwise and unconstitutional. Congress, Booker argues, needs to step in.”

@SenBooker

Senate Republicans blocked consideration of my War Power resolution to stop this reckless war.

March 18, 2026

Sen. Booker:” Today we will vote, we will vote again and again with a simple demand. That the world's most deliberative body must deliberate. [...] a president that seems so cocky and confident and is taking us to war should have to come and sit here and justify both the provocation of why we went to war and what is the endgame.”

CBS

“Democratic senators vowed to keep pressing the issue if Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth did not testify in public about the war.”

March 18, 2026

By: Caitlin Yilek and Kaia Hubbard

Democratic senators vowed to keep pressing the issue if Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth did not testify in public about the war. The Democratic senators behind the war powers push indicated in a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a South Dakota Republican, that they would abandon votes on a handful of resolutions if the Trump officials testified at public hearings.

The Hill

March 18, 2026 By: Alexander Bolton

Sen. Booker (D-N.J.), the lead sponsor of the measure, argued the conflict is spiraling out of control and starting to have a significant negative impact on Americans abroad and at home.

Sen. Booker: “U.S. diplomatic posts and military facilities in the Middle East are under constant attack. The war has expanded, now impacting at least 15 different countries, from the bases of our European allies to our allies in the region.”

SEE ALSO:


VIDEO: Booker, ACLU of NJ Hold Press Conference at Newark Liberty International Airport to Demand Full TSA Funding and Removal of ICE Agents in U.S. Airports

NEWARK, N.J. — U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), held a press conference at the Newark Liberty International Airport and stood with ACLU of New Jersey Executive Director Amol Sinha demanding that Republicans join Democrats in supporting immediate funding for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), ensuring that the nearly 50,000 officers who safeguard America’s transportation systems finally receive the paychecks they’ve earned. Booker and Sinha urged Republicans to pass the funding bill they are repeatedly blocking, underscoring both the public-safety and civil-rights consequences of continued inaction. Booker also called on President Trump to reverse his order deploying Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel to patrol U.S. airports.

Senate Republicans have voted against Democratic measures funding TSA seven times in recent weeks.

“I came to Newark’s airport today with a simple message: fund TSA and get ICE the hell out of our airports,” said Senator Booker. “What we are seeing right now is chaos and cruelty. Families are being forced to wake up before dawn just to stand in endless lines because the people who keep our airport safe aren’t being paid. TSA offices show up every day and protect us. They deserve a paycheck. We’ve brought resolution after resolution to the Senate floor to pay them, and every time it's been blocked at the direction of Donald Trump. He doesn’t want to fix the lines, he wants people to feel pain. Meanwhile, ICE has more money than many militaries on Earth. It’s time to get ICE the hell out of our airports.”

“The Trump administration’s deployment of armed agents to our airports is an unprecedented escalation against the American people,” said Amol Sinha, ACLU of New Jersey Executive Director. “After refusing to fund TSA and manufacturing a crisis at our airports, people are now forced to interact with ICE agents who inspire fear among families and are unlikely to keep our airports safer. We are grateful for Sen. Booker’s leadership in calling out this political retribution and call on Congress to take immediate action to rein in ICE’s attack on our communities.”

Since March 5th, Senate Republicans have blocked seven separate bills to fund frontline homeland security workers. In just two weeks, they halted legislation to fund every DHS agency except ICE, CBP, and the Secretary’s office; blocked four bills to fund TSA, CISA, the Coast Guard, and FEMA; rejected another bill that would have paid TSA workers; and then blocked both another TSA pay bill and legislation to fund all DHS agencies except ICE, CBP, and the Secretary’s office. At every turn, Republicans have refused to fund TSA, FEMA, CISA, the Coast Guard, or other DHS components unless Congress approves additional, unrestricted ICE funding with no reforms.


U.S. Senator Katie Britt Attends Hadrian Shipbuilding Factory Ribbon Cutting in Cherokee

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) recently attended the ribbon cutting of Hadrian Factory 4 last week in Cherokee, Alabama. Senator Britt delivered remarks along with Navy Secretary John Phelan, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and members of Alabama’s delegation, including Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), and House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-Ala.). This public-private partnership totals more than $2 billion in investment and will result in up to 1,000 skilled jobs and strengthen our nation’s maritime defense capabilities.

“This is truly a transformational moment for the Shoals region as we celebrate this Factory of the Future. As a result of this public-private partnership, over 1,000 jobs will be created, boosting the local economy, all while Alabama helps revitalize America’s maritime industrial base. Alabama is once again proving that when we compete with the best, we will come out on top every time. I’m especially grateful to President Trump, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, and Navy Secretary John Phelan for their visionary leadership and dedication to meet our nation’s maritime and defense industrial needs and increase our shipbuilding capacity. I’m deeply proud to be a part of this progress—American manufacturing is back and stronger than ever,” said Senator Britt ahead of the event.

In her remarks, Senator Britt stated in part, “I’m proud of our entire delegation and this community. This is transformative for the Shoals. It’s transformative for Alabama, for Mississippi, for the entire region, and our nation. When you think about the public-private partnership that’s occurring here, you have over $2 billion in … private investment to make this happen. You couple that with the $900 million dollars in the Working Families Tax Cut(s Act) that was led by … Chairman Wicker and we’re very proud of the leadership of Chair Rogers from the great state of Alabama. So thank you to both of you for making that happen.”

Reps. Rogers and Aderholt, Sen. Tuberville, Hadrian founder and CEO Chris Power, Sens. Britt and Wicker, and Navy Secretary Phelan cut the ribbon for Hadrian Factory 4.

Rep. Aderholt, Alabama State Rep. Kerry Underwood, Sens. Wicker and Britt, and Alabama State Rep. Jamie Kiel

Rep. Aderholt, Sen. Britt, and Navy Secretary Phelan speak to members of the press.

You can watch a segment of the Senator’s remarks here.

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Capito, Klobuchar Introduce Legislation to Bolster Primary Care Training on Dementia Detection and Treatment

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to bolster training for primary care providers so they can better diagnose Alzheimer’s and other dementia and deliver high-quality, person-centered care in community-based settings.

The legislation, known as the Accelerating Access to Dementia & Alzheimer’s Provider Training (AADAPT) Act, would utilize virtual continuing education to provide additional opportunities for Alzheimer’s and dementia education and training to more primary care providers. Doing so would improve detection, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer’s, as well as other forms of dementia.

“As new technologies continue to emerge to detect and treat Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia, we must use all available tools to train medical providers, especially those in primary care. This will allow us to provide timely diagnosis and quality care for those at risk of and living with these diseases,”Senator Capito said. “I’m pleased to introduce the AADAPT Act, which will expand the existing successful Project ECHO program to provide this important training. This is especially important for rural states like West Virginia where access to specialized care is often limited.”

“Detecting Alzheimer’s and other dementias early can reduce stress for patients and families, lower unnecessary health costs, and improve access to care,” Senator Klobuchar said. “Primary care providers have been calling for more training resources to improve early detection, accurate diagnosis, and care. This bipartisan legislation will deliver those tools and improve patients' and caregivers’ quality of life and health outcomes.”

“For people living with Alzheimer’s and their families, delays in diagnosis often mean missed opportunities for care, planning and support,” Rachel Conant, senior vice president of public policy at the Alzheimer’s Association and executive director of AIM, said. “The bipartisan AADAPT Act is needed to ensure primary care providers have the tools and training to recognize dementia earlier and guide patients through the care journey within their own communities. On behalf of families nationwide, we thank Sens. Capito, Klobuchar, Moran, Booker, Sullivan, Kim, Lankford and Cantwell for advancing this important legislation and for their continued commitment to addressing Alzheimer’s and other dementia.”

BACKGROUND:

Senator Capito has long been an outspoken advocate for resources, care, and early detection technology for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. As chairman and a longtime member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS), Senator Capito has worked to direct increased funding towards research efforts. Additionally this Congress, Senator Capito has introduced legislation that would improve early detection and diagnosis and provide for Medicare coverage of blood-based dementia screening tests.

The following senators joined Senators Capito and Klobuchar in introducing the legislation: Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska, Andy Kim (D-N.J.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.).

A similar version of the bill, H.R. 3747, was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Troy Balderson (R-Ohio), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.), Rep. Darin LaHood (R-Ill.), and Rep. Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.).

Full text of the AADAPT Act is available here.

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Capito Votes to Confirm Mullin for Secretary of Homeland Security

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, issued the following statement after voting to confirm Markwayne Mullin as the next Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

“While serving alongside Senator Mullin, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with him and witnessing firsthand his unwavering commitment to keeping our nation safe. He is a devout, dedicated family man whose inner strength and values will guide him in this role. His love for this country and sense of duty are unmatched. I am confident that Senator Mullin will faithfully execute the law and secure our borders, while balancing the broad responsibilities of DHS that encompass cybersecurity, disaster relief and recovery, and air and coastal security. I look forward to working with him and the Trump administration to continue advancing the mission of keeping America safe,” Senator Capito said.

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Cassidy Votes to Confirm President Trump’s Nominee for Department of Homeland Security

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today voted to confirm U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) as President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Homeland Security. He was confirmed in the United States Senate by a vote of 54-45.

“As my friend and colleague, I know Markwayne is a great choice for the job,” said Dr. Cassidy. “I look forward to working closely with him to continue President Trump’s success in securing the southern border, ensuring FEMA delivers for Louisiana families, and keeping our country safe.”

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ICYMI: Cassidy Pens Op-Ed Calling to Make Flood Insurance Affordable Again

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) penned an op-ed in the American Press highlighting the need to make flood insurance more affordable and reliable for Louisiana families ahead of hurricane season. He called for reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), including ending FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0 rate hikes and ensuring coverage continues even in the event of a government shutdown.

“I understand, as does President Trump, that Americans are tired of being ripped off. In 2019, we worked together to delay Risk Rating 2.0 for a year. Now, I want to do it again—permanently.” said Dr. Cassidy.

“Let’s make flood insurance reliable, accountable, and affordable again. ” continued Dr. Cassidy.

Read the full op-ed here or excerpts below:

Hurricane Season Is 12 Weeks Away—It’s Time to Make Flood Insurance Affordable Again

Another hurricane season is behind us, and for the first time since 2015, not a single hurricane made landfall in Louisiana. That’s good news for people with flood insurance, but even better news for people without it—a group that is growing fast because the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has become too expensive.

In Louisiana, roughly 70,000 policyholders dropped their coverage between 2022 and 2024. The following year, another 52,000 followed suit. These aren’t negligent homeowners—they are families priced out of protection by the astronomical costs of a post-Biden NFIP. And they are the people who need coverage most.

…

Under President Biden, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) implemented a new risk assessment program—Risk Rating 2.0—in 2023, despite Congress never approving it. It jacks up rates, making premiums so expensive that people have no choice but to go without flood insurance.

I understand, as does President Trump, that Americans are tired of being ripped off. In 2019, we worked together to delay Risk Rating 2.0 for a year. Now, I want to do it again—permanently. Last June, I led a group of Republican colleagues in the effort to do so, and I won’t stop working until we succeed. Last month, I followed up with FEMA, emphasizing the urgent need to address the harm that Risk Rating 2.0 is doing to the NFIP as well as policyholders in my state and across the nation.

…

Congress needs to act, and soon. In the meantime, federal support is critical. I’ve secured about $13 billion for Louisiana through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), much of it going directly to flood protection projects throughout the state.

…

Let’s make flood insurance reliable, accountable, and affordable again.


Cornyn Sets the Record Straight on Democrat Opposition to SAVE America Act, DHS Funding

WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) blasted Democrats for opposing the SAVE America Act, legislation currently being debated on the Senate floor that would secure America’s elections by requiring individuals to present proof of citizenship when registering to vote as well as photo identification before voting in a federal election, and for continuing to hold funding hostage for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which he has voted five times to reopen. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

On Democrat Opposition to The SAVE America Act:

“Anywhere from 70% to 80% of people who were polled say they support the requirement for a photo ID. So I suppose by logic based on the Democrat’s position… 70% to 80% of the people polled are for disenfranchising themselves. Well, obviously that makes no sense whatsoever.”

“Let me set the record straight: the only votes that will be suppressed by the SAVE America Act are those of noncitizens or illegal aliens.”

“The only reason why Democrats – beyond Trump Derangement Syndrome – would oppose this is because they want the people who came in during the four years of the Biden open-border policies to be able to cast a ballot.”

“We’ll continue to fight to pass the SAVE America Act and deliver on the mandate given to us by the American people.”

On Democrats’ DHS Shutdown:

“What the Democrats are doing in blocking the payment of appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security is endangering public safety in a number of ways. First at the airports, where our TSA agents are overwhelmed and are not being paid.”

“We know one component of ICE is the Homeland Security Investigations, which works hand-in-hand with the FBI to investigate domestic terrorism attacks. And so literally, by not funding Homeland Security Investigations, Democrats are making it more likely, not less likely, that we’ll have a successful terrorist attack on our home soil.”

“At a time when global tensions are rising and the threat landscape is even more perilous, we can’t afford to play politics with the safety and security of the American people.”

“It’s past time for this to end.”


Cornyn Votes to Confirm Markwayne Mullin for DHS Secretary

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) was confirmed as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS):

“As a conservative warrior with a proven track record of supporting President Trump’s agenda, Markwayne Mullin will lead the Department of Homeland Security with dogged determination and zeal for enforcing our nation’s immigration laws. At a time when the danger to American soil is heightened and Democrats continue to hold funding for this vital agency hostage, we need a strong hand at the helm more than ever. I have every confidence Markwayne is up to the task, and I look forward to working with him in this new role to protect and defend the homeland and support America First.”


Lone Star Women

Each year in March, we celebrate Women’s History Month in honor of the extraordinary leaders, educators, artists, and innovators who have impacted our lives and shaped our future. In Texas, we are no strangers to strong women. From the first woman to serve as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Sandra Day O’Connor, to six-time Olympic medalist Elana Meyers Taylor, Texas women have enriched our culture, fought for our values, and exemplified true Texas grit and resilience.

From the earliest days of our history, women have made their mark on the Lone Star State. One woman that holds a special place in the hearts of many Texans is Jane Long, the “Mother of Texas.” Long was one of the earliest pioneers of the state, who originally settled in the Bolivar Peninsula. She earned her moniker because she claimed to be one of the first English-speaking residents to bear a child in Texas.

Although later documentation disproves that Long was the first woman to bear a child in Texas, many still referred to her as the mother of Texas, even while she was still alive. She eventually settled two miles south of Richmond, Texas, where she owned and ran a boarding house. And while Long passed away in 1880, her legacy lives on through her boarding house, a landmark location where Stephen F. Austin delivered a historic speech calling Texans to war during the Texas Revolution. Long is just one of the many Texas women we tip our hats to.

Another exceptional woman from Texas is the “The Lady of the Alamo,” Susana Dickinson. She is said to be the only Anglo survivor at the battle of the Alamo in 1836. Born around 1814 in Tennessee, Dickinson moved to Texas with her husband in 1830. She was one of many women who sought refuge in the Alamo with Texas troops when General Santa Anna and Mexican troops invaded San Antonio in 1836. After the battle, some accounts say that Dickinson was found in the powder magazine, while some say she was found in the chapel. General Santa Anna sent Dickinson to tell Texas troops that he would put down his resistance, and if they didn’t surrender, they would suffer the same fate as the Alamo. Instead of giving up or giving in, Dickinson ran to the Texas troops with a battle cry, encouraging them to go on despite the poor odds. Dickinson’s courageous spirit in that moment has inspired Texans for more than a century.

These women’s determination and leadership paved the way for future Texans like Frances “Poppy” Northcutt, NASA’s first female engineer to work in Mission Control. Born in 1943 in Louisiana, Northcutt grew up in Texas and attended what is now the University of Texas at Austin. After graduation, she started working for a NASA contractor as what was then called a computress, a woman who performed mathematical calculations, in service of the Space Race against the Soviet Union. Eventually, Northcutt’s hard work earned her a promotion to the technical team, where she would be the only woman in the control room during the Apollo 8 mission. Northcutt witnessed the results of her calculations firsthand: mankind leaving the bounds of Earth and entering space. Because of her calculations and the work of those on her team, the astronauts on Apollo 8 successfully orbited the moon and returned safely to Earth. She continued working on Apollo missions before going to law school and working as an attorney in Harris County.

Out of all the impressive women in Texas, the one that I hold closest to my heart is my wife of more than 46 years, Sandy. When I was 25 years old, I met Sandy on a blind date, and two years later we were married. She is a guiding force in my life and has been with me through every chapter and challenge. She has seen up close how seriously I take public service, and her own perseverance and conviction in the values that make Texas so special are part of the reason I’ve remained steadfastly committed to representing our great state in the Senate. Being Sandy’s husband will always be my favorite title and one of my greatest joys, along with our two daughters. She is and will always be the love of my life, and I am happy to celebrate her and all of the incredible women who call the Lone Star State home.

Texas has a history of strong, resilient, and inspiring women. I am proud to represent the women of Texas and honor them during Women’s History Month. Especially during this month, I encourage you to celebrate the women in your life who inspire you, bring you joy, and show all of us what it means to be a Texan.


ICYMI: Cortez Masto for Newsweek: Illegal Sports Gaming is A Problem We Can’t Wait to Address

In Case You Missed It, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) published an op-ed in Newsweek calling attention to how the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) continues to enable illegal sports gaming through the use of event contracts. Cortez Masto has previously called attention to this issue in letters to both current CFTC Chair Mike Selig and previous acting Chair Caroline Pham.

Newsweek: Nevada Senator: Illegal Sports Gaming is A Problem We Can’t Wait to Address

By Senator Catherine Cortez Masto

For nearly 100 years, Nevada has been the nation’s leader in legal gaming. A big part of that success can be attributed to the cooperative relationship between the legal gaming industry and the state. Nevada uses gaming revenues to fund everything from public schools to public transportation. And to ensure responsible gaming, casinos, sportsbooks and online gaming sites have to follow minimum age requirements, participate in integrity monitoring and support critical consumer protections, like programs that help people with gambling addictions.

Yet, this past year, emboldened by limp and overly permissive federal regulators like the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), so-called “prediction markets” have transformed themselves into illegal sportsbooks, offering their users illicit sports wagers. Since they began offering sports-related “event contracts”—which are just wagers by another name—outfits like Kalshi have seen illegal sports betting become 90 percent of their weekly trading volume.

The CFTC, led by Michael Selig, has looked the other way as these prediction markets blatantly violate state and tribal laws and regulations. Wagering regulations didn’t just spring up overnight—in 1949, Nevada became the first and only state in the nation to legalize sports betting. This authority was extended to other states by the Supreme Court in 2018, but at no point did the federal government gain the power to permit or outlaw sports wagering on a national basis.

Prediction markets defy all of the commonsense and proven rules of the road that allow our gaming industry in Nevada and across the country to be socially responsible community partners. These operations don’t follow traditional minimum age restrictions—18-year-olds who otherwise could not gamble in Nevada can make an account on Kalshi or Crypto.com. They don’t work to combat problem gambling—users are encouraged to place unlimited bets on anything and everything and provide incentives to encourage more interactions. And, they don’t do any integrity monitoring whatsoever. In fact, Polymarket’s CEO has explicitly endorsed insider trading, saying “it creates this financial incentive for people to go and divulge the information to the market.”

In every way imaginable, the CFTC and prediction markets are shamelessly failing Nevadans and enriching their billionaire shareholders in the process.

In September, Utah Senator John Curtis and I led a bipartisan group of senators in reminding then-Acting Chair Caroline Pham that the CFTC does not have jurisdiction over sports gaming in any capacity. Rather than offering any guidance as to how they plan to address this issue, the CFTC merely provided boilerplate responses that don’t give any insight beyond what is available on their website.

This problem was especially evident on Super Bowl Sunday, when Kalshi users placed more than $1 billion in Super Bowl-related bets. This rivaled the more than $1.5 billion in legal wagers placed across the entire United States and includes bets placed in states where sports gaming is outlawed. Additionally, college basketball’s March Madness tournament is around the corner, and it seems like the CFTC will allow this problem to persist.

That’s because, despite prediction markets’ flagrant disregard of states’ and tribes’ authority to regulate gaming, the CFTC has continued to ignore its mandate to prevent illegal sports wagering facilitated through CFTC-regulated exchanges. In fact, in recent weeks, the CFTC has become a full-throated endorser of prediction markets.

This move directly contradicts Selig’s testimony to Congress in November, where he on multiple occasions stated that he would not “prejudge” the legality of this business and that he would “defer to the courts” in their decisions.

He also declared his intention to support these companies in countless state lawsuits that seek to bar them from operating these illegal sportsbooks. Selig swiftly followed this announcement by inserting the CFTC into litigation in Nevada, asserting that the state has no authority to regulate these sports wagers.

The question is, why?

The answer could be, at least in part, that President Donald Trump—who nominated Selig to his post—as well as his son, Donald Trump Jr., have a vested personal financial interest in the continued profitability of these operations. President Trump’s Truth Social has announced plans to offer event contracts on the platform, and Trump Jr. is an adviser to both Kalshi and Polymarket.

Just recently, it was revealed that Crypto.com made a large donation tied to President Trump. Crypto.com has also pursued a partnership with Truth Social, the Trump family’s social media platform. This is the same company the CFTC is now supporting in its bid to challenge Nevada laws that bar its continued operation.

It’s hard to see this as anything but a repudiation of state and tribal authority in an effort to enrich President Trump, his family and their billionaire supporters.

As he continues his efforts to trample on Nevada and other states’ rights, Selig should keep in mind that, ultimately, this corruption will all come to light. This administration will have to answer to Congress, and that moment may come sooner than he thinks.

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Crapo Statement on Mullin to Lead the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo released the following statement after voting in favor of Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma) to lead the U.S. Department of Homeland Security:

“At a time when our nation faces complex and evolving threats, strong leadership is essential to restore order and refocus the Department on its core mission—keeping Americans safe,” said Crapo. “Senator Mullin has been a consistent advocate for securing our borders and upholding the rule of law. He is well-positioned to lead the Department and will continue to build upon the successes of the Trump Administration to stop illegal immigration and safeguard the homeland.”

The U.S. Senate confirmed Mullin’s nomination by a vote of 54-45.

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Curtis, Duckworth, Kaine Lead Bipartisan Senate Resolution Commemorating 30th Anniversary of Taiwan’s First Presidential Elections

WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Tim Kaine (D-VA), all members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), today led a bipartisan group of Senators in commemorating the 30th anniversary of Taiwan’s first presidential elections, while recommitting support for U.S. policy toward Taiwan as established by the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances.

“Having lived in Taiwan during the era of martial law, I witnessed firsthand a society striving for greater freedom,” said Senator Curtis. “Over the past 30 years, Taiwan’s embrace of democratic elections has transformed it into one of the world’s most vibrant, prosperous, and innovative societies. Its success stands as a powerful testament to the strength of liberty, the rule of law, and the enduring promise of self-government. Taiwan’s journey reminds us that democracy, when nurtured and defended, can deliver both freedom and opportunity for generations.”

“For thirty years, democracy has helped our close friend Taiwan flourish—and it’s critical we send a strong, bipartisan message that we’re here with them for the long haul,” said Senator Duckworth. “As Taiwan works to strengthen their own democracy in the face of escalating threats from the People’s Republic of China, I’m proud to lead our bipartisan recognition of this historic anniversary for the island. The United States will continue to support Taiwan’s prosperity, and we will oppose any kind of unilateral aggression from the PRC that would endanger a democratic friend or the health and stability of the global economy.”

“I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution with my colleagues to commemorate the 30th anniversary of democratic presidential elections in Taiwan,” said Senator Kaine. “As China continues to take aggressive action toward Taipei, we must recommit to protecting Taiwan’s democratic institutions.”

In addition to Curtis, Duckworth, and Kaine, the bipartisan resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Rick Scott (R-FL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Michael Bennet (D-CO), John Fetterman (D-PA), and Ted Cruz (R-TX).


Curtis Names Jenney Rees as State Director

SALT LAKE CITY—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) today announced that Jenney Rees will serve as his new State Director. Rees previously served as Senator Curtis’ Deputy State Director and as a Senior Adviser. In her new role, she will be responsible for leading the Senator’s statewide strategy, operations, external engagement, and constituent services.

“Through her extensive professional background, Jenney brings both enterprise-level expertise and a boots-on-the-ground understanding of the unique needs and pressing challenges of our state,” said Senator Curtis. “I’m grateful to have her continued counsel and leadership as we prioritize local engagement and constituent services throughout Utah.”

“I am incredibly grateful for Lorie Fowlke for her eight years of combined service as State Director between the House of Representatives and Senate. Her vision, grit, and determination have made our office one of the most responsive and effective constituent service operations in Congress. She will remain a critical member of my team as she assumes the role of Legal Counsel and Senior Advisor,” Curtis continued.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to step into this role and build on strong relationships across the state,” said Rees. “I look forward to working with Senator Curtis and our team to continue addressing the issues that matter most to Utah communities and delivering exceptional constituent service.”


Curtis, Rosen Call on State Department to Support Tibet

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) sent a letter congratulating Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues, Riley Barnes, on his appointment and urging him to prioritize and advance U.S. policy towards Tibet. Barnes also serves as the Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. In his capacity as Special Coordinator, the Senators called on Barnes to work with Congress to promote Sino-Tibetan dialogue, support the people of Tibet no matter where they reside, and counter Chinese malign influence. A position created in 2002 by the Tibetan Policy Act, the Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues coordinates U.S. government policies, programs, and other projects concerning Tibetan issues.

“We congratulate you on your appointment as the U.S. State Department Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues. This position has long reflected bipartisan and unwavering U.S. support for the Tibetan people’s ongoing struggle for human rights and democratic freedoms—consistent with American values, universal human rights standards, and protecting U.S. interests from the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) influence,” wrote the Senators. “We know what is possible when the Administration and Congress work together to promote America’s interests regarding Tibet. We look forward to working with you as Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues to implement these laws and appropriations provided by Congress, to advance a renewed and reinvigorated push to peacefully resolve the dispute over Tibet’s future, and to continue the U.S. government’s unwavering support for our Tibetan allies.”


Curtis, Schiff Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Ban Sports Prediction Market Contracts

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act, bipartisan legislation to prohibit Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) registered entities from listing any prediction contract that resembles a sports bet or casino-style game.

“Too many young people in Utah are getting exposed to addictive sports betting and casino-style gaming contracts that belong under state control, not under federal regulators,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bipartisan legislation clarifies regulatory jurisdiction, ensuring that states can maintain their authority over sports betting and casino gaming. The Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act is about respecting states’ authority, protecting families, and keeping speculative financial products out of spaces where they don’t belong.”

“Sports prediction contracts are sports bets—just with a different name. And yet, these contracts are currently offered in all fifty states in clear violation of state and federal law. Rather than enforce the law, the CFTC is greenlighting these markets and even promoting their growth. It’s time for Congress to step in and eliminate this backdoor which violates state consumer protections, intrudes upon tribal sovereignty, and offers no public revenue. I’m proud to partner with Senator Curtis to put a stop to these illegal markets,” said Senator Schiff.

Background:

Currently, CFTC-registered entities offer a wide range of sports prediction contracts that are indistinguishable from gambling. Over the past year, sports prediction contracts have rapidly proliferated with next to no oversight or regulation from the CFTC. Prediction market platforms currently list sports contracts with tens of millions of dollars in trading volume: for example, a March Madness winner contract already has more than $100 million in trading volume, while Super Bowl trading volume on prediction markets surpassed $1 billion in 2026.

These contracts are listed in all 50 states, including states that have restrictions or prohibitions on sports betting. These contracts evade state and tribal consumer protections, generate no public revenue, and undermine sovereign tribal regulatory regimes. In Utah, state law prohibits all forms of gambling.

For fifteen years, the CFTC has enforced its authority to prohibit the listing of a contract that involves, relates to, or references, “gaming.” However, the CFTC and its Chair have abruptly reversed course—intervening in ongoing litigation and proceeding with rulemaking to significantly relax the CFTC’s enforcement of this clause. Now, the CFTC is entering into partnerships with entities like Major League Baseball to further facilitate these markets’ growth.

The Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act would prohibit any CFTC registered entity from listing a contract that closely resembles a sports bet or a casino-style game, reinforces Congress’ original intent that the Commodity Exchange Act does not permit sports gambling, and removes any ambiguity in the statute.


Duckworth, Curtis, Kaine Lead Bipartisan Senate Resolution Commemorating 30th Anniversary of Taiwan’s First Presidential Elections

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Curtis (R-UT) and Tim Kaine (D-VA)—all members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC)—today led a bipartisan group of Senators in commemorating the 30th anniversary of Taiwan’s first presidential elections, while recommitting support for U.S. policy toward Taiwan as established by the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances.

“For thirty years, democracy has helped our close friend Taiwan flourish—and it’s critical we send a strong, bipartisan message that we’re here with them for the long haul,” said Duckworth. “As Taiwan works to strengthen their own democracy in the face of escalating threats from the People’s Republic of China, I’m proud to lead our bipartisan recognition of this historic anniversary for the island. The United States will continue to support Taiwan’s prosperity, and we will oppose any kind of unilateral aggression from the PRC that would endanger a democratic friend or the health and stability of the global economy.”

“Having lived in Taiwan during the era of martial law, I witnessed firsthand a society striving for greater freedom,” said Senator Curtis. “Over the past 30 years, Taiwan’s embrace of democratic elections has transformed it into one of the world’s most vibrant, prosperous, and innovative societies. Its success stands as a powerful testament to the strength of liberty, the rule of law, and the enduring promise of self-government. Taiwan’s journey reminds us that democracy, when nurtured and defended, can deliver both freedom and opportunity for generations.”

“I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution with my colleagues to commemorate the 30th anniversary of democratic presidential elections in Taiwan,” said Kaine. “As China continues to take aggressive action toward Taipei, we must recommit to protecting Taiwan’s democratic institutions.”

In addition to Duckworth, Curtis and Kaine, the bipartisan resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Rick Scott (R-FL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Michael Bennet (D-CO) and John Fetterman (D-PA).

Full text of the resolution is available on the Senator’s website.

Duckworth is a proven leader when it comes to strengthening our relations with Taiwan and improving security in the Indo-Pacific—which she has done while successfully securing significant international investments in Illinois. Three weeks ago, Duckworth’s bipartisan Taiwan and American Space Assistance Act (TASA), which would help counter threats from China and address current gaps in our ability to cooperate with Taiwan’s space efforts, passed through committee and now heads to the Senate floor.

Last year, Duckworth traveled to Taiwan and met with the Island’s representatives, economic leaders and corporate and business leaders to highlight how Illinois is an ideal location for Taiwanese business expansion. In a previous trip to the Island, she helped secure a commitment from Taiwan to purchase an estimated $2.6 billion of Illinois’s corn and soybeans. Duckworth last year met with a delegation from the Taiwan legislature to reinforce support for U.S.-Taiwan relations.

Duckworth has co-led the STAND with Taiwan Act, which she announced during a successful bipartisan congressional delegation visit that she led to Taiwan. The Senator also successfully included a modified version of her Strengthen Taiwan’s Security Act in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to help Taiwan strengthen its military defenses.

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Duckworth Votes Against Confirmation of Markwayne Mullin as DHS Secretary

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today issued the following statement after voting against the nomination of U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to serve as Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary. The Senate confirmed Mullin tonight by a 54-45 vote.

“While Senator Mullin lacks the qualifications for the job and has a troubling pattern of anger issues, his confirmation does nothing to change the fact that two innocent Americans were gunned down in broad daylight by Trump’s unhinged agents—and it does nothing to change the structural issues at DHS that allowed for them to be gunned down.

“It remains abundantly clear to the American people that ICE and CBP need drastic reforms, and that can only be accomplished by changing the law—not a personnel swap and a pinky promise they won’t continue to break the law and terrorize our neighborhoods.


Durbin Delivers Floor Speech Outlining His Concerns Over Markwayne Mullin’s Nomination To Lead DHS Ahead Of Confirmation Vote

Durbin: “The problems at DHS are larger than any one person, and I remain concerned that my colleague will not rein in ICE abuses. Senator Mullin has not criticized the Department’s past violence or the tactics of the President’s mass deportation campaign.”

WASHINGTON – Ahead of the confirmation vote of Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to be Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, spoke on the Senate floor outlining his concerns regarding his nomination. Durbin announced that he will vote against Mullin’s nomination.

Durbin began his speech by reflecting on Secretary Kristi Noem’s failed job as DHS Secretary. Earlier this month, Durbin referred Noem to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for investigation into potential perjury charges and for knowingly making false statements under oath following her appearances before the Senate and House Judiciary Committees on March 3 and 4, 2026.

“His [Sen. Mullin’s] predecessor, Secretary Kristi Noem, presided over a Department that steamrolled civil rights and violated court orders to carry out Stephen Miller and the President’s mass deportation campaign. In pursuit of that campaign, communities—including my city of Chicago—were terrorized by masked, militarized agents whose presence did not establish the ‘law and order’ that the President promised. Instead, indiscriminate, violent roundups swept up citizens, legal residents, American citizens, and people with no serious criminal backgrounds—not just the ‘worst of the worst’ that the President did promise. In Minnesota, two American citizens were killed by these occupying, paramilitary forces… simply for exercising their constitutional rights. Failure will be the defining feature of Secretary Noem’s legacy at DHS. But so, too, will be the lasting pain she inflicted across the country who bear the scars left by rogue federal immigration agents under her watch,” Durbin said.

Durbin then spoke about the ongoing DHS funding negotiations to fund all agencies within the Department besides the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. According to reporting, Senate Republicans seemed to have agreed to that plan only to have President Trump reject it over the weekend.

Durbin continued, “Did you hear the White House announcement? They’re going to take ICE agents and deploy them to the airports. TSA has said they are not trained to do [their] job… We have tried to rein in the lawlessness of DHS by recommending common sense measures to change it, but, unfortunately, the White House and some of my Republican colleagues have allowed TSA agents and the Coast Guard to go without pay. On 10 separate occasions in the last several weeks, we have come to the floor of the United States Senate, the Democrats, [and] offer[ed] to fund the entire Department of Homeland Security [except for] ICE [and] CPB. We are going to fund the others, which would include TSA agents who had missed a paycheck, and each time, a Republican Senator stood up and objected.”

“Democrats have said repeatedly that we will work with the Administration to change the standards for ICE so that they are consistent with law enforcement [standards] across the United States. How many state troopers in your state wear masks when they stop people on the highway? None of them. So, the demands that this ICE agency should be treated differently than police forces across America just doesn’t make sense,” Durbin continued. “Yesterday, the President reportedly rejected a bipartisan offer brought to him by the Majority Leader of the Senate, which would fund all of DHS except ICE. President Trump wants Senate Republicans to hold DHS funding hostage until the Senate passes his SAVE America Act… Instead of taking the deal, the President announced via social media that he would deploy ICE agents to major airports, as I mentioned earlier,” said Durbin.

In response to the President’s announcement that ICE agents will be deployed to airports, the Flight Attendants Union said, “[t]he introduction of ICE agents into airports creates contradictory missions, as attempts to question passengers about immigration status may distract them from ensuring airport security.” They continued to say, “There’s one solution that immediately solves the problem at our airports. Pay the people who are already trained to protect us… today.”

Durbin then outlined the reasons he will vote against Senator Mullin’s nomination to lead DHS.

Durbin continued, “The problems at DHS are larger than any one person, and I remain concerned that my colleague will not rein in ICE abuses. Senator Mullin has not criticized the Department’s past violence or the tactics of the President’s mass deportation campaign. He has issues with managing his temper. And he has virtually no experience with DHS, a sprawling agency with vast responsibilities that employs hundreds of thousands of people.”

Durbin concluded, “I cannot look in the eyes of my constituent, Marimar Martinez, an American citizen who was labeled a ‘domestic terrorist’ after being brutally shot five times in Chicago, Illinois, by a masked Border Patrol agent… or Lia, the high school student from North Lawndale who has spoken out against immigration raids after her community was tear gassed, and her friends and neighbors were arrested by masked ICE and Border Patrol agents. I cannot turn to them and promise to hold this Administration to account while also voting to install someone who might be another yes-man who will only enable this President to continue. For that reason, I will not support Senator Mullin’s confirmation to lead the Department of Homeland Security.”

Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

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Durbin Files Amendments To SAVE America Act, Calls For Voter Protections

Durbin’s amendments range from restoring the critical safeguards in the Voting Rights Act to reversing Republicans’ $1 trillion cut to Medicaid that jeopardizes Americans’ access to health care

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today announced that he filed 11 amendments to the Republicans’ SAVE America Act, a bill that would disenfranchise millions of eligible voters by implementing extreme voter ID requirements that are designed to prevent Americans from exercising their fundamental right to vote. Durbin’s amendments range from protecting voters’ access to the ballot box and affirming the outcome of the 2020 election to reversing the $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts implemented by congressional Republicans and the Trump Administration through the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Durbin also filed amendments to crack down on cryptocurrency scams, safeguard Americans’ personal data, and prevent the Trump Administration from bankrolling Russia’s war on Ukraine by lifting oil sanctions on Russia and Iran.

“Don’t let the name of this bill fool you—the SAVE America Act would not protect our elections. Instead, it creates unnecessary hurdles that would disenfranchise millions of eligible voters,” Durbin said. “So let’s put it on the record. Will my Republican colleagues vote to restrict voting access, or will they stand up for Americans’ right to vote, protect their personal data, and ensure consumers are treated fairly?”

Durbin’s amendments filed include:

Voting Rights Protections: This amendment would strike the SAVE America Act and replace it with Durbin’s John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (VRAA). In a sharp contrast to Republicans’ efforts to restrict voting access, this amendment would restore and strengthen the Voting Rights Act.

Affirm the Outcome of the 2020 Election: This amendment would affirm the outcome of the 2020 election, expressing the sense of the Senate that President Joe Biden was duly elected despite MAGA Republicans and Trump Administration officials continuing to peddle the Big Lie.

Prevent Poll Taxes: This amendment would prohibit the federal government from requiring voters to spend money on costly fees to meet strict, burdensome identification requirements in order to qualify to cast a ballot. The SAVE America Act would require Americans to prove their citizenship with documents like a birth certificate or passport. However, 146 million Americans do not have a passport, and in order to obtain one, Americans must pay a $165 fee—meaning that the bill would establish a modern day poll tax. This amendment would ensure that voters would not have to pay fees for documents that the federal government would require them to obtain to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

Secure Voters’ Private Information: This amendment would bar the federal government from accessing voters’ personal private information contained in state voter rolls. The SAVE America Act would require states to submit their voter roll data to the DHS SAVE program to purge noncitizens from their voter rolls. However, this DHS program utilizes unreliable data, and as a result, this program could purge voter rolls of eligible voters. This amendment would also discourage the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) from requesting voting records as the Trump Administration officials leading the agency have sued 29 states and Washington, D.C. for not releasing these records to DOJ.

No Taxpayer-Funded Bailout for Crypto: This amendment, based on Durbin’s No Bailout for Crypto Act, would prevent taxpayer dollars from being used to bail out the crypto industry in the event of an economic crash or bankruptcy by restricting crypto companies’ access to federal funds, emergency liquidity facilities, and any amounts in the Exchange Stabilization Fund.

Protect Americans from Crypto Scams: This amendment, based on Durbin’s Crypto ATM Fraud Prevention Act, would crack down on crypto fraudsters by requiring that crypto ATM operators provide clear warnings of scams; register ATM locations with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN); submit an anti-fraud policy to FinCEN; provide live customer support to crypto ATM users; and provide paper receipts for transactions. Crypto ATM operators would also be required to impose daily transaction limits and issue refunds to customers within 30 days of reporting the same to law enforcement. In 2025, the FBI reported that consumers lost more than $333 million in crypto ATM scams, a 35 percent increase from 2024.

Bring Fairness to Airline Rewards Programs: This amendment, based on Durbin’s Protect Your Points Act, would strengthen consumer protections by requiring greater transparency from airlines’ frequent flyer, points, and loyalty programs. Airlines make more money on their rewards programs than they do from selling airline tickets. While these rewards programs are extremely profitable, reports show that airlines are devaluing points, requiring more points than initially marketed to achieve the promised rewards. This amendment would prohibit airlines from including provisions in their rewards program that allow them to make changes to the program at any time without giving notice to consumers and instead impose a one-year notice requirement. It also would require airlines to display the point to dollar conversion, allow consumers to pay for airfare and other services in any combination of points or dollars, and implement security protections for consumers’ accounts. Further, it would prohibit airlines from allowing points to expire, charging fees to transfer points, and devaluing points once transferred.

Prevent Trump Administration from Lifting Oil-Related Sanctions on Russia and Iran: This amendment expresses Congress’ disapproval of the Trump Administration’s consideration of lifting sanctions on Iranian or Russian oil or related vessels while Russia wages war on Ukraine or continues to refuse to constructively participate in U.S. brokered peace talks to end aggression toward Ukraine.

Protect Americans’ Data at the Social Security Administration (SSA): This amendment would direct the SSA Inspector General to investigate all the so-called Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) activities at SSA to understand the scope of unauthorized disclosure of Americans’ personal data. In January, the Washington Post reported that DOGE employees signed a “voter data agreement” to share Americans’ personal information housed at SSA with an unnamed political organization seeking to “overturn election results in certain states.” The Washington Post also reported last week that a former DOGE employee downloaded two highly-restricted SSA databases that hold the records of more than 500 million Americans onto a thumb drive, with the intent to share it with their private sector employer. The best way to protect U.S. elections is to investigate DOGE’s attempt to use Americans’ personal information to steal elections—not establishing stricter voter requirements.

Report Water and Energy Usage of Data Centers: This amendment would require data centers to report their energy and water uses to the states where they operate as Americans see their utility bills spike to record levels. In 2025, data center growth and Republican attacks on clean energy drove up the average Illinoisan’s electric bill by 15 percent. The amendment would also direct the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to issue an annual report on the regional water and energy demands of data centers.

Reverse Republican Cuts to Rural Health Care: This amendment would reverse the damaging $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act enacted by the Republicans’ so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act. As a result of the $1 trillion cut, rural communities are estimated to lose $137 billion in Medicaid funding. Because of these Republican cuts to health care, 309 rural hospitals across the country are at risk of closure. In addition to reversing the Medicaid cuts, Durbin’s amendment would help stabilize and support rural hospitals by enabling more to qualify for Medicare’s Critical Access Hospital status.

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Durbin, Hirono, Heinrich, Luján Introduce Resolution Recognizing National Assistant Principals Week

The resolution would designate the week of April 6 through April 10, 2026, as “National Assistant Principals Week”

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) today introduced a resolution designating the week of April 6, 2026, as “National Assistant Principals Week.” Amid a national educator shortage, the resolution expresses support for assistant principals’ commitment to instructional leadership and the role they play in addressing student and staff needs while establishing positive school learning environments with strong community relationships.

“Our assistant principals set the tone for school environments, cultivating a positive learning atmosphere for students while providing essential support to faculty and staff,” Durbin said. “Their work deserves recognition. Today, I’m introducing a resolution to tip my hat to assistant principals and commend their work serving our nation’s students and educators.”

According to a 2022 NASSP report, four out of 10 principals surveyed expected to leave the profession in the next three years. In the midst of the national teacher shortage, strong leadership is increasingly important, and recent research shows that effective principals positively impact teacher satisfaction and retention. School leaders are tasked with evolving and growing responsibilities with little support. Further, with a shrinking teacher pipeline, there also is a smaller pool of teachers to promote to school leadership positions, like assistant principals.

The National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of Secondary School Principals, and American Federation of School Administrators support the resolution.

Full text of the resolution is available here.

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Durbin Statement On Markwayne Mullin Confirmation

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after voting against U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin’s (R-OK) nomination to be Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary:

“Kristi Noem presided over a DHS that steamrolled civil rights and violated court orders to carry out an anti-immigrant mass deportation campaign for Donald Trump. Failure is her legacy.

“While the problems at DHS are larger than any one person, I remain concerned that Senator Mullin will not rein in ICE abuses. He has no experience that would qualify him to lead this vast agency and has toed the MAGA line by not criticizing the Department’s past violence or the tactics of the President’s mass deportation campaign.

“I voted no, because I will not vote to install another yes-man to enable Donald Trump’s worst instincts.”

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On 16th Anniversary Of The Affordable Care Act, Durbin Highlights Law’s Improvements To Insurance Quality & Coverage, Bashes Republican Attempts To Undermine Access To Health Care

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today delivered a speech on the Senate floor to mark the 16th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) being signed into law. Durbin, who attended the legislation’s signing at the White House in 2010, spoke about the landmark bill that changed the health care landscape in the U.S. by expanding health insurance coverage to 30 million Americans and ending the practice of insurance companies denying coverage for pre-existing conditions.

“Millions of Americans can remember a time when access to affordable health care was just not a reality in America. It was a time when if you or your family had a preexisting condition, you could be disqualified from any health insurance coverage because of it. Being uninsured was a reality for those who weren’t ‘healthy and wealthy’ enough to afford it,” Durbin began. “Sixteen years ago today, it all changed when President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law, opening the door to quality, affordable health coverage for more than 30 million Americans.”

“Suddenly, no one could be denied insurance coverage because of a preexisting condition. Addiction and mental health coverage were no longer optional. They were required in health insurance plans, and young adults could remain on their parents’ plans until they reached the age 26,” Durbin said.

While Americans have come to rely on the ACA to put health care within reach, congressional Republicans and President Trump have continued to attack the law and health care programs. Last summer, Republicans passed the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act, slashing Medicaid by $1 trillion and cutting $300 billion from the ACA, which will result in more than 10 million people losing their health insurance. After attacking Medicaid and the ACA, congressional Republicans refused to extend the ACA enhanced premium tax credits, choosing to deliberately shut down the government for 43 days—a record in United States history—rather than help Americans afford their health care coverage.

“Donald Trump and some Republicans in Congress have tried relentlessly to repeal the ACA. They called it ‘Obamacare,’ mocking it. While they haven’t succeeded outright, they have jeopardized its benefits for millions of Americans,” Durbin said. “Have you ever lived without health insurance with a family? Have you ever had a child who was sick and didn’t have health insurance? You will never forget as long you live. I’ve been there.”

“The peace of mind that the Affordable Care Act brought to millions of Americans is fading away, and we must build the momentum to reverse these cuts and address the shortcomings of our health care system,” Durbin continued.

Durbin concluded his remarks by calling on his Republican colleagues to put aside partisanship to pursue legislative avenues to improve Americans’ access to affordable health care.

“I want to work with my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, to improve health care for everyone. But we need buy-in from our Republican colleagues to move forward,” Durbin concluded his remarks.

Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

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Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Hands Jewelers

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

“Hands Jewelers is a rock-solid example of the enduring strength of Iowa small businesses,” said Chair Ernst. “For more than a century, the Nusser family has demonstrated a diamond standard of excellence in their craftsmanship, innovation, and community engagement, helping generations of Iowans celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. They are a true Iowa City gem.”

John Hands moved to Iowa City in 1893 and shortly after opened up his first jewelry store, which later transformed into what we now know as Hands Jewelers.Soon in its fifth generation of family ownership, Hands Jewelers is continuing a legacy built on trust, quality, and dedication to the Iowa City community. For over a century, Hands Jewelers has provided high-quality jewelry and personalized service, helping customers commemorate milestones, from engagements and weddings to anniversaries and family traditions.

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

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Fischer Joins Agriculture Secretary Rollins, Nebraska Leaders to Survey Wildfire Damage

OGALLALA – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) welcomed U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooks Rollins to Nebraska to survey Morrill fire damage and meet with first responders and locals impacted by the wildfire.

“Today Secretary Rollins saw firsthand the scale of these wildfires and the devastation they brought to farmers and ranchers across Nebraska,” said Fischer. “Most importantly, she witnessed how our first responders and volunteers stepped up, working around the clock to keep our communities safe. I am thankful for Secretary Rollins’ leadership in meeting our challenges head on, and I will be working closely with USDA, and Governor Pillen, to make sure those impacted get the assistance they need.”

At approximately 10:00am CT, the group departed Ogallala Municipal Airport via CH-47 helicopters for an aerial view of the Morrill fire.

Upon returning to the airport, the group traveled to the Keith County Fairgrounds for a briefing from the Nebraska National Guard, line firefighters, first responders, and local producers on the status of the wildfires and damages.

Fischer spoke directly to those impacted and got insight from local officials about assistance needed for recovery.

Photos from the visit can be downloaded here.

Full list of public officials in attendance below:

Brooke Rollins, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

Jim Pillen, Governor of Nebraska

Deb Fischer, U.S. Senator, Nebraska

Pete Ricketts, U.S. Senator, Nebraska

Adrian Smith, U.S. Representative, Nebraska’s Third Congressional District

Major General Craig Strong, Nebraska National Guard Adjutant General

Mike Hilgers, Attorney General of Nebraska

Erv Portis, Nebraska Emergency Management Agency Assistant Director

Richard Fordyce, USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation

Colonel Bryan Waugh, Nebraska State Patrol Superintendent

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Gallego Demands Answers on Republican-Caused Airport Delays, ICE Deployment to Phoenix Sky Harbor

WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) demanded answers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on the administration’s decision to deploy ICE agents to major airports, including Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX). Airport wait times have dramatically increased across the country as Republicans refuse to fund the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

“Delays in our country’s airports caused by this shutdown are reaching crisis levels, including at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX), and the deployment of ICE agents to major airports across the country is fueling further chaos,” Senator Gallego wrote in a letter to outgoing DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. “The American people deserve to understand how President Trump’s obstruction and partisan politics is making their lives more difficult and putting them in harm’s way.”

Senator Gallego’s letter emphasizes that Republicans blocked Democrats’ attempts to fund all DHS component agencies—including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)—with the exception of ICE and CBP to give lawmakers time to negotiate ICE reforms following the killing of two U.S. citizens. President Trump has also rejected Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s efforts to reopen TSA and other essential DHS operations, playing partisan politics with Americans’ safety.

In his letter, Gallego called for answers about staffing levels and wait times at PHX and the deployment of ICE agents to PHX, including:

The number of TSA officers who have resigned or separated from PHX since February 14, 2026;

The number of officers who have called out at PHX, broken down by week since February 14, 2026;

The number of officers who have not showed up to work without prior notification, broken down by week since February 14, 2026;

What training ICE agents have completed that makes them qualified to assist TSA agents; and

Whether ICE agents are authorized or expected to conduct immigration enforcement activities.