Rep. Walkinshaw Statement Denouncing Iranian Regime's Human Rights Abuses

Washington, D.C. -- Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), a Member of the Committees on Oversight and Government Reform and Homeland Security, released the following statement.

"Since protests erupted in December, thousands of Iranians have been executive or arbitrarily detained by the regime.

The Iranian people deserve a free and democratic future, one that is no longer defined by repression, violence, and fear at the hands of an authoritarian government."

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Wasserman Schultz Sounds Alarm on High Gas Prices, Highlights Local Impacts

Pembroke Pines, FL – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) joined constituents and Teamsters Union representatives to sound the alarm on skyrocketing gas prices and highlight its impacts on the South Florida community.

To watch the press conference, click here.

Wasserman Schultz was joined by Broward County AFL-CIO president and Teamsters Local 769 member Andy Madtes, Teamsters Local 769 member Josh Zivalich, small business owner Julie Pray, and private music teacher Cari Barter. Teamsters leaders discussed how the hikes harm members, and Pray shared how she was forced to close her small business due to high gas prices. Barter has been forced to give up on students who live farther away and has had to cancel doctors appointments for her special needs children because of skyrocketing fuel costs.

“Life is too expensive. Food prices are up. Rent and home insurance costs keep climbing. Healthcare costs – if you can even afford coverage at all – are doubling and tripling for some of us,” said Wasserman Schultz. “And now I fear this war against Iran is only going to make matters worse on our families as gas prices take a bigger bite out of family and small business budgets. Worse, rising diesel costs will drive up food prices our community just cannot afford right now. I’ll fight for solutions, like raising wages, and crackdowns on price gouging by oil companies.”

Since President Trump launched his war in Iran without Congressional approval, Americans are paying 35 percent more at the pump, and escalating diesel fuel, fertilizer and other rising costs from the conflict are driving up prices all Americans must pay.

Though Trump campaigned on a pledge to lower prices, gasoline alone has spiked to more than $4 a gallon since the start of Trump’s war. Now, families must deal with high gas prices on top of other rising food, housing, and healthcare costs from Trump’s chaotic tariffs and corrupt economic policies that favor billionaires over working families.

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Rep. Whitesides Announces $1 Million Federal Investment to Improve Drinking Water Safety in Santa Clarita Valley

SANTA CLARITA, CA – Today, Rep. George Whitesides joined members of the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency to announce a new federal investment that will remove dangerous PFAS chemicals from the region’s drinking water. The funding secured by Rep. Whitesides in Congress’ annual budget will go towards the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency’s PFAS treatment vessels, which remove unhealthy ‘forever chemicals’ from drinking water.

“Clean drinking water is a right, not a privilege, and every family in our community should feel confident that their water is safe and free from toxins,” said Rep. Whitesides. “I was proud to bring this funding home for the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, and further the important work they do to remove PFAS and other toxins from our water supply. The reopening of two wells will increase the agency’s treatment capacity and help ensure that they are best prepared to keep our community’s drinking water safe.”

“SCV Water is thankful for Congressman Whitesides’ continued support and effort in securing funding for groundwater treatment in the Santa Clarita Valley,” said SCV Water General Manager Matt Stone. “The E Wells project is another important investment in restoring local water supply and enhancing water quality and reliability for our community.”

PFAS chemicals can cause major health problems if left untreated. The Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency serves close to 291,000 residents through around 76,800 connection points. The funding will help restore 4 to 6% of the annual drinking water supply, meaning more clean water will be available to the Santa Clarita Valley.

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Baldwin Presses Trump Admin on Planned Restructuring, Staff Cuts at VA That Threaten to Undercut Veterans’ Care

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) pressed the Trump Administration on the Department of Veteran Affairs’ (VA) decision to cut staff and restructure the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)—which would eliminate critical resources for VA hospitals, cut positions, and jeopardize care for Wisconsin veterans.

“I have heard from veterans, healthcare providers, and community organizations across Wisconsin who have expressed deep concern that this restructuring could weaken access to timely, high-quality care for veterans who rely on the VA system. While the VA has stated that field operations will remain unaffected by this restructuring, those assurances must be supported by transparent plans and clear metrics for success. Local communities need to know that access to care will not be compromised through the pursuit of administrative efficiency,” Senator Baldwin wrote in a letter to VA Secretary Doug Collins.

Wisconsin is home to several major VA medical centers, providing essential care for thousands of veterans. However, as the Trump Administration has already cut the VA workforce by 30,000 employees in the past year, Wisconsin veterans face challenges in accessing timely, high-quality care. Senator Baldwin pushed back on these cuts and demanded they be reversed, stressing that dramatic reductions in staff would jeopardize veterans’ earned care and benefits.

Now, Secretary Collins has proposed a plan to decrease the number of Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs), which provide critical support to VA medical centers, from 18 to 5. This restructuring would only exacerbate the challenges already faced by these medical centers.

“The administration is eliminating positions that provide healthcare services to veterans, reducing the VA's ability to meet the growing and evolving needs of veterans. Public reporting indicates that many of the positions were only vacated in the last year through resignations and retirements caused by the administration’s actions. Reductions in these positions may deepen staffing shortages, lengthen wait times, and place additional strain on remaining personnel,” Baldwin continued.

Senator Baldwin demanded answers to the following questions:

How will the consolidation of VISNs and reduction of approximately 30,000 billets affect the oversight structure and operational capacity of VA medical facilities serving Wisconsin veterans?

What analysis has the VA conducted to assess the impact of this restructuring on access to care, appointment wait times, and health outcomes in Wisconsin?

Please provide specifics regarding anticipated staffing changes at Wisconsin VA facilities and the measures in place to avoid service disruptions.

What steps will the VA take to ensure that veterans in rural communities in Wisconsin continue to receive timely and uninterrupted care?

How will the VA measure the success of the restructuring in terms of improved care, reduced administrative duplication, and accountability? Please include benchmarks and timelines.

Please provide a detailed accounting of the expected costs of the initiative, including upfront investments and projected savings. Explain how these costs will be managed without negatively impacting veteran care.

Please provide a detailed accounting of all unfilled VA billets that are slated for elimination in Wisconsin.

How will the reduction of unfilled billets affect service delivery at VA medical centers, outpatient clinics, and rural facilities in Wisconsin?

What measures will the VA take to ensure that reductions in unfilled billets do not compromise access to care, appointment availability, or quality of services?

How will the VA monitor the impact of these workforce reductions and adjust staffing allocations if service disruptions or staffing shortages occur?

A full version of this letter is available here and below.

Dear Secretary Collins,

I write to express serious concern regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) proposed restructuring of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), known as the Restructure for Impact and Sustainability Effort, which will reduce staffing levels at VHA.

Veterans in Wisconsin already face challenges in accessing timely, high-quality care and this restructuring would seem to only exacerbate these challenges for thousands of veterans in Wisconsin. The scale of this overhaul and planned workforce reductions raise questions and require oversight.

The VA has claimed that the VHA restructuring and workforce reductions will reduce administrative overhead, consolidate Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs), and create new health service areas. Wisconsin is home to several major VA medical centers that provide essential care to veterans. The William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison serves a large population across multiple counties. It offers a full range of inpatient and outpatient services. The VA Milwaukee Healthcare System, centered at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center and linked with multiple community-based outpatient clinics throughout eastern Wisconsin, serves more than 234,000 veterans. In 2025 alone, tens of thousands of veterans received care through this system. The Tomah VA Medical Center serves approximately 26,000 veterans across a broad rural region. It provides primary and specialty care services that are critical to rural communities. Many Wisconsin veterans also rely on VA medical centers located in neighboring states like Minnesota where the Minneapolis VA hospital provides care for veterans in western Wisconsin. Ensuring these centers have sufficient staff, resources, and operational stability is fundamental to the VA’s mission and to the health of the veterans and their families.

I have heard from veterans, healthcare providers, and community organizations across Wisconsin who have expressed deep concern that this restructuring could weaken access to timely, high-quality care for veterans who rely on the VA system. While the VA has stated that field operations will remain unaffected by this restructuring, those assurances must be supported by transparent plans and clear metrics for success. Local communities need to know that access to care will not be compromised through the pursuit of administrative efficiency.

I am concerned about the workforce reductions included in this plan through the elimination of thousands of unfilled VA billets. The administration is eliminating positions that provide healthcare services to veterans, reducing the VA's ability to meet the growing and evolving needs of veterans. Public reporting indicates that many of the positions were only vacated in the last year through resignations and retirements caused by the administration’s actions. Reductions in these positions may deepen staffing shortages, lengthen wait times, and place additional strain on remaining personnel. While these reductions are described as a rebalancing of resources, the loss of experienced personnel could directly affect appointment availability and continuity of care. Demand for veteran care in Wisconsin continues to grow, especially in rural areas, and this restructuring could reduce the ability of Wisconsin’s VA facilities to meet the growing needs of veterans.

Over the last year, the VA has reduced its workforce by roughly 30,000 positions across the department and is eliminating thousands of additional vacant medical positions. I am concerned about how these cuts will be coordinated with ongoing operations at the facilities veterans rely on every day. Without clear planning and coordination, these reductions will strain existing staff and hinder VA facilities’ ability to provide timely, high-quality care and continuity of services to veterans.

Veterans, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders deserve clarity on how the VA will continue its commitment to serving those who have served our nation under this plan.

Therefore, I request detailed responses to the following questions:

How will the consolidation of VISNs and reduction of approximately 30,000 billets affect the oversight structure and operational capacity of VA medical facilities serving Wisconsin veterans?

What analysis has the VA conducted to assess the impact of this restructuring on access to care, appointment wait times, and health outcomes in Wisconsin?

Please provide specifics regarding anticipated staffing changes at Wisconsin VA facilities and the measures in place to avoid service disruptions.

What steps will the VA take to ensure that veterans in rural communities in Wisconsin continue to receive timely and uninterrupted care?

How will the VA measure the success of the restructuring in terms of improved care, reduced administrative duplication, and accountability? Please include benchmarks and timelines.

Please provide a detailed accounting of the expected costs of the initiative, including upfront investments and projected savings. Explain how these costs will be managed without negatively impacting veteran care.

Please provide a detailed accounting of all unfilled VA billets that are slated for elimination in Wisconsin.

How will the reduction of unfilled billets affect service delivery at VA medical centers, outpatient clinics, and rural facilities in Wisconsin?

What measures will the VA take to ensure that reductions in unfilled billets do not compromise access to care, appointment availability, or quality of services?

How will the VA monitor the impact of these workforce reductions and adjust staffing allocations if service disruptions or staffing shortages occur?

The Department of Veterans Affairs carries a profound responsibility to fulfill our nation's commitment to those who have served. As the VA moves forward with significant organizational changes, it is imperative that Congress, veterans, and the communities that support them have full transparency regarding the risks and benefits of this effort.

I look forward to your prompt and thorough response.

Sincerely,

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Blackburn, Hagerty, DesJarlais Work to Ensure Tennessee Veterans Maintain Continuity of Care Following McMinnville VA Clinic Closure

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) as well as U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Under Secretary for Health John Bartrum regarding the transition of services at the VA clinic in McMinnville, Tennessee. Read the letter here and below.

Blackburn, Hagerty, and DesJarlais Urge VA to Establish and Communicate Well-Defined Transition Plan to Ensure McMinnville Veterans Receive Care They Need

“We appreciate the Department’s continued efforts to expand access to timely, high-quality care for veterans, including recent steps to strengthen and streamline community care options. We understand the decision to transition services at this facility reflects broader efforts to address staffing challenges and improve the delivery of care. While we are supportive of efforts that expand access and improve quality, including through the Community Care Network, we want to ensure this transition is executed in a way that maintains continuity of care for the veterans who rely on this clinic. As VA transitions veterans to nearby VA facilities or community providers, it will be important to ensure that veterans do not experience gaps in care, delays in appointments, or unnecessary travel burdens. While we were disappointed to learn of the clinic’s closure, we were pleased that our staff was able to attend the town hall in McMinnville and hear directly from local veterans about their concerns. Clear communication and a well-defined transition plan will be critical to ensuring veterans understand their options and remain confident in their access to care.”

Blackburn, Hagerty, and DesJarlais Request More Information on How VA Will Support Veterans Affected by McMinnville Clinic Closure

“To better understand how the Department is executing this transition and ensuring continuity of care, we respectfully request information on the following: How many veterans are currently assigned to the McMinnville clinic, and what is VA’s plan to ensure each veteran has a confirmed follow-on appointment with either VA or a community provider prior to any disruption in services? Will VA utilize the External Provider Scheduling system to support veterans affected by this transition in the McMinnville region, and can veterans be given direct access to schedule community care appointments through this system? Does the Community Care Network in this region currently have sufficient capacity to absorb these veterans without increasing wait times, and if not, what steps is VA taking to expand provider participation in the near term? Has VA evaluated the use of Veterans Care Agreements to supplement network capacity in this region, and under what conditions would VA deploy VCAs to ensure timely access to care? Have all affected veterans been directly notified of their care options, and how is VA capturing and responding to concerns raised during the March 20 town hall?”


Blumenthal Demands DOJ Open Antitrust Investigation into WNBA's Interference with Sale of Connecticut Sun

[Hartford, CT] — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal today wrote to the Department of Justice demanding it open an antitrust investigation into the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA)’s interference with Connecticut’s efforts to keep the Connecticut Sun based in the state.

“In forcing the Sun’s sale to Fertitta Entertainment and move to Houston despite a more lucrative bid to move the team to Hartford, which is in the same media and consumer market, the WNBA abused its monopolistic control over professional women’s basketball to flagrantly block potential negotiations and dictate the result for its own purposes, seemingly violating federal antitrust laws,” Blumenthal wrote.

Last week’s announcement that the team had been sold to Houston for $25 million less than the State of Connecticut’s offer because of the WNBA’s intervention demands federal. The WNBA is not exempt from antitrust laws and their enormous market power as the only women’s professional basketball league in the United States means that it should face scrutiny whenever it uses that power to harm competitive processes.

“No sports fan deserves to lose their favorite team based on the whims of a monopolist sports league. This is especially true in Connecticut, a state that is famously passionate about women’s basketball,” Blumenthal said.

In addition to writing the DOJ, Blumenthal joined Senator Bernie Sanders and Rep. Greg Casar last week in introducing the Home Team Act, legislation to require owners of professional sports teams to give local communities the chance to buy teams before relocating them.

Blumenthal’s letter is available here and below. His remarks at Monday’s press conference are available here.

April 6, 2026

Omeed A. Assefi

Acting Assistant Attorney General

Antitrust Division

United States Department of Justice

950 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, D.C. 20530

Dear Acting Assistant Attorney General Assefi,

I am writing to urge the Department of Justice to open an antitrust investigation into the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA)’s interference with Connecticut’s efforts to keep the Connecticut Sun based in the state. In forcing the Sun’s sale to Fertitta Entertainment and move to Houston despite a more lucrative bid to move the team to Hartford, which is in the same media and consumer market, the WNBA abused its monopolistic control over professional women’s basketball to flagrantly block potential negotiations and dictate the result for its own purposes, seemingly violating federal antitrust laws.

Over the past twenty years, the Sun have become one of the league’s most consistently successful teams both on and off the court, appearing in four WNBA finals, growing a loyal fan base, and benefiting from the culture of basketball excellence of the UConn Huskies. After the Mohegan Tribe began entertaining offers for the team in 2024, multiple competitive bids were submitted for full or partial control of the team. The state of Connecticut worked closely with some prospective buyers to ensure that the team would remain in the state after the sale; other competitive bids would have kept the team in the region. Two offers for full control of the Sun valued the team at $325 million, which would have set the record for the largest sale of a controlling stake in a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team.[1] Notably, this valuation was $25 million higher than the bid that the WNBA ultimately forced the Tribe to accept.

Despite competitive bids and a loyal fanbase, the WNBA stepped in to block all efforts to keep the Sun in Connecticut. The WNBA explicitly asserted that it would control the team’s sale, stating “relocation decisions are made by the WNBA Board of Governors and not by individual teams.”[2] The outcome of the league’s dictating to the market was previewed in June 2025, when Commissioner Cathy Engleberg said Houston was “up next” at an event celebrating three teams joining the league.[3] Having rigged the process and vetoed Connecticut’s viable offer, the Sun was sold to Fertitta Entertainment in Houston for a reported price of $300 million. The WNBA claimed the authority to block the mere relocation of the team 40 miles, with the Mohegan Tribe retaining an ownership share, as a “move” subject to WNBA approval.

The WNBA is not exempt from antitrust laws. Indeed, the WNBA’s enormous market power as the only women’s professional basketball league in the United States means that it should face scrutiny whenever it uses that market power to harm competitive processes. Here, the league’s intervention was apparently so decisive that it potentially foreclosed more valuable offers. The price paid by Fertitta Entertainment—$25 million less than two bids that would have kept the team in New England—shows the WNBA’s power to dictate market outcomes.[4] The WNBA’s heavy hand in steering the Sun’s sale appears to be market interference so brazen it may constitute interference and bid-rigging—classic signs of monopolist behavior that should alarm the DOJ.

No sports fan deserves to lose their favorite team based on the whims of a monopolist sports league. This is especially true in Connecticut, a state that is famously passionate about women’s basketball. Accordingly, I request that the Department of Justice closely examine WNBA’s steering of the Connecticut Sun’s proposed sale to the Houston and Fertitta Entertainment for potential violations of federal antitrust laws.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

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Boozman Fights to Stabilize Ag Labor Costs

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) in introducing legislation to stabilize agriculture labor costs by providing farmers greater certainty and clarity when forecasting this critical operating expense as they plan for future growing seasons.

The Farmworker Access and Retention Modernization (FARM) Stability Act would codify the Trump administration’s interim regulation by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to amend the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker program Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) determining methodology.

“Farmers are extremely resourceful and resilient, but their success depends on circumstances beyond their control. Ensuring they can secure a dependable agriculture workforce will lift a major burden on them and help provide needed certainty. I’m proud to join Senator Budd in championing the FARM Stability Act to bring reliable and affordable labor to farm operations across the country,” Boozman said.

“As labor costs continue to climb, our nation’s farmers and ranchers deserve to know the price tag associated with keeping their operations going. Agriculture is North Carolina’s leading industry and a cornerstone of our economy, but without a stable, reliable workforce, our producers cannot plan, threatening both their livelihoods and our nation’s food supply. The DOL has helped provide farmers with the transparency they deserve, but now we must ensure agricultural labor costs remain affordable by passing the FARM Stability Act,” Budd said.

Farmers have been facing rapidly rising labor costs, driven in large part by mismanagement in calculating the AEWR used in the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker program. Boozman joined Budd and a bicameral group of lawmakers to urge the department to rescind enforcement of Biden-era regulations that dramatically increased costs for American farmers and created obstacles for producers seeking to enroll in the H-2A visa program.

DOL’s Interim Final Rule (IFR) established an annual adjustment to the hourly AEWR and created separate wage scales for entry-level and experienced H–2A workers, providing much-needed clarity for the agricultural industry. The FARM Stability Act would codify this rule.

The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Tim Scott (R-SC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Roger Wicker (R-MS).

The Agricultural Workforce Coalition, Arkansas Farm Bureau and Agriculture Council of Arkansas are supportive of the bill.

“We applaud Senator John Boozman for his leadership and willingness to cosponsor the Farmworker Access and Retention Modernization (FARM) Stability Act. Arkansas farmers and ranchers depend on a stable and reliable workforce, and this legislation provides a practical, long-term solution to address ongoing labor challenges in agriculture. We thank Senator Boozman for recognizing the importance of this issue and for standing with Arkansas agriculture,” said Arkansas Farm Bureau President Dan Wright.


Astronauts on Artemis II Pass Tremendous Milestone: They’re the Farthest From Earth Any Humans Have Travelled

Ahead of the Artemis II launch, Sen. Cantwell visited WA space companies enabling the first manned moon mission in 50 Years

EDMONDS, WA – Just now, at approximately 7:07 p.m. ET, the crew of the Artemis II mission reached a historic milestone: They’ve traveled to the farthest point of their journey, and farther from Earth than any other humans in history. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation that oversees NASA, issued the following statement:

“Humanity reaching farther into the cosmos than ever before is a triumph of American ingenuity - and it's made possible both by the brave crew of astronauts who have inspired the world and the countless scientists, engineers, and manufacturers whose years of hard work turned this vision into reality. This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the technology that is designed, built, and tested in Washington state’s ‘Silicon Valley of Space.’”

Last week, Sen. Cantwell toured two of the dozens of Washington state companies that are supplying NASA’s Artemis Mission – Karman Space & Defense in Mukilteo, and L3Harris in Redmond.

READ MORE:

The Seattle Times: Washington’s space economy powers the Artemis II moonshot

KIRO 7: Artemis II: Washington’s hand in the upcoming historic flight around the moon

GeekWire: Watch NASA count down to the launch of humanity’s first moon voyage in nearly 54 years

Sen. Cantwell has been a champion for our nation’s space industry and its aerospace workforce, and currently oversees NASA and the space industry as Ranking Member of the Commerce Committee. Last month, Sen. Cantwell led bipartisan, unanimous passage through the Commerce Committee of the NASA Authorization Act of 2026, which confirms support for the Artemis missions.

Fact Sheet: Washington’s Space Economy and Sen. Cantwell’s Support for the Artemis Program

Karman Space & Defense is a manufacturer of mission-critical subsystems for launch vehicles, spacecraft, and hypersonic systems. The company’s Mukilteo campus produces components for the Orion capsule that is flying on the Artemis II mission. This includes the capsule’s propellant-drive hatch release mechanisms, which allow for crew egress from the capsule in the event of emergency, and forward bay cover thrusters, which expose the capsule’s parachutes and allows them to deploy after reentry. Karman also has facilities in Arlington and Skagit. Altogether, more than 500 Karman employees work in Washington state. Last week, Sen. Cantwell saw two systems which are flying on the Artemis II mission, including mission-critical safety systems. Sen. Cantwell also discussed how Karman’s leading-edge composites are used in space programs.

L3Harris specializes in rocket propulsion, holding contracts to provide many of the thrusters used on Artemis. The company’s Redmond facility has manufactured spacecraft thrusters for NASA since 1968 and has supported famous missions such as Viking and Voyager. More than 400 employees work at the Redmond campus. Last week, Sen. Cantwell saw replicas of the 21 thrusters that will be used to return the four astronauts on Artemis II safely back to Earth.

Artemis II is the first crewed flight of the Artemis missions, designed to confirm that the SLS rocket and Orion space vehicle operate as designed with crew onboard in a deep space environment. The crew will spend 10 days in space and complete a lunar flyby, reaching the farthest point humans have ever traveled, before returning to Earth and splashing down in the Pacific Ocean.


Senator Collins Applauds Maine and New England Small Business Manufacturer of the Year

BREWER, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins today applauded Compotech, based in Brewer, and its President, Paul Melrose, for winning the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Maine and New England Small Business Manufacturer of the Year award.

Compotech is a defense technology company, strengthening U.S. military capabilities through smart manufacturing, composites, and advanced engineering. By leveraging data and technology, Compotech creates quality jobs in Maine, which showcases a higher caliber skill set and paves the way for future employment opportunities.

“Congratulations to Paul and the entire Compotech team on this significant recognition,” said Senator Collins. “I’m proud to have supported Compotech by securing federal funding for the development of next generation technology to protect our servicemembers. I will continue working to support businesses like Compotech who contribute to our national security and small business owners like Paul who add so much to our communities.”

“We are incredibly grateful for Senator Collins’ continued support and advocacy for Compotech and Maine’s small business community. Her commitment to securing federal funding for next-generation defense technology has been instrumental in allowing us to grow right here in Brewer and continue developing products that protect the men and women who serve our country. It’s an honor to work alongside leaders who believe in what Maine manufacturers can accomplish,” said Paul Melrose.

In Fiscal Year 2026, Senator Collins secured $17 million for containerized secure units to support highly mobile expeditionary operations for the Marine Corps, $10 million for the procurement of an expeditionary shelter protection system (ESPS), $8 million to advance artificial intelligence-enabled munitions inspection technology using CT scanning, and $5 million to continue the development, testing, and user evaluations of Expandable Panelized and Collapsible Shelters (E-PACS), all of which are manufactured by Compotech.

Senator Collins also congratulated Maine’s other SBA annual Small Business Award winners this week, including Spud Speedway in Caribou, Casco Bay Ambulance Service in Portland, Fundamental Foot Care in Hampden, Rick’s Redemption in Presque Isle, Erik Francis of Francis Fisheries, and Ghent Holdsworth II of Aroostook County Savings & Loan.

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Senator Collins Champions $65 Million for Maine’s Rural Infrastructure

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the State of Maine will receive $65 million for two rural infrastructure projects through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Competitive Highway Bridge Program (CHBP). Created by Senator Collins and Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) in 2018 as leaders of the Senate Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, the CHBP funds highway bridge replacement or rehabilitation projects on public roads that serve rural communities. Maine will receive an outsized proportion—16 percent—of the $408 million awarded nationally through this program because of Senator Collins’ leadership.

“Growing up in Caribou, I have always been acutely aware of the unique challenges facing our rural communities and determined to find solutions. That is why I was proud to work with my colleagues to create this program to replace aging bridges in rural communities across Maine and the nation. There is no reason Mainers should have to continue using bridges that are in poor condition and have exceeded their original design service life,” said Senator Collins. “These new bridges will help improve safety, support good-paying jobs, and better connect rural Mainers to the rest of the state.”

Funding secured by Senator Collins includes:

$38,712,000 - Critical Connections: Preserving Mobility for Rural Economies

This project will replace 11 state-owned bridges across rural central Maine. The project spans seven of Maine’s counties: Androscoggin, Franklin, Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Sagadahoc, and Somerset. All 11 bridges that will be replaced are in poor condition, over 50 years old, and have exceeded their original design service life. The replacement bridges will be designed with a 75-year service life. The bridges that will be replaced with this funding are as follows:

Somerset County

Main Street in Caratunk built in 1922 crossing Pleasant Pond Stream

Kennebec River Road in Embden built in 1934 crossing Martin Stream

Huff Road in Cornville built in 1936 crossing Wesserunsett Stream

Pleasant Pond Road in Caratunk built in 1945 crossing Pleasant Pond Stream

Franklin County

Mace Road in Chesterville built in 1950 crossing McGurdy Stream

Howard Road in Salem Township built in 1974 crossing the West Branch Carrabasset River

Piscataquis County

Silvers Mills Road in Sangerville built in 1954 crossing French Mills Brook

Penobscot County

Fuller Road in Carmel built in 1963 crossing Harvey Brook

Hancock County

Bald Mountain Road in Orland built in 1951 crossing Moosehorn Creek

Sagadahoc County

Cathance Road in Topsham built in 1920 crossing the Cathance River

Burrough Road in Bowdoin built in 1936 crossing the Little River

$26,288,000 - Interstate 95 Decks in Distress

This project will replace the bridge decks on four state-owned bridges along Interstate 95 (I-95) in Penobscot County. Two of the bridges convey I-95 Northbound (NB) and Southbound (SB) over Pushaw Stream in the City of Old Town and the other two bridges convey I-95 NB and SB over the Piscataquis River in the Town of Howland.

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Since joining the Appropriations Committee in 2009, Senator Collins has helped to secure more than $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine.

Throughout her time in the Senate, Senator Collins has continued to be a champion for rural Maine. In December, Senator Collins announced that Maine will receive $190 million in first-year funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), a $50 billion initiative that will be awarded over five years that she proposed to support rural health care systems across the country. This funding is the largest single federal investment in rural health care in more than two decades.

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HUD Awards $9.4 Million to North Dakota Communities

BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced awards totaling $9,444,315 to Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, and the state of North Dakota.

The funding will be distributed through the following programs:

The Community Development Block Grant Program provides annual grants on a formula basis to states, cities, and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, for low- and moderate-income persons.

$3,559,742 to the state of North Dakota

$828,465 to Fargo

$425,671 to Grand Forks

$405,839 to Bismarck

$287,456 to Minot

The Emergency Solutions Grant Program is designed to assist people with quickly regaining stability in permanent housing after experiencing a housing crisis and/or homelessness.

$489,698 to the state of North Dakota

The HOME Investment Partnerships Program provides formula grants to states and localities to be used in partnership with local nonprofit groups to fund a wide range of activities including building, buying, rehabilitating affordable housing for rent or homeownership or providing direct rental assistance to low-income people.


Sen. Cramer: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Awards $350,769 to UND

BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the award of $350,769 to the University of North Dakota (UND). The funding will support allergy, immunology, and transplantation research to examine the role of peripheral immune cell activity in food-allergy-induced neuroinflammation and demyelination.


Curtis, Merkley, Cruz, Kim Introduce Bill to Bolster Taiwan’s Drone Production, Support U.S. National Security

Bipartisan legislation expands opportunities for United States and Taiwan to create PRC-independent drone systems amid growing China threat

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Andy Kim (D-NJ) introduced bipartisan legislation to expand cooperation between the United States and Taiwan on the development of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in the face of the People’s Republic of China (PRC)’s increasing pressure on Taiwan and the PRC’s dominance in the UAS supply chain.

The Blue Skies for Taiwan Act promotes the development, production, and deployment of secure, resilient UAS to enhance American national security and support the defense and resilience of Taiwan, a longstanding and vital democratic partner for the United States in the Indo-Pacific region.

“Strengthening our partnership with Taiwan is critical to advancing both American security and the stability of the Indo-Pacific,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bipartisan legislation expands cooperation between the U.S. and Taiwan to build secure, resilient drone systems—cutting China out of the supply chain and reinforcing deterrence in the region.”

“Our longstanding partnership with Taiwan demands the United States use all the tools at our disposal to strengthen Taiwan’s security and counter China’s coercive tactics,” said Senator Merkley. “Our bipartisan effort not only protects American strategic interests and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, but it also ensures that Taiwan is well-equipped to develop unmanned aerial systems in support of its own defense and our national security. As Beijing escalates its pressure campaign, American support for Taiwan will remain ironclad.”

“The Chinese Communist Party expends countless resources to erode the status of our Taiwanese allies and isolate them globally. This legislation will modernize the development and production of unmanned aerial system supply chains, strengthen supply chain integration, and deepen U.S.-Taiwan defense cooperation. It also importantly expands opportunities for collaboration on Blue UAS, including efforts like the Advanced Automation Manufacturing project at Red River Army Depot in Texarkana, Texas. I’m proud to join Senator Merkley in introducing this bill,” said Senator Cruz.

“Drones are becoming increasingly central to defense systems worldwide—and the United States and our partners are unprepared to produce them at the necessary scale,” said Senator Kim. “Making matters worse, the majority of commercially available UAS technology relies on components sourced from China, leaving the U.S. and partners like Taiwan vulnerable to supply chain manipulation. Supporting Taiwan’s UAS manufacturing through this legislation is how we close that gap and secure long-term stability for ourselves and our partners.”

Background:

The vast majority of commercially available UAS contain PRC-sourced components, creating significant cybersecurity, supply chain, and operational risks for both Taiwan and the United States. Taiwan is well-positioned to develop and produce UAS components and systems. This bill will identify roadblocks and expand opportunities for the United States and Taiwan to create PRC-independent drone systems and components to supply both Taiwan and U.S. defenses.

The bipartisan Blue Skies for Taiwan Act would tackle these challenges by:

Establishing a Blue UAS Working Group, led by the Departments of State and War (DoW), to assess Taiwan’s drone production capacity and identify opportunities and impediments to incorporating Taiwan-manufactured UAS and components in the Defense Contract Management Agency’s Blue UAS program and associated lists.

The Blue UAS program is a DoW initiative that vets and certifies secure drone systems and components that do not rely on PRC technology or supply chains.

Directing the establishment of a cooperative framework with regional allies to support secure, PRC-independent drone supply chains and expand opportunities for Taiwan’s drone industry.

Instructing the Departments of State and War to develop a fast-track certification process for Taiwan drone and drone component manufacturers.

The full bill text can be found here.


Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Mill Creek Cafe

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: Mill Creek Cafe of Cedar County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in each of Iowa’s 99 counties.

“Mill Creek Cafe is a soup-er example of the dedication and community spirit that define Iowa small businesses,” said Chair Ernst. “Dishing out greatness for over 15 years, Jamie and Marcia have created a welcoming space where neighbors gather to enjoy quality, home-cooked meals, strengthening Clarence one customer at a time.”

Founded in 2010 by Jamie Wilhua and Marcia Syring, Mill Creek Cafe offers a rotating six-week menu featuring a wide variety of made-from-scratch meals and desserts. Built to meet the needs of a small town, the cafe has become a local staple known for its warm atmosphere, consistency, and commitment to quality.

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

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ICYMI: Gillibrand Demands Details About Trump Administration Withholding Military Promotions

Read NBC’s Story Here

Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), demanded more information following reports that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has blocked or delayed promotions for over a dozen Black and female senior officers across all four branches of the military.

Gillibrand’s letter to SASC Chairman Roger Wicker (R-MS) requests a closed hearing concerning Secretary Hegseth’s actions to examine whether they may have been motivated by politics or inappropriate bias.

The full letter can be found here or below:

Dear Chairman Wicker,

I am writing to request a closed hearing concerning the Secretary of Defense’s decision to withhold promotions for officers selected for promotion to general officer. Public reports allege that these holds may have been motivated by political ideology, inappropriate bias, or immutable and constitutionally protected characteristics rather than merit. Military advancement must remain strictly meritocratic and based on performance.

As a former Chair of the Personnel Subcommittee, I know that there are many appropriate reasons for withholding promotions, and examining the basis of the holds often involves sensitive or adverse information that warrants certain privacy safeguards for the officers in question. It is critical that we both assert the constitutional oversight role of the Senate and ensure that our military is selecting the best candidates for promotion to general officer based solely on merit, free of unlawful bias or prejudice. A closed hearing will ensure that we can protect the privacy of these officers while gathering information to understand the justification for withholding their promotions, with the goal of demonstrating to our colleagues in the Senate and to the American people that they can remain confident in a military promotion system based on individual merit and demonstrated performance.

Sincerely,

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ICYMI: Arctic Frost was an ‘Overreach of Monumental Proportions and Consequence,’ Cannot be Dismissed

What every American needs to know about Jack Smith’s Arctic Frost investigation

April 3, 2026

By Meaghan Mobbs, Opinion Contributor

The Hill

Recent disclosures about special counsel Jack Smith’s Arctic Frost investigation raise a deeply troubling question for the American people: Did federal law enforcement cross the line from pursuing justice into wielding government power for political ends?

Documents released by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley describe investigative actions by the Biden-era Department of Justice and FBI that were not merely aggressive but aggressively partisan in focus and sweeping in scope. It is increasingly clear this was an overreach of monumental proportions and consequence, using law enforcement authority in a manner that transformed the justice system into a political weapon.

That is the very definition of lawfare.

Arctic Frost itself may have been partisan in its execution, but the response to it cannot be. Accountability must be rooted in principle, not party.

According to materials released by Senate investigators, Arctic Frost was the internal codename used for a broad federal inquiry into efforts to challenge the 2020 election results. Under Smith, the investigation issued at least 197 grand jury subpoenas and sought information from more than 400 individuals, organizations and lawmakers connected to post-election activities.

That scale is not a minor detail. It reflects an investigation that moved beyond specific alleged crimes and into a systematic mapping of political actors and associations. One of the most consequential disclosures involves an intrusive investigation into Kash Patel, the current FBI director, who at that time was a private citizen.

According to Senate materials, investigators subpoenaed Verizon, Patel’s phone carrier, for his phone records spanning multiple years, between 2020 and 2023. These demands included not just basic call and text message logs (whom he contacted, when and for how long — metadata that paints an intimate portrait of personal and professional associations), but also residential and mailing addresses, email addresses, IP addresses, usernames, screen names and, crucially, payment information, including credit card numbers and bank details tied to his phone account.

These subpoenas came with court-authorized gag orders lasting up to a year, meaning Verizon was legally barred from telling Patel he was being spied on. As a result, he had no chance to challenge the requests in court. So here we have raw, unaccountable surveillance of an American citizen that went unimpeded for years.

The issue is not whether the government has authority to investigate. It does. The issue is whether that authority was exercised with appropriate limits, neutrality and respect for constitutional protections.

Senate investigators have also stated that prosecutors considered seeking communications records from additional individuals, including 14 members of Congress and congressional staff. Some telecommunications providers reportedly raised constitutional concerns related to the Speech or Debate Clause, which protects legislative activity from certain forms of executive branch inquiry.

Those concerns strike at the core of the separation of powers.

The Constitution does not merely grant authority to the government. It restrains it. The Fourth Amendment exists precisely to prevent the accumulation of surveillance power without clear justification and oversight. In the digital age, communications data can reveal not only what a person says but who they associate with, how they organize politically, and how they participate in civic life.

This is why the controversy surrounding Arctic Frost cannot be dismissed as partisan noise or bureaucratic excess. It raises the possibility that investigative tools designed to protect the public were used in ways that threaten political neutrality and constitutional trust.

That is not a Republican concern or a Democratic concern. It is an American concern.

No citizen should accept the normalization of politically targeted investigations. No administration should quietly be allowed to expand the boundaries of surveillance power and leave that precedent behind for the next one to use. History shows that government power, once expanded, rarely contracts on its own.

If misuse of authority occurred, those responsible must be held accountable through lawful oversight and transparent review — not to punish a political party, but to defend the integrity of the justice system itself. Attempts to minimize, excuse or wish away potential abuses would only deepen public mistrust and invite repetition.

No American should accept actions that undermine the rule of law. Because the danger is not who is targeted today — it is what becomes permissible tomorrow.


N.M. Delegation to Host Virtual Military Service Academy Nominations Event on May 1st

WASHINGTON — On Friday, May 1, at 6 p.m. MT, the offices of U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) will bring together representatives from the U.S. Military Service Academies for a virtual Q&A session.

The conversation is an opportunity for high school students and recent graduates to ask questions about the nomination process and attending U.S. Military Service Academies. The New Mexico Congressional Delegation will be accepting online applications for nominations to enter an academy in Fall 2027.

Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, N.Y.; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, Md.; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, Colo.; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, N.Y. Each member of Congress is allotted a limited number of nominations that they submit to each academy.

The application process opens on April 10, 2026. Interested applicants should visit members' websites for information on how to apply. The deadline to apply for a nomination for each of the congressional offices is October 9, 2026.

WHAT: Military Service Academy Nominations Virtual Q&A

WHEN: Friday, May 1, 2026, at 6 p.m. MT

WHO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich's Staff

U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján's Staff

U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández's Staff,

U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury's Staff

U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez's Staff

U.S. Military Service Academies Representatives.

WHERE: Register for the virtual Q&A here.

For more information on how to apply for a nomination, click here.

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Husted in Zanesville with Ohio oil and gas leaders

“It was energizing to be on the ground in Zanesville today with leaders who are focused on doing just that—reducing reliance on foreign energy, expanding domestic supply and cutting red tape that slows us down.”

ZANESVILLE, OH – Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) today joined a roundtable discussion with Ohio oil and gas industry leaders on key regulatory and operational issues facing the sector and how Ohio can lead the way in strengthening America’s domestic energy supply.

“Ohio is leading the way in powering America’s energy future, and the future of reliable energy depends on policies that boost American production while lowering costs for hardworking families. It was energizing to be on the ground in Zanesville today with leaders who are focused on doing just that—reducing reliance on foreign energy, expanding domestic supply and cutting red tape that slows us down,” said Husted.

Husted supported the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which became law in July 2025. The law encourages innovation and expands American energy production by:

Making Ohio energy more affordable by extending the clean hydrogen production tax credit to January 1, 2028, which helps ensure the continued sustainability of Ohio’s Appalachian Clean Energy Hub, ARCH2.

Eliminating the natural gas tax for 10 years.

Increasing American energy production by expanding oil, gas and coal leasing.


Kaine to Thune on Iran War: “Call the Senate Back into Session”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, released the following statement calling on Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) to bring the Senate back into session this week to address the Iran war, following social media posts by President Donald Trump in which he threatened to commit war crimes against Iranian civilians:

“I ask Senate Majority Leader Thune to call the Senate back into session this week. The President’s unhinged social media postings over the weekend, particularly his profane threats on Easter Sunday to commit war crimes against Iranian civilian targets, show an increasing mental and moral instability that cannot be ignored. When combined with the Secretary of Defense’s unexplained firing of respected Army leaders late last week, and so many other recent chaotic actions hurting our citizens, these trends are a flashing red warning light for our nation.

“America has stood as a beacon of democracy and diplomacy since President Teddy Roosevelt received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1906 for brokering the end of the Russo-Japanese War. We’ve made many mistakes along the way as human institutions inevitably do. But we’ve been the go-to nation when global leadership was needed to solve massive humanitarian problems or stop the violent march of those who would crush the freedoms of everyday people anywhere.

“This meaningful legacy is now being shredded by an Administration that punishes allies with crushing tariffs and idiotic insults, tears up functioning diplomatic deals, and abandons international institutions and agreements that we formed over decades to enhance global stability. The President is emboldening our adversaries and dictators of all stripes, who seek to squash dissent and avoid being accountable to their people.

“The Senate was formed with a specific purpose—to be a zealous guard of a Constitution formed to prevent the executive tyranny our nation’s founders chose to escape. Allowing this President unfettered latitude to wage war, tank the economy, engage in offensive and juvenile attacks on allies, trash our nation’s commitment to human rights, and ignore the will of the American public is a massive abdication of responsibility at the very time when the nation most needs us.

“Let’s return to Washington and deliberate on how we can fulfill the responsibilities we were entrusted with and preserve our democracy against the tyranny our Founders foresaw. The President has the power that Article II of the Constitution provides. But he cannot gag the Article I branch from exercising its own power. The question is whether Congress will continue to gag itself.”

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Senator Kim’s Vision to Fix Our Broken Politics — A Government for the (Actual) People… Not the Powerful Few

Senator Kim Delivered this speech as part of NYU Law’s Katzmann Lecture Series

NEW YORK CITY, NY – This evening, Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) delivered remarks at New York University (NYU) School of Law’s Katzmann Lecture Series, laying out seven guiding principles for how to fix our broken politics.

Drawing on his experience in national security, Congress, and New Jersey politics, Senator Kim outlined the guiding principles driving his fight against corruption: ensuring that leaders serve their constituents instead of themselves, and that government listens to everyday Americans, not just those at the top.

Click here to read the Senator’s full remarks, as prepared.

Senator Kim’s Seven Guiding Principles:

1. The citizen is the core unit of democracy – not political parties or dollar signs.

2. A level playing field in elections – only people, not corporations, should fund campaigns: end outside money and SuperPACs.

3. No one in government should personally profit from the decisions they make or the inside knowledge they hold.

4. No government employee should use their position to enrich family, friends, supporters or themselves.

5. Transparency must be independent – oversight cannot be controlled by those being monitored.

6. There must be real enforcement and consequences for those who harm our democracy.

7. Corruption cannot be contained by restraints alone – it must be overridden by a deep and profound commitment to public service.

More highlights from the speech include:

On the importance of having citizens have their fair say in their representation, and why the SAVE America Act would make that even harder for millions of Americans:

“The citizen is the core unit of our democracy – not political parties – not the dollar sign. The centrality of the citizen must be protected – voters choosing politicians, not politicians choosing voters. Partisan gerrymandering should be illegal and replaced with non-partisan commissions in every state.This should be done nationally.”

“[The SAVE America Act] would make it harder for citizens to vote, especially seniors, students, women, and voters of color. Its aim was supposedly to “stop voter fraud”, but without actually providing any data to show [that voter fraud] was such a major problem…[now] would potentially disenfranchise many citizens. When Trump says out loud that the SAVE America Act would stop Democrats from winning for 50 years, he further sows the weaponization of our politics.”

On the need to level the playing field so that corporations can’t influence future elections:

“If the goal is to uphold the power of citizens and give voters a real choice, then there needs to be as close to a level playing field between candidates as possible…only people – not corporations or other entities – should be able to donate to campaigns with fixed total maximums.”

“The Citizens United decision will go down in history as one of the most destructive events in our democracy, and the ruling must be overturned. We should not allow outside money including SUPERPACs.”

On preventing personal enrichment in future public servants and their families:

“As we protect the citizens in elections, we protect the interests and security of the people of our country within our governance. No one working for the government — nor their families — should be allowed to personally profit off of the decisions they make, the work they do, and the inside knowledge they have.”

“The American people deserve to have assurance that decisions I make and others in government are always driven by what’s best for the country. [And] the concern isn’t just among politicians enriching themselves – No government employee should ever make decisions, provide assistance, or share information specifically designed to enrich family, friends, or supporters.”

“We should never assume that politicians and government officials can uphold these standards on their own. Because in politics, there is often a sense that there is no wrongdoing if no one can see what you are doing. Transparency is a must and the operations to provide transparency cannot and should not be controlled by those being monitored.”

On combatting corruption for a new generation of leaders:

“The Supreme Court has taken several steps to make it harder to combat political corruption. There must be real and credible enforcement and consequences for those that do harm to our democracy, whether they sought to enrich themselves or others, or to abuse the trust of the people in other ways…Without accountability, corruption soars.”

“Corruption cannot be countered solely through restraints and containment. Corruption must be overridden by a deep and profound sense of public service.”

“By making sure that people are always given an opportunity to have their voices heard, we can judge the success of programs by whether they’ve served people, not whether they serve the ideological whims or financial futures of the well-off and well-connected.”

“The challenges we face can’t be solved through legislation alone.We don’t live in a time where there is politics as usual. I believe we need to build a movement, an anti-corruption movement that will fight against the apathy, against the helplessness, against the antibodies of the status quo. We need to restore trust back into our government and ignite a new era of public service in our nation.”

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King Statement on Rising Tensions Between U.S., Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) today released a statement as tensions grow in the Middle East after the President’s Easter Morning threat to escalate the U.S. bombing campaign to include civilian targets if Iran refuses to open the Strait of Hormuz.

“The President’s unhinged post Easter Sunday morning saying that Tuesday is “Power Plant Day” in Iran followed by an interview where he continued, “I am blowing up everything over there” are gravely dangerous to our country on two levels.

The first is moral and legal. Attacking civilian infrastructure without a direct military purpose but with a disproportionate impact on civilians is a war crime and puts the United States in the same category as Putin’s Russia. It also hastens our transition from the unquestioned leader of the free world to a lonely pariah state without allies or even friends.

The second outcome is more practical and immediate. Iran’s response to such an attack will almost certainly be major strikes on oil infrastructure throughout the Middle East which will make the impact of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz look like child’s play. $8.00 a gallon gas and world-wide recession would be just the start. And remember, the Strait of Hormuz was open before we started this war.

The best result now would be for the President to declare victory (as he has half a dozen times already), cease the bombing, and let the international community sort out the aftermath. No more risk to our brave troops, no greater damage to our economy, no perpetration of war crimes, and no more blows to our tattered reputation.”


Klobuchar, Smith Call on Federal Highway Administration to Allow St. Louis County to Use Project Labor Agreements

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) are calling on the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to approve the use of Project Labor Agreements for five projects that have been awarded federal funds to St. Louis County.

“We write to request your prompt approval of the use of Project Labor Agreements (PLA) for five projects for which St. Louis County, Minnesota has been awarded federal funds,” wrote the Senators. “These funds will improve the County’s roadways and provide good-paying construction jobs.”

“St. Louis County has a longstanding policy that requires PLAs on large road and bridge projects. In August 2025, the County submitted PLAs for these projects to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and is awaiting approval to ensure the projects remain eligible for FHWA funding. The swift approval is crucial to prevent further delays in getting these projects bid and construction started during Minnesota’s weather-constrained construction season,” the Senators continued.

The full text of the letter is below and can be found here.

Dear Administrator McMaster:

We write to request your prompt approval of the use of Project Labor Agreements (PLA) for five projects for which St. Louis County, Minnesota has been awarded federal funds. These funds will improve the County’s roadways and provide good-paying construction jobs.

St. Louis County has a longstanding policy that requires PLAs on large road and bridge projects. In August 2025, the County submitted PLAs for these projects to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and is awaiting its approval to ensure the projects remain eligible for the use of FHWA funding. The swift approval is crucial to prevent further delays in getting these projects bid and construction started during Minnesota’s weather-constrained construction season.

Please find below the list of projects awaiting approval of the use of PLAs:

? County State-Aid Highway (CSAH) 21

? CSAH 84 (Hobson Lake Road)

? CSAH 88 (Grant McMahan Blvd)

? CSAH 91 (40th Avenue West)

? CSAH 98 (Canosia Road)

We respectfully request that PLAs be approved for these projects as soon as possible. Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

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Klobuchar Joins Farmers, Ag Leaders to Discuss Rising Fertilizer Costs and Impact on Minnesota Agriculture

Klobuchar highlighted the negative effects of tariffs, the war with Iran, and market consolidation on fertilizer, and her two bipartisan bills.

MINNESOTA — Senator Amy Klobuchar visited with farmers in Cannon Falls to highlight her bipartisan bills to lower fertilizer costs in the wake of the war in Iran. Klobuchar met with Minnesota agriculture leaders, including Rob Tate, the board treasurer of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, Wes Beck, the President of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, Ryan Mackenthun, the Vice President of the Minnesota Soybean Association, and local farmers.

“At a time when farmers are facing a ‘perfect storm of ugly’ with rising fertilizer costs and low commodity prices, which are continuing to erode farmers' profitability, we should be increasing price transparency for farmers and improving domestic fertilizer production and storage here at home,” said Klobuchar. “My bipartisan bills will help stabilize fertilizer pricing, reduce supply chain disruptions, and ensure farmers can access affordable fertilizer to keep feeding and fueling the world.”

In addition, Klobuchar discussed tariffs and the war. Klobuchar favors ending across-the-board tariffs and allowing Congress to make decisions about the Iran War instead of the President unilaterally continuing the war.

The Fertilizer Transparency Act (Thune-Klobuchar) would create a mandatory price reporting structure to provide wholesalers, retailers, and farmers of all sizes with comparable levels of market information on fertilizer costs. The Homegrown Fertilizer Act (Klobuchar-Marshall) would create a grant and loan program to expand domestic fertilizer production and improve fertilizer storage capacity. This will strengthen supply chains at home, and ease dependence on global markets.

Over the last year, IEEPA tariffs added nearly $1 billion in costs to critical inputs like fertilizers, seed, machinery, and chemicals. In 2025 alone, fertilizers like potash cost up to 20% more.

Following the start of the war in Iran, fertilizer components like urea spiked 25%. Ammonia, phosphate, sulfur, and potassium have also risen sharply. Countries near the Strait of Hormuz account for nearly half of global urea and 30% of global ammonia exports used in nitrogen fertilizer supply chains.

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Merkley, 45+ Lawmakers Renew Push for Wealth Tax on Ultra-Millionaires and Billionaires

New analysis shows that wealth tax would generate over $6 trillion in revenue that could lower costs for families through programs like universal child care, free community college, Medicare expansion, and more

Bill One-Pager (PDF) | Bill Text (PDF) | Analysis (PDF)

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley joined a bicameral group of 45+ lawmakers in reintroducing the Ultra-Millionaire Tax Act, legislation that would apply a wealth tax to fortunes above $50 million. According to a new analysis, the bill would generate $6.2 trillion in revenue over the next decade, enough money to pay for investments like universal child care, free community college, Medicare expansion, and more—without raising taxes on 99.85% of American households.

“For too long, a handful of ultra-millionaires and billionaires have watched their fortunes soar while working families struggle to keep up with the cost of living. It’s time to restore the basic promise that everyone pays their fair share and our economy works for all, not just the wealthiest few,” said Merkley. “The Ultra-Millionaire Tax Act is a straightforward solution to help rebalance our economy and ensure working families can thrive by investing in health care, housing, education, and good-paying jobs.”

The Ultra-Millionaire Tax Act would level the playing field and narrow the wealth gap by asking the wealthiest 260,000 households in America, or the top 0.15%, to pay their fair share. The bill would establish a 2% annual tax on the net worth of households and trusts valued at over $50 million and an additional 1% annual surtax (3% total annual tax) on the net worth of households and trusts above $1 billion. The bill also includes robust anti-evasion and avoidance measures, including $100 million in new funding for the IRS and a 40% “exit tax” on the wealth of ultra-millionaires and billionaires who renounce their citizenship to avoid the tax.

With the $6.2 trillion in revenue the Ultra-Millionaire Tax Act would generate, the federal government could make serious investments in lowering costs for families. The revenue could pay for all the following policies combined—with money left to spare:

Provide universal, affordable child care

Lower rents by building millions of new homes

Slash child poverty by expanding the Child Tax Credit

Lower the Medicare eligibility age to 55

Offer universal paid family leave

Establish tuition-free community college

The Ultra-Millionaire Tax Act was led by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and co-sponsored by 10 Senators, the largest coalition of Senate cosponsors supporting the bill to date. Additionally, over 39 Representatives co-sponsored the bill, the largest coalition of House supporters to date. The bill is endorsed by nearly 40 unions, advocacy groups, and national organizations.

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Oregon Airports to Receive More Than $27 Million in Federal Investment

Airports receiving federal funds include those in Eugene, Redmond, Grants Pass, Medford, Albany, North Bend, Corvallis, Mulino, Ashland, Brookings, Lebanon, Chiloquin, Burns, Astoria, Condon, Joseph, Gold Beach, Ontario, Baker City, Roseburg, Prineville, Klamath Falls, Hood River, John Day, Hermiston, Salem, Christmas Valley

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley as well as U.S. Reps. Val Hoyle, Andrea Salinas, Janelle Bynum and Maxine Dexter today announced that more than 25 Oregon airports will receive a combined federal investment of more than $27 million to make their infrastructure safer and better.

“Oregonians rely on federal investments like these to support small businesses, emergency responses, and safe travel in communities across our state,” Wyden said. “I’ll keep battling for continued federal support for all airports in Oregon to keep our state’s residents and products moving smoothly and securely from point A to point B.”

“Our regional airports are vital hubs for Oregonians, supporting local businesses and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters,” Merkley said.“Investing in critical airport improvements such as terminals, runways, and more strengthens infrastructure across our state. I’ll keep fighting to secure critical federal funds for improving the efficiency and reliability of Oregon’s airports, benefitting the folks who rely on them for business, travel, and so much more.”

“These investments across Oregon will help improve safety, modernize equipment and make these airports work better for everyone,” said Rep. Hoyle. “Reliability is essential for the economic growth of our coastal community. This funding is a win for the region.”

“Ensuring our airports have the resources and funding they need is vital to the safety of everyone at the airport,” said Rep. Salinas. “This federal grant funding will help make them safer, more reliable, and better equipped to continue serving our local community for years to come.”

“Federal investments like this are vital to keeping Oregon’s communities connected and our economy moving,” said Rep. Bynum. “This funding will expand travel access, boost local businesses, and strengthen our region’s ability to compete and grow. I will continue fighting to ensure our airports have the resources to thrive and better serve Oregonians.”

“The Hood River airport is an important gateway for communities across the Columbia Gorge—supporting emergency response, local businesses, and regional connectivity. This is an important investment, and I am determined to do all I can to keep needed federal dollars coming to my district and supporting the success of our communities,” said Rep. Dexter.

The awards from the federal Department of Transportation for the Oregon airports are as follows:

$6.24 million combined to Mahlon Sweet Field in Eugene to rebuild 21,177 square feet of terminal Concourse A, including interiors and restroom rehabilitation, construction including HVAC and mechanical; expand terminal Concourse A by 9,893 square feet, including HVAC and mechanical systems, including interiors and restroom rehabilitation.

$3.45 million to Roberts Field in Redmond to expand the terminal by 131,283 square feet

$3.18 million combined to Mulino State Airport to reseal 3,340 linear feet of hangar taxilane pavement; reseal 9,645 square yards of tiedown apron pavement and joints; reseal 3,425 linear feet of runway pavement and joints, expand an existing non-exclusive use hangar for aircraft storage by 10,500 square feet

$2.67 million to the Grants Pass Airport for new guidance signs., new lighting on taxiway edge lighting, extends paved runway by 13,294 feet, install runway end identifier lights system and precision approach path indicator system, extend taxiway by 870 feet in length

$2 million to Rogue Valley International Airport in Medford to rebuild 8,000 square yards of apron pavement; rehabilitate 30,000 square yards of apron pavement; update the pavement management plan and pavement survey and study

$947,435 combined to Brookings Airport to rebuild runway lighting, install a new airport rotating beacon, rebuild the precision approach path indicator system, rebuild the runway end identifier lights system, acquire and install new wind cone navigational aids to provide pilots, rebuild the runway end identifier lights system

$850,000 to Albany Municipal Airport to reseal 3,004 feet of runway, rebuild runway end identifier lights system

$800,254 combined to Joseph State Airport to acquire and install a new automated weather observing system, reseal 5,210 feet of runway pavement and joints; reseal 6,990 feet of taxiway pavement and joints

$760,000 to Southwest Oregon Regional Airport in North Bend to build runway safety area

$687,235 combined to Condon State Pauling Field to update the existing airport layout plan, reseal 1,030 feet of taxiway pavement; reseal 5,000 square yards of agriculture aircraft apron/pavement; reseal 830 feet of taxilane pavement

$600,000 to Corvallis Municipal Airport to reseal 7,200 linear feet of taxiway pavement

$534,000 to Ashland Municipal Airport to reseal 3,331 linear feet of taxilane pavement and joints; rehabilitate 131 linear feet of taxilane pavement; reseal 3,791 linear feet of runway pavement and joints

$500,000 to the Oregon Department of Aviation to update the regional airport system plan, the pavement management plan and pavement study

$490,224 combined to Chiloquin State Airport to reseal 4,190 square yards of apron pavement and joints, reseal 3,910 feet of runway pavement and joints

$465,789 combined to Roseburg Regional Airport to rehabilitate 27,555 square yards of apron pavement; rehabilitate 5,003 feet of paved runway $439,810 to Lebanon State Airport to reseal 2,140 feet of taxiway pavement and joints; reseal 2,750 feet of runway pavement and joints

$389,504 to Burns Municipal Airport to build a new 1,600-square-foot snow removal equipment building

$360,000 to Astoria Regional Airport to extend taxiways by 1,350 feet in length to reduce delays

$326,774 to Gold Beach Municipal Airport to reseal 3,200 feet of taxiway pavement; reseal 3,200 feet of runway pavement

$300,000 to Ontario Municipal Airport to build a new helipad

$300,000 to Baker City Municipal Airport to rebuild 500 feet of airport access road

$300,000 to Crook County for the Prineville Airport to rehabilitate 5,404 linear feet of paved runway

$285,000 to Crater Lake/Klamath Regional Airport in Klamath Falls to rehabilitate 9,888 square yards of apron pavement

$220,000 to Ken Jernstedt Airfield in Hood River to reseal 175 feet of taxiway pavement, rehabilitate a tiedown apron and reseal 1,200 feet of apron taxilane

$171,760 to Grant County Regional Airport in John Day to build a new fuel farm by adding a 15,000-gallon AvGas fuel tank and a 15,000-gallon Jet A fuel tank and self-service pumps and associated 444-square-yard fuel apron pavement for a new fuel type

$150,000 to Hermiston Municipal Airport to rebuild the precision approach path indicator system

$124,678 to McNary Field in Salem to update the airport master plan study

$109,000 to Christmas Valley Airport to installs runway end identifier lights system at both ends; rebuild 5,200 linear feet of paved runway

”This federal investment in the Grants Pass Airport is a major win for our community and for the long‑term economic vitality of Josephine County,” said Grants Pass City Manager Aaron Cubic. “Replacing aging lighting, signage, and critical electrical systems will significantly enhance airfield safety and reliability, ensuring that our airport can continue to serve residents, businesses, and emergency response operations without interruption. Modern, dependable airport infrastructure is foundational to economic growth. These improvements strengthen our ability to attract business activity, support tourism, and maintain vital air access for firefighting, medical transport, and regional aviation services. We are grateful for the strong support from our federal partners, and this award underscores the importance of continued investment in rural transportation assets that keep communities like ours connected and competitive.”

“Capital improvements and major maintenance at the Albany Airport are made possible with this type of support,’’ said City Manager Peter Troedsson. “Without these grants we would not be able to operate the Airport. We’re grateful for the FAA’s funding in extending the service life of the Albany Airport runway and replacing this vital part of the airport’s lighting system.”

“The City of Condon is extremely grateful for the support the FAA is providing to Condon State Airport-Pauling Field,” said Gibb Wilkins, Public Works Superintendent/Interim City Administrator. “By updating the airport layout and resealing critical pavement, this grant is ensuring that Condon State Airport-Pauling Field remains safe, efficient, and able to serve the community well into the future.”

“We are grateful to the Federal Aviation Administration for granting these funds to install needed safety enhancements that will help the City of Ashland serve our airport users over the next decade,” said Ashland Mayor Tonya Graham.

“The role of the Burns Municipal Airport in terms of public safety is often overlooked,” said Harney County Commissioner Rob Frank. “It is an integral component of our wildfire response and emergency response for the entire region, and this investment in infrastructure is critical.”

“The main access road to the Baker City Municipal Airport is in very poor condition and has failed,” said Barry Murphy¸ City Manager for Baker City. “The project will reconstruct the road while ensuring it has the ability to accommodate larger tractor-trailer trucks that now supply most of the aviation fuel. All vehicles entering airport property use this road, so rehabilitating and enhancing the road will have a significant benefit to users of the airport and our community.”

“This funding will allow us to construct a new fuel farm and is a significant step forward in strengthening our airport’s capabilities. By expanding our fueling options and improving accessibility, we are better positioned to serve a wider range of aircraft, support local and regional aviation needs, and enhance safety and efficiency for pilots and operators,” said Haley Walker, airport manager for Grant County Regional Airport. “Investments like this not only improve day-to-day operations but also contribute to the long-term economic vitality of our community. We appreciate the continued support that makes projects like this possible and look forward to the positive impact it will have on Grant County and the surrounding region.”

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VIDEO RELEASE: Senator Ashley Moody Continues to Fight for Florida Students and Families with the Introduction of the FLEX Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. —Senator Moody recently introduced the Fostering Learning and Excellence in Charter Schools Act, continuing her efforts to fight for Florida students and their families. The FLEX Act will eliminate unnecessary regulations that currently dictate how charter schools can spend their grant funding.

“Since taking office, I’ve made standing up for students a top priority. The FLEX Act builds on our efforts to expand school choice by reducing unnecessary regulations and giving charter schools the autonomy to innovate and meet the unique needs of their communities. By supporting charter schools in this endeavor, we can create more opportunities for families and ensure students have access to the education that works best for them,” said Senator Ashley Moody.

“There is no better cause than creating educational opportunities for our next generation of leaders. We are setting up our children and grandchildren for success when we allow schools to invest in the resources that will empower parents and students to make the decisions best for them. Our kids are the most precious resource we have, and I’m proud to support this legislation to ensure our students can achieve the brightest future possible,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville.

“With charter school enrollment at record highs, now is the time to cut the red tape that denies students the opportunities they deserve. I’m proud to join Senator Moody in introducing the FLEX Act to ensure charter schools have access to the resources they need to meet the growing demand from families and to expand educational pathways to prepare the next generation for the jobs of the future,” said Senator Ted Budd.

BACKGROUND:

The FLEX Act provides greater flexibility in how charter schools can spend grant funding.

Currently, charter schools are only allowed to spend federal grant money on preparing and opening new charter schools. This legislation allows charter schools to spend grant money on other areas of significance to create better learning environments for students.

Enhanced flexibility from the FLEX Act will contribute to the following:

Funding for student-centered programming that responds to the unique needs of each community and their students;

An increase in the percentage of allotment of funds that charter schools will be allowed to use;

Funding for essential infrastructure that charter schools need to succeed;

Greater ability to move funds between subprograms to meet the changing needs of schools; and

Funding for expansion of curricular offerings to help prepare students pursuing college and in-demand careers.

Senator Moody has also fought to strengthen Florida’s education system through co-sponsoring the Educational Choice for Children Act to allow parents to choose the best school for their children.

Another one of Senator Moody’s efforts includes introducing the Home School Graduation Recognition Act to fight for home-schooled students to be officially recognized as graduates.

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VIDEO RELEASE: Senator Moody Honors Florida Woman Whose Quick Actions Saved a Life

Sun City Center, Fla.—Senator Ashley Moody recently presented a Florida’s Finest Award to Sharon Gibbs for saving the life of a Sun City Center man. Gibbs, a cardiac nurse, heard cries for help and immediately jumped into action. Gibbs performed CPR and administered an automated external defibrillator on a man experiencing cardiac arrest.

“A man is alive today because of the decisive action by one of Florida’s Finest: Sharon Gibbs. Sharon, a cardiac nurse on her day off, happened to be walking by a community garden at the exact moment a man collapsed from heart failure. She quickly sent her husband for the nearest AED and performed CPR until responders arrived, saving the man’s life. She is truly a hero, and I am honored to present her with a Florida’s Finest Award,” said Senator Ashley Moody.

BACKGROUND:

Last October, a man was tending a plot in a community garden when he collapsed.

Sharon Gibbs, a cardiac nurse, happened to be walking nearby, and even though it was her day off, jumped into action. Gibbs instructed her husband to grab the nearest AED, and began performing CPR.

Because of Gibbs’s actions, the man made it to the hospital, where he underwent a quadruple bypass surgery, and has since recovered.

Learn more about Gibbs here.

Senator Moody’s Florida’s Finest Awards honor citizens or law enforcement officers who demonstrate selfless courage and go above and beyond to save lives.

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Murray Statement on GAO Report on Spousal Consent Requirements for Retirement Plans

New GAO report requested by Senator Murray finds adding spousal consent requirements could increase financial safeguards for women

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)—a former chair and senior member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee—released a report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) evaluating the need for stronger spousal protections in defined contribution retirement plans. The report from GAO is the result of a direct request from Senator Murray during her time as Chair of the HELP Committee.

“This GAO report highlights that when a spouse isn’t transparent about withdrawing funds from a retirement account, the consequences can be severe and it is often women who are affected,” said Senator Murray. “Adding spousal consent requirements to retirement plans could increase financial protections for women, who already face greater barriers when saving for retirement. I want to ensure that every American can have a secure and restful retirement, and I’m never going to stop fighting for safeguards that protect the financial security of all Americans.”

“Spousal consent requirements are a foundational protection within our retirement system, particularly for women, who remain more vulnerable to financial disruption in both retirement and divorce. Strengthening these standards ensures greater transparency, reinforces shared decision-making, and helps preserve long-term financial security for families,” said Kristen Shearin, Director of the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts. “Strong spousal consent protections are essential to safeguarding women’s financial security in both retirement and divorce.”

For many working families, their 401(k) plan is often their largest asset aside from their home. Under current law, one spouse could take a withdrawal from their account without the other spouse’s knowledge or consent. This could have a devastating effect on the unknowing spouse and family members, especially if they are less familiar with the household’s finances. The report found that women are disproportionately affected when funds are withdrawn without spousal consent. The report highlights that, for several reasons—including women’s greater likelihood of working in part-time jobs without retirement benefits and taking career breaks to care for family members—women may rely more heavily on their spouse’s retirement savings. As a result, they are particularly vulnerable to financial hardship if those funds are withdrawn without their consent.

One spouse interviewed for the report said: “[My husband] had taken the whole amount out of the 401(k) account without informing me or telling me anything. I only found out because he was overspending on…things he usually did not spend money on.”

The GAO report also examined the potential administrative burden of adding spousal consent to retirement plans. Officials from the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)—the nation’s largest defined contribution plan with $963 billion in assets and 7.2 million plan participants—reported that obtaining spousal consent typically adds about one additional day to processing times, and in some cases as little two hours. This suggests that spousal consent is feasible to implement widely without excessive administrative burden.

Senator Murray has consistently fought to address the systemic challenges women face to a secure retirement. In 2025, Senator Murray and Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) led a group of their colleagues in re-introducing the Women’s Retirement Protection Act of 2025 (WRPA). This legislation strengthens retirement protections, including adding spousal consent requirements, and provides enhanced tools to ensure women can better prepare for retirement.

Read the full report here.

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Rosen Helps Secures More Than $290,000 in Federal Funding for Tribes in Nevada

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S Senator Jacky Rosen has helped secure over $290,000 in federal funding for the Summit Lake Paiute Tribe and the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California. This funding comes as part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Tribal Wildlife Grants program that supports conservation projects in Tribal communities across the United States. Each year, Senator Rosen requests funding for the State and Tribal Wildlife Grants program to make sure Nevada has the resources to protect, manage, and promote wildlife conservation.

“Nevada is home to an incredible and diverse range of wildlife that are important to our Tribal communities and help sustain ecosystems across our state,” said Senator Rosen. “I am proud to have helped secure this federal funding to support the Summit Lake Paiute Tribe and the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California with their conservation efforts.”

Senator Rosen is a strong supporter of Tribal communities in Nevada. Last year, she helped secure more than $700,000 to improve transportation for Tribal communities in Nevada. Last Congress, she also helped secure over $1.3 billion in funding for housing in Tribal communities, and joined colleagues in requesting robust funding for tribal law enforcement.


NEWS: Sanders, Welch, Balint Demand Trump Admin Release $4 Million in Anti-Poverty Funding to Vermont

BURLINGTON, Vt., April 6 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Rep. Becca Balint (D-Vt.) called on Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Director of the Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought to obey the law and immediately release more than $810 million in federal funding that helps more than 10 million Americans living in poverty, including nearly 50,000 Vermonters.

Specifically, in just one year, Vermont’s community action agencies served 3,200 Vermonters who did not have health care, 9,000 people who had a disability, more than 7,000 low-income seniors, more than 11,000 children living in poverty and 1,200 veterans and active military personnel.

“We are urging you to immediately release this vital funding so that over 48,000 Vermonters and 10 million people throughout America living in poverty can receive the help they desperately need to keep a roof over their heads, feed their families, keep their jobs, send their kids to child care and pay their energy bills,” the members wrote. “These programs are literally a matter of life and death for some of the most vulnerable people in America…Congress funded them. The President signed this funding into law. And, under our Constitution, you do not have the right to determine which laws you will follow and which laws you will ignore.”

For over three months, the Trump administration has illegally withheld Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funding from community action agencies across the country — including from BROC Community Action, Capstone Community Action, Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity, Northeast Kingdom Community Action and Southeastern Vermont Community Action in our state. Across the country, nearly 1,000 community action agencies in almost every county in America use these funds to provide urgent financial aid for working families with children, people with disabilities and seniors on fixed incomes and to administer critical programs like Head Start and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

“What we are asking you to do is simple and straightforward: Obey the law. Respect the Constitution. Do not let kids go hungry, do not force veterans to sleep out on the street, do not deny low-income seniors the emergency assistance they need to live with dignity and respect. Release these funds,” the members concluded.