AS REPUBLICANS PUSH FOR $1 BILLION IN TAXPAYER DOLLARS FOR TRUMP’S GILDED BALLROOM, SCHUMER REVEALS HOW THAT FUNDING COULD INSTEAD BE USED TO LOWER COSTS FOR NEW YORK FAMILIES

Trump Promised “Not One Penny” Of Federal Money Would Be Used For His Ballroom — Now Republicans Want Taxpayers To Spend $1 Billion On Trump’s Vanity Project While NY Families Struggle To Afford The Basics

Schumer To NY Republicans: Why Are You Choosing Trump’s Chandelier Over New Yorkers’ Childcare, Trump’s Ego Over Their Electric Bills, And Trump’s Palace Over The People’s Priorities?

Schumer: New Yorkers Don’t Want This Ballroom Blitz – They Want Lower Costs

As Republicans rush to try to pass $1 billion in taxpayer dollars to help pay for Trump’s new gilded ballroom, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today released the following report outlining how that funding could instead be used to help New Yorkers lower costs and help working families.

“New Yorkers want lower costs, not a gold-plated ballroom. Inflation is skyrocketing because of Donald Trump’s costly tariffs, his disastrous war with Iran, and his failed economic agenda, but Republicans are focused on funding a ballroom. This staggering waste of taxpayer dollars does nothing to help Americans afford groceries, gas prices, healthcare, housing, or their electricity bills,” said Senator Schumer. “Despite Trump insisting that the ballroom would be completely privately funded, the truth is now coming out. At a time when Americans are struggling to put food on the table, Republicans say, ‘let them eat cake’ and demand American taxpayers build Trump a palace while they’re at it. NY Republicans need to answer why their priority is building a ballroom instead of helping working families.”

Despite Trump previously saying that “Not one penny is being used from the federal government,” Republicans are trying to pass a bill that would allocate $1 billion in federal funding to pay for Trump’s 90,000-square-foot ballroom, which he has destroyed the White House’s East Wing to build. Schumer said it is backwards to charge American taxpayers $1 billion to build Trump’s gilded ballroom, while including zero dollars to help Americans struggling with rising costs. Schumer called on New York House Republicans to stand up to this bill that would charge New York taxpayers for Trump’s new ballroom instead of lowering costs.

So what could New Yorkers get with this $1 billion in funding instead of putting it towards Trump’s ballroom?

Healthcare:

$1 billion could have extended the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credit for nearly two years for every New Yorker

In 2025, 118,526 New Yorkers relied on these tax credits to help them afford health insurance and saved an average of $434 a month per enrollee

$1 billion could cover the out-of-pocket cost of insulin for all New Yorkers who rely on it for more than six years

For the 464,000 New Yorkers who rely on insulin every day, this funding would have covered the average out-of-pocket cost for insulin at around $35 per month for years

Lowering Costs for Groceries and Electric Bills:

$1 billion could restore SNAP benefits for more than three years for every New Yorker who was kicked off this food assistance program due to Trump and Washington Republicans’ cuts in the One Big Beautiful Bill

127,445 New Yorkers were estimated to lose food assistance between following Republican cuts. The average yearly SNAP benefit per person is $2,508

$1 billion could fund Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) benefits for all New Yorkers in the program for more than two years

According to state data, 462,000 New Yorkers rely on WIC

WIC provided an average of $978.12 per participant per year

$1 billion could help all 1.67 million New York LIHEAP recipients heat their homes in the winter or cool their homes in the summer for more than 2 years

New York families receive approximately $225 a year from LIHEAP on average

$1 billion could cover groceries for nearly 300,000 New York families for six months

According to the most recent data, the average household in New York spends on average $7,074 on groceries per year, with costs rising because of Trump’s tariffs

Childcare and Education:

$1 billion could cut the cost of childcare in half for nearly 100,000 New York infants for a full year

The average cost of child care in New York for a year per infant is $20,439

$1 billion could cover almost half of in-state SUNY tuition for every single undergraduate student for a year

Average in-state tuition for a SUNY college is $7,070 for the approximately 340,000 undergraduate students enrolled per year

$1 billion could cover a full four years of in-state CUNY tuition for 36,000 New York City college students in need

Average in-state tuition for a CUNY college is $6,930. There is an average of 112,820 undergraduate students enrolled per year

Boosting Main Streets and Helping Farmers:

$1 billion could provide 50,000 New York small businesses with $20,000 loans

$1 billion could help 25,000 New York households rebuild with disaster loans of $40,000 each

$1 billion could provide $30,000 in relief for every farm in New York State

There were 30,650 farms in New York State according to the 2022 census

Boosting Funding for Public Servants:

$1 billion could cover a $4,600 bonus to every New York State public school teacher

There were 215,761 public school teachers in NY in 2022

$1 billion could cover a $11,000 bonus for each New York firefighter

81,231 volunteer firefighters and 6,944 career firefighters in 2020

$1 billion could cover a nearly $18,400 bonus to every police and sheriff’s patrol officer in New York

There were 54,360 police and sheriff’s patrol officers in NY in 2024

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Shaheen, Collins Lead New Hampshire and Maine Congressional Delegations in Calling for Federal Labor Relations Authority to Explain Refusal to Process Complaints at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) are leading the New Hampshire and Maine Congressional delegations in calling for the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) to provide an explanation for its refusal to comply with recent court orders and process an Unfair Labor Practice charge (ULP) filed by the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Metal Trades Council on behalf of its members. In their bipartisan, bicameral letter, the lawmakers note that FLRA cites President Trump’s Executive Order limiting the collective bargaining rights of federal employees as its reason for inaction despite a court order halting implementation of the policy. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Angus King (I-ME) and Representatives Chris Pappas (D-NH-01), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01) and Jared Golden (D-ME-02) cosigned the letter.

The lawmakers wrote, in part: “We write today regarding the Federal Labor Relations Authority’s (FLRA) refusal to process Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) charges filed by members of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Metal Trades Council (MTC) on behalf of its members. The MTC has brought forward a ULP charge to the FLRA but has been informed that due to President Trump’s March 27, 2025, Executive Order 14251, limiting the right of certain federal employees to engage in collective bargaining, the FLRA would not process the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard employee ULP case. However, recent court rulings have nullified portions of that order, and the FLRA should be acting in accordance with the court order.”

They continued: “Considering the Court’s injunction and the importance of this issue to our constituents, we respectfully request that the FLRA provide prompt clarification regarding its handling of ULP filings brought forward by unions representing workers under federal agencies impacted by President Trump’s March 27, 2025, Executive Order 14251.”

The lawmakers asked FLRA for responses to the following questions:

Is the Federal Labor Relations Authority refusing to process Unfair Labor Practice charges brought forward by unions representing federal workers?

Is the FLRA acting in accordance with the U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia’s October 1st injunction in AFL-CIO v. Trump? What steps is the FLRA taking to ensure compliance with the injunction?

What is the status of the ULP charge brought forward by the Metal Trades Council at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?

What is the legal basis for the FLRA’s refusal to process ULP charges in light of the court’s October 1st injunction?

A full copy of the letter can be read HERE.

As a co-chair of the U.S. Senate Navy Caucus and a senior member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee and U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Shaheen has long advocated for New England’s shipbuilding industry and workforce, including through authorizing funding and workforce development for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. In the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Shaheen secured full authorization for the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) investments at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Shaheen’s provision to exempt employees from all four public shipyards from the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) civilian hiring freeze and any future hiring freezes or reductions in force was included in the FY 2026 NDAA. She also secured a number of other provisions to increase capacity at the Shipyard and improve quality of life.

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Thune: Republicans Plow Ahead on President Trump’s Nominations Despite Democrat Obstruction

Clickhereto watch the video.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) today delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor:

Thune’s remarks below (as delivered):

“Mr. President, later today the Senate will finish considering the nomination of Kevin Warsh to be the 17th chairman of the Federal Reserve.

“Leading the Federal Reserve System is an enormous task.

“The decisions the Fed makes affect Wall Street and Main Street and kitchen tables all across the country.

“So it’s critical that we have people who understand not only the macro – the global economy and the markets – but who appreciate the microeconomy: and that’s the hardworking Americans, their jobs, and their livelihoods.

“Mr. President, Kevin Warsh is just such a person.

“He credits his knowledge of the real economy to growing up in upstate New York, where his dad ran a children’s clothing store and manufacturing company.

“From Shaker High School, he went on to Stanford University and then Harvard Law School.

“He then started a career on Wall Street, but he shifted to public service, joining the Bush administration’s economic policy team in 2002.

“Four years later, President Bush nominated him to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.

“And at age 35, Kevin Warsh was unanimously – unanimously – confirmed here in the Senate and became the youngest governor in the history of the Federal Reserve.

“Mr. President, being the youngest person to take a seat in the Federal Reserve’s Board Room is impressive enough, but Kevin Warsh didn’t just take his seat – he was a key player during the time he was on the board.

“Mr. President, Kevin Warsh seems to have just the profile of a Federal Reserve chairman.

“Yet Democrats oppose his nomination.

“That’s right.

“For the first time in its history, the Banking Committee reported out a nominee for Fed chairman on a party-line vote because every single Democrat opposed Mr. Warsh’s nomination.

“And actually, only one Democrat was even present for the vote – the other 10 Democrats on the Banking Committee didn’t even bother to show up for it.

“And yesterday on the floor, all but one Democrat opposed the first of Mr. Warsh’s two nominations: his nomination to be on the Board of Governors.

“Mr. President, he’s already had that job, and a number of Democrats actually supported his nomination the last time.

“But those same Democrats voted yesterday against appointing him to the board, and I suspect they’ll do the same when it comes time to vote on his other nomination to be the chairman later today.

“Mr. President, I wish I could say I’m surprised, but this is just how bad Trump Derangement Syndrome has gotten on the other side of the aisle.

“Democrats won’t say so, but that’s what it is.

“Mr. President, I expect we’re going to hear Democrats attempt to justify their opposition by suggesting that a Chairman Warsh would somehow threaten the Fed’s independence.

“And I have to say that’s a pretty serious claim.

“And one that doesn’t really have a basis in reality.

“To begin with, Mr. Warsh’s testimony before the Banking Committee should have put any concerns about his independence to rest.

“But if the depth of his commitment to Fed independence was at all unclear, I recommend my colleagues review a speech he gave in 2010 titled, ‘An Ode to Independence,’ in which he said, and I quote, ‘Central bank independence is precious … Ensuring Fed independence – as the cornerstone of institutional credibility – is our charge to keep. It is central to what the Federal Reserve represents, and to how policy is conducted.’

“Or they could ask Randall Kroszner, who served with Warsh on the Fed board, who said, and I quote, ‘He’s not an ideologue. Since I’ve known him, he was someone who tried to get things done.’

“Or maybe – maybe – they could just ask the Democrat leader, who introduced Kevin Warsh at his 2006 confirmation hearing.

“And he said then of Warsh, and I quote, ‘He knows unequivocally that the Fed must be independent, nonideological, and nonpartisan, and for this reason, I am proud to support his nomination.’

“That, Mr. President, was the Democrat leader’s comments, who’s now leading the charge in opposing Warsh’s nomination.

“Mr. President, it doesn’t seem to matter who President Trump nominates, Democrats blindly oppose them.

“Democrats aren’t interested in a person’s qualifications.

“All they care about is opposing President Trump.

“And it’s been that way since he took office last January.

“President Trump is the only president on record who has not had a single – single – civilian nominee approved by voice vote or by unanimous consent here in the United States Senate.

“Only president in history!

“Democrats have dragged out the process on every single one of his nominations.

“And the fact that two Democrats voted for our former colleague Markwayne Mullin to be secretary of DHS, in this day and age here, appears to be an act of courage in today’s Democrat Party – even though it was a vote that traditionally would have been widely bipartisan, if not unanimous.

“But not when Democrats are in the throes of Trump Derangement Syndrome.

“Mr. President, it’s shameful. It really is.

“But Republicans aren’t letting it stop us.

“In September, we took steps to restore Senate precedent on largely noncontroversial presidential nominees to ensure that no other president has to face the kind of petty – and I mean petty – partisanship that President Trump has encountered.

“Very soon, we will vote on a fourth nominations package containing 49 Trump nominees who have had their hearings and markups and are ready for confirmation.

“And we’ll keep moving forward.

“Mr. President, I know that Democrats aren’t happy that Donald Trump is the president.

“But that doesn’t mean that nominations should be held up for purely political reasons.

“As the Democrat leader said just a few years ago, and I quote, ‘That doesn’t mean we don’t disagree. But it does mean when nominees are held up, opposed, or blocked — it’s for a legitimate purpose, not for leverage in partisan games...’

“Well, unfortunately, Mr. President, Democrats have made it pretty clear that they are only – only – interested in partisan games since President Trump took office.

“But we’ve got a country to run, and Republicans are doing our job.”


Thune Joins the Hugh Hewitt Show

Clickhereto listen.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) today joined The Hugh Hewitt Show.

On the Working Families Tax Cuts:

“[The Working Families Tax Cuts was] the most consequential thing I’ve done in my time in public life … We got the first entitlement reform we’ve gotten in my entire time in office … getting rid of the waste, fraud, and abuse in the Medicaid program, SNAP program, were historic in terms of their accomplishments … It included 100 pieces of legislation – school choice; ban on federal funding for Planned Parenthood … newborn accounts for kids; child care tax credit, something the Democrats talk about, but have never done anything about.

“And this president, President Trump, working with a Republican Congress, achieved that … I think … as we talk about this out on the campaign trail, we’ve got to home in on the things that are impacting people’s daily lives and remind them about some of the things that we’ve accomplished.”

On reconciliation:

“We are looking for good ideas: ways to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse in government, reform entitlement programs, make them run more efficiently, and obviously, look for tax policies that will allow the American people to keep more money in their pocket and quit sending so much to Washington. The one thing that’s clear in all the time I’ve been here, and that is that when Democrats are in power, they grow government, and it’s very, very hard to unwind that.

“But even when they had unified control of the government during the Biden administration, they did two big reconciliation bills which dramatically expanded the size of government, spent $4 trillion and it wasn’t paid for, and created all kinds of crazy policies and Green New Deal policies that we’re now paying a price for and trying to go back and unwind. And that’s why it’s really important that we … keep majorities here in the Congress.

“Right now with a Republican president, it’s a historic time. So if there’s another reconciliation bill that we think works and that we can get through both the House and the Senate, where the margins are very narrow, we’ll … take a hard look at it.”

On preserving the filibuster:

“This is a conversation … that’s gone on for many years, many decades, and through multiple administrations and congresses … The founders, when they designed the country, one of the ways they divided power was they took the Article I branch of the government and made it a bicameral process, in which one of the institutions, the United States Senate, was non-majoritarian. They wanted a counter-majoritarian institution and the Senate represents that. It’s hard … to explain, and not something that we all learn in civics growing up. But there’s a reason why the Senate is the way that it is. It’s designed to slow things down, make it more deliberative, and to give the minority in the country a voice in our government.”

[…]

“Democrats have been the majority in the Senate more years than not, and their agenda is an aggressive, expansive agenda, because they’re all about growing government. And conservatives through the years have been able to use the filibuster to protect against a lot of crazy ideas that Democrats have – like expanding the Supreme Court and, you know, adding D.C. and Puerto Rico as states, and federalizing our elections, and abortion on demand, and … there’s a whole bunch … of crazy left ideas that they would turn to, were it not for the fact that Republicans were able to, because of the legislative filibuster, prevent that from happening.”


Tuberville Calls for Greater Safeguards to Protect Students’ Privacy

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Education and the American Family, and U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, sent a letter to Steve Daly, CEO of Instructure, about their concerns over the recent cybersecurity incident on Instructure, threatening the data of 275 million students, families, and teachers worldwide. The incident shut down Instructure’s learning management system, Canvas, the most popular system used in the country by K-12 schools, colleges, and universities.

The incident, which occurred amidst finals and graduation, resulted in the unauthorized disclosure of usernames, email addresses, course names, enrollment information, and messages to bad actors.

“Cybersecurity threats are one of the most significant risks currently affecting the safety and security of our most sensitive information,” wrote the senators. “At a time when hostile actors are increasingly using sophisticated tactics leveraging artificial intelligence, it is essential for the education technology sector to take meaningful steps to safeguard student and consumer information.”

Read the full letter below or here.

“Dear Mr. Daly:

Cybersecurity threats are one of the most significant risks currently affecting the safety and security of our most sensitive information. At a time when hostile actors are increasingly using sophisticated tactics leveraging artificial intelligence, it is essential for the education technology sector to take meaningful steps to safeguard student and consumer information.

The recent cybersecurity incident affecting Instructure and its learning management system (LMS), Canvas, highlights the impact these growing threats have on disrupting our educational system Canvas, the most widely used LMS in the United States, is used by approximately 30 million individuals, including for course management, communication with students, and administrative functions. This disruption comes at the end of the school year, creating numerous complications around finals and end-of-year functions for students. Instructure has thus far stated that compromised “data fields involved include information like usernames, email addresses, course names, enrollment information and messages.” Estimates thus far indicate that this incident has affected the data of over 275 million individuals and over 8,000 school districts, universities, and other educational stakeholders.

This is not the first time Instructure has experienced a cybersecurity incident. In fact, Instructure was previously the victim of a cybersecurity incident in 2025, and recent reporting indicates that the ongoing incident stems from two separate attacks on Instructure’s systems. Additional transparency is needed regarding what information hostile actors accessed, what measures Instructure had implemented prior to the incident to protect sensitive information, and what steps the company intends to take going forward to address vulnerabilities and improve its security infrastructure.

To that end, we request answers to the following questions by May 28, 2026:

What security protocols, both cyber and physical, does Instructure have in place to protect against a cyberattack?

How does Instructure incorporate cybersecurity best practices implemented by other critical infrastructure sectors?

When did Instructure first become aware of a cyber incident affecting its systems?

When did Instructure notify federal agencies of a cyber incident, and which agencies did Instructure notify?

Instructure has stated that “data fields involved include information like usernames, email addresses, course names, enrollment information and messages.

Has Instructure determined if this information contained any personally identifiable information?

What steps is Instructure taking to identify any additional information that may have been accessed?

How is Instructure proactively communicating with potentially impacted individuals and entities, including the parents or guardians of potentially impacted children under age 18?

Many of Instructure’s customers have been the victim of defacement attacks where hostile actors have publicized the list of affected schools.

How many customers has Instructure identified as potentially affected by the cybersecurity incident?

What steps has Instructure taken to support customers to regain access to Canvas or affected systems?

Instructure was the victim of a previous cybersecurity incident in September 2025.

What remedial steps did Instructure take to improve its security protocols after that incident?

What remedial steps has Instructure taken, or does it intend to take, to improve its security protocols in response to the ongoing incident?

Instructure recently stated that it “reached an agreement with the unauthorized actor involved in this incident,” including the return of all exfiltrated data and the “digital confirmation of data destruction.”

What were the specific terms associated with this agreement?

What data was included in this agreement?

Has Instructure determined whether the hostile actor exfiltrated data not covered by this agreement?

Sincerely,”

Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

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Tuberville Honors Kenya Thomas of Daphne as May “Veteran of the Month”

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) released a video honoring U.S. Army Reserves Staff Sergeant Kenya Thomas as the May “Veteran of the Month.”

Excerpts of Sen. Tuberville’s remarks can be found below, and complete remarks can be found here.

“Oftentimes, the simplest act of service can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us. For Staff Sergeant Kenya Thomas of Daphne, Alabama, this is certainly true. She has spent her whole adult life finding ways to care for fellow veterans and active service members.

At just 17 years old, Kenya enlisted in the United States Army Reserves where she would go on to serve for more than a decade. After her high school graduation in 1986 in Cullman, Alabama, Kenya set out to serve our country with honor. She specialized in telecommunications where she helped keep military messages secure.

[…]

She went back to school to become an ultrasound technician, where she has cared for patients in their best—and worst—moments. As a breast cancer survivor herself, Kenya extends compassion to the most vulnerable around her, whether it be patients, deployed service members, or children in need.

[…]

Over the course of just one summer, she made 150 pillows that she sent to Marines in Afghanistan. She later connected with one of the Marines who served with her stepson and was severely injured while in the Middle East. After learning he was at Bethesda Naval Hospital, she made and delivered 75 pillows for him and other injured soldiers.

Kenya also is actively involved in Toys-for Tots and has served as the North Baldwin County Coordinator for the past 12 years. Her leadership has helped provide toys to hundreds of children in Baldwin County.

[…]

It’s an honor to recognize Kenya as the May ‘Veteran of the Month.’”

Constituents can nominate an Alabama veteran and submit their information to Sen. Tuberville’s office for consideration in the 2026 “Veteran of the Month” series by emailing press_office@tuberville.senate.gov.

Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

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Tuberville, Moreno Introduce Bill to Ban Chinese Vehicles, Connected Components From U.S. Market

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH) introduced the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026 to defend the American auto industry from the existential threat of predatory Chinese automobiles by banning them and their connected components from the American market. This bill would prohibit the import, sale, and operation of vehicles manufactured in China—or any other country of concern—and ban the use of Chinese-developed connected vehicle technologies, such as software, and data systems on American roads.

Bill text can be found HERE and a one-pager can be found HERE.

“China is our greatest adversary. For years, they’ve bought up our nation’s fertile farmland, stolen our intellectual property, and released a worldwide virus killing millions of Americans—all in an attempt to destroy the greatest nation on earth. Now, they’re trying to invade our country with spy technologies disguised as cars,” Sen. Tuberville said. “We must protect the American auto industry and American autoworkers by continuing to promote ‘Made in America’ policies that will strengthen our national security and our economic future.”

“The American auto industry is the backbone of the American industrial economy, we cannot afford to make the same mistakes globalists have made for decades and see these great American companies devastated by predatory and massively subsidized Chinese state enterprises hellbent on the destruction of our economy,” said Sen. Moreno. “As Europe, Mexico, and others allow their markets to be overrun by Chinese predators, the U.S. must act before it’s too late. The answer is simple: Chinese vehicles can never be allowed into the U.S. market—the fate of the American auto industry and countless autoworkers depends on it.”

BACKGROUND:

The Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026:

Bans foreign adversary vehicles by prohibiting the importation, manufacture, sale, and resale of connected vehicles, software, and hardware linked to China or other foreign adversaries, including those from joint ventures or entities under their control;

Empowers the Department of Commerce to identify and block high-risk vehicle technologies, components, and transactions that threaten U.S. economic or national security;

Establishes enforcement mechanisms to ensure prohibited technologies are kept out of the U.S. market; and

Phases implementation with vehicle and software restrictions taking effect in 2027, and hardware restrictions in 2030, giving U.S. industry time to secure domestic supply, in line with the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) Connected Vehicles rule.

MORE:

Tuberville Leads Letter Encouraging Trump to Bolster Offensive Cyber Capabilities Against China

ICYMI: Tuberville Joins USDA and DoD Secretaries in Press Conference on Protecting American Farmland from China

Tuberville Leads Letter Calling for DOJ, SEC Investigation into China-Tied Crypto Firm Prometheum, Inc.

Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

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Warnock Statement Recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released the following statement in recognition of Jewish American Heritage Month:

“This month, we celebrate the generations of Jewish Americans whose contributions have helped shape our country and strengthen our democracy. Georgia and our entire nation are a better place because of the Jewish American community. With antisemitism on the rise in the United States and across the world, it is more important than ever that we lift up the achievements of our Jewish brothers and sisters to our great American project.”

Senator Warnock co-sponsored a soon-to-be-introduced bipartisan resolution led by Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) officially recognizing May as Jewish American Heritage Month.

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In New Answers to Warren, Hegseth Reveals Cost of Detaining Immigrants at Guantanamo Bay Nearly $20 Million More than Initially Reported

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, released new answers from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and the Department of Defense (DoD), revealing the Pentagon’s financial support for the Trump administration’s cruel immigration agenda is far higher than initially reported by DoD.

Senator Warren and Representative Garamendi’s (D-Calif.) December 2025 investigation found that DoD had committed at least $2 billion to support immigration enforcement, including nearly $55 million to detain non-citizens at Guantanamo Bay.

"While the prices of groceries, rent, and health care skyrocket, Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth are wasting billions in taxpayer funds on a cruel immigration agenda,” said Senator Warren. “Congress must refuse to give this administration another penny for these political stunts."

“When President Trump diverts military resources to immigration enforcement, our armed forces suffer. Critical training is delayed, flight hours are lost, and funds are pulled from military family housing and readiness priorities,” said Representative John Garamendi. “These diversions weaken the training, modernization, and maintenance our forces need to stay prepared and mission-ready.”

In new answers to Questions for the Record, Secretary Hegseth revealed DoD’s projected support for Guantanamo Bay operations is now roughly $73 million — nearly $20 million more than initially reported by DoD — for a facility with a maximum capacity of just 50 detainees. Despite the limited capacity at the facility, Secretary Hegseth reported that DoD has deployed 522 department personnel to Guantanamo Bay.

New reporting from CBS reveals the Trump administration has detained a total of 832 people at Guantanamo Bay, and that government employees outnumber detainees 100 to 1, raising concerns about the Department’s massive spending on the Guantanamo Bay detention.

Meanwhile, DoD has revealed that some financial support for immigration enforcement is coming at the expense of updates to barracks, maintenance hangers, and military construction projects in the Pacific. Reporting from ABC today revealed the Army is making major training cuts to offset a budget deficit of $4-6 billion, partially due to the military’s support for immigration enforcement.

In the coming weeks, Congress will consider providing the Trump administration a further $72 billion to fund the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for four years.

Senator Warren has led the fight to hold the Trump administration accountable for mishandling military funds to pursue its cruel immigration agenda and political stunts:

In April 2026, Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), along with Representative Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.) and Representative Troy Carter (D-La.), urged the Inspectors General of the Departments of Homeland Security and State to open an investigation into the Trump administration’s attempts to deport people to countries they have no ties to. These deportations use the military to conduct the international deportation flights and detaining noncitizens on U.S. military bases within the United States and overseas.

In March 2026, Senator Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) led 52 members of Congress in a new investigation into potential corruption in government contracts stemming from the White House’s fast-tracked expansion of inhumane warehouse-based immigration detention facilities using a Navy contracting vehicle.

In January 2026, following a new report by the Congressional Budget Office revealing Trump’s domestic deployments of the National Guard and Marines have cost at least $589 million — more than double what Senator Warren’s bicameral investigation previously found — she called for the Trump administration to “answer for wasting more than half a billion taxpayer dollars.”

In December 2025, at a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) pressed Trump’s nominee to be Army General Counsel, on the deployment of the National Guard and reports that senior Judge Advocate General (JAG) officers have been sidelined after raising legal concerns about military operations.

In December 2025, Senator Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative John Garamendi (D-Calif.) co-led the release of a new report, along with 11 other members of Congress, revealing the Trump administration diverted more than $2 billions of military funds and resources from the Pentagon to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for immigration enforcement, and its impact on readiness and morale. The report also revealed that the diversion of funds was happening at the expense of updates to barracks, maintenance hangers, and military construction projects in the Pacific.

In September 2025, Senator Warren (D-Mass.) led more than 60 members of Congress in opening a new investigation into the Trump administration’s practice of detaining and sending immigrants to countries where they have no citizenship or connections of any kind. These deportations use the military to conduct the international deportation flights and detaining noncitizens on U.S. military bases within the United States and overseas.

In February 2025, Senators Warren (D-Mass.) and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) pressed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on the military’s deployment of active-duty forces to the southern border and Guantanamo, and the Department of Defense’s (DOD) new involvement in immigration detention and deportation.

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Warren, Hawley, Harshbarger, Auchincloss Renew Bipartisan Push to Rein in Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), Cut Drug Costs

PBM Act picks up key bipartisan cosponsors, including Senators Fetterman and Marshall and representatives on committees of jurisdiction in the House.

Tennessee Governor could sign their version of the PBM Act into law as early as this week.

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

Washington, D.C. – Today, Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), alongside Representatives Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) and Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.), reintroduced the Patients Before Monopolies (PBM) Act with expanded bipartisan support, indicating growing momentum for a policy that will prohibit joint ownership of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and pharmacies, a gross conflict of interest that enables these companies to enrich themselves at the expense of patients and independent pharmacies.

In the 119th Congress, new cosponsors include Senators John Fetterman (D-Pa.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), along with Representatives Greg Landsman (D-Ohio) and Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) and Troy Nehls (R-Texas) of the Judiciary Committee. Notably, the PBM Act would pass through the Committee on Energy and Commerce or the Judiciary Committee before reaching the House floor under regular order.

Since this bill was first introduced in 2024, states across the country have sought to break up these giant conglomerates. In early 2025, Arkansas passed a law to prevent the joint ownership of PBMs and pharmacies. Later that year, 39 state attorneys general wrote a letter urging Congress to “pass an act prohibiting PBMs, their parent companies, or affiliates from owning or operating pharmacies.” In April, Tennessee lawmakers passed a law to ban joint ownership of PBMs and pharmacies, and the Tennessee Governor is expected to sign the bill into law as soon as this week. This growing bipartisan momentum in support of the goals of the PBM Act from across the nation sends an important signal to Congress that the work to rein in PBMs is not yet finished.

“Our PBM Act is gaining momentum because people are realizing that you can’t lower health care costs without tackling corporate greed in the health care system,” said Senator Warren. “It’s time we finally rein in the health care middlemen that are jacking up drug costs and driving small pharmacies out of business.”

“Americans are paying more and more for healthcare while seeing less in return. PBMs are at the center of a broken system that rewards middlemen while driving up costs for patients and pushing out independent pharmacies,” said Senator Hawley. “Working Americans deserve better. This legislation is a major step toward restoring transparency and making healthcare more affordable for every American.”

“As a lifelong pharmacist, I’ve seen firsthand how PBMs game the system. When the same corporate giant that sets reimbursement rates also owns the pharmacy collecting them, that’s not a free market—it’s a rigged one,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “We have antitrust laws for a reason. When monopolies squeeze out independent pharmacies, raise costs for patients, and reduce consumer choice, Congress has a duty to restore fair competition. The Patients Before Monopolies Act ends this blatant conflict of interest once and for all.”

"Like so many small business owners in America, independent pharmacists are working hard and playing by the rules but getting ripped off by monopolies. The PBM industry is rife with self-dealing and price gouging. Congress made modest but meaningful reforms earlier this year, and now the next step is banning PBMs from owning pharmacies. It's an unacceptable conflict of interest and yet another example of the vertical integration in health care that is raising prices for patients," said Congressman Jake Auchincloss.

"Pharmacy Benefit Managers drive prices up for patients and run independent pharmacies out of business. These greedy corporations have dodged regulation at the cost of American patients and small businesses for far too long," said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. "For my entire career, I have fought to make healthcare accessible for all Americans, and I am proud to support this bill reining in PBMs and enforcing fair business practices."

Over the past decade, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) — the middlemen between pharmacies and insurance companies — have morphed into large health care conglomerates that exercise control over every link in the prescription drug delivery chain. Today, the largest health care conglomerates each own a PBM — which pay for pharmacy services — as well as the pharmacy chains that provide those services. This inherent conflict of interest results in higher drug costs for patients and fewer independent pharmacies, but bigger profits for the corporate health care giants.

The Patients Before Monopolies (PBM) Act would address this by:

Prohibiting a parent company of a PBM or an insurer from owning a pharmacy business;

Requiring that a parent company in violation of the PBM Act divest its pharmacy business within one year;

Empowering the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Justice (DOJ), state attorneys general, and harmed individuals to enforce the law against violators by requiring them to divest their pharmacy business and disgorge any revenue received during the period of such violation;

Directing the FTC to distribute any disgorged revenue to harmed communities, including consumers overcharged at vertically integrated pharmacies;

Authorizing the FTC and DOJ to monitor pharmacy business divestment, and impose monetary penalties if companies drag their feet or fail to comply; and

Mandating reporting of all divestitures to the FTC, and allowing the FTC to review all divestitures and subsequent acquisitions to protect competition, financial viability, and the public interest.

“PBM vertical integration with retail, mail-order, and specialty pharmacies has led to reduced patient choice and higher drug prices for patients and payers. The Patients Before Monopolies Act cuts out PBM conflicts of interest at their root by breaking up PBM ownership of and affiliation with pharmacies. APCI commends Senators Warren and Hawley, and Representatives Harshbarger and Auchincloss on fighting against PBM anticompetitive practices and advancing policies that will restore competition to the prescription drug marketplace,” said Greg Reybold, Vice President of Public Policy, American Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc.

“With the reintroduction of the Patients Before Monopolies Act (PBM Act), we are grateful to Senators Warren and Hawley and Representatives Harshbarger and Auchincloss for standing up for patients and pharmacies. For too long, the largest health insurers have resorted to fear and intimidation tactics, expending substantial resources in order to scare and confuse the public into thinking PBM reform will be bad for them. With this new legislation, PBMs will finally be held accountable for years of abusing their role as “benefits administrators” to undercut pharmacy providers while also profiteering off the backs of unsuspecting employers, patients and taxpayers,” said Monique Whitney, Executive Director, Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency.

“Divesting PBMs from owning pharmacies will stop the conflict of interest that drives patients into PBM-owned specialty pharmacies where specialty generic drug prices are kept artificially high. The Patients Before Monopolies Act levels the playing field for community pharmacists and finally puts patients ahead of PBM profits,” said Madelaine Feldman, MD, FACR; Rheumatologist; Vice President, Advocacy & Government Affairs; Coalition of State Rheumatology Organizations.

“Giant PBMs and insurers owning their own pharmacies has driven independent pharmacies out of business and reduced patient access to quality care. The Patients Before Monopolies Act addresses the root cause of this problem — consolidated market power — by eliminating the inherent conflicts of interest within the 'Big Three' PBM business model,” said Morgan Harper, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project. “We are thrilled to see Sen. Warren and Sen. Hawley and Reps. Harshbarger and Auchincloss lead this bipartisan effort to lower drug costs, protect independent retail pharmacies, improve patient access to care, and break up Big Medicine.”

“The Patients Before Monopolies Act takes an important step toward restoring integrity and competition in healthcare by ending the deeply flawed model where PBMs and insurers can own the very providers they oversee and reimburse. When the same corporations control the financing, administration, and delivery of care, patients and independent providers are put at a disadvantage. Healthcare decisions should be driven by what is best for patients, not by vertically integrated corporations maximizing profits through self-preferencing and consolidation,” said Robert Levin, MD, President, Alliance for Transparent & Affordable Prescriptions.

“American Pharmacies strongly supports the Patients Before Monopolies Act. When PBMs own pharmacies, the resulting self-dealing and conflicts of interest distort the marketplace and too often undermine affordable, accessible, patient-centered care. American Pharmacies and our 700 independent pharmacy members across the country thank the bill’s sponsors for their leadership in confronting one of the root causes of rising costs and barriers to care,” said Steve Hoffart, R.Ph., Chairman, American Pharmacies.

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Vermont Congressional Delegation Announces Over $20 Million in FEMA Funding to Help Vermont Rebuild and Recover from 2023 Floods

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Vermont Congressional Delegation, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and U.S. Representative Becca Balint (VT-AL), today announced the delivery of $20.83 million in federal funding, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to support the Vermont Agency for Transportation (VTrans) and the City of Montpelier to repair damage caused by severe storms, flooding, and washouts in July 2023.

The federal funding will deliver nearly $12 million in long-overdue funding to support permanent repairs to Montpelier’s City Hall, Fire Department, Police Department Buildings, and Fire Department Sidewalk and Ramp. VTrans will receive an additional $9 million to help rebuild portions of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail and the Washington County railroad.

“The 2023 floods were brutal, causing long-lasting damage for Vermonters and Vermont communities. This newly released federal funding, totaling more than $20 million, will help repair Montpelier’s hard-hit municipal buildings and state rail and trail infrastructure. Much of this funding was delayed by FEMA for years—it never should have taken so long to get to Montpelier, and is a glaring example of how this agency needs reform. We will continue to fight for the FEMA funding our state needs, and will work with new leadership at the agency to deliver the assistance Vermonters need to fully rebuild and recover,” said the Vermont Delegation.

The federal funding grants announced include:

$11,782,017 to the City of Montpelier to repair severe damage the capital’s City Hall, Fire Department and fire station concrete ramp/sidewalk, and Police Department buildings as a result of severe flooding in July 2023. This funding will help restore these facilities back to their pre-disaster design, capacity, and function utilizing current codes and standards, including repairing damage to windows, interior and exterior doors, drywall, insulation, flooring, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, carpentry, stairs, and more. The project includes a hazard mitigation proposal (HMP) to reduce the risk of future damage by adopting multiple wet and dry floodproofing measures.

$6,168,905.58 to the Vermont Agency for Transportation (VTrans) to repair a culvert on the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail that was washed away by floodwater in July 2023.

$2,880,995.41 to the Vermont Agency for Transportation (VTrans) to rebuild railroad ballast and associated embankments along the railroad in Washington County, which was damaged by flooding in July 2023.

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Welch: “We are in a crisis in American agriculture.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. — At a Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee hearing this week, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, Poultry, and Food Safety, emphasized how growing market consolidation in the agricultural industry has blocked small farmers from profits and raised costs for consumers in Vermont. Senator Welch also discussed how President Trump’s reckless war in Iran has increased financial burdens on farmers and producers across the country, including skyrocketing farm diesel and fertilizer prices.

“We are in a crisis in American agriculture. There is an immense amount of wealth that is being created by the farmers—they’re just not getting any…. If we have this inability to do any control over what the input costs are and they march up—step-by-step as the price of corn goes up or the price of oats goes up—the farmer is totally at the mercy of a market that is consolidated….That is an issue that we’ve got to deal with.” said Senator Welch. “Rural America is really critical to the well-being of all of America, and I think we have to act. This Congress has to act.”

Watch Senator Welch’s remarks here:

Senator Welch asked Andy Green, Center Market Strategies Principal and Senior Advisor, about the impact of growing market consolidation on Vermont-sized farms:

Sen. Welch: On small-scale farmers, it’s really, really brutal as well. I mean, we’re seeing consolidation among farmers as well, but that’s not to drive profit, it’s because the smaller farmers can’t sustain themselves when they’re losing this much per acre, Mr. Green, just talk to me about that. You know, I was on the Nitty Gritty farm in Charlotte, Vermont—eighth generation, and they’ve got two kids, hoping for the ninth generation. And, by the way, all farmers I know, they just love the idea of passing that farm on to their kids. Tell me about that issue.

Mr. Green: Well, the challenge is that a lot of farmers and ranchers face—whether it is farmers in your state or farmers in other places—is no matter how big they are, they’re still much smaller than the processors and the retailers that are downstream from them. So, their ability to negotiate fair prices is very limited, and they’re price-takers. And in fact, some of the processors themselves are price-takers versus the retailers. So, we’ve got a system where the consumer is paying more, the farmer is getting less, and the folks in the middle are getting the benefits of all the hard work being done. So, that’s where the focus needs to be.

Sen. Welch: I believe the Iran war—it’s not me believing it, it’s incontestable—that it’s raised prices. Diesel is way up, and that’s a big use on the farm; fertilizer is way up. But, what I’ve heard from you, is that has intensified what is a pre-existing problem with the consolidation, the high prices, and the really tight margins that our farmers are facing. Is that correct?

Mr. Green: Yes, absolutely.

•••

Last week in Addison County, Senator Welch heard directly from Vermont farmers and producers about how President Trump’s economic policies and war with Iran have caused the costs of food production to skyrocket. The Senator also recently joined Vermont Public Radio to discuss how President Trump’s economic policies have created pain and increased fertilizer prices for Vermont farmers.

Senator Welch proposed an amendment to Republicans’ recent budget resolution, which would have helped farmers impacted by increased costs associated with President Trump’s war in Iran—including fuel, fertilizer, and other costs.

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Chairman Wicker Praises Agreements to Rapidly Expand Affordable, Mass-Produced Strike Weapons

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today applauded new framework agreements announced by the Pentagon that will accelerate the fielding of low-cost, high-volume munitions for America’s warfighters.

Chairman Wicker released the following statement:

“I am glad to see these urgently needed agreements, which are a direct result of collaboration between the Congress and the Pentagon to fundamentally change our approach in defense procurement.” Chairman Wicker said. “Congress got started by appropriating significant sums in last year’s Working Families Tax Cut act for low-cost weapons, and today’s announcement is a validation of that approach. It demonstrates the kind of return on investment we can expect more of if we work together to make a generational investment in our national defense with the fiscal year 2027 budget.”

Background

The agreements partner with innovative companies Anduril, CoAspire, Leidos, and Zone 5 to produce the Low-Cost Containerized Munitions (LCCM) program, while a parallel effort with Castelion advances scalable low-cost hypersonic weapons. Together, they set the stage for procuring more than 10,000 low-cost containerized missiles over the next three years and at least 500 Blackbeard hypersonic missiles annually from Castelion—with options for over 12,000 missiles over five years.

These agreements arrive at a pivotal moment of concern over the nation’s weapons inventory. It responds to the pressing requirement for new systems built on modern technologies, commercial supply chains, and designs optimized for high-rate production.


Wyden Sounds Alarm on Trump Administration’s Hazardous Fuels Backlog

Trump administration’s failure to tackle backlog of hazardous fuels buildup will contribute to historic wildfire season, Wyden warns

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing sounded the alarm on the Trump administration’s failure to address a massive backlog of hazardous fuels buildup ahead of what could be a historic wildfire season in Oregon and the West.

“Between reduced goals for hazardous fuels treatment, layoffs and the budget cuts, I believe Donald Trump has set western states up to fail this season and in the years ahead,” Wyden said to U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz at the hearing to consider Donald Trump’s FY2027 budget request for the U.S. Forest Service.

“Your agency is in charge of 193 million acres of public lands. Apparently the President thinks if you treat two percent of that acreage annually, communities will be okay,” Wyden said. “Oregonians choking on smoke each summer don’t have to do the math to say that isn’t working.”

Earlier this year, Wyden pressed the administration on its fire preparedness plans following Trump’s budget and staffing cuts in 2025, and a reduction in hazardous fuels treatment amid record-low snowpack and worsening drought in Oregon. In his response to Wyden’s letter, Chief Schultz confirmed that under the first year of Trump’s second term, the Forest Service has only treated 3.3 million acres for FY26, nearly one million acres short of FY25, during which 4.29 million acres were treated.

Wyden also pressed Chief Schultz at today’s hearing on the savings resulting from his “fire borrowing fix” law, which ensured that the Forest Service no longer must raid fire prevention funds to pay for suppression of active fires. Chief Schultz confirmed that Wyden’s fire borrowing law has saved $12.5 billion in funding, to be used on critical fuels reduction and other work. The law is set to expire next year, and Wyden is working to secure a permanent extension.


Young Op-Ed: Hoosier Law Enforcement Deserves Our Support

The following op-ed by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) was published on May 13, 2026.

By Todd Young

Most Hoosiers wake up every morning and see their children off to school or head to work without event. They live in safety because a select few of their fellow citizens willingly forfeit their own.

May 10–16 is National Police Week, and it is a useful reminder of what we owe our Indiana law enforcement officers and what more we can do for them.

Our police officers are the thin blue line between order and chaos. The men and women who wear the badge are the guardians of peace who willingly stand in the way of threats to their communities. Whether our cars break down or our homes are invaded, when trouble comes, our law enforcement officers are not far behind.

Too often we appreciate them only when we need them. And just as commonly, we overlook the grave danger they willingly face on our behalf.

The hero’s badge is a criminal’s target. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, which carries the names of 24,000 police officers killed in the line of duty, reminds us of this sobering reality.

Every year additional names are added to these rolls. Around 100 police officers die on the job annually, the majority as a result of violent and other serious crimes.

In 2024, 85,730 police officers were assaulted in the line of duty. Many of these incidents were ambush attacks, when criminals target police officers unexpectedly. According to the National Fraternal Order of Police, such incidents accounted for nearly 30 percent of officer shootings last year.

These terrible sacrifices are why, since 1962, Americans have honored law enforcement personnel during the second week of May. National Police Week is an occasion to renew our unwavering support for law enforcement officers.

It’s an opportunity to recognize and give thanks for their unseen acts of heroism, honor and remember those who have laid down their lives to protect others, and express our solemn appreciation to the loved ones of officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Remembrance is important. So is gratitude. But these alone are not enough. Our police officers defend us, and we, in turn, can deter and punish those who would do them harm.

In the Senate, I am supporting the Protect and Serve Act, introduced by Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.). This bill would create a new category of crime for those who attack federal, state, or local law enforcement officers. It would give federal prosecutors more tools to go after those who deliberately target law enforcement officers by making it a federal crime to knowingly cause, or attempt to cause, bodily injury to a law enforcement officer.

Under the bill, offenders would be subject to imprisonment for up to 10 years. An offender could receive a life sentence if a death results from the offense, or the offense includes kidnapping, attempted kidnapping, or attempted murder.

This legislation is a common-sense step at the federal level to better protect those who protect us, and Congress should pass it into law.

Whether they serve on the local, state, or federal level, our law enforcement officers are the best and the bravest. Laws mean little without men and women sworn to uphold them.

During National Police Week, let’s reflect on how much we owe them and show our support for the men and women wearing the badge across Indiana.


Reps. Kim, Bera DOMINANCE Act Passes House Foreign Affairs Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Foreign Affairs Committee passed out of markup H.R. 7037, the Developing Overseas Mineral Investments and New Allied Networks for Critical Energies (DOMINANCE) Act, a bipartisan bill led by House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Chairwoman Young Kim (CA-40) and Ranking Member Ami Bera (CA-06). This bill strengthens global critical minerals supply chains and secures America’s energy future with our allies.

Watch Rep. Kim speak in support of the bill in the markup HERE.

“Critical minerals are the foundation of America’s military power, industrial strength, and economic competitiveness. We cannot rely on China for the very materials that underpin our economic and national security,” said Chairwoman Kim. “My DOMINANCE Act helps lock in President Trump’s critical minerals strategy and counter the CCP’s decades-long chokehold on critical mineral supply chains. I’m proud to see this bill advance out of committee, so we can unleash the next generation of American energy dominance.”

“Critical minerals power everything from our defense industrial base to the advanced technologies that drive our economy, yet China continues to maintain an alarming chokehold over the global critical mineral supply chain,” said Representative Bera. “I’m proud to partner with Congresswoman Young Kim on this effort to align diplomatic and financing tools in cooperation with our allies and partners to build secure and resilient critical mineral supply chains that will support American competitiveness and strengthen our national security for decades to come.”

Specifically, the DOMINANCE Act advances U.S. energy and critical minerals leadership by:

Formalizing America’s participation in the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (FORGE) to coordinate with allies and trusted partners on critical mineral investments, project development, and supply chain security.

Creating Energy Security Pacts to align U.S. agencies and mobilize private sector investment in strategic energy and mineral projects abroad.

Establishing the Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy at the State Department to lead America’s international energy, critical minerals, and supply chain strategy.

Expanding mining and engineering fellowship, scholar exchange, and workforce development programs to build America’s pipeline of critical mineral talent and expertise.

Strengthening Foreign Service Institute training on energy security, critical minerals, and strategic supply chains to better equip U.S. diplomats.

Encouraging the appointment of a Special Advisor to the President for Critical Minerals and Supply Chains to ensure a coordinated, whole-of-government strategy.

Organizations supporting the DOMINANCE Act include: American Conservative Coalition Action (ACC Action), American Council for Capital Formation (ACCF), American Critical Minerals Association (ACMA), American Energy Leadership Institute (AELI), Atlantic Council, Bipartisan Policy Center Action (BPC Action), ClearPath Action, Climate Leadership Council, DZYNE Technologies, the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) Action, the Foundation for American Innovation, Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), KoBold Metals, McClarty Associates, the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), Newmont, Progressive Policy Institute, SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, Third Way, US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC), USLNG Association (LNG Allies). Read their quotes of support HERE.


Appropriations Committee Advances Commerce, Justice, and Science Funding Bill

Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) issued the following statement after the House Appropriations Committee passed Commerce, Justice, Science, and related agencies (CJS) funding bill for fiscal year 2027.

“Another week, another government funding bill is passing out of the Appropriations Committee ahead of schedule and under budget,” said Congressman Alford. “This strong, responsible Commerce, Justice, and Science bill provides critical resources to keep our communities safe, support law enforcement on the front lines, as well as invest in American innovation and scientific leadership. By prioritizing public safety, combating the opioid epidemic, and bolstering our nation’s research and technology edge, this bill delivers for Missouri families and advances President Trump’s America First agenda. I look forward to seeing this legislation pass on the House floor.”

As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Alford secured $5,390,000 in reasonable federal investments for the Fourth District to help turn the “Show Me State” into the “Grow Me State,” including:

$4,200,000 for safe and reliable reactor operations at Mizzou’s Missouri University Research Reactor (MURR) in Columbia.

$640,000 for critical communication equipment upgrades, including new communications helmets and radios, for the Webster County Sheriff’s office in Marshfield.

$550,000 to provide Next Generation 911, upgraded emergency operator system communications equipment, for the Bates County Sheriff’s office in Butler.

Other Fourth District priorities secured by Congressman Alford in the FY27 CJS funding bill include:

Increased funding to enhance weather forecasting, tracking, and notification, including increasing the National Weather Service’s total budget, additional funding for its National Mesonet Program, as well as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s NextGEN gap filling radar technology, to ensure Missourians are protected during severe weather.

Language to support the FBI’s efforts to relocate agents and other personnel from Washington, DC to the Kansas City field office.

Establishing a pilot program under the Bureau of Prisons to develop a wastewater surveillance system to monitor infectious diseases and drug use, including fentanyl as well as other synthetic opioids and controlled substances.

Preserved funding for the Regional Information Sharing Systems (RISS), which is a vital information sharing system used across law enforcement and emergency operators in Missouri, as well as the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System Program.

Dedicated funding for the Department of Justice to modernize cybersecurity to combat attacks targeting law enforcement and legal infrastructure.

Language to ensure the National Institute of Standards and Technology promotes the safe use of AI by small businesses as well as strengthens trust and adoption of federal AI systems.

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Legislative Discussion Draft of Next-Generation U.S. Clinical Development to Accelerate Cures

The United States has long led the world in biomedical discovery, translation into clinical research, and approvals of new cures and life-changing treatments. However, America’s clinical research enterprise has not kept pace and is fragmented and difficult to integrate into care sites. This discussion draft aims to modernize and improve the clinical trials process for faster and more accessible clinical trials in the U.S.

For more information or to share a comment on Rep. Auchincloss' Legislative Discussion Draft of the Next-Generation U.S. Clinical Development to Accelerate Cures Proposal, please feel free to reach out to Nikita Varman, Health Policy Advisor, Congressman Auchincloss (MA-04) at nikita.varman@mail.house.gov. The deadline for feedback submission is June 30.

Please submit feedback here.

Related Files


Beyer, Subramanyam Request Supplemental GAO Review into Army’s Systemic Conditions and Practices Leading to Tragic DCA Collision

U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA) and Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) yesterday led 45 House Democrats in requesting that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a comprehensive review of the systemic conditions and operational practices that preceded the January 29, 2025 midair collision between American Eagle Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near National Airport (DCA), which claimed the lives of 67 passengers and crew.

The lawmakers urged GAO to examine broader systemic issues related to Army aviation safety and training practices beyond the scope of the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) investigation, including staffing, training, safety culture, mission risk management, civil-military coordination, aviation technology, and oversight practices. Citing reports of near misses between military and commercial aircraft in DCA airspace, the lawmakers also emphasized that the review should pay particular attention to units operating regularly in complex civilian airspace, including those based in the National Capital Region.

In a letter to Acting Comptroller General Orice W. Brown, the lawmakers wrote:

We write with concern about the effectiveness of the Army’s aviation safety culture and in particular, its practices in civilian airspace in the aftermath of the January 29, 2025 collision of an Army Sikorsky H-60 helicopter with American Eagle Flight 5342, which claimed the lives of 67 passengers and crew. Other reports of near misses between military and commercial aircraft call into question broader patterns across military aviation in ensuring safety.

Given the collision and instances of near-misses, as well as the gaps identified in Army safety culture and processes in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)’s investigation of this collision, we respectfully request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a review or series of reviews evaluating the Army’s aviation safety and training practices, including its policies and procedures for interfacing with civilian aircraft. While we understand GAO will not re-investigate the January 29 collision, the circumstances surrounding it should clearly inform and frame this review as a reference point for assessing systemic coordination and safety practices.

We request that particular attention be given to units that regularly operate in complex civilian airspace, such as those based in the National Capital Region, to assess how Army aviation training, risk management, and coordination practices are applied in practice. We request that GAO assess and examine the following in its review:

Staffing & Qualifications

Assess Army pilot assignment criteria for Class B/C/D operations (such as local and overall experience, recency, proficiency, flying hours, supervisory ratios, and fatigue management procedures).

Assess Army training standards and assignment procedures for pilots and other airspace management personnel for complex operating environments.

Assess trends in Army aviator experience, flight hours, and standards for the previous ten years and factors, such as retention and attrition trends, that could adversely affect safety.

Training & Standards

Assess processes to align Army aviation doctrines, manuals, local standard operating procedures (SOPs), and training programs with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and local air traffic control (ATC) procedures, including reasons for any differences.

Assess Army training programs for night vision goggle operations, visual separation, altimetry use, and spatial-disorientation, and traffic-awareness tools (e.g., ForeFlight, TIS-B, ADS-B and other similar systems), including how units measure training effectiveness and standardization, and whether evaluations are consistently conducted independently and graded with appropriate rigor.

Assess Army training and standards for verbal communication with local ATC, including the consistency of compliance with such standards and any retraining or evaluations of compliance with standards throughout pilots’ careers.

Safety Culture & Decision Authority

Assess the operational safety culture for Army aviation units and factors, such as operational priorities in congested airspace and flight safety, that crews and leadership consider when responding to safety concerns, including whether aviators have appropriate avenues and encouragement to raise concerns or decline missions.

Assess the roles and responsibilities of Army governance structures and accountability mechanisms, including coordination with FAA and Department of Defense (DoD) oversight offices, in identifying and addressing safety issues, including the root causes of underlying safety risks and associated mitigations.

Risk Management & Technology

Assess the adequacy and rigor of mission risk assessments in accounting for real-world traffic flows and hazards, including pre-flight tools and briefings to identify congested or conflicted airspace and to mitigate military-commercial overlaps in planning.

Assess the safety implications of ADS-B Out exemptions and other sensor limitations, including FAA/Army processes for granting, tracking, and mitigating such waivers; decision-making authority at the unit, Army, and DoD levels; and Army oversight of its policies for exemptions.

Examine the certification process for military-designed aircraft used in civilian airspace and any modernization or equipage upgrades intended to improve safety.

Assess whether ground-based surveillance and communication systems used by FAA and DoD, including radar, multilateration, and coordination equipment, provide sufficient coverage and reliability to support joint airspace operations, and whether deficiencies or funding gaps have been prioritized for correction.

Civilian Airspace Risk Integration

Assess the Army’s risk management procedures to identify and mitigate collision risks to non-participating civilian aircraft.

Assess processes and procedures to account for recurring military activity in classes of airspace in the National Airspace System (NAS).

Assess whether the risks and mitigation gaps observed in the National Capital Region also exist in other complex civilian airspace hotspots nationwide.

Assess whether FAA–DoD coordination mechanisms and communication systems, including airspace handoffs, equipment interoperability, staffing levels in high-density environments, and post-incident coordination and response, adequately ensure situational awareness and safety, and whether known deficiencies have been addressed.

Assess whether Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and Letters of Agreement (LOAs) governing Army–FAA operations are consistently reviewed and updated to reflect changing airspace conditions, and whether procedural safeguards exist to ensure continuity of coordination independent of individual relationships or command changes.

Civil–Military Coordination

Assess Army processes to coordinate with FAA, airport operators, local airspace users, and joint safety forums.

Assess Army information-sharing agreements with these entities for collision alerts and hazard mitigations.

Assess Army procedures to respond to concerns or recommendations raised through these mechanisms, including whether FAA-identified concerns and irregularities are reliably escalated to Army leadership, addressed in a timely and appropriate manner, and whether agreements such as LOAs are consistently implemented and enforced.

Accountability, Data Integrity & Post-Incident Response

Assess the completeness and reliability of Army aviation accident and hazard reporting and data retention practices, including alignment with reports from FAA/ATC and other airspace users.

Assess whether Flight Operational Quality Assurance (FOQA) / Flight Data Monitoring (FDM)-style programs (including flight-data capture, transmission, targeted monitoring of high-risk platforms, analysis, and integration with FAA systems) are used to identify systemic issues and to support coaching that corrects recurring deficiencies.

Assess how ongoing records and post-incident responses are preserved and whether decision makers, including the FAA and Congress, receive timely, accurate, and complete information necessary for effective oversight of safety in shared airspace.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

The letter is signed by Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA) and Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith (D-WA), and Representatives Gabe Amo (D-RI), Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Wesley Bell (D-MO), André Carson (D-IN), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD), Laura Friedman (D-CA), Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Jesús García (D-IL), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Steny Hoyer (D-MD), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Bill Keating (D-MA), Ro Khanna (D-CA), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Sarah McBride (D-DE), April McClain Delaney (D-MD), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Johnny Olszewski (D-MD), Chris Pappas (D-NH), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Bobby Scott (D-VA), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Mike Thompson (D-VA), Dina Titus (D-NV), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), James Walkinshaw (D-VA), Frederica Wilson (D-FL), and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC).

A signed copy of the letter is available here.

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Congressman Blake Moore Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Critical Mineral Supply Chains

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Blake Moore introduced legislation to strengthen domestic critical mineral supply chains, incentivize domestic mining, and support America's economic and national security.

The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act bolsters domestic critical mineral supply chains by updating the list of minerals eligible for the 45X Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit to mirror the U.S. Geological Survey’s 2025 List of Critical Minerals and ensure extraction costs are eligible activities under the credit.

Rep. Moore's Ways and Means Committee colleagues, Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Mike Carey (R-OH), Max Miller (R-OH), and Aaron Bean (R-FL) cosponsored this legislation.

“Critical minerals are a crucial component of American everyday life. They’re used for everything from electronics to energy production, medical devices and treatments, and the defense technology that keeps our military the best in the world," Rep. Moore said. "Many of these minerals can be extracted right here in the United States, and even better, in Utah. I am proud to introduce the Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act to update our tax code to incentivize domestic mining and processing of all 60 USGS critical minerals. Promoting a domestic critical mineral supply chain is not only important to the U.S. economy, but it is also essential to our national security.”

“Congressman Blake Moore’s Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act is a timely and strategic step toward strengthening America’s domestic supply chains and reducing reliance on foreign sources for minerals essential to our economic and national security. By aligning the 45x tax credit with the U.S. Geological Survey’s critical minerals list and recognizing extraction as a qualifying activity, this legislation ensures that U.S. producers can compete on a level playing field. In Utah—where we responsibly mine many of the minerals incorporated into the bill including copper, uranium, phosphate, potash, silver, lead, and rhenium—these updates will help unlock investment, accelerate project development, and reinforce Utah’s leadership role in pursuing our nation’s minerals and energy dominance agenda,” said Brian Somers, President, Utah Mining Association.

"The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act positions Utah as a stronger, more reliable partner in global trade. From energy and aerospace to defense and emerging technologies, critical minerals are foundational to the industries shaping the future economy. Strengthening domestic supply chains creates new opportunities for Utah companies to lead, innovate, and compete globally," said Jonathan Freedman, president and CEO, World Trade Center Utah.

"A secure and robust domestic supply chain is the bedrock of America's aerospace and defense leadership. The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act introduced by Representative Moore is a vital step forward for our industrial base. This legislation ensures we can competitively source the elements necessary for next-generation aviation, defense and space technologies. Furthermore, by bringing tax parity to domestic ore extraction costs and explicitly excluding foreign countries of concern, this bill directly fortifies our national security. 47G strongly supports this effort to onshore our critical supply chains and empower the innovators building America's deep tech frontier," said Aaron Starks, CEO and President, 47G.

“Minerals are crucial to the future of American energy dominance. By incentivizing domestic extraction, we are shifting production away from adversarial regimes with abysmal environmental and labor records. This will unlock jobs for our rural communities, secure our supply chains, and help lower costs. It’s time we stop importing our energy future from China and start building it ourselves,” said Andrew Sandstrom, Executive Director, Unleash Utah.

“To reliably and affordably meet increasing demand, electric utilities need access to domestically produced electrical equipment. This same equipment contains critical minerals like copper that Utah produces. UAMPS applauds Congressman Moore for working to increase critical mineral mining and processing capacity in the United States,” said Mike Squires, Managing Director of Government Affairs, Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems (UAMPS).

“Copper is essential to America’s energy future, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, and national defense. Including copper processing in the 45X tax credit strengthens domestic supply chains, supports American jobs, and ensures the United States has the refining and smelting capacity needed to compete in a rapidly changing global economy. At Rio Tinto Kennecott, we are proud to produce copper and other critical materials that are vital to the country’s economic and national security,” said Nate Foster, Managing Director, Kennecott Utah Copper.

“The National Mining Association applauds Utah Congressman Blake Moore’s introduction of the Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act. This bill will offer real incentives for domestic mining operations across the country. By adding Boron, Copper, Lead, Potash, Rhenium, Silicon, Silver, Uranium and Phosphate to the list of eligible minerals under the Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit, the U.S. can better compete in developing the irreplaceable mineral supply chains that underpin our modern industrial base and our energy, economic and national security. Incentivizing production of our vast domestic mineral resources is essential to creating the mineral security we so urgently need but don’t have. This bill is an important step forward in addressing our alarming mineral import overreliance and building U.S. mineral strength,” said Rich Nolan, President and CEO, National Mining Association.

“Critical minerals are essential manufacturing inputs, including for robotics, industrial automation, electronics, and electric grid components. The Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit is an important tool for boosting the domestic manufacturing of advanced technologies and bolstering U.S. competitiveness in the face of competition from China. By aligning the 45X statute with the recently updated 2025 Critical Minerals List, Rep. Moore’s Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act will ensure greater access to those materials and help manufacturers launch projects that will secure our supply chains,” said Chris Phalen, Vice President of Domestic Policy, National Association of Manufacturers.

“The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is pleased to support the Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act, which would strengthen the advanced manufacturing production tax credit. By expanding eligibility to additional critical minerals and better aligning the incentive with the full value chain, this legislation would encourage more domestic production and refining, bolster critical mineral supply chains, support U.S. manufacturers, and enhance America’s economic and national security,” said Ruth Demeter, Global Energy Institute, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

"The Uranium Producers of America (UPA) strongly supports Representative Moore's legislation to strengthen domestic critical mineral production, including uranium. This legislation will strengthen domestic critical mineral production and reduce U.S. dependence on foreign adversaries for uranium supply chains. Including uranium and other critical minerals within the Section 45X Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit will encourage new investment in American critical mineral production, ensuring American energy security and national security into the future. Representative Moore’s legislation will help ensure a robust and reliable domestic nuclear fuel supply chain that UPA and its member companies are already actively working to expand,” said Scott Melbye, President, UPA and Executive Vice President of Uranium Energy Corp.

“Congressman Moore’s work on critical minerals underscores how essential these materials are to America’s manufacturing strength and energy security. Ensuring a stable, domestic supply chain supports the industries that keep our nation moving, including steelmaking and advanced manufacturing,” said Emily Athrun, CEO, American Coal Council.

“CDA applauds Congressman Moore for his forward-thinking legislation to ensure important 45X tax credits apply to new USGS Critical Minerals like copper. Through massive state subsidies, China currently controls approximately 40% of global copper smelting capacity. This is unacceptable. With copper demand expected to increase 50% by 2040, extending 45X critical mineral production tax credits to primary and secondary copper smelters is a strategic imperative to make new and expanded copper processing capacity economically viable in America,” said Adam Estelle, President and CEO, Copper Development Association.

“Strengthening U.S. economic security and global technology leadership requires increased domestic critical mineral production and extraction. The Section 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit is a key incentive that will help reach that important goal. ITI strongly supports the Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act, legislation that will further expand and scale U.S. production capacity,” said Jason Oxman, President and CEO, Information Technology Industry Council.

“The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act ensures our policy framework reflects today’s critical mineral realities by aligning with the latest U.S. Geological Survey list and recognizing the full value of domestic production. This is practical and forward-looking legislation that modernizes our tax policy and takes steps to reduce our reliance on foreign sources and reinforce a strong, resilient domestic mining sector,” said Lyndsey Wright, Executive Director, Women’s Mining Coalition.

"America should lead the world in critical minerals production. The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act will incentivize domestic production for all minerals on the USGS critical minerals list, strengthen supply chains and ensure America, not foreign adversaries, controls our energy and economic future,” said Jeremy Harrell, CEO, ClearPath Action.

"Securing domestic supply chains for critical minerals is imperative for us to lead on the technologies that make our modern world possible. We applaud Congressman Moore on introducing the Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act, a valuable piece of legislation that will help incentivize the development of more resilient supply chains and assure we have the critical components necessary for our national, energy, and economic security,” said Heather Reams, President & CEO, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions.

“Adding phosphate to the list of eligible minerals under section 45X of the Internal Revenue Code will greatly help domestic phosphate producers like the Simplot Company and will incentivize future investment in phosphate mining and processing. We applaud Congressman Blake Moore’s introduction of this legislation and his support of strengthening the domestic supply chain for critical minerals such as phosphate,” said Garrett Lofto, President and CEO, the Simplot Company.

The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act will strengthen America’s energy supply chains and help ensure we meet growing energy demand with materials sourced and processed here at home. Sunrun applauds Representative Moore’s leadership in creating American jobs, strengthening domestic mineral production, and accelerating the deployment of resilient energy infrastructure nationwide,” said Stephen Lassiter, Senior Director, Sunrun.

“The Mosaic Company commends Congressman Blake Moore and Congressman Vern Buchanan for their leadership in strengthening America’s critical mineral supply chain and prioritizing national security. The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act will help U.S. miners and manufacturers supply essential minerals here at home, reducing reliance on Chinese minerals producers. Representing two states producing phosphate fertilizers, Reps. Moore and Buchanan understand the strategic importance of domestic phosphate production. Phosphate is a U.S. Critical Mineral. Adding phosphate to the Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit levels the playing field for American companies while supporting U.S. mining and fertilizer competitiveness,” said Bruce Bodine, President and CEO, the Mosaic Company.

“Representative Moore’s legislation reflects a clear-eyed understanding of what American manufacturing truly needs to compete and win. We cannot build world-class batteries without world-class access to the minerals that go into them. By expanding 45X to cover all critical minerals, Congress can send a powerful signal that America is committed to owning every link of its supply chains,” said Roger Miksad, President and Executive Director, Battery Council International.

Background:

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is responsible for updating the annual List of Critical Minerals, based on which minerals are most vital to the U.S. economy and national security and face potential risks from disrupted supply chains. In their most recent update in November 2025, the USGS added 10 new minerals to the list: boron, copper, lead, metallurgical coal, phosphate, potash, rhenium, silicon, silver, and uranium.

The Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit, frequently referred to as 45X, provides a 10% tax credit for the cost of production of critical minerals (2.5% limit for the production of metallurgical coal), but the tax credit has not yet been updated to reflect the additional minerals added by the Trump Administration.

The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act:

Adds Boron, Copper, Lead, Potash, Rhenium, Silicon, Silver, Uranium, and Phosphate as eligible minerals under the Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit

Removes the 2.5% credit limit on metallurgical coal, allowing producers to claim the entire credit available to other minerals

Clarifies that mineral extraction is an eligible expense under the credit if the ore is extracted in the United States or if the ore is not of a type extracted in the US at a commercial scale AND not extracted in a foreign country of concern

Additional supporters of the bill include:

National Fertilizer Institute

Energy Fuels

DISA Technologies

Mariana Minerals

Milford Mining

Intrepid Potash

Sage Potash

Utah Potash

Osisko Development - Tintic Consolidated Metals Division

Revival Gold

American Clean Power Association

Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry

Idaho Mining Association

Kentucky Coal Association

Advanced Materials Technologies


Carbajal Visits Adelanto ICE Facility to Meet with Detained Constituents

On Monday, May 11, U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) conducted an oversight visit to the Adelanto Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) processing facility to meet with detainees, three of which were Central Coast constituents. The detained constituents are from Goleta, Santa Maria, and Ojai. The Congressman also assessed conditions in the facility and inquired about the reported deaths of detainees. Since the beginning of the current Trump administration, at least four detainee deaths have been reported at Adelanto.

“I visited the Adelanto ICE facility to meet with constituents from the Central Coast and hear the truth about their detention,” said Rep. Carbajal. “Their stories echo what other detainees from facilities across the U.S. have consistently reported: substandard medical care, inadequate facility maintenance, and a lack of some basic essentials like blankets. The stories shared by these Central Coast residents reflect the disastrous reality of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. While ICE may argue that the issues I saw at the facility could be fixed with more funding; I argue that the solution is to stop the mass detention policies that have overcrowded these facilities, separated families, and inflicted terror across our country. I will continue to block additional federal funds for ICE and will not stop showing up at these facilities until we see comprehensive reform.”

The Adelanto ICE facility is California’s largest immigration detention facility and currently holds over 2,000 detainees. The facility is privately operated by the GEO Group.

Carbajal is a leader in Congress in pushing for commonsense immigration reform and holding federal immigration enforcement officers accountable.

This week’s Adelanto visit marks Carbajal’s third tour of an ICE facility since the current Trump administration began. He previously visited the Santa Maria ICE processing facility twice in 2025.

In February 2026, Carbajal joined over 50 Members of Congress outside of ICE’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., to call for the firing of former Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem following the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

In June 2025, Carbajal co-sponsored the No Secret Police Act, which would require law enforcement officers and agents of DHS engaged in border security and civil immigration enforcement to clearly display identification and insignia when detaining or arresting individuals and to ban them from using home-made, non-tactical masks.

In July 2025, Carbajal co-led the introduction of the bipartisan Dignity Act, a bipartisan bill that would introduce reforms into our country’s immigration system. The bill includes commonsense reforms to legal status and protections for undocumented immigrants, border security investments, and improved asylum and visa processes.

In the same month, Carbajal introduced the Fight for the American Dream Act, legislation that allows participants of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) program to serve in the United States military and provides them a pathway toward U.S. citizenship after their service.


Carey, Boyle Introduce No Wasted Space Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Mike Carey (R-OH-15) and Brendan F. Boyle (D-PA-2) introduced the No Wasted Space Act. This legislation will help establish a commission to study potential uses of the Arts and Industries Building on the National Mall. The building currently serves as a temporary space used for limited events, concerts, and meetings.

“Historic buildings in Washington, D.C. should not sit vacant when there is potential for them to serve the public once again,” said Rep. Carey. “As the second-oldest Smithsonian building, the Arts and Industries Building has long been a part of our National Mall, and it deserves to be utilized to its full potential in the years ahead. I look forward to taking a step towards preserving the building’s historic character while creating new opportunities for public engagement and education.”

“150 years ago, Congress dedicated the proceeds of the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition, America’s first World’s Fair, to help build a national museum in Washington, D.C.,” said Rep. Boyle. “Today, that building, the Arts and Industries Building, sits underused and neglected. As we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we are taking action to restore this historic building and put it to use for the benefit of every American.”

Background:

This act establishes a commission to study potential uses of the Arts and Industries Building on the National Mall.

The commission shall be composed of nine voting members appointed by the Senate majority leader, Senate minority leader, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and House minority leader. They shall each appoint two voting members that have relevant experience and interests. The Smithsonian Board of Regents shall appoint one voting member who may not be a sitting member of the House, Senate, or Supreme Court.

The commission’s report must include successful educational institutions serving visiting families, museums, and cultural institutions not on the National Mall, non-Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., tenants affected by federal office moves, and the cost of converting the Arts and Industries Building into a modern museum.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

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