Kelly Introduces Bills to Smartly Integrate AI into U.S. Military

Bills require DoD to assess impact of AI on warfighter skills and keep humans in command of decisions involving the use of force

Today, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced a two-bill package—the Ultimate Human Responsibility in Defense Systems Act and the Warfighter AI Readiness and Preparedness (WARP) Act—to make sure that as artificial intelligence is integrated in warfare the U.S. military preserves human judgement and accountability and protects the human skills that AI cannot replace.

The Ultimate Human Responsibility in Defense Systems Act establishes statutory requirements to ensure autonomous weapon systems are developed, tested, and employed in a manner that preserves meaningful human judgment and accountability over the use of force. Similar legislation was introduced by Representative Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10) in the House.

The WARP Act, introduced alongside Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to assess how increasing AI integration affects warfighter effectiveness, skill retention, and operational readiness.

The two pieces of legislation build on Kelly’s AI for America, a roadmap he released last year outlining principles to make AI work for all Americans—not just large companies.

“AI is already making our military more capable, but we have to be smart about how we integrate it to keep Americans safe,” saidSen.Kelly. “We can’t lose the essential skills that make our military the best in the world or implement systems that could make life and death decisions without human accountability. These bipartisan solutions will integrate AI into the military smartly so that we strengthen our national security.”

“As AI and autonomous systems redefine warfare, we must ensure that our values and control are not sidelined. This bill ensures that a human operator can always oversee, override, or shut down an autonomous weapon. By pairing strict safety reviews with real-world training for our servicemembers, we are prioritizing both national security and accountability,” said Rep. Subramanyam.

“In future conflicts, our military advantage will depend on leveraging AI as much as possible, and just as importantly, whether we can adapt and execute when AI systems fail. Our bill will ensure our military has the proper training to maintain their mission readiness in the AI age,” saidSen.Cotton.

Background:

As the U.S. military uses AI to move faster and make better decisions, adversaries like China and Russia are working to disrupt and disable those systems. As autonomous weapon systems become more advanced, the absence of clear requirements for human judgment and accountability over the use of force presents serious legal, ethical, and operational risks.

The Ultimate Human Responsibility in Defense Systems Act establishes requirements to ensure that autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities used by the DoD are developed, tested, and employed in a manner that preserves meaningful human judgement and accountability over the use of force. The bill codifies and builds upon key principles contained in the current DoD Directive 3000.09 to:

Establish a DoD-wide requirement for meaningful human judgement for autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities.

Define “ultimate human responsibility” as ensuring human commanders and operators can understand, supervise, intervene in, or terminate the use of force and maintain compliance with U.S. and international law.

Require all DoD autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence capabilities to be designed and operated in ways that preserve human oversight and accountability.

Directs DoD to develop technical, operational, and organizational guidelines governing the military AI use and unlawful applications of AI.

Modeling after reporting practices on aviation safety systems, create a centralized DoD database to track system failures, unintended behaviors, near misses, human-machine interaction failures, and targeting actions inconsistent with commander intent.

As the DoD integrates artificial intelligence into military operations, AI is helping warfighters process information faster, make better-informed decisions, and enhance mission effectiveness. But as these systems become more deeply embedded, the military must also ensure that warfighters maintain the skills, judgment, and proficiency needed to operate effectively in contested environments and when technology does not perform as expected.

The WARP Act helps ensure that AI strengthens military capability while preserving the critical human skills that underpin operational readiness. It directs DoD to:

Assess how AI integration impacts warfighter readiness, skill retention, and operational effectiveness.

Identify military roles where critical skills must be sustained as AI-enabled systems become more widely used.

Determine how to preserve independent judgment and proficiency when AI systems are unavailable or compromised.

Recommend updates to training, doctrine, and readiness policies to ensure warfighters can operate effectively in degraded or contested environments.

Click here to read the full text of the Ultimate Human Responsibility in Defense Systems Act.


King Secures Confirmation that Whistleblowers Protections Remain Intact at the VA

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), is pressing the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) for confirmation that whistleblowers will remain protected from retribution. In a committee hearing, King secured agreement from Michael Tierney, Nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Veterans Affairs for the Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection (OAWP), that whistleblower protections will be left intact at the VA under his leadership.

The commitment comes on the heels of reports that federal employees will soon be forced to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in an attempt to quell free speech and silence critics of the administration.

“Mr. Tierney, I'm worried about sort of counter currents going on here. One is whistleblower protection, which you've talked about, and, investigating claims and protecting whistleblowers. And, you know, at the same time, last year, it was reported that the VA was requiring their employees to sign a non-disclosure agreement that did not include the legally required exclusion language for whistleblowers. Are you aware of that situation,” said Senator King.

“Thank you. Senator, I have read reports about that,” replied Mr. Tierney.

“Well,[…] OPM, just in the last week or so, has talked about […]new, non-disclosure agreements throughout the federal government. Have you reviewed the language that's being proposed?” asked Senator King.

“I have not Senator King, but I will 100% say that NDAs and whistleblower activity have no role together. […]Employees must feel 100% comfortable that they are not going to be restricted in reporting on bad conduct,”said Mr. Tierney.

“I would hope as the legal counsel in this situation that you would inform whoever's setting up these NDAs that that language must be in there, that says this does not include whistleblower complaints and the protections are left intact. Will you commit to me that you'll do that?”asked Senator King.

“Yes, Senator, and it's also on OAWP's website. It's very clear that any whistleblower statute overrides any type of NDA language. And I agree with that. There's no role for NDA’s and whistleblowers,” confirmed Mr. Tierney.

Representing one of the states with the highest rates of military families and veterans per capita, Senator King is a staunch advocate for America’s servicemembers and veterans. Additionally, King has repeatedly advocated for the Department of Veterans Affairs workforce. Earlier this year, he introduced bipartisan legislation that would require the VA to develop a long-term workforce strategy to improve outcomes at the VA. During a SVAC hearing in January, King pressed VA Secretary Doug Collins to release the VA contracts that he canceled, including those canceled in Maine, so that veterans are aware of potential impacts on patient care and benefits. Last year, he sent a letter to Secretary Doug Collins raising concerns about a leaked report that highlighted plans called for by Elon Musk’s DOGE to cut 83,000 VA employees.

Earlier this year, he was honored by The American Legion with its 2026 Distinguished Public Service Award. Last year, Senator King was honored by the Disabled American Veterans as its 2025 Legislator of the Year. He was also recognized by the Wounded Warrior Project as the 2024 Legislator of the Year for his “outstanding legislative effort and achievement to improve the lives of the wounded, ill, and injured veterans.”

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ICYMI: Following Overnight Vote-a-Rama, Lankford Votes for Secure America Act

WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), Senate Republican Conference Vice Chair and member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), voted in favor of the budget reconciliation legislation that fully funds Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol through the end of President Trump’s term.

“For 19 hours, I joined my Senate Republican colleagues to vote down amendment after amendment from Democrats who wanted to defund federal immigration enforcement entirely,” said Lankford. “Democrats withheld pay from federal law enforcement officers for 76 days. Most Americans simply want to see the law enforced. That is not extreme. That is normal. Today, Republicans voted to provide certainty and security by fully funding ICE and Border Patrol for the next three years. As a side note, if my Prevent Government Shutdowns Act had been in place, we would have never been in this position to begin with.”

Background

Throughout the overnight Vote-a-Rama, Lankford kept Oklahomans updated on social media HERE. Following the vote, he joined CNBC’s Squawk Box, Newsmax, and Brian Kilmeade on Fox News Radio to discuss the outcome.

Lankford took to the Senate floor to speak against an amendment that sought to rescind approximately $100 billion in unspent funds from the Homeland and Judiciary titles of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, effectively stripping funding from ICE and Border Patrol. The amendment failed 46-53. You can watch Lankford’s floor remarks HERE.

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Lankford in Fox News: “Congress Should Suffer Shutdown Pain, Not the American People”

WASHINGTON, DC —US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) penned a column today in Fox News on their Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026. You can read it below or find it in Fox News HERE.

Congress Should Suffer Shutdown Pain, Not the American People

By: James Lankford and Maggie Hassan

For the past decade, Americans have watched a wasteful Washington drama unfold each year: government shutdowns that threaten our economy, jeopardize our security and hurt families all across our country.

Each time there is a shutdown, the American people are caught in the middle. Make no mistake, government shutdowns are not a theoretical or a procedural exercise, they have real consequences all across the country. The last shutdown cost our country more than $11 billion.

In recent shutdowns, we’ve seen long lines, up to six hours, just to get through airport security because TSA went unfunded. Air traffic controllers — the people who keep the skies safe for us to fly — went without pay. Veterans and seniors had a harder time accessing the benefits they’ve earned because those services ground to a halt. The Small Business Administration was hamstrung in its ability to support entrepreneurs trying to keep their small businesses afloat.

Families were faced with the prospect of having their SNAP benefits dry up as they tried to feed their children. Government shutdowns in the past have even threatened our ability to pay service members who help keep our country free. Government shutdowns show the world, America’s friends and foes, that the world’s greatest democracy and largest economy can be held hostage by politics.

For some of the loudest voices in our politics, government shutdowns may sometimes look like an appealing way to later score political points in a cable news hit, on social media, or on the campaign trail, but let’s be clear: The American people always pay a very real price.

Americans have had enough of this destructive, chaotic style of politics. Both political parties have caused government shutdowns in the past, so we believe both parties should find a way to make them stop.

We have worked together, a Senate Republican and a Senate Democrat, to propose a simple principle: No matter how much we argue about our national budget, the American people shouldn’t pay the price for Congress failing to do its job on time. That commitment helped us write, the “Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026,” which takes shutdowns off the table and pushes Congress to fulfill its responsibility to negotiate and pass full-year funding bills.

Here’s how it works: If Congress fails to pass any of the 12 appropriation bills on time, an automatic Continuing Resolution (CR) kicks in to keep paying federal workers and programs at the current year’s spending level. However, Members of Congress and our staff would be required by law to remain in Washington, D.C., voting seven days a week, until we solved our budget impasse. The House and the Senate would be restricted to only debating the appropriation bills until they were completed. It is as simple as staying after school to finish your unfinished classwork.

It may sound simple, but it is a radical change from the status quo. Congress would feel the pressure and pain of a shutdown, instead of the American people and federal workers. Air traffic controllers, service members, federal law enforcement, healthcare professionals, researchers, scientists and thousands of others would be able to continue serving the American people and would no longer be pawns in political standoffs. Because holding federal employees’ paychecks and critical federal services hostage doesn’t solve policy disagreements; they just hurts families.

We brought our bill to the Senate last session and earned strong bipartisan support, but we fell just short. We were only three votes away from never having a government shutdown again. Since that time, we have experienced the longest shutdown in American history. A growing group in the Senate and House has expressed its desire to finally end the chaos. We also have the strong support of multiple partisan and nonpartisan organizations, along with the American Federation of Government Employees.

We all understand that changing any of the status quo in Washington is never easy, even if the status quo is failing. But it is painfully obvious that the current system isn’t working, and we need a new path to settle our disagreements.

Americans disagree on many issues; in fact, the two of us disagree on many issues, but we strongly agree that it’s time to take shutdowns off the table for good.

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Lee, Tuberville Introduce Protections for Homeopathic Medicine with FDA Marketing Pathway Framework

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Tommy Tuberville (R- AL) today introduced legislation building an FDA framework for homeopathic medicine to protect Americans’ access to natural health solutions. The Homeopathic Drug Product Safety, Quality, and Transparency Act will provide a pathway for homeopathic medicinal products to be lawfully marketed by the Food and Drug Administration without needlessly banning safe products that simply do not fit into the same legal categories as traditional pharmaceuticals.

“Americans have a right to manage their own health and choose treatments that are right for them, including homeopathic methods,” said Senator Mike Lee. “The current federal regulatory framework is designed around traditional pharmaceuticals, but it is ill-equipped to review the safety and effectiveness of homeopathic products. So we are building a new one. Our legislation answers the concerns of thousands of families across the country who have been calling on Washington to find a better way.”

“I’ve long been an advocate for homeopathic medicine,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville. “The reality is that too many Americans today are hooked on pharmaceuticals when they could be using homeopathic remedies, which are often cheaper and can yield miraculous results. There’s no reason why the FDA shouldn’t be reviewing and approving some of these remedies to help Americans live healthier lives.”

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The Homeopathic Drug Product Safety, Quality, and Transparency Act is endorsed by Americans for Homeopathy Choice Action, MAHA Action, the CPAC Foundation, the National Health Federation, the Health Freedom Defense Fund, and the National Products Association.

“Americans for Homeopathy Choice Action and the 120,000 consumers we represent are grateful to Sens. Tuberville and Lee for introducing this bill which, when enacted, will ensure continued access to homeopathy for millions of Americans who use it to restore and maintain their health. Homeopathic medicines are also an important nontoxic option for health practitioners including medical doctors, nurses, dentists and others who appreciate this choice when treating patients with both everyday and serious conditions.” – Paola Brown, President, Americans for Homeopathy Choice Action

“MAHA Action proudly supports Senator Tuberville’s and Senator Lee’s legislation to protect and preserve Americans’ access to homeopathic medicines. We believe individuals should have the freedom to choose the modalities they use to support and maintain their health. For generations, homeopathy has been an important part of the diverse range of options available to American families. Safe, holistic, and effective homeopathy has been used by billions of people around the world as a non-toxic alternative to big pharma.” – Tony Lyons, President, MAHA Action

"CPAC proudly supports H.R. 7050, the Homeopathic Drug Product Safety, Quality, and Transparency Act. Healthcare freedom is a core conservative value, and for too long Washington bureaucrats have used regulatory overreach to strip Americans of their right to make their own healthcare decisions. This bill cuts through the red tape and puts power back where it belongs — with the patient. We commend Senators Tuberville and Lee for their fearless conservative leadership on this legislation. Their commitment to individual liberty and limited government is exactly what the American people sent them to Washington to fight for." – Matt Schlapp, Chairman, CPAC

"Homeopathy needs to be recognized for what it is: a safe and inexpensive way for Americans to manage many of their own health needs. We support this bill for bringing regulatory clarity to a time-honored approach that millions of American families rely on for self-care." – Scott C. Tips, J.D., President, National Health Federation

"Now more than ever, American families want access to natural approaches that support our health and wellbeing. For over two centuries, homeopathy has done just that by providing safe, effective, and affordable healthcare to millions. Homeopathy addresses a spectrum of concerns from coughs and colds, to sprained ankles, and grief. It successfully handled the disease outbreaks that plagued the 18th century. Many of us at Health Freedom Defense Fund have used homeopathy to raise our families and can personally attest to this most amazing medicine. We are thrilled about and wholeheartedly support this bill to ensure that homeopathy is accessible for generations to come." – Leslie Manookian, President & Founder, Health Freedom Defense Fund

“The Natural Products Association supports the Homeopathic Drug Product Safety, Quality, and Transparency Act because the legislation would provide long-overdue statutory clarity for the regulation of homeopathic drug products in the United States. The homeopathic legislation offers a thoughtful and balanced solution. It protects consumers, respects the distinct nature of homeopathic drug products, provides clear rules for industry, and reinforces the importance of a predictable federal regulatory framework. NPA urges Congress to advance the Homeopathic Drug Product Safety, Quality, and Transparency Act and support a regulatory approach that promotes safety, quality, transparency and continued consumer access.” – Daniel Fabricant PhD, President and CEO, National Products Association

Background

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first recognized homeopathic medicines in the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act in 1938 and regulated the manufacture and sale of homeopathic drugs for the following eighty years. However, in 2019 the FDA withdrew this regulatory framework for homeopathic products. This created legal and regulatory chaos for the industry as the viability of homeopathic medicine was brought into question.

Senator Lee signed a letter to the FDA in 2021 urging the FDA to provide guidance protecting consumer access to homeopathic drug products for Americans.

The Homeopathic Drug Product Safety, Quality, and Transparency Act:

Federally acknowledges that homeopathic drug products are distinct from other pharmaceutical products and, as such, require independent regulatory framework.

Creates a standard definition for homeopathic drug products and clarifies that they are not a new drug.

Exempts homeopathic drugs from the traditional premarket approval process established under Section 505 of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

Outlines a method for the Secretary to regulate homeopathy safety and quality standards separate from traditional drugs.

Exempts finished homeopathic drug products from the required laboratory test to evaluate strength of each active ingredient.

Clarifies that homeopathic drug products must generally comply with traditional labeling requirements, but that homeopathic drugs may use descriptions/dosage units appropriate to homeopathy and that claims made in compliance with this Act shall not be considered a false advertisement.

Establishes a Homeopathic Drug Product Advisory committee, which shall trigger consultation with the Secretary and provide recommendations on safety, quality, labeling, and regulatory approaches for homeopathy drug products.

Requires the FDA to issue final Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) regulations within three years after enactment.

Deems any drug or supplement that is not homeopathic but uses the word homeopathy in its labeling as misbranded.

Applies federal standards for reporting serious adverse effects of nonprescription drugs to homeopathic drug products.

Clarifies that homeopathic drug products shall not be classified as biosimilars.

Withdraws the FDA’s 2022 guidance that significantly restricted the sale of homeopathic drug product.

Read exclusive coverage by The Daily Caller here.

Access the full bill text here.

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Chairman Graham Statement on Senate Passage of the Secure America Act

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, today made this statement following the Senate’s passage of the Secure America Act by a vote of 52-47.

“Senate Republicans delivered yet again by approving $69.5 billion to fund Border Patrol and ICE through President Trump’s entire second term. We were forced to use the reconciliation process because Democrats objected – during the appropriations process – to giving any money to Border Patrol and ICE, effectively shutting our border security down at a time of growing threats to the nation.

“As Budget Committee Chairman, I’m very proud of my Republican colleagues for sticking together and making sure that Border Patrol and ICE are fully funded and the border continues to be modernized and secured – all without one Democrat vote.

“In less than two years, President Trump has taken the border from the most broken to the most secure in history. The bill we passed today locks those gains in through the rest of his term.

“Well done to President Trump and my Republican colleagues.”

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Luján Statement on Republicans Pouring Billions Into Out-of-Control Federal Agencies While Doing Nothing to Lower Costs for Families

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement after Senate Republicans passed a partisan budget bill that pours over $70 billion into ICE and Border Patrol with zero accountability, while ignoring the high costs impacting American families:

“At every turn, New Mexico families are being squeezed by rising costs — from health care and groceries to gas and housing. Instead of focusing on lowering costs for families, my Republican colleagues just handed more than $70 billion to an out-of-control ICE and CBP while doing nothing for Americans struggling to make ends meet.

“Handing billions to ICE and CBP with no reforms, accountability, or oversight is not what New Mexicans and Americans need. President Trump and Stephen Miller’s out-of-control ICE and CBP have killed two American citizens, and now Republicans are rewarding them with billions more while struggling families get left behind.

“Throughout this process, I fought to lower costs, support families, and push for meaningful accountability at ICE and CBP. My Republican colleagues chose to protect President Trump’s criminal slush fund over hardworking Americans. This is a betrayal of New Mexico families.”

Senator Luján backed a series of amendments to the Republican budget bill aimed at lowering costs for New Mexico families and reining in the Trump administration’s corruption. Senate Republicans blocked these common-sense proposals from Senator Luján and Senate Democrats, voting instead to cater to President Trump’s personal interests, including voting to protect President Trump’s $1.8 billion slush fund.

Following major DHS scandals, Senator Luján introduced legislation to hold ICE and CBP accountable, increase transparency, and make communities safer.

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Markey Slams FCC for Weaponizing His Law to Target Transgender and Nonbinary Americans

Letter Text (PDF)

Washington (June 5, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today wrote to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr, condemning the Commission’s attempt to use the V-chip law that Senator Markey wrote to pressure the television ratings system to place a special warning on programming that acknowledges transgender and nonbinary Americans. On April 22, the FCC released a Public Notice that questions if programs rated TV-Y, TV-Y7, and TV-G that contain “gender identity themes” should be rated differently or contain warnings regarding this content.

Senator Markey is the House author of the V-chip legislation that was designed to create a parental-control framework to help families make their own decisions about television programming in their own homes.

In the letter, Senator Markey wrote, “Congress did not authorize the FCC to convert the V-chip’s limited parental-control framework into authority to pressure the industry to display new labels for programming involving gender identity. Indeed, Congress did not even authorize the FCC to require adoption of its own recommended ratings system. The FCC therefore has no basis to pressure broadcasters, programmers, distributors, or ratings bodies to brand LGBTQ+ Americans as harmful.”

Senator Markey continued, “Most importantly, the FCC’s proceeding is discriminatory and cruel. There is nothing indecent about being transgender. There is nothing harmful about a child seeing a nonbinary character, a transgender classmate, or a family that reflects the real people in their school and community. Existing ratings already address sexual content, violence, fantasy violence, crude language, and suggestive dialogue wherever they appear. Singling out gender identity tells LGBTQ+ children that their existence is a problem and tells programmers to make them disappear. This is an unacceptable and outrageous attack on families with LGBTQ+ parents, LGBTQ+ children, and LGBTQ+ loved ones.”

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Senator Markey and Congressman Huffman Statement on Arctic Refuge Lease Sale

Washington (June 5, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass), member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) today issued a statement on the Trump administration’s lease sale for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, which offered nearly 700,000 acres of sacred and sensitive lands within the Refuge for sale to oil and gas companies. The auction raised only $3.74 million, with two entities winning bids—one of which is the state development agency for Alaska. No oil majors placed any bids.

“This fact that this auction even took place is both an insult and an injury, but its result should definitively prove that drilling in the Arctic should be taken off the table forever. Even though this auction was an embarrassment for the Trump administration and anyone arguing that this will raise money for the American public, this is still an injury to the Gwich’in people, who hold the Arctic Refuge sacred, and to the Alaska Native people and wildlife who depend upon the health and integrity of the Refuge for their survival. And it’s an insult to our entire country, by sacrificing and selling off America’s public lands for pennies on the dollar—a pointless use of the incredible Arctic as a piggy bank for polluters. The Arctic Refuge lease sale is a raw deal for the American public, and any development in the Refuge would be a devastating loss for the Gwich’in and the Arctic ecosystem.”

The first sale in 2021 generated less than one percent of projected revenue, while the second in 2025 received zero bids. Republicans have repeatedly tried to use Arctic drilling to help offset tax breaks for the wealthy. Trump’s first billionaire giveaway — the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act — mandated lease sales in the Arctic Refuge that the Congressional Budget Office estimated would generate $1.8 billion. Those projections proved wildly inaccurate. The 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill repeated the same scheme, requiring more lease sales to pay for tax giveaways to the ultra-wealthy, with the same failed result.

On March 3, 2026, Senator Markey and Congressman Huffman (D-Calif.), along with Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), led 60 members in the House and Senate in condemning the Trump administration’s plans to auction off sacred and sensitive lands within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas companies.

In April 2025, Senator Markey and Representative Huffman reintroduced the Arctic Refuge Protection Act, legislation that would restore critical protections to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge by designating the Coastal Plain ecosystem as wilderness under the National Wilderness Preservation System. This legislation would permanently halt any new oil and gas leasing, exploration, development, and drilling on the Coastal Plain, and would safeguard the subsistence rights of the Arctic Indigenous Peoples who depend upon the Arctic Refuge.

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Senator Markey Statement on His Successful Efforts to Keep Shutesbury Post Office Open

Boston (June 5, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement on news that the United States Postal Service (USPS) has reversed course on its decision to close the Shutesbury Post Office.

“Following weeks of advocacy from my office, the federal delegation, the American Postal Workers Union, and, most of all, from the community, it is great news that the USPS has reversed course on its decision to close the Shutesbury Post Office,” said Senator Markey. “Postal service will continue uninterrupted in Shutesbury. A huge win for the community!”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Markey_Press@markey.senate.gov, 202-224-2742

Senator Markey Statement on Republican Passage of Billions More for ICE

Senate budget reconciliation bill that passed in the dead of night added $70 billion more for ICE, CBP, while doing nothing to lower costs for the American people

Boston (June 5, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass) released the following statement after Republicans voted to pass a $70 billion budget for the Department of Homeland Security, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The $70 billion is in addition to the $140 billion for ICE and CBP that Republicans voted for in the One Big Beautiful Bill last summer.

“Republicans voted last night under the cover of darkness to give a $70 billion blank check to Trump’s ICE thugs, placed no checks on the $1.8 billion slush fund for January 6th insurrectionists, and blocked every amendment that would lower costs for the American people,” said Senator Markey. “Americans are struggling to afford gas, groceries, housing, and healthcare, but Republicans—at Trump’s bidding—found taxpayer dollars for lawless and reckless ICE agents. It’s clear where they stand: they’ll give relief to criminals, but none to families. They’ll find billions to tear families apart but can’t find the funds to keep food on families’ kitchen tables. I will keep voting no on these budgets of cruelty and corruption and fight for American families to get the relief they need.”

The $210 billion Republicans have given to DHS, ICE, and CBP could instead:

extend for seven years the Affordable Care Act tax credits that Trump and Republicans canceled

help feed 42 million people through SNAP for two years

cancel almost all medical debt for the 20 million people who owe it

expand the Child Tax Credit and cut child poverty by more than half

build, rehabilitate, and operate approximately one million homes for low-income families

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Senators Markey and Warren, Reps. Lynch and Pressley Urge National Park Service to Fully Investigate Arson at Museum of African American History Boston-Nantucket

Letter Text (PDF)

Boston (June 5, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass), member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, alongside Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass), Congressman Lynch (MA-08) and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), today sent a letter to Acting Director of the National Park Service (NPS) Jessica Bowron, urging the agency to do all it can to investigate a recent incident of arson at the Museum of African American History Boston-Nantucket and to cooperate with all full transparency with the Museum and local law enforcement partners, including by sharing any relevant security footage.

The letter follows reports that an unidentified individual committed an act of arson at the museum, which is a National Historic Site operated in partnership with the National Park Service. This individual opened up a package that contained materials meant for the Museum’s celebration of Juneteenth and set the package on fire.

In the letter, the lawmakers wrote, “The Museum of African American History Boston-Nantucket operates the African Meeting House on Beacon Hill, which is the oldest existing Black church building in the country. Museum staff and visitors are understandably alarmed by this incident—both for the parallel it draws to hate crimes against Black activism and Black churches throughout history, and for the immediate security risk it poses to their organization and the historic neighborhood around the Museum. Your public commitment to investigating this incident and your collaboration with the Museum will be critical to address these fears and secure a resolution.”

Senator Markey is the Senate co-author of Juneteenth National Independence Act signed into law in June 2021, making Juneteenth a federal holiday.

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Sens. Markey, Capito, Reps. McGarvey, Rutherford Reintroduce Legislation to Expand Access to Educational Services for Students with Communications Disabilities

Bill Text (PDF)

Boston (June 5, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) today announced the reintroduction of the Alice Cogswell and Anne Sullivan Macy Act. The legislation would strengthen the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and expand access for blind, deaf, deafdisabled, and deafblind children to the educational support and services they need to succeed and thrive. The legislation is also being reintroduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03) and Congressman John Rutherford (FL-05).

“Every student deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in the classroom,” said Senator Markey. “The Alice Cogswell and Anne Sullivan Macy Act upholds our promise to deliver the necessary resources and services to students who are hard of hearing, deaf, low vision, blind, deafdisabled, or deafblind, and enhance evaluation measures to guarantee that individuals can thrive in institutions of higher education. We must build a more inclusive education system that reaffirms the value that each student brings to the classroom and country.”

“Accessing the appropriate services can help each student reach their fullest potential,” said Senator Capito. “The Cogswell-Macy Act will help accomplish this goal by helping ensure deaf and blind students and their parents are aware of the services and specialized instruction available. I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this legislation that will help thousands of students across the country.”

“No disability should get in the way of a student’s education, but right now too many students aren’t getting the specialized support they need to get the same education as their peers,” said Congressman McGarvey. “The Cogswell-Macy Act closes that gap for students who are deaf, blind, or deafblind so they don’t miss out on critical information in the classroom and makes sure every child is set up for success.”

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Deaf Caucus, I have advocated for Deaf and hard of hearing Americans throughout my career in Congress, especially with the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind in St. Augustine,” said Congressman Rutherford. “My experience with Deaf and hard of hearing students across my district has taught me how valuable equitable access to education can be for individuals with disabilities. I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing the bipartisan, bicameral Alice Cogswell and Anne Sullivan Macy Act, which would improve education and services for children and youth who are blind, visually impaired, Deaf, hard of hearing, or deafblind. Every student deserves to learn in an environment that suits their needs.”

Specifically, the Cogswell-Macy Act would:

Ensure that every blind or visually impaired, deaf, hard of hearing, deafdisabled, or deafblind student is properly identified and served, regardless of the disability they are categorized under;

Strengthen existing IDEA requirements regarding state-generated strategic plans to guarantee that students receive specialized instruction from qualified personnel and bolster accountability measures to ensure compliance;

Assist parents and educators with up-to-date policy resources from the Department of Education; and,

Establish a national collaborative organizational resource to proliferate evidence-based practices.

The legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Sean Casten (IL-06), Angie Craig (MN-02), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Henry “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Summer Lee (PA-12), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), John Mannion (NY-22), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Joe Morelle (NY-25), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Scott Peters (CA-50), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Josh Riley (NY-19), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Mark Takano (CA-39), Paul Tonko (NY-20), and George Whitesides (CA-27).

The Cogswell-Macy Act is endorsed by: Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals, Addis Ababa University’s Department of Special Needs and Inclusive Education, American Council of the Blind, American Council of the Blind of New York, American Council of the Blind of Ohio, American Council of the Blind of Western New York, Inc., Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired, Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired South Carolina, Carroll Center for the Blind, CATT Program at AIDB, Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth, Center of Vision Enhancement, Conference of Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the Deaf (CEASD), Council of Citizens with Low Vision International, Cultivating Inclusion, DeafBlind Community of Texas, DeafBlind Community United, DGCKids, Golden Triangle Council of the Blind, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Haramaya University College of Education Behavioral Science’s Department of Special Needs & Inclusive Education, Hawaii Association of the Blind, Hunter College CUNY’s Programs in Blindness/Visual Impairment, Illinois Council of the Blind, Kansas Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Inc., Lavelle School for the Blind, Lighthouse Louisiana, Lighthouse of Central Florida, Louisiana Association for the Blind, National Intervener & Advocate Association, Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind & Hard of Hearing, National Association of the Deaf, National Council on Independent Living, National DeafBlind Coalition, National Family Association for DeafBlind, New Mexico School for the Blind & Visually Impaired, New York Institute for Special Education, Pennsylvania Council of the Blind, Pennsylvania Partnership for the DeafBlind, St. Francis de Sales School for the Deaf, St. Joseph's School for the Blind, Statewide Independent Living Center of Hawaii, Success Beyond Sight, Tampa Lighthouse for the Blind, Tempe Elementary School District 3, Texas School for the Deaf, The Alliance of and for Visually Impaired Texans (AVIT), The Gibney Family Foundation, Vermont Association to the Blind and Visually Impaired, VIA Visually Impaired Advancement, VisAbility, Vision Interventions and Parental Supports (VIPS), Wayfinder Family Services, Westchester Council of the Blind of New York, and Xavier Society for the Blind.

“The ultimate purpose of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act was and is to promote equitable access to education everywhere for children and youth with disabilities, and this bill will address some much needed updates and gaps especially when it comes to addressing the unique challenges in achieving age-appropriate language milestones among deaf, hard of hearing, deafdisabled and deafblind children, including ensuring their fundamental right to placement in educational environments that support their linguistic, academic and social development,” said John Serrano, Superintendent of the Maryland School for the Deaf and President of CEASD.

“As the oldest educational administrator organization in the United States, the Conference of Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the Deaf (CEASD) is committed to ensuring equity in education, language and culture for all deaf, hard of hearing, deafdisabled, and deafblind students, and this re-introduced version of the Alice Cogswell and Anne Sullivan Macy Act will be vital in achieving that,” said Dr. Jennifer Herbold, Superintendent of the New Mexico School for the Deaf and President Elect of CEASD.

“Children with blindness, low vision, and deafblindness are among the smallest populations of young people nationally who need special education and related services, and so resources meeting their unique learning needs are scarce, and states often lack the support they need to deploy available resources most effectively,” said Mark Richert, a principal architect of the Cogswell-Macy Act, head of International Programs at the Overbrook School for the Blind in Philadelphia, and Legislative Committee Chair for the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER). “Once enacted, the Macy bill will ensure that states are appropriately supported nationally to successfully meet the individual needs of each student with sensory disabilities who deserve an education worthy of each child’s tremendous potential.”

“Helen Keller, the most well-known individual with deafblindness, was able to learn, communicate, and progress because of the services of Anne Sullivan, who gave her access to information about people and things in her environment,” said Linda Alsop, Co-Director of the National Intervener & Advocate Association. “Today, students who are deafblind have the same needs as Helen Keller. They require access to the information needed for learning and communication in educational environments, which is not naturally available to them because of their combined vision and hearing loss. This access can be provided by individuals called Interveners, who have training and specialized skills in deafblindness, and who are a critical part of a Free and Appropriate Public Education for students who are deafblind. The Cogswell Macy Act recognizes the critically important role of trained interveners as part of ensuring access to students who are deafblind as required by IDEA. This legislation will facilitate national awareness of the importance of intervener services, support systems change at state and local levels, and result in significant and life-changing benefits for children and youth who are deafblind and their families.”

“Families strongly support the Cogswell-Macy Act and its vision of ensuring that children who are deaf or hard of hearing, blind or visually impaired, or DeafBlind receive the educational opportunities and specialized services necessary to thrive,” said Jacqueline Izaguirre, Family Advocate with the National DeafBlind Coalition and National Family Association for DeafBlind. “For too long, our children with sensory disabilities have encountered barriers to qualified personnel, effective communication, specialized instruction, and educational settings that foster full participation and achievement. For students who are deafblind, access to trained interveners, teachers of the deafblind, teachers of students with visual impairments, orientation and mobility specialists, and other qualified professionals can mean the difference between isolation and active engagement in school and community life. We thank you for the reintroduction of the Cogswell-Macy Act; it provides the opportunity for our children to reach their full potential and lead a life of independence, communication, connection, and contribution.”

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Senator Marshall Statement on Senate Passage of Reconciliation 2.0

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kansas) issued the following statement after the Senate passed the Secure America Act to fully fund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) through the remainder of President Trump’s term:

“Your family is safer today because of President Trump. Just a few short years ago, our border was in chaos, with illegal aliens and deadly drugs flooding into our country unchecked. President Trump stopped the bleeding on day one,” said Senator Marshall. “Early this morning, the Senate made sure that work continues. Democrats spent months holding this funding hostage, demanding we handcuff our agents. The safety of American families is not a bargaining chip, and I look forward to seeing this bill pass the House and be swiftly signed into law.”

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Merkley: Republicans Vote to Ignore Working Americans and Cater to Trump’s Demands

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, released the below statement after Senate Republicans voted to pass their funding bill that will give Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) nearly $70 billion. This bill provides zero relief to working families who are facing sky-high costs.

“It is insanity to send $70 billion of Americans’ hard-earned money to two rogue agencies that are already sitting on a $100 billion treasure chest of unspent funds. Adding insult to injury, Republicans refused to accept commonsense reforms that would put an end to these agencies’ dangerous secret police tactics.

“In addition, Republicans turned their backs on American families, rejecting every Democratic proposal to redirect funds to address the rising cost of health care, housing, and child care.

“Democrats scored a big win, stripping the bill of a billion dollars that Trump wanted to use to build his gold-plated ballroom boondoggle. And Democrats’ ferocious opposition to Trump’s $1.8 billion ‘Cash for Cronies’ slush fund caused the acting Attorney General to disavow the plan. But even on that, Republicans rejected Democratic amendments that would have put a stake through the heart of this corrupt undertaking.

“Democrats are fighting to put an end to these families lose, billionaires win policies. Democrats have a better vision for the future: families thrive and the billionaire-class pay their fair share,” said Ranking Member Jeff Merkley.

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VIDEO RELEASE: Senator Moody Urges Moms to Jumpstart the American Dream for Florida Children

View Full Remarks Here

ST. CLOUD, Fla.—Surrounded by Florida moms and students at a local school today, U.S. Senator Ashley Moody encouraged families to take advantage of Trump Accounts, a new childhood investment opportunity designed to help children begin building long-term financial security. Senator Moody supported the law that created Trump Accounts through her vote for the Working Families Tax Cuts. The program allows parents to open tax-advantaged investment accounts for eligible children.

Senator Ashley Moody said, “These accounts will give the next generation a jumpstart on the American Dream. I fought for this benefit for Florida families and it was exciting to bring this message to a room full of moms and their children today, as we work together to invest in the future of Florida.”

What Florida families should know about Trump Accounts:

Trump Accounts are tax-advantaged investment accounts created for eligible children under 18. The accounts are in the child’s name, with a parent, guardian or other authorized individual helping manage the account until the child turns 18.

Eligible U.S. citizen children born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028, with valid Social Security numbers, may qualify for the one-time $1,000 pilot program contribution.

Parents, guardians and authorized individuals can sign in or create an IRS account with ID.me and submit IRS Form 4547, Trump Account Election(s).

Families can start at IRS.gov/TrumpAccounts, TrumpAccounts.gov, or through the official Trump Accounts app available in major app stores.

Beginning July 4, 2026, Trump Accounts may accept contributions from parents, family members, employers and other eligible contributors, subject to annual limits.

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Senate Passes Legislation to Extend Rural Hospital Program

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate recently passed the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Reauthorization Act, introduced by U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.). The bipartisan, bicameral legislation would extend the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration (RCHD) program for another five years, allowing hospitals to continue testing innovative hospital payment models under Medicare that boost financial sustainability and improve rural access to care.

“Local hospitals are critical to the health and success of rural communities in Kansas and across the country,” said Sen. Moran. “I have long supported the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration program because it provides a lifeline for rural hospitals and health care providers, bolstering the stability and certainty needed for them to continue delivering quality care to the communities across our state. I’m pleased by the passage of the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Reauthorization Act in the Senate, and I urge the House of Representatives to pass this important legislation.”

Currently, there are two Kansas hospitals participating in the RCHD program: Stormont Vail Health Flint Hills Campus in Junction City and McPherson Hospital.

The legislation is also cosponsored by Sens. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Angus King (I-Maine), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), James Lankford (R-Okla.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.).

Kansas Hospital Association (Chad Austin, President and CEO):

“Access to care in rural Kansas depends on maintaining stable and sustainable financing pathways for community hospitals. The Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program has helped participating hospitals continue delivering essential services close to home while supporting the health and economic vitality of their communities. Kansas hospitals appreciate the U.S. Senate’s passage of legislation to renew this long-standing program for an additional five years and are thankful for Senator Moran’s leadership and continued commitment to strengthening rural health care by ensuring participating hospitals can continue serving Kansans for years to come.”

American Hospital Association (Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, Senior Vice President for Advocacy and Political Affairs):

“The American Hospital Association applauds the Senate passing the Rural Community Hospital (RCH) Demonstration Reauthorization Act, which allows hospitals to continue providing essential care in their communities by supporting the financial stability of participating rural hospitals. Hospitals with 50 beds or less are some of the most vulnerable to closure, and the RCH demo offers an important model to maintain access in rural communities around the country. This bipartisan legislation gives more certainty for America’s rural hospitals.”

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House Passes Legislation Protecting Alaska Native Artists’ Cultural Heritage and Economic Opportunities

WASHINGTON—The Alaska delegation today celebrated the House passage of the Alaska’s Right to Ivory Sales and Tradition (ARTIST) Act, his legislation to protect the legal rights of Alaska Native artists who use walrus ivory in traditional handicrafts, art, ceremonial regalia, and clothing. The bill previously passed the Senate unanimously and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

“I want to thank my colleagues, especially Alaska Congressman Nick Begich, for working to get my ARTIST Act across the finish line in the House,” said Sen. Sullivan. “We are one step closer to ensuring the lawfully harvested and crafted walrus ivory works of Alaska Native artisans will no longer be targeted by well-intentioned but overly broad state laws aimed at stopping the illegal African elephant ivory trade. We’ve been working on this for over eight years, and I want to commend the Alaska Native leaders who first brought this issue to my attention and who’ve relentlessly supported our efforts to correct this historic injustice. I look forward to President Trump signing the ARTIST Act into law and protecting the right of the Alaska Native people to continue these centuries-old traditional practices, a critically important economic driver for Alaska’s rural communities.”

“Ensuring Alaska Native artists’ ability to create and sell their traditional handicrafts is about more than income. It’s about supporting families who have used their work to preserve heritage and culture through generations. For many artists, materials such as ivory have long-been vital to their craftsmanship and are already protected under existing federal law. Recent restrictions on the use of sustainably and legally sourced items could make it harder to continue practicing these skills and passing on the culture of their elders. Safeguarding wildlife and honoring Indigenous art can coexist,” said Senator Murkowski. “I’m pleased to support Senator Sullivan’s legislation to ensure a one-size-fits-all rule does not prevent the world from experiencing the beauty of Alaska Native art.”

“For generations, Alaska Native artisans have created world-renowned works of art from legally and sustainably harvested walrus ivory,” said Congressman Begich. “The ARTIST Act ensures that overly broad state ivory bans cannot unintentionally criminalize these lawful handicrafts. This legislation protects the rights of Alaska Native artists to continue sharing their craftsmanship, traditions, and heritage with the rest of the country, while also supporting rural economies across Alaska. I’m proud to have led the House effort on this issue and grateful to Senator Sullivan for his partnership in getting this legislation across the finish line.”

Below are statements from key leaders and stakeholders in support of the ARTIST Act.

QUOTES

“Today’s vote by the U.S. House of Representatives to advance the ARTIST Act to the president’s desk is an important milestone for our North Slope Iñupiat cultural self-determination,” said Voice of the Arctic Iñupiat President & CEO Nagruk Harcharek. “For thousands of years, our people have transformed walrus ivory into important tools, arts, and crafts. The ARTIST Act will ensure that our cultural traditions – which form the bedrock of our Iñupiaq identity – will be protected and can be perpetuated for generations to come. Quyanaqpak to the Alaska congressional delegation for your perseverance and standing by our side in this endeavor.”

"For thousands of years, Alaska Natives have sustainably harvested Pacific Walrus to survive in the Arctic,” said Melanie Bahnke, president of Kawerak, Inc. “As our ancestors have, we continue to rely on this resource for food, tools, and to create artwork celebrating our culture. We are grateful that the Congress passed this bill to ensure that our artwork and tools are not deemed illegal in various parts of the United States. On behalf of Kawerak and the people we serve, thank you, Senator Sullivan, for recognizing that banning our culture is wrong and for championing this bill through Congress.”

“The Eskimo Walrus Commission (EWC) strongly supports this bill and thanks Senator Sullivan and his staff for working with us on it,” said Vera Metcalf, Director of the Eskimo Walrus Commission. “We also greatly appreciate the support from Kawerak, the Indigenous People’s Council on Marine Mammals (IPComm), the Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC), WWF Arctic Program, and especially our Alaska Native communities. The Pacific walrus remains a significant component of our Indigenous food security and remains a major feature of Alaska Native cultural heritage. Our use of ivory gives full expression to our traditional relationship with the Pacific walrus and our way-of-life. EWC thanks Congress for passing this bill to ensure the cultural and economic well-being of Alaska Native communities thrive.”

“The ARTIST Act reaffirms the rights of Alaska Native artists to create and sell authentic artworks and traditional handicrafts in the U.S. that are made from sustainably sourced marine mammal products, including walrus ivory,” said Steve MacLean, Managing Director of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) U.S. Arctic Program. “This longstanding cultural tradition is a vital source of economic opportunity and income for many Alaska Native communities, and walrus remain a critical component of Indigenous food security and cultural expression. Senator Sullivan, working with the Eskimo Walrus Commission, has shown dedication and leadership in crafting this bill, which helps to restore opportunities for Alaska Native artists to share their artwork and provide for their families.”

“The passage of this legislation into law marks a significant milestone in recognizing and protecting the cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, and livelihoods of Alaska Native artisans,” said Ben Mallott, President of the Alaska Federation of Natives. “AFN celebrates this achievement, and we thank Senator Sullivan for his leadership and advocacy throughout this effort, as well as all those who helped advance this important legislation to the President’s desk.”

BACKGROUND

For years, several states have enacted overly broad ivory bans intended to combat illegal African elephant ivory trafficking. Unfortunately, those laws have also swept in lawful, sustainable Alaska Native handicrafts made from walrus ivory—undermining centuries-old cultural practices and limiting important economic opportunities for Alaska Native artists and rural communities. The ARTIST Act clarifies that states may not ban the import, sale, or possession of authentic Alaska Native handicrafts, and ensures these lawful and culturally vital traditions can continue to be practiced, shared, and sold across the country.

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Murphy Statement on Senate Republicans Giving $71 Billion to a Lawless Department of Homeland Security

WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on Friday released a statement following passage of a reconciliation bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security:

“What happened in the U.S. Senate tonight should send a chill down the spine of anyone who cares about the rule of law in this country. Democrats had a very simple ask: work with us to put basic guardrails on an agency that has spiraled out of control. Instead, Senate Republicans took a sledgehammer to the appropriations process and wrote a $71 billion blank check to ICE and CBP to continue their lawlessness – throwing communities into chaos, allowing immigrants to die in DHS custody, and ripping children from their parents. Senate Republicans own the terror they’ve unleashed.”


Padilla Leads Effort to Defeat Republican Attempts to Pass Anti-Voter SAVE Act in the Dead of Night

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Rules and Administration Committee, led his Senate colleagues in defeating Republicans’ efforts to include the SAVE Act voter suppression bill in their anti-immigrant reconciliation bill. Padilla took to the Senate floor twice to condemn the Republican amendments to limit eligible Americans’ voting rights, successfully blocking Senators Lindsey Graham’s (R-S.C.) and Mike Lee’s (R-Utah) brazen attempts to jam through President Trump’s partisan election takeover ahead of the midterm elections.

In his opposition to Graham’s amendment, Padilla highlighted Trump’s unlawful efforts to disenfranchise voters by taking over elections from the states and banning vote-by-mail. The legislation would immediately impose sweeping new national voting restrictions, including banning vote-by-mail, severely limiting absentee voting, implementing extremely strict ID and citizenship documentation requirements – and also included anti-trans language. Graham’s amendment failed in a bipartisan 48-50 vote, with 60 votes needed to pass it.

“I rise in opposition to this Graham amendment and remind us colleagues that just over a month ago a similar proposal was defeated on a bipartisan basis,” said Senator Alex Padilla. “It is already unlawful for noncitizens to vote in the United States. What this amendment does is mirrors earlier attempts to push through the President’s priorities to try to take over elections, to ban vote by mail, and while they’re at it, attacking trans folks during Pride Month. That’s pretty damn offensive.”

Video of Padilla’s remarks in opposition to Graham’s amendment is available here.

Later in the night, Padilla took to the Senate floor again to stop Lee’s similar amendment that would mandate burdensome, in-person citizenship documentation requirements that could disenfranchise millions and impose voter ID requirements stricter than any existing state law. Padilla reminded his colleagues that Trump’s anti-voter tactics have been defeated before and would be defeated again. Lee’s amendment failed in a bipartisan 49-50 vote with 60 votes needed to pass it.

“It’s déjà vu all over again. Not only did this Senate, on a bipartisan basis, reject a similar measure legislatively just a few weeks ago, but just a few hours ago, this Senate rejected a similar amendment on a bipartisan basis,” said Senator Padilla. “This and other measures that would eliminate vote-by-mail and make voter registration drives unlawful is not enabling civic participation, it’s making it harder. It is wrongheaded. We defeated it before, we should defeat it again.”

Video of Padilla’s remarks in opposition to Lee’s amendment is available here.

As Ranking Member of the Senate Rules Committee, which has oversight over federal elections, Padilla has led the charge opposing Trump’s unlawful anti-voter SAVE Act. During the failed March 2026 “talking filibuster” attempt, Padilla took to the Senate floor four times as a leader in the Democratic opposition to the SAVE Act.

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Padilla Rails Against Republican Reconciliation Bill, Pushes Amendment for DHS Enforcement Reforms

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee and a member of the Senate Budget Committee, condemned Republicans’ partisan bill to provide Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) with an extra $70 billion without necessary reforms. Padilla also forced a vote on his amendment to the budget reconciliation bill that would require ICE agents to wear body cameras while on-duty.

“Donald Trump proudly admitted he doesn’t ‘think about Americans’ financial situation,’ and this budget reconciliation bill proves Republicans in Congress don’t either. Because of Trump’s war in Iran and harmful economic policies, inflation is rising, gas prices in California have hit $6 a gallon, and families are struggling to afford basic necessities. But instead of working to lower costs or prevent corruption – like Trump’s anti-weaponization slush fund – Republicans are finding partisan workarounds to the appropriations process to hand another $70 billion to an out-of-control ICE and CBP with no reforms, no guardrails, and no accountability for the abuses and violence they’ve been emboldened to carry out under Trump’s mass deportation scheme. This is on top of the more than $100 billion these agencies already have remaining from last year,” said Senator Padilla. “This bill is a slap in the face to struggling Americans everywhere. It includes no relief for working families facing higher costs, just more money for unchecked enforcement and political favors for Trump. Make no mistake – while Republicans fight to protect Donald Trump, Democrats are fighting for working people and the basic accountability they deserve.”

The Republican partisan reconciliation bill allocates an additional $70 billion to ICE and CBP to carry out President Trump’s inhumane mass deportation agenda. Padilla forced a vote on an amendment specifying that at least $300 million of the ICE funding in the reconciliation bill must be used to ensure that all ICE officers and agents wear activated body-worn cameras while engaging in immigration activities, and that such footage be properly stored and made available to Congress. The amendment failed on a party line vote, 46-53, with all Republicans rejecting the most basic transparency and accountability measures.

Padilla emphasized the need for the amendment as a commonsense response to the chaos spurred by ICE and CBP agents in communities nationwide – highlighting the deaths of Renee Good, Alex Pretti, and Ruben Ray Martinez, American citizens whose peaceful protests were met with violence from ICE and CBP personnel.

“Too often, we’ve heard one story from federal agents, only to learn the truth later on from camera footage – as was the case in the shootings of Renee Good, Alex Pretti, and Ruben Ray Martinez,” said Senator Padilla. “Body cameras are already required by state and local law enforcement agencies across the country. They keep agents accountable, while protecting the subjects of law enforcement actions, members of the public, and officers themselves.”

Padilla has been a vocal critic of Republicans’ attempts to provide additional funding to ICE and CBP without any guardrails, Trump’s out-of-control mass detention and deportation agenda, Trump’s vanity projects, his attempted use of taxpayer funds to reward his allies and January 6th insurrectionists, and Republicans’ misguided spending priorities. Padilla slammed Republicans’ partisan reconciliation bill and called for his colleagues to reject it. Last month, Padilla denounced the same bill, highlighting the Trump-created affordability crisis across the country. Padilla reiterated his concerns that the Republican-proposed budget reconciliation bill would pour even more funding into ICE and CBP without necessary reforms. In April, Padilla forced a vote on his amendment that would have rejected giving more funding to agencies that are sitting on funding from the previous reconciliation bill. Republicans defeated the amendment 46-52.

Video of Padilla’s remarks is available here.

Transcript of Padilla’s remarks is available below:

Thank you Mr. President.

My amendment will specify that at least $300 million of the ICE funding in the Judiciary title must be used to ensure that all officers and agents wear body-worn cameras while engaging in immigration enforcement activities.

Body cameras are already required by state and local law enforcement across the country. It has been for years in many jurisdictions, and what we’ve learned from that experience is that it is not just an important tool for transparency; it helps keep agents accountable.

It protects both the subjects of enforcement actions as well as law enforcement officers themselves.

DHS has said that somehow they want to implement body cameras but don’t have the resources to do it—that’s despite sitting on more than $100 billion of money that they haven’t spent already.

So, therefore, this amendment would give them the specific funding that they claim they need.And I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

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VIDEO: At Senate Appropriations Hearing, Peters Presses DHS Secretary Mullin for Updates on Key Michigan Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a hearing in the Senate Appropriations Committee, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) pressed Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin for updates on two key Michigan projects – the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge and the Northern Border Mission Center at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

While President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of the new bridge, when Peters asked whether Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is prepared to facilitate trade and travel once the bridge is open, Secretary Mullin confirmed that CBP has the staff in place.

“The Gordie Howe International Bridge has been in the works for decades now. This bridge that has been built was paid for by our Canadian neighbors, but they used American steel and union labor, and it’s actually going to be a critical component for not just Michigan, but for the country,” the Senator said. “So, my question to Secretary Mullin — is DHS, and specifically CBP, prepared right now to facilitate trade and travel at the bridge?”

“We’re prepared. We’re staffed. We’re ready to go,” confirmed Secretary Mullin in response.

Peters has long supported the Gordie Howe International Bridge project, securing $15 million for inspection and screening systems for it, as well as $1 million in government funding legislation to help DHS prepare for the completion of the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Earlier this year, Peters and eight of his Michigan Congressional colleagues sent a letter to President Trump reiterating the importance of opening the Gordie Howe International Bridge as scheduled this year.

Peters also questioned Mullin about the current progress of the Northern Border Mission Center, which is being established at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

“You committed to taking action on implementing a law that Senator Collins and I passed that would create a Northern Border Mission Center,” the Senator said. “You responded that within one month of your swearing in, you would work to get that center set up — it's been two months since you've been sworn in. Have you taken actions, as required by law, to advance the center?”

Mullin confirmed that the personnel are in place, and it is actively mission capable.

Peters established the Center and has secured a total of $9 million for its operations, which will support DHS’ ongoing border security work to address the evolving threats and challenges the Department faces, including the bi-directional flow of illicit drugs, like fentanyl, and other contraband, as well as human smuggling and trafficking.

To watch the full video of Senator Peters’ questioning, click here.

Peters also pressed Mullin about reports that FEMA disaster declaration requests made by Democratic-run states have repeatedly been delayed and denied by President Trump more frequently than requests from Republican-led states.

“There are reports that President Trump has approved nearly 90% of requests from red states, but only 23% from blue states, even when the request met the FEMA established threshold for federal assistance,” said Peters. “I don’t think there’s any other President since the establishment of FEMA that has chosen to actually punish American citizens that have survived a flood or a wildfire because of their home state’s governor or senators’ political affiliation.”

Michigan has faced continual delays in approvals for disaster declaration requests and unprecedented denials. After ice storms left thousands without power in Northern Michigan last year, Peters, alongside other members of Michigan’s congressional delegation and Governor Gretchen Whitmer, worked tirelessly to get a disaster declaration approved and overturn the President’s denial of Category F assistance for public utilities so that critical federal resources could be issued to help Michiganders rebuild and recover.

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Ricketts Highlights Efforts to Pass Year-round E15, Combat Communist China

This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss his efforts to counter Communist China and make sure the U.S. leads in the AI race. Ricketts highlighted his Secure and Feasible Exports (SAFE) of Chips Act and Multilateral Alignment of Technology Controls on Hardware (MATCH) Act, which would limit sales of advanced AI chips and semiconductor manufacturing equipment to Communist China. Ricketts also discussed his work to secure year-round E15.

“We’ve got to win the AI race with Communist China,” said Ricketts. “If we do things that hamper that innovation, we’re going to lose, and that will end up in a world where Communist China dominates the AI race, and that’s going to have a bad impact on so many factors that impact everyday life. So, what we want to do is make sure that we win, and that means encouraging American innovation.”

“Last time I filled up with E10, I saved 55 cents a gallon, said Ricketts. “With E15, you would save even more. It cleans up the environment, so it’s great for the environment, and it would help our farmers and ranchers by creating more demand. We’ve got a bill to make this permanent.”


Ricketts Issues Statement After Bill to Fund Border Patrol and ICE Passes Senate

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement after the Senate passed legislation to fund U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) :

“This effort has always been about protecting Americans and strengthening our national security. The initial bill only included funding for Border Patrol and ICE. Several amendments that would not strengthen our national security were presented. I voted against those.

I voted for final passage of the initial legislation, which will fund our Border Patrol and ICE. These law enforcement officers work hard to keep our nation safe and they deserve our support.


VIDEO: Ricketts on Combatting Communist China in the AI Race

This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his work to counter Communist China and ensure American dominance in artificial intelligence in a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing. Ricketts highlighted his Multilateral Alignment of Technology Controls on Hardware (MATCH) Act, a bipartisan bill that would strengthen U.S. export controls to ensure adversaries cannot buy “chokepoint” semiconductor manufacturing equipment (SME) technology from the United States or our partners that they cannot build themselves.

“A world where Communist China is dominant in AI is very bad for the United States and for the entire world,” said Ricketts. “That’s why it’s critical that us and our allies cannot lose this race.

Semiconductor supply chains, particularly semiconductor manufacturing equipment — SMEs — are critical to winning this competition.”

Watch the video here.


VIDEO: Securing America’s Next 250 Years

On Wednesday, during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his efforts to help secure the next 250 years of American safety and prosperity. This includes attending the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singaporewhere he had conversations about deterring Communist China.

“Our values have inspired generations of Americans and secured our role as the global technology, economic, and military leader. We have a lot to celebrate. We also need to consider what it will take to secure the next 250 years,” said Ricketts. “One of the most important tasks will be deterring Communist China. China is without a doubt the greatest existential threat to America and Nebraska. Communist China seeks to infiltrate our country and undermine our people, values, and way of life. We cannot let this happen if we want our nation and the world to thrive for centuries to come.”

Ricketts also highlighted the importance of funding Border Patrol and ICE to protect Nebraskans and our national security. This morning, the Senate passed the Secure America Act, legislation to fund Border Patrol and ICE. Ricketts’ statement on the vote can be found here.

Watch the video here.

TRANSCRIPT:

Senator Ricketts: “Last week, I had the privilege to attend a ceremony to honor those who gave their last full measure of devotion to our great nation.

“I’m grateful to American Legion Post One in Omaha for hosting the Memorial Day ceremony to honor our fallen at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

“Memorial Day this year was special, as we also celebrate America’s 250th birthday.

“Throughout our country’s history, Nebraskans have laid down their lives to defend our freedoms.

“We honor all of our heroic Nebraskans who lost their lives in service to our country.

“We also express our gratitude to their loved ones for their sacrifice.

“We are the home of the free because of the brave.

“As we celebrate America’s birthday, we reflect on what has led to 250 years of success.

“From our founding, we’ve affirmed that our people have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

“We’ve created a country where any American, regardless of who they are, can achieve the American dream through hard work and determination.

“Our values have inspired generations of Americans and secured our role as the global technology, economic, and military leader.

“We have a lot to celebrate.

“We also need to consider what it will take to secure the next 250 years.

“One of the most important tasks will be deterring Communist China.

“China is without a doubt the greatest existential threat to America and Nebraska.

“Communist China seeks to infiltrate our country and undermine our people, values, and way of life.

“We cannot let this happen if we want our nation and the world to thrive for centuries to come.

“That’s why I’ve made it a priority to attend the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore the last couple of years.

“This conference brings together leaders from North America, the Indo-Pacific, Europe, and beyond to discuss important security issues.

“I attended again this year and had important conversations about deterring Communist China and bolstering our national security.

“Let me share a few takeaways.

“First, we need to strengthen our military cooperation with allies and partners in the region.

“This includes shoring up our own defense industrial base, ensuring our warfighters, as well as those of our allies and partners, have the capabilities they need to counter and deter Communist China.

“It’s absolutely critical.

“We also need to recommit our support for allies and partners who have fallen victim to Communist China’s malign aggression and economic coercion.

“Peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific are good for America.

“We need to secure this.

“I also had a few conversations about improving trade relations.

“We know that China is not a good trade partner.

“Identifying new opportunities in the Indo-Pacific will reduce our reliance on Communist China and expand market access for our farmers and ranchers.

“I’ve also introduced the MARKET Act, which I’ve shared before, to identify new markets for our ag community.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to advocate for Nebraskans, both in the Senate and on the world stage, and I remain committed to doing my part to ensure future generations can celebrate the America we all know and love.

“This brings me to the work that needs to be done on the Senate floor today.

“To protect Americans and our national security, we must fund Border Patrol and ICE.

“Senate Republicans have a narrow bill to do this.

“Our bill only funds Border Patrol and ICE.

“Senate Democrats refuse to vote for it, putting every American at risk.

“Their refusal is a clear threat to our national security.

“The Democrats stood by while President Biden and his open-border policies allowed every state to become a border state, putting communities across America, including in Nebraska, at risk.

“They released at least 99 illegal aliens on the terrorist watchlist into American communities, including three with potential ISIS ties.

“They have prioritized the care of illegal immigrants over Americans.

“Let me give you two examples.

“When Laken Riley, a 22-year-old college student, was murdered by an illegal immigrant, Republicans introduced legislation to make sure no other families have to live through that same tragedy as Laken’s family had to live through.

“The legislation was common sense, too — if an illegal immigrant breaks the law, they will be held accountable.

“A majority of Democrats refused to support this common-sense solution.

“When our brave troops successfully captured Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, Democrats were more concerned about the operation than national security.

“Maduro is a narco-terrorist responsible for the deaths of countless Americans.

“He was a puppet of our adversaries, including Communist China, Russia, and Iran.

“Simply put, he was a threat to our national security.

“Capturing him was a win for Americans and our national security.

“However, Democrats didn’t see it this way.

“The reality, though, is that President Trump campaigned on securing our border.

“He won an overwhelming majority of votes from Americans.

“The American people voted for stronger national security.

“Republicans have worked with this administration to secure our border and deliver that for the American people.

“To maintain this strong national security, we need to fund ICE and Border Patrol.

“I’m ready to vote with my Senate Republican colleagues today.

“Democrats cannot delay this vote any longer.

“We must get this done for the American people.

“Everything else is a distraction.”


In Case You Missed It… Sen. Rick Scott Demands FISA Reforms to Protect Americans from Illegal Government Surveillance

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Rick Scott released a statement this morning after he voted against an extension of FISA that did not include reforms and fell short of protecting Americans' Fourth Amendment rights.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: any extension of FISA needs significant reforms to protect Americans. I’ve been surveilled by the government multiple times, along with so many other Americans. We can’t give the swamp unchecked power to spy on law-abiding Americans. Warrants MUST be required to protect our constitutional liberties and uphold the Fourth Amendment. I voted against an extension because I want real REFORM and ACCOUNTABILITY, not the status quo.”

The vote followed an 18-hour debate on a $70 billion immigration enforcement funding package after Democrats denied ICE and Border Patrol funding for more than 100 days.

Earlier this week, Senator Scott was joined by U.S. Reps. Andy Harris and Kieth Self in an op-ed published in Fox News titled, “Fix FISA. Don’t Spy on Us.”

Read the op-ed HERE or below.

Fox News

Sen. Rick Scott, Andy Harris, Rep. Keith Self: Fix FISA. Don’t Spy on Us

June 4, 2026

America’s founding generation did not take up arms merely over unreasonable taxation. They understood ceding their rights to the government for promise of security was a bad deal. They believed risking death to live free was better than subsisting under tyranny.

They fought back against unchecked tyranny across an ocean. The crown planted spies in their taverns, rifled through their papers without cause and intercepted their private correspondence.

Today, unchecked deep-state bureaucrats are treating themselves as kings, putting their interests ahead of American liberty.

The "Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act" (FISA) has decomposed into a modern incarnation of the general warrants and writs of assistance that ignited our American Revolution. Created as a tool to track foreign threats, FISA has evolved into a domestic surveillance machine: sweeping up Americans’ communications, hiding behind secret courts and treating the Fourth Amendment like a roadblock instead of the supreme law of the land.

The rattlesnake on the Gadsden flag is issuing a new warning: Don’t Spy on Me.

On June 12, our colleagues in Congress will face another deadline to renew a key FISA authority, Section 702. The intelligence community wants a "clean" reauthorization without changes to its unconstitutional infrastructure. However, the American people expect us to reassert American liberty. That is why some members of the House Freedom Caucus and the Senate Steering Committee have made it clear that meaningful reforms are the only pathway to a long-term extension here.

This position is not opposed to national security. It is a refusal to sacrifice American liberty on the altar of unchecked power.

We can start by addressing the expansion of the term "electronic communication service provider." Two years ago, the government broadened its surveillance fishing tool to include everyday Americans. Intelligence officials wanted access to one specific company. Instead, they rammed through sweeping language that now lets the National Security Agency (NSA) compel any U.S. business or organization with a computer, router or server to hand over communications. That includes your local hardware store, community center, and, yes, your neighborhood church.

This is not an incidental collection. It is an expansion of the government’s reach, increasing the volume of Americans’ communications available for capture and the potential for abuse. Former Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner – a Democrat – acknowledged the domestic surveillance infrastructure on the Senate floor and promised a fix, but Congress has yet to deliver. This must be corrected.

Next, we should unshroud the secrecy that enables current problems with FISA. Federal prosecutors routinely impose indefinite nondisclosure orders on telecom companies to prevent the public from seeing how extensive their domestic espionage operation is. The "NDO Fairness Act" would add judicial review and time limits on these gag orders. Americans deserve to know when their data is being sought, especially outside national security cases.

The American people also expect us to crack down on federal agencies evading constitutional protections by buying Americans’ data from commercial brokers. This includes geolocation data, communications metadata and browsing history. If government officials need to know, they can ask a judge to issue a warrant. Just because it’s become normalized, doesn’t make it normal. We can and must close this loophole.

The intelligence community wants a "clean" reauthorization without changes to its unconstitutional infrastructure. However, the American people expect us to reassert American liberty.

Still, the most alarming problem is the millions of "backdoor" queries of Americans’ communications conducted without warrants. At the peak in 2021 under the Biden administration, there were nearly 3 million warrantless searches of Americans in 702 data, 278,000 of which were conducted improperly. Yet, not a single person was held accountable.

While our government should monitor bad actors overseas seeking to harm our homeland, searches of U.S. persons’ data on American soil should require the constitutional requirements of probable cause and a warrant from a court, with narrow exceptions for imminent threats.

When the Constitution was written, no one could see the digital future the country would grow to lead. However, the principles don’t change. If you needed a warrant to intercept a letter carried by a courier or to enter a home in the 18th century, what makes an email or a smartphone fair game? Technology changes, but the Constitution remains.

As June 12 approaches, Congress must reject another rubber-stamp renewal. The rattlesnake is rattling – its warning clear. The American people expect us to fix this.

Republican Rick Scott represents Florida in the United States Senate. He is a former two-term Florida governor.

Republican Keith Self represents Texas's 3rd congressional district in the United States House of Representatives.

Republican Andy Harris represents Maryland’s 1st congressional district in the United States House of Representatives and is Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus.

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Sen. Rick Scott Introduces DUMP Red Tape Act to Support Florida Small Businesses

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rick Scott introduced the Destroying Unnecessary, Misaligned, and Prohibitive (DUMP) Red Tape Act to alleviate burdensome regulations for small businesses. This legislation was first introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Tony Wied (WI-08).

This bill requires the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Office of Advocacy to continue running the Red Tape Hotline, a website where small businesses can report complaints and issues with regulations, policy statements, or other activities to the SBA Office of Accountability.

The Tampa Free Press first broke the news HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “America’s economy depends on small businesses and the hard work of the individuals and families who run them, but businesses can’t thrive when they are bogged down by red tape. I’m glad the Trump administration saw the need for the Office of Advocacy and now this legislation will institute the Red Tape Hotline as a lasting resource to small business owners in future administrations as well.”

Representative Wied said, “As a former small business owner, I know firsthand how burdensome regulations can make it harder for businesses to operate and turn a profit. The DUMP Red Tape Act provides small business owners with a direct line to make their voices heard, report unnecessary regulations, and ensure those complaints are documented and reviewed so Congress can take action. This commonsense bill has already passed the House, and I am very proud to work alongside Senator Scott to get this bill through the Senate and on to President Trump’s desk.”

The Red Tape Hotline was first established by the SBA in March 2025 as a part of the Trump administration’s efforts to support small businesses. The DUMP Red Tape Act codifies the establishment of the hotline into law, requiring the SBA Office of Accountability to send an annual report to both the SBA and Congress summarizing the complaints they receive.

Read the full bill text here.

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Rosen Votes Against Republican Budget to Give ICE More Funding Without Commonsense Guardrails, Republicans Block Her Effort to Lower Fuel Costs for Law Enforcement and First Responders

Watch Senator Rosen’s full remarks HERE.

WASHINGTON, DC – Overnight, the U.S. Senate voted on Republicans’ partisan budget bill that is set to give ICE billions of dollars in additional funding without any guardrails or accountability mechanisms. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) voted against this partisan budget bill that does nothing to help bring down costs for Nevada families. Additionally, Republicans blocked her effort to use the funding to reimburse fuel expenses for local law enforcement departments, fire departments, and first responder agencies resulting from Donald Trump’s sky-high gas prices. Senator Rosen’s effort would have sent the Republican budget back to committee to redirect the funding to be used for fuel relief for first responders.

Below is a transcript of Senator Rosen’s remarks while pushing to redirect the funding:

Mr. President,

I rise today to make a motion to send this bill back to committee so that it can be amended to include funding to reimburse law enforcement departments and first responders for increased expenses as a result of Donald Trump’s sky-high gas prices.

This will help address the rising cost of gas under Donald Trump and the impact it’s having on cash-strapped police departments and fire stations across this country.

Let’s provide relief to police departments, fire departments, and first responder agencies who are being hurt by Trump’s reckless policies. I urge all my colleagues to support this motion.

Thank you.

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NEWS: Senate Republicans Block Sen. Schiff’s Push to Halt Trump’s Corrupt Payouts, Prevent Future Abuse of DOJ Settlement

Washington, D.C. – Early this morning, a majority of Senate Republicans voted to block U.S. Senator Adam Schiff’s (D-Calif.) attempt to shutter President Donald Trump’s so-called Anti-Weaponization Fund and prevent corrupt self-dealing by the president.

The adoption of Schiff’s amendment would have prevented taxpayer dollars from being paid to the president or his allies including those convicted of crimes or those related to the insurrection on January 6, 2021, and ensured that no president or vice president can replicate President Trump and Acting Attorney General Blanche’s unprecedented and corrupt slush fund.

Senator Schiff forced the final amendment vote on the reconciliation bill, but it ultimately fell short of passage. Five Republicans voted in support of the amendment including Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). The amendment failed at a vote of 51-48.

Schiff first introduced this amendment as the Drain the Slush Fund Act, alongside Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) earlier this week.

“Mr. President, members, this amendment is very brief. Its operative language is a single sentence, it provides no judgment, award, compromise, settlement, interest, or costs shall be authorized for payments that arise out of a lawsuit or claim filed by the president or vice president, that’s it. Doesn’t single out any president in particular, not past, not present, not future. It applies to all. Does anyone here believe this slush fund is a good idea? If there’s anyone here who believes it’s a good idea, say so. Speak out, say so. Does anyone think this is a good idea? Anyone? If not, let’s do something about it. Support this amendment, and let’s put this to rest for good. I urge an aye vote,” said Senator Schiff on the Senate Floor while offering his amendment.

The Senator’s amendment can be found here.

The Senator’s speech offering the amendment can be found here.


Schmitt-Authored Fund to Arrest, Deport Criminal Illegal Aliens Passes U.S. Senate

$350 Million Fund Provides ICE the Resources Needed to Arrest Illegal Aliens Released from Local Custody in Sanctuary Cities

U.S. SENATE — Today, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) released the following statement after the Senate passed his provision to give U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) an additional $350 million for dedicated resources to arrest criminal illegal aliens who are released from local custody after sanctuary cities refuse to honor ICE detainers, provide release notice, or coordinate safe jail-to-ICE transfers. Schmitt’s provision passed as part of the Senate reconciliation bill to fund ICE and Customs Border Patrol (CBP).

“Sanctuary cities created one of the most indefensible public-safety failures in America. These are criminal illegal aliens already sitting in jail. ICE has already identified them. Federal officers are ready to take custody. And sanctuary politicians let them walk out the door and back into American neighborhoods. That madness ends now. Senate Republicans just passed my provision to give ICE the resources to meet these criminals at the jailhouse door and take them into federal custody the moment sanctuary jurisdictions release them. In 2025 alone, sanctuary cities and states released nearly 18,000 aliens from custody instead of transferring them to ICE. That is a betrayal of every American family forced to live with the consequences. This is about commonsense immigration enforcement in our country. It targets illegal aliens, already in custody, identified by ICE, released because the Left would rather protect sanctuary politics than American citizens. If sanctuary cities will not protect their people, ICE will have the resources to do the job. This is a major victory for public safety, border security, and the rule of law,” said Senator Schmitt.

The Schmitt-authored Fundprovides dedicated ICE resources for detainer management, release monitoring, custodial transfer, transportation, arrests, and detention connected to criminal aliens released from local custody.

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