VIDEO: Combatting Fraud, Waste, and Abuse

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed his work in the Senate to combat fraud, waste, and abuse. Ricketts also highlighted how the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act will lower the cost of housing and make the Good Life more affordable.

“Too many people are stealing and abusing tax dollars. These people lie and cheat to line their own pockets. In some cases, they send stolen money overseas,” said Ricketts. “This illegal behavior drives up the cost of living. It also burdens programs meant to help Americans who need it. Too many politicians made stealing from the government easy. I’m fighting to put an end to this fraud, waste, and abuse.”

Watch the video here.

TRANSCRIPT: “First, let me share an update on the housing bill.

“As of Friday, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is officially law.

“This is the most comprehensive housing bill to pass Congress in 36 years.

“It’s a real achievement to cut through the red tape and regulation that drives up housing costs.

“For example, HUD and USDA have grant programs that they don’t work together on.

“This bill will require them to work together in a streamlined manner to get their processes to get out the money faster.

“The housing law will also get rid of the requirement for manufactured homes to have a trailer or chassis.

“This regulatory requirement was from 50 years ago.

“Removing this requirement knocks off about $10,000 from the cost of manufactured homes.

“It will also get rid of the requirement to do environmental reviews on infill sites where these reviews have already happened.

“We don’t need to duplicate things that have already been done.

“These are just a few examples of how this law will streamline the process of building a home to be able to help bring down the cost of homes.

“With that, let’s move on to what we are working on this week, which is addressing fraud, waste, and abuse.

“Nebraskans are honest, trusting people.

“We expect others to behave the same way.

“However, that’s not always the case.

“Too many people are stealing and abusing tax dollars.

“These people lie and cheat to line their own pockets.

“In some cases, they send stolen money overseas.

“This illegal behavior drives up the cost of living.

“It also burdens programs meant to help Americans who need it.

“Too many politicians made stealing from the government easy.

“I’m fighting to put an end to this fraud, waste, and abuse.

“The Trump Administration has unearthed widespread misuse of government resources.

“In Minnesota and California, we’ve learned of extensive fraud and abuse.

“A federal prosecutor said that at least half of the Medicaid funding for 14 Minnesota-run programs was stolen.

“That’s at least $9 billion in taxpayer money.

“In one case in California, over $50 million in Medicare benefits were stolen.

“This is just one example of the pervasive fraud and abuse in California.

“Los Angeles County alone accounts for about 34% of hospice care fraud in the U.S.

“A CBS News study found that 93% of Los Angeles County hospice care providers have at least one indication of fraud.

“Funds meant to support those in hospice are being used for personal gain.

“Even in Nebraska, our state auditor has found abuse.

“People live in homes worth half a million dollars and receive paychecks for over $100,000.

“Then, they draw benefits from the Women, Infants, and Children or WIC Program.

“WIC wasn’t designed for those folks.

“WIC is a safety net designed to help women, infants, and children in need.

“We must stop people from abusing this program and taking away resources from the people who it was meant for.

“To build on these efforts, I co-founded the new Senate Anti-Fraud Task Force.

“We are identifying vulnerabilities in existing programs.

“We’re strengthening government accountability.

“And we’re ensuring proper stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

“The Government Accountability Office looked at fraud between 2018 and 2022.

“They established between — they estimated rather, that between $233 billion and $521 billion a year in taxpayer money was being stolen.

“We are working to stop this bleeding of taxpayer dollars.

“I also have a bipartisan bill to increase transparency on improper federal payments.

“Improper payments are when the government overpays, underpays, or pays the wrong person.

“The Improper Payments Transparency Act would require the President to provide data on improper payments in the annual budget request.

“Transparency brings accountability.

“My bill is included in the Protecting American Taxpayers Act.

“This is a legislative package to combat fraud, and we expect to vote on it soon.

“The Working Families Tax Cuts also fights against fraud.

“We placed work and eligibility requirements on Medicaid and SNAP.

“We did this to prevent abuse of American taxpayer dollars, like what we are seeing in Nebraska.

“Medicaid and SNAP should benefit moms and children, the elderly, and the disabled.

“That’s who these programs were created for.

“These reforms ensure that dead people do not remain enrolled on Medicaid.

“They also make sure that people cannot be enrolled in multiple states.

“As we often do, Nebraska led the nation to pursue work requirements for Medicaid expansion members.

“To receive Medicaid, able-bodied Americans without young kids will need to be productive in their community.

“Americans will have to contribute to their community by working, volunteering, or studying for 20 hours a week.

“These work requirements are less restrictive than what is currently required for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or TANF, program.

“That’s not too much to ask.

“These requirements will help preserve the programs for who they are designed for

“These will also increase participation in the workforce and save taxpayers about $250 billion.

“That’s a win-win-win.

“We also tightened requirements on illegal immigrants.

“Our system was never intended to subsidize non-Americans.

“There were over 1.2 million illegal immigrants receiving Medicaid benefits.

“These reforms make sure only Americans can get government assistance.

“Fraudsters have stolen from Nebraskans and the American people for too long.

“I am working to combat fraud, waste, and abuse.

“We need to protect Americans, our tax dollars, and our values.

“This is how we preserve our great nation for another 250 years.”


VIDEO: Ricketts Commemorates Lindsey Graham

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today on the Senate Floor, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) commemorated the life and legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC).

“Lindsey Graham was part of the glue for the Senate — not just for Republicans, but for Republicans and Democrats… When Lindsey would see an issue, he would hop on a plane and go fix it, whether it was overseas or in my home state of Nebraska,” said Ricketts. “Susanne and I are praying for Darline, and the rest of her family, and Lindsey’s staff at this tragic time. And indeed, for our entire country as we’ve experienced the loss of this larger-than-life patriot, Lindsey Olin Graham.”

Watch the video here.

TRANSCRIPT

Senator Ricketts: “Mr. President, I rise today to talk about our colleague Lindsey Graham, who tragically passed away last weekend.

“Lindsey Graham was the definition of the word patriot.

“He loved this country and dedicated his life to serving this country.

“He was from humble backgrounds.

“His parents ran a bar, and again, tragically, he lost his parents at a young age.

“His mom died when Lindsey was 20, and his dad died when he was 22.

“And so, as a young man, he took over the care of his sister Darline, who was only 13 years old.

“He was the first in his family to go to college and then got a law degree.

“He joined the Air Force, and to help take care of his sister, he adopted her so she could get his Air Force benefits.

“He served our country in the Air Force, the National Guard, and the Air Force Reserve.

“Total of 33 years, retiring with the rank of colonel and a Bronze Star.

“He began his career in politics in 1992 in the South Carolina Legislature and got elected to the U.S. Congress — the House of Representatives — in 1994.

“He was the first Republican to be elected from his district since 1877.

“He served in the House for eight years and then came to the Senate in 2002, taking over for Strom Thurmond.

“And he has been a dynamic personality in this body.

“And I’ve had the privilege to get to know him and call him my friend.

“Lindsey Graham was part of the glue for the Senate — not just for Republicans, but for Republicans and Democrats

“He worked across the aisle.

“Just a few days ago, my colleague from Delaware was talking about how he worked with Lindsey Graham on a number of different items.

“One was a conservation fund that also fights terrorism.

“He remarked that Lindsey, in his way, was able to boil down why this was so important.

“And had hats created that said, ‘Good for animals, bad for terrorists.’

“And that was very typical of Lindsey because he could boil things down very simply to be able to make a point, almost like a country lawyer.

“He’d say, ‘How many people think that for example if Iran had a nuclear weapon, they’d use it on us? Raise your hand.’

“They’d raise their hands.

“And he’d say, ‘How many people think it would be bad if they got a nuclear weapon?’

“Of course, all those people would raise their hands.

“‘How many people think we should stop them from getting a nuclear weapon?’

“They’d raise their hands.

“That’s the simple way that Lindsey would make his point.

“He was super smart and had an incredible sense of humor.

“It was not often fun if you were on the other side of that sense of humor sometimes.

“At one of our Budget Committee hearings, Lindsey Graham was presiding, and we had one of our members who was going through all sorts of points and charts and so forth.

“When the presentation came to an end, Lindsey Graham said something to the effect, ‘Well, next time we’re going to record that, and we’re taking it down to Gitmo because it’ll be more effective down there.’

“So, you wanted to make sure that you were talking to the right audience and making your points quickly with Lindsey.

“He was also very charming and was very direct.

“When he would go talk to foreign leaders, he would be able to get across those simple ideas the way he did with audiences back at home.

“And be able to express directly through humor, through charming them.

“To help them understand where their interests were aligned with our interests.

“How we needed to work together to keep the people of their country safe and the people of our country safe.

“Lindsey was very clear-eyed about the dangers of dictators like Vladimir Putin.

“He understood that when Putin is losing, we’re winning.

“We’re safer.

“He was appalled by the invasion of Russia into Ukraine.

“That unprovoked aggressive attack.

“He was a fierce advocate for supporting Ukraine, not only because of the injustice of what Russia is doing to Ukraine, but because Lindsey understood what the threat to the United States and the people of American would be if Putin were successful.

“If they’re successful in Ukraine, they’re going to go after a NATO member.

“And then we will have boots on the ground in Europe.

“Lindsey was trying to keep us safe by advocating for the Ukrainians.

“When Lindsey would see an issue, he would hop on a plane and go fix it, whether it was overseas or in my home state of Nebraska.

“He came to Nebraska several times.

“I love the man.

“I had the privilege of spending time with him here over the last three and a half years.

“He liked Coke Zero and Riesling Wines.

“He was charming, funny, intelligent, and dedicated to this country.

“Our body and this country are losing a lot with Lindsey Graham.

“We’re losing some of the humor we have.

“We’re losing some of the glue that holds us together.

“We’re losing a fierce patriot, and our country is the worse off for it.

“Susanne and I are praying for Darline, and the rest of her family, and Lindsey’s staff at this tragic time.

“And indeed, for our entire country as we’ve experienced the loss of this larger-than-life patriot, Lindsey Olin Graham.

“Lindsey, I know you’re looking down on us from upstairs, and you’re going to do your best to guide us from up there.

“We really, really miss you.”


Sen. Rick Scott Reacts to President Trump’s Release of CCP Election Interference Evidence

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Rick Scott issued the following statement following President Trump’s speech Thursday night:

“Tonight’s revelations in President Trump’s speech were truly shocking. Communist China is our enemy and will stop at nothing to undermine our republic and destroy our way of life. The deep state will stop at nothing to stay in power and control the American people.

“It should be clear to every American citizen — Republican, Democrat, and Independent — that it has never been more crucial to secure our elections against fraud and foreign interference.

“We need the SAVE America Act now. The Senate should be in Washington working around the clock to get this done. Use or lose the filibuster. Cancel recess. Whatever it takes. However long it takes.”

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Sen. Rick Scott, Rep. John Moolenaar Ask SEC Chairman Paul Atkins to Block Sanctioned CCP Companies’ Access to U.S. Markets

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Today, U.S. Senator Rick Scott and U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar, Chairman of the House Select Committee on China, sent a letter to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Paul Atkins requesting the agency restrict sanctioned Chinese companies' access to U.S. capital markets to protect America's economy

On June 8, 2026, the Department of War issued a revised list of Chinese military companies operating directly or indirectly in the United States, as required by statute. The updated list expanded significantly from the prior year, adding 65 additional entities and representing the most comprehensive U.S. government assessment to date of companies that may support or contribute to the capabilities of the People’s Liberation Army. However, certain companies identified on the Section 1260H list continue to access U.S. capital markets, allowing them to raise capital from American investors.

The lawmakers wrote said, “China has long sought to take advantage of American markets seeking to enrich themselves and threaten our national security. These Chinese companies, including those on the Chinese military company blacklist, have no business trading on U.S. exchanges. We respectfully urge the Commission to consider what actions within its existing authority might appropriately address the ability of these sanctioned companies to access U.S. capital markets and raise funds that may support Communist China’s political, economic, or military objectives.”

To address this problem, the lawmakers call on the SEC to establish clearer investor warnings, including a ticker symbol, for sanctioned companies from countries of concern, and leverage existing authority to impose temporary trading suspensions on securities issued by those companies.

This letter is a continuation of Senator Scott’s efforts to untangle Communist China from the U.S. economy. As Chairman of the Senate Aging Committee, he has held multiple hearings to shed light on the national security risk Chinese involvement has in financial markets.

In April 2025, the Committee held a joint hearing with the U.S. House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, “Financial Aggression: How the Chinese Communist Party Exploits American Retirees and Undermines National Security,” to expose the significant threats posed by Communist China to American investments, with a focus on the urgent need for seniors to safeguard their retirement savings from the CCP’s predatory practices.

On Wednesday of this week, Chairman Scott hosted a hearing titled, “Behind the Label: Foreign Ownership and Control in America's Drug Supply Chain” to expose the disturbing degree to which Communist China controls the drugs in America’s medicine cabinets.

SCOOP: GOP lawmakers push for SEC to flag, suspend trading of Chinese military-linked stocks

Read the full letter HERE or below:

Dear Chairman Atkins:

On June 8, 2026, the Department of War (DOW) released a revision to the statutorily required Section 1260H list of Chinese military companies operating directly or indirectly in the United States.1 DOW’s expansion of the 1260H list – adding 65 entities beyond last year’s list – represents the most robust assessment of the threat posed by these companies to the U.S. These companies have no business trading on U.S. exchanges, and we respectfully urge the Commission to consider what actions within its existing authority might appropriately address the ability of these companies to access U.S. capital markets and raise funds that may support the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) modernization efforts.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has broad oversight jurisdiction over American national exchanges by law and regulation. Section 23(a)2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) authorizes the SEC to make such rules and regulations as necessary or appropriate to implement the Act. Section 6(b)(5)3 of the Exchange Act further provides that the rules of a national securities exchange must be designed to prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices, to promote just and equitable principles of trade, and to protect investors and the public interest. Additionally, Section 12(k) authorizes the Commission to summarily suspend trading in any security for a period not to exceed 10 business days where it determines such action is in the public interest, and necessary for the protection of investors.4 Under the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act (as amended), the SEC can also suspend trading of securities of foreign companies that fail to meet the same regulatory and transparency standards required of U.S. companies.

Accordingly, we encourage you to utilize your pre-existing authorities to initiate the following actions within 60 days of the postmarked date of this letter:

1). Initiate a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to establish a ticker-level disclosure requirement for sanctioned issuers.

We would require U.S. national securities exchanges to append a standardized suffix or flag to the ticker symbol of any listed company within 30 days of that company's designation on any U.S. government sanctions list, including but not limited to the Section 1260H list of Chinese military companies. This designation should also be disclosed prominently in any Exchange Act periodic report (such as a Form 20-F or Form 6-K) filed with the Commission by the relevant issuer. Such a ticker-level flag would function analogously to existing exchange-assigned suffix codes that alert investors to material status changes, such as filing delinquencies or bankruptcy proceedings, and would provide investors with clear, visible notice of national security related designations.

The Chinese military companies to which this proposed rulemaking would apply include Alibaba Group (BABA, listed on the NYSE), Nio, Inc. (“NIO”, listed on the NYSE), Baidu, Inc. (BIDU, listed on NASDAQ), and Hesai Group (HSAI, listed on NASDAQ). BYD Company and Tencent Holdings currently trade in U.S. markets through Over-the-Counter (OTC) American Depositary Receipts rather than direct exchange listings, and the Commission may wish to consider whether analogous disclosure requirements would be appropriate for OTC traded securities as well.

2). Utilize existing Section 12(k) authority to temporarily suspend trading upon sanctions designation.

Second, we request that the Commission temporarily suspend the trading of securities of any company headquartered in, or beneficially owned by an entity or government of, a foreign country of concern upon such company’s addition to a sanctions list maintained by the U.S. government. 6 A temporary ten business day suspension would provide the Commission with a reasonable opportunity to assess whether additional or more permanent action is warranted, while signaling to the market that designation carries consequences. Section 12(k) expressly vests the Commission with discretion to act in the public interest and in the protection of investors, and this measured application of that authority would seem well within that mandate.

We respectfully request a written response by the close of business on July 23, 2026, indicating the Commission's assessment of and intentions with respect to these requests. Thank you for your consideration and for your service to the Commission.

Sincerely,

# # #


Rosen, Cortez Masto Demand Investigation of USPS’s Failure to Deliver Mail Ballots from Lyon and Douglas Counties

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) sent a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner and United States Postal Service (USPS) Inspector General Tammy Hull demanding they thoroughly investigate a recent incident in which more than 30 mail-in ballots from Douglas and Lyon counties were not counted after being inexplicably marked as undeliverable.

“On July 6, 2026, weeks after the conclusion of Nevada’s June Primary election, the Nevada Secretary of State’s Office received an envelope from USPS’s Mail Recovery Center containing 32 completed individual ballots intended for the Lyon County Clerk/Treasurers’ Office. Similarly, on July 15, 2026, our Secretary of State’s Office received two mail ballots intended to be delivered to the Douglas County Clerk-Treasurer’s Office. Each ballot was inexplicably marked by USPS as undeliverable and, therefore, unable to be counted—despite being correctly addressed to their respective county clerk’s office and postmarked in a timely manner,” the Senators began.

“Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy. Nevada’s universal mail ballots system makes voting more accessible and is popular across party lines in both rural and urban counties. Since 2022, over 80 percent of voters have used mail-in ballots in Nevada in a safe and secure way. Errors of this magnitude are incredibly rare, making USPS’s failure to deliver lawful and correctly addressed ballots even more disturbing,” they continued.

“To ensure mail ballots in the upcoming midterm elections and in all future elections reach their destination, as is required by federal law, USPS must expedite their review of these incidents and publicize the results of their investigation. Accordingly, we request USPS brief our offices by August 17, 2026, about the investigation and the solutions the agency will implement to prevent future errors in Nevada and across the country. We also request USPS OIG to report to our offices as to whether an independent OIG investigation is appropriate no later than August 1, 2026,” they concluded.

The full text of the letter can be found HERE.

Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto have consistently worked to ensure that all Nevadans can vote in the manner that works best for them, including voting by mail. Both Senators successfully fought to prevent USPS from relocating outgoing first class letter mail processing operations from Reno, Nevada to Sacramento, California, which would have jeopardized the on-time delivery of mail ballots. They are committed to continuing to protect Reno’s local mail processing operations. Both Senators have urged USPS not to implement President Trump’s illegal executive order that would restrict voting by mail and have joined legislation to protect mail voting against executive overreach.

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Rosen Pushes Trump Ambassador Nominee to Denounce Past Holocaust Statements

Watch the full exchange HERE.

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) pushed Trump’s nominee for Ambassador to Slovakia, Doug Mastriano, to denounce his previous antisemitic statements. Mastriano has compared abortion and his gubernatorial campaign loss to the Holocaust, and has kept close ties to a known Holocaust conspiracy theorist. Mastriano has also called the separation of church and state a myth, and has parroted conspiracy theories about 9/11.

Below is an excerpt from the exchange:

Senator Rosen: Mr. Mastriano, in October 2022, your wife said at one of your campaign events that the two of you ‘probably love Israel more than a lot of Jews do.’ Yes or no, do you agree with that statement?

Mr. Mastriano: Both Rebbie and I have a deep love and appreciation for the Jewish people and the nation of Israel.

Senator Rosen: I appreciate that. So can you confirm that you’ve repeatedly compared things to the Holocaust, such as abortion or your loss to Governor Shapiro? Just a yes or no, have you compared those things to the Holocaust?

Mr. Mastriano: I have been working closely with the Jewish community for Senate Bill 127 in Pennsylvania to institute Holocaust education across the state, and I think any use of comparisons is unwise.

Senator Rosen: So you’re saying you didn’t make those statements?

Mr. Mastriano: No, I think it diminishes, and today I would not do that.

Senator Rosen: So you made the statements but you are renouncing the statements.

Mr. Mastriano: There was a social media post that I would not post today, I think anything that uses the Holocaust to make a modern comparison is unwise.

Senator Rosen: Well I appreciate that because you will be representing the United States in Slovakia where nearly 69,000 Slovak Jews were murdered during the Holocaust, over 75% of the entire Slovak Jewish population, and so we have to be sure that you will represent this country. We know that you’ve maintained a relationship with Andrew Torba, founder of extremist social platform Gab. Gab became notorious after the gunman who murdered 11 worshipers at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life synagogue posted his manifesto there. And so despite his documented history of antisemitism, the rhetoric, the Holocaust denialism, your campaign paid Gab for promotional services. I want to finish with this for now, you can denounce your past associations with antisemites, you can point to your support of Israel, but for me I’m not sure that neither excuses you or erases the record.

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Following Schatz-Led Efforts To Boost Medicare Funding For Hawai‘i, HHS Increases State Medicare Reimbursements For Hospitals By Nearly $17 Million Every Year

WASHINGTON – Following legislation and efforts led by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that it will begin the process to increase the amount that hospitals in Hawai‘i can be reimbursed by Medicare to perform outpatient care, such as emergency department visits and imaging services, for enrolled seniors. Once the proposed change is finalized, Hawai‘i is set to receive an estimated $17 million in additional Medicare funding every year.

“This is a big win for Hawai‘i. With millions more in Medicare funding for Hawai‘i hospitals every year, seniors across the state will continue to have access to the health care services they need,” said Senator Schatz.

Historically, rural states have faced significant cost disparities for Medicare reimbursement that drive up costs for both hospitals and patients. Schatz has led legislation that recognizes the unique cost-of-living challenges that hospitals in Hawai‘i face and would increase reimbursements for hospitals in Hawai‘i to ensure that they can continue to serve seniors.

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NEWS: Schiff Joins Blumenthal & Darline Graham to Introduce Legislation with 60+ Cosponsors to Hold Purchasers of Russian Oil Accountable

Before his death, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) secured an agreement with the White House on new text to bring sweeping sanctions against the enablers of Russia’s war in Ukraine

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) joined Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Darline Graham (R-S.C.) who led more than 60 members of the Senate in introducing the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026, legislation to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine.

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the effort last week and secured an agreement with the White House on Friday, before his death. Blumenthal and Lindsey Graham first introduced legislation to bring primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine in April 2025, and have spent the last year building support for the effort in Congress and the Administration.

“Standing with the Ukrainian people has been a bipartisan goal of our Congress for more than four years. This bill reaffirms that commitment by enacting the sanctions needed to curtail Russia’s primary source of income and cripple its war effort — the single most important thing the U.S. government can do to end Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine,” said Schiff.

“Ukraine is at a critical crossroads — and we must meet this pivotal moment with a powerful sanctions bill. As Ukraine turns the tide on the battlefield, our Russia sanctions bill would be historically impactful in stopping Russia’s murderous slaughter,” Blumenthal said. “When Senator Graham and I last spoke, he was absolutely exultant, calling from Kyiv with news that President Trump would support this bill to impose scorching tariffs and sanctions on purchasers of Russian oil and stop them from fueling Putin’s war machine. Now is the time to push Russia toward peace. Ukraine is gaining net territory and reaching deep into Russia with its drones and missiles. Sanctions provide a path toward peace. Our bill is the product of lengthy, detailed, difficult bipartisan work, and now has broad bipartisan support. Passing this legislation right now would be a fitting tribute to Senator Graham’s fierce support for Ukraine’s freedom.”

“Until the very day he passed, Lindsey remained focused on passing the Russia sanctions bill. Passing this legislation would honor my brother’s steadfast commitment to our national security and it would provide President Trump with additional leverage to bring this war to an end. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this legislation and send it to President Trump’s desk,” said Senator Darline Graham.

“Lindsey was a firm believer that the United States is a force for good around the world, and he worked tirelessly on this important effort,” said Thune. “I’m proud to support this legislation that not only honors our friend and colleague, but will also promote peace by cutting off the funding fueling Russia’s war machine. I can’t think of a better way to honor his legacy.”

The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.); Katie Britt (R-Ala.); Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Roger Wicker (R-Mo.); Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.); Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Chris Coons (D-Del.); Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa); Michael Bennet (D-Colo.); Tom Cotton (R-Ark.); Jack Reed (D-R.I.); Tim Scott (R-S.C.); Angus King (I-Maine); John Barrasso (R-Wyo.); Tim Kaine (D-Va.); Susan Collins (R-Maine); Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.); Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.); Thom Tillis (R-N.C.); Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.); Joni Ernst (R-Iowa); Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.); Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.); Brian Schatz (D-Hawai’i); John Cornyn (R-Texas); Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.); Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.); John Curtis (R-Utah); John Fetterman (D-Pa.); Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska); Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.); Gary Peters (D-Mich.); James Lankford (R-Okla.); John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.); Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.); Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.); Marsha Blackburn (R-TN); Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.); John Boozman (R-Ark.); Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.); Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.); Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.); Jon Husted (R-Ohio); John Hoeven (R-N.D.); Deb Fischer (R-Neb.); Jim Justice (R-W.Va.); Mike Rounds (R-S.D.); Ted Cruz (R-Texas); John Kennedy (R-La.); Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.); Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska); Rick Scott (R-Fla.); Ted Budd (R-N.C.); Jerry Moran (R-Kan.); Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.); Dave McCormick (R-Pa.); Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.); and Steve Daines (R-Mont.).

“Russia is losing ground, it is suffering tens of thousands of casualties each month and Ukraine continues to bring the consequences of the war to the Kremlin’s doorstep through its deep strike campaign. Putin is in an incredibly precarious position both at home and on the battlefield. This legislation would level tough new sanctions on Russia and choke off key export markets for the energy it sells to fund its war machine. We must seize on the opportunity before us to finally exert economic pressure on the Kremlin and bring this war to a close,” said Shaheen.

“One of the many pillars of Senator Graham’s exemplary career of public service was his dedication to putting America’s national security first and promoting liberty around the world. It is an honor to help champion one of his highest priorities: imposing crushing sanctions to cripple Russia’s war machine and hold those fueling it accountable. Putin’s war against Ukraine has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, and it must end. Lindsey believed that getting this legislation passed and signed into law would be the most consequential thing he achieved in his career. I am sincerely grateful to Senators Blumenthal, Shaheen, and Wicker for their continued leadership on this issue and, very importantly, for the support of President Trump and the White House—these sanctions will provide President Trump with a critical tool to hold Russia accountable and secure a lasting peace,” said Britt.

“This bipartisan bill that Senator Graham worked so tirelessly to advance couldn’t be better timed. Momentum in the war has shifted toward Ukraine and tightening sanctions on Russia and those key purchasers of Russian oil should help add pressure for the Kremlin to finally negotiate. Having just returned from the NATO Summit, I can share that we and our NATO allies are united in wanting to see Ukraine prevail in this bloody war started by Vladimir Putin. I am pleased to help co-lead this timely legislation,” said Durbin.

“We should enact this bipartisan measure to exert maximum economic pressure on Putin’s war machine and help bring this unjust war to an end,” said Wicker.

“Today’s bill continues the work of the late Senator Graham, my dear friend and one of Ukraine’s most relentless advocates in the Senate,” said Whitehouse. “This forceful, bipartisan measure will disrupt the Kremlin’s massive oil and gas economy, up the financial stakes, and help achieve victory for Ukraine.”

“I am proud to support the imposition of new, hard-hitting sanctions on key sectors of Russia’s war economy, including the shadow fleet, and penalties on bad actors like China who help fund the war. Russia is not winning this war against Ukraine, and applying additional pressure now will force Putin to shift his calculus and bring us closer to ending the war. In honor of our friend Lindsey Graham, I strongly encourage my colleagues to pass this legislation and send it to the President’s desk as soon as possible,” said Risch.

“Ukraine is winning on the battlefield against Russian invaders, and there’s much more the United States can do to strangle Russia’s war machine without putting ourselves at risk. Curbing Russian revenue by sanctioning the foreign buyers of their oil that are keeping Russia’s economy and military afloat will strengthen Ukraine, weaken Moscow, and hasten a just and lasting end to this war,” said Coons.

“Putin’s invasion of Ukraine unleashed destruction, chaos and bloodshed in the largest land war in Europe since World War II. Our legislation sends a clear message to Putin: your unprovoked, violent invasion comes at an enormous cost. The late-Senator Graham was a champion of this bipartisan legislation, and I’m proud to help move it forward as an original cosponsor,” Grassley said.

“For over four years, the Ukrainian people have shown us what it looks like to fight and die for democracy, for their country, and for the West. Their courage in the face of Vladimir Putin’s war offers the greatest example of how to fight back against authoritarian aggression. Amid Putin’s intransigence at the negotiating table and daily attacks on civilians across Ukraine, Congress must make Russia pay a further price,” said Bennet. “This bill will impose greater pressure on Putin to end his unprovoked war, especially as Ukraine makes progress on the battlefield and as the Russian economy struggles under the weight of U.S. and allied measures. Only by demonstrating our firm resolve can the United States and our allies support Ukraine’s pursuit of a just and durable end to this war and successfully defend the principle of a Europe whole, free, and at peace. Backing Ukraine today will be our best deterrence against authoritarian ambitions tomorrow.”

“Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked war has dragged on for more than four years. As Senator Graham knew well, raising the costs on Russia is the only solution. Our bill will further restrict their energy sales to strangle Putin’s war machine and bring him to the negotiating table. Congress should pass this bill immediately and help finish a war Lindsey fought so hard to end,” said Cotton.

“This measure is a tribute to Senator Graham’s tenacious, bipartisan work in support of Ukraine, and a necessary step to deprive Putin’s war machine of financial resources for its illegal invasion,” said Reed.

“South Carolina lost a statesman, and I lost a friend. Lindsey Graham spent his time in the Senate reminding us that peace is protected by strength, and that America has a responsibility to stand up to dictators who threaten our allies, our interests, and the values we hold dear,” said Tim Scott. “This legislation is a fitting way to honor Lindsey’s legacy: tough, principled, and focused on keeping America safe. Lindsey would be proud to see Republicans and Democrats come together in support of his and the President’s goal to end Moscow’s senseless war in Ukraine.”

“Putin’s war of aggression against Ukraine has gone on long enough, and I believe this legislation is an important step on bringing this bloody, unprovoked conflict to an end,” said King. “This war has already cost hundreds of thousands of lives on both sides unnecessarily, and we believe that this step will finally bring Putin face to face with the reality that he is not going to be successful in subjugating the Ukrainian people.”

“This is a pivotal moment in the Ukrainian people’s fight to protect their freedom. While Ukraine continues to demonstrate impressive resilience and patriotism and real expertise on the battlefield, Russians are becoming increasingly exhausted by Putin’s war, which his own finance officials are telling him he can’t afford,” said Kaine. “This is the perfect time for the United States to bring down the full force of comprehensive sanctions on Russia, and I’m proud to join a bipartisan group of colleagues in putting forward a plan that would do that.”

“Vladimir Putin’s brutal, unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine must end. As Ukraine makes important gains on the battlefield, now is the time to increase the economic pressure on Russia and those who continue to finance Putin’s war machine,” said Collins. “Senator Lindsey Graham understood the consequences of allowing Putin’s aggression to go unchecked and worked tirelessly to build bipartisan support for this consequential legislation. I am proud to join my colleagues in supporting this bill, which would both honor Lindsey’s legacy and help pressure Putin to bring an end to this horrific war.”

“The fastest way to end this illegal war is to cut off the money that Putin is using to fuel it,” said Kelly. “Stronger sanctions will put pressure on Putin and those helping him. This is a crucial step toward achieving lasting peace that protects Ukraine’s sovereignty and strengthens U.S. national security.”

“As Russia continues its needless bloodshed of innocent people and drags out peace talks, I am proud to join my colleagues in enacting crippling sanctions against them,” said Ernst. “This legislation carries forward the tireless work Senator Graham was doing until his final days and strengthens the fight I’ve led for years against Putin’s shadow fleet, shutting down the network of tankers and shell insurers keeping his oil money flowing and fueling this war.”

“For more than four years, Vladimir Putin has conducted a brutal, unprovoked war against Ukraine in an attempt to take over a sovereign nation. The time is now for the U.S. to increase pressure and do all we can to end this war and send a clear message to Putin that he cannot act with impunity. This is why I’m joining my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to bring forward this critical bipartisan bill to make those who enable Russia’s energy and defense sectors pay a heavy price,” said Rosen.

“Lindsey Graham was clear eyed on Putin and fought for years to build peace through strength,” said Ricketts. “This bill is a small part of his legacy combatting a foreign adversary threatening peace and prosperity for Americans. Sanctioning Putin and his cronies is necessary for undermining their aggression around the world.”

“Senator Graham was unyielding in his support for the Ukrainian people as they fight to defend their sovereignty, and I can think of few ways more fitting to honor him than by finishing what he started and imposing strict sanctions on the bad actors who have supported Russia’s war against Ukraine,” said Cornyn. “I’m proud to join with my colleagues on this bipartisan legislation, which will honor Lindsey’s legacy, help dismantle Putin’s war machine, and strengthen U.S. national security.”

“The surest way to bring about peace through strength and get Putin to the negotiating table is to cut off the money funding his war machine. This bipartisan legislation delivers real consequences for those keeping Russia’s economy afloat. Senator Lindsey Graham spent years leading this fight, and passing this bill will be a fitting tribute to his commitment to American strength and the cause of freedom,” said Sheehy.

“Since I visited Ukraine with Lindsey Graham and John McCain in 2016, Lindsey and I worked together in support of Ukraine’s democracy, meeting with President Zelenskyy multiple times and advocating for the return of Ukrainian children kidnapped by Russia. This legislation will add significant economic pressure on Russia, helping to move us closer to ending this war,” said Klobuchar.

“As long as Vladimir Putin’s war machine is funded by countries willing to buy Russian oil and gas, the war in Ukraine will continue,” said Curtis. “This bipartisan legislation gives a powerful tool to increase pressure on Russia, hold its enablers accountable, and ensure Russia does not win this war.”

“We must hold Russia and its enablers accountable, and stand with Ukraine,” said Fetterman. “This is just and important legislation. I know it will honor our late colleague Senator Lindsey Graham.”

“These strong sanctions, a top priority I shared with my friend and our late colleague Senator Graham, are critically important to weakening Putin’s grip in Ukraine, imposing severe costs on those supporting Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression, and undermining the energy-fueled Russian war machine that threatens our allies,” said Sullivan.

“Ukraine is in the fight of their lives, and this bipartisan announcement is the boost they need to inflict maximum pain on Russia,” said Duckworth. “Our bipartisan bill will rightfully hit foreign buyers of Russian oil with heavy sanctions, cutting Putin off from the money machine funding his unprovoked war of aggression against our ally. Senator Graham knew it and we do too: The United States must remain united with Ukraine, now and always.”

“Ukraine is standing strong against Russian aggression, but the United States must use every tool possible to help secure a lasting peace for the Ukrainian people and the entire region,” said Peters. “Imposing strong sanctions on Russia would send a clear message that the American people will always stand alongside Ukraine against Putin’s invasion.”

“Putin is a murderous KGB thug, and the countries still buying Russian oil and natural gas know they are funding his war against Ukraine. If we cut off Russia’s oil money, we cut off the weapons murdering Ukrainians. Lindsey Graham was an outspoken advocate for the freedom-loving people of Ukraine. Let’s finish what he started and put the pressure on Russia and everyone who bankrolls them,” said Lankford.

“This bill honors Senator Lindsey Graham’s legacy by strengthening pressure on Russia and those who continue to finance Vladimir Putin’s illegal and brutal war against Ukraine, which threatens our own national security and economic interests. I am proud to cosponsor this bipartisan legislation to continue the work that our late friend and colleague fought so hard to advance,” said Hyde-Smith.

“By securing this agreement with the White House to impose sanctions on major purchasers of Russian oil and gas, Senator Graham delivered a powerful tool to hold those who are enabling Putin’s war accountable,” said Blackburn. “This bill will help bring this war to an end.”

“Vladimir Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine has raged on for too long and cost countless innocent lives. This critical legislation will hold the enablers of Putin’s war machine accountable and represents one of the most consequential Congressional efforts to promote peace in Europe. Let’s get this done,” said Alsobrooks.

“Senator Graham tirelessly worked to impose real consequences on Putin and end Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. This bipartisan and thoughtfully crafted legislation is a testament to his tremendous leadership,” said Boozman. “I am proud to join my colleagues and send a clear message that Senator Graham’s work will not go unfinished and that Moscow must finally end its unprovoked attack on Ukrainian sovereignty.”

“The United States and our allies must stand up to Putin’s unprovoked war against Ukraine by choking off funds for his war machine and his political cronies. Putin’s invasion is a gross violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and it is critical that the United States support the people of Ukraine in repelling Russian aggression. This legislation will strengthen our efforts to hold Moscow accountable for the War in Ukraine,” said Van Hollen.

“The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 will issue decisive consequences aimed at deterring Russian aggression. This bill sends a clear message: bullies have a price to pay for their actions. Vladimir Putin and Russia must face serious consequences for their destructive and unprovoked war on Ukraine,” said Cramer.

“Russia’s war against Ukraine, which has killed far too many and upended global stability, must come to an end,” said Capito. “This legislation empowers President Trump to cut off the financial flows that enable Putin’s deadly invasion and to impose serious consequences on the countries that are helping finance Russia’s war machine. I’m proud to join my colleagues in honoring Senator Graham’s life by advancing this effort to strengthen America’s national security and give President Trump the economic leverage to secure a lasting peace.”

“For years, Senator Lindsey Graham led the effort to hold Russia accountable for its aggression and support Ukraine’s fight for freedom. This bill honors his legacy by tightening sanctions on the energy exports and financial tools that sustain the Russian war machine. With support from the White House and a bipartisan group of senators, we are sending a clear message to Putin: America stands with Ukraine, and we will continue working to bring this unjust war to a durable end,” said Husted.

“Russia relies on oil and gas revenue to fund its war against Ukraine, and those enabling this aggression should be held accountable,” said Hoeven. “This bipartisan legislation strengthens sanctions to increase pressure on Russia, reduce the resources fueling Putin’s aggression, and help advance a lasting peace. Senator Lindsey Graham dedicated tremendous effort to moving this legislation forward, and Congress should act to pass it.”

“Senator Lindsey Graham was relentless in his quest to hold Vladimir Putin accountable for his unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. Because of his extensive work over the years, we have an opportunity to help bleed Putin’s war machine dry. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for taking this necessary action,” said Fischer.

“Senator Graham was one of the most formidable foes America’s enemies ever faced in the United States Senate. He was unapologetic and uncompromising in countering the threat the Russian regime poses to American national security and the safety and security of the American people. I worked alongside my friend for years to counter those malign activities, including through sanctions legislation aimed at depriving Putin’s war machine of the resources it needs to threaten America and our allies. This bipartisan legislation honors Senator Graham’s legacy while advancing the badly needed policies for which he tirelessly advocated. I urge my colleagues to pass it without delay,” said Cruz.

“Lindsey Graham spent his final months fighting to make sure Putin knew America’s fuse hadn’t burned out. Wyoming understands what it means to power the world responsibly, and it’s long past time Russia stopped profiting from war while claiming to seek peace. This bill puts real teeth behind that demand by telling every nation still buying Russian oil that they’re choosing a side, and it puts Putin on notice that the road to any lasting peace runs through economic ruin if he refuses to take it,” said Lummis.

“Russia’s unprovoked and illegal war against the people of Ukraine has left the nation scarred and battered over the last four years, but no less determined to defend its sovereignty,” said Murkowski. “The bipartisan Sanctioning Russia Act honors Senator Graham’s longstanding leadership in foreign affairs by supporting Ukraine while reaffirming America’s commitment to stand with peaceful democracies against the authoritarian regimes that seek to destroy them.”

“The time to increase pressure on Moscow is now. Our overwhelmingly bipartisan sanctions package has the power to cripple Putin’s revenue streams by targeting the energy exports that bankroll Russia’s unjust war machine. Our colleague and friend, Senator Lindsey Graham, worked tirelessly to stand up to Russian aggression, and now we have the opportunity to honor his leadership and cement his legacy,” said Budd.

“This bipartisan legislation would make a difference against Russia’s unjust war in Ukraine and serves as a fitting tribute to the legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham,” said Moran. “America’s continued involvement and leadership throughout the world are critical to deterring Vladimir Putin. This legislation sends a clear message to friends and foes alike: you can do business with Russia, or you can do business with the United States, but you can’t do both. I look forward to voting for the Sanctioning Russia Act and sending it to the President to be signed into law.”

“Imposing stronger sanctions on Russia will ensure America remains strong on the world stage and will help bring an end to Putin’s unjust war against Ukraine. I can think of no better way to cement the legacy of Lindsey Graham, who spent years of his life devoted to this cause and to fighting for freedom across the globe,” said Daines.

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 would impose primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine.

The sanctions target Russian officials, oligarchs, their family members, foreign persons, and Russian banks and financial institutions, as well as the Russian Shadow Fleet.

The legislation also directs the President to impose up to 100 percent tariffs on imported goods from countries that buy the majority of Russian oil, gas, and enable Russian sanctions evasion. The new text limits these tariffs to the five largest importers of Russian crude oil and gas.

A one-pager on the legislation is available here. The text of the bill is available here.

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NEWS: Schiff Joins Slotkin, Gillibrand, & Colleagues to Press Pentagon to Release Findings on Deadly Iran School Strike

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) joined Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), and 22 other colleagues to place additional pressure on the Department of Defense to release its findings on the February bombing of an elementary school in Iran. The attack on the Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab reportedly killed around 120 children and roughly 175 people overall, making it the deadliest civilian casualty event tied to U.S. military action in decades.

In a letter sent to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper, the Senators urged the Pentagon to complete its investigation into the strike and publicly release its findings. The probe was reportedly turned in back in April but has remained under review by top military officials since then. The Senators also asked the Department to give Congress a concrete plan for preventing a similar tragedy from happening again.

“More than four months after the strike, and after the reported submission of the investigation in April, Congress and the American people still have not received the Department’s investigation and findings,” the Senators wrote. “There is no justification for withholding an unclassified accounting of what happened, what went wrong, and what the Department is doing to prevent recurrence.”

“These reported issues, if accurate, raise deeply troubling questions about the integrity of U.S. target development, the adequacy of target validation and vetting procedures, the interoperability of intelligence and targeting databases, the timeliness and reliability of intelligence used for lethal targeting, and the Department’s implementation of civilian harm mitigation policies,” the Senators wrote. “They also raise urgent questions about whether the Department has sufficient targeting personnel, training, accountability mechanisms, and technical safeguards to support large-scale conventional operations.”

“The United States military has a legal and moral obligation to take all feasible precautions to prevent civilian harm. When a U.S. strike kills civilians, the Department owes Congress, the American people, and the victims’ families a clear accounting of what happened and a credible plan to prevent future failures,” the Senators concluded.

In addition to Schiff, Slotkin, and Gillibrand, the letter was signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai’i), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai’i), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.).

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

Dear Secretary Hegseth and Admiral Cooper:

We write regarding the Department of Defense’s investigation into the February 28, 2026 strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School for girls in Minab, Iran, which reportedly killed approximately 120 children and at least 175 people in total. If true, this incident would constitute the U.S. military’s largest civilian casualty incident since 1991. The Department must promptly provide Congress with the complete and unredacted investigation, and submit a concrete plan to ensure such a tragedy does not happen again.

Recent press reporting indicates that the investigation ordered by Admiral Cooper was submitted in April but remains under review by senior DoD leadership. That reporting further indicates that investigators have identified multiple potential failures, including that an analyst noted as early as 2019 that the site appeared to have changed from a naval facility into a school, but that remark was entered into a digital intelligence tool that was not connected to the authoritative targeting database used to develop strike targets. The reporting also indicates that the site was reviewed multiple additional times in subsequent years without the targeting database being updated. Additional reporting from this week alleges that warnings were made in the system indicating the intelligence for the targets was dated, but those warnings were ignored for “expediency” even though the Administration spent weeks planning for President Trump’s war of choice.

These reported issues, if accurate, raise deeply troubling questions about the integrity of U.S. target development, the adequacy of target validation and vetting procedures, the interoperability of intelligence and targeting databases, the timeliness and reliability of intelligence used for lethal targeting, and the Department’s implementation of civilian harm mitigation policies. They also raise urgent questions about whether the Department has sufficient targeting personnel, training, accountability mechanisms, and technical safeguards to support large-scale conventional operations.

More than four months after the strike, and after the reported submission of the investigation in April, Congress and the American people still have not received the Department’s investigation and findings. There is no justification for withholding an unclassified accounting of what happened, what went wrong, and what the Department is doing to prevent recurrence.

Accordingly, we request that the Department of Defense and U.S. Central Command take the following actions no later than July 20, 2026:

Promptly finalize the investigation into the February 28 strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School and provide Congress with the complete and unredacted investigation.

Provide an unclassified version of the report to Congress, suitable for public release.

Submit to Congress a prevention and remediation plan that identifies the specific corrective actions the Department will take to ensure this does not happen again.

Provide a briefing to Congress on the investigation and all steps being taken to ensure errors of this kind do not happen again.

The United States military has a legal and moral obligation to take all feasible precautions to prevent civilian harm. When a U.S. strike kills civilians, the Department owes Congress, the American people, and the victims’ families a clear accounting of what happened and a credible plan to prevent future failures.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter. We look forward to your response.

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NEWS: Sen. Schiff Seeks Federal Investigation into Potential Price Gouging by Big Oil Companies

Six of the world’s biggest fossil fuel companies – Chevron, Shell, BP, ConocoPhillips, Exxon and TotalEnergies are projected to make $94 billion combined in profits this year. That is $2,967 a second.

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, is demanding the Department of Justice (DOJ) launch a federal investigation into potential price gouging by big oil companies and to publicly report its findings to Congress.

In a letter sent to the DOJ, Schiff outlined the need to determine whether oil companies have used recent market volatility as cover to sustain artificially high margins at the pump and to identify any anticompetitive conduct, collusion, or unfair pricing practices that have contributed to oil profits at the expense of bringing down prices.

“The Department must move swiftly to hold big oil companies accountable for potential price gouging, and remain vigilant for profiteering at the pump. I request that the Department keep the public informed of the scope and progress of this review, and provide a report to Congress within thirty days,” wrote Senator Schiff.

Schiff’s push for an investigation comes as even President Trump has called out oil companies, saying recently that Americans are being “gouged.”

Background:

Earlier this month, Senator Schiff held a press conference outside of a gas station with the highest gas prices in Los Angeles to announce actions he was taking to hold big oil companies accountable. Schiff also announced new legislation to levy an excess profits tax on big oil companies, who are projected to rake in approximately $94 billion in profits in 2026, $13.5 billion more than last year. The Senator has previously championed a windfall profits tax on oil companies as a way of shifting the cost burden of gas prices off of American families – who have been spending at least $1.00 a gallon more compared to last year, thanks to Trump’s war in Iran.

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

Dear Acting Attorney General Blanche,

I am writing to urge the Department of Justice to conduct a thorough and formal investigation into potential price gouging by oil companies, and publicly report its findings to Congress. As you know, President Trump stated on Truth Social in late June that “the big Oil Companies are not dropping their price at the pump commensurate with the sharply lower prices they are paying for Oil,” and announced that he had instructed the Department to immediately begin looking into the matter. The Administration must reverse course on its long track record of enriching oil and gas companies by launching this overdue investigation.

When gas prices fail to track falling crude oil costs, American consumers bear an unfair burden that federal authorities have both the power and the duty to examine. In April 2026, at the height of the war with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, West Texas Intermediate crude peaked at $112 per barrel. The price of WTI has since collapsed to as low as $68 per barrel. While the price of crude has declined by nearly 40 percent, consumers have not seen a commensurate decline in the price of gasoline. The AAA national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline remains approximately $3.88, a mere decrease of around 30 cents from a month ago, and well above the national average of $3.17 a year ago. And in California, Californians already pay among the highest prices for gas in the nation, with prices for a gallon of gas averaging $5.38. Meanwhile, a recent analysis found that the world’s largest oil and gas companies are projected to rake $96 billion in profits in 2026, $13.5 billion more than last year. Rather than pass along savings from falling crude oil prices to consumers, oil companies are maintaining high prices and raking billions in profits in the process.

The Department must examine wholesale and retail pricing data for gasoline sold across the country to determine whether price movements have reasonably reflected changes in crude oil costs, and whether companies have used recent market volatility as cover to sustain artificially high margins at the pump. The Department’s Antitrust Division must take immediate action to determine whether oil companies are profiteering at the expense of consumers by identifying any anticompetitive conduct, collusion, or unfair pricing practices that have contributed to profits at the expense of bringing down prices, and holding bad actors accountable for squeezing consumers at the pump.

The Department must move swiftly to hold big oil companies accountable for potential price gouging, and remain vigilant for profiteering at the pump. I request that the Department keep the public informed of the scope and progress of this review, and provide a report to Congress within thirty days. I thank you for your attention to this matter.

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STATEMENT: Senator Schiff Reacts to Trump’s Renewed Election Fraud Claims

Schiff: “Trump knows he has failed to deliver on any of his campaign promises, has raised costs of American families instead of lowering them, and gotten us into another Middle Eastern war nobody wanted. Terrified that voters will send his party packing in the midterms, he is falling back on some old lies and putting out new ones.”

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) released the following statement responding to Donald Trump’s primetime address, in which he leveled unsubstantiated claims of election fraud and cast doubt on future elections:

“Tonight, the same President who once badgered Georgia’s Republican Secretary of State to find 11,780 votes that didn’t exist, so he could overtake Biden’s lead in the state in 2020, put out a whole new set of lies about our elections, past and present.

“Trump knows he has failed to deliver on any of his campaign promises, has raised costs of American families instead of lowering them, and gotten us into another Middle Eastern war nobody wanted. Terrified that voters will send his party packing in the midterms, he is falling back on some old lies and putting out new ones.

“All of his claims and the selective release of any documents must be treated with the greatest skepticism given the President’s many lies and misrepresentations about our elections. Even so, tonight he produced no evidence that China or any other country manipulated a single U.S. voting system or changed a single vote. He is merely trying to undermine confidence in our elections, so he can seize voter data under the guise of protecting it, and subvert elections he is convinced his party is losing. He will not succeed.

“The reality is that foreign governments do try to influence our elections—in fact, Trump has previously encouraged Russia to do exactly that. He has also repeatedly ignored and dismissed previous, credible intelligence about foreign interference in elections because it did not fit his political agenda. But when it comes to identifying real threats and giving our election administrators the resources to fight them, Trump’s actions speak louder than his words tonight.

“Under Trump’s leadership, he has gutted resources committed to combatting foreign malign influence. Funding for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and local election security grants have been slashed under the Trump administration. Seasoned FBI and other federal agents have been pulled off the beat to chase conspiracies and aid Trump’s chaotic and unlawful deportation agenda. And Trump himself has discounted these threats as hoaxes in the past, breaking from bipartisan tradition of taking the hard work of our intelligence community seriously.

“What the President presented tonight was not a leveling with the American people. It was a renewed attempt to inject fear and cloud reality ahead of the next election in November and provide pretext for seizing voter data, and discrediting and interfering with election results. By now it should be obvious that Trump intends to repeat his playbook from 2020, and attempt to deny any result he does not like. And tonight was just another attempt by him to avoid accountability and defeat in November.”


WATCH: Sen. Schiff Prepares America for Repeated Trump Election Fraud Claims on CNN

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) joined CNN’s The Lead with Jake Tapper to discuss the upcoming primetime address by President Trump and the latest exposure of President Trump’s corruption and insider trading scandals.

Schiff also continued his condemnation of President Trump’s incompetent handling of the illegal Iran war, emphasizing the need to pass a War Powers Resolution to check the president’s power.

View the full interview here.

Key Excerpts:

On Trump’s new corrupt Truth Social self-enrichment scheme:

[…] What people, I think, need to recognize: this is not a blind trust that the president has. So, when the White House says he has no advance notice of what his manager, portfolio manager, is buying — that may or may not be true. But he finds out about it once they buy it. And when he later that week posts something favorable about that company, he knows that money, that extra value, goes into his pocket. And now this added story about how you can pay a premium to get, first access to his social media posts that move markets. If you’ll give him a cut, that’s basically what it is. He gets part of the profits of Truth Social. This is the president saying, “Give me a cut, and I’ll give you the opportunity to make money off my statements, just as I make money off my own statements.”

On the bill to ban congressional and presidential stock trading:

It’s not completely dead, and I think it has at least some measure of bipartisan support, much more overwhelming on the Democratic side. But Republicans, even that are in agreement with us that we should ban this practice, they hate crossing the president. And the president having singled out one of them, that’s a strong deterrent to actually putting in the hard work to get it done. And obviously this isn’t going to move in either House unless Republican leadership is willing to move it.

On Trump’s comments on California election fraud:

Look he’s made a bunch of absurd claims about California elections. Always, he’s done this going back several years now. Made false claims of massive fraud of millions of undocumented people voting. All nonsense. In this election, he has blamed manipulation somehow for Spencer Pratt’s loss. Spencer Pratt lost because he was completely out of step with voters in Los Angeles. The more MAGA he became, the more votes he lost.

On Trump’s handling of the Iran War:

[…] But now that we are back in a full military exchange with Iran, now that the president is contemplating even potentially putting troops on the ground — I would expect we will get more support. Some of the people who voted with us before will vote with us again. And we might get new people voting with us as this war has gone on and on and on. The support for these resolutions has only increased. And it increasingly looks like we’re in a quagmire now, where the president doesn’t know what he’s doing, doesn’t know what to do. Announces we’re going to charge tolls in the strait, something he said was illegal, and then 24 hours later says we’re not going to charge tolls in the strait. So, I think the incompetent handling of the war, the risk that the war may escalate again, and the fear, frankly, a lot of Republicans have that he is killing their chances in the midterms, may motivate Republicans to vote with us.

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WATCH: Sen. Schiff Presses Former Attorney General on Todd Blanche’s View of the Weaponization of the Justice Department

Washington, D.C. – Today, during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing concerning Todd Blanche’s nomination to be Attorney General, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) pressed former Attorney General John Ashcroft, who testified in support of Blanche, on whether he agrees with Blanche’s assessment that the president is entitled to use the Justice Department to prosecute his political enemies.

Schiff also questioned Ashcroft on whether he had ever had a grand jury unanimously refuse to indict in a prosecution case brought by his Justice Department, which has occurred several times under Blanche’s leadership.

Watch the full clip here. Download the clip HERE.

Key Excerpts:

On Blanche’s view of the president’s weaponization of the Justice Department:

Schiff: Mr. Ashcroft, thank you for your service. I wanted to ask you about some remarks the [Acting] Attorney General made when he said that he thought the president – he was asked about the president targeting his political opponents and enemies for prosecution. And I don’t subscribe to the – what I think is the false equivalence. We’ve never seen a president behave this way, where he openly and privately calls on the Attorney General to prosecute his enemies. And I want to ask you about that, Mr. Ashcroft, because Mr. Blanche has said that he believes the president has both the right and the duty to use the Justice Department to go after his enemies. Do you subscribe to that view?

Ashcroft: Thank you, Senator. I believe that the Attorney General of the United States has the right and responsibility to enforce the law uniformly. And if the law has been broken by the president’s enemies, he has a duty. They do not become exempt from following the law merely by their enmity to the President of the United States. As a matter of fact, the people who break the law are in enmity with the people of the United States, whose expression of what is the law has been developed in this body, in the Congress of the United States. So, we used to call people who break the law public enemies. And so, my view is that whether a person has been a political supporter or not of the President of the United States is not the determining factor regarding prosecution. It’s whether a person has violated the law, and in enforcing the law, the Attorney General is carrying out the will expressed in the Congress.

Schiff: Mr. Attorney General, you realize, having sat here, my time is very limited. That really isn’t my question. My question is: do you think it is appropriate for the president to call on the Attorney General to prosecute one of his enemies, and acting on that, request the president for the Attorney General to do so.

Ashcroft: The President of the United States is the executive branch of the United States whose charge it is to enforce the laws of the United States.

[…]

Schiff: So, Mr. Ashcroft –

Ashcroft: So the president, I believe, his job is to have an administration which calls for the enforcement of the laws of the United States without regard to the political preferences of the people who are perpetrators or accused individuals in the system.

Schiff: Okay, I’m not sure that I understand your answer, except you seem to accept the premise that it is okay now for a president to call the Attorney General and ask him to prosecute his enemies. You don’t seem to have a problem with that.

On the erosion of the Justice Department’s independence:

Schiff: […] And if the president’s enemy takes a photo of seashells, do you think it’s appropriate to prosecute them? If Senators make a video stating the plain law and Constitution that you can disobey an illegal order, you think it’s okay for the president or others to call on them to be prosecuted? I don’t think so. I don’t think so. And I don’t think you would have done that as Attorney General. I hope you wouldn’t have. If you would have, you were not the Attorney General I thought you were. […] What has never been appropriate, and particularly so after Watergate, was for the Attorney General of the United States to break that wall and call on his Attorney General to prosecute his enemies. And I would say even without any basis to do so. And this Justice Department has been willing to do so and has gone before grand juries. And we have never, I think, seen the likes of this either in these high-profile cases where the grand jurors, in some cases, to a person, have refused an indictment. How often did you have that happen to you, Mr. Ashcroft? Last question I’ll ask you. How often, Mr. Attorney General, did you seek an indictment as a prosecutor, and have not a single grand juror vote to indict? Did that ever happen to you?

Ashcroft: I don’t know. I just don’t know.

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Senator Schmitt Calls for Citizenship Illegally Obtained by Foreign Diplomats’ Children to be Revoked

Urges Trump Admin to Investigate Illegal Grants of Birthright Citizenship, Close Loophole Allowing Diplomats’ Children to Gain Citizenship Documents

U.S. SENATE — Today, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin requesting they investigate the extent of illegal grants of citizenship documentation to foreign diplomats’ children, implement policies and procedures to prevent it from occurring in the future, identify the individuals who have illegally procured citizenship documentation in this manner, and revoke those individuals’ illegally procured citizenship documentation.

“I write regarding foreign diplomats improperly claiming birthright citizenship for their children born in the United States during their diplomatic missions. Neither the Constitution nor federal statutory law grants foreign diplomats’ children birthright citizenship. Yet public reporting indicates that potentially thousands of foreign diplomats’ children have been given citizenship documentation. Foreign diplomats’ children using improperly procured citizenship documentation to illegally claim citizenship degrades the meaning of American citizenship, undermines our sovereignty, and threatens our national security.”

“I therefore urge both of your agencies to take immediate action to investigate the extent of illegal grants of citizenship documentation to foreign diplomats’ children, implement policies and procedures to prevent it from occurring in the future, identify the individuals who have illegally procured citizenship documentation in this manner, and revoke those individuals’ illegally procured citizenship documentation.”

“The Fourteenth Amendment confers American citizenship upon persons born in the United States while ‘subject to the jurisdiction thereof.’ For more than a century, statutory law, judicial precedent, and executive-branch policy have recognized that foreign diplomats’ children born in the United States are not ‘subject to [its] jurisdiction’ and therefore do not acquire citizenship at birth. Indeed, even though the majority in Trump v. Barbara wrongfully expanded birthright citizenship to cover the children of illegal aliens and temporarily present aliens, it too recognized that the children of diplomats do not acquire birthright citizenship,” wrote Senator Schmitt.

Read the full letter HERE.

Background:

Following the Supreme Court’s decision extending birthright citizenship to the children of illegal aliens and temporarily present aliens, Schmitt introduced a bill to restore the original understanding of the scope of birthright citizenship from the time of the Fourteenth Amendment. Under the bill and the original understanding of the Fourteenth Amendment, the children of illegal aliens and temporarily present aliens, such as “birth tourists,” would not be granted birthright citizenship.

Schmitt also announced he will be introducing a constitutional amendment to rein in birthright citizenship and put Americans first by restoring the meaning and integrity of American citizenship.

Schmitt led an amicus brief in support of President Trump’s birthright citizenship executive order defending the original meaning of the Fourteenth Amendment’s Citizenship Clause.

As Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Schmitt has led several hearings on the importance of protecting American citizenship. In March, Schmitt highlighted the threat of birth tourism, and his recent hearings examined denaturalizations and restoring pride in American citizenship.

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Senator Schmitt Praises Acting AG Blanche’s Crackdown on Crime and Support for Rule of Law, Calls for Swift Confirmation

U.S. SENATE — Today, at the Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing for Todd Blanche to be U.S. Attorney General, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) praised the Acting Attorney General and the Trump Administration for working to crack down on violent crime, eliminate fraud, and uphold the rule of law. Following the Biden Administration’s unprecedented persecution of its political opponents and failure to prosecute criminals, Senator Schmitt emphasized how Blanche and the Trump Administration are restoring the Department of Justice (DOJ) to its proper mission and upholding America’s constitutional framework.

Watch the Senator’s questioning HERE.

“These calls to defund ICE, this hammer-and-sickle wave that came through New York a few weeks ago [and] that’s now dominating the discussion on the other side of the aisle. The central plank, of course, is ‘defund the police,’ overthrowing Western civilization. This is not your grandfather’s Democrat Party… It’s all meant to undermine and demoralize. I saw it in my time as Attorney General in Missouri where we had a Soros-funded prosecutor who refused to prosecute crime, and police officers—many retired early, fewer came into the ranks to protect and serve… you’re helping, I think, restore that with your focus on violent crime [and] your focus on fraud…

“I heard one of my colleagues say that this is the most troubled Department of Justice in history. I happened to live through the previous administration, where you had a Department of Justice completely weaponized against political opponents. They tried to throw their chief political opponent in jail. Ruin his family’s lives. You were his lawyer to see some of that, and I was in a court room in New York to see some of that… Aimed against Catholics in this country who happened to attend a traditional Catholic Latin mass. Went after parents—under the Patriot Act—for showing up to school board meetings to object to Critical Race Theory or the masking of their kids…

“So, this weaponization, let’s draw a distinction. When you go after your political opponents: that’s weaponization. When you hold people accountable, who weaponized the justice system, that’s not the same thing.”

In Senator Schmitt’s line of questioning, he highlighted how—in just 100 days—Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has made significant strides to tackle endemic fraud. Senator Schmitt described how under Blanche’s leadership, the DOJ has taken actions like establishing the National Fraud Enforcement Division and carrying out the largest takedown of health care fraudsters in the Department’s history. Senator Schmitt also praised Blanche’s efforts to clear out the backlog of immigration cases that piled up under the Biden Administration, facilitating deportations of illegal aliens, as well as historic levels of denaturalization cases. During his questioning, Blanche committed to ensuring law enforcement and DOJ use all available resources to deport criminal illegal aliens and combat disastrous sanctuary policies; investigate illegal practices the left uses to improperly sway elections; litigate against racial gerrymandering; and protect free speech from Big Tech censorship regimes.

Watch the Senator’s line of questioning HERE.

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Sen. Tim Scott accepting applications for fall 2026 internships

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) is now accepting applications for internships in his Washington, D.C., North Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville offices for fall 2026.

The internship program offers undergraduate and graduate students the chance to work with public service professionals and gain practical experience in constituent services, federal policy, and more. Students of all majors, particularly those studying governmental affairs, public policy, or communications, are welcome to apply.

Washington, D.C. Office: In Washington, interns will research legislation, attend congressional hearings and briefings, assist with press tasks, and help manage correspondence on various issues. Responsibilities also include answering phones and other administrative tasks. Interns in this office will gain a stronger understanding of the lawmaking process, while also improving their communication and customer service skills.

South Carolina Offices (North Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville): In the state offices, interns will take an active role in the community, working on state-based projects while also answering phones, completing research, and being an integral part of day-to-day office operations. Interns in these offices are able to assist with issues that affect South Carolinians each day.

Internship hours are flexible to accommodate students’ course schedules but generally run from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students may also gain course credit for completing the internship program. Interested students can apply through Senator Scott’s website at www.scott.senate.gov/constituent-services/internships. For additional questions, contact the internship coordinator at internships@scott.senate.gov or (202) 224-6121.

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INSULIN Act Co-Leads Applaud Legislation’s Advancement to Key Committee

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) applauded the inclusion of their bipartisan INSULIN Act in the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee markup next week. The bipartisan legislation to cap the monthly out-of-pocket cost of insulin at $35 enjoys strong bipartisan support, with 14 Senators from each party backing the bill.

“We are pleased to see that our bipartisan legislation to make insulin more affordable will come before the Senate HELP Committee for consideration next week,” said Senators Shaheen, Collins, Warnock and Kennedy. “With our constituents crying out for financial relief, our bipartisan bill represents an immediate step Congress can take with overwhelming bipartisan support to lower costs for the millions of Americans who need insulin each and every day just to survive. We strongly urge our colleagues on the HELP Committee to vote in favor of advancing the INSULIN Act in its entirety, which is sorely needed to lower costs for Americans with diabetes, regardless of their insurance status.”

Polling released last month from the American Diabetes Association found that 40% of respondents who rely on insulin report paying more than $150 per month for insulin, and 76% of respondents across political parties support a $35 limit on cost sharing for insulin.

The Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving Insulin Now (INSULIN) Act would cap the monthly out-of-pocket cost of insulin at $35 for Americans on private and employer-sponsored insurance and create a pilot program to provide insulin at the same cost to Americans without insurance. In addition to Shaheen, Collins, Warnock and Kennedy, the legislation is supported by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Angus King (I-ME), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Katie Britt (R-AL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jim Justice (R-WV), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jim Banks (R-IN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI).

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Slotkin Introduces MERIT Act to Require National Security Experience for Intelligence Leadership

The MERIT Act comes as an unqualified loyalist of President Trump serves as acting DNI– and while the broader weaponization of the intelligence community is at risk

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) introduced the Minimum Experience Requirements for Intelligence Transition (MERIT) Act, legislation that would require any individual serving as Director of National Intelligence (DNI),including in an acting or interim capacity, to have extensive national security experience. The requirement reiterates the standard already applied to Senate-confirmed DNIs under the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, championed by Senator Susan Collins and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

The bill comes as Bill Pulte serves as Acting DNI, and ahead of President Trump’s address on elections this evening. Bill Pulte has spent his career in private equity and real estate and has no prior national security experience. As a federal housing official, he accessed and weaponized confidential mortgage records to target the President’s perceived enemies. With access to the full breadth of U.S. intelligence tools and information as DNI, he would be able to further weaponize government resources for political gain. The President has made clear he expects Pulte to use the position to investigate his unsubstantiated claims of “rigged elections” and to declassify material at his own discretion.

“As someone who was detailed to DNI as a CIA officer, I know firsthand that the DNI should be focused on foreign threats, not used to further conspiracy theories about stolen elections,” said Senator Slotkin. “The American people need intelligence leaders focused on defending our country, and who have experience in national security. Whether in a temporary role or otherwise, we need serious people who won’t misuse the IC’s time, personnel and tools to relitigate elections and undermine confidence in our democracy.”

Background:

Throughout his time in office, President Trump has kept up a sustained effort to undermine confidence in U.S. elections. He has:

Repeated false fraud claims. Over the past six months, President Trump has repeated his claim that elections are “rigged” nearly every day, at least 107 times. Going back to his first-ever campaign, the 2016 Iowa Caucuses, he has alleged voter fraud or a rigged process on at least a dozen separate occasions. In his first ever race, the 2016 Iowa Caucuses, he refused to accept he lost and alleged voter fraud.

Attempted to nationalize control of elections. The President has called on Republicans to “nationalize” the midterm elections and take over election administration in at least 15 states and has pushed legislation and rule changes that voting-rights advocates warn would disenfranchise millions of voters. He has dismantled our Election Assistance Commission, which helps every state carry out their elections. He has pushed our U.S. Postal Service to restrict mail-in-voting unless states have given over their voter rolls to the DOJ. And he pressed the Supreme Court to gut parts of the Voting Rights Act, allowing states to silence the voices of minority voters.

Weaponized our intelligence community: The President has used the power of our intelligence community to selectively declassify intelligence to support his false claims about elections. He has directed the intelligence community to target his enemies through the creation of weaponization working groups and the implementation of NSPM-7. And he has sent the former Director of National Intelligence Gabbard to a partisan raid of ballots in Fulton County, Georgia.

Attempted to seize election materials. Following the 2020 election, the administration drafted an executive order to direct the military to seize voting machines and election materials in battleground states; the President has since said he “should have” signed it. This year, armed FBI agents seized ballots in Fulton County, Georgia, the Department of Justice demanded 2024 ballots and related records from Detroit’s Wayne County, and federal investigators have probed the 2020 election results in Arizona. DOJ has also sued 30 states to obtain their voter rolls.

Refused to rule out troops or armed agents at the polls. The President has left open the possibility of deploying troops or armed federal agents to polling places, including during the upcoming midterms. Multiple senior officials, including the Acting Attorney General, the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security, and other political appointees, have repeatedly declined to rule this out when asked directly, by Senator Slotkin and others.

As the Administration continues to erode public trust in our election systems, and as Bill Pulte, an unqualified loyalist of the President, serves as a leader in the intelligence community, the broader intelligence community is at risk of becoming weaponized against the American people for the political gain of the President. This is a dangerous precedent that would allow for future leaders to utilize the intelligence community’s resources to further false conspiracy theories.

Read the full text of the bill here.


Sullivan Secures Wins for Alaska in Committee-Passed Water Infrastructure Package

Bill Continues Progress on Juneau Flooding Solution, Nome Deep-draft Port

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Environment & Public Works (EPW) Committee, this week voted with all his colleagues to advance the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026 from committee with a number of significant provisions for Alaska. These include provisions providing continued funding for water and sewer infrastructure in rural Alaska communities,addressing the recurring glacial lake outburst flooding in Juneau, Alaska, and offering significant cost savings for the community of Nome as it builds the nation’s first Arctic deep-draft port.

“Alaska is a resource-rich but infrastructure-poor state. Building out our infrastructure is a critical way to bring down our state’s high cost of living and make life more affordable for all Alaskans,” said Sen. Sullivan. “My team and I worked hard to ensure this year’s WRDA legislation prioritizes Alaska’s infrastructure needs and delivers major investments in our communities. Among other priorities, this year’s WRDA will help cut through red tape and fast-track a permanent engineering solution to the yearly threat of glacial flooding in Juneau and maintain the significant progress on our nation’s first Arctic deep-water port in Nome, which will strengthen Arctic security and reduce the cost of goods for the people of Nome and communities across the region. I was also able to include provisions that focus the Corps’ attention on building up the resilience of western Alaska villages that have dealt with erosion and severe storms and provide adequate funding and staffing for the Corps to fulfill its permitting duties in our vast state in a timely manner. Finally, this important legislation will also continue to deliver clean running water and flush toilets to rural communities across Alaska, an effort that I’ve led since I first got to the Senate. I’ll be working with my colleagues to advance this legislation on the Senate floor and get it to the President’s desk for his signature.”

“Thanks to Senator Sullivan’s steadfast efforts, the Arctic Deep Draft Port in Nome is a reality,” said Nome Mayor Kenny Hughes. “Construction is underway this summer, and the provisions he has secured in the 2026 WRDA bill in today’s mark-up will help to ensure that this vital infrastructure project is one step closer to supporting national security missions and the region’s economy.”

“This bill is critical to protecting our community from devastating flooding,” said Juneau Mayor Beth Weldon. “Juneau is fighting for our very future, and we are beyond grateful to Senator Sullivan for his tenacity and leadership in that fight at the federal level.”

“Throughout the years, Senator Sullivan has fought relentlessly for the Arctic Deep Draft Port,” said Nome Port Director Joy Baker. “His dedication and leadership have been instrumental as we have navigated the challenges that come with such a significant project, and we sincerely appreciate his vision and support.”

“Access to safe, reliable water is foundational to good health and to the strength of communities across Alaska,”said Natasha Singh, president and CEO of the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium. “The Water Resources Development Act will play a vital role in improving the health and well-being of many people served by the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium by investing in water and sanitation. ANTHC thanks Senator Dan Sullivan for his efforts on this important legislation and for his tireless support of the people and communities we serve. We are encouraged to see the bill advancing through the legislative process and strongly support its final passage.”

Regarding Alaska’s priorities, Sen. Sullivan’s provisions in WRDA 2026:

Fast-track relief for the Juneau glacial outburst flooding challenge by directing the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works to expedite the process and proceed directly to preconstruction planning, engineering, and design.

Prohibit any reduction in the scope or capability of the Port of Nome project and classify its supporting infrastructure as serving a federal interest in national security, with the potential to significantly reduce the cost of the project to the local community.

Designate the west coast of Alaska as a federal priority area, compelling the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to prioritize funding, investigations, and design to combat coastal erosion and storm surge in the aftermath of Typhoon Halong.

Green-light new feasibility studies for Kodiak Harbor, Scow Bay Harbor in Petersburg, Kodiak Island Borough flood and bank stabilization, Talkeetna flood and bank stabilization, and Unalaska coastal storm risk management.

Direct the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works to fast-track and complete ongoing feasibility studies for the Homer Harbor modification and the separate Port of Nome Inner Harbor project.

Mandate that the Corps adequately staff and resource the Alaska District’s regulatory and permitting missions to account for the state’s massive geography and unique circumstances.

Secure $13.7 million in direct authorizations—working with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska)—for local drinking water and wastewater projects, including $7 million for Sitka, $3.3 million for Nelson Lagoon, $2.1 million for Ouzinkie, and $1.3 million for Soldotna.

Reauthorize the Safe Water for Small and Disadvantaged Communities program at $140 million annually and authorize $60 million annually for Alaska Native village sanitation, crucially expanding eligibility to cover emergency operations and maintenance repairs.

Reauthorize $55 million annually for materials management infrastructure, alongside $30 million annually for drinking water, wastewater, and Trash Free Waters grants—programs and grants established by Sen. Sullivan’s 2020 Save Our Seas 2.0 Act.

Mandate a report on how to incorporate commercial fish landings into the Corps’ benefit-cost metrics in Alaska, breaking down barriers that have historically disadvantaged Alaska harbor projects.

Mandate a 90-day report on the Corps’ implementation of Executive Order 14153, including a review of staffing and the implementation of Alaska’s resource development priorities.

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