Senate Passes Heinrich Resolution Recognizing Journeyman Lineworkers Day

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, announced that a bipartisan resolution he cosponsored designating July 10, 2026, as Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day, passed the Senate.

This resolution honors the men and women who dedicate their lives to ensure communities in New Mexico and nationwide have access to safe, affordable, and reliable electricity.

“As the son of an IBEW lineman, I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing a resolution recognizing Journeyman Lineworkers Day,” said Heinrich, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “Lineworkers keep the lights on and power nearly every aspect of our daily lives, often working long hours in dangerous conditions to ensure our homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure have safe, reliable electricity. They’re not just maintaining today’s grid — they’re building America’s energy future. We owe it to these workers to make sure they have the tools, training, and jobs they can build their families around and thrive.”

The resolution is led by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.). Alongside Heinrich, the resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).

The resolution is endorsed by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), and Edison Electric Institute (EEI).

The full text of the resolution is here.

Heinrich is a champion of New Mexico’s skilled trades workers and has consistently fought to create good-paying, union jobs.

Heinrich recently announced that after nearly two decades of his advocacy to complete one of the largest energy infrastructure projects in the Western Hemisphere, the SunZia Project has become fully operational. SunZia includes a 550-mile transmission line spanning New Mexico’s Torrance, Lincoln, and San Miguel Counties. It will deliver up to 3,650 megawatts (MW) of energy and generate an estimated $20.5 billion in economic benefits for New Mexico and the Southwest. The project supported more than 2,000 construction jobs and will create more than 100 permanent jobs as it begins full operations. For a detailed timeline of Heinrich’s actions to build and bring SunZia online, click here.

In February 2025, Heinrich introduced his Apprenticeship Pathways Act, legislation to create pathways to high-demand careers for high school students by expanding access to apprenticeships and technical education.

Heinrich, a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, also announced $1,350,000 in federal funding that he secured through the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations process for the United Association of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 412 (U.A. Local 412). The funding will support specialized journeyman training focused on filling jobs created by the CHIPS Act and Inflation Reduction Act, including needs specific to semiconductor plants, hospitals, and heat pump installation, service, repair, and maintenance. In the same Fiscal Year Appropriations bills, Heinrich secured $1,200,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for the SMART Local Union No. 49 Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee to enhance and expand specialized HVAC apprenticeship training.

In October 2024, Heinrich visited U.A. 412’s mobile training unit, which is creating more pathways to in-demand careers in the skilled trades and has already trained dozens of New Mexicans in Española, Taos, Las Vegas, Mora, Raton, and Santa Fe. Heinrich also participated in a training demonstration with U.A. Local 412 leadership and apprentices who are learning skills in the plumbing, pipefitting, and HVAC trades.

The U.A. Local 412 Mobile Training Unit was initially paid for by an Economic Development Administration (EDA) Good Jobs Challenge Grant, as part of a $6.4 million award to the Northern N.M. Workforce Integration Network. The Good Jobs Challenge funds were authorized by the American Rescue Plan, the critical economic recovery legislation that Heinrich was proud to pass in 2021.

In August 2024, Heinrich announced the Senate Appropriations Committee passage of bills that included anadditional $870,000 CDS award that he secured to sustain the U.A. Local 412’s mobile training unit’s operations past the original EDA funding, and to expand its reach to new communities including Grants, Gallup, Silver City, and Zuni Pueblo.

In October 2024, Heinrich hosted a “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” roundtable to talk directly with New Mexicans about how federal legislation he helped pass into law, like the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Law, is creating careers in high-demand sectors and strengthening New Mexico’s health care, early childhood education, and skilled trades workforce.

In the last Congress, Heinrich introduced the bipartisan Apprenticeship Pathways Act, legislation to create pathways to careers for high school students by expanding access to apprenticeship programs for occupations with high need, including the building trades, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, telecommunications, and early childhood education. Additionally, Heinrich introduced the Pre-Apprenticeships To Hardhats (PATH) Act, legislation to strengthen the pipeline for careers in New Mexico, address rising workforce shortages, and grow the state’s economy through quality pre-apprenticeship programs.

Heinrich also convened a hearing, as then-Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), on “Job Training for the Clean Energy Transition.” Courtenay Eichhorst, Business Manager of U.A. Local 412 and President of New Mexico Building Trades, testified at the hearing about the importance of apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships.

In 2021, Heinrich and Moran introduced the Championing Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology (CHANCE in Tech) Act, bipartisan legislation to create earlier pathways to high-paying careers in the information technology (IT) industry. Heinrich previously introduced the bipartisan legislation in 2019 with former U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R-Colo.).

In 2021 and 2022, Heinrich helped pass the Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, which helped bring manufacturing to Central New Mexico, including companies like Arcosa Wind Towers. Later in 2022, Heinrich alsohelped pass the CHIPS and Science Act, bipartisan legislation to lower costs, boost domestic manufacturing, strengthen domestic supply chains, and invest in skilled trades and workforce training programs.

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ICYMI: Cincinnati Business Courier highlights Husted’s efforts to secure funding for Fort Washington Way Project

“The $25 million applied for was the maximum the region could get under the program, with leaders crediting U.S. Sen. Jon Husted for pushing the project.”

COLUMBUS – An article from the Cincinnati Business Courier highlights Sen. Jon Husted’s (R-Ohio) efforts to secure $25 million in federal funding for the Fort Washington Way Project, a transformational infrastructure investment that will help reconnect downtown Cincinnati, create new public space and support future economic growth.

As a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the Senate Appropriations Committee, Husted advocated for the project and helped secure the federal investment through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program.

Key excerpts from the article include:

“The region’s leaders applied twice before for federal money to build caps on top of Fort Washington Way, a project decades in the making, but failed each time.”

. . .

“Cincinnati scored big on its third application for construction money, this time for a federal BUILD grant, which was formally applied for by Hamilton County. The $25 million applied for was the maximum the region could get under the program, with leaders crediting U.S. Sen. Jon Husted for pushing the project.”

. . .

“Husted, who was appointed by Gov. Mike DeWine to replace Vice President JD Vance in the Senate in January 2025, cited his service on the Environment and Public Works Committee, as well as discussions he had with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.”

. . .

“Husted said he sent a letter to Duffy with about 30 projects across Ohio that needed funding, then was invited to a meeting with other lawmakers. The transportation department has thousands of requests for projects, Husted recalls Duffy telling them, so cut down your lists to those with the most impact.”

. . .

“Chamber CEO Brendon Cull cited Husted’s ‘dogged engagement’ with the Department of Transportation.

“‘That’s exactly how he’s gotten things done for Ohio,’ Cull said. ‘He made it clear he was on it. Senator, you delivered for this region, and we are so very grateful.’”


Kelly’s Office Helps Arizonans Recover Millions in Benefits and Refunds

In 2026 so far, Kelly’s office has helped over 3,000 constituents and returned nearly $4 million in federal benefits to Arizonans

During the first half of 2026, the office of Arizona Senator Mark Kelly continued helping constituents navigate challenges with federal agencies and access the benefits and services they have earned. From assisting veterans with their benefits and Social Security issues to expediting passport renewals and resolving tax refund delays, Kelly’s office acted on behalf of more than 3,000 Arizonans, returning nearly $4 million in owed payments and benefits.

In addition to casework, Kelly’s office continues to connect Arizonans with federal resources through outreach events, mobile office hours, and partnerships with local organizations across the state, ensuring constituents have direct access to assistance closer to home.

See below for examples of Arizonans helped by Senator Kelly and his office this year:

Tax Refunds

Arthur and Sharon from Tucson contacted Senator Kelly’s office after the IRS had not processed their amended tax return more than six months after it was filed. Following an inquiry from Kelly’s office, the IRS processed the return and issued a refund, including interest, totaling $11,317.57.

James and Shyrlene from Chandler reached out after their 2025 federal tax refund was delayed because the IRS was unable to verify their income tax withholding. After Kelly’s office submitted an inquiry, the IRS resolved the issue, released their refund with interest, and provided guidance to help prevent similar delays in the future. They received $34,154.98.

Veterans Affairs

Edward contacted Senator Kelly’s office after missing retirement payments. Following an inquiry from the office, the Department of Veterans Affairs resolved the issue and issued the back pay he was owed.

Lenore reached out after experiencing problems with her CHAMPVA eligibility that prevented her from receiving needed medications and medical equipment. After Kelly’s office contacted the agency, her eligibility was approved, allowing her to access her benefits and necessary care.

Medicare & Medicaid

Cynthia contacted Senator Kelly’s office after her pharmacy was unable to fill her Medicare Part B prescription because of repeated claim rejections from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Having recently received a kidney transplant, she needed the anti-rejection medication without interruption. After Kelly’s office submitted an inquiry, CMS worked directly with her pharmacy to approve the prescription, allowing her to receive the medication at no cost.

Passports and Immigration

Marie from Phoenix contacted Senator Kelly’s office after losing her naturalization certificate and being unable to renew her driver’s license without proof of citizenship. As the primary caregiver for her disabled veteran husband, restoring her driving privileges was critical. After Kelly’s office contacted the National Archives, the agency located her naturalization record and mailed her a certified copy.

Rosa from Tucson reached out to Senator Kelly’s office after her passport application remained pending for several months despite submitting all requested documentation. Following an inquiry from Kelly’s office, the Department of State completed processing her application and mailed her passport.

Treasury

Anita contacted Senator Kelly’s office after spending more than two years attempting to transfer Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities into her name following her husband’s passing. Although she had completed all required paperwork, she was told the process could take at least another year. After Kelly’s office contacted the Department of the Treasury, the transfer was completed, allowing her to access $301,000 in Treasury securities.


Klobuchar, Smith Secure Significant Federal Funding to Replace Bridges Over the Red River in Norman, Polk, and Clay Counties

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has awarded $24 million for the Red River Regional Bridge System Replacement Project in Norman, Polk, and Clay counties. The grant, provided through USDOT’s BUILD program, will replace up to three bridges over the Red River. This project upgrades aging bridges that are frequently impacted by flooding across the three counties. The bridge system supports commuters, freight movement, and commercial transportation between Minnesota and North Dakota.

“The bridges over the Red River are aging, vulnerable to flooding, and need to be replaced. This federal grant will deliver resources for the bridge replacement project, ensuring both drivers and freight can safely cross the Red River between Minnesota and North Dakota,” Klobuchar said.

“The bridges connecting Minnesota and North Dakota in the Red River Valley are vital to our ag economy and the surrounding communities,” said Smith. “Replacing three old bridges across the Red River will keep commodities moving to market and ensure friends and neighbors have safe crossings as they drive across the prairie.”

Today’s announcement builds on Klobuchar and Smith’s past work to support infrastructure in the Red River Valley. In 2022, Klobuchar, Smith and Senator Hoeven secured $437 million of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding for the construction of permanent flood protection in the Red River Valley. With that award, the project received the complete federal funding commitment of $750 million.

BUILD grants, previously referred to as RAISE grants, can be used by communities across the country for a wide variety of transportation projects with significant local or regional impact. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Klobuchar and Smith supported and was signed into law in 2021, delivered a 50 percent increase in the amount of available funding for the BUILD grants, as well as resources for improving the state’s roads, bridges, public transportation, and water infrastructure.

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Klobuchar, Smith Secure Significant Federal Funding to Improve Rail Crossing Safety in St. Louis County

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has awarded $6 million for the CSAH 100 Rail Crossing Grade Separation Project in Aurora, Minnesota. The grant, provided through USDOT’s BUILD program, will construct a grade separated bridge to improve connectivity for school transportation, emergency services, and freight for mining and logging. The overpass would include a dedicated space for bicycles, snowmobiles, and ATVs.

“Blocked rail crossings not only inconvenience drivers, but also delay emergency vehicles and threaten public safety,” said Klobuchar. “This federal investment will reduce traffic, boost efficiency, and improve rail crossing safety. Investments in our infrastructure serve as a down payment on the long-term economic well-being of our state.”

“Nothing is worse than running late and being stuck sitting on the road waiting for trains to pass on Highway 100. We hear you, and we’re fixing that,” said Smith. “The new railroad overpass in Aurora will keep traffic and pedestrians moving instead of getting stuck at the crossing. We’re making it safer and more efficient for drivers.”

BUILD grants, previously referred to as RAISE grants, can be used by communities across the country for a wide variety of transportation projects with significant local or regional impact. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Klobuchar and Smith supported and was signed into law in 2021, delivered a 50 percent increase in the amount of available funding for the BUILD grants, as well as resources for improving the state’s roads, bridges, public transportation, and water infrastructure.

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Klobuchar, Smith Secure Significant Federal Funding for Infrastructure Improvements in Anoka County

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has awarded $18 million for the Minnesota State Highway 65 and Bunker Lake Boulevard Project. The grant, provided through the USDOT's BUILD program, will be used to construct an interchange at the intersection of Minnesota State Highway 65 and Bunker Lake Boulevard. This project is part of a larger initiative to convert the highway into a freeway with grade-separated interchanges.

“Investments in our infrastructure serve as down payments on the long-term economic well-being of our state,” said Klobuchar. “This federal funding will help make our roads safer and more accessible and allow Minnesotans to more easily reach work, school, and other destinations in Anoka County.”

“Highway 65 is a critical link between the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota. But we’re seeing drivers intentionally avoiding the intersection at Bunker Lake Boulevard to avoid the traffic and congestion, which only increases congestion on nearby roads. This intersection is outdated and needs an update,” said Smith. “A new interchange will handle more traffic and take the strain off of side-roads, meaning Minnesotans can more easily get to their families, to their work or where they need to go.”

Senators Klobuchar and Smith have long supported investment in the Highway 65 corridor. In 2023, Klobuchar and Smith announced $20 million in federal funding to improve road safety and accessibility on Highway 65 from 97th Avenue to 117th Avenue. In 2022, Klobuchar and Smith secured $9 million for Highway 65 improvements at 99th Avenue and 109th Avenue intersections, as well as an additional $4 million for the 117th Avenue intersection in 2024.

BUILD grants, previously referred to as RAISE grants, can be used by communities across the country for a wide variety of transportation projects with significant local or regional impact. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Klobuchar and Smith supported and was signed into law in 2021, delivered a 50 percent increase in the amount of available funding for the BUILD grants, as well as resources for improving the state’s roads, bridges, public transportation, and water infrastructure.

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Graham, Blumenthal, Shaheen, Wicker Announce Agreement With Trump Administration On Legislation Holding Purchasers Of Russian Oil & Natural Gas Accountable

[WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Roger Wicker (R-MS) released the following statement today:

“We are proud to announce that we have reached an agreement with the Trump Administration to move our updated Russia sanctions legislation forward. We are very pleased with this significant progress and expect to roll out the legislation very soon. As Russia intensifies its slaughter of civilians, it is imperative that the legislative and executive branches work together to create tools to exact a heavy price on those who buy Russian oil and natural gas, fueling the Putin war machine.”


N.M. Delegation Demands Answers After Reports of DEA Declining to Seize Massive Fentanyl Shipments, Calls for Immediate Reforms to Stop Deadly Fentanyl from Reaching New Mexico Communities

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) sent a letter demanding answers from U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Terrance Cole on why the DEA allowed large quantities of fentanyl to circulate unseized in New Mexico communities.

Trafficking of fentanyl and other opioids poses one of the most severe — and often deadly — public health threats facing New Mexico and the nation. Illicit fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance, is an exceptionally potent synthetic opioid that can be fatal even in extremely small quantities. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl has been the primary driver of the overdose epidemic in the U.S.

Whistleblower complaints allege that Albuquerque-based DEA agents declined to interdict at least 1.8 million fentanyl pills between 2023 and 2025 in hopes of taking down a larger supply chain.

“We unequivocally assert that allowing fentanyl to go unseized creates an unconscionable risk to New Mexicans,” the lawmakers wrote to DEA Administrator Cole.

In 2017, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and DEA established “Fentanyl Protocols” directing agents to “seize or otherwise prevent the distribution” of fentanyl “as soon as practicable” to protect public safety. In 2024, the DOJ revised those protocols to provide law enforcement with greater discretion, allowing agents to weigh public safety risks against “the benefits to be achieved through preserving the investigation.” A 2024 DOJ Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) investigative summary further states that the U.S. Attorney’s Office acted reasonably in allowing certain drugs to remain unseized and concluded that doing so posed no “specific danger to public health and safety.”

“We adamantly disagree with this internal assessment, and we urge your agency to immediately revert fentanyl protocols to the 2017 standard of seize or otherwise prevent the distribution of fentanyl as soon as practicable,” the lawmakers underscored. “We will be taking all necessary actions in Congress to better ensure the safety of New Mexicans and expect that you will stand with us in those efforts.”

The lawmakers concluded their letter by demanding responses to a request for written documentation on all instances where the DEA declined to interdict fentanyl, and the following questions on the DEA’s fentanyl interdiction policies, investigative protocols, and enforcement practices:

Provide comprehensive written documentation of all individual instances, occurring in New Mexico since January 2017, including dates, locations and amount of suspected contraband, during which DEA has declined to interdict fentanyl in the course of a Title III or electronic surveillance investigation. Please also indicate the extent to which fentanyl involved in these investigations was ultimately recovered.

What are DEA’s current internal directives and guidelines dictating how federal agents manage active drug-trafficking investigations involving fentanyl? Specifically, what protocols instruct agents on whether to seize a shipment of fentanyl immediately or allow it to pass temporarily under surveillance?

What internal DOJ or DEA documentation determines, or may supersede, official fentanyl interdiction and operational protocols both as a matter of agency-wide policy and also with regards to individual drug-trafficking investigations? How are these changes to operational protocols communicated to agents in the field? Please provide all such documentation since January 2017.

Under what circumstances are DEA agents permitted to exercise discretion, abandoning any presumption of interdiction, allowing a fentanyl transaction to proceed without immediate seizure? What safeguards are in place to protect communities when fentanyl shipments are allowed to continue as part of an ongoing investigation?

Must agents possess a guaranteed, continuous ability to seize the substance immediately if the operational environment changes? How is the likelihood of losing operational surveillance, and the potential number of lives impacted if the substance enters the illicit supply chain, measured against the benefits of a successful investigation?

What circumstances mandate when fentanyl must be safely interdicted, or swapped for a controlled delivery with a substituted substance, before it is allowed to advance within the supply chain? What levels of approval within your command structure are required to bypass immediate interdiction?

What other tactics such as controlled deliveries, enhanced surveillance, contraband substitution are available to your agency to facilitate long-term, high-level investigations without an unacceptable risk to public safety? What resources can we provide to make these tactics of more common use to your agency?

What is the reassignment status of DEA personnel based in New Mexico to out-of-state enforcement efforts since January 2025? During the same period, have DEA agents in New Mexico maintained their primary focus on drug-trafficking investigations or have any participated in joint immigration enforcement operations not limited to ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations?

For more information on the N.M. Delegation’s work to tackle the opioid crisis, click here.

The full text of the letter is here and below:

Dear Administrator Cole:

We write with urgent concern following investigative reporting revealing that U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents may have allowed large quantities of fentanyl to circulate unseized in New Mexico communities. These reports include whistleblower complaints alleging that Albuquerque-based agents declined to interdict at least 1.8 million fentanyl pills between 2023 and 2025 in hopes of taking down a larger supply chain. We unequivocally assert that allowing fentanyl to go unseized creates an unconscionable risk to New Mexicans. Furthermore, given the seriousness of these allegations and potential ongoing threats to public safety, we require immediate responses regarding your agency’s fentanyl interdiction and operational protocols.

Illicit fentanyl poses a uniquely severe, and often deadly, public health crisis in New Mexico and across the country. Pharmaceutical fentanyl, a schedule II substance, is an exceptionally potent synthetic opioid, posing a severe risk of fatality even in extremely small quantities. Its potency is estimated to be significantly higher than other opioids, approximately 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Because fentanyl is so powerful, even an extremely small amount — roughly equivalent to a few grains of salt — can be a lethal dose. The illegal diversion of pharmaceutical fentanyl most often occurs through supply chain theft, prescription fraud, and rogue actors within the medical system. Unlike pharmaceutical fentanyl, illicitly manufactured fentanyl is mainly produced in clandestine laboratories without approved precursor chemicals and is largely responsible for the overdose crisis in the U.S. Illicit fentanyl and its analogs, schedule I substances, are unregulated lab-made variations of pharmaceutical fentanyl often supplied by drug cartels. Illicit manufacturers frequently mix it into other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, and counterfeit pills. This means individuals are often unaware they are ingesting it, which significantly increases the risk of accidental overdose. Because of the variability in illegal drug manufacturing, the amount of synthetic opioid varies widely from pill to pill and, as acknowledged by your agency, a single pill can easily result in a fatal overdose.

Internal DEA documentation indicating shifting agency fentanyl interdiction and operational protocols, without necessary consultation with various Congressional oversight authorities, is of paramount importance to our inquiry. Public reporting has focused on U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and DEA “Fentanyl Protocols,” established in 2017, mandating that agents “seize or otherwise prevent the distribution” of fentanyl “as soon as practicable” to protect public safety. Subsequently, in 2024, reporting states that DOJ updated these protocols to give law enforcement more discretion, allowing agents to balance public safety risks against “the benefits to be achieved through preserving the investigation.” Confirmation of this posture is recorded in a DOJ Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) 2024 investigative summary, concluding that the U.S. Attorney’s Office had made reasonable decisions by allowing drugs to go unseized and that their inaction posed no “specific danger to public health and safety.” We adamantly disagree with this internal assessment, and we urge your agency to immediately revert fentanyl protocols to the 2017 standard of seize or otherwise prevent the distribution of fentanyl as soon as practicable.

We appreciate that you recently asked DOJ’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) to begin an internal, independent investigation of the reported allegations. While we have no interest in interfering with the OIG’s progress, we require immediate responses to the following, no later than 10 days from your receipt of this letter, so that we may take appropriate legislative action to reign in any discretionary authority erroneously presumed.

Provide comprehensive written documentation of all individual instances, occurring in New Mexico since January 2017, including dates, locations and amount of suspected contraband, during which DEA has declined to interdict fentanyl in the course of a Title III or electronic surveillance investigation. Please also indicate the extent to which fentanyl involved in these investigations was ultimately recovered.

What are DEA’s current internal directives and guidelines dictating how federal agents manage active drug-trafficking investigations involving fentanyl? Specifically, what protocols instruct agents on whether to seize a shipment of fentanyl immediately or allow it to pass temporarily under surveillance?

What internal DOJ or DEA documentation determines, or may supersede, official fentanyl interdiction and operational protocols both as a matter of agency-wide policy and also with regards to individual drug-trafficking investigations? How are these changes to operational protocols communicated to agents in the field? Please provide all such documentation since January 2017.

Under what circumstances are DEA agents permitted to exercise discretion, abandoning any presumption of interdiction, allowing a fentanyl transaction to proceed without immediate seizure? What safeguards are in place to protect communities when fentanyl shipments are allowed to continue as part of an ongoing investigation?

Must agents possess a guaranteed, continuous ability to seize the substance immediately if the operational environment changes? How is the likelihood of losing operational surveillance, and the potential number of lives impacted if the substance enters the illicit supply chain, measured against the benefits of a successful investigation?

What circumstances mandate when fentanyl must be safely interdicted, or swapped for a controlled delivery with a substituted substance, before it is allowed to advance within the supply chain? What levels of approval within your command structure are required to bypass immediate interdiction?

What other tactics such as controlled deliveries, enhanced surveillance, contraband substitution are available to your agency to facilitate long-term, high-level investigations without an unacceptable risk to public safety? What resources can we provide to make these tactics of more common use to your agency?

What is the reassignment status of DEA personnel based in New Mexico to out-of-state enforcement efforts since January 2025? During the same period, have DEA agents in New Mexico maintained their primary focus on drug-trafficking investigations or have any participated in joint immigration enforcement operations not limited to ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations?

Please provide a detailed timeline regarding actions taken by the DEA since these whistleblower allegations came to your attention. Will DEA now direct all federal agents involved in drug-trafficking investigations to seize or otherwise prevent the distribution of fentanyl as soon as practicable?

This situation requires that your responses be compiled and returned with the same urgency with which we’ve submitted our inquiries. We will be taking all necessary actions in Congress to better ensure the safety of New Mexicans and expect that you will stand with us in those efforts.

Sincerely,

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Senator Markey Releases “The AI Accountability Agenda: Taking Power Back from Big Tech”

Includes new legislation requiring data centers fund clean energy and storage to meet their capacity needs

Full Agenda (PDF)

Boston (July 10, 2026) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today released his AI Accountability Agenda: Taking Power Back from Big Tech, a new vision for artificial intelligence (AI) policy in Congress. The comprehensive agenda responds to the risks posed by AI and lays out specific policy proposals to protect communities from the immediate harms of AI.

Senator Markey is releasing his agenda as the American people reckon with the real threats posed by AI. While Big Tech is making billions off its pitch that the benefits of AI are nearly limitless, the costs and the risks — to kids, workers, the planet, our health, our rights, and our communities — are nearly limitless as well. Senator Markey’s agenda proposes a comprehensive framework and common-sense legislation to address the harms that the American people are facing every day from AI.

Senator Markey said, “For too long, the conversation about artificial intelligence has been about what’s next — the next breakthrough, the next headline, the next promise of the future. But the American people need more than future promises; they need answers to what’s happening right now. From discriminatory algorithms deciding who gets a home or a loan, data centers invading their neighborhoods, employers using AI to surveil and control workers, or kids turning to chatbots in moments of crisis and getting coached toward harm instead of help, AI is defining daily life right now, and people need protections.”

Senator Markey continued, “The risks are the lived reality of AI for millions of Americans — and they deserve policymakers who are paying attention to their lives, not Big Tech’s bottom line. That is why I have been working for more than a decade to propose commonsense policies to take back unchecked power from Big Tech and put it into the hands of the American people. And it’s why today, I am releasing my AI Accountability Agenda — a set of real, actionable answers for the problems Americans are facing right now.”

Senator Markey’s AI Accountability Agenda highlights six key priorities:

Giving Power Back to Workers

Protecting the Privacy and Safety of Children and Teens

Keeping Civil Rights Safe from AI Bias

Putting Humans First in Healthcare

Safeguarding Against Energy and Environmental Impacts of Data Centers

Sharing the AI Wealth

(1) Giving Power Back to Workers

Workers should not be the test subjects or casualties of unchecked automation, nor should AI give employers a blank check to surveil workers, replace human judgment with unaccountable algorithms, or eliminate jobs while shifting the costs onto workers and communities. To address this, Senator Markey has introduced:

The No Robot Bosses Act, which would put safeguards on the use of automated decision systems - including AI - to make work-related decisions such as hiring or firing.

The Stop Spying Bosses Act, which would curtail the growing use of surveillance technology in the workplace.

The Warehouse Worker Protection Act, which would prohibit dangerous speed quotas and that threaten warehouse worker safety and lead to high injury rates.

(2) Protecting the Privacy and Safety of Children and Teens

Senator Markey has introduced legislation that would ensure that Big Tech companies cannot exploit, manipulate, and target children and teens for their own profits:

The Youth AI Privacy (YAP) Act, which would require artificial intelligence (AI) companies to implement privacy safeguards in their AI chatbots.

The Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), which passed out of the Senate by unanimous consent and would ban targeted advertising to children and teens; provide families with an “eraser button” to delete a kid’s personal data; and establish strict limits on the collection of personal information from minors.

(3) Keeping Civil Rights Safe from AI Bias

AI developers and organizations deploying AI models have an obligation to test and fix biased and discriminatory algorithms used in making critical life decisions, such as those involving employment, banking, healthcare, and criminal justice. That’s why Senator Markey introduced the most comprehensive AI civil rights legislation in Congress:

The AI Civil Rights Act, which would prevent companies from using biased and discriminatory AI-powered algorithms to help make critical decisions in Americans’ lives.

The Eliminating Bias in Algorithmic Systems (BIAS) Act, which would ensure that every federal agency that uses, funds, or oversees AI has an office of civil rights focused on combating AI bias and discrimination.

(4) Putting Humans First in Healthcare

Patients deserve care from qualified human beings, and healthcare workers must be able to exercise their professional judgment without fear of retaliation for disagreeing with an AI system. That is why Senator Markey has introduced legislation to ensure that AI supports healthcare professionals:

The Right to Override Act would require healthcare facilities and health plans to create a human override option for AI decisions and protect healthcare workers who disagree with an AI recommendation while providing care in their best judgment for the patient.

(5) Safeguarding Against Energy and Environmental Impacts of Data Centers

Effective oversight of infrastructure that powers AI requires both transparency into AI’s environmental impacts and strong guardrails for the physical infrastructure powering it, so that data center operators are held accountable to the communities in which they operate. That is why Senator Markey has authored legislation that addresses the public health, energy, and environmental costs of the infrastructure that powers AI:

The AI Environmental Impacts Act, which would require artificial intelligence (AI) data centers to report on their environmental and energy-related impacts, with fines levied for those that fail to comply.

A discussion draft of the new Protecting Communities from Data Center Impacts Act, which would require data centers to receive a certificate from the federal government prior to construction that affirms the data center has met minimum standards for energy, environmental, and economic impacts. The legislation would also require data centers pay for necessary grid infrastructure and fund clean energy and storage to meet their capacity needs, as well as commit to high labor standards.

(6) Sharing the AI Wealth

The AI economy should not become another engine for inequality. The wealthiest beneficiaries of AI should pay their fair share just like working people do. That is why Senator Markey has introduced:

The Equal Tax Act, which would tax investment income at the same rate as ordinary labor income for individuals making more than $1 million.

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Senator Marshall Applauds Proposed DOJ Settlement to Rectify 2022 Pipeline Rupture in Washington County

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), applauded the Justice Department’s proposed settlement to resolve allegations that South Bow — the owner and operator of the Keystone Pipeline — violated the Clean Water Act in the 2022 rupture of the Keystone Pipeline in Washington County.

“Kansas farmers and the local community bore the brunt of the Keystone Pipeline rupture,” said Senator Marshall. “With over 2,700 animals killed or impacted and Kansas farmland and waterways affected, this settlement is a necessary step toward justice. I am happy to see the Justice Department working to ensure this issue is rectified and the proper steps are taken to guarantee this never happens again.”

As part of the settlement, South Bow has agreed to pay $26.8 million in civil penalties, complete an estimated $40 million in work designed to prevent future spills, and contribute over $3 million to the state of Kansas towards natural resource restoration projects to resolve violations of Kansas state laws.

Click here to learn more.

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Senator Marshall Discusses Defense, Health Care, & Housing in North-Central KS

Salina – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) visited communities across Central Kansas to hear directly from Kansans working in the defense, health care, and housing industries about the impact of recent congressional efforts to strengthen rural America and invest in Kansas communities.

Allen Control Systems

Click here for more photos.

In Salina, Senator Marshall met with Allen Control Systems, Salina Airport Authority, and Kansas National Guard leaders to discuss expanding Kansas’ defense technology sector and strengthening partnerships between industry and the military. The visit highlighted the 184th Wing’s Point Defense Battle Lab, which Senator Marshall helped secure, and showcased opportunities for Kansas to lead in counter-drone innovation and national defense.

Salina Regional Health Center

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Senator Marshall toured Salina Regional Health Center to discuss the hospital’s Rural Health Transformation Fund grant and his efforts to strengthen rural health care through the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Fund. They also discussed expanding access to innovative technologies, supporting the rural health care workforce, and improving patient care across Kansas.

Clara Barton Medical Center

Click here for more photos.

In Hoisington, Senator Marshall visited Clara Barton Medical Center to discuss its Rural Health Transformation Fund grant, which will fund facility improvements and expand behavioral health services. They also discussed Senator Marshall’s efforts to strengthen rural hospitals through Medicare reforms and investments that ensure Kansans can continue accessing high-quality care close to home.

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ONE YEAR LATER, PENNSYLVANIA’S ENERGY AND INNOVATION SUMMIT INVESTMENTS ARE ON TRACK AND GROWING

WASHINGTON – One year ago, Senator Dave McCormick convened the inaugural Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit in Pittsburgh, where leading companies in energy and artificial intelligence announced more than $90 billion in investments, including approximately $50 billion in energy and power projects and $40 billion in data centers, in addition to millions for workforce and AI training. A year later, those commitments are being delivered.

“Nearly one year ago, we welcomed President Trump to Pittsburgh and brought together leaders in energy, technology, labor, and business with one goal: to reinforce Pennsylvania’s role as the leader in energy and AI. Today, I’m proud that nearly every investment announced at the Summit is on track or growing,” said Senator McCormick. “I’m even more committed to holding everyone—including myself—accountable for delivering an update on these promises. These aren’t just headlines; they’re game-changing investments that will create tens of thousands of good-paying Pennsylvania jobs, strengthen our communities, and ensure Pennsylvania families benefit from this once-in-a-generation opportunity. Pennsylvania has the energy resources, the skilled workforce, and the innovation ecosystem to power America’s future, and we’re proving that our Commonwealth will lead the AI and energy revolution for decades to come.”

Nineteen of the 20 investments announced or previewed at the Summit are on track, with construction and hiring underway, and in many cases growing beyond what was first announced. View the fact sheet for additional details and updates regarding the investments announced at the 2025 Pennsylvania and Innovation Summit.

Watch how momentum has been built as a result of the 2025 Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit. View the video.

From business leaders and university presidents to elected officials, many have recognized the Summit’s role in positioning Pennsylvania as the nation’s leader in energy and artificial intelligence. Their reactions underscore the Summit’s impact in creating tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, strengthening Pennsylvania’s workforce, supporting local communities and businesses, advancing innovation, and cementing the Commonwealth’s role in powering America’s future.

Blackstone and QTS are executing on their $25 billion commitment, having finalized a roughly 1,700-acre land purchase in Luzerne Country. At last year’s summit, Westinghouse committed to constructing 10 new large nuclear power reactors. It has since signed an agreement with the U.S. government for up to $80 billion to build them and recently received $17.5 billion in loans to support the buildout. The Homer City Redevelopment is the largest natural gas power plant under construction nationwide, and the project will, using Pennsylvania gas, put up to 800 MW of power onto the grid. GE Vernova’s Charleroi plant is growing, and TC Energy has committed additional capital in Pennsylvania since the Summit.

The momentum has continued. The AI data center hub outside Carlisle, Pennsylvania Digital 1 (PAX-1), which was previewed at the Summit but not announced, is under construction and already expandable to nearly 1.8 gigawatts. Likewise, the Trump Administration and NextEra have announced the South Mon project, which will generate over 4 GW of natural gas-fired energy. The Commonwealth is leading America’s energy and AI future.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING:

“We’re back in Pittsburgh to announce the largest package of investments in the history of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania…This is a triumphant day for the people of the Commonwealth and the people of America.” – Remarks by President Donald J. Trump at the 2025 Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit

“One year ago, we were honored to attend Senator McCormick’s energy and innovation summit…We also have tremendous momentum – projects that create jobs and have positive impacts on communities, positioning Pennsylvania at the forefront of the AI revolution for decades to come.” – Jon Gray, Blackstone President

“We’re really excited about the progress that’s been made in such a short period of time. A state-of-the-art natural gas power generation facility. 100 to 200 million dollars a year of royalties paid to the communities. It’s going to be about manufacturing intelligence. Industry lives here in Pittsburgh. And thank you to Senator McCormick’s leadership.” – Toby Rice, EQT CEO

“All the projects discussed here aren’t just about energy and innovation. They’re about job creation. There is no workforce more prepared to build the future.” – Remarks by Brandon Bishop, North America’s Building Trades Unions Treasurer, at the 2025 Energy and Innovation Summit.

“I want to take the opportunity to salute my good friend. He’s put together this incredible AI and energy event, and he and I are going to continue to work together to fight for Pennsylvania and for our nation.” – Senator John Fetterman

“The energy and innovation summit was the standout event of last year. The groundwork we laid at the summit helped forge an incredible partnership for our Pittsburgh-based nuclear company, Westinghouse. This led us to signing a game-changing $80 billion deal with the US government. That’s real investment benefiting the people of Pennsylvania.” – Bruce Flatt, Brookfield CEO

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PENNSYLVANIA WINS “BEST IN SHOW” AT THE GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR

Pennsylvania pavilion was named top state exhibit during America’s 250th Anniversary celebration on the National Mall – a win Senators McCormick and Fetterman say belongs to all of Pennsylvania.

WASHINGTON — Pennsylvania was recognized as one of the top state pavilions at America’s 250th birthday celebration, receiving one of the event’s “Best in Show” honors during the closing ceremony at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall.

The recognition comes just weeks after Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) partnered with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and a coalition of 55 Pennsylvania organizations, businesses, and industry partners to ensure the Commonwealth had a pavilion at the Great American State Fair. The bipartisan effort was made possible entirely through private partnerships without the use of a single taxpayer dollar.

Joining Senators McCormick and Fetterman in this effort were the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, PennAg Industries Association, and the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association (PMA), alongside more than 50 additional Pennsylvania organizations, businesses, and industry partners whose support helped bring the Commonwealth’s exhibit to life.

“Pennsylvania’s story is America’s story, and this recognition is a tribute to everyone who helped bring that story to life,” said Senator McCormick. “From Independence Hall and Valley Forge to our farms, factories, and innovators, the Commonwealth has shaped our nation for 250 years. I’m grateful to Senator Fetterman, Secretary Rollins, and our outstanding Pennsylvania partners for ensuring Pennsylvania had a presence worthy of our history.”

“I’m incredibly proud of all the Pennsylvanians that showed up to make sure our Commonwealth had the spotlight it deserved right there on the National Mall during America’s 250th birthday. It earned this recognition,” said Senator Fetterman. “What makes Pennsylvania truly awesome are the men, women, and children who call it home. Our farmers, steelworkers, small business owners, and so many more. Those who visited the pavilion got to see a glimpse of some of the very best of us and our history, and I’m grateful to Senator McCormick, Secretary Rollins, and all who made this a massive success.”

The Pennsylvania pavilion highlights the Commonwealth’s central role in America’s story — from the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the sacrifices at Valley Forge to Gettysburg, the Arsenal of Democracy, and the Commonwealth’s continued leadership in agriculture, manufacturing, energy, innovation, and small business. Visitors also explored exhibits featuring many of Pennsylvania’s iconic companies and products, spotlighting the industries and communities driving the Commonwealth’s economy today.

During the closing ceremony, Freedom 250 recognized several outstanding state pavilions from across the country. Pennsylvania received one of the event’s “Best in Show” honors, recognizing the Commonwealth’s exhibit as one of the premier state pavilions at the Great American State Fair.

Representatives from Senator McCormick’s office accepted the Best in Show award during a recognition ceremony on the Freedom Stage Friday afternoon at the Great American State Fair.

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SENATOR MCCORMICK COMPLETES 11-DAY TOUR, VISITS EVERY PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY SINCE TAKING OFFICE

11 days. 32 stops. 26 counties. Over 2,000 miles. One mission: hearing directly from Pennsylvanians.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) recently completed an 11-day, 32-stop tour across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, marking the milestone of visiting all 67 counties in the Commonwealth since taking office. In total, his 67-county visit included 297 official stops across the Commonwealth.

Traveling from Philadelphia County to Greene County, Senator McCormick met with rural healthcare providers, manufacturers, veterans, small business owners, educators, county commissioners, labor leaders, tourism officials, and community members to hear firsthand about the issues impacting Pennsylvanians across every corner of the Commonwealth.

The completion of this tour reflects Senator McCormick’s commitment to maintaining a strong, visible presence throughout Pennsylvania and ensuring that every region in the Commonwealth has a voice in the United States Senate.

“Pennsylvania’s greatest strength has always been its people, and there’s no substitute for showing up and listening,” said Senator McCormick. ”Over the last 11 days, I traveled from one end of the Commonwealth to the other, meeting with Pennsylvanians who are building businesses, caring for patients, manufacturing world-class products, educating our children, protecting our communities, and powering our economy.”

“Completing this tour marks an important milestone. During our campaign, we visited all 67 counties across Pennsylvania, and now I’ve done it again since taking office. That commitment doesn’t end here. I’ll continue traveling the Commonwealth because the best way to represent Pennsylvania in Washington is to hear directly from the people who call it home,” said Senator McCormick.

Throughout the 11-day tour, Senator McCormick highlighted Pennsylvania’s diverse economy and communities while focusing on issues critical to the Commonwealth’s future. The tour reinforced Senator McCormick’s commitment to ensuring that every community—urban, suburban, and rural—is represented in the Senate and that Pennsylvania remains a national leader in manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, energy, innovation, and economic opportunity.

To view a photo gallery from the tour,click here.

11-Day Tour Recap

Day 1 – Friday, June 26

Stop 1: Lancaster County – Healthcare Workforce Roundtable at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital

Day 2 – Saturday, June 27

Stop 2: Schuylkill County – America 250 Parade in Pottsville

Stop 3: Carbon County – Jim Thorpe Small Business Walking Tour

Stop 4: Carbon County – Boat Yard Visit (Ty Poole’s Bar in Lehighton)

Day 3 – Sunday, June 28

Stop 5: Philadelphia County – Worship Service at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church

Day 4 – Monday, June 29

Stop 6: Philadelphia County – Invest America Trump Accounts Event at The Alan Horwitz “Sixth Man” Center

Stop 7: Pike County – Visit to The Resort at Woodloch

Stop 8: Wayne County – Community Reception

Day 5 – Tuesday, June 30

Stop 9: Sullivan County – Breakfast with Commissioners

Stop 10: Union County – WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital

Stop 11: Snyder County – Lunch with County Commissioners

Stop 12: Montour County – Tour of Geisinger Medical Center

Stop 13: Northumberland County – Knoebels 100th Anniversary Celebration

Day 6 – Wednesday, July 1

Stop 14: Centre County – Tour of Mount Nittany Medical Center

Stop 15: Clinton County – Racing for Heroes at Bucktail Medical Center

Stop 16: Cameron County – Tour of Emporium Hardwoods

Stop 17: Potter County – Eliot Ness Museum Roundtable

Stop 18: Elk County – Tour of Straub Brewery

Day 7 – Thursday, July 2

Stop 19: McKean County – Tour of W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company

Stop 20: Warren County – Kinzua Dam & Riverfront Walk

Stop 21: Warren County – Plaza Restaurant & Allegheny River Riverfront Tour

Stop 22: Forest County – West Hickory Boat Launch

Stop 23: Clarion County – 86th Annual Wolf’s Corners Fair

Stop 24: Armstrong County – Meeting with County Commissioners

Day 8 – Friday, July 3

Stop 25: Philadelphia County – Tour of Independence Hall

Day 9 – Saturday, July 4

Stop 26: Philadelphia County – FIFA World Cup Match

Stop 27: Philadelphia County – One Philly: Unity Concert for America

Day 10 – Sunday, July 5

Stop 28: Bedford County – Meeting with State Representative Jesse Topper

Day 11 – Monday, July 6

Stop 29: Butler County – Gateway 228 Corridor Project Meeting

Stop 30: Westmoreland County – Meeting with Commissioners

Stop 31: Fayette County – Tour of Heartland Fabrication

Stop 32: Greene County – Meeting with County Commissioners & United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) District 2 Vice President

11-Day Tour by the Numbers:

11 Days

32 Stops

26 Counties Visited

Over 2,000 Miles Traveled

TotalSince Taking Office in January 2025:

67 of 67 Pennsylvania Counties Visited

297 Official Stops

23 Telephone Townhalls

49 Keystone Coffees

To receive weekly updates from Senator McCormick, click here.

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Merkley, Wyden Demand Answers on Misuse of Federal Resources After Rushed, Costly Retrofit Job of Trump’s Luxury Jet

Last week, Secret Service questioned the security of the gifted aircraft’s retrofit

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden joined a dozen of their Senate colleagues in demanding transparency into the taxpayer-funded modification of the $400-million luxury jet gifted to President Trump by the government of Qatar. Since Trump announced the gift in May 2025, the Trump Administration has refused to provide Congress with basic details about the costs to taxpayers, national security risks, diversion of federal resources, and questionable decision-making process associated with sprinting to upgrade President Trump’s new luxury plane.

In the letter to Secretary of the U.S. Air Force Troy E. Meink and CEO of L3Harris Christopher Kubasik, the Senators note that available public reporting indicates the Trump Administration dedicated as much as $1 billion to rushing the sensitive Air Force One modification process, with hundreds working around the clock to condense a yearslong process into just ten months. The Senators’ letter demands answers on this irresponsible use of federal resources.

“Americans deserve answers on how the administration has decided to spend their taxpayer dollars and assume new national security risks with the VC-25B Bridge aircraft and the rushed retrofit program contracted to L3Harris – all in service to President Trump’s interest in having a pretty, luxurious plane for himself,” the Senators wrote.

The Senators called out the Trump Administration for withholding information from Congress, preventing oversight of the luxury jet and its upgrade program: “For over a year, the administration has stonewalled congressional requests for information about Qatar’s luxury jet gift to President Trump. Congress and the American public have expressed due outrage about this corrupt, illegal exchange, but Pentagon officials have mostly deflected questions or claimed inability to share classified details about the luxury jet, the memorandum of understanding with Qatar, and the program to modify it for use by the President. The Trump administration has refused to share the information Congress needs to conduct oversight of this foreign gift and the estimated $1 billion in taxpayer dollars spent to upgrade and outfit the luxury jet for President Trump’s use during – and reportedly after – his term in office.”

They highlighted new reporting that indicates the luxury jet project has been another hotbed for corruption and misuse of taxpayer dollars: “After months of limited public information about the jet, new reporting has deepened concerns about the administration’s irresponsible management of U.S. national security funding to prioritize President Trump’s personal interest in this jet. In a Breaking Defense interview on June 23, L3Harris executive Jason Lambert reported that the company was contracted by the Air Force to oversee the jet’s modifications, with a deadline of July 4, 2026, from the White House. This timeline drove L3Harris to scale back the usual Air Force One upgrade package while committing 400 employees to working around the clock to complete in ten months a process that would normally take years. This accelerated luxury jet upgrade required other large expenses, including building a 3D mockup of the plane’s interior and the leasing and purchase of additional 747 aircraft for pilot and crew training.”

The Senators objected strongly to the Trump administration decision to shift resources away from national security priorities just so President Trump could enjoy luxury flying as soon as possible: “The Air Force seems to have committed to a rushed, expensive aircraft modification program in order to meet President Trump’s demand to fly on ‘the world’s most luxurious plane,’ with his favored paint job, during Independence Day festivities. Trump’s own statements – including his celebration of ‘a level of luxury that nobody’s ever seen before’ – make it clear that these decisions prioritized Trump’s personal comfort and tastes over U.S. national security.”

The Senators concluded by calling for a congressional briefing and demanding full transparency from the Secretary of the Air Force and the Pentagon contractor responsible for the project: “Congress needs full information about program costs, the diversion of resources away from other Pentagon priorities, and the national security and funding implications of upgrades skipped during the rush. The American public deserves transparency into this costly and questionable modification work – conducted with their taxpayer dollars on a luxury jet that President Trump reportedly plans to take with him after he leaves office.”

The letter was led by Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) and was signed by Merkley, Wyden, and ten Democratic Senators. A full text of the letter is available below or by clicking here.

Dear Secretary Meink and Mr. Kubasik:

We write to ask the U.S. Air Force and L3Harris to provide Congress full information on the modification work recently completed on the $400-million Boeing 747-8 luxury jumbo jet gifted by the Government of Qatar to President Donald Trump. Americans deserve answers on how the administration has decided to spend their taxpayer dollars and assume new national security risks with the VC-25B Bridge aircraft and the rushed retrofit program contracted to L3Harris – all in service to President Trump’s interest in having a pretty, luxurious plane for himself.

For over a year, the administration has stonewalled congressional requests for information about Qatar’s luxury jet gift to President Trump. Congress and the American public have expressed due outrage about this corrupt, illegal exchange, but Pentagon officials have mostly deflected questions or claimed inability to share classified details about the luxury jet, the memorandum of understanding with Qatar, and the program to modify it for use by the President. The Trump administration has refused to share the information Congress needs to conduct oversight of this foreign gift and the estimated $1 billion in taxpayer dollars spent to upgrade and outfit the luxury jet for President Trump’s use during – and reportedly after – his term in office.

After months of limited public information about the jet, new reporting has deepened concerns about the administration’s irresponsible management of U.S. national security funding to prioritize President Trump’s personal interest in this jet. In a Breaking Defense interview on June 23, L3Harris executive Jason Lambert reported that the company was contracted by the Air Force to oversee the jet’s modifications, with a deadline of July 4, 2026, from the White House. This timeline drove L3Harris to scale back the usual Air Force One upgrade package while committing 400 employees to working around the clock to complete in ten months a process that would normally take years. This accelerated luxury jet upgrade required other large expenses, including building a 3D mockup of the plane’s interior and the leasing and purchase of additional 747 aircraft for pilot and crew training.

The Air Force seems to have committed to a rushed, expensive aircraft modification program in order to meet President Trump’s demand to fly on “the world’s most luxurious plane,” with his favored paint job, during Independence Day festivities. Trump’s own statements – including his celebration of “a level of luxury that nobody’s ever seen before” – make it clear that these decisions prioritized Trump’s personal comfort and tastes over U.S. national security.

Congress needs full information about program costs, the diversion of resources away from other Pentagon priorities, and the national security and funding implications of upgrades skipped during the rush. The American public deserves transparency into this costly and questionable modification work – conducted with their taxpayer dollars on a luxury jet that President Trump reportedly plans to take with him after he leaves office.

To this end, we request that the Air Force and L3Harris coordinate to provide written answers to the following questions no later than July 27, 2026. Recognizing that some of this information is classified, we also request a joint classified briefing for all U.S. Senators no later than August 6, 2026, to discuss your answers and the upgrade program in greater detail.

What was the total cost of preparing the VC-25B Bridge aircraft for delivery? Provide a comprehensive breakout of costs of L3Harris’s upgrade work, as well as associated expenses by the Air Force (including new equipment, mockups, and training).

How were the work schedule and timeframe for this aircraft modification program developed? What were the Air Force’s stated priorities for this program? Who, formally or informally, played a role in setting requirements and finalizing the contract? Describe the contract negotiations in detail and release the contract text for review.

How did the surge of Air Force and L3Harris personnel and resources to support the program’s accelerated schedule impact overall cost?

How did the surge of Air Force and L3Harris personnel and resources to support the program’s accelerated schedule impact other Air Force efforts or other Pentagon work being conducted at L3Harris? How were resources diverted from other programs?

How would the Air Force and L3Harris have adjusted the program’s schedule and cost structure have changed without a July 4, 2026, deadline?

How did the program’s accelerated schedule impact the scope of the Air Force One upgrade package? Detail capabilities that were not added to the VC-25B Bridge aircraft and describe the national security implications.

What additional resources, personnel, and equipment will be necessary to make up for the neglected upgrades when operating the aircraft as Air Force One? What will the cost be?

How did the aircraft modification program account for President Trump’s stated plan to transfer the VC-25B Bridge aircraft to his Presidential library upon leaving office?

We urge you to answer these questions and arrange the briefing as soon as possible to shed much-needed light on Trump’s luxury jet upgrade program. We look forward to the opportunity to finally deliver answers to the American people about Trump’s foreign-gifted luxury jet and the federal resources poured into upgrading and delivering it in time for his July 4 celebrations.

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VIDEO: Senator Moody Celebrates the Florida Heroes Who Stare Danger in the Eye to Restore Power After Major Hurricane Strikes

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, on Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day, Senator Ashley Moody is honoring the brave workers who risk their lives to restore power to Florida communities devastated by hurricanes. Senator Moody cosponsored a resolution to show gratitude for the skilled men and women whose work keeps Florida and America connected.

“Lineworkers’ jobs are essential, and often dangerous. That became very apparent in Florida after Hurricanes Helene and Milton rocked our state. Crews from Florida and from across state lines left their own families and worked around the clock in hazardous conditions to restore power to Floridians. On Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day and every day, we say thank you to the linemen who rushed to our state to get power back up and running after major disasters,” said Senator Ashley Moody.

BACKGROUND:

Senator Moody cosponsored a resolution recognizing Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day. View the resolution here.

Lineworkers provide a vital service on a daily basis and often work in dangerous conditions.

Following natural disasters and hurricane strikes, lineworkers work around the clock in hazardous conditions to get Florida communities connected again. After the back-to-back storms of Helene and Milton in 2024, more than 50,000 lineworkers from across the country came to the Sunshine State to help recovery efforts.

As of 2025, Florida has 6,420 lineworkers.

Examples include:

Duke Energy Florida reported restoration of 95% of the 1 million customers’ power within 4 days following Hurricane Milton.

Prior to 2024, following Hurricane Ian, 2 out of 3 million families and businesses had lights back on within 48 hours thanks to Florida linemen.

Florida Power & Light reported power had been essentially completely restored for 2 million customers in only 5 days following Hurricane Milton.

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Delegation Welcomes Corps Permit for King Cove Road

Anchorage, AK—U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan and Congressman Nick Begich (all R-Alaska) today applauded the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (Corps) approval of a permit to facilitate construction of a life-saving road between the isolated community of King Cove, Alaska and nearby Cold Bay. The one-lane gravel connector will provide reliable transportation access from King Cove to Cold Bay, which is home to an all-weather airport.

“This is more good news for King Cove and all who care about the health, safety, and wellbeing of the hundreds of people who live there,” Murkowski said.“After decades of relentlessly making the case and pushing with everything we have, this life-saving road is finally almost a reality. A combination of careful analysis and common sense from the Trump administration—the Department of the Interior and now the Army Corps—have brought us to this point. I thank them for their continued commitment to protecting and improving these Alaskans’ lives.”

“For Alaskans, the decades-long King Cove Road impasse has been a symbol of an uncaring, out-of-touch, faraway federal government that prioritizes the lives of birds over people,” said Sullivan. “The great residents of King Cove time and again have kept hope alive, despite setbacks, most recently when the Biden administration disregarded the voices of the community and withdrew the previously approved land exchange. The permit issued by the Corps of Engineers today is vindication for King Cove, putting us closer than ever before to delivering a lifesaving, 11-mile, single-lane gravel road to the all-weather airport in Cold Bay. I want to thank the Administration, especially Secretary Burgum and Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Telle, for listening to Alaskans, for caring about their safety and well-being, and for putting us on the cusp of a historic breakthrough for safe and reliable access for King Cove.”

“This permit approval by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is a critical milestone in a decades-long effort to provide the people of King Cove with the infrastructure they need to build an essential life-saving road,” said Begich. “For nearly 50 years, the community has advocated for a road connecting King Cove to the all-weather airport in Cold Bay. This project addresses an obvious public safety need and will provide a reliable route for emergency access in adverse weather conditions. I commend everyone who helped move this project forward, from residents who never stopped advocating, to Secretary Burgum, the Army Corps of Engineers, Governor Dunleavy, and Alaska’s congressional delegation over many years.”

King Cove is located between two volcanic peaks near the end of the Alaska Peninsula, and its small gravel airstrip is typically closed by bad weather for more than 100 days each year. Many flights not canceled are delayed by wind, turbulence, fog, rain, or snow squalls; travel by boat is often impacted by waves that can top 12 feet and the lack of suitable dock infrastructure in Cold Bay. By comparison, Cold Bay, which is less than 30 miles from King Cove, has one of the longest runways in the state and it is closed an average of just 10 days per year.

At present, there are roads leading out of both King Cove and Cold Bay but no connection between them. The lack of dependable transportation access to Cold Bay routinely forces emergency medevacs from King Cove that risk the lives of patients and responders alike. It also creates significant quality-of-life issues, ranging from King Cove residents’ inability to regularly receive mail to week-long travel delays for students returning home from various activities.

King Cove residents have sought this life-saving connector road for decades. In late 2025, a major breakthrough occurred when the Trump administration conveyed490 federal acres to the King Cove Corporation in exchange for 1,739 acres of KCC-owned land near the Kinzarof Lagoon and the relinquishment of selection rights to more than 5,430 acres still owed to KCC under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.

The Corps permit issued this week is valid for five years and allows for dredge and fill activities to occur on just over five acres of land. For perspective, the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge spans 315,000 acres and there are at least 130 million acres of wetlands across Alaska.

More information is available here.

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ICYMI: Murray Releases Video Calling for an Independent Investigation in Response to Lorenzo Salgado Araujo’s killing

Sen. Murray Calls for an Independent Investigation; Demands ICE Release all the Footage Related to Lorenzo Salgado Araujo’s Filling

*** WATCH HERE***

Washington, D.C. – In response to the fatal shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by ICE, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, released a video statement demanding that ICE release all of the footage related to this tragedy and calling for an independent investigation. In the video, Senator Murray draws attention to the fact that ICE has provided no evidence to back up its dubious claims that the officer fired in response to Salgado Araujo “weaponizing his vehicle” and the agency has a history of lying about using extreme force against innocent civilians.

*** Watch here***

Senator Murray has spoken out forcefully and consistently against the Trump administration’s cruel and counterproductive mass deportation campaign and the egregious treatment by ICE and DHS of American citizens, legal immigrants, and undocumented immigrants. As Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee, she led Democrats’ efforts fighting tooth and nail to secure meaningful reforms in law to rein in ICE and Border Patrol—which Republicans ultimately refused altogether and chose to skirt Democrats by delivering another massive blank check for the agencies with no accountability. Last month, at a Senate Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee hearing on the FY27 budget request for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)—Murray pressed Secretary Markwayne Mullin on the conduct of ICE and Border Patrol and Republicans’ refusal to enact reforms into law.

In March, Senator Murray released a video about the numerous violent shootings we are seeing from Trump’s reckless ICE and CBP agents across the country—and the urgent need to rein in these rogue agencies. Senator Murray highlighted the stories of Marimar Martinez, Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, Carlos Jimenez, Francisco Longoria, and Carlitos Ricardo Parias—all of whom were shot by ICE or CBP agents. Throughout the video, Senator Murray calls out the egregious use of force from federal agents, their lies that don’t hold up in court, and the extreme danger they are putting families and communities in by recklessly using firearms. Senator Murray also called out Republicans for refusing to negotiate serious and common sense measures to rein in ICE and CBP.

In December 2025, Murray called attention to the violent assault of Wilmer Toledo-Martinez in Vancouver, Washington and she successfully advocated for his release from the Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC). Wilmer was lured out of his home under false pretenses, violently detained by federal agents, and mauled by an attack dog despite not resisting arrest or attempting to flee. Not long after, Murray also called attention to the case of Jose Paniagua Calderón, whose foot was run over by agents in Vancouver.

In November 2025, Senator Murray joined 48 of her colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives in introducing the Restoring Access to Detainees Act, which would mandate that DHS allow people who have been detained to contact their legal counsel and families. In February 2025, Senator Murray signed onto a letter demanding that DHS end wrongful searches and interrogations of Tribal members, and continued to push for answers from DHS on the matter last December. In March 2025, Murray also reintroduced her Stop Shackling and Detaining Pregnant Women Act. She and Senator Richard Blumenthal led 27 of their Senate colleagues last year in a letter expressing concern with prevalence and the treatment of pregnant, postpartum, and nursing women in ICE detention.

In Washington state, Senator Murray has been conducting oversight of the Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC), despite the Trump administration’s efforts to block Congressional oversight of federal immigration detention facilities. After a protracted legal battle over Washington state’s ability to enforce health and safety standards at NWIPC, a federal appeals court ruled in August 2025 that the state should be allowed to enforce such standards at the detention center, and that failure to comply could result in fines of up to $10,000 per violation. In December 2025, Senator Murray led Members of the Washington state Congressional delegation in a letter to Acting Director of ICE Todd Lyons expressing grave concerns with conditions at NWIPC in Tacoma, Washington and demanding answers to a long list of questions regarding overcrowding and lack of access to medical services, food, and legal counsel for individuals detained at the facility.

Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below:

“That is Ronaldo Salgado. On Tuesday morning, an ICE agent shot and killed his father, Lorenzo—a construction worker with no criminal history who spent 35 years in Houston building homes and raising three American sons.

“Now here is ICE’s version: they say Lorenzo ‘weaponized his vehicle,’ so an agent fired in self-defense.

“Of course, ICE has provided no evidence to back up its claims. And we know ICE lies. How? That is almost word-for-word what DHS said after a federal agent shot Carlitos Parias in Los Angeles—right up until the body cam footage showed the agent’s gun went off while officers were smashing in his windows, and a judge threw the whole case out.

“It is the same story they told about Marimar Martinez in Chicago—until the video showed the agent was the one doing the ramming.

“Look, we saw the videos of officers killing Renée Good and Alex Pretti.

“We know that ICE lies. Yet Republicans still refuse to require ICE to follow the same basic rules your local police follow every single day.

“That is what Democrats are fighting for—and it should not be a fight.

“I’m still pushing for accountability in the law, but I am also demanding an independent investigation and that ICE release all of the footage related to Lorenzo’s killing.

“We also need to hear from the witnesses at the scene they detained and shipped to God knows where.

“If you’re wondering what you can do, you need to understand that your voice matters here. When America spoke up for Alex Pretti and Renée Good, Republicans felt the pressure.

“Keep sharing Ronaldo’s words. Use your voice and use your vote. We do not have to accept this as our new normal.”

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Sens. Ossoff & Rev. Warnock Delivering Funding to Protect Georgia Families from Hazardous Substances

Chickamauga, Ga. — U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock are delivering bipartisan infrastructure law funding to protect Georgia families from hazardous contaminants and substances.

Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock are delivering nearly $9 million in Federal funding through the bipartisan infrastructure law to accelerate the cleanup of polluted sites across Georgia.

The Federal funding, delivered through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Brownfields Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup grant program, will help assess, clean up and redevelop blighted properties across the state and protect families from dangerous chemicals.

“This is about our communities’ health. No family in Georgia should live in fear of contaminants in their communities,” Sen. Ossoff said. “That’s why we are delivering these historic public health and environmental cleanup efforts across Georgia.”

“The health of Georgia’s communities is tied to the health of our environment,”said Senator Reverend Warnock. “These federal funds will help ensure Georgians can trust that their families are protected from hazardous substances.”

Please find more details about the Federal grant funding below:

Sen. Ossoff continues to protect Georgia families from harmful chemicals and contaminants.

In May, Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock and Rep. McBath brought Republicans and Democrats in Congress together to deliver Federal funding for the City of East Point to install PFAS removal filters to existing drinking water pipes, helping improve drinking water quality for families.

In April Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock brought Republicans and Democrats together to upgrade the Alcovy River Pump Station to better serve residents in the county by mitigating the risk of exposure to PFAS and other contaminants and improving available water supply.

Last December, Sen. Ossoff urged the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to reinstate a grant made to Emory University to research children’s exposure to lead, heavy metals, and other contaminants in West Atlanta following the discovery of dangerously high levels of lead in some West Atlanta yards.

Sen. Ossoff has previously delivered funding through the EPA’s Brownfield program for clean-up projects across the state, including in Adrian, Atlanta, Columbus, Macon, Milledgeville, Rome, and Warner Robins.

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Padilla Statement on Bipartisan Housing Bill

The 21st Century Road to Housing Act is set to become law — even though Trump says he won’t sign in fit over SAVE Act defeat

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) issued the following statement after President Trump announced he will not sign the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act in protest of Congress’ refusal to pass his anti-voter SAVE Act. The bill is expected to automatically become law at midnight, even without President Trump’s signature:

“Donald Trump and his reckless policies have made gas, groceries, and housing much more expensive. And when given the opportunity to deliver the bipartisan housing relief Americans have been waiting for, Trump instead threw a tantrum and refused to sign it into law. The bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act will become law thanks to Congress and the Constitution — and in spite of Donald Trump’s inaction. This compromise bill is a step in the right direction, helping to expand homeownership opportunities and address the national housing affordability crisis nationwide.

“I am proud that the new law will include my provision to ensure veterans experiencing homelessness and receiving VA disability benefits can still qualify for housing assistance. This package will also help Californians rebuild their homes and lives after disasters, unlock millions of dollars in federal funding for local governments for new housing construction, and strengthen rural housing programs that support millions of Americans.

“While this legislative package provides additional resources to invest in housing, our work is far from over. I will continue pushing to address the housing crisis facing California and the entire nation through comprehensive legislation like my Housing for All Act.”

Padilla’s bipartisan Housing Unhoused Disabled Veterans Act (HUDVA) was included as part of the legislation to ensure veterans experiencing homelessness and receiving disability payments maintain access to crucial housing support. The HUDVA provision would permanently exclude disability payments received by veterans from annual income for housing assistance eligibility purposes under the Department of Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program. The legislation was co-led by Senators Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), and Katie Britt (R-Ala.).

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act also includes the Housing Supply Expansion Act of 2025, legislation Padilla cosponsored that would modernize the federal definition of “manufactured housing” to include modular or prefabricated homes built without a permanent chassis. By allowing off-chassis manufactured homes, the bill would expand consumer access to more efficient and cost-effective designs, providing greater architectural flexibility to better integrate into existing neighborhoods, and saving owners thousands of dollars on construction costs. Padilla also cosponsored the Unleashing Needed Local Options to Construct and Keep (UNLOCK) Housing Act; a modified version of the bill was included in the housing package to allow municipalities, for the first time, to use Community Development Block Grant funding for the construction of new housing.

Padilla recognizes the need to drastically increase the affordable housing stock to address the homelessness crisis facing California and the country. His Housing for All Act would invest in proven solutions to address affordable housing shortages and provide a historic level of federal funding for existing programs to reduce homelessness and for innovative, locally developed solutions to support vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness.

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ON THE JOB FOR MICHIGAN: Great Lakes PFAS Action Network Co-Chair Highlights Peters’ Work to Address Harmful PFAS Contamination

WASHINGTON, DC – In a new “On the Job” video from U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) office, Co-Chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network Tony Spaniola reflects on Peters’ continued efforts to address toxic per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in Michigan communities. In 2016, Spaniola learned that his home in Oscoda was impacted by PFAS contamination from the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base. In response, Peters has repeatedly worked with Spaniola and the Oscoda community to mitigate these harmful “forever chemicals” and remediate contaminated sites across Michigan. The video with Spaniola is part of the On the Job for Michigan series, which highlights Peters’ leadership and advocacy on behalf of Michigan constituents and communities.

“Many of us, including me, can’t drink our water from our private wells,” said Spaniola. “What we’ve come to learn about PFAS chemicals is that they also are very harmful at exceptionally low levels... Senator Peters recognized early on that this issue is one that has tremendous spread and reach.”

“What we’ve been able to do is to suggest to the Air Force and to the Department of Defense a strategy, a policy strategy, for dealing with PFAS cleanups around the country... We would have never gotten to first base with it if Senator Peters hadn’t been so critically involved,” Spaniola continued. “And that’s why his efforts, his involvement, his partnership with our community have been so, so, so valuable.”

Watch Spaniola’s “On the Job” video here. You can also watch the video on Instagram and Facebook.

“We have to protect Michiganders’ drinking water and our state’s precious natural resources from these toxic chemicals. That’s why the work to clean up areas affected by PFAS contamination is so important,” said Senator Peters. “We’ve made meaningful progress by bringing together federal, state, and local partners, like Tony, but there’s more work ahead. I’ll never stop fighting to address PFAS contamination and protect the health and safety of all Michiganders.”

Despite ongoing setbacks from the Department of Defense (DOD), Peters has long fought alongside Spaniola and other community leaders in Michigan to mitigate harmful PFAS contamination. Most recently, Peters demanded answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up PFAS contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the country. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Peters called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve. Last year, Peters secured provisions in the national defense bill requiring DOD to develop a PFAS remediation acceleration strategy, create a PFAS transparency dashboard, and provide alternative drinking water – such as bottled water – to households with private drinking water wells that have been contaminated by PFAS as a result of DOD activities.

In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, which assessed the federal government’s response to PFAS contamination and remediation efforts. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how local, state, and federal governments are coordinating responses to address PFAS contamination. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 as Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to examine how servicemembers, their families, and communities across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In 2022, Peters convened a field hearing in East Lansing with numerous administration officials to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS, and to examine the impact exposure to these toxic chemicals has had on servicemembers, first responders, families, and other Michiganders.

Peters has also introduced and advanced bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. Peters’ Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which was signed into law in 2022, is working to deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2022, Peters’ bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law. Peters also secured $10 billion in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS remediation efforts in Michigan and across the country.

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Ahead of Midterms, Trump Terminates Election Assistance Commission Leaders

PROVIDENCE, RI – As President Donald Trump continues dismantling election security safeguards, the Trump Administration officially ousted the three remaining members of the bipartisan U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC).

The EAC is an independent, federal election watchdog commission that serves as a “national clearinghouse of information on election administration,” accredits testing laboratories and certifies voting systems, and maintains the national mail voter registration form developed by the National Voter Registration Act of 1993. The EAC manages and distributes federal grants to states and local jurisdictions to improve election infrastructure, update voting equipment, enhance cybersecurity, ensure accessibility, and support voter education initiatives.

As a result of Trump’s terminations, the EAC, which is responsible for assisting election administration officials nationwide, is now leaderless, rudderless, and powerless to do its job just four months out from Election Day 2026.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed today joined voting rights and election integrity advocates in condemning President Trump’s move, which he believes is a sign Trump wants to meddle with the upcoming midterms. Senator Reed says the goal should be to strengthen America’s election system and ensure lawful and impartial voting, but instead President Trump is seeking to remove safeguards and seize power for himself.

“We’ve got to protect Americans right to vote and ensure the security, integrity, and accuracy of our elections. But President Trump is seeking to undermine federal voter protections and unduly influence and interfere with the outcome of elections this fall. This move is part of a broader pattern by the president to seize unchecked control over election outcomes. This includes Trump’s executive order to try and grant himself more power; unlawful voter data collection; attempts to instruct the U.S. Postal Service to refuse to deliver ballots to some eligible voters; the erecting of new barriers to voting; and gutting the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) that helps non-partisan election workers across the country. The list of hyper-partisan moves goes on and on and it’s all geared toward undermining the upcoming mid-terms,” said Reed. “This is an attempt to silence and sideline election security experts by a partisan president who wants to remove bipartisan guardrails and seize power over elections for himself.”

The Constitution gives states and Congress – not the president -- the power to run elections. In fact, the founders were very clear about the dangers of putting elections in the purview and control of one person.

Still, Trump has attempted to ignore the Constitution and seize new powers for himself.

“The American people deserve strong election laws so eligible voters can cast their ballot and have it accurately counted. Meanwhile, President Trump wants to disenfranchise millions – mostly women and people of color – and become the first president in U.S. history who gets to be the final arbiter of state-run elections. His unworkable, so-called SAVE Act would impose new voting restrictions on millions and generate election year chaos,” said Reed. “If President Trump cared about election integrity, he would help make more resources available to states to ensure free and fair elections. Instead, he is doing the opposite.”

The EAC commissioners on the bipartisan panel were forced off the commission by the Trump Administration yesterday in starkly contrasting ways: The one remaining Republican appointee was given the option to resign while the two Democratic appointees were simply notified of their termination, without explanation, via an email by the White House Presidential Personnel Office.