Chairmen Johnson, Grassley Release Records Showing Jack Smith’s Investigative Team Secretly Obtained Text Messages from 44 Members of Congress Amid Trump Probe

WASHINGTON – Special Counsel Jack Smith’s investigative team obtained and reviewed text messages from White House personnel, including messages to and from 44 Members of Congress, as part of the Biden Department of Justice’s (DOJ) criminal investigation into President Trump. Evidence shows the investigators bypassed a required Filter Team review process, violating investigative protocols.

The bombshell discovery comes in new records released today by Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) as part of their ongoing Arctic Frost oversight. Johnson and Grassley requested the records from DOJ after receiving legally protected whistleblower disclosures.

The Justice Department’s letter to the chairmen and the provided records indicate Smith’s investigative team circumvented its own filter review process, which was established to protect privileged materials from being swept up in a criminal prosecution, and directly accessed the content of texts sent by Republican and Democrat senators and members of the House of Representatives to White House officials during Trump’s first term. Bypassing a Filter Team evades consideration of additional privileges, such as attorney-client privilege.

Both Johnson and Grassley’s text messages were obtained by Smith’s team.

“This is yet another grotesque example of the Biden administration’s weaponization of the Justice Department,” Sen. Johnson said. “Jack Smith’s team acted with impunity as they disregarded their own protocols to obtain and access White House text messages, including messages to and from 44 Members of Congress. At this point, no one should be shocked by Jack Smith’s recklessness and blatant abuse of power, but they should be outraged.”

“Jack Smith’s criminal investigation of President Trump was a runaway train that had no brakes. Based on the information that’s been produced to me and Senator Johnson, Biden DOJ and FBI investigators apparently ignored their own routine investigative protocols to obtain and review work-related messages from me and dozens of my Republican and Democrat colleagues who were outside the scope of the government’s investigation, ”Sen. Grassley said. “I hope my Democrat colleagues, several of whom had their own texts swept up, finally put partisanship aside and recognize the severity of these actions. Smith’s team ran roughshod over the Constitution even after repeated warnings. Jack Smith has answering to do, and I intend to have him before the Senate Judiciary Committee in the coming months to hold him accountable.”

Read DOJ’s summary of the records here and access the records here.

Background:

The records, as summarized in a DOJ cover letter, provide evidence the Biden Justice Department “established a Filter Team to evaluate materials obtained in the course of both Jack Smith’s investigation relating to January 6 (referred to as ‘Project Coconut’) and his Mar-a-Lago documents investigation (referred to as ‘Project Cranberry’). The Filter Team’s purpose was to prevent investigators from the Special Counsel’s Office and the FBI (‘Investigative Team’) from accessing privileged materials among the records obtained during the course of these investigations.” The DOJ letter further states “the Special Counsel’s Investigative Team apparently bypassed the Filter Team and directly accessed these text messages,” in reference to Members’ communications.

In June 2023, the Special Counsel’s Office (SCO) subpoenaed the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) to provide all text messages from October 2020 through January 20, 2021, from phones associated with a long list of personnel serving in the White House during President Trump’s first term, including Trump himself as well as: Mark Meadows, Dan Scavino, Ivanka Trump, Stephen Miller, Peter Navarro, John Ratcliffe, Kash Patel, Rudy Giuliani, Kellyanne Conway and Mike Pence.

NARA provided the texts to SCO on August 21, 2023. Within half an hour, one of Smith’s senior lawyers, Thomas Windom, downloaded the texts and, within one hour, other members of Smith’s investigative team downloaded and began reviewing the texts. It appears the review was done without waiting for the Filter Team to evaluate and segregate privileged information.

Smith’s team accessed texts to and from the following current and former senators and members of the House of Representatives:

1. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa)

2. Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.)

3. Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas)

4. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.)

5. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.)

6. Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah)

7. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.)

8. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.)

9. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska)

10. Senator David Perdue (R-Ga.)

11. Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.)

12. Senator Martha McSally (R-Ariz.)

13. Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.)

14. Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.)

15. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio)

16. Senator Roy Blunt (R-Mo.)

17. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine)

18. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.)

19. Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.)

20. Senator Cory Gardner (R-Colo.)

21. Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.)

22. Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.)

23. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio)

24. Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.)

25. Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.)

26. Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.)

27. Rep. Mark Walker (R-N.C.)

28. Rep. Bryan Steil (R-Wis.)

29. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.)

30. Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.)

31. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.)

32. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.)

33. Rep. John Katko (R-N.Y.)

34. Rep. Joshua Gottheimer (D-N.J.)

35. Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.)

36. Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.)

37. Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.)

38. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.)

39. Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Ala.)

40. Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-Va.)

41. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.)

42. Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho)

43. Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.)

44. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.)

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Rosen Urges Dept. of Health and Human Services, FEMA to Respond to Extreme Heat Emergency in Nevada

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen sent a letter urging the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to increase efforts to ensure Nevada has the resources to respond to extreme heat. There were more than 500 heat-related deaths across Nevada in 2024, and the state has already experienced the hottest day of 2026. At the same time, mass firings of experienced workers at both FEMA and the Department of Health and Human Services have made it harder for these agencies to respond to emergencies in a timely manner.

“I write today about the devastating effects of extreme heat across Nevada and urge you to take immediate actions that ensure communities have the resources they need to respond to extreme heat and protect the public health and safety of Nevadans. Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the United States, and in Nevada alone, more than 500 people died from heat-related deaths in 2024,” wrote Senator Rosen. “These extremely high temperatures threaten the health and safety of Nevada families and require a coordinated approach across all levels of government, including making resources available at HHS and FEMA for mitigating the effects of extreme heat.”

“Reports that extreme heat experts have been laid off across federal agencies, including at the CDC, and that critical funding that supports heat-related alert systems and response efforts have been cancelled are incredibly concerning,” continued the Senator. “If true, I urge you to reverse course and ensure key resources and qualified personnel are available to communities so they can make informed decisions about and respond to extreme heat events.”

Read the full letter HERE.

As extreme weather conditions become more prevalent and dangerous, Senator Rosen has made it a priority to ensure that Nevada has the resources it needs to handle weather emergencies. In May, Senator Rosen introduced a bipartisan bill to help protect drinking water infrastructure during extreme heat emergencies. She also helped deliver over $3.5 million in federal funding to disaster mitigation and emergency planning projects across Nevada. Last year, Senator Rosen introduced a bill to declare extreme heat as a major disaster, which would make affected communities eligible for federal emergency resources.

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VIDEO: Rosen Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Hold Purchasers of Russian Oil Accountable

Before His Death, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) Secured An Agreement With The White House On A Sweeping Sanctions Bill Against Enablers Of Russia’s War in Ukraine

Full remarks can be found HERE.

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen joined colleagues on both sides of the aisle in introducing a bipartisan bill to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. The text of this bipartisan agreement was negotiated by the late Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and the White House before Senator Graham’s unexpected passing.

As a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the Senate Armed Services Committee, and the Senate NATO Observer Group, Senator Rosen has been a strong supporter of Ukraine against Russian aggression. This June, Rosen introduced a bipartisan bill to expand security cooperation between the U.S. and Ukraine. A version of this language was also included in the FY27 NDAA. Senator Rosen has called for the U.S. to reduce restrictions on Ukraine’s use of U.S.-provided weapons in its fight against Russia’s illegal invasion. She has also worked across the aisle to provide economic and security assistance to Ukraine, and she has repeatedly called to isolate and hold Russia accountable for its crimes and abuses against Ukraine.

Below is a full transcript of Senator Rosen’s remarks:

“Well I want to thank Senators Blumenthal, Shaheen, everyone here for their leadership on the bipartisan effort.”

“And we wouldn’t be here without the tireless work of Lindsey Graham. I traveled with Lindsey and Senator Whitehouse to the Munich Security Conference what seems like just a few months ago.”

“This was really important to him, national security and working on international issues”

“And Lindsey would always say,“if you give Putin an inch, he will take it.”

“And he was absolutely right. A threat to Ukraine is not just a threat to Ukraine. It’s a threat to Europe. It’s a threat to the world.”

“For more than four years, Ukraine has fought back against Putin’s brutal, unprovoked war, day in and day out, every night [against] their reign of terror.”

“They have fought not only for their own freedom and sovereignty, but for the fundamental principle that borders cannot be redrawn by force.”

“So we have a responsibility to stand with our democratic allies – to make clear to Putin and any other adversary around the globe that they cannot try to take over sovereign countries without consequences. They cannot do this.”

“And so this bill, again, thank you to my colleagues, everyone here who worked with Senator Graham. The message is simple: if you help finance Putin’s war, there will be consequences.”

“I’m proud to stand with all of you, we are proud to honor Lindsey, sad to say his final wish. But his wish to have this done and to stop Putin in his tracks.”

“Thank you.”

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Schatz Legislation To Deliver Faster Disaster Aid Becomes Law

WASHINGTON – A bipartisan housing package, which includes the Reforming Disaster Recovery Act, became law over the weekend. The Reforming Disaster Recovery Act, authored by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), will help communities recover from major disasters more quickly by establishing a permanent and predictable funding process at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

“Right now, each time a disaster happens, communities in crisis are forced to wait for Congress to pass a disaster funding bill before HUD can help. Our new law will now mean they no longer have to wait. As soon as a disaster strikes, HUD will be able to help communities begin the process of recovery,” said Senator Schatz.

The provision will accelerate assistance to disaster-impacted communities by:

Creating a disaster recovery fund to allow HUD to predictably assist communities;

Authorizing HUD to issue regulations to codify program requirements and reduce unnecessary red tape, delays, and unpredictability that stems from the current process;

Supporting resilience as a part of – rather than separate from – disaster recovery;

Authorizing “quick release” funds to support grantee capacity right after an event;

Improving federal coordination by establishing an office at HUD devoted to disaster recovery and resilience; and

Reducing unnecessary administrative burdens and interagency requirement conflicts.

The full text of the provision is available here.

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NEWS: Sens. Schiff, Curtis Seek to Curb Rising Cases of Transnational Repression by U.S. Adversaries with Bipartisan Bill to Enhance Criminal Penalties, Centralize Oversight of Prosecutions

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and John Curtis (R-Utah) are introducing legislation designed to curb transnational repression (TNR), threats and violence by nations against individuals outside their borders, by creating the first federal definition for the crimes and instituting enhanced criminal penalties.

The bill’s introduction comes in the wake of China’s new Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion law, which Chinese leaders claim is the legal basis for targeting individuals outside of its borders who contravene its new law on ethnic unity – just one example of a nation targeting its citizens across borders, raising concerns of American and other governments around the world.

Other recent cases of transnational repression have included attempts by Iran through proxies to kidnap and kill U.S.-based journalists critical of the Iranian regime.

The Stop Transnational Repression Act provides new tools to the Department of Justice; individuals convicted in connection with this new criminal definition would be subject to a sentencing enhancement of up to 10 years’ imprisonment and an additional fine of up to $100,000.

This marks the first time bipartisan legislation related to transnational repression has been introduced to enhance sentencing guidelines for federal cases prosecuting TNR offenses.

“With transnational repression on the rise, it is critical that we take strong action to investigate and prosecute bad actors who would intimidate and attack dissidents and critics on U.S. soil. This is a bipartisan effort to counter a national threat that reports show is only expanding in scope, with new and brazen efforts by countries like China trying to expand its intimidation of those not in lock step with the regime. In order to safeguard fundamental rights and freedoms for everyone on U.S. soil, we need the clarity and the teeth that this bill provides, and I hope my colleagues will act quickly to pass our legislation,” said Senator Schiff.

“No foreign government should be able to threaten or silence people on American soil. Whether it’s the Chinese Communist Party, the Iranian regime, or any other authoritarian government, transnational repression is an attack on both our sovereignty and our freedoms. This bipartisan bill gives law enforcement stronger tools to hold perpetrators accountable and makes clear that the United States will not tolerate these abuses,” said Senator Curtis.

The legislation also centralizes federal oversight of TNR prosecutions in the National Security Division of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and TNR criminal investigations in the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The bill establishes annual reporting and briefing requirements to Congress, which would be facilitated by the Assistant Attorney General for National Security, and commissions a review by relevant agencies to assess available authorities in responding to TNR. It also enables a forward-looking framework by developing whole-of-government strategies to deter against AI-enabled coercion to further TNR.

Background:

Transnational repression includes actions by officials and agents of foreign governments, or their proxies, to threaten, intimidate, coerce, surveil, stalk, silence, or plot to physically harm, kidnap, or kill American citizens or foreign nationals living in the United States.

A recent comprehensive report by the international monitoring group Freedom House counted 126 new incidents of physical transnational repression in 2025. China has 319 documented incidents of transnational repression since 2014.

Recent FBI cases that meet the TNR definition include apprehensions of agents from Iran and China, among other nations.

The Stop Transnational Repression Act of 2026 would:

Codify a definition of transnational repression in the criminal code and include a sentencing enhancement of up to 10 years’ imprisonment and an additional fine of up to $100,000 if an individual is convicted of another offense under federal law and has, as part of the conduct constituting the offense, committed an act that falls within the definition of TNR;

Centralize oversight of TNR prosecutions to the National Security Division of DOJ and TNR criminal investigations to FBI;

Establish an annual reporting and briefing requirement concerning acts of TNR, which would be facilitated by the Assistant Attorney General for National Security;

Establish one-time reports that direct relevant agencies to review and assess available authorities to respond to TNR; and

Task the development of a whole-of-government strategy related to the use of AI in furthering TNR.

Senator Schiff previously led legislation tackling transnational repression while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill was written in consultation with Freedom House and other international human rights organizations.

The full text of the bill can be viewed here.

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Senator Schmitt Helps Secure $160M NSF Award for University of Missouri-Kansas City to Spur Innovation, Research

Award Establishes UMKC-Led Critical Materials Crossroads as a Regional Innovation Engine

U.S. SENATE — Today, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) celebrated the announcement of a $160 million award from the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) for the University of Missouri-Kansas City-led (UMKC) Critical Materials Crossroads Engine. The award positions the Critical Materials Crossroads as a Regional Innovation Engine that will be a national leader in critical materials research and advanced manufacturing. For the Kansas City region, it is projected to support 10,000 jobs and generate $40 billion in economic output. NSF Engines partner with private-sector leaders to accelerate technological development and provide scientific and technological workforce expertise. Senator Schmitt championed the University of Missouri System’s effort to secure this award.

“Missouri is doing its part to secure American dominance on the world stage. Kansas City’s NSF Engine will be an important driver in enhancing U.S. competitiveness and strengthening the domestic critical mineral supply chain. I am proud to support a transformational NSF investment that accelerates innovation, creates high-paying jobs, and establishes the Kansas City region as a national hub for critical materials and advanced manufacturing,” said Senator Schmitt.

The Kansas City region is among 12 teams across 20 states receiving NSF Engine Awards. Each team brings together regional organizations, higher education institutions, and private industry to drive and develop critical, cutting-edge technologies. Across the country, NSF Engines have attracted billions in state, local, and private sector investments to promote American competitiveness in key industries including chipmaking, agriculture, and artificial intelligence.

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Senator Schmitt Introduces Bill to Restore Integrity of American Citizenship

Bill Follows SCOTUS’ Disastrous Decision Upholding Unlimited Birthright Citizenship

U.S. SENATE — Today, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO), chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee of the Constitution, introduced the American Citizenship Act to protect American citizenship and rein in birthright citizenship abuse. This announcement follows the Supreme Court’s decision declaring that current law grants birthright citizenship to the children of illegal and temporarily present aliens.

“American citizenship is sacred—our nation, and its people, are bound together by the values and freedoms our forefathers fought a revolution to secure. But the Supreme Court’s erroneous interpretation of the Fourteenth Amendment last month degraded the meaning of that citizenship by extending it to children born to illegal or temporary aliens—including ‘birth tourists’—who come to our country in violation of our laws. That is an egregious departure from the original meaning of the Fourteenth Amendment. I introduced the American Citizenship Act to restore that original meaning, challenge the Supreme Court’s decision, protect the sacred bond of American citizenship, and honor the legacy of our nation’s patriots who fought to protect what it means to be an American. It would restart our fight in the courts for sanity in birthright citizenship. While the Supreme Court’s decision threatens to destroy American citizenship, I am fighting to defend it,” said Senator Schmitt.

Schmitt’s bill would restore the scope of citizenship to only the children of U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents.

Background:

Last month, Schmitt announced he will introduce a constitutional amendment to protect American citizenship and rein in abuse of birthright citizenship.

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

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

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SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, MORELLE ANNOUNCE A WHOPPING $15 MILLION FEDERAL AWARD FOR UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER’S LASER DISCOVERY RESEARCH & JOB-CREATING ENGINE

Fed $$ Comes From NSF Engines Program Schumer Created In His CHIPS & Science Law

University Of Rochester’s Laser Development Expansion Would Bolster Cutting-Edge Research, Create Good-Paying Jobs, Strengthen The Domestic Supply Chain, And Grow The Rochester-Finger Lakes’ Economy

Schumer, Gillibrand, Morelle: New Fed $$ Will Boost Rochester’s Leadership In Research, Development And Manufacturing Laser Technology

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Joseph Morelle today announced the University of Rochester-led STELLAR Engine has been selected for a $15 million award through the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)’s Regional Innovation Engines Program, which was created by Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law. This award builds on the lawmakers’ previous work to supercharge laser technologies' growth across the Rochester-Finger Lakes region by advancing laser technology research, education and workforce development, company creation, and manufacturing.

“With this whopping $15 million National Science Foundation award, the future is bright for research, development, and manufacturing of cutting-edge laser technology in Rochester, the Finger Lakes, and Southern Tier – led by the University of Rochester. I created the NSF Regional Innovation Engines program in my CHIPS & Science Law with Upstate NY’s world-renowned universities, world-class workforce, and innovation ecosystem in mind,” said Senator Schumer. “The Rochester-Finger Lakes region has a proud history of excellence and innovation in optics, photonics, imaging, and lasers and will lead the charge to increase the domestic laser research and manufacturing so critical to America’s global competitive advantage. I will continue to be laser-focused on delivering new federal investment to advance this cutting-edge work.”

"The University of Rochester is a deserving recipient of this award, and I couldn't be prouder to see the STELLAR Engine recognized in the NSF Regional Innovation Engines competition,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “The Rochester-Finger Lakes region has long been a hub of optical technology and advanced manufacturing, and this award — up to $160 million over the next decade — builds on that proud legacy. Laser technologies are critical to both manufacturing and national defense, and STELLAR strengthens the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse Tech Hub designation I was proud to fight for.”

“Rochester has always been a place where big ideas become real-world breakthroughs, and today’s announcement is another exciting chapter in that story,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “This investment will help create good-paying jobs, grow our local economy, and give more students and workers the opportunity to build careers right here in our community. I was proud to help secure funding for the NSF Engines program that made investments like this possible, and I congratulate the University of Rochester, the National Science Foundation, Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, Governor Hochul, and all our partners for coming together to cement Rochester's place as a global leader in laser technology.”

The University of Rochester’s proposal, officially named “STELLAR: Advancing Laser Technologies in the Rochester NY/Finger Lakes Region,” includes a diverse coalition of partners in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region focused on accelerating the development of cutting-edge laser technologies, expanding opportunities for both emerging and established manufacturers, and strengthening U.S. scientific leadership in a technology area key to America’s global competitiveness. Schumer, who has long supported the University of Rochester’s application for funding for the program, explained in a letter to former National Science Foundation Director Sethuraman Panchanathan that the STELLAR Engine will foster workforce development opportunities in laser technologies, particularly in underserved communities in Rochester and rural communities in the Finger Lakes, while accelerating use-inspired R&D, entrepreneurship, and regional business development that will create jobs, strengthen the supply chain, and help drive long-term economic growth across the region.

In 2024, Schumer helped the Binghamton University-led Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine win the esteemed competition in its inaugural year, bringing $15 million in federal funding immediately, with up to $160 million total over the life of the program from the NSF to supercharge cutting-edge battery research and manufacturing in Upstate NY. Earlier this year, the Binghamton University-led engine was selected as an awardee for the second phase of the program, bringing up to $45 million over the next three years. The University of Rochester’s project will build upon the inaugural cohort’s work of developing new state-of-the-art technology, driving innovation, and fostering economic growth in Upstate communities.

Schumer created the NSF’s Regional Innovation Engines Program in his CHIPS & Science Law as a program that falls under the NSF Directorate of Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships. Schumer proposed the creation of this Directorate originally in his bipartisan Endless Frontier Act, with a focus on delivering investment in research, workforce training, and entrepreneurship in key technology areas like AI, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, climate-smart research, advanced materials, and more. The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program catalyzes and fosters innovation ecosystems across the United States to promote and stimulate economic growth, job creation, and regional innovation.

Each NSF Engine can receive up to $160 million over 10 years; actual amounts will be subject to a given NSF Engine's status and overall progress, as assessed annually.

The NSF funding award made today is being matched by $16 million in New York State support over the next six years, along with investment from other partners. The STELLAR (Science, Technology and Engineering for Laser and Laser Applications Research) project’s key partners include the Institute of Optics and Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) at URochester, Monroe Community College (MCC), Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), NextCorps, Greater Rochester Enterprise (GRE), and AmeriCOM. This NSF investment will further position the Rochester-Finger Lakes region as a global hub for the optics, photonics, imaging, and laser industry. The Rochester and Finger Lakes region is already home to more than 150 optics, photonics, imaging, and laser supply-chain companies, as well as institutions and facilities that are national leaders in the field.

This advancement in the NSF Engines competition would not have been possible without years of steadfast advocacy by Senator Schumer to both save and increase funding for Rochester’s Laser Lab and the overall DOE ICF program, which supports the LLE, LLNL, and Sandia National Lab’s Z Pulsed Power Facility. In 2018, after a budget proposal recommended defunding the Laser Lab within three years and eliminating hundreds of high-tech jobs in Rochester, Schumer launched an all-out push to reverse the closure plan and instead increase funding for the Lab. Later that same year, Schumer announced that he had been successful in his push to reject the proposed cuts, and since has consistently delivered robust funding increases to the Lab and ICF program to make discoveries like today’s possible. The senator helped secure $75 million in FY2018, $80 million in FY2019 & FY2020, $82 million in FY2021, and $83 million in FY2022.

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PHOTO: Sen. Tim Scott meets with Darline Graham at the U.S. Capitol ahead of her swearing-in ceremony

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) met with Darline Graham at the U.S. Capitol, welcoming her to the Senate and the South Carolina delegation ahead of her swearing-in ceremony. Darline will serve the remainder of the late Lindsey Graham’s term.

To download high-res image, click here.

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Sen. Tim Scott welcomes Darline Graham as she is sworn in as South Carolina’s senator

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released the following statement on Darline Graham, who was sworn in today as South Carolina’s United States Senator. Darline will fill the seat vacated by her late brother, Lindsey Graham.

“Darline Graham will be a fantastic United States senator for the great people of South Carolina, and I welcome her to the South Carolina delegation,” said Sen. Scott. “Lindsey spent his whole life looking out for his sister, Darline, and it’s a wonderful tribute that she is now carrying his legacy of service across the finish line. She makes history today as the first woman to represent South Carolina in this chamber, and she does so with the prayers, respect, and full support of her colleagues. I am honored to welcome Senator Graham to the Senate, and I look forward to working closely together to continue serving South Carolinians and building on the legacy of Lindsey Graham in the months ahead.”

Lindsey Graham and his sister Darline had an inseparable bond. After the passing of both of their parents 15 months apart, Lindsey adopted his sister and took full responsibility caring for her. Darline stood alongside her brother during his more than two decades in public office, and she enters the Senate with experience in helping people with disabilities get jobs.

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Shaheen, Hassan, Pappas, Goodlander Applaud VA Signing of Lease for New Cheshire County Outpatient Clinic to Expand Veterans’ Access to Health Care

(Washington, DC) – Following advocacy from the New Hampshire Congressional delegation, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) alongside U.S. Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) applauded the signing of a PACT Act lease by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that will make West Chesterfield, New Hampshire, the home of a new Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), replacing the CBOCs in Keene and Brattleboro, Vermont. The announcement is a significant step toward expanding access to high-quality health care for veterans in the Granite State.

“It’s imperative that the men and women who sacrificed everything to defend and serve our nation have access to first rate health care when they need it – no matter where they live in our state,” said Senator Shaheen. “For a long time, the Monadnock region was a health care desert for veterans until we worked with the VA to open its first and only health care facility more than a decade ago. This announcement is a continuation of that years-long effort and a crucial step toward bringing more health care services to veterans in Cheshire County and the entire Monadnock region.”

“America’s veterans risked their lives to keep our country safe, secure, and free. We will never fully repay the debt we owe them, but we have an obligation to try each and every day,” said Senator Hassan. “This new outpatient clinic will help veterans in the Monadnock region access the health services they need closer to home. I will continue to work to help get our veterans access to the health care that they have earned and deserve.”

“I’m thrilled to welcome this new VA outpatient clinic to Cheshire County,” said Congressman Pappas, member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Ranking Member of the Economic Opportunity Subcommittee. “Every veteran across New Hampshire should be able to access the care they need close to home, whether through a VA medical center, our community-based outpatient clinics, or community care. I’ll always fight for our veterans to receive the best possible care and to cut the red tape between them and the treatment they deserve.”

“We have a sacred obligation to the women and men who have served our country in uniform. Our veterans put their lives on the line to keep us safe, and it’s my mission in Congress to ensure that they have access to the services, benefits, and healthcare they have earned,” said Congresswoman Goodlander, a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee. “This clinic will deliver quality care to these brave American heroes across the Monadnock Region and beyond, and I am proud to stand with our partners across New Hampshire to get our veterans the care they need.”

According to the VA, the clinic will increase clinical capacity and provide Veterans with more convenient and timely access to VA care, with construction and facility preparation expected to be completed by fall 2028, and the first patient is planned to be seen by spring 2029. The new lease will expand and modernize Primary Care space while rightsizing a state of the art, energy efficient facility that delivers integrated Primary Care, Mental Health, Specialty Care, and Ancillary services, improving operational efficiency and the Veteran experience in the Keene, NH and Brattleboro, VT area. The project will lease 26,603 net usable square feet (NUSF) of replacement outpatient clinic space in the vicinity of West Chesterfield, NH, with 150 parking spaces, in support of the White River Junction VA Health Care System.

Senator Shaheen has a long history of working to ensure New Hampshire’s veterans have access to high-quality health care. The new CBOC in Cheshire County will be a continuation of Shaheen’s efforts to bring VA facilities to the Monadnock region. Following successful, multi-year advocacy from Shaheen in 2011, the VA opened the Monadnock region’s first and only veterans’ health services facility as an “outreach clinic” in Keene, NH. In 2022, Shaheen worked to include provisions and helped pass the historic PACT Act, which expanded health care for veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations bill that was signed into law, Shaheen secured provisions to help veterans better access substance use disorder treatment.

Last year Congressman Pappas led the New Hampshire delegation in introducing the Veterans Full-Service Care and Access Act, legislation that would require the VA to operate at least one full-service Veterans Health Administration hospital in each of the 48 contiguous states. In 2022 Pappas fought back against and stopped a Biden administration plan to close Community-Based Outpatient Clinics in Conway, Somersworth, and Portsmouth. Thanks to Pappas's advocacy, these clinics remain open today. In the same year, Pappas fought to pass the PACT Act as a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, which expanded VA health care to millions of veterans exposed to toxic substances like burn pits and Agent Orange. Since the PACT Act became law, the Department of Veterans Affairs has received more than 12,000 claims from New Hampshire veterans.

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Shaheen Statement on Today’s Vote on the National Defense Authorization Act

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on today’s vote on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“I believe it is vital that we both pass the NDAA and that we constrain the President’s lawless and costly war against Iran. Since the beginning of hostilities, we have failed to achieve any of the objectives the President laid out at its onset and the American people have been left paying the price. That is also why I have repeatedly pressed the Trump Administration for more transparency on their planning and execution of this conflict, and why I’ve voted multiple times for War Powers Resolutions to constrain the President’s ability to further prosecute the war. I am also disappointed that two amendments I voted for to both reduce the topline and withhold any authorization of funding for operations in Iran failed on party line votes during the Committee markup.

“With the President re-launching his self-defeating war, I voted against the motion to end debate on the NDAA, so we can continue to advocate for greater transparency and an end to this conflict.”

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Sullivan Celebrates National Science Foundation Critical Mineral Accelerator Engine Coming to UAF

Award Could Bring Up to $160 Million in Funding to Alaska

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) today celebrated an announcement from the National Science Foundation (NSF) that the Alaska Critical Minerals Collaborative (ACMC), led by the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), has been selected as one of the new NSF Regional Innovation Engines. The designation could bring up to $160 million in funding to Alaska over the next 10 years and will help advance critical mineral development, innovation, and collaboration across Alaska and the United States.

“The new NSF Engine anchored at UAF, one of our nation’s premier research universities, will position the United States to lead not only in mineral production but also in the technologies that make mining smarter, safer, and more sustainable,” said Sen. Sullivan. “Alaska is home to 56 of the 60 minerals designated as ‘critical’ by the United States. That’s why I’ve championed efforts in the Senate to secure our nation’s critical mineral supply chains and realize Alaska’s untapped mineral potential to reduce America’s dangerous overreliance on China. ACMC’s proposal is another mineral initiative that I strongly advocated for, including through several letters and conversations with the leadership of the National Science Foundation. Alaska’s NSF mineral accelerator engine is one piece of a larger vision for UAF and our research institutions across the state that I’ve been pushing for years. UAF’s recently announced collaboration with the Department of War is another sign of the growing recognition of Alaska’s strategic importance and the state’s emergence as a world-class hub for research and innovation, including now in the critical minerals sector. I want to congratulate members of the Alaska Critical Minerals Collaborative on all your hard work in putting forward such a strong proposal.”

“Senator Sullivan has long recognized that Alaska's critical minerals are essential to America's economic future and national security,” said Lee Ann Munk,director, Alaska Critical Minerals Collaborative. “His leadership in advancing domestic mineral development and secure supply chains has helped create the momentum that made this opportunity possible. We are grateful for his steadfast support and look forward to working together to ensure Alaska becomes the nation's leader in critical minerals innovation, technology, and workforce development.”

Background

Sen. Sullivan has focused heavily on strengthening domestic critical mineral supply chains and ensuring that federal scientific investments translate into real-world competitiveness, national security, and durable economic growth.

Below is a timeline of Sen. Sullivan’s recent advocacy for the ACMC proposal.

In July 2025 and October 2025, Sen. Sullivan led two Alaska congressional delegation letters of support endorsing the ACMC proposal.

In February 2026, Sen. Sullivan participated in a virtual site visit (roundtable) intended to provide NSF leaders and external reviewers with an Alaska leadership perspective as part of the ACMC’s final application review process. Roundtable participants included University of Alaska (UA) President Pat Pitney, UAF Chancellor Mike Sfraga, Alaska Department of Natural Resources leadership, Alaska Native Corporation representatives, mining industry stakeholders, and research partners. During the roundtable, Sen. Sullivan emphasized Alaska’s strategic importance to U.S. critical mineral supply chains, the strength of the cross-sector coalition supporting the engine, and his commitment to helping bridge federal coordination or policy gaps if ACMC’s proposal is selected.

In March 2026, Sen. Sullivan sent a follow-up letter to NSF leadership thanking them for the February 2026 roundtable and reiterating his support for the ACMC proposal.

In June 2026, Sen. Sullivan met with Brian Stone, acting director of the NSF, and conveyed his support for the ACMC application to the NSF Regional Engines Program.

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Thune Calls on Democrats to Support the Bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act

Click here to watch the video.

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

Thune’s remarks below (as delivered):

“Mr. President, before I begin my remarks this morning, I want to offer a word of welcome to the new senator from South Carolina.

“Later today, we will swear in Darline Graham to fill the seat of her brother and our friend, Lindsey Graham.

“And I know Darline will carry on Lindsey’s tireless service for South Carolina, and I look forward to serving with her.

“Mr. President, like many of us, I represent a state with a rich heritage of military service.

“And South Dakota continues to punch above its weight in our armed forces.

“Our National Guard is frequently called up for critical deployments at home and around the world.

“And Ellsworth Air Force Base is a key asset to our national defense.

“In fact, today Ellsworth is the largest construction site in the Air Force as it prepares to host the first B-21 bombers next year.

“During the recent state work period, I was glad to welcome Air Force Secretary Troy Meink – a South Dakota native – to Ellsworth.

“We met with the base leadership and some of the airmen stationed there, and we saw the progress the base is making as it prepares for its important new mission.

“Mr. President, whether responding to a natural disaster at home or fighting our enemies abroad, the men and women in America’s armed forces stand ready to answer the call.

“They are our most important national security asset.

“And we have an obligation here in Congress to ensure that they have everything they need for whatever the mission may be.

“I know senators on both sides of the aisle take that obligation seriously.

“And we must.

“As I’ve said so often before, if you don’t get national security right, the rest is just conversation.

“If we don’t make national security a priority here, we run the risk that Americans serving in uniform won’t have what they need when they need it.

“Mr. President, that’s why the National Defense Authorization Act is one of the most important bills that we do each year.

“It’s the bill that helps ensure our military is ready today and prepared for tomorrow.

“And I’m proud that our colleagues on the Armed Services Committee – with the leadership of Chairman Wicker and Ranking Member Reed – have reported out a strong National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027.

“For the 66th year in a row, the Armed Services Committee has produced a bipartisan NDAA.

“And later today, we’re going to have a vote to proceed to this important bill.

“Mr. President, we’ve had regular reminders over the last few years that we live in a dangerous world.

“That America still has enemies – enemies that want to attack us, our allies, and our interests.

“We’ve seen, too, how quickly warfare evolves in this day and age.

“Mr. President, this year’s NDAA will not only help ensure that America can keep pace with those challenges, but also that we can outpace our adversaries.

“It puts a heavy emphasis on unmanned systems – especially drones and counter-drone measures.

“It also continues shipbuilding efforts to strengthen our naval fleet.

“And as for our air power, this year’s bill will help ensure we maintain a force of at least 1,800 fighters and supports the new B-21 long-range strategic bomber.

“Mr. President, there’s a lot I could talk about in this bill, from investing in our nuclear deterrent to supporting munitions production.

“But I’ll mention just two more important aspects of this year’s bill.

“First, it builds on efforts in last year’s NDAA to reform defense acquisition.

“That includes allowing multi-year procurement contracts that allow the Pentagon to do business more efficiently with greater predictability and savings for taxpayers.

“And Mr. President, I need to mention what this bill does for the men and women serving our country – and their families who serve alongside them.

“This year’s NDAA supports a 3.6 percent pay raise for our troops.

“And it invests in a number of quality-of-life improvements for them and their families.

“Investments in education.

“Housing.

“Health care.

“And child care.

“Mr. President, our colleagues on the Armed Services Committee have put forward a strong bill.

“A strong bill for our national security and for the men and women who defend our nation.

“It’s my hope that we’ll be able to pass this bill out of the Senate soon and begin the process of working with our counterparts in the House and with the White House on a final bill.

“Republicans are ready to go.

“The question is, how will Democrats vote today?

“Are there enough Democrat senators who support moving forward with a bipartisan – bipartisan, Mr. President – defense bill?

“I see no reason there shouldn’t be.

“But then again, Democrats have allowed the politics of obstruction to determine so many of their actions for the last year and a half.

“I certainly hope that Democrats won’t now put politics ahead of support for our men and women in uniform.

“But that’s up to them.”


Tuberville, Banks Introduce Legislation to Prohibit Taxpayer Dollars from Funding Sexually Explicit Content in Classrooms

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senators Jim Banks (R-IN) and James Lankford (R-OK) in introducing the Stop the Sexualization of Children Act. This legislation would prohibit federal funding from being used by K-12 schools to develop, implement, facilitate, or promote programs, activities, or literature featuring sexually oriented content for minors.

“Exposing children to sexually explicit material in classrooms is completely inappropriate and a gross abuse of taxpayer dollars. I will continue to work with my colleagues to remove this kind of content from our classrooms to protect the innocence of our young people,” said Sen. Tuberville.

“The American taxpayer should not be funding sexually explicit content for minors, it’s that simple. I’m proud to lead this bicameral effort in the Senate to ensure children aren’t exposed to explicit, sexual themes in the classroom,” said Sen. Banks.

Family Research Council, Independent Women’s Forum, American Principles Project, Eagle Forum, Family Policy Alliance, Parental Rights Foundation, and Moms for America have endorsed the legislation.

Read full text of the bill here.

BACKGROUND:

Research has shown that exposure to sexual content at a young age can increase the risk of early sexual activity, unsafe sexual practices, and other risky sexual behaviors. In recent years, concerns have grown among parents regarding sexually explicit materials, activities, and themes being introduced in schools. Federal tax dollars should not be uses to expose minors to content that lacks educational value or is inappropriate for minors. The Stop the Sexualization of Children Act would prohibit federal funding from these supporting programs, while preserving instruction in core academic subjects.

Specifically, the Stop the Sexualization of Children Act would:

Prohibit the use of federal funds provided under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for development, implementation, facilitation or promotion of literature or materials containing depictions or descriptions of sexually explicit content

Prohibit federal funding for programs or materials promoting concepts related to gender dysphoria and transgenderism

Preserve funding for standard coursework

Establish clear guardrails to ensure federal education dollars are used for legitimate education purposes, rather than the sexualization of minors

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

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Tuberville, Cassidy Move to Eliminate Fraud in Federal Child Care Funding

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) in introducing the Strengthening Transparency and Oversight to Prevent (STOP) Child Care Fraud Act. This legislation aims to protect American families’ tax dollars from fraudulent federal child care spending.

“I appreciate the Trump administration’s efforts to root out waste, fraud, and abuse from our federal government,” said Sen. Tuberville. “We need to do everything we can in the Senate to support President Trump’s efforts and stand up for the American taxpayers. Under Tim Walz’s watch, $19 billion taxpayer dollars were stolen for fake ‘daycare centers.’ I’m proud to join the Strengthening Transparency and Oversight to Prevent (STOP) Child Care Fraud Act to make sure this never happens again.”

“Every dollar spent on fraudsters is a dollar stolen from a child and family in need,” said Sen. Cassidy. “Americans trust us to use their federal tax dollars wisely. By strengthening accountability, we protect taxpayer dollars and ensure working families have access to quality child care.”

Read full text of the legislation here.

MORE:

Tuberville Launches Task Force to Eliminate Waste, Faud, and Abuse in Taxpayer-Funded Education

Tuberville, Husted Make Move to Crack Down on Student Aid Fraud

Tuberville Takes Action to Prevent Fraud in Child Care Following Somali Disaster in Minnesota

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

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Tuberville Introduces Bill to Stop Future Corruption at DOJ

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) was joined by Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Ron Johnson (R-WI), and Mike Lee (R-UT) in reintroducing the Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act, which would prevent future Democratic administrations from using federal settlement agreements as a backdoor funding source for liberal activist groups.

The Obama administration used settlement agreements to steer money to favored outside organizations instead of to victims or the U.S. Treasury. President Trump’s Department of Justice shut down the practice in 2017 and again in 2025 after the Biden administration brought it back. But without an act of Congress, a future administration could revive the policy with the stroke of a pen.

Sen. Tuberville’s bill would permanently ban the practice and ensure that settlement funds compensate victims, directly remedy the harm caused, or are returned to the U.S. Treasury.

“We are one election away from these slush funds coming back, and everybody in Washington knows it,” said Senator Tuberville. “The Biden administration proved that the minute Democrats get the keys, they will reopen the loophole and start steering settlement money to their activist friends. I have fought this corruption since my first year in the Senate. Congress needs to put this ban into black-letter law so no future administration can bring this scheme back.”

BACKGROUND:

The Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act would prohibit settling parties in a federal dispute from reducing their punishments by making “donations” to outside organizations. This bill would end the executive overreach of picking special interest groups to benefit from a settlement. For example, under President Obama’s Department of Justice (DOJ), settling parties were forced to pay a portion of their settlement obligations, under the guise of “donations,” to outside groups of the Department’s choosing that overwhelmingly pushed a partisan agenda. This practice turned federal settlements into liberal slush funds.

MORE:

New Tuberville Bill Stops the Government from Directing Funds to Partisan Organizations

Tuberville: Congress Must Stop the Federal Government’s Slush Fund for Partisan Groups

Tuberville Joins Fox Business to Discuss His New Legislation to Stop Federal Slush Funds

Tuberville, Colleagues Call on AG Garland to Stop Sending Federal Funds to Partisan Organizations

Tuberville, Gooden Introduce Bill to Stop DOJ Officials from Funding Partisan Priorities with Corporate Settlement Dollars

Tuberville Bill to Stop DOJ Corruption Passes House

Sen. Tommy Tuberville Proposes Bill to End ‘Slush Fund’ Settlements to Far-Left Groups

Gooden, Tuberville Introduce Bill to Block ‘Slush Fund’ Payouts to Activist Groups in Legal Settlements

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

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Maryland Democrats Urge OMB to Rescind Rule Politicizing Federal Grant Decision-Making

Maryland Congressional Delegation members – U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks and U.S. Representatives Steny Hoyer, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, Sarah Elfreth, April McClain Delaney, and Johnny Olszewski (all D-Md.) – are calling out the Trump Administration’s attempts to undermine and politicize the federal grant-making process. In a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought, the lawmakers press OMB to rescind a new proposed rule that would overhaul the grantmaking and cooperative agreement processes across the entire federal government, centralizing power within OMB, reducing transparency and accountability, undermining Congress, and clearing the path for the Trump Administration to continue weaponizing and politicizing the federal grantmaking process.

“We write to express strong opposition to the Office of Management and Budget’s sweeping proposed “Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance” rule that would completely overhaul and politicize the grantmaking and cooperative agreement processes across the entire federal government,” the lawmakers begin.

They go on to stress the importance of federal grants, noting, “Across the state, federal investment supports research into our ocean and waterways as well as our air, crops, livestock and soil. Federal grants support advancements in health and medicine including research into the treatment of diseases such as pediatric cancer and sickle cell disease and drive the development of new technologies that will keep Americans healthy. Grant-funded childcare through Head Start and Early Head Start serves families from the Eastern Shore to Garrett County. These dollars power cutting-edge developments in space technology, satellites, AI, and quantum computing. Federal funds also allow organizations to support victims of sexual assault, violence, and other crimes. The proposed Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance represents a threat to every one of those efforts to better American lives, strengthen our economy, and keep our country competitive.”

On the proposed rule, the lawmakers write, “In reality, if finalized, this more than 400-page rule will make significant, sweeping, and binding policy changes to the Uniform Guidance across more than 40 federal grant-making agencies and offices responsible for awarding billions of dollars in funding and federal financial assistance each fiscal year. It would codify the Trump Administration’s campaign to eviscerate our research infrastructure and authorize more arbitrary cancellations, job losses due to funding uncertainty, and disruptions of work that require consistent data collection to maintain scientific validity.”

“This rule would further centralize power within OMB giving it authority over the heads of dozens of federal agencies as well as merit-based processes in matters of grantmaking and cooperative agreements. In doing so, this rule would place layers of bureaucratic and political red tape between elected representatives who are Constitutionally-responsible for appropriations, the federal agencies whose resources support our state and help drive our local economies, and Marylanders who rely on grants to support valuable research and services,” they continue.

The lawmakers detail the impact of federal grants on Maryland, noting, “Since the beginning of the President’s term, the Administration and OMB’s intentional delay in spending appropriated funds, grant terminations and disruptions, and overall fewer federal grants being awarded has impacted billions of dollars in federal funding to Maryland, including our state and local governments, schools, and research institutions. As a result, hundreds of our constituents have lost their jobs, Maryland research institutions and universities are undergoing hiring freezes and layoffs, and graduate and post-doctoral programs have been forced to cut or limit admissions–all which threaten to stifle U.S. leadership and innovation for decades to come.”

“The people of Maryland and the United States deserve actual transparency, reliability, and accountability from our federal government, not arbitrary rules and political interference from OMB that would weaken our scientific and research enterprise, risk more jobs, and slow down hard-won progress. We urge you to rescind this proposed rule immediately,” the lawmakers conclude.

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

Dear Director Vought:

We write to express strong opposition to the Office of Management and Budget’s sweeping proposed “Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance” rule that would completely overhaul and politicize the grantmaking and cooperative agreement processes across the entire federal government.

Year after year, Maryland turns federal investment into public goods with national and global benefits. Across the state, federal investment supports research into our ocean and waterways as well as our air, crops, livestock and soil. Federal grants support advancements in health and medicine including research into the treatment of diseases such as pediatric cancer and sickle cell disease and drive the development of new technologies that will keep Americans healthy. Grant- funded childcare through Head Start and Early Head Start serves families from the Eastern Shore to Garrett County. These dollars power cutting-edge developments in space technology, satellites, AI, and quantum computing. Federal funds also allow organizations to support victims of sexual assault, violence, and other crimes. The proposed Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance represents a threat to every one of those efforts to better American lives, strengthen our economy, and keep our country competitive. We urge you to immediately rescind this proposed rule that will further risk evidence-based science, research, and innovation in Maryland and across the United States.

On Friday, May 29, 2026, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), in conjunction with federal grant-making agencies, published a proposed rule in the federal register with the stated intent to “improve and clarify government-wide policies and requirements related to the management of Federal financial assistance including grants and cooperative agreements.” The purported objectives of the proposed rule include: improving transparency, accountability, and oversight of federal funds; reducing recipient burden; and clarifying 2 C.F.R regulatory text– commonly referred to as the “Uniform Guidance”– as an OMB regulation.

In reality, if finalized, this more than 400-page rule will make significant, sweeping, and binding policy changes to the Uniform Guidance across more than 40 federal grant-making agencies and offices responsible for awarding billions of dollars in funding and federal financial assistance each fiscal year. It would codify the Trump Administration’s campaign to eviscerate our research infrastructure and authorize more arbitrary cancellations, job losses due to funding uncertainty, and disruptions of work that require consistent data collection to maintain scientific validity.

This rule would further centralize power within OMB giving it authority over the heads of dozens of federal agencies as well as merit-based processes in matters of grantmaking and cooperative agreements. In doing so, this rule would place layers of bureaucratic and political red tape between elected representatives who are Constitutionally-responsible for appropriations, the federal agencies whose resources support our state and help drive our local economies, and Marylanders who rely on grants to support valuable research and services.

The federal grantmaking process includes essential, non-political guardrails that this rule seeks to eviscerate. Should it be finalized, OMB would have the legal authority to cancel any grant at any time simply because it no longer aligns with “federal agency priorities.” In almost all circumstances, Maryland grant recipients would not be able to appeal that decision or have a neutral party, such as a judge, review it. Just last year, legal action helped restore millions of dollars in wrongfully cancelled funding by the Trump Administration for AmeriCorps, mental health services, and biomedical research, among others. This proposed rule would make such cancellations easier. Without the ability to appeal or contest an arbitrary cancellation, grant- supported research including clinical trials and jobs can end with the stroke of a pen. Allowing political appointees to have the final say, rather than merit-based processes or Congress’s decision to fund programs, does not advance the stated goals of transparency or accountability.

Further, the rule contains a tangle of undefined new standards that would not clarify regulations. Federal regulations must be sufficiently clear to allow recipients to understand and comply with their obligations in good faith. This proposed rule introduces new criteria for evaluating grants such as adherence to “gold standard science,” whether they “promote anti-American values,” or specific consideration for, “a history of questionable practices,” like “affiliation with a group that has undermined public safety” but does not provide meaningful definitions for these new standards. Grantees must even ensure that all subrecipients do not, “take actions that could significantly damage the reputation of the pass-through entity, the Federal agency making the award, or the Federal Government.” The rule does make clear, however, that non-compliance with any of the new vague and underdefined standards can result in immediate termination of support.

Beyond the arbitrary standards that are ripe for abuse, this proposed rule seeks to prohibit freedom of association, speech, and the international collaboration that has made Maryland a leader not only in our region, but in the world. This regulation would bar researchers from using federal funds to publish the research they undertake with our collective resources and would prohibit researchers from attending professional conferences without pre-approval from the federal government. This rule would also presumptively prohibit many international collaborations and further restrict any scientific engagement with foreign entities. Fields from biomedical research to space science regularly put Marylanders in the position of leading work with teams of scientists and engineers in other countries. While security safeguards are always important, this rule would not strengthen them, but in practice, will limit freedom, research, and collaboration in the name of security.

Of course, this proposal does not come in a vacuum; it is being offered in the midst of illegal attacks, uncertainty, and gutting of the entire U.S. scientific and research enterprise by the Trump Administration. We are facing the consequences of these actions in real time. In fiscal year 2025 alone, the Trump Administration indiscriminately terminated thousands of NIH grants and disrupted more than 300 clinical trials, putting thousands of patients including children at risk. Recent reports suggest hundreds of NIH grants are actively being delayed because of the Administration’s unprecedented politicalization of the NIH grant review process–and as a result, Maryland-specific NIH competitive awards have decreased by 33% in fiscal year 2026 compared to prior years.

Since the beginning of the President’s term, the Administration and OMB’s intentional delay in spending appropriated funds, grant terminations and disruptions, and overall fewer federal grants being awarded has impacted billions of dollars in federal funding to Maryland, including our state and local governments, schools, and research institutions. As a result, hundreds of our constituents have lost their jobs, Maryland research institutions and universities are undergoing hiring freezes and layoffs, and graduate and post-doctoral programs have been forced to cut or limit admissions– all which threaten to stifle U.S. leadership and innovation for decades to come.

The people of Maryland and the United States deserve actual transparency, reliability, and accountability from our federal government, not arbitrary rules and political interference from OMB that would weaken our scientific and research enterprise, risk more jobs, and slow down hard-won progress. We urge you to rescind this proposed rule immediately.


Van Hollen, Alsobrooks Highlight $2 Million in Federal Funding to Support Veteran-Owned Small Businesses

U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks (both D-Md.) joined the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) at their annual INTERNATIONAL training program to present the organization and leaders from the Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation (MCCCF) with a $2,000,000 federal investment to expand VIP and provide more resources to veteran-owned small businesses in Maryland and across the country. The Senators fought to secure this investment in Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations.

“We can never fully repay our veterans for their sacrifice in serving our country. But we have a duty to support them when they return home – and that includes ensuring they have every opportunity to succeed. That’s why we fought to secure this $2 million in federal funds to build on our investments over the years and continue expanding the Veteran Institute for Procurement’s small-business and workforce training programs. I’ve been proud to partner with VIP to support their critical work over the years, and with these funds, the Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation and VIP will continue to support veteran entrepreneurs and help veteran-owned small businesses continue to grow,” said U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

“We have an obligation to do more than say thank you to those who served our country. We must ensure veterans have the health care they need, housing that is affordable and safe, and opportunities to generate wealth and truly thrive. I am proud to have partnered with Senator Van Hollen to secure $2 million to support veteran-owned businesses and veteran entrepreneurs. Small businesses are the backbone of Maryland and our nation. Veteran-owned small businesses help fuel our economy while supporting those who served,” said Senator Angela Alsobrooks.

VIP delivers training programs that support small businesses owned by veterans – including those with service-connected disabilities – and help them secure federal small business contracts, pursue entrepreneurship, and invest in their workforces. It has served more than 3,600 veteran-owned businesses across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and American Samoa. VIP graduates have secured over $50 billion in prime federal contracts and $15 billion in subcontract awards to date.

“Veteran-owned small businesses in Maryland play a vital role in creating jobs and strengthening communities, while also contributing to the national economy,” said Barbara Ashe, National Director of the Veteran Institute for Procurement and President of the Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation. “With the support of Senators Van Hollen and Alsobrooks, this funding enables us to help more Veteran entrepreneurs build sustainable companies that fuel economic growth locally and well beyond our state.”

Senator Van Hollen has a long history of supporting VIP, including supporting the organization’s national expansion in 2011, securing $2 million in Congressionally Directed Spending in FY 2023, and supporting investments from the Small Business Administration to VIP.


Van Hollen Joins Markey, García, Fitzpatrick in Reintroducing Legislation to Strengthen Supports for Airport Service Workers

Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and and Representatives Chuy García (D-Ill.-04) and Brian Fitzpatrick (D-Pa.-01) in reintroducing the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act, legislation that would improve wages and working conditions for airport service workers. The legislation would also support working families and help stabilize the air travel industry as airlines pocket record profits while airport service workers remain stuck at minimum wage.

“Our airports – and the workers that keep them running – are critical to our economy, moving millions of people and goods throughout our country every day. It’s past time these workers see the pay, benefits, and working conditions that they deserve. I am proud to fight for the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act, legislation to provide improved wages, benefits, and labor standards to this vital workforce,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“These workers serve through extreme temperatures, holiday travel surges, and even pandemics — yet too many still struggle with low pay, unaffordable care, and rising costs,” said Senator Markey. “Because airports are the gateway to the world for travelers, they must also be the gateway to stable, middle-class jobs for workers. I am proud to partner with Congressmen Garcia and Fitzpatrick to lead this bipartisan, pro-worker legislation.”

“America’s airports support millions of jobs and move hundreds of millions of travelers each year. While U.S. airlines generated $6 billion in profit last year, airport frontline workers, who are predominantly Latino, Black and immigrant, are barely making ends meet. In fact 7 per cent of them live under the poverty level,” said Congressman Chuy García. “The Good Jobs for Good Airports Act, seeks to ensure airport workers, who make our air travel possible, get the dignity and compensation they deserve for their hard work.”

“Airport service workers are entrusted every day with the safety, order, and reliability of one of the most complex transportation systems in the world. We cannot ask them to carry that responsibility while denying them the economic security that comes with fair wages and meaningful benefits. The Good Jobs for Good Airports Act establishes one clear principle: the value of the work does not change because a job is outsourced or a different contractor signs the paycheck. By investing in the people who keep our airports moving, we strengthen the entire aviation system—and uphold our obligation to the workers, families, and travelers who depend upon it,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick.

The legislation is also cosponsored in the Senate by Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).

“Airport workers keep millions of Americans moving every day—and a job that keeps America moving should be a job that lets a family get ahead. The Good Jobs for Good Airports Act will raise wages, strengthen benefits, and ensure these workers finally receive the dignity and respect they’ve earned. It’s past time Congress made sure good jobs take off at every airport in America,” said Senator Schumer.

“It’s a no-brainer that we should be paying our airport service workers fairly for all they do to keep our transportation systems safe and running. I’m fighting hard alongside Senator Markey to make sure airport workers finally get the compensation they deserve, which will make our infrastructure even stronger in Massachusetts and across the country,” said Senator Warren.

“Georgia’s airports connect tens of millions of travelers to the state’s incredible history, culture, and businesses,” said Senator Warnock. “This is only possible because of the airport service workers who keep our aviation system running. Our legislation is an important step toward ensuring these workers receive the support and compensation they have earned.”

“Providing airport workers with fair compensation and protections is long overdue,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Airlines have consolidated power and raked in profits while airport service workers struggle to make ends meet. The Good Jobs for Good Airports Act will deliver the fair pay and benefits these critical workers who keep our country moving deserve.”

“Every Arizonan deserves to be fairly compensated for their hard work, including the men and women who keep our airports running smoothly,” said Senator Gallego. “The Good Jobs for Good Airports Act invests in airports that invest in their workers, ensuring airports are economic hubs not just for travels, but for the communities they’re located in. I’m proud to help reintroduce this legislation.”

“Every day, thousands of airport workers get passengers to their next destination, but many don’t make enough to cover their basic needs. The Good Jobs for Good Airports Act will make sure federal investments in our nation’s airports also support the workers who keep them running,” said Senator Murphy.

The Good Jobs for Good Airports Act is endorsed by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), UNITE HERE, and the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

“I've given years of my life to this airport, keeping planes clean and passengers safe — and I still can't afford to take my kids to the doctor,” said Nicole Ray, a wheelchair agent at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. “Something is deeply wrong when the airlines I serve are posting record profits while I'm choosing between groceries and medicine. It’s time for Congress to decide whose side they’re on and pass the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act.”

“Every day, airport service workers keep our country moving. They do the essential work that keeps our airports safe, our aviation system running, and millions of travelers connected. Airport service workers deserve more than our thanks, they deserve good jobs that provide dignity, security, and the opportunity to build a better life,” said April Verrett, President of Service Employees International Union (SEIU). “The Good Jobs for Good Airports Act is about recognizing the value of that work. Congress should stand with the workers who keep our airports running and pass this legislation. When we invest in working people, we build a stronger economy and a stronger nation.”

“Our tax dollars continue to be invested in the expansion and improvement of the nation’s airports. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act committed billions for airports, with the final $2.9 billion invested this year. However, airports are not just buildings with tarmacs and airplanes: a successful airport depends on its workers. Despite this, there are UNITE HERE members working in airport concessions and airline catering who are struggling to make ends meet. Some of them work multiple jobs and with no healthcare. Our investments must support a healthy workforce and offer wages that lift workers out of poverty — the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act would set a fair national standard for wages and benefits for airport workers across the United States,” said Gwen Mills, President of UNITE HERE.


Van Hollen, Murray Call Out Blanche for Failing to Meet with Epstein Survivors, Press Him to Make Good on His Commitment

Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS), and Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, called on Acting United States Attorney General Todd Blanche to fulfill the commitment he made at the May 19, 2026, CJS Appropriations hearing to meet with Epstein survivors. The Senators’ letter comes nearly two months after Acting AG Blanche committed to meet with the survivors in response to the Senators’ questioning at the hearing and nearly seven months after the first tranche of Epstein files were released by DOJ in accordance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Despite repeated attempts from the Senators’ offices to facilitate a meeting, Blanche has still not done so.

The senators begin, “At the May 19, 2026, hearing of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, we asked whether you would meet with Epstein survivors if we connected you with them. You responded, ‘Absolutely.’ It has been nearly two months since then, and even though we provided the Department of Justice (the Department) with the point of contact for the Epstein survivors—and have followed up on this request multiple times—the survivors have not received the promised outreach.”

“Recently, reporting revealed that you were present at several meetings last summer in the White House Situation Room with the President’s closest advisors, confirming that the White House and the Department have been more interested in minimizing damage to the President relating to his personal friendship with Jeffrey Epstein than providing transparency to survivors and holding accountable those who may be implicated in Epstein’s crimes,” they note.

“Your responsibility as Acting Attorney General is to pursue justice, not to shield the President. We therefore expect a response no later than July 28, 2026, confirming a date for the meeting with survivors you committed to hold,” the senators conclude.

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

Dear Acting Attorney General Blanche:

At the May 19, 2026, hearing of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, we asked whether you would meet with Epstein survivors if we connected you with them. You responded, “Absolutely.”

It has been nearly two months since then, and even though we provided the Department of Justice (the Department) with the point of contact for the Epstein survivors—and have followed up on this request multiple times—the survivors have not received the promised outreach. Additionally, our offices have not received any substantive responses from the Department indicating when the meeting will be scheduled.

Recently, reporting revealed that you were present at several meetings last summer in the White House Situation Room with the President’s closest advisors, confirming that the White House and the Department have been more interested in minimizing damage to the President relating to his personal friendship with Jeffrey Epstein than providing transparency to survivors and holding accountable those who may be implicated in Epstein’s crimes.

Your responsibility as Acting Attorney General is to pursue justice, not to shield the President. We therefore expect a response no later than July 28, 2026, confirming a date for the meeting with survivors you committed to hold.


New Data: Virginians Have Had to Spend $1.8 Billion More for Gas Since Start of the Iran War

WASHINGTON – As President Trump declares that the war with Iran has resumed, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) are underscoring new data that shows the extent to which the president’s war has driven up gas costs in Virginia and across the country. According to a new congressional report, since the war began on February 28, Virginians have paid a total of $1.8 billion more, or an extra $573 per household, on the gas they need to commute to work, run errands, pick up their kids, and live their daily lives. The cost per household in Virginia is one of the highest in the nation. Additionally, Virginia’s average gas price today sits at $3.75 per gallon, which is about 22 percent higher than it was before the president’s war of choice.

“Because of the president’s war of choice, Virginians are facing higher gas, utility, and grocery costs,” said the senators. “Instead of ending this war and finally easing the burden that he has placed on American families, Trump is calling off the ceasefire, trading airstrikes with Iran, and blockading the Strait of Hormuz.”

Nationally, Americans have paid a total of $56.4 billion more, or $477 more per household, on gas. Today’s national average gas price sits at $3.86 per gallon, which is about 30 percent higher than before the start of the war.

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* High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for download here *

Photos may be used online and in print, and can be attributed to ‘The Office of Sen. Mark R. Warner


New Report Finds Over Two Million Children Have Lost Medicaid Since Trump Took Office

A new report finds that more than two million fewer kids were enrolled in Medicaid in April 2026, compared to January 2025 when President Trump took office

In July 2024, Congressional Republicans cut $1 trillion from Medicaid

Senator Reverend Warnock: “Two million vulnerable children have lost health care coverage for the sake of a billionaire tax break. That is a moral failure by our government and a betrayal of our responsibility to protect our children”

Washington, D.C. – A new report from the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families finds that more than two million children have lost Medicaid coverage since President Trump took office in January 2025. This drop in the number of children covered by Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is alarming, as nearly half of all U.S. kids rely on the programs for health coverage.

“This report should trouble the moral conscience of all Americans,” said Senator Warnock. “Two million vulnerable children have lost health care coverage for the sake of a billionaire tax break. That is a moral failure by our government and a betrayal of our responsibility to protect our children.”

Senator Warnock has long championed efforts to expand affordable health care access. In June, he forced a vote to expand transparency surrounding Medicaid coverage loss nationwide. His effort to release the data was blocked by Senate Republicans 52-46. Last spring, the Senator released findings that the best way to get the most Americans working is to invest in Medicaid, making health care accessible to eligible Americans.

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Warnock Votes “NO” on Blank Check for Iran War

President Trump’s illegal war of choice in Iran has continued for 137 days

14 service members have tragically lost their lives

Senator Reverend Warnock: “This President needs guardrails, not a blank check”

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA)released the following statement after voting “NO” on the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act for the first time in his Senate career because it authorized a blank check for President Trump’s illegal war in Iran.

“I cannot vote to fund an illegal war with no justification, no set goal, and no exit strategy. I’m proud to represent Georgia’s 100,000 servicemembers—it’s why I’ve voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act every year I’ve served in Congress. But at a time when Americans are struggling to cover the cost of gas, health care, and groceries, we should not be spending billions on another endless war that endangers our Servicemembers and makes our country less safe. This President needs guardrails, not a blank check,” said Senator Reverend Warnock.

Since President Trump launched his illegal war in February 2026, Senator Warnock has been a fierce opponent of the Trump administration’s decision to deploy U.S.military forces in Iran. Last month, Senate Republicans moved to block the Senator’s war powers resolution to stop President Trump’s war in Iran from passing on the floor of the Senate. The President is yet to receive any authorization from Congress as required by Article I of the U.S. Constitution.

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Title and affiliation are provided for identification purposes only. A pastor and social justice advocate, Senator ReverendRaphael Warnock was elected to the United States Senate in 2021 and reelected for a full term in 2022. The Senator serves on the Senate Agriculture, Banking, and Finance committees, as well as the Senate Aging Committee.


Trump’s Illegal War with Iran Has Forced Vermont to Pay $113 Million More for Gas, So Far

Vermont households have spent $441 more for gas since the war began

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Democrats on the Joint Economic Committee today released new data outlining how President Trump’s reckless and illegal war with Iran has driven up gasoline costs for Vermont families, farmers, and businesses. The new data shows that since the war began on February 28, Americans have spent a total of $56.4 billion more for gas. In Vermont, the increase in gas spending totals $113,105,145, with families spending $441 more on average, per household.

U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, released the following statement on the new data:

“Vermont families are paying the price for President Trump’s illegal war with Iran. The average household has spent $441 more for gas, so far—and there’s no end in sight. The President needs to get out of this reckless war, which has caused incredible harm to our economy and driven up costs for families in Vermont and across the country.”

View the data from JEC below:

Senator Welch is a member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit. He was a member of the Joint Economic Committee in the 118th Congress.

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Whitehouse and Cohen Introduce Bill to Provide Relief to Americans Facing Medical Bankruptcy

Whitehouse has long championed legislation to help people burdened by medical debt

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN) today introduced legislation to help families burdened by unforeseen medical expenses. The Medical Bankruptcy Fairness Act of 2026 would reform the bankruptcy process to alleviate the strain on debtors and make the bankruptcy system work better for Americans.

“The last thing a family should have to think about during a medical emergency is whether they’re going to lose their home because of bills for a surgery or treatments,” said Whitehouse. “This legislation will make our bankruptcy system fairer for, and more compassionate to, families who find themselves in financial straits because of bad luck and a health care system that allows too many patients to slip through the cracks.”

“Nearly two-thirds of all personal bankruptcies involve medical debt — a number that is too high. Americans should not have to lose everything to receive the medical care they need,” said Congressman Cohen. “The Medical Bankruptcy Protection Act will provide much-needed cover for families facing bankruptcy because they got hurt or sick and make it easier for them to rebuild their lives.”

Unlike many other debts, medical debt is involuntary, unexpected, and can grow at a rapid rate. People with medical debt report cutting spending on food, spending down their savings to pay for medical bills, borrowing money from friends or family members, or taking on additional debts.

The Medical Bankruptcy Fairness Act would create a more accommodating bankruptcy process for Americans forced into bankruptcy due to medical debt or who have lost their jobs due to a public health-related shutdown. Specifically, the bill would:

Waive procedural hurdles like credit counseling that make little sense for those pushed into bankruptcy through no fault of their own;

Permit the discharge of student loans for medically distressed debtors, which currently cannot be erased in bankruptcy for most debtors;

Provide families a greater chance of keeping their homes by allowing the retention of at least $250,000 of home equity; and

Keep medical bankruptcies off consumer credit reports.

According to bankruptcy experts, medical debt remains a leading cause of personal bankruptcy filings in the United States. For individuals with limited assets, even a relatively small unexpected medical expense can be unaffordable. For people with significant medical needs, medical debt can pile up over time. A 2024 study suggests Americans owe at least $220 billion in medical debt, with 20 million people (nearly one in 12 adults) affected.

The Medical Bankruptcy Fairness Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Peter Welch (D-VT).

The Medical Bankruptcy Fairness Act is endorsed by the National Association of Consumer Advocates and the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.


Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing to Consider Four Senior Civilian Pentagon Nominees

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to consider nominations for senior defense financial, acquisition, intelligence, and space leadership positions.

Jules W. Hurst III, nominated to be Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), Mr. Richard M. O’Malley, nominated to be Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, Dr. Erich D. Hernandez-Baquero, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration, and Dr. L. Roger Mason, Jr., nominated to be Director of the National Reconnaissance Office, all appeared before the committee.

In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker highlighted the importance of modernizing defense budgeting, streamlining acquisition and sustainment, expanding resilient space capabilities, and improving intelligence collection and analysis, noting that each nominee would play a key role in strengthening the Department of Defense and supporting U.S. national security. The Chairman also took time in his remarks to honor the life of Sen. Lindsey Graham, a former member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Read Chairman Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered.

This hearing will come to order.?To begin with, the Senate has lost a giant. A champion. A former member of this committee who, though he went on to other jurisdictions, was one of the strongest advocates for American strength and American partnerships around the world and peace through strength. That is the late Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. And so, I would ask all of us to bow our heads for a moment of silence in memory of Senator Graham. Thank you very much.


Oregon Delegation Welcomes Major Federal Investment in State’s Semiconductor Industry

Federal lawmakers: Oregon team of nearly 100 partners awarded NSF Regional Innovation Engine Award that sets up receiving up to $160 million to grow Oregon semiconductor industry

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senate and House members welcomed today’s announcement that Frontiers of Advanced Semiconductor Technology (FAST), an Oregon consortium including nearly 100 partners from across the state, will receive up to $160 million from the U.S. National Science Foundation over the next decade to grow the state’s semiconductor ecosystem.

Oregon State University is the administrative home for FAST.

“It’s always a good day when Oregon takes our deserved spot in the “FAST lane” for national leadership in semiconductor innovation and manufacturing,” said U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, who helped to lead the effort under the Biden administration to pass the CHIPS Act that aimed for federal investments just like this one in Oregon’s semiconductor industry. “Oregon is the beating heart of U.S. semiconductor production, which makes OSU a natural choice to lead one of just 12 new Regional Innovation Engines. This major federal investment will fuel cutting-edge research, good-paying jobs and economic growth in the Silicon Forest that will ripple throughout our entire state.”

“This investment in Oregon State University’s NSF FAST Engine will further supercharge Oregon’s innovative semiconductor industry,” said U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley. “By bringing together researchers, businesses, and local partners, it will help turn new ideas into good-paying jobs and strengthen our state’s leadership in emerging semiconductor technologies. I’ll keep fighting to ensure Oregon has the federal support it needs to compete and grow.”

“The NSF FAST Engine based at Oregon State University shows how government can successfully work with higher education institutions to spur regional innovation and career readiness in advanced fields,” said Rep. Suzanne Bonamici. “This significant investment in the semiconductor industry will strengthen our state's continued leadership in research, development, and a future-ready workforce.”

“I am proud that Oregon State University was selected to receive this well-deserved grant. Demand for semiconductors is rising, and the NSF FAST Engine will help OSU design the world’s most advanced semiconductor chips,” said Rep. Val Hoyle. “This grant will bring industries in Oregon closer together across the state and foster innovation. It will also strengthen statewide educational partnerships, support Oregon’s semiconductor industry and improve pathways to semiconductor careers for students.”

“Oregon is called the Silicon Forest for a reason. If we want to maintain our position as a leader in semiconductor research and technology, then we need to keep innovating,” said Rep. Andrea Salinas. “This grant from the National Science Foundation will help ensure we remain on the cutting edge of the technology revolution while utilizing the talents of the Oregon workforce by providing training and jobs throughout the high tech innovation economy.”

“Proof that Oregon is THE place to invest in semiconductor research, development, and manufacturing. Another great bet on some of our country's best technology and brightest students,” said Rep. Janelle Bynum. “This funding makes sure that Oregon's next generation of innovators, leaders, and experts have the resources they need to secure good paying jobs and continue to build a strong economy”.