Congressman Derek Schmidt Announces Service Academy Nomination Applications Now Open

TOPEKA - Congressman Derek Schmidt is now accepting applications for Kansas Second District students seeking a congressional nomination to attend one of the nation's prestigious U.S. Service Academies.

"One of the greatest honors I have as a member of Congress is nominating outstanding young men and women from the Second District to our nation's service academies," Congressman Schmidt said. "These institutions develop the next generation of military leaders who are committed to serving our country with honor, integrity, and excellence. I encourage every eligible student who has a passion for leadership and a desire to serve our nation to apply."

Members of Congress may nominate candidates to the following U.S. Service Academies:

U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York

U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland

U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York

To be eligible for a nomination, applicants must, as of July 1 of the year of admission:

Be at least 17 years old but not yet 23.

Be a United States citizen.

Be unmarried with no legal obligation to support a child or dependent.

Be a legal resident of Kansas' Second Congressional District.

Completed nomination application materials must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on October 15, 2026. Required materials include an online application, essay, recent photograph, résumé, official transcripts, standardized test score verification, and three letters of recommendation.

Applicants who submit a complete nomination file and meet all eligibility requirements will be invited to interview before Congressman Schmidt's independent, nonpartisan Service Academy Nomination Board on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Click here for more information about the application process.

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Congresswoman Schrier Joins WA Delegation in Requesting Expedited Emergency Declaration for Devastating Wildfires in Spokane

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier (D-WA-08) joined Washington state’s Congressional delegation in a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to approve Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson’s request for an expedited Emergency Declaration for the devastating wildfires sweeping through Central and Eastern Washington state.

On Saturday, Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide wildfire emergency and issued a statewide burn ban through September 30, 2026. The National Weather Service upgraded the Red Flag Warning on Saturday, to a Particularly Dangerous Situation, which is very rare and typically reserved for extreme fire weather conditions. Over 700 structures have been lost in the fires so far and over 14,000 structures are threatened, with over 67,000 people evacuated.

Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Representatives Michael Baumgartner (R, WA-05), Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03), Dan Newhouse (R, WA-04), Emily Randall (D, WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Adam Smith (D, WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10) were additionally on the letter.

“These fires spread rapidly, jumping roads and rivers, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate quickly, with many escaping with little more than they could carry. So far, roughly 700 structures have been destroyed in Spokane, including entire neighborhoods, while many remain threatened. As the fires continue to burn, this number is expected to climb. Hundreds of people have completely lost their homes and farms, and many are prohibited from returning to their homes or neighborhoods as crews continue to extinguish smoldering embers,” the lawmakers wrote. “Firefighting crews from around the country, as well as international firefighting forces, have deployed to Washington state and are working overtime to suppress these fires, while National Guard members are assisting local first responders with evacuations and firefighting. Expedited federal assistance will help continue these efforts and ensure that state and local agencies have the resources they need.”

“While local, state, and federal resources deployed quickly to respond to the wildfires, federal assistance is needed as firefighting, evacuations, and emergency shelter operations are ongoing. Expedited federal assistance is critical and will help firefighting crews continue to suppress these persistent wildfires and protect the businesses, farms, schools, healthcare facilities, and residential homes from devastation, all while ensuring those displaced by the fires have the support and resources they need,” the lawmakers concluded.

The full letter is available HEREand below:

Dear Mr. President,

As members of the Washington state delegation, we write in support of Washington state’s August 2nd request for an expedited Emergency Declaration due to the devastating wildfires raging in Chelan, Ferry, Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens, and Yakima Counties. In addition to the counties, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and Spokane Tribe of Indians are also listed in Washington’s expedited Emergency Declaration request. We implore you to approve the request for assistance as quickly as possible.

Large and fast-moving wildfires are burning in Central and Eastern Washington. Dangerous conditions, including strong winds, low humidity, and extremely high temperatures, intensified existing fires and ignited new fires, the worst of which started in Spokane and Stevens Counties on Saturday, August 1. According to the Northwest Coordination Center (NWCC), the Pacific Northwest is experiencing wildfire activity not normally seen until much later in the fire season. Between record-setting drought and record low snowpack, the state and Central and Eastern Washington were left vulnerable to fires that burn longer, spread faster, and are increasingly resistant to control.

These fires spread rapidly, jumping roads and rivers, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate quickly, with many escaping with little more than they could carry. So far, roughly 700 structures have been destroyed in Spokane, including entire neighborhoods, while many remain threatened. As the fires continue to burn, this number is expected to climb. Hundreds of people have completely lost their homes and farms, and many are prohibited from returning to their homes or neighborhoods as crews continue to extinguish smoldering embers.

Firefighting crews from around the country, as well as international firefighting forces, have deployed to Washington state and are working overtime to suppress these fires, while National Guard members are assisting local first responders with evacuations and firefighting. Expedited federal assistance will help continue these efforts and ensure that state and local agencies have the resources they need.

While local, state, and federal resources deployed quickly to respond to the wildfires, federal assistance is needed as firefighting, evacuations, and emergency shelter operations are ongoing. Expedited federal assistance is critical and will help firefighting crews continue to suppress these persistent wildfires and protect the businesses, farms, schools, healthcare facilities, and residential homes from devastation, all while ensuring those displaced by the fires have the support and resources they need. We appreciate your prompt attention to the state’s request.

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Spartz Calls on Senate to Lower Costs for Farmers and Consumers - Not Protect Big Ag

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Victoria Spartz (IN-05) sent a letter to the Senate Agriculture Committee urging senators to include her bipartisan Farm Bill affordability amendment in the final legislation.

Rep. Spartz’s amendment would exempt large farm tractors, combines, and sprayers from burdensome EPA emissions regulations that have increased equipment costs, caused costly repair delays, created fire hazards, and driven up grocery prices. The amendment would make farm machinery more affordable, help protect small family farms from bankruptcy and consolidation, and lower costs for American consumers.

“American farmers are being crushed by rising input costs while families continue to pay more at the grocery store,” Rep. Spartz said. “Congress should be removing unnecessary burdens — not adding them. The Senate now has a choice: stand with American farmers and consumers by lowering costs, or stand with Big Ag and the special interests that benefit from regulations driving consolidation and higher costs.”

Rep. Spartz’s amendment passed the House on a bipartisan basis and is the only Farm Bill provision specifically aimed at reducing farmers’ input costs. It has also been endorsed by the Indiana Farm Bureau and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).


Strong on Senate Introduction of PERFORM ACT: ‘Alabama Stands United; Time for USPS to Deliver’

WASHINGTON — Representative Dale Strong (AL-05) issued the following statement regarding the introduction of the Senate companion to his legislation, H.R. 9936, the Postal Executive Responsibility, Fiscal Oversight, and Results-based Management (PERFORM) Act, by Senators Katie Britt (R-AL) and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL).

“Alabamians deserve a Postal Service that delivers their mail on time and a Postmaster General who is accountable for results,” said Congressman Strong. “With Alabama's entire congressional delegation united behind this effort, we're sending a clear message: it’s time for the U.S. Postal Service to deliver.”

In announcing his introduction of the PERFORM Act, Representative Strong previously stated:

“The American people don't get bonuses for failure, and neither should the Postmaster General. The PERFORM Act ends the practice of rewarding poor performance and makes clear that leadership must earn incentive pay by delivering results – not excuses,” said Representative Strong. “If the U.S. Postal Service were a private sector operation, it would have filed for bankruptcy years ago. Further, if a CEO’s tenure saw an average annual net loss of $10 billion while service standards continued to decline, company leadership would be standing in the unemployment line – not collecting performance bonuses.”

The U.S. Postal Service has reported more than $25 billion in net losses over the past three fiscal years, including a $9 billion loss in Fiscal Year 2025. At the same time, millions of Americans have faced delays in receiving medications, bills, checks, legal documents, election mail, and other time-sensitive correspondence.

Despite these persistent service failures and financial losses, the Postmaster General remains eligible for a performance-based bonus, continuing a pattern in which Postmaster Generals have received more than $2 million in bonuses over the past decade.

The PERFORM Act restores accountability by prohibiting a performance-based bonus for the Postmaster General if, during the preceding fiscal year, the Postal Service:

Fails to meet nationwide service performance targets;

Reports a net loss;

Receives a material weakness, adverse audit opinion, or disclaimer in its financial audit; or

Fails to submit a required report to Congress.

Original House cosponsors of the PERFORM Act include Representatives Barry Moore (AL-01), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Mike Rogers (AL-03), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Gary Palmer (AL-06), and Terri Sewell (AL-07).

Since taking office, Congressman Strong has led numerous efforts to improve mail service and strengthen accountability at the U.S. Postal Service, including:

Securing a USPS Office of Inspector General audit of mail delivery performance, staffing levels, and operational bottlenecks affecting North Alabama in the Fiscal Year 2027 Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act.

Directing USPS to review unique ZIP Code designations for communities including Priceville and Skyline to better reflect municipal boundaries and improve service.

Advocating for a new post office in the 35763 ZIP Code to meet the needs of one of Alabama's fastest-growing areas.

Leading efforts to restore a North Alabama-based Processing and Distribution Center to strengthen mail service and improve delivery reliability.

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Congressman Shri Thanedar Introduces Environmental Health Workforce Act

Washington, D.C. — This week, Congressman Shri Thanedar introduced the Environmental Health Workforce Act, which would enforce thorough training protocols and expand student loan forgiveness for those in the environmental public health field, with the goal of boosting the workforce’s participation and capacity.

“In the face of an increasing number of environmental disasters created by climate change, our environmental health workers will be on the frontline of addressing these public health crises,” said Congressman Thanedar. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce legislation that would better support their operations and ease the pathway into this career field, so that I can ensure that these organizations are properly trained and staffed when addressing these critical emergencies."

This bill comes just two weeks after Detroit was reported to have the worst air quality in the world, according to IQAir. This bill would establish national model credentials for environmental public health workers, create a Department of Health and Human Services strategy to improve workforce shortages, and allow these workers to be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).

The full text of the legislation can be viewed here.

Congressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.

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Thompson Announces $4.6 Million Grant for Penn State, Advances Discovery of New Materials

BELLEFONTE, Pa. – Today, U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15) announced a $4.6 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant for Penn State University to increase access to high-tech tools and laboratories for materials discovery and innovation.

The funding will develop Penn State’s NSF 2D Crystal Consortium Materials Innovation Platform (2DCC-MIP) into a self-sustaining model to expand its work with U.S. industry.

“I am pleased to announce that Penn State will receive $4.6 million to continue developing semiconductors and quantum technologies,” Rep. Thompson said. “This funding reaffirms the university’s commitment to excellence and will drive cutting edge technologies forward."

"Penn State appreciates Congressman Thompson's continued leadership in supporting groundbreaking research that delivers meaningful benefits to Pennsylvania and beyond," said Josh Robinson, director of Penn State's Materials Research Institute. "This funding recognizes the exceptional team led by Joan Redwing, whose years of expertise in two-dimensional materials have positioned the 2D Crystal Consortium for this important next phase. Investments like this from the federal government will help establish the 2D Crystal Consortium as a sustainable national resource, accelerating semiconductor research and advancing U.S. priorities in 2D materials and next-generation technologies.”

The grant will be awarded over four years, transitioning the facility to rely on user fees to ensure it remains a national resource for many years to come.

Penn State’s 2DCC is one of only four MIPs in the United States, and has received funding from the NSF since its inception 10 years ago.


Representatives Tran, Lee Urge Senator Schumer to Remove Unnecessary Voter ID Requirements from the Stop Insider Trading Act

Washington, DC – U.S. Representatives Derek Tran (CA-45) and Susie Lee (NV-03) led a letter urging Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to remove the controversial and unnecessarily burdensome voter ID requirements from H.R. 7008, the Stop Insider Trading Act. In its current form, the bill would both restrict Members of Congress from purchasing new individual stocks and introduce a federal voter-identification requirement.

Read the full letter HERE.

“[The Stop Insider Trading Act] includes needlessly onerous voter ID provisions that stand to undermine rather than uphold election integrity, particularly as it relates to voting by mail. The focus of the Stop Insider Trading Act should be firmly fixed on doing exactly what its title says it will do, with the voter ID provisions that House Republicans attached to this bill instead debated and voted upon separately,” the members wrote.

The Stop Insider Trading Act would prohibit Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing new public stocks while in office.

On July 20, 2026, the Republican House majority added restrictive voter ID language to the Stop Insider Trading Act. The provision would mandate that in-person voters must present photo identification before submitting a ballot, and any other form of ballot must be submitted with either a copy of the voter’s photo ID, the last four digits of the voter's Social Security Number plus an affidavit that the voter cannot obtain a photo ID, or notarization from a notary public. The bill passed the House with a vote of 232-198, and is waiting for consideration by the Senate.

Representative Tran introduced H.R. 7852, the No Getting Rich In Congress Act, which bans trading by public officials and their families and strengthens ethics rules to prevent backdoor deals. He is also a co-sponsor of H.R.3779, the STOCK Act 2.0, to ban trading and ownership of individual stocks and cryptocurrencies for high-ranking federal officials, their spouses, and their dependent children. Tran is a co-sponsor for H.R. 14, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2025, to prohibit voting changes within 180 days of a federal election, require States notify the public of any election rule changes, and hold States accountable for voting rights violations.

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Congressman Valadao Honors Central Valley Community Health Centers

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) reintroduced a bipartisan bill designating the first week of August as National Community Health Center Week. He was joined by Reps. Troy Balderson (OH-12), Danny Davis (IL-07), and Jake Auchincloss (MA-04). This resolution recognizes the important partnership between health centers and the communities they serve.

Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) reintroduced the companion bill in the Senate.

“As a member of the Congressional Community Health Center Caucus, I’m proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this bipartisan resolution recognizing National Community Health Center Week,” said Congressman Valadao. “In California’s 22nd Congressional District, seven federally funded Community Health Center (CHC) organizations provide care to more than 765,000 patients each year, serving as a critical lifeline for families in rural and underserved communities. This week, we celebrate CHCs and the dedicated healthcare professionals who work hard to ensure quality, affordable healthcare across our communities.”

“Community health centers provide millions of Americans with access to the primary, preventive, and behavioral health care they depend on," said Congressman Balderson. "For many rural and underserved communities, these centers are an essential source of quality, affordable care that helps keep patients healthy and reduces the need for more costly treatment down the road. During National Community Health Center Week, we recognize and thank the dedicated doctors, nurses, staff, and volunteers who work every day to strengthen the health of our communities.”

“Community Health Centers are community-based healthcare providers that provide and expand access to care for millions of medically underserved Americans who receive primary, preventive, behavioral health, dental care, substance use treatment, and other services," said Congressman Davis. "I join my colleagues in celebrating 61 years of improving our nation’s health."

“Community health centers are tested and trusted, as this resolution recognizes,” said Congressman Auchincloss. “Congress should make these vital clinics the backbone of primary care in America by providing the rules & resourcing to multiply their impact.”

"The National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) applauds Reps. Valadao (R-CA), Balderson (R-OH), Auchincloss (D-MA), and Davis (D-IL) for introducing this year's resolution honoring National Community Health Center Week. Community Health Centers (CHC) anchor the nation's largest primary care network, treating 52 million patients — 1 in 7 Americans, including 1 in 3 in rural America — while spending just 1% of the nation's health care dollars. Congress's continued bipartisan backing enables CHCs to operate more than 17,000 locations and employ 326,000 people, who provide primary and preventive care, manage chronic disease, reduce health care costs, and strengthen local economies in communities nationwide,” said Kyu Rhee, MD, MPP, President and CEO of NACHC.

“The Central Valley Health Network would like to recognize the continued leadership of Representative Valadao and that of his colleagues Representatives Auchincloss (D-MA), Balderson (R-OH) and Davis (D-IL) in acknowledging the critical work of health centers to provide access to quality healthcare by introducing the 2026 congressional resolution commemorating National Community Health Center Week. California’s community health centers serve as the backbone to the state’s healthcare delivery system to underserved communities serving more than 5.8 million individuals in rural and urban regions, with many families throughout the Central Valley relying on the essential services they provide,” said Jason Vega, CEO, Central Valley Health Network.

"Family HealthCare Network is grateful to Congressman Valadao for recognizing National Community Health Center Week and the essential role community health centers play in keeping our communities healthy. His continued support reflects an understanding that access to quality, affordable primary care is fundamental to the well-being of families throughout the Central Valley. As Californians continue to rely on health centers for their care, this recognition reinforces the importance of ensuring these vital services remain strong and accessible for everyone who needs them. The recognition also reinforces Congressman Valadao’s continued focus on the well-being and prosperity of those living in the Central Valley," said Kerry Hydash, MPA, President & CEO, Family HealthCare Network.

Read the resolution here.


Vindman, Democratic Veterans Demand Transparency on Iran War Casualties

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined 14 fellow Democratic veterans in urging the Administration to accurately and transparently account for U.S. servicemembers killed and wounded in the Iran war following disturbing reports that the Department of Defense removed the names of four American troops from the official Iran War death toll.

“As veterans of America’s wars, we have serious concerns about reports that the Department of War is delaying, removing or otherwise mischaracterizing the release of information about wounded and killed U.S. servicemembers,” wrote the lawmakers.

“The U.S. government owes U.S. servicemembers, their families, and every American the truth about all U.S. casualties in the War with Iran. It is imperative that these reports are timely, accurate and adequately explain the reason for amended or delayed reports,” they continued. “We urge you to commit to releasing timely and accurate information on all injuries and deaths of U.S. servicemembers.”

Following public outcry, the Department of Defense quietly restored the names of the four U.S. servicemembers removed from the Iran War death toll over the weekend. The Administration has not provided an adequate explanation as to why the servicemembers were removed in the first place.

Representatives Mike Thompson (Calif.-04), Pat Ryan (N.Y.-18), Seth Moulton (Mass.-06), Chris Deluzio (Pa.-17), Derek Tran (Calif.-45), Jimmy Panetta (Calif.-19), Ted Lieu (Calif.-36), Maggie Goodlander (N.H.-02), Chrissy Houlahan (Pa.-06), Jason Crow (Colo.-06), Bobby Scott (Va.-03), Salud Carbajal (Calif.-24), Gil Cisneros (Calif.-31), and Jared Golden (Maine-02) also signed the letter.

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

Dear President Trump,

As veterans of America’s wars, we have serious concerns about reports that the Department of War is delaying, removing or otherwise mischaracterizing the release of information about wounded and killed U.S. servicemembers.

The U.S. government owes U.S. servicemembers, their families, and every American the truth about all U.S. casualties in the War with Iran. It is imperative that these reports are timely, accurate and adequately explain the reason for amended or delayed reports. Inaccurate and delayed reports from the Department of War about U.S. casualties is bad for morale and undermines our U.S. servicemembers.

We urge you to commit to releasing timely and accurate information on all injuries and deaths of U.S. servicemembers.

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Walkinshaw Joins Colleagues to Protect Federal Workers Impacted by OPM Cyberattack

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) joined Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), and colleagues in introducing the Reducing the Effects of the Cyberattack on OPM Victims Enduring Response and Protecting Identifiable Information (RECOVER PII) Act, legislation to provide lifetime identity protection coverage for federal employees and contractors whose personal information was compromised in the 2015 Office of Personnel Management (OPM) cyberattacks.

The legislation would provide lifetime identity protection services for those affected and reimburse eligible federal employees and contractors for privacy software and other tools that help remove their personal information from online data brokers.

In 2015, OPM disclosed two cyberattacks that exposed the personal information of approximately 22.1 million federal employees, contractors, and others. The stolen information included Social Security numbers, addresses, financial information, security clearance files, and background investigation records. The breaches, widely attributed to actors linked to the Chinese government, continue to pose risks to both affected individuals and U.S. national security.

Congress previously approved ten years of identity protection coverage for victims of the breach, but that protection is set to expire on September 30, 2026. The RECOVER PII Act would extend those protections for life and help affected individuals safeguard their personal information against future exploitation.

Read the full bill here.


Watson Coleman Statement on Death of Detainee at Delaney Hall

Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) released a statement following news of the passing of Edwin Lopez Cornejo at Delaney Hall on Saturday. Cornejo, 39, a resident of Plainfield, had been in ICE detention at Delaney Hall for about six weeks and, according to family members, was not given his medication for his diabetes and high blood pressure.

“Edwin had lived in the United States since he was a child. By all accounts, he was an upstanding member of his community. His detention alone was an act of cruelty, and if he indeed was denied his medication as his family reports, the operators at Delaney Hall should be charged with homicide. For over a year, community leaders, family members, Mayor Baraka, Senators Kim and Booker, Members of Congress, and the Governor have warned about the conditions at Delaney Hall. Now a second person has died at the for-profit prison. Delaney Hall is a stain on our country. Its continued use is a daily reminder of the cruelty of our immigration and criminal justice systems. It should be shut down at once, and those responsible for its inhumane conditions should be investigated and tried.”

Congresswoman Watson Coleman has requested from ICE: the timeline of events leading to the medical emergency, including when Mr. Cornejo became ill, when medical assistance was requested, and when he was transported; records regarding his medical care while detained, including access to prescribed medications and treatment for known medical conditions; whether required family notification procedures were followed; and any incident reports, medical records, or oversight reviews related to this matter.


ALSOBROOKS, GILLIBRAND INTRODUCE NEW TAX CREDIT FOR SENIORS TO INSTALL AGING-RELATED MODIFICATIONS TO THEIR HOMES

August 3, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC – As reported in Politico’s Morning Tax, Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), both members of the Senate Aging Committee, introduced the Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit Act of 2026 which would create a new tax credit for seniors to install essential, aging-related modifications to their homes. Similar to legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. George Latimer (D-N.Y.), this legislation would help older adults age in place by making their homes safer.

“We have a responsibility to care for our seniors. This critical legislation allows for seniors to stay in their homes – for many that means homes they love and have been in for decades – and install essential, aging related modifications. Caring for our seniors isn’t just our duty–it is a privilege, and we should treat it as such by passing this bill,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

“A safe, accessible place for seniors to live should be a right, not a privilege,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit Act would help our nation’s older adults age with dignity by assisting with the cost of home modifications that meet their mobility needs. As the top Democrat on the Senate Aging Committee, I am committed to getting this bill passed to remove barriers to accessible housing for older Americans.”

“Homeownership should support Americans through every stage of life. The Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit Act recognizes that simple home modifications can help older adults remain safe, independent, and connected to the communities they call home. By helping offset the cost of accessibility improvements, this legislation gives more seniors the opportunity to age in place with dignity while preserving the stability that homeownership provides. The National Association of REALTORS® is grateful for Senator Alsobrooks’ and Senator Gillibrand’s leadership on this bill and is proud to support this commonsense legislation,” said Shannon McGahn, Chief Advocacy Officer and Executive Vice President of the National Association of REALTORS®.

“The opportunity to age in community is critical for America’s older adults to thrive. But too many are not able to do so because of housing that cannot accommodate their needs. Less than five percent of the nation’s homes are accessible to households with even moderate mobility limitations at a time when, due to our country’s rapidly aging population, America desperately needs more age-friendly housing. LeadingAge applauds Senators Alsobrooks and Gillibrand, along with Congressman Latimer, for recognizing this. As the trusted voice for aging, LeadingAge supports the Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit, which is an important step toward ensuring older adults can make the home modifications they need to live independently for longer,” said Katie Smith Sloan, president and CEO, LeadingAge.

The Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit would create a nonrefundable tax credit for taxpayers aged 60 or older for expenses related to certain residence modifications on their principal residence or a qualifying second home. The credit would be equal to the cost of eligible expenditures, with an annual credit limitation of $10,000. Qualifying expenditures would also include certain labor costs related to the preparation, assembly, or installation of an eligible modification.

Qualifying expenditures would include:

The installation of wheelchair ramps

The widening of doorways

The installation of handrails or grab bars

The installation of non-slip flooring

The installation of bathtub cuts or shower seats

The installation of furniture risers

The installation of chair lifts

The replacement of toilets or bathroom vanities

The replacement of kitchen or bathroom faucets

Read the full bill text here.


ICYMI: Sen. Banks Joins Maria Bartiromo’s Wall Street on Fox Business

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This weekend, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Maria Bartiromo’s Wall Street on Fox Business Network to discuss the conflict in Iran, Middle East diplomacy, AI policy, and Senate priorities.

Click the image above for the full discussion.

Key Excerpts on Iran:

Sen. Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Nobody should be surprised that China is aligned with Iran; they have supported them militarily, economically, they are the number one customer of oil coming out of Iran. I am not surprised at all by these reports what is surprising is that they would openly defy President Trump at time when Chairman Xi is trying to negotiate a deal with President Trump moving forward that he would assist our number one enemy right now with the War in Iran that China would come to bat with military weapons.”

“This is why President Trump was so right and wise this week to slow down the Russia sanctions bill that Sen. Lindsey Graham fought so hard for before he died. But President Trump said to add sanctions on Iran and add secondary sanctions on those who assist Iran into the sanction bill, but President Trump is exactly right. This is something we have to do to give President Trump more power and authority to crack down on China for their malign influence and assistance to Iranian Military Operations against the United States of America.”

Key Excerpts on AI:

“One way to think about this, Maria, is in Jurassic Park the Raptors in the cage get out of the cage, and then the disaster happens after that…One thing that I’ve worked on in the Senate version of the National Defense Authorization Act, the defense bill, is that Sen. Gillibrand, a Democrat from New York, and I have bipartisan language that that would require these AI companies that have contracts and work with the Department of War to report insider threats. It is critical, and these two incidents this week show exactly why…These AI companies have a duty for national security purposes to allow for more government oversight and to report those insider threats.”

Key Excerpts on Senate Priorities:

“We shouldn’t take a break until we get our job done. I’m a new Senator; I’m frustrated, like the rest of the country, seeing the inaction of Congress on so many important issues. President Trump is right about that when it comes to the SAVE America Act, which is fundamental and critical to protecting our elections, our democracy, and our American way of life. We should absolutely pass it.”

“It also includes funding for our troops and our military and to replenish our munitions stockpiles so that President Trump can keep up the pressure on Iran and bring them back to the table to prevent them from ever having a nuclear weapon. And to support our men and women in uniform, which is my top priority.”

“Chuck Schumer and the Democrats would love nothing more than to shut the government down right before we go into October, right before the midterm elections and that would be a disaster for our country, we can’t let them get away with it. Let’s pass the reconciliation bill, the SAVE America Act, support our military, and then pass the CR and avoid a government shutdown before we get to election day.”

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ICYMI: Sen. Banks Joins Sunday Night in America on Fox News Channel

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Sunday Night in America with Trey Gowdy on Fox News Channel to discuss the ongoing conflict in Iran, efforts to dismantle Hamas, and next steps towards peace.

Click the image above for the full discussion.

Key Excerpts on Iran:

Sen. Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “President Trump wants a peaceful resolution; I think the whole country wants a peaceful resolution. He did use the word ‘rapidly’ make an agreement. If the Iranians don’t come to the table and rapidly make an agreement to end their nuclear program and reopen the Strait, then President Trump is going to bomb the hell out of them again. They know what’s coming. President Trump has been transparent with them every single step of the way, and he’s kept his word. I think all of us want this war to come to an end, but at the same time President Trump’s legacy will be to ensure that Iran never has a nuclear weapon and he’s intent on making sure that’s the case.”

“You’re dealing with different factions, you’re dealing with a radicalized military, you’re dealing with a governing class in Iran who I think really does want to make a deal because they have been brought to their knees, they know what the American military is capable of, and I don’t think they have seen the worst of it…President Trump is ratcheting up the pressure, and he’s willing and able to do it again, but he’s taking another pause to give them a chance to come to the table. Reopening the Strait is something we see immediate results from. We know when they keep up their end of the deal and reopen the Strait what that looks like, and we also know the repercussions when they don’t.”

Key Excerpts on Hamas Disarmament:

“What President Trump did in the first term with the Abraham Accords and negotiating peace in the Middle East and what he is trying to do in this term in ending Iran’s nuclear program, he’s trying to negotiate peace between Hamas and Israel, it’s unbelievable…. But if Hamas will lay down their weapons and disarm themselves and President Trump can negotiate peace between Hamas and Israel, it would be another example of the incredible negotiating power and the leadership of President Trump. Israel is hopeful, but let’s face it, Hamas is a deadly terrorist group, a proxy of Iran that is funded by the Iranians. Let’s hope something good will come of this. I trust President Trump, and I believe he’s capable of negotiating something here that is historic.”

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Blumenthal & Schumer Lead Senate Democrats In Legislation To End Unprecedented Presidential Corruption, Stop "Pay-To-Play" Pardons

[Hartford, CT] — Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) introduced the No Payoffs For Pardons Act to strengthen transparency and accountability in the presidential clemency process. This legislation would require individuals who receive pardons to disclose any significant financial gifts made in connection with their clemency, both at the time it is granted and for four years afterward. It also confirms federal bribery laws apply to the President and Vice President. Simply put, the No Payoffs For Pardons Act is designed to deter, expose, and prosecute corrupt pardons.

This legislation is being introduced in tandem on the House side by Representative Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.), the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration.

President Trump promised to attack “waste, fraud, and abuse.” But after a year and a half in office, it’s clear that he has engaged in a level of corruption and abuse previously unseen in the office. Trump has taken one of the undisputed powers of the President — the ability to grant clemency for a crime — and perverted its intention. No longer does a presidential pardon seek to right an injustice, Trump has turned the pardon into a prize that can be won by the highest bidder, no matter the crime committed.

“President Trump’s pay-to-play pardon scheme rewards political allies and sells out justice to the highest bidder,” said Senator Blumenthal. “When convicted criminals can escape punishment for the right price or by hiring the right people, it corrupts the justice system for everyone. And President Trump’s pardons have cost taxpayers and crime victims billions in forfeited restitution and put child predators back into our communities. Basic transparency and accountability are imperative.”

The No Payoffs For Pardons Act would establish disclosure requirements for clemency recipients and clarifies applications of the federal bribery statute. The legislation would impose disclosure obligations, making it so a clemency recipient would have to file a report if they give a certain “covered benefit” to a “covered recipient.” Additionally, the legislation goes further to clarify federal bribery, confirming that it applies to the President and Vice President, and establishes a 10-year statute of limitation for bribery offenses involving the granting, denying, withholding, promising, or offering of executive clemency.

“Justice should not be bought and sold. But Trump has turned clemency into a perk that his golf buddies, donors, and allies can buy. Proximity to the Presidency has provided criminals with a ‘get out of jail free’ card,” said Leader Schumer. “We are seeking to bring sunlight to the deals that Trump is trying to do under the cover of shadows and stop the rampant corrupt that has been a hallmark of his presidency since Day One.”

“President Trump treats pardons like a payout,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “The American people deserve to know if the criminals President Trump is pardoning have lobbied or paid him or his family. This commonsense legislation will expose the ‘pay to play’ pardon to limit Trump’s corrupt power grabs.”

“President Trump’s blatant misuse of the pardon power to serve his political and personal whims is illustrative of the same message he continues to send to his donors and friends: if you’ve got enough money or the right political connections, the law doesn’t apply to you. It’s time to crack down on the president’s abuses, and I’m proud to join Leader Schumer in helping to bring transparency and accountability to the corrupt use of the pardon power,” said Senator Schiff.

"The most corrupt President this country has ever seen only seeks to serve himself and his billionaire friends," said Rep. Morelle. "Far too many Americans are struggling with providing the basics for their family because the cost of Trump’s corruption has been brought to their kitchen table. The American people deserve to know how the President is abusing the pardon power and their trust, that’s exactly what the No Payoffs For Pardons Act will deliver."

This is the latest action in Senate Democrats anti-corruption initiative, which is working to expose President Trump’s rampant self-dealing, demonstrate how corruption costs American families and enact lasting safeguards against presidents who attempt to exploit public office for personal profit. The initiative includes a new Senate Democratic anti-corruption working group and the release of a report, “The Cost of Corruption: How Trump Turns Power Into Profit At Americans’ Expense.”

"The pardon power exists to serve as a safety net to correct injustices. However, the Trump administration has gravely abused this power by pardoning those convicted of bribery, corruption, and insider trading; hundreds of rioters who assaulted law enforcement officials on January 6; and other criminals in the Epstein class who are connected to the rich and powerful," said Amb. Norm Eisen (ret.), co-founder and board member of Democracy Defenders Action. "It is past due for Congress to rein in these unchecked pardon powers, and we thank Leader Schumer and Senator Blumenthal for introducing the No Corrupt Pardons Act."

“A presidential pardon is meant to be an opportunity for mercy, not enrichment,”?said?Adav Noti, executive director of the nonpartisan Campaign Legal Center.?“But?the federal?pardon?system has?been?thoroughly corrupted,?permitting?lawbreakers with extreme wealth to use their political connections to?avoid accountability. These are just the examples we can see;?without disclosure,?pardon?recipients can buy influence through dark money political spending,?or by supporting the president’s pet?projects and personal businesses.?Americans deserve a fair shake, not a criminal justice system where regular people are punished and the wealthy walk free.?Sen. Schumer’s?legislation would address corruption by pardon seekers and ensure those who?buy pardons?face the same consequences?as anyone else who bribes the government.?Congress must?pass?the No Payoffs For Pardons Act?and?take these?important steps to restore fairness and strengthen the rule of law.”

“President Trump’s outrageous exploitation of the pardon power to benefit himself, his cronies, and his sleazy benefactors absolutely demands reform,” said Lisa Gilbert, Co-President Public Citizen. “Public Citizen strongly supports Senator Schumer’s pardon reform bill that will force sleazy financial pay-to-play pardon schemes out from the shadows and into the light of day. Anyone who plans, participates in, or profits from perverting the sacred pardon power for depraved purposes should be exposed and held accountable for abusing the public’s trust.”

The full text of the legislation can be seen here.

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Blumenthal Statement on Major Contracts for Sikorsky

[Hartford, CT] — Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement celebrating the U.S. Army’s award of two contacts for Sikorsky to continue work on UH/HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters.

“These contracts--$56.8 million for more Black Hawks and $49.9 million to develop new and improved engines--is a strong sign of the US Army’s commitment to the Black Hawk program and will keep Sikorsky’s talented workforce busy for years to come. I am thrilled to see Sikorsky awarded this important work and will keep fighting for federal funding to support our state’s defense industry,” Blumenthal said.

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NEWS: Blunt Rochester Joins 20 Colleagues in Urging Trump Administration to Use Leverage to Prevent Further Atrocities in Sudan

U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), today joined Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and her Senate Democratic colleagues in pressing the State Department to use its leverage to prevent further atrocities in Sudan and help bring the war to an end. To do so, the Senators urge the State Department to cease certain U.S. arms sales to external actors like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) which continues to arm the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) in Sudan. The Senators’ letter notes the immediate need for the State Department to take action in light of the impending siege of the city of El Obeid and following the mass atrocities and bloodshed that occurred in El Fasher last year.

Senators Blunt Rochester and Van Hollen were joined in sending this letter by Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.).

“We write with alarm regarding the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) impending siege of the city of El Obeid in Sudan, which threatens a repeat of the mass atrocities and bloodshed that occurred in El Fasher this past October. While we welcome the State Department’s expression of concern about the escalating situation in El Obeid, words are not enough. The United States must use the leverage and influence at our disposal to prevent further atrocities in El Obeid and help bring this brutal war in Sudan to an end. These actions should include ceasing certain U.S. arms sales to external actors that are fueling this war, including the United Arab Emirates, which continues to arm the RSF,” the Senators begin.

They continue, “We have already witnessed what happens when the international community fails to heed warnings of RSF atrocities. The RSF’s siege and devastation of El Fasher bore the ‘hallmarks of genocide’ according to United Nations investigators.[…] The siege of El Fasher lasted for over 500 days, and the ensuing atrocities were widely foreseen and repeatedly forewarned by the United Nations, intelligence from the U.S. State Department and foreign governments, humanitarian monitors, and researchers. We remain greatly concerned by this administration’s grave failure to act despite the chorus of alarm bells. What occurred in El Fasher is a stark warning of what could unfold in El Obeid and across Sudan if this administration—and the international community—continues this current pattern of inaction.”

The lawmakers go on to warn, “And now those alarm bells are ringing once again – this time in El Obeid. Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said on July 3, ‘This is not a drill. It is a red alert that needs to land on the desks of heads of state and government around the world. Their phones should be running hot in the coming days and weeks, with ideas on how to prevent atrocity crimes in El Obeid and in other places in Kordofan.’ […] The State Department has also recognized that this is a critical moment. On June 22, the State Department spokesperson warned of ‘alarming indications that mass atrocities could be imminent’ and said ‘the RSF and their allied forces must cease any actions that could endanger civilians, impede humanitarian assistance, or contribute to further atrocities and suffering.’”

“The evidence is clear – the United Arab Emirates is the primary external backer of the RSF, providing unparalleled military, financial, and technical support to the group,” the Senators note.

“Now, an estimated 500,000 civilians are at risk in El Obeid, including many who have sought shelter there after fleeing RSF attacks across the Kordofan region. The encirclement and systematic crippling of resources in El Obeid increasingly parallels El Fasher, and this administration must use its leverage and influence to prevent a repeat of El Fasher’s horrors in El Obeid before it is too late. We urge this administration to take concrete actions to prevent such mass atrocities in El Obeid, including by ceasing certain U.S. arms sales to the UAE and other external actors that are fueling this war. We also request an update on what other actions the administration is taking, beyond just words, to prevent mass atrocities in El Obeid and to help bring this war to an end,” the lawmakers conclude.

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

Secretary Rubio,

We write with alarm regarding the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) impending siege of the city of El Obeid in Sudan, which threatens a repeat of the mass atrocities and bloodshed that occurred in El Fasher this past October. While we welcome the State Department’s expression of concern about the escalating situation in El Obeid, words are not enough. The United States must use the leverage and influence at our disposal to prevent further atrocities in El Obeid and help bring this brutal war in Sudan to an end. These actions should include ceasing certain U.S. arms sales to external actors that are fueling this war, including the United Arab Emirates, which continues to arm the RSF.

We have already witnessed what happens when the international community fails to heed warnings of RSF atrocities. The RSF’s siege and devastation of El Fasher bore the “hallmarks of genocide” according to United Nations investigators. A United Nations Independent International Fact-Finding Mission found that “the Rapid Support Forces steadily squeezed the life out of El-Fasher and surrounding displacement camps, cutting off food, water, medical supplies, and humanitarian assistance, while subjecting the city to recurring shelling and ground assaults. Civilians were increasingly trapped, as escape routes were restricted or closed, and forced to endure conditions of life progressively incompatible with human survival.” This 18-month siege culminated in a 3-day rampage in October 2025, where survivors describe the slaughter of civilians, mass executions, and crimes against humanity.

El-Fasher University “became one of the bloodiest execution sites in the city.” According to survivors, over a hundred civilians were gunned down or executed as they sought shelter or attempted to flee. Survivors described notorious RSF commander Abu Lulu, known as the “Butcher of El-Fasher”, asking a pregnant woman how far she was in her pregnancy and then firing seven bullets into her abdomen when she replied that she was seven months along. He at one point said, “I was planning to kill 2000 people today, but I lost count, so I will start all over again.” In the case of El-Saudi Hospital, RSF forces stormed the hospital and “proceeded to search the wards and killing those they found, including patients, accompanying persons and medical personnel…it is estimated that over 460 patients and others present were killed.” Flight didn’t bring safety, according to survivors, as “The Rapid Support Forces pursued fleeing civilians along escape routes…where they had established ambushes and checkpoints…the perpetrators chasing people in open fields, firing at them with automatic rifles and mounted submachine guns, and running over fleeing persons with vehicles, causing mass casualties.” The horrors were visible from space, with satellite images analyzed by the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab showing bodies piled up in the streets, pools of blood on the ground, and mass burial sites.

The siege of El Fasher lasted for over 500 days, and the ensuing atrocities were widely foreseen and repeatedly forewarned by the United Nations, intelligence from the U.S. State Department and foreign governments, humanitarian monitors, and researchers. We remain greatly concerned by this administration’s grave failure to act despite the chorus of alarm bells. What occurred in El Fasher is a stark warning of what could unfold in El Obeid and across Sudan if this administration—and the international community—continues this current pattern of inaction.

And now those alarm bells are ringing once again – this time in El Obeid. Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said on July 3, “This is not a drill. It is a red alert that needs to land on the desks of heads of state and government around the world. Their phones should be running hot in the coming days and weeks, with ideas on how to prevent atrocity crimes in El Obeid and in other places in Kordofan.” Tom Fletcher, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said of El Obeid on June 30, “Too often in this brutal war, clear warnings have been ignored. Civilians have paid the price. The international community must make itself heard. We cannot say we were not warned.”

The State Department has also recognized that this is a critical moment. On June 22, the State Department spokesperson warned of “alarming indications that mass atrocities could be imminent” and said “the RSF and their allied forces must cease any actions that could endanger civilians, impede humanitarian assistance, or contribute to further atrocities and suffering.” On June 23, State Department Senior Advisor for Africa Massad Boulos said that he spoke with RSF leadership and “strongly urged them to halt any actions that could endanger civilians in and around El Obeid.” And this Administration has repeatedly affirmed, including in July 2025, that “The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias have committed genocide.” In November 2025, you yourself said that the RSF is “clearly receiving assistance from outside” and that “something needs to be done to cut off the weapons and the support the RSF is getting as they continue their advances.”

The evidence is clear – the United Arab Emirates is the primary external backer of the RSF, providing unparalleled military, financial, and technical support to the group. In May 2026, a new report by Human Rights Watch found that the UAE trained hundreds of Colombian mercenaries who then “took part in combat in and around El Fasher and, according to media reports, provided training to RSF recruits–including child soldiers”. In February 2026, a Reuters investigation found that Ethiopia has built a secret camp to train thousands of RSF fighters, and that the UAE financed the construction of the camp and provided military trainers and logistical support. This follows U.S. intelligence from October 2025, including separate reports from the Defense Intelligence Agency and the State Department’s intelligence bureau, that “show an increase in the flow of materiel from the U.A.E. to the rebel Rapid Support Forces since the spring.” These findings are part of a large and growing body of credible evidence that the UAE is both arming and providing military support to the RSF.

Now, an estimated 500,000 civilians are at risk in El Obeid, including many who have sought shelter there after fleeing RSF attacks across the Kordofan region. The encirclement and systematic crippling of resources in El Obeid increasingly parallels El Fasher, and this administration must use its leverage and influence to prevent a repeat of El Fasher’s horrors in El Obeid before it is too late. We urge this administration to take concrete actions to prevent such mass atrocities in El Obeid, including by ceasing certain U.S. arms sales to the UAE and other external actors that are fueling this war. We also request an update on what other actions the administration is taking, beyond just words, to prevent mass atrocities in El Obeid and to help bring this war to an end.

We request a response to this letter by August 17, 2026.


Booker Condemns Detainee Death in ICE Custody, Reaffirms Yearslong Call for Delaney Hall’s Permanent Closure

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) released the following statement after Edwin Lopez-Cornejo, 41, died on Saturday, August 1, while held at Delaney Hall:

“I unequivocally condemn the death of yet another immigrant at Delaney Hall. It is unacceptable that people continue to die on ICE’s watch. My thoughts are with his family and all who loved him. The circumstances surrounding his death are deeply disturbing: while my team is still collecting facts, public reports indicate that Lopez-Cornejo was denied access to necessary medical treatment while detained — an unlawful and inhumane practice that is well documented at this facility. This is not the first death of a detainee at Delaney Hall, and absent decisive action, it will not be the last. I have visited the facility myself and witnessed these conditions firsthand, so I say this plainly: Delaney Hall must be closed immediately and permanently.

“This tragedy does not occur in isolation. ICE has exhibited a pattern of misconduct and abuse across every level of its operations. This death follows a video showing an ICE agent striking a protester with a baton into the path of an 18-wheeler truck. There are reports of detainees being assaulted and pepper-sprayed inside these walls. This is precisely why I refused to support giving this reckless and out of control agency a single dollar more. Congress must act to pass the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act to end the use of for-profit private detention facilities like Delaney Hall and to hold the agency accountable for its failure to provide required medical care. I am demanding answers from ICE regarding the medical care Mr. Lopez-Cornejo was denied, and I urge anyone with firsthand knowledge or any information to contact my office as well as the appropriate authorities. More than 70 percent of individuals in ICE detention have never been convicted of a crime. This man should be alive today. Delaney Hall should have been closed already.”


Booker Statement on Republican Farm Bill Text

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, issued the following statement in response to the Farm Bill text released by Senate Republicans:

“The Republican Farm Bill released on Friday fails to meet the moment of crisis facing America's farmers and families. Democrats should remain united and only support a Farm Bill that includes a clean two-year delay of the SNAP cost shift to states. The bill must also provide immediate, meaningful assistance for the hundreds of thousands of small and mid-sized farmers—including livestock, dairy, fruit, vegetable, and diversified producers—who have been left behind by federal farm policy for far too long.”


Booker Urges Judiciary Republicans to Reject Todd Blanche’s Attorney General Nomination, Citing Extensive Record of Misconduct

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, sent a letter to Chairman Chuck Grassley urging Republican colleagues to oppose Todd Blanche’s nomination for Attorney General.

Booker’s letter lays out an extensive record of alleged misconduct including: misleading Congress, politicizing the Department of Justice, retaliating against career public servants, mishandling the release of the Epstein files, and undermining the rule of law. Booker’s letter follows Blanche’s order purporting to rescind the Department of Justice’s so-called “Anti-Weaponization Fund.”

Booker argues that the action does not resolve the underlying concerns surrounding the agreement and instead leaves in place sweeping immunity protections for President Trump, his family, associates, and others from potential federal, civil and criminal liability. Booker also contends that the order does not prevent future payments through other avenues or address the broader effort to use the Justice Department to protect political allies from accountability.

“The order is legally defective on its face. It is not signed by President Trump or his counsel and is therefore unenforceable under the terms of the original agreement,” wrote Senator Booker.

“The order also fails to foreclose the Department from settling claims by individuals convicted of crimes related to the January 6 attack through other avenues, and Mr. Blanche makes no commitment to reject such claims. And the clarification regarding the immunity directive only confirms that the sweeping immunity for the President remains fully in effect — prohibiting every federal agency from investigating or prosecuting the President, his family, his associates, and an undefined universe of other individuals, not merely for tax liability, but for any civil or criminal offense, known or unknown, as of the date the directive took effect,” continued Senator Booker.

“The question before this Committee is not merely whether Mr. Blanche is fit to lead the Department of Justice. It is whether the Senate will hold the line on the principle that no one, including the President of the United States, is above the law,” wrote Senator Booker.

“Courts have lost confidence in the representations of DOJ attorneys, and public trust in the Department has been severely undermined. His record is rife with examples of prosecutorial misconduct and a disregard for the rule of law—if not outright disdain for it,” said Senator Booker.

“A vote to confirm Mr. Blanche is a vote to ratify all the misconduct outlined in this letter: the collusive settlement, the immunity deals, the retaliation against career prosecutors, the stonewalling of Epstein survivors, and the subordination of the rule of law to one man’s personal and political interests. The American people are watching. History will record this vote. We urge our colleagues to cast it accordingly,” concluded Senator Booker.

Read the full text of Senator Booker’s letter here.

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U.S. Senator Katie Britt Joins Keeping It Real: Conversations with Jillian Michaels to Discuss Taking on Big Tech, Protecting America’s Youth Online

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt joined Keeping It Real: Conversations with Jillian Michaels, for a long-form discussion about Big Tech and social media, AI chatbots, the gambling industry targeting minors, and the adverse effects each has on America’s youth. Excerpts from the interview are below.

Michaels opened the episode by highlighting Senator Britt’s leadership:

“Kids are being targeted online in plain sight, and in today’s show, we’re naming names. Big Tech has built a digital Pandora’s box for our kids, consisting of hard drugs and predators, two clicks away from a homework app. You’ve got AI friends grooming lonely kids at 2 AM and gambling ads are following them from YouTube to their video games … Senator Katie Britt is one of the very few people in Washington actually trying to shut this down. She’s been described as a mom in Congress, pushing an arsenal of bills from Sammy’s Law, the Kids Off Social Media Act, the GUARD Act, the Stop the Scroll Act, and the GAME Act to drag kids out of Big Tech’s experiment.”

Senator Britt on why taking on Big Tech is a priority for her:

“Look, the thing that’s most important to me are my husband and my kids, and I feel honored to have the opportunity to represent the great state of Alabama. But I tell people every day, I don’t have to ask people what it’s like to raise kids right now, I am living it. And so, I know for so many people, my friends in particular, this social media space is uncharted territory. Jillian, you and I, when we grew up, we didn’t have these complexities. I mean, growing up is hard enough as it is. And then we layer on top of it all of the things that social media has brought into our children’s life.

“First off, I think Big Tech could do many of these things on their own and have chosen not to. So, I think continuing to apply the pressure there so that there is a change in behavior from that perspective. But then also Congress has been completely and totally feckless in this arena. And at the end of the day, we’re allowing social media companies to put their profits above people, and in this case, these people are our children.”

On minors buying drugs on social media platforms:

“In particular, Snapchat has been egregious in this space … I’ve sat across from a parent whose child bought an Adderall because they wanted to stay up for a test. They took the Adderall. It was laced with fentanyl. They died … Parents aren’t aware that this is happening. So, number one, we’ve got to bring attention to it. But number two, we have to stop it because, Jillian, if this were happening in a small town in Alabama on a street corner, you know, a little storefront on Main Street, we would shut it down. We know this is happening, and yet no one is doing anything.”

On the alarming rise in underage gambling online:

“If you and I had wanted to gamble when we were growing up, we would have had to have known who the bookie was. We would have had to have his number or hers … We would have had to know when they were going to be by their landline phone, and we would have had to call them to place our bet. These kids have to do none of that. It literally is coming to the palm of their hand. So, it’s not only that they can gamble, and with a click of a button, it’s also that these illegal gambling operations and gaming operations are actually targeting our children with advertisements. So, what is happening is these kids are getting stuck in a cycle. They’re finding themselves in a very adult situation, but it’s also one that unfortunately, they’re continuing throughout their life. So, we put together the GAME Act, Senator Blumenthal and I did, to say, look, this is common sense, Jillian. You shouldn’t be able to deliver advertisements about gambling until you’re 18.”

On the danger of AI chatbots:

“I have sat across from too many parents at this point that have told us … that their child died by suicide. When they went back into the child’s history, an AI chatbot had told them to distance themselves from their parents, isolate themselves from their parents, had told them … to consider death by suicide, then told them how to do it, and then ultimately encouraged them to follow through with it. And so, we have a bill Josh Hawley, Senator Blumenthal, Chris Murphy—obviously a wide swath from the political spectrum—that it is saying, guys, AI chatbots should not be able to teach these kids how to take their own life. This is common sense. This is something we should all be able to get behind.”

Michaels and Senator Britt also discussed how social media algorithms exploit children, Section 230 reform, and more of Senator Britt’s bipartisan legislation on social media and holding Big Tech accountable.

You can watch the full interview here.

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U.S. Senator Katie Britt Nominates 14 Birmingham-Area Students to Service Academies, Applauds Students as Academic Year Begins

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) celebrated 14 students from the Birmingham area whom she nominated to attend our nation’s service academies at the start of their academic year. These students have courageously answered the call to serve and will help protect and preserve our nation’s freedom.

“I applaud these exceptional students who have chosen a path that exhibits their courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service,” said Senator Britt. “Their nominations reflect not only years of hard work and leadership, but also a willingness to take on this incredible responsibility of serving our great nation. These Alabamians are the next generation of America’s military leaders, and I am thrilled to celebrate this remarkable achievement alongside their friends, family, and community.”

Senator Britt’s nominees who will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy are listed below:

Eden Christian, Trussville

Beau Dionne, Birmingham

Justin Harbin, Vance

J.R. Sosa, Clanton

“I’m proud to see Eden, Beau, Justin, and J.R. join the ranks of the men and women who honorably serve our Air Force. I have no doubt their service will keep our nation secure from threats above and will preserve our precious American freedoms,” said Senator Britt.

Senator Britt’s nominees who will attend the U.S. Naval Academy are listed below:

Olivia Carroll, Vestavia

Boyd Cooper, Birmingham

Holman Gray, Birmingham

Maggie Ingram, McCalla

Truman Lee, Birmingham

Braden Little, Birmingham

Benny Schmidt, Hoover

“The U.S. Naval Academy is gaining seven outstanding young men and women. I was deeply proud to nominate Olivia, Boyd, Holman, Maggie, Truman, Braden, and Benny, and I am encouraged by their patriotism, heart for service, and willingness to serve our nation,” said Senator Britt.

Senator Britt’s nominees who will attend West Point are listed below:

Jack Beason, Hoover

Joshua Hahn, Vestavia

Kate Seidel, Vinemont

“As Jack, Joshua, and Kate begin their next steps at West Point, I am thrilled to know that this academy is gaining three outstanding young individuals. Their service will undoubtedly ensure our nation’s values of freedom, democracy, and independence are upheld for generations to come,” said Senator Britt.

You can view the headshots of all 14 nominees here. You can find more information on the application process for a service academy nomination from Senator Britt here. Applications for the 2026-2027 cycle open on August 15, 2026.

In total, 31 students from across the state of Alabama nominated by Senator Britt will attend U.S. service academies this fall.

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U.S. Senator Katie Britt Nominates Nine Northern Alabama Students to Service Academies, Applauds Students as Academic Year Begins

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) celebrated nine students from northern Alabama whom she nominated to attend our nation’s service academies at the start of their academic year. These students have courageously answered the call to serve and will help protect and preserve our nation’s freedom.

“I applaud these exceptional students who have chosen a path that exhibits their courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service,” said Senator Britt. “Their nominations reflect not only years of hard work and leadership, but also a willingness to take on this incredible responsibility of serving our great nation. These Alabamians are the next generation of America’s military leaders, and I am thrilled to celebrate this remarkable achievement alongside their friends, family, and community.”

Senator Britt’s nominees who will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy are listed below:

Ellie Dykema, Huntsville

Isabella Park, Madison

Caleb Shultz, Huntsville

“It is an honor to congratulate Ellie, Isabella, and Caleb as they begin their journey at the United States Air Force Academy. Their dedication, character, and commitment to serving something greater than themselves is an inspiration and a source of pride for their entire community and our great state,” said Senator Britt.

Senator Britt’s nominees who will attend the U.S. Naval Academy are listed below:

Matthew Kimmett, Decatur

Maria Sands-Pignot, Huntsville

Frank Vegerita, Brownsboro

“Our country’s future is stronger because of young leaders like Matthew, Maria, and Frank. Their willingness to dedicate their lives to service reflects the very best of our Alabama community. I look forward to seeing all they accomplish in uniform,” said Senator Britt.

Senator Britt’s nominees who will attend West Point are listed below:

Will Crocker, Owens Cross Roads

Jacob Plitsch, Athens

Tripp Raleigh, Huntsville

“This year, West Point is welcoming an impressive group of brave, talented, and driven leaders, including three young men I was proud to nominate: Will, Jacob, and Tripp. I’m certain they will rise to every challenge while serving our nation with excellence,” said Senator Britt.

You can view the headshots of all nine nominees here. You can find more information on the application process for a service academy nomination from Senator Britt here. Applications for the 2026-2027 cycle open on August 15, 2026.

In total, 31 students from across the state of Alabama nominated by Senator Britt will attend U.S. service academies this fall.

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U.S. Senator Katie Britt Nominates Three Auburn Students to Service Academies, Applauds Students as Academic Year Begins

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) celebrated three students from Auburn whom she nominated to attend our nation’s service academies at the start of their academic year. These students have courageously answered the call to serve and will help protect and preserve our nation’s freedom.

“I applaud these exceptional students who have chosen a path that exhibits their courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service,” said Senator Britt. “Their nominations reflect not only years of hard work and leadership, but also a willingness to take on this incredible responsibility of serving our great nation. These Alabamians are the next generation of America’s military leaders, and I am thrilled to celebrate this remarkable achievement alongside their friends, family, and community.”

Senator Britt’s nominees who will attend the U.S. Naval Academy are listed below:

Layton Towery, Auburn

Savannah Trejo, Auburn

“I’m certain that these two outstanding young students, Layton and Savannah, will represent Alabama well at the U.S. Naval Academy. Thanks to their dedication, courage, and commitment, our country will no doubt remain a global military leader and the greatest nation in the world,” said Senator Britt.

Senator Britt’s nominee who will attend West Point is listed below:

Molly Seidman, Auburn

“Molly has bravely chosen a path defined by discipline, sacrifice, and service. I’m honored to nominate her to attend West Point, and I am grateful for her commitment to help safeguard our nation for generations to come,” said Senator Britt.

You can view the headshots of all three nominees here. You can find more information on the application process for a service academy nomination from Senator Britt here. Applications for the 2026-2027 cycle open on August 15, 2026.

In total, 31 students from across the state of Alabama nominated by Senator Britt will attend U.S. service academies this fall.

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U.S. Senator Katie Britt Nominates Three Southern Alabama Students to Service Academies, Applauds Students as Academic Year Begins

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) celebrated three students from southern Alabama whom she nominated to attend our nation’s service academies at the start of their academic year. These students have courageously answered the call to serve and will help protect and preserve our nation’s freedom.

“I applaud these exceptional students who have chosen a path that exhibits their courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service,” said Senator Britt. “Their nominations reflect not only years of hard work and leadership, but also a willingness to take on this incredible responsibility of serving our great nation. These Alabamians are the next generation of America’s military leaders, and I am thrilled to celebrate this remarkable achievement alongside their friends, family, and community.”

Senator Britt’s nominees who will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy are listed below:

Stella Gallaspy, Theodore

Aiden Haecker, Brewton

“The southern Alabama community is fortunate to be represented by two students of exceptional character. Stella and Aiden will no doubt succeed and thrive at the U.S. Air Force Academy. I know they will make an incredible difference in the safety and security of our nation for years to come,” said Senator Britt.

Senator Britt’s nominee who will attend West Point is listed below:

Stanley McConnell, Mobile

“Serving our country is one of the highest callings, and Stanley has answered that call with courage and determination. I’m honored to support his nomination, and I wish him the best of luck as he begins this incredible journey,” said Senator Britt.

You can view the headshots of all three nominees here. You can find more information on the application process for a service academy nomination from Senator Britt here. Applications for the 2026-2027 cycle open on August 15, 2026.

In total, 31 students from across the state of Alabama nominated by Senator Britt will attend U.S. service academies this fall.

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U.S. Senator Katie Britt Nominates Two Alabama Montgomery-Area Students to Service Academies, Applauds Students as Academic Year Begins

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) celebrated two students from the Montgomery area whom she nominated to attend our nation’s service academies at the start of their academic year. These students have courageously answered the call to serve and will help protect and preserve our nation’s freedom.

“I applaud these exceptional students who have chosen a path that exhibits their courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service,” said Senator Britt. “Their nominations reflect not only years of hard work and leadership, but also a willingness to take on this incredible responsibility of serving our great nation. These Alabamians are the next generation of America’s military leaders, and I am thrilled to celebrate this remarkable achievement alongside their friends, family, and community.”

Senator Britt’s nominee who will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy is listed below:

Luke Catchings, Montgomery

“I have no doubt that Luke will excel at the Air Force Academy. He has already demonstrated remarkable leadership and determination, and I’m confident he will continue to succeed while serving our country,” said Senator Britt.

Senator Britt’s nominee who will attend the U.S. Naval Academy is listed below:

April Kim, Pike Road

“It’s a privilege to recognize April for her many achievements and continued commitment to service. Her appointment reflects years of hard work, and I was proud to nominate her to the U.S. Naval Academy. I know she will honor our state and our nation through her service in the Navy,” said Senator Britt.

You can view the headshots of both nominees here. You can find more information on the application process for a service academy nomination from Senator Britt here. Applications for the 2026-2027 cycle open on August 15, 2026.

In total, 31 students from across the state of Alabama nominated by Senator Britt will attend U.S. service academies this fall.

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Cantwell Joins Entire WA Delegation in Requesting Expedited Emergency Declaration for Devastating Wildfires in Spokane, Central WA

S-R: Wildfire leaves Northwest Spokane in a ‘war zone’; KXLY: “Thousands of people had to leave their homes as fires exploded in the Spokane area over the weekend. More than 700 structures have burned, many of them homes, while thousands of people are still not allowed back in their neighborhoods.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Washington state’s entire congressional delegation in a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to approve Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson’s request last night for an expedited Emergency Declaration for the devastating wildfires sweeping through Central and Eastern Washington state.

On Saturday, Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide wildfire emergency and issued a statewide burn ban through September 30, 2026. The National Weather Service upgraded the Red Flag Warning on Saturday, to a Particularly Dangerous Situation, which is very rare and typically reserved for extreme fire weather conditions. The Spokane Area Fires consist of the Old Trails Fire burning in northwest Spokane, the Autumn Lane Fire burning near Nine Mile Falls, and the Fairview Fire burning in Mead. Over 700 structures have been lost in the fires so far and over 14,000 structures are threatened, 67,000 people have been evacuated, the three fires have burned over 8,000 acres combined and are still 0% contained, nearly 1,000 firefighters battling fires in the Spokane area, and thousands of more people remain under a Level 3 (Go Now!) evacuation.

“Large and fast-moving wildfires are burning in Central and Eastern Washington. Dangerous conditions, including strong winds, low humidity, and extremely high temperatures, intensified existing fires and ignited new fires, the worst of which started in Spokane and Stevens Counties on Saturday, August 1. According to the Northwest Coordination Center (NWCC), the Pacific Northwest is experiencing wildfire activity not normally seen until much later in the fire season. Between record-setting drought and record low snowpack, the state and Central and Eastern Washington were left vulnerable to fires that burn longer, spread faster, and are increasingly resistant to control,” wrote Senator Cantwell and the other members of the delegation.

Joining Sen. Cantwell in the letter to President Trump were Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), and U.S. Representatives Michael Baumgartner (R, WA-05), Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03), Dan Newhouse (R, WA-04), Emily Randall (D, WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Adam Smith (D, WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10).

Yesterday in Spokane, Sen. Cantwell spoke at a media briefing about the fires.

“There are some up here with us who have been evacuated. There are some that have lost their homes. So we are with you in this situation, and we're going to do everything we can to get the federal resources to help you,” said Sen. Cantwell. “I talked to the U.S. [Forest Service] Chief Schultz, who basically said, this is the most [high] risk and resourced fire in the United States. Today, it is the top fire in our nation. That means they are going to give us the resources that we need here on the ground.”

Added Sen. Cantwell: “I ask our fellow Washingtonians to help this region, to be as patient as you can, to listen to what the first responders are saying because we're not out of danger yet. The next couple of days will be challenging, but we are going to do everything we can to make sure the resources are here and continue to make sure that this issue gets our nation's attention.”

Video of yesterday’s entire press conference is HERE; photos are HERE; a transcript of Sen. Cantwell’s statement is HERE; and a video of Sen. Cantwell’s statement is HERE.

A background document detailing Sen. Cantwell’s work to reverse President Trump’s cuts to wildfire funding and bolster wildfire preparedness is available HERE.

Today’s full letter is available HERE and below:

Dear Mr. President,

As members of the Washington state delegation, we write in support of Washington state’s August 2nd request for an expedited Emergency Declaration due to the devastating wildfires raging in Chelan, Ferry, Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens, and Yakima Counties. In addition to the counties, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and Spokane Tribe of Indians are also listed in Washington’s expedited Emergency Declaration request. We implore you to approve the request for assistance as quickly as possible.

Large and fast-moving wildfires are burning in Central and Eastern Washington. Dangerous conditions, including strong winds, low humidity, and extremely high temperatures, intensified existing fires and ignited new fires, the worst of which started in Spokane and Stevens Counties on Saturday, August 1. According to the Northwest Coordination Center (NWCC), the Pacific Northwest is experiencing wildfire activity not normally seen until much later in the fire season. Between record-setting drought and record low snowpack, the state and Central and Eastern Washington were left vulnerable to fires that burn longer, spread faster, and are increasingly resistant to control.

These fires spread rapidly, jumping roads and rivers, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate quickly, with many escaping with little more than they could carry. So far, roughly 700 structures have been destroyed in Spokane, including entire neighborhoods, while many remain threatened. As the fires continue to burn, this number is expected to climb. Hundreds of people have completely lost their homes and farms, and many are prohibited from returning to their homes or neighborhoods as crews continue to extinguish smoldering embers.

Firefighting crews from around the country, as well as international firefighting forces, have deployed to Washington state and are working overtime to suppress these fires, while National Guard members are assisting local first responders with evacuations and firefighting. Expedited federal assistance will help continue these efforts and ensure that state and local agencies have the resources they need.

While local, state, and federal resources deployed quickly to respond to the wildfires, federal assistance is needed as firefighting, evacuations, and emergency shelter operations are ongoing. Expedited federal assistance is critical and will help firefighting crews continue to suppress these persistent wildfires and protect the businesses, farms, schools, healthcare facilities, and residential homes from devastation, all while ensuring those displaced by the fires have the support and resources they need. We appreciate your prompt attention to the state’s request.


Capito, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Increase Health Care Training in Remote and Rural Areas

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Last week, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) joined U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.) in introducing the Expanding Capacity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Reauthorization Act, which will increase access to high-quality health care in hard-to-reach areas. The bill reauthorizes funding for an innovative medical education program that deploys interactive videoconferencing to link specialist teams with primary care providers in rural areas, helping rural and remote communities access the health care services they otherwise would not be able to receive.

“Project ECHO is an invaluable tool for health outcomes in West Virginia and across the nation, especially in our rural areas. It provides training for primary care doctors, nurses, and other clinicians to deliver excellent specialty care to patients close to home, directly in their communities. As more breakthroughs occur in treating chronic diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s, Project ECHO offers clinicians the knowledge they need to diagnosis and treat their patients effectively. I’m proud to work with my colleagues to bring this reauthorization effort forward,” Senator Capito said.

DETAILS:

The ECHO program grants will continue to be used for:

Equipment to support the use and expansion of the models, including for the secure exchange of electronic health information;

Support for health care providers that provide services under these models;

Instructional programming and training; and

Information collection and evaluation activities to study the impact of such models.

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Capito, Welch Introduce Legislation to Preserve Rural Communities Opioid Response Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) introduced the RCORP Authorization Act, legislation that would maintain the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program to establish and expand prevention, treatment, and recovery services in rural areas for substance use disorders, related behavioral health conditions, and other related public health issues.

“West Virginians know firsthand the devastating toll the opioid epidemic has had on our state’s families and communities. We also know that recovery is possible when those struggling have access to the right resources,” Senator Capito said. “The Rural Communities Opioid Response Program has helped strengthen prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts in communities that often face unique challenges accessing care. By preserving this successful program, we can provide greater certainty for rural providers and ensure communities in West Virginia and across the country continue to receive the support they need to recover.”

“While Vermont has seen a decrease in overdose deaths in recent years, our work to help those struggling with addiction isn’t over—far from it. We need to do everything in our power to support folks on the road to recovery, especially in rural communities, where substance use disorder treatment and resources are harder to come by,” Senator Welch said. “We’re working across the aisle to ensure that rural communities in Vermont, West Virginia, and across the country can access vital prevention and recovery services necessary to combat the opioid crisis.”

The RCORP Authorization Act would:

Formally authorize the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) to ensure its long-term future.

Expand access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services for substance use disorders in rural communities.

Support local partnerships to strengthen coordinated, community-based care.

Provide grants to rural organizations to address opioid use disorder and other behavioral health challenges.

Authorize funds annually beginning in Fiscal Year 2027 to sustain and expand the program.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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Senators Coons, Whitehouse introduce carbon dioxide removal bill

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Congressmen Scott Peters (D-Calif.) and Paul D. Tonko (D-N.Y.) introduced the Carbon Dioxide Leadership Act to curb climate change by investing in carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies.

“Investing in cutting-edge technology like carbon capture is key to growing our economy and protecting our nation and planet from climate change,” said Senator Coons. “This bipartisan, bicameral bill will ensure the United States is the global leader in carbon capture, protecting our communities and creating jobs.”

“The fight against climate change will not succeed without carbon removal. Our bill would invest in promising carbon removal technologies and help put the planet on a pathway to climate safety,” said Senator Whitehouse.

“We must use every tool at our disposal to tackle the climate crisis; that includes removing harmful legacy emissions from our atmosphere,” said Representative Tonko. “Our bill takes needed action to address carbon dioxide emissions while also creating good-paying jobs, supporting innovation, and investing in a clean energy economy. I’m proud to join my colleagues in championing this smart, meaningful legislation.”

The Carbon Dioxide Leadership Act would leverage federal procurement to create a market for carbon dioxide removal. Specifically, the bill would:

Require the Department of Energy (DOE) to remove an increasing amount of carbon dioxide for each fiscal year

Enforce the use of direct air capture or other durable technology-based removal solutions

Ensure high standards for measurement, monitoring, reporting, and verifying carbon removals and for robust public engagement

Set a declining per-ton price ceiling to incentivize cost reductions over time

Provide flexibility for DOE to invest in nascent technologies with high potential

Create a set-side for newer CDR technologies to promote a broad portfolio of technologies

Prioritize domestic job creation, environmental justice, innovative technologies, and community benefits

Read the full text of the bill here.


Cornyn Praises NSF’s $25 Million Investment in Texas A&M for Materials Research Infrastructure

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement praising the U.S. National Science Foundation’s (NSF) announcement of a $25,000,000 award to Texas A&M University to build a Materials Innovation Platform (MIP) facility, which will utilize robotics and AI to accelerate the research and development of materials that can withstand extreme conditions, including those essential for national security and energy dominance:

“Congratulations to Texas A&M on receiving a generous $25 million investment from the National Science Foundation to construct a Materials Innovation Platform that will help create new alloys for everything from military vehicles to nuclear reactors,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This award is yet another example of how there is no better place to innovate than the Lone Star State, and I look forward to seeing the advancements that this high-tech facility will help support.”

Background:


Cornyn, Tillis Announce Agreement with Blanche on Anti-Weaponization Fund, IRS Settlement

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) released the following statement announcing the successful negotiation of a legally enforceable document clarifying the anti-weaponization fund and the IRS audit release included in the Settlement Agreement signed by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche last May:

“From the outset, we were clear that we needed a written document addressing our concerns on the IRS audit agreement and the anti-weaponization fund that included constraining the scope of audit protection by limiting it to the parties of the Settlement Agreement and legally ending the anti-weaponization fund.”

“We are pleased that the Department of Justice has issued a formal order terminating the anti-weaponization fund. Additionally, the Department has acknowledged in a binding written order that the audit settlement is limited to the plaintiffs and the scope does not extend beyond the defendants in the lawsuit, the IRS and the Treasury, addressing concerns that multiple of our Republican colleagues share.”

“We want to express our gratitude to Mr. Blanche and his staff for working with us on this, and we look forward to voting to advance his nomination out of the Senate Judiciary Committee soon.”


Cortez Masto, Rosen, Merkley: CFTC Must Rein in Wildfire Bets on Prediction Markets

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) joined a letter led by U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) raising the alarm about offshore prediction markets allowing people to bet on wildfires.

As wildfires burn in Nevada and across the nation, the Senators are demanding answers from the CFTC following public reporting that highlights the public safety and insider trading concerns of allowing prediction market platforms to offer bets on natural disasters such as wildfires. Senators Cortez Masto, Rosen, and Merkley were joined by Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).

“Offering bets on destructive wildfires threatens to minimize communities’ suffering all so the rich and powerful can profit,” the Senators wrote. “There’s also the heightened risk – according to state and local fire officials – that individuals could be tempted to commit arson in order to make sure their bets are successful. By offering contracts on fires, prediction market sites run the risk of encouraging people to influence fires that have already started, creating additional concerns around public safety and insider trading.”

The Senators pressed the CFTC to swiftly ensure regulated exchanges are not listing event contracts that allow users to profit from wildfires threatening communities nationwide.

The full text of the letter can be found here.

Senators Cortez Masto and Rosen have repeatedly called for more stringent oversight of prediction markets. They have previously called on the CFTC to prohibit prediction markets incentivizing physical injury, death, or war and to do more to combat insider trading in prediction markets. Cortez Masto and Rosen have also urged CFTC Chair Michael Selig to abstain from intervening in pending litigation involving prediction markets.

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