SENATORS MCCORMICK, HICKENLOOPER, HOEVEN, CURTIS, AND CORTEZ MASTO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO STRENGTHEN CYBERSECURITY FOR RURAL AND MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Hoeven (R-ND), John Curtis (R-UT), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize a critical federal grant program that helps rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities strengthen their cybersecurity defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

The legislation reauthorizes the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) Grant and Technical Assistance Program at the Department of Energy, which provides rural electric cooperatives and publicly owned utilities with the resources, technical assistance, and support they need to prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyberattacks. The bill serves as the Senate companion to bipartisan legislation which unanimously passed the House of Representatives earlier this year.

“America’s electric grid is a critical piece of our national security, and every utility—regardless of size or location—must have the resources to defend against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats,” said Senator McCormick. “Rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities serve millions of Americans, including communities across Pennsylvania, but often operate with fewer cybersecurity resources than larger utilities. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure they have the support they need to protect our energy infrastructure and keep the lights on.”

“America needs clean, reliable, affordable, and secure energy,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “As cybersecurity threats continue to rise, our bill enables rural cooperatives and utilities to defend against sophisticated attacks, protect consumers, and keep energy affordable.”

“Malicious actors and foreign adversaries are targeting America’s infrastructure, and that is why we introduced legislation to support electric cooperatives and utility providers as they work to harden critical energy infrastructure against cyberattacks. Doing so will help ensure the resilience of the electrical grid, supporting both our economic and national security while ensuring important services remain available in an era of increasing cyber threats,” said Senator Hoeven.

“Our rural and municipal utilities are increasingly on the front lines of protecting the electric grid from cyber threats,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan bill makes a smart investment in safeguarding critical infrastructure, supporting local utilities, and keeping the lights on for communities across America.”

“I was proud to help establish this grant program in the bipartisan infrastructure law to help rural utilities protect themselves from cybersecurity threats,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This program has proven incredibly successful and there is bipartisan support to reauthorize it. As new cyber threats continue to emerge, I’ll keep working to ensure our rural communities have what they need to adapt.”

Cyberattacks targeting America’s energy infrastructure have become more frequent and more sophisticated in recent years. Rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities often face unique resource constraints that make federal cybersecurity assistance especially valuable. The RMUC Grant Program helps eligible utilities improve cybersecurity preparedness through grants, technical assistance, and workforce development, helping strengthen the resilience of the nation’s electric grid.

The Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act would:

Reauthorize the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) Grant and Technical Assistance Program through 2031.

Continue providing grants and technical assistance to rural electric cooperatives and municipally-owned utilities to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities.

Help eligible utilities prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats.

Support cybersecurity planning, workforce development, vulnerability assessments, and other activities that improve the resilience of the electric grid.

Strengthen partnerships between the federal government and locally owned utilities to protect America’s critical energy infrastructure.

Authorize $250 million over five years to support these efforts.

Read the full bill text here.

The legislation is supported by utility organizations representing electric cooperatives and public power providers across Pennsylvania and the country.

“Pennsylvania’s electric cooperatives thank Senator Dave McCormick for introducing the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act. Cyber threats don’t distinguish between a large investor-owned utility and an electric cooperative serving rural communities, but the resources to defend against them are far from equal. By reauthorizing this program, Senator McCormick is making sure the cooperatives that keep the lights on across rural Pennsylvania have the tools and the federal partnership they need to protect the grid our members and our country depend on.” – Steve Brame, President & CEO, Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association and Allegheny Electric Cooperative

“Pennsylvania’s municipal electric utilities are on the front lines of protecting our communities’ power supply — and cybersecurity threats don’t distinguish between large investor-owned utilities and the small, locally-owned systems that serve our boroughs. The Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act reauthorizes a critical program that gives public power utilities access to the technical assistance and funding they need to detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats. PMEA supports Senator McCormick’s proposal and urges Congress to advance this bipartisan legislation. Alongside our national partner, the American Public Power Association, we believe that securing our grid starts at the local level — and that no utility should face these evolving threats alone or without resources.” – Jeffrey Stonehill, President, Pennsylvania Municipal Electric Association

“The American Public Power Association applauds Senator McCormick for moving to reauthorize the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) Grant Program. This is a proven, practical investment that helps not-for-profit public power utilities strengthen their cyber defenses in the face of increasingly sophisticated threats. With RMUC support, APPA has launched the Cyber Accelerator Program to help utilities assess their readiness and take concrete steps to improve their security posture. We urge Congress to act quickly to extend this program and ensure every community has access to the tools needed to protect our nation’s energy infrastructure.” – Scott Corwin, President & CEO, American Public Power Association

“Cyber threats to America’s electric grid are growing more sophisticated by the day, and rural utilities depend on their partnerships with the government to help keep the grid secure. The Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Program is closing the resource gap and equipping electric cooperatives with the tools they need to protect the electrical infrastructure on which millions of Americans depend. We’re grateful for the leadership of Senators McCormick, Curtis, Hickenlooper, Hoeven, and Cortez Masto in introducing this reauthorization.” – Jim Matheson, CEO, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association


Merkley, Correa Launch New Effort to Fix Misleading Recycling Labels

Truth in Labeling Act Aims to Restore Consumers’ Confidence in Packaging

Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and U.S. Representative Lou Correa (CA-46) announced their new Truth in Labeling Act of 2026. The bicameral legislation would establish clear federal guidelines for labeling consumer products that are recyclable, compostable, reusable, or refillable.

“Most of us have been taught the three Rs—reduce, reuse, and recycle; but too often the reality with plastics is the three Bs—buried, burned, and borne out to sea,” said Merkley. “Consumers want to recycle and compost. Our Truth in Labeling Act will make that easier by requiring companies to accurately label their products as recyclable, compostable, or reusable. This is a win-win-win for consumers, waste management systems, and our environment.”

“People shouldn’t have to question whether something belongs in the recycling bin or the trash,” said Correa. “Clear, consistent labeling helps consumers make informed choices while reducing contamination that makes recycling more expensive and less effective. This bill brings common-sense standards to product labeling, strengthens our recycling system, and gives Americans the information they need to do their part in reducing waste and protecting our environment.”

The Truth in Labeling Act responds to increasing confusion about the ‘chasing arrows’ on consumer products and outdated federal guidance on environmental marketing claims. The bill would establish a voluntary label for manufacturers to use if they wish to direct consumers to recycle, compost, or reuse their packaging. Not only will clear labels help consumers make informed choices, but they will also strengthen our recycling system and help re-establish consumer trust in environmental marketing claims.

Merkley has been a longtime leader in Congress fighting to address the plastic pollution crisis. As former Chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) subcommittee overseeing environmental justice, chemical safety, and waste management, he held a first-of-its-kind series of hearings investigating plastic production and pollution. Merkley’s hearings examined: environmental and climate damage from plastics, impacts of plastics on environmental justice communities, reuse and refill systems, beverage container waste, and consumer challenges to recycling.

Merkley also leads the Break Free from Plastic Pollution Act—the most comprehensive plan ever introduced in Congress to address the harms of plastic pollution on our air, water, and soil—and two bipartisan plastics-related pieces of legislation: the Microplastics Safety Act and REUSE Act.

See what organizations across the nation are saying about the need for improved recycling, composting, and reuse labels:

“To tackle the ocean plastic pollution crisis, Americans need clear, accurate information — not greenwashing — and we have to start with the truth about what’s recyclable, and what isn’t. The status quo of confusing and misleading recyclability claims prevents our recycling system from living up to its potential. The Truth in Labeling Act will give consumers that clarity, and we applaud Senator Merkley and Representative Correa for their tireless work to deliver these much-needed improvements,” said Dr. Anja Brandon, Director, Plastics Policy, Ocean Conservancy.

“Our members who process organic materials at their facilities need clean, uncontaminated material to make sure we can produce quality compost for U.S. soil health,” said Linda Norris-Waldt, Executive Director of the US Composting Council. “Passage of national legislation such as this will make it easier for communities and businesses to educate their consumers to put the right material for composting into the compost bin, making a win for everyone.”

“Just Zero strongly supports the Truth in Labeling Act. For decades, the plastics industry has used the chasing-arrows symbol to sell a false promise: that plastic will be recycled if consumers put it in the right bin. In reality, the symbol has helped companies maintain the illusion of plastic recycling while avoiding responsibility for the waste they create. This legislation will help end that deception. If packaging is not collected, processed, and recycled at scale, companies should not be allowed to call it recyclable. Consumers deserve labels they can trust—not greenwashing,” said Peter Blair, Policy and Advocacy Director, Just Zero.

“Recology employee-owners process more than 1.6 million tons of recyclable and compostable materials each year, giving us a firsthand view of the impacts that misleading recyclability and compostability claims have on sort lines, composting operations, and the quality of recovered materials. The Truth in Labeling Act will help create a stronger national standard for environmental labeling and better align product claims with the realities of our nation’s recycling and composting infrastructure,” said Sal Coniglio, CEO of Recology.

“The Truth in Labeling Act is a strong step towards a national labeling standard that accurately reflects market realities. As the reusable packaging and foodware sectors continue to expand, consistent guidance and national standards will be foundational to building a robust and enduring reuse economy that is trusted by all consumers,” said Sydney Harris, Policy Director, Upstream Solutions.

“Consumer confidence in recycling is falling, and on–pack labeling can help consumers make the right choice when it comes to being part of an effective recycling system, but labeling is only one piece. A truly effective recycling system requires five things: packaging is designed to be recycled; communities have access; constituents are effectively engaged; materials are properly sorted and processed; and end markets turn old material into new products, demanding recycled content for recycled content products,” said Anthony Tusino, Senior Director of Public Policy and Government Affairs for The Recycling Partnership. “The legislation from Senator Merkley and Representative Correa is a step in the right direction to ensure packaging claims reflect reality. We look forward to working with Congress to get the U.S. to meet all five requirements of an effective recycling system.”

“Practical product and packaging design should consider recyclability, and recyclability claims must reflect, and evolve with, how materials are actually collected, processed, and returned to manufacturing. As such, ReMA is encouraged to see the Truth in Labeling Act include industry-developed guidance, including ReMA’s Fiber Recycling Readiness Tool. We thank Senator Merkley and Representative Correa for their continued leadership on recycling and look forward to working with them and other stakeholders to ensure that any national framework remains grounded in how the recycling system operates and can adapt as that system continues to advance,” said Kristen Hildreth, VP Public Policy and Government Relations, Recycled Materials Association.

“The Paper Recycling Coalition thanks Senator Merkley, Representative Correa, and their staff for their thoughtful engagement and real partnership throughout this process. We share their commitment to honest labeling and to protecting consumer trust in recycling, and we especially appreciate the bill’s clear line that fuel and energy recovery are not recycling. We look forward to working together on these issues in the future,” said Terese Colling, President, Paper Recycling Coalition.

Full text of the Truth in Labeling Act can be found by clicking here.

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Merkley, Senate Colleagues Introduce New Legislation to Close Ethics Loopholes for All Officials Representing the U.S. Abroad

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee—led a group of Senate Democrats in introducing the Transparency in the Administration’s Business Opportunities Overseas (TABOO) Act. The new legislation mandates strong ethics requirements for every individual representing the United States government in negotiations with foreign governments and international multilateral organizations, including Special Envoys and other officials serving in similar roles as paid employees, volunteers, or in unpaid capacities.

These individuals representing the United States, such as Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, frequently exercise significant authority and speak for the country on sensitive diplomatic and national security matters. However, current gaps in federal law allow individuals serving in these roles to conduct high-stakes negotiations with foreign governments while holding undisclosed financial interests in those same countries, creating the risk—or at least impression—that personal profit, rather than the national interest, shapes American foreign policy.

“There should be no question that officials representing the United States overseas are serving our national interests, not lining their own pockets,” said Merkley. “The TABOO Act closes the glaring loopholes that allow individuals representing the United States abroad—including Special Envoys and others serving in similar roles—to skirt the law, ensuring America’s foreign policy is not shaped by personal profit.”

The TABOO Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Jack Reed (D-RI).

“When someone is given the honor of representing the United States in a sensitive diplomatic negotiation, it is a basic expectation that they will prioritize America’s national security interests—not their personal pocketbooks. But many senior officials in the Trump-Vance Administration seem to openly disdain this public trust and instead see their roles primarily as a means for personal enrichment and brazen corruption,” said Kaine. “This legislation will ensure individuals given the privilege of representing the United States are actually working for the American people.”

“The baseline expectation for anyone representing the U.S. abroad in any official capacity is that they have our nation’s best interests at heart and are not looking to line their own pockets,” said Rosen. “I’m glad to help introduce this bill to ensure that no one in a position to negotiate with foreign governments or international organizations on behalf of the American people has any conflicts of interest.”

“Every person who represents our nation in negotiations with foreign governments should be held to the highest ethical standard,” said Duckworth. “This Administration has sent a troubling number of Trump’s cronies to represent the U.S. in high-stakes negotiations with foreign countries they have vested business interests in. When we send negotiators abroad, we must hold them accountable and ensure America’s interests are always put first—and this bill helps us do that.”

“American foreign policy decisions should be based on the interests of our national security – not the personal profit of any one person. This common-sense legislation extends existing ethics and financial disclosure requirements to Special Envoys and others negotiating on behalf of the United States – helping ensure that no individual can use their connections to sell access to the highest levels of our government for personal profit, as we have seen President Trump, his friends, and family do time and again,” said Van Hollen.

“The people who represent Americans overseas should actually represent American interests, not their own personal businesses or foreign governments,” said Coons. “As President Trump embroils us in foreign wars and economic conflict across the globe, the administration’s special envoys are playing an ever more important role in protecting our citizens. The American people deserve transparency into who they are and who they represent.”

Merkley’s TABOO Act is included in his brand-new For Our Republic Act, a 10-part legislative action plan to stand up to Trump’s authoritarian playbook.

The TABOO Act would:

Deem all individuals in covered positions to be officers or employees for purposes of federal bribery, graft, and conflict of interest laws, regardless of employment, compensation, or volunteer status;

Designate individuals serving as Special Envoys or in similar positions as public financial disclosure filers;

Limit filing extensions for these individuals to no more than 30 days;

Require individuals, within 30 days of starting, to certify in writing that they hold no financial interest, including any interest held by a spouse or immediate family member, in the countries they will work with, to divest or place any pre-existing interest in a qualified blind trust within 60 days, and to commit to acquiring no new financial interest in those countries for 1 year after vacating the position;

Require the Executive Branch to provide a quarterly list of all individuals serving as Special Envoys or in similar positions, along with a brief description of their duties and the countries and organizations they are expected to engage with; and

Outline enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with the requirements set forth in the Act.

Full text of the TABOO Act can be found by clicking here.

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Merkley Statement on Russia Sanctions to Bolster Ukraine’s Fight for Democracy

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley – a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee – issued the following statement after the Senate passed bipartisan legislation to crack down on Russia’s ability to fund its war in Ukraine:

“The United States must stand with democratic republics around the world when they are attacked by authoritarian states. It is our responsibility to strongly support Ukraine in turning back Russia’s invasion. The people of Ukraine have gone through repeated struggles to preserve their freedom, including the Orange Revolution and the rejection of an authoritarian leader who wanted to put them under Putin’s thumb. Ukrainians continue to fight fiercely against Russia despite the invading nation’s overwhelming size and power, and now is the time to act decisively to cut off Russia’s ability to fund its brutal invasion.

“Russia sustains its assaults with the flow of oil money, which was only enhanced when President Trump waived sanctions that allowed Russia to sell its oil at a much higher price on the global market. The bipartisan legislation passed by the Senate today ends these giveaways and cuts off an economic lifeline for Russia, with the goal of supporting Ukraine in its battle for freedom.

“This proposal advances this goal by imposing sanctions on Russia, as well as authorizing tariffs on the top five countries importing Russian oil or gas, and on the top five countries that facilitate the evasion of sanctions on Russian oil through financial means or shadow tanker fleets. These tools are potentially highly effective, but the bill would be much better if it implemented the measures instead of leaving it to Trump’s discretion. Nevertheless, this is an important strategy to advance the defense of Ukraine.

“Ultimately, the overriding consideration in this debate is standing with Ukraine and diminishing Russia’s ability to prosecute its war with every tool at our disposal.”

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Senator Moody Honors Wounded Warriors and Fallen Soldiers on National Purple Heart Day

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator Ashley Moody is honoring wounded warriors and those who have died in service of our country on National Purple Heart Day. Senator Moody introduced a resolution recognizing August 7 as Purple Heart Recognition Day. Senator Moody also is recognizing four Floridian Purple Heart recipients by inputting their stories into the Congressional Record. The Purple Heart Medal is the oldest U.S. military decoration in present use and is awarded to recognize service members who are killed or wounded in action against an enemy of the U.S. or while held as prisoners of war.

“On Purple Heart Recognition Day, we honor our nation’s wounded warriors and those who have died in service of our country. No one ever serves hoping to receive this medal, it is not an honor anyone sets out to earn—it is given because an American stood his or her ground against an enemy. It’s a privilege to introduce a resolution in Congress honoring these patriots’ sacrifice, as well as spotlight four brave Floridians by including their stories in the Congressional Record,” said Senator Ashley Moody.

“Concerned Veterans for America is proud to support this effort to honor the brave men and women who defended our nation and our liberty at great personal sacrifice. The Purple Heart is one of our nation’s highest honors, representing extraordinary courage and selfless service in the face of profound hardship. Designating a day to recognize those who have borne the cost of protecting our homeland is the least we can do for them, said CVA Strategic Director John Byrnes.

The four Florida recipients of the Purple Heart being highlighted in the Congressional Record include:

Sergeant Jason Crawford and retired Staff Sergeant Dustin Tuller served together with Company B, 3rd Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment during Operation Iraqi Freedom. On December 23, 2003, both men were critically wounded during a combat mission in Baghdad while engaging enemy forces. Despite his own life-threatening injuries, Sergeant Crawford urged medics to “save him [Tuller] first” after seeing the severity of Staff Sergeant Tuller’s wounds. Both soldiers survived, continued lives of service after the military, and remain close friends more than two decades later.

Sergeant Peter McKanna served with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines in Vietnam and volunteered for a second combat tour. On Christmas Day 1970, while leading fellow Marines on a mission, Sgt. McKanna stepped on an explosive device, which claimed part of his left leg and the lives of three Marines beside him. Following a successful civilian career, Sgt. McKanna has dedicated himself to serving veterans.

Retired U.S. Navy Commander Douglas Doughty served in Vietnam. In April 1969, during intense fighting, Doughty was wounded by enemy shrapnel to his shoulder and lower body. After returning home, Commander Doughty continued serving both his country and community—building a career in medicine and remaining in the Navy Reserve, where he answered the country’s call once again during Operation Desert Storm.

BACKGROUND:

On August 7, 1782, General George Washington established what is now known as the Purple Heart Medal. The Purple Heart Medal has been awarded to more than 1,800,000 recipients.

Senator Moody is a proud supporter of the U.S. Armed Forces, veterans, and military families. Since becoming a United States Senator, Moody has:

Cosponsored the Military Spouse Hiring Act to address difficulties servicemembers’ families face when looking for work;

Cosponsored the Major Richard Star Act, which seeks to fix unjust disability policies for retired combat veterans;

Introduced Drone Espionage Act to crack down on spying through video surveillance of military installations;

Supported the Veterans Education and Technical Skills (VETS) Opportunity Act, which would expand educational benefits for veterans;

Supported the Restore VA Accountability Act of 2025, which would help ensure that only the most dedicated individuals can serve veterans;

Held a town hall with VA Secretary Collins in Tampa to discuss issues facing veterans;

Requested President Trump to send F-35As to Homestead Air Reserve Base;

Recognized 200 years of U.S. Navy presence in Pensacola and discussed the critical importance of the Navy and Coast Guard’s presence in the Florida Panhandle; and more.

Last year, Senator Moody secured major funding for Florida’s military bases through her work on the National Defense Authorization Act, totaling over $851 million aimed to support shipbuilding, delivery of next-generation aircraft, and construction of Golden Dome missile defense.

Senator Moody recently joined the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Senator Moody has long fought for Florida’s military members. As Florida Attorney General, Moody oversaw the Military and Veterans Assistance Program to assist servicemembers, veterans and their families who encounter scams or fraud.

Senator Moody is proud to be part of a military family.

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VIDEO: Sen. Moran Urges Passage of the Senate Farm Bill & Highlights Agriculture Priorities

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee – yesterday joined Eliza Petry on RFD-TV to discuss the importance of passing a Senate Farm Bill. He highlighted a number of Kansas agricultural priorities, including year-round E-15 sales, increased farm loan limits, strengthened trade promotion funding and his amendment to permanently transfer Food for Peace to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“This matters to us, and we’re going to do everything we can to get an end product so we can negotiate with the House and get a Farm Bill to the President,” said Sen. Moran. “I love talking to farmers and ranchers in Kansas. They need certainty, and I encourage producers across the country to contact members of the Agriculture Committee and let them know how important it is to get this bill done.”

“If you care about rural communities across your states, if you care about your hometown, make sure that we do the things here that give farmers a chance to have another generation of their families or new people come to town and enter agriculture,” concluded Sen. Moran.

During yesterday’s Senate Farm Bill markup, Sen. Moran offered his amendment to permanently transfer Food for Peace to USDA, and it was unanimously adopted. The committee plans to resume consideration of the Farm Bill when Congress returns in September.

Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Interview on RFD-TV

On year-round E-15:

“This builds upon what happened in the reconciliation bill of last year, in which we dealt with a lot of the safety net and tax issues. This adds a lot of certainty and help to farmers and ranchers across the country. We’ve come together in a way, that particularly with adding E-15 year-round to this bill, it becomes even more important to agricultural producers almost every place across the nation. […] We are doing what needs to be done to get the votes to pass the Senate. The E-15 provisions have been drafted to keep small refiners satisfied while providing an important benefit for agriculture.”

On Food for Peace:

“It’s not controversial, but I’ve been pursuing for a long time now, moving the Food for Peace program, which was addressed by the Trump administration early on. The decision was made that we could move the Food for Peace program for the Department of State – from USAID – to the Department of Agriculture. That’s happened on a temporary basis, and I expect my amendment to make permanent that move of Food for Peace to be included in the final package and be supported presumably by both Republicans and Democrats. Certainly, there would be no reason they shouldn’t be supportive of this. We’ve worked closely with them.”

On increasing farm loan limits:

“I hope that my Democratic colleagues, who I work with constantly in this committee and others, really understand the circumstances that almost every place in the country in agriculture is facing, and that is low commodity prices compared to high input costs. In Kansas in particular, five years preceding this is a drought. So, we’re not really prepared. We don’t have the financial capability of going through another difficult year without this help. […] Every time a farmer or rancher goes to the bank, they have to demonstrate they have the cash flow to pay back the loan. These government credit programs help farmers survive into another year. I love talking to farmers and ranchers in Kansas. They need certainty, and I encourage producers across the country to contact members of the Agriculture Committee and let them know how important it is to get this bill done.”

On the need for bipartisan consensus:

“This is important. This matters to us, and we’re going to do everything we can to get an end product so we can negotiate with the House and get a Farm Bill to the President. […] When I’m trying to make sure that my hometown of 2,000 people, Plainville, Kansas, has a future, I can only answer that question yes – there’s a lot of other things, but I can only answer that question yes – when my farmers and ranchers are successful, and they have the opportunity to return that farm to the next generation of Kansans. That’s what makes rural America. Agriculture makes rural America. And if you care about rural communities across your states, if you care about your hometown, make sure that we do the things here that give farmers a chance to have another generation of their families or new people come to town and enter agriculture.”

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PASSED: Sen. Moran’s Legislation to Authorize NIH Program for Down Syndrome Research

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Down Syndrome – applauded the unanimous passage of his bipartisan DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act by the Senate this week. The legislation now goes to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

Sen. Moran introduced the legislation with Sens. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and former Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) last May to authorize the INCLUDE (Investigation of Co-Occurring Conditions Across the Lifespan to Understand Down Syndrome) Project at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and support continued federal investments in Down syndrome research.

“This legislation will strengthen the critical research that helps improve the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and supports their families,” said Sen. Moran. “Research funded by the NIH has already led to meaningful advancements, but more work remains. By authorizing continued federal investments in scientific research focused on Down syndrome, this legislation will help scientists better understand the health challenges these individuals face and advance new solutions to improve care and outcomes. I’m pleased this legislation was passed unanimously in the Senate, and I urge the House to pass it and send it to the President’s desk to be signed into law.”

“Senator Moran has been one of GLOBAL’s most steadfast champions in Congress for well over a decade, earning GLOBAL’s highest honor, the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award, for his extraordinary commitment to Down syndrome research and medical care. From organizing congressional briefings with GLOBAL, our scientists and the National Institutes of Health, to leading bipartisan legislation and serving as Co-Chair of the Congressional Task Force on Down Syndrome, he has consistently affirmed that people with Down syndrome have equal value, extraordinary potential and a rightful place at the table,” said Michelle Sie Whitten, President and CEO of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation. “Today, his leadership has delivered a truly historic victory. The DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act will honor the memory and extraordinary advocacy of our beloved GLOBAL Ambassador DeOndra Dixon by permanently authorizing the INCLUDE Project, the first NIH-wide Down syndrome research program. We are profoundly grateful to Senator Moran for his friendship, conviction and years of tenacious leadership helping people with Down syndrome live longer, healthier lives.”

Items to note:

The INCLUDE Project was launched in June 2018 to advance research on health and quality-of-life needs for individuals with Down syndrome. The project investigates conditions that affect individuals with Down syndrome and the general population, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, autism, cataracts, celiac disease, congenital heart disease and diabetes.

The legislation is named after DeOndra Dixon, the Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s Ambassador and Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Awardee, who died at the age of 36 in 2020.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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Murkowski-Coons ALS Legislation Passes Senate

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Chris Coons (D-DE), co-chairs of the Congressional ALS Caucus, this week secured Senate passage of their legislation, the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Reauthorization Act (ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act) of 2026. The bill will help people living with ALS continue to access promising treatments while advancing the scientific understanding of neurodegenerative diseases.

Companion legislation, led by Representatives Mike Quigley (D-IL) and Ken Calvert (R-CA), passed the U.S. House of Representatives last month. The next step is for the House and Senate to appoint conferees to negotiate the differences between the two bills.

The legislation would reauthorize ACT for ALS for five years, codify the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) interpretation of Expanded Access Program eligibility guidelines, require a new five-year FDA Action Plan, and direct the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to issue a report by 2030 on the implementation of ACT for ALS programs. This legislation is endorsed by I AM ALS, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the ALS Association, and ALS United.

Senator Murkowski spoke about the impact of this legislation on the Senate floor.

Senator Murkowski’s full remarks can be found here.

Transcript:

Mr. President. We go through periods here in the United States Senate where there's frustrating issues that we deal with. Hours of unknown as to what's going to happen. Are we going to be able to make something happen? Are we making a difference? And some days can be particularly discouraging.

We've got a long way to go before this day is through. But to be here at the midpoint of this day and to be able to—as my colleague and my friend from Delaware has stated—to be able to celebrate an accomplishment is a reminder that we do good here. And we don't do good on our own. It takes teamwork, it takes cooperation, and collaboration; it takes advocacy. This is really what makes me just filled with a level of optimism and hope as we're talking about where we are at this moment for the ALS community.

The House passed the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act—we call it ACT for ALS—they passed it a few weeks ago, and then the Senate was able to pass it in wrap-up. Yes, that means it passed by unanimous consent here yesterday. We're now in this final step: a final step of reauthorizing a program that is making a real difference for people living with ALS.

I think it's so important to just take a step back and say, what does that mean? Because we have not found the cure, unfortunately, for ALS. This legislation is not about this magical treatment that has come to be, but what we were able to do working together now five years ago when we passed the ACT for ALS Act—we created this pathway for individuals. It's kind of a roadmap. We said, if you're not eligible to participate in clinical trials to access investigational treatments, there's another way here for you.

We provided some pretty important funding to NIH and to FDA to accelerate the research, to improve the data sharing, to help speed up the development of new therapies. But what really comes about with the ACT for ALS is it gives people who are living with ALS the opportunity to try. Just "let me try something. It might not work, but let me try—because right now, the diagnosis that I'm living with offers no hope.”

So this is something that gives those living with ALS some hope. This is a program that works. We passed it five years ago, and what we have now done is a reauthorization that allows us to build on this progress that we've made to ensure that individuals living with ALS can continue to access these clinical trials and the programs that continue to meet the needs of the patients and the researchers.

Senator Coons has mentioned the advocacy—those caregivers, those who stand with and are wrapping their arms and their hearts around their loved ones who are dealing with ALS. This is about hope for them as much as those who are living with this dreaded disease.

My friend has acknowledged the name of those that he calls friends: Dan Tate was able to receive a text message on passage of the reauthorization here, saying, you know, "Go dudes" or something like that. I don't know that I'm a "dude," but I loved the enthusiasm that he had. Brian Wallach has been an extraordinary partner over the years; you mentioned Sandra Abrevaya, absolutely. And then my personal advocate, my cousin, Jenny Dwyer. It was through Jenny's husband Pat that our family learned of ALS, as Pat lived with ALS for eight years. As a family, we came to not only understand the disease and the awful progression, but it allowed us to understand some of what families live with—the almost daily heartbreak as you're watching your loved one progress through this diagnosis.

So, to the advocates: know that your work matters. Know that your stories matter. Know that you have made a difference. So, we're pleased to be able to be at this place where we can move to finally get this reauthorization into law, work things through the two bodies here, and get it signed.

There's more that we've got to do. We're working on some good things as the co-chairs of the ALS Caucus: the Justice for ALS Veterans Act, which is a really good one, and the ALS Better Care Act. Again, these address some of the challenges that face individuals with ALS as well as their families when they're trying to access care and benefits after a loved one has passed.

We know that for those that are living with ALS, every day matters. Every day is precious, and we cannot afford to lose momentum when promising therapies are being studied. I'm reminded—if not weekly, maybe daily—that people are waiting. People are waiting, and they're counting on us to show up for them.

So, to all those in the ALS community: thank you for your advocacy, thank you for your heart and your passion, your persistence, but also your willingness to open your hearts and to share your stories so that we can also become motivated and tenacious on your behalf.

I am very grateful for my friend from Delaware. It is hard as I hear stories of your dear friend, and as he goes through these stages of this disease. Know that even though I have not met Jack, he is in my heart as well, as well as the many, many who we are advocating for.

With that, I thank again not only Senator Coons, but all members here in the Senate that have joined us in this effort to end ALS.

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Murkowski Releases Statement on Blanche Nomination

Washington, DC—Today, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) released the following statement regarding Todd Blanche’s nomination to serve as United States Attorney General:

“I have had numerous constructive meetings with Mr. Blanche and he comes across as decent and capable. I appreciate the trip he made to learn more about Alaska, including our rural areas, and as Acting Attorney General he has made several noteworthy decisions that will benefit our state and the nation.

“Ultimately, however, I will oppose his nomination.

“The politicization—even weaponization—of the Department did not start with this administration but has accelerated during it. I take issue with the handling of the release of the Epstein files; the sweeping immunity protections granted to the President, his family, and their businesses; the statements that have been made to anti-abortion groups; and the repeated targeting of individuals ranging from former administration staff to sitting U.S. Senators.

“I am also keenly aware that the Department’s nearly $2-billion dollar slush fund—which likely would have rewarded January 6 protesters—is only off the table because this nomination is pending and the Senate has leverage. Once we vote, that will end, and there is no telling what the future holds.

“The country needs an Attorney General who will check the worst impulses of this administration. I hope Mr. Blanche is able to achieve that, if confirmed, but I simply do not have confidence that will be the case.”

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Murphy Mobilizes Senate Democrats Against Trump's Radical ATF Rule Changes, Historic Assault on Public Safety Nationwide

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) led a group of Democrats in filing a series of official comments against the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms’ (ATF) April 2026 proposed regulatory changes to federal firearms law. Murphy’s comments opposed recent sweeping rule changes promulgated by the ATF, which would create easy access to dangerous weapons, dramatically undercut law enforcement’s efforts to fight and prevent crime, and put communities across the country at risk of significant increases in gun crime and gun violence.

Murphy authored five comments in opposition to the proposed ATF rule changes, spanning lifted import restrictions on training rounds and dual-use weapons, blatant discrimination against gun owners on the basis of their gender identity, and the sweeping rescission of a 2024 rule clarifying the definition of “Engaged in the Business” (EITB) of firearms dealing. The 2024 rule modernized our firearms licensing system to support law enforcement in cracking down on rampant background check evasion by gun sellers. The EITB reforms were a centerpiece of Murphy’s Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), the most significant gun safety legislation in the last 30 years and a major driver of historic reductions in gun violence and gun deaths since its passage.

“No president has ever been so insistent on putting guns in the hands of violent criminals,” said Murphy. “From top to bottom, these ATF rule changes are all about making sure Trump’s gun industry donors can maximize their profits by ignoring the popular, common sense regulations that prevent gun crime and save lives. This fight isn’t close to over and Senate Democrats will do all we can to stop this corrupt disaster before it takes effect.”

Last month, Murphy sent a letter to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche demanding answers on the DOJ and ATF’s legalization of mail order gun sales, which would jeopardize public safety to the direct financial benefit of the President’s son, Donald Trump Jr.

Each of Murphy’s ATF comments, with respective Democratic co-signers, are available in full at the following links:


Murphy to Trump: Stop Gaslighting Americans on Iran, Stop Using the War for Your Corrupt Market Manipulation

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) spoke on the floor of the U.S. Senate to call out President Trump’s months-long gaslighting of the American public on the state of the Iran war. Murphy laid out how Trump’s constant false promises of an imminent Iran war deal are part of a corruption scheme in which Trump manipulates the market with deal announcements so his friends and family can cash in. Murphy also slammed Trump’s recent announcement of a $100,000 subscription for advance access to Trump’s Truth Social posts as another clear example of Trump using the Iran war to facilitate insider trading and sell out America’s national security for personal gain.

“The war might be continuing, not just because of incompetence, but because the president has found a way to make money,” said Murphy.

Murphy explained how Trump’s campaign of gaslighting and dishonesty works: “He gaslights. He tells lies. And the essential gaslight is that the war is about to end: ‘Don't worry. Yes, it appears that there is no end. It appears that you're going to have to continue to pay these prices forever. It appears that America has no end game. But don't worry, the war is about to end.’”

Detailing every instance of President Trump selling an “imminent” deal to the public, Murphy argued there are telling patterns in Trump’s announcements of a deal: “I just want to go through this pattern for you because it is really important to talk about the fact that the White House is just not being straight with the American public about what's going on in this war… [Trump] normally declares that the war is about to be over on Sunday night or Monday morning, right before the markets open. But now that we are six months into this war, we can see the pattern… On 11 different instances, Trump says, ‘A deal is about to happen. Don't worry, the war is about to be over.’ There's no deal. None of it is real.”

Murphy argued Trump’s ceasefire announcements aren’t random - they’re a coordinated scheme for Trump to make money: “Here's an explanation for why Trump continues to do this gaslighting, particularly right before the markets open. Trump announced, now a week or so ago, that if you pay him $100,000 a month, he will give you advance notice of American foreign policy decisions. That is a subscription service for insider trading, and it is unquestionably lucrative.”

He slammed his Republican colleagues for staying silent even when they know President Trump is selling out our country’s national security: “Can any of my Republican colleagues defend the president selling announcements from the White House for $100,000 a month, in the middle of a war? Is any Republican senator willing to come down to this floor and defend the president of the United States setting up a subscription service for public policy announcements from the White House, so as to advantage certain players in the marketplace who are willing to pay that amount of money? Of course not.”

Murphy called for an immediate, actual end to Trump’s disastrous Iran war: “I was glad that the president got a ceasefire [in June], but I could tell by the terms it wasn't going to last. It wasn't a real agreement, but at this point, many of us are willing to support almost any agreement. It'll be a humiliating agreement. It will be one in which Iran will essentially declare victory. But this war is a disaster.”

Murphy also highlighted the impact of this war on America’s servicemembers, who are being put in harm’s way while Trump’s cronies rake in millions of dollars: “The price of this war is being plainly paid first and foremost by our soldiers, who are being put in harm's way for a war that is making America weaker every day. They're getting killed. They're sustaining life-altering injuries. Many of our soldiers and sailors and airmen have been in the region far past their scheduled deployment. ”

A full transcript of Murphy’s speech is available below.

Colleagues, the Trump administration has us stuck in a humiliating quagmire, a total deadlock in Iran. We are wasting billions of taxpayer dollars dropping bombs and firing missiles at Iran. Iran responds with escalation. They keep the Strait closed. They attack our bases. They attack our allies in the region. The war just expands and expands and expands.

In the last week, for instance, a new war is threatening to break out between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, which would likely result in the other strait, at the bottom of the Red Sea being closed as well. Trump personally pays no price for this stalemate. His corruption schemes, his cryptocurrency, his insider trading, the contracts to his sons. All of that has practically tripled his net worth in just 18 short months in office.

No, the price of this war is being plainly paid first and foremost by our soldiers, who are being put in harm's way for a war that is making America weaker every day. They're getting killed. They're sustaining life-altering injuries. Many of our soldiers and sailors and airmen have been in the region far past their scheduled deployment. They haven't seen their families in years.

And of course, American consumers are paying the price as well. Here's the most relevant chart. This is familiar to you. This is what gas prices were doing until the war. They are creeping back well above $4 a gallon right now. That is not affordable for regular Americans, especially Americans who have to travel great distances for work, especially small business owners who rely on reasonable gas prices in order to be able to make their bills work.

Diesel prices are through the roof as well. Fertilizer prices are through the roof as well, all because of this war. No other reason. The war. The prices are this high because of the war. It's farmers, it's small business owners, it's the American public who are paying the price, not Donald Trump.

And so that's why the war is just wildly unpopular. Except for Trump's sort of hardline supporters, the folks who just don't believe he can ever do anything wrong, nobody wants this war. If you're in a red state or a blue state, this war is deeply unpopular because the American public are smart. They're smarter than a lot of my colleagues give them credit for.

They know that a war with Iran is unwinnable. They don't want America stuck again in a quagmire, a stalemate in the Middle East. So, how does Trump handle this? A deeply unpopular war, a war that he is losing, a war that is driving up prices for the American public.

Well, this is how he handles it. He gaslights. He tells lies. And the essential gaslight is that the war is about to end: “Don't worry. Yes, it appears that there is no end. It appears that you're going to have to continue to pay these prices forever. It appears that America has no end game. But don't worry, the war is about to end.”

And so, I just want to go through this pattern for you because it is really important to talk about the fact that the White House is just not being straight with the American public about what's going on in this war. Over and over again, the president declares that the war is about to be over. He's not telling the truth.

He normally declares that the war is about to be over on Sunday night or Monday morning, right before the markets open. But now that we are six months into this war, we can see the pattern. Let me go through it with you quickly.

On March 23rd, Trump announces a deal. I'm just going to give you his quotes here. These are his words. He says, "The United States of America and the country of Iran have had over the last two days very good and productive conversations regarding a complete and total resolution of our hostilities in the Middle East.”

The market impact is immediate. That post sends oil prices tumbling nearly 11%, but there is no deal. He just made it up. Two days later, the United States military is back to conducting strikes. “The USS Abraham Lincoln, continues flight operations against military targets in Iran while sailing in regional waters.”

On March 30th, Trump announces another deal. This is Monday morning, right before the markets open. He says, “The United States of America is in serious discussions with a new and more reasonable regime to end,” End! “Our military operations in Iran. Great progress has been made.”

One week later, there's no deal. The opposite. One week later, Trump posts that he's going to wipe out the entire civilization of Iran. “A whole civilization will die tonight,” he posts. “Never to be brought back again.”

That's a war crime. The president is promising to kill millions of civilians. He tries to dial it back, but later on that same day, he's back to announcing a deal. Literally, “I'm going to wipe out a whole civilization,” that morning. That night, on April 17th [7th], he says, "Well, we received a 10-point proposal from Iran, and I believe it is a workable basis on which to negotiate. A two-week period will allow the agreement to be finalized and consummated.”

Five days later, there's no deal. Trump announces a resumption of the war with Iran. Now, let's fast forward 10 days later: April 17th. He posts that a deal with Iran is imminent. This process should go very quickly. Most of the points are already negotiated, he posts.

Two days later, the strikes start again. On May 5th, Trump says, “Great progress being made toward a Complete and Final Agreement with the Representatives of Iran.” Complete is capitalized. Final is capitalized. Agreement is capitalized. Representatives is capitalized. Iran is capitalized.

Two days later, the deal is off. Surprise, surprise! Every time Trump announces a deal is imminent, it just disappears. “U.S. forces intercepted unprovoked Iranian attacks and responded with self-defense strikes,” CENTCOM announces two days later.

On May 25th, right before the markets open, a deal is imminent. “Negotiations with the Islamic Republic of Iran are proceeding nicely.” Right before the markets open!

That same day, the United States military conducts strikes on Iran. “U.S. forces conducted self-defense strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces.”

The next Monday, right before the markets open, Trump posts, “Iran wants to make a deal. It'll be a good one. Just sit back and relax. It'll work out well in the end. It always does.”

How is this working out well for the American public? How is that working out well for the American public? The next day, there's no deal. The United States conducts strikes against Iran.

On June 17th, Trump actually signs a deal, but it's not a real deal. He does this whole pomp and circumstance signing ceremony in Versailles. That deal was negotiated by diplomatic amateurs. There was nothing actually agreed to. There were words on a page, but from the literal moment the ink was dry, nobody could explain what they had agreed to.

Most significantly, Iran thought that the agreement obligated Israel to stop its military operations in Lebanon. Israel did not agree to that. Iran thought that it had been given control of the Strait in that agreement. Apparently, the American delegation didn't think they made that concession.

Anyway, that agreement lasts 10 days. On June 27th, Trump posts that strikes on Iran have resumed. Let's just fast forward to the last week because Trump is doing it again. On August 1st, Trump posts that… I'm not sure that I transcribed this wrong or not, but it looks like he says, “the perimeters of a deal”? I'll give him credit that he said parameters.

“The parameters of a deal have been agreed to,” on August 1st. On August 2nd, “The deal is imminent, having to do with the Strait of Hormuz and ultimately the denuclearization of Iran.” The deal is imminent on the denuclearization of Iran.

August 4th, just a night or two ago, Trump tells Fox News, "We're having very good discussions.” Meanwhile, there are reports that Iran isn't even talking to the United States. Trump saying a deal on the denuclearization of Iran is imminent, and Iran is saying we're not even in the room.

I mean, we should not accept this level of gaslighting. The word of the president has to matter! Over and over again, on 11 different instances, Trump says, “A deal is about to happen. Don't worry, the war is about to be over.” There's no deal. None of it is real. These promises. I wish it were real. I want to be clear about that.

I want the war to end. I would basically support any agreement at this point to end this war. I was glad that the president got a ceasefire, but I could tell by the terms it wasn't going to last. It wasn't a real agreement, but at this point, many of us are willing to support almost any agreement. It'll be a humiliating agreement. It will be one in which Iran will essentially declare victory.

But this war is a disaster. America is losing. Consumers can't afford to pay these prices. Businesses are going under. We had a record of farm bankruptcies in the last year. We look like a laughing stock.

And, we're running out of munitions. We don't have what we need to protect ourselves anymore. Reports are that we've gone through half of our Tomahawks. Our allies in the region have fired 70 to 80% of their Patriot missiles. This is a crisis. It has to end.

But maybe there's an explanation for why Trump continues to do this gaslighting, particularly right before the markets open. Trump announced, now a week or so ago, that if you pay him $100,000 a month, he will give you advance notice of American foreign policy decisions.

I don't understand why that is acceptable to anybody in this chamber. If you pay Donald Trump $100,000, he will give you advance notice of America's foreign policy decisions. If we are about to sign a peace treaty and you give him $100,000 a month, he will give you advance notice of that.

If strikes are going to resume against Iran, if you pay him $100,000 a month, he will give you advance notice of that. That is a subscription service for insider trading, and it is unquestionably lucrative.

On August 1st, Trump posts that a deal is imminent. Remember, people still take him seriously. Not everybody knows about this history of gaslighting. On August 1st, Trump says, “a deal is imminent,” and the market impact is immediate. Oil prices fall by 5% right as the markets open.

The next day, right before the markets open, Trump says again, “The deal is imminent.” Another 5% drop, and so you see how his statements move the market, and you can see how if you get advance notice of those statements, even by a few seconds, you can capitalize on that market movement.

If you know that if Trump says a deal is imminent and the markets are going to move 5% and you pay $100,000 to Donald Trump to get that information early, you can make a boatload of money. And so maybe the war continues because Trump has found a way to monetize the war in a disgustingly corrupt way.

I get that at some point we become immune to all of this, but can any of my Republican colleagues defend the president selling announcements from the White House for $100,000 a month, in the middle of a war?

Is any Republican senator willing to come down to this floor and defend the president of the United States setting up a subscription service for public policy announcements from the White House, so as to advantage certain players in the marketplace who are willing to pay that amount of money?

Of course not. And if you know in your heart that it is corrupt, that it is wrong, then you should say something about it. Because, the war might be continuing, not just because of incompetence, but because the president has found a way to make money.

More people are going to pay him $100,000 for these announcements in the middle of a war. Frankly, people would be willing to pay it absent a war, but he'll make more money during a war because his announcements clearly move the market in the middle of a very complicated conflict, where the decisions of the United States government immediately change oil markets.

The reason that this war is dragging on endlessly – it does matter, and my colleagues should care about Trump's insider trading subscription scheme. It's just so discouraging that nobody on the other side of the aisle says anything about this, when the credibility of the White House and of our country is just getting destroyed and sullied.

But my Republican colleagues should also care that the war is being waged with a level of embarrassing incompetence that is making America weaker, that's getting us nowhere. This body works best when the president's party stands up to him and says, "enough,” whether it's corruption or incompetence.

That's what President Johnson's party did during the Vietnam War. It is actually what the Democratic Party did with President Obama during the late stages of the Afghanistan War, when many of us decided that America had to withdraw and oppose President Obama's party.

It's what many of us did here during the early stages of the war in Yemen that President Obama was bringing the American military into, and many of us opposed it. Got up on its floor, explained why we opposed it.

Republicans can do that too. You can say this war has to end. You can say that the president should never, ever personally benefit from a conflict overseas. You can say that the president of the United States should not sell access to White House statements.

It would make a big difference for our democracy and for the American people who are paying through the nose for the costs of this war if you did.


Sens. Ossoff, Rev. Warnock Again Demand Answers from DHA on Reduction of Services at Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center

Sens. Ossoff, Rev. Warnock launch second inquiry after DHA failed to respond to Senators’ latest questions

Sens. Ossoff, Rev. Warnock to DHA: “Servicemembers, their families, and veterans in Augusta deserve answers and information on how these potential changes could affect their ability to receive quality health care.”

Fort Gordon, Ga. — U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock are again pushing back on plans to reduce services at Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center (DDEAMC).

Earlier this week, Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock again demanded answers from the Defense Health Agency (DHA) and urged the agency to abandon its plan to close all inpatient services at DDEAMC. This new inquiry comes after DHA failed to respond to the Senator’s response deadline in the June 2026 inquiry.

DHA’s plan includes permanently closing inpatient care and transitioning the emergency room to an urgent care center, which could disrupt care for servicemembers, their families, and veterans, and add strain on the local health care system.

However, despite announcing the closure of all inpatient services at DDEAMC, DHA has not yet finalized a list of which inpatient services would be closed upon implementation and questions remain unanswered about the transition to an ambulatory care center.

In this latest inquiry, Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock are demanding DHA immediately rescind Congressional notification for those changes in service until more information is received and the potential consequences for service members, veterans, and families in the CSRA are defined.

“Seventeen days have passed since the deadline stated in our letter seeking more information about DHA’s decision to close all inpatient services at Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center (DDEAMC) and transition the facility to an ambulatory care center, and we have not received a response,” Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock wrote to Department of Defense (DoD) Assistant Secretary Keith Bass and DHA Director Vice Admiral Darin Via. “This is unacceptable. Servicemembers, their families, and veterans in Augusta deserve answers and information on how these potential changes could affect their ability to receive quality health care.”

“Until more information and clarification is received on this decision, and its potential consequences, DHA must immediately rescind Congressional notification for modification of services at DDEAMC,” Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock continued.

Sen. Ossoff first launched an inquiry last November with the Acting Director of the DHA requesting more information about the plans to reduce services at the DDEAMC.

Click here to read Sens. Ossoff and Rev. Warnock’s new inquiry.

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Padilla, Cornyn Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Desalination and Safe Drinking Water

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) introduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize desalination projects and research. The Desalination Reauthorization Act would support desalination, a drought-proof water supply alternative, by providing grants for projects and research to lower its costs and reduce its environmental impacts.

The legislation would extend the programmatic approval of the Bureau of Reclamation to fund desalination projects, which would otherwise expire this year. If the programmatic approval expired, Congress would need to pass a separate bill in order to authorize each new desalination project, which could substantially delay desalination projects and increase their costs. These projects help the Southwest counter drought by bolstering local supplies, providing flexibility during water shortages, and diversifying the water supply.

“Access to safe and clean drinking water is a human right, and investments in desalination programs will help us provide drinking water to millions of Americans in need,” said Senator Padilla. “Our bill will guarantee research and development of new avenues for safe, clean drinking water so that California can adapt to growing environmental pressures.”

“As communities in Texas’ Gulf Coast region and the Rio Grande Valley continue to face devastating drought conditions, it’s crucial that we make investments in water infrastructure improvements to ensure our state has enough water to meet demands,” said Senator Cornyn. “I’m proud to join Senator Padilla in introducing the Desalination Reauthorization Act, which would authorize desalination grant programs for the next year to help construct more ocean and brackish-water desalination facilities to ensure long-term water supply.”

Specifically, this bill would:

Reauthorize the Bureau of Reclamation’s authority to provide grants for desalination projects, which is on track expire this year;

Amend the programmatic approval to extend to public/private partnerships to build desalination projects;

Direct that Reclamation cannot administratively impose a maximum funding amount that each desalination project can receive, which would allow large desalination plants to receive the full 25% federal cost-share; and

Amend the desalination and water purification research program to advance pilot projects, which cover the gap in developing new technologies known as the “Valley of Death” between small-scale pilots that test a laboratory concept and commercially viable projects.

The Desalination Reauthorization Act is endorsed by the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), OceanWell, and South Coast Water District.

“The Association of California Water Agencies thanks Senator Padilla for his continued leadership and support for policies that will enhance our nation’s water supply,” said Ernie Avila, President of Association of California Water Agencies. “Desalination produces a drought proof source of high-quality drinking water that can improve water supply reliability. The bipartisan Desalination Reauthorization Act extends and enhances critical programs that will help water providers in California and the West meet community needs.”

“Water scarcity is one of the defining challenges of this century, demanding bold innovation alongside proven solutions. OceanWell is grateful to Senator Padilla and Senator Cornyn for their leadership in advancing the reauthorization of the Bureau of Reclamation’s desalination program. Their leadership recognizes that America’s water future depends on solutions that can expand water supplies while advancing environmental stewardship, operational efficiency, and long-term water security.” said Robert Bergstrom CEO of OceanWell.

“The South Coast Water District applauds Senator Alex Padilla for his leadership in introducing the Desalination Reauthorization Act, which will ensure the continued federal partnership needed to develop reliable, long-term water supplies for communities across the West,” said Rick Shintaku, South Coast Water District General Manager. “The federal Desalination Construction Grant Program has been an essential source of investment for projects like the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project, helping communities strengthen their water resilience and reduce dependence on increasingly stressed imported water supplies. As the West continues to face persistent drought conditions and the historic water crisis affecting the Colorado River, investing in ocean desalination infrastructure has never been more important. Reauthorizing this program will help deliver drought-proof, locally controlled water supplies that improve reliability, strengthen regional resilience, and better prepare our communities for the challenges of a changing water future. We thank Senator Padilla for his leadership and commitment to advancing practical, forward-looking water infrastructure solutions.”

Padilla has long been a strong advocate for ensuring access to safe, reliable water throughout California and across the country. Earlier this year, as severe droughts, warming temperatures, limitations on groundwater pumping, and outdated infrastructure compound California’s water scarcity issues, Padilla introduced a pair of bills to help address growing water supply challenges in California and the American West. His MORE WATER Act advanced out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources by voice vote and now heads to the Senate for a full vote.

Full text of the bill is available here.

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Padilla Introduces COWS Act to Reduce Greenhouse Emissions, Support Sustainable Waste Practices

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, reintroduced the Converting Our Waste Sustainably Act (COWS Act) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air and water quality, and implement more sustainable alternative manure management practices. Representative Jim Costa (D-Calif.- 21) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“As California continues to provide food for families across the country, it’s critical we equip our producers with resources and tools to ensure sustainable and cost-effective practices,” said Senator Padilla. “Yet, today’s climate crisis demands that we adopt a more sustainable agricultural model. This bill would invest in long-term and low-cost pasture management treatments – ultimately supporting our family dairies, improving the quality of the air we breathe, protecting our environment, and keeping California’s cows happy.”

As the top dairy state in the country and the second in cheese production, California is the largest producer of milk, butter, and specific cheeses like Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Queso Fresco. Dairy operations contribute billions to California’s economy but are also responsible for 45% of California’s methane emissions. Recognizing the urgency of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions like methane, California and the dairy industry are on track to reduce dairy methane emissions by 40% below 2013 levels by 2030.

The COWS Act promotes manure management conservation practices, proven successful under California’s Alternative Manure Management Program, that will help our livestock industry achieve three goals: (1) modernize technologies for manure management that help boost profitability; (2) improve water and soil quality; and (3) reduce methane and nitrogen oxide emissions by fostering climate-smart farming. The legislation also directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to prioritize awards for underserved communities and beginning farmers or ranchers.

Specifically, the COWS Act would:

Make alternative manure management practices eligible under USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to award dairy or livestock producers grants to install equipment and infrastructure for pasture-based management, alternative treatment and storage practices, solid separation systems, and scrape technologies, and

Provide technical assistance and training to aid in the implementation of eligible manure management and composting measures.

This legislation is based on California’s Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP), which was established in 2017 to support non-digester approaches to manage manure. The program has since supported 198 projects that are estimated to reduce 1.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent over five years.

In addition to Padilla, this bill is co-sponsored by Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.).

The COWS Act is endorsed by California Dairies, California Dairy Campaign, Environmental Working Group, National Farmers Union, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, Milk Producers Council, and the National Milk Producers Federation.

“The COWS Act gives dairy farmers of all sizes practical tools to cut methane emissions, improve water quality, and generate valuable compost as an alternative to synthetic fertilizers. At a time when California dairies are under real economic pressure due to low milk prices and high input costs this kind of flexible, EQIP-backed support is exactly what family dairies need. The California Dairy Campaign is proud to support Senator Padilla’s leadership on this bill,” said Lynne McBride, Executive Director of California Dairy Campaign.

“Milk Producers Council strongly supports the COWS Act,” said Kevin Abernathy, General Manager of Milk Producers Council. “The science has shown that the implementation of post-conservation practices in the dairy ecosystem helps improve soil health, provides cleaner air and water, and leads to healthier animals. California’s Alternative Manure Management Program has been a model for smart conservation practices, and the COWS Act would help expand this model nationwide.”

“Dairy farmers do exceptional work on their farms to practice sound manure management, a critical conservation priority for maintaining healthy operations and protecting local land and water resources,” said Gregg Doud, President and CEO of National Milk Producers Federation. “Yet despite that leadership, oversubscribed conservation programs limit farmers’ access to the tools and support they need. Expanding these opportunities will recognize the great work farmers are already doing and improve their ability to innovate on a much greater scale. We thank Sens. Padilla, Schiff, and Heinrich for introducing the COWS Act, which will support the variety of manure management systems dairy farmers rely on.”

A one-pager of the bill is available here.

Full text of the bill is available here.

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Padilla Statement on Russia Sanctions Bill Giving Trump Broader Tariff Authorities

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) issued the following statement after voting against legislation that would expand Donald Trump’s tariff authorities as part of legislation initially designed to sanction Russia for its unprovoked war against our ally Ukraine:

“I fully support and stand by the people of Ukraine bravely fighting for their freedom. From securing billions in funding to deliver military, economic, and humanitarian aid to advocating for Temporary Protected Status for Ukrainians living in the United States, and passing rigorous sanctions on Russia, I remain fully committed to supporting their defense.

“However, Congress should not use a Russia sanctions bill to hand Trump new tariff authorities that he will wield recklessly, especially while Americans continue to struggle with the fallout of his failed economic policies. While I will continue to proudly stand by Ukraine and will work to impose strong, targeted consequences on Russia, I cannot support legislation that makes it harder for American families to make ends meet.”

Before final passage, Padilla voted in favor of an amendment to strip the new tariff authorities from the legislation. The vote failed 32-64.

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Senate Passes Padilla Bill to Extend Tax Relief for Wildfire Victims

Legislation to Remove Taxes on Los Angeles Wildfire Settlements to Become Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Senate unanimously passed the Doug LaMalfa Federal Disaster Tax Relief Certainty Act, which included a version of U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Tim Sheehy’s (R-Mont.) bipartisan and bicameral Protect Innocent Victims of Taxation After Fire Extension Act to ensure wildfire survivors are not taxed on compensation they receive for losses and damages suffered during a federally-declared wildfire disaster before January 1, 2027. Representatives Mike Thompson (D-Calif.-04) and the late Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.-01) led companion legislation in the House of Representatives. The legislation now heads to the president’s desk for his signature.

“After a fire takes your home, the last thing families and communities should have to think about is a tax bill on the very settlement meant to help them rebuild. In 2024, we passed the original Protect Innocent Victims of Taxation After Fire Act that fixed our outdated tax code to remove this unfair financial burden, but that provision expired at the end of last year — even as survivors of the Los Angeles fires are still working to rebuild,” said Senator Padilla. “With devastating wildfires on the rise, I’m proud to get this commonsense, bipartisan solution over the finish line so survivors aren’t left waiting, worrying, and wondering about their financial futures after disaster. We must continue working to make this exemption permanent.”

“Doug LaMalfa was a tireless champion for western priorities, a valued colleague, and a dear friend. Watching this bipartisan legislation that he fought so hard for — and that now bears his name — signed into law is a fitting way to honor his legacy,” said Senator Lummis. “I know he’d be proud that wildfire survivors won’t be punished with a tax bill on top of everything else they’ve lost.”

“The last thing you should have to worry about if your house burns down in a wildfire or washes away in a flood is being hit with a massive tax bill,” said Senator Wyden. “This bill is going to deliver immediate relief to Oregonians and families across the country affected by this year’s devastating blazes and disasters, and I’m proud we were able to get it over the finish line.”

“As someone who has fought wildfires and worked alongside the communities they devastate, I know firsthand recovery doesn’t end when the flames are out,” said Senator Sheehy. “This commonsense, bipartisan legislation gives families the certainty they need as they begin to rebuild, and I’m proud to see it pass the Senate.”

“Fire survivors have been through enough in the wake of losing their homes and livelihoods to wildfires. It’s wrong to tax them on the settlement money meant to help them rebuild their lives,” said Representative Thompson. “Our bill ensures that survivors of disasters in the near future don’t have to come to Congress asking for relief after every fire, flood, hurricane, or other disaster. I’m thankful to Senator Padilla and our colleagues who voted to pass this bill.”

This bipartisan legislation extends Padilla and Lummis’ bill signed into law in 2024, which excluded wildfire-related settlement payments from federal income tax calculations, allowing survivors to put the full amount of their settlement money toward recovering from devastating losses. This includes payments that cover living expenses, lost wages, or compensation for injury, death, or emotional distress. The bill was signed into law as part of the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, which ensured taxes paid on payments made from the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) Fire Victim Trust for three major California fires in 2015, 2017, and 2018 were refunded and not taxed. The legislation passed today would extend the tax exemption for any federally declared wildfire before January 1, 2027, including the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, regardless of when payments are made to survivors.

Additionally, the Protect Innocent Victims of Taxation After Fire Extension Act would allow victims to claim the exemption in the year they receive payments rather than have to amend prior tax returns for a refund.

Yesterday, Padilla and Wyden spoke on the Senate Floor about the importance of passing this bill as quickly as possible in the wake of recent utility-caused wildfires in California, Oregon, and Hawaii, as well as the numerous wildfires currently burning across the Western United States.

Video of Padilla’s remarks is available here.

Full text of the bill is available here.

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Ahead of Blanche Confirmation Vote, Reed Reminds U.S. Senate That Blanche is Still Covering Up Epstein Files, Concealing Facts, & Not Complying with the Law

WASHINGTON, DC – Ahead of the final confirmation vote on acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to become the next U.S. Attorney General, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is reminding lawmakers that Mr. Blanche continues to cover up the Epstein Files. He continues to conceal key facts about the Trump Administration’s preferential treatment toward convicted sex offender Ghislaine Maxwell, who is Donald Trump’s former acquaintance and Jeffrey Epstein’s co-conspirator. Hiding this information does not comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which requires this information to be made public.

Specifically, Senator Reed wants the release of all records relating to Ghislaine Maxwell’s special treatment while incarcerated. However, the Department of Justice (DOJ), on Blanche’s watch, refuses to comply.

“In August 2025, I wrote to the Bureau of Prisons seeking all records relating to Ghislaine Maxwell’s special treatment while incarcerated. Her highly unusual privileges, including a transfer from a Federal correctional institution to a prison camp, occurred just after she provided fawning testimony about President Trump’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein in a jailhouse interview with you. These circumstances raise serious questions that you promised her favorable treatment in exchange for trying to minimize President Trump’s friendship with Jeffrey Epstein,” Reed wrote directly to Blanche.

Ghislaine Maxwell is currently serving 20 years in a federal prison for conspiring with Epstein to sexually abuse minors over the course of a decade.

Reed is seeking records related to Mr. Blanche’s July 24 and 25, 2025 trip to visit Maxwell in a Florida prison.

During the jailhouse visit, Blanche met with Maxwell and her attorney. They spoke for many hours, including a recorded portion of their conversations where Ms. Maxwell claimed that powerful men like Donald Trump and Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor had not engaged in any inappropriate conduct that she witnessed. Blanche didn’t even bother to ask why Epstein and Maxwell chose to fly a 17-year old girl across the Atlantic to meet Prince Andrew. Prince Andrew said in an interview with the BBC in 2019 that he could not recall ever meeting Giuffre and denied having any sexual contact with her. However, during civil litigation between Giuffre and Maxwell, another woman alleged in a sworn deposition that she was groped by Prince Andrew at Epstein’s New York home, while she and Giuffre were sitting with the prince for a photo.

Shortly after Blanche’s visit and Maxwell’s statements, she was mysteriously transferred from the Florida prison to the minimum security Federal Prison Camp Bryan – better known as ‘Club Fed’ in Bryan, Texas.

While records relating to the visit are withheld, the publicly available transcript of the Blanche-Maxwell ‘proffer’ shows that rather than rigorously questioning Maxwell and confronting her with contradictory, established trial evidence, Blanche failed to aggressively challenge implausible explanations regarding Maxwell’s finances, memory, and conduct.

One week after telling Blanche what he wanted to hear, Ms. Maxwell was transferred to a minimum-security facility, even though BOP policies do not ordinarily permit such transfers for recent offenders whose criminal history involves major sex offenses.

Reed’s letter notes: “Under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, DOJ must release the records justifying Ms. Maxwell’s transfer. Section 2(a)(2) requires DOJ to “make publicly available in a searchable and downloadable format all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials . . . that relate to . . . Ghislaine Maxwell.” This requirement has no further qualification, meaning that DOJ is required to make publicly available all documents related in any way to Ms. Maxwell. That includes documents related to how she serves her sentence. In correspondence to me shortly after the Epstein Files Transparency Act was enacted, a top DOJ official indicated that the records I am seeking related to Ms. Maxwell’s transfer should be covered by the law.

“You claimed in your confirmation hearing that the current administration “has been more transparent than any past administration” regarding Jeffrey Epstein. Based on the DOJ’s continued noncompliance with Section 2(a)(2) of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, I do not believe that is the case. In fact, DOJ has been hiding and concealing records that may be embarrassing to President Trump but that the public has a right to review,” Reed’s letter concludes.

Regardless of who the Attorney General is, Reed is urging DOJ to release these documents, as required by law, by August 31, 2026.

Full text of the letter follows:

Dear Acting Attorney General Blanche:

I write to ask when the Department of Justice will come into compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act by releasing all records related to convicted child sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell’s transfer to a minimum-security facility.

In August 2025, I wrote to the Bureau of Prisons seeking all records relating to Ghislaine Maxwell’s special treatment while incarcerated. Her highly unusual privileges, including a transfer from a Federal correctional institution to a prison camp, occurred just after she provided fawning testimony about President Trump’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein in a jailhouse interview with you. These circumstances raise serious questions that you promised her favorable treatment in exchange for trying to minimize President Trump’s friendship with Jeffrey Epstein.

Under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, DOJ must release the records justifying Ms. Maxwell’s transfer. Section 2(a)(2) requires DOJ to “make publicly available in a searchable and downloadable format all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials . . . that relate to . . . Ghislaine Maxwell.” This requirement has no further qualification, meaning that DOJ is required to make publicly available all documents related in any way to Ms. Maxwell. That includes documents related to how she serves her sentence. In correspondence to me shortly after the Epstein Files Transparency Act was enacted, a top DOJ official indicated that the records I am seeking related to Ms. Maxwell’s transfer should be covered by the law.

You claimed in your confirmation hearing that the current administration “has been more transparent than any past administration” regarding Jeffrey Epstein. Based on the DOJ’s continued noncompliance with Section 2(a)(2) of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, I do not believe that is the case. In fact, DOJ has been hiding and concealing records that may be embarrassing to President Trump but that the public has a right to review.

I request that DOJ release these documents, as required by law, by August 31, 2026.

Sincerely,


Ahead of Blanche Confirmation Vote, Reed Reminds U.S. Senate That Blanche is Still Not Complying with the Epstein Files Law

WASHINGTON, DC – Ahead of the final confirmation vote on acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to become the next U.S. Attorney General, U.S. Senator Jack Reed is reminding lawmakers that Mr. Blanche appears to be out of compliance with the law requiring full release of the Epstein Files. He continues to avoid releasing key facts about the Trump Administration’s preferential treatment toward convicted sex offender Ghislaine Maxwell, who is Donald Trump’s former acquaintance and Jeffrey Epstein’s co-conspirator. This failure to provide these documents does not comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which requires this information to be made public.

Specifically, Reed wants the release of all records relating to Ghislaine Maxwell’s special treatment while incarcerated. However, the Department of Justice (DOJ), on Blanche’s watch, refuses to comply.

“In August 2025, I wrote to the Bureau of Prisons seeking all records relating to Ghislaine Maxwell’s special treatment while incarcerated. Her highly unusual privileges, including a transfer from a Federal correctional institution to a prison camp, occurred just after she provided fawning testimony about President Trump’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein in a jailhouse interview with you. These circumstances raise serious questions that you promised her favorable treatment in exchange for trying to minimize President Trump’s friendship with Jeffrey Epstein,” Reed wrote directly to Blanche.

Ghislaine Maxwell is currently serving 20 years in a federal prison for conspiring with Epstein to sexually abuse minors over the course of a decade.

Reed is seeking records related to Mr. Blanche’s July 24 and 25, 2025 trip to visit Maxwell in a Florida prison.

During the jailhouse visit, Blanche met with Maxwell and her attorney. They spoke for many hours, including a recorded portion of their conversations where Ms. Maxwell claimed that powerful men like Donald Trump and Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor had not engaged in any inappropriate conduct that she witnessed. Blanche didn’t even bother to ask why Epstein and Maxwell chose to fly a 17-year old girl across the Atlantic to meet Prince Andrew. Prince Andrew said in an interview with the BBC in 2019 that he could not recall ever meeting Giuffre and denied having any sexual contact with her. However, during civil litigation between Giuffre and Maxwell, another woman alleged in a sworn deposition that she was groped by Prince Andrew at Epstein’s New York home, while she and Giuffre were sitting with the prince for a photo.

Shortly after Blanche’s visit and Maxwell’s statements, she was mysteriously transferred from the Florida prison to the minimum security Federal Prison Camp Bryan – better known as ‘Club Fed’ in Bryan, Texas.

While records relating to the visit are withheld, the publicly available transcript of the Blanche-Maxwell ‘proffer’ shows that rather than rigorously questioning Maxwell and confronting her with contradictory, established trial evidence, Blanche failed to aggressively challenge implausible explanations regarding Maxwell’s finances, memory, and conduct.

One week after telling Blanche what he wanted to hear, Ms. Maxwell was transferred to a minimum-security facility, even though BOP policies do not ordinarily permit such transfers for recent offenders whose criminal history involves major sex offenses.

Reed’s letter notes: “Under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, DOJ must release the records justifying Ms. Maxwell’s transfer. Section 2(a)(2) requires DOJ to “make publicly available in a searchable and downloadable format all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials . . . that relate to . . . Ghislaine Maxwell.” This requirement has no further qualification, meaning that DOJ is required to make publicly available all documents related in any way to Ms. Maxwell. That includes documents related to how she serves her sentence. In correspondence to me shortly after the Epstein Files Transparency Act was enacted, a top DOJ official indicated that the records I am seeking related to Ms. Maxwell’s transfer should be covered by the law.

“You claimed in your confirmation hearing that the current administration “has been more transparent than any past administration” regarding Jeffrey Epstein. Based on the DOJ’s continued noncompliance with Section 2(a)(2) of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, I do not believe that is the case. In fact, DOJ has been hiding and concealing records that may be embarrassing to President Trump but that the public has a right to review,” Reed’s letter concludes.

Regardless of who the Attorney General is, Reed is urging DOJ to release these documents, as required by law, by August 31, 2026.

Full text of the letter follows:

Dear Acting Attorney General Blanche:

I write to ask when the Department of Justice will come into compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act by releasing all records related to convicted child sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell’s transfer to a minimum-security facility.

In August 2025, I wrote to the Bureau of Prisons seeking all records relating to Ghislaine Maxwell’s special treatment while incarcerated. Her highly unusual privileges, including a transfer from a Federal correctional institution to a prison camp, occurred just after she provided fawning testimony about President Trump’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein in a jailhouse interview with you. These circumstances raise serious questions that you promised her favorable treatment in exchange for trying to minimize President Trump’s friendship with Jeffrey Epstein.

Under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, DOJ must release the records justifying Ms. Maxwell’s transfer. Section 2(a)(2) requires DOJ to “make publicly available in a searchable and downloadable format all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials . . . that relate to . . . Ghislaine Maxwell.” This requirement has no further qualification, meaning that DOJ is required to make publicly available all documents related in any way to Ms. Maxwell. That includes documents related to how she serves her sentence. In correspondence to me shortly after the Epstein Files Transparency Act was enacted, a top DOJ official indicated that the records I am seeking related to Ms. Maxwell’s transfer should be covered by the law.

You claimed in your confirmation hearing that the current administration “has been more transparent than any past administration” regarding Jeffrey Epstein. Based on the DOJ’s continued noncompliance with Section 2(a)(2) of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, I do not believe that is the case. In fact, DOJ has been hiding and concealing records that may be embarrassing to President Trump but that the public has a right to review.

I request that DOJ release these documents, as required by law, by August 31, 2026.

Sincerely,