{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"Senate\", party = \"Democrat\" and state = \"IL\" sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-join-senate-democrats-in-demanding-omb-director-vought-abandon-any-plan-to-exert-political-control-over-nih-funding", "Durbin, Duckworth Join Senate Democrats In Demanding OMB Director Vought Abandon Any Plan To Exert Political Control Over NIH Funding", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The lawmakers emphasize the need for Republicans to join Democrats in supporting new guardrails to protect the integrity of NIH\u2019s grantmaking process following a long line of politically motivated attacks on NIH\n\nWASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and of 27 their colleagues in demanding White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought halt any plan to exert political control over the National Institutes of Health\u2019s (NIH) grantmaking process. The Trump Administration considering an executive order to establish and empower an external committee of political appointees with no discernable qualifications to veto any awards selected by NIH and its panels of scientific experts is just the latest example and highlights the need for Congress to intervene.\n\nIn their letter, the lawmakers underscore that the executive order is the latest way OMB has sought to undermine NIH and the scientific peer-review process that is the foundation of biomedical advancements and innovation. Backtracking on a new executive order or not, the Trump Administration has shown time and again it wants to cancel NIH funding that misaligns with its political agendas and vendettas, all at the expense of life-saving research, treatments, and cures for millions of Americans.\n\n\u201cDecisions about which National Institutes of Health (NIH) research grants to fund should be guided only by science, and what research is most likely to advance new treatments and cures, or the next breakthrough to save or improve a patient\u2019s life. The Trump Administration considering, at the highest level, an executive order to exert unprecedented political control over NIH\u2019s grant-making by establishing a commission empowered to veto NIH research awards represents just its latest attack on biomedical research,\u201d the lawmakers write. \u201cInjecting political interference into the NIH grantmaking process will irreparably harm America\u2019s biomedical research enterprise, override scientific expertise, and potentially set back lifesaving medical breakthroughs by decades.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers note that reports that the Trump Administration has paused plans for an executive order to scrutinize NIH grants are little relief given the President\u2019s long string of attacks on the agency: \u201cThat such an executive order was considered at all makes clear that despite Congress acting to temporarily block OMB\u2019s proposed rule, this Administration intends to continue to pursue efforts to undermine NIH and its grantmaking process. If not by executive order or a new government-wide rule, the Trump Administration will simply pursue alternative administrative means that put politics over science and undermine the biomedical research enterprise we have built in this country over more than a century that is the envy of the world.\u201d\n\nThe Senators explained that given the Administration\u2019s attacks, it\u2019s critical Congress take additional steps to put guardrails in place\u2014something Senate Democrats have been pushing to do over the last 18 months: \u201cCongress must step in to establish guardrails to protect American biomedical science. We urge our Republican colleagues to work with us on legislation to do much more to protect NIH from the Trump Administration, which has proven over and over again to be dead set on picking political fights at the expense of advancing lifesaving treatments and cures for millions of Americans.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers conclude: \u201cWe write to call on you to abandon any plan to exert political control over NIH\u2019s grant-making decisions \u2014 whether that\u2019s through your proposed rule, a new executive order, or any other means\u2014that would empower political appointees to deny funding for grant applications that have already been deemed meritorious by the NIH peer-review and Advisory Council process. Patients and families are already paying an enormous price because of this administration\u2019s nonstop attacks on the NIH\u2014the last thing they need is for their hopes for new treatments and cures to be pushed farther out of view because you want to put politics ahead of saving lives.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Durbin, Duckworth, Murray, and Baldwin, the letter was also signed by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Angus King Jr. (I-ME), Jeffrey Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Mark Warner (D-VA), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Gary Peters (D-MI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Adam Schiff (D-CA).\n\nThe full letter is available HEREand below:\n\nSeptember 25, 2026\n\nDirector Vought:\n\nDecisions about which National Institutes of Health (NIH) research grants to fund should be guided only by science, and what research is most likely to advance new treatments and cures, or the next breakthrough to save or improve a patient\u2019s life. The Trump administration considering, at the highest level, an Executive Order to exert unprecedented political control over NIH\u2019s grant-making by establishing a commission empowered to veto NIH research awards represents just its latest attack on biomedical research. If established, such an entity would radically alter a nearly 140-year-old evaluation system built upon a rigorous peer-review process where subject matter experts assess applications based on scientific merit. Injecting political interference into the NIH grantmaking process will irreparably harm America\u2019s biomedical research enterprise, override scientific expertise, and potentially set back lifesaving medical breakthroughs by decades.\n\nReports that the Trump administration is backtracking on such an Executive Order is of little relief. This scheme comes on the heels of the Office of Management Budget\u2019s (OMB) proposal to rewrite rules governing the administration of federal grants government-wide, which centers on the same aims\u2014to put politics over scientific rigor. These efforts violate longstanding practice and interpretation of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) statutory duties and are clearly counter to what Congress intended when funding NIH. That such an Executive Order was considered at all makes clear that despite Congress acting to temporarily block OMB\u2019s proposed rule, this administration intends to continue to pursue efforts to undermine NIH and its grantmaking process. If not by Executive Order or a new government-wide rule, the Trump administration will simply pursue alternative administrative means that put politics over science and undermine the biomedical research enterprise we have built in this country over more than a century that is the envy of the world. The Trump administration will continue to have political appointees review Notices of Funding Opportunities and grant applications. It will continue to terminate scientifically meritorious grants for political reasons. And it will sideline expert peer review and empower political appointees to decide what research to fund or to not fund. Congress must step in to establish guardrails to protect American biomedical science. We urge our Republican colleagues to work with us on legislation to do much more to protect NIH from the Trump administration, which has proven over and over again to be dead set on picking political fights at the expense of advancing lifesaving treatments and cures for millions of Americans.\n\nAs the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, NIH supports research across virtually every area of human health. NIH research has led to countless groundbreaking discoveries, including mapping the human genome, isolating the AIDS virus, and the development of new drugs and treatments for cystic fibrosis, childhood leukemia, Alzheimer\u2019s disease, cancer, and rare diseases, among so many others. The NIH peer-review system is the backbone of each one of those discoveries. It is a process established to ensure that taxpayer-funded research is evaluated according to scientific standards and to insulate funding decisions from political considerations. NIH funding has, for example, supported basic scientific research on lizard venom and sea snails that you or another political appointee without any scientific expertise may well have vetoed as a waste of taxpayer resources, but that very research led to the development of GLP-1 medications and non-addictive opioid alternatives. NIH\u2019s scientific and peer review process that you are actively working to tear down is the foundation on which the United States stands as the world leader in biomedical innovation. OMB and unqualified political appointees have no business being involved in individual grant funding decisions and determining which specific cancer or Alzheimer\u2019s disease research grants get funded.\n\nPutting political decree above scientific peer review will mean research proposals are rejected not because of deficiencies in scientific quality, methodology, or relevance to statutory NIH missions, but because the subject matter, populations studied, institutions involved, or anticipated policy implications of the research do not align with the President\u2019s political agenda. Breast cancer patients should not be denied hope of a new lifesaving treatment because you and the President think women\u2019s health research is \u201cwoke\u201d. Each year, NIH awards more than 50,000 grants and reviews tens of thousands more, each containing dozens of pages of dense scientific material. Whether through Executive Order, a new OMB rule, or other means, this administration seeks the ability to cut funding for specific research institutions it doesn\u2019t like, or to cut funding for specific research projects because it doesn\u2019t like how they sound. This would mean overruling decisions made by panels of scientific experts that have already determined which research is meritorious of federal funding and is our nation\u2019s best bet at advancing new treatments and cures. Congress appropriated more than $48 billion to NIH in fiscal year 2026 for biomedical research pursuant to statute and congressionally directed programs, to be awarded according to a multi-step peer review process mandated by law. Congress does not delegate, or in any way intend to delegate, authority to the White House or your office to determine which individual scientific proposals may receive federal support. It similarly does not intend for unqualified political appointees to override the scientific peer review process in determining which specific grants to fund. But that is exactly what this administration continues to pursue.\n\nThese efforts are just the latest in a series of actions elevating politics and undermining science in biomedical research. Under your leadership, OMB has focused its efforts on destroying NIH and, with it, the nation\u2019s biomedical research enterprise. To date, the Trump administration has terminated or disrupted 5,780 NIH grants worth an estimated $15 billion. Today, 1,231 of those grants still have not been restored. In fiscal year 2025, the agency issued 6,478 fewer awards compared to the year before \u2013 fewer than any year since 2018. The overall success rate for grant applicants fell to 17 percent, marking a 30-year low. The Trump administration has delayed NIH notices of funding opportunities and grant awards by months, setting back research and clinical trials on Alzheimer\u2019s disease, cancer research, opioid addiction, rare diseases, and others by a year or more. These disruptions are causing young scientists and researchers to abandon their careers altogether or leave to pursue them in other countries. Meanwhile, uncertainties about federal funding have led to a 15 percent decline in doctoral admissions at major research universities in the United States. Earlier this month, it was revealed that the Trump administration plans to transfer up to $1.9 billion per year from NIH to the Department of Defense. Taken together, the Trump administration\u2019s actions have systematically weakened the biomedical workforce and upended the very system designed to select the most scientifically promising research that delivers hope for millions of American patients and families who are praying for new treatments and cures.\n\nWe write to call on you to abandon any plan to exert political control over NIH\u2019s grant-making decisions \u2014 whether that\u2019s through your proposed rule, a new Executive Order, or any other means\u2014that would empower political appointees to deny funding for grant applications that have already been deemed meritorious by the NIH peer-review and Advisory Council process. Patients and families are already paying an enormous price because of this administration\u2019s nonstop attacks on the NIH\u2014the last thing they need is for their hopes for new treatments and cures to be pushed farther out of view because you want to put politics ahead of saving lives.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-president-trumps-pocket-rescission-is-an-illegal-power-grab", "Durbin: President Trump\u2019s Pocket Rescission Is \u201cAn Illegal Power Grab\u201d", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In his speech on the Senate floor, Durbin condemned President Trump\u2019s illegal pocket rescission, which will rescind $810 million in congressionally-appropriated funding to education programs, health research, immigration services, and foreign aid\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today delivered a speech on the Senate floor criticizing the Trump Administration\u2019s illegal move to rescind $810 million for federal programs, cutting off bipartisan funding Congress has allocated for education programs, health research, assistance for minority-owned businesses, immigration services, and support to foreign countries. This pocket rescission by the President is a clear violation of the Constitution, which explicitly gives Congress the power to determine how federal funds are spent.\n\nWhile the President can make a rescission request, Congress must approve that rescission with a simple majority vote in each chamber. The law requires that, if Congress does not pass a bill rescinding the funding within 45 days, the President must release the withheld funds. With only a few days left in the fiscal year, President Trump is unlawfully using a pocket rescission, denying Congress the time or ability to reject the rescission request in a move that the Government Accountability Office has stated is illegal.\n\nDurbin began his remarks by calling out President Trump for this illegal power grab.\n\n\u201cOn Friday night, the Trump Administration announced that the President had unilaterally rescinded nearly $1 billion in funds that Congress had approved for spending on a bipartisan basis. This funding was meant for education programs, health research, assistance for businesses, immigration services, and support to other countries,\u201d Durbin began.\n\n\u201cThis move is an illegal power grab by the Trump Administration\u2014plain and simple,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nPresident Trump has repeatedly used pocket rescissions to rip federal funding from critical programs, including support for foreign aid and public broadcasting. Despite uproar from Americans, Republicans have publicly supported the President\u2019s illegal claw back of funding.\n\n\u201cLast year, President Trump canceled $4.9 billion in foreign aid with the so-called \u2018pocket rescission\u2019 maneuver. Earlier in 2025, my Republican colleagues supported President Trump\u2019s rescission request that clawed back $9 billion in foreign aid and public broadcasting funding,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nDemocrats pushed for protections from pocket rescissions to be included in the Continuing Resolution that passed Congress earlier this year, but Republicans refused to include it\u2014choosing to appease President Trump out of fear of retribution.\n\n\u201cDemocrats fought for pocket rescission protection in the Continuing Resolution that we passed earlier this year to prevent the White House from doing exactly what they\u2019ve done. Not surprisingly, Republicans in the Senate and the House refused to stand for the law for fear that they would anger their President. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle might express some concern now about the items that have been cut by the Administration, but where were they this summer when they had a chance to fix it?\u201d Durbin said.\n\nDurbin concluded his speech, reprimanding President Trump for prioritizing his vanity projects over supporting federal programs that support the American people.\n\n\u201cFor Donald Trump, billion-dollar ballrooms are full speed ahead. Money for schools\u2014cut. Vanity projects like the Trump Golden Arch are a priority, but medial research is cut. Taxpayer funded political ads of the wartime President are a must. Medical care for children\u2014cut,\u201d Durbin said.\n\n\u201cOver the past 20 months, Republicans have continuously bent the knee, kissed the ring, and handed Donald Trump more power and authority on a silver platter. Now the question is whether they will finally find their collective backbone and do something about this illegal executive maneuver,\u201d Durbin concluded his remarks.\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-previews-tomorrows-judiciary-committee-hearing-with-former-special-counsel-jack-smith", "Durbin Previews Tomorrow\u2019s Judiciary Committee Hearing With Former Special Counsel Jack Smith", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, previewed tomorrow\u2019s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing with former Special Counsel Jack Smith. In November 2022, then-Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Mr. Smith, a nonpartisan career prosecutor, as Special Counsel with authority to investigate President Trump\u2019s efforts to overturn the 2020 election, as well as Trump\u2019s effort to illegally retain highly classified government documents. As a result of these investigations, Special Counsel Smith indicted Trump on four counts in the election interference case, and 40 counts in the classified documents case.\n\nMr. Smith has offered to testify publicly under oath before the Senate Judiciary Committee for almost a year. Instead of allowing Mr. Smith to testify, Senate Judiciary Republicans held wasteful hearings to relitigate the 2020 presidential election, despite numerous other issues worth examining within the Committee\u2019s jurisdiction.\n\n\u201cTomorrow, finally, the Senate Judiciary Committee will hear from former Special Counsel Jack Smith,\u201d said Durbin. \u201cIn 2020, President Trump spent months spreading the \u2018Big Lie\u2019 that the 2020 election was stolen\u2026 He pressured state election officials, his own Vice President, the Justice Department, and Members of Congress to overturn the results of the election. This culminated in the January 6 attack on the Capitol, where President Trump\u2019s supporters tried to violently prevent the constitutional certification of the 2020 election.\u201d\n\nDurbin continued, \u201cBut instead of condemning this egregious criminal conduct\u2026 my Republican colleagues are spreading baseless conspiracy theories and attacking career prosecutors and FBI agents, claiming the so-called \u2018deep state\u2019 is out to get Donald Trump.\u201d\n\nWhen Trump was re-elected president in November 2024, Special Counsel Smith moved to dismiss the cases against him based on the Department of Justice\u2019s position that the Constitution forbids the federal indictment and prosecution of a sitting president. Following the dismissal, Special Counsel Smith provided Garland a two-volume report outlining his findings in both investigations. While Garland released Volume I, concerning the election interference case, Judge Aileen Cannon enjoined DOJ from releasing Volume II, concerning the classified documents case.\n\nIn October 2025, and again in February 2026, Durbin led all Senate Judiciary Democrats in sending a letter to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) calling on him to allow former Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify before the Committee. In their letters, the Senators also urged Chairman Grassley to request DOJ release Volume II of Special Counsel Smith\u2019s report.\n\n\u201cNow, after years of criticism and multiple hearings about the investigations, Senate Judiciary Republicans are finally holding a hearing with Jack Smith\u2026 Jack Smith asked Republicans\u2026 for the opportunity to testify under oath to the Judiciary Committee nearly a year ago\u2014back in October 2025. They ignored it. At the time, Judiciary Committee Democrats sent a letter urging the Chairman of the Judiciary Committee to stop complaining and bring Mr. Smith before the Committee\u2026 We made this request again in February 2026\u2026 The Chairman had declined to bring Smith before the Committee, claiming that the Committee needed more time to gather information,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cStill, Republicans on the Committee have made no effort to obtain a copy of Volume II of Jack Smith\u2019s report, which details the findings from the criminal investigation into President Trump\u2019s alleged mishandling of classified materials.\u201d\n\nDurbin continued, \u201cIf this hearing was really about getting answers, Committee Republicans would be doing everything they could to obtain a copy of Volume II and urge the Department of Justice to allow Smith to discuss his investigation.\u201d\n\nDurbin concluded, \u201cDespite these impediments, I\u2019m glad my Republican colleagues will finally address these concerns directly. It\u2019s about time, and in fact it is well past time, for this Committee, the Judiciary Committee, to move on from and stop spreading political rumors and get down to the truth.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-trumps-illegal-pocket-rescission-of-nearly-1-billion", "Durbin Statement On Trump\u2019s Illegal \u201cPocket Rescission\u201d Of Nearly $1 Billion", "2026-09-26", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "NEW ORLEANS \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after President Trump announced that he has unilaterally rescinded nearly $1 billion in funds that Congress has already approved for education programs, health research, assistance for minority owned businesses, immigration services, and support to foreign countries:\n\n\u201cThe illegal power grab by Donald Trump continues. The real question is whether my Republican colleagues will finally find their collective backbone and do something about it.\n\n\u201cDemocrats fought for pocket rescission protection in the CR so this could never happen again, but Republicans refused\u2014fearing retribution from the White House. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle might express anger now, but where were they this summer during these negotiations?\n\n\u201cBillion-dollar ballrooms are full speed ahead, but money for schools is cut. Vanity projects like the Golden Arch are a priority, but medical research for cancer cures is cut. Taxpayer funded political ads of the wartime President are a must, but medical care for children is cut.\u201d\n\nPresident Trump\u2019s rescissions requests are made under a fast-tracked process, established in the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, in which a president can request that Congress rescind federal funding with a simple majority vote in each chamber. The law requires that, if Congress does not pass a bill rescinding the funding within 45 days, the president must release it.\n\nHowever, President Trump is attempting an unlawful maneuver called \u201cpocket rescissions,\u201d in which he seeks to rescind funding less than 45 days before the end of the fiscal year, believing this provides him with the power to cancel the funding with or without the approval of Congress. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has stated that pocket rescissions are illegal.\n\nLast year, President Trump canceled $4.9 billion in foreign aid via a \u201cpocket recission.\u201d And earlier in 2025, Republicans supported President Trump\u2019s recission request that clawed back $9 billion in foreign aid and public broadcast funding that had been previously appropriated on a bipartisan basis.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-28T11:29:07Z", "2026-09-28T11:30:58Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/as-trump-craters-economy-duckworth-and-meng-reintroduce-resolution-to-empower-mothers-in-the-workforce", "As Trump Craters Economy, Duckworth and Meng Reintroduce Resolution to Empower Mothers in the Workforce", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 As Donald Trump\u2019s reckless policies continue to crater our economy and leave families behind, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Grace Meng (D-NY-06) reintroduced the Mom Economy Resolution to promote and empower mothers in the workforce across the nation. While the Trump Administration cuts critical lifelines that so many depend on and offer nothing to support Americans struggling to get by, the lawmakers\u2019 bicameral resolution lays out a plan to support moms who enter and stay in the workplace through investments in childcare, the child tax credit, SNAP, increasing the minimum wage and paid leave. The legislation also includes additional provisions seeking to assist LGBTQ+ mothers and maternal care/family planning resources.\n\n\u201cCosts are climbing, child care is more expensive and too many moms are feeling left behind by an Administration that promised to help,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cIf we want to build a stronger economy, it\u2019s past time we stop treating moms\u2019 time as both expendable and endless. Our resolution recognizes the urgent need to invest in moms and make it easier for them to succeed in our workforce by advancing policies like universal child care, paid leave and beyond. Republicans in Congress must stop prioritizing harmful tax cuts that only benefit the ultra-wealthy and start working with Democrats to pass meaningful legislation that meets the needs of mothers across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cMoms are the backbone of our economy, but too often, the economy doesn\u2019t work for them,\u201d said Congresswoman Meng. \"Women still earn just 84 cents for every dollar earned by men, even as so many are bringing home half\u2014or all\u2014of their family\u2019s income. That has to change. I\u2019m proud to introduce the Mom Economy Resolution with Senator Duckworth, which builds on my Marshall Plan for Moms, to recognize the burdens working moms face and renew the call for paid leave, affordable childcare, and the support families need to thrive.\u201d\n\n\"The childcare crisis isn't a mom problem, it's a $172 billion economic problem, and mothers have been absorbing the cost alone for too long \u201d said Reshma Saujani, founder and CEO of Moms First. \"I'm grateful to Congresswoman Meng and Senator Duckworth for their leadership. When we invest in paid leave and affordable childcare, we're not just helping moms \u2014 we're growing the economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Mom Economy Resolution offers solutions to many of the devastating challenges moms and families are facing as our country\u2019s care and affordability crises deepen,\u201d said MomsRising Together Executive Director Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner. \u201cIt makes a powerful case for the measures that will open avenues for moms, families, small businesses, and our economy to thrive, including fair wages; affordable child care and health care, including maternal and reproductive care; improved access to nutritious food; paid family and medical leave; a permanent expansion of the Child Tax Credit; and a higher minimum wage. This is a finger-on-the-pulse Resolution and America\u2019s moms are deeply grateful to Rep. Grace Meng for leading on it and championing the initiatives we urgently need.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Mom Economy Resolution highlights an essential, and often forgotten, principle that mothers, who face a persistent gender wage gap, are critical to our nation's workforce and economy,\u201d said Dr. Jamila K. Taylor, president and CEO of the Institute for Women's Policy Research (IWPR). \u201cIWPR is proud to support this resolution that recognizes the crucial role mothers, especially mothers of color, play in their families\u2019 economic security. By investing in care infrastructure, expanding inclusive tax credits, and improving workplace supports, we can strengthen families and the economy. The childcare crisis isn't a mom problem, it's a $172 billion economic problem, and mothers have been absorbing the cost alone for too long. I'm grateful to Congresswoman Meng and Senator Duckworth for their leadership. When we invest in paid leave and affordable childcare, we're not just helping moms \u2014 we're growing the economy.\u201d\n\nSupported by MomsRising Together the Institute for Women\u2019s Policy Research, Moms First, National Partnership for Women and Families, A Better Balance, and National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum, this resolution comes at a time where the labor force has 20% fewer women in it than men, while at least four out of every ten women report having experienced gender discrimination at work. Moreover, the median earnings for women who work full-time is 84 cents and part-time 78 cents, for every dollar paid to men. The rate of the wage gap is even higher for Black women, Latinas, Native women and other communities of Asian American and Pacific Islander women.\n\nAlong with Duckworth, the legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR). Along with Meng, the legislation is cosponsored in the House by U.S Representatives Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).\n\nDuckworth has long been a fierce advocate of policies that support middle-class families, including more affordable child care, universal-pre K, paid leave and more. Duckworth is a cosponsor of the Child Care for Working Families Act, comprehensive legislation to help tackle the child care crisis and ensure that families across America can find and afford the high-quality child care they need. Duckworth also helped reintroduce the Healthy Families Act of 2023, which would guarantee paid sick leave to workers in America.\n\nA copy of the resolution can be found on Senator Duckworth's website.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-hoeven-bipartisan-bills-to-support-the-health-of-our-aviation-workforce-and-strengthen-aviation-safety-pass-the-senate", "Duckworth-Hoeven Bipartisan Bills to Support the Health of Our Aviation Workforce and Strengthen Aviation Safety Pass the Senate", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Two bipartisan pieces of legislation led by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)\u2014a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Ranking Member of the Aviation Subcommittee\u2014and U.S. Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) to support the health of our aviation workforce and strengthen aviation safety today passed the Senate with unanimous consent. Duckworth\u2019s Aviation Medication Transparency Act, co-led by Senator Hoeven, would require the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue accessible, user-friendly guidance on medications that are safe for individuals holding, applying for or training for a position that requires an FAA medical certificate\u2014helping ensure these individuals don\u2019t unknowingly take medications that could put their careers in jeopardy.\n\n\u201cOur aviation system depends on the well-being of our pilots and air traffic controllers, who operate under an immense amount of stress. Their careers should never be threatened because they weren\u2019t properly informed about which medications they\u2019re allowed to take, or simply sought the mental health care they need,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cThese two bipartisan, commonsense bills will help make it easier for those in our aviation workforce to take care of themselves without fearing for their job security\u2014while also sending this important message to future recruits. Now that they\u2019ve passed the Senate with unanimous consent, the House must do the same so we can address bureaucratic shortcomings within the FAA, dismantle the dangerous culture of silence surrounding mental health in the aviation industry and ultimately make our skies safer.\u201d\n\nAdditionally, Hoeven\u2019s John A. Hauser Mental Health in Aviation Act, co-led by Senator Duckworth, would require the FAA to modernize and strengthen access to mental health care\u2014removing barriers to timely treatment, promoting early intervention and supporting the well-being of our pilots and air traffic controllers (ATC) that lead to safer skies.\n\n\u201cOur nation faces a severe shortage of qualified pilots and air traffic controllers, while bureaucratic delays and outdated processes at the FAA keep these professionals from working for prolonged periods when they seek mental health care. Our Mental Health in Aviation Act would provide much-needed updates to the FAA\u2019s Medical Certificate process to help ensure pilots and air traffic controllers can get the care they need without undue repercussions to their careers,\u201d said Hoeven. \u201cI appreciate Senator Duckworth for partnering with me on both this legislation and her Aviation Medication Transparency Act, which will provide more certainty regarding which medications are approved by the FAA for aviation professionals. Together, our bills will make a real difference for the well-being of pilots and controllers.\u201d\n\nThe FAA currently provides Aviation Medical Examiners with specific guidance on medications that are safe for individuals holding an FAA medical certificate to take\u2014but confoundingly, this crucial information is not easily accessible to pilots, ATCs and other aviation professionals. As a result, pilots and ATCs with medical certifications may unknowingly take medications that could potentially jeopardize their careers.\n\nTo help make this information more accessible, the Aviation Medication Transparency Act would require the FAA to:\n\nPublish within one year of enactment\u2014and keep up-to-update\u2014a comprehensive, user-friendly and accessible list of medications that are safe for pilots, air traffic control specialists and trainees, developed in consultation with various stakeholders.\n\nIndicate what, if any, period of time individuals holding an FAA medical certificate must have limited or no duties while taking this medication.\n\nIndicate a list of medications the FAA has designated as \u201cDo Not Issue\u201d and \u201cDo Not Fly.\u201d\n\nProvide information for doctors to contact the FAA should they have any questions.\n\nIn addition to Duckworth and Hoeven, the Aviation Medication Transparency Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Katie Britt (R-AL), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), James Risch (R-ID), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jack Reed (D-RI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Coons (D-DE) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).\n\nThis legislation is also endorsed by the Airlines for America, Air Line Pilots Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, National Air Traffic Controllers Association, National Business Aviation Association, National Flight Training Alliance, NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots, Pilot Menal Health Campaign, Southwest Airlines Pilots Association and United Aerial Firefighters Association.\n\nAdditionally, under current FAA regulations, pilots and ATCs must acquire and maintain an FAA medical certificate, which requires the disclosure of any medical treatments\u2014including for mental health. Once disclosed, they can face extended bureaucratic delays during the lengthy process they must undergo to receive their medical certification and be deemed safe to perform their jobs. As a result, there is a stigma against seeking mental health care which discourages pilots and ATCs from getting the care they need and deserve for their uniquely demanding professions.\n\nTo encourage pilots and ATCs to seek care early and improve aviation safety, the John A. Hauser Mental Health in Aviation Act would require the FAA to:\n\nModernize mental health guidance regulations for pilots and air traffic controllers to encourage the early disclosure and treatment of mental health conditions and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in aviation.\n\nAnnually review the FAA\u2019s Special Issuance Medical Certification process, appropriate mental health treatments and medication use and overall mental health training for Aviation Medical Examiners.\n\nAuthorize $15 million annually (FY2026\u2013FY2029) to the FAA\u2019s Office of Aerospace Medicine to expand and train additional medical examiners, including specialists, to improve the efficiency of the FAA\u2019s Special Issuance Medical Certification process.\n\nAuthorize $1.5 million annually (FY2026\u2013FY2029) for a public information campaign to help reduce the stigma around mental health care in aviation and encourage pilots and air traffic controllers to seek treatment.\n\nIn addition to Hoeven and Duckworth, the John A. Hauser Mental Health in Aviation Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-AL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Curtis (R-UT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Andy Kim (D-NJ), James Risch (R-ID), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), John Kennedy (R-LA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Chris Coons (D-DE), Steve Daines (R-MT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI).\n\nThis legislation is also endorsed by Airlines for America, Regional Airline Association, the Air Line Pilots Association, National Air Traffic Controllers Association, National Business Aviation Association, Association of Air Medical Services, National Flight Training Alliance, NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots, Southwest Airlines Pilots Association, Allied Pilots Association, Coalition of Airline Pilots and Pilots Mental Health Campaign.\n\nFull text of the Aviation Medication Transparency Act and the Mental Health in Aviation Act are available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\nDuckworth has long been a leading voice in the push to make our skies safer. For years, she has been sounding the alarm that we must make critical aviation safety investments immediately to prevent all-too-often near-misses from becoming catastrophic tragedies. Last Congress, Duckworth chaired two CST Aviation Subcommittee hearings\u2014one last December and the other a year prior\u2014to address our aviation industry\u2019s chilling surge in near-deadly close calls and underscore the urgent need to improve air traffic control systems to protect the flying public.\n\nDuckworth helped author the landmark bipartisan FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 that was signed into law to extend the FAA\u2019s funding and authorities through Fiscal Year 2028. The reauthorization included several of her provisions to safeguard the 1,500-hour rule, improve consumer safety, expand the aviation workforce and enhance protections for travelers with disabilities.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-leads-senate-democrats-in-renewed-push-to-help-prevent-police-involved-deaths-and-provide-justice-for-families", "Duckworth Leads Senate Democrats in Renewed Push to Help Prevent Police-Involved Deaths and Provide Justice for Families", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 On the 29th birthday of Laquan McDonald, an Illinoisan teen who was shot and killed at the hands of a Chicago Police Department (CPD) officer with a recorded history of excessive force, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) is leading her Senate Democratic colleagues in reintroducing legislation that would help restore trust between law enforcement officials and the communities they serve by helping prevent police-involved deaths and encouraging independent, impartial investigations into law enforcement officials\u2019 use of deadly force. The Police Training and Independent Review Act\u2014the second piece of legislation that Senator Duckworth ever introduced in the Senate\u2014would create financial incentives for states to require training for law enforcement officials on fair and impartial policing and best practices for working with members of the community who are disabled and have mental illnesses. Additionally, it would encourage communities to use independent prosecutors to investigate law enforcement officials\u2019 use of deadly force. When implemented, the legislation would authorize the U.S. Attorney General to award grants to states that require an independent investigation and, if warranted, prosecution in cases where one or more of the alleged offenses result in death or serious bodily harm. Companion legislation will soon be introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN-09).\n\n\u201cFrom Chicago to Louisville or anywhere in America, we cannot allow ourselves to accept that Black teenagers, men and women are still being unjustly executed at the hands of law enforcement without judge or jury,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cLaquan McDonald\u2019s death was preventable, and Congress still has yet to do enough to ensure tragedies like his never happen again. In honor of Laquan 29th heavenly birthday, I\u2019m proud to lead Senate Democrats in reintroducing this overdue legislation that would help save lives and restore trust between law enforcement and local communities by increasing resources for training to help prevent such incidents, while promoting objective and independent investigations of police-involved uses of deadly force. Families like Laquan McDonald\u2019s that have experienced heartbreak are no less deserving of justice than any other family. It\u2019s time our country acts to ensure accountability within our law enforcement agencies and provide justice to those who have lost loved ones.\u201d\n\n12 years ago, Laquan MacDonald\u2014who was 17 years old at the time\u2014was shot and killed by a 14-year CPD officer with over 20 citizen complaints, including many for excessive force. CPD office Jason Van Dyke shot McDonald 16 times, many after he already was on the ground. Tragically, McDonald's story is all too familiar. Police in the United States kill more than 1,000 people each year, yet fewer than 3 percent of those killings result in an officer being charged with a crime. In much of the country, the officer's own department investigates a police killing while a local prosecutor\u2014who works alongside that department every day\u2014decides whether to bring charges, an inherent conflict of interest this legislation is designed to eliminate.\n\nThe types of independent investigation and prosecution of law enforcement that would be eligible for financial incentives under the Police Training and Independent Review Act include:\n\nThe use of an independent agency, civilian review board or outside law enforcement department, such as the State Police, responsible for independently investigating and prosecuting all officer use of force allegations.\n\nThe appointment of the State Attorney General, or a special prosecutor overseen by the State Attorney General, responsible for conducting the criminal investigation and prosecution.\n\nThe use of an independent prosecutor, who does not reside or work in the same county as the county where the officer\u2019s use of force was committed.\n\nAlong with Duckworth, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Ron Wyden (D-OR).", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-padilla-introduce-new-legislation-to-prevent-unlawful-immigration-arrests-and-detentions", "Durbin, Padilla Introduce New Legislation To Prevent Unlawful Immigration Arrests & Detentions", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The Immigration Warrant Reform Act would push back on the Trump Administration\u2019s indiscriminate and violent immigration enforcement across the country\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 After immigration enforcement agents have arbitrarily arrested countless U.S. citizens and immigrants with lawful status, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration, introduced new legislation to clarify existing requirements for immigration arrests and codify statutory procedures to prevent unlawful arrests and detentions. U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Angus King (I-ME), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), and Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined as cosponsors.\n\nIn a concurrence in Noem v. Vasquez Perdomo, Justice Kavanaugh relied on these gaps in immigration laws to find that immigration agents may make stops based solely on apparent race and ethnicity, speaking Spanish or English with an accent, and presence at certain worksites. The Trump Administration has gone beyond \u201cstops\u201d to arrest and even brutally attack U.S. citizens and immigrants without probable cause or a warrant for the arrest. The Trump Administration has further interpreted immigration laws to require immigration judges to deny bond to any noncitizen who entered the United States without inspection, regardless of how long they have been in the country, and severely limit the opportunities for an immigration judge to release noncitizens on bond.\n\n\u201cThe disturbing reality today is that many American citizens and immigrants with lawful status have been caught in the Trump Administration\u2019s indiscriminate and violent immigration enforcement dragnet across the country,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cAs Justice Sotomayor stated in her dissent in Noem v. Vasquez Perdomo, referring to immigration agents: \u2018United States citizens are \u2026 being seized, taken from their jobs, and prevented from working to support themselves and their families.\u2019 This must stop. The Immigration Warrant Reform Act will help prevent these due process violations while ensuring noncitizens who present a threat to public safety are not released. It is commonsense, and I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support it.\u201d\n\n\u201cRepublicans continued to write blank checks to ICE and CBP while serious concerns remain about officer and agent training, accountability, and the treatment of U.S. citizens,\u201d said Padilla. \u201cEvery person in America has civil rights \u2014 in spite of this Administration\u2019s total disregard for the Constitution. This bill would establish stronger accountability and oversight, restore due process, and ensure federal immigration enforcement respects the rights and safety of Americans and noncitizens alike.\u201d\n\nThe Immigration Warrant Reform Act would bring immigration enforcement procedures in line with the standards that all law enforcement have to follow, by\u2014\n\nCodifying specific criteria for warrantless civil immigration arrests in the interior of the United States\u2014\n\nTo limit the circumstances for warrantless arrest to those where a noncitizen presents an imminent danger to the community requiring immediate arrest, and is likely to escape before a warrant can be obtained; and\n\nTo require a bond hearing within 24 hours of any warrantless arrest to determine whether the conditions above were met, and release the individual if they do not present a danger to the community;\n\nCodifying in statute criteria for obtaining an administrative warrant to arrest a noncitizen for civil immigration enforcement purposes, including by requiring immigration officers to\u2014\n\nDocument probable cause of an individual\u2019s inadmissibility and removability under the Immigration and Nationality Act; and\n\nObtain approval for an administrative warrant from a supervisory immigration officer;\n\nCodifying in statute the requirement for periodic hearings in front of an immigration judge or federal judge for detained noncitizens; and\n\nClarifying that mandatory detention provisions applicable at the border should not apply to immigrants in the interior of the United States.\n\nThese changes would not allow for release of noncitizens who present a threat to public safety.\n\nBill text is available here.\n\nA section-by-section of the bill is available here.\n\nIn December, Durbin launched an investigation into the reported arrests of U.S. citizens under the Trump Administration\u2019s violent immigration enforcement agenda. In a letter to then-DHS Secretary Noem, Durbin called out the dangerous and reckless enforcement actions, including arrests and detentions of U.S. citizens and targeting of minorities in cities like Chicago.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-supreme-court-allowing-trump-administration-to-proceed-with-flawed-voter-screening-database-ahead-of-midterms", "Durbin Statement On Supreme Court Allowing Trump Administration To Proceed With Flawed Voter Screening Database Ahead Of Midterms", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "NEW ORLEANS \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after the Supreme Court ruled today that the Trump Administration can move forward with an expansive and flawed database that states can use for potential voter purges. The database attempts to combine citizenship information, Social Security numbers, and other sensitive data about millions of Americans and is rife with errors:\n\n\u201cThe Supreme Court just allowed the Trump Administration to weaponize an unreliable database against Americans\u2019 fundamental right to vote less than six weeks before a consequential midterm election. With his poll numbers lagging, Donald Trump continues to attack Americans\u2019 right to vote because he knows his party can\u2019t win on the issues.\n\n\u201cFederal law already prohibits noncitizens from voting in federal elections, and every eligible voter across America has the right to cast a ballot\u2014and should be able to do so without fear of being wrongly purged from the voting rolls. The right to vote is fundamental to our nation\u2019s democracy, and President Trump\u2019s efforts to chip away at that fundamental right and interfere with the election must be rejected.\u201d\n\nIn an unsigned per curiam opinion, over the objections of at least three dissenting justices, a majority of the Court granted a request for emergency relief from the Justice Department to stay a June ruling which had blocked the Department of Homeland Security\u2019s (DHS) overhauled database\u2014called the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE)\u2014which the Administration allows states and localities to use to verify citizenship and immigration status of registered voters. As Justice Jackson pointed out in her dissent, the Court \u201cfocuse[d] only on the harms the Government will purportedly suffer absent a stay, disregarding the harms that the modified SAVE system has caused, and will likely continue to cause, to lawful voters.\u201d\n\nIn April, Durbin, along with U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Senate Rules and Administration Committee; Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee; and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) led 24 of their Democratic colleagues in demanding DHS and the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) follow existing federal law over a troubling, unconstitutional March 31 Executive Order signed by President Trump. The directive risked disenfranchising eligible voters, including by requiring DHS to create eligible voter lists\u2014which is an administrative function reserved primarily for the states. Under the order, DHS is required to use data from the SAVE program that incorporates incorrect and out-of-date citizenship information from SSA, which DHS has acknowledged may produce inaccurate citizenship verification results.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-boozman-lead-bill-to-enhance-support-of-women-veterans", "Duckworth, Boozman Lead Bill to Enhance Support of Women Veterans", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "The VOICE for Women Veterans Act would require a comprehensive look at VA care, benefits and services to identify areas for improvement\n\n[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and John Boozman (R-AR), members of the Senate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee (SVAC), introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen oversight of women Veterans\u2019 health care and improve access to the services and resources they need. The Veterans\u2019 Outcomes, Inclusion, Care, and Experience (VOICE) for Women Veterans Act would modernize an annual report from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) so legislators, the VA and Veteran advocates have a comprehensive reference to drive change and resolve issues affecting the care and benefits women Veterans have earned and deserve.\n\n\u201cOur nation would never be ready for battle without our brave women in uniform. For all they\u2019ve sacrificed for our country, we owe it to our women heroes to ensure the VA is equipped to provide them the high-quality, tailored care that they have earned through their service,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation would require the VA to take a deep look at how well female Veterans are actually being served and how we can improve health outcomes. As the primary health care home for Veterans, this comprehensive review at the VA is long overdue to better care for the fastest growing Veteran group in the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cWomen veterans have made tremendous sacrifices in service to our nation, and they deserve access to the quality care and resources they have earned. As we look to improve the quality of care for women veterans in Arkansas and across the country, we must ensure the VA gathers the data and information necessary to identify gaps, address challenges and improve health outcomes. This bipartisan legislation will help strengthen accountability and ensure women veterans receive the care and support they are owed,\u201d said Boozman.\n\nThis bill is supported by the Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled American Veterans and Paralyzed Veterans of America.\n\nThe full bill text is available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\nDuckworth has been a fierce leader and advocate for improving our Veterans\u2019 and servicemembers\u2019 access to the care they need. Earlier this year during a SVAC hearing, Duckworth pressed and secured a commitment from Dr. Mark Koeniger, Acting Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Patient Care Services at the Veterans Health Administration, on behalf of the VA to continue working with her as she seeks to pass her Maternal Health for Veterans Act. This Duckworth bill builds on the Senator\u2019s Protecting Moms Who Served Act\u2014signed into law in 2021\u2014that strengthens oversight of VA maternity care coordination and expands access for women Veterans. The Senator also introduced the bipartisan Copay Fairness for Veterans Act that would eliminate out-of-pocket costs that Veterans are disproportionately forced to pay for preventative health care services they\u2019ve earned through their military service. She also reintroduced legislation that would improve Veterans\u2019 access to contraception and increase efficiency and cost-effectiveness for contraceptive products at the VA.\n\nLast year, Duckworth also joined U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) in reintroducing legislation to help make it easier for our Veterans who struggle with infertility to build their families. Earlier last year, Duckworth railed against the Trump Administration for indiscriminately firing Veterans Crisis Line workers and introduced her Protect Veteran Jobs Act with U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) to reinstate the thousands of Veterans who were fired in Trump\u2019s mass layoffs\u2014an effort Republicans shamefully blocked in March.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-slams-trump-for-targeting-military-families-for-deportation", "Duckworth Slams Trump for Targeting Military Families for Deportation", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) slammed Donald Trump and his Administration for targeting military families in their extreme immigration enforcement campaign, arguing that their efforts are hurting military readiness, morale and national security. Appearing at a press conference beside other Veterans, military family members and advocates, Duckworth stressed how the Administration\u2019s tactics are not only inhumane, but also send an unacceptable message to the brave servicemembers currently fighting in Trump\u2019s war of choice and to future recruits. Key quotes from Duckworth\u2019s remarks can be found below and the full livestream can be found on the Senator\u2019s YouTube.\n\nKey Quotes:\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s a betrayal to our heroes to have a family member detained or deported by the same nation they sacrificed to defend. No servicemember should be forced to choose between fulfilling their military obligations and protecting their families. And with fewer and fewer people enlisting as the years go on, we should be celebrating every person who serves, including their families who sacrifice so much to support them\u2026I\u2019m here today to call out that five-time draft-dodging coward for dodging his most sacred responsibility: honoring those who were actually brave enough to serve.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Trump Administration\u2019s actions are inhumane, and they\u2019re disastrous from a national security perspective. We don\u2019t need our troops who are heading into a firefight to be worried about whether their husband or wife is going to get picked up on the streets, leaving their toddler in foster care\u2026What does any of that do to our military\u2019s morale? To our national strength? To our reenlistment numbers? What message does any of that send to our troops\u2014or to our enemies?\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful that last spring I was able to help secure the release of military spouse Deisy Rivera Ortega from ICE detention after she was arrested with no warrant and no explanation. But she should never have been in that situation in the first place\u2026There are countless other \u2018Deisys\u2019 out there, and just as they and their loved ones fought for this country, we now need to fight for them. So going forward, I will keep doing just that, including by working to codify Military Parole in Place\u2014because these families deserve protections that don\u2019t disappear with a change in Administration.\u201d\n\nDuckworth has been leading the charge advocating against the Trump Administration\u2019s cruel efforts to target military families and Veterans in its extreme deportation campaign. In May, the Senator successfully secured the release of military spouse Deisy Rivera Ortega from ICE detention after the Senator personally called DHS Director Markwayne Mullin advocating on Ms. Rivera Ortega\u2019s behalf.\n\nLast month, Duckworth and her colleagues pressed the Administration for answers on its efforts to coordinate to arrest, detain and deport hundreds of Veterans and military families. In June, Duckworth lambasted the Administration for gutting the Immigrant Military Members and Veteran Initiative (IMMVI), a collaboration between the DHS and VA created in 2021 to help streamline immigration processes for Veterans and their families. Earlier this year, the Senator introduced bicameral legislation that aims to protect military families from deportation and forced separation detrimental to military morale and mission readiness.\n\nDuckworth has also long fought to protect pathways to citizenship for noncitizen servicemembers and Veterans, as well as the benefits they earned through their service. Last November, Duckworth reintroduced her sweeping package of legislation that would prohibit the deportation of immigrant Veterans who are not violent offenders, provide these Veterans with a pathway to citizenship through their military service and help ensure those who have already been deported can access the VA healthcare services they are entitled to.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-introduces-care-for-moms-act-to-address-maternal-mortality", "Durbin Introduces Care For Moms Act To Address Maternal Mortality", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The CARE for Moms Act is a comprehensive solution to the crisis of mortality and morbidity among American mothers, particularly Black mothers\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today introduced the Community Access, Resources, and Empowerment (CARE) for Moms Act as maternal mortality and morbidity continues to rise across the United States, disproportionately impacting Black women. The CARE for Moms Act builds upon Durbin\u2019s MOMMA Act, a provision of which was passed as part of the American Rescue Plan. The provision ensured that states had the option to expand Medicaid coverage to new moms from 60 days postpartum to a full year postpartum. Illinois was the first state to do so.\n\nU.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL-02) introduced companion legislation in the House.\n\n\u201cIn the U.S., Black women are three times more likely to die as a result of their pregnancy. It is unacceptable that in this country we are losing mothers and their babies to deaths that could have been prevented with the right interventions and health care,\u201d said Durbin. \u201cWe must act to address this national tragedy. I\u2019m introducing the CARE for Moms Act to provide more comprehensive and culturally competent maternal and postpartum health care for mothers, especially women of color, and their babies.\u201d\n\nThe CARE for Moms Act supports the maternal health workforce, promotes access to prenatal and postpartum care, and provides the resources that moms and babies need to thrive. The legislation includes provisions to:\n\nEstablish a State-Based Perinatal Quality Collaborative Grant Program;\n\nEstablish Regional Centers of Excellence to tackle implicit bias and promote cultural competence among health professionals;\n\nSupport federal efforts to grow and diversify the doula workforce;\n\nExtend Medicaid coverage for postpartum mothers in all 50 states;\n\nEstablish grants for Rural Obstetric Mobile Units;\n\nRequire 90-day prior notification to HHS for hospital obstetric unit closure;\n\nExtend Medicaid and CHIP to Oral Health Coverage to pregnant and postpartum women;\n\nExtend WIC benefits for postpartum and breastfeeding women for two years; and\n\nRequire the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to produce a report on federal funding allocation for maternal health needs.\n\nThe U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate of any wealthy nation, with 18.6 maternal deaths for every 100,000 live births in 2023. This is nearly double the maternal mortality rate of peer countries. The shocking statistics cut across geography, education level, income, and socio-economic status. The United States also ranks 32 out of the 38 wealthiest nations when it comes to infant mortality.\n\n\u201cWhile most pregnancy-related deaths are preventable, the U.S. remains one of the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth \u2013 and access to maternity care is a critical part of the crisis. Our latest report, Nowhere To Go: Maternity Care Deserts Across the U.S., found that 5.8 million women and 358,000 infants live in counties without full access to maternity care, putting families at greater risk of delayed care and poor outcomes. March of Dimes strongly supports the reintroduction of the CARE for Moms Act, which would address maternal health outcomes and barriers to care. We thank Representative Robin Kelly and Senator Richard Durbin for their leadership in advancing solutions to our nation\u2019s maternal health crisis and working toward a healthier start for every mom and baby,\u201d said Stacey Y. Brayboy, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs for March of Dimes.\n\nThe CARE for Moms Act is endorsed by March of Dimes; the Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs; the Association of Women\u2019s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses; and the National Partnership for Women & Families.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-reed-peters-release-gao-report-detailing-reckless-expansion-of-immigration-detention-under-trump", "Durbin, Reed, Peters Release GAO Report Detailing Reckless Expansion Of Immigration Detention Under Trump", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Senators release damning findings on rushed efforts to expand unsuitable immigration detention facilities, including Alligator Alcatraz and Guant\u00e1namo Bay\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee; U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; and U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), led the release of the Government Accountability Office\u2019s (GAO) newly-completed report examining the Trump Administration\u2019s flawed immigration detention expansion, including ill-conceived plans to convert warehouses to detention facilities, and waste and performance issues at facilities such as Alligator Alcatraz and Guant\u00e1namo Bay. GAO found that despite unprecedented funding, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has wasted and will continue to waste millions of taxpayer dollars on immigration detention expansion efforts due to a failure to appropriately plan for facilities that would meet immigration detention standards.\n\nThe Senators asked GAO to investigate detention expansion at the start of this Administration due to concerns of deteriorating conditions in detention facilities across the country. This is the second installment on the effects of rapid expansion after GAO\u2019s scathing report about the Department of Defense and ICE detention facility on Fort Bliss, Camp East Montana.\n\n\u201cThis report has uncovered more of what we\u2019ve come to expect from the Trump Administration\u2014cavalier and wasteful spending of taxpayer dollars without any benefit to the American people. Remember when Donald Trump promised to get rid of \u2018waste, fraud, and abuse\u2019 in Washington? Well, GAO now has exposed a shocking pattern of waste within the Administration\u2019s unconscionable mass deportation campaign,\u201d said Durbin. \u201cThe American people have rightfully expressed outrage at its detention expansion and enforcement policies, and it\u2019s time to hold DHS and ICE responsible.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis report demonstrates exactly why the American people are demanding accountability for ICE,\u201d Peters said. \u201cThe Administration spent millions of dollars recklessly expanding detention facilities that could not meet basic standards, only to later dismantle or retrofit the facilities at enormous cost, all while deaths within ICE detention have skyrocketed. The federal government has an obligation to provide safe and appropriate conditions for people in its custody, and ICE should not be wasting taxpayer dollars on facilities that cannot safely meet those needs.\u201d\n\nGAO found that DHS has no comprehensive plan for expansion. ICE\u2019s chief planning document is a spreadsheet of new facilities with basic information such as facility capabilities and opening dates; however, even this spreadsheet does not accurately reflect ICE\u2019s expansion activities. During site visits in September 2025 and February 2026, GAO staff inquired about facilities listed as opening within two months of their visit. In both instances, ICE field officials were unaware of plans to open those facilities and indicated they did not anticipate the facilities would open. As of June 2026, ICE had not approved the use of these facilities.\n\nThe report reveals that ICE has not been clear with the public about its targets for detention. In July 2025, DHS publicly stated that the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) would fund approximately 80,000 detention beds. However, in June 2026, ICE officials told the GAO that the administration\u2019s goal is to increase detention space to 100,000 beds. That goal is not reflected in ICE\u2019s detention expansion documents.\n\nThe report includes disturbing details:\n\nICE has not stated any goals with respect to bed space needs, including location, gender, risk classification, and medical needs.\n\nICE\u2019s decision to sell seven warehouses it purchased to convert to detention facilities has resulted in $7.7 million in non-recoverable costs like title insurance and zoning assessments, as well as an additional $12.8 million to date on utilities, security, and other services at these warehouses.\n\nDespite having no agreement or contract in place authorizing Alligator Alcatraz to be used to detain immigrants, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in partnership with ICE, developed the Fiscal Year 2025 Detention Support Grant Program with the state of Florida as the sole eligible recipient. FEMA awarded $608.4 million through the program. Though Alligator Alcatraz is now closed, Florida\u2019s Baker Correctional Institution has been added to the Detention Support Grant Program to be reimbursed. Like Alligator Alcatraz, Baker Correctional has no contract or agreement in place to detain immigrants.\n\nICE did not take high costs of operations at Guant\u00e1namo Bay into consideration and made costly errors in planning for detention there. DHS and the Department of Defense (DOD) began plans to create a capacity of 30,000 beds at Guant\u00e1namo. After DOD assembled tents to accommodate 5,000 people, DHS determined they didn\u2019t meet detention standards and took the tents down at a cost of $2.8 million. DOD officials have stated it will be cost-prohibitive to build facilities that meet ICE\u2019s detention standards. Between October 1, 2024, and June 30, 2026, an average of 16 immigrants were held at Guant\u00e1namo each day.\n\nThe Bureau of Prisons (BOP) charges two times ICE\u2019s median daily bed rate. Florida more than two times ICE\u2019s median daily bed rate.\n\nICE has not assessed whether it can afford the existing facilities it is buying long-term. As of July 2026, ICE had spent $2.5 billion to buy warehouses and detention facilities but has only estimated purchase and renovation costs and three years of operating costs; it has not projected costs after the first three years of operation, after which ICE will no longer have OBBBA and Secure America Act funds. Those funds are available only through fiscal year 2029.\n\nA copy of the final report can be found here.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-urges-chairman-grassley-to-hold-a-hearing-to-investigate-donald-trump-jr-accepting-a-lavish-gift-from-a-russian-oligarch", "Durbin Urges Chairman Grassley To Hold A Hearing To Investigate Donald Trump Jr. Accepting A Lavish Gift from A Russian Oligarch", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Durbin: \u201cIf we ignore this matter in the Senate Judiciary Committee, we run the risk of being complicit in this coverup.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, again backed Senator John Curtis\u2019s (R-UT) call for the Senate Judiciary Committee to investigate the use of presidential family relationships for private financial benefit, preferential treatment, or access by domestic and foreign interests. Curtis\u2019s letter highlights the serious concerns over the lavish wedding reception provided to the President\u2019s son, Donald Trump Jr., by a Russian oligarch. During his opening, Durbin reiterated that the Committee could take up the investigation during the lame duck session\u2014rebutting Republicans\u2019 statements that there is not enough time in the year.\n\nKey Quotes:\n\n\u201cAs I told the Chairman privately, I support Senator Curtis\u2019s request. Corruption at the highest levels of our government should never be tolerated. If we ignore this matter in the Senate Judiciary Committee, we run the risk of being complicit in this coverup. Hunter Biden, who has already given a sworn deposition to Congress on this issue twice, has offered to appear before the Committee voluntarily.\u201d\n\n\u201cSome claim that it\u2019s too late in the year to investigate. Come on. This is September. Putting together the questions for a deposition of Donald Trump Jr. is not going to take more than a week, is it?... Republicans are about to take a six-week recess from the people\u2019s business, but we have staff who can conduct a deposition of Donald Trump Jr. and Hunter Biden and we can hold a hearing when the Senate reconvenes in November.\u201d\n\n\u201cYesterday, the Chairman tried to justify ignoring Senator Curtis\u2019s request by claiming the Democrats failed to conduct oversight during the Biden Administration. Not true. When I was Chair of the Committee, we held regular oversight hearings over the Justice Department, FBI, and DHS. And I frequently criticized the Biden Administration and compelled Biden officials to answer for their actions.\u201d\n\n\u201cBut to try to draw a moral equivalence between the misdeeds of the Biden Administration and the current Administration is ludicrous\u2026 In the first year since he returned to office, the President has tripled his wealth. He has made exponentially more money in office than any other President in history, raking in $1.4 billion from his family\u2019s cryptocurrency businesses in 2025 alone.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Trump has already taken a wrecking ball to the White House. This week, he has taken a wrecking ball to the First Amendment, barring several media outlets from the People\u2019s House. This is nothing new from the President, who for years has called the press the \u2018enemy of the people.\u2019 He has done more to dismantle the freedom of the press than any President in modern history.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs I walked into this Committee with my staffers, [I was told] there was an order [from] a local federal judge yesterday, that \u2026allowed three news entities to enter the White House today. It was reported to me that the White House has refused them from entry. An emergency order is being brought before this judge. How many times do we ask nominees, \u2018do you think it is important that you follow the orders of the court?\u2019 Every one of them has said yes, [yet] now at the highest level of the Trump Administration, they are defying a court order to allow three news outlets to cover the President of the United States.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis week, Judge [Patrick] Schiltz granted a rare interview to make clear what is at stake if we don\u2019t stand up to this Administration. He said, \u2018The rule of law to democracy is like oxygen to a human body \u2026If you don\u2019t have it, you have either anarchy or you have authoritarianism. You have Russia or you have China or you have North Korea.\u2019 We would all be wise to heed that warning.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available herefor TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ranking-members-durbin-raskin-padilla-press-dhs-secretary-on-refugee-admission-during-refugee-consultation-with-congress", "Ranking Members Durbin, Raskin, Padilla Press DHS Secretary On Refugee Admission During Refugee Consultation With Congress", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The Trump Administration provided minimal details on a plan to abandon American values and focus solely on admitting more white-only Afrikaner refugees\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee; U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration; and U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, yesterday pressed U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin on the Trump Administration\u2019s uncertain refugee policies during an annual, statutorily required refugee consultation for Fiscal Year 2027. The meeting occurred as the Trump Administration announced a plan to welcome up to 17,500 White Afrikaners from South Africa as refugees over the next year.\n\nDuring the meeting, Durbin urged Secretary Mullin to process more refugees from around the world, including our Afghan allies stranded abroad.\n\n\u201cThe Trump Administration\u2019s agenda is clear: prioritize white-only Afrikaners as refugees and disregard the millions of men, women, and children from around the world who are trying to escape horrific violence and persecution,\u201d said Durbin. \u201cAlthough we finally heard directly from a Cabinet official on this Administration\u2019s refugee policies, unlike the last consultations, as the law requires, the Trump Administration is doing everything possible to attack our immigrant communities. We must restore our longstanding asylum policies and admit lawful refugees\u2014including the Afghan allies who served alongside our troops abroad.\u201d\n\n\u201cYesterday\u2019s consultation reinforces our sense that the Administration has turned America\u2019s traditional refugee program into a whites-only airplane ride for South African Afrikaners into Trump\u2019s America. Afghan allies who risked their lives fighting alongside our troops, religious minorities facing intensified persecution in Iran and tens of thousands of approved and pre-vetted refugees fleeing war from around the world have been left twisting in the wind for years. But white Afrikaners get the Elon Musk presidential red-carpet treatment. America should offer race-neutral asylum for people fleeing tyrants and war, but Donald Trump is stiff-arming families we promised to protect and turning a humanitarian lifeline into another exercise in political favoritism and racial exclusion,\u201d said Raskin.\n\n\u201cWelcoming a thoughtful number of refugees every year is part of our nation\u2019s legacy and an important international obligation. Yet the Trump Administration has all but closed the door on people fleeing persecution and natural disasters, even leaving behind Afghan allies who fought alongside U.S. service members and have now spent years in the resettlement pipeline,\u201d said Padilla. \u201cMeanwhile, the Administration is aggressively pursuing the deportation of refugees, asylum seekers, TPS holders, and green card holders to countries we know are unsafe and have questionable human rights records. It\u2019s un-American and flies in the face of our longstanding commitment to being a beacon of freedom in the world. The Administration must restart refugee resettlement to a respectable and honorable level.\u201d\n\nIn May, Durbin, Raskin, and Padilla, along with U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, released a statement after a consultation on the Trump Administration\u2019s emergency refugee admissions plan to increase the refugee cap included only deputies, not Cabinet-level representatives as the law requires.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-hosts-we-cant-afford-this-telephone-town-hall", "Duckworth Hosts \u201cWe Can\u2019t Afford This\u201d Telephone Town Hall", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Tonight, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) hosted a telephone town hall to hear firsthand how Illinois families are enduring higher grocery, gas and health care costs. During her \u201cWe Can\u2019t Afford This\u201d Telephone Town Hall, Duckworth discussed the devastating consequences that Trump\u2019s Medicaid cuts, tariffs and ongoing illegal war are having on their wallets. She also highlighted her ongoing work to hold the Trump Administration accountable while supporting Illinois families and protecting the essential programs they rely on.\n\n\u201cGrocery bills, energy bills and health care bills are piling up. From Elgin to Romeoville to Chicago, families all across Illinois are telling me the same thing: \u2018We can\u2019t afford this,\u2019\u201d said Senator Duckworth. \u201cDonald Trump promised families he would lower costs and protect their wallets, but instead, he has delivered a cratered economy where Illinoisans are getting left behind. Families deserve better, and I\u2019m laser-focused on doing everything I can to lower costs, protect access to health care and hold this Administration accountable. The damage Republicans have done will take more than a repair job\u2014we need a top-to-bottom renovation that puts families first.\u201d\n\nThe average Illinois household has paid more than $4,200 in higher costs for everyday essentials under the Trump Administration, including an additional $1,091 on housing costs, $310 for groceries and approximately $654 more in gas costs.\n\nEarlier this month, Duckworth hosted a roundtable discussion with local Quad Cities leaders to discuss how they can address what too many Americans are feeling every day: \u201cWe Can\u2019t Afford This.\u201d Over the summer, Duckworth also hosted a telephone town hall and a listening session alongside U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) focusing on the devastating consequences of Trump\u2019s so-called \u201cBig Beautiful Bill\u201d one year later, including cuts that jeopardize health care, food assistance and economic security for thousands of Illinoisans.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-joins-durbin-great-lakes-senators-in-demanding-answers-on-trump-administrations-repeated-pauses-of-the-brandon-road-project", "Duckworth Joins Durbin, Great Lakes Senators in Demanding Answers on Trump Administration\u2019s Repeated Pauses of the Brandon Road Project", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL),along with U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), sent a letter to the Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works demanding answers about why the Trump Administration has allowed for two administrative pauses to the Brandon Road Interbasin Project (BRIP) without an adequate justification. While the second administrative pause has been lifted and the project has resumed, these repeated pauses raise concerns about the possibility of future delays and the Trump Administration\u2019s commitment to the project despite the President\u2019s endorsement.\n\n\u201cWe write to once again express serious concern about the recent second administrative review and pause of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project,\u201d the lawmakers said. \u201cWe request a meeting to discuss the circumstances surrounding the pause and steps the Administration will take to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible. \u2026 This second pause and review\u2014after work on the project already was halted last fall\u2014was put in place without advance notification to the state partners and without clear explanation, putting the completion of the project in jeopardy.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers underscored that any future halts to the BRIP could result in invasive carp entering the Great Lakes and irreparably disrupting the lakes\u2019 ecosystem. In August, juvenile invasive carp were found just 80 miles downstream from Lake Michigan\u2014reflecting the upstream advancement of adult invasive carp.\n\n\u201cWhile completing the long-delayed BRIP was already an urgent priority, a recent development underscores the urgency. Last month, young invasive carp were found in the Marseilles Pool of the Illinois River, just 80 miles downstream from Lake Michigan. This is the closest to the Great Lakes that young invasive carp have ever been found. It also suggests that a spawning event could have occurred even further north\u2026 If invasive carp were to become established in the Great Lakes, they would threaten existing fish populations, permanently damage ecosystems and significantly impair the $7 billion Great Lakes economy,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\n\u201cAs we noted in previous letters about this issue, invasive carp already have created significant problems in waterways by outcompeting native species, disrupting habitats, posing recreational hazards and harming both commercial and recreational fishing\u2026 The best tool we have to combat this growing environmental threat is the immediate completion of the BRIP,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\n\nThe lawmakers concluded their letter by emphasizing President Trump\u2019s public support for the project and further reiterated their request to meet with the Trump Administration to ensure there are no further pauses to BRIP.\n\n\u201cGiven President Trump\u2019s clear support for the project, the clear threat posed by the invasive carp and substantial funding and commitment provided by Congress, we urge the Administration to ensure the Brandon Road Interbasin Project moves forward without further interruption,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\n\u201cWe look forward to meeting with you to discuss the project\u2019s pauses and the Administration\u2019s plan to keep the project on schedule,\u201d the lawmakers concluded their letter.\n\nA copy of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website and below:\n\nSeptember 22, 2026\n\nDear Acting Assistant Secretary Forsgren:\n\nIn light of a recent discovery that young invasive carp were found just 80 miles downstream from Lake Michigan, we write to once again express serious concern about the recent second administrative review and pause of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project (BRIP). Although this pause was lifted on September 2, the lack of explanation for it raises concerns about this Administration\u2019s commitment to the project and the possibility of future delays. We request a meeting to discuss the circumstances surrounding the pause and steps the Administration will take to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible.\n\nOn July 24, 2026, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued its second stop work order for BRIP, placing the project under administrative review. This second pause and review\u2014after work on the project already was halted last fall\u2014was put in place without advance notification to the state partners and without clear explanation, putting the completion of the project in jeopardy. As a result of these delays, project costs are increasing and contractors have been forced to modify their schedules. Although the project final completion date remains on schedule, these delays continue to put that timeline at risk.\n\nCongress first authorized the BRIP in 2020. In 2022, Congress provided $225 million for the construction of the BRIP, an additional $47 million in 2023, and $28 million more in 2026. Illinois and Michigan, the project\u2019s non-federal sponsors, have invested more than $100 million in the project.\n\nWhile completing the long-delayed BRIP was already an urgent priority, a recent development underscores the urgency. Last month, young invasive carp were found in the Marseilles Pool of the Illinois River, just 80 miles downstream from Lake Michigan. This is the closest to the Great Lakes that young invasive carp have ever been found. It also suggests that a spawning event could have occurred even further north. According to experts, the presence of the juvenile carp is \u201ca significant step in the invasion process.\u201d If invasive carp were to become established in the Great Lakes, they would threaten existing fish populations, permanently damage ecosystems and significantly impair the $7 billion Great Lakes economy.\n\nAs we noted in previous letters about this issue, invasive carp already have created significant problems in waterways by outcompeting native species, disrupting habitats, posing recreational hazards and harming both commercial and recreational fishing. Research has shown that just 10 breeding pairs of invasive carp introduced to the Great Lakes\u2019 ecosystem could bring irreversible damage. The best tool we have to combat this growing environmental threat is the immediate completion of the BRIP.\n\nPresident Trump has highlighted the importance of stopping the invasive carp, saying \u201cit is sort of a bipartisan thing when you get right down to it's a very expensive thing . . . I looked at the numbers. I said, well, but we have to save Lake Michigan because these fish that they eat everything in their way, including the other fish.\" President Trump reiterated that support in a memorandum from May 9, 2025, saying, \u201cMy Administration fully supports preventing the spread of invasive carp . . . I am directing my Administration to achieve maximum speed and efficiency at the Federal level . . . This includes supporting the Brandon Road Interbasin Project, through deadline-oriented investments of taxpayer dollars . . .\u201d\n\nGiven President Trump\u2019s clear support for the project, the clear threat posed by the invasive carp, and substantial funding and commitment provided by Congress, we urge the Administration to ensure the Brandon Road Interbasin Project moves forward without further interruption. We also urge consistent and transparent communication with the non-federal sponsors in the future in advance of any changes to the project.\n\nThank you for your prompt attention to this important matter. We look forward to meeting with you to discuss the project\u2019s pauses and the Administration\u2019s plan to keep the project on schedule.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-backs-senator-curtis-call-for-senate-judiciary-committee-investigation-into-donald-trump-jr", "Durbin Backs Senator Curtis\u2019 Call For Senate Judiciary Committee Investigation Into Donald Trump Jr.", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Durbin: \u201cWe have enough resources, staff, and talent on a bipartisan basis to call Donald Trump Jr. before the Committee for a deposition, to answer some basic questions about who paid for his wedding ceremony.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, again backed Senator John Curtis\u2019 (R-UT) call for the Senate Judiciary Committee to investigate the use of presidential family relationships for private financial benefit, preferential treatment, or access by domestic and foreign interests. Curtis\u2019 letter highlights the serious concerns over the lavish wedding reception provided to the President\u2019s son, Donald Trump Jr., by a Russian oligarch.\n\n\u201c[Senator John Curtis] sent a letter raising a question as to whether there has been a violation of ethical standards at the highest level of our government. Now, John showed real courage in doing this. As a Republican to say anything critical of the Trump Administration is a risk. But he\u2019s been a brave man, and he\u2019s a man of principle. What he called on is for Chairman Chuck Grassley of Iowa and myself, as [the] Ranking Democratic Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, to have an investigation and hearing [into] Donald Trump Jr.\u2019s recent wedding, where he received lavish gifts from a Russian oligarch close to Vladimir Putin. This sort of thing cannot be allowed to happen without some response from Congress. The Senate Judiciary Committee is the place to start,\u201d said Durbin.\n\n\u201cThere are those who argue we only have a few months left in this year. Well, let me tell you something: we\u2019re not overworking ourselves during those few months. We have enough resources and staff and talent on a bipartisan basis to call Donald Trump Jr. before the Committee for a deposition to answer some basic questions about who paid for his wedding ceremony,\u201d Durbin continued.\n\n\u201cNow, in fairness, Senator Curtis also asked the same of Hunter Biden. To be fair to Hunter Biden, who has already responded by saying he\u2019s willing to appear wherever we wish, he has already been subject to a sworn deposition at length and has answered the questions that were propounded to him. But there\u2019s been no such effort made by the Trump family to explain the largesse of gifts being given to members of [the President\u2019s] family, not to mention the $1.4 billion the President was given in [crypto] income in his first year in the second term. These are legitimate questions about corruption,\u201d Durbin continued.\n\nDurbin concluded, \u201cThere was a time when both parties would agree that it\u2019s unacceptable for this to happen, regardless of whether the origin is Democratic or Republican. That still applies. Senator Curtis is right. I stand by his request [for the] Senate Judiciary Committee [to] respond to this request for deposition and investigation. We may not be able to finish it this year, but shame on us if we won\u2019t even consider the issue, as timely as it is. It is important that this Senate functions to uphold the ethical standards of our government.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-denounces-judiciary-committee-republicans-hearing-on-transgender-athletes", "Durbin Denounces Judiciary Committee Republicans\u2019 Hearing On Transgender Athletes", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Senate Republicans and Republican witnesses spent hearing attacking the very existence of trans kids instead of addressing critical issues before the Committee\u2019s jurisdiction\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, denounced today\u2019s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on transgender athletes in his opening statement. Durbin noted that he refuses to treat this hearing like a responsible exercise of the Senate Judiciary Committee\u2019s authority. And therefore, he will not ask questions and did not call Democratic witnesses.\n\nKey Quotes:\n\n\u201cIf you ask the American people, what are the priority issues you hope Congress will address as soon as possible, the issue of this hearing would not be in the top 10, maybe not the top 20.\u201d\n\n\u201cPeople are concerned about the cost of living. They are concerned about the ability to pay for the college education of their kids. They are concerned about their utility bills. They are concerned about their grocery bills. They want to know what we are doing about it. The President has dismissed these concerns and said he doesn\u2019t want to talk about affordability.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf you ask people where we should be focusing if we want to help children and make sure they are protected, I think they would start off by saying ,\u2018how are we going to get these damn cellphones out of their hands.\u2019\u201d\n\n\u201cWe took this issue on because young people and their families are being exploited today. The social media firms stonewall and try to keep us from doing anything. But we have passed several major bills on a bipartisan basis in this Committee to protect children from the harms of these social media platforms. But for some reason, the bills never move on the floor. And the control of floor traffic is in the hands of the Republican Leader.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe had a hearing when I was Chair several years ago, and the hearing invited the CEOs of the major companies. We had the CEOs from Meta, [Discord, X,] TikTok, and Snap\u2026 why aren\u2019t those CEOs back again? \u2026 it is still a threat to our families and our children. Instead, we are talking about this issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhat Republican Senator Curtis has proposed is that we have a hearing on the lavish wedding gifts given to Donald Trump Jr. at his recent marriage on some island somewhere. The donor of those gifts was a Russian oligarch close to Vladimir Putin.\u201d\n\n\u201cNow the argument that we don\u2019t have time, we are too busy, belies the fact that as soon as we finish this session, which could be as soon as this week, we will be gone for six weeks\u2026 Certainly in that period of time, there\u2019s time for a deposition or hearing on this issue of corruption at the highest levels of our government.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf Republicans actually wanted to stand up for women in sports, and I do, then they should listen to more than 400 athletes who sent an open letter to the NCAA Board of Governors. Let me read from it: \u2018Although trans exclusionary efforts claim to \u2018protect women\u2019s sports,\u2019 in reality, they fail to address any of the real, documented threats to women in sports, namely unequal pay, failure to uphold Title IX, rampant sexual abuse and harassment of women and girl athletes, and a lack of equal resources for men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams.\u2019\u201d\n\n\u201cIf we are going to have a constructive conversation about women\u2019s sports, then we must demand honesty and compassion. Anything less is a disservice\u2014including categorically treating every trans athlete, no matter their age or level of competition, as a threat to women\u2019s sports.\u201d\n\n\u201cResearch from the Trevor Project found that \u2018LGBTQ+ young people are too often placed at higher risk for suicide not because of who they are, but as a result of how they are mistreated and stigmatized.\u2019 This Committee should not participate in that marginalization of any children in this country.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor these reasons, I refuse to treat this hearing like a responsible exercise of this Committee. I will not ask questions, and the minority did not call any witnesses.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here for TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-in-senate-judiciary-subcommittee-hearing-on-flock-cameras-we-have-got-to-find-a-way-to-balance-privacy-and-security", "Durbin in Senate Judiciary Subcommittee Hearing On Flock Cameras: \u201cWe Have Got To Find A Way To Balance Privacy And Security\u201d", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In his opening statement in today\u2019s Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism hearing, Durbin spoke about the need to adopt guardrails on Automated License Plate Reader technology to protect Americans\u2019 right to privacy\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered an opening statement in today\u2019s Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism hearing entitled \u201cAlways Watching: Flock\u2019s Nationwide AI Surveillance Network.\u201d In his opening remarks, Durbin spoke about the importance of protecting Americans\u2019 right to privacy and underscored the need for meaningful oversight and accountability measures over Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) that have been unjustly used for federal immigration enforcement, to share information across state lines, or to stalk Americans.\n\nDurbin also referenced the story of a witness in today\u2019s hearing, Lindsey Isaacs, who was wrongfully arrested and spent 13 days in jail on eight felony charges for a crime she did not commit. She was jailed after a Flock camera misidentified her car, yet it took seven months for the case against Ms. Isaacs to be thrown out.\n\nKey Quotes:\n\n\u201cFor the Flock CEO, obviously they are nervous about being on camera, but I wish they would have joined us today. It would be interesting to hear their explanation.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe collection of information and data is what it\u2019s all about these days\u2026 Hard to imagine, but that [personal] information is being sold and collected constantly.\u201d\n\n\u201cI support law enforcement\u2026 We trust them with keeping us safe in our homes and in our businesses. We also value privacy.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe also know that as we look at the information being gathered, this is nothing new. The volume of the undertaking is not new. The state of Illinois has had an ALPR, an Automated License Plate Reader, as part of their state effort to catch people on the tollway who don\u2019t pay their fair share. It\u2019s been around for a long time. It\u2019s been used to locate people that have gone missing, cars connected to crimes, and stolen vehicles.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt all sounds good, and then you hear the story of Ms. Isaacs\u2026When the so-called failsafe technology fails, and it certainly did in her case.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe have got to find a way to balance, in America, privacy and security. I think there is a balance. Congress needs to lead the way.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available herefor TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-shares-153rd-dreamer-story-on-the-senate-floor", "Durbin Shares 153rd Dreamer Story On The Senate Floor", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Durbin: \u201cI may be leaving the Senate in a few months, but I am not leaving this fight [for Dreamers].\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, shared his 153rd Dreamer story. During his time in Congress, Durbin has continuously shared stories of Dreamers\u2014young people who have lived in America since they were children, built their lives here, and are American in every way except for their immigration status. Under current law, there is no pathway to citizenship for Dreamers.\n\n\u201cFor 25 years, I have come to the Senate floor with a simple request\u2014for Congress to protect children who know no other home than the United States of America. I first made this request after I heard from a constituent\u2014a young high school graduate in Chicago and a brilliant piano prodigy. She was brought to the United States when she was only two years old and didn\u2019t know how to fill out her college applications because of her undocumented status. I couldn\u2019t believe our nation had no path to citizenship for young people like her, so I introduced a bill to change that,\u201d said Durbin.\n\nDurbin has introduced the Dream Act every Congress since 2001. The Dream Act is bipartisan legislation that would allow noncitizens without lawful status who were brought to the United States as children and meet certain education, military service, or work requirements to earn lawful permanent residence. This Congress, Durbin introduced the bill with U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK).\n\n\u201cI have pushed for this legislation to make them [Dreamers] legal in the eyes of the law\u2014to be included in bipartisan legislation like the 2013 \u2018Gang of Eight\u2019 immigration bill, which passed the Senate with 68 votes. Over the years, the Dream Act passed the Senate, and it has passed the House of Representatives, but never at the same time so that we could send it to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law. As I near the end of my time in the Senate, Congress continues to fail these young people who are American in every sense of the word\u2014not just to me, but to the vast majority of the country\u2026 In fact, 81 percent of Americans support citizenship for Dreamers, including 56 percent of Republicans,\u201d Durbin continued.\n\nIn 2010, Durbin sent a letter, joined by the late Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN), asking then-President Obama to stop the deportation of Dreamers. Fourteen years ago, President Obama responded by announcing the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. More than 830,000 Dreamers have since come forward and received DACA, which has allowed them to contribute more fully to their country as teachers, nurses, doctors, engineers, and small business owners.\n\nDurbin then spoke about Karen Montes Gaga\u2014the 153rd Dreamer story he has told on the Senate floor. Karen arrived in Seattle from Mexico when she was just three years old and has been part of the DACA program since 2012. She obtained her bachelor\u2019s degree in education. She also received her master\u2019s in education curriculum and instruction.\n\n\u201cKaren has now been a proud elementary school teacher for almost a decade. She serves on her school\u2019s leadership team and has been nominated twice for its Teacher of the Year award. As a DACA recipient, Karen is responsible for renewing her work permit every two years. But there is a problem. This year, she filed in a timely manner and expected her most recent renewal to be like every other one for the last 14 years. But this renewal process was different\u2014the Trump Administration failed to process her DACA renewal on time, even though she filed months in advance. As a result, Karen\u2019s work permit expired, and she was forced to leave behind her classroom and abandon her students in the middle of the academic year, for months at a time,\u201d said Durbin.\n\n\u201cIn a world of rising costs and inflation, losing a single paycheck could be the difference in keeping a roof over your head and food on the table. But you know what Karen was most worried about? Her 27 students that she had to leave behind,\u201d said Durbin. \u201cThat [her students] are who this Administration and Republicans are failing. A teacher who is committed to instilling strong values and work ethic into her students and whose heart was broken when she could not. To my Republican colleagues, I ask you: if you went out looking for the \u2018worst of the worst,\u2019 would you choose Karen? If you want to remove from the United States rapist, murders, terrorists, child predators, would you identify Karen as one of those people? Of course not.\u201d\n\nDurbin concluded, \u201cThere is still time to help Dreamers in the final months of the 119th Congress. To all my Republican colleagues, please join me and Senator Murkowski in standing up for these young people who epitomize the true meaning of the American Dream. Stand up for Karen; stand up for her students; stand up for what is right. I may be leaving the Senate in a few months, but I am not leaving this fight.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available herefor TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-questions-witnesses-in-senate-judiciary-subcommittee-hearing-on-flock-cameras-and-protecting-americans-right-to-privacy", "Durbin Questions Witnesses In Senate Judiciary Subcommittee Hearing On Flock Cameras & Protecting Americans\u2019 Right To Privacy", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned witnesses during a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism hearing entitled \u201cAlways Watching: Flock\u2019s Nationwide AI Surveillance Network.\u201d Today\u2019s hearing examined the importance of protecting Americans\u2019 right to privacy and underscored the need for meaningful oversight and accountability measures over Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs), including Flock cameras, that have been unjustly used for federal immigration enforcement, to share information across state lines, or to stalk Americans.\n\nDurbin began his questioning by asking Chad Marlow, senior policy counsel for ACLU, about how data collected by Flock cameras could be used during the Trump Administration\u2019s cruel mass deportation campaign.\n\n\u201cWe are concerned in Illinois with Operation Midway Blitz, where ICE and the Department of Homeland Security came into our state and started looking for people to deport\u2026 It turned out that the majority of people they were deporting were not committing any crimes. Our state passed a law which limits law enforcement from using Flock data for immigration purposes. Have you heard of such laws in other states?\u201d Durbin asked Mr. Marlow.\n\nMr. Marlow explained that while some states have laws limiting the use of Flock data for immigration purposes, federal law supersedes those laws. As a result, if a federal agency were to present a judicial warrant or administrative subpoena, any state would be required to comply. Further, one actor within a state government who has access to a data-sharing database could easily search and release information on someone else\u2019s behalf.\n\nDurbin then asked Alasdair Whitney, legislative counsel for the Institute for Justice, about how warrants could prevent federal agencies from unconstitutionally obtaining information through the use of Flock cameras.\n\n\u201cMr. Whitney, I heard your testimony, saying the answer is a warrant. A warrant is certainly recognized under our Constitution as a valid use of government power and authority if used properly. Is that the problem here, that they collect the information before there is any specific allegation that wrongdoing has taken place?\u201d Durbin asked.\n\nMr. Whitney noted that the data collection itself is a problem, but further, unlimited access to people\u2019s personal data is even more of a concern. Mr. Whitney asserted that the Constitution lays out what an unlawful search and seizure looks like, and even with modern technology, a warrant must be obtained in order to access data collected by Flock cameras.\n\nDurbin asked Sherriff Ross Teeple of Pinal County, Arizona, about his decision to end his department\u2019s contract with Flock cameras after initially supporting the technology as it had supported the department in resolving Silver Alerts, an emergency public notification system used by law enforcement to locate missing and endangered older adults or individuals with cognitive impairments.\n\n\u201cSheriff Teeple, what was the breaking point for you? You used this information and then decided there was too much of a violation of the Fourth Amendment. Where did you break with the precedent that had been set before you?\u201d Durbin asked.\n\nSheriff Teeple explained that his own community members raised privacy concerns about Flock cameras. When Sheriff Teeple brought these questions and concerns to Flock, he was stonewalled and received little information that alleviated his constituents\u2019 concerns. Specifically, Flock inaccurately told Sherriff Teeple that their cameras didn\u2019t capture photos well enough to recognize a person. However, Sherriff Teeple, using his own department\u2019s database, was easily able to identify people in images captured by Flock cameras. After Flock failed to provide Sherriff Teeple with suitable answers to his concerns, he cancelled the department\u2019s contract with the company.\n\nDurbin replied to Sherriff Teeple: \u201cThank you for raising that point because it is not a matter of just reading license plates. That seems so routine, but it comes to the point where you can identify and recognize the people in the car. You can imagine in a state like Illinois, and in your state as well, the Hispanic population views this as a threat to their existence, where they can be pulled over for driving while looking Hispanic. Unfortunately, we have seen too many instances where people with no criminal records, American citizens, are removed from their homes, arrested, and deported. It is just the kind of thing that is hard, if not impossible, to explain.\u201d\n\nDurbin concluded his questioning by asking Lindsey Isaacs about her experience being wrongfully arrested and spending 13 days in jail on eight felony charges for a crime she did not commit. She was arrested on accounts of vehicular homicide after a Flock camera misidentified her vehicle in a fatal October 2025 crash. It took seven months for the faulty charges to be dropped.\n\n\u201cWhen I listen to your description of your experience, the thing that struck me was that the law enforcement agency involved had tangible evidence in your car that could be viewed [that would prove you were not responsible for the accident]. Did you take a look at it later and see the damage they were referring to?\u201d Durbin asked Ms. Isaacs.\n\nMs. Isaacs explained that her car was brand new and had no damage that would indicate she was involved in a vehicular homicide.\n\n\u201cIf the notion here is to gather accurate information so we don\u2019t make the mistake that led up to your incarceration, there was a failure here. A complete failure and misuse of the information. I\u2019m sorry for what you went through, and thanks for your courage in testifying,\u201d Durbin concluded.\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s questions in Committee is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s questions in Committee is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s question in Committee is available here for TV stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-at-center-for-american-progress-by-praising-xi-trump-is-leaving-american-consumers-and-our-indo-pacific-partners-behind", "Duckworth at Center for American Progress: \u201cBy Praising Xi, Trump is Leaving American Consumers and Our Indo-Pacific Partners Behind\u201d", "2026-09-22", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Just two days ahead of President Donald Trump\u2019s meeting with President of the People\u2019s Republic of China (PRC) Xi Jinping at the White House, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) outlined the stakes of this Trump-Xi summit and the impact it will have on our national security, our economy and our partners in the Indo-Pacific region. At the Center for American Progress (CAP), Duckworth shared her firsthand takeaways from her official trips this year to Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines and Singapore where top government, defense and economic leaders told her how Trump\u2019s reckless trade wars and defense policies are hurting them, leaving them feeling left behind as Trump embraces President Xi, who continues to engage in economic coercion and aggression. Full video of the event can be found on CAP\u2019s YouTube and photos from the event can be found on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump is fundamentally unable to manage the United States\u2019 relationship with the People\u2019s Republic of China,\u201d said Senator Duckworth, a member of both the U.S. Senate Committees on Foreign Relations (SFRC) and Armed Services (SASC). \u201cA successful bilateral relationship doesn\u2019t look like chaotic tariffs, leaving American farmers devastated, throwing our allies under the bus to cozy up to dictators and creating more challenges for Americans. It looks like protecting Americans from economic coercion and instability, finalizing real commitments on AI, protecting human rights and maintaining our advantages in the areas that matter the most while building our national security\u2014not sacrificing all of these, which Trump continues to do.\u201d\n\nDuring the event, Duckworth underscored the importance of being a reliable partner to our friends in the Indo-Pacific who are facing PRC coercion, emphasizing the need to secure our supply chains and protect American consumers. She pointed to the President\u2019s reckless tariffs and illegal war as examples of how supply chain insecurity can impact our economy. The Senator also stressed that regional leaders have continued to innovate and drive forward the conversation on emerging issues, and it\u2019s critical for the U.S. to engage with our partners and strategize to address these problems jointly.\n\nDuckworth continues to be a proven leader when it comes to strengthening our relations with Indo-Pacific nations. She was the first U.S. Senator to visit Taiwan after the disastrous Trump-Xi summit where Donald Trump kowtowed to PRC President Xi and waffled on delivering a critical bipartisan arms package to Taiwan. Upon her arrival, Duckworth penned an op-ed underscoring that the United States\u2019 commitment to Taiwan is steadfast\u2014regardless of who is in the White House. The Senator also highlighted numerous ways she is working to strengthen their partnership and security in the Indo-Pacific region, including through her bipartisan Strategy for Crisis Management Act and South China Sea Strategy Act that both recently passed committee and now await a full Senate vote.\n\nThe Senator\u2019s Strategy for Crisis Management Act was one of several provisions she secured in this year\u2019s committee-passed NDAA to enhance our readiness and coordination with partners in the Indo-Pacific region. This provision would help deescalate consequential crises short of war in the South China Sea. Among Duckworth\u2019s other wins are provisions that would drive cooperation with Indo-Pacific allies and partners on asymmetric operations and improve medical preparedness and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.\n\nIn addition, Duckworth\u2019s Indo-Pacific Medical Readiness program\u2014a program she championed in the FY2025 NDAA and continues to implement through provisions in this year\u2019s NDAA\u2014will help ensure our nation\u2019s servicemembers as well as their families have access to quality patient care throughout the Indo-Pacific region, where they often must travel long distances to receive care.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-calls-on-president-trump-to-push-for-release-of-chinese-political-prisoners-during-meetings-with-president-xi-jinping-this-week", "Durbin Calls On President Trump To Push For Release Of Chinese Political Prisoners During Meetings With President Xi Jinping This Week", "2026-09-22", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In his speech on the Senate floor, Durbin called for the release of Dr. Gulshan Abbas, Jimmy Lai, Gao Quanfu and his wife Pang Yu, and Ekpar Asat\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today delivered a speech on the Senate floor advocating for the release of several Chinese political prisoners ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping\u2019s visit to the United States this week. Specifically, Durbin called for the release of Dr. Gulshan Abbas, who was reportedly imprisoned as retaliation for her family\u2019s public criticism of the Chinese government\u2019s treatment of Uyghurs; Hong Kong publisher Jimmy Lai; Gao Quanfu and his wife Pang Yu, who were imprisoned for serving as church leaders; and Ekpar Asat, a Uyghur entrepreneur.\n\nBeginning his remarks, Durbin noted the tension between the U.S. and Chinese governments, but he spoke about the need for both nations\u2019 leaders to discuss the evolution of AI, nuclear proliferation, and global economic stability.\n\n\u201cThe meeting between the leaders of our two countries is important and timely. Both nations have a great deal to discuss, including areas of shared concern and disagreement,\u201d Durbin began.\n\n\u201cOur nations have many areas of shared concern, including the dangers of AI, North Korea\u2019s pursuit of nuclear weapons, climate change and energy supplies, global economic stability, and reduced tensions in and around the South Pacific,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cWe undoubtedly have points of continued disagreement on issues such as the future of Taiwan, Chinese harassment of allies, the war in Ukraine, economic espionage, and stemming fentanyl precursors from being exported by China, and of course, basic political freedoms and human rights.\u201d\n\nIn May, the Senate unanimously passed Durbin\u2019s bipartisan resolution calling for the release of several political prisoners in China, including Pastor Ezra Jin.\n\n\u201cNot long after [Durbin\u2019s resolution was passed], and with the assistance of President Trump, Pastor Ezra Jin was released after 266 days in a Chinese prison for the \u2018crime\u2019 of operating a church. I had the pleasure of hosting Pastor Jin and his daughter Grace, who was tireless in her effort to plead for her father\u2019s case. They came to the Capitol after his release for a moving discussion and meeting. The pastor reminded me that at least eight of his congregants remain imprisoned,\u201d Durbin said.\n\n\u201cI welcomed President Xi\u2019s release of Pastor Jin and call on him to similarly release these remaining congregants,\u201d Durbin continued.\n\nDurbin concluded his remarks, again calling for the release of Dr. Gulshan Abbas, Jimmy Lai, Gao Quanfu and his wife Pang Yu, and Epkar Asat.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump has a chance to secure the release of these detainees who have already suffered so much, and I hope he will similarly make this request of Xi during his visit. Such a move by Xi would be a most welcome gesture\u2014particularly since there is no reason to fear these people who have done nothing but exercise peaceful freedom of religion and expression,\u201d Durbin said.\n\n\u201cAnd to those still detained\u2014and their heartbroken families\u2014I want to remind them that they are not forgotten,\u201d Durbin concluded his remarks.\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-sounds-the-alarm-on-trumps-attacks-on-a-free-and-open-press", "Durbin Sounds The Alarm On Trump\u2019s Attacks On A Free & Open Press", "2026-09-22", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Durbin: \u201cPresident Trump has done more to undermine, belittle, and attack the free and open press than any President in modern history.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today called out President Trump banning CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from White House grounds because of his personal disagreements with their coverage. The three news outlets have filed a First Amendment lawsuit to restore their access.\n\n\u201cIf a person walks the halls of the United States Capitol, there is a pretty good chance that you will bump into a reporter. They are seemingly around every corner, with their phones out, ready to ask your opinion on a recent statement or the news of the day. Those of us who serve in this chamber have become used to their presence\u2014and their many, many questions,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cWhile we may bristle when they press us, we know that these journalists serve an indispensable purpose: they shine a light on the Senate, and they keep the American people informed about their government. The work these reporters perform is a great service to our nation\u2014one that deserves our thanks.\u201d\n\nDurbin continued, \u201cYet you won\u2019t hear that kind of gratitude coming out of the Trump White House. Since President Trump returned to the Oval Office, he has done more to undermine, belittle, and attack the free and open press than any President in modern history.\u201d\n\nDurbin noted that last year, after the Associated Press refused to use the President\u2019s preferred name for the Gulf of Mexico, he barred the organization from the Oval Office and Air Force One. At the same time, President Trump launched an unprecedented number of baseless defamation suits against respected news outlets for their factual reporting on his failed businesses, relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, and his role in the January 6, 2021, insurrection.\n\n\u201cThis ban is unconstitutional retaliation for factual reporting. It is something you would expect to read about in the communist Russia days\u2026 or perhaps in North Korea, but not in the United States,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cThis assault on the press is a dangerous effort by the President to distract American public opinion from his failed agenda. His endless Iranian War, his self-defeating tariffs\u2014Trump has broken countless promises made during his campaign for President.\u201d\n\nDurbin continued, \u201cChastising CNN won\u2019t lower the price of diesel fuel. Punishing Politico won\u2019t end the Iranian War. And maligning MS NOW won\u2019t save the President\u2019s free-falling approval ratings. Yet the President seems determined to double down on his assault on the First Amendment. Yesterday, the White House announced the creation of \u2018Trump TV,\u2019 a news channel designed to spread propaganda from the Trump White House.\u201d\n\nDurbin concluded, \u201cI would have thought the creation of a state-run media platform to serve as the President\u2019s megaphone would have generated some sort of response, some sort of outcry from my Republican colleagues who condemn communism and authoritarianism. But they are afraid to say a word lest this press operation of President Trump turn on them. I urge all my colleagues to speak out against this ban and the President\u2019s continued assault on free press. The future of our democracy demands standing up for the Constitution, even if the President won\u2019t.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-call-for-senate-judiciary-committee-investigation-into-donald-trump-jr", "Durbin Statement On Call for Senate Judiciary Committee Investigation Into Donald Trump Jr.", "2026-09-22", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement regarding U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) calling for the Senate Judiciary Committee to investigate the use of presidential family relationships for private financial benefit, preferential treatment, or access by domestic and foreign interests:\n\n\u201cCorruption at the highest levels of our government should never be tolerated. Senator Curtis has made a good faith request that the Senate Judiciary Committee investigate the lavish gift of a Russian oligarch to President Trump\u2019s son as well as any wrongdoing by the son of former President Biden.\n\n\u201cIn fairness, Hunter Biden has already given a sworn deposition to Congress on this issue of corrupt activity. Donald Trump Jr. has not. For the Committee to ignore this matter is to run the risk of being complicit in a coverup. I will join in supporting Senator Curtis\u2019 request of the Senate Judiciary Committee.\u201d\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-young-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-children-from-lead-poisoning", "Durbin, Young Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Protect Children From Lead Poisoning", "2026-09-22", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The Lead-Safe Housing for Kids Act would require the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to update its lead poisoning prevention measures\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-IN) today reintroduced the Lead-Safe Housing for Kids Act, which would require the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to update its lead poisoning prevention measures to reflect modern science and ensure that families and children living in federally-assisted housing are protected from the devastating consequences of lead poisoning.\n\n\u201cChildren should not be at risk from lead poisoning in their own home. We have to do more to address this health hazard before it harms more kids,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cSenator Young and I are leading the push to reform outdated federal housing standards and put additional prevention measures in place. There is nothing more important than the health and safety of our children.\u201d\n\n\u201cAll children deserve the opportunity to grow up without the fear of harmful toxins in their home, but sadly lead exposure continues to be an ongoing problem for millions of children with devastating long-term effects. The Lead-Safe Housing for Kids Act will help ensure the health and safety of our children by improving federal lead poisoning detection and prevention measures,\u201d said Young.\n\nLead hazards in a home pose serious health and safety threats. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lead hazards such as dust and chips from deteriorated lead-based paint are the most common source of lead exposure for U.S. children. A 2021 survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) found that lead-based paint is in 34.6 million U.S. homes, 89 percent of which were built before 1978\u2013\u2013the year lead-based paint use in housing was banned in the United States. While the available science for detecting and remediating lead hazards in a home has evolved significantly in the last two decades, federal laws and regulations continue to lag far behind, leaving vulnerable Americans\u2014of whom a disproportionate amount are minorities\u2014at the risk of being exposed to lead before any intervention is triggered. Left unaddressed, lead poisoning can cause long-term and irreversible health, neurological, and behavioral problems in children. Most importantly, lead poisoning prevention preserves a child\u2019s ability to reach their full potential.\n\nUnder HUD\u2019s current lead hazard regulations, visual assessments are used to identify the presence of lead in a housing unit. However, while visual assessments\u2014which usually entail identifying chipped and peeling paint\u2014can show signs of lead hazards, modern scientific research has proven that such assessments are profoundly inadequate for identifying the most common sources of lead paint in a home: in intact painted surfaces such as window sashes and windowsills. In order to comprehensively determine the presence of lead and adequately protect children from lead poisoning, HUD\u2019s policy must shift from identification and management to primary prevention.\n\nSpecifically, the Lead-Safe Housing for Kids Act would ensure that families and children living in federally assisted housing are protected from the devastating consequences of lead poisoning by adopting primary prevention measures to protect children in low-income housing, including:\n\nProhibiting the use of visual assessments for low-income housing constructed prior to 1978 and require the use of risk assessments, a more accurate evaluation tool to identify lead hazards, before a family moves into the home;\n\nProviding a process for families to relocate on an emergency basis, without penalty or the loss of assistance, if a lead hazard is identified in the home and the landlord fails to control the hazard within 30 days of being notified of the presence of lead; and\n\nRequiring landlords to disclose the presence of lead if lead hazards are found in the home.\n\nToday\u2019s legislation is available here.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-leads-bipartisan-group-of-senators-in-demanding-the-trump-administration-to-extend-and-redesignate-tps-for-ukrainians", "Duckworth Leads Bipartisan Group of Senators in Demanding the Trump Administration to Extend and Redesignate TPS for Ukrainians", "2026-09-22", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)\u2014a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC)\u2014 led a bipartisan group of 30 Senate colleagues in calling on the Trump Administration to issue an 18-month extension and redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukrainians living in the United States as Vladimir Putin continues his unjustified war of aggression against their homeland. In their letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Senators underscored how a failure to extend TPS ahead of its expiration next month would send thousands of Ukrainians back into a war zone that has resulted in significant civilian casualties, infrastructure damage and displacement.\n\n\u201cCurrent conditions in Ukraine clearly merit the continuation of TPS status. The ongoing war has caused a humanitarian crisis and damage to critical civilian infrastructure has left many with limited or no access to heat, electricity or medical services. Ukrainian nationals cannot safely return at this time, and allowing TPS to terminate on October 19, 2026, would risk sending more than one hundred thousand individuals back to an active war zone,\u201d wrote the Senators.\n\nUkrainian TPS holders have long contributed to communities in Illinois, and across the country, both culturally and economically. The Senators noted that allowing an 18-month extension of the TPS would prevent these community members from being forced to return to dangerous conditions, while allowing the communities that benefit from their contributions to continue to benefit and learn from them.\n\nAlong with Duckworth, the letter is co-signed by U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Susan Collins (R-ME), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Patty Murray (D-WA), Gary Peters (D- MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR).\n\nFull text of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website and below:\n\nWe strongly urge you to issue an 18-month extension and redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine prior to the impending October 19, 2026, termination date. Ukraine is currently in the fifth year of a large-scale war with Russia, which has led to ongoing civilian casualties, significant damage to critical infrastructure and the displacement of broad swaths of the population. An extension of TPS for Ukraine would protect current TPS beneficiaries from being forced to return to an active war zone, while a redesignation would expand those protections to the population of Ukrainian nationals who arrived after October 20, 2023.\n\nUkraine was initially designated for TPS on April 19, 2022, on the basis of ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions caused by Russia\u2019s military actions within the country. In its designation, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the U.S. Department of State, cited regular artillery attacks and airstrikes by Russia\u2019s military forces, serious human rights abuses and the widespread destruction of critical infrastructure. Subsequent reviews of in-country conditions found that the situation in the country had not sufficiently improved; accordingly, TPS for Ukraine was extended and redesignated through April 19, 2025, and extended once more beginning on April 20, 2025.\n\nThe war in Ukraine\u2014the largest conventional military action in Europe since World War II\u2014is ongoing, as are the same extraordinary and temporary conditions that warrant the continued protection of Ukrainian nationals currently residing in the United States. International observers report a trend of steadily increasing civilian casualties from year to year, with approximately 17,000 civilian deaths and more than 50,000 civilian injuries since the outbreak of the war in 2022. These casualties, coupled with significant damage to civilian infrastructure, constrained access to health care and substantial population displacement have created a profound crisis, with approximately 10.8 million Ukrainians in need of humanitarian assistance. The facts on the ground paint a clear picture: sending Ukrainians back now would risk returning them to life threatening conditions.\n\nProtecting the approximately 101,000 Ukrainian TPS holders currently living in the United States is a humanitarian imperative, but also a sound economic decision. Thanks to the work authorization granted by their TPS status, Ukrainian TPS holders have contributed approximately $2.6 billion to our economy each year and have provided approximately $716 million in taxes annually. In States like Illinois, thousands of Ukrainian TPS holders make our communities stronger not only through their rich cultural contributions, but also through their participation in critical sectors, including transportation, health care and construction. Terminating TPS for this population risks disrupting these industries, increasing costs for American consumers by forcing thousands of experienced workers out of their jobs.\n\nCurrent conditions in Ukraine clearly merit the continuation of TPS status. The ongoing war has caused a humanitarian crisis and damage to critical civilian infrastructure has left many with limited or no access to heat, electricity or medical services. Ukrainian nationals cannot safely return at this time, and allowing TPS to terminate on October 19, 2026, would risk sending more than one hundred thousand individuals back to an active war zone. Ukrainian TPS holders contribute greatly to our communities, both culturally and economically. To ensure that eligible Ukrainian nationals currently in the United States can continue living and working safely while conditions in their home country remain perilous, we urge you issue an extension and redesignation of TPS for Ukraine.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-leads-great-lakes-senators-in-demanding-answers-on-trump-administrations-repeated-pauses-of-the-brandon-road-project", "Durbin Leads Great Lakes Senators In Demanding Answers On Trump Administration\u2019s Repeated Pauses Of The Brandon Road Project", "2026-09-22", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In today\u2019s letter, the Senators emphasized that the Brandon Road Project Interbasin Project cannot be halted again as invasive carp have been found dangerously close to Lake Michigan\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), along with U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), today sent a letter to the Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works demanding answers about why the Trump Administration has allowed for two administrative pauses to the Brandon Road Interbasin Project (BRIP) without an adequate justification. While the second administrative pause has been lifted and the project has resumed, these repeated pauses raise concerns about the possibility of future delays and the Trump Administration\u2019s commitment to the project despite the President\u2019s endorsement.\n\n\u201cWe write to once again express serious concern about the recent second administrative review and pause of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project,\u201d the lawmakers said. \u201cWe request a meeting to discuss the circumstances surrounding the pause and steps the Administration will take to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible. \u2026 This second pause and review\u2014after work on the project already was halted last fall\u2014was put in place without advance notification to the state partners and without clear explanation, putting the completion of the project in jeopardy.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers underscored that any future halts to the BRIP could result in invasive carp entering the Great Lakes and irreparably disrupting the lakes\u2019 ecosystem. In August, juvenile invasive carp were found just 80 miles downstream from Lake Michigan\u2014reflecting the upstream advancement of adult invasive carp.\n\n\u201cWhile completing the long-delayed BRIP was already an urgent priority, a recent development underscores the urgency. Last month, young invasive carp were found in the Marseilles Pool of the Illinois River, just 80 miles downstream from Lake Michigan. This is the closest to the Great Lakes that young invasive carp have ever been found. It also suggests that a spawning event could have occurred even further north\u2026 If invasive carp were to become established in the Great Lakes, they would threaten existing fish populations, permanently damage ecosystems, and significantly impair the $7 billion Great Lakes economy,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\n\u201cAs we noted in previous letters about this issue, invasive carp already have created significant problems in waterways by outcompeting native species, disrupting habitats, posing recreational hazards, and harming both commercial and recreational fishing\u2026 The best tool we have to combat this growing environmental threat is the immediate completion of the BRIP,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\n\nThe lawmakers concluded their letter by emphasizing President Trump\u2019s public support for the project and further reiterated their request to meet with the Trump Administration to ensure there are no further pauses to BRIP.\n\n\u201cGiven President Trump\u2019s clear support for the project, the clear threat posed by the invasive carp, and substantial funding and commitment provided by Congress, we urge the Administration to ensure the Brandon Road Interbasin Project moves forward without further interruption,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\n\u201cWe look forward to meeting with you to discuss the project\u2019s pauses and the Administration\u2019s plan to keep the project on schedule,\u201d the lawmakers concluded their letter.\n\nDurbin has been a tireless advocate for the Brandon Road Project and finding a comprehensive approach to protecting the Great Lakes from the threat of invasive carp. Through previous Water Resources Development Acts, Durbin has secured authorization for design and construction of the Brandon Road Project, and in December 2024, Durbin successfully included a provision in the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA) to increase the federal cost share for the Brandon Road Project. Under the provision, the federal government will pay 90 percent of the operation and maintenance costs for Brandon Road after the project\u2019s construction is complete, significantly lowering the costs of maintaining the infrastructure for Illinois.\n\nIn July 2024, Durbin applauded Illinois, Michigan, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for signing a Project Partnership Agreement (PPA) regarding the Brandon Road Project, which was necessary to ensure that the Brandon Road Project moves forward and does not lose valuable federal funding for its construction.\n\nDurbin also previously secured $225.8 million in construction funding for the project from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), $47.3 million in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 government funding bill, and $28 million in the FY26 Energy and Water Appropriations bill.\n\nDurbin was instrumental in forcing the release of the original Brandon Road Study, a draft plan that paved the way for the project, after the first Trump Administration stalled the report\u2019s release.\n\nA copy of the letter is available here and below:\n\nSeptember 22, 2026\n\nDear Acting Assistant Secretary Forsgren:\n\nIn light of a recent discovery that young invasive carp were found just 80 miles downstream from Lake Michigan, we write to once again express serious concern about the recent second administrative review and pause of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project (BRIP). Although this pause was lifted on September 2, the lack of explanation for it raises concerns about this Administration\u2019s commitment to the project and the possibility of future delays. We request a meeting to discuss the circumstances surrounding the pause and steps the Administration will take to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible.\n\nOn July 24, 2026, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued its second stop work order for BRIP, placing the project under administrative review. This second pause and review\u2014after work on the project already was halted last fall\u2014was put in place without advance notification to the state partners and without clear explanation, putting the completion of the project in jeopardy. As a result of these delays, project costs are increasing and contractors have been forced to modify their schedules. Although the project final completion date remains on schedule, these delays continue to put that timeline at risk.\n\nCongress first authorized the BRIP in 2020. In 2022, Congress provided $225 million for the construction of the BRIP, an additional $47 million in 2023, and $28 million more in 2026. Illinois and Michigan, the project\u2019s non-federal sponsors, have invested more than $100 million in the project.\n\nWhile completing the long-delayed BRIP was already an urgent priority, a recent development underscores the urgency. Last month, young invasive carp were found in the Marseilles Pool of the Illinois River, just 80 miles downstream from Lake Michigan. This is the closest to the Great Lakes that young invasive carp have ever been found. It also suggests that a spawning event could have occurred even further north. According to experts, the presence of the juvenile carp is \u201ca significant step in the invasion process.\u201d If invasive carp were to become established in the Great Lakes, they would threaten existing fish populations, permanently damage ecosystems, and significantly impair the $7 billion Great Lakes economy.\n\nAs we noted in previous letters about this issue, invasive carp already have created significant problems in waterways by outcompeting native species, disrupting habitats, posing recreational hazards, and harming both commercial and recreational fishing. Research has shown that just 10 breeding pairs of invasive carp introduced to the Great Lakes\u2019 ecosystem could bring irreversible damage. The best tool we have to combat this growing environmental threat is the immediate completion of the BRIP.\n\nPresident Trump has highlighted the importance of stopping the invasive carp, saying \u201cit is sort of a bipartisan thing when you get right down to it's a very expensive thing . . . I looked at the numbers. I said, well, but we have to save Lake Michigan because these fish that they eat everything in their way, including the other fish.\" President Trump reiterated that support in a memorandum from May 9, 2025, saying, \u201cMy Administration fully supports preventing the spread of invasive carp . . . I am directing my Administration to achieve maximum speed and efficiency at the Federal level . . . This includes supporting the Brandon Road Interbasin Project, through deadline-oriented investments of taxpayer dollars . . .\u201d\n\nGiven President Trump\u2019s clear support for the project, the clear threat posed by the invasive carp, and substantial funding and commitment provided by Congress, we urge the Administration to ensure the Brandon Road Interbasin Project moves forward without further interruption. We also urge consistent and transparent communication with the non-federal sponsors in the future in advance of any changes to the project.\n\nThank you for your prompt attention to this important matter. We look forward to meeting with you to discuss the project\u2019s pauses and the Administration\u2019s plan to keep the project on schedule.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-schumer-call-on-airlines-to-guarantee-that-emergency-medical-kits-aboard-their-commercial-planes-include-life-saving-epinephrine", "Duckworth, Schumer Call on Airlines to Guarantee That Emergency Medical Kits Aboard Their Commercial Planes Include Life-Saving Epinephrine", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "The Senators\u2019 push comes after the FAA proposed a rule that wouldn\u2019t require epinephrine delivery methods designed for self-administration on every flight, jeopardizing passenger safety\n\n[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)\u2014Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation\u2014and U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today called on every U.S.-based passenger airline to guarantee that the emergency medical kit (EMK) kept on-board their aircraft include epinephrine\u2014a life-saving medication to treat passengers who go into anaphylactic shock\u2014in delivery methods designed that can be easily self-administered by individuals without medical training. The Senators\u2019 letter comes after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposed a new rule that wouldn\u2019t require medications to be standard, consistent and dependable for passengers in need on commercial flights. In the landmark FAA Reauthorization Law that she co-authored, Duckworth successfully secured a provision which required the FAA to ensure commercial airlines have adequate emergency medical kits on-board to treat conditions like anaphylaxis. And yet, the FAA\u2019s proposed rule would not require them to carry epinephrine, the only medication that reliably treats this medical emergency.\n\n\u201cThe Trump Administration\u2019s proposed rule will reduce public safety and trust when flying by increasing ambiguity, subjectivity and opacity with respect to EMK components,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cThere have already been reports of incomplete, outdated and unusable EMKs, with some physician passengers being forced to crowdsource medication from passengers. Further, airlines are not required to publicly or centrally report the real-time inventory and exact contents of their EMKs and have continued to operate under exemptions granted from the FAA for years.\u201d\n\nWithout EMKs containing epinephrine delivery methods that can be easily self-administered, like auto-injectors or nasal sprays, passengers experiencing anaphylaxis must rely on carrying their own medication or hope there is a medical professional aboard the flight who can quickly determine the correct dosage from a vial and then administer it correctly and quickly enough to save their life. This rule creates unnecessary risk that can put passengers\u2019 lives in danger, which is exactly what happened to constituents of both Duckworth and Schumer.\n\nIn their letter, the Senators describe the terrifying scenario one of Duckworth\u2019s constituents from Illinois was faced with: \u201cIn 2019, an 18-year-old traveling home to Chicago after completing her freshman year at college had an in-flight anaphylactic reaction to a salad containing tree nuts. According to her account, the flight crew was unsure if epinephrine was in the EMK and none of the crewmembers knew how to administer the medication. Fortunately, she had her own epinephrine auto-injector and was able to administer the medication in the bathroom of the plane. However, she was only carrying a single dose, raising her level of risk because, if her single dose failed to keep her airways open, she could not access additional lifesaving medication on the flight.\u201d\n\nIn the letter, the Senators also recounted a scenario where, because the aircraft\u2019s EMK was not equipped with epinephrine that could be easily self-administered, a New York doctor had to act with speed and precision to save the life of another passenger experiencing anaphylactic shock: \u201cEven if an aircraft\u2019s EMK contains a vial of epinephrine, the lack of an easily self-administered delivery system, such as an auto-injector, could make providing the medication dangerous for a layperson or even challenging for a trained medical doctor. This type of harrowing scenario occurred that same year, in 2019, when a prominent New York-based physician was forced to make split-second calculations to draw from a vial a safe, diluted fraction of the available cardiac arrest formulation of epinephrine to save the life of a young man having a severe allergic reaction,\u201d continued the Senators.\n\nIn light of the FAA\u2019s misguided and dangerous proposed rule change, Duckworth and Schumer stressed the urgency of ensuring each EMK is equipped with the proper life-saving medication the flying public deserves, especially amid the significant increase in allergies among children over the past decade. The lawmakers demanded detailed answers from each airline by September 25, 2026, regarding the contents of their EMKs, their capabilities to treat anaphylaxis and whether they have sought out exemptions from FAA requirements for carrying epinephrine or other medications.\n\nFull text of the letter can be found below and on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website:\n\nDear [CEO Name],\n\nWe are writing to request information about the composition of the emergency medical kit (EMK) carried aboard your aircraft, including the availability of epinephrine via accessible delivery methods, in light of the recent Trump Administration rulemaking regarding EMK contents.\n\nEMKs are supposed to enable initial treatment of a passenger experiencing moderate to severe injuries or illnesses until the aircraft can land and the passenger can be transferred to emergency medical personnel. Without proper medications that can easily be administered on board, medical emergencies happening while 35,000 feet in the air could turn deadly.\n\nFor example, in 2019, an 18-year-old traveling home to Chicago after completing her freshman year at college had an in-flight anaphylactic reaction to a salad containing tree nuts. According to her account, the flight crew was unsure if epinephrine was in the EMK and none of the crewmembers knew how to administer the medication. Fortunately, she had her own epinephrine auto-injector and was able to administer the medication in the bathroom of the plane. However, she was only carrying a single dose, raising her level of risk because, if her single dose failed to keep her airways open, she could not access additional lifesaving medication on the flight.\n\nEven if an aircraft\u2019s EMK contains a vial of epinephrine, the lack of an easily self-administered delivery system, such as an auto-injector, could make providing the medication dangerous for a layperson or even challenging for a trained medical doctor. This type of harrowing scenario occurred that same year, in 2019, when a prominent New York-based physician was forced to make split-second calculations to draw from a vial a safe, diluted fraction of the available cardiac arrest formulation of epinephrine to save the life of a young man having a severe allergic reaction.\n\nHaving multiple doses of epinephrine on every aircraft, in delivery methods that can be easily self-administered by individuals without medical training, is more urgent than ever due to the on-flight presence of food items containing unlabeled allergens, a steady increase in the number of children with food allergies, the increased prevalence of a tick-borne illness that could create life-threatening allergies and the very real possibility that more than one passenger may require epinephrine during a single flight.\n\nIn 2019, after hearing from our constituents and learning that the airlines had successfully sought a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exemption from the requirement to stock EMKs with epinephrine, we sent a letter to the airline carriers demanding that they reverse course and include epinephrine auto-injectors in EMKs. Seven years later, the FAA has yet to require epinephrine in forms that can be easily self-administered, and air carriers continue to operate under the same exemptions. This will not fly.\n\nIn the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, we secured language that directed the FAA to assemble a panel of experts to make recommendations on EMKs and issue a proposed rule. The FAA Onboard Medical Kits Working Group included aerospace medicine experts and physicians, physiologists, psychologists, human factors specialists, cabin safety professionals and researchers. This working group submitted its report, dated May 1, 2025, to the FAA. The report stated:\n\n\u201cThe items proposed \u2026 are intended to provide initial stabilizing Basic Life Support (BLS) care for immediately life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest, airway emergencies, major hemorrhage, and anaphylaxis (emphasis added), as well as to facilitate provision of limited basic first-aid interventions for minor injuries and illnesses that are known to occur in-flight.\u201d\n\nEpinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Importantly, the proposed EMK content list in the report includes both \u201cpre-measured auto-delivery device\u201d or \u201cvial-drawn kit.\u201d Yet, more than one year later, the Trump administration publicly defied the recommendations in this report developed by the expert working group the FAA itself commissioned. Through rulemaking, the Trump Administration is seeking to downgrade the EMK content list, from a binding requirement to mere optional guidance.\n\nOn August 5, 2026, the FAA issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) titled \u201cImproving Emergency Medical Kit Efficacy and Flexibility in Commercial Airline Operations,\u201d which would make drastic changes to how the FAA determines the composition of EMKs. Specifically, this new proposed rule would allow operators to determine what components should be included in EMKs, so long as the EMK is \u201cpractical and sufficient\u201d to address nine conditions, including anaphylaxis. The proposed rule would also eliminate the exemption process, which was created due to challenges in stocking EMKs due to drug shortages and allow airlines to substitute drugs, \u201cwithout requesting an FAA exemption.\u201d While we recognize that drug shortages may make it difficult to meet existing standards, there is no alternative to epinephrine to treat anaphylaxis.\n\nThe FAA currently requires an EMK to contain two epinephrine 1:1,000, single dose ampule or equivalent. Under the proposed rule, the operator will be able to make the decision about whether to include epinephrine:\n\n\u201c\u2026FAA recommends sufficient resources for anaphylaxis (sudden/acute severe allergic reaction), which may include the following signs and symptoms: hives; swelling of the mouth, throat, or tongue; difficulty breathing, rapid or weak pulse, dizziness; stomach pain; nausea or vomiting; or loss of consciousness. Treatment options could (emphasis added) include medication such as epinephrine.\u201d\n\nAir carriers typically carry epinephrine vials on flights which then need to be correctly dosed, drawn and administered to a passenger experiencing anaphylaxis. If a passenger is experiencing anaphylaxis, they could have mere seconds until they are unable to breathe. Without Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved epinephrine delivery methods designed to be easily self-administered, passengers rely on the chance that there will be a good Samaritan on the flight who is a trained medical professional, or a flight attendant, in consultation with a medical professional on the ground, to quickly measure an appropriate dose of epinephrine using a vial and syringe. This is both risky and unnecessary.\n\nThe Trump Administration\u2019s proposed rule will reduce public safety and trust when flying by increasing ambiguity, subjectivity and opacity of EMK components. There have already been reports of incomplete, outdated and unusable EMKs, with some physician passengers being forced to crowdsource medication from passengers. Further, airlines are not required to publicly or centrally report the real-time inventory and exact contents of their EMKs and have continued to operate under exemptions granted by the FAA for years. EMK suppliers and airlines can track when an EMK is opened and needs restocking, but only in instances where the kit was used. There is no means of systematically tracking incidents of allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, especially when passengers use their own epinephrine.\n\nThe proposed rule argues that increased flexibility is needed to keep up with advances in medicine, but without appropriate reporting and tracking, the Trump administration is significantly increasing the risk of major inconsistencies in EMKs from flight to flight. Predictability, consistency and transparency are all necessary to ensure passengers\u2019 safety, particularly in cases of anaphylaxis, when minutes, or even seconds, matter.\n\nRecent high-profile incidents underscore the gravity of this issue. In January 2026, a Virgin Australia passenger on a regional flight experienced a severe anaphylactic reaction requiring two successive doses of epinephrine\u2014first from their own epinephrine auto-injector, then from another passenger\u2014because no airline-supplied epinephrine was available aboard the aircraft. Fortunately, this individual survived, but such cases should serve as dire warnings of the fatal risks posed by the absence of standardized epinephrine in EMKs, and a reminder of the critical importance of aircraft EMKs containing delivery methods that allow for self-administration of epinephrine.\n\nTo ensure the safety of all airline passengers, we must guarantee that U.S.-based airlines include FDA-approved epinephrine delivery methods designed for self-administration on every flight.\n\nTo better understand your current practices and alignment with proposed FAA standards, as well as the rationale behind your chosen epinephrine delivery methods and relevant data collection practices, please provide answers to the following questions by Friday, September 25, 2026:\n\nWhat is the delivery method for the epinephrine that your airline currently carries (e.g., vial-drawn kit, auto-injector, nasal spray, etc.)?\n\nIf your airline has transitioned from vial-and-syringe epinephrine to auto-injectors, nasal spray or other FDA-approved delivery methods, what factors prompted this change?\n\nIf not, what barriers prevent your airline from carrying FDA-approved delivery methods for self-administered epinephrine?\n\nDoes your airline carry more than one delivery method for epinephrine?\n\nHow many units of epinephrine vials, auto-injectors or nasal spray are included in your EMKs?\n\nDoes your airline collect data on in-flight anaphylactic events, including those where passengers used their own epinephrine?\n\nHas your airline filed a waiver(s) or sought an exemption(s) from FAA requirements for carrying epinephrine? If so, please provide documentation of the exemption(s) and reason(s) for the request, and whether and when the issue was resolved such that no exemption was necessary.\n\nHas your airline filed a waiver(s) or sought an exemption(s) from FAA requirements for carrying other medications or components of EMKs? If so, please provide documentation of the exemption(s) and reason(s) for the request, and when the issue was resolved such that no exemption was necessary.\n\nShould EMK requirements shift from a prescriptive list of components to operator-determined components, how would your airline make sure EMKs are consistent, reliable and up to date on all its flights?\n\nHow would your airline define and measure if each EMK is \u201cpractical and sufficient\u201d and remains so flight after flight? Who would be responsible for making such determinations and ensuring consistency and reliability?\n\nWhat recourse or actions would be available to passengers, should the EMKs be insufficient to treat a medical condition or event during flight? Who would determine if the EMK, in fact, was not \u201csufficient\u201d?\n\nThank you for your attention to this crucial matter. We look forward to reviewing your response.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/following-new-reports-of-pentagon-covering-up-more-troop-casualties-in-iran-war-duckworth-and-ryan-call-on-congress-to-pass-their-bill-to-ban-pentagon-from-manipulating-casualty-records", "Following New Reports of Pentagon Covering Up More Troop Casualties in Iran War, Duckworth and Ryan Call on Congress to Pass Their Bill to Ban Pentagon from Manipulating Casualty Records", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "The lawmakers\u2019 call comes after the Washington Post reported that 22 servicemembers have been killed in the Iran War, not 18 servicemembers as the Pentagon previously disclosed\n\n[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Following new reports that the Pentagon has covered up 4 additional American servicemember deaths in President Donald Trump\u2019s Iran War, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Pat Ryan (D-NY-18)\u2014both Iraq War combat Veterans\u2014are calling on Congress to pass their legislation that would prevent the Trump Administration from continuing to do this. The lawmakers\u2019 Honoring the Sacrifice of Troops in War Act would ban Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth from manipulating casualty records and jeopardizing the benefits of our military families.\n\n\u201cDonald Trump and Pete Hegseth are proving once again they will stop at nothing to hide the true cost of this war from the American people. Reports now indicate as many as 22 of our servicemembers have laid down their lives fighting in a conflict we never should\u2019ve been in. And instead of honoring their sacrifice and telling the truth, this Administration is trying to cover it up in attempt to cover up what a failure they are ahead of an election,\u201d said Senator Tammy Duckworth. \u201cWe\u2019ve been here before. Trump tried to hide the deaths of four of our heroes nearly 2 months ago, which is why I wrote the Honoring the Sacrifice of Troops in War Act and called for its passage then. Now that it\u2019s clear they\u2019ll keep this up, Congressional Republicans must join us and help immediately pass our legislation to put a stop to this dishonorable playbook for good. Our fallen heroes deserve better than a five-time draft dodger who manipulates their sacrifices this way.\u201d\n\n\u201cPete Hegseth is engaged in a coverup to downplay his failed leadership when it comes to the war in Iran. We now know that 22 servicemembers made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and fellow soldiers. Instead of honoring their heroism and Patriotism, Trump and Hegseth are trying to sweep it under the rug. They\u2019d rather dishonor our fallen heroes than tell the truth,\u201d said Congressman Pat Ryan. \u201cIt\u2019s a complete and total betrayal of our servicemembers by the very people that swore to protect and do right by them. This is exactly why I introduced bicameral legislation to force the Pentagon to be honest with the American people about the enormous human cost of this war. Congress must pass our bill and fully honor each and every one of the Patriots who lost their lives in Trump\u2019s war because it\u2019s infuriatingly clear we can\u2019t trust Hegseth to do the right thing.\u201d\n\nTo ban the Secretary of Defense from hiding the true cost of war, the Honoring the Sacrifices of Our Troops in War Act would:\n\nEnsure Accurate Public Statistics on Casualties by requiring for the first time ever that DoD publish and update frequently casualties in war.\n\nBan Arbitrary, Unjustified Recategorizing of Designated Contingency Operations by prohibiting redesignating an ongoing conflict if the Administration continues to mobilize forces against the same enemy;\n\nPrevent Manipulation of Casualty Records by prohibiting manipulation of casualty records by falsely redesignating a contingency operation;\n\nRestore Casualty Records of Our Fallen and Wounded Heroes in the Iran War by requiring restoration of casualty records for Iran-related operations since February 28, 2026, and notify next-of-kin about the correction;\n\nBan Cutting Hard-Earned Benefits for Troops and Civilian Personnel by prohibiting the modification of eligibility for deployment-related personnel benefits on the basis of falsely redesignating a contingency operation; and\n\nRestore Benefits to Personnel Supporting Iran War by retroactively restoring all covered benefits entitled to members of the Armed Services and civilian employees who have supported Iran-related operations since February 28, 2026.\n\nThe original bill introduction in the Senate came after the Pentagon unprecedentedly recategorized recent casualties suffered in Trump\u2019s Iran war\u2014including four killed and over 200 wounded servicemembers\u2014under a separate category outside Operation Epic Fury in a shameless attempt to downplay the damage done and evade accountability to the American people.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-senate-democrats-call-on-hegseth-to-report-total-costs-of-iran-war", "Duckworth, Durbin, Senate Democrats Call on Hegseth to Report Total Costs of Iran War", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and 43 of their colleagues, nearly the entire Democratic caucus, in sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, in demanding a full accounting of the costs of the ongoing war with Iran. The letter also criticized the Department of Defense for withholding basic budget information from Congress and the American public even as U.S. casualties and taxpayer costs continue to increase.\n\n\u201cMeanwhile, at home, American taxpayers have already paid an extra $100 billion out of their pockets for higher gas and diesel prices alone and at least another $60 billion in higher costs for things like groceries, mortgages, and plane tickets as a result of the war,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cNow you are asking that they pay again to fund a war of choice that Congress never authorized and the President launched with no strategic plan.\u201d\n\nThe United States is now more than seven months into a conflict President Trump initially said would last six weeks. Eighteen American servicemembers have been killed and more than 820 wounded, and over 50,000 troops are currently deployed to the Middle East. In the letter, the Senators note that deployments, including for the USS Lincoln and the 82nd Airborne, have been repeatedly extended, and that their offices have heard directly from military families worried about loved ones serving in the conflict.\n\nIn their letter, the Senators highlight the contrast between the current Pentagon\u2019s transparency record with past wartime practice, noting that Hegseth has briefed Congress only seven times in six months and held just eight Pentagon press briefings or interviews since the war began, compared to more than 70 press briefings in the first month of the Iraq War alone. The Senators also criticized the administration\u2019s public supplemental funding request as a seven-page document offering only vague line items, in contrast to the detailed, hundred-page supplemental requests provided to Congress during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.\n\nThe Senators are requesting that the Department of Defense provide:\n\nA detailed breakdown of all direct and indirect costs of military operations against Iran to date, including damage to installations, aircraft and equipment.\n\nA full accounting of the $67 billion supplemental request, specifying what covers past costs versus future operations.\n\nA detailed plan for how the Pentagon intends to spend the remaining $34 billion from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.\n\n\u201cDespite asking for tens of billions of additional taxpayer dollars, you have so far failed to provide basic information on how this money has and will be spent,\u201d continued the Senators. \u201cCongress must have access to this information to carry out our oversight responsibilities. It is the bare minimum that any American would expect in balancing their own household budget.\u201d\n\nAlong with Duckworth, Durbin and Slotkin, the letter was co-signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael G. Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR).\n\nThe full letter is available on Senator\u2019s Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-meets-with-smart-td-leadership-about-funding-illinois-transit-projects", "Durbin Meets With SMART-TD Leadership About Funding Illinois Transit Projects", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with Bob Guy, SMART-TD Illinois State Safety and Legislative Director, and other SMART-TD leaders, about the need for a robust surface transportation reauthorization to continue the critical funding programs and infrastructure projects supported by the historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Durbin and SMART-TD also spoke about the need for greater rail safety measures.\n\n\u201cOur rail workers serve an integral role in our state\u2019s economy, keeping our transit systems in top shape so they can deliver for riders. The federal government can do its part to support our union workers and our transit systems by pushing for a robust surface transportation reauthorization and greater rail safety improvements,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nPhotos of the meeting are available here.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-slams-trump-administration-for-pouring-money-into-the-defense-department-as-it-continues-to-cut-lifesaving-nih-funding", "Durbin Slams Trump Administration For Pouring Money Into The Defense Department As It Continues To Cut Lifesaving NIH Funding", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The agreement between DoD and NIH could transfer as much as $2 billion from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Following an announced agreement to transfer funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to the Department of Defense (DoD), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) slammed the Trump Administration for their misplaced priorities by seeking to divert lifesaving funding from the NIH to the Pentagon.\n\n\u201cThere are a lot of issues that come before us in Congress, and there are a lot of political opinions on those issues. What I have found over the years is that there are few issues that transcend politics\u2014medical research is one of those issues. It\u2019s a situation where I don\u2019t care if the researcher, scientist, or doctor is a Democrat or Republican, or even votes. I want to know if they are doing worthwhile research that can lead to cures [and] can save lives,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nOver the past decade, Durbin has pushed for annual five percent funding increases for NIH. Since Fiscal Year (FY) 2015, because of Durbin\u2019s efforts, Congress has provided NIH with a 60 percent increase in annual funding, raising the appropriations level from $30 billion in FY2015 to $49 billion today. Last year, the President\u2019s budget sought to cut NIH\u2019s budget by 40 percent, or $18 billion. Thankfully, the Senate rejected that proposal and instead increased funding for the NIH. Unfortunately, due to President Trump\u2019s continued attacks on medical research, this funding remains in jeopardy.\n\nDurbin said, \u201cThe agreement sets up a path for the Department of Defense and the NIH to collaborate on chemical and biological defense research and development. That\u2019s a good thing, isn\u2019t it? Of course it is. But who is going to pay for it? Who\u2019s going to pay for this research? The Department of Defense that has $1 trillion annual budget, or is it the NIH, an agency that struggles at $49 billion to fight off cuts in the budget proposed by the President? If you guessed the NIH, you\u2019re right.\u201d\n\nThe so-called agreement could direct as much as $2 billion from the NIH, specifically the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases [NIAID].\n\n\u201cLet\u2019s be honest about what this is: a move to siphon funds away from the nation\u2019s premier medical research agency, which struggles to fund lifesaving research, to bankroll the Pentagon, the most heavily funded agency in our government. By implementing this agreement, the Trump Administration will once again undermine the NIH when they should be boosting it,\u201d Durbin continued.\n\nPresident Trump has been adamant on gutting the NIH and medical research. For years, it was the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases that navigated our country through infectious disease threats and prevention. Unfortunately, this proposed plan to transfer as much as one-third of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases\u2019 budget over to the Pentagon would undermine this important mission and leave us vulnerable to future infectious disease threats.\n\nThe Pentagon received nearly $840 billion in the FY2026 appropriations bill and another $150 billion from the Republican reconciliation bill, which also gave the Department extraordinary discretion over how to spend the funds. Compared to DoD, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases received barely $6.6 billion in the FY26 appropriations bill.\n\nDurbin concluded, \u201cFor years, this investment in research at NIH has been worthwhile. This proposal to transfer one third of the agency\u2019s [NIAID] budget on infectious diseases is a mistake. DoD is increasing its investments in medical research, and that\u2019s a good thing\u2026 But we need to be committed all the way when it comes to funding NIH.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available herefor TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-slams-trump-administration-for-withholding-air-traffic-controllers-pay-raise", "Durbin Slams Trump Administration For Withholding Air Traffic Controllers\u2019 Pay Raise", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In April, Congress authorized a 3.8 percent pay raise for all air traffic controllers, but the Trump Administration is wrongfully delaying the implementation of the full raise\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today delivered a speech on the Senate floor condemning the Trump Administration for refusing to deliver air traffic controllers\u2019 congressionally authorized 3.8 percent pay raise because Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford argued that more controller productivity needs to be \u201cunlocked.\u201d In his remarks, Durbin underscored that air traffic controllers play a critical role in keeping fliers safe and that withholding their promised pay raise only exacerbates the stressful conditions that air traffic controllers already face.\n\nDurbin began his remarks by commending air traffic controllers on their commitment to the safety of air travelers. Despite Congress authorizing a 3.8 percent pay increase for air traffic controllers, they have only received the 1 percent pay increase authorized for all government employees.\n\n\u201cLater this afternoon, I\u2019ll take an airplane ride from Washington to Chicago\u2026 Once again, as I\u2019ve done thousands of times, I will entrust my safety and my future and my survival to a competent air crew, as well as the air traffic controllers of America. It is one of the most stressful jobs in the world. They work six-day weeks. Unfortunately, there\u2019s been proposals that they should not receive the pay raise that was promised,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nThe Trump Administration is directly responsible for withholding the promised pay raise, and Administration officials have gone so far as to publicly admit they are blocking its implementation.\n\n\u201cThis wasn\u2019t a mere oversight. It was intentional, and the Administration admitted it. In a recent interview, the FAA Administrator, Bryan Bedford, was asked what was delaying this payment to the air traffic controllers. He told the reporter, the Administration needs to \u2018unlock more productivity,\u2019 and that the data regarding controller productivity is \u2018really, really poor,\u2019\u201d Durbin continued. \u201cWell, I\u2019d like to quote [Transportation] Secretary Duffy back to his own agency head by saying controllers \u2018need support, and they need money.\u2019\u201d\n\nDurbin concluded his remarks by calling on the Trump Administration to stop stalling and finally provide air traffic controllers with the pay raise they are owed.\n\n\u201cWe currently are understaffed when it comes to air traffic controllers. They are working six days a week on the most stressful job. Give them the pay raise that we promised and do it in a timely fashion,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nLast month, Durbin and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) wrote to FAA Administrator Bedford, urging him to quickly approve the controller pay increase already approved by Congress.\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s remarks on the Senate floor is available herefor TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-blackburn-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-emergency-communication-technology-that-could-help-save-lives-passes-committee", "Duckworth-Blackburn Bipartisan Bill to Improve Emergency Communication Technology That Could Help Save Lives Passes Committee", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) passed bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) that would improve emergency communication technology that could help save lives. The bipartisan ITS Codification Act would codify the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS), which currently serves as the research and engineering laboratory at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and require ITS to develop emergency communication and tracking technologies to help locate trapped individuals in confined spaces where conventional radio communication is limited. The House companion bill, led by U.S. Representatives \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA-01) and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-7), passed the House by voice vote in July 2025. The legislation will now be considered by the full Senate.\n\n\u201cWhen people are in crisis and find themselves trapped in confined spaces, how quickly our first responders are able to conduct search and rescue often depends on these workers\u2019 access to modern, reliable technology to save precious time,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cNow that our bipartisan legislation has passed committee, the Senate must pass it swiftly so we can help ensure our first responders have the technology they need to save lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s leadership in wireless technology depends on making the most efficient use of our spectrum resources,\u201d said Blackburn. \u201cThe ITS Codification Act will strengthen the research and engineering capabilities that help us identify new opportunities for spectrum sharing, support commercial innovation, and protect critical federal missions. This bill also helps ensure our first responders have access to reliable, cutting-edge communications technology when every second counts. I\u2019m pleased the Commerce Committee advanced this bipartisan legislation, and I look forward to seeing it move quickly through the Senate.\u201d\n\nThis legislation comes at a time when Illinois leads the United States in the most tornado reports in 2026 by a wide margin. The bill would help expedite recovery efforts for those impacted by events such as tornadoes, who may get trapped in rubble left from fallen buildings. The technology provided by the ITS Codification Act would help locate tornado victims, along with other victims of natural disasters, or crises such as underground mining accidents.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-delivers-opening-statement-during-senate-judiciary-committee-nominations-hearing1", "Durbin Delivers Opening Statement During Senate Judiciary Committee Nominations Hearing", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 During today\u2019s Senate Judiciary Committee nominations hearing, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered an opening statement in which he slammed President Trump and the Trump Administration for the blatant weaponization and politicization of the Department of Justice (DOJ).\n\nToday\u2019s Committee hearing will consider the nominations of Daniel Ballou, to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Richard Bennett, to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas; Courtney Coker, to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas; Trevor Pemberton, to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma; Kyle Reardon, to the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska; and Zachary West, to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.\n\nKey Quotes:\n\n\u201cHistorically, the Justice Department has been afforded a presumption of regularity, meaning that courts presume that an [Assistant U.S. Attorney\u2019s] representations can be trusted\u2014deference not afforded to many private litigants.\u201d\n\n\u201cBut the Justice Department under this President and Attorney General has upended this presumption of regularity by weaponizing the Department of Justice to protect the President and his followers and target anyone who dares to cross him.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a result, federal judges across the country, even those appointed by Presidents of the Republican Party, have found that the Justice Department has made misrepresentations to the court\u2014an egregious act for any officer of the court, let alone a federal prosecutor. From January 2025 to March 2026, judges in at least 90 cases stated on the record that they distrusted the Justice Department\u2019s representations.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith the midterms fast approaching, the Trump Administration is using the vast resources of the Justice Department to politicize the agency and interfere with the election. Look no further than Attorney General Blanche\u2019s speech last week at the Republican midterm convention in Texas, the first time a sitting attorney general has spoken at a party convention in decades. Instead of avoiding partisan rallies or any actions that that could create the impression of interfering in the electoral process, the Attorney General did just the opposite.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Justice Department has sued 30 states seeking unredacted voter lists, including personal information like driver\u2019s license numbers and partial Social Security numbers, all in an attempt to prove there is widespread voter fraud that has never been established.\u201d\n\n\u201cAfter not winning a single case and losing 23 of them, President Trump and Attorney General Blanche have turned in their desperation to intimidating state election officials and voters\u2014even at polling sites.\u201d\n\n\u201cJust weeks ago, DOJ election monitors showed up unannounced at polling locations in Wyoming during primary elections, trying to interview voters and examining voting machines.\u201d\n\n\u201cAt a time when DOJ has upended norms and traditions so drastically that it has lost the presumption of regularity in many courtrooms, it is more important than ever that the federal judiciary hold this weaponized agency to account. I hope the nominees before us today can demonstrate that they will do that by putting the rule of law above partisan politics.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here for TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-honored-by-healing-our-waters-great-lakes-coalition", "Durbin Honored By Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The organization presented Durbin with artwork in recognition of his decades of work to protect the Great Lakes\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with the Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition, an organization made up of more than 200 environmental, conservation, outdoor-recreation, and community organizations focused on restoring and protecting our Great Lakes. During their meeting, the Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition presented Durbin with an art piece in recognition of his decades of work to protect the Great Lakes.\n\nDurbin reflected on his work with the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), which has provided more than $4 billion in the past 16 years for projects that restore habitat, fight invasive species, clean up toxic pollution, and reduce pollution runoff. Because of the Initiative\u2019s advocacy, Illinois has received more than $300 million in federal funding for nearly 300 projects.\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes is one of the Midwest\u2019s most valuable resources, and I take seriously the commitment to preserve its beauty,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cI\u2019m grateful to the Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition for being my partner in championing projects like the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to protect the Great Lakes for future generations to enjoy.\u201d\n\nA photo from the meeting is available here.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-meets-with-united-counties-council-of-illinois", "Durbin Meets With United Counties Council Of Illinois", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) yesterday met with the United Counties Council of Illinois (UCCI)\u2014a delegation of roughly 40 county-elected officials\u2014to discuss the importance of expanding access to SNAP benefits, measures to ensure Social Security solvency, and the implications of data centers throughout Illinois. During the meeting, Durbin and UCCI members spoke about the importance of a robust surface transportation reauthorization to ensure that Illinois transportation projects funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act can continue.\n\n\u201cOur government is at its best when our local, state, and federal officials are working together. I hosted county officials from across Illinois for a conversation about how our federal government can support counties in achieving our shared goals,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nPhotos of the meeting is available here.\n\nCounties with representatives at the meeting include:\n\nBond County\n\nBoone County\n\nBureau County\n\nCalhoun County\n\nChampaign County\n\nHenry County\n\nIroquois County\n\nJackson County\n\nJasper County\n\nJefferson County\n\nKane County\n\nKankakee County\n\nKendall County\n\nLee County\n\nLivingston County\n\nLogan County\n\nMadison County\n\nOgle County\n\nPeoria County\n\nSaline County\n\nStephenson County\n\nWill County\n\nWilliamson County\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-questions-judicial-nominees-during-senate-judiciary-committee-hearing1", "Durbin Questions Judicial Nominees During Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned judicial nominees during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing.\n\nDurbin first questioned Judge Daniel Ballou, nominated to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, about his concerning comments involving specialty courts. Judge Ballou called specialty courts, such as drug courts, \u201csocial engineering,\u201d and claimed they were \u201cdoing great harm by validating and encouraging excuse making and promoting a lack of accountability.\u201d During his questioning, Durbin noted he disagrees with Judge Ballou\u2019s views on specialty courts. Department of Justice and Government Accountability Office research has shown that drug treatment courts significantly reduce recidivism, save costs for the criminal justice system, and reduce drug use.\n\n\u201cCan you explain that [Judge Ballou\u2019s past statements on specialty courts]?\u201d Durbin asked.\n\nJudge Ballou doubled down on his previous comments about specialty courts and noted they are \u201cavenues for excuse makings.\u201d\n\nDurbin then asked Judge Trevor Pemberton, nominated to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma, and Zachary West, nominated to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, about their anti-abortion records.\n\nIn 2022 and 2023, Mr. West defended Oklahoma\u2019s draconian abortion restrictions before the Oklahoma Supreme Court\u2014including limitations on medication abortion and a law that would have prohibited nearly all abortions, even if the life of the mother was at stake. Judge Pemberton called this same Oklahoma Supreme Court decision, where a woman has a right to terminate her pregnancy to preserve her life, \u201cremarkably troubling.\u201d\n\n\u201cCan you explain today your thoughts on that issue\u2014and whether there should be an exception to save the life of the pregnant mother?\u201d Durbin asked.\n\nMr. West deflected Durbin\u2019s question by stating the topic of abortion is a \u201cpolitical debate.\u201d\n\n\u201cJudge Pemberton, you said that you found that decision by the Oklahoma Supreme Court [that a woman has a right to terminate her pregnancy] to preserve her life to be \u2018remarkably troubling.\u2019 Is that your view today?\u201d Durbin asked.\n\nLike Mr. West, Judge Pemberton deflected noting that as a judicial nominee, he could not comment on abortion.\n\nDurbin then asked Judge Pemberton about his record advocating against tribal sovereignty.\n\n\u201cCould you please state your position or at least whether you will follow precedent when it comes to tribal sovereignty?\u201d Durbin asked.\n\nDespite his record, Judge Pemberton responded that he is not opposed to tribal sovereignty.\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s questions in Committee is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s questions in Committee is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s questions in Committee is available herefor TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-lead-illinois-lawmakers-in-urging-president-trump-to-grant-major-disaster-declaration-for-illinois-counties-following-severe-weather", "Durbin, Duckworth Lead Illinois Lawmakers In Urging President Trump To Grant Major Disaster Declaration For Illinois Counties Following Severe Weather", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth today led all members of the Illinois delegation in sending a bipartisan letter to President Trump urging the White House to grant Governor JB Pritzker\u2019s request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration authorizing federal assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA), to help Champaign, Cook, Ford, Fulton, McLean, Tazewell, Vermilion, and Will Counties recover from severe storm damage. During the period of August 11-16, severe storms\u2014including tornadoes, straight-line winds, and a derecho\u2014crossed the state, resulting in serious damage to Illinoisans\u2019 homes and businesses.\n\nToday\u2019s letter comes after the Trump Administration twice rejected FEMA aid for Illinois storm victims impacted by severe weather in summer 2025. The Trump Administration offered no serious justification for the repeated rejections. In their letter, the lawmakers request immediate support for Illinois for August\u2019s storms, emphasizing that the severity of damage justifies swift assistance from the federal government. Notably, FEMA has already approved a major disaster declaration request from the Indiana state government for the same storm system, which swept through both Illinois and Indiana in August.\n\n\u201cWe write in support of Illinois Governor JB Pritzker\u2019s request for federal assistance for the State of Illinois to help eight Illinois counties recover from severe storm damage that occurred from August 11-16, 2026,\u201d wrote the lawmakers.\n\n\u201cGovernor Pritzker has indicated that this incident is of such severity and magnitude that an effective response is beyond the capabilities of the state and local governments. We support his request for authorization of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Individual Assistance (IA) and Public Assistance (PA)in the impacted counties, and Hazard Mitigation statewide. Additionally, we support his request for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) physical and economic injury disaster declaration for the affected counties. This would enable low interest SBA disaster loans, including physical and economic injury loans, to support affected individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\n\u201cThe initial weather system on August 11 resulted in a derecho across Northern Illinois, producing widespread winds of 70 mph and eight tornadoes with peak winds near 115 mph. Follow-on storms repeatedly struck the same regions with severe weather, exacerbating the wind damage and resulting in historic levels of rainfall in some counties. All eight counties experienced significant damage from downed trees, power outages, and flooding,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cSubsequent damage has impacted homeowners, businesses, roadways, and infrastructure. As such, the Governor seeks timely federal assistance from FEMA and SBA.\u201d\n\nFull text of the letter is available here and below:\n\nSeptember 16, 2026\n\nDear Mr. President:\n\nWe write in support of Illinois Governor JB Pritzker\u2019s request for federal assistance for the State of Illinois to help eight Illinois counties recover from severe storm damage that occurred from August 11-16, 2026. Specifically, he requests a Major Disaster Declaration for Champaign, Cook, Ford, Fulton, McLean, Tazewell, Vermilion, and Will Counties.\n\nGovernor Pritzker has indicated that this incident is of such severity and magnitude that an effective response is beyond the capabilities of the state and local governments. We support his request for authorization of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Individual Assistance (IA) and Public Assistance (PA)in the impacted counties, and Hazard Mitigation statewide. Additionally, we support his request for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) physical and economic injury disaster declaration for the affected counties. This would enable low interest SBA disaster loans, including physical and economic injury loans, to support affected individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations.\n\nDuring the August 11-16, 2026, period, a multi-day severe weather episode passed through Champaign, Cook, Ford, Fulton, McLean, Tazewell, Vermilion, and Will Counties, resulting in multiple rounds of severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding. The initial weather system on August 11 resulted in a derecho across Northern Illinois, producing widespread winds of 70 mph and eight tornadoes with peak winds near 115 mph. Follow-on storms repeatedly struck the same regions with severe weather, exacerbating the wind damage and resulting in historic levels of rainfall in some counties. All eight counties experienced significant damage from downed trees, power outages, and flooding. Subsequent damage has impacted homeowners, businesses, roadways, and infrastructure. As such, the Governor seeks timely federal assistance from FEMA and SBA.\n\nThank you in advance for your consideration of this important request. We stand ready\n\nto assist in any way appropriate.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/after-duckworth-push-dod-inspector-general-releases-first-quarterly-iran-war-report", "After Duckworth Push, DoD Inspector General Releases First Quarterly Iran War Report", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Following U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth\u2019s (D-IL) push, the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG), as the Lead OIG on the war, released its first quarterly watchdog report on Operation Epic Fury after Duckworth called for and then secured Inspector General (IG) oversight of Donald Trump\u2019s costly, illegal war against Iran. The report details how the first four months of this war, ending in June, cost American taxpayers a whopping $33.7 billion dollars\u2014including $22 billion spent on munitions alone and $184 million in damages from Iranian strikes on U.S. diplomatic facilities in the Middle East.\n\n\u201cFor the first time in nearly eight months, the American people finally have an official glimpse into the cost of this disastrous war\u2014and it is jaw-dropping. On top of the financial pain being inflicted on middle-class pocketbooks, this report sheds new light on how this illegal war is making all Americans less safe by draining our military resources and hollowing out the diplomatic footprint that we sorely need at full strength to end this war. And make no mistake: this report is still a gross underestimate of the grand total that taxpayers are already on the hook for.\n\n\u201cOur servicemembers are exhausted, our munitions are depleted, our diplomatic capabilities have been wrecked and 18 of our troops will never come home. The American people deserve transparency about how their taxpayer dollars are being spent and how their national security is being weakened by this quagmire that is leaving them worse off.\n\n\u201cNo matter how hard the Administration tries to keep us in the dark, I will keep demanding answers, accountability and an end to Trump\u2019s costly war of choice.\u201d\n\nThe DoD OIG\u2019s first quarterly report is the first government accounting to pull together, across Federal agencies, the costs, scope and scale of the opening silos of Trump\u2019s disastrous war, which has resulted in the deaths of 18 brave servicemembers. The report illuminates exactly how Donald Trump\u2019s reckless, unjustified war has pushed U.S. military and diplomatic infrastructure to the brink, creating urgent munitions shortfalls, siphoning money intended to cover payroll for our troops and personnel, redirecting resources from the Indo-Pacific and other critical national security priorities and leaving the Trump administration scrambling and dangerously unprepared for future contingencies and emergencies abroad. It confirms that Donald Trump blew at least $33.7 billion dollars in the first four months of his reckless war, a cost that does not include millions in repairs to military and diplomatic facilities that the Department of Defense has not yet quantified and likely undercounts necessary diplomatic repairs, by the State Department\u2019s own admission.\n\nAdditionally, following a request from Duckworth and other Senate Democrats, today the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) independently estimated that approximately $38 billion has been spent on Trump\u2019s war through the end of July, with each concurrent month set to rack up another $2-3 billion in spending. That estimate is likely a significant underestimate, as it misses various costs such as damaged facilities or fuel expenditure.\n\nDuckworth has been an outspoken critic of Trump\u2019s illegal, needless war in Iran since it began. She is one of the Senate Six\u2014the original group of Senators who have been forcing votes on War Powers Resolutions that would cease hostilities in Iran, which Republicans have shamefully blocked nine times. Last month, the Senator introduced legislation to stop Trump\u2019s desperate attempt to obscure how long his illegal war against Iran has lasted, dishonor the sacrifice of our troops injured and killed in combat and hide the true cost of his disastrous war from the American people.\n\nAhead of the Senate\u2019s vote on her own War Powers resolution in April, Duckworth gave impassioned remarks drawing on her personal experience serving in our nation\u2019s last war of choice in the Middle East, imploring Republicans to remember their oaths and vote to help rein in this unhinged President\u2014which they did not.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-more-than-66-million-for-illinois-airport-improvements", "Duckworth, Durbin Announce More Than $66 Million for Illinois Airport Improvements", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced a total of $66,345,494 in federal funding for infrastructure improvements at various airports across the state. This funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s Federal Aviation Administration will help improve taxiways, accommodate more passengers and make travelling through Illinois airports safer and more efficient.\n\n\u201cIllinois\u2019s airports not only keep passengers moving, but they also connect our communities, support local businesses and provide good jobs for families across the state,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cThis investment will help grow, modernize and expand our airports across the state. Together, we will keep working alongside our local leaders to advocate for federal funding that will make our skies safer, make traveling easier and support economic development across Illinois.\u201d\n\n\u201cIllinoisans rely on our airports to stay connected to loved ones, to travel for work, and to explore the best of the Midwest,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cInvesting in our airports means better, safer service for Illinois\u2019 travelers, so with this funding from FAA, our airports can expand their runways, improve safety, and deliver for fliers.\u201d\n\nRecipients of funding through the Federal Aviation Administration\u2019s Airport Improvement Grant Program include:\n\nIllinois State Block Grant Program (Statewide): $28,540,776\n\nSt. Louis Downtown Airport (Cahokia): $11,020,583\n\nSt. Louis Downtown Airport (Cahokia): $68,400\n\nDuPage Airport (West Chicago): $250,800\n\nLansing Municipal Airport (Lansing): $1,449,196\n\nLewis University Airport (Romeoville): $3,267,881\n\nState of Illinois (Statewide): $1,896,372\n\nScott AFB/MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (Mascoutah): $1,149,763\n\nChicago Midway International Airport (Chicago): $5,475,808\n\nQuad Cities International Airport (Moline): $210,045\n\nVeterans Airport of Southern Illinois (Marion): $1,176,548\n\nAbraham Lincoln Capital Airport (Springfield): $11,839,322\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-grills-director-patel-on-record-of-failed-leadership-at-fbi-in-senate-judiciary-committee-oversight-hearing", "Durbin Grills Director Patel On Record Of Failed Leadership At FBI In Senate Judiciary Committee Oversight Hearing", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "During the hearing, Director Patel deflected Durbin\u2019s questions by denying that federal agents shot Chicagoan Marimar Martinez; refusing to comment on whether there are investigations into fraud perpetrated by Trump Admin officials; and misrepresenting the change in FBI hiring standards\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, questioned Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel in today\u2019s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing conducting oversight of the FBI. During the hearing, Durbin grilled Director Patel on the Trump Administration\u2019s destructive and violent immigration enforcement campaigns; the gutting of FBI hiring standards; his role in covering up the Epstein files; and the perpetration of rampant corruption and fraud within the Trump Administration.\n\nDurbin began by pressing Director Patel about his failure to acknowledge that federal agents acted inappropriately during Operation Midway Blitz and Operation Metro Surge, in which multiple U.S. citizens were shot or killed by federal agents. Rather than follow protocol, Director Patel dismissed the incidents and refused to properly open a federal civil rights investigation.\n\n\u201cOne year ago, my home state of Illinois was experiencing the beginning of a ruthless, reckless, deadly campaign orchestrated by this Administration known as \u2018Midway Blitz.\u2019 Masked federal agents armed with military grade weapons and unmarked vehicles descended on Chicago and other communities, bashing in car windows, indiscriminately rounding up people, deploying chemical agents, and shooting innocent people,\u201d Durbin began. \u201cA border patrol agent shot U.S. citizen and Chicago native Marimar Martinez five times after sideswiping her vehicle. She survived. After Ms. Martinez was shot, DHS [U.S. Department of Homeland Security] branded her as a domestic terrorist. A border patrol agent bragged about shooting her. And an FBI agent falsely claimed she chased a border patrol agent before she was shot.\u201d\n\n\u201cDirector Patel, after the shooting, you took to social media, posted a video of a different collision, that you said supported DHS. He [Patel] said, \u2018Attack our law enforcement and this FBI will find you and bring you to justice.\u2019 DHS and FBI have since refused to correct the record. [DOJ dropped] charges against Ms. Martinez, who was shot five times by these agents,\u201d Durbin said.\n\n\u201cIn another event, an ICE agent shot and killed Silverio Villegas-Gonzalez shortly after he dropped his children off at school and daycare. Publicly released video footage and the ICE agent\u2019s own statement contradict DHS claims that the ICE agent who shot him was \u2018dragged a significant distance\u2019 and \u2018feared for his life.\u2019 In the past, the FBI would have swiftly responded to these shootings, gathering evidence and working with the Justice Department\u2019s Civil Rights Division to conduct a civil rights investigation. But not now,\u201d Durbin continued.\n\n\u201cDirector Patel, why has the FBI refused to investigate either of these shootings?\u201d Durbin pressed.\n\nDirector Patel asserted that the incidents are under investigation. However, the FBI has provided no information about civil rights investigations in either case.\n\n\u201cDo you still stand behind the false statements you made on social media after Marimar Martinez was shot?\u201d Durbin replied.\n\nDirector Patel deflected, offering a flimsy explanation that his statements were \u201cclipped together to make it sound like I lied.\u201d\n\nPushing back on the claims Director Patel made on social media, which he emphasized that he stands by, Durbin responded, \u201cLet me quote what you said: \u2018Attack our law enforcement and the FBI will find you and bring you to justice.\u2019 Were you bringing her to justice by shooting her five times?\u201d\n\n\u201cWe didn\u2019t shoot her,\u201d Director Patel claimed despite body camera footage from the incident and text messages from the federal immigration agent who shot Ms. Martinez making clear that she was shot five times by the federal agent.\n\n\u201cThe federal government did, and you are responsible for determining whether there was any violation of federal rights statutes, and you refuse to do so. Unfortunately giving a blank slate to these agents is not an encouragement for good conduct, and you know that as well as I do,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nDurbin then questioned Director Patel about the FBI\u2019s recent decision to gut hiring standards. In June, the FBI reportedly revised their hiring policy to remove theft from an employer, sex solicitation, and bestiality from the list of automatic hiring disqualifications; however, some of these changes may have been quietly implemented as early as February 2025. Yesterday, Durbin led all Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats in demanding a justification for the degradation of hiring standards, emphasizing that hiring candidates with a history of this conduct makes federal agencies more vulnerable to black mail or counterintelligence exposure.\n\n\u201cAccording to a memo issued this June, the FBI has lowered its hiring standards by dropping automatic disqualification for applicants who have stolen from prior employers, paid for sex, or engaged in bestiality. In July, you claimed the FBI is \u2018losing too many qualified candidates to the rigors and requirements from yesteryear.\u2019 Director Patel, do you believe those who have previously stolen from employers, solicited sex, or engaged in bestiality are qualified candidates the FBI is losing?\u201d Durbin asked.\n\nDirector Patel misrepresented the change in hiring standards, arguing that the change was to prevent victims of these acts from being automatically disqualified. Further hedging his track record of purging career FBI officials, Director Patel offered statistics about a recent uptick in hiring; however, Director Patel has purged more than 5,000 nonpartisan career personnel from the agency, including all six former Executive Assistant Directors and at least 18 Special Agents in Charge with little to no explanation.\n\n\u201cWhat I\u2019m reading to you is that you dropped automatic disqualification for applicants who have been engaged in bestiality. Not victims of bestiality\u2014applicants who have engaged,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nDurbin then grilled Director Patel on his direct involvement in covering up the Epstein files.\n\n\u201cOn the Epstein files, do you believe the files contain no meaningful evidence of wrongdoing by others who have not been charged so far?\u201d Durbin asked.\n\nRather than answer Durbin\u2019s question, Director Patel spoke about the number of pages released of the Epstein files. Notably, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Inspector General (OIG) has launched a probe into whether the DOJ properly complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, as many of the documents were not released on the timeline laid out by the law.\n\n\u201cHe just missed one important point. You may remember it. Congress had to pass a law requiring the disclosure of the Epstein files. We had to wait until a woman was elected to Congress to give us the necessary votes in the House to discharge the bill and force a vote in the House on the release of the Epstein files. This was not volunteered by the Trump Administration. It took a law to force them to do it,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nDurbin concluded by questioning Director Patel about the blatant corruption committed by Trump Administration officials without consequence.\n\n\u201cYou\u2019ve touted the Trump Administration and FBI success in cracking down on fraud and corruption. In a press conference in June, you stated, \u2018You should take a look at what leadership from the White House and President Trump\u2019s prioritization to go after and combat fraud looks like. Fraud is no longer being tolerated. It\u2019s not being put up with,\u2019\u201d Durbin said.\n\n\u201cRecent reports, Mr. Patel, have revealed that Corey Lewandowski, while he was at the Department of Homeland Security, approached senior officials from Qatar and UAE, offering to represent them on the side [on] issues that fell under DHS purview. Director Patel, was the FBI aware of Corey Lewandowski\u2019s efforts to sell access to government services for personal gain before this report was published?\u201d Durbin asked.\n\nDirector Patel denied knowledge of Mr. Lewandowski\u2019s actions.\n\n\u201cHas the FBI initiated any investigation into these allegations regarding Mr. Lewandowski?\u201d Durbin pushed further.\n\nDirector Patel deflected the question, asserting that this falls under DHS\u2019 purview.\n\n\u201cYou can\u2019t say that the FBI has done any investigation into this allegation?\u201d Durbin replied.\n\n\u201cI will not comment on that,\u201d Director Patel answered.\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s questions in Committee is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s questions in Committee is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s questions in Committee is available here for TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kash-patel-is-the-least-qualified-and-most-partisan-fbi-director-in-our-nations-history-durbin-says-in-opening-statement-in-senate-judiciary-committee-fbi-oversight-hearing", "\u201cKash Patel Is The Least Qualified And Most Partisan FBI Director In Our Nation\u2019s History,\u201d Durbin Says In Opening Statement In Senate Judiciary Committee FBI Oversight Hearing", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In his opening statement, Durbin criticized Director Patel\u2019s failed leadership, citing his weaponization of the FBI, his involvement in covering up the Epstein files, his misuse of FBI resources, and more\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered an opening statement in today\u2019s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing conducting oversight on the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) featuring testimony from FBI Director Kash Patel. During his remarks, Durbin underscored that Americans are less safe with Kash Patel leading the FBI as he is far more concerned with weaponizing the agency against the President\u2019s perceived political enemies while covering up the wrongdoings of President Trump\u2019s allies. Further, Director Patel\u2019s personal conduct\u2014wasting and exploiting FBI resources and failing to account for when official business ends and personal recreation begins\u2014has shown that he is a liability to national security.\n\nKey Quotes:\n\n\u201cLet me say at the outset, that we just heard again, an introduction by the Chairman [Grassley] that gave reference to Crossfire Hurricane and a lot of things that are in the history of the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Over a year ago, all of the Democrats on this Committee said, \u2018Stop giving these speeches, and bring the people before us to testify under oath as to what actually happened.\u2019\u201d\n\n\u201cJack Smith, the special counsel, who is a constant reference point when it comes to this \u2018Grand Conspiracy,\u2019 has volunteered for more than a year to appear before this Committee under oath and answer the questions. What more could we ask of him?\u201d\n\n\u201cPerhaps in a few weeks when we have been promised he will show up, they [Republicans] could start by explaining, why did you wait a year if we are talking about a \u2018Grand Conspiracy?\u2019 Jack Smith, the special counsel, will be under oath before this committee. Each of us will have a chance to ask pertinent questions to clear it up. For some reason, the decision was made at some level to let this controversy fester rather than bring the person in who could actually answer the questions.\u201d\n\n\u201cDirector Robert Mueller led the FBI at this tumultuous time [post-9/11]. He, more than any single individual, was responsible for modernizing the FBI to combat the threats we face in the 21st century. I was proud to work with him on a bipartisan basis\u2026 We didn\u2019t always agree, but I always respected him. He was a patriot and a person of honesty and integrity.\u201d\n\n\u201cModernizing the FBI has not been an easy process. Balancing a growing focus on national security and terrorism prevention efforts with traditional work investigating white-collar crime and corruption has taken a lot of time and effort. Over the years, the FBI, as it gained more authorities, at times in history, misused it. There is still work to be done to earn public trust and ensure the most powerful federal investigative agency in the world only engages in lawful operations.\u201d\n\n\u201cContinuing to meet new threats while tackling these challenges requires steady, committed leadership from someone who understands the stakes and has the humility to lead as a servant of the public, like Bob Mueller. Sadly for the American people, the current director does not meet these standards. Mr. Patel is the least qualified and most partisan FBI Director in our nation\u2019s history. He does not have the judgment, experience, or temperament of Director Mueller.\u201d\n\n\u201cBefore he was confirmed, Mr. Patel falsely claimed in public that the FBI \u2018was planning January 6 for a year.\u2019 He compiled an enemies list of public servants he called \u2018government gangsters\u2019 who he promised to target if he was confirmed as head of the FBI.\u201d\n\n\u201cDespite the warnings of Senate Democrats during his confirmation hearing, our Republican colleagues chose to ignore these facts to prioritize President Trump\u2019s retribution campaign over the safety of Americans. They joined on a partisan basis, confirming Director Patel to lead the FBI.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnder Mr. Patel\u2019s failed leadership, decades of efforts to modernize and reform the FBI are being undone, and the Bureau has been reshaped as a political weapon against President Trump\u2019s political enemies and a shield to protect the President and his MAGA loyalists\u2014not the American people. Director Patel has been the central figure pushing the so-called \u2018Grand Conspiracy,\u2019 diverting FBI resources to inane debunked conspiracy theories that the \u2018deep state\u2019 has been targeting President Trump since his first campaign.\u201d\n\n\u201cDirector Patel is also wasting FBI resources to relitigate the 2020 presidential election. How many times have nominees who are judges, respected professionals, professors come before this Committee and refused to acknowledge what every eighth-grader in America knows? President Trump lost the 2020 election to Joe Biden by 7 million votes. That\u2019s simple. It\u2019s obvious. It\u2019s a matter of fact. Yet, these nominees refused to acknowledge that reality because this is part of the great conspiracy theory that Trump never loses anything.\u201d\n\n\u201cTo weaponize the FBI against the President\u2019s opponents, Director Patel has overseen a purge of thousands of law enforcement officials. From analysts and agents to the most senior leadership, the Bureau has been deprived of tens of thousands of years of cumulative experience.\u201d\n\n\u201cDirector Patel has installed MAGA loyalists as political appointees in key career positions. And he even imposed loyalty tests, requiring FBI officials to undergo polygraphs to say whether they ever criticize him.\u201d\n\n\u201cThousands of agents have been reassigned from their primary criminal and national security mission to immigration enforcement, with the number of FBI personnel working on immigration matters increasing by over 2,000 percent as of last September.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn total, over 9,000 FBI personnel\u201425 percent of the Bureau\u2014worked on immigration cases between January and September of last year. As part of this shift in resources, the Department of Justice shut down almost 23,000 criminal cases in the first six months of the Trump Administration.\u201d\n\n\u201cTo replace the career professionals he purged, Director Patel has gutted hiring standards. Today will be his opportunity under oath to answer some basic questions about the standards being used for new FBI agents. In an interview in July, he claimed the FBI is \u2018losing too many qualified candidates to the rigors of the requirements from yesteryear.\u2019 What are those so-called obsolete requirements? According to a memo issued in June, the FBI has removed from its list of automatic hiring disqualifications theft from an employer, sex solicitation, and bestiality.\u201d\n\n\u201cTo add insult to injury, Director Patel is trying to take credit for the successful efforts of state and local law enforcement to reduce violent crime. The reality is that violent crime spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic and has been steadily and consistently declining since 2022. Every member of this Committee knows that our state and local police \u2013 not the FBI \u2013 are primarily responsible for combatting violent crime. Don\u2019t believe me? Look at the data. Cities where the National Guard or other federal forces were not deployed had a 2025 drop in violent crime similar to the cities where they were deployed.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is misleading and offensive for this Administration \u2013 which has coddled January 6 rioters by giving them full, unconditional pardons from the President as one of his first acts in office. This Administration has ended the careers of thousands of professional FBI agents because they didn\u2019t meet some political test and blocked hundreds of millions of dollars in grants to local law enforcement\u2013 to claim credit for the work of our brave frontline police officers. That is not \u2018backing the blue\u2019 by any standard.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn fact, the cities where federal forces were deployed experienced widespread abuses of the constitutional rights of their residents\u2014including multiple lethal shootings of American citizens.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe FBI is charged with investigating deadly uses of force by federal agents, but it has turned its back on its duties under Director Patel. Instead, the Department of Homeland Security is now the primary investigator of whether its own poorly vetted and trained employees violated the law during the ill-conceived missions.\u201d\n\n\u201cDirector Patel has also played a key role in the Trump Administration\u2019s cover up of the Epstein files. Director Patel diverted more than a thousand FBI agents from their critical missions to work on 24-hour shifts reviewing every page of the Epstein files. These personnel were instructed to \u2018flag\u2019 any records in which President Trump\u2019s name was mentioned. That review ended in an unsigned memorandum from the Department of Justice and FBI simply claiming, \u2018there is no incriminating client list.\u2019 Director Patel has still not responded to our letter from more than a year ago asking about his personal role in this cover-up. But we now know that Director Patel reportedly joined a meeting in the White House Situation Room about how to protect the President from the fallout from this cover up of the Epstein files.\u201d\n\n\u201cDirector Patel failed to ensure the Trump Administration actually released, as they were required, everything about Epstein and his co-conspirators. This has come at the expense of the American people, who deserve transparency. And it has also been at the expense of the survivors of Epstein\u2019s abuse, who deserve justice and accountability.\u201d\n\n\u201cSo today, we find ourselves in a position where the FBI is expending immense resources to protect President Trump politically and deliver retribution to his enemies\u2014but is diverting resources away from protecting the safety, security, and rights of ordinary Americans and their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cI was proud to be part of bipartisan efforts over the many years to ensure the FBI protected both the security and freedom of the American people. And I\u2019m disappointed that this Committee has stood by since January 2025 as that work has been undone.\u201d\n\n\u201cI look forward to a day \u2013 hopefully in the near future \u2013 when this Committee will fulfill its duty to hold Director Patel accountable for his leadership.\u201d\n\nVideo of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nAudio of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here.\n\nFootage of Durbin\u2019s opening statement is available here for TV Stations.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/in-chicago-duckworth-visits-illinois-quantum-and-microelectronics-park-to-highlight-illinoiss-leadership-in-quantum-innovation", "In Chicago, Duckworth Visits Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park to Highlight Illinois\u2019s Leadership in Quantum Innovation", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[CHICAGO, IL] \u2014 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) last week visited Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) to tour the construction progress and meet with leaders from IQMP and PsiQuantum about opportunities to harness quantum innovation and strengthen national security. IQMP is a first-of-its-kind campus built to house a central base on Chicago\u2019s South Side where quantum companies, researchers, manufacturers and suppliers can come together to tackle challenges in healthcare, energy, communications and more. Photos from the meeting are available on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cIllinois is leading a quantum revolution, and it\u2019s about to take off on Chicago\u2019s South Side,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cFrom Japan to Taiwan and all around the world, I\u2019ve praised Illinois as the perfect place for more investments in quantum\u2014and today\u2019s progress is yet another example of why that couldn\u2019t be more true. More investments in quantum means more investments in our national security, in finding cures to diseases, in bending the curve on climate change and more. With the construction of this first of its kind quantum campus, I\u2019m eager see these advancements help bolster the strength of our state and region\u2019s manufacturing.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Duckworth has been a tremendous champion at the federal level, helping advance quantum investment and establish Illinois as a global destination for quantum discovery and commercialization,\u201d said Harley Johnson, CEO of the IQMP. \u201cIt was an honor to welcome her to the IQMP today and show her firsthand the ecosystem we're building. We look forward to continuing this partnership as we work to advance quantum technology in a way that benefits our state and the people who call it home.\u201d\n\n\u201cPsiQuantum is proud to be the anchor tenant at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in South Chicago,\u201d said Victor Peng, Chief Executive Officer of PsiQuantum. \u201cTogether with the strong support and bipartisan leadership of elected officials like Senator Duckworth, we are creating the jobs of the future, supporting area businesses, partnering closely alongside the local community, and ultimately bringing this technology to life in Illinois.\u201d\n\nDuckworth has been a leading advocate for bringing quantum investment to Illinois. Last month, as a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, she traveled to Japan to underscore Illinois\u2019s preparedness for additional international investments in the quantum sector, meeting with business leaders from Toshiba and IBM to strengthen partnerships and showcase the state\u2019s leadership in quantum innovation.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-blumenthal-padilla-whitehouse-jayapal-raskin-introduce-cra-resolution-of-disapproval-regarding-regulation-that-changes-how-international-students-and-journalists-maintain-immigration-status", "Durbin, Blumenthal, Padilla, Whitehouse, Jayapal, Raskin Introduce CRA Resolution Of Disapproval Regarding Regulation That Changes How International Students & Journalists Maintain Immigration Status", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), all members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval regarding a regulation, entitled \u201cEstablishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media,\u201d which changes how international students and journalists maintain their immigration status. U.S. Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Angus King (I-ME), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined as cosponsors. U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07) and Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08) are leading the House companion.\n\nFor more than 40 years, F-1 visa students, J-1 visa exchange visitors, and I visa international journalists have been permitted to remain in the U.S. for as long as they engage in the activity that qualifies them for the visa, a practice known as \u201cduration of status.\u201d However, on July 17, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule that eliminates duration of status and requires recipients of F-1 student visas and J-1 exchange visas to enter the U.S. for a fixed admission period capped at a maximum of four years; similarly, recipients of I visas would be admitted for the length of their project in the U.S. or a maximum of 240 days. The rule also includes significant limitations on transfers and changes of educational objectives for student visa recipients. Educational institutions, labor unions, and medical associations have raised serious concerns about this rule\u2019s impacts on the nation\u2019s ability to attract the best and brightest students to U.S. universities and to retain doctors in American communities that desperately need them. The rule is scheduled to go into effect on September 15.\n\n\u201cThis proposed rule is just another part of the Donald Trump-Stephen Miller mass deportation agenda. They want to make the immigration process so difficult, so cumbersome, and so onerous that legal immigrants decide to leave the U.S. or never come here at all\u2014which will result in the loss of talented, bright individuals who make America better,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cOur nation is already confronting a serious health workforce shortage. Now is not the time to make it even more difficult for health care professionals to care for our most vulnerable communities. I appreciate my Democratic colleagues in joining me on this important measure and encourage members on both sides of the aisle to support it.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur country benefits immensely from the international students, exchange visitors, and foreign media who come to the United States to share their skills with us. Killing this visa program will unfairly throw the lives of thousands of international students and journalists into turmoil. Many of those smart, talented visitors who we\u2019ll be turning away will find opportunities in other countries less short-sighted than ours, and we will be paying the price in reducing our global competitiveness for decades afterwards,\u201d said Blumenthal.\n\n\u201cInternational students deserve fair opportunities to receive an education in the United States. Students, exchange visitors, and foreign members of the media should never have to live in fear of the Administration\u2019s unprecedented attacks on legal immigration,\u201d said Padilla. \u201cDiversity is our country\u2019s strength, and international students and exchange visitors support American innovation, job growth, higher education, and global competitiveness. We have a responsibility to protect these visa holders, including international students who contribute to the culture of American universities and eventually to our nation\u2019s economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cRhode Island\u2019s institutions of higher education help power the Ocean State\u2019s economic competitiveness. International students and medical residents drive innovation, contribute to cutting-edge research, and spend big not only on tuition, but also at local restaurants and businesses. This Trump administration rule punishes international students, young doctors, and foreign journalists as well as local small businesses and universities as part of their extreme anti-immigration agenda,\u201d said Whitehouse.\n\n\u201cInternational students make our institutions of higher learning better for all students and create pipelines to ensure the best and brightest lend their talents to strengthen our economy and American innovation. We should be welcoming students, not wrapping the processes to obtain visas in layers of red tape. This has nothing to do with national security and everything to do with Trump and Stephen Miller\u2019s plan to prevent all forms of legal immigration. I first came to this country on a student visa and understand deeply just how important these visas are,\u201d said Jayapal.\n\n\u201cAmerica has always benefited from attracting brilliant students, researchers, doctors and journalists from around the world. The Trump Administration wants to obstruct that path with bureaucratic hurdles and quicksand designed to make legal immigration harder. This senseless rule will drive away talented people who come here to study, practice medicine, do research and contribute to our communities. It harms the American economy and American innovation and makes all of us worse off,\u201d said Raskin.\n\nBill text is available here.\n\nThis regulation will have adverse impacts on foreign students, international medical school graduates (residents), and foreign members of the media. The federal government last implemented a fixed period of admission for these visa categories in the 1970s, and the changes resulted in significant backlogs. This new regulation will likely yield the same result, as the most recent available data shows the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processing backlog at 12 million cases. Universities have predicted significant hardships for PhD students, who can often take as long as seven years to complete their programs. In addition, universities have expressed concerns that the strict regulation will prevent graduate students from changing their educational objective and prevent undergraduate students, including athletes, from transferring to another university in their first year of education or changing their majors. Medical associations have similarly raised concerns about the impacts of the rule on medical residents.\n\nThis rule is the most recent in a series of attempts by the Trump Administration to stop legal immigration to the United States. Last year, Senator Durbin led a group of 35 Senate Democrats in pressing the Trump Administration to reconsider the decision to revoke student visas without adequate notice. In April, Durbin led Judiciary Democrats in requesting the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct an independent investigation after the Trump Administration summarily halted most immigrant benefits processing for immigration applicants from 39 countries, stopped visa processing for immigrant visa applicants from 75 countries, and ended most refugee and asylum processing. In a separate letter to GAO, Durbin and his colleagues also requested GAO investigate the Trump Administration\u2019s attempts to \u201cre-review\u201d immigration benefits granted to all individuals from 39 countries who were approved under the Biden Administration\u2014including those who have since become U.S. citizens.\n\nThe CRA resolution of disapproval is endorsed by: AAMC - Association of American Medical Colleges; AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management; Alliance for International Exchange; American Academy of Family Physicians; American Academy of Pediatrics; American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers; American College of Radiology; American Council on Education; American Gastroenterological Association; American Immigration Lawyers Association; American Osteopathic Association; American Psychiatric Association; American Society of Nephrology; American Society of Neuroradiology; Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment; Association of American Universities; Association of Independent California Colleges & Universities; Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities; Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU); Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges; Cornell University; Council of Graduate Schools; Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities; Global Detroit; Illinois State University; Illinois Tech; International Educators of Illinois; Miles for Migraine; NAFSA: Association of International Educators; National Association of Independent Colleges & Universities (NAICU); Northern Illinois University, Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration; Shorelight, LLC; Third Way; UC Berkeley; UCLA; University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources; University of California System; University of California-San Diego; University of California, Davis; University of California, Los Angeles; University of California, San Francisco; University of California, Santa Cruz; University of Illinois System; and U.S. For Success Coalition.\n\nDurbin has introduced bipartisan legislation to make long-needed reforms to our legal immigration system, including the Keep STEM Talent Act, the Healthcare Workforce Resilience Act, and the H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-senate-judiciary-democrats-scrutinize-director-patels-decision-to-gut-fbis-hiring-standards", "Durbin, Senate Judiciary Democrats Scrutinize Director Patel\u2019s Decision To Gut FBI\u2019s Hiring Standards", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In their letter to FBI Director Patel ahead of tomorrow\u2019s oversight hearing, Senate Judiciary Democrats demand justification for the FBI\u2019s recent decision to remove sex solicitation, bestiality, and theft from an employer from the list of automatic hiring disqualifications\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Ahead of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel\u2019s testimony in tomorrow\u2019s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing conducting oversight on the agency, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today led all Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats in sending a letter to Director Patel demanding answers about the FBI\u2019s recent decision to gut hiring standards. In June, the FBI reportedly revised their hiring policy to remove theft from an employer, sex solicitation, and bestiality from the list of automatic hiring disqualifications; however, some of these changes may have been quietly implemented as early as February 2025.\n\n\u201cWe write to request a full accounting of the Federal Bureau of Investigation\u2019s (FBI) decision to gut hiring standards that have governed the FBI\u2019s workforce for decades,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nUnder the new criteria, an applicant who paid for sex fewer than three times more than 10 years ago no longer faces automatic disqualification if they were not serving in positions the FBI deems of \u201cpublic trust\u201d at the time of the solicitation. Theft from a prior employer that occurred more than three years ago, and other extreme conduct, including a history of bestiality or animal cruelty that occurred prior to the applicant turning 18, is also no longer automatically disqualifying. As the lawmakers note in their letter, these are major adjustments to FBI eligibility requirements, opening up law enforcement positions to be filled by applicants with a history of significant misconduct.\n\n\u201cThese are not minor technical adjustments. They represent a considered decision to open the Bureau\u2019s ranks to individuals who engaged in conduct that the FBI previously treated as disqualifying\u2014and that, in the case of solicitation of prostitution, controlling Department of Justice policy describes as \u2018threaten[ing] the core mission of the Department, not simply because it invites extortion, blackmail, and leaks of sensitive or classified information, but also because it undermines the Department\u2019s efforts to eradicate the scourge of human trafficking,\u2019\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nDirector Patel has allowed for the lowering of hiring standards while simultaneously purging career agents from the agency. In 2026, the FBI reportedly lost more than 1,100 special agents with an average tenure of nearly 22 years. Further, Director Patel has purged more than 5,000 nonpartisan career personnel, including all six former Executive Assistant Directors and at least 18 Special Agents in Charge with little to no explanation.\n\n\u201cYou have defended your efforts to overhaul hiring standards, stating that the FBI is \u2018losing too many qualified candidates to the rigors of the requirements from yesteryear.\u2019 Though the FBI faces real recruitment and retention challenges, you are primarily responsible for the current shortfall of personnel,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\n\u201cHaving dangerously thinned the FBI\u2019s experienced workforce for reasons that had nothing to do with performance, you are now asking the American people to accept, without explanation, that the resulting shortfall justifies admitting applicants with histories of employee theft, paying for sex, or bestiality,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\n\nThe lawmakers dismantled the counterargument that the degradation of hiring standards was necessary to combat the diminishing number of FBI employees. Rather, part of the shift in hiring standards may have occurred just eight days after Director Patel\u2019s confirmation.\n\n\u201cAttrition also cannot be the sole reason for this disturbing shift in standards, because the FBI appears to have changed its public document denoting employment eligibility standards on February 28, 2025, just eight days after your confirmation, to remove \u2018engagement in prostitution or bestiality\u2019 as an automatic disqualification. Although the Administration\u2019s retributive and partisan purges had begun as soon as President Trump took office, February 2025 was long before the bulk of the drastic workforce reduction currently imperiling critical missions,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nThe lawmakers concluded their letter by requesting detailed, unredacted records and memorandums outlining the hiring policy changes, as well as any information about the effect these changes could have on courtroom credibility, counterintelligence exposure, or blackmail vulnerability among personnel hired under them.\n\n\u201cThe Committee has a constitutional obligation to conduct oversight of the FBI\u2019s personnel practices, and a change of this magnitude with no discernible justification must be scrutinized\u2026We further expect the Bureau to make appropriate officials available for a Committee briefing on this matter without delay,\u201d the lawmakers concluded their letter.\n\nFull text of the letter can be found here and below:\n\nSeptember 14, 2026\n\nDear Director Patel:\n\nWe write to request a full accounting of the Federal Bureau of Investigation\u2019s (FBI) decision to gut hiring standards that have governed the FBI\u2019s workforce for decades. In June, the FBI reportedly issued an internal directive removing theft from an employer, sex solicitation, and bestiality from the list of automatic hiring disqualifications[1]\u2014and it appears that some of these changes may have been quietly implemented as early as February 2025.[2]\n\nUnder the new criteria, an applicant who paid for sex fewer than three times more than 10 years ago no longer faces automatic disqualification from serving at the FBI, so as long as they were not in a position deemed one of \u201cpublic trust.\u201d[3] Notably, the FBI does not identify a number of positions from which it recruits agents as positions of public trust, including members of the armed forces.[4] Theft from a prior employer is also no longer a categorical bar if it occurred more than three years ago.[5] Other extreme conduct, including a history of bestiality or animal cruelty, is not automatically disqualifying under this new policy either, so long as the conduct occurred before the applicant turned 18.[6] These are not minor technical adjustments. They represent a considered decision to open the Bureau\u2019s ranks to individuals who engaged in conduct that the FBI previously treated as disqualifying\u2014and that, in the case of solicitation of prostitution, controlling Department of Justice policy describes as \u201cthreaten[ing] the core mission of the Department, not simply because it invites extortion, blackmail, and leaks of sensitive or classified information, but also because it undermines the Department\u2019s efforts to eradicate the scourge of human trafficking.\u201d[7]\n\nYou have defended your efforts to overhaul hiring standards, stating that the FBI is \u201closing too many qualified candidates to the rigors of the requirements from yesteryear.\u201d[8] Though the FBI faces real recruitment and retention challenges, you are primarily responsible for the current shortfall of personnel. The FBI reportedly lost over 1,100 special agents \u201cwith an average tenure of 21.8 years\u201d in 2025.[9] The major driver of that attrition: your own purge of the Bureau\u2019s personnel, including over 5,000 nonpartisan career personnel, all six former Executive Assistant Directors, and at least 18 Special Agents in Charge.[10] Having dangerously thinned the FBI\u2019s experienced workforce for reasons that had nothing to do with performance, you are now asking the American people to accept, without explanation, that the resulting shortfall justifies admitting applicants with histories of employee theft, paying for sex, or bestiality.\n\nAttrition also cannot be the sole reason for this disturbing shift in standards, because the FBI appears to have changed its public document denoting employment eligibility standards on February 28, 2025, just eight days after your confirmation, to remove \u201cengagement in prostitution or bestiality\u201d as an automatic disqualification.[11] Although the Administration\u2019s retributive and partisan purges had begun as soon as President Trump took office, February 2025 was long before the bulk of the drastic workforce reduction currently imperiling critical missions.\n\nThe Committee has a constitutional obligation to conduct oversight of the FBI\u2019s personnel practices, and a change of this magnitude with no discernible justification must be scrutinized. We therefore request the FBI produce the following no later than September 28, 2026:\n\nA complete, unredacted copy of the June 16, 2026 memorandum outlining these hiring policy changes, and any drafts, analyses, or briefing materials prepared in connection with it;\n\nAll records reflecting who at the FBI reviewed or approved this change and any consultation with internal or external parties before it was adopted;\n\nThe number of applicants hired, extended conditional offers, or placed under case-by-case review since June 16, 2026, whose files would previously have been automatically disqualified, broken out by category of conduct;\n\nThe number of applicants hired, extended conditional offers, or placed under case-by-case review since February 28, 2025, whose files would previously have been automatically disqualified for engagement in prostitution or bestiality;\n\nAny analysis the Bureau conducted, before or after February 28, 2025, of the effect these changes could have on courtroom credibility, counterintelligence exposure, or blackmail vulnerability among personnel hired under them; and\n\nAll guidance issued to background investigators, polygraph examiners, and adjudicators instructing them to apply the revised standards.\n\nWe further expect the Bureau to make appropriate officials available for a Committee briefing on this matter without delay.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-commemorates-25th-anniversary-of-9/11-attacks-with-day-of-service", "Duckworth Commemorates 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks with Day of Service", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[CHICAGO, IL] \u2014 Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years, today joined volunteers at Chicago Union Station to help pack 520,000 meals that will be donated to the Greater Chicago Food Depository as part of a day of service commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Photos from the event are available on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cTwenty-five years ago today, a heinous attack on our country took the lives of nearly 3,000 innocent people and changed the course of countless other American lives,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cToday, we remember those we lost and reflect on the bravery shown by the first responders who ran toward danger\u2014many of whom never made it home to their families or will forever live with illnesses caused by that day. Our hearts are with their families and loved ones, today and always. As we come together to pack 520,000 meals for local families in need, we honor this day through service and remind ourselves that the strength of our nation is found in how we support and serve one another.\u201d\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-join-senate-democrats-in-urging-supreme-court-to-block-postal-rule-limiting-mail-in-voting", "Duckworth, Durbin Join Senate Democrats in Urging Supreme Court to Block Postal Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "261 Members and former Members file bicameral, bipartisan brief as court order barring Postal Service rule limiting mail voting is being challenged by Trump\u2019s DOJ\n\n[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2014 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and joined U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Gary Peters (D-MI), along with U.S. Representatives Joe Morelle (D-NY-25), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), Joe Neguse (D-CO-02) and Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), in leading a bicameral amicus brief challenging the legality of President Trump\u2019s executive order and U.S. Postal Service rule seeking to exert control over mail-in ballots ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.\n\nThe group, made up of a bipartisan, bicameral coalition of 261 lawmakers and former lawmakers, filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in the matter of State of California, et al. v. United States Postal Service, et al., a lawsuit brought by a coalition of state attorneys general against the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The court case challenges a final rule issued by USPS pursuant to President Trump\u2019s directive that imposes unconstitutional and unworkable restrictions on mail-in voting, including requiring states to provide a \u201ccitizenship verification list\u201d and attempting to give USPS control over who can vote by mail.\n\n\u201cDonald Trump\u2019s desperate attempts to obstruct voting by mail for every American but himself are unconstitutional and jeopardize our democracy,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cTrump has already voted by mail twice this year alone. We cannot allow him to illegally intimidate his fellow tens of millions of Americans who cast their ballots by mail. As we approach the 2026 midterms, the Supreme Court must reject these unlawful executive orders and protect Americans\u2019 right to vote this fall.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe President is dead set on attacking Americans\u2019 right to vote and undermining our democracy by making baseless claims about \u2018rigged\u2019 elections, demanding unreasonable voter registration requirements, restricting mail-in voting, and threatening to unconstitutionally nationalize our elections. But the President cannot nullify our Constitution. The Supreme Court must reject the President\u2019s attempts to chip away at our voting rights,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nNearly one-third of Americans have voted by mail in recent elections\u2014a voting practice Trump himself used as recently as August 2026, when he voted in Florida\u2019s Republican primary.\n\nIn the court filing, the amici curiae argue that President Trump\u2019s Executive Order 4399 and USPS\u2019s final rule violate the separation of powers and usurp congressional authorities outlined in Article I of the U.S. Constitution, which gives the states and Congress exclusive authority over election administration.\n\n\u201cAs current and former legislators, amici took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States \u2014 including its guarantee of the separation of powers,\u201d wrote the lawmakers in the brief. \u201cAmici have a particular interest in defending the institutional role of the Legislative Branch under Article I of the Constitution and in vindicating the long-settled principle that the Constitution commits ultimate regulatory authority over federal elections to Congress. The Constitution does not contemplate the Executive Branch acting unilaterally to assert power over federal elections. Yet that is what the Order and Final Rule do.\u201d\n\nThe amici also pointed to a recent federal court ruling blocking USPS from implementing its newly finalized mail ballot rule for the midterm elections, saying the agency lacked the authority to implement the rule and that its actions are \u201csubstantively unconstitutional and contrary to law.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe district court correctly concluded that Appellees are likely to succeed on the merits of their claims that USPS lacked authority to issue the Final Rule, that the Final Rule unconstitutionally imposes mail-ballot requirements on the States, and that the Final Rule unconstitutionally bars non-compliant State and local election officials from using the USPS to mail ballots at all,\u201d wrote the lawmakers.\n\nThe lawmakers concluded by asserting states\u2019 power to administer elections and Congress\u2019s power to make or alter rules regulating elections, which the Supreme Court itself has described as an \u201coverride\u201d authority. President Trump\u2019s illegal incursion on this authority is an attempt to disenfranchise people who depend on mail-in ballots to vote.\n\n\u201cThe integrity of our constitutional system depends on each branch keeping to its assigned role,\u201d concluded the lawmakers. \u201cThe Framers set up a two-part system that gave the States default authority to regulate federal elections subject to Congress\u2019s authority to override the States. The Framers did not provide the President with any authority to interfere in that system, nor has Congress subsequently imbued the President or the Executive Branch with any such authority by statute.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Duckworth, Durbin, Padilla, Schumer, and Peters, the amicus brief was joined by the entire Senate Democratic Caucus.\n\nThe full brief is available on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-delivers-remarks-at-national-center-for-victims-of-crimes-annual-training-institute", "Durbin Delivers Remarks At National Center For Victims Of Crime\u2019s Annual Training Institute", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "CHICAGO\u2014Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered brief remarks at the National Center for Victims of Crime\u2019s (NCVC) National Training Institute (NTI), an annual conference providing nearly 800 victim service professionals an opportunity to engage and learn from leaders in the victim advocacy community.\n\nIn his remarks, Durbin focused on the need for Congress to hold Big Tech accountable for its failure to protect children and users from harm. Durbin also applauded last month\u2019s landmark settlement requiring Meta to pay more than $17 billion in penalties and make major changes to Facebook and Instagram over claims the company endangers children with addictive social media platforms.\n\n\u201cParents and grandparents across America feel a pit in their stomachs every time their child logs onto a phone, tablet, or video game console. These parents and grandparents know that the internet has now become a hunting ground for predators, but accountability is finally coming,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cThe recent landmark verdicts confirming that social media companies have a duty to protect children using their platforms is a crucial first step. As moment builds in the courts, Congress must do its part to ensure Big Tech is forced to change its behavior.\u201d\n\nDurbin has used his role on the Senate Judiciary Committee to prioritize child safety online through hearings, legislation, and oversight efforts.\n\nOn January 31, 2024, while Durbin was serving as Chair, the Committee held a hearing featuring testimony from the CEOs of social media companies Discord, Meta, Snap, TikTok, and X (formerly known as Twitter). This hearing highlighted the ongoing risk to children and the immediate need for Congress to act on the bipartisan bills reported by the Committee.\n\nDurbin and U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) joined forces to reintroduce the bipartisan STOP CSAM Act, which would combat online child sexual abuse material. The bill passed the Judiciary Committee unanimously and awaits action on the Senate floor.\n\nIn addition, Durbin\u2019s bipartisan Disrupt Explicit Forged Images and Non-Consensual Edits Act of 2024 (DEFIANCE Act) passed the Senate in July 2024 and again in January 2026. The legislation would hold accountable those responsible for the proliferation of nonconsensual, sexually-explicit \u201cdeepfake\u201d images and videos. The bill awaits consideration by the House.\n\nDurbin also introduced the Sunset Section 230 Act with the late U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), which would repeal Section 230 two years after the date of enactment so that those harmed online can bring legal action against the companies that caused the harm. The bill awaits consideration by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-the-25th-anniversary-of-the-9/11-terrorist-attacks", "Durbin Statement On The 25th Anniversary Of The 9/11 Terrorist Attacks", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "CHICAGO \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement on the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001:\n\n\u201cTwenty-five years ago today, I vividly recall looking down the National Mall from the Capitol Building and watching as black smoke billowed up from the Pentagon. That image is seared into my mind. But what I also remember about that day was the outpouring of compassion and common purpose that united us.\n\n\u201cTwenty-five years after that devastating day, we still mourn the 2,977 innocent lives lost at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, including the heroic members of the New York City Fire Department, law enforcement officers, and military personnel.\n\n\u201cToday, as we reflect on how those acts of pure evil forever altered our sense of security and safety, let us also reflect on the importance of remaining faithful to our values and the Constitution while protecting the American people. The victims of 9/11, their loved ones, and the American people deserved justice and accountability long ago.\u201d\n\nToday, Durbin attended the City of Chicago Fire Department\u2019s 9/11 Tribute, marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The formal memorial tribute at Navy Pier faced east toward New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania to honor the lives lost and remember the firefighters, paramedics, police officers, and other first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-attends-will-county-problem-solving-courts-graduation-ceremony", "Durbin Attends Will County Problem Solving Courts Graduation Ceremony", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The Will County Problem Solving Courts aim to reduce recidivism by providing participants with counseling, substance abuse recovery support, and workforce training resources\n\nOLIET\u2014Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) delivered brief remarks at the Will County Problem Solving Courts graduation ceremony, congratulating 23 individuals on completing the program. Officially launched in 2000 with the drug court program, the Will County Problem Solving Courts aim to reduce recidivism by offering participants a structured treatment program which could include individualized counseling, substance abuse recovery support, and access to workforce training resources. Because of the success of the program, Will County\u2019s Problem Solving Courts expanded to include a mental health court, veterans court, and the Redeploy Illinois Program. The courts have now supported more than 1,000 participants as they work to rebuild their lives.\n\n\u201cGraduates, as you receive your certificate, I hope you see it as a symbol of your perseverance. By completing this program, you\u2019ve sent a powerful message to yourself and your loved ones. You\u2019ve overcome tough challenges to build a healthy, fulfilling life,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cWill County\u2019s Problem Solving Courts should serve as a model for other local governments\u2014a stellar example of what can happen when we work within our communities to transform the lives of those in need.\u201d\n\nPhotos of the ceremony are available here.\n\nDurbin has long been a leading voice in bipartisan criminal justice reform grounded in the view that the justice system should be fair, effective, and focused on public safety outcomes\u2014not just punishment. In 2018, Durbin led the passage of the bipartisan First Step Act, which incentivized rehabilitation and expanded access to education, job training, and reentry programming for those in the criminal justice system.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-tom-kotaracs-election-as-chair-of-the-new-northern-illinois-transit-authority", "Durbin Statement On Tom Kotarac\u2019s Election As Chair Of The New Northern Illinois Transit Authority", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "CHICAGO \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released the following statement applauding the election of Tom Kotarac as Chair of the new Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA):\n\n\u201cThere are few people I have met in my career that are more committed to improving our transportation systems than Tom Kotarac. Tom is a dedicated public servant who knows how to yield results by working across the aisle and building regional partnerships that support Illinois\u2019 transit projects\u2014all for the benefit of the Illinois commuters that rely on our roads, rail, and airports.\n\n\u201cThere is no one better to lead the new Northern Illinois Transit Authority.\u201d\n\nKotarac is currently the Senior Vice President of the Civic Committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago and leads the organization\u2019s transportation and infrastructure work. Before working with the Civic Committee, Kotarac was the Deputy Executive Director of Policy and Programming for the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. Previously, he served as Projects Director in Senator Durbin\u2019s office from 2007 to 2012, and as Senior Policy Advisor for Senator Durbin from 2012 to 2015. He received a B.A. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-illinois-congressional-delegation-announce-over-68-million-for-accessible-transportation-upgrades", "Duckworth, Durbin, Illinois Congressional Delegation Announce Over $68 Million for Accessible Transportation Upgrades", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly (D-IL-2), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-3), Jes\u00fas \u201cChuy\u201d Garcia (D-IL-4), Mike Quigley (D-IL-5), Sean Casten (D-IL-6), Danny Davis (D-IL-7) and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-9) announced that several Illinois communities will receive federal funding to make transit accessible for all travelers, thanks to Duckworth\u2019s All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) Act provisions in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) today announced that Metra will receive a total of $68,192,000 in funding to help build ramps, install elevators and make other improvements to help ensure that the region\u2019s stations and rail systems are finally usable for those with disabilities.\n\n\u201cAccessibility isn\u2019t a luxury\u2014it\u2019s a necessity,\u201d said Senator Duckworth. \u201cEveryone benefits from more ramps and elevators, and I\u2019m proud to see this $68 million investment build on the progress we\u2019ve made through my All Stations Accessibility Program to make our transit systems more accessible. Together, we\u2019ll keep fighting for the resources our communities need toensure everyone can travel safely and efficiently.\u201d\n\n\u201cPublic transit should be for everyone, but some transit stations in Illinois are still in need of the upgrades that make commuter rail accessible for all riders,\u201d Senator Durbin said. \u201cThis $68 million federal investment into Illinois\u2019 Metra stations, made possible by ASAP grants championed by the Illinois congressional delegation, will significantly improve ADA compliance and accessibility for every rider.\u201d\n\n\u201cEveryone deserves safe, equitable, and fully accessible public transportation,\u201d said Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D-IL-2). \u201cSecuring more than $44.6 million for the 111th Street and Olympia Fields stations will help tear down physical barriers to transit access, making it easier for people with disabilities, seniors, and parents across Illinois' Second Congressional District get where they need to go.\u201d\n\n\u201cInvesting in our infrastructure is an investment in the safety and well-being of our communities, the economic development of our region, and thriving futures for our families. I am excited to see $68,192,000 of federal funding coming to our communities to prioritize the safety and accessibility of public transportation for our neighbors with disabilities. THIS renovation is what our federal tax dollars should be funding projects by the community for the community,\u201d said Congresswoman Ramirez (D-IL-3).\n\n\u201cThroughout my career, I have fought to advance policies and decisions that help expand accessibility in Chicago's public transit system. I am proud that the $68 million in federal funds coming to Illinois are from the All Stations Accessibility Program, an initiative that Sen. Duckworth and I worked to include in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021,\u201d said Congressman Jes\u00fas \u201cChuy\u201d Garc\u00eda (D-IL-4). \u201cThese funds will help ensure our public transit systems can better serve all riders in Illinois, particularly seniors and people with disabilities.\u201d\n\n\u201cAccessible transportation is equal transportation. Americans with disabilities deserve equal access to the same trains and same train stations their able-bodied neighbors use every day,\u201d said Congressman Mike Quigley (D-IL-5). \u201cI\u2019m thankful for Senator Duckworth\u2019s work on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I\u2019m excited to see this $68 million in federal funding improve transportation for Illinois residents statewide.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to see this federal funding come to Illinois that will help make our rail system more accessible for Illinoisans as they commute, travel, and connect with communities across the region,\u201d said Congressman Sean Casten (D-IL-6).\n\n\u201cAccessible public transportation is not a luxury\u2014it is a fundamental part of ensuring that every person can fully participate in our communities,\u201d said Congressman Danny Davis (D-IL-7). \u201cI applaud Congress\u2019 investment of more than $68 million to improve accessibility at Metra stations in Illinois. These improvements will make a meaningful difference for people with disabilities, seniors, and families who depend on public transportation. Federal investments like these strengthen our transportation infrastructure while advancing the basic principle that our public transit system should be accessible to everyone.\u201d\n\n\u201cEveryone deserves safe, reliable, and accessible public transportation,\u201d said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-9). \u201cThese latest federal investments will help break down barriers for people with disabilities, seniors, and families in our communities who rely on public transit. I\u2019m grateful to fight alongside so many champions for greater accessibility and to help ensure these resources reach Illinois communities. There is more work ahead, but thanks to the ASAP program, we are moving toward a transit system that truly works for everyone.\u201d\n\n\u201cMetra applauds Senator Duckworth and our congressional delegation for their exemplary leadership on securing this critical federal discretionary grant program to make transit accessible for everyone,\u201d said Metra Executive Director and CEO Jim Derwinski. \u201cThis funding will make sure three legacy rail stations meet and exceed standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to upgrade critical transit accessibility infrastructure through the FTA\u2019s All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) grant program. Improving these three Metra stations will help enhance connectivity in key corridors and the entire region, a key goal of the landmark and transformational Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act. Metra is appreciative of this critical federal funding that will help to usher in the new NITA era by enhancing the accessibility at these stations while making the entire transit experience in and around Northeastern Illinois more user-friendly. Metra was an early supporter of Senator Duckworth's ASAP Reauthorization Act and will continue to work with the Senator, her colleagues in Congress, and the Northern Illinois Transit Authority and other regional supporters to advocate for its passage in Congress.\u201d\n\nThe following transit stations have been awarded funding to improve accessibility, including:\n\nMetra\u2019s Hubbard Woods Station Accessibility Renovation (Winnetka): $23,500,000\n\n111th Street Station Accessibility at Pullman National Park (Chicago): $17,752,000\n\nMetra\u2019s Olympia Fields Station Accessibility Renovation (Olympia Fields): $26,940,000\n\nAs the ASAP program is set to expire at the end of this month, Duckworth joined U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) to introduce bipartisan legislation that would reauthorize the first-ever grant program dedicated to improving accessibility at public transit stations. Because of ASAP, Illinois has already received $185 million in funding for job-creating Chicago Transit Authority and Metra projects to build ramps, install elevators and make other improvements to make the region\u2019s public transit system accessible.\n\nBefore Senator Duckworth\u2019s All Stations Accessibility Program was established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, more than 900 transit stations across the country still lacked basic ADA-compliant access. The ASAP Program invested $1.75 billion for transit systems to make essential upgrades, including installing elevators, accessible pathways and platform upgrades, and ensuring electronic ticketing, kiosks, notification systems, signage and mobile apps are accessible to people with disabilities. With demand for ASAP funding far exceeding available resources, continued bipartisan investments are critical to ensuring transit systems are accessible from station platforms to the digital tools riders rely on.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-10T09:25:58Z", "2026-09-10T09:27:09Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-budzinski-call-for-replacement-mission-for-183rd-wing-in-springfield-following-announcement-of-planned-deactivation-of-the-wings-repair-facility", "Duckworth, Durbin, Budzinski Call for Replacement Mission for 183rd Wing in Springfield Following Announcement of Planned Deactivation of the Wing\u2019s Repair Facility", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[SPRINGFIELD, IL] \u2014 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13) today sent a letter to the U.S. Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink and the National Guard Bureau Director General Steven Nordhaus urging the leaders to establish a new Air Operations Group at the 183rd Wing in Springfield, Illinois, following the July announcement that the 183rd Wing\u2019s Central Repair Facility (CRF) would be deactivated in the spring of 2027.\n\n\u201cWe write regarding the troubling decision to deactivate the Central Repair Facility (CRF) mission at the 183rd Wing in Springfield, Illinois, without a suitable replacement mission. For nearly two decades, the dedicated personnel on the CRF mission have ensured our nation\u2019s air fleet remains safe, ready, and mission capable. We urge you to consider establishing a new Air Operations Group at the 183rd Wing that would leverage the Wing\u2019s expertise and secure the unit\u2019s future while strengthening Joint Force readiness and our national defense,\u201d the lawmakers began their letter.\n\nAs the lawmakers noted in their letter, the 183rd Wing has been nationally recognized with the Air National Guard Maintenance Effectiveness Award for its outstanding work, and the U.S. military has relied on the 183rd Wing for fighter jet engine repair since 2012. Shuttering the 183rd Wing\u2019s CRF mission without a suitable mission replacement would risk the sustainment of the U.S. military\u2019s fighter fleet while also dismissing the highly skilled work of the 115 personnel dedicated to fighter maintenance.\n\n\u201cSince 2012, the 183rd Wing has capably provided fighter jet engine maintenance for U.S. Armed Forces aircraft, including the U-2, F-16, A-10, and F-15EX. The CRF remains the only mission of its kind within the Joint Force and is the single dedicated repair facility for the F-15EX aircraft fleet,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cWhile the Joint Force\u2019s engine repair demands have evolved, we are concerned a hasty deactivation of the CRF mission could risk adequate sustainment of our fighter fleet\u2014and leave more than 115 personnel without an appropriate mission.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers urged Secretary Meink and General Nordhaus to delay the deactivation of the 183rd Wing\u2019s CRF until September 2027, allowing adequate time for the impacted airmen and women to be retrained for a new replacement mission or to retire if eligible.\n\n\u201cAs such, we ask you to delay deactivation of the CRF until at least September 30, 2027. A deferred timeline would mitigate the impact on the lives of our Illinois Airmen and women and their families, allowing them to seek retraining or reassignment\u2014or even retirement for those eligible\u2014while awaiting a suitable replacement mission,\u201d the lawmakers continued their letter.\n\nThe lawmakers then suggested that a second Air Operations Group (AOG) be established at the 183rd Wing to leverage the wing\u2019s legacy of success in providing planning, command and control, and execution support for air operations for the Air Force and Joint Force worldwide.\n\n\u201cIn addition, we request that you swiftly consider establishing a second Air Operations Group (AOG) at the 183rd Wing\u2026Establishing a new AOG in Illinois would leverage the skills of our National Guard Airmen and women and the 183rd\u2019s excellent facilities, including its classified operations space; a Joint Cyber Range; and the brand new, 24,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Base Civil Engineer Complex,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nThe lawmakers concluded their letter by urging the military leaders to work alongside them to establish a new mission at the 183rd Wing that matches the caliber of the airmen and women\u2019s expertise.\n\n\u201cWe look forward to working with you on a path forward that will continue the 183rd Wing\u2019s legacy of service to our nation,\u201d the lawmakers concluded their letter.\n\nFollowing the announcement that the CRF mission at the 183rd Wing would be deactivated, Duckworth, Durbin and Budzinski spoke with Illinois Adjutant General Major General Rodney Boyd about the National Guard\u2019s plan to deactivate the wing\u2019s mission. During their call, the lawmakers advocated for a suitable replacement mission.\n\nFull text of today\u2019s letter is available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website and below:\n\nSeptember 9, 2026\n\nDear Secretary Meink and General Nordhaus:\n\nWe write regarding the troubling decision to deactivate the Central Repair Facility (CRF) mission at the 183rd Wing in Springfield, Illinois, without a suitable replacement mission. For nearly two decades, the dedicated personnel on the CRF mission have ensured our nation\u2019s air fleet remains safe, ready, and mission capable. We urge you to consider establishing a new Air Operations Group at the 183rd Wing that would leverage the Wing\u2019s expertise and secure the unit\u2019s future while strengthening Joint Force readiness and our national defense.\n\nSince 2012, the 183rd Wing has capably provided fighter jet engine maintenance for U.S. Armed Forces aircraft, including the U-2, F-16, A-10, and F-15EX. The CRF remains the only mission of its kind within the Joint Force and is the single dedicated repair facility for the F-15EX aircraft fleet. In 2020, the 183rd Maintenance Squadron was the recipient of the Air National Guard Maintenance Effectiveness Award, and the Wing is recognized for exploring unique innovations such as additive and advanced manufacturing to build and repair engine components. While the Joint Force\u2019s engine repair demands have evolved, we are concerned a hasty deactivation of the CRF mission could risk adequate sustainment of our fighter fleet\u2014and leave more than 115 personnel without an appropriate mission. As such, we ask you to delay deactivation of the CRF until at least September 30, 2027. A deferred timeline would mitigate the impact on the lives of our Illinois Airmen and women and their families, allowing them to seek retraining or reassignment\u2014or even retirement for those eligible\u2014while awaiting a suitable replacement mission.\n\nIn addition, we request that you swiftly consider establishing a second Air Operations Group (AOG) at the 183rd Wing. A second AOG would build off of the 183rd Wing\u2019s current success in providing planning, command and control, and execution support for air operations for the Air Force and the Joint Force worldwide. As the Air Force strives to maintain strategic dominance in an increasingly contested security environment, a highly capable, deployable AOG would serve as the backbone to tactical direction, synchronization, and mission execution. We understand the Air Force supports establishing more AOGs for missions in the Pacific and the global strike mission, and we urge you to urgently fund the standup of at least one AOG, to start on October 1, 2027. Establishing a new AOG in Illinois would leverage the skills of our National Guard Airmen and women and the 183rd\u2019s excellent facilities, including its classified operations space; a Joint Cyber Range; and the brand new, 24,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Base Civil Engineer Complex. While we appreciate the National Guard Bureau plans to complete funding in 2028 for an Air Mobility Operations Squadron and Contingency Response Group in Illinois, these two missions were previously planned efforts in other parts of the State and will not be sufficient to safeguard the specialized workforce of the 183rd.\n\nWe look forward to working with you on a path forward that will continue the 183rd Wing\u2019s legacy of service to our nation. Thank you for your attention to this important issue.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-11T09:25:29Z", "2026-09-11T09:27:08Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-budzinski-call-for-replacement-mission-for-183rd-wing-in-springfield-following-announcement-of-planned-deactivation-of-the-wings-repair-facility", "Durbin, Duckworth, Budzinski Call For Replacement Mission For 183rd Wing In Springfield Following Announcement Of Planned Deactivation Of The Wing\u2019s Repair Facility", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In July, the Air Force announced that the 183rd Wing\u2019s Central Repair Facility mission would be deactivated in 2027\n\nSPRINGFIELD \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13) today sent a letter to the U.S. Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink and the National Guard Bureau Director General Steven Nordhaus urging the leaders to establish a new Air Operations Group at the 183rd Wing in Springfield, Illinois, following the July announcement that the 183rd Wing\u2019s Central Repair Facility (CRF) would be deactivated in the spring of 2027.\n\n\u201cWe write regarding the troubling decision to deactivate the Central Repair Facility (CRF) mission at the 183rd Wing in Springfield, Illinois, without a suitable replacement mission. For nearly two decades, the dedicated personnel on the CRF mission have ensured our nation\u2019s air fleet remains safe, ready, and mission capable. We urge you to consider establishing a new Air Operations Group at the 183rd Wing that would leverage the Wing\u2019s expertise and secure the unit\u2019s future while strengthening Joint Force readiness and our national defense,\u201d the lawmakers began their letter.\n\nAs the lawmakers noted in their letter, the 183rd Wing has been nationally recognized with the Air National Guard Maintenance Effectiveness Award for its outstanding work, and the U.S. military has relied on the 183rd Wing for fighter jet engine repair since 2012. Shuttering the 183rd Wing\u2019s CRF mission without a suitable mission replacement would risk the sustainment of the U.S. military\u2019s fighter fleet while also dismissing the highly skilled work of the 115 personnel dedicated to fighter maintenance.\n\n\u201cSince 2012, the 183rd Wing has capably provided fighter jet engine maintenance for U.S. Armed Forces aircraft, including the U-2, F-16, A-10, and F-15EX. The CRF remains the only mission of its kind within the Joint Force and is the single dedicated repair facility for the F-15EX aircraft fleet,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cWhile the Joint Force\u2019s engine repair demands have evolved, we are concerned a hasty deactivation of the CRF mission could risk adequate sustainment of our fighter fleet\u2014and leave more than 115 personnel without an appropriate mission.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers urged Secretary Meink and General Nordhaus to delay the deactivation of the 183rd Wing\u2019s CRF until September 2027, allowing adequate time for the impacted airmen and women to be retrained for a new replacement mission or to retire if eligible.\n\n\u201cAs such, we ask you to delay deactivation of the CRF until at least September 30, 2027. A deferred timeline would mitigate the impact on the lives of our Illinois Airmen and women and their families, allowing them to seek retraining or reassignment\u2014or even retirement for those eligible\u2014while awaiting a suitable replacement mission,\u201d the lawmakers continued their letter.\n\nThe lawmakers then suggested that a second Air Operations Group (AOG) be established at the 183rd Wing to leverage the wing\u2019s legacy of success in providing planning, command and control, and execution support for air operations for the Air Force and Joint Force worldwide.\n\n\u201cIn addition, we request that you swiftly consider establishing a second Air Operations Group (AOG) at the 183rd Wing\u2026Establishing a new AOG in Illinois would leverage the skills of our National Guard Airmen and women and the 183rd\u2019s excellent facilities, including its classified operations space; a Joint Cyber Range; and the brand new, 24,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Base Civil Engineer Complex,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nThe lawmakers concluded their letter by urging the military leaders to work alongside them to establish a new mission at the 183rd Wing that matches the caliber of the airmen and women\u2019s expertise.\n\n\u201cWe look forward to working with you on a path forward that will continue the 183rd Wing\u2019s legacy of service to our nation,\u201d the lawmakers concluded their letter.\n\nFollowing the announcement that the CRF mission at the 183rd Wing would be deactivated, Durbin, Duckworth, and Budzinski spoke with Illinois Adjutant General Major General Rodney Boyd about the National Guard\u2019s plan to deactivate the wing\u2019s mission. During their call, the lawmakers advocated for a suitable replacement mission.\n\nFull text of today\u2019s letter is available here and below:\n\nSeptember 9, 2026\n\nDear Secretary Meink and General Nordhaus:\n\nWe write regarding the troubling decision to deactivate the Central Repair Facility (CRF) mission at the 183rd Wing in Springfield, Illinois, without a suitable replacement mission. For nearly two decades, the dedicated personnel on the CRF mission have ensured our nation\u2019s air fleet remains safe, ready, and mission capable. We urge you to consider establishing a new Air Operations Group at the 183rd Wing that would leverage the Wing\u2019s expertise and secure the unit\u2019s future while strengthening Joint Force readiness and our national defense.\n\nSince 2012, the 183rd Wing has capably provided fighter jet engine maintenance for U.S. Armed Forces aircraft, including the U-2, F-16, A-10, and F-15EX. The CRF remains the only mission of its kind within the Joint Force and is the single dedicated repair facility for the F-15EX aircraft fleet. In 2020, the 183rd Maintenance Squadron was the recipient of the Air National Guard Maintenance Effectiveness Award, and the Wing is recognized for exploring unique innovations such as additive and advanced manufacturing to build and repair engine components. While the Joint Force\u2019s engine repair demands have evolved, we are concerned a hasty deactivation of the CRF mission could risk adequate sustainment of our fighter fleet\u2014and leave more than 115 personnel without an appropriate mission. As such, we ask you to delay deactivation of the CRF until at least September 30, 2027. A deferred timeline would mitigate the impact on the lives of our Illinois Airmen and women and their families, allowing them to seek retraining or reassignment\u2014or even retirement for those eligible\u2014while awaiting a suitable replacement mission.\n\nIn addition, we request that you swiftly consider establishing a second Air Operations Group (AOG) at the 183rd Wing. A second AOG would build off of the 183rd Wing\u2019s current success in providing planning, command and control, and execution support for air operations for the Air Force and the Joint Force worldwide. As the Air Force strives to maintain strategic dominance in an increasingly contested security environment, a highly capable, deployable AOG would serve as the backbone to tactical direction, synchronization, and mission execution. We understand the Air Force supports establishing more AOGs for missions in the Pacific and the global strike mission, and we urge you to urgently fund the standup of at least one AOG, to start on October 1, 2027. Establishing a new AOG in Illinois would leverage the skills of our National Guard Airmen and women and the 183rd\u2019s excellent facilities, including its classified operations space; a Joint Cyber Range; and the brand new, 24,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Base Civil Engineer Complex. While we appreciate the National Guard Bureau plans to complete funding in 2028 for an Air Mobility Operations Squadron and Contingency Response Group in Illinois, these two missions were previously planned efforts in other parts of the State and will not be sufficient to safeguard the specialized workforce of the 183rd.\n\nWe look forward to working with you on a path forward that will continue the 183rd Wing\u2019s legacy of service to our nation. Thank you for your attention to this important issue.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-lonnie-bunchs-retirement-from-the-smithsonian-after-38-years-of-service", "Durbin Statement On Lonnie Bunch\u2019s Retirement From The Smithsonian After 38 Years Of Service", "2026-09-08", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Durbin and Bunch first met in the early 2000s while Bunch served as president of the Chicago Historical Society\n\nSPRINGFIELD \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released the following statement regarding Lonnie G. Bunch III\u2019s announcement that he will be retiring from his position as Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution at the end of the year:\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s historical and cultural institutions are better because of the leadership of Lonnie Bunch, whom I\u2019ve proudly called a friend since his time leading the Chicago Historical Society. The caliber of his many remarkable accomplishments\u2014establishing the National Museum of African American History and Culture, personally securing historically significant artifacts like the Greensboro Lunch Counter for the Smithsonian, and leading the Smithsonian through a global pandemic\u2014are a reflection of his dedication to justly, and accurately, preserving and making accessible our nation\u2019s history.\n\n\u201cWhile Lonnie will step down at the end of the year, no Administration or President will ever be able to erase his legacy\u2014one that deserves its own plaque in the halls of a Smithsonian.\u201d\n\nPrior to becoming the Secretary of the Smithsonian in 2019, Bunch served in several curatorial and leadership positions at the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of History, and the Chicago Historical Society. After his stint as president of the Chicago Historical Society, he returned to the Smithsonian in 2005 to lead the establishment of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. In total, Bunch dedicated nearly 38 years of his career to supporting the Smithsonian Institution.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-tours-site-of-osf-healthcares-outpatient-dental-clinic-in-peoria", "Durbin Tours Site Of OSF Healthcare\u2019s Outpatient Dental Clinic In Peoria", "2026-09-08", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The dental clinic, made possible by a $2 million earmark secured by Durbin, will be the only dental sedation clinic in Central Illinois serving Medicaid patients\n\nPEORIA \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today visited OSF HealthCare in Peoria to tour the site that will soon be converted into a dental sedation clinic, allowing patients in Central Illinois to receive oral surgery without traveling across the state. Made possible by a $2 million earmark secured by Durbin in the Fiscal Year 2026 government funding bill, the renovated clinic will focus on providing care to underserved children and adults, many of whom rely on Medicaid to access dental care.\n\nIllinois is facing a shortage of dentists who accept Medicaid despite 3.4 million Illinoisans relying on the program for health insurance coverage. Less than one-quarter of dentists in the state routinely accept Medicaid, resulting in lengthy waitlists that prevent Illinoisans from receiving timely treatment or routine preventive care. Congressional Republicans\u2019 disastrous $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid through the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act will only make these waitlists longer and prevent more Illinoisans from seeking the dental care they need.\n\nIn total, there are about 8,500 dentists in Illinois, which is a gap of nearly 400 dentists to adequately serve the more than two million people in Illinois who live in areas without easy access to dentists. There are nine counties in Illinois that have only one dentist to serve their community.\n\n\u201cIf you\u2019ve ever experienced the pain of a toothache, you know that oral health care is not a luxury, it is essential. That\u2019s why the work done at OSF HealthCare is so important,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cThis new outpatient dental clinic will serve Central Illinois, focusing on providing care to underserved children and adults who have difficulty accessing dental care\u2014many of whom are uninsured or rely on Medicaid. I was honored to play a part in securing $2 million in federal funding to help expand access to dental care in Illinois.\u201d\n\n\u201cOral health care is critically important and is limited for pediatrics, especially for children from lower income families. This appropriation will make such an incredible difference in terms of expanding programs and procedural space. Currently, a child or an adult would have to wait nine months or longer for a procedure that requires sedation. With this appropriation and the expansion that we will be implementing that will be reduced to one week, maybe less,\u201d said Mike Wells, President of OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center. \u201cWe thank Sen. Durbin for listening to the needs of our communities and for helping OSF HealthCare provide a positive impact for some of the most vulnerable populations we serve.\u201d\n\nPhotos from the event are available here.\n\nGood oral health is essential to overall health and well-being, helping to avoid pain and infections and reduce the risk of chronic diseases\u2014including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. While most oral health conditions are preventable and can be treated in early stage, more than 50 percent of children and more than 25 percent of adults in the U.S. have cavities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additionally, nearly 50 percent of children and adults have periodontitis.\n\nNearly 70 million Americans do not have dental insurance \u2013 more than twice the number of Americans who do not have medical insurance. Compounding the problem, 64 million Americans lack access to a dentist or other oral health professionals and live in a Dental Health Professional Shortage Area. Without access to insurance and preventative care, too many Americans are forced to visit the emergency room for dental emergencies, driving up health care costs.\n\nIn March, Durbin introduced the Promoting Dental Health Act to bolster access to dental care professionals. The legislation would reauthorize funding CDC\u2019s Oral Health program for the next five years. The CDC\u2019s Oral Health program receives $20.25 million in annual funding for a range of public health activities to promote oral health. This includes funding 15 states to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other painful and serious conditions through dental education, data collection, school-based sealant care for low-income children, workforce development, and research into gaps in patient care. Currently, Illinois is unfunded by the CDC\u2019s program and has not received a grant in two decades because the Oral Health program, which has not been reauthorized in a decade, is not adequately funded to serve every state.\n\nDurbin also authored a provision in the American Rescue Plan to invest $1 billion into the National Health Service Corps (NHSC), which funds scholarships and loan repayment for new doctors, nurses, dentists, and behavioral health clinicians who commit to serve in rural and urban areas of need. Medical professionals can graduate with student debt of more than $200,000, which can discourage them from pursuing these careers in the first place, or lead to them choosing to practice in high-paying specialties or in more affluent and urban areas. The NHSC program helps build the pipeline of new health providers and surge them to shortage areas. Today, Illinois has nearly 900 health professionals serving under the NHSC program.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-holds-we-cant-afford-this-roundtable-on-how-rising-costs-are-crushing-illinois-families", "Duckworth Holds \u201cWe Can\u2019t Afford This\u201d Roundtable on How Rising Costs Are Crushing Illinois Families", "2026-09-07", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[ROCK ISLAND, IL] \u2013 As families across Illinois continue to endure skyrocketing costs as a direct result of President Donald Trump\u2019s reckless policies, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today hosted a roundtable discussion with local Quad Cities leaders to discuss how they can address what too many Americans are feeling every day: \u201cWe Can\u2019t Afford This.\u201d As the average Illinois household has paid more than $4,200 in higher costs for everyday essentials under the Trump Administration, Duckworth heard from community health care providers, housing insecurity and homelessness prevention advocates, food insecurity experts as well as child care and early childhood education professionals about the real-world consequences that Trump\u2019s Medicaid cuts, tariffs and ongoing illegal war are having on their communities. Photos from the roundtable are available on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cGrocery bills, energy bills and health care bills are piling up. From Rock Island to Carbondale to Chicago, families all across Illinois are telling me the same thing: \u2018We can\u2019t afford this,\u2019\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cIllinoisans are feeling the squeeze as Donald Trump drives up costs and health care providers are struggling to keep their doors open after Medicaid cuts. So long as the President refuses to help the American people, Illinois leaders will continue working together to protect the essential lifelines our communities rely on.\u201d\n\n\u201cProject NOW is honored to host Senator Duckworth\u2019s \u201cWe Can\u2019t Afford This!\u201d Roundtable. In an era of rising economic and social strain the Roundtable will allow conversation about not only about the challenges but the solutions to secure families and move people upward through public policy supports and human-centered programs,\u201d said Dr. Dwight Ford, President and CEO of Project NOW, Inc.\n\n\u201cThrough the OneTable QC initiative, we\u2019ve heard from countless local nonprofits about how this environment of rising costs and cutting benefits and services hurts local residents and nonprofits. Nonprofits also buy food, gas, and health care so their costs continue to rise while the government cuts funding and threatens to eliminate awarded funds indiscriminately. Nonprofits can\u2019t plan; staff feel the stress, and ultimately all Quad Citians suffer. We appreciate Senator Duckworth visiting with local nonprofits to hear about these challenges directly from the people on the front lines of this crisis who live this reality every day,\u201d said Linda Wastyn, President of Wastyn and Associates.\n\n\u201cCommunity Health Care, Inc. is so thankful to have Senator Duckworth take the time to hear about the challenges facing the patients we serve. Between rising costs of living and the potential of lost coverage for health care, the families we serve are struggling every day to make ends meet. We\u2019re grateful Senator Duckworth is willing to listen to those concerns, but more importantly, to talk about solutions that will help preserve the safety net and give people in our community the opportunity to live healthy and prosperous lives,\u201d said Tom Bowman, CEO of Community Health Care, Inc.\n\nAs Donald Trump\u2019s policies make life more expensive and put essential services at risk, Duckworth has continued fighting to lower costs for Illinois families and protect the critical programs they rely on every day. She helped pass the bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act, a landmark law that will expand affordable housing and lower housing costs. The Senator is also a cosponsor of Child Care for Working Families Act to make child care more affordable and accessible for middle-class families. After the Trump Administration enacted the largest Medicaid cuts in history and made it harder for eligible Americans to keep their coverage, Duckworth has led efforts to protect Medicaid and the health care it provides to Illinois families, seniors and people with disabilities. The Senator also continues to defend Head Start against the Trump Administration\u2019s relentless attacks, working to protect these critical lifelines for families across Illinois.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-08T09:24:24Z", "2026-09-08T09:26:10Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-meets-with-union-workers-from-quad-cities-tyson-foods-plant-ahead-of-closure", "Duckworth Meets with Union Workers from Quad Cities Tyson Foods Plant Ahead of Closure", "2026-09-07", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[EAST MOLINE, IL] \u2014 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with union workers and local Quad City leaders to discuss the impacts of the closing of Tyson Foods\u2019 plant in Joslin, Illinois last month, which resulted in the loss of approximately 2,500 union jobs in the region. During the meeting, Duckworth reiterated her commitment to supporting these union workers during the transition and working to ensure they have the resources they need to return to the workforce. Photos from the visit are available on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cThe closing of the Tyson plant in Joslin left a ripple effect across our community, shutting down a key part of the local manufacturing industry, putting skilled workers out of a job and impacting families who already feel underwater,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cIn the months ahead, we must ensure these workers receive the support and resources they need to reenter the workforce and recover.\u201d\n\n\u201cTwo weeks ago, over 2,500 moms, dads, and grandparents who had built their families\u2019 lives around good union jobs saw their world turned upside down. Ask any of them what they need right now, and to a one they\u2019ll say, \u2018less talk, more action.\u2019 UFCW Local 1546 members\u2014the workers who punch in day after day to put food on our tables\u2014deserve leaders who are going to fight like hell for their dignity and their future. It was an honor to meet with Sen. Duckworth today, and I'm proud to count her among those leaders,\u201d said Robert O\u2019Toole, President of UFCW Local 1546.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-08T09:24:24Z", "2026-09-08T09:26:10Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-demand-faa-to-pay-air-traffic-controllers-the-congressionally-approved-raise-that-administrator-bedford-continues-to-withhold", "Duckworth, Durbin Demand FAA to Pay Air Traffic Controllers the Congressionally-Approved Raise that Administrator Bedford Continues to Withhold", "2026-09-04", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)\u2014Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation\u2014and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today demanded that FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford immediately hand over the Congressionally-authorized pay raise to the air traffic controller (ATC) workforce that he has held hostage for four months and counting. Despite a 3.8% raise for ATCs being approved by Congress and then signed into law by President Donald Trump in late April, Administrator Bedford continues to withhold 2.8% of that raise as a leverage point to try and get \u201cas much utilization out of our workforce as we can\u201d\u2014even though the ATC workforce is already under tremendous strain.\n\n\u201cControllers work long, high-stress hours and make split-second decisions that keep millions of passengers safe every day. The last thing our National Airspace System needs is a cynical FAA Administrator so hellbent on stretching them thinner that he is willing to withhold their modest 2.8 percent pay raise,\u201d wrote the Senators in their letter to FAA Administrator Bedford.\n\nIn their letter, Duckworth and Durbin warned of the dangers that overworking our controllers even further poses to aviation safety, recruitment and retention efforts.\n\n\u201cSqueezing more \u2018utilization\u2019 out of air traffic controllers who have been understaffed, underpaid and overworked for years will weaken retention and undermine aviation safety,\u201d continued the Senators. \u201cSecretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy made it crystal clear that compensation strengthens staffing\u2026How does withholding a pay increase Congress has already funded \u2018supercharge\u2019 that workforce or improve retention?\u201d\n\nThe Senators also highlighted how hundreds of controllers across the state of Illinois are working overtime and still waiting to receive this raise. They stressed that ATC modernization can only be achieved if we invest in the people who serve as the bedrock of our National Airspace System.\n\n\u201cHolding air traffic controllers\u2019 remaining 2.8 percent pay increase hostage to force a workforce that has operated under mandatory overtime for years to work longer hours is petty, disrespectful and counterproductive. Whether the Trump administration\u2019s Brand New Air Traffic Control System succeeds or fails will depend on the morale of the people expected to run it,\u201d the Senators wrote.\n\nFull text of the letter is available below and on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\nAdministrator Bedford:\n\nCongress approved a 3.8 percent pay raise for air traffic controllers in the Homeland Security and Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 (Public Law 119-86), which President Donald Trump signed into law on April 30, 2026. In the 127 days since, you have failed to implement the air traffic control (ATC) workforce pay raise Congress authorized and appropriated, and, to date, air traffic controllers, supervisors and managers have only received the governmentwide one percent pay raise. We strongly urge you to recognize and determine that the statutory requirements have been met and immediately implement the remaining 2.8 percent raise.\n\nWhen you testified at a May 19, 2026, hearing held by the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation\u2019s Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation, you stated, without qualification, that \u201cPeople are the foundation of the National Airspace System,\u201d and acknowledged the urgent need for FAA to \u201chire the best people, give them the best training and the best tools.\u201d We agree with your words but strongly oppose your inaction.\n\nThe extremely overworked, understaffed and deeply stressed ATC workforce is the foundation of the National Airspace System, and these dedicated, highly skilled civil servants deserve, and should have already received, the full 3.8 percent pay raise that Congress approved months ago.\n\nThe statutory conditions Congress established related to the 3.8 percent raise\u2014\u201cimprovements in workforce scheduling, staffing utilization, or other operational efficiencies are achieved that contribute to addressing workforce shortfalls and enhancing aviation safety\u201d\u2014were not a high bar. The notion that your agency has failed to reach an agreement with air traffic controllers that they find satisfactory means that what you are requesting must not benefit controllers.\n\nThis is not surprising, given just last week you told the Washington Examiner that working with the controllers\u2019 union to get \u201cas much utilization out of our workforce as we can\u201d would help \u201cunlock the 2.8%,\u201d and that \u201cif we can figure out how we can engage with . . . the union leadership on the basic watch schedule questions. . . there\u2019s no reason we can\u2019t unlock it this year.\u201d\n\nHolding air traffic controllers\u2019 remaining 2.8 percent pay increase hostage to force a workforce that has operated under mandatory overtime for years to work longer hours is petty, disrespectful and counterproductive. Whether the Trump administration\u2019s Brand New Air Traffic Control System succeeds or fails will depend on the morale of the people expected to run it.\n\nAir traffic controllers are operating a strained system, using antiquated technology, while adapting to air traffic control modernization in real time. Controllers work long, high-stress hours and make split-second decisions that keep millions of passengers safe every day. The last thing our National Airspace System needs is a cynical FAA Administrator so hellbent on stretching them thinner that he is willing to withhold their modest 2.8 percent pay raise.\n\nSqueezing more \u201cutilization\u201d out of air traffic controllers who have been understaffed, underpaid and overworked for years will weaken retention and undermine aviation safety. Your own plan says as much: \u201cChronic use of overtime leads to fatigue, controller burnout and ultimately loss of retention.\u201d\n\nIllinois represents a clear example of the systematic challenges facing air traffic controllers. As of September 20, 2025, the most recent facility data in your plan, Chicago O\u2019Hare tower had 61 certified professional controllers against a target of 88; Chicago TRACON had 76 against a target of 100; Chicago Center had 277 against 290; and Midway tower had 19 against 22. The controllers working in those positions are absorbing the mandatory overtime your plan warns about and have been left waiting months to receive the raise Congress authorized and funded in April.\n\nSecretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy made it crystal clear that compensation strengthens staffing. Announcing the Department of Transportation\u2019s package of controller incentives, he promised it would \u201csupercharge the air traffic controller workforce from both retention and hiring side of the equation.\u201d How does withholding a pay increase Congress has already funded \u201csupercharge\u201d that workforce or improve retention?\n\nWe urge you to expeditiously approve the pay increase that was rightfully earned by our Nation\u2019s hardworking air traffic controllers. Air traffic controllers are the foundation of the National Airspace System. These public safety employees operate on the front line to protect American lives and deserve the full pay raise that Congress authorized and appropriated in April 2026. The $140,000,000 Congress appropriated for it is roughly 1 percent of the $12.5 billion Congress has already provided for the Brand New Air Traffic Control System. You have moved quickly to obligate money for equipment. Move as quickly for the people who will operate it.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-05T08:49:07Z", "2026-09-05T08:50:44Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-visits-illinois-head-start-calls-out-trumps-new-plan-to-jeopardize-this-lifeline-for-families", "Duckworth Visits Illinois Head Start, Calls Out Trump\u2019s New Plan to Jeopardize This Lifeline for Families", "2026-09-03", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[CHICAGO, IL] \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined parents, teachers and Illinois Head Start leaders to underscore how President Donald Trump\u2019s latest attack on Head Start would jeopardize services for countless middle-class families across Illinois, many of whom are already struggling to make ends meet as a direct result of the Trump Administration\u2019s reckless policies. The Senator\u2019s visit comes after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced a plan last month to scrap roughly 1,400 regulations that would fundamentally change how Head Start is able to serve our children, potentially reducing care hours, increasing staff-to-child ratios and eliminating certain health and developmental screening requirements. At a time when middle-class families are enduring higher costs across the board, this latest proposal has significantly raised concerns about the quality and consistency of Head Start services for children and families that depend on them. Photos from today\u2019s event are available on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cDonald Trump\u2019s latest attack on Head Start would put yet another lifeline at risk for families who depend on it most,\u201d said Senator Duckworth. \u201cIf enacted, this deregulation plan would fundamentally change how Head Start is run and jeopardize its ability to care for our children. It would reduce the hours that Head Start can be available for parents who depend on it, eliminate health screenings and even dramatically increase class sizes that could overwhelm our teachers and underserve our children.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf the President cares about families at all, he needs to keep his hands off Head Start. Together, we\u2019ll keep fighting back and ensure this lifeline remains as strong as it can be.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Trump Administration is calling the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposal\u2014which removes most requirements related to teaching and learning, quality standards, health and mental health services, dental care, developmental screenings, and family support services\u2014\u2018flexibility.\u2019 However, the complete opposite is true. For Head Start children and families, this could mean losing critical protections and services built over decades. In the Administration\u2019s own words, they estimate that these changes will lead to fewer services and lower quality. Eliminating these standards is not cutting red tape; it is cutting the safeguards that help our nation\u2019s most vulnerable children succeed. We are grateful to Senator Duckworth for standing with Head Start children, families, and the dedicated workforce that serves them and for recognizing that protecting Head Start means protecting the future of our communities,\u201d said Lauri Morrison-Frichtl, Executive Director of Illinois Head Start Association.\n\nHead Start serves approximately 28,000 children and pregnant women across all 102 counties in Illinois, supported by roughly 8,500 staff. In Chicago, about one in four child care slots are connected to centers that receive Head Start funding.\n\nDuckworth has been outspoken in pushing back against Trump Administration policies that threaten Head Start and the families who rely on it across Illinois. Last year, she joined Governor JB Pritzker, parents, teachers and Head Start staff at Two Rivers Head Start in Elgin to highlight the impact of the Administration\u2019s funding decisions on Illinois families and providers. In April 2025, Duckworth and Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined their colleagues in calling on the Administration to release withheld Head Start funding and reverse staff firings. Additionally, Duckworth helped reintroduce the Child Care for Working Families Act to make high-quality child care more affordable and accessible for families nationwide as Trump and Republicans choose to spend trillions on new tax cuts for billionaires instead of investing in middle-class families. She also hosted Illinois Head Start Association Executive Director Lauri Morrison-Frichtl as her guest at President Trump\u2019s Joint Address to Congress in 2025.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-04T09:19:37Z", "2026-09-04T09:20:58Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-visits-revolution-workshop-to-highlight-500000-investment-she-secured-to-support-workforce-training", "Duckworth Visits Revolution Workshop to Highlight $500,000 Investment She Secured to Support Workforce Training", "2026-09-03", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[CHICAGO, IL] \u2014 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited Revolution Workshop to see firsthand how the $500,000 in federal funding she successfully secured is helping expand the Workshop\u2019s Pre-Apprenticeship and Job Training Program, a program that helps Illinoisans develop key skills needed to enter the construction workforce where they can help revitalize under-resourced communities in Chicago. As the United States continues to face a shortage of workers in the skilled trades, this program is helping close this gap in the constructor sector by giving disadvantaged Illinoisans the tools they need to be competitive in this job market while making it easier to build across Chicagoland. Photos from today\u2019s visit are available on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cRevolution Workshop is proof that when we create pathways to good-paying construction jobs, we can uplift and build entire communities,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cOur nation faces a shortage of workers in the skilled trades and an ongoing housing crisis, and this training program is exactly what is needed to solve both those challenges. I\u2019m proud I was able to successfully deliver this federal funding for such a transformational organization, and I\u2019m even prouder to see this investment in action today.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe need more leaders like Senator Duckworth, who recognize the importance of supporting skilled trades pathways as a real opportunity for our underserved residents to access true economic mobility,\u201d said Manny Rodriguez, Founder and Executive Director of Revolution Workshop. \u201cAs a workforce agency dedicated to training and placing underserved residents in Illinois into construction, Revolution Workshop is grateful to have been a recipient of Congressional Direct Spending grant to help increase our impact in Illinois.\u201d\n\nChicago\u2019s Revolution Workshop provides training and job placement in the construction sector to eager and dedicated individuals who otherwise, likely would not receive this training in underserved communities. They use employer and union partners to develop their pipeline of skilled, collaborative and reliable construction workers, giving all trainees the tools and resources needed to succeed and enter the workforce.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-04T09:19:37Z", "2026-09-04T09:20:58Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-sorensen-announce-funding-extension-for-chicago-quad-cities-rail-project", "Durbin, Duckworth, Sorensen Announce Funding Extension for Chicago-Quad Cities Rail Project", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "With this funding extension, the remaining federal funding can be used to proceed with the Chicago-Quad Cities Rail Project\n\n[CHICAGO, IL] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) today announced that the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has approved a grant extension for the remaining federal funding previously secured for the proposed Chicago-Quad Cities passenger rail project, an Amtrak route between Chicago and Moline, Illinois. The extension will allow the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to use the remaining federal funding to complete the rail project after more than a decade of planning.\n\nToday\u2019s announcement comes after Duckworth, Durbin and Sorensen urged U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Federal Railroad Administrator David Fink to grant the extension for the remaining federal funding previously secured for the project. In their June letter, the lawmakers emphasized that the rail line, which Durbin has been advocating for since 2008, could finally move forward as long as the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) extended the availability of previously granted federal funds beyond the deadline of July 31, 2026.\n\n\u201cFor too long, the Quad Cities have gone without a passenger rail line to Chicago, limiting Illinoisans\u2019 options to get to school, businesses and visit loved ones. With this funding extension, we\u2019re closer to delivering the passenger rail service that so many have long been waiting for,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cInvestments in our rail system connect communities, grow local economies and give Illinoisans more freedom to get where they need to go. This is a big milestone for our state, and Senator Durbin, Congressman Sorensen and I will continue working alongside our local leaders to strengthen our rail network and ensure it serves all Illinoisans for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cIllinois relies on rail to push our economy forward and to ensure statewide connectivity, but we\u2019ve been missing a critical route between Chicago and the Quad Cities,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cFor more than 15 years, we\u2019ve worked with IDOT, Iowa Interstate and BNSF Railroads, and the federal government to make the Chicago-Quad Cities Rail Project possible. With this funding extension from FRA, we can finally make this long-planned project a reality and open up new transit possibilities for Illinoisans.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m very pleased to see this project move forward and bring us one step closer to completing the Chicago-Quad Cities rail connection,\u201d said Sorensen. \u201cThis investment will strengthen transportation options, support economic growth, and better connect communities across Illinois. Most importantly, it will give our neighbors more reliable ways to get to work, visit family, and access opportunities across the region.\u201d\n\nIn 2010, Durbin secured $177 million in federal funding for the rail project. The rail line was delayed for years because former Governor Rauner refused to provide state funding for it. In 2019, Governor Pritzker renewed the state\u2019s commitment to the project by providing $225 million in state funding through the Rebuild Illinois Capital Program. Recent enactment of the state\u2019s transit bill, along with other state funding sources, will provide the additional funding necessary for the project. Durbin has repeatedly secured extensions of the federal funding.\n\nIn June, Durbin met with IDOT Secretary Gia Biagi and Iowa Interstate Railroad (IAIS) CEO Joe Parsons to discuss the rail project.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-sorensen-announce-funding-extension-for-chicago-quad-cities-rail-project", "Durbin, Duckworth, Sorensen Announce Funding Extension For Chicago-Quad Cities Rail Project", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "With this funding extension, the remaining federal funding can be used to proceed with the Chicago-Quad Cities Rail Project\n\nCHICAGO \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) today announced that the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has approved a grant extension for the remaining federal funding previously secured for the proposed Chicago-Quad Cities passenger rail project, an Amtrak route between Chicago and Moline, Illinois. The extension will allow the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to use the remaining federal funding to complete the rail project after more than a decade of planning.\n\nToday\u2019s announcement comes after Durbin, Duckworth, and Sorensen urged U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Federal Railroad Administrator David Fink to grant the extension for the remaining federal funding previously secured for the project. In their June letter, the lawmakers emphasized that the rail line, which Durbin has been advocating for since 2008, could finally move forward as long as the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) extended the availability of previously granted federal funds beyond the deadline of July 31, 2026.\n\n\u201cIllinois relies on rail to push our economy forward and to ensure statewide connectivity, but we\u2019ve been missing a critical route between Chicago and the Quad Cities,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cFor more than 15 years, we\u2019ve worked with IDOT, Iowa Interstate and BNSF Railroads, and the federal government to make the Chicago-Quad Cities Rail Project possible. With this funding extension from FRA, we can finally make this long-planned project a reality and open up new transit possibilities for Illinoisans.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor too long, the Quad Cities have gone without a passenger rail line to Chicago, limiting Illinoisans\u2019 options to get to school, businesses and visit loved ones. With this funding extension, we\u2019re closer to delivering the passenger rail service that so many have long been waiting for,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cInvestments in our rail system connect communities, grow local economies and give Illinoisans more freedom to get where they need to go. This is a big milestone for our state, and Senator Durbin, Congressman Sorensen and I will continue working alongside our local leaders to strengthen our rail network and ensure it serves all Illinoisans for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m very pleased to see this project move forward and bring us one step closer to completing the Chicago-Quad Cities rail connection,\u201d said Sorensen. \u201cThis investment will strengthen transportation options, support economic growth, and better connect communities across Illinois. Most importantly, it will give our neighbors more reliable ways to get to work, visit family, and access opportunities across the region.\u201d\n\nIn 2010, Durbin secured $177 million in federal funding for the rail project. The rail line was delayed for years because former Governor Rauner refused to provide state funding for it. In 2019, Governor Pritzker renewed the state\u2019s commitment to the project by providing $225 million in state funding through the Rebuild Illinois Capital Program. Recent enactment of the state\u2019s transit bill, along with other state funding sources, will provide the additional funding necessary for the project. Durbin has repeatedly secured extensions of the federal funding.\n\nIn June, Durbin met with IDOT Secretary Gia Biagi and Iowa Interstate Railroad (IAIS) CEO Joe Parsons to discuss the rail project.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-joins-illinois-wesleyan-university-for-roundtable-discussion-on-health-care-workforce-shortage", "Durbin Joins Illinois Wesleyan University For Roundtable Discussion On Health Care Workforce Shortage", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In FY26, Durbin secured a $1 million earmark for IWU\u2019s Nursing and Health Science Innovation Program, funding upgrades to lab equipment, simulators, and curriculum development for nursing students\n\nBLOOMINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined students and faculty at Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU) School of Nursing and Health Sciences for a roundtable discussion on educating health care professionals to address the troubling health care workforce shortage. During the event, Durbin learned about IWU\u2019s Nursing and Health Sciences Innovation Program, which is supported by a $1 million earmark Durbin secured for the program in the Fiscal Year 2026 government funding bill. The program aims to enhance student success through technology upgrades, facility improvements, and academic support initiatives that include advanced simulations and hands-on training.\n\n\u201cOur health care professionals, especially our nurses, are on the front lines, providing critical care to patients. But they don\u2019t have access to the resources they need to succeed. I\u2019ve made it a priority to work alongside institutions, including Illinois Wesleyan University, to secure federal funding that can support stellar programs like the Innovation Program,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cThis funding will help graduate more highly trained nurses to serve our entire region, making a difference in the lives of thousands of people.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt's an honor to have Senator Durbin visit campus to speak with our students,\u201d said IWU President Sheahon Zenger. \u201cWe truly appreciate the $1 million in funding that he secured for Illinois Wesleyan, which allows us to improve classroom technology and continue preparing nursing students and health professionals who will contribute meaningfully to the health of our communities.\u201d\n\nPhotos of the event are available here.\n\nNearly 100 million Americans live in communities with too few doctors. The U.S. is estimated to need 450,000 nurses over the next two years, and the country is projected to face a shortage of 120,000 physicians over the next decade. One of the biggest barriers to pursuing graduate education for health care providers is the high cost, which can leave new doctors with an average debt of more than $200,000.\n\nTo address the health care workforce shortage, Durbin has worked across the aisle to introduce legislation that would bring more health care professionals to rural areas, support health care educators, and build up the health care workforce. In March, Durbin reintroduced the bipartisan Rural America Health Corps Act, legislation that would incentivize more health professionals to serve and plant roots in rural communities by creating a new program under the Health Resources and Services Administration\u2019s (HRSA) National Health Service Corps (NHSC) to test whether an increased loan repayment amount would improve the retention of health providers in rural areas.\n\nIn January, Durbin reintroduced the bipartisan Nurse Faculty Shortage Reduction Act to address the critical nursing faculty shortage by creating a pilot grant program to help nursing schools increase wages for nurse educators. In 2025, Durbin introduced the bipartisan Healthcare Workforce Resilience Act, which would allow for the recapture of 25,000 unused immigrant visas for nurses and 15,000 unused immigrant visas for physicians that Congress has previously authorized\u2014providing a desperately needed boost to our health care system in rural and urban areas.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-van-hollen-colleagues-file-amicus-brief-defending-courts-right-to-seek-answers-transparency-in-jgg-v-trump", "Duckworth, Van Hollen, Colleagues File Amicus Brief Defending Court\u2019s Right to Seek Answers, Transparency in JGG v. Trump", "2026-08-31", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (NJ) and Peter Welch (D-VT) in submitting an amicus brief to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia in the case of In re Donald J. Trump, et. al, supporting the legal authority of the District Court to inquire whether government attorneys misrepresented or concealed facts before the Court and warning of serious consequences of permitting one branch to avoid inquiry and transparency when questioned by another co-equal branch of our federal government. The lawmakers\u2019 amicus brief argues that Congress and the American public have an interest in knowing whether government attorneys misrepresented or concealed facts before a United States District Court, and that concerns of judicial overreach in this case are unfounded because federal courts have an inherent contempt power which includes some inquiry before a referral is made.\n\nThe Senators begin the brief, \u201cCongress requires that lawyers tell the truth in judicial proceedings. It has set forth through statute that government attorneys are subject to the same rules as all other attorneys requiring truthfulness and transparency to the Courts. When a party or counsel is not honest in proceedings before them, Courts have the fundamental power to punish contempt. Congress has explicitly codified this power. And the exercise of this power is squarely within the providence of the judiciary...The Court has every right to try to make sense of these events. Mandamus to prevent that inquiry should not issue.\u201d\n\nThis case arises from JGG v. Trump, one of several legal challenges to the Trump Administration\u2019s use of the Alien Enemies Act, a wartime law that was last invoked to detain Japanese people in internment camps during World War II. In March 2025, President Trump and the Department of Homeland Security used this law to detain and remove Venezuelan nationals from the United States. Several of the individuals who were detained sought emergency relief under the Administrative Procedure Act and federal habeas corpus claims. The United States District Court for the District of Columbia issued a temporary restraining order preventing further removal of individuals, but the Trump Administration still proceeded to send 261 people to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador. The Supreme Court later vacated that order, and the District Court then began an investigation into potential criminal contempt against the Administration for defying court orders. Of particular concern to the Court was whether government attorneys had misrepresented, concealed or otherwise gave misleading information to the Court. The Administration has continuously sought to force the District Court to end its contempt inquiry, and will present oral arguments before the en banc U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia to prevent any further investigation into the actions of the government and its attorneys.\n\n\u201cThe executive branch, through counsel, may have misrepresented or concealed facts when questioned by a federal court...The executive branch must follow court orders the same as the rest of the citizenry...Such conclusion flows inexorably from perhaps the most evident and well-accepted point in constitutional law: that the government of the United States is comprised of three coequal branches,\u201d the Senators stress.\n\nOn the unfounded concerns of judicial overreach, the Senators note, \u201cAll federal courts other than the Supreme Court are creations of Congress. Congress has explicitly provided federal courts with the authority to conduct contempt proceedings and punish accordingly... Exercising the contempt power is fundamentally within the providence of the judiciary... Excusing the executive branch at this stage is simply premature, and the District Court should be permitted to act within its statutorily conferred authority.\u201d\n\n\u201cMandamus is simply not appropriate. This case presents one coequal branch acting in defiance of an order from another coequal branch. This is too critical to prevent inquiry. The District Court was well within its authority to utilize the mechanism of contempt\u2014a power inherent in all courts and explicitly codified by Congress,\u201d the Senators conclude.\n\nFull text of the argument in the brief can be viewed on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/after-years-of-federal-investment-duckworth-durbin-celebrate-grand-opening-of-fully-accessible-southern-illinois-multimodal-station", "After Years of Federal Investment, Duckworth, Durbin Celebrate Grand Opening of Fully-Accessible Southern Illinois Multimodal Station", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[CARBONDALE, IL] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined Governor JB Pritzker, Carbondale Mayor Carolin Harvey, Illinois Secretary of Transportation Gina Biagi and local leaders to celebrate the opening of the new Southern Illinois Multimodal Station (SIMMS), a project the Senators helped secure more than $18 million in federal funding for and championed for years. The new station features fully accessible facilities, including ramps and improved platforms, to make public transportation safer and more accessible for all riders while strengthening connections across Southern Illinois. Photos from the ceremony can be found on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cWhen public transportation is accessible, everyone benefits,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cToday\u2019s grand opening shows what we can accomplish when federal, state and local governments work together. The Southern Illinois Multimodal Station will make it easier for people with disabilities, parents with strollers and all travelers to get where they need to go safely and confidently, while expanding opportunity across the region. Together, we\u2019ll keep fighting for the federal investments our transit systems need to remove barriers and modernize aging infrastructure.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Duckworth and I helped to secure $18.3 million in federal funding for the Southern Illinois Multimodal Station to better connect families, students, and small businesses to local and national destinations,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cThis federal investment will be a tremendous boost to Carbondale and Southern Illinois, with SIMMS acting as both an economic hub for the city and a modern regional transportation center.\u201d\n\nDuckworth and Durbin helped secure a total of $18.3 million in federal funding for the Southern Illinois Multimodal Station and have been long-time champions of the project on the federal level. The new station will serve as a connection point for Amtrak passenger rail, Greyhound bus service, mass transit service, bicyclists, pedestrians and allows for safer, easier and more reliable travel throughout the region.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-hold-roundtable-with-illinois-health-care-provides-on-the-impacts-of-the-trump-administrations-cuts", "Duckworth, Durbin Hold Roundtable with Illinois Health Care Provides on the Impacts of the Trump Administration\u2019s Cuts", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[MARION, IL] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today held a roundtable with Illinois health care providers, leaders and advocates to discuss the challenges they\u2019re facing in providing care to rural communities as a direct result of the Trump Administration\u2019s harmful health care cuts. Since being signed into law last July, President Trump\u2019s One Big Beautiful Bill made the largest health care cuts in history, destabilizing the health care system with more than $1 trillion in cuts from Medicaid and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Photos from the roundtable can be found on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cFor many Illinoisans in rural communities, health care was already too expensive and too hard to get\u2014and then came the Medicaid cuts,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cSlashing Medicaid has not only put reliable health care coverage at even more risk for hundreds of thousands of Illinoisans but also added even more pressure on rural hospitals already struggling to keep their doors open. The Administration\u2019s cuts will only make it harder for families to get care close to home when mere minutes can be life-saving\u2014or stop access altogether. Senator Durbin and I will keep fighting to protect Medicaid, support our rural health care services and make sure every Illinoisan can get the care they need when they need it, no matter their zip code.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Duckworth and I sent letters to Illinois hospitals last year and asked them how the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act and its devastating Medicaid cuts would impact their hospital, health care workforce, and the patients they serve,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cThe 129 responses we received made it clear that this legislation will mean shuttering of services, layoffs, and even hospital closures\u2014meaning patients will needlessly suffer. If you look at the numbers, 24 rural hospitals are at risk of closure in Illinois. I think we ought to make a commitment to rural hospitals and families struggling with the cost-of-living instead of slashing federal funding for health care in order to fund tax cuts for billionaires.\u201d\n\nThe consequences of these policies will continue to be felt across our state, with an estimated 400,000 Illinoisans expected to lose health coverage by 2034. Illinois nursing homes and hospitals, primarily in rural areas, are at risk of closing and Medicaid cuts are predicted to result in more than 27,000 jobs cut across the state.\n\nYesterday, Duckworth hosted a women\u2019s health care roundtable with local reproductive health clinics, obstetrics providers, federally qualified health centers and health departments to hear about the difficulties of providing reproductive and maternal care in rural Southern Illinois, where Carbondale has become a safe haven for women seeking care from across the region and surrounding states, and the impact of Trump Administration policies on access to care. Photos from the women\u2019s health care roundtable can be found on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-visits-southern-illinois-nursing-school-expansion-made-possible-by-federal-investment-she-secured", "Duckworth Visits Southern Illinois Nursing School Expansion Made Possible by Federal Investment She Secured", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[CARTERVILLE, IL] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited John A. Logan College (JALC) to see firsthand how the $1.2 million federal investment she successfully secured is expanding the school\u2019s nursing program, building new classrooms, purchasing equipment and helping prepare students for careers in health and nursing. During the visit, Duckworth stressed the importance of programs like these in addressing the shortage of rural health care workers in Illinois and across the country\u2014a crisis that\u2019s being exacerbated by Trump and Republicans\u2019 health care cuts. Photos from today\u2019s visit are available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cRural Illinoisans were already dealing with extreme barriers to care, between a shortage of health care professionals and too many having to travel hours to the nearest hospital when mere minutes can mean life or death in an emergency. Now in the wake of Trump\u2019s Medicaid cuts, those already-distant hospitals face the threat of losing key resources and being shuttered altogether,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cThis is a crisis our rural communities cannot afford to get worse. To help address these challenges, we must plan for the long-term and invest in training the next generation of health care professionals. After years of pushing for federal funding for this project, I\u2019m proud to see this investment help us do just that.\u201d\n\nDuckworth long pushed for funding to expand rural health care access and support postsecondary programs across Illinois. Earlier this year, Duckworth\u2019s bipartisan Improving Access to Care for Rural Veterans Act passed committee, which would make it easier for Veterans who live in rural areas to access the health care they\u2019ve earned.\n\nJohn A. Logan College is a public community college in Carterville, Illinois. The JALC Nursing Program offers three stand-alone nursing programs: Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), Practical Nursing (PN) and Associate Degree Nursing (ADN).\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-ask-fra-amtrak-for-additional-information-on-plans-to-relocate-its-14th-street-maintenance-facility", "Duckworth, Durbin ask FRA, Amtrak for Additional Information on Plans to Relocate its 14th Street Maintenance Facility", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[CHICAGO, IL] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) requested additional information from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and Amtrak regarding a maintenance facilities award after fielding concerns from residents and local elected officials in Chicago\u2019s Bridgeport neighborhood. In a letter to FRA and Amtrak leaders, the Senators requested greater transparency and communication as Amtrak seeks to relocate its current 14th Street maintenance facility to what is presently Union Pacific\u2019s Canal Street Yard.\n\nEarlier this month, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded more than $696 million to Amtrak for much-needed rail improvements in the Chicago area, including $572 million to support improvements to Amtrak\u2019s Chicago maintenance operations.\n\n\u201cWe have long-supported projects that seek to improve Amtrak\u2019s on-time performance, reduce service interruptions and cancellations, and yield greater safety and satisfaction for customers,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cAmtrak has stated that its intention for the maintenance facilities project is to help it more efficiently maintenance passenger railcars, to lead to these shared outcomes. Amtrak expects the project to support approximately 3,000 jobs in Illinois, including union and skilled labor positions.\u201d\n\nThe Senators\u2019 letter continues, \u201cAt the same time, regarding the maintenance facilities award, our offices have heard concerns from residents and local elected officials in Chicago\u2019s Bridgeport neighborhood. They are requesting greater transparency and communication from Amtrak as it seeks to relocate its current 14th Street maintenance facility to what is presently Union Pacific\u2019s Canal Street Yard. Specifically, the residents would like more information about the plans for the facility, its operations, and any expected community impacts, including but not limited to environmental concerns such as noise, safety, and traffic levels.\u201d\n\nThe Senators\u2019 letter concludes, \u201cWe ask that both the FRA and Amtrak be responsive to the community and provide both residents and local officials with greater detail and insight into Amtrak\u2019s plans to relocate the maintenance yard. Further, we ask that any such improvements to Amtrak\u2019s maintenance operations in the Chicago area be accompanied by a robust and transparent conversation with the residents who may be impacted.\u201d\n\nFull text of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth's website and below:\n\nAugust 27, 2026\n\nDear Administrator Fink and Interim President Herrmann:\n\nWe write regarding the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s (USDOT) recent National Railroad Partnership Program (Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail) grant awarded to Amtrak for the \u201cMidwest Maintenance Facilities Modernization P3\u201d project.\n\nEarlier this month, USDOT awarded more than $696 million to Amtrak for much-needed rail improvements in the Chicago area, including $572 million to support improvements to Amtrak\u2019s Chicago maintenance operations. As you know, Chicago is the rail hub of North America, with more tracks radiating in more directions than any other city. Roughly 25 percent of freight trains and 50 percent of intermodal trains pass through metropolitan Chicago. Any improvements to Chicago\u2019s rail infrastructure yield immeasurable impacts not only to the entire Midwest region, but the whole country\u2019s rail network\u2014both passenger and freight movement alike.\n\nWe have long-supported projects that seek to improve Amtrak\u2019s on-time performance, reduce service interruptions and cancellations, and yield greater safety and satisfaction for customers. Amtrak has stated that its intention for the maintenance facilities project is to help it more efficiently maintenance passenger railcars, to lead to these shared outcomes. Amtrak expects the project to support approximately 3,000 jobs in Illinois, including union and skilled labor positions.\n\nAt the same time, regarding the maintenance facilities award, our offices have heard concerns from residents and local elected officials in Chicago\u2019s Bridgeport neighborhood. They are requesting greater transparency and communication from Amtrak as it seeks to relocate its current 14th Street maintenance facility to what is presently Union Pacific\u2019s Canal Street Yard. Specifically, the residents would like more information about the plans for the facility, its operations, and any expected community impacts, including but not limited to environmental concerns such as noise, safety, and traffic levels.\n\nWe ask that both the FRA and Amtrak be responsive to the community and provide both residents and local officials with greater detail and insight into Amtrak\u2019s plans to relocate the maintenance yard. Further, we ask that any such improvements to Amtrak\u2019s maintenance operations in the Chicago area be accompanied by a robust and transparent conversation with the residents who may be impacted.\n\nWe appreciate your timely attention to this matter and await your response.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-ask-fra-amtrak-for-additional-information-on-amtraks-plans-to-relocate-its-14th-street-maintenance-facility", "Durbin, Duckworth Ask FRA, Amtrak For Additional Information On Amtrak's Plans To Relocate Its 14th Street Maintenance Facility", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "CHICAGO \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today requested additional information from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and Amtrak regarding a maintenance facilities award after fielding concerns from residents and local elected officials in Chicago\u2019s Bridgeport neighborhood. In a letter to FRA and Amtrak leaders, the Senators requested greater transparency and communication as Amtrak seeks to relocate its current 14th Street maintenance facility to what is presently Union Pacific\u2019s Canal Street Yard.\n\nEarlier this month, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded more than $696 million to Amtrak for much-needed rail improvements in the Chicago area, including $572 million to support improvements to Amtrak\u2019s Chicago maintenance operations.\n\n\u201cWe have long-supported projects that seek to improve Amtrak\u2019s on-time performance, reduce service interruptions and cancellations, and yield greater safety and satisfaction for customers,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cAmtrak has stated that its intention for the maintenance facilities project is to help it more efficiently maintenance passenger railcars, to lead to these shared outcomes. Amtrak expects the project to support approximately 3,000 jobs in Illinois, including union and skilled labor positions.\u201d\n\nThe Senators\u2019 letter continues, \u201cAt the same time, regarding the maintenance facilities award, our offices have heard concerns from residents and local elected officials in Chicago\u2019s Bridgeport neighborhood. They are requesting greater transparency and communication from Amtrak as it seeks to relocate its current 14th Street maintenance facility to what is presently Union Pacific\u2019s Canal Street Yard. Specifically, the residents would like more information about the plans for the facility, its operations, and any expected community impacts, including but not limited to environmental concerns such as noise, safety, and traffic levels.\u201d\n\nThe Senators\u2019 letter concludes, \u201cWe ask that both the FRA and Amtrak be responsive to the community and provide both residents and local officials with greater detail and insight into Amtrak\u2019s plans to relocate the maintenance yard. Further, we ask that any such improvements to Amtrak\u2019s maintenance operations in the Chicago area be accompanied by a robust and transparent conversation with the residents who may be impacted.\u201d\n\nFull text of today\u2019s letter is available here and below:\n\nAugust 27, 2026\n\nDear Administrator Fink and Interim President Herrmann:\n\nWe write regarding the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s (USDOT) recent National Railroad Partnership Program (Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail) grant awarded to Amtrak for the \u201cMidwest Maintenance Facilities Modernization P3\u201d project.\n\nEarlier this month, USDOT awarded more than $696 million to Amtrak for much-needed rail improvements in the Chicago area, including $572 million to support improvements to Amtrak\u2019s Chicago maintenance operations. As you know, Chicago is the rail hub of North America, with more tracks radiating in more directions than any other city. Roughly 25 percent of freight trains and 50 percent of intermodal trains pass through metropolitan Chicago. Any improvements to Chicago\u2019s rail infrastructure yield immeasurable impacts not only to the entire Midwest region, but the whole country\u2019s rail network\u2014both passenger and freight movement alike.\n\nWe have long-supported projects that seek to improve Amtrak\u2019s on-time performance, reduce service interruptions and cancellations, and yield greater safety and satisfaction for customers. Amtrak has stated that its intention for the maintenance facilities project is to help it more efficiently maintenance passenger railcars, to lead to these shared outcomes. Amtrak expects the project to support approximately 3,000 jobs in Illinois, including union and skilled labor positions.\n\nAt the same time, regarding the maintenance facilities award, our offices have heard concerns from residents and local elected officials in Chicago\u2019s Bridgeport neighborhood. They are requesting greater transparency and communication from Amtrak as it seeks to relocate its current 14th Street maintenance facility to what is presently Union Pacific\u2019s Canal Street Yard. Specifically, the residents would like more information about the plans for the facility, its operations, and any expected community impacts, including but not limited to environmental concerns such as noise, safety, and traffic levels.\n\nWe ask that both the FRA and Amtrak be responsive to the community and provide both residents and local officials with greater detail and insight into Amtrak\u2019s plans to relocate the maintenance yard. Further, we ask that any such improvements to Amtrak\u2019s maintenance operations in the Chicago area be accompanied by a robust and transparent conversation with the residents who may be impacted.\n\nWe appreciate your timely attention to this matter and await your response.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-continues-to-raise-alarms-about-severe-due-process-violations-targeting-unaccompanied-children-at-the-chicago-immigration-court-under-the-trump-administrations-cruel-immigration-policies", "Durbin Continues To Raise Alarms About Severe Due Process Violations Targeting Unaccompanied Children At The Chicago Immigration Court Under The Trump Administration's Cruel Immigration Policies", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Durbin joined the National Immigrant Justice Center, the Children\u2019s Legal Center, & other elected officials to observe the removal proceedings of unaccompanied children appearing on the \u201cmega masters\u201d court docket\n\nCHICAGO \u2013 After observing the removal proceedings of unaccompanied children (UACs) appearing on the \u201cmega masters\u201d court docket at the Chicago Immigration Court, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today raised concerns about severe due process violations targeting unaccompanied children due to the Trump Administration\u2019s cruel immigration policies. Durbin was joined this morning by the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC), the Children\u2019s Legal Center (CLC), other elected officials including U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), and community partners. Following the observation, Durbin and Quigley attended a press conference to speak about what they saw.\n\n\u201cWhat I witnessed today illustrated President Trump and Stephen Miller\u2019s ruthless agenda: they will go so far with their cruel immigration operation to target terrified children, forcing them to articulate their fears in front of a judge and explain why they must remain in this country,\u201d said Durbin. \u201cAs a father and grandfather, I cannot fathom the cruelty this Administration has inflicted on immigrants\u2014including children across the country. I will continue to work with NIJC and CLC to end this Administration\u2019s disgusting attacks on children and relegate their actions to the dustbin of history where they belong.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe children I saw today are being put through hell. The Trump administration isn\u2019t going after \u2018the worst of the worst.\u2019 They\u2019re deporting kids. Children are being seen in immigration court without lawyers, without parents, and facing a language barrier, and being asked to explain why they deserve to stay in this country. These are kids young enough to be playing with toys while they wait for their turn in front of a judge. A judge who couldn't even show up to the courtroom to look these children in the eye. As always, the cruelty is the point,\u201d said Quigley. \u201cUsing children to instill fear and intimidate immigrant communities is beyond the pale. I\u2019m going to keep working with the National Immigrant Justice Center, the Children\u2019s Legal Center, and Senator Durbin to protect immigrant kids and families.\u201d\n\nFor a photo of the press conference, click here.\n\nFollowing the Administration\u2019s continued attacks on UACs and expansion of mass immigration enforcement operations, Durbin observed the juvenile proceedings of the court\u2019s \u201cmega masters\u201d docket, in which dozens of immigrants are brought into a single judge\u2019s courtroom for a massive preliminary procedural hearing, and the impact of children being subjected to deportation orders before they receive humanitarian relief they are eligible for under the law.\n\nAlthough the Trump Administration claims they are providing \u201cwellness checks\u201d on UACs, these \u201cwellness checks\u201d evolved into extended enforcement operations under the guise of protecting children, with the intent of securing collateral arrests, particularly the sponsors of UACs. In many of these cases, the UACs were taken away from a sponsoring family member, even possibly their parent, and moved into federal custody, primarily in federally-contracted shelters in Texas. This follows thousands of children experiencing abrupt changes in their legal representation with the expiration of the legal services contracts that funded the pro bono services of providers such as CLC and NIJC.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-join-colleagues-in-urging-netanyahu-to-immediately-crack-down-on-settler-violence-in-west-bank-protect-us-citizens", "Duckworth, Durbin Join Colleagues in Urging Netanyahu to Immediately Crack Down on Settler Violence in West Bank, Protect U.S. Citizens", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) and their colleagues to urge Israel\u2019s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take immediate actions to reduce violence in the West Bank and prevent further incidents amidst a significant increase in harassment, threats and acts of violence in recent weeks. They also called on the government of Israel to complete investigations into the deaths of nine American citizens who have been killed by settlers or security forces in the West Bank in recent years.\n\n\u201cWe urge you to take measures to prevent and intercede in this violence, establish a credible mechanism to investigate violations of law and to make clear that the Government of Israel will not tolerate violence by its people, just as it does not tolerate violence against its people,\u201d the Senators wrote in a letter signed by almost the entire Senate Democratic Caucus.\n\nThe Senators warn that, \u201ccontinued settlement expansion and fighting in the West Bank will harm Israel\u2019s long-term security and the prospects for lasting peace, prosperity and freedom for Israelis and Palestinians alike.\u201d\n\nPresident Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio previously expressed their opposition to annexation of and violence in the West Bank, which the Israeli government has failed to address.\n\n\u201cLike you, the safety and security of our constituents is of paramount importance. We urge your government to ensure that Americans in the Israeli-controlled parts of the West Bank are able to enjoy the security and protection of property to which they are entitled. We also hope to see the conditions improved so that Israelis and Palestinians may one day live in peace with each other without the fear of terrorism or lawless violence,\u201d the Senators concluded.\n\nAdditionally, the Senators call for those responsible for such violent acts to be held accountable and investigated.\n\nAlong with Duckworth and Durbin, the letter was signed by U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt-Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR).\n\nLast year, Duckworth and Durbin, along with 44 other Senate Democrats, urged President Trump to reinforce his stated opposition to the State of Israel\u2019s annexation of territory in the West Bank amidst ongoing focus on implementing and sustaining the much-needed ceasefire in Gaza. Duckworth and Durbin joined a group of 48 Senate Democrats in pushing for large-scale expansion of humanitarian aid into Gaza as part of diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire agreement and end the war in the region.\n\nFull text of the letter is available below and on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website:\n\nDear Mr. Prime Minister,\n\nWe write in shared concern and opposition to the growing levels of violence in the West Bank. Many of us have previously expressed to President Trump that continued settlement expansion and fighting in the West Bank will harm Israel\u2019s long-term security and the prospects for lasting peace, prosperity and freedom for Israelis and Palestinians alike.\n\nIncidents of fatal violence by settlers have reportedly already surpassed 2025 levels and continue to increase. The last few weeks alone saw a significant surge in violence on both sides, resulting in a large-scale response by Israeli security forces, mass arrests of Palestinians and reported attacks by settlers on mosques. We urge you to take measures to prevent and intercede in this violence, establish a credible mechanism to investigate violations of law and to make clear that the Government of Israel will not tolerate violence by its people, just as it does not tolerate violence against its people.\n\nWe write particularly on behalf of American citizens who have been killed or threatened in such violence. Many of us have heard first-hand from their families and other constituents who have themselves been threatened without cause by settlers. We have engaged the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem and your embassy in Washington to ensure their protection and appreciate measures taken on their behalf, but a more significant response from your government is clearly needed. We ask for your personal and direct engagement and intervention in order to protect our constituents and their families.\n\nPresident Trump and Secretary of State Rubio have expressed their opposition to all violence in the West Bank and actions aimed at annexation, but those concerns have gone unaddressed. Now, we urge you to take the following actions:\n\nIssue clear directives to the Israeli Police and Israeli Defense Forces to prevent and intervene in harassment, threats, and actual use of violence, regardless of the perpetrators.\n\nEnsure that all those responsible for harassment, threats, and violence against Palestinians, including Palestinian-Americans, are held accountable through a transparent and credible process. This includes completing investigations into and ensuring accountability for the deaths of nine American citizens who have been killed by settlers or security forces in the West Bank since 2022.\n\nStop approving additional settlements and stop allowing the construction of, and take steps to remove, illegal outposts in the West Bank.\n\nLike you, the safety and security of our constituents is of paramount importance. We urge your government to ensure that Americans in the Israeli-controlled parts of the West Bank are able to enjoy the security and protection of property to which they are entitled. We also hope to see the conditions improved so that Israelis and Palestinians may one day live in peace with each other without the fear of terrorism or lawless violence.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-meta-paying-landmark-settlement-over-child-safety-concerns", "Durbin Statement On Meta Paying Landmark Settlement Over Child Safety Concerns", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "CHICAGO \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement regarding Meta reaching a landmark settlement with attorneys general from 52 U.S. states, territories, and the District of Columbia, agreeing to pay more than $17 billion in penalties and make major changes to its products, Facebook and Instagram, over claims it endangers children with addictive social media platforms:\n\n\u201cTime and time again, we have heard how Meta, one of the world\u2019s biggest companies, consistently chooses profits and growth over people and safety.\n\n\u201cThis needs to stop. While this is a landmark settlement, Congress still needs to step up and regulate Big Tech. This is one of the few issues where Congress universally agrees on a bipartisan basis that we should act, and there are a number of bipartisan bills ready for floor consideration by both the House and the Senate. I stand ready to work with my colleagues to hold Big Tech accountable.\u201d\n\nDurbin has used his role on the Senate Judiciary Committee to prioritize child safety online through hearings, legislation, and oversight efforts.\n\nOn January 31, 2024, while Durbin was serving as Chair, the Committee held a hearing featuring testimony from the CEOs of social media companies Discord, Meta, Snap, TikTok, and X (formerly known as Twitter). This hearing highlighted the ongoing risk to children and the immediate need for Congress to act on the bipartisan bills reported by the Committee.\n\nDurbin and U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) joined forces to reintroduce the bipartisan STOP CSAM Act, which would combat online child sexual abuse material. The bill passed the Judiciary Committee unanimously and awaits action on the Senate floor.\n\nIn addition, Durbin\u2019s bipartisan Disrupt Explicit Forged Images and Non-Consensual Edits Act of 2024 (DEFIANCE Act) passed the Senate in July 2024 and again in January 2026. The legislation would hold accountable those responsible for the proliferation of nonconsensual, sexually-explicit \u201cdeepfake\u201d images and videos. The bill awaits consideration by the House.\n\nDurbin also introduced the Sunset Section 230 Act with the late U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), which would repeal Section 230 two years after the date of enactment so that those harmed online can bring legal action against the companies that caused the harm. The bill awaits consideration by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-supreme-courts-temporary-order-on-president-trumps-attempted-mail-in-voting-restrictions", "Durbin Statement On Supreme Court\u2019s Temporary Order On President Trump\u2019s Attempted Mail-In Voting Restrictions", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "CHICAGO \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after the Supreme Court temporarily permitted President Trump to move forward with portions of an executive order that seek to restrict mail-in voting while litigation on the merits of the case continues. The Supreme Court stayed a lower court injunction that had blocked provisions of the executive order in 23 states and the District of Columbia, though an injunction in a related case brought by voter protection organizations currently remains in place.\n\n\u201cThe President is dead set on attacking Americans\u2019 right to vote and undermining our democracy by making baseless claims about \u2018rigged\u2019 elections, demanding unreasonable voter registration requirements, restricting mail-in voting, and threatening to unconstitutionally nationalize our elections.\n\n\u201cYesterday\u2019s Supreme Court order is a temporary procedural win for President Trump as he attempts to pursue these lawless goals\u2014but it doesn\u2019t change the reality that the Constitution empowers states to run our elections, and the rule of law must prevail as this litigation continues. The right to vote is fundamental to our nation\u2019s democracy, and President Trump\u2019s efforts to chip away at that fundamental right must ultimately be rejected.\u201d\n\nAs Justice Sotomayor noted in her dissent to the order, \u201c[Yesterday\u2019s] decision does not address whether the President\u2019s attempts to interfere with States\u2019 administration of the November 2026 elections are lawful. Nor does it suggest that the Executive Branch has any constitutional or statutory authority to implement the President\u2019s directives. Instead, [it] merely postpones adjudication of those challenges.\u201d\n\nEarlier this year, Durbin joined U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Gary Peters (D-MI) to introduce the Absentee and Mail Voter Protection Act (Absentee MVP Act), which would block President Trump\u2019s illegal and unconstitutional executive order attacking mail and absentee ballots and protect the right to vote by mail.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-sasc-democrats-call-on-chairman-wicker-to-hold-a-hearing-on-the-trump-administrations-worsening-strain-on-troops-from-extended-war-in-iran", "Duckworth, SASC Democrats Call on Chairman Wicker to Hold a Hearing on the Trump Administration\u2019s Worsening Strain on Troops from Extended War in Iran", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "The Senators\u2019 letter comes after a series of reports detailing servicemembers on ships like USS Lincoln and bases abroad enduring dwindling supplies and deteriorating conditions on extended deployments with no end in sight\n\n[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)\u2014a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)\u2014led her fellow SASC Democratic colleagues in urging Committee Chairman Wicker to hold a hearing to investigate the Trump Administration\u2019s failures to support our servicemembers who are carrying out indefinite extended deployments in the illegal, disastrous Iran war that President Trump cannot seem to end. In a letter to Chairman Wicker, the Senators show how this Administration\u2019s failure to end this war has taken a widespread physical, emotional and mental toll on troops deployed to the region, even beyond the disturbing conditions aboard the USS Lincoln\u2014with dwindling supplies and deteriorating conditions aboard numerous ships and across bases in the region. The American people and military families deserve answers from the Trump Administration about how they intend to break this cycle that is crushing morale, stranding our troops in grim conditions and leaving military families unsure how to make ends meet while their loved ones in uniform serve longer extended deployments with no end in sight.\n\n\u201cThe toll this unauthorized, disastrous war is taking on our troops is unconscionable,\u201d said the SASC Democrats in their letter. \u201cTroops are suffering because of this Administration\u2019s inability to end this war or make the environment safe enough for our servicemembers to be delivered the food, medication or supplies they need.\u201d\n\nNot only is President Trump\u2019s disastrous, indefinite and illegal war hurting morale and readiness, SASC Democrats also raised serious concerns that these ongoing incidents could have direct consequences on our nation\u2019s ability to recruit and retain members of our military: \u201cMilitary families and the American people deserve answers about when our heroes will come home and how DoD plans to restore military readiness that has been drained by this war. Supply shortages and unjustified extended deployments also have a real impact on our ability to recruit and retain our servicemembers \u2013 why would anyone sign up to fight when they fear they will be exploited and left without supplies, recourse or support? Not only do we owe our troops the bare minimum respect and support they deserve, but it is a recruitment and retention imperative.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe stakes couldn\u2019t be higher. The longer this Administration fails to articulate a plan to end this disastrous war, the longer our brave servicemembers will pay the price.\u201d\n\nAlong with Duckworth, the letter is co-signed by U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI).\n\nA copy of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website and below:\n\nDear Chairman Wicker:\n\nWe request that you convene a public Armed Services Committee hearing with Department of Defense (DoD) leadership regarding the poor planning and mismanagement of extended deployments to support Iran operations and the impact on our troops. Recent reports of sailors suffering from severe mental health issues amid deteriorating conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln have only added to a disturbing pattern of failures to adequately plan and support our troops, who have been away from their families indefinitely as the Iran War drags on.\n\nOn August 11, Military Times reported that multiple sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln currently supporting Iran operations attempted to jump overboard, a heartbreaking decision in effort to escape the mental health toll of an extended deployment that was planned to end in May but is now at 9 months and counting. Horrifying messages from military families described other poor conditions onboard the Lincoln, including food rationing, rotten meals, shortages of supplies like water and soap, overflowing toilets, broken facilities and disrupted mail delivery. It\n\ntook nine months for the Navy to relieve the Lincoln with the USS George Washington, after\n\nconditions had reached such severity that military families directly confronted the Acting\n\nSecretary of the Navy. This has revealed the real impact of unplanned deployment extensions on\n\nour ability to maintain and logistically support our ships in a contested environment.\n\nThis is not the first time during this war that we have seen the consequences of extended deployments onboard an aircraft carrier or even other ships. Sailors on the USS Ford experienced hundreds of broken toilets and significant damage from a non-combat fire that injured multiple sailors and affected 100 sleeping berths and forced it to redirect to Greece for emergency repair. After this emergency repair, the Ford was again sent back to the Red Sea to support Iran operations \u2013 eventually completing 11 months of deployment, even though the Navy tries to limit deployments to seven months. Military families of servicemembers on board the multiple ships as part of the Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) in the region have reported emotional and financial strain from the unplanned extensions, struggling to balance work and childcare and caught in limbo with disrupted plans every time orders are extended.\n\nBoth the Lincoln and the Ford Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) were redirected from their original missions to support President Trump\u2019s illegal wars of choice. The Lincoln originally deployed in November to conduct routine patrols in the Indo-Pacific, but was redirected to the Middle East in January to support the start of the Iran operations. The Ford ultimately served a whopping 11 months at sea \u2013 redirected three times from an original mission to support deterrence in Europe, to operations in the Caribbean Sea and against Venezuela, to Iran operations. This Administration has failed to explain why it has insisted on stretching our sailors in this way without adequate planning \u2013 let alone for unauthorized wars of choice.\n\nThe strain on our troops is not confined to the Navy. In fact, our offices and press have heard story after story of Soldiers and Airmen, including National Guardsmen and Reservists, seeing their deployments extended with uncertainty about when they will be relieved by other units and can return home to their families. Bases in the Middle East originally designed to support a specific footprint have been stretched to support a much larger scale of units now stationed there \u2013 and conditions are deteriorating as too many people meet too little space and supplies.\n\nThe toll this illegal, disastrous war is taking on our troops is unconscionable. Troops are suffering because of this Administration\u2019s inability to end this war or make the environment safe enough for our servicemembers to be delivered the food, medication or supplies they need.\n\nAll these developments strongly indicate a systemic failure of planning and adaptation by the Secretary of Defense and senior DoD leaders. It is appalling that in month seven of the Iran War, DoD still continues to fail to anticipate and plan for the second-order consequences of the President\u2019s choices to continue this war with no end.\n\nMilitary families and the American people deserve answers about when our heroes will come home and how DoD plans to restore military readiness that has been drained by this war. Supply shortages and unjustified extended deployments also have a real impact on our ability to recruit and retain our servicemembers \u2013 why would anyone sign up to fight when they fear they will be exploited and left without supplies, recourse or support? Not only do we owe our troops the bare minimum respect and support they deserve, but it is a recruitment and retention imperative.\n\nThe stakes couldn\u2019t be higher. The longer this Administration fails to articulate a plan to end this disastrous war, the longer our brave servicemembers will pay the price.\n\nWe request a public hearing to help Congress and the public better understand how we got here and how the Department will ensure it never happens again. We call on the Department to explain to Congress, military families and the American people how it assesses and justifies the readiness impacts of these extended deployments, how it plans for relief rotations and what accounts for the systemic failures to provide troops with the support they need to do the mission the President has illegally asked of them. Importantly, the Department must justify and detail exactly how it plans to sustain our troops in this war indefinitely -- as the President\u2019s negotiations continue to fail.\n\nAs Members of this Committee, we take seriously our responsibility to make sure the U.S. military is properly led, well-resourced, supported and able to conduct its missions. We believe it is critical that we conduct public oversight to ensure that whenever we ask the military to answer the Nation\u2019s call, we will have their backs \u2013 not leave them stranded with no support. For these reasons, we urge the Committee to convene a hearing at the earliest opportunity to examine these issues directly with DoD leaders.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-attends-austin-hope-center-ribbon-cutting-ceremony", "Durbin Attends Austin Hope Center Ribbon Cutting Ceremony", "2026-08-21", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The new Austin HOPE Center, which was made possible through a $1 million earmark secured by Durbin, will provide a welcoming space for youth to seek high-quality pediatric behavioral and specialty health care services\n\nCHICAGO \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) yesterday attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Austin HOPE Center, which is designed to be a welcoming space for youth and families to seek clinical care and access community-based services. The newly unveiled facility will provide high-quality pediatric behavioral and specialty health care services; community responsive health education and training; gathering space for youth development and other community organizations; outdoor space for programming and respite; and space to encourage community building.\n\nDurbin secured $1 million in Congressionally Directed Spending\u2014also known as an earmark\u2014in the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Act for Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children\u2019s Hospital of Chicago to partner with Stone Community Development Corporation to create the new community health clinic site in Austin to serve children and families.\n\n\u201cI want to recognize the incredible partnership that made this possible: Stone Community Development Corporation, Lurie Children\u2019s, Thresholds, and Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cTogether, you\u2019ve created a space where residents can access pediatric care, behavioral health services, housing and employment support, and much more. I secured $1 million in federal funding for Lurie Children\u2019s to help create this community health clinic in Austin and now, that investment comes to life. I can\u2019t wait to see all the good that happens here.\u201d\n\nPhotos from the event are available here.\n\nDurbin has long championed the work of Chicago-area hospitals in addressing childhood trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). In 2018, Durbin launched the Chicago HEAL Initiative, a partnership between 10 of the largest hospitals serving Chicago to address the root causes of gun violence through economic, health, and community projects in 18 of Chicago\u2019s neighborhoods with the highest rates of violence, poverty, and health disparities. Read more about the HEAL Initiative here.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-release-statement-applauding-resequencing-of-chicago-ohare-airport-terminal-area-project", "Duckworth, Durbin Release Statement Applauding Resequencing of Chicago O\u2019Hare Airport Terminal Area Project", "2026-08-20", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "Duckworth and Durbin have called on United Airlines and American Airlines to allow the simultaneous construction of Concourses D and E of the Chicago O\u2019Hare Airport Terminal Area Project since early 2024\n\n[CHICAGO, IL] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement regarding the resequencing of constructing satellite terminals as part of the Chicago O\u2019Hare International Airport Terminal Area Project (TAP).\n\nToday, the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) announced that TAP will be resequenced to build the first phase of the Concourse E during Concourse D construction. Concourse E will house the majority of the additional 25 percent capacity. While construction of Concourse D is currently underway, construction of Concourse E will now begin later this year, and the construction of the second phase of Concourse E will occur after construction of the Global Terminal. Under a previous plan negotiated in May 2024, Concourse D and the Global Terminal would have been constructed first, wholly delaying construction of Concourse E, despite the need to expand terminal capacity quickly to match O\u2019Hare\u2019s status as the world\u2019s busiest airport:\n\n\u201cFrom the beginning, we\u2019ve advocated for a plan that allowed Concourses D and E to be constructed together early in the project\u2014a plan that would prioritize O\u2019Hare\u2019s growth on a steady but practical timeline. Today\u2019s announcement means that we can see that growth sooner rather than later.\n\n\u201cNow that United and American Airlines are on board with constructing this important terminal earlier, we\u2019re eager to move forward with TAP by following the plan that preserves O\u2019Hare\u2019s world-class status and modernizes its terminals to meet the demand of travelers well into the future.\u201d\n\nThe O\u2019Hare TAP will significantly expand O\u2019Hare\u2019s gate capacity, offering the first \u201cglobal alliance hub\u201d where domestic airlines and their international partners will be located in the same terminal. TAP also includes plans for two satellite terminals that are essential for continuous growth and modernization at the airport. Collectively, TAP will help expand O\u2019Hare\u2019s gate capacity by 25 percent, enabling the airport to accommodate a wider range of aircraft, improve gate access for arriving aircraft, reduce delays, enhance airline performance, and significantly improve the passenger experience.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-22T05:24:59Z", "2026-08-22T05:26:16Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-release-statement-applauding-resequencing-of-chicago-ohare-airport-terminal-area-project", "Durbin, Duckworth Release Statement Applauding Resequencing Of Chicago O\u2019Hare Airport Terminal Area Project", "2026-08-20", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Durbin and Duckworth have called on United Airlines and American Airlines to allow the simultaneous construction of Concourses D and E of the Chicago O\u2019Hare Airport Terminal Area Project since early 2024\n\nCHICAGO \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) released the following statement regarding the resequencing of constructing satellite terminals as part of the Chicago O\u2019Hare International Airport Terminal Area Project (TAP).\n\nToday, the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) announced that TAP will be resequenced to build the first phase of the Concourse E during Concourse D construction. Concourse E will house the majority of the additional 25 percent capacity. While construction of Concourse D is currently underway, construction of Concourse E will now begin later this year, and the construction of the second phase of Concourse E will occur after construction of the Global Terminal. Under a previous plan negotiated in May 2024, Concourse D and the Global Terminal would have been constructed first, wholly delaying construction of Concourse E, despite the need to expand terminal capacity quickly to match O\u2019Hare\u2019s status as the world\u2019s busiest airport:\n\n\u201cFrom the beginning, we\u2019ve advocated for a plan that allowed Concourses D and E to be constructed together early in the project\u2014a plan that would prioritize O\u2019Hare\u2019s growth on a steady but practical timeline. Today\u2019s announcement means that we can see that growth sooner rather than later.\n\n\u201cNow that United and American Airlines are on board with constructing this important terminal earlier, we\u2019re eager to move forward with TAP by following the plan that preserves O\u2019Hare\u2019s world-class status and modernizes its terminals to meet the demand of travelers well into the future.\u201d\n\nThe O\u2019Hare TAP will significantly expand O\u2019Hare\u2019s gate capacity, offering the first \u201cglobal alliance hub\u201d where domestic airlines and their international partners will be located in the same terminal. TAP also includes plans for two satellite terminals that are essential for continuous growth and modernization at the airport. Collectively, TAP will help expand O\u2019Hare\u2019s gate capacity by 25 percent, enabling the airport to accommodate a wider range of aircraft, improve gate access for arriving aircraft, reduce delays, enhance airline performance, and significantly improve the passenger experience.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-democrats-sound-alarm-on-trump-administration-attacks-on-unaccompanied-childrens-legal-representation", "Senate Democrats Sound Alarm On Trump Administration Attacks On Unaccompanied Children\u2019s Legal Representation", "2026-08-20", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) sounded the alarm on the Trump Administration\u2019s unprecedented attacks on legal services for unaccompanied children, requesting the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Inspector General (IG) conduct a full investigation into the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) process for entering into agreements for legal services and how it plans to ensure children are adequately represented.\n\nIn a letter to the HHS Inspector General, the Senators wrote: \u201cOn July 31, 2026, after a year and a half of repeated attempts to gut legal services for unaccompanied children, the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) allowed contracts for the provision of these services to expire. The agency appeared to have no clear plan to ensure that the over 25,000 children impacted by this expiration would have lawyers in their deportation proceedings. Instead, ORR has since hastily attempted to award contracts for legal services to political allies of the Trump Administration with few, if any, qualifications to provide such services\u2014all amid a push by the Administration to deport these children. In addition, ORR appears to have provided sensitive personal information about children to new representation without any consultation with current counsel or the children themselves. This has led to a full blown crisis for vulnerable children, who should not have to represent themselves in deportation proceedings. We write to request that you immediately initiate an investigation into whether funds appropriated for legal services to unaccompanied children have been implemented in a manner that meets ORR\u2019s legal obligations.\u201d\n\nThe Senators continued: \u201cCongress has, on a bipartisan basis, made clear that unaccompanied children should not be forced to represent themselves in immigration court... Despite these statutory protections, ORR has nevertheless taken drastic steps to gut legal representation for children.\u201d\n\nThe Senators then cite troubling reports of contracts with longstanding legal service providers expiring, current providers remaining in the dark, and new problematic contacts like those to Burke Law Group and Our Rescue.\n\nThe Senators concluded, before requesting a formal investigation by the HHS Inspector General: \u201cORR\u2019s collective actions seem designed to deprive unaccompanied children of adequate representation in deportation proceedings. Attempts by the Administration to expedite the deportation of these children by limiting their access to immigration counsel deserves urgent oversight. We request that the Office of the Inspector General launch an immediate and thorough investigation into ORR\u2019s actions, including whether appropriate procurement processes and applicable laws have been followed.\u201d\n\nFor a PDF of the letter to Inspector General Bell, click here.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-budzinski-welcome-300-new-citizens-at-illinois-state-fair-naturalization-ceremony", "Duckworth, Durbin, Budzinski Welcome 300 New Citizens at Illinois State Fair Naturalization Ceremony", "2026-08-19", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[SPRINGFIELD, IL] \u2014 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13) today celebrated the naturalization of 300 new citizens from 52 countries at the Illinois State Fair Naturalization Ceremony. The Honorable Colleen Lawless, United States District Judge for the Central District of Illinois, presided over the ceremony and administered the Oath of Allegiance to the new citizens. Photos of the naturalization ceremony are available on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cAs the proud daughter of an immigrant mother, I know that even though we may come from different countries, we may say different prayers and have different skin tones\u2014we\u2019re here as Americans because we love this nation, and our differences make us stronger,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cDespite what some folks suggest, you can\u2019t measure the strength of this nation by the size of our defense budget or the height of our border walls. The true strength of America lies in our values\u2014that the impossible can happen to any one of us if we work hard, no matter where you come from\u2014you can rise, rise, rise. Congratulations and thank you for making America more American.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are a nation of immigrants, and I proudly display my mother\u2019s naturalization certificate on my desk in the Capitol as a reminder of the pursuit of the American Dream. I was honored to welcome 300 new citizens today,\u201d said Durbin. \u201cTo our newest citizens: you now carry both the rights and the responsibilities of this democracy, and I'm counting on you to exercise and defend them. Together, we will continue to move this nation forward\u2014rooted in shared values and a deep love for this country.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt was a true honor to welcome these new citizens today,\u201d said Budzinski. \u201cTheir path to this moment was no small feat. It required dedication, resilience, sacrifice, and courage. But with citizenship comes a powerful voice in our communities, schools, workplaces, and in our democracy. In these uncertain times, it\u2019s more important than ever that we come together to support our immigrant communities\u2014not just here in Illinois, but across the nation.\u201d\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-21T05:30:57Z", "2026-08-21T05:32:22Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-budzinski-welcome-300-new-citizens-at-illinois-state-fair-naturalization-ceremony", "Durbin, Duckworth, Budzinski Welcome 300 New Citizens At Illinois State Fair Naturalization Ceremony", "2026-08-19", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "SPRINGFIELD \u2014 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13) today celebrated the naturalization of 300 new citizens from 52 countries at the Illinois State Fair Naturalization Ceremony. The Honorable Colleen Lawless, United States District Judge for the Central District of Illinois, presided over the ceremony and administered the Oath of Allegiance to the new citizens.\n\n\u201cWe are a nation of immigrants, and I proudly display my mother\u2019s naturalization certificate on my desk in the Capitol as a reminder of the pursuit of the American Dream. I was honored to welcome 300 new citizens today,\u201d said Durbin. \u201cTo our newest citizens: you now carry both the rights and the responsibilities of this democracy, and I'm counting on you to exercise and defend them. Together, we will continue to move this nation forward\u2014rooted in shared values and a deep love for this country.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the proud daughter of an immigrant mother, I know that even though we may come from different countries, we may say different prayers and have different skin tones\u2014we\u2019re here as Americans because we love this nation, and our differences make us stronger,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cDespite what some folks suggest, you can\u2019t measure the strength of this nation by the size of our defense budget or the height of our border walls. The true strength of America lies in our values\u2014that the impossible can happen to any one of us if we work hard, no matter where you come from\u2014you can rise, rise, rise. Congratulations and thank you for making America more American.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt was a true honor to welcome these new citizens today,\u201d said Budzinski. \u201cTheir path to this moment was no small feat. It required dedication, resilience, sacrifice, and courage. But with citizenship comes a powerful voice in our communities, schools, workplaces, and in our democracy. In these uncertain times, it\u2019s more important than ever that we come together to support our immigrant communities\u2014not just here in Illinois, but across the nation.\u201d\n\nPhotos of the naturalization ceremony are available here.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-21T05:30:57Z", "2026-08-21T05:32:22Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-discusses-rising-costs-and-the-impact-on-agriculture-industry-with-illinois-corn-growers", "Duckworth Discusses Rising Costs and the Impact on Agriculture Industry with Illinois Corn Growers", "2026-08-18", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[OGLESBY, IL] \u2013 Today, at the Illinois Corn August Board Meeting, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) met with leaders to discuss the impact that rising costs have had on Illinois farmers and the agriculture industry. Among their shared priorities, Duckworth and the members underscored the importance of supporting family farmers by expanding the biofuels market, increasing agricultural exports and improving farm safety net programs as Donald Trump\u2019s policies drive up the costs of supplies and threaten critical federal agricultural programs. Photos from the Illinois Corn Board Meeting can be found on the Senator\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cAmerica has always depended on our nation\u2019s farmers to grow the food and fuel we need, and I\u2019m proud to advocate for them on both the national and international stage,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cDonald Trump promised no new wars and lower costs. And yet, the cost of everything from diesel to fertilizer to key agricultural inputs continues to skyrocket while he\u2019s focused on building a ballroom for his billionaire buddies. Illinois\u2019s farmers are essential to the strength of our state and our nation, and I will always fight to ensure they have the support they need to succeed.\u201d\n\nIn the Senate, Duckworth has been a leader in supporting and expanding biofuels. To help increase the availability of E15 biofuels, Duckworth helped introduce the bipartisan Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025 and the bipartisan Next Generations Fuel Act to allow the year-round, nationwide sale of ethanol blends higher than 10 percent. Duckworth additionally helped introduce the bipartisan Home Front Energy Independence Act to ban Russian oil and expand the use and production of biofuel that\u2019s grown in the American heartland, while providing American families with a less expensive option to fuel their vehicles. In 2024, she helped introduced the Farm to Fly Act to help accelerate the production and development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Earlier this year, Duckworth condemned Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson after he secretly stripped a bipartisan compromise on E15 gasoline from must-pass government funding legislation that would have supported American farmers and lowered costs. Duckworth is also a founding co-chair of the Senate Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Caucus.\n\nAs a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Duckworth has been an advocate for Illinois agriculture across the globe and helped secure significant wins for Illinois and American agriculture. After Duckworth\u2019s visit in 2023, Japan announced a regulatory change that will lead to an increase in imports from U.S. biofuel producers, supporting our farmers and growing Illinois\u2019s economy, and following a prior trip to Taiwan in 2022, she helped secure a commitment from Taiwan to purchase an estimated $2.6 billion of our Illinois\u2019s corn and soybeans.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-19T05:29:02Z", "2026-08-19T05:30:24Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-krishnamoorthi-lead-illinois-democratic-delegation-in-calling-on-trump-administration-to-end-mass-immigration-hearings-scheduling-up-to-185-people-at-a-time", "Durbin, Krishnamoorthi Lead Illinois Democratic Delegation In Calling On Trump Administration To End Mass Immigration Hearings Scheduling Up To 185 People At A Time", "2026-08-18", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), a senior member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, today led 13 of their Illinois colleagues in sending a letter to Attorney General Todd Blanche calling on the Trump Administration to end its use of so-called \u201cmega master\u201d immigration hearings, mass proceedings in which as many as 185 noncitizens can be called to court on a single docket. The lawmakers warn that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is intentionally overcrowding dockets with little notice to immigrants in an effort to increase removal orders and advance the Trump Administration\u2019s mass deportation campaign.\n\nThe other signers of the letter were U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Representatives Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Jes\u00fas G. \u201cChuy\u201d Garc\u00eda (D-IL-04), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17), Bill Foster (D-IL-11), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), and Robin Kelly (D-IL-02).\n\nIn the letter, the lawmakers write:\n\n\u201cThrough these hearings, the Department of Justice\u2019s (DOJ) Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) is intentionally overcrowding dockets with little notice to immigrants in an effort to manufacture significant numbers of removal orders and advance the Administration\u2019s mass deportation campaign. Reports suggest that DOJ is calling as many as 185 noncitizens to court on a single docket, an action designed to drive mass deportations through chaos and confusion.\u201d\n\nIn May, DOJ\u2019s EOIR instituted a policy requiring judges in non-detained immigration courts to conduct master calendar hearings for 100 individuals twice per week while also maintaining their previously scheduled dockets and individual merits hearings. Many of those appearing have never been inside a courtroom, are unrepresented, do not speak English or Spanish fluently, do not understand the requirements of immigration proceedings, and are seeking asylum. In Chicago, the median notice time given to immigrants to appear in court fell from 229 days in May to just 34 days in June.\n\nThe lawmakers continue:\n\n\u201cCourtrooms handling upwards of 150 respondents in a judge\u2019s morning docket raise serious concerns about whether individuals are receiving a meaningful opportunity to be heard. Dozens of unrepresented respondents appear in a single hearing, in courtrooms designed to accommodate approximately 25 individuals. This limits meaningful opportunities for them to understand their rights, seek legal representation, or even obtain adequate translations while in the hearing.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers also warn about mega master hearings involving children, particularly unaccompanied children who may have already experienced trauma, abuse, and exploitation and have limited access to legal counsel. These proceedings can make it harder for unaccompanied children to understand what is happening, ask questions, identify errors, or communicate with attorneys, advocates, or caregivers.\n\nIn Illinois, the letter places the mega master hearings alongside other elements of the Trump Administration\u2019s mass deportation campaign, including Operation Midway Blitz, the attempted deployment of the National Guard in Chicago, and repeated attempts to withhold federal funding based on policy disagreements. The lawmakers argue that mega master hearings at the Chicago Immigration Court are the latest example of policies prioritizing enforcement and deportation quotas over due process while creating fear, confusion, and uncertainty for Illinois communities.\n\nThe members requested responses by September 1, 2026, including answers to the following questions:\n\nIn light of policy changes regarding preliminary asylum interviews, what procedures is DOJ using to ensure that each asylum applicant receives a full and fair evaluation of the merits of their claim?\n\nWhat factors account for the significant reduction in hearing notice periods between May and June 2026 in immigration courts?\n\nWhat steps are being taken to ensure respondents in immigration court receive adequate notice of their proceedings?\n\nWhat is the appropriate process for a respondent in immigration court to request additional time to obtain an attorney?\n\nWhat measures is DOJ taking to ensure that unrepresented respondents are afforded adequate due process, including having sufficient notice to appear before an immigration court?\n\nHow is the DOJ ensuring that the current immigration court system has adequate personnel, meets courtroom capacity needs, and provides staff with the proper administrative resources to manage these increased caseloads and to ensure due process for every noncitizen respondent?\n\nIn response to a question for the record from Senator Padilla after your Senate Judiciary Committee nomination hearing, you stated that all master calendar hearings are conducted \u201cfully in accordance with the applicable law\u2026.\u201d Please specify what applicable laws were referred to in this response.\n\nIn your response to Senator Padilla, you also stated that when individuals appearing at mega master hearings have \u201cspecific questions or concerns, immigration judges will hear those cases individually as appropriate.\u201d What are the protocols or policies in place to ensure respondents appearing at mega master hearings be heard? How should a respondent request that a case be heard \u201cindividually\u201d?\n\nThe lawmakers conclude:\n\n\u201cWe urge the Administration to discontinue practices that undermine due process, including the use of mega master hearings. Instead, the Administration should ensure that asylum seekers receive fair and meaningful hearings and uphold the integrity of our nation\u2019s immigration system.\u201d\n\nThe letter from the members is available here.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-21T05:30:57Z", "2026-08-21T05:32:22Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-visits-impactlife-blood-donor-center-amid-national-shortage", "Durbin Visits ImpactLife Blood Donor Center Amid National Shortage", "2026-08-17", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "SPRINGFIELD\u2014U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today visited the ImpactLife Blood Center to discuss the importance of addressing the nation\u2019s blood product supply shortage and thank the medical officials and donors who are working to maintain adequate supplies. Durbin was joined by officials from ImpactLife and Memorial Health.\n\n\u201cThe American Red Cross declared a national blood supply crisis in the U.S. last month for just the second time ever, which has impacted patients\u2019 ability to be treated for illnesses or undergo surgery,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cTimely access to blood can be the difference between life and death, especially in a medical emergency. I want to thank the professionals at ImpactLife and other medical sites along with the countless donors who come forward to help those in need.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe demand for blood transfusions at the hospitals we serve never takes a day off,\u201d said Gregory Lehmann, Vice President, Donor Outreach and Collections at ImpactLife. \u201cWe\u2019re grateful for the donors who provide this lifesaving resource. Thank you, Senator Durbin, for bringing attention to our mission and the need for additional donors to help fill our schedules this time of year.\u201d\n\nThe blood supply crisis declaration came as donations hit a four-year low. In Illinois, type O\u2014the most commonly transfused blood type\u2014and B blood donations are especially needed. The American Red Cross has begun limiting distributions of type O blood to individual hospitals to help ensure blood is available for patients facing the most critical, life-threatening emergencies across the country. The Red Cross provides about 40 percent of the U.S. blood supply, but the strain for blood donations is not limited to the Red Cross with many blood collection organizations also having reported critical shortages this summer.\n\nMany hospitals refer to the period from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day as \u201cTrauma Season\u201d as longer days and warmer weather can lead to more people sustaining injuries from recreational activity and accidents, thus leading to more blood transfusions. This summer, extreme heat, poor air quality, and widespread foodborne illnesses are all factors in lower donor turnout. While 65 percent of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, only three percent of the U.S. population does so. This week has been deemed Springfield Central Counties Health Centers Community Blood Drive Week.\n\nFounded in 1974 in Iowa, ImpactLife is a non-profit which provides blood products and services to more than 120 hospitals and emergency medical service providers across Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Missouri. In Illinois, ImpactLife is the exclusive provider of blood to Memorial Health and Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) hospitals in Springfield, Decatur, Jacksonville, Taylorville, and Lincoln. In addition, ImpactLife is the main provider to Carle and OSF hospitals in Champaign-Urbana, Bloomington-Normal, and Peoria. As inventory allows, additional units are provided to hospitals across the country through a national resource sharing program. Every year, tens of thousands of Illinois residents donate blood at ImpactLife\u2019s donation center.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-21T05:30:57Z", "2026-08-21T05:32:22Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-joins-senate-defense-democrats-in-demanding-accountability-from-hegseth-after-reports-of-crisis-aboard-uss-abraham-lincoln", "Duckworth Joins Senate Defense Democrats in Demanding Accountability from Hegseth After Reports of Crisis Aboard USS Abraham Lincoln", "2026-08-15", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined all of her fellow members on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) minority, as well as the Democratic leaders of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Subcommittee on Defense, in demanding answers from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth about deteriorating conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. The Senators\u2019 letter follows reports that the aircraft carrier\u2019s crew has endured food and water shortages, broken plumbing and mental health crises severe enough that multiple sailors reportedly attempted to go overboard during its record-setting deployment. The Lincoln has been at sea for more than 250 days, including over 200 consecutive days without a port call, the longest continuous deployment at sea for a U.S. aircraft carrier in the modern era.\n\nIn the letter, the Senators wrote: \u201cOur sailors and Marines signed up to serve and to be treated with respect. They did not sign up to be kept at sea indefinitely with no announced return date and, by multiple accounts, without reliable food, hot water, or working plumbing. That is not how we treat the men and women we ask to carry out this mission.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis situation was preventable, and the conditions aboard the Lincoln are nearly identical to the issues faced by the USS Ford when it conducted an extended deployment that ended earlier this year,\u201d the Senators continued. \u201cThe USS Lincoln was redirected to the Middle East as the war with Iran began and has remained there as that war has dragged on with no clear endpoint. This is a symptom of poor planning by both you and the President and exacerbated by the deeply unsound decision to start a war with Iran. Open-ended deployments driven by an open-ended war have real consequences for our servicemembers, and we are seeing those consequences now.\u201d\n\nThe Senators pressed Secretary Hegseth on his Department\u2019s failure to provide a clear timeline for the crew\u2019s return and condemned his public dismissal of the reports as \u201ccompletely misrepresented,\u201d as well as President Trump\u2019s remarks suggesting the Lincoln had not been deployed \u201cnearly long enough.\u201d The Senators demanded detailed answers on mental health and medical resources aboard the ship, the state of good order and discipline, hygiene and food conditions, the full extent of the reported man-overboard incident and support being provided to military families, along with a formal request for a bipartisan congressional delegation to visit the ship.\n\nAlong with Duckworth, the letter was co-signed by the following SASC members: Ranking Member Jack Reed (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI). U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Chris Coons (D-DE) of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense also joined.\n\nThe full text of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website and below:\n\nDear Secretary Hegseth,\n\nWe write regarding the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln and mounting evidence that conditions aboard the carrier have deteriorated to the point that the safety and wellbeing of its crew could be compromised. These are deeply troubling reports, and the American people deserve honest answers.\n\nThe USS Lincoln departed San Diego on November 21, 2025. The ship has now been deployed for more than 250 days, including over 200 consecutive days without a port call, setting a modern-day record for continuous time at sea for a U.S. aircraft carrier. Family members of the sailors and Marines serving aboard have received urgent messages describing conditions that should alarm you, and everyone serving in a position of leadership at the Pentagon, to include concerns about exhaustion, food and water shortages, and mental health crises serious enough that multiple sailors reportedly attempted to go overboard.\n\nIn response to these reports, you publicly stated that the conditions aboard the carrier have been \u201ccompletely misrepresented.\u201d Even more galling, when asked by reporters about the conditions on the Lincoln, President Trump dismissed the concerns of the families and stated that the Lincoln had not been deployed \u201cnearly long enough.\u201d\n\nOur sailors and Marines signed up to serve and to be treated with respect. They did not sign up to be kept at sea indefinitely with no announced return date and, by multiple accounts, without reliable food, hot water, or working plumbing. That is not how we treat the men and women we ask to carry out this mission.\n\nThis situation was preventable, and the conditions aboard the Lincoln are nearly identical to the issues faced by the USS Ford when it conducted an extended deployment that ended earlier this year. The USS Lincoln was redirected to the Middle East as the war with Iran began and has remained there as that war has dragged on with no clear endpoint. This is a symptom of poor planning by both you and the President and exacerbated by the deeply unsound decision to start a war with Iran. Open-ended deployments driven by an open-ended war have real consequences for our servicemembers, and we are seeing those consequences now.\n\nRecent press reports indicate that the USS George Washington will be deployed to the Middle East to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln. While that is welcome news, the Department\u2019s mismanagement of carrier deployments also means that the U.S. will not have an aircraft carrier in the Pacific for the foreseeable future. However, ensuring the USS Lincoln returns to port takes precedence, and it is incumbent on the Department to inform Congress, and the families, on the plan and timeline to get the crew home. Denial and defensiveness are not acceptable responses. Congress and these families need accountability.\n\nGiven the seriousness of these reports, we request written answers to the following:\n\nWhat is the current timeline for the USS Lincoln\u2019s relief and return to homeport, and what specific operational requirements are driving continued extensions of this deployment?\n\nWas the crew informed that the deployment could be extended indefinitely? Have any members of the crew been changed out since the beginning of this deployment, and if so, how many?\n\nHas there been any degradation in the operational capability of the USS Lincoln or her airwing?\n\nWhat mental health resources are being provided to the crew?\n\nHave there been any suicides aboard the ship during this deployment? How many instances of detected suicidal ideation or attempted self-harm, including attempts to go overboard, has the Department recorded?\n\nWhat other medical resources are available aboard the ship, and are resources sufficient to meet the crew\u2019s needs given the length of this deployment?\n\nWhat chaplain resources are available to the crew, and have they been adequate to the scale of need aboard the ship?\n\nWhat is the current state of good order and discipline aboard the USS Lincoln?\n\nWhat is the hygiene and healthy food situation on board, including the status of reported plumbing failures, water contamination, and food shortages?\n\nWhat is the extent of illness or injury aboard the ship, including full details of the reported man-overboard incident and any other similar incidents?\n\nWhat is the state of the families of the sailors and Marines aboard the USS Lincoln? What resources are being provided to them, and are they being kept informed on a regular basis about the status of the deployment and their loved ones\u2019 wellbeing?\n\nWill the Department authorize a bipartisan congressional delegation to visit the Lincoln to conduct firsthand oversight of conditions aboard the ship?\n\nAs the Secretary of Defense, you are accountable to the men and women who serve our nation. It is time for you to demonstrate leadership, rather than peddle excuses. The servicemembers we send into harm\u2019s way deserve nothing less.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-20T05:28:41Z", "2026-08-20T05:29:58Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-join-democratic-colleagues-in-demanding-hhs-rescind-cancellation-of-lifesaving-research-grants-that-improve-patient-safety-and-care", "Duckworth, Durbin Join Democratic Colleagues in Demanding HHS Rescind Cancellation of Lifesaving Research Grants That Improve Patient Safety and Care", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), along with 26 of their Democratic Senate colleagues, in demanding that Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. reverse the Department\u2019s destructive cancellations of lifesaving health research grants administered by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Congressionally appropriated funding for AHRQ grants benefitted critical research and initiatives to advance effective healthcare delivery, such as training for rural healthcare workers in Connecticut, testing the use of artificial intelligence in hospitals in Wisconsin, improving autism screening and services for Black children in North Carolina and equipping primary care providers with effective chronic pain treatment in Virginia.\n\nIn a letter sent to HHS Secretary Kennedy, the Senators raised concerns about the impact of HHS\u2019s mass cancellations of these research grants, writing, \u201cThis unprecedented action, which has led to the disruption of nearly 200 different research programs across nearly 30 states, undermines decades of taxpayer investments to improve healthcare delivery, patient safety, and health outcomes for all Americans. We demand that you immediately rescind these cancelations and ensure that the funding Congress appropriates to AHRQ is invested in health research in accordance with the law.\u201d\n\nThe Senators continued, \u201cWe want to be clear: Democrats and Republicans did not work together to appropriate funds for AHRQ as a gentle suggestion for the Department to follow at their discretion or leisure. We provided this money with the explicit instruction that the Department faithfully support life-saving research to improve access and health outcomes for Americans. We did not appropriate these funds so that money could remain unspent while Americans suffer and our healthcare system struggles.\u201d\n\nThe Senators called on Kennedy to immediately restore full funding to research projects affected by the cancellations and ensure AHRQ\u2019s full FY26 appropriations are obligated as required by law.\n\nAlong with Duckworth, Durbin, Blumenthal and Baldwin, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jack Reed (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Gary Peters (D-MI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mark Warner (D-VA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM).\n\nThe full letter is available onSenator\u2019s Duckworth\u2019s website and below:\n\nDear Secretary Kennedy,\n\nWe write to express our profound concern and unequivocal opposition to the recent mass cancelations of lifesaving health research grants administered by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) as well as the year-long refusal to faithfully execute the Fiscal Year (FY25) and Fiscal Year (FY26) appropriations laws. This unprecedented action, which has led to the disruption of nearly 200 different research programs across nearly 30 states, undermines decades of taxpayer investments to improve healthcare delivery, patient safety, and health outcomes for all Americans. We demand that you immediately rescind these cancelations and ensure that the funding Congress appropriates to AHRQ is invested in health research in accordance with the law.\n\nOn July 15, 2026, approximately 150 AHRQ grantees received a generic form letter notifying them that their grants were canceled, effective immediately. For many, this was the first notice or communication that they have received from AHRQ in nearly a year. The grant cancelation letters cite regulations that require the Agency to consider the grantee's progress and management practices and the availability of funds, yet none of the notices substantively address any of these factors. Instead, these cancelation notices list a series of Agency priorities that do not appear in the subsections cited. Further, many of the grants that were canceled were explicitly investigating the topics that AHRQ has described as a priority. The cancelation letters, which were sent to a broad range of grantees, use the exact same language, which is evidence that the agency is categorically denying grants without making individual grant determinations.\n\nA small sample of the research programs that were just devastated include:\n\nWork in Connecticut on training rural healthcare workers to better respond to maternal medical emergencies;\n\nResearch in New York on how to improve healthcare delivery systems for patients to access home dialysis;\n\nA program in Colorado that reduces risk factors for patient falls in rural hospitals;\n\nWork in Utah to reduce antibiotic overuse at hospital discharge;\n\nResearch in Wisconsin testing the use of artificial intelligence to improve the experience of hospitalized children and their families;\n\nA grant in North Carolina that improved autism screening, diagnosis, and services among Black children;\n\nResearch in Maryland to improve patient safety via telehealth;\n\nWork in Virginia to equip primary care providers with more effective chronic pain treatment to reduce reliance on opioids; and\n\nResearch in Michigan on patient financial burden after a COVID-19 infection.\n\nThis is just a fraction of the important work that has been permanently discontinued, despite years of work and millions of taxpayer dollars that were invested to advance our understanding of effective healthcare delivery.\n\nThis recklessness is not the only crisis facing the Agency. Since October 1, 2025, the Agency has only awarded 5 percent of the funds available for extramural grants. Grantees were left in limbo, without notice or clarification, in some cases for over a year. Programs across the country were forced to layoff staff, discontinue research, shutdown programs, or not pursue new research opportunities at all. In 2025, AHRQ lost 80 percent of its staff, including the vast majority of those working to vet grant applications and work with grantees, so there is no one left to adequately manage the programming mandated by statute.\n\nWe want to be clear: Democrats and Republicans did not work together to appropriate funds for AHRQ as a gentle suggestion for the Department to follow at their discretion or leisure. We provided this money with the explicit instruction that the Department faithfully support life-saving research to improve access and health outcomes for Americans. We did not appropriate these funds so that money could remain unspent while Americans suffer and our healthcare system struggles. AHRQ has saved our country billions of dollars in healthcare costs and improved patient safety. Abandoning this work is antithetical to the mission of the Department.\n\nThe agency\u2019s actions over the last year are an outrageous abuse of administrative power that will leave Americans sicker, poorer, and dying from preventable causes. Each of these canceled grants put real life patients further from the care that they need.\n\nAt a time when medical errors kill hundreds of thousands of Americans annually, when healthcare costs are crushing family budgets, and when we face unprecedented health challenges, your department has chosen to sabotage the very research designed to solve these problems. This is not leadership\u2014this is sabotage of public health. And it must end, immediately.\n\nWe call upon you to take the following immediate actions:\n\nRescind all recent grant cancelations and restore full funding to all affected research projects;\n\nEnsure that AHRQ\u2019s full FY26 appropriation is obligated for health services research as the bipartisan majorities of Congress and President Trump\u2019s signature intended;\n\nProvide a detailed explanation to Congress within one month of receiving this letter regarding the decision-making process that led to these cancelations, including any written criteria, instructions, funding plans, rankings, spreadsheets, analyses, or other documents used to identify or select affected grants;\n\nExplain how the priorities identified in the non-continuation notice were applied to grants that were terminated and explain why grants focused on listed priority research areas were selected for non-continuation;\n\nProvide to Congress a spend plan to ensure that the approximately $200 million remaining in funding for extramural research grants are awarded before October 1, 2026, including any contract arrangements with other federal agencies and a description of how such contracts advance research on health care costs, quality, and outcomes;\n\nProvide to Congress a detailed description of the number of employees at AHRQ that are performing grants-management functions, including issuing awards, processing continuations, and monitoring awards for compliance as of August 6, 2026, September 30, 2025, and January 1, 2025;\n\nProvide a written assurance that such arbitrary cancelations will never happen again.\n\nCountless researchers who have devoted their careers to improving healthcare for all of us have watched years of painstaking work and hundreds of millions of dollars in taxpayer investments destroyed overnight. The scientific and health pipelines that have been demolished will take decades to build back and may never be recovered.\n\nThe American people deserve a healthcare system informed by the best available evidence. They deserve research that makes their care safer, more effective, and more affordable. Congress has provided the resources to support this vital work. It is your responsibility to ensure these resources are used as intended.\n\nWe look forward to your response no later than August 25, 2026.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-15T05:23:20Z", "2026-08-15T05:24:50Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-schneider-announce-more-than-795-million-in-federal-funding-for-illinois-airports", "Duckworth, Durbin, Schneider Announce More Than $7.95 Million in Federal Funding for Illinois Airports", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "The Chicago Executive Airport and the Decatur Airport will receive a combined total of $7.95 million in federal funding for runway improvements, sound mitigation\n\n[SPRINGFIELD, IL] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) today announced a total of $7,951,873 in federal funding for the Chicago Executive Airport and the Decatur Airport. This funding stems from the Federal Aviation Administration\u2019s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program, which supports the planning and development of public-use airports.\n\n\u201cIllinois airports are critical economic engines for our state,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cThis major investment will help modernize infrastructure, install new runway safety measures and support noise mitigation for surrounding neighborhoods. Together, we will continue working to make air travel safer and more reliable for all passengers while ensuring that our airports are receiving the much-needed federal resources they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cInvesting in our airports is laying the foundation for increased connectivity and reliability. With this grant announcement for Decatur Airport, Illinoisans will see upgraded airport infrastructure, making travel safe and more efficient. Additionally, this funding will ensure that Illinoisans who live near the Chicago Executive Airport can mitigate the sounds of flyovers while still having access to a quality airport,\u201d Durbin said.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m glad to work alongside my colleagues and local leaders in Illinois to announce more than $3.8 million in federal funding to support noise mitigation around Chicago Executive Airport,\u201d said Schneider. \u201cThis project will support the health and well-being of nearby residents while ensuring the airport can continue to serve Cook County. In Congress, we will continue working to deliver funding that supports local priorities and projects.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, this grant funding will go toward:\n\nDecatur Park District ($4,081,873). This funding will go the construction phase of the Decatur Park District\u2019s project to reconstruct existing runway signage at the airport; acquire and install three new wind cone navigational aids to provide pilots with critical airfield information; and reconstruct existing runway lighting.\n\nChicago Executive Airport ($3,870,000). This funding will go toward the state\u2019s project to install sound installation mitigation measures for 2,202 residences impacted by airport noise exposure. This funding allotment will support the project\u2019s current phase, which consists of program planning, design services, and sound insulation for 110 residences.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-15T05:23:20Z", "2026-08-15T05:24:50Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-quigley-davis-announce-more-than-696-million-for-amtrak-upgrades-in-chicago", "Durbin, Duckworth, Quigley, Davis Announce More Than $696 Million For Amtrak Upgrades In Chicago", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The $696 million in grant funding will support the Midwest Maintenance Facilities Modernization; the Chicago Rail Bridge Renewal; and the South Branch Bridge Rehabilitation\n\nCHICAGO \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (D-IL-05) and Danny Davis (D-IL-07) today announced that the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has awarded $696,250,000 in federal funding to Amtrak projects based in Chicago. One of the three projects receiving funding\u2014the South Bridge Rehabilitation\u2014is part of the Chicago Hub Improvement project (CHIP), a multi-phased project to revitalize Chicago Union Station and its surrounding infrastructure, as well as revolutionize Midwest passenger rail.\n\nThe funding was awarded through the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (Fed-State) grant program, which supports capital projects that repair, improve, or expand intercity passenger rail service.\n\n\u201cOur state\u2019s top-notch rail system keeps our economy moving while allowing Illinoisans to travel from Chicago to Carbondale. This latest federal investment into Chicago\u2019s Amtrak facilities and infrastructure reflects the city\u2019s status as a thriving transportation hub,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cI look forward to seeing this funding turn into concrete improvements to our rail infrastructure, and in turn, delivering an even better experience to Amtrak riders.\u201d\n\n\u201cInvestments in our rail infrastructure are investments in our economy, making sure our rail network is safer, faster and more efficient for people and goods to get where they need to go,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cThis funding will help support critical upgrades to our rail infrastructure and strengthen our city\u2019s role as a national hub for Amtrak. I will continue working alongside Senator Durbin, Congressman Quigley, Amtrak leadership and our local leaders to ensure our communities have the support they need to modernize our rail network, improve reliability and keep trains moving safely and efficiently for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cSafe, affordable, and accessible rail travel is critical to the success of Chicago and the Illinois region. This grant will make improvements and repairs that will modernize passenger rail service in our area for the millions of people who utilize these services. I have talked about the dangers of disrepair in our rail system for many years, and I have particularly called out the damaged bridges in the region that are long past the need for repair. I am pleased that this grant will help address these issues and improve access to safe and efficient rail services for Chicagoland residents for many years to come. I will continue working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to bring home more funding to achieve these goals,\u201d said Quigley.\n\n\u201cThe 7th District has long felt the impact of aging infrastructure, and our residents deserve a rail system that is safe, reliable, and built to last. This funding is not just an investment in steel and concrete \u2014 it is an investment in the working families who depend on Amtrak to get to their jobs, their schools, and their loved ones every day. I am proud to have fought alongside my colleagues to secure these resources, and I will keep pushing to ensure Chicago's West Side and communities across our region benefit from the good-paying jobs and safer travel this project will bring,\u201d said Davis.\n\nThe three Amtrak projects receiving a portion of the announced $696,250,000 are:\n\nMidwest Maintenance Facilities Modernization P3 ($572,000,000). The proposed project was selected for Right of Way Acquisition and includes activities to improve efficiency and safety at Amtrak\u2019s Chicago-area Midwest Maintenance Facilities by relocating certain maintenance facilities from Amtrak\u2019s 14th St. Yard to the to-be-acquired Canal St. Yard to support ongoing operations. The project will improve service and system performance because it will provide a modern, efficient maintenance and inspection facility and increase the ability to meet anticipated demand. The project will benefit Blue Water, Borealis, Hiawatha, Illini/Saluki, Illinois Zephyr, Lincoln, Pere Marquette, Wolverine routes.\n\nChicago Rail Bridge Renewal P3 ($87,000,000). The proposed project was selected for Project Development, Final Design, and Construction to rehabilitate or replace approximately 17 aging viaducts, bridges, and ancillary structures at Chicago\u2019s Canal Street Yard as part of Amtrak\u2019s Chicago Rail Bridge Renewal P3 Project. The project will enhance safety and improve system and service performance because it will correct critical structural deficiencies and eliminate hazards for rail operations, drivers, and pedestrians. The project will benefit Blue Water, Borealis, Hiawatha, Illini/Saluki, Illinois Zephyr, Lincoln, Pere Marquette, Wolverine routes.\n\nSouth Branch Bridge Rehabilitation ($37,250,000). The proposed project will rehabilitate the existing South Branch Bridge and Project Development activities for a future bridge replacement. Activities will support the immediate state of good repair including the replacement of missing fasteners, defective hardware, and replacement parts to balance, support machinery and plan for a future replacement. The project will enhance safety and increase reliability by bringing the over-110-year-old South Branch Bridge into a state of good repair. The project will benefit Amtrak\u2019s Blue Water, Lincoln, Pere Marquette, River Runner, and Wolverine routes.\n\nIn 2023, Durbin and Duckworth announced $93.6 million in secured federal funding for CHIP through the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s (DOT) Federal-State Partnerships for Intercity Passenger Rail grant program, which received funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.\n\nDurbin worked to bring parties together\u2014local officials, the State, Amtrak, and other stakeholders including labor, environmental groups, and businesses\u2014to ensure there was a unified push for the project. In September 2023, Durbin, Duckworth, and Quigley (D-IL-05) led 29 Midwest colleagues in a bipartisan, bicameral letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Federal Railroad Administration Administrator Amit Bose expressing their support for Amtrak\u2019s Fed-State grant application for CHIP.\n\nIn May 2025, Durbin raised the issue of CHIP funding with Transportation Secretary Duffy, urging the DOT to obligate the remaining funds for the $93.6 million grant awarded in 2023. The Members also sent a letter of support to Secretary Duffy for this round of Fed-State grant applications.\n\nDurbin, Duckworth, Quigley, and Davis will continue to build upon previous investments in the CHIP and lead stakeholders in advocating to advance the improvement of Chicago Union Station, cementing its critical importance to both Illinois and the Midwest.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-15T05:23:20Z", "2026-08-15T05:24:50Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-schneider-announce-more-than-795-million-in-federal-funding-for-illinois-airports", "Durbin, Duckworth, Schneider Announce More Than $7.95 Million In Federal Funding For Illinois Airports", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The Chicago Executive Airport and the Decatur Airport will receive a combined total of $7.95 million in federal funding for runway improvements, sound mitigation\n\nSPRINGFIELD \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) today announced a total of $7,951,873 in federal funding for the Chicago Executive Airport and the Decatur Airport. This funding stems from the Federal Aviation Administration\u2019s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program, which supports the planning and development of public-use airports.\n\n\u201cInvesting in our airports is laying the foundation for increased connectivity and reliability. With this grant announcement for Decatur Airport, Illinoisans will see upgraded airport infrastructure, making travel safe and more efficient. Additionally, this funding will ensure that Illinoisans who live near the Chicago Executive Airport can mitigate the sounds of flyovers while still having access to a quality airport,\u201d Durbin said.\n\n\u201cIllinois airports are critical economic engines for our state,\u201d Duckworth said. \u201cThis major investment will help modernize infrastructure, install new runway safety measures and support noise mitigation for surrounding neighborhoods. Together, we will continue working to make air travel safer and more reliable for all passengers while ensuring that our airports are receiving the much-needed federal resources they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m glad to work alongside my colleagues and local leaders in Illinois to announce more than $3.8 million in federal funding to support noise mitigation around Chicago Executive Airport,\u201d said Schneider. \u201cThis project will support the health and well-being of nearby residents while ensuring the airport can continue to serve Cook County. In Congress, we will continue working to deliver funding that supports local priorities and projects.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, this grant funding will go toward:\n\nDecatur Park District ($4,081,873). This funding will go the construction phase of the Decatur Park District\u2019s project to reconstruct existing runway signage at the airport; acquire and install three new wind cone navigational aids to provide pilots with critical airfield information; and reconstruct existing runway lighting.\n\nChicago Executive Airport ($3,870,000). This funding will go toward the state\u2019s project to install sound installation mitigation measures for 2,202 residences impacted by airport noise exposure. This funding allotment will support the project\u2019s current phase, which consists of program planning, design services, and sound insulation for 110 residences.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-21T05:30:57Z", "2026-08-21T05:32:22Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-sorensen-statement-on-announced-closure-of-tyson-plant-in-joslin", "Duckworth, Durbin, Sorensen Statement on Announced Closure of Tyson Plant in Joslin", "2026-08-13", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[JOSLIN, IL] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) today released the following statement on the announced closure of the Tyson Foods plant in Joslin, Illinois, which will result in the loss of about 2,500 union jobs in the region:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s news is devastating for the 2,500 skilled union workers impacted by the closure of the Tyson plant in Joslin, especially at a time when American families are struggling with the rising cost of living. In the coming weeks, we remain committed to supporting our union members during this transition and working with Tyson to ensure that they have access to resources that support their return to work.\u201d\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-14T06:13:05Z", "2026-08-14T06:14:08Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-joins-blumenthal-in-reintroducing-legislation-to-protect-airline-passengers-and-crew-from-toxic-cabin-air", "Duckworth Joins Blumenthal in Reintroducing Legislation to Protect Airline Passengers and Crew from Toxic Cabin Air", "2026-08-13", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)\u2014Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Commerce Subcommittee (CST) on Aviation, Space and Innovation\u2014joined U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA) in reintroducing the Cabin Air Safety Act, bicameral legislation to protect airline pilots, flight attendants and passengers from toxic cabin air. Building on cabin air reporting provisions secured in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2024 that Duckworth helped author, the legislation would expand FAA reporting and investigation requirements, require real-time onboard air quality monitoring equipment, improve crew training and enhance the collection and public reporting of data on engine oil and hydraulic fluid smoke or fume events to help prevent future incidents and improve aviation safety.\n\n\u201cThe flying public deserves certainty that the air they breathe during their flight isn\u2019t jeopardizing their health and safety,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cWhen toxic fumes leak into the cabin, it could lead to health issues for passengers and potentially dangerous impairments to the pilots and crew. Our commonsense legislation would equip every cabin with air quality monitors and help prevent these incidents from happening.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor too long, dangerous cabin air events have gone underreported, under investigated, and unaddressed,\u201d said Blumenthal. \u201cOur measure gives the FAA the tools it needs to identify these events in real time, ensure they are properly reported and investigated, and take steps to prevent them from happening in the first place. Pilots, flight attendants, aircraft mechanics, and passengers deserve to know that the air they breathe is safe.\u201d\n\n\u201cAirline crew members and passengers have the right to breathe safe, clean air, on the ground and in the air. They should never have to worry about breathing in toxic air pollutants that put their health at risk,\u201d said Markey. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join Senator Blumenthal in introducing the Cabin Air Safety Act to ensure we put the health, safety, and wellbeing of our crewmembers and passengers first.\u201d\n\nThe legislation would establish a new chapter dedicated to cabin air quality and safety, with five key provisions:\n\nMandatory Air Safety Training: Mandates that pilots, flight attendants, aircraft technicians and airport emergency first responders receive detailed training to recognize, manage and report toxic smoke, hazardous fumes and air contamination incidents on aircraft.\n\nStandardized Reporting & Public Portal: Directs the FAA to implement a standardized system for crew members to report smoke and fume incidents. The FAA must maintain a searchable, online public database of aggregate, anonymized incident data.\n\nIncident Investigations: Authorizes the FAA to conduct official investigations into air contamination events and requires an investigation whenever an incident results in crew members or passengers needing medical attention beyond basic first aid.\n\nOnboard Air Monitoring & Detection: Directs air carriers to install and operate real-time detectors and air quality monitoring equipment within the air supply system to identify contamination sources and alert flight crews to hazardous air conditions.\n\nAir Quality Standards & Rulemaking: Authorizes the FAA to establish aircraft cabin air quality standards and specific maintenance requirements to mitigate air supply contamination and protect public health.\n\nThe Cabin Air Safety Act is endorsed by the AFL-CIO Transportation Trades Department (TTD), Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), Transport Workers Union (TWU), Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA), International Brotherhood of Teamsters, National League of Consumers, American Association for Justice (AAJ) and the American Lung Association.\n\nFull text of the legislation is available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\nDuckworth is a leading voice in the push to make our skies safer. For years, she has been sounding the alarm that we must make critical aviation safety investments immediately to prevent all-too-often near-misses from becoming catastrophic tragedies. In June, the Senator called out the FAA and demanded it reject any pressure to rubberstamp Donald Trump\u2019s latest taxpayer-funded vanity project, the so-called \u201cTriumphal Arch,\u201d that could jeopardize the safety of the flying public. In May, she excoriated FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford for failing to implement urgently needed recommendations from the NTSB final report on the DCA mid-air collision that would strengthen the safety of our aviation system and prevent future tragedies.\n\nDuckworth also helped author the bipartisan FAA reauthorization law, which included several of her provisions to safeguard the 1,500-hour rule, improve consumer safety, expand the aviation workforce and enhance protections for travelers with disabilities.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-14T06:13:05Z", "2026-08-14T06:14:08Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-joins-calls-for-watchdog-to-conduct-full-audit-of-trumps-gilded-ballroom-boondoggle", "Durbin Joins Calls For Watchdog To Conduct Full Audit Of Trump\u2019s Gilded Ballroom Boondoggle", "2026-08-13", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Durbin joins Senators who lead Committees with jurisdiction over Trump\u2019s ballroom project to call on the Government Accountability Office to audit the project that will reportedly receive taxpayer funding\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee; Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee; Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee; Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee; Jack Reed (R-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; and Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee, to call on the Acting Comptroller General of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to audit and assess the full scope and cost of the White House ballroom project.\n\nAfter Republicans failed to gift President Trump $1 billion in federal funding through their partisan reconciliation bill in June, and although President Trump repeatedly claimed that the ballroom project and demolition of the East Wing would be privately funded, reporting shows that the Administration has inappropriately and illegally diverted more than $300 million in federal funding for the ballroom project. These Democratic Senators, through their committee leadership positions, have jurisdiction over the ballroom and the entire East Wing Modernization Project.\n\n\u201cCongress has neither authorized nor appropriated funding for the \u2018East Wing Modernization Project,\u2019 nor has Congress been provided any planning details or justifications that would allow for informed consideration of the White House\u2019s plans that would be a prerequisite for authorization or appropriation of funds. The lack of congressional authorization has been central to the ongoing litigation challenging the ballroom project, National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States v. National Park Service. This month, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit affirmed that President Trump lacks the legal authority to construct a White House ballroom without congressional authorization. Simply put, no president has the authority to unilaterally demolish and remodel the country\u2019s White House in such a significant manner without congressional approval,\u201d wrote the Senators.\n\n\u201cThe Trump administration has not provided transparency into the use of federal funds for the East Wing project, and they have limited congressional oversight, meaningful public input, and adherence to established federal processes,\u201d the Senators continued.\n\nThe full letter is HERE or below.\n\nAugust 12, 2026\n\nDear Acting Comptroller General Williams Brown:\n\nMany of us in Congress have watched with alarm as the Trump administration unilaterally made the decision to demolish the East Wing of the White House\u2014an historic and symbolic structure\u2014without congressional authorization, meaningful public engagement, or following long-established practice for government facilities modernization and historic preservation. The subsequent construction of a new White House ballroom represents one of the most sweeping alterations to the White House complex in modern history. The scale of this project, the destruction of historic architecture, the opaque and unorthodox combination of public funds with private funding sources, and the absence of standard federal review processes raise serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and stewardship of this national landmark.\n\nCongress has neither authorized nor appropriated funding for the \u201cEast Wing Modernization Project,\u201d nor has Congress been provided any planning details or justifications that would allow for informed consideration of the White House\u2019s plans that would be a prerequisite for authorization or appropriation of funds. The lack of congressional authorization has been central to the ongoing litigation challenging the ballroom project, National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States v. National Park Service. This month, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit affirmed that President Trump lacks the legal authority to construct a White House ballroom without congressional authorization. Simply put, no president has the authority to unilaterally demolish and remodel the country\u2019s White House in such a significant manner without congressional approval.\n\nPresident Trump repeatedly claimed that the demolition of the East Wing and construction of a dramatically expanded gilded ballroom would be carried out solely using private donations, and that no taxpayer funds would be used. Despite those assurances, the administration first tried and failed[1] to secure $1 billion in federal funding for the ballroom through a partisan Republican reconciliation bill, then shifted tact to inappropriately and illegally pay for over half of the $600 million ballroom with previously appropriated funding not intended for this project. It has also been reported that the Trump Administration is utilizing a $500 million no-bid contract to fund the construction of the ballroom\u2014funding that Congress did not approve.[2]\n\nThe Trump administration has not provided transparency into the use of federal funds for the East Wing project, and they have limited congressional oversight, meaningful public input, and adherence to established federal processes.\n\nTo support Congress\u2019s oversight responsibilities, we request that GAO conduct an audit and assessment of the White House ballroom project and related documentation, including the following:\n\nPlanning, Review and Approval Processes: What design, review, and construction approval processes are being applied to the ballroom project? How do these processes and timelines compare to those used for other similar federal construction efforts involving the White House, other historic properties, executive facilities, or national security sensitive sites? Please assess whether required architectural, preservation, environmental, and interagency reviews were conducted and whether any were bypassed, abbreviated or ignored. What documents, if any, were filed with required approval entities prior to initiation of work?\n\nFunding Sources and Cost Transparency: How is the project being funded, including appropriated funds, reconciliation funds, transfers, reprogramming actions, or donated materials and services? Was an initial cost estimate prepared and if so, by what agency or entity and what were the projections from that estimate? What are the total estimated project costs, how much has been obligated and expended to date, and what is the anticipated timeline for completion? What cost control measures were specified for use under this project? Are the funds that were transferred from U.S. Secret Service account to a \u201cWhite House Repair and Restoration\u201d account within the Executive Residence at the White House, as reported by the Office of Management and Budget, intended for use in the East Wing Modernization Project? Have any federal agencies involved in the East Wing Modernization Project included funding for this project in spend plans submitted to the Office of Management and Budget?\n\nSecurity Related Components and Interagency Roles: Which elements of the project have been designated as national security related, what criteria were used to make those determinations, and what funding sources are being used for those components? How have appropriate congressional committees been updated on cost and design planning considerations? What is the role of the U.S. Secret Service, the White House Military Office, the White House Communications Agency and the Department of Defense in planning, approving, and coordinating construction activities (including facility communications upgrades and installation of security equipment and other non-construction features), and how are these agencies collaborating among themselves and with other federal entities?\n\nPublic Input and Transparency: What opportunities, if any, were provided for public input, expert consultation, or stakeholder engagement prior to demolition of the East Wing and initiation of the ballroom project? Please assess whether federal agencies followed standard public notice and comment practices for major alterations to historic federal properties, whether relevant preservation and advisory bodies were consulted, and how the level of public transparency compares to similar federal construction projects involving historic or iconic sites.\n\nContractor Donations, Potential Corruption, and Safeguards: Recent public reporting indicates that several contractors and donors associated with the ballroom project have subsequently received substantial federal contract awards, reportedly totaling more than $50 billion. Please assess what safeguards, if any, federal agencies applied to prevent conflicts of interest, preferential treatment, or corruption related to contractors who donated materials, services, or funds to the project. Specifically, what controls exist to ensure that contributions to the project did not influence contract award decisions, and how do these safeguards compare to standard federal procurement integrity requirements? What evaluation criteria were used in identifying and selecting contractors for this effort? Please evaluate whether agencies documented their rationale for contract awards to donor contractors and whether any deviations from standard competitive procedures occurred.\n\nGiven the scale, visibility, and long-term implications of this project, an independent GAO review is essential to ensure accountability, transparency, and responsible management of federal resources and historic assets. We request that you provide an update on your proposed plan for this audit by no later than December 1, 2026, with subsequent updates and a final report to be provided at a mutually agreed upon date.\n\nSincerely,\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-14T06:13:05Z", "2026-08-14T06:14:08Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-sorensen-statement-on-announced-closure-of-tyson-plant-in-joslin", "Durbin, Duckworth, Sorensen Statement On Announced Closure Of Tyson Plant In Joslin", "2026-08-13", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "JOSLIN \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) today released the following statement on the announced closure of the Tyson Foods plant in Joslin, Illinois, which will result in the loss of about 2,500 union jobs in the region:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s news is devastating for the 2,500 skilled union workers impacted by the closure of the Tyson plant in Joslin, especially at a time when American families are struggling with the rising cost of living. In the coming weeks, we remain committed to supporting our union members during this transition and working with Tyson to ensure that they have access to resources that support their return to work.\u201d\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-21T05:30:57Z", "2026-08-21T05:32:22Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-booker-submit-amicus-brief-to-supreme-court-in-maxwell-v-dinis", "Durbin, Booker Submit Amicus Brief To Supreme Court In Maxwell V. Dinis", "2026-08-12", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "The lawmakers encourage the Supreme Court to reverse the Fifth Circuit\u2019s judgment, which would undermine historic criminal justice reform legislation\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) submitted an amicus brief in the Supreme Court\u2019s forthcoming case, Maxwell v. Dinis, which will determine whether federal prisoners can use habeas corpus to enforce the earned time credit provisions established by the First Step Act.\n\n\u201cIn December 2018, a bipartisan majority of both chambers of Congress passed, and President Donald J. Trump signed into law, the First Step Act of 2018. The Act is a historic and bipartisan piece of legislation, ushering in momentous correctional, sentencing, and criminal justice reforms,\u201d began the Senators.\n\n\u201cThe Fifth Circuit\u2019s judgment in this case threatens to undermine Congress\u2019s groundbreaking approach to prison reform\u2026 Nothing in the statutory text, congressional intent, or this Court\u2019s precedent supports that result,\u201d continued the Senators.\n\nThe Senators argued that Congress designed and enacted the First Step Act to expand access to prelease custody, as well as intended for the First Step Act\u2019s incentive system to be enforceable and renewable.\n\n\u201cThe Fifth Circuit\u2019s judgment should be reversed,\u201d concluded the Senators.\n\nFor a PDF of the Senators\u2019 amicus brief to the Supreme Court, click here.\n\nChampioned by Durbin, Booker, and U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Mike Lee (R-UT), the First Step Act was signed into law in 2018 and serves as a beacon for \u201csmart on crime\u201d policies.\n\nThe law made the Fair Sentencing Act\u2019s reforms retroactive, and:\n\nRequired the Department of Justice to develop a risk and needs assessment system to evaluate the recidivism risk of all prisoners, place them in programs and activities to reduce risk, and permit early transition into prerelease custody based on earned time credits;\n\nReduced mandatory minimum sentences for some drug trafficking offenses;\n\nExpanded the safety valve to allow judges to sentence low-level, nonviolent drug offenders with minor criminal histories to less than the required mandatory minimums; and\n\nAuthorized incarcerated individuals to file compassionate release motions in federal court.\n\nThese reforms have been tremendously successful. As noted in a January 2024 hearing, of the 44,671 incarcerated adults then-released under First Step Act reforms, only 9.7 percent had been arrested for new crimes. By comparison, the overall Bureau of Prisons recidivism rate stood at around 45 percent. To date, there have been 4,166 retroactive sentence reductions and 4,995 compassionate release motions granted.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-14T06:13:05Z", "2026-08-14T06:14:08Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-meets-with-clients-and-staff-at-joliet-junior-colleges-entrepreneur-and-business-center", "Durbin Meets With Clients And Staff At Joliet Junior College\u2019s Entrepreneur And Business Center", "2026-08-12", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "JOLIET\u2014U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today visited the Entrepreneur and Business Center (EBC) at Joliet Junior College\u2019s City Center Campus for an update on the college\u2019s work to provide training and advising to entrepreneurs with a focus on women, minorities, and veteran-owned small businesses. Durbin secured $800,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending\u2014also known as an earmark\u2014in the Fiscal Year 2026 Financial Services and General Government funding bill to allow the EBC to expand current efforts to support small business owners by adding additional business advisors for one-on-one consultations and offer workshops and trainings to students and the public.\n\n\u201cSmall businesses need more support right now, and that\u2019s exactly what the EBC is offering,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cThe small business owners and entrepreneurs who benefit from this center represent the promise of young people looking to roll up their sleeves and kick-start their careers, working moms who defied the odds and decided to pursue their passion project, or even an immigrant to this country looking to give back and get their shot at the American Dream. It\u2019s great to be here at the EBC to celebrate the good, impactful work that is at the core of this center\u2019s mission.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Durbin\u2019s investment in Joliet Junior College\u2019s Entrepreneur and Business Center is ultimately an investment in people and the communities they serve,\u201d said Dr. Clyne Namuo, Joliet Junior College President. \u201cWe are honored by his confidence in JJC and grateful for his longstanding support of initiatives that create opportunity across our region. Behind every small business is a unique story and a commitment to make a difference in their communities. JJC shares that purpose by creating pathways that help individuals, families and communities thrive.\u201d\n\nThe EBC supports local entrepreneurs\u2014especially those from underserved or non-traditional backgrounds\u2014to launch, grow, and acquire small businesses through no-cost advice and training. In 2025, the EBC received 275 client inquiries, assisted 10 businesses in securing funding, launched 16 business websites, and launched or supported 26 businesses. The EBC facility includes offices, collaborative space, and a demo kitchen which doubles as a showcase space for culinary presentations and an auditorium-style classroom. The facility also has an on-site restaurant that functions as a complete classroom kitchen space.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-14T06:13:05Z", "2026-08-14T06:14:08Z"], ["https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-honored-by-lake-county-board-of-directors-with-resolution-recognizing-his-decades-of-service-to-illinois", "Durbin Honored By Lake County Board Of Directors With Resolution Recognizing His Decades Of Service To Illinois", "2026-08-11", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Richard J. Durbin", "D000563", "www.durbin.senate.gov", "durbin", "https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WAUKEGAN \u2013 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today was honored by the Lake County Board of Directors during their monthly board meeting with a resolution recognizing his decades of service to Illinois. In addition to applauding his efforts to expand health care and advance medical and scientific research, the resolution highlighted Durbin\u2019s championing of legislation and initiatives that supported Lake County. More than $1 billion in federal grants have been awarded within the county since Fiscal Year 2008 (FY08) while Durbin has been in office.\n\nThe end of the resolution read: \u201cBe it recognized, that this County Board of Lake County, Illinois, and the people of Illinois are grateful for Senator Durbin\u2019s integrity, leadership, and decades of dedicated public service; and be it further recognized, that the Lake County Board does hereby honor Senator Richard J. \u2018Dick\u2019 Durbin for his extraordinary service to the State of Illinois and the nation and extends our sincere gratitude and best wishes upon his retirement from the United States Senate.\u201d\n\nFollowing the passage of the resolution, Durbin briefly reflected on his efforts to secure federal funding for Lake County infrastructure.\n\n\u201cIt has been a great opportunity to serve a lot of people\u2014to do things that are good on a large scale for a great state like Illinois. We always work closely with the leaders in local government regardless of their party affiliation. It makes no difference the day after the election as far as I\u2019m concerned,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cThanks for this great honor and recognition. I\u2019m glad to be part of an effective government unit. I still have five or six months at this job and I\u2019m planning on running through the tape. So, I thank you all very much.\u201d\n\nPhotos from the event are available here.\n\nText of the resolution is available here.\n\nDurbin has secured $1.08 billion in earmarks across the county during his Senate tenure. Durbin has been an outspoken advocate for Lake County\u2019s Great Lakes Naval Station, and he has brought more than $900 million in federal investment to the station.\n\nDurbin has also secured more than $145 million in announced funding for transportation and infrastructure projects in Lake County, which includes funding for the Cedar Lake Road alignment project, Waukegan National Airport, and Metra projects.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-14T06:13:05Z", "2026-08-14T06:14:08Z"], ["https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-lawmakers-slam-trumps-efforts-to-tear-apart-military-families-convert-military-bases-into-deportation-traps", "Duckworth, Lawmakers Slam Trump\u2019s Efforts to Tear Apart Military Families, Convert Military Bases into Deportation Traps", "2026-08-10", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "IL", "Tammy Duckworth", "D000622", "www.duckworth.senate.gov", "duckworth", "https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "Senate investigation revealed ICE has attempted to deport 282 Veterans and their relatives, in potential violation of law that prevents the use of military against civilians\n\n[WASHINGTON, D.C.] \u2013 Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) in leading an extensive group of Senate and House Democratic lawmakers in pressing the Trump Administration on its efforts to coordinate to arrest, detain and deport hundreds of Veterans and military families. In their letter to the Department of Defense (DoD), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Veterans Affairs (VA), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the lawmakers lambasted the Administration for betraying the sacrifices of our heroes, which in turn destroys morale and weakens our military readiness.\n\n\u201cThese efforts imperil military readiness, weaken servicemembers\u2019 morale and betray America\u2019s promises to the people who put their lives on the line for our nation,\u201d wrote the lawmakers.\n\nIn April 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) rescinded its long-standing policy that treated military service a \u201csignificant mitigating factor\u201d when deciding whether to pursue immigration enforcement and replaced it with a new policy stating that military service alone \u201cdoes not automatically exempt\u201d non-citizens from enforcement actions.\n\nIn September 2025, Duckworth and Warren opened an investigation into the impacts of these policy changes on military families. The investigation revealed that ICE has attempted to deport 282 Veterans and their relatives. But DHS refused to disclose the number of active-duty troops and their families who have been threatened by the administration\u2019s policy.\n\nBut new reports indicate that DoD and DHS appear to be coordinating to convert military bases into \u201ctraps\u201d for individuals this administration deems deportable and has detained non-citizens during routine check-ins, visits and drop-offs at or near military installations. At the same time, DoD has continued to recruit new servicemembers with the promise of immigration protections.\n\nRecent reporting by the Associated Press reveals that, since January 2025, more than 50 parents and spouses of active duty servicemembers have been detained and at least six have been deported. ICE\u2019s statistics show that the agency has arrested 16 non-citizen Armed Forces members since the beginning of Fiscal Year 2026. Some servicemembers have reportedly needed to take leave or delay deployment because ICE detained their families.\n\n\u201cDoD\u2019s participation in civil immigration enforcement activities raises both ethical and legal concerns, including potential violations of the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits using the armed forces of the military for civilian law enforcement,\u201d continued the lawmakers.\n\nThe coalition warned that if servicemembers were to be swept up in any of these enforcement actions, it could separately constitute a violation of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, which provides protections to all members of the United States military on active duty, including non-citizens, from civil actions\u2014such as immigration proceedings\u2014that interfere with their military duties.\n\n\u201cServicemembers must have confidence that their sacrifices will be honored, not used against them or to target their loved ones,\u201d continued the lawmakers. \u201cDoD\u2019s new anti-immigrant practices risk deterring future recruits and damaging the credibility of military recruitment efforts\u2014which promised to care for servicemembers even after their time in uniform.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers requested that the agencies explain the enhanced coordination between DoD and DHS, restore long-standing immigration protections for family members of servicemembers and explain what steps they are taking to protect troops, Veterans and their families from unjust immigration enforcement by August 23, 2026.\n\nIn addition to Duckworth, Warren and Blumenthal, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Ron Wyden (D-OR).\n\nIn the House, the letter was led by U.S. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX-07) and signed by an additional 40 Democratic Representatives.\n\nThe letter was endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Immigration Defenders Law Center, the Seattle Clemency Project, Common Defense, Repatriate Our Patriots and League of United Latin American Citizens.\n\nFull text of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth\u2019s website.\n\nDuckworth has been leading the charge advocating against the Trump Administration\u2019s cruel efforts to target military families and Veterans in its extreme deportation campaign. In May, the Senator successfully secured the release of military spouse Deisy Rivera Ortega from ICE detention after the Senator personally called DHS Director Markwayne Mullin advocating on Ms. Rivera Ortega\u2019s behalf. In June, Duckworth lambasted the Administration for gutting the Immigrant Military Members and Veteran Initiative (IMMVI), a collaboration between the DHS and VA created in 2021 to help streamline immigration processes for Veterans and their families. Earlier this year, the Senator introduced bicameral legislation that aims to protect military families from deportation and forced separation detrimental to military morale and mission readiness.\n\nDuckworth has also long fought to protect pathways to citizenship for noncitizen servicemembers and Veterans, as well as the benefits they earned through their service. Last November, Duckworth reintroduced her sweeping package of legislation that would prohibit the deportation of immigrant Veterans who are not violent offenders, provide these Veterans with a pathway to citizenship through their military service and help ensure those who have already been deported can access the VA healthcare services they are entitled to.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-08-11T05:54:29Z", "2026-08-11T05:56:25Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 2605, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"party\" = :p1 and \"state\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Senate", "p1": "Democrat", "p2": "IL"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 2605, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=IL", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 2605, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=IL", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL", "results": [{"value": "IL", "label": "IL", "count": 2605, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL", "results": [{"value": "2025", "label": "2025", "count": 1248, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL&year=2025", "selected": false}, {"value": "2026", "label": "2026", "count": 790, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL&year=2026", "selected": false}, {"value": "2024", "label": "2024", "count": 406, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL&year=2024", "selected": false}, {"value": "2020", "label": "2020", "count": 146, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL&year=2020", "selected": false}, {"value": "2023", "label": "2023", "count": 13, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL&year=2023", "selected": false}, {"value": "2021", "label": "2021", "count": 2, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL&year=2021", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2026-08-10,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Educkworth~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress-releases~2Fduckworth-lawmakers-slam-trumps-efforts-to-tear-apart-military-families-convert-military-bases-into-deportation-traps", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Democrat&state=IL&_next=2026-08-10%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Educkworth~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress-releases~2Fduckworth-lawmakers-slam-trumps-efforts-to-tear-apart-military-families-convert-military-bases-into-deportation-traps&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 776.90271101892, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}