{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"AZ\" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-cornyn-bill-to-enhance-u-s-mexico-counternarcotics-efforts-signed-into-law/", "Kelly, Cornyn Bill to Enhance U.S.-Mexico Counternarcotics Efforts Signed into Law", "2025-12-23", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statements after their Counternarcotics Enhancement Act, which will require elements of the Intelligence Community to review any direct relationships with elements of the Government of Mexico, develop a strategy to enhance counternarcotics efforts, and make recommendations or request resources required to implement the strategy in furtherance of the national interest of the United States, was signed into law as part of the Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:\n\n\u201cTo win the fight against drug trafficking, the U.S. and Mexico have to work together against the cartels,\u201d said Sen. Kelly. \u201cThis effort will make our country safer by keeping drugs off our streets through Intelligence Community engagement with the government of Mexico.\u201d\n\n\u201cOne innocent life lost because of illicit narcotics smuggled into the U.S. by way of Mexico is one too many,\u201d said Sen. Cornyn. \u201cThis law will ensure our Intelligence Community leverages the U.S.-Mexico relationship to most effectively root out these silent killers and keep Americans safe.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Counternarcotics Enhancement Act will require elements of the Intelligence Community to submit to the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) the following information:\n\nA description and assessment of their relationship, if any, with any element of the government of Mexico;\n\nA strategy to enhance counternarcotics cooperation and appropriate coordination with each element of the government of Mexico they have a direct relationship with;\n\nAnd recommendations and a description of the resources required to efficiently and effectively implement this strategy to further the national interest of the U.S.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-continues-to-push-for-answers-on-trumps-pharmaceutical-deals/", "Gallego Continues to Push for Answers on Trump\u2019s Pharmaceutical Deals", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "In letters to the drug companies who recently inked deals with President Trump, Senator Gallego calls for more details and greater transparency\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 In response to President Trump\u2019s recent announcement that nine drugmakers agreed to direct-to-consumer pricing through the TrumpRx drug purchasing platform, and the implementation of \u201cMost Favored Nation\u201d (MFN) pricing in Medicaid, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) called on the drug manufacturers to clarify the agreement and provide the public with details on the arrangement.\n\n\u201cIt raises concern that to date, the public has been provided with only limited details, despite the significance of this arrangement for millions of patients, and that in return for this arrangement [these companies] will get a three-year exemption from Section 232 tariffs,\u201d Senator Gallego wrote in the letters to the drug manufacturers.\n\nIn the letters, Senator Gallego asks the drug manufacturers the following questions:\n\nUnder the proposed model, which countries and pricing metrics will be used in the MFN formula?\n\nWill [the company] commit to transparency in how MFN prices are calculated, and disclose how the final MFN price is calculated, whether discounts, rebates, or pricing agreements are incorporated?\n\nHow frequently will MFN comparator pricing be updated? Will changes be made automatically as international pricing data changes?\n\nWhat is the full scope of [your company\u2019s] drugs subject to MFN pricing in Medicaid?\n\nHow will MFN pricing in Medicaid affect Medicaid Best Price and the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program?\n\nWill [your company] commit to not shifting costs to other markets? Do you commit to not recoup any revenue reductions by raising prices in private insurance markets, employee-sponsored plans, or Medicare?\n\nAre there plans for [the company] to expand MFN or TrumpRx-style pricing to the commercial insurance or Medicare Part D markets?\n\nGiven that Medicaid beneficiary cost-sharing on prescription drugs is generally limited, please explain how beneficiaries will see savings under this arrangement.\n\nAs currently described, this model would require patients to bypass their insurance and pay cash for medications \u2014 often at high out-of-pocket costs. Given that many insured patients already have lower copays or coinsurance than the proposed TrumpRx discounts, it is unclear how this platform would provide meaningful relief. In fact, it may increase costs for patients,\u201d Senator Gallego concludes the letters.\n\nSenator Gallego sent the letters to the nine companies included in President Trump\u2019s most recent announcement. These companies include:\n\nAmgen\n\nBoehringer Ingelheim\n\nBristol Myers Squibb\n\nGenentech\n\nGilead Sciences\n\nGSK\n\nNovartis\n\nMerck\n\nSanofi", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-gallego-gives-back-ahead-of-the-holidays-with-toy-donations/", "Senator Gallego Gives Back Ahead of the Holidays with Toy Donations", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "PHOENIX \u2013 Ahead of the holidays, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) visited Phoenix Children\u2019s Hospital to donate toys as part of the hospital\u2019s annual Toyland Toy Drive, helping ensure every child admitted to the hospital over the holidays receives a gift. The hospital plans to provide gifts to over 400 families this year.\n\nDuring the visit, Senator Gallego delivered toys and spent time with hospital staff, thanking them for their dedication to caring for Arizona\u2019s children, especially during a season that can be particularly challenging for families spending the holidays in the hospital.\n\n\u201cDuring the holidays, it\u2019s especially important that we look out for one another, and as a father of three, I know how much joy this time of year can bring,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cFor kids who have to spend this time in the hospital, even a small moment of joy can make a big difference. I\u2019m grateful for the incredible staff at Phoenix Children\u2019s Hospital for the care and compassion they provide to Arizona families every single day.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-cornyn-bill-to-boost-military-service-recruiting-signed-into-law/", "Kelly, Cornyn Bill to Boost Military Service Recruiting Signed into Law", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statements after their bill to promote U.S. military recruiter access to secondary schools and attract the next generation of service members was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:\n\n\u201cWhen I was young, the U.S. Navy gave me purpose, direction, and the chance to be part of something much larger than myself. Our country needs more young people willing to step up, challenge themselves, and take advantage of these opportunities that come from military service,\u201d said Sen. Kelly. \u201cWe\u2019re making sure recruiters have fair access to schools so students who want to serve their country can get accurate information and a real path to do it.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the global threat landscape evolves and grows more complex, it\u2019s vital that we attract, develop, and retain top talent to boost military readiness,\u201d said Sen. Cornyn. \u201cBy expanding U.S. military recruiters\u2019 access to high schools, we can enlist the next generation of advanced warfighters to serve under the bold leadership of President Trump and defend America\u2019s interests at home and abroad.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Senators championed these provisions in the NDAA FY26 to ensure U.S. military service recruiters have the same access to high schools as colleges and prospective employers, so students can fully understand the benefits of military service and pursue it as a viable path after graduation. A recent CRS report analyzed military recruitment and goals for bringing new personnel into the Armed Forces to ensure our nation has a trained, robust, and fully manned military workforce.\n\nThe report revealed the Army and Navy failed to meet their recruitment and personnel goals in previous Fiscal Years. Notably, the Navy recently announced it had more than 20,000 gaps at sea, which can harm retention and increase the risk for accidents and collisions. Similarly, the Department of the Army confirmed a 15,000-soldier shortfall two years ago under the Biden administration, which was the Army\u2019s lowest number of recruits in five decades. The Senator\u2019s legislation seeks to address this by ensuring military recruiters have fair and equal access to secondary schools so our military can achieve their recruiting objectives and retain a fully manned operational force.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/year-in-review-kelly-secures-millions-in-federal-funding-for-public-safety-and-infrastructure-projects-across-arizona/", "Year in Review: Kelly Secures Millions in Federal Funding for Public Safety and Infrastructure Projects Across Arizona", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Secured $22 million for a child development center at Luke Air Force Base and $2.7 million for rural Arizona fire, police, and flood protection projects\n\nThis year, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly championed federal investments for rural Arizona communities, delivering for local projects in every corner of the state. As too many of Arizona\u2019s rural communities rely on decades-old equipment and run-down facilities that no longer meet the demands of today\u2019s first responders, Kelly\u2019s work focused on securing practical upgrades to keep communities safe. These investments will improve public safety, strengthen emergency response capabilities, and support military families.\n\nArizona Priorities Requested and Secured by Kelly\n\nLuke Air Force Base\n\nThis year, Senator Kelly secured more than $22 million to construct a much-needed child development center for servicemembers and their families at Luke Air Force Base. The funding builds on planning and design funds Kelly secured in the past two defense bills and will expand childcare capacity to better support military families.\n\nRead more about what this means for families at Luke here.\n\nPinal County \u2013 Smith Wash Watershed Plan\n\nPinal County received $1 million to develop a flood control plan for portions of Smith Wash in Pinal County to protect nearby homes and infrastructure.\n\nWatch more about this project here.\n\nCity of Bisbee\n\nFollowing the devastating Main Street fires in Bisbee, Kelly secured $620,000 to replace a 30-year-old fire truck with a new aerial ladder fire truck, giving the city the resources needed to protect residents and businesses in the historic downtown district.\n\nRead more about what Bisbee Mayor Ken Budge said about this funding here.\n\nTown of Clarkdale\n\nThanks to Kelly\u2019s work, Clarkdale received $150,000 to make essential structural upgrades to the Clarkdale Police Station. The current building dates back to 1918 and needs critical repairs to ensure a safe working environment for law enforcement personnel.\n\nRead more about what Clarkdale Town Manager Susan Guthrie said about this funding here.\n\nTown of Superior\n\nKelly delivered $718,000 for the Town of Superior to replace a 25-year-old, failing fire engine with a new fire truck to support the Superior Fire Department\u2019s public safety response.\n\nTonto Basin Fire District\n\nKelly secured $158,000 for the Tonto Basin Fire District to renovate its fire station. The station was originally constructed in 1970 and now needs significant upgrades to meet the needs of first responders and ensure the safety of the crews and the public.\n\nRead more about Tonto Basin Fire Chief James A. Stoltenberg said about these upgrades here.\n\nAlpine Fire District\n\nAnd finally, Kelly supported the Alpine Fire District with $140,000 to purchase a new emergency response vehicle, increasing its capacity to support fire, EMS, and search-and-rescue operations in rural eastern Arizona.\n\nSen. Kelly meets with Fry Fire District firefighters.\n\nIn 2026, Kelly will continue championing rural Arizona communities by pushing for targeted investments that strengthen public safety, improve critical infrastructure, and support families in small towns across the state.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://grijalva.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-grijalva-statement-on-the-trump-administration-defying-congress-and-failing-to-release-full-epstein-files", "Rep. Grijalva Statement on the Trump Administration Defying Congress and Failing to Release Full Epstein Files", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Adelita S. Grijalva", "G000606", "grijalva.house.gov", "grijalva", "https://grijalva.house.gov/media", "scraper", "TUCSON, AZ \u2013 Today, Representative Adelita S. Grijalva released the following statement after the Department of Justice announced it would only release a partial batch of the Epstein files, in violation of the Epstein Files Transparency Act which was signed into law one month ago on November 19.\n\n\u201cThis partial release is an insult to the survivors, who deserve justice, accountability, and closure. The Trump Administration has had more than 300 days \u2013 and a full month since Congress passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act \u2013 to prepare for the release of these files. By withholding required materials, the Trump Administration is in direct violation of the law and is actively defying Congress. While protecting the identities of victims is essential, it is inexcusable for this administration to continue dragging its feet. At the bare minimum, Attorney General Bondi should outline a timeline for the full release of the files, an explanation for the delay, and a general description of what materials are being withheld.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://stanton.house.gov/2025/12/stanton-on-house-floor-arizona-families-are-paying-the-price-for-trump-tariffs-this-holiday-season", "Stanton on House Floor: Arizona Families Are Paying the Price for Trump Tariffs This Holiday Season", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Greg Stanton", "S001211", "stanton.house.gov", "stanton", "https://stanton.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "New analysis shows prices for popular holiday gifts have climbed 26 percent under Trump\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Rep. Greg Stanton (AZ-04) took to the House Floor this week to criticize Speaker Mike Johnson and House Republicans for failing to hold a single vote to rein in the President\u2019s abuse of tariff powers\u2013especially as recent analysis shows prices for popular holiday gifts have climbed a whopping 26 percent because of Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs.\n\n\u201cToo many Arizona families are getting squeezed, and their paychecks are buying less and less this holiday season,\u201d said Rep. Stanton on the House floor. \u201cAnd until Congress stands up to President Trump and his illegal, reckless tariffs, things won\u2019t get better.\u201d\n\nWatch Rep. Stanton\u2019s floor remarks HERE.\n\nThe analysis from Groundwork Collaborative shows families are paying significantly more than last year for everyday holiday purchases, including toys (+17%), clothing (+20%), electronics (+34%), and home and kitchen gifts (+38%).\n\nNew polling from Data for Progress shows more than two-thirds of voters are stressed about affording holiday expenses. To cope, more than 40 percent of families are buying fewer gifts, nearly one-third are giving presents to fewer people, and more than one in ten are tapping into savings.\n\n\u201cEnough is enough,\u201d Stanton continued. \u201cHouse Republicans need to stand up for their constituents, stand up to President Trump, and put an end to this tax on American families.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-booker-whitehouse-push-administration-to-ensure-tariff-exemptions-actually-result-in-lowering-grocery-costs/", "Gallego, Booker, Whitehouse Push Administration to Ensure Tariff Exemptions Actually Result in Lowering Grocery Costs", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) sent a letter to Chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Andrew Ferguson questioning how the Commission is working to ensure grocery companies do not use this Administration\u2019s reckless tariff policies as cover for price gouging and that the recently announced tariff exemptions on coffee, bananas, cocoa, and other tropical products actually result in lower grocery prices.\n\n\u201cIt was a necessary but late step to remove these tariffs. However, while eliminating these tariffs reduces costs for grocery importers, we are concerned that consumers may not see the full corresponding price decreases,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cWe are concerned that the highly concentrated grocery industry \u2013 combined with the Trump Administration\u2019s insufficient antitrust and consumer protection enforcement \u2013 creates a perfect storm that could enable giant grocery chains to engage in price gouging or other anti-competitive behavior.\u201d\n\nTo ensure President Trump\u2019s reckless trade policies are not a \u201cgreen light\u201d for price gouging, the Senators push the FTC to:\n\nRequire large grocery stores and food importers report their costs and retail and wholesale prices and the extent to which tariffs reductions have decreased their costs.\n\nInvestigate and prosecute companies engaging in \u201cunfair or deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce.\u201d\n\nAdditionally, the Senators requested answers to the following questions:\n\nHow will you ensure President Trump\u2019s recent tariff removals do not result in sustained elevated prices?\n\nWhat steps will the FTC take to enforce competition and consumer protection laws against individuals and corporations in the grocery and food industry that attempt to price gouge consumers?\n\nIf consumers have paid excessive prices for these goods since the tariff removals due to price gouging, what steps will the FTC take to ensure that consumers are made whole?\n\nYou can read the full letter HERE.\n\nSenator Gallego sent two other letters this year urging the FTC to investigate how corporations could be using President Trump\u2019s reckless tariff fluctuations as cover to raise prices beyond their cost increases.\n\nDecember 18, 2025", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-marks-one-year-in-the-senate-fighting-for-arizonans/", "Gallego Marks One Year in the Senate Fighting for Arizonans", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "In first year, Gallego introduced the most bills of any freshman Democratic Senator\n\nGallego hosted eleven town halls across Arizona\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Finishing his first year in office, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ)released the following statement:\n\n\u201cI know this year hasn\u2019t been easy for working families or for our country. The cost of groceries and energy rose dramatically, Republicans raised health care costs for millions of Americans, Trump took a wrecking ball to the federal services that millions of Americans rely on, and this administration\u2019s cruel immigration practices tore families apart and caused chaos in our communities. But from day one, I\u2019ve made it my mission to show up, listen to, and fight for Arizonans.\n\n\u201cLooking ahead to 2026, I\u2019m focused on building on this progress and continuing to show up for Arizona families every single day. The best part of this job has been, and will always be, working for Arizonans.\u201d\n\nBy the Numbers:\n\nDuring his first year in the Senate, Senator Gallego introduced 29 bills and cosponsored 223 more \u2013 the most bills of any freshman Democratic Senator.\n\nSenator Gallego had one of his sponsored bills sent to the President\u2019s desk, where it is expected to be signed before the end of the year, and three more bills he backed also became law.\n\nTwo of Senator Gallego\u2019s bills passed out of committee, and five Gallego-backed bills passed the Senate.\n\nIn Arizona, Gallego held eleven town halls across the state, including ones focused on veterans\u2019 issues and health care.\n\nHis office also closed nearly 450 constituent service cases and held more than 750 meetings with community leaders and advocates.\n\nHighlights:\n\nEconomic Opportunity: Played a key role in shaping the landmark ROAD to Housing Act, the first housing package to pass out of committee in over a decade. Introduced bills to expand access to affordable housing, crack downon unfair pricing practices, and support workers.\n\nVeterans: Successfully pushed the Administration to dramatically scale back their planned layoffs at the VA by less than half after placing a blanket hold on all nominees to the Senate VA Committee.\n\nHealth Care: Relentlessly held Republicans accountable for kicking millions of Americans off Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, holding town halls across Arizona and doing media appearances.\n\nNutrition: Called out Republicans for gutting food assistance to pay for tax cuts for billionaires and using hunger as leverage. Visited Arizona food banks to highlight the impact these cuts are having on their demand this holiday season.\n\nImmigration: Introduced an ambitious border security and immigration reform plan that received support from national and Arizona leaders.\n\nEnergy & Environment: Tackled America\u2019s energy cost crisis head-on with hisplan for America\u2019s energy future. Fought to help Northern Arizona recover from the devastating Dragon Bravo fire in the Grand Canyon. Restored millions of dollars in Colorado River conservation funding that had been frozen by the administration.\n\nEducation: Succeeded in releasing funding for Arizona\u2019s Head Start programafter the Trump administration\u2019s chaotic funding freeze.\n\nForeign Policy: Pressed President Gustavo Petro on drug trafficking during a visit to Colombia and called out Russian aggression at the Helsinki Commission in Finland. Introduced a War Powers Resolution to prevent an illegal war in Venezuela.\n\nHere\u2019s what Arizona leaders are saying about Senator Gallego\u2019s first year on the job:\n\n\u201cThroughout his first year in the Senate, Senator Gallego has been a strong and reliable voice for health care in Arizona. He has pushed back against harmful Medicaid cuts and taken clear action to protect ACA tax credits that keep coverage within reach for hundreds of thousands of Arizonans. As rising costs put real pressure on families and providers alike, his leadership has helped safeguard access to care when it matters most. We\u2019re grateful for his partnership and his commitment to putting patients first,\u201d said Jessica Yanow, MPH, President and CEO, Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers.\n\n\u201cIn his first year as a U.S. Senator, Ruben Gallego has shown that standing up for veterans isn\u2019t symbolic, it\u2019s personal. He listens, he acts, and he leads with the integrity of someone who understands service and sacrifice,\u201d said Paula Pedene, US Navy Veteran, and member of Senator Gallego\u2019s Veterans Advisory Council.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-calls-ciscomani-to-back-clean-aca-tax-credit-extension", "Ansari, Stanton, Grijalva Call on Ciscomani to Keep His Word and Back Clean ACA Tax Credit Extension", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Yassamin Ansari", "A000381", "ansari.house.gov", "ansari", "https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, after four House Republicans joined all House Democrats in forcing a vote on a clean, three-year extension of the Affordable Care Act tax credits, Arizona Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), and Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cExtending these tax credits is the only realistic way to lower premiums and protect health coverage for working families. Four Republicans chose people over politics and joined Democrats in demanding a vote. Unfortunately that did not include any of our Republican colleagues from Arizona, including Congressman Juan Ciscomani who has said, \u201cdoing nothing is not an option.\u201d\n\nOnce again, the Republican majority had a chance to protect health care for more than 400,000 Arizonans, and chose not to act. We urge Speaker Johnson to bring this bill to the floor before the tax credits expire at the end of the year, and we hope our Arizona colleagues across the aisle will join us in supporting it.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://stanton.house.gov/2025/12/ahead-of-holiday-travel-stanton-introduces-airline-passenger-compensation-act-to-protect-travelers-from-airline-caused-delays", "Ahead of Holiday Travel, Stanton Introduces Airline Passenger Compensation Act to Protect Travelers from Airline-Caused Delays", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Greg Stanton", "S001211", "stanton.house.gov", "stanton", "https://stanton.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, ahead of the busy holiday travel season, U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (AZ-04) unveiled the Airline Passenger Compensation Act, legislation that would require U.S. airlines to provide cash compensation and rebooking assistance to passengers affected by airline-caused flight delays and cancellations. The bill was introduced together with Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Rick Larsen (WA-02) and Vice Ranking Member Emilia Sykes (OH-13).\n\n\"Millions of Americans will be flying this holiday season to see their families, and those plane tickets aren't cheap. Travelers deserve confidence that when their flight is significantly delayed or cancelled due to airline error, they won't be left paying thousands of dollars in additional expenses out of pocket,\" said Rep. Stanton.\n\n\"Holiday season is meant to be spent with family and friends, not stuck at an airport for hours,\" Ranking Member Larsen said. \"I am pleased to join fellow T&I Democrats Reps. Sykes and Stanton to protect the wallets of travelers who are late to the holidays thanks to delayed and cancelled flights. The Trump administration could have let the Biden-era rule guaranteeing cash compensation for significant delays and cancellations stand, but they chose not to protect families. This bill rights that wrong.\"\n\n\u201cPassengers should not have to bear the financial and personal burden when airlines fail to deliver the service they sell,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cThis bill ensures travelers are compensated fairly and can reach their destinations without additional stress or cost.\u201d\n\nFlight cancellations and lengthy delays create serious hardships for millions of Americans. Government Accountability Office (GAO) data show that between July 2021 and April 2022, over 15 million passengers were potentially affected by cancellations, and over 116 million passengers experienced delays. U.S. airline data for 2022 and 2023 show that more than 60% of domestic delays of three hours or longer were caused by the airlines themselves.\n\nCurrently, passengers face significant obstacles in holding airlines accountable. Airline policies are often vague, frontline staff may be unable to assist, and passengers frequently must pay out of pocket with uncertain reimbursement. With federal consumer protection enforcement weakening, travelers have fewer avenues for redress.\n\nKey Provisions of the Airline Passenger Compensation Act include:\n\nCash Compensation: Airlines would pay $300 for domestic and international flights delayed three or more hours and $775 for flights delayed nine or more hours. This also applies to cancellations.\n\nFree Rebooking: Airlines must rebook passengers at no additional cost on the next available flight.\n\nThe bill responds directly to the Trump Administration\u2019s decision to drop the Department of Transportation rulemaking in September 2025, a move praised by airlines that put profits over passengers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/amid-holiday-shopping-season-gallego-bipartisan-group-of-colleagues-push-ftc-to-crack-down-on-surveillance-pricing/", "Amid Holiday Shopping Season, Gallego, Bipartisan Group Of Colleagues Push FTC to Crack Down on Surveillance Pricing", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Earlier this year, the FTC curtailed a study that sought to examine companies\u2019 use of individualized data to set individualized prices\n\nLast week, Senator Gallego introduced first-of-its-kind Senate legislation to outlaw surveillance pricing\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, in the thick of the holiday shopping season, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) joined Senators Mark Warner (D-VA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) in pushing the Trump administration to crack down on surveillance pricing, or prices that are specially tailored to an individual consumer\u2019s willingness to pay. As part of this letter, the senators highlight a 2024 Federal Trade Commission (FTC) study that found companies used \u201ca wide range of personal data to set individualized consumer prices.\u201d That study was shut down by FTC chair Andrew Ferguson, who cancelled the public comment period, effectively ending the study in January.\n\nThe letter comes after, last week, Senator Gallego introduced the One Fair Price Actto ban companies from using consumers\u2019 personal data to set individualized prices.\n\n\u201cAs the FTC has documented, businesses are increasingly using personal data, such as demographic information, precise location, or even web browsing history, to target individual consumers with different prices for the same goods and services. Surveillance pricing builds upon not only the data that a company holds on a prospective customer, but also data purchased from shady data brokers,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cRecent concerns about surveillance pricing for airline tickets illustrate the dangers of this highly intrusive \u2013 and for consumers financially burdensome \u2013 practice. Fetcherr, an A.I. analytics company, suggested it was developing pricing algorithms for airlines that would target individuals with specific prices that consider \u2018factors like customer lifetime value, past purchase behaviors, and the real-time context of each booking inquiry\u2019 to drive up revenue.\u201d\n\nAs part of this letter, the senators highlighted the Biden-era FTC study, which examined how companies tracked consumer behaviors \u2013 including a person\u2019s precise location, browser history, and even mouse movements on a webpage \u2013 to inform their surveillance pricing tactics.\n\n\u201cThe Commission had already begun a comprehensive market investigation into surveillance pricing under its Section 6(b) authority and issued a preliminary staff report on its findings. The 6(b) study explored the use cases and industries in which surveillance pricing is occurring and has helped reveal some of the details of this opaque business,\u201d the Senators continued. \u201cThe FTC found within its requests at least 250 businesses including grocery stores, apparel retailers, health and beauty retailers, home goods and furnishing stores, convenience stores, and hardware stores had adopted surveillance pricing strategies. Consumers deserve a fair playing field, where they\u2019re not at the mercy of amorphous data brokers capturing their data and using it to determine their maximum financial pain point for a good or service. We urge the Commission to publish its Section 6(b) study on surveillance pricing and then take rulemaking and enforcement actions to reign in this exploitative practice.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\nDecember 18, 2025", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-fights-back-against-administrations-illegal-efforts-to-withhold-funding-from-the-cfpb/", "Gallego Fights Back Against Administration\u2019s Illegal Efforts to Withhold Funding from the CFPB", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and his Democratic colleagues filed a bicameral amicus brief challenging Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Acting Director Russell Vought\u2019s latest attempt to dismantle the agency. Acting Director Vought is relying on a fringe legal theory that has been widely rejected by multiple federal courts and former Fed officials to illegally deny funding to the agency that protects American families from predatory lenders, abusive debt collectors, and financial scams. The lawmakers were joined by former lawmakers Chris Dodd (D-CT) and Barney Frank (D-MA), who wrote the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act that created the CFPB and specified how the agency is funded.\n\nThe lawmakers argued that Vought\u2019s interpretation of Dodd-Frank is at odds with Congress\u2019s plans to provide a consistent and stable funding stream to the CFPB:\n\n\u201cIn sum, Acting Director Vought\u2019s newfound definition of \u2018combined earnings\u2019 is completely at odds with Congress\u2019s plan in passing Dodd-Frank and setting up the Bureau. It undermines the Bureau\u2019s independence as a financial regulator; it deprives the Bureau of the continuous and stable funding source Congress expressly authorized; and it supports results Congress never fathomed\u2014and actively worked to avoid. This Court should reject it,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nRead the full amicus brief HERE.\n\nIn addition to the amicus brief, Senator Gallego joined his colleagues in sending a letter directly to Acting Director Vought, urging him to comply with the law and immediately ask the Federal Reserve for the maximum allowable amount to carry out the activities of the consumer watchdog agency.\n\n\u201cIt is laughable to argue that Americans should be protected from predatory lending and abusive financial practices only in years when the Federal Reserve makes an accounting profit,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cBut even under this discredited legal theory, there is no rationale for CFPB not to seek funding. According to both the Bank Policy Institute and the American Enterprise Institute, which have been highly critical of the CFPB, the Federal Reserve is on pace to turn a substantial profit this quarter of up to $2 billion. This amount far exceeds the CFPB\u2019s statutory funding cap. In other words, the Federal Reserve has ample \u201cprofits\u201d from which to meet the CFPB\u2019s funding needs.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\nDecember 18, 2025", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-kelly-warns-pentagon-is-escalating-intimidation-to-silence-dissent/", "ICYMI: Kelly Warns Pentagon Is Escalating Intimidation to Silence Dissent", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "\u201cI don\u2019t work for Hegseth. I work for the people of Arizona.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is all about escalation and intimidation.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m not going to stop doing my job because Donald Trump said I should be hanged and executed.\u201d\n\nIn case you missed it, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly joined CNN\u2019s Anderson Cooper 360\u00b0, MS NOW\u2019s Morning Joe, and Paul Rieckhoff\u2019s Independent Americans to call out how the Pentagon\u2019s investigation is part of a broader pattern of escalation and intimidation meant to silence dissent and shut down oversight\u2014making clear he won\u2019t back off from doing his job for Arizonans and the American people.\n\nSen. Kelly speaks on Independent Americans.\n\nWatch the full Independent Americans podcast episode here, the full Anderson Cooper 360\u00b0 interview here, and the full Morning Joe interview here. See key excepts below:\n\nFrom Independent Americans, on his duty of oversight and doing his job no matter what\u2026\n\n\u201cI\u2019m also a U.S. senator. I\u2019ve got a responsibility. I\u2019m on the Armed Services and the Intelligence committee. I\u2019ve got a responsibility of oversight to this government, to the Department of Defense, to the CIA, to the National Security Agency. That\u2019s my job and they want to shut me up. If they can successfully, shut me up, get me not to speak out, what kind of message does that send to everybody else who\u2019s retired? It\u2019s a chilling message.\n\nFrom Independent Americans, on serving the American people, not answering to Hegseth\u2026\n\n\u201cI don\u2019t work for these people. I don\u2019t work for Hegseth. He might think I do, being retired. I work for the people of Arizona. And you know who else does? Donald Trump, by the way. This guy often thinks and acts like he\u2019s in charge\u2014he works for all of us. Maybe one day he\u2019s going to wake up and realize this.\u201d\n\nSen. Kelly speaks on Anderson Cooper 360\u00b0.\n\nFrom Anderson Cooper 360\u00b0, on why this investigation isn\u2019t about the truth\u2026\n\n\u201cI haven\u2019t heard anything. Still nothing. And this time, two Pentagon correspondents, I guess it\u2019s Matt Gaetz and the Pizzagate conspiracy guy, put something on social media. That\u2019s how we were notified. That\u2019s how unserious they are. That shows what this is all about, this is about attention.\u201d\n\n\u201cHe is the most unqualified Secretary of Defense this country has ever had, by far. And you can see the results from this. We have the largest government agency being run by somebody who has no idea what he\u2019s doing.\u201d\n\nSen. Kelly speaks on Morning Joe.\n\nFrom Morning Joe, on how the Pentagon is trying to use escalation and intimation to silence dissent\u2026\n\n\u201cThis is escalation. They say something about a command investigation without even explaining what that is. [\u2026] This is all about escalation and intimidation. But in this case, they got the wrong guy. I\u2019m not going to back off. I\u2019m not going to stop doing my job because Donald Trump said I should be hanged and executed.\n\n\u201cHe has fired inspectors general. He\u2019s fired JAG officers. He\u2019s fired admirals and generals because of their gender and the color of their skin.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re the greatest military in the world because we follow the rules, we\u2019re professional. We\u2019ve got the best equipment, the best people, the best training. And in my view, Pete Hegseth, over seven or eight months now, maybe since he\u2019s been in this job, has done significant damage to our ability to keep our nation safe.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-releases-new-video-highlighting-first-year-in-congress", "Ansari Releases New Video Highlighting First Year in Congress", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Yassamin Ansari", "A000381", "ansari.house.gov", "ansari", "https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) released a new video recapping her first year in office. The video highlights how, from day one, she has shown up relentlessly to fight for the people of Arizona\u2019s Third District and take on Donald Trump and Republicans\u2019 authoritarian agenda.\n\nWATCH\n\nCongresswoman Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03):\n\nI'm Yassamin Ansari, and it is the honor of my life to represent Phoenix, Glendale and Guadalupe.\n\nThis year was my first as a U.S. Representative, and it was an extremely hard year for Arizona families, but as the youngest woman in Congress, I wasn't planning to sit back and wait my turn.\n\nI jumped straight into the fight.\n\nThis year, I held 13 town hall meetings and 12 mobile office hours, reaching tens of thousands of Arizonans.\n\nWe attended 165 community events and met with roughly 42,000 Phoenicians.\n\nWe closed 394 cases and returned over $500,000 to constituents.\n\nHere in D.C. I introduced 20 bills and submitted over 400 appropriations requests.\n\nIn committee, I fought back against oil execs, Jeffrey Epstein defenders, and corrupt billionaires deadset on protecting Donald Trump and his corrupt, authoritarian agenda to enrich him and his family at the expense of everyday people.\n\nThis fall, during the longest government shutdown in history, I brought the fight directly to Speaker Mike Johnson.\n\nIn a year full of mass deportations, wrongful detainments, and heinous treatment of immigrants, I traveled to detention centers, advocated for Kilmar Abrego Garcia in El Salvador, and held Know Your Rights trainings so my constituents know how to handle ICE, immigration courts, and their constitutional right to due process.\n\nMy team and I led key legislation on housing and utility affordability, regulating artificial intelligence, and healthcare.\n\nWe hosted a read-in of Trump\u2019s so-called Big Beautiful Bill\u2013all 1000 pages, right here on this lawn\u2013to show the American people just how full of corruption it was.\n\nArizonans want a fighter, and I'm fighting for them. It is the honor of my life to represent you in Congress. We'll see you in 2026.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-to-standardize-geothermal-permitting-procedures", "Ansari Spearheads Hearing to Standardize Procedures for Geothermal Permitting and Projects", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Yassamin Ansari", "A000381", "ansari.house.gov", "ansari", "https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cGold Book\u201d Protocol to Improve Efficiency and Environmental Responsibility in Geothermal Energy\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Yesterday, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) led a hearing as Ranking Member of the Energy and Minerals Subcommittee of the Natural Resources Committee on nine bills on geothermal energy development, including her legislation, the Geothermal Gold Book Development Act.\n\nAnsari\u2019s Geothermal Gold Book Development Act establishes clear, consistent procedures and guidelines for geothermal leasing, exploration, permitting, and development. The bill directs the Department of the Interior, through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), to create a \u201cGold Book\u201d for geothermal energy, mirroring gold books already in use in oil, wind, and solar sectors.\n\n\u201cHarnessing the Earth\u2019s internal heat through geothermal energy is a promising source of renewable power,\u201d said Rep. Ansari. \u201cBut as the fastest-growing energy source in the United States, it must be regulated and reviewed by a nationwide, standardized system. Creating a Gold Book would allow us to move forward, safely, into a more sustainable future of geothermal harvesting\u2014delivering energy to people and safeguarding our environment.\u201d\n\nWATCH Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources hearing on H.R. 5617 (Rep. Ansari), \"Geothermal Gold Book Development Act\"\n\nThe Geothermal Gold Book Development Act is cosponsored by Ranking Member Jared Huffman (CA-02) and supported by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Geothermal Rising, and Fervo.\n\nThe bill covers a process for developing the Gold Book, including timing targets and deadlines, project guidelines and content, and other agencies or offices needed for consultation:\n\nWithin 1 year of enactment, BLM must develop standard procedures for efficient and environmentally responsible geothermal permitting.\n\nWithin 180 days after that, BLM must publish the Gold Book for use by both field offices and geothermal operators.\n\nThe Gold Book must cover the end-to-end lifecycle of geothermal projects, including:\n\nLand use planning and lease sales\n\nExploration and geophysical operations\n\nPermitting and approval of lease operations\n\nEnvironmental compliance\n\nConstruction and maintenance\n\nDrilling and production operations\n\nAppeals processes\n\nAvailable categorical exclusions at each stage\n\nDevelopment of the Gold Book will involve input from:\n\nRelevant federal agencies, including BLM field offices\n\nPotentially outside stakeholders, including developers\n\nThe Gold Book must be reviewed at least once every 5 years and revised as necessary to reflect new best practices or policy changes.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://grijalva.house.gov/media/press-releases/grijalva-stanton-and-ansari-call-on-ciscomani-to-keep-his-word-and-back-clean-aca-tax-credit-extension", "Grijalva, Stanton, and Ansari Call on Ciscomani to Keep His Word and Back Clean ACA Tax Credit Extension", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Adelita S. Grijalva", "G000606", "grijalva.house.gov", "grijalva", "https://grijalva.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, after four House Republicans joined all House Democrats in forcing a vote on a clean, three-year extension of the Affordable Care Act tax credits, Arizona Representatives Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), and Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cExtending these tax credits is the only realistic way to lower premiums and protect health coverage for working families. Four Republicans chose people over politics and joined Democrats in demanding a vote. Unfortunately that did not include any of our Republican colleagues from Arizona, including Congressman Juan Ciscomani who has said, \u201cdoing nothing is not an option.\u201d\n\nOnce again, the Republican majority had a chance to protect health care for more than 400,000 Arizonans, and chose not to act. We urge Speaker Johnson to bring this bill to the floor before the tax credits expire at the end of the year, and we hope our Arizona colleagues across the aisle will join us in supporting it.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://stanton.house.gov/2025/12/stanton-ansari-grijalva-call-on-ciscomani-to-keep-his-word-and-back-clean-aca-tax-credit-extension", "Stanton, Ansari, Grijalva Call on Ciscomani to Keep His Word and Back Clean ACA Tax Credit Extension", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Greg Stanton", "S001211", "stanton.house.gov", "stanton", "https://stanton.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.--Today, after four House Republicans joined all House Democrats in forcing a vote on a clean, three-year extension of the Affordable Care Act tax credits, Arizona Representatives Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) and Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cExtending these tax credits is the only realistic way to lower premiums and protect health coverage for working families. Four Republicans chose people over politics and joined Democrats in demanding a vote. Unfortunately that did not include any of our Republican colleagues from Arizona, including Congressman Juan Ciscomani who has said, \u201cdoing nothing is not an option.\u201d\n\nOnce again, the Republican majority had a chance to protect health care for more than 400,000 Arizonans, and chose not to act. We urge Speaker Johnson to bring this bill to the floor before the tax credits expire at the end of the year, and we hope our Arizona colleagues across the aisle will join us in supporting it.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-files-war-powers-resolution-to-prevent-illegal-war/", "Gallego Files War Powers Resolution to Prevent Illegal War", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Gallego\u2019s Resolution calls for armed forces to cease hostilities in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific Ocean\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) filed a War Powers Resolution that orders the U.S. Armed Forces to immediately cease hostilities against vessels in the Caribbean Sea and the Eastern Pacific Ocean unless authorized by Congress.\n\n\u201cIf the President believes the use of military force is necessary, he needs to come talk to Congress first and make that case. The decision to use military force is one that requires serious debate, and the power to declare war unambiguously belongs to Congress under the Constitution,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cAs an Iraq war veteran, I know the costs of rushing into an unnecessary war and that the American people will not stand for it.\u201d\n\nThe U.S. military carried out its first strikes on September 2nd, and since then, they have killed more than 95 individuals in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific Ocean in subsequent strikes. To date, the administration has provided little evidence to support its drug trafficking claims and few details about who or what was on board each vessel.\n\nUnder the War Powers Resolution, the President must terminate any use of the Armed Forces within 60 days unless Congress declares war or authorizes the use of force. The sixty-day deadline has long passed, following the initial notification on September 4th. Senator Gallego\u2019s resolution directs the President to comply with the law and cease hostilities in the Caribbean and the Eastern Pacific Ocean, barring congressional approval.\n\nThe War Powers Resolution is privileged, meaning the Senate will be required to promptly consider and vote on the measure.\n\nRead the full resolution HERE.\n\nDecember 17, 2025", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-statement-on-ndaa-final-passage/", "Gallego Statement on NDAA Final Passage", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Gallego (D-AZ), a Marine Corps combat veteran who fought in Iraq, released the following statement on the passage of the final negotiated language for the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):\n\n\u201cThis year\u2019s defense authorization act delivers big wins for Arizona, including funds to support military families and upgrade critical infrastructure in Arizona, and a well-deserved pay raise for our troops. I\u2019m proud of our work to strengthen our national security and deliver these much-needed wins for Arizona.\u201d\n\nKey provisions that Senator Gallego supported that are in the NDAA:\n\nArizona\n\nFund infrastructure upgrades in Arizona installations, including:\n\n$32.8 million to help replace the aging infrastructure at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma\n\n$990k to replace or repair Pole Line Road in Yuma\n\n$99 million to construct critical facilities at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base\n\n$2 million to help replace the flight control tower at Fort Huachuca\n\n$45m to construct a much-needed child development center at Luke Force Air Base\n\n$4 million to replace a nearly century-old bridge at Camp Navajo\n\n$6 million to support the McCain Irregular Warfare Center at Arizona State University\n\nAuthorizes the Air National Guard to acquire 10 acres of land from the Tucson International Airport in order to build a new entry gate at Morris Air National Guard Base as planned. This new entry gate will improve security and traffic for the base and local community.\n\nNational\n\nAuthorize the Baltic Security Initiative through 2028. Senator Gallego is a longtime supporter of our allies in the Baltics, and he recently led his colleagues in condemning the Trump administration\u2019s decision to terminate the BSI and Section 333 funding.\n\nExtend and increase funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) through the end of the Trump administration and require that DoD report to Congress within 48 hours of any decision to pause/restrict assistance/intel to Ukraine\n\nRepeal the 2002 Iraq AUMF\n\nAuthorize $70 million for educational agencies that support military and DOD civilian dependents, especially those that support children with disabilities.\n\nProhibit the Trump administration from reducing number of forces permanently deployed in EUCOM area below 76,000, keep our military bases in place, and prevent the President from giving up the top U.S. leadership role in NATO.\n\nDecember 17, 2025", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/passed-gallegos-wildfire-mitigation-bill-wins-committee-approval/", "PASSED: Gallego\u2019s Wildfire Mitigation Bill Wins Committee Approval", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senator Ruben Gallego\u2019s (D-AZ) Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act was unanimously approved by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. The bill, which provides recommendations for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of wildfire mitigation across land ownership boundaries, now advances to the full U.S. Senate for consideration.\n\nThe Committee\u2019s approval of the legislation comes after a hearing earlier this month where witnesses expressed their support for the bill.\n\n\u201cWildfires don\u2019t care about land ownership boundaries, but currently, our wildfire mitigation policies do. In states like Arizona, that kind of red tape is dangerous,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cMy bill would improve coordination between federal agencies and their state, Tribal, and local counterparts to better manage fires and keep communities safe. Now that it\u2019s passed committee, I look forward to bringing it to the Senate floor.\u201d\n\nDecember 17, 2025", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/win-gallego-kelly-bill-to-expand-economic-opportunity-in-la-paz-county-heads-to-presidents-desk/", "WIN: Gallego, Kelly Bill to Expand Economic Opportunity in La Paz County Heads to President\u2019s Desk", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Bill will enable La Paz County to create hundreds of jobs and power thousands of homes\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Last night, Arizona Senators Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly\u2019s La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act unanimously passed the U.S. Senate. The bill now heads to President Trump\u2019s desk, where he is expected to sign it into law. The legislation was championed in the House by Arizona Representatives Paul Gosar, Andy Biggs, and David Schweikert.\n\nUnder a previous land transfer, La Paz County made remarkable progress in creating a large solar park adjacent to the Ten West Link transmission project through central Arizona. The La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act will allow La Paz County to continue this project, developing a planned 500 MW of solar capacity and up to 900 MWH of battery storage, which is enough to power about 75,000 homes. The project will create 700 construction jobs and 10 permanent positions.\n\n\u201cAs the sunniest state in the union, Arizona has massive potential to power homes and create jobs through solar development. La Paz County\u2019s solar development is a perfect example of what is possible when we invest in solar, and I am proud to help them continue that work with the passage of this legislation,\u201d said Senator Gallego.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-shaped-defense-bill-set-to-become-law-securing-major-wins-for-arizona-servicemembers-and-national-security/", "Kelly-Shaped Defense Bill Set to Become Law, Securing Major Wins for Arizona, Servicemembers, and National Security", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Bill blocks staffing cuts to Fort Huachuca\u2019s Electronic Proving Ground and protects Arizona\u2019s role in electronic warfare\n\nDelivers major Arizona military construction projects at Davis-Monthan, Luke Air Force Base, and MCAS Yuma\n\nIncludes a 3.8 percent pay raise for military service members\n\nToday, Senate Armed Services Committee member and 25-year Navy combat veteran Mark Kelly announced final passage of the annual defense bill, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2026. Through his leadership on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Kelly secured major priorities to strengthen Arizona\u2019s military installations, support servicemembers and their families, and advance U.S. national security. The final bill includes Kelly-backed provisions to block staffing cuts to Fort Huachuca\u2019s Electronic Proving Ground, continue upgrades at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, and expand Arizona\u2019s role in military modernization and emerging defense technologies. The bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\nAs Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Airland and Co-Chair of the Defense Modernization Caucus, Kelly helped shape the portions of the NDAA dealing with Army, Air Force, National Guard, and Reserve programs, procurement, research, and development. The final bill also strengthens U.S. deterrence in Europe and the Indo-Pacific and reinforces congressional oversight of Pentagon decisions affecting readiness and force structure.\n\n\u201cAfter months of bipartisan negotiation, this defense bill makes the kind of smart, targeted investments our military needs to stay ready today while preparing for future threats,\u201d said Senator Kelly. \u201cIt strengthens deterrence against Russia, China and our adversaries, supports Ukraine\u2019s self-defense, and modernizes the capabilities our servicemembers rely on to do their jobs safely and effectively.\u201d\n\nKelly continued, \u201cI also worked to keep Arizona at the center of our national defense. Fort Huachuca plays a national role, not just a local one, and protecting its mission is critical as electronic warfare becomes a bigger part of modern conflict. From defending the Electronic Proving Ground andupgrading Davis-Monthan tosupporting missions across the state, these investments matter for Arizona and our national security.\u201d\n\nSee below for a breakdown of priorities Kelly secured:\n\nArizona Priorities Requested and Secured by Kelly:\n\nLuke Air Force Base\n\n$45 million to construct a much-needed new child development center for servicemembers and their families on base. This follows planning and design funds secured by Senator Kelly in the past two defense bills.\n\nUrges the Air Force to prioritize funding to replace outdated HVAC systems at Luke Air Force Base, improving facility reliability and ensuring a safe, functional working environment for airmen.\n\nMCAS Yuma\n\n$26.1 million to design a replacement for the aging water treatment plant on base that the Marine Corps has indicated poses the potential for increased health risks to servicemembers and their families. Kelly has worked over the past few years to advance and secure funding for the new water treatment plant.\n\nDavis-Monthan Air Force Base\n\nRequires the Air Force to update Congress and provide oversight on the transition of the new power projection wing to DM AFB.\n\n$49 million to construct a new Communications Squadron headquarters facility, which is necessary to support the transition of new flying missions to the base.\n\n$50 million to construct a new hangar and maintenance facility to support the new mission coming to DM AFB.\n\nFort Huachuca\n\nRequires a demonstration of a joint multi-domain testing and training environment by interconnecting existing ranges and sites in the western states.\n\nYuma Proving Ground\n\nDirects the Secretary of the Army to plan replacements or repairs for Pole Line Road, an interior test road on the base that is in disrepair and causing delays to testing.\n\nArizona National Guard\n\nAuthorizes the Air Force to retain KC-135 Stratotankers as they are replaced by KC-46 aircraft and reassign them based on the availability of an air refueling wing to man additional aircraft and support pilot training requirements. Doing so will expand the Air Force\u2019s ability to meet air refueling requirements. The 161st Air Refueling Wing in Phoenix flies KC-135 Stratotankers.\n\nAuthorizes the Air National Guard to acquire land in order to build a new entry gate at Morris Air National Guard Base as planned. This new entry gate will improve security and traffic for the base and local community.\n\nUrges replacement for Camp Navajo installation\u2019s entry bridge that is 80 years old. This language follows a DoD assessment that Senator Kelly secured in a previous defense bill.\n\nMcCain Irregular Warfare Center \u2013 Center of Excellence\n\nAuthorizes $6 million for the McCain Irregular Warfare Center of Excellence, which was established by Kelly. In October 2024, DoD awarded a contract to Arizona State University to lead this national consortium supporting the Center.\n\nSouthwest Border Oversight and Cooperation\n\nAt Kelly\u2019s request, requires a semiannual report from the DoD on the Defense posture at the Southwest border that will allow Congress to oversee the mission and understand its impacts on readiness.\n\nSupports increased cooperation between the U.S. and Mexican militaries through a joint counter-transnational criminal organization training program that will share best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for countering narcotics trafficking.\n\nElectronic Warfare Test and Evaluation\n\nFor months, Kelly has been pressing the Army over concerns with how plans to cut staff at Ft. Huachuca\u2019s Electronic Proving Ground (EPG) and other Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) sites could weaken our electronic warfare (EW) testing and readiness. The EPG serves as the U.S. Army\u2019s primary testing facility for electronic warfare systems. The facility is uniquely situated in a natural geographic bowl surrounded by mountains and enjoys over 320 clear flying days per year in protected federal airspace\u2014conditions that make it ideal for high-powered jamming and advanced EW testing without external interference.\n\nKelly secured a provision in the defense bill that stops the Army from making these cuts without first reporting to the congressional defense committees on the basis for the cuts, findings from an independent review by the Director of the Office of Cost and Assessment and Program Evaluation, and a certification by the Director of the Test Resource Management Center that the analyses and decision meet Department of Defense\u2019s requirement.\n\nThe final NDAA also includes the following Kelly bills:\n\nFALCON Act: Requires the Secretary of the Air Force to incorporate depot-level maintenance coordination into at least one multinational exercise in the Indo-Pacific, strengthening readiness, interoperability with allies, and sustainment planning for real-world operations.\n\nROTOR Act: Directs a study on cancer rates and mortality among military rotary-wing pilots and aviation support personnel to better understand and address long-term health risks.\n\nStrategic Ports Reporting Act: Directs the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense to monitor efforts by the People\u2019s Republic of China (PRC) to build, buy, or own strategic ports around the world.\n\nThe Mexico Security Assistance Accountability Act: Requires the State Department to develop a comprehensive strategy to dismantle Mexican drug cartels and ensure U.S. security assistance delivers on our shared security mission and enhance resilient institutional capacity to strengthen the rule of law and address public corruption in order to combat the cartels.\n\nThe SEIZE Act: Authorizes the use of Presidential Drawdown Authority to transfer confiscated Iranian weapons seized in transit to terror proxies like the Houthis in Yemen directly to U.S. partners. The SEIZE Act would bypass a potentially year-long legal process for distributing captured Iranian weapons and equipment held by U.S. CENTCOM. Right now, CENTCOM spends taxpayer money to store, safeguard, and transfer this seized equipment; the SEIZE Act would allow those weapons to be sent quickly and directly to trusted U.S. military partners around the globe.\n\nKelly-secured provision that builds on his No Work with Adversaries Act, requiring a briefing on the implementation of notification requirements to keep former service members and government employees from working for our enemies.\n\nThe COUNTER Act: Strengthens protections for U.S. military bases and critical facilities from drone incursions.\n\nAuthorizes a Medal of Honor to be awarded to Navy veteran E. Royce Williams for extraordinary acts of valor during the Korean War.\n\nKorean American Divided Families National Registry Act: Requires the Secretary of State to establish a private, internal national registry of the names and other relevant information of Korean American divided families for the purpose of future family reunions.\n\nKelly Airland Subcommittee Priorities\n\nThe following priorities were secured by Senator Kelly on the Airland Subcommittee to ensure our military readiness and force modernization:\n\nAuthorizes 34 new F-35A\u2019s for the Air Force. Luke AFB is a training base for F-35 pilots.\n\nAuthorizes the procurement of 3 additional AH-64E Apache BlockIIIA Remanufactured Aircraft.\n\nRequires a report on the rationale for the Army\u2019s aviation force structure decision and plans for the AH-64, which is manufactured in Mesa.\n\nAuthorizes an additional $90M in RDT&E funding for the Hybrid-Electric Propulsion Combat Ready Airman (CRA) Flight Demonstrator.\n\nAuthorizes an additional $60 million to support procurement of the Compass Call electronic warfare aircraft, based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona.\n\nRequires a roadmap for Air Force bombers and accounts for advancing the B-21 to manufacturing and production.\n\nWith Kelly\u2019s support, prohibits the Air Force from retiring A-10 aircraft ahead of schedule such that the inventory would drop below 103 aircraft next year.\n\nRequires a briefing on Army efforts to optimize its prepositioned stocks program to ensure that the Army has the right equipment in the right location with the right readiness level.\n\nRequires a briefing on the Army\u2019s proposed plan to integrate Army Futures Command and Training and Doctrine Command.\n\nRequires a plan from the Air Force on the future of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) assets.\n\nSupports procurement of the MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopter to modernize the aging fleet of UH-1 helicopters.\n\nRequires a briefing on efforts to enhance space domain awareness through ground-based sensor development.\n\nDefense Modernization\n\nKelly is the co-chair of the Defense Modernization Caucus, which is focused on strengthening national security by integrating and adopting emergent technologies and ensuring the U.S. military is equipped with the most advanced tools and strategies to counter rising threats.\n\nRequires a briefing and follow-up report to assess how the Department of Defense is reducing risks in the defense industrial base and implementing the National Defense Industrial Strategy, ensuring the Pentagon is strengthening supply chains and industrial capacity needed to support national security.\n\nRequires DoD to establish a Small-UAS Industrial Base Working Group and develop a roadmap for the small, unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) industrial base to support existing sUAS programs.\n\nRequires an evaluation of the suitability of a corridor for testing hypersonic and long-range weapons in the continental United States.\n\nProvides the combatant commands the authority to conduct experimentation, prototyping, and technology demonstrations to support the development and testing of innovative technologies and capability solutions to address operational needs identified by the combatant command.\n\nRequires the Department to integrate electronic warfare into Tier 1 and Tier 2 joint exercises.\n\nEstablishes an alternative pathway for the test and evaluation (T&E) of software acquisition programs using the software acquisition pathway, and other programs designated by the Secretary of Defense.\n\nRecruitment\n\nIncludes a Kelly-led bill to strengthen military recruitment by expanding access for military recruiters to high schools and improving outreach to ensure students have clear, accurate information about opportunities for military service.\n\nProgram Oversight and Assessment\n\nRequires a Kelly-requested GAO report to assess the effectiveness of middle tier rapid prototyping authority for the Sea-Launched Cruise Missile-Nuclear (SLCM-N) program. Over the past few years, Kelly has raised concerns with military leadership about the tradeoffs of installing this new nuclear weapon on conventional Virginia Class attack submarines.\n\nRequires a spend plan and briefing on advanced manufacturing practices and advanced materials and processing practices for hypersonic flight bodies that will shorten the time for delivery.\n\nSecurity Cooperation and Supporting American Alliances\n\nIncludes Kelly-backed provisions to prohibit drawdown of U.S. military troops on the Korean Peninsula and in Europe to deter adversaries like Russia and North Korea and support our allies in the region.\n\nRequires oversight of U.S. military posture on the Korean Peninsula by maintaining a total troop level of 28,500 and requiring a report if that number changes.\n\nProvides oversight of U.S. military posture in Europe by maintaining a total troop level of 76,000 and requiring a report if that number changes.\n\nExtends the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) through 2029 and increases authorized funding to $400 million for FY26 and FY27.\n\nAuthorizes $1 billion for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative and expands the authority to include a provision broadening its scope to support combat casualty care and medical equipment.\n\nFormally established and authorizes $175 million for the Baltic Security Initiative to strengthen the defensive capability and interoperability of the Baltic States.\n\nSupport for Servicemembers and military families\n\nIncludes a 3.8 percent pay raise for military service members.\n\nRequires a briefing on the implementation of Kelly\u2019s Brandon Act across active duty and reserve component troops. The briefing must include a description and timeline of any communications or efforts made to implement the annual training. It also establishes a biannual reporting requirement on implementation progress, training effectiveness, and adherences to the Brandon Act.\n\nAuthorizes $50 million in Impact Aid funding for educational agencies serving military dependent students and $20 million in Impact Aid for educational agencies serving children with disabilities.\n\nRequires a Kelly-backed update to the Committee on existing Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) regulations on the student use of portable electronic mobile devices in DODEA schools to prohibit disruption in the learning environment.\n\nRequires a report on expanding access to non-addictive alternatives to opioids, including steps the Department of Defense will take to ensure safer pain-management options are available through TRICARE.\n\nRequires a report on efforts to improve recruitment and retention of merchant mariners in the Military Sealift Command, strengthening the workforce that supports global military operations.\n\nRequires a study to improve how the Basic Allowance for Housing is calculated to better reflect rising rental costs, along with a report assessing the locality pay system for Department of Defense civilian employees.\n\nSee how Arizona and defense leaders are reacting to Kelly\u2019s work on the NDAA below:\n\n\u201cThe Huachuca 50 is pleased with the final passage of the National Defense Authorization Act and applauds the strong protections it includes for Fort Huachuca and the Electronic Proving Ground. By requiring transparency and independent review, this legislation recognizes the critical role Fort Huachuca plays in electronic warfare testing, joint operations, and military readiness. We commend Senator Kelly for his leadership on the Senate Armed Services Committee, and for his continued advocacy to ensure Fort Huachuca is a vital national security asset,\u201d said Dr. Randy Groth, Huachuca 50 President.\n\n\u201cThe Yuma 50 appreciates Senator Kelly\u2019s work in the National Defense Authorization Act and the critical infrastructure investments it makes to address long-standing challenges at MCAS Yuma and Yuma Proving Ground. By advancing the design of a new water treatment facility and requiring a closer look at needed repairs and replacements to Pole Line Road, this bill reflects Senator Kelly\u2019s commitment to listening to the Yuma community and delivering practical solutions that strengthen readiness and quality of life,\u201d said Julie Engel, Chair of Yuma 50.\n\n\u201cI wish to express our gratitude to Senator Mark Kelly and the Arizona Delegation for their efforts on behalf of Luke Air Force Base (AFB) in securing $22 million for a Child Development Center in the FY26 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations bill. These funds will enable the United States Air Force to address this critical family readiness need. We also applaud the Arizona Delegation for addressing working conditions for airmen at Luke AFB, highlighting the need for the Air Force to fund improvements to aging environmental control systems at the Base. As Chair of Luke West Valley Council for Luke AFB, we are thankful for the commitment and achievements secured in this year\u2019s Defense funding bills,\u201d said Alexis Hermosillo, Mayor of City of El Mirage.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/win-kelly-gallego-bill-to-expand-economic-opportunity-in-la-paz-county-heads-to-presidents-desk/", "Win: Kelly, Gallego Bill to Expand Economic Opportunity in La Paz County Heads to President\u2019s Desk", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Bill will enable La Paz County to create hundreds of jobs and power thousands of homes\n\nLast night, the Senate unanimously passed Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego\u2019s La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act, legislation that will allow La Paz County to purchase 3,400 acres of certain federal lands to drive economic development and expand solar energy generation. The bill now heads to the President desk to be signed into law. The legislation was championed in the House by Arizona Representatives Paul Gosar, Andy Biggs, and David Schweikert.\n\nUnder a previous land transfer, La Paz County made remarkable progress in creating a large solar park adjacent to the Ten West Link transmission project through central Arizona. The La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act will allow La Paz County to continue this project, developing a planned 500 MW of solar capacity and up to 900 MWH of battery storage. The project will create 700 construction jobs and 10 permanent positions.\n\n\u201cThis is a big win for La Paz County and for Arizona,\u201d said Kelly. \u201cBy unlocking this land, the county can power tens of thousands of homes with clean, affordable energy while creating hundreds of good-paying jobs. This project builds on the success La Paz County has already delivered, strengthens Arizona\u2019s leadership in solar energy, and puts real economic opportunity to work for local families.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the sunniest state in the union, Arizona has massive potential to power homes and create jobs through solar development. La Paz County\u2019s solar development is a perfect example of what is possible when we invest in solar, and I am proud to help them continue that work with the passage of this legislation,\u201d said Gallego.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/year-in-review-kellys-office-returns-millions-of-dollars-owed-to-arizonans-in-2025/", "Year in Review: Kelly\u2019s Office Returns Millions of Dollars Owed to Arizonans in 2025", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Kelly\u2019s office helped return more than $11.2 million in owed benefits and payments to constituents\n\nIn the past year, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly\u2019s office helped thousands of Arizonans and their families get the money they were owed by the federal government. From advocating for Social Security beneficiaries and veterans to correcting tax errors and addressing problems with federal health care coverage, Kelly\u2019s office worked on more than 5,000 constituent cases in 2025, helping return $11.2 million in owed payments and benefits. Since taking office, Kelly\u2019s team has helped return nearly $45 million owed to Arizonans.\n\nKelly\u2019s office also held mobile office hours and participated in resource fairs across the state, including hosting monthly virtual office hours in Congressional District 7, a region that went without representation for eight months, including the more than six weeks it took for Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva to be officially sworn in after her election. The office worked with local partners to provide information on health care, employment opportunities, and disability claims.\n\nSee below for examples of Arizonans helped by Senator Kelly and his office in 2025:\n\nSocial Security\n\nMr. Laging from Phoenix contacted Kelly\u2019s office after receiving a sudden notice from the Social Security Administration that his benefits were suspended due to an overpayment he did not owe. After Kelly\u2019s office submitted an inquiry, the agency acknowledged the error, removed the incorrect overpayment from his record, and released his suspended benefits. Mr. Laging received $29,256 in annual benefits and $8,665 in retroactive payments.\n\nMs. Rubin from Mesa reached out for assistance obtaining a one-time lump sum Social Security death payment following her husband\u2019s passing. After Kelly\u2019s office contacted the agency, officials identified and corrected a direct deposit error and released the payment to her.\n\nVeterans Affairs\n\nMr. Stauffer from Sun City contacted Kelly\u2019s office after his VA disability claim remained undecided. Following an inquiry, the VA approved his claim, issuing $33,664.20 in back pay and establishing a new monthly disability benefit of $3,967.36.\n\nMr. Hager from Surprise contacted Kelly\u2019s office after errors in his Air Force retirement pay resulted in incorrect monthly payments. Following an inquiry from Kelly\u2019s team, the issue was resolved, and Mr. Hager received his corrected retirement pay and back pay owed.\n\nMr. Cordova from Tucson was told he did not qualify for dental care through the Tucson VA Medical Center. After Kelly\u2019s office intervened, the VA confirmed he was eligible and approved his dental coverage.\n\nTaxes\n\nMs. Siler from Tucson reached out after the IRS incorrectly recorded her income twice, leading to an improper tax burden and withholding of her refund. After Kelly\u2019s office assisted with submitting corrected documentation, the IRS issued a refund of $5,108.26, including interest.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-calls-on-va-to-stop-cuts-to-385-health-care-jobs-at-phoenix-va/", "Gallego Calls on VA to Stop Cuts to 358 Health Care Jobs at Phoenix VA", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Following reports that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plans to eliminate as many as 35,000 health care positions nationwide, including 358 at the Phoenix VA, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) called on the VA to cancel the proposed cuts and protect veterans\u2019 access to health care.\n\nREAD MORE: Sen. Gallego calls on Trump administration to cancel VA job cuts (KJZZ)\n\n\u201cAt a time of already critical staffing shortfalls, the elimination of these positions will further delay access to care, harm veterans and their families nationwide, and erode trust in the care they are promised and deserve,\u201d Senator Gallego wrote in a letter to VA Secretary Doug Collins. \u201cOur veterans and their families, caregivers, and survivors deserve the highest standard of care. VA routinely provides that\u2014but only if there are providers and support staff to see them.\u201d\n\nThese cuts are in addition to the 30,000 jobs the VA eliminated this year. Earlier this year, the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) found that VA facilities had more than 4,000 severe staffing shortages\u2014a 50 percent increase from the previous year. According to the report, 94 percent of VA facilities faced severe shortages of medical officers, and 79 percent reported severe nursing shortages.\n\n\u201cAccording to recent reporting, under this plan 358 healthcare openings in Phoenix\u2014including nurses and doctors\u2014will be eliminated,\u201d Senator Gallego continued. \u201cThe VA Phoenix Health Care System is already facing severe occupational staffing shortages in primary care, mental health, radiology, nursing, and health technician professions [\u2026] Due to these staffing shortages, the average wait time for new patients at most Phoenix-area VA facilities was found to be above the standard of 20 days for primary care and mental health appointments.\u201d\n\nSenator Gallego\u2019s letter asks the VA to provide answers on:\n\nHow many and which positions the VA plans to eliminate in Arizona, and whether any current employees will be laid off;\n\nWhich VA regional offices may close as a result of these cuts, and how those decisions were made;\n\nHow the VA will maintain access to high-quality health care amid existing staffing shortages, including access to mental health care and treatment for toxic-exposure\u2013related illnesses and injuries under the PACT Act; and\n\nPlans to reduce appointment wait times despite these cuts.\n\n\u201cEliminating over 30,000 health care roles will stretch an already overburdened VA healthcare workforce, leading to longer wait times and reduced access to care for veterans. Your plan threatens to undermine the VA\u2019s mission and endanger the care that veterans have earned through their service, and I encourage you to reconsider,\u201d Senator Gallego concluded.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n12/16/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-colleagues-urge-protection-of-electric-vehicle-investments-in-bipartisan-surface-transportation-negotiations-2/", "Gallego, Colleagues Urge Protection of Electric Vehicle Investments in Bipartisan Surface Transportation Negotiations", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and 88 lawmakers pushedSenate Environment and Public Works and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee leadership to protect electric vehicle (EV) investments while reauthorizing bipartisan surface transportation legislation.\n\nThe lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting a similar bipartisan surface transportation process to the historic passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but they stressed that the reauthorization cannot truly be bipartisan if it furthers the Administration\u2019s attacks on electric vehicles. Since taking office, the Trump Administration has sought to dismantle federal EV programs, including freezing the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program and rolling back other Congressionally authorized initiatives.\n\nThe lawmakers emphasized that bipartisan programs like NEVI, the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) discretionary grant program, the Carbon Reduction Program, the Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities (RTEPF) program, and the Low or No Emission Grant Program (Low No) expand consumer choice, create American jobs, lower costs, and strengthen U.S. competitiveness. They warned that undermining EV programs puts significant economic and workforce gains at risk, while undermining long-term planning and ceding progress on EVs to China.\n\n\u201cThe Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) represented a historic investment in strengthening and building out our national infrastructure. We have a unique opportunity to not only reauthorize this foundation but bolster many of the highly popular and effective transportation programs authorized by the IIJA,\u201d wrote the lawmakers. \u201cAttempts to eliminate investments in cleaner transportation run counter to the cooperative spirit this process depends on. While we understand that reforms may be necessary and that legislating inherently requires compromise, we urge you to ensure that this reauthorization process does not take a partisan tenor replete with extraordinary attempts to undercut zero-emission technologies, investments, and American innovation.\u201d\n\n\u201cEliminating dedicated investments in EV and alternative fueling technologies would represent a departure from the bipartisan cooperation that has always driven surface transportation legislation,\u201d concluded the lawmakers. \u201cWe remain committed to advancing American transportation innovation, safety, and excellence, and we hope the reauthorization process will maintain that same spirit of partnership.\u201d\n\nMore than $200 billion has been invested in domestic EV manufacturing capacity since 2022, expected to create over 160,000 jobs across the country in charging manufacturing alone. These investments have been made on a bipartisan basis: 22 of the 25 Congressional districts with the greatest share of EV manufacturing capacity investment are represented by Republicans. In California, the zero-emission vehicle industry supports over 70,000 jobs across more than 360 companies.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n12/16/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-colleagues-urge-protection-of-electric-vehicle-investments-in-bipartisan-surface-transportation-negotiations/", "Gallego, Colleagues Urge Protection of Electric Vehicle Investments in Bipartisan Surface Transportation Negotiations", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and 88 lawmakers pushed Senate Environment and Public Works and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee leadership to protect electric vehicle (EV) investments while reauthorizing bipartisan surface transportation legislation.\n\nThe lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting a similar bipartisan surface transportation process to the historic passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but they stressed that the reauthorization cannot truly be bipartisan if it furthers the Administration\u2019s attacks on electric vehicles. Since taking office, the Trump Administration has sought to dismantle federal EV programs, including freezing the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program and rolling back other Congressionally authorized initiatives.\n\nThe lawmakers emphasized that bipartisan programs like NEVI, the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) discretionary grant program, the Carbon Reduction Program, the Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities (RTEPF) program, and the Low or No Emission Grant Program (Low No) expand consumer choice, create American jobs, lower costs, and strengthen U.S. competitiveness. They warned that undermining EV programs puts significant economic and workforce gains at risk, while undermining long-term planning and ceding progress on EVs to China.\n\n\u201cThe Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) represented a historic investment in strengthening and building out our national infrastructure. We have a unique opportunity to not only reauthorize this foundation but bolster many of the highly popular and effective transportation programs authorized by the IIJA,\u201d wrote the lawmakers. \u201cAttempts to eliminate investments in cleaner transportation run counter to the cooperative spirit this process depends on. While we understand that reforms may be necessary and that legislating inherently requires compromise, we urge you to ensure that this reauthorization process does not take a partisan tenor replete with extraordinary attempts to undercut zero-emission technologies, investments, and American innovation.\u201d\n\n\u201cEliminating dedicated investments in EV and alternative fueling technologies would represent a departure from the bipartisan cooperation that has always driven surface transportation legislation,\u201d concluded the lawmakers. \u201cWe remain committed to advancing American transportation innovation, safety, and excellence, and we hope the reauthorization process will maintain that same spirit of partnership.\u201d\n\nMore than $200 billion has been invested in domestic EV manufacturing capacity since 2022, expected to create over 160,000 jobs across the country in charging manufacturing alone. These investments have been made on a bipartisan basis: 22 of the 25 Congressional districts with the greatest share of EV manufacturing capacity investment are represented by Republicans. In California, the zero-emission vehicle industry supports over 70,000 jobs across more than 360 companies.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n12/16/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-cornyn-gonzales-johnson-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-infrastructure-security-and-trade-at-land-ports-of-entry/", "Gallego, Cornyn, Gonzales, Johnson Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Infrastructure, Security, and Trade at Land Ports of Entry", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and John Cornyn (R-TX), alongside Representatives Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23) and Julie Johnson (D-TX-32), introduced bipartisan legislation to modernize infrastructure at U.S. land ports of entry (LPOEs) and in the surrounding communities that support them. The Strong Ports, Strong Communities Act would establish a dedicated federal funding stream for infrastructure projects that directly benefit LPOEs and help ease the disproportionate strain they place on nearby local infrastructure.\n\n\u201cLand ports of entry handle nearly 20 percent of our country\u2019s international trade and play a critical role in preventing dangerous drugs, contraband, and human trafficking from entering our communities. But too many of ports and surrounding towns are being stretched to the breaking point,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cAt ports like Nogales, tens of thousands of trucks cross into Arizona every month, putting a significant burden on local roads and bridges. When I met with officials in Douglas and Nogales, they made it clear that their communities can\u2019t shoulder these costs alone. This bill delivers the dedicated support these ports and communities need to keep trade moving, strengthen security, and protect the people who live and work there.\u201d\n\n\u201cTexas is proudly home to more land ports of entry than any other state and plays a critical role in our nation\u2019s international trade and border security,\u201d said Senator Cornyn. \u201cI am proud to join Senator Gallego and Congressman Gonzales in introducing this legislation, which will strengthen infrastructure at our ports of entry to ensure lawful trade, improve border security, and support surrounding communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cLand ports of entry along the border are critical to our national economy. However, to truly capture the value of cross-border trade, we must ensure our international bridges are modernized and properly maintained. This new legislation, the Strong Ports, Strong Communities Act, repurposes federal funding to make targeted and meaningful investments for unique local infrastructure needs along the border. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to move this bill forward and keep border communities thriving,\u201d said Representative Gonzales.\n\n\u201cPorts of entry are critical to our economy and our national security \u2014 but for too long, the communities that support them have been left to shoulder the cost alone,\u201d said Congresswoman Johnson. \u201cThe Strong Ports, Strong Communities Act delivers targeted, bipartisan investment to modernize our land ports of entry, reduce congestion, and strengthen the local infrastructure families and businesses rely on every day. This is exactly the kind of practical work Texans expect from both parties in Congress.\u201d\n\nDespite their national economic and security importance, many LPOEs and the local infrastructure that supports them are outdated, overburdened, and in desperate need of modernization. Additionally, the communities surrounding these ports, many of which are rural, often lack the resources necessary to maintain and upgrade the expensive infrastructure necessary to support LPOEs on their own.\n\nThe Strong Borders, Strong Communities Act would create the first dedicated funding stream for the construction and modernization of land port of entry-related infrastructure in order to enhance border security, improve the efficiency of lawful trade and travel, and support rural border communities.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the National Treasury Employees Union, Border Trade Alliance, Fresh Produce Association, Greater Nogales Santa Cruz County Port Authority, the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Douglas.\n\n\u201cThe Land Port of Entry Community Infrastructure Program will provide a critical source of federal support to communities near land ports of entry, including the new commercial port in Douglas. The city of Douglas simply cannot shoulder the costs of the infrastructure necessary to support the new port on its own. We welcome and thank Senator Gallego for his leadership in ensuring the federal government supports communities like ours. These investments will not only support the port but will bolster cross-border trade and spur further economic opportunity in our community,\u201d said Douglas Mayor Jose Grijalva.\n\n\u201cModern, efficient, and resilient land ports of entry are essential to North American trade and to the vitality of border communities. The Strong Ports, Strong Communities Act gives states, municipalities, and Tribal governments the tools they need to address long-overdue infrastructure challenges that directly impact the flow of legitimate commerce and travel. The Border Trade Alliance applauds Senators Gallego and Cornyn for their bipartisan leadership and is proud to support this legislation,\u201d said Britton Mullen, President of the Border Trade Alliance.\n\n\u201cThis legislation is the recognition that ports of entry are not just a piece of local infrastructure but rather are national assets. They are essential to national security, trade and tourism, and keystone projects for regional economic development. We are grateful to Senator Gallego, Senator Cornyn and their colleagues in the House, Representatives Tony Gonzales and Julie Johnson, for championing the needs of border communities,\u201d stated Josh Rubin, Chairman of the Greater Nogales Santa Cruz County Port Authority. \u201cIn any given day, our population will double or triple due to visitors, without this help we simply cannot meet all these challenges.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe National Treasury Employees Union, which represents frontline Customs and Border Protection Officers at the nation\u2019s ports of entry, commends Senators Gallego and Cornyn for introducing this legislation that will improve infrastructure, housing and economic development in communities surrounding land ports of entry and enhance the quality of life for the CBP employees and their families who work at these land ports,\u201d said Doreen Greenwald, National President of the National Treasury Employees Union.\n\n\u201cThe Strong Ports, Strong Communities Act represents the kind of forward thinking leadership our border regions have long deserved. Senators Gallego and Cornyn understand that when we strengthen the communities around our ports of entry, we strengthen the nation as a whole,\u201d said Rob Elias, President and CEO of the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. \u201cThis bill recognizes a simple truth. Safe and efficient ports do not stand apart from the people who live and work beside them. They are connected. They rise together. By investing in transportation, utilities, workforce quality of life, and the environmental health of our border communities, this legislation gives us the tools to build a future that is more secure, more prosperous, and more resilient. It reflects the belief that progress is possible when we honor the people who make our economy move and when we invest in infrastructure that lifts everyone. Southern Arizona depends on these ports, and with this bill, we have a real opportunity to move forward together.\u201d\n\nFull text of the legislation is available HERE.\n\nA one-pager of the bill is available HERE.\n\nEarlier this year, Senator Gallego toured ports of entry in Douglas and Nogales and attended the groundbreaking of a new Commercial Port of Entry in Douglas. In April, Senator Gallego also urged President Trump to expedite completion and maintain full funding for modernization efforts at Arizona\u2019s land ports of entry.\n\n12/16/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-tillis-introduce-bill-to-promote-transparency-and-public-trust-at-the-federal-reserve/", "Gallego, Tillis Introduce Bill to Promote Transparency and Public Trust at the Federal Reserve", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced the Fed Forward Act to strengthen transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the Federal Reserve (Fed) by codifying key communication and governance practices that are not currently required by statute.\n\nREAD MORE: Gallego, Tillis team up on Fed bill (Politico Morning Money)\n\n\u201cFrom interest rates on mortgages and credit cards to job growth and inflation, the Fed\u2019s decisions affect every American\u2019s wallet. People deserve clear, consistent communication from the Fed so they can make informed financial decisions,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cWhile the Fed has a strong history of transparency, we shouldn\u2019t leave that tradition up to whoever happens to be in charge. This bill would codify the Fed\u2019s communications practices, strengthen transparency, and protect public trust in this independent agency.\u201d\n\n\u201cClear and consistent communication from the Federal Reserve is essential to public trust and effective monetary policy,\u201d said Senator Tillis. \u201cThe Fed Forward Act modernizes the Federal Reserve Act by strengthening transparency and accountability, while reinforcing Congress\u2019s oversight role and ensuring the Fed\u2019s decisions are communicated with greater clarity. By setting clear expectations around how the Fed explains its actions, this bill helps reduce uncertainty and supports more informed decision-making across our economy.\u201d\n\nThe Fed Forward Act codifies the following practices:\n\nRequiring Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meetings at least every eight weeks. Current statute only requires FOMC to meet 4 times a year, whereas tradition is every 8 weeks;\n\nMandating the public release of a policy statement after every FOMC meeting, which would include information about the future direction and level of the federal funds target rate;\n\nRequiring the Fed Chair to hold a press conference and take questions following FOMC meetings and ensure FOMC meeting minutes are released no later than three weeks after policy decisions;\n\nMandating the public release of the semi-annual Financial Stability Report;\n\nMandating the Fed conduct public review of the monetary policy framework every 5 years.\n\nFind a one-page explainer of the bill HERE.\n\nRead the full bill HERE.\n\n12/16/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-applauds-senate-passage-of-bill-to-strengthen-public-safety-in-indian-country/", "Gallego Applauds Senate Passage of Bill to Strengthen Public Safety in Indian Country", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Bipartisan legislation to strengthen Tribal public safety led by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), John Hoeven (R-ND), and Mike Rounds (R-SD) unanimously passed the Senate. The Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act would support the recruitment and retention of Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) law enforcement officers, bolster federal missing persons resources, and give Tribes and states tools to combat the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW).\n\n\u201cToo often, cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women go unsolved because Tribal law enforcement lacks the staffing and resources they need to investigate these cases. The BADGES for Native Communities Act provides Tribal police with more tools to recruit, train, and retain officers and solve this crisis,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cI\u2019m proud to work with my colleagues across the aisle to get this bill passed in the Senate, and I urge the House to move quickly so that Tribal communities can get the resources they need to keep communities safe.\u201d\n\nThen-Representative Gallego led the BADGES for Native Communities Act in the House. The legislation would:\n\nIncrease Tribal access to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) by requiring Tribal facilitators to conduct ongoing Tribal outreach and serve as a point of contact for Tribes and law enforcement agencies, as well as conduct training and information gathering to improve the resolution of missing persons cases;\n\nRequire a comprehensive report on Tribal law enforcement needs;\n\nAllow the BIA to conduct its own background checks for law enforcement officer applicants to speed up and improve officer recruitment;\n\nEstablish a grant program to help states, Tribes, and Tribal organizations coordinate efforts related to missing and murdered persons cases and sexual assault cases; and\n\nEnsure BIA officers and Tribal police have access to culturally appropriate mental health and wellness programs.\n\n12/15/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-supports-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-u-s-manufacturing-bar-taxpayer-funds-on-chinese-made-buses-and-rail-cars/", "Gallego Supports Bipartisan Legislation to Support U.S. Manufacturing, Bar Taxpayer Funds on Chinese-Made Buses and Rail Cars", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) is supporting the bipartisan Safeguarding Transit Operations to Prohibit (STOP) China Act. This legislation supports American manufacturing and American workers by eliminating loopholes in current law that allow the U.S. government to buy Chinese buses and rail cars. The bill will protect domestic transit supply chains from malign Chinese influence by preventing any U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) funds from being awarded for the purchase Chinese-made transit buses or rail cars.\n\n\u201cWhen our own taxpayer dollars are used to subsidize Chinese companies that undercut American manufacturers, we\u2019re selling out our workers and risking our national security,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cI\u2019m proud to support this bipartisan bill to make sure our investments support good-paying jobs in Arizona and across the country while keeping our transportation infrastructure safe from foreign adversaries.\u201d\n\nThe STOP China Act is endorsed by the Alliance for American Manufacturing, Steel Manufacturers Association, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, United Steelworkers, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, and Transport Workers Union of America.\n\nRead the full legislation HERE.\n\nThe STOP China Act builds on Senator Gallego\u2019s record of both standing up to China\u2019s unfair trade practices and protecting American jobs. Earlier this year, Senator Gallego backed the Leveling the Playing Field 2.0 Act to crack down on China\u2019s unfair trade practices that hurt American workers and businesses; introduced theKeep Call Centers in America Act to discourage companies from offshoring call center operations; and introduced the SHIELD Against CCP Actto create a dedicated working group at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to address threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).\n\n12/15/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-statement-on-kilmar-abrego-garcia-release-from-ice-custody", "Ansari Statement on Kilmar Abrego Garcia Release from ICE Custody", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Yassamin Ansari", "A000381", "ansari.house.gov", "ansari", "https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Yesterday, following the news that Kilmar Abrego Garcia was released from ICE custody after District Judge Paula Xinis\u2019 ruling, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cDue process at work. I traveled to El Salvador because Kilmar Abrego Garcia\u2019s case was always about more than one man. It was about all of our constitutional rights. Donald Trump and his Administration made a mistake, blatantly violating our laws, and it led to months-long torture for Kilmar and his family. We\u2019re fighting for every immigrant wrongfully detained or deported. We need to stay loud.\u201d\n\nAnsari in El Salvador meeting with Kilmar Abrego Garcia's wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, and their legal team via FaceTime on April 22, 2025\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://grijalva.house.gov/media/press-releases/arizona-democratic-congressional-delegation-calls-for-formal-congressional-investigation-into-dhs-use-of-force-and-obstruction-of-oversight", "Arizona Democratic Congressional Delegation Calls for Formal Congressional Investigation into DHS Use of Force and Obstruction of Oversight", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Adelita S. Grijalva", "G000606", "grijalva.house.gov", "grijalva", "https://grijalva.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Representative Adelita S. Grijalva joined by U.S. Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego, and Representatives Greg Stanton and Yassamin Ansari sent a letter to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Homeland Security Committees calling for a formal congressional investigation into a troubling pattern of abusive conduct and obstruction of independent journalism and congressional oversight by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).\n\nThe request follows a recent DHS operation in Tucson, Arizona, during which agents deployed chemical agents against a crowd that included a sitting Member of Congress and clearly identified journalists.\n\nThe letter states in part:\n\n\u201cIn a recent incident, DHS agents demonstrated an aggressive response that included the deployment of chemical agents during an operation in Tucson, Arizona, where Representative Adelita S. Grijalva presented herself as Member of Congress to use her legal authority and constitutional duty to obtain pertinent facts, observe policies, and conduct oversight of the executive's implementation of federal law.\n\n\u201cOn the same day, DHS issued a public statement denying the incident, which is inconsistent with independent press accounts, information from eyewitnesses, and video footage. Such contradictions further erode public trust in the Department and underscore the need for clear, transparent congressional review of its operations.\n\n\u201cThis episode is part of a growing and deeply concerning national pattern that raises serious questions about DHS\u2019 operations. Under the current administration, DHS personnel have repeatedly used force or obstructed elected officials and members of the press attempting to observe or inquire about enforcement actions and detention. The growing number of incidents collectively suggest a systemic disregard for oversight, transparency, and constitutional protections by DHS and its component agencies.\u201d\n\nThe letter requests a formal congressional investigation into DHS, including to:\n\n\u201cInvestigate the extent of DHS\u2019 obstruction of Congressional oversight, interference with the right of the press to document and report on DHS operations, excessive use of force tactics against American civilians, including the use of chemical agents and other extraordinary measures, and the impact these tactics have on businesses and local communities.\u201d\n\nSeveral independent news outlets, including reporters who were at the scene, have published reporting that directly contradicts statements made by the Department of Homeland Security. This includes the Tucson Sentinel, who reported \u201camong those hit by pepper spray were this Tucson Sentinel reporter and U.S. Rep. Adelita Grijalva,\u201d and \u201cUnivision reporter \u00d3scar G\u00f3mez was pepper-sprayed by the same agent without any warning....G\u00f3mez wrote, \u2018Press ID was not enough to avoid being assaulted by an ICE agent.\u2019\u201d Green Valley News editor Dan Shearer, who interviewed Grijalva shortly after the event, stated \u201cthe left side of her face showed signs of the pepper spray... Her left eye was beginning to close and she had marks on her forehead and under her chin.\u201d In addition, Arizona Luminaria, who had a reporter on the scene, wrote that \u201cFederal law enforcement officers pepper sprayed Democratic Rep. Adelita Grijalva, her staff and other community members protesting an immigration raid at a taco restaurant on Tucson\u2019s west side in a historic Latino neighborhood.\u201d\n\nIn a September ruling, a federal judge wrote that federal officers \u201cunleashed crowd control weapons indiscriminately and with surprising savagery\u201d during protests that occurred in Los Angeles. \u201cSpecifically, the Court concludes that federal agents\u2019 indiscriminate use of force ... will undoubtedly chill the media\u2019s efforts to cover these public events and protestors seeking to express peacefully their views on national policies,\u201d the judge wrote.\n\nYou can view the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://stanton.house.gov/2025/12/stanton-lawler-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-address-growing-threat-of-extreme-heat-to-america-s-critical-infrastructure", "Stanton, Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Address Growing Threat of Extreme Heat to America\u2019s Critical Infrastructure", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Greg Stanton", "S001211", "stanton.house.gov", "stanton", "https://stanton.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) and U.S. Representative Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Extreme Heat Caucus, unveiled the Heat Emergency Assistance for Transportation (HEAT) Act. This bipartisan legislation recognizes extreme heat as a growing threat to America\u2019s roads and bridges and unlocks critical resources to repair infrastructure that has suffered heat-related damage.\n\nAccording to research by Duke University\u2019s Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability, high temperatures can cause bridge expansion joints to crack or fail, accelerate the degradation of concrete and steel, and weaken structural integrity over time. This threat is particularly acute for aging infrastructure that was not designed to withstand the prolonged heat exposure now occurring across much of the country. Last summer, bridges as far north as New York City and Maine closed due to heat damage.\n\n\u201cWhen roads and bridges deteriorate from heat, they can damage vehicles, grind traffic to a halt, and interrupt Americans\u2019 lives and businesses,\u201d Stanton said. \u201cI\u2019m proud to work with my Extreme Heat Caucus Co-Chair, Congressman Lawler, to tackle this issue head on. Our HEAT Act gives states the clarity they need to protect the roads and bridges that millions of Americans depend on every day and makes sure federal officials understand the transportation challenges of a hotter future.\"\n\n\u201cExtreme heat is a growing threat to our nation\u2019s transportation infrastructure. The HEAT Act of 2025 provides emergency relief for bridges and roads damaged by high temperatures, keeping critical transportation networks safe and operational,\u201d said Congressman Lawler (NY-17).\n\nThe HEAT Act includes four key provisions:\n\nExtreme Heat as a Qualifying Natural Disaster: Explicitly adds extreme heat to the definition of a natural disaster under the Federal Highway Administration\u2019s Emergency Relief Program.\n\nEmergency Relief for At-Risk Bridges: Creates an emergency relief exception for bridges experiencing accelerated deterioration from extreme heat exposure that are at risk of imminent collapse.\n\nComprehensive Study on Heat Impacts: Directs the Secretary of Transportation to commission a study by the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies to examine the measurable impacts of extreme heat on federal highways and bridge infrastructure.\n\nBest Practices Report for Future Construction: Requires the Department of Transportation to release guidance on best management practices for highway and bridge safety in extreme heat conditions.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/arizona-democratic-congressional-delegation-calls-for-formal-congressional-investigation-into-dhs-use-of-force-and-obstruction-of-oversight/", "Arizona Democratic Congressional Delegation Calls for Formal Congressional Investigation into DHS Use of Force and Obstruction of Oversight", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Arizona Senators Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly joined Representatives Adelita S. Grijalva (AZ-07), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), and Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) in sending a letter to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Homeland Security Committees calling for a formal congressional investigation into a troubling pattern of abusive conduct and obstruction of independent journalism and congressional oversight by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).\n\nThe request follows a recent DHS operation in Tucson, Arizona, during which agents deployed chemical agents against a crowd that included Rep. Grijalva and clearly identified journalists.\n\n\u201cIn a recent incident, DHS agents demonstrated an aggressive response that included the deployment of chemical agents during an operation in Tucson, Arizona, where Representative Adelita S. Grijalva presented herself as Member of Congress to use her legal authority and constitutional duty to obtain pertinent facts, observe policies, and conduct oversight of the executive\u2019s implementation of federal law,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cOn the same day, DHS issued a public statement denying the incident, which is inconsistent with independent press accounts, information from eyewitnesses, and video footage. Such contradictions further erode public trust in the Department and underscore the need for clear, transparent congressional review of its operations.\n\n\u201cThis episode is part of a growing and deeply concerning national pattern that raises serious questions about DHS\u2019 operations. Under the current administration, DHS personnel have repeatedly used force or obstructed elected officials and members of the press attempting to observe or inquire about enforcement actions and detention. The growing number of incidents collectively suggest a systemic disregard for oversight, transparency, and constitutional protections by DHS and its component agencies,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\n\nThe letter requests a formal congressional investigation into DHS, including to: \u201cInvestigate the extent of DHS\u2019 obstruction of Congressional oversight, interference with the right of the press to document and report on DHS operations, excessive use of force tactics against American civilians, including the use of chemical agents and other extraordinary measures, and the impact these tactics have on businesses and local communities.\u201d\n\nIn a September ruling, a federal judge wrote that federal officers \u201cunleashed crowd control weapons indiscriminately and with surprising savagery\u201d during protests that occurred in Los Angeles. \u201cSpecifically, the Court concludes that federal agents\u2019 indiscriminate use of force \u2026 will undoubtedly chill the media\u2019s efforts to cover these public events and protestors seeking to express peacefully their views on national policies,\u201d the judge wrote.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n12/12/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-joins-starbucks-baristas-at-picket-line-in-gilbert-az/", "Gallego Joins Starbucks Baristas at Picket Line in Gilbert, AZ", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "GILBERT \u2013 Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) joined Starbucks union baristas and community allies on the picket line in Gilbert, AZ in solidarity with their ongoing, open-ended unfair labor practice strike protesting Starbucks\u2019 historic union busting and failure to finalize a fair union contract. The Red Cup Rebellion, launched on November 13, has now grown to 3,800 baristas in 180+ stores across 130+ cities\u2014the longest nationwide ULP strike in Starbucks history.\n\nRead what Senator Gallego shared with striking workers at the picket line below:\n\n\u201cThink about how ridiculous this is. They shut down a Starbucks because they\u2019re afraid of working class people getting a decent wage and having some power. A corporation that has some of the highest separation between the worker and the CEO is afraid of people having a little more power, a little more say in their lives every day. Instead of trying to negotiate in good faith, they just engage in unfair labor practices over and over and over again.\n\n\u201cThis is the stuff that\u2019s been happening in history, whether it is at Starbucks, or whether it was at the automotive line in Detroit, or whether it was the fields of Delano, California. This is the stuff that happens when corporate power does not want to give way to worker power. [\u2026]\n\n\u201cIt is a tough time in this country right now. Everything is going through the roof: prices are going through the roof, corporate profits are going through the roof, CEO pay is going through the roof. The one thing that is not keeping up is the pay and benefits of workers that are making this happen every day. So what you\u2019re doing right now matters [\u2026] because the only way we have any type of real power, any type of real chance for working-class people to have any type of leverage against the rich and the powerful is when they unionize, they organize, and they fight back together. So thank you so much. We\u2019re here in support.\u201d\n\nLast month Senator Gallego called on Starbucks to stop its union-busting efforts and negotiate a fair contract for its unionized workers.\n\n12/12/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-leads-colleagues-in-demanding-answers-over-trumps-pardon-of-convicted-fraudster-david-gentile/", "Gallego Leads Colleagues in Demanding Answers Over Trump\u2019s Commutation of Convicted Fraudster David Gentile", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Senators to Trump: \u201cThe commutation of David Gentile\u2019s sentence is legally indefensible, morally reprehensible, and a crushing blow to the thousands of victims whose lives he destroyed.\u201d\n\n\u201cThey will not forget that when they needed their government to stand with them against the man who stole their futures, their President chose to stand with the criminal instead.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jack Reed (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Peter Welch (D-VT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) demanded answers from President Donald Trump over his decision to commute the sentence of convicted fraudster David Gentile just twelve days into his seven-year prison sentence and erase his $15.5 million restitution obligation to victims.\n\nLast year, a federal jury convicted Gentile of defrauding 17,000 investors of over $1 billion through a multi-year Ponzi scheme, finding him guilty on multiple counts of wire and securities fraud.\n\n\u201cMr. President, the commutation of David Gentile\u2019s sentence is legally indefensible, morally reprehensible, and a crushing blow to the thousands of victims whose lives he destroyed. A federal jury convicted him after a lengthy trial. A federal judge sentenced him and your own appointed prosecutor declared the sentence just. Yet after twelve days\u2014less time than many Americans spend on vacation\u2014you determined that justice had been sufficiently served,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cThe victims of this fraud\u2014the teachers, veterans, nurses, farmers, elderly retirees, families of disabled children, and nonprofit organizations\u2014will not recover from this decision. They will not regain their lost savings. They will not reclaim their financial security. They will not forget that when they needed their government to stand with them against the man who stole their futures, their President chose to stand with the criminal instead.\u201d\n\nThe senators\u2019 letter highlights the suffering of the 17,000 investors defrauded by Gentile, almost a quarter of which are senior citizens.\n\n\u201cThe victims represent a cross-section of hardworking Americans: retired educators who dedicated careers to public service; military veterans who served this nation with honor; healthcare professionals who spent decades caring for the sick, multigenerational family farmers, families of disabled children requiring ongoing medical care and specialized services, and nonprofit organizations whose endowment funds were decimated, compromising their ability to serve vulnerable populations,\u201d the Senators continued. \u201cMany victims have been forced to postpone retirement indefinitely, return to work in their seventies, liquidate homes and assets, or rely upon adult children for financial support. [\u2026] The financial devastation is permanent for numerous elderly victims who lack the time or earning capacity to rebuild lost savings.\u201d\n\nIn their letter, the senators asked Trump to explain why Gentile received clemency, why Gentile\u2019s co-conspirator remains in prison, whether any victims were consulted before the commutation, and what assurance exists that fraudsters will be held accountable going forward.\n\nThe letter was endorsed by Better Markets, American Economic Liberties Project, and Americans for Financial Reform.\n\n\u201cTrump\u2019s repeated commutations and pardons of numerous criminals is making crime great again, incentivizing more crime, and victimizing more hardworking Americans. It\u2019s indefensible and his most recent commutation of David Gentile\u2019s 7 year sentence to 12 days is just the latest outrageous example that undermines the rule of law and sends a dangerous message: if you\u2019re wealthy and can buy access to Trump, then you can buy a \u2018get out of jail free\u2019 card no matter how egregious your crimes. We applaud the Senators for condemning these baseless, dangerous actions,\u201d said Dennis M. Kelleher, Co-founder, President, and CEO of Better Markets.\n\n\u201cCrime shouldn\u2019t pay,\u201d said Morgan Harper, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project. \u201cDonald Trump was elected to overturn a corrupt system, but he is instead perpetuating a two-tier justice system that only rewards well-connected white-collar offenders. At some point, Americans are going to wonder why Trump treats Ponzi schemers and people indicted for bribery better than farmers, workers, and the 17,000 consumers that lost their life savings to this fraud \u2013 and the administration will have to answer.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n12/12/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-booker-introduce-legislation-to-ensure-responsible-national-guard-deployments/", "Kelly, Booker Introduce Legislation to Ensure Responsible National Guard Deployments", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced theNotification of Troop Involvement and Congressional Engagement (NOTICE) Act, legislation that would require the President to notify Congress and provide a clear justification before deploying the National Guard for law enforcement purposes. The NOTICE Act is cosponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), and Alex Padilla (D-CA).\n\nSince January 2025, President Trump has deployed the National Guard to several American cities without clear justification, raising legal and constitutional concerns. Most of these deployments have been made under a section of federal law that allows the President to take operational control of the National Guard under limited and extraordinary circumstances to repel foreign invasion, suppress rebellion, or when regular forces are unable to enforce federal law. The current law does not require the President to notify Congress with a justification for using the National Guard for domestic law enforcement, leaving this authority vulnerable to abuse. The NOTICE Act would require the President to provide Congress a clear justification for deploying National Guard domestically, restoring balance to Congress\u2019 constitutional oversight authority.\n\n\u201cDeploying the National Guard in American cities is a serious decision with real consequences,\u201d said Senator Kelly. \u201cThe American people deserve clear, timely information about why Guard members are being deployed, how long they\u2019ll be there, how civilians will be protected, and who\u2019s in charge. They aren\u2019t getting that from the Trump administration right now. As Trump talks about expanding these deployments, this legislation would provide the accountability and transparency needed to protect communities, service members, and the rule of law.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver the last 10 months, Donald Trump has assumed control of the National Guard to send troops into American cities without a clear objective or purpose. Under the guise of crime control, he has weaponized the military against our own citizens as punishment directed at Democratic-led cities,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThese actions are a gross abuse of his limited authority to federalize the National Guard. This is happening in plain sight and must not be normalized. The NOTICE Act requires the President to notify Congress within 24 hours of any deployment so we can provide meaningful oversight, ensuring these decisions are within constitutional bounds and our communities and members of the military are kept safe.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresidents shouldn\u2019t be able to abuse their power and play politics with National Guard troops, deploying them over objections from that state\u2019s governor and local leaders. With this legislation, we are increasing congressional oversight over National Guard deployment decisions, ensuring they are made with full respect to the law,\u201d said Senator Van Hollen.\n\n\u201cStarting with Los Angeles, Donald Trump has unleashed his un-American, anti-immigrant playbook on city after city, terrorizing our communities with no accountability,\u201d said Senator Padilla. \u201cBy requiring advanced notice of domestic National Guard deployments, this bill helps safeguard against executive overreach to better ensure the National Guard remains focused on protecting our national defense and providing emergency support.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the NOTICE Act would require the President to submit detailed notifications to Congress within 24 hours of any Title 10 Sec. 12406 deployment and provide ongoing updates if the deployment exceeds 48 hours. Notifications would include:\n\nA good faith claim for federalizing the National Guard;\n\nA specific description of the invasion, including the United States territory, the foreign power, and the act or acts of the foreign power that constitute an invasion necessitating the deployment;\n\nThe rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States, including the place and time of the rebellion, the person, persons, or group engaged in the rebellion, and the activities of those engaged in the rebellion necessitating the deployment of the National Guard;\n\nThe laws of the United States which the President is unable to execute, the reasons that regular military forces are unable to execute the law, and, where the President is taking such action without the consent of the Governor of the State, evidence of the Governor\u2019s inability or refusal to provide for the safety and welfare of the public, or the Governor\u2019s refusal to obey a court order, or other active steps the Governor has taken to obstruct the President from faithfully executing the law;\n\nThe geographical area where the National Guard will be called to, and the duration of the federalization of the National Guard;\n\nThe training received by the National Guard;\n\nThe chain of command under which the National Guard will be placed and their requirements to communicate with state and local forces.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-close-charleston-loophole-and-prevent-dangerous-gun-sales/", "Kelly, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Close Charleston Loophole and Prevent Dangerous Gun Sales", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "In 2024, 2,758 guns were sold to people who legally shouldn\u2019t have access to firearms because dealers were not required to wait for completed background checks\n\nThis week, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) joined Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and twenty-five of their Senate colleagues in introducing the Background Check Completion Act, legislation to close a current loophole that allows gun sales to proceed if a background check is not completed within a certain time period, even if the gun buyer is not legally allowed to purchase a gun. The gap in existing law has allowed thousands of gun sales to prohibited buyers like felons and domestic abusers, including the sale of the firearm used by the shooter in the deadly attack at Charleston\u2019s Emanuel AME Church in 2015. U.S. Representative James E. Clyburn has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.\n\n\u201cAs a gun owner, a combat veteran, and the husband of a gun violence survivor, I know how important strong gun laws are to keeping Americans safe,\u201d said Kelly. \u201cIf someone hasn\u2019t passed a background check, they shouldn\u2019t be able to buy a gun just because the clock ran out. Closing this loophole is about protecting communities and the rights of responsible gun owners while making sure criminals and domestic abusers don\u2019t slip through the cracks.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis loophole is a massive gateway to dangerous evasion of the background check rules,\u201d said Blumenthal. \u201cIf you haven\u2019t passed a background check, you shouldn\u2019t be able to purchase a weapon. No check, no gun. It\u2019s really that simple.\u201d\n\nWhen a criminal background check indicates that a firearm purchaser may have a criminal record, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tries to determine whether the purchaser can legally buy a gun. If this process takes longer than 72 hours for those 21 years of age or older, or 10 days for those under 21, gun dealers can complete the sale even though there is a heightened risk that the purchaser is legally disqualified from purchasing a gun.\n\nThe Background Check Completion Act would require a completed background check for every gun buyer who purchases a gun from a federally-licensed gun dealer.\n\nThe Background Check Completion Act is co-sponsored by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The legislation has been endorsed by Everytown for Gun Safety, Giffords, Brady, Sandy Hook Promise and Newtown Action Alliance.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-supports-afghan-asylum-seekers", "Ansari Stands Fiercely in Support of Afghan Asylum Seekers", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Yassamin Ansari", "A000381", "ansari.house.gov", "ansari", "https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 This week, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemning the Trump Administration\u2019s calls for sweeping immigration restrictions from asylum seekers from Afghanistan, the suspension of lawful admissions, and even the illegal denaturalization of American citizens.\n\n\u201cAfghan partners who assisted the U.S. mission in Afghanistan over two decades did so at significant personal risk, often relying on explicit assurances that the United States would stand by them.\u201d Ansari wrote in the letter. \u201cPublic declarations suggesting their mass removals, \u2018reverse migration,\u2019 or categorical bans on large regions of the world only heighten fear and uncertainty for individuals who trusted the United States, supported our armed forces, and placed themselves and their families in danger to do so.\u201d\n\n\u201cLutheran Social Services of the Southwest stands with our Afghan refugee neighbors, whose many contributions strengthen the fabric of our communities and our nation. Afghan refugees in Arizona help meet critical labor needs, bringing talent, diversity, and dedication that enrich our workforce and bolster our economy. LSS-SW honors the commitment, resilience, and skill refugees bring to our state. We witness every day how they build new lives, integrate into our communities, and positively impact the lives of those who walk alongside them on their journey. Their stories are powerful testaments to courage, perseverance, and hope. At the same time, we are gravely concerned about cuts to essential benefits that help refugees regain stability as they work tirelessly to rebuild their lives and support their families. We denounce misleading rhetoric that devalues and endangers individuals who have a legal right to be in the United States,\u201d said Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest.\n\nRead the letter HERE and below.\n\nDear Secretary Noem and Secretary Rubio:\n\nI am writing in the aftermath of the tragic and despicable shooting near the White House on November 26, 2025, that claimed the life of 20-year-old Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, one of the two West Virginia National Guard servicemembers who were attacked. Reports indicate that the individual responsible was an Afghan man who supported CIA operations against the Taliban and was granted asylum earlier this year. As the nation mourns Specialist Beckstrom and prays for her family and fellow servicemembers like Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, it is essential that we respond to this moment with clarity, discipline, and adherence to the rule of law.\n\nIn the wake of this awful attack, the Trump Administration has called for sweeping immigration restrictions from asylum seekers, the suspension of lawful admissions, and even the denaturalization of American citizens. While I share the urgency of ensuring our national security and preventing future acts of violence by rogue actors, I am deeply concerned by rhetoric that risks undermining constitutional protections and terrorizing hardworking immigrant communities across the country\u2014including Afghan allies who have already endured extraordinary hardship in service to the United States and our counterterrorism operations Abroad.\n\nAfghan partners who assisted the U.S. mission in Afghanistan over two decades did so at significant personal risk, often relying on explicit assurances that the United States would stand by them. Many continue to navigate complex pathways toward reunification and permanent protection in this country. Public declarations suggesting their mass removals, \u201creverse migration,\u201d or categorical bans on large regions of the world only heighten fear and uncertainty for individuals who trusted the United States, supported our armed forces, and placed themselves and their families in danger to do so. I urge your Departments to provide clear guidance, timely processing, and robust protections for these vulnerable populations.\n\nI am also compelled to address statements implying that the federal government should revoke citizenship based on subjective assessments of loyalty or political beliefs. U.S. citizenship is constitutionally protected: it cannot be rescinded as a tool of punishment or political disagreement, and denaturalization is permitted only in the narrowest circumstances involving clear, provable fraud in the naturalization process. Raising the prospect of removing citizenship from law-abiding Americans\u2014many of whom have lived, worked, served, and raised families here for decades\u2014is not only unlawful, it is profoundly destabilizing to the millions of immigrant households who contribute to the fabric of our nation.\n\nAt a time of global instability when U.S. national security depends on strong partnerships and moral credibility, it is essential for the Departments of Homeland Security and State to reaffirm the integrity of our immigration laws, the permanence of lawful status, and the dignity owed to individuals seeking refuge and asylum in this country. I respectfully request that your Departments publicly clarify these principles and ensure that immigration policy remains grounded in statute, in the Constitution, and in the values that have long defined the United States.\n\nThank you for your attention to this matter. I stand ready to work with you to uphold the rule of law, protect vulnerable communities, and maintain an immigration system that is fair, secure, and reflective of America\u2019s longstanding values and commitments.\n\nSincerely,\n\nYassamin Ansari\n\nMember of Congress\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-backs-bills-to-promote-worker-safety-and-rights-during-the-holiday-season/", "Gallego Backs Bills to Promote Worker Safety and Rights During the Holiday Season", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Ahead of the holiday season, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) backed two bills to protect workers\u2019 safety and right to organize.\n\nTomorrow, Senator Gallego will join union Starbucks baristas at the picket line in Gilbert, Arizona in solidarity with their ongoing strike against Starbucks\u2019 union busting and the company\u2019s failure to finalize a first union contract with its employees.\n\nThe bipartisan Warehouse Worker Protection Act would protect nearly 2 million of our nations\u2019 warehouse workers by banning hazardous work speed quotas that push workers beyond their limits and lead to high rates of injuries.\n\n\u201cThis holiday season, more than thirty thousand Arizona warehouse workers are working long hours to keep shelves stocked and make sure gifts arrive on time. Many are risking injuries, skipping bathroom breaks, and jeopardizing their health to meet impossible speed quotas. Everyone deserves to be safe at work,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cThe Warehouse Worker Protection Act would protect the basic health and dignity of workers from corporate employers who put profits above their staff. I\u2019m proud to support this bill and fight for workers\u2019 rights and safety.\u201d\n\nThe Empowering Striking Workers Act would allow striking and locked out workers to be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits.\n\n\u201cNo one should have to choose between standing up for themselves and putting food on the table, especially around the holidays, when so many families are already stretched thin. But in most states, workers can\u2019t collect unemployment if they go on strike, which leaves many working-class Arizonans forced into accepting bad contracts just so they can feed their families,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cThis bill would fix that by making sure striking workers can get unemployment benefits while they fight for the fair pay and working conditions they deserve.\u201d\n\nSenator Gallego has continuously stood up for workers and organized labor. During his first year in the Senate, he:\n\nFought to keep the National Labor Relations Board Region 28 Office open after it was slated to close at the direction of DOGE, which would have led to longer delays for workers seeking to unionize and possible reductions in workforce, just as demand for NLRB services is rising.\n\nIntroduced the Tax Cut for Striking Workers Act to ensure workers are not taxed on the small stipends they receive while on strike.\n\nIntroduced the bipartisan Keep Call Centers in America Actto encourage companies to keep their call centers in the U.S. and protect American jobs.\n\nIntroduced the bipartisan Federal Firefighters Families First Act to boost pay and benefits and improve working conditions for federal firefighters.\n\nLed group of 15 senators in condemning Wells Fargo\u2019s union-busting tactics and refusal to bargain in good faith with employees.\n\nIntroduced the Striking and Locked Out Workers Healthcare Protection Act to prevent employers from cancelling or altering health insurance for workers exercising their right to strike.\n\nFought to protect affected workers from Trump\u2019s DOGE layoffs, including by introducing legislation to protect veterans, military spouses, and VA employees from DOGE cuts and placing a blanket hold on nominees to the VA until their cuts are reversed.\n\nCalled on Starbucks to stop its union-busting efforts and negotiate a fair contract its unionized workers.\n\nCalled on Amazon to explain its mass corporate layoffs amid the company\u2019s strong financial performance and the threat of AI-caused worker displacement.\n\nCalled on the CFBP, DOL, FTC, and NLRB to explain the administration\u2019s rollback of protections against coercive employment agreements that trap employees in debt.\n\nBacked the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act), comprehensive legislation to protect the right to organize and collectively bargain.\n\nBacked the No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act to end taxpayer subsidies for companies\u2019 anti-union behavior, which corporations can currently deduct as a business expense.\n\nJoined Senate Democrats in urging President Trump to rescind his executive order to end collective bargaining agreements between public employee unions and dozens of federal agencies and bureaus.\n\nBacked the No Tax Breaks for Outsourcing Act to close loopholes that reward corporations for outsourcing jobs and profits. The bill comes as Republicans push to expand these offshoring incentives in their upcoming reconciliation bill.\n\nBacked the Child Care for Working Families Actto ensure families across America can find and afford the high-quality child care they need.\n\nBacked the Tax Cut for Workers Act to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for millions of workers without children and extend eligibility for the tax cut to workers under the age of 25 and over the age of 64.\n\nBacked the Tax Fairness for Workers Actto allow workers to deduct employment expenses such as union dues and uniform costs.\n\nBacked the Protect America\u2019s Workforce Act to repeal two union-busting executive orders and restore collective bargaining rights and workplace protections for federal workers.\n\n12/11/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-backs-legislation-to-codify-fee-free-days-of-public-service-on-federal-lands/", "Gallego Backs Legislation to Codify Fee-Free Days of Public Service on Federal Lands", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Last Week, Donald Trump Removed MLK Day and Juneteenth from List of Fee-Free Days, Included His Birthday Instead\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) backs the Encouraging Public Service in Our National Parks and Public Land Act to codify six days where visitors to National Parks and other federal lands can enter free-of-charge. This legislation would direct the Secretary of the Interior to officially designate Martin Luther King, Jr.\u2019s Birthday, the first day of National Park Week, Juneteenth, Great American Outdoors Day, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day as fee-free entry days.\n\n\u201cCutting two national holidays, when many families are already off of work and school, from the list of free entry days will prevent millions of working families from getting outside and enjoying the beauty and recreation our national parks offer,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cI\u2019m proud to support this bill to restore these important holidays and make sure the focus stays on the parks, not the president\u2019s pride.\u201d\n\nSince the National Park System and other land management agencies began collecting entry and recreation fees, the Department of the Interior has offered fee-free days to promote America\u2019s public lands and encourage visitors to volunteer in the National Parks, especially on select federal holidays where many Americans already have the day off. Last week, the Trump Administration cut Martin Luther King, Jr.\u2019s Birthday and Juneteenth, two holidays honoring Black history, from its list of free entrance days next year and replaced them with his birthday.\n\nThis legislation would restore these two holidays to the list of free entrance days and make a list of public service days permanently fee-free. Additional free entry days would be possible at the discretion of the Secretary of the Interior.\n\nThe dates are as follows:\n\nMartin Luther King, Jr.\u2019s Birthday, the third Monday in January\n\nThe first day of National Park Week in April\n\nJuneteenth, June 19\n\nGreat American Outdoors Day, August 4\n\nNational Public Lands Day, the fourth Saturday in September\n\nVeterans Day, November 11\n\nRead the bill HERE.\n\n12/11/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-colleagues-urge-usda-to-prioritize-hpai-poultry-vaccine-strategy/", "Gallego, Colleagues Urge USDA to Prioritize HPAI Poultry Vaccine Strategy", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and 22 Senate colleagues urged Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to move forward with the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s (USDA) avian flu vaccine strategy for poultry while encouraging a comprehensive, science-based approach.\n\nEarlier this year, Hickman Family Farms, one of the largest egg producers in the country, lost nearly its entire chicken population in Arizona due to avian flu.\n\n\u201cWe are writing to encourage the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to continue prioritizing an avian flu vaccine strategy that takes into account a comprehensive, science-based approach for the potential vaccination of poultry and livestock that have been impacted by this disease,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cAvian flu infections have already begun to increase as winter approaches, and it is essential that USDA take renewed action to address and fight this virus.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe USDA recently noted that a draft proposal of an avian flu vaccine strategy for poultry was currently under review, and we strongly urge the Department to advance this review process with speed and diligence, while allowing for proactive consultation with affected stakeholders,\u201d the Senators continued. \u201cAny finalized vaccine strategy must take into account feedback from animal health stakeholders, industry experts, and be grounded in sound science. It must also be comprehensive in scope, addressing all impacted species, including turkeys and egg-laying hens. Once a vaccine is developed and USDA has confirmed its safety and efficacy, a vaccine strategy for dairy cattle should also be prioritized.\u201d\n\nThe National Turkey Federation, the United Egg Producers, the National Milk Producers Federation and the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association endorsed the Senators\u2019 call for an HPAI poultry vaccine strategy.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\nSenator Gallego has called for swift executive action to address the spread of avian flu as far back as January of 2023. In January of this year, Senator Gallego urged President Trump, as well as HHS and USDA nominees to take immediate actions to address the impact of the virus on public health, farm operations, and food prices. In February, Gallego pushed for amendments in the Republican-proposed budget resolution to vaccinate US chicken population. In July, he warned Secretary Rollins and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. that the Trump Administration\u2019s plan to allow avian flu to spread unchecked through poultry farms would threaten Arizona\u2019s farming economy, significantly raise egg prices, and increase the risk of crossover to humans.\n\n12/11/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-at-stanford-university-kelly-underscores-the-importance-of-america-leading-ai/", "ICYMI: At Stanford University, Kelly Underscores the Importance of America Leading AI", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "\u201cIt benefits all of us for America to lead in AI.\u201d\n\nIn case you missed it, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly gave a keynote speech in November at Stanford University\u2019s \u201cAI & the Economy: Opportunities, Risks, and Policy for Shared Prosperity\u201d forum where he discussed his AI for America plan, a roadmap to seize the AI boom and make the technology successful for all Americans, not just a few big companies.\n\nSen. Kelly speaks at Stanford\u2019s Institute for Economic Policy Research.\n\nWatch the full keynote speech and conversation here. See key excepts below:\n\nOn why he released his AI for America roadmap\u2026\n\n\u201cAs an engineer by training, a former test pilot, and commander of the space shuttle, I\u2019ve been at the forefront of innovation throughout my career and applied it in matters of life and death\u2014literally. Whether it\u2019s ChatGPT, which I use almost every day\u2014Grok, Gemini, Claude, Llama, or other generative tools, I see how AI is poised to change so much of our lives. [..]\n\n\u201cIt benefits all of us for America to lead in AI. And it was our workforce, infrastructure, and innovation that got us to where we are in the first place. But while I hear those questions being asked in so many places around the country, I seldom hear them being asked in one place I spend a lot of time: Washington, D.C.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s why, in September I released AI for America, a roadmap that identifies policy gaps and provides recommendations on how to tackle them. We spent months speaking with labor leaders, tech experts, local governments, CEOs, universities, and non-profits. Because the technology and the problems that we face are dynamic, and government needs to be agile \u2013 which is not something Washington, D.C., is known for. We can build the foundations right now for an AI boom that benefits all Americans, not just a few tech billionaires, and supports responsible tech innovation and development for years to come.\u201d\n\nOn AI\u2019s promise\u2026\n\n\u201cWe are in what many see as a race to dominate AI to be not just the most advanced or the first past any given milestone, but to be home to the models and hardware that the world depends on. It holds the promise to accelerate scientific discovery, cure diseases, expand economic opportunity, increase productivity, and improve quality of life for millions of people. With all that promise, comes a huge amount of responsibility. We have to approach this exciting moment with clear eyes. When technology moves faster than policy, people can get hurt.\u201d\n\nOn making AI work for the next generation of workers\u2026\n\n\u201cNow, the best way to prepare for the jobs of the future is early exposure to AI. If students can start using AI as a tool, rather than a crutch, they will be better prepared to succeed. Community college and university partnerships with the employers who are using AI tools will help students develop the skills to take on an AI-driven job market. Registered apprenticeships, credentialing, and public-private partnerships are some of the ways we can increase the chances of young people finding good-paying jobs after school.\n\n\u201cAll of this is possible if we resource it through the AI Horizon Fund, with our focus set on supporting and preparing workers. It has to be worker focused. And it rewards industry with the next generation of innovators industry will need.\u201d\n\nOn making sure AI works for all Americans, not just a few major tech companies\u2026\n\n\u201cMy goal with AI for America is to raise important questions about how the AI boom and its continued development can put workers at the forefront, strengthen our public infrastructure, protect the landscapes we cherish, benefit communities as it expands, protect users, and ensure that this new, exciting chapter benefits all Americans, not just a wealthy few. My proposal is meant to be the start of a conversation.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-kelly-calls-out-pete-hegseths-dangerous-hypocrisy/", "ICYMI: Kelly Calls Out Pete Hegseth\u2019s Dangerous Hypocrisy", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "\u201cI don\u2019t think you can be more hypocritical than the two of these guys.\u201d\n\nIn case you missed it, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly joined CNN\u2019s Anderson Cooper 360\u00b0 and MS NOW\u2019s The Last Word with Lawrence O\u2019Donnell to call out Secretary Pete Hegseth\u2019s hypocrisy for attacking him for saying something Hegseth himself said just a few years ago.\n\nKelly also responded to questions about the latest news reports on the Trump administration\u2019s decision to carry out boat strikes in the Caribbean.\n\nSen. Kelly speaks on Anderson Cooper 360\u00b0.\n\nWatch the full Anderson Cooper 360\u00b0 interview here and the full The Last Word with Lawrence O\u2019Donnell interview here. See key excepts below:\n\nFrom Anderson Cooper 360\u00b0, on outright hypocrisy of Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth\u2026\n\n\u201cCan you be more hypocritical? Is it possible? I don\u2019t think so. On one hand, you have Pete Hegseth saying\u2014not exactly the exact same thing because he\u2019s even using Donald Trump\u2019s name in this. [\u2026] I don\u2019t think you can be more hypocritical than the two of these guys.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m just looking out for members of the military. I served in the Navy for 25 years. I\u2019ve been in these situations. I\u2019ve sunk two ships myself. I\u2019m worried about these servicemembers. So, we were just sending a truthful message. Just comply with the law, and then Donald Trump wants to kill me, hang me and Hegseth says he\u2019s going to prosecute me under the Uniform Code of Military Justice for saying what is in the UCMJ. But by the way, also a thing that he said repeatedly. Anderson, you can\u2019t make this stuff up. A year ago, Pam Bondi sent a brief to the Supreme Court and basically stated the exact same thing that I said in that video.\u201d\n\nFrom The Last Word with Lawrence O\u2019Donnell, on danger of normalizing Trump\u2019s threats against elected officials\u2026\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s unprecedented in our country\u2019s history for a president to call for the execution of members of Congress, and I hope we don\u2019t normalize this behavior. Some people always\u2014they dismiss it and say, \u2018Well, it\u2019s Donald Trump\u2019. It is a direct assault on the First Amendment, the freedom of speech of all Americans.\u201d\n\nSen. Kelly speaks on The Last Word with Lawrence O\u2019Donnell.\n\nFrom Anderson Cooper 360\u00b0, on how Trump and Hegseth are misusing military resources instead of targeting real fentanyl routes\u2026\n\n\u201cThese routes through the Caribbean are mostly bringing cocaine to other islands and then on to Europe. If the issue is fentanyl, then the approach needs to be at the border. That\u2019s where most of the fentanyl comes into the United States. And when you consider the amount of money we\u2019re spending to bring a battlegroup to the Caribbean, those resources put at the real problem of fentanyl smuggling could have a huge impact. That\u2019s where the focus should be.\u201d\n\nFrom The Last Word with Lawrence O\u2019Donnell, on Hegseth shirking responsibility for boat strike that killed survivors\u2026\n\n\u201cWe\u2019ve never had a Secretary of Defense like this, somebody that\u2019s so fundamentally unqualified for this job. So, he wanted to get those videos out there until there was a little bit of a problem. And then when there was a problem, he\u2019s off blaming the Admiral. He had no responsibility. He was not in the room. He does the opposite thing of what I\u2019ve ever seen my leadership, people that I worked for do, whether it was in the military or at NASA, and that is accept some responsibility. He\u2019s shirking his responsibility. He\u2019s trying to blame others, and he doesn\u2019t want the American people to see the results of bad decisions.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-statement-after-republicans-block-extension-of-health-care-tax-credits/", "Kelly Statement After Republicans Block Extension of Health Care Tax Credits", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Today, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly released the following statement after Senate Republicans voted to block an extension of the Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, ensuring health care costs for millions of Americans to skyrocket starting January 1st:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s vote came down to a simple choice: protect working families from skyrocketing health care costs or let premiums double or even triple. Unfortunately, just as they have done for months, Republicans chose higher prices for Americans.\n\n\u201cArizona families are already stretched thin, trying to afford groceries, gas, rent, and basic necessities in the face of Trump\u2019s tariffs and rising costs. And now more than 300,000 Arizonans will face crushing premium increases in a matter of weeks\u2014with some unable to afford coverage at all.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watch-in-sasc-hearing-kelly-questions-defense-officials-on-national-guard-deployment-across-the-u-s/", "WATCH: In SASC Hearing, Kelly Questions Defense Officials on National Guard Deployment Across the U.S.", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Today, during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on the Trump administration\u2019s deployment of the National Guard across U.S. cities, Arizona Senator and Navy combat veteran Mark Kelly raised concerns about President Trump\u2019s recent suggestion that American cities should be used as \u201ctraining grounds\u201d for the National Guard, and the risk that poses to civil-military norms and Americans\u2019 safety.\n\nKelly underscored the difference between real public safety and turning American neighborhoods into military training grounds: \u201cAmericans deserve to feel safe in their communities. As the son of two cops, I understand the sacrifice and the hard work it takes to do that job. That\u2019s why I know we\u2019ve got to do more to support law enforcement, especially local law enforcement, those professionals who do that difficult job every single day. I also recognize that not every challenge faced in our cities should default to a military response. On September 30th, President Trump addressed military leadership, both senior officers, admirals and generals, and senior enlisted, at Quantico, about the deployments of National Guard to U.S. cities. And at that address, he said, and I quote, \u2018I told Pete, we should use some of these dangerous cities as training grounds for our military National Guard,\u2019 unquote.\u201d\n\nKelly also pressed Guillot on the lack of precedent and danger of treating American communities as \u201ctraining grounds\u201d: \u201cSo, General Guillot, is there an established DoD policy that authorizes using civilian communities as training grounds and American citizens as training tools? [\u2026] Is there any precedent in DoD history for conducting combat-oriented training in American communities? [\u2026] Would it ever be okay to regard U.S. citizens as adversaries or enemies? [\u2026] I don\u2019t mean it as a hypothetical, and even if there was illegal activity, that could be viewed that person is a criminal. I\u2019m asking specifically, is it okay to regard U.S. citizens as enemies? [\u2026] My concern is that labeling a city as a training ground inherently puts civilians in a position of being an adversary or an enemy.\u201d\n\nIn response, General Guillot made clear there is no Department of Defense policy nor precedent to use American cities as \u201ctraining grounds\u201d or to treat U.S. citizens as adversaries.\n\nSen. Kelly questions General Gregory M. Guillot, USAF, during a SASC hearing.\n\nClick here to download a video of Kelly\u2019s remarks. See the transcript below:\n\nKelly: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, I want to also express my condolences to Sarah Beckstrom\u2019s family and also to Andrew Wolfe. I understand personally how hard it is to recover from those kinds of injuries. And, to my good friend, Senator Budd across the aisle, there\u2019s nobody on this committee that is pro-cartel and pro-drug boat, or in this Congress.\n\nGeneral Guillot, Americans deserve to feel safe in their communities. As the son of two cops, I understand the sacrifice and the hard work it takes to do that job. That\u2019s why I know we\u2019ve got to do more to support law enforcement, especially local law enforcement, those professionals who do that difficult job every single day. I also recognize that not every challenge faced in our cities should default to a military response. On September 30th, President Trump addressed military leadership, both senior officers, admirals and generals, and senior enlisted, at Quantico, about the deployments of National Guard to U.S. cities. And at that address, he said, and I quote, \u2018I told Pete we should use some of these dangerous cities as training grounds for our military, National Guard,\u2019 unquote. So, General Guillot, is there an established DoD policy that authorizes using civilian communities as training grounds and American citizens as training tools?\n\nGuillot: No, Senator, there is not.\n\nKelly: Is there any precedent in DoD history for conducting combat-oriented training in American communities?\n\nGuillot: No, Senator.\n\nKelly: And have you been consulted at all about using any specific cities for training?\n\nGuillot: Senator, I have not been consulted nor directed to use any American cities for training.\n\nKelly: And has any federal official asked you to plan training operations in U.S. cities?\n\nGuillot: No sir, not training.\n\nKelly: And has NORTHCOM ever designated an American city as a training ground?\n\nGuillot: No, sir.\n\nKelly: Thank you for that. If U.S. cities are training grounds, based on what the President had said and indicated he wanted the Secretary of Defense to consider doing, then how are the servicemembers in this scenario expected to perceive the civilian population in that environment?\n\nGuillot: Senator, I can tell you that, for the areas that are under Title 10 control, we provide very clear training and reinforce that with daily meetings on what our purpose is there, and that is to protect federal buildings. It is not for any other function.\n\nKelly: But if you carried out the President\u2019s objective of using a city for training, does this imply that civilians could be used as potential adversaries?\n\nGuillot: Senator, I\u2019m very confident that that is not a factor within my chain of command because of the very clear guidance and direction that we give on what the mission is and what our proper response to any activities there, which includes de-escalation, as the first step in standing rules for the use of force.\n\nKelly: So, what do you think the President meant by that statement?\n\nGuillot: Sir, I haven\u2019t thought into what he might have meant. I listened to it at the time and since then have only gone on what has been directly tasked to us and what my authorities and responsibilities are.\n\nKelly: Would it ever be okay to regard U.S. citizens as adversaries or enemies?\n\nGuillot: Well sir, that\u2019s a hypothetical. Our initial response is no. Now, of course, there could be illegal activity that\u2019s underway, and we may have the authority vested in us to respond in accordance with the authorities that we have. But again, these are double, triple hypotheticals.\n\nKelly: I don\u2019t mean it as a hypothetical, and even if there was illegal activity, that could be viewed that person is a criminal. I\u2019m asking specifically, is it okay to regard U.S. citizens as enemies?\n\nGuillot: No, sir.\n\nKelly: Well, thank you.\n\nGuillot: We\u2019d defend the United States and U.S. citizens. We do not view them as enemies.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-statement-on-national-defense-authorization-act-ndaa", "Ansari Statement on National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Yassamin Ansari", "A000381", "ansari.house.gov", "ansari", "https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) released the following statement after voting no on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026:\n\n\u201cI voted no on this year's National Defense Authorization Act because I cannot support the blatant, unlawful overreach of Donald Trump and his Administration. I\u2019ve seen firsthand how their abuse of power has terrorized communities across Arizona and throughout our country. I offered four common-sense, bipartisan amendments that would have made the FY2026 NDAA stronger and more responsible. Unfortunately \u2014but not unexpectedly\u2014House Republicans blocked every one of them from consideration.\n\n\u201cAt the same time, military spending is set to exceed $1 trillion, Trump and Republicans are stripping health care from over 14 million Americans, cutting food assistance for 11 million people, and slashing funding for veterans, public health, housing, and other vital services. I remain committed to working on a bipartisan defense solution that strengthens our national security without harming our communities.\u201d\n\nAnsari\u2019s blocked amendments include:\n\nAmendment to Rules Comm. Print 119\u20138 Offered by Ms. Ansari of Arizona: Special Envoy for Iranian Women, Girls, and Human Rights to Establish an Envoy With the State Department to Monitor the Status of Iranian Women, Girls, and Human Rights in the Islamic Republic.\n\nAmendment to Rules Comm. Print 119\u20138 Offered by Ms. Ansari of Arizona: Study on Support for Non-Citizen Members FO the Armed Forces to require a study by the Department of Defense and other relevant agencies on the procedures in place to assist non-citizen servicemembers with their citizenship applications.\n\nAmendment to Rules Comm. Print 119\u20138 Offered by Ms. Ansari of Arizona: Permanent Establishment of the Coordinator on Global Anti-Corruption to permanently re-establish the position of Coordinator on Global Anti-Corruption in the State Department.\n\nAmendment to Rules Comm. Print 119\u20138 Offered by Ms. Ansari of Arizona: Prohibition on AI-Based Impersonation of Federal Officials to include a penalty in law for using Artificial Intelligence to impersonate federal officials.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://stanton.house.gov/2025/12/stanton-delivers-major-bipartisan-arizona-wins-in-annual-defense-bill", "Stanton Delivers Major Bipartisan Arizona Wins in Annual Defense Bill", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Greg Stanton", "S001211", "stanton.house.gov", "stanton", "https://stanton.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Rep. Greg Stanton (AZ-04) celebrated the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Congress\u2019 annual defense bill, through the House.\n\n\u201cThis year\u2019s NDAA delivers real improvements for servicemembers struggling with the cost of living, takes concrete steps to demonstrate to our allies that the United States still stands with them, and provides significant oversight measures to counter actions taken by the Trump Administration,\u201d Stanton said. \u201cThis bill also delivers big wins for Arizona. I was proud to work across the aisle to invest in our state\u2019s critical defense industry and its military installations.\u201d\n\nThe NDAA combines common-sense measures to improve pay, health care, housing, and childcare for servicemembers. At a time when the Trump Administration is alienating or undermining key international relationships and alliances, the FY26 NDAA seeks to reassure partners and allies. The legislation also strengthens Congressional oversight in response to actions taken by the Trump Administration. This year\u2019s NDAA also includes major priorities championed by Stanton on a bipartisan basis.\n\nSome specific measures include:\n\nThe legislation authorizes a 3.8% pay raise for all military personnel, and provides better protections from the arbitrary firings and reductions in force pursued by the Trump administration.\n\nStanton, working alongside Republican U.S. Rep. Abe Hamedeh (AZ-08), secured Congressional authorization for three AH-64E Apaches\u2013manufactured by Boeing in Arizona\u2019s Fourth District.\n\nStanton and Hamedeh also worked to ensure reliable air conditioning for Luke Air Force Base. Servicemembers at Luke AFB have been forced to work in sweltering conditions for years, as dated HVAC systems have broken down. Under this legislation the Secretary of the Air Force is required to present a plan to deliver reliable AC.\n\nStanton worked with Republican U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans (VA-02) to limit the DOD's current use of commercial off-the-shelf information technology products\u2013like computers, printers\u2013that were manufactured in China or by companies subject to the influence of the Chinese Communist Party. Stanton is a member of the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party.\n\nAs co-chair of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, Stanton prioritized support for our economic ally. This legislation authorizes up to $1 billion for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative to help Taiwan procure US defense equipment, services, and training.\n\nThe legislation repeals the Caesar Sanctions Act, sanctions on the former Syrian government. This move supports Syria\u2019s efforts to rebuild its economy, restore ties with foreign partners, and foster prosperity and peace for all its citizens.\n\nFunding will be held until the Secretary of Defense provides unredacted videos of all strikes that have occurred in Latin America as well as copies of all classified Execute Orders issued by the DoD.\n\nTo help with congressional oversight, the legislation includes reporting requirements on the use of military aircraft for immigration operations, DoD support to request for assistance from DHS, and on immigrants detained on military installations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-backs-the-family-act-to-guarantee-universal-paid-leave/", "Gallego Backs the FAMILY Act to Guarantee Universal Paid Leave", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Legislation would create a permanent, national paid family and medical leave program\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) backed the Family and Medical Insurance Leave (FAMILY) Act to guarantee up to 12 weeks of partial income for workers who have to take leave for serious medical and family events. Paid medical and family leave is especially helpful for new parents and older Americans, who are more likely to have health issues or caregiving obligations for older relatives.\n\n\u201cI was lucky to be able to take paternity leave when I had my kids, but for too many families, especially working-class families, paid family leave is simply not an option, and they can\u2019t afford to take time off without it,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cBy guaranteeing 12 weeks of paid time off for medical and family events, we can make sure no Arizonan is ever forced to choose between their health, their family, and their paycheck.\u201d\n\nThe FAMILY Act delivers a key solution to the country\u2019s public health and economic challenges and is modeled on successful state programs. Currently, 73 percent of American workers do not have access to paid leave despite a large body of research showing that paid leave improves workers\u2019 mental health, boosts employee retention and productivity, and helps businesses. Additionally, working families lose $22.5 billion per year in wages due to a lack of paid family and medical leave.\n\nThe FAMILY Act would provide workers with paid leave for a range of major life events, including:\n\nRecovering from their own serious health condition;\n\nCaring for a family member with a serious health condition;\n\nBonding with a new child\u2014whether newborn, adopted, or placed through foster care;\n\nHandling responsibilities related to a family member\u2019s military deployment;\n\nTaking \u201csafe leave\u201d to respond to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.\n\nRead the full bill HERE.\n\nEarlier this year, Senator Gallego supported Child Care for Working Families Act to ensure families across America can find and afford the high-quality child care they need.\n\n12/10/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-supports-family-of-late-constituent-in-securing-emergency-visa", "Ansari Supports Family of Late Constituent in Securing Emergency Visa", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Yassamin Ansari", "A000381", "ansari.house.gov", "ansari", "https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "PHOENIX \u2013 Last week, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) met with Mr. Matt Mason, former caregiver to one of her constituents, Ms. Petronille Tuyisenge, who recently passed away from late-stage ovarian cancer. In the weeks before Ms. Tuyisenge\u2019s passing, Mr. Mason contacted Rep. Ansari\u2019s office seeking assistance in obtaining expedited travel authorization for Ms. Tuyisenge\u2019s sister who was traveling from Kigali, Rwanda.\n\nBecause of Ansari\u2019s actions, her sister\u2019s visa was approved a month later, and she was able to travel to attend her funeral and support Ms. Tuyisenge\u2019s son, Guy, whom Mr. Mason has adopted.\n\n\u201cAs a Representative, one of the most important functions of my office is doing constituent casework. While I am heartbroken that Ms. Tuyisenge passed away before her sister could be by her side, I am grateful my office was able to help ensure her sister could come to the United States to be with her family, honor her sister\u2019s life, and support her nephew during such a difficult time,\u201d said Rep. Ansari.\n\n\u201cThank you for all of your support. I\u2019m hopeful that Melanie\u2019s attendance at the funeral will bring the family some peace. We are grateful Melanie can be here for the service. It will be good for Guy, Petronille\u2019s son, to get some time with his aunt as well. We greatly appreciate everything you have done. Thank you again for all of your assistance. God bless you,\u201d said Mr. Mason.\n\nAZ-03 residents in need of assistance with federal agencies are encouraged to reach out to Rep. Ansari\u2019s office. Visit ansari.house.gov or contact her Phoenix office by phone at (602) 956-2285.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-introduces-bill-to-crack-down-on-surveillance-pricing/", "Gallego Introduces Bill to Crack Down on Surveillance Pricing", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "With the rise of AI making it faster and easier for companies to track and target consumers, Gallego is taking action to protect against unfair pricing practices\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced first-of-its-kind Senate legislation to outlaw surveillance pricing. The One Fair Price Act would prevent companies from being able to use customers\u2019 personal data to set individualized prices.\n\n\u201cWhen you go to the grocery store, you expect to pay the exact same price for milk as the person in line behind you. But imagine if they charged you more for milk because they know you have growing kids at home and that you need it more than the person behind you. You\u2019d be outraged. It may seem far-fetched, but increasingly that\u2019s exactly what\u2019s happening, especially when shopping online,\u201d said Senator Gallego.\n\n\u201cGreedy corporations are compiling Americans\u2019 personal data and using AI to find their \u2018pain point\u2019 \u2013 the maximum they\u2019re willing to pay. That\u2019s not fair pricing, that\u2019s predatory pricing. My bill puts an end to it.\u201d\n\nIn January, initial findings from a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) study showed that retailers frequently use customers\u2019 personal information \u2013 everything from their location to the type of device they are searching on \u2013 to set tailored prices for goods and services. Under the Trump administration, the FTC canceled the investigation.\n\nThe One Fair Price Act would ban companies from charging different prices to different customers for the same product at the same time.\n\nYou can find the full text of the legislation HERE.\n\nYou can also find a one-page explainer of the bill HERE and a section-by-section analysis HERE.\n\n\u201cDystopian surveillance pricing schemes are fueling our country\u2019s affordability crisis, allowing corporations to weaponize personal data by filtering it through opaque algorithms to extract the maximum price consumers are willing to pay,\u201d said Lee Hepner, Senior Legal Counsel at American Economic Liberties Project. \u201cPrice discrimination shreds the social fabric by eroding consumer solidarity and our ability to hold predatory corporations accountable on equal terms. It is a direct threat to the financial independence of all Americans, and largely responsible for why our whole economy feels like a giant scam. The One Fair Price Act restores sanity to our economy, while protecting fair discounts and predictable prices. We\u2019re pleased to support and endorse this bill, and urge Congress to pass it swiftly.\u201d\n\nThis is not the first time Senator Gallego has pushed back on pricing strategies that could hurt American families. Earlier this year, he led his colleagues in demanding answers from the CEO of Delta after the airline announced it would be moving toward an AI pricing model.\n\nAs a member of the House, Senator Gallego pushed the FTC to investigate rental pricing software company RealPage. He also introduced the Junk Fee Prevention Actto eliminate hidden fees and require companies to post the full price of goods and services upfront. He recently supported the Act\u2019s reintroduction in the Senate.\n\n12/9/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-re-appointed-to-bipartisan-helsinki-commission/", "Gallego Re-Appointed to Bipartisan Helsinki Commission", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) was formally re-appointed to serve on the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission. Created in 1976, this independent U.S. Government agency monitors compliance and advancement of human rights, democracy, economic, environmental, and military cooperation in the 57-nation Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) region. Senator Gallego was also on the Commission in the 117th and 118th Congresses.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to once again be on the Helsinki Commission at a time when strengthening partnerships with our European allies and standing up for democracy abroad has never been more important,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cThe Commission plays an important role in defending freedom, protecting human rights, and holding bad actors accountable, and it is an honor to continue to be part of that work.\u201d\n\nIn September, Senator Gallego traveled to Finland on a congressional delegation (CODEL) trip to meet with President Alexander Stubb and participate in the fourth annual Helsinki Security Forum. As part of a bipartisan CODEL in April, Senator Gallego met with senior defense officials, military leadership, and diplomatic partners in the OSCE countries of Slovakia, Germany, and the United Kingdom.\n\nCongress originally created the Helsinki Commission in response to dissidents in the Soviet Union and its Eastern European allies, who saw the Helsinki Final Act as a new opportunity to hold governments accountable for their human rights records. The end of the Cold War allowed the Commission to expand its commitment to new areas, such as free and fair elections, energy security and the environment, and combating corruption and terrorism.\n\nThe Commission consists of nine members from the Senate, nine members from the House of Representatives, and one member each from the Departments of State, Defense, and Commerce.\n\n12/9/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wtas-gallego-introduces-bill-to-crack-down-on-surveillance-pricing/", "WTAS: Gallego Introduces Bill to Crack Down on Surveillance Pricing", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced first-of-its-kind Senate legislation to outlaw surveillance pricing. The One Fair Price Act would prevent companies from being able to use customers\u2019 personal data to set individualized prices.\n\nRead the bill HERE.\n\nThe plan has received support from national and local organizations, think tanks, and elected officials.\n\nHere\u2019s what they are saying:\n\n\u201cDystopian surveillance pricing schemes are fueling our country\u2019s affordability crisis, allowing corporations to weaponize personal data by filtering it through opaque algorithms to extract the maximum price consumers are willing to pay,\u201d said Lee Hepner, Senior Legal Counsel at American Economic Liberties Project. \u201cPrice discrimination shreds the social fabric by eroding consumer solidarity and our ability to hold predatory corporations accountable on equal terms. It is a direct threat to the financial independence of all Americans, and largely responsible for why our whole economy feels like a giant scam. The One Fair Price Act restores sanity to our economy, while protecting fair discounts and predictable prices. We\u2019re pleased to support and endorse this bill, and urge Congress to pass it swiftly.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans are frustrated by high prices, but they\u2019re even more frustrated by the schemes companies use to squeeze every last penny from them. Today, the price you pay is determined not by simple supply and demand, but on who you are, where you live, and even factors like the time of day and the type of device you\u2019re using. It\u2019s unfair and predatory, and Americans are sick of it. Senator Gallego\u2019s bill tackles these kinds of pricing schemes head-on and is a critical step toward fairer, more transparent pricing,\u201d said Lindsay Owens, Executive Director of Groundwork Collaborative.\n\n\u201cCompanies shouldn\u2019t be able to charge you a different price than your neighbor because of who they think you are. Companies are collecting more data than ever about consumers: they can guess the size of your family, your income, your health conditions, your weight, your political and religious affiliations, and more. None of that should play a role in how much you pay for a loaf of bread. This bill would put an end to that deeply unfair pricing strategy,\u201d said Justin Brookman, Director of Technology Policy at Consumer Reports.\n\n\u201cWith the growing use of AI tools, pricing engines, and algorithms, there is a far greater chance that discrimination, exploitation, or labor market bias could take place towards consumers and small business owners. The One Fair Price Act advocates for transparency and levels the playing field for small businesses such as e-commerce stores, local delivery companies, and service providers that may be limited through algorithmic shopping or price setting by larger companies. This bill is the right step in prioritizing Main Street in an ever-evolving economy,\u201d said Richard Trent, Executive Director of Main Street Alliance.\n\n\u201cWhen it comes to competition between small businesses and large corporations, the United States does not offer anything close to a level playing field. That\u2019s why The One Fair Price Act would go a long way toward helping small firms compete with their larger counterparts by prohibiting big businesses from leveraging resources that could unfairly help them crush smaller companies. This legislation would be a welcome addition to the regulatory landscape,\u201d John Arensmeyer, Founder & CEO of Small Business Majority.\n\n12/9/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://stanton.house.gov/2025/12/after-stanton-pressure-trump-administration-backtracks-on-deep-cuts-to-homelessness-funding", "After Stanton Pressure, Trump Administration Backtracks on Deep Cuts to Homelessness Funding", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Greg Stanton", "S001211", "stanton.house.gov", "stanton", "https://stanton.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014After U.S. Congressman Greg Stanton (D-AZ) sounded the alarm, Donald Trump\u2019s Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) temporarily withdrew its controversial plan to overhaul the federal Continuum of Care grant program.\n\n\u201cThis is a win, but this Administration's attack on proven housing programs isn't over. I'll continue fighting to keep roofs over families heads and expand access to affordable housing,\u201d Stanton said.\n\nStanton previously sent a letter to HUD Secretary Scott Turner, urging him to rescind guidance that cuts federal funding for proven Housing First models by more than half, warning \u201cthe sudden and significant changes to longstanding federal policy represent a near-unworkable challenge to local governments, as well as housing developers and investors.\u201d\n\nHe held a press conference today with Tempe Mayor Corey Woods, Tempe Vice Mayor Doreen Garlid and organizations that administer Continuum of Care funding to highlight the serious implications a decision like this would have on communities across Maricopa County.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-backs-bipartisan-bicameral-resolution-recognizing-the-50th-anniversary-of-the-individuals-with-disabilities-education-act/", "Kelly Backs Bipartisan, Bicameral Resolution Recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Arizona Senator Mark Kelly joined members of Congress in introducing a bipartisan, bicameral resolution recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the historic step this legislation took by mandating that every child with a disability in America be given equal access to a free, appropriate public education.\n\nEnacted in 1975, IDEA is the foundation of special education in the United States. IDEA requires states and school districts to provide eligible children with public education, including special education services.\n\n\u201cFifty years ago, IDEA made a simple promise: kids with disabilities should have the same chance at a good education as anyone else,\u201d said Sen. Kelly. \u201cFor half a century now, more students can learn in their neighborhood schools and get the support they need to succeed. As we mark this anniversary, I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues in recognizing IDEA\u2019s role in giving every student a fair shot at success.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince its passage fifty years ago, IDEA has opened the doors to a quality education for millions of students with disabilities across America. On IDEA\u2019s anniversary, we honor all those who fought to make IDEA a reality and celebrate the dedicated educators who support students with disabilities in and out of the classroom. While we take stock of the progress that has been made because of this landmark legislation, I remain committed to the fight to fully fund IDEA \u2013 to move us closer to delivering greater, more equal access to high-quality education for every student in this country,\u201d said Sen. Van Hollen.\n\n\u201cAll children deserve an education that gives them the resources they need to reach their full potential,\u201d said Dr. Cassidy. \u201cBy empowering parents to partner in their child\u2019s education and equipping teachers with resources, IDEA ensures children with disabilities have the opportunity to succeed in the classroom.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery child \u2013 no matter their zip code, race, disability, or any other factor \u2013deserves the education they need to succeed,\u201d said Rep. Huffman. \u201c50 years ago, Congress passed IDEA to transform classrooms for kids with disabilities and finally make that happen. Now, we won\u2019t stop pushing for full funding and fighting to ensure Congress delivers on this promise.\u201d\n\n\u201cFifty years ago, Congress passed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to ensure that every child with a disability has access to a high-quality education. IDEA opened classroom doors, expanded opportunities, and transformed education for millions of students with disabilities. Today, we celebrate half a century of inclusive education that provided every child the opportunity to thrive,\u201d said Rep. Thompson.\n\n\u201cSince President Ford signed it into law 50 years ago, IDEA has opened doors for millions of children with disabilities,\u201d said Rep. Scholten. \u201cI represent the same West Michigan seat that President Ford once held, and as the proud daughter of a special education teacher, I have seen how this law has transformed classrooms and strengthened opportunity for every child. It has allowed students to learn alongside their peers, participate fully in their communities, and pursue futures that were once out of reach. As we mark this anniversary, we must recommit to President Ford\u2019s vision of investing in special education and ensuring every student has what they need to learn and thrive.\u201d\n\nThe resolution is endorsed by The School Superintendents Association (AASA), Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), Council for Exceptional Children, the National Center for Learning Disabilities, and National PTA.\n\n\u201cIDEA\u2019s promise has always been about more than access \u2013 it\u2019s about opportunity. It opened doors to possibility, respect, and belonging for millions of students who had long been denied access to public education. It transformed what families could expect and reshaped what our schools could provide. But opportunity demands resources. As we reflect on 50 years of IDEA, we thank members of Congress for recognizing this important milestone and urge them to put forward the resources so we can continue to implement the law with fidelity,\u201d said David R. Schuler, Executive Director of AASA, The School Superintendents Association.\n\n\u201cFifty years ago, Public Law 94 142 ignited a culture shift that affirmed the inherent potential and rights of children with disabilities. CEC\u2019s members have led the charge- opening school doors, designing curriculum and supports, and translating research into practice across the country. This week we honor that legacy and look forward with determination to building on that progress to improve education and outcomes for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities,\u201d said Chad Rummel, Executive Director, Council for Exceptional Children.\n\n\u201cFifty years of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is an incredibly important milestone and on behalf of the students, families, and educators we serve, I am privileged to remark on the tremendous progress that has been made in educating students with disabilities,\u201d said Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities. \u201cWe commend the bipartisan leadership in celebrating this anniversary and upholding the importance and significance of this federal law that ensures a free appropriate public education in the United States.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-cornyn-bennet-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-increase-housing-availability-and-affordability/", "Kelly, Cornyn, Bennet, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Increase Housing Availability and Affordability", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), John Cornyn (R-TX), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Steve Daines (R-MT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and John Barrasso (R-WY) introduced the More Homes on the Market Act, which would make housing more available and affordable by incentivizing homeowners to sell their homes and increasing market supply.\n\n\u201cArizona families feel the housing squeeze every day. Homeowners who want to move or downsize are worried they\u2019ll get hit with a big tax bill,\u201d said Kelly. \u201cUpdating this cap will make it easier for Arizonans to sell and keep more of their savings, while opening up homes for young families.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe American dream is rooted in owning a home and raising a family, but an outdated tax code not only prevents the next generation from being able to afford a home, but it also prevents seniors seeking to downsize from selling theirs,\u201d said Cornyn. \u201cThis legislation would update the tax code to incentivize sellers and make homes more affordable, and I\u2019m glad to support it.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo many families in Colorado struggle to find affordable homes in their communities that meet their needs. At the same time, seniors are struggling to sell their homes for fear of a massive tax bill,\u201d said Bennet. \u201cThis bill addresses this problem and updates outdated tax rules so more homes can come on the market and more Coloradans can find a place to call their own.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Montanans grapple with historically high housing prices, the last thing families should have to deal with is enormous tax burdens when they decide to move. The More Homes on the Market Act will provide much-needed tax relief for Montana families, especially our seniors who have been living in their homes for years,\u201d said Daines.\n\n\u201cCalifornia is facing a significant housing shortage and in order to address this crisis we need to use every tool at our disposal to increase housing availability. This legislation is one such solution, easing the financial burden homeowners face when selling their homes in order to make more homes available for younger home buyers. The More Homes on the Market Act would allow homeowners to downsize without penalty, free up existing housing stock, and help bring the dream of homeownership within reach for more Americans,\u201d said Schiff.\n\n\u201cWyoming families who have spent decades in their homes shouldn\u2019t be punished with enormous tax bills when they decide to move,\u201d said Barrasso. \u201cThe More Homes on the Market Act is a commonsense solution that provides long-overdue tax relief. This will allow Americans to keep more of their hard-earned money while increasing the housing supply for the next generation of homebuyers.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe current tax code allows homeowners who sell their primary home to exclude $250,000 in gains from capital gains taxes, or $500,000 in the case of a couple filing jointly. However, this exclusion has not been updated since 1997 nor is it indexed for inflation. Because of this, millions of homeowners in Arizona and across the country face overly burdensome taxes from the sale of their homes, leading many homeowners\u2014especially seniors who have lived in their home for decades\u2014to choose not to sell. The More Homes on the Market Act would increase the exclusion to $500,000 for single filers and $1 million for joint filers, making it more financially desirable for homeowners to sell and increasing housing turnover.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and AARP.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-gillibrand-scott-moody-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-seniors-from-scammers/", "Kelly, Gillibrand, Scott, Moody Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Seniors from Scammers", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Americans lost $16.6 billion to scams in 2024; $4.8 billion was stolen from seniors\n\nSenators and Senate Aging Committee members Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Ashley Moody (R-FL) introduced the bipartisan National Strategy for Combating Scams Act, legislation that would require the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to develop a coordinated national strategy to combat scams, incorporating input from scam victims, seniors, law enforcement, nonprofits, and businesses.\n\nThe legislation follows a Senate Special Committee on Aging hearing last year, where Kelly heard from consumer advocates, law enforcement, and fraud victims about how scammers are targeting older adults and discussed ways to protect seniors from increasingly sophisticated fraud.\n\n\u201cEvery year, scammers steal billions of dollars from Americans, harming families, especially seniors. But the federal government lacks a strategy to address the scope and speed of these schemes,\u201d said Sen. Kelly. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will create a coordinated approach to crack down on fraud, better protect families and seniors, and hold scammers accountable.\u201d\n\n\u201cLast year alone, Americans lost over $16 billion to scams. That\u2019s a staggering amount of money that\u2019s been stolen from our families, our neighbors, and, disproportionately, our seniors,\u201d said Sen. Gillibrand. \u201cI\u2019m proud to introduce the bipartisan National Strategy for Combating Scams Act to help make sure seniors don\u2019t get scrooged this holiday season. It\u2019s clear that we need a coordinated national strategy to tackle the increasingly sophisticated scams targeting our seniors, and this legislation would bring that to fruition. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get this vital bill across the finish line.\u201d\n\n\u201cFamilies across the country are being hammered by increasingly sophisticated scams, and Washington has been far too slow to respond,\u201d said Sen. Scott. \u201cAs chairman of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, I am proud to join Ranking Member Gillibrand in this bipartisan effort to finally bring federal agencies together, cut the duplication, and create a real national plan to protect seniors and hardworking Americans. After the findings of our fraud report, it\u2019s clear we need a coordinated strategy, not more bureaucracy or new spending, and this bill delivers exactly that. I\u2019m proud to help lead this charge to crack down on criminals and keep Americans safe.\u201d\n\nMore than four in ten Americans say they have lost money to scams or had their sensitive information obtained fraudulently. Criminals increasingly utilize advanced tools like generative AI and voice deepfakes to deceive victims, disproportionately targeting older adults. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) identified at least 13 agencies involved in anti-scam efforts, each working independently under different mandates and authorities. GAO has recommended that the FBI take the lead in creating a National Strategy for Combating Scams to enhance federal coordination and effectiveness in fighting these crimes. This legislation would give the FBI a legal obligation to follow through on this recommendation.\n\nCompanion legislation was introduced into the House of Representatives by Representative Gabe Amo (D-RI-01) and Representative Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02).\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to introduce the bipartisan National Strategy for Combating Scams Act in the House, alongside my colleagues in the Senate, to ensure we are addressing the rising scam threat in a coordinated and strategic manner,\u201d said Rep. Amo. \u201cI look forward to working together as the national strategy is developed to keep fighting scammers and keep Rhode Islanders money where it belongs, in their pockets.\u201d\n\nThis legislation is supported by AARP, Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, Chamber of Progress, Global Anti-Scam Alliance, North America Chapter, Justice in Aging, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Meta, National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA), National Association of Social Workers (NASW), National Caucus and Center on Black Aging, Inc. (NCBA), National Center for Victims of Crime, National Crime Prevention Council, National Sheriffs\u2019 Association, and the Stop Scams Alliance.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://grijalva.house.gov/media/press-releases/grijalva-calls-out-ice-s-abusive-tactics-after-tucson-raid-no-transparency-no-accountability", "Grijalva Calls Out ICE\u2019s Abusive Tactics After Tucson Raid:   \u201cNo Transparency, No Accountability.\u201d", "2025-12-06", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Adelita S. Grijalva", "G000606", "grijalva.house.gov", "grijalva", "https://grijalva.house.gov/media", "scraper", "TUCSON, AZ - Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva released the following statement following an ICE raid that took place on the west-side of Tucson. A video statement is available here. For the latest updates, please follow Rep. Grijalva on X.\n\n\u201cMoments ago, while my staff and I were on our way to get lunch, we encountered an ICE raid taking place at one of my favorite local restaurants, Taco Giro, a small mom-and-pop restaurant that has served our community for decades on the west side of Tucson. It\u2019s in the heart of our community \u2013 right next to a church and a pre-school. When I presented myself as a Member of Congress and asked for more information, my staff and I were pushed aside and pepper-sprayed by masked agents. While I am fine, if that is the way they treat me, how are they treating other community members who do not have the same privileges and protections that I do?\n\nWhile we still do not know the full circumstances of this raid, we do know this: under the Trump Administration, communities across the country are being terrorized by a lawless agency. Our residents deserve to know whether these raids are targeting genuine public safety threats \u2013 or law-abiding neighbors who have called our communities home for decades. ICE has become a lawless agency under this Administration \u2013 operating with no transparency, no accountability, and open disregard for basic due process. No family in our community should live in fear, and I will not rest until we get clear answers and accountability.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-warren-warnock-kim-press-vought-on-how-illegally-shuttering-the-cfpb-would-risk-disrupting-the-mortgage-market-and-harm-american-homebuyers/", "Gallego, Warren, Warnock, Kim Press Vought on How Illegally Shuttering the CFPB Would Risk Disrupting the Mortgage Market and Harm American Homebuyers", "2025-12-06", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), and Andy Kim (D-NJ) sent a letter to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Acting Director Russell Vought raising concerns about how his illegal efforts to shutter the agency could affect the consumer mortgage market and the attainability of homeownership in the United States.\n\n\u201cThe CFPB is the primary regulator of the $13 trillion consumer mortgage market, and it is the federal agency responsible for preventing mortgage lenders from offering predatory and subprime mortgage terms to borrowers\u2014a key driver of the 2008 financial crisis,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cIf the CFPB stops publishing standardized APOR (Average Prime Offer Rates) tables, lenders might not make loans to lower-income borrowers, given the risk of coming in too far above the APOR and potentially getting sued. Or, they might raise interest rates on loans to compensate for the increased risk the market will price in without the liability shield that comes with making a QM loan\u2014skewing the cost of homeownership and cutting off credit access for borrowers.\u201d\n\nThe Senators referred to earlier comments made by the Mortgage Bankers Association, National Association of Home Builders, and National Association of Realtors in a 2023 amicus brief emphasizing the \u201cpotentially catastrophic consequences\u201d of shuttering the CFPB\u2019s work and \u201ccall(ing) into question \u2026 crucial regulations issued by the CFPB over the past years.\u201d Their amicus brief explained that \u201cdrawing those rules into doubt\u201d could \u201clead to immediate and intense disruption to the housing market, harming both consumers and the broader economy.\u201d\n\nThe Senators described the potential negative effects of even temporary uncertainty around CFPB\u2019s mortgage-related rules: \u201cIf the CFPB\u2019s many rules regulating the mortgage industry were called into question, lenders would struggle to carry out their legal and contractual obligations; uncertainty would prompt a flood of lawsuits against mortgage lenders, servicers, and real estate professionals; and the ensuing confusion and litigation \u2018could lead to severe instability, liquidity issues, and operational problems in the mortgage market.\u2019\u201d\n\nThey also highlighted how shuttering the CFPB could worsen the housing crisis: \u201cThe housing industry\u2019s amicus brief also explained that illiquidity and instability in the mortgage market would make it extremely difficult for homebuilders and consumers to obtain mortgages, which would exacerbate the nation\u2019s worsening housing crisis and \u2018shift [the housing market] toward the relatively few buyers who can afford to purchase a home with cash.\u2019 In fact, nearly 80 percent of homebuyers and 97 percent of first-time homebuyers rely on loans to purchase their homes.\u201d\n\nThe Senators concluded by calling for Vought to provide answers to the following questions:\n\nAre CFPB staff who calculate the APOR among those you intend to furlough without pay on December 31?\n\nDoes the CFPB intend to stop publishing APOR tables? If so, when?\n\nHas the CFPB developed alternatives to publishing APOR tables? If so, describe them.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n12/6/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-gallego-justice-introduce-bipartisan-national-miners-day-resolution/", "Senators Gallego, Justice Introduce Bipartisan National Miners Day Resolution", "2025-12-06", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Jim Justice (R-WV) introduced a resolution to recognize today, December 6, 2025, as National Miners Day in appreciation, honor, and remembrance of the accomplishments and sacrifices of the miners in our nation and local communities. The resolution also encourages people to participate in local and national activities celebrating the contributions of miners.\n\n\u201cEvery December 6th, we celebrate National Miners Day to recognize our nation\u2019s hardworking miners. Arizona is home to more than 58,900 miners who help supply 71% of America\u2019s copper, which in turn supports our energy grid, national defense, manufacturing, and infrastructure. I\u2019m proud to help lead today\u2019s resolution to honor these miners and to reaffirm our commitment to keeping miners safe and healthy,\u201d said Senator Gallego.\n\n\u201cOur miners have always been the backbone of this nation. In West Virginia, our coal miners are the men and women who do the gritty, demanding work every single day, and we couldn\u2019t be prouder. They power our homes, fuel our industries, and keep America moving forward. Their tenacity, sacrifice, and dedication are the true embodiment of West Virginia and our nation \u2013 they deserve recognition for their work,\u201d said Senator Justice.\n\n\u201cAs we prepare to honor our nation\u2019s miners on National Miners Day, we appreciate this special recognition from Sens. Justice and Gallego, whose states are synonymous with U.S. mining. American miners keep our supply chains running by supplying the metals, materials and energy needed for economic prosperity, a strong defense and global competitiveness. For those contributions \u2013 and more\u2013they deserve our thanks and admiration,\u201d said Rich Nolan, National Miners Association President and CEO.\n\n12/6/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-calls-on-trump-administration-to-crack-down-on-corporate-h-1b-abuse-and-put-american-workers-first/", "Gallego Calls on Trump Administration to Crack Down on Corporate H-1B Abuse and Put American Workers First", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) called on the Department of Labor, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the Department of Justice to boost oversight over large corporations\u2019 use of H-1B visas to ensure foreign workers are not replacing or undercutting American workers, especially given the high Gen Z unemployment rate.\n\n\u201cHigh-skilled immigration programs, when designed, implemented, and enforced appropriately, spur economic growth that creates good-paying jobs for American workers. At the same time, we must ensure such programs are not used to undercut or replace U.S. employees, especially as the American dream continues to grow further out of reach for young people,\u201d Senator Gallego wrote in a letter to Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, USCIS Director Joseph Edlow, and Attorney General Pam Bondi.\n\nOver the last several years, large technology corporations have laid off hundreds of thousands American workers while simultaneously hiring foreign H-1B tech workers. This trend is concerning given the high unemployment rate for American tech workers \u2013 particularly recent graduates \u2013 the rising cost of living, and the fact that the American Dream is becoming further out of reach, especially for Gen Z individuals.\n\n\u201cThe intent of the H-1B visa program is to grow the economy and supplement the U.S. workforce\u2014not replace it. Given the number of unemployed American college graduates with relevant degrees and skills, the fact that corporations are laying off American workers while simultaneously hiring foreign H-1B workers raises important questions,\u201d Senator Gallego continued. \u201cWe must ensure that corporations using H-1B visas honor the intent of the program and do not displace American workers. In doing so, we can provide economic opportunity for young Americans to achieve the American dream.\u201d\n\nIn September, the Department of Labor launched Project Firewall as part of a multi-agency effort to strengthen H-1B enforcement. To ensure the administration follows through on its commitment to protect American workers, Senator Gallego requested answers to the following questions:\n\nTo what extent do you plan to increase the number of investigations into H-1B fraud and abuse?\n\nHow will you prioritize which companies to investigate?\n\nWill you pay special attention to the companies that have laid off American workers while filing petitions for H-1B workers?\n\nHow will you ensure companies make good faith efforts to fulfill all H-1B requirements, including those requiring prioritization of U.S. workers over H-1B employees?\n\nThe press release announcing Project Firewall states the Secretary will personally certify the initiation of investigations. How will you ensure this personal certification requirement does not needlessly add red tape, enable corruption or pay-to-play, or hamper the visa program\u2019s overall objectives?\n\nIn executing this multi-agency oversight effort, how will you ensure your other important missions are not negatively impacted?\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n12/5/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-celebrates-reintroduction-of-the-dream-act/", "Gallego Celebrates Reintroduction of the Dream Act", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) backed the bipartisan reintroduction of the Dream Act to give millions of young immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as kids the chance to earn U.S. citizenship.\n\n\u201cThe more than 3.4 million Dreamers in this country were brought here as children, grew up in our neighborhoods, went to our schools, and have spent their whole lives calling America home. These young people are American in every way except on paper. It\u2019s long past time we recognize them as full citizens,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join my colleagues to push forward the Dream Act and finally give Dreamers the security and certainty of belonging in the only country they\u2019ve ever known.\u201d\n\nThe bipartisan legislation, reintroduced by Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), 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. These young people, known as Dreamers, have lived in America since they were children, built their lives here, and are American in every way except for their immigration status. However, under current law there is often no chance for them to ever become citizens and fulfill their potential.\n\nThe Dream Act was first introduced in 2001 and has been reintroduced every Congress since.\n\nSenator Gallego has consistently stood up for Dreamers in the Senate:\n\nIn May, he introduced a plan to address the broken state of America\u2019s border and immigration system. Pillar four of the plan emphasizes providing a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and long-term undocumented residents who contribute to our communities.\n\nIn June, Gallego joined 40 Senate colleagues in urging U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to resume processing DACA applications nearly three months after a Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that limited a nationwide injunction to Texas.\n\nIn July, Gallego reintroduced the Fight for the American Dream Act, which allows DACA participants to serve in the United States military and provides them a pathway toward U.S. citizenship after their service.\n\nIn September, he demanded answers from DHS on the agency\u2019s targeting and arrest of Dreamers.\n\n12/5/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-landsman-introduce-bill-to-allow-first-responders-early-access-to-medicare/", "Gallego, Landsman Introduce Bill to Allow First Responders Early Access to Medicare", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced the Expanding Health Care Options for First Responders Act to lower the Medicare enrollment age for first responders to 50. Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Congressman Greg Landsman (OH-01).\n\nPolice officers, firefighters, EMTs, and other first responders are often forced to retire early due to the intense physical and mental toll of their service. Many are left navigating expensive or limited health care options until they reach Medicare eligibility. The Expanding Health Care Options for First Responders Act would ensure first responders who leave service early due to retirement or disability have access to quality health care coverage when they enter retirement and act as an incentive to recruit new first responders.\n\n\u201cFirst responders put their lives on the line to protect our communities, and that takes an immense toll on their physical health. They deserve access to high-quality health care both when they\u2019re on the job and when they retire,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cLowering the Medicare enrollment age for first responders will help them get the care they\u2019ve earned and make it easier to recruit and retain the people who keep our communities safe.\u201d\n\n\u201cMost first responders retire before 65 and face uncertainty about how they\u2019ll access quality healthcare, despite all their sacrifices,\u201d said Congressman Landsman. \u201cAfter everything they did to keep our communities safe, it\u2019s only right we make sure they get the proper care they deserve.\u201d\n\nFirst responders face higher risk of workplace injury, cardiovascular disease, mental health challenges, and general wear and tear of muscles, joints, and ligaments due to the physical and stress demands of their chosen occupations. Meanwhile, law enforcement, firefighters, and other first responders face challenges in recruitment, with 78 percent of law enforcement agencies reporting difficulties in recruiting qualified candidates.\n\n\u201cLaw enforcement is a physically demanding profession that also takes a toll on our mental health. Given the physical demands of the job, our members often retire earlier than other professions. In fact, many agencies have mandatory retirement ages. As a result, these retired officers often lose their employer provided health insurance upon or shortly after their retirement \u2013 a time when they are years away from being eligible for Medicare \u2013 meaning they must personally shoulder the considerable cost of healthcare either out-of-pocket or through the purchase of expensive private insurance plans. This legislation addresses this issue by allowing law enforcement and other public safety professionals the option to buy into Medicare at the age of 50. For our members, it\u2019s common sense,\u201d said Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police.\n\nFull text of the legislation is available HERE.\n\n12/5/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-cosponsors-bill-to-use-trump-slush-fund-for-affordable-housing", "Ansari Cosponsors Bill to Use Trump Slush Fund for Affordable Housing", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Yassamin Ansari", "A000381", "ansari.house.gov", "ansari", "https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) cosponsored the Make Housing Affordable and Defend Democracy Act, landmark legislation that redirects the $175 billion ICE and CBP slush fund Donald Trump created in his so-called \u201cBig Beautiful Bill,\u201d and reinvests those billions directly into proven solutions that would reduce rents, expand homeownership, and incentivize the building of housing that\u2019s affordable across the country.\n\nThe Make Housing Affordable & Defend Democracy Act would:\n\nCreate the first-ever monthly Renter Tax Credit for families paying more than 30% of their income on rent.\n\nProvide $25,000 or more for first time homebuyers and $50,000 or more in down-payment assistance for first-generation homebuyers.\n\nConvert vacant office buildings into affordable housing through a 20\u201335% Affordable Housing Conversion Credit.\n\nLaunch a Starter Home Construction Credit targeted at first-time buyers.\n\nExpand production of deeply affordable housing through a strengthened Low-Income Housing Tax Credit.\n\n\u201cThis bill channels the billions of dollars currently locked in draconian anti-immigrant enforcement programs directly into housing solutions for renters, first-time homebuyers, and incentives for affordable housing,\u201d said Rep. Ansari. \u201cArizonans\u2019 tax dollars should go toward affordable housing \u2013 not a slush fund for Donald Trump.\u201d\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by UnidosUS, LULAC, CASA, A Way Home America, CLPHA, and CHIRLA, representing millions of renters, immigrants, low-income families, and housing advocates nationwide.\n\nThe Make Housing Affordable and Defend Democracy Act is led by Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) and cosponsored by Ansari and 61 Members of Congress including Becca Balint (VT-AL ), Nanette Barragan (CA-44), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Troy Carter (LA-02), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr. (CA-31), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Danny Davis (IL07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jesus G. \"Chuy\" Garcia (IL-04), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. (\"Hank\") Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), George Latimer (NY-16), Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Jim McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jerry Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Scott Peters (CA-50), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda Sanchez (CA-38), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Darren Soto (FL-09), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Dina Titus (NV-01), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://grijalva.house.gov/media/press-releases/as-book-bans-spread-reed-grijalva-introduce-right-to-read-act-to-boost-literacy-strengthen-school-libraries", "As Book Bans Spread, Reed & Grijalva Introduce Right to Read Act to Boost Literacy & Strengthen School Libraries", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Adelita S. Grijalva", "G000606", "grijalva.house.gov", "grijalva", "https://grijalva.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Literacy opens the door for lifelong opportunity and economic success. To make sure this door is open to every child, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and U.S. Representative Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ-07) introduced the Right to Read Act, which will close gaps in access to school library resources and surge federal investment in support of increasing student literacy across America.\n\nIn the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, reading scores for American nine-year-olds have dropped to their lowest point since 1990.\n\nResearch consistently shows that access to school libraries makes a big difference in giving kids the skills and inspiration they need to become proficient and enthusiastic readers. Students who utilize their school libraries have 73 percent higher literacy rates than their peers who do not. However, not every student has access to a school library or school librarian.\n\nThe Department of Education\u2019s National Center for Education Statistics reports that about 8,830 public schools across America do not have a school library. For schools that do, nearly 17,000 do not have a full- or part-time librarian. Vulnerable students face even greater disadvantages in accessing strong school library programs, with students experiencing the highest levels of poverty being 30 percent more likely to not have a school library at all.\n\nSchool libraries are most effective when they offer resources that resonate, engage, and empower students. Yet, during the 2024-2025 school year, PEN America recorded 6,870 instances of book bans across 23 states and 87 public school districts. Since 2021, the organization has tracked nearly 23,000 book bans in public schools.\n\nThe Right to Read Act will help close these gaps, ensuring that students have evidence-based reading instruction, well stocked and staffed school libraries, family literacy programs, a wide range of reading materials, and the freedom to choose what to read. It also addresses the information digital literacy needs of today\u2019s students. The bill goes further to strengthen effective school libraries by investing in recruiting and retaining state-certified school librarians and supporting staff working to broaden access to library collections.\n\n\u201cOur students deserve to have an education that prepares them for future success. Decades of research tells us that strong school library programs help our students improve test scores, deepen their understanding of key topics, and achieve higher graduation rates,\u201d said Senator Reed, the leading champion for libraries in Congress. \u201cThe Right to Read Act makes sure that every student across America has access to the opportunities that literacy provides them through high-quality, appropriately staffed school libraries and a wide range of books and reading material to choose from.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a former school board member, I\u2019ve seen how libraries can spark confidence, curiosity, and opportunity for our children,\u201d said Congresswoman Grijalva. \u201cBut today, thousands of students \u2013 especially those in our highest-poverty schools \u2013 don\u2019t have access to a library or a certified librarian. At the same time, politically-motivated book bans are limiting the stories and ideas students can explore. Books open doors; censorship closes them. The Right to Read Act tackles these inequities head-on by investing in evidence-based literacy, rebuilding and staffing school libraries, and defending every child\u2019s right to read.\u201d\n\nThe Right to Read Act would reauthorize the Comprehensive Literacy State Development grant program at $500 million and the Innovative Approaches to Literacy program at $100 million.\n\nThis legislation reaffirms that first amendment rights apply to school libraries in response to the alarming trend of book banning, and it protects school librarians and other educators in carrying out their duty to protect students\u2019 right to read.\n\nIn addition to Senator Jack Reed and Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Angus King (I-ME), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) in the Senate and U.S. Representatives Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), and Summer Lee (D-PA-12) in the House.\n\nThe legislation is supported by the American Library Association (ALA) and its division, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), as well as the American Federation of Teachers, PEN America, Reach Out and Read, the National Education Association, and the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE).\n\n\u201cSchool librarians and media specialists uplift students every school day across our nation\u201d said American Library Association President Sam Helmick.\u201d Librarians help students learn to read and inspire them to read to learn. The Right to Read Act strengthens the resources they depend on, ensuring every student has early, equitable access to up-to-date books, technology, and expert guidance. We applaud Sen. Jack Reed and Rep. Adelita Grijalva for championing this essential legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe evidence is clear: well-resourced school libraries and certified school librarians are not optional, they are foundational to student success,\u201d said American Association of School Librarians President Amanda Kordeliski. \u201cMore than fifty years of research across over sixty studies show that students with access to full-time, state-certified librarians and robust collections consistently perform better academically. When we invest in school librarians, we are investing in equity, literacy, and the future of our communities.\"\n\n\u201cAs educators, we know that reading opens the world for kids. Literacy is fundamental to student success, empowerment and a strong democracy. The Right to Read Act ensures students have access to evidence-based reading instruction and a well-stocked school library. The legislation shares our goal of encouraging a love of reading and ensuring teachers, paraprofessionals and librarians have the resources they need. Sen. Reed is a champion for literacy and libraries because he knows that literacy is foundational to our kids\u2019 success in school and in life,\u201d said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers.\n\n\u201cPEN America applauds U.S. Sen. Jack Reed and Rep. Adelita Grialva for reintroducing the Right to Read Act. Public school libraries are gateways for young readers to learn about themselves and others through the stories, experiences, and histories shared in books. Efforts to ensure access to libraries and books for students are essential in upholding our rights to read and learn,\u201d said Kasey Meehan, Freedom to Read program director at PEN America.\n\n\u201cReach Out and Read applauds Senator Reed and Representative Grijalva for reintroducing the Right to Read Act, which calls for increasing the authorization for the Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) program to $100 million. The IAL program serves an important role creating a comprehensive approach to early childhood literacy and development, including pediatric literacy programs used by trained medical providers during well-child visits. Reach Out and Read looks forward to working with Congress to continue bringing attention to early literacy and child development,\u201d said Dr. Lynette Fraga, Ph.D., chief executive officer of Reach Out and Read.\n\n\u201cThe National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) is proud to once again endorse the Right to Read Act. This legislation will ensure that reading materials are thoughtfully infused throughout every school, enabling the readers and critical thinkers of tomorrow to flourish,\u201d NCTE Executive Director Emily Kirkpatrick said. \u201cNCTE thanks Senator Reed for his unwavering commitment to promoting literacy education.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-backs-legislation-to-protect-airline-passengers-from-flight-cancellations-and-delays/", "Gallego Backs Legislation to Protect Airline Passengers from Flight Cancellations and Delays", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) backed the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act, legislation introduced today that will protect passengers by requiring airlines to provide cash compensation and free rebooking for passengers facing significant delays or cancellations caused by the airline. The bill would also direct the Department of Transportation (DOT) to mandate airlines reimburse passengers for hotels, meals, and transportation to lodging as a result of flight disruptions, regardless of the cause of the delay.\n\nThe bill comes after the Trump administration cancelled a popular consumer protection rule that would have required airlines to compensate passengers for preventable travel cancellations or delays.\n\n\u201cRight before millions of Americans began traveling for the holidays this year, Trump\u2019s transportation department ripped up the rule that forced airlines to compensate passengers when flights are delayed or cancelled. The Trump administration is once again siding with airline CEOs instead of everyday working families. I\u2019m proud to back this legislation so families aren\u2019t left stranded with the bill when airlines screw up,\u201d said Senator Gallego.\n\nUnder the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act, the DOT would be required to issue regulations that:\n\nRequire the DOT to establish an Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) that includes consumer protection groups to develop recommendations for how to implement rules that would require air carriers to provide consumers experiencing significant flight disruptions cash compensation, free rebooking, and reimbursements for passenger care needs such as meals, lodging for overnight delays, and transportation to and from lodging;\n\nRequire the ARC to develop recommendations for passenger compensation in alignment with foreign standards, including the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) Air Passenger Protection Regulations and Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council;\n\nSet a baseline standard of compensation of at least $300 for a delay of more than 3 hours but less than 6 hours; and at least $600 for a delay of 6 hours or more;\n\nDirect DOT to undertake a rulemaking to implement the ARC recommendations within 90 days after the ARC report is submitted; and\n\nEstablish a stricter interim final rule that will go into effect 18 months after the bill is enacted, to prevent DOT from dragging its feet and ensuring the rulemaking takes place.\n\nOn November 15, 2025, the Trump administration officially withdrew a planned Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) that the previous Administration\u2019s Department of Transportation had initiated in December 2024 to require airlines to compensate passengers and cover their expenses for lengthy delays or cancellations caused by carriers.\n\nThe ANPRM is the first part of the federal rulemaking process, meant to solicit public comment on the policies proposed by the agency. This ANPRM sought public comment on a rulemaking to \u201censure consumers experiencing significant flight disruptions are taken care of and protected from financial losses.\u201d\n\nThe Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act builds on the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 language and the proposed Biden-era ANPRM to expand consumer protections for impacted air passengers. This bill requires that the rulemaking process be restarted and that the FAA Reauthorization Language be implemented by establishing an Aviation Rulemaking Committee to develop recommendations to implement the requirements of the FAA Reauthorization Act and expand those recommendations to include reimbursement in the form of cash compensation and free rebooking. If the DOT fails to do so, the bill establishes an interim final rule with the force of law that establishes various minimum standards as outlined above.\n\n\u201cDelays and cancellations are far and away the Number 1 complaint of airline passengers. Most are due to causes within airline control such as lack of airworthy equipment, flight personnel or not enough paying passengers, not weather or air traffic control. FlyersRights, the largest airline passenger organization, believes delay compensation is essential to improve air travel reliability and endorses the subject legislation. Delay compensation is the norm outside the US. Recent studies show major increases in lengthy delays is accelerating,\u201d said FlyersRights President Paul Hudson.\n\n\u201cAt a time when this DOT appears to be abandoning the public, it\u2019s critical for Congress to step up,\u201d said National Consumers League Senior Public Policy Manager Eden Iscil. \u201cThis bill would bring consumer protections for flying into the 21st Century and in line with those found in many international jurisdictions. There\u2019s no reason an American airline should provide better care for its passengers when departing from Frankfurt while still denying those same basic accommodations for flights out of Phoenix.\u201d\n\nRead the full bill HERE.\n\nRead a one-pager of the bill HERE.\n\n12/4/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-colleagues-introduce-junk-fee-prevention-act-to-end-unfair-surprise-costs-for-consumers/", "Gallego, Colleagues Introduce Junk Fee Prevention Act to End Unfair Surprise Costs for Consumers", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "With hidden fees costing consumers billions each year, the legislation would mandate airline, entertainment, ticketing industry fairness\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 With the holiday travel season in full swing, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) backed legislation to eliminate excessive fees in the ticketing, hotel, and entertainment industries and bring transparency to the marketplace. The Junk Fee Prevention Act would eliminate hidden and unnecessary fees imposed on consumers and require full prices of services to be provided upfront.\n\n\u201cArizonans are tired of being hit with junk fees every time they book a flight, buy a concert ticket, or check into a hotel. They deserve to know the real price of services upfront,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cThis bill puts an end to that nonsense by requiring companies to disclose pricing upfront and holding them accountable when they try to deceive consumers. I was proud to lead this bill in the House, and I\u2019m going to keep fighting to put an end to hidden junk fees on all services.\u201d\n\nThe Junk Fee Prevention Act would require the full price of a service to be displayed upfront, prevent excessive fees and ensure transparency, and empower the Federal Trade Commission and Federal Communications Commission to issue new rules and enforce against violations. It would also require airlines to share information about revenue received from ancillary fees with the U.S. Department of Transportation and for such information to be publicly available in a report on the Department\u2019s website. The legislation specifically targets excessive online ticket fees, exorbitant early termination fees for communications services, surprise resort or destination fees, and airline ancillary fees.\n\nSenator Gallego led the Junk Fees Prevention Act in the House.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by Consumer Reports and the National Consumers League (NCL).\n\n\u201cAmericans are fed up with hidden junk fees that can really add up and cause financial hardship for families living on tight budgets,\u201d said Chuck Bell, advocacy program director for Consumer Reports. \u201cThe Junk Fee Prevention Act will help ensure that the total cost for tickets, hotels and short-term lodging are disclosed upfront to the customer, including all mandatory fees. The bill will also prevent telecom providers from imposing early termination fees for broadband, cable and mobile phone services, and improve the transparency and presentation of prices for bundled services.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerican companies are addicted to junk fees, and this is an addiction that harms consumers and honest businesses alike,\u201d said NCL Senior Public Policy Manager Eden Iscil. \u201cThe Junk Fee Prevention Act is a vital piece of legislation that will mandate basic common-sense fairness and transparency, ensuring consumers know the full, all-in price up front and putting an end to these deceptive, abusive practices.\u201d\n\nRead the full bill HERE.\n\n12/4/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-introduces-bill-to-boost-housing-supply-by-encouraging-investment-through-investor-visas/", "Gallego Introduces Bill to Boost Housing Supply by Encouraging Investment through Investor Visas", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced the Building Housing for the American Dream Act to leverage the EB-5 investor visa program to address the nation\u2019s housing shortage.\n\nREAD MORE: Senator Seeks to Tap Foreign Visa Program to Ease Housing Costs (Bloomberg)\n\nThe EB-5 visa program allows immigrants to obtain a green card by investing at least $1.05 million in commercial projects that create at least ten U.S. jobs. Senator Gallego\u2019s bill would amend the EB-5 statute to encourage more of that investment to flow directly into housing construction. The bill lowers the minimum investment threshold to $800,000 for EB-5 applicants who invest in projects that create, preserve, or rehabilitate housing and provides expedited processing for applications tied specifically to affordable housing.\n\n\u201cArizona families are getting crushed by rising housing costs, and we need every tool possible to build more homes and lower prices,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cBy steering more EB-5 investment towards housing, we can boost the housing supply, bring down costs, and create good jobs for American workers. Bold solutions like this will help get more Arizona families into homes they can afford.\u201d\n\nThe Building Housing for the American Dream Act is supported by Real Estate Roundtable, National Association of Home Builders, American Immigrant Investor Alliance, EB-5 Rural Alliance, EB-5 Investor Coalition, the National Apartment Association, National Association of Realtors, and Leading Builders of America.\n\n\u201cThe Building Housing for the American Dream Act is a meaningful step toward unlocking new housing opportunities at a time when communities across the country urgently need it. By responsibly reducing the EB-5 investment threshold and expediting application processing for developments tied to project-based federal assistance, this legislation gives builders, nonprofits, and local partners the tools they need to bring projects online faster and at lower cost. These targeted reforms will help spur new construction, preserve existing affordable units, create jobs, and expand the pathway to stable, attainable housing,\u201d said Kevin Brown, President of the National Association of Realtors.\n\n\u201cThere are many complex layers to the challenges we see in the U.S. housing market, and finding solutions to those challenges will take a lot of new, innovative ideas. We appreciate the work that Senator Gallego is doing in this legislation to look for new opportunities to support the supply of affordable homes, which is critical to strong American communities,\u201d said Ken Gear, CEO of Leading Builders of America.\n\n\u201cCreative policy solutions must be on the table to increase the housing supplies we need to address the national affordability crisis,\u201d said Jeffrey D. DeBoer, President and CEO of The Real Estate Roundtable. \u201cSenator Gallego\u2019s Building Housing for the American Dream Act hits the mark. It recognizes that housing should be treated as infrastructure. It will attract overseas investment capital through the EB-5 visa program, helping to build more homes in markets across the country where there are serious housing shortages. It will accomplish these goals at no cost to taxpayers, and create jobs for American workers. This is a smart bill that should be included in long-term EB-5 reauthorization. We thank Senator Gallego for his leadership.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe American Immigrant Investor Alliance (AIIA) applauds this legislation. It is a genuine innovation to create desperately needed affordable housing, is a great use of the EB-5 investment program, and doesn\u2019t harm existing job creating projects or immigrant investors. The bill leverages EB-5 foreign investment to fill the persistent capital gaps in affordable housing development that already use Section 202, LIHTC, CDBG, and HOME funding. We thank Sen. Gallego for his work on creative solutions to solve the nation\u2019s housing affordability problem,\u201d said Ishaan Khanna, President of the American Immigrant Investor Alliance.\n\nRead the full bill HERE.\n\n12/4/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-ricketts-introduce-halos-act-to-strengthen-startups/", "Gallego, Ricketts Introduce HALOS Act to Strengthen Startups", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act. The HALOS Act will make it easier for entrepreneurs to connect with investors and grow their businesses. These events encourage innovation. By supporting these events, investors will be better equipped to discover promising startups and entrepreneurs will be able to connect with a broader ecosystem.\n\n\u201cEntrepreneurs often attend demo days to share their ideas and attract investors, but confusing and outdated rules make it hard to do that without worrying about violating securities laws,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cBy cutting unnecessary red tape and clarifying the rules around demo days, we can make it easier for Arizona entrepreneurs grow their businesses, create jobs, and build a more diverse mix of small businesses and founders across our state.\u201d\n\n\u201cStartups drive American innovation,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cEntrepreneurs in the Silicon Prairie and across the country shouldn\u2019t be stifled by red tape when trying to share their ideas with investors. The HALOS Act cuts through unnecessary bureaucracy so that promising companies can attract the capital they need to grow, create good paying jobs, and help maintain America\u2019s technological edge.\u201d\n\n\u201cNVCA strongly supports the bipartisan HALOS Act, which removes unnecessary regulatory barriers that can complicate participation in Demo Days and hinder early engagement between entrepreneurs and investors,\u201d said Bobby Franklin, National Venture Capital Association President & CEO. \u201cBy clarifying that startups can discuss their products and business plans at these important events without triggering general solicitation concerns, the HALOS Act will help expedite capital access opportunities and strengthen the broader startup ecosystem in every corner of our country. We urge lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to advance this measure that will help promote American innovation.\u201d\n\nThe HALOS Act would:\n\nClarify SEC rules to ensure that showcasing of products and ideas at \u201cdemo days,\u201d pitch competitions, and community economic development events are not treated as \u201cgeneral solicitation\u201d under federal securities law so long as:\n\nThe startup does not advertise investment terms;\n\nThe event sponsor does not offer investment advice, negotiate terms, or receive compensation for connecting issuers and investors.\n\nThis bill is endorsed by the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA).\n\n12/4/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-blumenthal-markey-introduce-legislation-to-protect-airline-passengers-from-flight-cancellations-and-delays/", "Kelly, Blumenthal, Markey Introduce Legislation to Protect Airline Passengers from Flight Cancellations and Delays", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Kelly\u2019s legislation will protect consumers and hold airlines accountable\n\nRead more about the bill here\n\nToday, Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Ed Markey (D-MA) introduced the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act, new legislation that will protect passengers by requiring airlines to provide cash compensation and free rebooking for passengers facing significant delays or cancellations caused by the airline. The bill would also direct the Department of Transportation (DOT) to mandate airlines reimburse passengers for hotels, meals, and transportation to lodging as a result of flight disruptions, regardless of the cause of the delay.\n\nThe Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act comes in response to the Trump administration\u2019s cancellation of a popular consumer protection rule in the making that would have required airlines to compensate passengers for preventable travel cancellations or delays. It is also cosponsored by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-WA).\n\n\u201cFlying is already stressful and expensive. Airlines have to be accountable when they cost the American people money and travelers are left stranded,\u201d said Kelly. \u201cWe\u2019re working to make sure that passengers are protected so that cancellations and delays don\u2019t cost them money out of their own pockets.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis commonsense legislation holds airlines accountable and properly compensates passengers when their flight is delayed or cancelled\u2014protecting Americans from losing their hard-earned paychecks to flight disruptions beyond their control and alleviating the burden of chaotic travel days. The Trump Administration\u2019s senseless backtracking on airline passenger protections only serves the airline industry, padding their pocketbooks and leaving Americans stranded without help. With the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act, we put the traveling public first and bolster cost-saving consumer protections,\u201d said Blumenthal.\n\n\u201cAirlines that cancel and significantly delay flights due to their own mistakes can costs flyers thousands of dollars in secondary costs and lost income. In other words, the traveling public covers the costs of the airlines\u2019 mistakes,\u201d said Markey. \u201cInstead of protecting family budgets, the Trump administration is choosing to protect the airlines\u2019 bottom line. I\u2019m proud to partner with Senator Kelly and Senator Blumenthal to introduce the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act, an important step to hold airlines accountable, enact cost-saving protections, and prioritize consumers instead of CEO billionaires and corporations at the top of the airline industry.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerican consumers deserve to have protections, especially when it comes to expensive flights. This Administration has made their agenda clear: protect billionaires and corporations over hardworking Americans. That agenda is wrong. We need to pass the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act so Marylanders \u2013 and airline passengers across the country \u2013 can receive cash compensation for their delayed or cancelled flights,\u201d said Alsobrooks.\n\n\u201cAmid record cancellations, delays, and safety concerns at airports across the country, travelers deserve compensation for these disruptions to their lives,\u201d said Bennet. \u201cThe Trump Administration\u2019s decision to undo previous consumer protections only worsens the chaos travelers are experiencing. This legislation would reinstate these protections and put travelers\u2019 wellbeing over the airline industry\u2019s bottom line.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen airline delays and cancellations leave us hanging, passengers shouldn\u2019t be forced to pay the price,\u201d said Fetterman. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this commonsense legislation to reinstate critical consumer protections for Pennsylvanians and airline passengers across the nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cRight before millions of Americans began traveling for the holidays this year, Trump\u2019s transportation department ripped up the rule that forced airlines to compensate passengers when flights are delayed or cancelled. The Trump administration is once again siding with airline CEOs instead of everyday working families. I\u2019m proud to back this legislation so families aren\u2019t left stranded with the bill when airlines screw up,\u201d said Gallego.\n\n\u201cThe Trump Administration\u2019s decision to abandon commonsense consumer protections and force passengers to pay the price for flight delays and cancellations they didn\u2019t cause is a major giveaway to the big corporations at the expense of everyone else. This legislation will put travelers first and ensure they get the reimbursements and accommodations they deserve when their flights are disrupted,\u201d said Van Hollen.\n\n\u201cFrom Day One, President Trump has made it clear that he doesn\u2019t care about consumers. His decision to scrap a proposal to hold airlines accountable for delays is the latest example. Passengers impacted by delays and cancellations should get the compensation they deserve,\u201d said Welch. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join this legislation which will do just that.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe biggest winners under Donald Trump\u2019s presidency are corporations and the ultra-rich, and airlines are no exception. On top of his costly government shutdown that left travelers hamstrung and airports woefully understaffed by safety and air traffic controllers, now Trump is going out of his way to make flying more expensive for travelers. This legislation would restore much-needed consumer protections and financial relief during one of the busiest holiday travel seasons on record,\u201d said Wyden.\n\nSee what consumer and air traveler advocates are saying in support of the legislation:\n\n\u201cDelays and cancellations are far and away the Number 1 complaint of airline passengers. Most are due to causes within airline control such as lack of airworthy equipment, flight personnel or not enough paying passengers, not weather or air traffic control. FlyersRights, the largest airline passenger organization, believes delay compensation is essential to improve air travel reliability and endorses the subject legislation. Delay compensation is the norm outside the US. Recent studies show major increases in lengthy delays is accelerating,\u201d said FlyersRights President Paul Hudson.\n\n\u201cAt a time when this DOT appears to be abandoning the public, it\u2019s critical for Congress to step up,\u201d said National Consumers League Senior Public Policy Manager Eden Iscil. \u201cThis bill would bring consumer protections for flying into the 21st Century and in line with those found in many international jurisdictions. There\u2019s no reason an American airline should provide better care for its passengers when departing from Frankfurt while still denying those same basic accommodations for flights out of Phoenix.\u201d\n\nUnder the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act, the DOT would be required to issue regulations that:\n\nRequire the DOT to establish an Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) that includes consumer protection groups to develop recommendations for how to implement rules that would require air carriers to provide consumers experiencing significant flight disruptions cash compensation, free rebooking, and reimbursements for passenger care needs such as meals, lodging for overnight delays, and transportation to and from lodging;\n\nRequire the ARC to develop recommendations for passenger compensation in alignment with foreign standards, including the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) Air Passenger Protection Regulations and Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council;\n\nSet a baseline standard of compensation of at least $300 for a delay of more than 3 hours but less than 6 hours; and at least $600 for a delay of 6 hours or more;\n\nDirect DOT to undertake a rulemaking to implement the ARC recommendations within 90 days after the ARC report is submitted; and\n\nEstablish a stricter interim final rule that will go into effect 18 months after the bill is enacted, to prevent DOT from dragging its feet and ensuring the rulemaking takes place.\n\nBackground:\n\nOn November 15, 2025, the Trump administration officially withdrew a planned Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) that the previous Administration\u2019s Department of Transportation had initiated in December 2024 to require airlines to compensate passengers and cover their expenses for lengthy delays or cancellations caused by carriers.\n\nThe ANPRM is the first part of the federal rulemaking process, meant to solicit public comment on the policies proposed by the agency. This ANPRM sought public comment on a rulemaking to \u201censure consumers experiencing significant flight disruptions are taken care of and protected from financial losses.\u201d\n\nThe Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act builds on the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 language and the proposed Biden-era ANPRM to expand consumer protections for impacted air passengers. This bill requires that the rulemaking process be restarted and that the FAA Reauthorization Language be implemented by establishing an Aviation Rulemaking Committee to develop recommendations to implement the requirements of the FAA Reauthorization Act and expand those recommendations to include reimbursement in the form of cash compensation and free rebooking. If the DOT fails to do so, the bill establishes an interim final rule with the force of law that establishes various minimum standards as outlined above.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://grijalva.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-grijalva-condemns-illegal-border-patrol-raid-in-southern-arizona-on-house-floor-humanitarian-aid-is-not-a-crime", "Rep. Grijalva Condemns Illegal Border Patrol Raid in Southern Arizona on House Floor: \u201cHumanitarian Aid Is Not a Crime\u201d", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Adelita S. Grijalva", "G000606", "grijalva.house.gov", "grijalva", "https://grijalva.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Tonight, Congresswoman Adelita S. Grijalva took to the House floor to condemn a recent raid by Border Patrol of a humanitarian aid site operated by the non-profit, No More Deaths. According to reports, the agents entered the site without a warrant, taking three immigrants into custody. The site provides water and first aid to migrants crossing through the desert \u2013 an estimated 4,425 of which have perished in the Arizona desert since 2000.\n\nHer full remarks are copied below and can be viewed here:\n\nSince the beginning of his second term, Donald Trump has directed an enforcement machine that is not only cruel but unconstitutional \u2013 targeting long-time residents, law-abiding visa holders, even U.S. citizens, and even veterans who have fought for this country. In border communities like those I represent in Arizona's Seventh District, we see the impact of these abuses every single day. We have seen border patrol waiting outside hospitals, literally arresting women after they have given birth. No due process, no regard for human rights.\n\nLast week, we saw a disturbing example near the ranching community of Arivaca. Humanitarian volunteers with No More Deaths reported that Border Patrol agents forced their way into their desert aid station, known as Byrd Camp, without a warrant, and arrested three migrants who were resting inside a trailer. Volunteers told agents they could not enter without a warrant. Agents left, then returned claiming they were in hot pursuit, even though there was no chase, no threat, and no legal justification that would allow entering a protected structure.\n\nThis camp has existed for decades to keep people from dying in the desert \u2013 more than 4,400 men, women, and children have died crossing the border in Arizona since 2000. The camp has been raided before, but previously with a warrant. What happened on November 23 was different. It was lawless, intentional, and part of a broader pattern of unchecked enforcement that treats border communities as if the Constitution does not apply.\n\nLet me say this clearly! The Fourth Amendment DOES NOT disappear in southern Arizona. Due process does not disappear because someone is a migrant. And humanitarian aid is not a crime..", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://grijalva.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-grijalva-introduces-first-bill-the-save-oak-flat-from-foreign-mining-act", "Rep. Grijalva Introduces First Bill: The Save Oak Flat from Foreign Mining Act", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Adelita S. Grijalva", "G000606", "grijalva.house.gov", "grijalva", "https://grijalva.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C.. - Newly elected Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07) today introduced her first piece of legislation in Congress - the Save Oak Flat from Foreign Mining Act. First introduced by her father in 2015, the landmark bill would repeal the 2014 controversial National Defense Authorization Act rider that handed over 2,422 acres of Arizona\u2019s Tonto National Forest, including the sacred site of Oak Flat (Chi\u2019chil Bi\u0142dagoteel), to a foreign mining corporation.\n\nThe legislation protects a site of profound religious, cultural, historical, and environmental importance to Tribal Nations in Arizona and across the country. It also halts a mining project that would deplete Arizona\u2019s scarce water resources, create one of the largest toxic waste sites in North America, and transfer U.S. copper to a foreign mining venture with direct shareholder ties to the government of the People\u2019s Republic of China.\n\nThe project is also subject to multiple lawsuits, which President Trump has directly intervened. The text of the bill is available here.\n\nRep. Adelita Grijalva issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cAs my first bill in Congress, the Save Oak Flat From Foreign Mining Act reflects both my values and policy priorities: standing up for communities who have been ignored for too long, promoting responsible stewardship of our natural resources and tribal sovereignty, and ensuring that Arizona\u2019s future isn\u2019t sacrificed for short-term profit. My father, Congressman Ra\u00fal M. Grijalva, fought for Oak Flat throughout his career, and I am proud to pick up the mantle in continuing this fight. When President Trump calls Tribal leaders and advocates \u2018anti-American,\u2019 it only underscores the urgency of correcting this injustice.\u201d\n\n\u201cOak Flat is sacred, irreplaceable, and it should never have been traded away to foreign mining giants in a backroom deal that ignored Tribal Nations, silenced the public, and put Arizona\u2019s water and national security at risk. This legislation is about repealing an indefensible land swap, respecting Tribal sovereignty and religious freedom, and protecting Arizona\u2019s precious natural resources for future generations.\n\n\u201cThis mine was never designed to benefit the American people; it was designed to benefit multinational corporations and the People\u2019s Republic of China. I am proud to stand with the San Carlos Apache Tribe, Apache Stronghold, and numerous other organizations and communities across Arizona \u2013 and the nation \u2013 who have fought for decades to protect Chi\u2019chil Bi\u0142dagoteel. It\u2019s long past time to make this right.\u201d\n\nBackground on the Bill\n\nThis bill would repeal a rider inserted in the FY15 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that authorized the transfer of 2,422 acres of Arizona\u2019s Tonto National Forest land, including 740 acres of the Oak Flat Historic District, to foreign mining companies for development of the largest copper mine in North America. The Oak Flat area, also known as Chi\u2019chil Bildagoteel, is of significant cultural and religious importance to many tribal communities in Arizona, including the San Carlos Apache Tribe.\n\nPrior to the land transfer\u2019s insertion in the FY15 NDAA, it existed as a stand-alone bill that was fiercely opposed by tribal nations and tribal organizations nationwide. To circumvent this opposition, foreign-owned mining interests manipulated a backroom deal to include the land transfer as a midnight rider to the FY15 NDAA. The inclusion of this provision denigrated the legislative process and did not allow for any transparency or tribal consultation.\n\nResolution Copper is a joint venture of the world\u2019s two largest foreign mining entities, Rio Tinto and BHP formed to acquire Oak Flat to extract copper primarily for export to the People\u2019s Republic of China. Rio Tinto\u2019s largest shareholder is Chinalco, is a company wholly owned by the People\u2019s Republic of China. There is no requirement for Resolution Copper to smelt, refine, or sell the copper it extracts to benefit the United States. And Rio Tinto stated in comments to the Department of Commerce dated April 1, 2025, that China is \u2018\u2018the most profitable destination for almost any mine in the world to sell its copper.\u201d\n\nThis foreign mining venture plans to irrevocably desecrate Oak Flat through a destructive technique known as block cave mining. After mining activities are concluded, a 2 mile-long crater will occupy the space where Oak Flat once stood for millennia. The mine will drain the region\u2019s scarce water resources and leave behind a 14.4 square mile superfund site to store 1.4 billion tons of toxic waste that will pose grave danger to downstream towns and communities. In August of this year, the Arizona State Land Department objected to Resolution Copper\u2019s proposed mine because it would withdraw substantial amounts of groundwater from the East Salt River Valley, causing irreversible damage and earth fissures.\n\nStatements of Support\n\nChairman Terry Rambler, San Carlos Apache Tribe\n\n\u201cThe San Carlos Apache Tribe thanks Rep. Adelita Grijalva for introducing this legislation that her father, former Rep. Raul Grijalva, previously championed to protect sacred Oak Flat. For hundreds of years, the Oak Flat area, known in Western Apache as Chi\u2019chil Bildagoteel meaning \u201ca broad flat of Emory oak trees\u201d, has been a place of cultural and religious significance to our people. The Resolution Mine not only would destroy sacred Oak Flat, but this colossal project also threatens U.S. national security, Arizona will suffer catastrophic damage to its water supply, and the Mine is a looming disaster for Arizona, our Tribe and the Nation.\u201d\n\nPresident Sandra Pattea, Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation\n\n\"The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation supports the protection and preservation of Oak Flat. This sacred site holds profound cultural, historical, and spiritual significance for our Yavapai people, serving as a vital link to our history, heritage, culture, and traditions. We call upon Congress to recognize its importance and ensure its continued protection for future generations.\"\n\nChairman Verlon Jose, Tohono O\u2019odham Nation\n\n\"The Tohono O'odham Nation supports Rep. Adelita Grijalva's legislation to save sacred indigenous land at Oak Flat from being destroyed by the proposed Resolution copper mine east of Superior. Rep. Grijalva is committed to fighting for the rights of all Native Americans. Desecrating sacred tribal lands goes against everything we value and is just wrong.\"\n\nWendsler Nosie, Sr., Apache Stronghold\n\n\u201cOak Flat is the cornerstone of our faith \u2014 the place where generations of Apache have gathered, prayed, and connected with the Creator since time immemorial. It is not a resource to be exploited for profit. It is a holy place where our children and grandchildren must be able to walk, just as our ancestors did. Apache Stronghold gives its full support to Rep. Grijalva\u2019s Save Oak Flat Act.\u201d\n\nSandy Bahr, Sierra Club\u2019s Grand Canyon (Arizona) Chapter\n\n\"Sierra Club appreciates and supports Representative Adelita Grijalva introducing the Save Oak Flat Act to reverse a travesty and keep Oak Flat from becoming a huge crater in the ground, to protect Arizona's water resources, and to recognize and safeguard these lands sacred to numerous Tribal Nations. The land exchange was never a good idea \u2013 in fact it was such a bad idea it could not get through the process as a standalone bill. We recognize it as an even worse idea today as we know more about the pollution associated with the mine from a massive tailings pile, the amount of water it would consume at a time when we are seeing dwindling water resources, and the degree of land subsidence that would result in a two-mile-wide and one-thousand-feet-deep crater. Rep. Grijalva's bill puts Tribal sacred sites, Arizona water, and protection of the land ahead of the interests and excessive profits of multinational mining giants.\"\n\nDaisy Purdy, National Wildlife Federation\n\n\u201cTribal sovereignty is nonnegotiable \u2013 and so are the religious and cultural rights of the San Carlos Apache and other Indigenous communities. This important legislation honors Tribal sovereignty while also stopping the development of an unnecessary and unacceptable copper mine at Chi\u2019chil Bi\u0142dagoteel. This legislation reminds the administration to reverse course and commit to respecting Tribal sovereignty and trust responsibilities, honoring Treaty rights, engaging in Free Prior and Informed Consent, and ensuring responsible stewardship of Indigenous cultural and religious sites.\u201d\n\nCamilla Simon, Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO)\n\n\u201cThis giveaway of U.S. public lands and copper to a foreign-owned company was buried in a midnight rider that denied Americans hearings, debate, transparency, and a fair say in the fate of Oak Flat from the very beginning. HECHO applauds Rep. Grijalva\u2019s effort to protect Arizona\u2019s natural resources, local communities, and our national security. The proposed mine will consume 250 billion gallons of water in a state facing a historic water crisis, leave behind nearly 1.4 billion tons of toxic waste, and likely strengthen China\u2019s supply chains more than America\u2019s, posing real risks to our economy and security.\u201d\n\nRev. Jennifer Hawks, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship\n\n\u201cSacred land isn\u2019t always marked with a steeple. At CBF, we are honored to stand beside Rep. Adelita Grijalva, the San Carlos Apache Tribe and all others who want to protect Ch\u00ed\u2019chil Bi\u0142dagoteel. Allowing this mine to open undermines our national security interests, exacerbates the water crisis plaguing the American Southwest, and ignores our commitment to religious freedom.\u201d\n\nRev. Andrew Black, EarthKeepers 360\n\n\u201cProtecting Oak Flat is not only about saving sacred land \u2014 it\u2019s about honoring Indigenous rights, safeguarding irreplaceable cultural heritage, and ensuring that our nation\u2019s values are never traded away for short-term gain. The Save Oak Flat Act takes a stand for justice, stewardship, culture, and future generations.\u201d\n\nAmanda Tyler, Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty\n\n\"Sacred land without a steeple is no less deserving of protection than a big, steepled church in the heart of downtown.Too often the U.S. has failed when given opportunities to protect the religious freedom of our Indigenous neighbors. This is a chance to get it right and make the promise of the First Amendment a little truer for us all.\"\n\nErik Murdock, Access Fund\n\n\u201cAccess Fund and the climbing community supports the protection of Oak Flat, a sacred land that boasts invaluable natural, cultural and recreational resources. We appreciate Representative Grijalva's bill because we agree that handing over public lands and valuable mineral resources to a foreign mining company at the expense of tribes, recreation and the environment does not align with the interests of Americans. We cannot let the ill-conceived Oak Flat land exchange set a precedent for our public lands.\u201d\n\nRuss McSpadden, Center for Biological Diversity\n\n\u201cThis bill is vital for protecting Oak Flat, a cathedral of birds, springs, oaks, bears and riparian canyons. No one has the right to destroy a Native American holy site. Period. I\u2019m grateful to Rep. Adelita Grijalva for standing with Tribal nations and with everyone who believes public lands, biodiversity, water and sacred sites shouldn\u2019t be sacrificed to corporate greed. It\u2019s past time for Congress to defend Oak Flat with the courage this moment demands.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-bipartisan-colleagues-honor-50-years-of-the-ah-64-apache-and-the-arizona-workers-who-build-it/", "Gallego, Bipartisan Colleagues Honor 50 Years of the AH-64 Apache and the Arizona Workers Who Build It", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Gallego toured Boeing\u2019s Apache production line in Mesa, Arizona last week\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and bipartisan colleagues introduced a resolution recognizing the achievements and contributions of the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter \u2013 which is built in Mesa, Arizona \u2013 to the national defense of the United States and its allies. The resolution also honors the dedication, service, and sacrifice of the U.S. Army aviators, maintainers, and support personnel who operate and sustain the Apache.\n\n\u201cFor five decades, military crews have relied on the AH-64 Apache helicopter to complete missions in some of the toughest combat areas in the world,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cI\u2019m especially proud that the AH-64 is built in Mesa, where Arizona workers manufacture this cornerstone of American aviation. This resolution honors their enormous contribution to our national defense and recognizes the pilots, maintainers, engineers, and industry partners whose work has made the AH-64 one of the most reliable aircrafts in U.S. history.\u201d\n\nLast week, Senator Gallego toured the Boeing manufacturing plant in Mesa, where every Apache helicopter is assembled. He visited the production line, met with employees, and discussed the aircraft\u2019s modernization, national security importance, and Boeing\u2019s economic impact in Arizona.\n\n\u201cFor fifty years, the Apache has given our soldiers unmatched close air support and kept them safe on some of the toughest missions in the world,\u201d said Senator Kelly. \u201cArizona workers have played a major role in building and sustaining this aircraft, and I\u2019m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to honor both the Apache and the men and women who fly and maintain it.\u201d\n\nThe AH-64 Apache first flew on September 30, 1975, and over the last five decades has logged more than 5.2 million total flight hours, including 1.3 million combat hours. It has played a decisive role in major U.S. military operations such as Desert Storm, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Inherent Resolve, and continues to support missions around the world.\n\nThe Apache has undergone continuous modernization from the AH-64A to today\u2019s AH-64E, strengthening its survivability, sensors, and precision strike capability. It is also operated by 18 allied and partner nations, enhancing coalition interoperability and global security. Arizona has served as the final assembly site for the Apache for decades, supporting thousands of jobs and a nationwide supplier network spanning 46 states.\n\nRead the full resolution HERE.\n\n12/3/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-kelly-announce-approval-of-internet-for-all-plan-urge-trump-administration-to-preserve-full-funding-for-arizona/", "Gallego, Kelly Announce Approval of Internet for All Plan, Urge Trump Administration to Preserve Full Funding for Arizona", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "NTIA approves Arizona\u2019s final BEAD plan, clearing the way for broadband developments\n\nARIZONA \u2014 Arizona Senators Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly announced that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved Arizona\u2019s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) final proposal, clearing the way for the state to begin drawing down funds to deploy high-speed broadband in every corner of the state.\n\nArizona\u2019s State Broadband Office successfully navigated NTIA\u2019s updated program guidance, finalizing a plan that will bring fiber technology to 118,170 locations\u2014more than 70 percent of the state\u2014with a deployment cost of $446,123,359. Under the Gallego-shaped Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Arizona was allocated $993,112,231 in BEAD funding, and as NTIA finalizes its nondeployment guidance, it remains crucial that the state receive its full allocation.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m glad to see that the NTIA approved Arizona\u2019s proposal for the BEAD program to expand broadband internet access to communities that need it most, like rural and Tribal areas. This program was something I fought to include in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I\u2019m excited to see these funds get to work in Arizona,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cHowever, the Trump administration\u2019s illegal and arbitrary changes to the BEAD program mean that Arizona won\u2019t be able to use all of the funds Congress set aside for our state and areas on the Hopi, White Mountain Apache, and the Yavapai-Apache Nation may be left without service. I\u2019m urging the administration to reverse these changes and release Arizona\u2019s full funds so every community can get connected.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery Arizonan, regardless of their zip code, deserves access to reliable, high-speed internet, and this final approval means many communities are one step closer to getting connected,\u201d said Senator Kelly. \u201cBut the job isn\u2019t done. The administration needs to make all of Arizona\u2019s broadband funding available, just as Congress intended.\u201d\n\n\u201cOpportunity for every Arizonan means access to fast, affordable, reliable internet, no matter your zip code,\u201d said Governor Katie Hobbs. \u201cWith this historic investment, we\u2019re not just closing the digital divide, but also opening doors to economic opportunity in every corner of our state. I\u2019m grateful to the ACA and everyone who has played a role in advancing this critical project. From education to health care to workforce development, broadband is key to Arizona\u2019s present and future.\u201d\n\n12/3/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-gallego-announces-his-plan-to-lower-energy-costs-and-spur-innovation/", "Senator Gallego Announces His Plan to Lower Energy Costs and Spur Innovation", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "The ambitious framework focuses on affordability, reliability, innovation, and creating good-paying jobs\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Ranking Member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee\u2019s Energy Subcommittee, is unveiling his vision for America\u2019s energy future. At a time when energy costs are rising at twice the rate of inflation, Senator Gallego\u2019s plan, \u201cFostering American Energy Innovation and Affordability,\u201d takes an all-of-the-above approach with an eye to ensuring future investments are focused on the most affordable, reliable, and efficient forms of energy.\n\nRead the full plan HERE.\n\n\u201cGrowing up poor, I know what it\u2019s like to play \u2018utility roulette\u2019 \u2013 which bill will have to get skipped this month; what will we have to go without,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cBut whether you\u2019re dealing with cold winters, hot summer, or just trying to keep the lights on, electricity is an absolute necessity.\u201d\n\nSenator Gallego\u2019s plan is made up of five pillars:\n\nEmphasize Affordability\n\nInvest in Emerging Technology\n\nPrioritize Reliability\n\nLeave Nobody Behind\n\nGet Power Where It Needs to Go\n\n\u201cBy building out inexpensive solar and wind, investing in emerging technologies like advanced nuclear and geothermal, and modernizing our grid, we can make energy affordable and reliable for Americans while at the same time staying competitive on the international stage and creating union jobs you can raise a family on,\u201d the Senator continued. \u201cThe only thing standing in the way is the political will to get it done. Let\u2019s get to work.\u201d\n\nRead the full plan HERE.\n\n12/3/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-kelly-highlights-how-hegseths-incompetence-puts-servicemembers-at-risk/", "ICYMI: Kelly Highlights How Hegseth\u2019s Incompetence Puts Servicemembers at Risk", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "\u201cThis is the result of incompetence at the highest level.\u201d\n\nIn case you missed it, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly joined CNN\u2019s The Lead with Jake Tapper and MS NOW\u2019s Morning Joe to discuss the follow-up strike on a vessel in the Caribbean and highlight the dangers of Secretary Pete Hegseth\u2019s leadership at the Pentagon.\n\nSen. Kelly speaks on The Lead with Jake Tapper.\n\nWatch the full The Lead with Jake Tapper interview here and the full Morning Joe interview here. See key excepts below:\n\nFrom The Lead with Jake Tapper, on the consequences of confirming Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense\u2026\n\n\u201cThis is what happens when you put an incompetent individual in perhaps the second most important job in our country. The Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, had no business being nominated. Republicans in the Senate should not have confirmed him. And he\u2019s been there for less than a year now\u2014maybe seven or eight months\u2014and this is the result of incompetence at the highest level.\u201d\n\nFrom Morning Joe, on the lack of transparency coming from the White House\u2026\n\n\u201cThis president has said they\u2019re going to be the most transparent White House, and Pete Hegseth has said DoD is going to be transparent, but then he kicks out or requires members of the press to leave. We need to shine a pretty bright light on what happened here and get to the bottom of it and people need to be held accountable.\n\n\u201cI feel awful for members of the United States Navy. I served in the Navy for 25 years. I\u2019ve been involved in operations like this. I\u2019ve sunk two ships myself, in the first Gulf War. Stuff like this should not happen. It\u2019s pretty obvious that you do not execute survivors who are clinging on to a side of a ship.\u201d\n\nSen. Kelly speaks on Morning Joe.\n\nFrom Morning Joe, on how Hegseth\u2019s incompetence puts servicemembers at risk\u2026\n\n\u201cRules of engagement are what the U.S. military lives by. This stuff is not new. The Geneva Conventions specify how we have to treat survivors. So, the U.S. Navy got into this situation because of the incompetence of Pete Hegseth.\n\n\u201cThere is no reason why you execute survivors in the water. That is against the law.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-gallego-announce-approval-of-internet-for-all-plan-urge-trump-administration-to-preserve-full/", "Kelly, Gallego Announce Approval of Internet for All Plan, Urge Trump Administration to Preserve Full Funding for Arizona", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "NTIA approves Arizona\u2019s final BEAD plan, clearing the way for broadband developments\n\nArizona Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego announced that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved Arizona\u2019s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) final proposal, clearing the way for the state to begin drawing down funds to deploy high-speed broadband in every corner of the state.\n\nArizona\u2019s State Broadband Office successfully navigated NTIA\u2019s updated program guidance, finalizing a plan that will bring fiber technology to 118,170 locations\u2014more than 70 percent of the state\u2014with a deployment cost of $446,123,359. Under the Kelly-shaped Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Arizona was allocated $993,112,231 in BEAD funding, and as NTIA finalizes its nondeployment guidance, it remains crucial that the state receive its full allocation.\n\n\u201cEvery Arizonan, regardless of their zip code, deserves access to reliable, high-speed internet, and this final approval means many communities are one step closer to getting connected,\u201d said Kelly. \u201cBut the job isn\u2019t done. The administration needs to make all of Arizona\u2019s broadband funding available, just as Congress intended.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m glad to see that the NTIA approved Arizona\u2019s proposal for the BEAD program to expand broadband internet access to communities that need it most, like rural and Tribal areas. This program was something I fought to include in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I\u2019m excited to see these funds get to work in Arizona,\u201d said Gallego. \u201cHowever, the Trump administration\u2019s illegal and arbitrary changes to the BEAD program mean that Arizona won\u2019t be able to use all of the funds Congress set aside for our state and areas on the Hopi, White Mountain Apache, and the Yavapai-Apache Nation may be left without service. I\u2019m urging the administration to reverse these changes and release Arizona\u2019s full funds so every community can get connected.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-leads-bipartisan-resolution-honoring-50-years-of-the-ah-64-apache-and-the-soldiers-who-fly-and-maintain-it/", "Kelly Leads Bipartisan Resolution Honoring 50 Years of the AH-64 Apache and the Soldiers Who Fly and Maintain It", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Katie Britt (R-AL) Tammy Duckworth (D-ILL), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), John Hickenlooper, and Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced a Senate Resolution recognizing the achievements and contributions of the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter to the national defense of the United States and its allies. The resolution also honors the dedication, service, and sacrifice of the U.S. Army aviators, maintainers, and support personnel who operate and sustain the Apache.\n\n\u201cFor fifty years, the Apache has given our soldiers unmatched close air support and kept them safe on some of the toughest missions in the world,\u201d said Kelly, a former Navy combat pilot. \u201cArizona workers have played a major role in building and sustaining this aircraft, and I\u2019m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to honor both the Apache and the men and women who fly and maintain it.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s a tremendous honor to recognize the AH-64 Apache and its five decades of service protecting and defending the United States. I\u2019m deeply proud of the pilots, engineers, and support personnel who have all played a role in ensuring this aircraft remains one of the most advanced attack helicopters in the world. Growing up outside the gates of Fort Rucker\u2014the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence\u2014I saw firsthand how service and sacrifice run right through the Wiregrass. I look forward to seeing how Alabama\u2019s capabilities continue to strengthen America\u2019s military might long into the future,\u201d said Britt.\n\n\u201cFor five decades, military crews have relied on the AH-64 Apache helicopter to complete missions in some of the toughest combat areas in the world. I\u2019m especially proud that the AH-64 is built in Mesa, where Arizona workers manufacture this cornerstone of American aviation. This resolution honors their enormous contribution to our national defense and recognizes the pilots, maintainers, engineers, and industry partners whose work has made the AH-64 one of the most reliable aircrafts in U.S. history,\u201d said Gallego.\n\n\u201cFor decades, the Apache has been one of the most important aircraft in our military, providing unmatched strength and support to our soldiers and allies,\u201d said Tillis. \u201cThis resolution honors the brave aviators and dedicated personnel who keep the Apache flying and play a vital role in our national defense.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe AH-64 Apache first flew on September 30, 1975, and over the last five decades has logged more than 5.2 million total flight hours, including 1.3 million combat hours. It has played a decisive role in major U.S. military operations such as Desert Storm, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Inherent Resolve, and continues to support missions around the world.\n\nThe Apache has undergone continuous modernization from the AH-64A to today\u2019s AH-64E, strengthening its survivability, sensors, and precision strike capability. It is also operated by 18 allied and partner nations, enhancing coalition interoperability and global security. Arizona has served as the final assembly site for the Apache for decades, supporting thousands of jobs and a nationwide supplier network spanning 46 states.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-colleagues-trump-staffing-cuts-at-forest-service-threatening-wildfire-prevention-efforts-across-the-u-s/", "Gallego, Colleagues: Trump Staffing Cuts at Forest Service Threatening Wildfire Prevention Efforts Across the U.S.", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and 11 Senate colleagues demanded urgent answers from U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz regarding the agency\u2019s wildfire risk reduction efforts across the West and nation.\n\nTheir inquiry follows an independent analysis of publicly available data indicating that the Forest Service is approximately 38 percent behind on hazardous fuels reduction work, as compared to the previous four calendar years.\n\nThe Senators wrote to Forest Service Chief Schultz, \u201cYou have continued to maintain that the Forest Service has adequate resources and staffing to manage wildfire preparedness and response on federal lands, and that, while the Forest Service is significantly behind on hazardous fuels reduction work overall, there have been more positive results in certain regions like the Pacific Northwest. You have also claimed that in certain Western states, the Forest Service has even exceeded annual hazardous fuels reduction goals. However, it appears that to make these claims, you are referencing all Fiscal Year 2025 data, which began under the Biden Administration and includes five months of work prior to the beginning of the Trump Administration and its mass staff firings, forced retirements, and unnecessary pauses on projects.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe steep decline in hazardous fuels reduction efforts on Forest Service lands poses a serious risk to public safety, public health, and the economy. It is imperative that the Forest Service works closely with Congress to address shortfalls in wildfire mitigation and ensure staffing and budgetary resources are sufficient to fulfill the agency\u2019s mission,\u201d the Senators directed.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n12/2/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-committee-holds-hearing-on-gallegos-cross-boundary-wildfire-solutions-act/", "Senate Committee Holds Hearing on Gallego\u2019s Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources\u2019 Public Lands, Forests, and Mining Subcommittee held a hearing on Senator Ruben Gallego\u2019s (D-AZ) Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act. The bill provides recommendations for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of wildfire mitigation across land ownership boundaries by identifying gaps and opportunities in current federal rules and regulations and supporting increased collaboration.\n\nWatch Senator Gallego\u2019s opening statement at the hearing HERE, and read excerpts below:\n\n\u201cThis could not come at a more urgent time. This year, Arizona alone saw more than 200,000 acres burn across the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and the Kaibab National Forest. The Dragon Bravo Fire, one of the largest fires in Arizona history, destroyed iconic landscapes in the North Rim and devastated local businesses whose livelihoods depend on tourism,\u201d Senator Gallego said at the hearing. \u201cArizona, like many western states, is a patchwork of state, federal, Tribal, and private land. If fires are moving across these lands faster than different levels of government can coordinate and prepare for them, the fire has the advantage. As our wildfire seasons grow longer and our wildfire landscapes change, we need stronger research and better coordination to manage these fires and keep communities safe. The Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act would help get us there by improving the working relationship between federal agencies and their state, Tribal, and local counterparts.\u201d\n\nWitnesses also expressed their support for the Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act as part of the hearing.\n\n\u201cThe Forest Service supports the intent of this bill. The agency suggests broadening the focus beyond the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 as most of the agency\u2019s wildfire mitigation efforts are conducted under other authorities. The agency anticipates learning from the outcomes of the study to improve wildfire mitigation efforts,\u201d said hearing witness Christopher French, Associate Chief U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service.\n\n\u201cThe Department supports the bill and its objective of identifying and addressing barriers to effective cross-boundary wildfire mitigation across both Federal and non-Federal lands,\u201d said hearing witness Jon Raby, Nevada Bureau of Land Management State Director.\n\nThe Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act was part of a bicameral package of bills Senator Gallego introduced to improve wildfire prevention, mitigation, and management. Representative Joe Neguse (CO-02) led companion legislation in the House.\n\nThe hearing also considered the Roadless Area Conservation Act, which would codify the U.S. Forest Service\u2019s Roadless Rule protections into law. Senator Gallego led this bill alongside Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) and Andrea Salinas (OR-06). Gallego also led the effort to protect the Roadless Rule during his time in the House.\n\n12/2/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-lee-curtis-warnock-introduce-legislation-to-give-environmental-review-authority-to-transit-agencies/", "Kelly, Lee, Curtis, Warnock Introduce Legislation to Give Environmental Review Authority to Transit Agencies", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Mike Lee (R-UT), John Curtis (R-UT), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) introduced the Streamline Transit Projects Act, bipartisan legislation to improve transit project timelines and quality by allowing qualified public transit agencies to assume responsibility for environmental reviews.\n\n\u201cRight now, simple transit projects can get tied up in years of red tape. Arizonans shouldn\u2019t have to wait that long for basic upgrades,\u201d said Senator Kelly. \u201cOur bill cuts needless delays for low-impact projects by letting qualified local agencies handle routine environmental work, so commuters see the benefits sooner.\u201d\n\n\u201cUtah\u2019s transit projects will be better off without the federal government meddling in every decision and holding up construction,\u201d said Senator Lee. \u201cRight now, our local officials take responsibility for environmental reviews on highway construction \u2013 but are forced to use the federal government when it comes to transit. My Streamline Transit Projects Act will give this authority back to the states to make construction timelines faster and quality better. Don\u2019t tread on our TRAX!\u201d\n\n\u201cUtah is growing\u2014and for good reason,\u201d said Senator Curtis. \u201cPeople are drawn here by our strong economy, vibrant communities, and healthy environment. But with that growth comes challenges we must face head-on. The Streamline Transit Projects Act gives transit agencies the flexibility to meet local needs more efficiently. In Utah, that means we can move faster on projects that connect people, reduce traffic, and protect the environment we all treasure.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan legislation will give transit agencies new tools to more quickly deliver projects that meet local needs and improve the ridership experience,\u201d said Senator Reverend Warnock. \u201cBy delivering transit projects faster, we can continue to invest in a brighter, more connected future for all who call Georgia home.\u201d\n\n\u201cAPTA strongly supports the bipartisan Streamline Transit Projects Act, and commends Senators Lee, Warnock, Curtis, and Kelly for their leadership in advancing a smart, commonsense solution that will strengthen mobility nationwide. This legislation brings long-overdue modal parity by providing public transit agencies with the same authority long afforded to our highway partners. Empowering transit agencies to approve their own categorical exclusions will cut red tape, speed project delivery, and help communities realize the benefits of better public transportation sooner. Public transit agencies have the skilled environmental professionals needed to do this work and it is long-past time to give them this opportunity,\u201d said Paul P. Skoutelas, President and CEO, APTA.\n\nThe Streamline Transit Projects Act:\n\nAuthorizes the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation to enter a memorandum of understanding with interested state transit agencies to assume responsibility under NEPA for one or more transit projects.\n\nRequires participating states to determine whether certain activities are included within classes of action identified by the Secretary that are categorically excluded from requirements for environmental assessments or environmental impact statements.\n\nAllows the Secretary to terminate the assignment of responsibilities if the transit agency is not adequately carrying them out.\n\nThe Streamline Transit Projects Act is endorsed by Utah Transit Authority, Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC), and the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-kelly-blackburn-representatives-lofgren-obernolte-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-cement-u-s-as-leader-in-microchip-manufacturing/", "Senators Kelly & Blackburn, Representatives Lofgren & Obernolte Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Cement U.S. as Leader in Microchip Manufacturing", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Kelly authored and negotiated the CHIPS and Science Act, which included $52 billion to bring back semiconductor manufacturing to the United States.\n\nToday, Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced the Chip Equipment Quality, Usefulness, and Integrity Protection Act of 2024 (Chip EQUIP Act), bipartisan, bicameral legislation to prevent companies that receive CHIPS Act funding from purchasing specialized manufacturing tools or equipment made by entities owned or controlled by the Chinese government or other foreign entities of concern. A house companion was introduced by Representatives Zoe Lofgren (D-CA-18), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23), Chairman of the Research and Technology Subcommittee.\n\n\u201cThrough the CHIPS and Science Act, we\u2019ve supported historic investments in Arizona and across the country to lead the world again in semiconductor manufacturing. But that progress can be put at risk if companies use Chinese-made tools and equipment in their U.S. facilities, opening the door for our adversaries to disrupt production and gain leverage over our supply chains and national security,\u201d said Senator Kelly, a chief negotiator of the CHIPS and Science Act. \u201cWith this bill, we\u2019re taking steps to prevent that and keep this industry strong here at home.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe United States must secure its semiconductor supply chains by ensuring American semiconductor companies don\u2019t buy manufacturing tools from foreign adversaries like Communist China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran,\u201d said Senator Blackburn.\u201cThe Chip EQUIP Act would prevent U.S. labs that receive CHIPS funding from utilizing manufacturing tools made in adversarial nations.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe CHIPS and Science Act made historic investments to surge production of American-made semiconductors and address the supply chain vulnerabilities created by decades of offshoring in the semiconductor industry,\u201d said Rep. Lofgren. \u201cIt is no surprise that other nations have taken note of these investments and are working to grow their own domestic capacity. We must continue to put American manufacturing first and strengthen our supply chains to remain ahead of our adversaries, like China. This common-sense bill will ensure CHIPS investments are not used to support our adversaries\u2019 capacity to develop semiconductor manufacturing equipment. I thank my colleagues for partnering with me to protect American leadership in this critical industry.\u201d\n\n\u201cSemiconductor manufacturing underpins both our national security and our long-term economic strength,\u201d said Rep. Obernolte. \u201cThe Chip EQUIP Act ensures that the tools used in our fabrication facilities meet the highest standards of reliability and integrity, reinforcing a resilient supply chain. This legislation helps protect America\u2019s technological leadership at a moment when global competition has never been more intense.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nToday, nearly all the specialized tools and equipment used throughout the semiconductor manufacturing supply chain are made in the U.S. or allied nations like Japan and the Netherlands. However, demand is surging for Chinese-made semiconductor tools and the PRC has made continued investments in its own semiconductor industry. The latest investment in May 2024, worth $47.5 billion, will heavily focus on chip manufacturing equipment. Further, Huawei, a Chinese company, announced last year that it was building a new research and development center to develop capabilities that rival that of U.S., Japanese, and Dutch firms.\n\nThis legislation will amend Kelly\u2019s CHIPS and Science Act to clarify that if a company takes funding from this law, projects using such funding can\u2019t purchase specialized semiconductor manufacturing tools made by entities owned or controlled by adversaries such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/amid-expected-record-breaking-cyber-monday-sales-gallego-calls-on-amazon-to-explain-mass-layoffs/", "Amid Expected Record-Breaking Cyber Monday Sales, Gallego calls on Amazon to Explain Mass Layoffs", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) demanded clarity on Amazon\u2019s mass corporate layoffs amid the company\u2019s strong financial performance. Last month, the company announced that it plans to terminate 14,000 positions despite increasing revenue and share prices. Public reporting suggests total layoffs may reach 30,000 and the company acknowledges potential AI-caused worker displacement.\n\n\u201cRecent accounts have raised concerns about how these layoffs are being carried out, the broader implications for workforce stability, and whether these layoffs are just the beginning of more technology-driven downsizing,\u201d Senator Gallego wrote in a letter to Amazon CEO Andy Jassy.\n\nAmazon leadership has directly acknowledged potential AI-caused job losses. Mr. Jassy stated that \u201cas [Amazon rolls] out more Generative AI and agents, [\u2026] we will need fewer people doing some of the jobs that are being done today [\u2026] In the next few years, we expect that this will reduce our total corporate workforce.\u201d At the same time, the company has not committed to investing to retain and retrain potentially impacted workers.\n\n\u201cThese developments are significant given Amazon\u2019s scale and influence on the national labor market and warrant clarity as Congress evaluates the impact of technology-driven change and workforce reduction decisions on American workers,\u201d the Senator continued. \u201cArizona workers and communities deserve clear information about how decisions made at the corporate level will affect job stability, advancement opportunities, and the long-term health of the regional workforce.\u201d\n\nAmazon is a major employer in Arizona across fulfillment, logistics, corporate, and technology roles. Any significant shift in employment practices has consequences for families, local economies, and the state\u2019s growing technology sector.\n\n\u201cTechnological advancement should create new opportunities for the American workforce, not leave workers behind. As Amazon continues to integrate automation and artificial intelligence into its operations, it is important that these changes occur in a transparent and responsible manner,\u201d Senator Gallego concluded.\n\nSenator Gallego requested answers on:\n\nHow many jobs are being eliminated and in which states and business units;\n\nThe role of automation and AI in these reductions;\n\nThe availability of reassignment or retraining options for affected workers;\n\nHow Amazon evaluates future roles at risk of automation; and\n\nWhat investments Amazon is making to retrain workers in light of its AI deployment.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n12/1/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-backs-bipartisan-treats-act-to-strengthen-access-to-addiction-therapy-services/", "Gallego Backs Bipartisan TREATS Act to Strengthen Access to Addiction Therapy Services", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) backs the Telehealth Response for E-prescribing Addiction Therapy Services (TREATS) Act, a bipartisan bill that strengthens access to addiction treatment services through telehealth. The legislation would make permanent the telehealth flexibilities that allowed patients to receive life-saving addiction treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\n\u201cThe opioid and fentanyl epidemic has devastated Arizona families for far too long,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cIn 2023, we lost more than five Arizonans every single day to an opioid overdose, and too many others are still struggling to find help. Addiction treatment shouldn\u2019t depend on a zip code. By making these pandemic-era telehealth tools permanent through the TREATS Act, we can ensure that every Arizonan\u2014regardless of where they live\u2014has access to safe, effective treatment and the stability, recovery, and hope they deserve.\u201d\n\nThe TREATS Act permanently extends vital telehealth provisions that were introduced during the pandemic, which enabled patients to consult with licensed providers and access medication-assisted treatment without facing unnecessary barriers. By expanding flexibility for telehealth prescribing, the bill aims to make addiction treatment more accessible, especially in rural and tribal communities.\n\nRead the full bill HERE.\n\nSenator Gallego has consistently championed legislation to combat the opioid crisis, including the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act, the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, theNitazene Control Act, and the Contraband Awareness Technology Catches Harmful (CATCH) Fentanyl Act. The TREATS Act builds on these efforts, continuing Gallego\u2019s fight to provide accessible and effective addiction treatment to Arizona communities.\n\n12/1/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-ive-been-through-a-lot-worse-in-service-to-my-country-the-president-and-pete-hegseth-arent-going-to-silence-me/", "Kelly: \u201cI\u2019ve been through a lot worse in service to my country. The president and Pete Hegseth aren\u2019t going to silence me\u201d", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Today, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly held a press conference on Capitol Hill to speak out about President Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth\u2019s efforts to intimidate him and stop him from holding them accountable.\n\nSen. Kelly speaks on Capitol Hill.\n\nWatch the full press conference here. See key excerpts below:\n\nKelly contrasted his lifetime of service to the country to Trump\u2019s public record and said he will continue speaking out: \u201cIn 1991, when Donald Trump was driving the Taj Mahal Casino into bankruptcy, I was getting shot at over Iraq and Kuwait. In 2001, after Donald Trump said that the collapse of the Twin Towers meant he now owned the tallest skyscraper in Manhattan, I was carrying flags honoring 9/11 victims into space on a rocket ship. In 2003, when Donald Trump was writing birthday greetings to the monster Jeffrey Epstein, I was the first on the scene to recover the bodies of my fellow astronauts who died when Space Shuttle Columbia exploded. In 2011, when Trump was hosting a reality show and pushing conspiracies against President Barack Obama, I was sitting next to my wife\u2019s hospital bed as she recovered from a gunshot to the head.\n\n\u201cMy point is this: I\u2019ve been through a lot worse in service to my country. The president and Pete Hegseth aren\u2019t going to silence me. They aren\u2019t going to keep me from speaking out. And they aren\u2019t going to stop me from doing my job. Enough of the bullying. Enough of the intimidation. Enough of the threats. Enough of the nonsense. It doesn\u2019t help anyone in America afford their groceries or pay their medical bills. And it erodes the rights of every American. My job is to fight for them and to stand up for the Constitution. And nothing is going to stop me from doing my job.\u201d\n\nKelly highlighted Trump\u2019s longstanding tactic of bullying his opponents into silence: \u201cThroughout his entire career\u2014in business, reality TV, and politics\u2014Donald Trump has had one and only one play: bully his opponents into silence. He did it as a failed casino owner who bankrupted his properties and screwed over his contractors. He did it as a reality TV host known for firing people. And he has done it as a President who tries every day to intimidate people, with no regard for the rights or well-being of the American people.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ll say this for him: while he\u2019s never seemed to do much else right, for most of Donald Trump\u2019s career, bullying people has worked out for him. But not now. Because I won\u2019t let it. The American people won\u2019t let it. President Trump is trying to silence me\u2014threatening to kill me\u2014 for saying what is true. He\u2019s sent his Secretary of Defense after me. And it\u2019s not going to work.\u201d\n\nKelly condemned the administration\u2019s abuse of power: \u201cTrump and Hegseth care more about publicity than they do about the rule of law. That\u2019s how I ended up finding out via a tweet that the Secretary of Defense was ordering an investigation into me. The same Secretary of Defense who has, from the moment he was nominated, been historically unqualified for this role. The same Secretary of Defense who is reported to have ordered a second strike to kill shipwrecked survivors in the Caribbean. If there is anyone who needs to answer questions in public and under oath, it\u2019s Pete Hegseth.\u201d\n\nKelly further made clear this isn\u2019t about him, but about who the president will try to bully into silence next: \u201cIt\u2019s not about me. It\u2019s not about the other five members in the video. [\u2026] This is about a president who doesn\u2019t want anybody to say anything that he does not like. I don\u2019t think he understands the Constitution. I\u2019m serious about this. I think he is ignorant to the Constitution and the rule of law. And he just wants to silence us, and it starts with us. And that\u2019s one of the reasons people say, \u2018well, why wouldn\u2019t you like, just back off?\u2019 Because this isn\u2019t about me. This is about what he will do next. Who\u2019s he going to go after next? Which servicemember? Which government employee? Which citizen who decides to say something that this president doesn\u2019t like? And then he goes after them, in my case, with the Secretary of Defense. Who knows what\u2019s next? With the attorney general? This DOJ has been just attacking people for all kinds of stuff. And what\u2019s next? Our First Amendment rights? Ain\u2019t happening.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-on-state-of-the-union-and-meet-the-press-kelly-pushes-back-against-trump-administration-efforts-to-silence-him/", "ICYMI: On State of the Union and Meet the Press, Kelly Pushes Back Against Trump Administration Efforts to Silence Him", "2025-11-30", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "\u201cWhat he is doing is sending a very chilling message across our entire nation, not only in the military, but the civilian workforce\u2026Why would anyone speak out if they can go and try to prosecute a U.S. senator?\u201d\n\n\u201cHe\u2019s not going to stop me from speaking out and holding him accountable for the things that he does that are wrong and unlawful.\u201d\n\nIn case you missed it, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly joined CNN\u2019s State of the Union and NBC\u2019s Meet the Press this morning to call out efforts by President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to silence him for stating what the law says. Kelly made clear he will continue holding the administration accountable and won\u2019t back down.\n\nWatch the full State of the Union interview here and the full Meet the Press interview here. See key excerpts below:\n\nFrom State of the Union, on the investigation\u2026\n\n\u201cWe said something very simple and non-controversial, and the President of the United States said, \u2018Hang them. Execute them. Prosecute them.\u2019 In my case, Secretary Hegseth said, \u2018Prosecute him under the Uniform Code of Military Justice,\u2019 for reciting the Uniform Code of Military Justice. It\u2019s obviously ridiculous, but this is an attempt to silence me, to get me to not hold this administration accountable.\n\n\u201cWe have a president who doesn\u2019t understand the Constitution, who installed an unqualified Secretary of Defense. I cannot think of a Secretary of Defense in the history of our country that is less qualified than Pete Hegseth. He should not be in this position. He should have been fired after Signalgate.\n\n\u201cBut, Dana, I\u2019m not backing down. These guys don\u2019t scare me. They\u2019re not serious people. I mean, the President of the United States and the Secretary of Defense. Neither of them.\u201d\n\nFrom State of the Union, on the dangers of attempting to punish dissent\u2026\n\n\u201cWhat he is doing is sending a very chilling message across our entire nation, not only in the military, but the civilian workforce. Who\u2019s going to speak up and say anything if they see something that\u2019s unlawful or see something\u2014waste, fraud, and abuse? Why would anyone speak out if they can go and prosecute a U.S. senator?\n\n\u201cI was notified about this through a tweet, the same tweet that you saw. And that demonstrates how unserious this administration is. They care more about the publicity about this than the process or the law. I haven\u2019t been notified by the Navy.\u201d\n\nFrom Meet the Press, on refusing to be intimated by Trump and Hegseth\u2026\n\n\u201cPete Hegseth says that I should be court-martialed. I mean, how ridiculous is this? We say \u2018follow the law,\u2019 and this is their response. These are not serious people. And, Kristen, this is meant to just intimidate us. We\u2019re sticking up for the Constitution here, and the rule of law, and they\u2019re saying these folks should be executed for doing that.\n\n\u201cThis president thinks he can bully and intimidate people. He\u2019s not going to stop me from speaking out and holding him accountable for the things that he does that are wrong and unlawful. \u201cJust like saying that we should be hanged, executed\u2014that\u2019s about intimidation. Sending the FBI after us\u2014that\u2019s further intimidation. I\u2019ll follow the law, but I\u2019m not going to be intimidated. I\u2019m not going to be bullied. Especially by Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://stanton.house.gov/2025/11/stanton-ansari-grijalva-call-on-hegseth-to-close-investigation-into-war-hero-sen-mark-kelly", "Stanton, Ansari, Grijalva Call on Hegseth to Close Investigation into \u2018War Hero\u2019 Sen. Mark Kelly", "2025-11-28", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Greg Stanton", "S001211", "stanton.house.gov", "stanton", "https://stanton.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Arizona Congressman Greg Stanton, together with Congresswomen Yassamin Ansari and Adelita Grijalva, called on Secretary Pete Hegeth to immediately close the Department of Defense\u2019s investigation of Senator Mark Kelly.\n\n\u201cSenator Kelly understands military discipline, constitutional command authority, and knows what service to America looks like,\u201d the Members write. \u201cOpening an investigation into Sen. Kelly on the purported \u201cserious allegations of misconduct\u201d because he accurately reaffirmed the legal duty to follow lawful orders is inconsistent with the Constitution and incompatible with the Department\u2019s tradition of nonpartisanship.\u201d\n\nTheir full letter is HERE and below.\n\n\u2014\n\nSecretary Hegseth:\n\nWe write today in strong opposition to your Department\u2019s investigation of Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona.\n\nLast week, Senator Kelly and five other Members of Congress who previously served in the U.S. military or intelligence community released a video restating a core principle of current law and military doctrine: service members must obey lawful orders and are not required to carry out unlawful ones.\n\nIn response, the president and other senior officials publicly labeled the video \u201cseditious\u201d and the president stated the Members\u2019 conduct was \u201cpunishable by death.\u201d Such rhetoric is reckless. It invites political violence, endangers public servants, and deters free speech. Your own public comments referring to these Members as the \u201cSeditious Six\u201d compounds these concerns. As these duly-elected Members continue to receive death threats, we respectfully request that you stop using such dangerous rhetoric.\n\nSenator Kelly has had a long and distinguished career. He is a war hero who has served in more than 39 combat missions in Desert Storm and commanded four Space Shuttle missions. He was part of the recovery mission that brought home the bodies of his astronaut classmates who died in the Columbia disaster. Senator Kelly understands military discipline, constitutional command authority, and knows what service to America looks like.\n\nOpening an investigation into Sen. Kelly on the purported \u201cserious allegations of misconduct\u201d because he accurately reaffirmed the legal duty to follow lawful orders is inconsistent with the Constitution and incompatible with the Department\u2019s tradition of nonpartisanship. Free speech is protected for Members of Congress, just like the general public, and restating settled law is by no means sedition.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-warns-trump-administrations-immigration-policies-are-hurting-americas-tourism-economy/", "Gallego Warns Trump Administration\u2019s Immigration Policies are Hurting America\u2019s Tourism Economy", "2025-11-26", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) urged the Trump administration to reverse its immigration policies that are discouraging international visitors and threatening millions of American jobs and small businesses that rely on foreign tourism.\n\n\u201cI write to express concern regarding the impact your administration\u2019s aggressive, chaotic, and restrictive immigration policies are having on the nation\u2019s tourism and travel industry,\u201d Senator Gallego wrote in a letter to President Trump, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. \u201cInternational tourists spend billions in local communities across the country each year. This spending supports American jobs in the hospitality, restaurant, bartending, tour, event, retail, and airline industries. If these policies continue, small businesses, hard-working American workers, and middle-class families will suffer.\u201d\n\nIn 2024, 5.3 million international tourists visited Arizona, spending a total of $3.4 billion. Across the country, international visitors contributed $181 billion in total economic output and supported 15 million jobs.\n\n\u201cHowever, your administration has implemented a series of policies that have put this prosperity in jeopardy. These policies include a new fee on tourist visas, making it one of the highest visitor fees in the world; a partial or full travel ban on 19 countries; more aggressive and frequent searches of international visitors at airports and other ports of entry; significant visa processing delays; and aggressive immigration raids across the country,\u201d the Senator continued. \u201cThese actions have signaled to the world that the U.S. is closed for business, and the consequences speak for themselves.\u201d\n\nSince the beginning of 2025, countries across the world, including the UK, Canada, France, and Germany, have issued travel warnings for individuals considering visiting the U.S. The World Travel & Tourism Council report the U.S. is on track to lose $12.5 billion in international visitor spending, making it the only country surveyed expected to see a decline this year.\n\n\u201cThese trends are even more concerning when you consider that the U.S. is preparing to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is projected to generate $47 billion in economic output. If the current policies continue, we risk squandering this once-in-a-generation opportunity,\u201d the Senator concluded. \u201cIn light of these obvious harms, I strongly urge the administration to reconsider the policies that are causing serious damage to international tourism and the economy. If the U.S. continues to be an unwelcoming destination for visitors, hard-working Americans, small businesses, and middle-class families will pay the price.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\nEarlier this year, Senator Gallego introduced the Canadian Snowbirds Act to support Arizona\u2019s tourism and economy by extending the length of time Canadian citizens can stay in the United States annually.\n\n11/26/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://grijalva.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-adelita-s-grijalva-introduces-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-national-native-american-heritage-month", "Congresswoman Adelita S. Grijalva Introduces Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing National Native American Heritage Month", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Adelita S. Grijalva", "G000606", "grijalva.house.gov", "grijalva", "https://grijalva.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Adelita S. Grijalva (AZ-07) introduced a bipartisan House Resolution recognizing National Native American Heritage Month and celebrating the cultural, historical, and economic contributions of Native American communities across the United States. The resolution reaffirms the federal government\u2019s commitment to Tribal sovereignty, self-governance, and the nation-to-nation relationship between the United States and Tribal Nations. The resolution is co-sponsored by Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK-04), Rep. Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), Rep. Nicholas Begich (R-AK), Rep. Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-NM-03), Rep. Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01), and Rep. David Joyce (R-OH-14).\n\n\u201cArizona is home to 22 sovereign Tribal Nations whose cultures, languages, and histories have shaped our state,\u201d said Congresswoman Grijalva. \u201cAs we celebrate National Native American Heritage Month, we honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of Native communities across the country. Right now it is essential we recommit ourselves to respecting Tribal sovereignty, protecting Native languages, and ensuring that federal policy reflects the needs of Indian Country. This starts with supporting tribal self-determination, strengthening our Nation-to-Nation relationships, and requiring a meaningful consultation process. That is the work I am committed to on the Natural Resources Committee and across Congress.\u201d\n\nThe resolution also highlights the rich heritage of Native Americans, their enduring traditions, and their profound influence on the development of the United States \u2013 from language and agriculture to governance and democratic principles. It also acknowledges the service of Native Americans in the Armed Forces, their role as code talkers during World Wars I and II, and their continued leadership in education, entrepreneurship, the arts, and public life.\n\nThe full text of the resolution is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-joins-food-banks-across-arizona-ahead-of-thanksgiving/", "Gallego Joins Food Banks Across Arizona Ahead of Thanksgiving", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "ARIZONA \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) visited food banks across Arizona this week to meet with staff and volunteers, learn more about their operations, and thank them for their service to working families ahead of the holiday season.\n\nOn Monday, Senator Gallego visited the Santa Cruz Valley Food Pantry in Eloy and the St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank in Casa Grande. Today, he visited the Nourish Food Distribution Center in Phoenix.\n\nSenator Gallego assists volunteers at Santa Cruz Food Bank in Eloy, AZ\n\n\u201cOne of the things I\u2019ve always asked is: Is demand up? What\u2019s happening? Are you getting enough food? Are you getting enough support? And unfortunately, we\u2019re hearing yes, that demand is up. They\u2019re able to meet demand thanks to a lot of great support \u2014 corporate, nonprofit support, and volunteers. But it\u2019s scary that there\u2019s a lot of people who need these type of food boxes,\u201d said Senator Gallego in Phoenix.\n\nSenator Gallego assists volunteers at Nourish Food Pantry in Phoenix, AZ\n\n\u201cOne message I have for families who are struggling right now [is] \u2018I\u2019m sorry you\u2019re struggling.\u2019 I\u2019ve been in your situation, and you will get through this, but don\u2019t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. There\u2019s great organizations like Nourish,\u201d said Senator Gallego in Phoenix. \u201cPlease go talk to them and see what else [they] can do. You deserve to be comfortable, and your family deserves to have a good Thanksgiving meal too, and that\u2019s why we\u2019re here.\u201d\n\nSenator Gallego thanks staff and volunteers at St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank in Casa Grande, AZ\n\n11/25/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-moran-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-bolster-small-transit-intensive-cities-program/", "Gallego, Moran Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Bolster Small Transit Intensive Cities Program", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Jerry Moran (R-KS)introduced bipartisan legislation to bolster the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Small Transit Intensive Cities (STIC) program by increasing the Section 5307 grant allotment \u2013 which the STIC program utilizes \u2013 from 3 percent to 5 percent to help increase the efficiency and capacity of public transportation in communities with populations between 50,000 and 200,000. The allotment does not necessitate an increase in federal spending; it simply allocates existing funding where it is needed most and rewards high-performing STIC participants.\n\n\u201cSmall urban areas like Flagstaff, Sierra Vista, and Yuma are doing all they can to keep up with demand for affordable, reliable public transportation,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cThis bill gives these already successful systems the resources they need to expand service and connect even more Arizonans to their jobs, school, and health care. I\u2019m proud to lead this bipartisan bill to support local infrastructure projects.\u201d\n\n\u201cPublic transportation provides critical services to communities in Kansas and across the country as people travel to work, doctor\u2019s appointments and more,\u201d said Senator Moran. \u201cThis legislation will build on the success of the Small Transit Intensive Cities Program and help to make certain high-performing public transit systems in smaller urban or suburban communities can receive the same access to federal investment as higher population areas.\u201d\n\n\u201cSmall city transit operators are among the most effective and efficient in the nation,\u201dsaid Scott Bogren, Executive Director of the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA). \u201cCTAA and its members strongly support S.2957 that further rewards high performance for these agencies. We\u2019re pleased to be working with Senators Moran and Gallego on this important legislation.\u201d\n\nThe STIC Program is an existing FTA program that rewards high transit performance by providing funds to small-urban transit providers. The populations of these communities are between 50,000 and 200,000, and the resources are based on meeting at least one of six measurable performance criteria established annually by the average service levels of larger public transit agencies.\n\nArizona communities that fall within the population threshold for STIC include Flagstaff, Sierra Vista, and Yuma. When a public transit agency exceeds the average service level of a large transit agency, it is rewarded with additional federal transit investment. This funding has allowed smaller transit systems to fund projects that increase the efficiency and capacity of public transportation nationwide.\n\nFull text of the legislation can be found HERE.\n\n11/25/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-hosts-veterans-town-hall-in-casa-grande/", "Gallego Hosts Veterans Town Hall in Casa Grande", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "CASA GRANDE \u2013 Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) hosted a Veterans Town Hall in Casa Grande to hear directly from veterans in Congressional District 6 about the challenges they\u2019re facing, from VA cuts to Trump\u2019s deployment of the National Guard in American cities. This is Senator Gallego\u2019s fourth Veterans Town Hall.\n\nAt the town hall, Senator Gallego spoke about the rise in fraud targeting veterans and encouraged attendees to work with their local Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) to help avoid scams. Representatives from the Arizona Attorney General\u2019s Office were also available to provide attendees with resources. Earlier this year, Senator Gallego supported the Veterans Fraud Reimbursement Actto make it easier for veterans with disabilities to be made financially whole in the event they are defrauded of their benefits.\n\nSenator Gallego also highlighted his work to reverse the Trump administration\u2019s DOGE cuts to the VA earlier this year that resulted in fewer veterans\u2019 services and undermined our nation\u2019s commitments to its veterans.\n\n\u201cSince my time in the House of Representatives and on the VA committee, one thing we\u2019ve always said is that we needed always to have more staff at the VA and we need to have more services because we have a growing population. [\u2026] This has been something that\u2019s been a bipartisan issue until this year,\u201d Senator Gallego said. \u201cWe get into this administration, and right away, there is a promise that they\u2019re going to cut 75,000 VA employees. Now, bigger is not always better. We all understand that we don\u2019t want bureaucracy. We don\u2019t want bloat. But my issue is \u2013 and I am on the VA committee \u2013 is where did this number come from? [\u2026] There was never a report or plan or anything. They just said, we\u2019re going to cut 75,000 people.\u201d\n\nAfter intense pushback from Senator Gallego, the VA announced that it would significantly scale back its planned cuts in July. Still, cuts to many veterans\u2019 services provided by contractors will impact critical programs.\n\nSenator Gallego also spoke about the Department of Defense\u2019s new investigation into fellow Arizona Senator Mark Kelly for his participation in a video reminding members of the military they are under no obligation to comply with illegal orders.\n\n\u201cWhat they were saying was perfectly sane and in line. What we need to understand is not what it says about them. It\u2019s what it says about Donald Trump that he thought what he was hearing was illegal. They\u2019re just restating the Constitution of the United States and the oath that we all take. Why does he think that is such a threat?\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cThe idea that any member of Congress \u2013 Senator or [in the] House of Representatives \u2013 should be able to be bullied by the executive, should scare us. It needs to be a clear separation of powers issue. [\u2026] You want your members of Congress to be independent of the presidency. If that\u2019s always in the back of their minds, thinking that something\u2019s coming down the pike, you\u2019re never going to have someone that\u2019s going to be able to step out.\u201d\n\nIn response to a question on the Trump administration deploying the National Guard in U.S. cities, Gallego said: \u201cI do think it\u2019s illegal. I do think that we should not be using U.S. military for civil enforcement. [\u2026] You shouldn\u2019t be using the military to answer all your questions or all your problems. [\u2026] They want to get a reaction from the civilians. [\u2026] They want the drama. They want Americans fighting each other on camera, so that way he could call up more and try to take more power. So I just tell people, like, don\u2019t fall for it.\u201d\n\n\u201cMost of us here served in the military. The military has a very certain role, and that role does not include civil law enforcement. That is and should always be done by local government.\u201d\n\nAt the start of the town hall, Senator Gallego presented Marine Corps League VFW Post 1677 with a proclamation honoring the Marine Corps\u2019 250th anniversary and thanked Arizona\u2019s Marine community for their continued service and leadership. This is the 5th birthday proclamation Senator Gallego has given to local Arizona Marine Corps posts this year.\n\n11/24/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/statement-from-senator-kelly/", "Statement from Senator Kelly", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Today, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly released the following statement:\n\n\u201cWhen I was 22 years old, I commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy and swore an oath to the Constitution. I upheld that oath through flight school, multiple deployments on the USS Midway, 39 combat missions in Operation Desert Storm, test pilot school, four space shuttle flights at NASA, and every day since I retired \u2013 which I did after my wife Gabby was shot in the head while serving her constituents.\n\n\u201cIn combat, I had a missile blow up next to my jet and flew through anti-aircraft fire to drop bombs on enemy targets. At NASA, I launched on a rocket, commanded the space shuttle, and was part of the recovery mission that brought home the bodies of my astronaut classmates who died on Columbia. I did all of this in service to this country that I love and has given me so much.\n\n\u201cSecretary Hegseth\u2019s tweet is the first I heard of this. I also saw the President\u2019s posts saying I should be arrested, hanged, and put to death.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-colleagues-demand-answers-on-trump-admins-failure-to-protect-workers-from-coercive-employer-driven-debt/", "Gallego, Colleagues Demand Answers on Trump Admin\u2019s Failure to Protect Workers from Coercive Employer-Driven Debt", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Following a series of anti-worker actions taken by the Trump Administration, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and 44 members of both the House and Senate today sent a series of bicameral letters to the leaders of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) demanding answers about the administration\u2019s rollback of protections from coercive employment agreements, including training repayment agreement provisions (TRAPs).\n\nThe bicameral letters mark the first time Congress has engaged in an oversight probe into the Trump Administration\u2019s efforts to dismantle worker protections intended to address the growing use of coercive employer-driven debt agreements like TRAPs.\n\nTRAPs have become increasingly prevalent across the United States, with serious consequences for workers. A 2024 study found that 1-in-12 workers in the U.S. are subject to a TRAP, with the percentage growing from 4.1 percent in 2014 to 8.7 percent in 2020. TRAPs are a type of \u201cstay-or-pay\u201d contract scheme that shifts the financial responsibility for training, equipment, and even alleged lost profits onto workers if a worker exits their job before a date set by the employer that can range from months to years. These contracts have been used to hold employees responsible for up to $75,000, and in some instances, exceeds the amount in which a worker was ever compensated.\n\nIn the letters, the lawmakers say that across the Trump Administration, \u201cfederal regulators and enforcement officials have retreated from a comprehensive, government-wide effort to protect workers from these predatory contracts.\u201d For instance, the letters note that the announcement of a multistate settlement announced in July 2025 with HCA Healthcare disclosed for the first time that the investigation was conducted jointly with the CFPB during the Biden Administration; however, the CFPB was not part of the settlement announced earlier this year, raising concerns that the agency \u201cmay no longer be prioritizing its role in constraining employers\u2019 use of debt to exploit workers.\u201d\n\nThe letters also note that the DOL has been silent on TRAPs since the start of the Trump administration, after years of shining a spotlight on coercive training agreements; similarly, the Trump-led NLRB rescinded key guidance outlining how regional agency offices should approach such agreements. The FTC under Trump has also refused to defend a landmark and broadly popular rule banning noncompete agreements, which are contractual clauses that prevent workers from working for competitors of the employer. These anti-worker, anticompetitive practices can prevent Americans from getting better, higher-paying jobs.\n\nThe letters to the agency heads request answers to numerous questions related to protecting workers from anticompetitive coercive TRAPs, including: a) the number of investigations or lawsuits related to employer-driven debt or training-related repayment obligations that the CFPB has closed; b) the number of cases regarding stay-or-pay contracts, including TRAPs, that the DOL has withdrawn or settled; c) an explanation of how the FTC\u2019s new approach to one-off enforcement actions will provide a meaningful substitute for the agency\u2019s market-wide non-compete rule; and, d) an explanation of NLRB\u2019s approach to handling complaints involving stay-or-pay contracts, such as TRAPs. The letters request a response from each agency by December 19, 2025.\n\nThe letters are endorsed by Protect Borrowers, National Nurses United (NNU), Consumer Federation of America, Towards Justice, National Employment Law Project (NELP), P Street, Open Markets Institute (OMI), Economic Security Project Action, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), American Economic Liberties Project, and Service Employees International Union (SEIU).\n\nRead the letters HERE.\n\n11/21/25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.gallego.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gallego-leads-western-senators-in-calling-for-emergency-funding-for-wildfire-recovery-on-federal-lands/", "Gallego Leads Western Senators in Calling for Emergency Funding for Wildfire Recovery on Federal Lands", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Ruben Gallego", "G000574", "www.gallego.senate.gov", "gallego", "https://www.gallego.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) led nine Senate colleagues in calling on Appropriations Subcommittee leadership for additional funding to support wildfire recovery on federal lands. In a letter to Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) and Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), the senators pressed for additional resources to help National Parks, National Forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands recover from this year\u2019s devastating wildfires. Since damage to federal lands is not covered by FEMA funding, federal land agencies are responsible for cleanup and restoration on their own.\n\nAppropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Ranking Member Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), as well as Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) also signed the letter.\n\n\u201cWe write to request that any emergency disaster appropriations bills drafted this year include funding for wildfire recovery on federal lands,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cRepairing wildfire damages to National Parks, National Forests, and Bureau of Land Management Lands is vital for the safety and economies of the entire country. Just as our forests and parks require restoration, so too do the surrounding counties and communities that bear the economic and infrastructure impacts of these disasters; their recovery is inseparable from that of the federal lands themselves.\u201d\n\nNearly one million acres of BLM land burned across the West in 2025 alone. The Dragon Bravo and White Sage fires burned more than 200,000 acres on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and the Kaibab National Forest, destroying structures including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge in Coconino County, who endorsed the letter. In addition, fires at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado, Joshua Tree National Park in California, the Gila National Forest in New Mexico, and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Oregon have all had wildfires this year.\n\n\u201cAs you know, unlike wildfire response activities on state, tribal, or private lands which are coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), wildfire response on federal land is managed by the land agencies themselves. In the past, Congress has appropriated the funds our public land agencies require for their critical response, remediation, and mitigation activities,\u201d the senators continued. \u201cEnsuring that federal lands are restored after wildfires is a responsibility to our shared, national heritage.\u201d\n\n\u201cCoconino County is no stranger to wildfires and their impacts to our economy, infrastructure, and tourism. This year\u2019s wildfires were no exception, destroying more than 200,000 acres of public lands in the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park and the Kaibab National Forest. The Dragon Bravo Fire, one of the largest in Arizona history, devastated the North Rim and has caused significant impacts to area businesses whose livelihoods depend on tourism. Coconino County deeply appreciates Senator Kelly and Senator Gallego for their leadership to make sure the federal government is with Coconino County every step of the way in our recovery from these wildfires,\u201d said Coconino County Supervisor Lena Fowler.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n11.21.25", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-gallego-western-senators-call-for-emergency-funding-for-wildfire-recovery-on-federal-lands/", "Kelly, Gallego, Western Senators Call for Emergency Funding for Wildfire Recovery on Federal Lands", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Today, Arizona Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), along with nine other Senate colleagues, called on Senate Appropriations leadership to provide the funds needed to support recovery and restoration efforts on federal lands following this year\u2019s devastating wildfires.\n\nIn a letter to Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) and Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), the senators pressed for more resources to help National Parks, National Forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands recover. Because damage to federal lands is not covered by FEMA, federal land agencies are responsible for cleanup and restoration.\n\n\u201cWe write to request that any emergency disaster appropriations bills drafted this year include funding for wildfire recovery on federal lands,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cRepairing wildfire damages to National Parks, National Forests, and Bureau of Land Management Lands is vital for the safety and economies of the entire country. Just as our forests and parks require restoration, so too do the surrounding counties and communities that bear the economic and infrastructure impacts of these disasters; their recovery is inseparable from that of the federal lands themselves.\u201d\n\nNearly one million acres of BLM land burned across the West in 2025. The Dragon Bravo and White Sage fires burned more than 200,000 acres on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and the Kaibab National Forest, destroying structures including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge in Coconino County. In addition, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado, Joshua Tree National Park in California, the Gila National Forest in New Mexico, and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Oregon have all suffered from large wildfires this year.\n\n\u201cAs you know, unlike wildfire response activities on state, tribal, or private lands which are coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), wildfire response on federal land is managed by the land agencies themselves. In the past, Congress has appropriated the funds our public land agencies require for their critical response, remediation, and mitigation activities,\u201d the senators continued. \u201cEnsuring that federal lands are restored after wildfires is a responsibility to our shared, national heritage.\u201d\n\nCoconino County Supervisor Lena Fowler said: \u201cCoconino County is no stranger to wildfires and their impacts to our economy, infrastructure, and tourism. This year\u2019s wildfires were no exception, destroying more than 200,000 acres of public lands in the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park and the Kaibab National Forest. The Dragon Bravo Fire, one of the largest in Arizona history, devastated the North Rim and has caused significant impacts to area businesses whose livelihoods depend on tourism. Coconino County deeply appreciates Senator Kelly and Senator Gallego for their leadership to make sure the federal government is with Coconino County every step of the way in our recovery from these wildfires.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Kelly and Gallego, the letter was signed by Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Ranking Chair Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), as well as Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/kelly-lummis-bill-to-improve-cleanup-of-abandoned-hardrock-mines-passes-senate/", "Kelly, Lummis Bill to Improve Cleanup of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Passes Senate", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "This week, the Senate unanimously passed Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Cynthia Lummis\u2019 (R-WY) Legacy Mine Clean Up Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would cut bureaucratic red tape and hold the federal government accountable for better coordinating efforts to clean up abandoned uranium, copper, gold, and other hardrock mines that continue to pose environmental and public health risks.\n\n\u201cIn Arizona, abandoned uranium mines continue to threaten the health of our families, our land, and our water,\u201d said Kelly. \u201cBy cutting red tape, strengthening accountability, and improving coordination, we can accelerate cleanups and protect communities, especially tribal nations that have carried this burden for far too long. I\u2019m glad to see this moving forward, and I\u2019m going to keep pushing until these long-overdue cleanups get done.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am thrilled to see the Legacy Mine Cleanup Act pass the Senate,\u201d said Lummis. \u201cStewarding land and resources in the west requires a region-specific approach, not the one-size-fits-all bandages Washington is so fond of. Codifying the Office of Mountains, Deserts, and Plains ensures our western landscapes are preserved and our way of life is protected.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the Legacy Mine Cleanup Act would:\n\nEstablish OMDP with three primary goals:\n\nCreate accountability: Maintain an \u201cemphasis list\u201d of abandoned mine sites to be prioritized for cleanup and regularly report on cleanup progress. Assume responsibility for regularly updating the Interagency Plan to Address Uranium Contamination on the Navajo Nation.\n\nCoordinate stakeholders: Work with EPA regional offices, federal agencies, state and local governments, Good Samaritans, and Tribal nations to promote community engagement, improve interagency coordination, and identify roadblocks to completing cleanups. Provide administrative and technical assistance to state, local, and Tribal stakeholders.\n\nFacilitate cleanups: Identify agency-wide process improvements, research new technologies, and highlight best practices to enable faster cleanups. Work with conservation organizations to facilitate voluntary projects that improve conditions at abandoned mines.\n\nProvide dedicated funding to assist Tribal communities with hardrock mine cleanup projects.\n\nCut bureaucratic red tape to allow Tribes to more easily receive assistance in cleaning up abandoned hardrock mines.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Government Accountability Office estimates there are approximately 140,000 abandoned hardrock mines in the United States, largely in the West. Unsecured mine tunnels, toxic waste piles, and other hazards, known as mine features, are found at abandoned hardrock mines across federal and nonfederal lands. Kelly and Lummis\u2019 legislation would establish the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s Office of Mountains, Deserts, and Plains (OMDP) to help accelerate cleanup of abandoned mine sites by implementing best practices, improving coordination with state and Tribal partners, and maintaining a list of mine sites prioritized for cleanup.\n\nThe Legacy Mine Cleanup Act builds on Kelly\u2019s broader efforts to accelerate the cleanup of abandoned mines. Last year, Kelly\u2019s Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to cut red tape and make it easier for \u201cGood Samaritans\u201d such as state agencies, nonprofits, and other groups to clean up and improve water quality around abandoned mines, was signed into law. Kelly has also secured funding for cleanup of abandoned uranium mines on the Navajo Nation, championed legislation to support innovative paths to cleanup, and repeatedly raised these issues with administration officials.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watch-in-senate-epw-hearing-kelly-presses-for-action-on-pfas-cleanup-delays-to-protect-arizonas-water/", "WATCH: In Senate EPW Hearing, Kelly Presses for Action on PFAS Cleanup Delays to Protect Arizona\u2019s Water", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "AZ", "Mark Kelly", "K000377", "www.kelly.senate.gov", "markkelly", "https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "This week, during a Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee hearing, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly pressed for action to address PFAS contamination threatening groundwater supplies across Arizona, particularly in fast-growing and drought-stricken communities that rely heavily on aquifers for drinking water.\n\nKelly highlighted the severe impact PFAS has already had on Arizona\u2019s water systems: \u201cIn Arizona, in the face of long-term drought, groundwater remains a critical source of drinking water for so many communities across our state and many of those communities even bank water underground to prepare for future shortages. But now we face a serious challenge from PFAS contamination in many of those aquifers. In Tucson, for example, PFAS forced the city to shut down nearly 30 groundwater wells, resulting in more than $71,000,000.00 in clean up and treatment costs. Clearly, there is a problem here that we need to solve. CERCLA (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act), as was previously mentioned, sometimes known as the Superfund law, has shown promise as a tool to address these challenges.\u201d\n\nKelly warned that the Department of Defense has continued to stall, delaying cleanup efforts in Arizona and across the country: \u201cLast October, EPA approved an Air Force plan to ensure safe drinking water and undertake PFAS cleanup efforts in Tucson, where my wife and I live and my granddaughter lives. Under that agreement the Air Force will work with the City of Tucson to investigate PFAS releases from nearby facilities, yet the Department of Defense is still dragging its feet, delaying this and other cleanups nationwide for years. Without CERCLA though, these cleanups might not happen at all.\u201d\n\nKelly also joined 27 of his democratic colleagues in demanding that the Trump administration reverse its decision to delay the cleanup of PFAS at military installations across the country and take action to protect military families and nearby communities by addressing contamination at the affected sites. Earlier this year, Kelly also introduced bipartisan legislation to address PFAS contamination in private wells.\n\nSen. Kelly questions witnesses at a Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee hearing.\n\nClick here to download a video of Kelly\u2019s remarks. See the transcript below:\n\nSen. Kelly: Thank you, Madam Chair. And thank you, all of you, for being here today.\n\nAs I\u2019ve discussed this committee previously, remediating PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination in Arizona\u2019s aquifers is an urgent priority, and I was happy to be here during Senator Alsobrooks\u2019 questions. I\u2019ve got a couple more on the topic.\n\nIn Arizona, in the face of long-term drought, groundwater remains a critical source of drinking water for so many communities across our state and many of those communities even bank water underground to prepare for future shortages.\n\nBut now we face a serious challenge from PFAS contamination in many of those aquifers. In Tucson, for example, PFAS forced the city to shut down nearly 30 groundwater wells, resulting in more than $71,000,000.00 in clean up and treatment costs. Clearly, there is a problem here that we need to solve. CERCLA (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act), as was previously mentioned, sometimes known as the Superfund law, has shown promise as a tool to address these challenges.\n\nLast October, EPA approved an Air Force plan to ensure safe drinking water and undertake PFAS cleanup efforts in Tucson, where my wife and I live and my granddaughter lives. Under that agreement the Air Force will work with the City of Tucson to investigate PFAS releases from nearby facilities, yet the Department of Defense is still dragging its feet, delaying this and other cleanups nationwide for years.\n\nWithout CERCLA though, these cleanups might not happen at all. So, my question to each of you is: is CERCLA the proper tool to address our nation\u2019s PFAS contamination problem? And if it isn\u2019t, what authorities should Congress leverage instead? We\u2019ll start with Mr. Gerstenberg.\n\nEric Gerstenberg, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Clean Harbors: Thank you, Senator Kelly.\n\nWe believe that CERCLA is a good foundational tool to be able to address it, and similar stances of the RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) regulations that were put in in 1976. We also believe that it is time to act it. It is time to put thresholds and contamination levels in place by the EPA, such that the bases that you were just referring to, need to act so it just doesn\u2019t sit there, contaminating drinking water in the ground. We believe that there is a way to act, there is a safe way to manage and treat the water cost effectively, and dispose of it, and clean up these sites. But we think those thresholds of contamination levels, based on what that has been exposed to, needs to be enacted and put in place, so that Department of Defense military installations will act accordingly.\n\nSen. Kelly: So CERCLA, you think is the right thing, you just need the trigger to start using the tools that CERCLA provided. Ms. Pilconis.\n\nLeah Pilconis, General Counsel for Associated General Contractors of America: Thank you, Senator.\n\nMy comment is simple or similar. Contractors are on the front lines of clean up and doing the remediation work. But for everyday infrastructure work, and for the work that we\u2019re doing to repair and revitalize and rebuild our nation\u2019s infrastructure, they\u2019re incidentally encountering PFAS as a result of just doing that work. And CERCLA is making them potentially responsible for the full cost of cleanup because of the strict joint and several retroactive liability scheme. Right now, we have no lawful path to compliance. We have no numbers, we have no instructions or standards on how to dispose of material, we don\u2019t have restricted uses, we have we have no unrestricted uses, we don\u2019t know when we can reuse materials. So, we have the CERCLA scheme in place without having the proper road map to compliance. Which we have with other hazardous materials: lead, asbestos, PCBs. We\u2019re in a very difficult and unique situation where contractors are exposed to extreme risk and liability. Contractors are touching soil and groundwater across America using many, many different landfills, so our risk is exponentially increasing.\n\nSen. Kelly: It sounds like you think we need something specific to PFAS, beyond CERCLA?\n\nLeah Pilconis: We need a lawful path to compliance.\n\nSen. Kelly: Ms. Bowers.\n\nKate Bowers, Supervisory Attorney for Congressional Research Service: Thank you, Senator\n\nCERCLA is one tool in the federal legal toolbox to address PFAS. It is the broadest mechanism under federal law for requiring parties to perform or pay for cleanup actions. There are other enforcement authorities that are also available under federal law and may be applicable in particular situations. You mentioned the Tucson site for instance. EPA, in addition to addressing issues under CERCLA at that site, has also taken action under the Safe Drinking Water Act. So that or other statutes may potentially be relevant. I would also note statutes that focus on regulatory and compliance issues, that establish permitting regimes and allow federal agencies or states to establish guidelines or requirements for entities that are potentially discharging PFAS into their environment as part of their operations, as well as statutes like the Toxic Substances Control Act that address manufacturing use of chemicals. 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