{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"MI\" and year = 2026 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7430", "Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Honoring 27th Anniversary of Landmark Court Decision Supporting Americans with Disabilities", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), alongside Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), and Tom Kean (R-NJ-07), introduced a bipartisan resolution marking the 27th anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision, Olmstead v. L.C., which recognized the unjustified institutional isolation of people with disabilities as discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and to reaffirm the right of people with disabilities to live in their homes and communities.\n\n\"It is essential that people with disabilities continue to have the right to live, work, and thrive in their own communities with dignity.\" said Congresswoman Dingell. \"This bipartisan resolution reaffirms that we will not allow hard won progress to be rolled back, and that we will continue to protect and support the rights enshrined by the Olmstead decision for every person whose lives it has changed for the better.\"\n\n\"Although the Olmstead decision was issued more than twenty\u2011five years ago, its significance remains just as strong today. I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution, reaffirming our commitment to ending discrimination based on disability,\" said Congressman Kean.\n\n\"For 27 years, the Supreme Court\u2019s decision in Olmstead v. L.C. has informed the advancement of policies to empower individuals with disabilities to live and work independently in our communities,\" said Congresswoman Scanlon. \"Recent attempts to undermine the Olmstead integration mandate and roll back those policies raises new opportunities for discrimination against our friends and neighbors with disabilities, and harms the larger community. I\u2019m proud to join my House colleagues in recognizing Olmstead\u2019s anniversary and recommitting ourselves to protecting community integration for the good of all.\"\n\n\"Olmstead affirmed a fundamental principle: every American deserves the freedom and opportunity to build a full life in the community they call home. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, that principle has always been at the heart of my work to break down barriers, strengthen independence, and ensure all Americans with disabilities have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Twenty-seven years later, our responsibility is not simply to recognize the progress Olmstead made possible, but to protect it, build upon it, and ensure that progress is never reversed,\" said Congressman Fitzpatrick.\n\n\"The Supreme Court made clear in Olmstead v. L.C. that Americans with disabilities have the right to live in the most integrated setting possible, rather than being unnecessarily institutionalized. That is why earlier this year I wrote to the DOJ urging it to uphold this longstanding precedent and enforce the Americans with Disabilities Act. I am proud to co-lead this legislation commemorating the 27th anniversary of this landmark decision and reaffirming the importance of ensuring individuals with disabilities can continue to live where they choose, alongside their friends, family, and the communities where they grew up,\" said Congressman Lawler.\n\nThe resolution is endorsed by the Caring Across Generations, United Spinal, ANCOR, Autism Self Advocacy Network, National Council on Independent Living, American Association of People with Disabilities, and the National Disability Rights Network.\n\nThis resolution follows an August 2026 effort led by Congresswomen Dingell and Scanlon condemning a Department of Justice (DOJ) legal opinion that was issued in June 2026 regarding Olmstead v. L.C. While the legal opinion does not overturn the decision, it threatens enforcement of the rights afforded by the Court\u2019s decision under a hostile DOJ that has failed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities.\n\nA copy of the resolution can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-senator-peters-reflects-on-proudest-accomplishments-for-michigan-takeaways-from-congress-during-detroit-economic-club-exit-interview", "ICYMI: Senator Peters Reflects on Proudest Accomplishments for Michigan, Takeaways from Congress During Detroit Economic Club Exit Interview", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) reflected on his proudest accomplishments and takeaways from his 18 years in Congress during an \u201cExit Interview\u201d with the Detroit Economic Club. In a conversation moderated by Local 4 Detroit\u2019s Jason Colthrup, Peters highlighted his long-term efforts to support Michigan\u2019s auto industry, protect the Great Lakes, and secure long-term missions at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.\n\nBelow are highlights from Peters\u2019 remarks:\n\nAdvocating for the 2009 Auto Rescue, Making the Case to Congress:\n\n\u201cWe had a lot of members of Congress that were around the country that were saying, \u2018Yeah, let them go bankrupt. You know, that\u2019s okay. That\u2019s capitalism, if they go under, that\u2019s it.\u2019 And I\u2019m like, \u2018No, you can\u2019t have a manufacturing sector in America if you don\u2019t have an auto sector that\u2019s healthy and vibrant. This impacts everybody,\u2019 and we made the case aggressively.\u201d\n\nSecuring a Strong Future for Selfridge Air National Guard Base, including:\n\nDelivering a New Squadron of KC-46A Refueling Tankers: \u201cI blocked the Air Force Secretary from getting confirmed under the Biden Administration. He wasn\u2019t going to get confirmed until I got some sort of commitment. And we worked together, and our delegation worked together, and then they said, \u2018Well, we\u2019ll get you these tankers.\u2019\u201d\n\nEstablishing the Northern Border Mission Center: \u201cNow, we have this mission center which coordinates all of the border security from Maine to Washington state, all of the northern border, and it\u2019s going to happen at Selfridge, which gives it a major Department of Homeland Security (DHS) mission.\u201d\n\nTo watch Peters\u2019 full interview at the Detroit Economic Club, click here.\n\nSecuring Investments for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Protecting Our Waterways:\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which was passed in [20]10, has been a major game changer. Billions of dollars have been going in, if you just think of the Detroit River area and up into Port Huron, I think $250 million to make sure we\u2019re cleaning up the old toxic sites that were here from our industrial heritage. The watersheds are clean. And that happens all around the Great Lakes Basin. That has been major.\u201d\n\nCreating the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise in Michigan:\n\n\u201cIt now has state of the art equipment there to train crews on how to clean up oil spills, so we don\u2019t have to wait two weeks for a submersible. It can be there like in an hour and a half, it\u2019s very close. We\u2019re gaining the expertise there to make sure we\u2019re cleaning up oil spills not just in the Great Lakes, but all of freshwater.\u201d\n\nThe Detroit Economic Club (DEC) was formed in 1934 as a non-partisan, non-profit organization that promotes discussion and debate of important business, government, and social issues.\n\nWhen the 2008 financial crisis rocked Michigan\u2019s automotive industry, Peters was instrumental in advocating for the rescue of the Big Three automakers, which saved more than 1 million automotive industry jobs in Michigan and across the country.\n\nPeters served in the U.S. Navy Reserve for 12 years, rising to the rank of Lt. Commander. During that time, he drilled at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County. As a U.S. Senator, Peters has worked tirelessly to secure the future of Selfridge as Michigan\u2019s premier military installation to maintain its role in our nation\u2019s defense and as an economic driver for the state. He led the Michigan delegation to secure a full squadron of next generation KC-46A aircraft tankers, which will operate at Selfridge for the next 50 years. He also established and secured funding for the Northern Border Mission Center to be located at Selfridge.\n\nThroughout his career in public service, Peters has been a champion for protecting the Great Lakes and Michigan\u2019s drinking water from threats like oil spills and PFAS contamination. Peters\u2019 efforts have helped protect our most precious source of drinking water and an economic engine for our state from the devastating consequences of pollution. He authored a provision signed into law to create the U.S. Coast Guard National Center of Expertise (NCOE) for the Great Lakes, and secured $1.5 million to launch the center. Headquartered at Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie and the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory in Ann Arbor, the Great Lakes National Center of Expertise will examine the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and help develop effective responses that currently don\u2019t exist.\n\n###", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/30/icymi-slotkin-delivers-speech-at-carnegie-institution-on-defending-democracy/", "ICYMI: Slotkin Delivers Speech at Carnegie Institution on Defending Democracy", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Wednesday, September 30, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) delivered remarks at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace on her takeaways from a recent trip to Hungary and Poland, and how we can use lessons from those countries to protect democracy here in the United States. This follows a speech last year to the Brookings Institution, where Slotkin warned of President Trump\u2019s authoritarian playbook.\n\nFollowing her remarks, she joined Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and staff writer for The Atlantic, for a Q&A discussion on lessons learned from global pro-democracy efforts and the future of American democracy.\n\nSlotkin\u2019s remarks as prepared\n\nWatch full speech\n\nREAD SOME KEY EXCERPTS BELOW.\n\nTwo visions for America:\n\nBut what this last year has clarified for me is that, as leaders, we have a responsibility not to just \u2018admire the problem\u2019, as we say at the Pentagon. The American people are looking for a path through the dark tunnel and into the light.\n\nPresident Trump thinks America is unremarkable, mediocre, and in decline. He believes we are not exceptional in our role in the world, and we never were \u2013 same as China or Russia.\n\nThe America I know is filled with big-hearted people, who care about their neighbors and their community, and certainly the future for their kids. A society, stitched together by shared values of fairness and boundless optimism. America is a place where we do big things, and a shared set of laws allows anyone from anywhere to succeed.\n\nToplines from Hungary:\n\nJust five months ago, a pro-democracy movement in Hungary achieved what many thought was impossible: they beat their authoritarian leader, Viktor Orban, ending his 16-year regime. Orban was elected in 2010 on the promise that he would put more money in the pockets of average Hungarians.7\n\nWhile Hungary is not an apples-to-apples comparison to America, the trip helped crystallize some of the very trends we\u2019re seeing here in our country\u2026\n\nAuthoritarians talk a big game about bringing down costs, but once in power, they enrich themselves at the expense of their own voters. They just can\u2019t help themselves. Eventually, that corruption trickles down to the average person.\n\nAt this point, Donald Trump is on track to be the most successful corrupt leader in the world\u2019s history. Best estimates are that he and his family have increased their net worth by more than 3.5 billion dollars.\n\nAt the CIA, I was an Iraq specialist. I spent a lot of time in Baghdad. Let me just say: Saddam Hussein would have spit out his tea at the level of corruption Trump and his family are currently engaged in: Palaces and golden ballrooms and arches dedicated to himself. Saddam would have been green with envy.\n\nIf we learned anything from Hungary and other authoritarian countries, it\u2019s that eventually we hit a tipping point, and the public will refuse to accept this level of corruption.\n\nWe have to lift the veil of fear:\n\nOne of the key tools in authoritarian governments is the wielding of fear. Just think about what Trump has done to our journalists, universities, law firms, and corporations that won\u2019t bow down to him. They\u2019re all just going to ground and trying to stay out of Donald Trump\u2019s firing line.\n\nThey should be linking arms and working together to push back. But they\u2019re not.\n\nBuild a broad coalition:\n\nIn Hungary, the lesson I drew very clearly was that you need a broad coalition to remove an authoritarian like Orban at the polls. Peter Magyar was a young, dynamic newcomer who used social media brilliantly \u2013 but just as relevant was the coalition he put together to oust Orban.\n\nHere in America, that coalition would be the equivalent of disaffected Trump voters, traditional Democratic voters, and young and first time voters.\n\nWhat we know here in the US, is that a new coalition is needed that crosses party lines to win in 2028. No litmus testing people out of a movement for change. And, I\u2019d offer that after losing two of the last three elections to Trump, insiders in Washington need to accept that it\u2019s no longer Democrat vs. Republicans or Moderates vs. Progressives. That is fighting the last war.\n\nThe tectonic plates of American politics are shifting beneath our feet. The real divide is those who believe in President Trump\u2019s vision of America \u2013 that we have no moral backbone, no core belief system, and we\u2019re in decline \u2013 and those who believe that the American spirit still lives\u2026\n\nFree and fair elections:\n\nThe authoritarian playbook is very clear: When you\u2019re at risk of losing, you either A: make up a threat that only you can protect the American people from, or B: find a way for federal law enforcement or the military to seize ballots or machines.\n\nIn Hungary, Orban used Plan A. One week before his election, he falsely claimed there was a major threat to an oil pipeline in an attempt to be seen as the only true protector. Luckily, the Hungarians saw through it. They knew it was all a ruse.\n\nA forward-looking agenda:\n\nSo, what can we offer a big broad coalition that is willing to vote against a dictator? In my mind, we owe them three things.\n\nFirst: We need to show people that the government can work in concrete ways.\n\nNumber Two: Accountability.\n\nNumber Three: We need to Trump-proof the government.\n\nConclusion:\n\nI believe that Americans want the best for each other and the future of this country. I believe that we are a people who will build the future with our own two hands \u2013 so that our children and grandchildren have a better life to look forward to.\n\nAnd I am optimistic because this isn\u2019t the only time in our country\u2019s history we\u2019ve had a rough period. Even if it sometimes feels that way.\n\nIf you\u2019re like me and history gives you hope, then just think about all these tough moments in our history, and how we got out of them.\n\nEvery single time, we got through it with two things: engaged citizens and principled leaders.\n\nI\u2019ll leave you with this: America is not a country that cowers. We\u2019re not at our end. We will get out of this. We will not give up the ship.\n\n###", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7428", "Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), David Joyce (R-OH-14), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Tom Barrett (R-MI-07), and Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) introduced the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to bolster federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. This legislation designates the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program.\n\nThis designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC\u2019s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts.\n\n\"The Great Lakes and their connected waterways are invaluable resources for Michigan and the United States,\" said Congresswoman Dingell. \"As a co-chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation for future generations to enjoy these national treasures.\"\n\n\"As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are central to Michigan\u2019s economy, identity, and long\u2011term prosperity,\u201d said Congressman Walberg. \"The bipartisan Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act ensures the region receives its fair share of federal support, strengthening the research and conservation work needed to protect this indispensable resource. We must equip our partners with the tools necessary to safeguard the waters and communities that rely on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem.\"\n\n\"As a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I helped introduce this legislation to close a gap in a national program that benefits only coastal ocean states. The bill continues our work together to ensure the Federal Government levels the playing field to commit equivalent, well\u2011deserved resources to our Great Lakes region,\" said Congresswoman Kaptur. \"The Great Lakes are central and essential to Northwest Ohio\u2019s livelihood and economic wellbeing, and enabling the Great Lakes Commission to participate in this NOAA program will strengthen data sharing, enhance information access, and improve management of our coastal and ecosystem resources. In Lake Erie\u2019s Western Basin, home to the shallowest and southernmost shoreline in the Great Lakes system, we face these challenges in real ways and will continue to lead in advancing research and information exchange for the benefit of our entire region.\"\n\n\"As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I have made it my mission to have the federal government recognize the Great Lakes as a national priority,\" said Congressman Huizenga. \"The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act furthers this objective by enhancing the Great Lakes Commission\u2019s steadfast work to protect and conserve Michigan\u2019s most valuable natural resource.\"\n\n\"The Great Lakes are a critical resource for the economies and communities that surround them,\" said Congressman Joyce. \"As Co-Chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this bipartisan legislation, which will strengthen federal partnerships and expand funding opportunities to advance the research, coordination, and conservation efforts needed to protect the Great Lakes \u2014 ensuring they remain a resource our communities can rely on for generations to come.\"\n\n\"Michigan is the Great Lakes state, period. Jobs, recreation, and tourism across the Midwest depend on a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem,\" said Congresswoman Stevens. \"I\u2019m proud to work alongside my colleagues of both parties to ensure that Michigan receives our fair share of federal investment that will protect and preserve our Lakes for generations to come.\"\n\n\"Protecting the Great Lakes means protecting our water, wildlife, and communities throughout the region,\" said Congressman Barrett. \"This bipartisan legislation will help bring federal resources to the table and strengthen the partnerships already working to preserve our state's natural resources. I\u2019m proud to work with colleagues from across the region to ensure our Great Lakes remain healthy for generations to come.\"\n\n\"As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are one of Michigan\u2019s greatest assets,\" said Congresswoman Scholten. \"I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This commonsense bill will strengthen the research and coordination that keeps the Great Lakes region healthy. Investing in our Great Lakes is investing in our future, and it\u2019s crucial that we conserve this resource for the next generation.\"\n\n\"The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Rep. Walberg for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,\" said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, \u201cGreat Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. \"This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership \u2014 fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes\u2019 most pressing challenges \u2014 to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region.\"\n\nThe Great Lakes Commission (GLC) brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is composed of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.\n\nNOAA\u2019s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Although NOAA administers four Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) across the Northeast, Mid\u2011Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast, the Great Lakes currently lack an ROP. Designating the GLC as the region\u2019s ROP will ensure the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding.\n\nCompanion legislation, introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), has been advanced by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-railroad-inspector-workforce-and-improve-railway-safety", "Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Railroad Inspector Workforce & Improve Railway Safety", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to improve railroad inspector pay. The bill, which Peters\u2019 introduced with U.S. Senator Jim Justice (R-WV), would increase the pay levels for Federal Rail Administration (FRA) inspectors and specialists for the first time since 1979. The bipartisan bill aims to strengthen and expand this critical workforce, improving railway safety in Michigan and across the country. As of 2023, there were 2,382 Michigan freight railroad employees, many of whom would be included in this pay increase.\n\n\u201cThe United States railway system is critical to the success of our entire economy. Federal railroad inspectors play a vital role in maintaining that system by ensuring railroad tracks, equipment, and operating practices remain safe and secure,\u201d said Senator Peters, Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports. \u201cMaking sure we can recruit and retain highly skilled professionals for this essential workforce will improve railway safety in communities across the country. This bipartisan, commonsense bill would help us do just that by providing federal rail inspectors with more competitive wages for the critical work they do.\u201d\n\n\u201cBy tackling compensation for these critical safety positions, the senators are taking meaningful action to help the FRA recruit and retain the skilled professionals essential to overseeing railroad safety across the country. Fair pay is vital to attracting experienced talent and keeping qualified inspectors and specialists in federal service, rather than losing them to higher-paying opportunities elsewhere,\u201d AFGE Local 2814 President Scott Hoose said. \u201cI appreciate the bipartisan approach shown by Senators Peters and Justice. Railroad safety is a shared priority that crosses party lines. AFGE Local 2814 looks forward to continued progress on this legislation and stands ready to support efforts that give the FRA the tools and personnel needed to keep America\u2019s railroads safe.\u201d\n\nFRA inspectors enforce federal rail safety laws across approximately 160,000 miles of track nationwide, including 3,349 miles in Michigan alone. The current government pay structure leaves them one full pay level below comparable federal accident-investigation positions. As a result, the FRA has struggled with recruitment and retention of its safety inspector and specialist positions, potentially affecting rail safety enforcement and monitoring. By upgrading the pay scale, Peters\u2019 bill aims to make these FRA positions more competitive to strengthen the workforce while supporting safer railroad operations.\n\nThe legislation is supported by key stakeholders including the American Federation of Government Employees Local 2814 and the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/29/slotkin-britt-delauro-bacon-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-modernize-ovarian-cancer-prevention-and-care/", "Slotkin, Britt, DeLauro, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Modernize Ovarian Cancer Prevention and Care", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Katie Britt (R-AL), along with Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Don Bacon (R-NE) introduced the Ovarian Cancer Improving and Modernizing Prevention, Access, Care, and Testing (IMPACT) Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expand access to genetic testing, hereditary cancer risk assessment, and specialty care for patients and families affected by ovarian cancer.\n\nOvarian cancer is the fifth-leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States, and roughly 80 percent of cases are detected only after the disease has reached an advanced stage. If caught early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90 percent. However, there remains no reliable screening test for the disease. This means that genetic counseling, hereditary risk assessment, and provider awareness are critical tools for prevention and early detection.\n\n\u201cNo family should have to fight both a cancer diagnosis and their insurance company at the same time,\u201d said Slotkin. \u201cWomen, especially in rural communities like Michigan, should be able to get the genetic testing and specialty care they need to catch this disease early or prevent it altogether. Our bill tackles this issue from every angle \u2014 awareness, outreach and access to care and testing \u2014 and I thank my colleagues from across the aisle as we all work to save lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo many women receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis only after the disease has advanced, when treatment options are limited and outcomes are far worse,\u201d said Britt. \u201cKnowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have, and every woman with a family history of ovarian cancer deserves to know her risk and have access to the screening and counseling that can help her make informed decisions about her health. I\u2019m proud to join Senator Slotkin in this bipartisan effort to reauthorize Johanna\u2019s Law, expand outreach to rural and underserved communities, and ensure genetic screening is covered for the women who need it most. Alabama has already shown national leadership in preventing gynecologic cancers, and this legislation builds on that progress so that where a woman lives or what her insurance plan covers doesn\u2019t determine whether she can catch this disease early.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am a survivor of ovarian cancer by the grace of God and biomedical research,\u201d said DeLauro. \u201cI am proud to stand with my colleagues in introducing bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would strengthen ovarian cancer research, medical services, and outreach to women to ensure screening and good health. This Ovarian Cancer Month, I am committed to fighting for improved health outcomes for all women, so more and more women survive this deadly disease.\u201d\n\n\u201cOvarian cancer affects thousands of women and families every year, including some of my closest friends, and too many cases are not caught until the disease has reached an advanced stage,\u201d said Bacon. \u201cKnowing the warning signs and having access to genetic counseling, testing and quality care can make a real difference. I\u2019m pleased to join my colleagues on the bipartisan, bicameral Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act to improve awareness, expand access to specialized care, including in rural communities, and help more women get the care they need sooner.\u201d\n\nThe Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act would:\n\nExpand Insurance Coverage for Genetic and Genomic Testing: Require group and individual health plans, including grandfathered plans, to cover genetic counseling and testing (germline multi-gene panel testing, targeted testing, and tumor genomic profiling) for patients with a history of ovarian cancer, guideline-eligible endometrial cancer, or a family history of hereditary cancer syndromes.\n\nCover Risk-Reducing Interventions: Ensure coverage for evidence-based risk-reducing surgeries and other risk management interventions for individuals identified as being at elevated hereditary risk, regardless of a personal cancer history.\n\nReauthorize and Strengthen Johanna\u2019s Law: Reauthorize the CDC\u2019s national gynecologic cancer education campaign and authorize $20 million annually from FY2027\u2013FY2031 to expand education and outreach on hereditary cancer risk, genetic counseling and testing, and evidence-based ovarian cancer prevention, including opportunistic salpingectomy, or fallopian tube removal.\n\nExpand Rural and Telehealth Access: Expands existing HRSA programs to include ovarian cancer and helps rural providers access ovarian cancer training and specialty expertise.\n\nFund Demonstration Projects: Prioritize grants for outreach and education strategies in rural, underserved, and high-risk communities.\n\nEnsure Accountability: Require HHS to deliver an implementation roadmap to Congress within 180 days of enactment and comprehensive impact reports every three years through FY2032.\n\nThe bill is introduced alongside a companion resolution to recognize September as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.\n\n\u201cWe have an evidence-based strategy to reduce ovarian cancer risk and save lives with salpingectomy but need solutions to remove barriers to this care. Every patient considering pelvic surgery deserves a conversation with their physician about whether risk-reducing salpingectomy is appropriate for them and aligns with their health, values, and goals. We urge health systems and insurers to actively remove barriers to implementation of this care. ACOG is proud to endorse the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act, which would expand awareness of and access to evidence-based prevention strategies, helping spare more patients and families from the devastating burden of ovarian cancer,\u201d said Sandra E. Brooks, MD, MBA, FACOG, chief executive officer of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists.\n\n\u201cThe introduction of the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act is an important step forward for people affected by gynecologic cancers,\u201d said Audra Moran, President and CEO of Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. \u201cWe are incredibly grateful to Senators Slotkin and Britt and Representatives DeLauro and Bacon for their bipartisan leadership and commitment to advancing policies that will improve prevention, expand access to care in rural and underserved communities, and give patients and families more opportunities to understand and manage their cancer risk.\u201d\n\n\u201cFORCE applauds the introduction of this important legislation, which has the potential to save lives while reducing long-term healthcare costs,\u201d said Lisa Schlager, BRCA1 mutation carrier and Vice President, Public Policy at FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered. \u201cUp to 20% of ovarian cancers and 15% of endometrial cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations. National medical guidelines recommend that everyone diagnosed with these cancers be offered genetic counseling and testing. While hereditary cancers represent only a subset of all cancer diagnoses, identifying individuals who have\u2014or are predisposed to\u2014these cancers is critical. They are the poster children for prevention, early detection, and targeted treatments.\u201d\n\nSee full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/29/slotkin-peters-padilla-demand-homeland-security-secretary-to-stand-up-to-trump-on-election-interference-not-send-ice-to-polls/", "Slotkin, Peters, Padilla Demand Homeland Security Secretary to Stand up to Trump on Election Interference, Not Send ICE to Polls", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Alex Padilla (D-CA), called on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin to stop any efforts to bring the 2026 midterm elections under federal control and erode public confidence in them. Slotkin has made demanding accountability from Mullin in election security issues a priority, ever since Mullin\u2019s confirmation hearing.\n\nThe Senators asked DHS to produce evidence backing up Mullin\u2019s public statements that \u201cthousands of non-citizens\u201d had registered to vote. They also urged the Department to withdraw the new election-related requirements attached to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) homeland security grants, deliver the full funding to the states, and put an immediate end to the so-called \u201cUnlawful Voter Initiative\u201d that a recent whistleblower brought to light.\n\n\u201cWe write to warn you against continued activities at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that seek to undermine the Constitutional authority of both Congress and states to administer elections and defy the directions of federal courts. As Secretary of Homeland Security, you have promoted the President\u2019s conspiracy theories about our elections, pressured states to participate in illegal activities, and explicitly threatened to reduce grant funding and initiate criminal investigations for those states that do not comply with the Administration\u2019s demands,\u201d wrote the Senators.\n\nThe letter pushes back on Mullin\u2019s unsubstantiated assertion that 250,000 noncitizens are registered to vote across four states. It also faults DHS for leaning on states to hand over sensitive voter roll data for screening through the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, even though the Administration itself has conceded there are flaws in the data behind that system.\n\n\u201cThe 2026 midterm elections are already underway. Your unsubstantiated allegations of noncitizen voter fraud, public recitation of unreliable data, and unwarranted conditioning of continued grant funding for state election security measures on compliance with politically motivated requests for voter data appear to be calculated efforts to undermine confidence in our elections and risks wrongly disenfranchising voters,\u201d the Senators continued.\n\nIn addition to Slotkin, Peters, and Padilla, the letter is signed by Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DL), Chris Coons (D-DL), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).\n\nRead the full text of the letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/29/slotkin-warren-demand-full-accounting-of-trumps-huge-tax-breaks-for-ai-and-tech-companies/", "Slotkin, Warren Demand Full Accounting of Trump\u2019s Huge Tax Breaks for AI and Tech Companies", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in sending letters to the CEOs of Amazon, Meta, Alphabet, and Microsoft demanding answers and full transparency on the tax breaks they have received from President Trump, tax breaks they received because of their investments in AI and data center spending.\n\n\u201cAmericans across the country are worried about the impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on their lives \u2014 from increased utility bills to threats of job losses and cyberattacks,\u201d wrote the senators. \u201cRather than regulate AI to protect American families or address the nation\u2019s affordability crisis, the Trump administration and its Republican allies in Congress have prioritized handing out colossal tax breaks to giant corporations.\u201d\n\nSenators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Tina Smith (D-MN) also signed the letters.\n\nUnder the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), passed by Trump and congressional Republicans last year, major tech companies can now write off billions of dollars in AI development costs, massively lowering what they owe in taxes. Newly released figures show these tax breaks are a key factor behind the 25% decline in corporate tax revenue this year, even as Big Tech\u2019s own revenues and profits continue to skyrocket.\n\n\u201cThis enormous tax cut appears to have been driven in significant part by President Trump and Republicans\u2019 tax breaks subsidizing your spending on AI,\u201d continued the senators.\n\nThese same tech giants have also poured money into influencing Republicans and the Trump administration. Each of the four companies gave $1 million to the President\u2019s inauguration, and they spent millions more lobbying Congress and federal agencies in the run-up to OBBBA\u2019s passage. The senators demanded these massive companies provide transparency on the tax breaks they received and disclose any lobbying they had done to receive them by October 11, 2026.\n\n\u201cThese tax breaks are not free\u2014their cost has been imposed on American families via cuts to critical social services and a higher deficit,\u201d wrote the senators.\n\nFull text of the letter to Amazon here.\n\nFull text of the letter to Meta here.\n\nFull text of the letter to Alphabet here.\n\nFull text of the letter to Microsoft here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7398", "Dingell Statement on Trump Administration Lowering Fuel Economy Standards, Ceding Ground to China", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) released the following statement in the wake of the Trump Administration\u2019s decision to lower fuel economy standards in internal combustion engine-powered cars:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s decision risks putting the American automotive industry at a competitive disadvantage while the rest of the world races ahead, and it also ignores the more pressing issue working men and women are facing right now with the cost-of-living crisis and the rising price of gas. Americans should have the freedom to choose the vehicle that works best for them, whether that\u2019s electric, hybrid, or an internal combustion engine. But consumer choice and American leadership are not mutually exclusive,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cThe global auto industry is changing rapidly, and China and other countries are investing heavily in the technologies that will define the future. The global market wants electric vehicles, and we cannot afford to fall behind. Our auto industry cannot continue to be a political ping-pong ball every four years. We need stable policies that make transportation more affordable, support good-paying American jobs, and give our industry the certainty they need to invest, innovate, and compete. Michigan put the world on wheels, and I intend to make sure we remain competitive in the global marketplace. We need policies that give consumers choices while ensuring the next generation of vehicles, including EVs, are developed and built right here in America.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mcdonald-rivet-honors-anniversary-grand-blanc-church-jesus-christ-latter", "Rep. McDonald Rivet Honors the Anniversary of the Grand Blanc Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Attack", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Kristen McDonald Rivet", "M001237", "mcdonaldrivet.house.gov", "mcdonaldrivet", "https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FLINT\u2014 Today, Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) released the following statement commemorating the one-year anniversary of the attack on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan.\n\n\u201cOne year ago, while gathering to worship, parishioners at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc suffered an unimaginable terror attack. I join the community in remembering the four victims, extending our prayers to their families and fellow congregants, and standing with the community as we remember the tragedies of that day.\n\n\u201cToday, we also honor the heroic first responders who were on the scene in a matter of seconds. The remarkable speed and decision-making of our 911 dispatchers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics saved lives.\n\n\u201cIn the days, weeks, and months since, neighbors have come together to grieve, heal, and find the light under the motto, \u2018Grand Blanc, Better Together.\u2019 In the wake of an unimaginable tragedy, the Church and its community have shown us the power of faith and hope. As they break ground tonight, all of mid-Michigan will be behind them with love and support.\u201d\n\nLater tonight, Congresswoman McDonald Rivet will join the Church at the groundbreaking of its new stake center.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-haley-stevens-has-new-bill-lower-retirement-age-americans-who-work", "ICYMI: Rep. Haley Stevens Has New Bill to Lower Retirement Age For Americans Who Work With Their Hands", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "September 25, 2026\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In case you missed it, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens introduced the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act to lower the Social Security retirement age to 60 for workers in physically demanding careers.\n\nThe legislation would apply to physically demanding occupations, including jobs in manufacturing, construction, roofing, nursing, and more. The Social Security Administration would be responsible for identifying and regularly updating the list of qualifying occupations.\n\nHere\u2019s what Michiganders are seeing about Rep. Haley Stevens\u2019 Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act:\n\nCNBC: New bill would lower Social Security retirement age for physically demanding jobs\n\nBy Lorie Konish\n\nRep. Haley Stevens, D-Mich., on Wednesday introduced a new bill that would lower Social Security\u2019s full retirement age for workers in physically demanding jobs.\n\nCurrently, the earliest Social Security retirement age is 62, though beneficiaries receive reduced monthly checks for starting that soon. By waiting until full retirement age \u2014 that\u2019s 67 for individuals born in 1960 or later \u2014 they may receive 100% of the benefits they\u2019ve earned.\n\nYet for blue-collar workers, staying longer in physically demanding jobs in order to reach those age milestones may be difficult, according to Stevens\u2019 proposal.\n\nIndividuals who have physically demanding jobs are at risk of exiting the workforce earlier than planned, which can interfere with their ability to have a secure retirement, according to 2022 research from the Schwartz Center for Economic Policy Analysis at The New School.\n\nCBS News: New bill would lower Social Security retirement age for some workers\n\nBy Mary Cunningham\n\nAmong the various proposals for bolstering Social Security is raising the retirement age at which Americans can claim full benefits. One lawmaker instead wants to lower it.\n\nStevens has said that lowering the retirement age for blue-collar workers is necessary to help those who may struggle working into their 60s, given that such jobs are often physically demanding.\n\n\"Michiganders who work with their hands shouldn't be forced to wait until their bodies give out to retire,\" she said in a statement on Thursday in unveiling the legislation in Washington, D.C.\n\nNewsweek: Millions of Americans Could Claim Social Security Early Under New Bill\n\nBy Aliss Hingham\n\nSome Americans working in physically demanding jobs could claim full Social Security retirement benefits at age 60 under a new bill introduced in Congress.\n\nThe proposal would create an exception to existing Social Security rules for workers who have spent enough of their careers in physically demanding jobs, allowing them to receive unreduced retirement benefits seven years before the current full retirement age.\n\n\u201cIf we want to honor the dignity of work in this country, we need to lower the retirement age for physical laborers,\u201d said Stevens.\n\nFast Company: Social Security retirement age would be lower for \u2018blue collar\u2019 workers under proposed bill: What that means\n\nBy Sarah Fielding\n\nAs things stand, any American born in 1960 or later can\u2019t access their full Social Security benefits until the age of 67. A new bill is hoping to change that.\n\n\u201cMichiganders who work with their hands shouldn\u2019t have to work until their bodies give out to retire,\u201d Stevens said in a statement shared on X. \u201cIf you put in the work, you deserve the retirement you earned.\u201d\n\nAlmost 40% of working U.S. civilians work a job that requires lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and other physically demanding activities.\n\nMLive: Proposal would lower Social Security\u2019s full retirement age to 60 for some workers\n\nBy Leada Gore\n\nA new proposal would lower Social Security\u2019s full retirement age for some workers in physically demanding jobs.\n\nRep. Haley Stevens, D-Michigan, introduced the \u2018Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act\u2019 this week. The bill would change full retirement age (FRA) \u2013 the point at which people can qualify for full Social Security benefits \u2013 to 60 for people in fields such as construction, roofing, manufacturing and nursing.\n\nUnder the bill, the Social Security Administration would set a list of qualifying jobs and update it every three years.\n\nDeadline Detroit: Haley Stevens Introduces Bill To Lower the Social Security Age For Americans With Physically Demanding Jobs\n\nBy Allan Lengel\n\nDemocratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens on Wednesday announced proposed legislation \u2014 the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act \u2014 that would allow people with physically demanding jobs to collect full Social Security benefits at age 60.\n\n\u201cMichiganders who work with their hands shouldn\u2019t be forced to wait until their bodies give out to retire,\u201d Stevens said.\n\nThe Independent: New Social Security bill would lower retirement age to 60 for some workers\n\nBy Rachel Dobkin\n\nThe Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act was introduced by Representative Haley Stevens, a Michigan Democrat, Thursday. The bill would allow Americans who work with their hands to collect full Social Security retirement benefits when they turn 60.\n\n\u201cI look forward to bringing together my colleagues in Congress to fix this glaring issue for Michigan workers, strengthen Social Security, and ensure its solvency for generations of Americans to come,\u201d said Stevens.\n\nThose eligible for full retirement benefits at 60 would include workers in construction, roofing, nursing, manufacturing and other physically demanding jobs\n\nWDIV-DET (NBC) \u2014 Detroit, MI\n\nA new bill in Congress could lower the full Social Security retirement age to 60 for some workers.\n\nMichigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens, introducing the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act, aimed at people in physically demanding jobs like construction, nursing and manufacturing.\n\nUnder this proposal, workers would need to work a certain amount of years in qualifying jobs to get those full benefits at 60, the current full retirement age is 67.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-participates-in-pavilion-dedication-ceremony-at-pontiac-oaks-park", "PHOTOS: Peters Participates in Pavilion Dedication Ceremony at Pontiac Oaks Park", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PONTIAC, MI \u2014 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) was honored on Friday, September 25th during a ceremony at the new Pontiac Oaks Park, formerly Hawthorne Park, in Pontiac. During the event, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission dedicated a new pavilion in honor of Senator Peters to recognize his advocacy for federal funding for Michigan communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lasting impacts of those resources across Oakland County.\n\nPeters helped pass the American Rescue Plan into law in 2021, a robust pandemic aid package which provided federal support to local communities, including funding for projects to rebuild essential community spaces. The Pontiac Oaks Park revitalization project leveraged a $1.3 million investment made possible by Senator Peters\u2019 efforts to pass the bill into law.\n\n\u201cWhen faced with an unprecedented crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic, it\u2019s imperative that we come together and fight for the resources needed to help Michigan communities come back even stronger. That\u2019s why I made it a top priority to ensure the federal pandemic response included investments for local projects like this one to improve infrastructure and revitalize public spaces,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThe newly renovated Pontiac Oaks Park is a prime example of what\u2019s possible when federal, state, and local officials work together to achieve a common goal. I feel deeply honored to receive this recognition and I\u2019m thrilled to celebrate this new community space alongside residents and partners.\u201d\n\nTo download photos from the event, click here.\n\nThe funding secured by Peters helped to support numerous upgrades at Pontiac Oaks Park, including a fishing pier, playground and play pockets, a paved trail, a disc golf course, picnic pavilions and restroom improvements.\n\n\"Pontiac residents have seen an important community space given new life, and that is something worth celebrating,\" Pontiac Mayor Mike McGuinness said. \"Families now have a welcoming, high-quality park close to home where they can gather, play, walk, fish and enjoy the outdoors. We are grateful for the partnership with Oakland County Parks and for the investment that has made the revitalization of Pontiac Oaks possible.\"\n\nThe Pontiac Oaks Park revitalization was completed as part of Oakland County\u2019s Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, which combined $15 million in APRA funding with an additional $5.2 million from Oakland County Parks. The project has improved public spaces throughout Oakland County.\n\n\"Senator Peters was an early advocate for making sure local communities had the federal support they needed to respond to the pandemic and recover. That support opened a rare opportunity to build transformational, long-term partnerships with local governments and invest more than $20 million to revitalize parks and public spaces across Oakland County. For decades to come, families will enjoy places like Pontiac Oaks, and the Peters Pavilion will stand as a reminder of Senator Peters' important role in making these investments possible,\" said Chris Ward, Director of Oakland County Parks.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7396", "Dingell, Moolenaar Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Senior Care", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and John Moolenaar (R-MI-02) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). The PACE Improvement Act would support the expansion of current PACE programs and facilitate the establishment of new ones by giving PACE programs greater flexibility to enroll beneficiaries throughout the year, remove limitations on when entities may apply to become PACE organizations, make PACE a mandatory service under Medicaid, address outdated limitations and unnecessary constraints on the potential for the growth and expansion of PACE organizations, and more.\n\n\u201cThe PACE model has been successful in helping seniors and Americans with disabilities age and live with dignity. As the third-largest PACE state, Michigan\u2019s PACE providers deliver critical long-term services for individuals wishing to remain in their homes. But too many Americans continue to sit on waitlists to receive home and community-based services,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cWe must do more to ensure Americans have the option to live independently in the comfort of their own homes. With this bipartisan bill, we can put these long-term supports in reach for those who need them the most.\u201d\n\n\u201cMichigan seniors should have more choices when it comes to receiving the care they need, including the option to receive home care. This is especially true in rural communities where long-term care options can be limited,\u201d said Congressman Moolenaar. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation expands access to the PACE program, cuts unnecessary red tape, and gives more seniors the opportunity to receive high-quality care closer to home. I am proud to support this commonsense bill and will continue working to strengthen care for seniors across our state.\u201d\n\nThe legislation is supported by the National Pace Association, PACE of Southeast Michigan, Alzheimer\u2019s Association, Alzheimer\u2019s Impact Movement, American Association on Health and Disability, CommunicationFIRST, Community Catalyst, Lakeshore Foundation, LeadingAge, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, National Disability Rights Network, and Village to Village Network.\n\n\u201cThere is an incredible need for the life changing care PACE provides. More than 350,000 Michiganders are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, and thousands more are already receiving long-term care because their needs have reached a nursing facility level of care. Yet PACE currently serves only about 6,500 people across our entire state. That gap represents an enormous opportunity to help more older adults remain independent, stay connected to their communities and receive the care they need,\u201d said Brandon Young, President and CEO of PACE Southeast Michigan. \u201cWe see every day what happens when people are given that opportunity. They regain strength, increase their independence and find a meaningful sense of belonging. We are incredibly grateful to Congresswoman Dingell for recognizing the need and taking action to make PACE easier to access.\u201d\n\n\"I don't know where I'd be without PACE,\u201d said Carol Jackson, a PACE Southeast Michigan participant who lives in Trenton, Michigan. \u201cThe people here are like a family \u2013 my PACE family is my family. The elderly need places like PACE to survive on their own and be able to keep doing a lot with their lives. The people at my PACE center help all of us so much. No matter what we\u2019re going through, they\u2019re there for us. I'm so grateful that Debbie is supporting PACE by bringing this bill forward. I hope it passes, because there's so many more people out there who need PACE.\"\n\nThe Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a model of care that integrates Medicare and Medicaid benefits for eligible beneficiaries. It provides comprehensive medical and social services to seniors and individuals living with disabilities that enables them to live in their homes and communities rather than receiving care in an institutional setting. Congresswoman Dingell, a co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus and the 21st Century Long-Term Care Caucus, and Congressman Moolenar first introduced legislation on PACE in 2023.\n\nBill text can be viewed HERE.", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-announces-bill-lower-social-security-age-americans-who-work", "Rep. Haley Stevens Announces Bill to Lower Social Security Age for Americans Who Work With Their Hands", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) announced the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act, a bill to allow Americans who work in physically demanding jobs to collect full Social Security retirement benefits when they turn 60.\n\nUnder current law, Americans born after 1960 can begin collecting full Social Security retirement benefits at age 67 or reduced early retirement at age 62. But far too often, those who work in manual labor cannot continue working until 67 to receive the full benefits they\u2019ve earned. Unable to claim full retirement benefits and with the strains of their day-to-day blue-collar work becoming increasingly unbearable, these workers find themselves in a difficult position as they look towards retirement.\n\nStevens\u2019 bill lowers the eligible age for full retirement benefits to 60 for Americans who work in such jobs, including but not limited to construction, roofing, nursing, manufacturing, and more. The bill directs the Social Security Administration to identify and publish a comprehensive list of physically demanding occupations that would be covered under this law, and continue updating that list every three years.\n\n\u201cMichiganders who work with their hands shouldn\u2019t be forced to wait until their bodies give out to retire,\u201d said Rep. Haley Stevens. \u201cIf we want to honor the dignity of work in this country, we need to lower the retirement age for physical laborers. I look forward to bringing together my colleagues in Congress to fix this glaring issue for Michigan workers, strengthen Social Security, and ensure its solvency for generations of Americans to come.\u201d\n\nAt a time when America needs more people to enter the skilled trades and labor-intensive careers, Stevens\u2019 bill creates a new incentive for Americans to pursue these jobs with the promise of retiring early and receiving their full Social Security benefits.\n\nThe bill doesn\u2019t require Americans to exclusively work in physically demanding jobs their whole careers to become eligible. Rather, it establishes a weighted points system based on years worked to assess eligibility. If an individual reaches a total of 15 points or 20 total years of physically demanding work across their career, they qualify for early retirement once they turn 60. The points are tabulated as follows:\n\n0.5 points for each year worked from the ages of 18-34\n\n1 point for each year worked from the ages of 35-44\n\n1 year worked from the ages of 45-54 counts as 1.5 points\n\n1 year worked above the age of 55 until an individual passes away counts as 2 points\n\nText of the bill can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-introduces-bipartisan-bill-requiring-the-defense-department-to-accelerate-pfas-clean-up-at-michigan-military-installations", "Senator Peters Introduces Bipartisan Bill Requiring the Defense Department to Accelerate PFAS Clean-Up at Michigan Military Installations", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation that would require the Department of Defense (DOD) to accelerate the cleanup of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the United States. The bill, which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD), comes after the Trump Administration has repeatedly pushed back the timeline for PFAS remediation efforts at more than 300 DOD sites nationwide, with some projects being delayed up to 40 years. This includes delays to 11 cleanup projects at military installations across Michigan, including the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Kellogg Air National Guard Base, Camp Grayling, K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Detroit Arsenal, Grand Ledge Army Aviation Support Facility, and Kincheloe Air Force Base.\n\n\u201cAmericans across the country are living at heightened risk of PFAS exposure from contamination at nearby military installations, depriving some communities of access to safe drinking water. Yet, the Department of Defense continues to drag its feet and delay essential cleanup projects that would help keep these military communities safe,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cIt\u2019s past time that the Department of Defense treats this growing public health crisis with the urgency it deserves. This bipartisan bill would force them to get shovels in the ground and begin cleanup of these sites without further delay.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan bill changes the focus - from long term delays to quick and effective PFAS cleanup actions - at military installations across the nation,\u201d said Tony Spaniola, Co-Chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network. \u201cInterim cleanup actions are a key component of the \u2018Wurtsmith Cleanup Model\u2019 developed by community experts in my town of Oscoda, Michigan and incorporated in national policy guidance from the Pentagon more than three years ago. On behalf of military communities across the Great Lakes region and beyond, I think Senator Peters and Senator Rounds for their leadership on this important issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cPeople living near active and former military sites in Michigan are grappling with health complications from drinking water poisoned PFAS chemical pollution, yet the Department of Defense continues to drag its feet on cleaning up this contamination that would save lives and taxpayer money,\u201d said Bentley Johnson, Federal Government Affairs Director of Michigan League of Conservation Voters. \u201cThe PFAS Rapid Response Act includes much-needed solutions to kick start interim remediation actions and help people get the relief from toxic contamination that they deserve.\u201d\n\nThe PFAS RAPID Response Act would require DOD to initiate PFAS remedial actions at no fewer than 100 military installations within the next two years. The bill expands upon a provision Peters secured in the national defense bill advanced by the Senate Armed Services Committee in June by increasing the number of sites at which the Department must take immediate action.\n\nIn the Senate, Peters has made it a priority to address PFAS contamination, and its impacts on public health. Most recently, Peters demanded answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up PFAS contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the country. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Peters called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve. Last year, Peters secured provisions in the national defense bill requiring DOD to develop a PFAS remediation acceleration strategy, create a PFAS transparency dashboard, and provide alternative drinking water \u2013 such as bottled water \u2013 to households with private drinking water wells that have been contaminated by PFAS as a result of DOD activities.\n\nIn September 2018, Peters helped convene the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, which assessed the federal government\u2019s response to PFAS contamination and remediation efforts. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 as Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to examine how servicemembers, their families, and communities across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In 2022, Peters convened a field hearing in East Lansing with?numerous administration?officials?to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS, and to examine the impact exposure to these toxic chemicals has had on servicemembers, first responders, families, and other Michiganders.\n\nPeters has also introduced and advanced bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. Peters\u2019 Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which was signed into law in 2022, is working to deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2022, Peters\u2019 bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law. Peters also secured $10 billion in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS remediation efforts in Michigan and across the country.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/24/as-trump-meets-with-chinese-president-slotkin-and-moreno-speak-on-senate-floor-about-bill-to-ban-chinese-vehicles/", "As Trump Meets with Chinese President,\u00a0Slotkin and Moreno\u00a0Speak on Senate Floor about\u00a0Bill to Ban Chinese Vehicles", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "Slotkin, Tillis Push Trump to Move Forward with Taiwan Arms Sale Ahead of Xi Visit\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Ahead of President Xi Jinping\u2019s visit to Washington this week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin...\n\nICYMI: Slotkin, Colleagues Demand Trump Hold the Line Ahead of China State Visit\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), U.S. Senator...\n\nICYMI: Slotkin Presses Trump on China\u2019s Role in Iran War Ahead of Thursday State Visit\n\nAs Trump Prepares to Host Xi, China Aides Iran in Conducting Lethal Attacks on Americans WASHINGTON...\n\nSlotkin Leads Senate Democrats in Demanding Answers from Hegseth on Cost of Iran War\n\nPentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families WASHINGTON...\n\nSlotkin Statement on Voting No on Clarity Act\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding her no vote on...\n\nSlotkin Signs Joint Statement with Colleagues on the High Cost of Trump\u2019s Trade War with Canada\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the...\n\nSlotkin Joins Colleagues to Urge Supreme Court to Block Postal Service Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined a bicameral amicus brief challenging the...\n\nSlotkin, Peters Demand Postal Service Halt Implementation of Unconstitutional Vote-by-Mail Restrictions\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Committee...\n\nICYMI: Detroit News \u201cAutomakers urge Congress to quickly pass law banning Chinese cars\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Last week, the Detroit News and Reuters published a report that a group...\n\nSlotkin Supports Bill to End Trump\u2019s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in...\n\nAfter Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, MS NOW\u2019s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate...", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-selected-co-lead-new-bipartisan-working-group", "Congresswoman Scholten Selected to Co-lead New Bipartisan Working Group on Artificial Intelligence", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Hillary J. Scholten", "S001221", "scholten.house.gov", "scholten", "https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) has joined her colleagues in the Problem Solvers Caucus to co-lead a bipartisan working group focused on developing commonsense guardrails on artificial intelligence to promote accuracy, accountability and integrity.\n\n\u201cThe rapid development of artificial intelligence and the recent, grave threats to our nation\u2019s cybersecurity are warning signs that cannot be ignored,\u201d said Congresswoman Scholten. \u201cI am working legislatively to make sure American people and businesses have the tools they need to understand AI and use it responsibly. I am honored to co-lead this crucial working group to exercise Congress\u2019s regulatory responsibility over the technology and establish much-needed guardrails. While we can and should lead the world in AI development, we also must protect ourselves and hold the companies developing it accountable.\u201d\n\nThe Working Group will also examine how Congress can help workers and small businesses thrive in an AI-enabled economy, curb misuse of emerging technologies that threaten elections or public trust, protect families and consumers from harmful or deceptive applications, and strengthen national security. Congresswoman Scholten will be joined by Reps. Mike Lawler (D-NY-17) and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), and Blake Moore (R-UT-01) as Vice Leads. Rep. David Joyce (R-OH-14), Susie Lee (D-NV-3), Rob Bresnahan (R-PA-8), Steven Horsford (D-NV-4), Tom Kean (R-NJ-7), Angie Craig (D-MN-2), Maria Salazar (R-FL-27), and Scott Peters (D-CA-52) will all serve as additional Members of the Working Group.\n\nThe Working Group sent a letter to President Trump ahead of his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping asking for a coordinated international response to AI development and security. Read the letter here.\n\nAs a member of the House Small Business Committee, Congresswoman Scholten has already introduced and passed legislation to help small businesses learn about AI. HerAI-WISE Act,which passed the House in January 2026, requires the SBA to develop AI-literacy resources on its e-learning platform. Her AI for Main Street Act would expand the role of Small Business Development Centers in helping small businesses evaluate and integrate AI into their operations. Congresswoman Scholten has also introduced theSBA AI Adoption Reporting Act, which would direct the SBA to implement its recent findings on improving its AI use for contracting and research programs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-27T10:23:37Z", "2026-09-27T10:25:08Z"], ["https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases/ahead-china-summit-rep-mcdonald-rivet-urges-leaders-prioritize-ai-cooperation", "Ahead of China Summit, Rep. McDonald Rivet Urges Leaders to Prioritize AI Cooperation, Protect Safety, & Mid-Michigan Jobs", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Kristen McDonald Rivet", "M001237", "mcdonaldrivet.house.gov", "mcdonaldrivet", "https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FLINT\u2014 This Thursday, President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to meet in Washington to discuss many issues, including the future of artificial intelligence. Ahead of the summit, Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet sent a letter urging the Trump Administration officials to use the China summit to negotiate AI-related safety practices. She issued the following statement, encouraging the world leaders to prioritize cooperation and safe development.\n\n\u201cWe need to reinvest in an economy that puts working Americans first. As the U.S. and China compete to lead the world on artificial intelligence, leaders must agree on common-sense regulations that protect people\u2019s jobs, safety, and opportunities,\u201d said Congresswoman McDonald Rivet. \u201cThat only works if it happens at a global scale. President Trump needs to use this summit to be tough with President Xi, making sure we have a universal set of rules for the future of AI that protect Americans\u2019 security and pocketbooks.\u201d\n\nAlongside the letter, Congresswoman McDonald Rivet has led multiple efforts to establish guardrails on artificial intelligence and data center development, including\u2026", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/videosenator-peters-calls-for-action-to-clean-up-toxic-forever-chemicals-during-michigan-pfas-awareness-week", "VIDEO: Senator Peters Calls for Action to Clean Up Toxic \u201cForever Chemicals\u201d During Michigan PFAS Awareness Week", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released a video statement during Michigan PFAS Awareness Week calling for continued action to address toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Commonly known as \u201cforever chemicals,\u201d PFAS contamination has harmed communities, residents, and ecosystems across Michigan. Peters has long worked to combat PFAS contamination, accelerate cleanup efforts, and enact policies to prevent future exposure and protect Michiganders. His message comes as the Department of Defense (DOD) continues to delay cleaning up PFAS contamination at military sites in Michigan.\n\n\u201cThe decisions we make today will determine the quality of the water our children and grandchildren inherit,\u201d SenatorPeters said. \u201cThat means doing everything we can to clean up contaminated sites, keep PFAS out of our drinking water, and hold polluters accountable. That\u2019s why I\u2019ll never stop fighting to address these toxic chemicals, and to protect the health and safety of Michiganders and our environment.\u201d\n\nTo watch Peters\u2019 video for Michigan PFAS Awareness Week, click here.\n\nDespite ongoing setbacks from the Department of Defense (DOD), Peters has long fought alongside community leaders in Michigan to mitigate harmful PFAS contamination. Peters recently demanded answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up PFAS contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the country. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Peters called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve. Last year, Peters secured provisions in the national defense bill requiring DOD to develop a PFAS remediation acceleration strategy, create a PFAS transparency dashboard, and provide alternative drinking water \u2013 such as bottled water \u2013 to households with private drinking water wells that have been contaminated by PFAS as a result of DOD activities.\n\nIn September 2018, Peters helped convene the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, which assessed the federal government\u2019s response to PFAS contamination and remediation efforts. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how local, state, and federal governments are coordinating responses to address PFAS contamination. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 as Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to examine how servicemembers, their families, and communities across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In 2022, Peters convened a field hearing in East Lansing with numerous administration officials to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS, and to examine the impact exposure to these toxic chemicals has had on servicemembers, first responders, families, and other Michiganders.\n\nPeters has also introduced and advanced bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. Peters\u2019 Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which was signed into law in 2022, is working to deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2022, Peters\u2019 bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law. Peters also secured $10 billion in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS remediation efforts in Michigan and across the country.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/23/icymi-slotkin-colleagues-demand-trump-hold-the-line-ahead-of-china-state-visit/", "ICYMI: Slotkin, Colleagues Demand Trump Hold the Line Ahead of China State Visit", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "Slotkin, Tillis Push Trump to Move Forward with Taiwan Arms Sale Ahead of Xi Visit\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Ahead of President Xi Jinping\u2019s visit to Washington this week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin...\n\nICYMI: Slotkin Presses Trump on China\u2019s Role in Iran War Ahead of Thursday State Visit\n\nAs Trump Prepares to Host Xi, China Aides Iran in Conducting Lethal Attacks on Americans WASHINGTON...\n\nSlotkin Leads Senate Democrats in Demanding Answers from Hegseth on Cost of Iran War\n\nPentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families WASHINGTON...\n\nSlotkin Statement on Voting No on Clarity Act\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding her no vote on...\n\nSlotkin Signs Joint Statement with Colleagues on the High Cost of Trump\u2019s Trade War with Canada\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the...\n\nSlotkin Joins Colleagues to Urge Supreme Court to Block Postal Service Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined a bicameral amicus brief challenging the...\n\nSlotkin, Peters Demand Postal Service Halt Implementation of Unconstitutional Vote-by-Mail Restrictions\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Committee...\n\nICYMI: Detroit News \u201cAutomakers urge Congress to quickly pass law banning Chinese cars\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Last week, the Detroit News and Reuters published a report that a group...\n\nSlotkin Supports Bill to End Trump\u2019s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in...\n\nAfter Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, MS NOW\u2019s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate...\n\nICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the...", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/23/slotkin-tillis-push-trump-to-move-forward-with-taiwan-arms-sale-ahead-of-xi-visit/", "Slotkin, Tillis Push Trump to Move Forward with Taiwan Arms Sale Ahead of Xi Visit", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Ahead of President Xi Jinping\u2019s visit to Washington this week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Taiwan Caucus, sent a letter to President Trump urging him to immediately notify Congress and move forward with the pre-approved $14 billion arms sale package to Taiwan.\n\nSlotkin and Tillis note that Taiwan has already approved a record $25 billion defense supplemental to support the purchase, and that the sale would benefit the U.S. domestically by supporting American jobs and the U.S. defense industrial base.\n\n\u201cAs we approach President Xi\u2019s visit to Washington, we urge you to stand up for American interests and against Chinese aggression through actions and not just rhetoric,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cAs President Reagan made clear, U.S. arms sales to Taiwan should never be subject to negotiation with China\u2014especially not at a time when Chinese aggression against Taiwan has evolved from aircraft incursions into a persistent, multidomain campaign that looks more like preparation for war.\u201d\n\nThe package, pre-approved by Congress in January 2025 and funded entirely by Taiwan, has reportedly been placed on hold following the President\u2019s last meeting with President Xi. The continued delay creates the impression that Taiwan\u2019s security is being negotiated with Beijing.\n\n\u201cOn a bipartisan basis, we agree that the United States must never allow China to use arms sales to Taiwan as a bargaining chip,\u201d continued the Senators. \u201cOn the eve of President Xi\u2019s visit to Washington, this is why we urge you to immediately approve this arms sale package for Taiwan.\u201d\n\nThe full text of the letter is available here.\n\nRead more about the letter in Politico\u2019s National Security Daily.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-demands-answers-ice-after-fatal-car-crash-grand-rapids", "Congresswoman Scholten Demands Answers from ICE after Fatal Car Crash in Grand Rapids", "2026-09-22", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Hillary J. Scholten", "S001221", "scholten.house.gov", "scholten", "https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "GRAND RAPIDS, MI \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) released the following statement regarding the recent fatal car crash in Grand Rapids that involved U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Congresswoman Scholten also sent a letter to David Venturella, the Acting Director of ICE, demanding immediate answers on the tragedy.\n\n\u201cNo traffic stop should end with a fatality. Something went wrong, and we need to know what and how. I have sent a letter to Immigration and Customs Enforcement demanding immediate answers about what happened and a transparent investigation into facts we don't yet know, so that we can prevent something like this from ever happening again. The purpose of federal law enforcement is to make our communities safer. We must make sure that is happening. I will continue to monitor this situation closely and remain in close contact with federal and local law enforcement until our community gets the answers we deserve.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Scholten\u2019s letter to ICE can be found here and below:\n\nDear Mr. Venturella:\n\nI write regarding a fatal vehicle crash that occurred on September 20, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Publicly available news reports indicate that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel initiated a pursuit that led to this crash and the death of Mario David Coronado Juarez. As the representative for Michigan\u2019s Third Congressional District, I have an oversight responsibility to my constituents to understand the circumstances of this incident, including whether federal law enforcement conduct contributed to a constituent\u2019s death and whether that conduct was consistent with applicable laws and agency policy.\n\nTo that end, I respectfully request that ICE confirm whether it or another federal agency was involved in any conduct related to the crash, and, if so, respond to the following questions:\n\nWhat was the stated reason for the stop or attempted stop of the subject vehicle?\n\nWas the subject the target of a preexisting warrant, order of removal, or ongoing investigation?\n\nDid agents pursue rather than discontinue the stop when the driver failed to yield?\n\nIf yes, describe in detail the nature of the pursuit.\n\nIf no, describe in detail the steps taken to clearly demonstrate the stop was discontinued.\n\nIf a pursuit of any kind followed, was the pursuit classified as high-risk? If so, what factors were relied upon to justify that classification, and by whom?\n\nWere the pursuing vehicle\u2019s visual and audible signals activated for the duration of the pursuit?\n\nHow many agents and vehicles were involved in the pursuit, and were the pursuing vehicles(s) marked or unmarked?\n\nWere agents involved in the pursuit equipped with and wearing body-worn cameras, and, if so, were those cameras activated during the incident?\n\nWere the pursuing vehicles equipped with dash cameras, and, if so, was footage captured?\n\nPlease confirm that all body-worn camera footage, dash camera footage, and incident reports related to this crash are being preserved.\n\nIs ICE willing to make relevant footage and records available to this office, local law enforcement, and the family of the deceased?\n\nWas the relevant local or state law enforcement agency notified about ICE\u2019s involvement in this crash, and, if so, when were they notified?\n\nIs ICE required by policy or any existing agreement to notify or coordinate with local police before conducting operations or pursuits in this jurisdiction?\n\nHas next of kin been notified, and by whom?\n\nGiven that this incident resulted in the death of one of my constituents, I request a written response no later than September 27, 2026. I also request an immediate formal briefing from the ICE Field Office leadership to the Michigan Congressional Delegation.\n\nThank you for your attention to this matter.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7361", "Dingell, Colleagues Urge Trump to Maintain Protections Against Chinese Automobiles, Protect American Auto Workers and Manufacturing", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and 26 of her colleagues in the House of Representatives are urging President Trump to maintain protection of the U.S. auto industry from Chinese automobiles and connected vehicle technologies. The lawmakers are also pushing the administration to avoid opening the U.S. market to Chinese automobile imports and manufacturing as part of ongoing U.S.-China trade discussions, as well as protect the American automotive manufacturing base, workers, critical supply chains, and national security.\n\n\u201cThe U.S. automotive industry supports approximately 10 million American jobs and sustains a broad manufacturing ecosystem that includes steel, semiconductors, batteries, electronics, machinery, and thousands of suppliers,\u201d said the lawmakers. \u201cThese initiatives are critical to ensuring the United States has a clear and lasting framework to protect our automotive market, workers, critical supply chains, and national security.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers also highlighted the lack of a level playing field in the global marketplace due to unfair practices used by the Chinese government: \u201cChina is rapidly expanding its global automotive presence through massive government subsidies, state-directed investment, below-market financing, and other non-market policies and practices. These policies and practices have incentivized Chinese automakers to build significant excess production capacity to aggressively expand overseas, including through opaque corporate structures and partnerships. These subsidized Chinese automakers sell vehicles globally at unfair, artificially low prices that American manufacturers simply cannot compete with. In addition to government financing, Chinese automotive manufacturing relies on forced labor and other exploitative labor practices.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Dingell\u2019s latest effort follows an April 2026 letter to President Trump from her and 73 of her House Democratic colleagues urging the president to block Chinese automakers from accessing the United States market. In May 2026, she introduced bipartisan legislation that would prohibit the importation, manufacture, and sale of connected vehicles, software, and hardware linked to China. In June 2026, the congresswoman raised concerns with the administration\u2019s decision to permit Chinese connected vehicles to enter the United States, warning that allowing this poses a serious threat to American national security, driver privacy, and the competitiveness of the domestic auto industry. In August 2026, Congresswoman Dingell introduced another bipartisan bill that would direct the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to conduct a comprehensive study of the national and economic security risks foreign adversaries pose to the United States automotive industry.\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE and below\n\nDear Mr. President:\n\nAs you prepare for your upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, we write to emphasize the importance of protecting the United States automotive industry, its workers, and our economic and national security from the growing threat posed by China. We urge you to maintain strong protections against Chinese automobiles and connected vehicle technologies and ensure that China does not gain access to our market through direct imports, local production, and other avenues of circumvention.\n\nChina is rapidly expanding its global automotive presence through massive government subsidies, state-directed investment, below-market financing, and other non-market policies and practices. These policies and practices have incentivized Chinese automakers to build significant excess production capacity to aggressively expand overseas, including through opaque corporate structures and partnerships. These subsidized Chinese automakers sell vehicles globally at unfair, artificially low prices that American manufacturers simply cannot compete with. In addition to government financing, Chinese automotive manufacturing relies on forced labor and other exploitative labor practices.\n\nFrom January through August 2026, China exported more than 6.2 million passenger vehicles, exceeding its passenger vehicle exports for all of 2025. In August 2026 alone, Chinese passenger vehicle exports increased more than 67 percent from the previous year. Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle exports have grown even more rapidly, even as China\u2019s domestic automotive market has weakened. These trends demonstrate the growing importance of overseas markets to China\u2019s automotive sector and the scale of the challenge facing American manufacturers and workers.\n\nChinese automotive brands accounted for approximately 17 percent of new vehicle sales in Mexico during the first half of 2026, up from 14 percent a year earlier, with sales reaching 137,525 vehicles. At the same time, Chinese manufacturers continue to explore investment and production opportunities in Mexico. Canada has also established an annual quota of 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles at a 6.1 percent tariff rate, with the quota set to increase by 6.5 percent annually.\n\nThese developments underscore the need to ensure that our trade laws and North American agreements cannot become pathways for Chinese automakers to circumvent U.S. protections. A vehicle assembled in Canada or Mexico must not be considered free of the risks associated with Chinese ownership, control, technology, software, hardware, or supply chains. We must ensure that Chinese companies cannot establish a foothold elsewhere in North America and use that presence to gain access to the U.S. market, undermining our trade protections and exposing American workers and manufacturers to the same heavily subsidized, non-market competition we are seeking to address. Nor would a Chinese-owned or controlled manufacturing plant in the United States, even one employing American workers, eliminate the broader economic and national security risks posed by China. Moreover, we urge you not to open the U.S. market to Chinese automobile imports as part of ongoing U.S.-China trade discussions. Securing our North American supply chains through the USMCA review will mean little if Chinese vehicles are permitted to enter the U.S. market directly through our front door.\n\nThis is not just a matter of economics but of national security as well. As you know, modern automobiles are increasingly connected computing platforms, incorporating cameras, microphones, sensors, telecommunications equipment, software, and other technologies capable of collecting and transmitting significant amounts of information. Connected vehicles can collect troves of sensitive data about occupants, locations, surroundings, and infrastructure. Connected vehicles and technologies developed or produced by foreign adversaries present a myriad of opportunities for misuse of data or sabotage, such as through indirect or alternative connections that enable remote access or interference. There is a heightened risk when these technologies are controlled by a foreign adversary with a demonstrated interest in undermining democracy and exerting its strategic and economic position.\n\nCongress has recognized the need to address these economic and national security risks and is taking bipartisan, bicameral action to strengthen protections against Chinese automobiles and connected vehicle technologies. Building on existing regulatory restrictions, legislative efforts in both chambers would establish durable safeguards for vehicles, software, hardware, and other technologies linked to China and other foreign adversaries. These initiatives are critical to ensuring the United States has a clear and lasting framework to protect our automotive market, workers, critical supply chains, and national security.\n\nThe U.S. automotive industry supports approximately 10 million American jobs and sustains a broad manufacturing ecosystem that includes steel, semiconductors, batteries, electronics, machinery, and thousands of suppliers. A significant influx of heavily subsidized Chinese vehicles would put substantial pressure on this industrial base and threaten our manufacturing capacity and jobs that depend on it. Once critical manufacturing capacity is lost, rebuilding it becomes impossible without decades of significant public and private investment.\n\nAdditionally, China\u2019s ambitions extend well beyond finished vehicles. Chinese companies have developed significant positions in batteries, critical minerals, components, software, and other technologies essential to the modern automobile. As China pursues joint ventures, licensing arrangements, supply agreements, and other commercial relationships, we must also consider who owns or controls the underlying company, technology, software, hardware, and critical supply chains.\n\nWith that, we urge you to keep these economic and national security considerations in mind as you and your staff prepare to host the Chinese delegation this week. The United States should engage China from a position of strength while maintaining the safeguards necessary to protect our automotive industry, workers, critical supply chains, and national security. Chinese automakers should not be permitted to use Canada, Mexico, USMCA, overseas manufacturing, or ownership and technology arrangements to circumvent U.S. protections.\n\nWe have an opportunity to establish clear and durable rules so that Chinese automakers cannot deeply embed themselves in our market. We look forward to working with you to ensure that we remain a global leader in automotive manufacturing and connected technology, while protecting our workers, supply chains, and national security that underpin that leadership.", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7372", "Dingell Introduces Resolution Recognizing the Importance of Continuous Care for Patients Undergoing Cancer Treatment on Medicaid", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) introduced a resolution to recognize the importance of protecting continuous Medicaid coverage for individuals who are undergoing cancer treatment. Interruption to health coverage during cancer treatment can create unnecessary risk and hardship for patients. More than 75% of individuals undergoing cancer care have delayed or skipped vital treatment due to administrative issues with third-party systems. In many states, cancer patients are required to repeatedly verify their medical circumstances, even when state Medicaid programs already hold the necessary information. Streamlining Medicaid processes and reducing these hurdles is essential to ensuring support for those receiving cancer treatment.\n\n\"No one fighting cancer should ever have to pause or skip lifesaving treatment because of bureaucratic red tape. Forcing patients to jump through redundant administrative hoops creates unnecessary hardship and puts lives at risk. This resolution recognizes the importance of continuous coverage so that patients on Medicaid can focus on what matters most: their health and recovery.\"\n\nThe resolution is endorsed by Less Cancer.\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/21/icymi-slotkin-presses-trump-on-chinas-role-in-iran-war-ahead-of-thursday-state-visit/", "ICYMI:\u00a0Slotkin Presses Trump\u00a0on China\u2019s Role in Iran War Ahead of\u00a0Thursday\u00a0State Visit", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "As Trump Prepares to Host Xi, China Aides Iran in Conducting Lethal Attacks on Americans\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 Last week, CBS News reported that U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, sent a letter to President Trump urging him to make Chinese support for Iran\u2019s military a centerpiece of his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during Xi\u2019s state visit to Washington this week.\n\nThe letter cites a Wall Street Journal report that Iran acquired high-resolution satellite images of a U.S. base in Jordan from Chinese companies both before and after a July attack that killed three American service members and wounded four others. Asked whether he would raise the issue with President Xi, the President said, \u201cI think he\u2019s behaved reasonably well.\u201d\n\n\u201cI have many concerns about your China policy and President Xi\u2019s state visit to Washington next week,\u201d wrote Slotkin. \u201cYour insistence on rolling out the red carpet for our adversaries and kicking our allies in the teeth is beyond me. But I would hope, as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, the provision of targeting information by China to help Iran kill American servicemembers would be something even you can\u2019t tolerate. Unfortunately, this does not appear to be the case.\u201d\n\nSlotkin urged the President to make clear to President Xi that this support \u201cmust stop immediately.\u201d She also called on the President to provide troops, military families, and the American public with a clear accounting of the actions he will take to protect U.S. forces.\n\n\u201cFor months, we have known that Chinese companies are helping the Iranian military target and attempt to kill U.S. troops,\u201d continued Slotkin. \u201cBut new reporting now shows that this support from China may have directly contributed to the deaths of American servicemembers.\u201d\n\nSlotkin\u2019s letter criticizes Trump\u2019s decision to enter this war with Iran without congressional authorization, noting that 18 American service members have been killed so far and more than 820 have been wounded.\n\nRead the CBS News story here.\n\nThe full text of the letter is available here.", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-stevens-introduces-paul-whelan-hostage-compensation-and", "ICYMI: Rep. Stevens Introduces Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "September 21, 2026\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In case you missed it, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens introduced the Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act, legislation to provide financial support to Americans who have been unlawfully or wrongfully detained abroad as they return home and rebuild their lives.\n\nThe legislation is named for Michigan\u2019s Paul Whelan, who was wrongfully detained in Russia for more than five years before returning home in August 2024. After his release, Whelan faced many of the financial challenges that can follow years of detention, including lost income, the loss of his home and job, and difficulties obtaining health insurance.\n\nHere\u2019s what Michiganders are hearing and seeing about Rep. Haley Stevens\u2019 work with Paul Whelan to support Americans returning home after wrongful detention abroad:\n\nThe Detroit News: New bill would compensate returned political hostages like Paul Whelan\n\nBy Melissa Nann Burke\n\n\u201cReintegration should not stop at the airport,\u201d Stevens said, describing Whelan\u2019s experience returning home without a place to live or his former job after five and a half years of lost earnings.\n\n\u201cThis is a very solid piece of legislation that brings some dignity to the people who I believe are American heroes.\u201d\n\nStevens said the goal is to establish \u201ca transparent and objective formula\u201d recognizing the economic consequences of wrongful detention, including time taken away from a person\u2019s career and livelihood.\n\nCNN: Paul Whelan helps craft bill to compensate Americans wrongly detained abroad\n\nBy Jennifer Hansler\n\nWhelan called the legislation \u201ca huge step forward\u201d in ensuring wrongfully detained Americans receive support after returning home.\n\n\u201cFor people like me who have come home after five-and-a-half years, we really don\u2019t have very much. House is gone. Cars are gone. Employment\u2019s gone. No health insurance,\u201d Whelan told CNN.\n\nStevens said the legislation would ensure Americans who endure wrongful detention have resources to \u201cregain their footing, reunite with their communities, and rebuild their lives.\u201d\n\nDeadline Detroit: Haley Stevens introduces \u2018Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act\u2019 Bill\n\nBy Allan Lengel\n\n\u201cWhen an American is wrongfully detained abroad, we do everything we can to bring them home. Our responsibility cannot end the moment they step back on American soil,\u201d Stevens said.\n\nWhelan said former hostages often return home having lost their income, health insurance, employment, transportation and housing.\n\n\u201cProviding compensation to former hostages is a step in the right direction in supporting their positive and productive reintegration,\u201d Whelan said.\n\nNPR News Now: Paul Whelan compensation bill introduced\n\n\u201cHostages lose freedom. That means I wasn't earning an income. I wasn't saving for retirement,\u201d Whelan told NPR.\n\nWhelan said that when he returned home, his home and cars were gone and he had to rebuild his life.\n\nCBS News Detroit: Paul Whelan reacts to bill supporting Americans wrongfully detained overseas\n\nCBS News Detroit reported on Stevens\u2019 legislation to provide support to Americans returning home after being wrongfully detained abroad.\n\nWhelan thanked Stevens for introducing the legislation and discussed the challenges former detainees can face after returning home.\n\nThe report highlighted Whelan\u2019s more than five years of wrongful detention in Russia and the legislation\u2019s effort to help Americans rebuild their lives after returning to the United States\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7350", "Dingell, Fitzpatrick Express Concern About Staffing Challenges at CDC\u2019s Injury Center", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) are voicing their concerns to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. about staff reduction and hiring constraints at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (Injury Center). These challenges have left our nation\u2019s leading authority on preventing injuries and violence, the top cause of death for Americans ages 1\u201344, with critical vacancies, a major loss of institutional knowledge, and unstable leadership.\n\n\u201cIts staff provide technical expertise, data analysis, and oversight that ensure federal investments are used effectively and efficiently,\u201d said the lawmakers. \u201cIf left unresolved, these challenges could contribute to a broader collapse of the nation\u2019s injury and violence prevention capacity.\u201d\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE and below:\n\nDear Secretary Kennedy:\n\nWe write to express serious concern about the current staffing challenges and hiring processes at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (Injury Center). Our goal is to ensure that Injury Center grantees have the support they need to operate effectively, and that staff have the resources required to ensure appropriate oversight of federal funds allocated by Congress to injury and violence prevention efforts.\n\nThe Injury Center is the nation\u2019s leading authority on preventing injuries and violence, which remain the leading cause of death for Americans ages 1 to 44. The Center funds programs in every state addressing urgent public health challenges, including suicide, overdose, intimate partner violence, falls, and drowning. Its staff provide technical expertise, data analysis, and oversight that ensure federal investments are used effectively and efficiently. Thanks in part to the Injury Center\u2019s work, we have seen an unprecedented 26% reduction in overdose deaths rates from 2023 to 2024.\n\nCurrently, CDC is facing significant workforce challenges due to recent reductions in force (RIFs) and ongoing hiring constraints across the agency. These staffing challenges have been especially acute at the Injury Center. More than 200 staff members have been eliminated through RIFs, and the Center is operating with only a fraction of the full-time equivalent (FTE) employees it started with in 2025. The agency is down to fewer than 400 FTE currently, compared to over 700 in January 2025. This has left the Injury Center with critical vacancies, a significant loss of institutional knowledge, and a lack of stable leadership.\n\nDespite submitting a request to HHS leadership for more than 150 positions to address these vacancies, the Center has only received approval to begin hiring for 40 positions. Additionally, the positions approved for hire do not match the positions that Injury Center leadership requested. Additionally, according to Injury Center officials, no new staff have been hired because the process remains lengthy, confusing, and difficult to navigate.\n\nSince human resource functions were centralized at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and no longer operate within CDC, hiring officials have shared that the protocols are no longer clearly defined and thus require them to expend more time and resources as they engage with multiple HHS offices in attempts to be responsive. This fragmented process places a substantial administrative burden on hiring officials and contributes to significant delays.\n\nAmong the additional burdens, hiring officials are now required to interview every applicant received. To keep the number of mandatory interviews manageable, officials set relatively low caps on the number of applications accepted. This poses two distinct challenges. First, announcements close as soon as the cap is reached, even if the cap is reached before the closing date that was initially stated. This severely limits the applicant pool and reduces the Injury Center's ability to recruit a wide range of highly qualified subject-matter experts. Second, this imposes a significant human resource burden on the agency. For example, even a small applicant pool capped to 20 applicants requires 20 separate interviews and does not permit the agency the ability to rule out unqualified candidates to streamline this process.\n\nFurther challenges exist around ensuring employees affected by RIFs have access to these new postings. Despite the requirement that these employees must receive priority notification, this has not been the case under the new hiring processes. Without timely notification, priority hiring requirements are effectively undermined, making the hiring process less efficient and increasing the risk that the Injury Center will lose access to experienced, highly qualified personnel.\n\nTogether, the consequences extend beyond individual hiring decisions. Internally, prolonged vacancies and uncertainty undermine morale, disrupt continuity, and create avoidable onboarding and training costs. Externally, hard-won progress in reducing overdose deaths and other preventable injuries is at risk, and the nation\u2019s ability to respond quickly and effectively to growing and evolving public health challenges is fundamentally undermined. If left unresolved, these challenges could contribute to a broader collapse of the nation\u2019s injury and violence prevention capacity.\n\nWe respectfully request that you:\n\nReview the current hiring process to ensure the Injury Center can fill vacancies that reflect its most urgent mission and workforce needs.\n\nEstablish clear, streamlined hiring protocols with defined responsibilities, timelines, and points of contact across HHS and CDC.\n\nReconsider requirements that effectively mandate interviewing every applicant, allowing officials to accept broader applicant pools and conduct merit-based screening.\n\nCreate a timely notification and application process for qualified employees affected by reductions in force when relevant positions are announced.\n\nEnsure hiring officials receive advance or immediate notice when their announcements are posted.\n\nPrompt action is needed to ensure that the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control and other CDC centers can recruit and retain the workforce necessary to fulfill their mission. We appreciate your attention to these concerns and respectfully request a review of the processes described above.", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-during-suicide-prevention-month-peters-speaks-on-senate-floor-to-highlight-importance-of-988-suicide-and-crisis-lifeline", "VIDEO: During Suicide Prevention Month, Peters Speaks on Senate Floor to Highlight Importance of 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) took to the Senate floor to highlight the importance of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which provides free and confidential mental health counseling to every American. The speech comes after Peters joined his colleagues in introducing a resolution recognizing September 8th as \u201c988 Day\u201d to raise awareness of this essential resource.\n\n\u201cAccording to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Perhaps even more heartbreaking, it is the second-leading cause of death for our young people,\u201d said Peters during his remarks. \u201cToo many people across our country \u2013 parents, spouses, children, and friends \u2013 are dealing with the unimaginable loss of a loved one.\u201d\n\nPeters\u2019 speech acknowledged that too often, individuals who die by suicide are struggling alone, or did not receive proper treatment for their condition. Research shows that timely intervention is among the best ways to prevent someone from taking their own life, and Peters emphasized the critical role that the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline plays in delivering that essential support.\n\n\u201cAs a society, we have an obligation to provide that lifesaving crisis support to every American in every community, and that\u2019s exactly what the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline does. Across our country, Americans facing mental health struggles can access free and confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year,\u201d said Peters.\n\nTo watch the full video of Peters\u2019 speech on the Senate floor, click here.\n\nPeters went on to thank crisis support counselors and highlighted the important role they play in providing mental health support to prevent individuals from making the decision to take their own life.\n\n\u201cI want to commend the crisis support counselors across America who answer these calls and help deliver this vital support to every citizen, day and night. Your compassion, dedication, and willingness to be there for others during an incredibly difficult moment literally saves lives,\u201d said Peters.\n\nPeters concluded the speech by recognizing Michigander Bob Goble, an Air Force veteran and veteran suicide prevention advocate who has led the charge to ensure the 988 Lifeline also provides specialized counseling for all veterans in need of support.\n\n\u201cHe [Bob] has worked tirelessly to ensure 988 connects his fellow veterans with qualified Veterans Affairs counselors who can provide the specialized mental health support they deserve, and have certainly earned.\u201d\n\nPeters concluded, \u201cNo one should have to suffer alone. So, if you or someone you know is in need of support, please call, text, or chat 988. Caring counselors are there to help.\u201d\n\nYou can read more about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mcdonald-rivet-democratic-womens-caucus-call-hhs-withdraw-dangerous-plan", "Rep. McDonald Rivet, Democratic Women\u2019s Caucus Call on HHS to Withdraw Dangerous Plan to Overhaul Head Start", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Kristen McDonald Rivet", "M001237", "mcdonaldrivet.house.gov", "mcdonaldrivet", "https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) and the Democratic Women\u2019s Caucus (DWC) sent a letter, calling on the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to withdraw a proposed rule slashing 90% of Head Start Program Performance Standards, which would harm Head Start children, families, and classrooms.\n\n\u201cHead Start makes sure children from low-income families and children with disabilities have a loving place to learn and grow. There are decades of research proving Head Start kids do better in school and better in life,\u201d said Congresswoman McDonald Rivet. \u201cThis Administration\u2019s proposed overhaul will wreak havoc on what makes Head Start so special. It\u2019ll make it harder for kids to learn, harder for teachers to do their jobs, and harder for working parents to make ends meet. We can\u2019t let it go forward.\u201d\n\nFor over 60 years, Head Start has provided child care and social services for children from low-income families, children with disabilities, dual language learners, and children experiencing homelessness. HHS\u2019s proposed rule would eliminate over 1,400 regulatory provisions and largely defer rules and guidelines to states and local programs. These changes would severely diminish the quality of Head Start services, including:\n\nWeakening protections for children with disabilities.\n\nEliminating federal limits on class size and staff-to-student ratios.\n\nRolling back credential requirements for Head Start staff and teachers.\n\nReducing health and safety protections for children.\n\nCutting program hours.\n\nLeading the letter alongside Congresswoman McDonald Rivet are DWC Chair Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (NM-03) and DWC Members Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), and Lateefah Simon (CA-12). 70 Members of Congress signed the letter.\n\nThe letter from the lawmakers reads, in part, \u201cThis proposed rule guts an essential early childhood program and its services for hundreds of thousands of women and families nationwide, which would increase their costs and burden to replace those services. In today\u2019s environment of rising costs, it is cruel to make life more difficult and expensive for these families.\u201d\n\nA copy of the letter can be found here.\n\nPrior to serving in elected office, Congresswoman McDonald Rivet served as Executive Director of Michigan Head Start.", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-introduces-bill-named-paul-whelan-help-wrongfully-detained", "Rep. Haley Stevens Introduces Bill Named for Paul Whelan to Help Wrongfully Detained Americans Reintegrate into Society", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens introduced the Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act, legislation to provide support to Americans who have been unlawfully or wrongfully detained abroad as they return home and rebuild their lives.\n\nAmericans like Paul Whelan, for whom the bill is named, who endure wrongful detention often return home facing profound challenges. In addition to the emotional, mental, and social toll of captivity, former detainees can face severe financial hardship after months or years away from their jobs, families, and communities. Many return to lost income, mounting bills, defaulted loans, housing challenges, and barriers to reentering the workforce. They can also owe back taxes, late fees, and other financial obligations that accumulated while they were held abroad.\n\nThe Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act establishes a formal compensation program for Americans designated as wrongfully detained by the U.S. State Department. Eligible Americans, or their next of kin if the individual died in captivity, would be able to apply for a one-time, lump-sum payment based on the length of their unlawful or wrongful detention abroad.\n\n\u201cWhen an American is wrongfully detained abroad, we do everything we can to bring them home. Our responsibility cannot end the moment they step back on American soil,\u201d said Rep. Haley Stevens. \u201cAfter enduring months or even years of wrongful detention, Americans shouldn\u2019t have to face back taxes, late fees, lost income, and financial instability when they come home. Paul Whelan\u2019s experience showed our country the extraordinary toll wrongful detention takes not only during captivity, but long after someone returns home. This legislation will make sure Americans who endure this unimaginable ordeal have the support and resources they need to regain their footing, reunite with their communities, and rebuild their lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen a former hostage steps onto U.S. soil, they often return to a home much different than the home they left, and with that loss is usually the loss of their income, health insurance, employment, transportation, and the housing they enjoyed before being held hostage,\u201d said Paul Whelan. \u201cProviding compensation to former hostages is a step in the right direction in supporting their positive and productive reintegration. Thanks to Representative Stevens, we are closer to ensuring that no former hostage is left behind in the struggle to regain their lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cHostage US recognizes the critical need for comprehensive support and services for former hostages and wrongful detainees. This bill represents an important step toward bridging the gap in immediate financial assistance for former wrongful detainees upon return. We are grateful to Representative Haley Stevens, her office, and the contributors for advancing this meaningful effort to strengthen support for returning Americans,\u201d said Liz Cathcart, Executive Director, Hostage US.\n\n\u201cNo American who has endured the trauma of wrongful detention should be left to shoulder the long-term consequences alone. Survivors often face significant challenges after returning home, including the struggle to become financially stable. The Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act represents an important commitment to supporting those who have suffered on behalf of our nation and helping them successfully reintegrate into their communities. We are proud to support its introduction, and we commend Rep. Stevens for ensuring that survivors receive the assistance and recognition they deserve,\" said Foley Foundation President and Founder, Diane Foley.\n\nOn December 18, 2018, Paul Whelan was arrested in Russia and accused of spying. For nearly six years, Mr. Whelan was wrongfully detained in a Russian prison. Thanks to steadfast advocacy from Rep. Haley Stevens and the Biden Administration, Mr. Whelan was released on August 1, 2024. Mr. Whelan is a Marine veteran and lives in Michigan.\n\nText of the bill can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-leads-annual-bipartisan-resolution-designating-patriot-week", "Senator Peters Leads Annual Bipartisan Resolution Designating Patriot Week", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 For the 8th consecutive year, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) led the passage of a bipartisan resolution designating September 11th through September 17th as Patriot Week. Patriot Week, co-founded by Oakland County Judge Michael Warren, aims to honor and remember the lives lost in the September 11th terrorist attacks, commemorate Constitution Day on September 17th, and encourage Michigan students to engage in American history.\n\n\u201cPatriot Week gives us the opportunity to honor the lives that were lost during the horrific September 11th terrorist attacks and recognize the profound bravery of the first responders who stepped into action on that tragic day,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis resolution serves as a reminder to all Americans that we are at our strongest when we come together, just as we did in the days following September 11th. I want to thank Judge Warren for his continued efforts to help champion this important initiative each year.\u201d\n\n\u201cPatriot Week was started in 2009 when my 10-year-old daughter Leah pounded on the table and demanded a new celebration to renew the spirit of America,\u201d said Patriot Week co-founder Michigan Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Michael Warren. \u201cOver the years, we have held countless activities, produced the Patriot Lessons American History and Civics Podcast on all major platforms, the Patriot Lessons TV Show, videos, and lesson plans, all of which can be found at PatriotWeek.org. This year we are sending historical re-enactors into schools, which are being enthusiastically received by thousands of students.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Patriot Week Foundation is thrilled that with the bipartisan leadership of Senators Gary Peters and John Kennedy, the United States Senate has unanimously approved its eighth consecutive Patriot Week Resolution,\u201d stated Patriot Week co-founder Dr. Leah Warren. \u201cWe are deeply grateful to the Senators and all Patriot Week supporters across America.\u201d\n\nPeters introduced the resolution with U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA). The full text of the resolution can be found by clicking here.\n\nPeters serves as Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as well as a member of the Armed Services Committee. Peters volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks on our country, he volunteered again for drilling status and served overseas as part of his Reserve duty. He later earned a diploma from the College of Naval Command and Staff, U.S. Naval War College.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/17/slotkin-leads-senate-democrats-in-demanding-answers-from-hegseth-on-cost-of-iran-war/", "Slotkin\u00a0Leads\u00a0Senate Democrats\u00a0in Demanding\u00a0Answers\u00a0from Hegseth\u00a0on\u00a0Cost of Iran War", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "Pentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee led 45 of her colleagues, nearly the entire Democratic caucus, in sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, demanding a full accounting of the costs of the ongoing war with Iran. The letter also criticized the Department of Defense for withholding basic budget information from Congress and the American public even as U.S. casualties and taxpayer costs continue to increase.\n\nThe United States is now more than six months into a conflict President Trump initially said would last six weeks. Eighteen American servicemembers have been killed and more than 820 wounded, and over 50,000 troops are currently deployed to the Middle East. In the letter, Slotkin and her colleagues note that deployments, including for the USS Lincoln and the 82nd Airborne, have been repeatedly extended, and that their offices have heard directly from military families worried about loved ones serving in the conflict.\n\n\u201cMeanwhile, at home, American taxpayers have already paid an extra $100 billion out of their pockets for higher gas and diesel prices alone and at least another $60 billion in higher costs for things like groceries, mortgages, and plane tickets as a result of the war,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cNow you are asking that they pay again to fund a war of choice that Congress never authorized and the President launched with no strategic plan.\u201d\n\nIn their letter, the senators highlight the contrast between the current Pentagon\u2019s transparency record with past wartime practice, noting that Hegseth has briefed Congress only seven times in six months and held just eight Pentagon press briefings or interviews since the war began, compared to more than 70 press briefings in the first month of the Iraq War alone. The senators also criticized the administration\u2019s public supplemental funding request as a seven-page document offering only vague line items, in contrast to the detailed, hundred-page supplemental requests provided to Congress during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.\n\nSlotkin and the senators are requesting that the Department of Defense provide:\n\nA detailed breakdown of all direct and indirect costs of military operations against Iran to date, including damage to installations, aircraft, and equipment.\n\nA full accounting of the $67 billion supplemental request, specifying what covers past costs versus future operations.\n\nA detailed plan for how the Pentagon intends to spend the remaining $34 billion from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.\n\n\u201cDespite asking for tens of billions of additional taxpayer dollars, you have so far failed to provide basic information on how this money has and will be spent,\u201d continued the Senators. \u201cCongress must have access to this information to carry out our oversight responsibilities. It is the bare minimum that any American would expect in balancing their own household budget.\u201d\n\nSenator Slotkin\u2019s letter was signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael G. Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).\n\nThe full text of the letter is available here.", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7344", "Dingell, Bacon Introduce Resolution Designating September as Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) introduced a bipartisan resolution designating September as Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month to increase awareness of gynecologic cancers and encourage earlier diagnosis and treatment.\n\n\u201cGynecologic cancers affect approximately 100,000 women every year, yet too many face diagnosis when it is already far along,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cThis bipartisan resolution is meant to break down stigma, make sure women know the warning signs, and encourage early detection. Early diagnosis saves lives, and we must ensure every woman has access to the comprehensive, affordable care she needs.\u201d\n\n\u201cGynecologic cancers affect thousands of women and families every year, and knowing the warning signs can make a real difference,\u201dsaid Congressman Bacon. \u201cThis resolution will help raise awareness, encourage women to talk with their doctors when something does not seem right and support earlier diagnosis and treatment. I\u2019m pleased to join Rep. Dingell in recognizing September as Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month.\u201d\n\nThe resolution is endorsed by the Society for Gynecologic Oncology.\n\n\u201cGynecologic Cancer Awareness Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness of the five gynecologic cancers and ensure people know the signs and symptoms that may signal a need to speak with their healthcare provider. Early detection and timely access to high-quality, specialized care can make meaningful difference in outcomes and save lives. By increasing awareness, equipping people with the information they need, and breaking down barriers to care, we can help more people get the right diagnosis, treatment, and support, when they need it,\u201d said Matthew A. Powell, MD, President, Society of Gynecologic Oncology.\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7347", "Dingell Continues Demands for Transparency from University of Michigan on Los Alamos Project", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) requested a full public disclosure of the underlying agreement between the University of Michigan (U-M) and Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) regarding their proposed joint research computing center in Ypsilanti Township. In a letter to U-M leadership, Congresswoman Dingell channeled the frustrations she has heard from her constituents about the minimal information the community has received about the agreement between U-M and LANL.\n\n\u201cDespite the size, scale, and significance of this project, the public has received minimal information about the actual agreement between U-M and LANL, including the legal authority for LANL\u2019s proposed contribution, the source and status of the funds, and the conditions governing any financial commitment. There is an important distinction between an agreement stating that LANL may contribute $300 million and an executed federal appropriation, contract, or other federal financial instrument that has obligated taxpayer dollars for this facility. The public deserves clarity about that distinction and should not have to rely on conflicting or incomplete descriptions of the project\u2019s federal funding,\u201d Congresswoman Dingell wrote. \u201cGiven the continued lack of transparency and the significance of the community concerns surrounding this project, I ask that U-M make the underlying agreement publicly available so that Ypsilanti Township residents and local officials can better understand the proposed data center\u2019s structure, funding, and accountability. I also urge U-M to provide clear answers to the following questions.\u201d\n\nThe letter follows several oversight efforts led by Congresswoman Dingell demanding answers and transparency on the project for her constituents. This month, Congresswoman Dingell expressed her opposition to the Los Alamos Project and called on congress to enact comprehensive guardrails for large scale AI and data-center development. In June 2026, the congresswoman urged leaders at U-M and Los Alamos National Laboratory to respond to Ypsilanti Township community concerns directly and decisively regarding the proposed project. In August 2026, Congresswoman Dingell released a statement criticizing the selection of Ypsilanti Township as the site for the controversial project and called on U-M leadership to fully address the long-standing concerns of residents at its September town hall.\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below:\n\nDear President Grasso:\n\nThis letter is to follow up the ongoing concerns surrounding the proposed University of Michigan-Los Alamos National Laboratory research computing center in Ypsilanti Township and to request additional information regarding the agreement between the University of Michigan (U-M) and Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) to develop this site.\n\nI remain deeply frustrated by the lack of transparency, accountability, and meaningful communication surrounding this project. U-M and LANL have continued progress on this data center despite substantial and strong community opposition. Residents have spent years seeking answers about the project\u2019s potential effects on water, electricity, noise, the environment, property values, and quality of life, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the entities involved. The community has been left to piece together information rather than receive clear answers from the institutions responsible for the project.\n\nThese concerns were particularly evident at U-M\u2019s September 9, 2026, town hall, where residents expressed significant distrust regarding the U-M\u2019s handling of the project. U-M itself acknowledged hearing \u201cenormous anger\u201d and \u201cenormous distrust\u201d from the community. This level of frustration underscores the need for a more transparent and accountable approach moving forward. The community must be treated as a meaningful partner in decisions that will affect its future, not as an afterthought.\n\nU-M\u2019s limited public information about the project\u2019s financing and institutional arrangements is concerning. According to current project information, the proposed $1.25 billion facility would involve $300 million from LANL, $850 million from U-M, and $100 million in Strategic Site Readiness Program grant funding from the State of Michigan. The state has also indicated that the LANL facility would conduct federally funded research involving national security, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and energy security.\n\nDespite the size, scale, and significance of this project, the public has received minimal information about the actual agreement between U-M and LANL, including the legal authority for LANL\u2019s proposed contribution, the source and status of the funds, and the conditions governing any financial commitment.\n\nThere is an important distinction between an agreement stating that LANL may contribute $300 million and an executed federal appropriation, contract, or other federal financial instrument that has obligated taxpayer dollars for this facility. The public deserves clarity about that distinction and should not have to rely on conflicting or incomplete descriptions of the project\u2019s federal funding.\n\nGiven the continued lack of transparency and the significance of the community concerns surrounding this project, I ask that U-M make the underlying agreement publicly available so that Ypsilanti Township residents and local officials can better understand the proposed data center\u2019s structure, funding, and accountability. I also urge U-M to provide clear answers to the following questions:\n\n1. What is the date of the agreement between the University of Michigan and Los Alamos National Laboratory to develop this data center?\n\n2. Which parties signed this agreement?\n\n3. Is this agreement legally binding?\n\n4. Have any federal dollars been appropriated for this project?\n\n5. Have any federal dollars been obligated for this project?\n\n6. Have any federal dollars been transferred for this project?\n\n7. What legal authority allows Los Alamos National Laboratory to make the proposed $300 million contribution towards this project?\n\n8. Has the Department of Energy approved or authorized the agreement between the University of Michigan and Los Alamos National Laboratory?\n\n9. What conditions must be met before funding is put towards this project?\n\n10. Was Los Alamos National Laboratory\u2019s commitment to contribute $300 million contingent on site selection?\n\n11. Was Los Alamos National Laboratory\u2019s commitment to contribute $300 million contingent on environmental approvals?\n\n12. Was Los Alamos National Laboratory\u2019s commitment to contribute $300 million contingent on other regulatory approvals?\n\n13. What happens to this commitment if this project is delayed, changed, or cancelled?\n\n14. Who is responsible for cost overruns?\n\n15. Does this agreement include any federal guarantees or commitments?\n\n16. Is there a federal contract, cooperative agreement, grant agreement, memorandum of understanding, or federal instrument associated with this data center agreement or proposed data center?\n\nThank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your timely response and to U-M\u2019s cooperation in providing the transparency and information the community deserves.", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7348", "Dingell Requests Review of Environmental Status of Proposed Site of Los Alamos Project", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) is requesting the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conduct a formal review of the environmental status of the Textile Road Site in Ypsilanti Township, which has been selected for the proposed University of Michigan-Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) research computing center.\n\n\u201cThe selection of this site, despite ongoing environmental concerns, warrants additional scrutiny. The proposed facility is a major development that should not move forward without a clear understanding of the site\u2019s environmental history, remaining contamination, applicable restrictions, and the protections necessary to safeguard public health and the surrounding community,\u201d Congresswoman Dingell wrote.\n\nThe letter follows several oversight efforts led by Congresswoman Dingell demanding answers and transparency on the project for her constituents. This month, Congresswoman Dingell expressed her opposition to the Los Alamos Project and called on congress to enact comprehensive guardrails for large scale AI and data-center development. In June 2026, the congresswoman urged leaders at U-M and Los Alamos National Laboratory to respond to Ypsilanti Township community concerns directly and decisively regarding the proposed project. In August 2026, Congresswoman Dingell released a statement criticizing the selection of Ypsilanti Township as the site for the controversial project and called on U-M leadership to fully address the long-standing concerns of residents at its September town hall.\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE and below:\n\nDear Administrator Zeldin and Director Roos:\n\nThis letter is to request a formal review of the environmental status of the Textile Road Site in Ypsilanti Township, which has been selected for the proposed University of Michigan-Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) research computing center.\n\nThe selection of this site, despite ongoing environmental concerns, warrants additional scrutiny. The proposed facility is a major development that should not move forward without a clear understanding of the site\u2019s environmental history, remaining contamination, applicable restrictions, and the protections necessary to safeguard public health and the surrounding community.\n\nAs you know, federal cleanup of the site was conducted under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as Superfund. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains a CERCLA record for the Textile Road Site [EPA ID MID980825558], which is located near the former General Motors (GM) Willow Run Plant. EPA records indicate that removal and cleanup work has been completed and that the site is now in an oversight and management phase.\n\nThe completion of cleanup activities does not resolve all questions about a site\u2019s environmental status or the protections that may remain necessary. The public deserves a clear understanding of what contamination remains, what monitoring is required, and whether future construction activities could disturb contaminated soil or groundwater.\n\nThe Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) also has an important role in maintaining information about contaminated properties and environmental restrictions in Michigan. EGLE\u2019s RIDE Mapper identifies federally regulated Superfund sites and Michigan-regulated contaminated properties, including sites subject to environmental restrictions. EGLE also has responsibilities under Michigan\u2019s environmental remediation laws, including Part 201 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act.\n\nThe need for clarity is particularly important as data center development accelerates nationwide. Recent reporting has described federal efforts to streamline environmental permitting for data centers, including potential changes affecting pollution permitting and public participation. Accelerating development must not come at the expense of careful environmental review, meaningful public participation, or the enforcement of protections designed to prevent exposure to contamination. For a project proposed on a site with a documented environmental history, those safeguards are vital.\n\nGiven the joint responsibilities of EPA and EGLE in evaluating environmental risks and overseeing remediation, I request that both agencies formally review the current environmental status of the Textile Road Site and identify what environmental protections, monitoring requirements, and restrictions remain in effect, while responding to the following questions:\n\nWhat contamination remains at or near this proposed site?\n\nWhat soil and groundwater monitoring requirements currently apply to this site, including any requirements established through CERCLA, state remediation programs, or other applicable authorities?\n\nWho is responsible for conducting the required monitoring, and who is responsible for overseeing compliance?\n\nHow frequently are soil and groundwater samples collected, and what contaminants are included in the required testing?\n\nWhere are this site\u2019s monitoring wells located, and can EPA and EGLE provide a map identifying their locations relative to this site?\n\nWhat are the most recent soil and groundwater monitoring results, and do those results identify any ongoing contamination, environmental risks, or additional monitoring needs?\n\nAre there any existing land-use restrictions, institutional controls, environmental covenants, or other restrictions applicable to this property?\n\nCould anticipated construction activities, including excavation, grading, foundation construction, utility installation, or dewatering, disturb contaminated soil or groundwater, interfere with existing environmental protections, or otherwise create additional environmental risks?\n\nWhat environmental reviews, permits, approvals, or other requirements must be completed before construction may begin, including any additional investigation or remediation that may be necessary given the site\u2019s environmental history?\n\nWhat agency has the legal authority to require construction to stop, impose additional protective measures, or otherwise intervene if contamination is discovered, disturbed, or presents an environmental risk during construction?\n\nWho would be responsible for paying for any additional environmental testing, monitoring, remediation, or environmental response necessitated by this project?\n\nEPA and EGLE should coordinate, as appropriate, to clearly establish which entity is responsible for each aspect of environmental monitoring, remediation, and construction oversight. Additionally, copies of any relevant environmental assessments, monitoring reports, institutional controls, environmental covenants, or other documents necessary to understand the site\u2019s current environmental status should be made public and easily accessible.\n\nThe community deserves clear answers about the conditions of a site that may host a massive research computing facility. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to your timely response.", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-mcdonald-rivet-davis-lead-new-push-stop-tax-giveaways-data-centers", "Reps. McDonald Rivet, Davis Lead New Push to Stop Tax Giveaways for Data Centers", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Kristen McDonald Rivet", "M001237", "mcdonaldrivet.house.gov", "mcdonaldrivet", "https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "*WATCH REP. McDONALD RIVET\u2019S OPENING REMARKS HERE*\n\nWASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Representatives Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) and Don Davis (NC-01) led 25 Members of Congress in introducing the Reverse Big Ugly Tax Breaks for Data Centers Act, which would rein in tax giveaways for data center development.\n\nLast year, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) significantly expanded tax breaks that have helped spur the construction of AI data centers; that same legislation cut over $1 trillion from Medicaid and SNAP food assistance. The Reverse Big Ugly Tax Breaks for Data Centers Act would exclude data centers from benefiting from those OBBBA tax breaks. Specifically, the bill would exclude data centers from being able to take the 100% bonus depreciation tax deduction, and from being eligible for Opportunity Zone tax benefits.\n\nCongresswoman McDonald Rivet said, \u201cWashington is giving handouts to Big Tech companies while American families are drowning \u2014 I hear that word, \u2018drowning,\u2019 all the time from working parents back home. Tax cuts need to go to families, not data centers. We absolutely should not cut health care and food assistance for children and seniors to pay for tax giveaways to corporations. We have to fix it.\u201d\n\nCongressman Davis said, \u201cWhen families are struggling at the pump, in the grocery store, and with rising utility bills, we cannot give data centers a blank check. We need time to fully understand the costs and consequences of these projects, including their impact on power grids, water systems, and utility costs for rural communities across eastern North Carolina and our nation.\u201d\n\nThe bill text can be found HERE, and a one-pager on the bill can be found HERE.\n\nOther members introducing the bill include Representatives Kathy Castor (FL-14), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Mike Levin (CA-49), John Mannion (NY-22), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Dina Titus (NV-01), Norma Torres (CA-35), Derek Tran (CA-45), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Eugene Vindman (VA-07), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25).", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-announces-116-million-health-care-research-and", "Congresswoman Scholten Announces $11.6 Million for Health Care Research and Supportive Services in West Michigan", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Hillary J. Scholten", "S001221", "scholten.house.gov", "scholten", "https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) announced $11,656,359 for a variety of medical research projects and investments in community health and well-being services across West Michigan. The funding is through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).\n\n\u201cWest Michigan continues to lead the way in medical research and community care, and these investments reflect the strength and diversity of the work happening right here in our district,\u201d said Congresswoman Scholten. \u201cFrom advancing research on diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune diseases to supporting youth in need of housing, these grants will make a real difference in people\u2019s lives. Federal investments like these are exactly how the government should be showing up for our communities, and I\u2019ll keep fighting to secure them.\u201d\n\nIndividual awards listed below:\n\nThis funding reflects Rep. Scholten's ongoing commitment to bringing federal investment back to Michigan's Third Congressional District. These investments will keep West Michigan at the forefront of medical research and accessible community health care.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-secures-key-wins-west-michigan-passage-2026-water", "Congresswoman Scholten Secures Key Wins for West Michigan in the Passage of the 2026 Water Resources Development Act", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Hillary J. Scholten", "S001221", "scholten.house.gov", "scholten", "https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Vice Chair of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee, secured key policy victories and critical investments for West Michigan in the House passage of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) 2026.\n\n\u201cInvesting in water infrastructure means investing in jobs, environmental resilience, and the economic health of our local communities,\u201d said Congresswoman Scholten. \u201cAs Vice Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, I know how important it is that we work across the aisle to address the water infrastructure needs our country is facing. I am proud of the work of this Committee in getting this critical legislation passed, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to get it across the finish line.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Scholten\u2019s specific wins include:\n\n$115 million in new environmental infrastructure authorizations between Kent, Ottawa, and Muskegon Counties, as well as the state of Michigan, for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management and surface water resource protection.\n\nThe expedited completion of the streambank erosion and shoreline protection project in Muskegon Heights.\n\nLanguage to direct the Army Corps to assess the impact of data centers on water resources.\n\nThe necessary authorization for a watershed-based study for the Muskegon River.\n\nSeveral Great Lakes priorities, including language to adjust wage rates for Soo Locks employees; reauthorize the Great Lakes Commission; provide status updates on the Great Lakes recreational boating study; and expand funding eligibility to control aquatic plants and invasive species.\n\nDredging reforms to require local coordination and safe disposal of contaminated materials.\n\nThe reauthorization of FEMA\u2019s High Hazard Potential Dam Program, and for language to assess levee risk, after significant flooding in Michigan this year.\n\nA video of Congresswoman Scholten leading debate in support of WRDA26 on the House Floor is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-shri-thanedar-bonnie-watson-coleman-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-ice-reporting-standards", "Representatives Shri Thanedar, Bonnie Watson Coleman Introduce Legislation to Strengthen ICE Reporting Standards", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Shri Thanedar", "T000488", "thanedar.house.gov", "thanedar", "https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC - Yesterday, Representative Shri Thanedar and Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman introduced the No ICE Deaths in the Dark Act, comprehensive legislation that will ensure that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reports quickly and transparently on any deaths that occur in ICE custody. In a reversal from previous policy, ICE is no longer required to report certain deaths that occur within 30 days after release from custody, even when ICE detention or release conditions may have contributed to the death. This legislation would codify Biden-era reporting rules that required full reporting on these and all other deaths in ICE custody.\n\n\u201cSince President Trump took office, ICE has gotten out of control, detaining a record number of Americans in horrific conditions,\u201d said Representative Shri Thanedar. \u201cIt is beyond unacceptable that detainees are dying in custody and ICE is refusing to report their deaths. I\u2019m proud to introduce this necessary legislation with Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman to ensure ICE finally acts with the transparency the American people deserve and to protect the lives of those in detention centers.\u201d\n\n\u201cICE has had free reign to attack people in front of cameras, so it\u2019s imperative we demand to see what is going on behind closed doors,\u201d said Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman. \u201cEdwin Lopez-Cornejo, one of my constituents, was denied medical care and died in ICE custody. How many other detainees have suffered from medical neglect while in custody, only to die once released? These people deserve justice too.\u201d\n\nThis legislation is co-sponsored by Representatives Steve Cohen, Herb Conaway, Jasmine Crockett, Danny K. Davis, Veronica Escobar, Adriano Espaillat, Jesus G. \u201cChuy\u201d Garcia, Dan Goldman, Al Green, Hank Johnson, Betty McCollum, LaMonica McIver, Analilia Mejia, Seth Moulton, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Jan Schakowsky, Bennie G. Thompson, Rashida Tlaib, and Mike Quigley. It has also been endorsed by the following organizations: Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Coalition on Human Needs, Emgage Action, ICE Out of NJ Collective, Make the Road NJ, New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, Public Citizen, and the Vera Institute of Justice.\n\nThe full text of the legislation can be seen here.\n\nCongressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/commerce-committee-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-bolster-great-lakes-conservation-efforts", "Commerce Committee Passes Peters\u2019 Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee passed bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act of 2026 \u2013 which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) \u2013 would designate the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the Regional Great Lakes Partnership under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program. This designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC\u2019s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. The bill now advances to the full Senate.\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes are essential to our economy, our environment, and our way of life in Michigan,\u201d said Senator Peters, Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force. \u201cThat\u2019s why I have long fought to protect the federal conservation programs that deliver for our Great Lakes. This commonsense, bipartisan bill does just that. With more secure financial backing, the GLC can continue spearheading region-wide efforts to keep our Great Lakes healthy and vibrant for future generations.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Senators Peters and Moreno for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,\u201d said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. \u201cThis designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership - fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes\u2019 most pressing challenges - to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region.\u201d\n\nThe GLC is an interstate agency that brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and our environment and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is comprised of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.\n\nNOAA\u2019s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. There are four ROPs, located in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast. However, there is currently no Great Lakes ROP. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill would establish the GLC as the NOAA ROP for the Great Lakes region, ensuring the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding.\n\nPeters has made protecting the Great Lakes for future generations a key priority throughout his entire career. As Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, Peters plays a key role in uniting Great Lakes lawmakers to coordinate legislative initiatives, funding priorities, and oversight efforts to address the most important issues facing the Great Lakes, such as invasive species, environmental contamination, shoreline erosion, water quality, infrastructure needs, and more.\n\nPeters has consistently led the charge to fund the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which has helped restore and transform the health of our treasured bodies of water. In 2021, he helped secure $1 billion for the program \u2013 the largest investment in GLRI ever \u2013 as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Today, he is leading the effort to reauthorize the program for another five years at increased funding levels, which would put GLRI on solid footing for years to come.\n\nPeters also created the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Oil Spill Center of Expertise. Collocated in Ann Arbor and Sault Ste. Marie, the center is actively working to develop best practices for effectively responding to an oil spill in freshwater environments like the Great Lakes.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/happening-soon-rep-haley-stevens-address-congress-60-minutes-democratic-vision", "HAPPENING SOON: Rep. Haley Stevens to Address Congress for 60 Minutes on the Democratic Vision for America", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 This evening, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) will take to the House floor for a sixty-minute address to reflect on her time in Congress and her work alongside her Democratic colleagues.\n\nThe address will be streamed live here\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-statement-hr-5334-lindsay-o-graham-sanctioning-russia", "Congresswoman Scholten Statement on H.R. 5334 Lindsay O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Hillary J. Scholten", "S001221", "scholten.house.gov", "scholten", "https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), released the following statement on her vote against the H.R. 5334 Lindsay O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Actof2026.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump already has every tool at his disposal to sanction Russia and help Ukraine. If he had wanted to sanction Russia, he would have done it already. But instead of doing that, his family is partying with Russian oligarchs. Today\u2019s vote is the sickest of its kind\u2014using the good people of Ukraine as a ploy to give the President even more unchecked authority to enact his reckless tariff regime that is crippling American families. Under this tariff scheme, American families have already paid over $4,200 more on average per year and could pay an additional $8,000 under this bill. Enough is enough. It\u2019s time to hold Russia accountable with meaningful sanctions, and put tariff control back in the hands of Congress where it belongs.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7327", "Dingell Passes Bill through House to Support Conservation of Birds, Bird Habitats", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI) passed the bipartisan Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act to establish a federal grant program to support conservation of birds and habitats in urban areas. The bill passed the House of Representatives and now goes to the U.S. Senate for consideration.\n\n\u201cBirds play an important role in our ecosystems and our everyday lives, but unfortunately, we have lost nearly 3 billion birds in the last 50 years, and we need to take serious action to address this crisis,\u201d Congresswoman Dingell said. \u201cThe Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act will provide federal funding to restore bird habitats and educate communities about the small steps we can all take to protect bird populations for generations to come.\u201d\n\nIn North America, one in four breeding birds has been lost since 1970. The widespread loss and degradation of habitat is the biggest driver of bird population decline. Restoring bird habitat in urban areas can make a significant difference in conserving bird populations.\n\nThe Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act would make $200,000 available annually through a competitive grant program to eligible entities, including Tribal, State, or municipal agencies, nongovernmental organizations, community groups, and academic institutions, to promote urban bird conservation.\n\nSpecifically, the grant program aims to:\n\nprotect, restore, or enhance urban habitats for birds, including through the control of invasive species and the restoration of native plant species;\n\nreduce urban hazards to birds; and\n\neducate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas.\n\neducate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas.\n\nprotect, restore, or enhance urban habitats for birds, including through the control of invasive species and the restoration of native plant species;\n\nreduce urban hazards to birds; and\n\neducate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas.\n\nprotect, restore, or enhance urban habitats for birds, including through the control of invasive species and the restoration of native plant species;\n\nreduce urban hazards to birds; and\n\neducate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas.\n\nprotect, restore, or enhance urban habitats for birds, including through the control of invasive species and the restoration of native plant species;\n\nreduce urban hazards to birds; and\n\neducate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas.", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7329", "Dingell Opposes Los Alamos Project, Calls on Congress to Enact Guardrails Against A.I.", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) expressed opposition to the proposed University of Michigan (U-M) Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) research computing center at the Textile Road site in Ypsilanti Township. In a letter sent to Ypsilanti Township and U-M leadership, Congresswoman Dingell also called on Congress to enact comprehensive guardrails for large-scale AI and data-center development.\n\n\u201cThe lesson from the U-M-LANL proposal is clear: the United States and the State of Michigan need the rules now, not later. The public deserves transparency before commitments are made, enforceable protections before construction begins, and a meaningful voice when a project has the potential to fundamentally change a community,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell.\u201cFor all of these reasons, I strongly oppose the proposed Textile Road Site in Ypsilanti Township. My opposition is not opposition to the University of Michigan, it is not opposition to research, and it is not opposition to artificial intelligence. Rather, my opposition is a demand that a project of this size and significance be developed responsibly, transparently, and with the people who will live with its consequences having a meaningful voice. The environmental history of the site makes the need for independent review even more important. The questions about water, electricity, schools, noise, and local authority make meaningful community involvement essential. We should not build first and regulate later. Innovation matters, but protecting our lives, our freedoms, our humanity, and our future must come first.\u201d\n\nThe latest letter follows several oversight efforts led by Congresswoman Dingell demanding answers and transparency on the project for her constituents. In June 2026, the congresswoman urged leaders at U-M and Los Alamos National Laboratory to respond to Ypsilanti Township community concerns directly and decisively regarding the proposed project. In August 2026, Congresswoman Dingell released a statement criticizing the selection of Ypsilanti Township as the site for the controversial project and called on U-M leadership to fully address the long-standing concerns of residents at its September town hall.\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE and below:\n\nDear Supervisor Stumbo and members of the Ypsilanti Township community:\n\nThe proposed University of Michigan-Los Alamos research computing center in Ypsilanti Township has become a deeply troubling example of what happens when a major project moves faster than meaningful community engagement, transparency, and public accountability. The University of Michigan (U-M) has repeatedly failed to adequately communicate with the community, particularly those who live closest to the proposed site. Residents have spent years asking basic questions about the project, its environmental impacts, its water and electricity demands, its noise, its long-term operation, and who ultimately has the authority to make decisions. Instead of receiving clear answers early in the process, the community has too often been left to piece together information without receiving the answers or facts it deserves.\n\nThat frustration was on full display at the recent U-M town hall on September 9, 2026, where residents expressed anger and distrust toward university officials. U-M itself acknowledged hearing \u201cenormous anger\u201d and \u201cenormous distrust\u201d from the community. These concerns are not imaginary or isolated. Local officials and residents have repeatedly questioned the project\u2019s potential effects on water, electricity, property values, quality of life, noise, and the environment. The community should and deserves to be treated as a partner, not as an afterthought, and U-M\u2019s handling of the site-selection process has only deepened that distrust.\n\nMaking matters worse, the roles and responsibilities of the entities involved in this project remain unclear and insufficiently transparent. U-M\u2019s current information states that the $1.25 billion project involves $300 million from Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), $850 million from U-M, and $100 million from the State of Michigan through a Strategic Site Readiness Program grant. The state has announced that the LANL facility would conduct federally funded research involving national security, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and energy security.\n\nGovernmental Authority and Public Accountability\n\nWe need to be clear about the roles of federal, state, and local governments in this project. The project involves different layers of authority, including U-M as a public university and the activities authorized by its Board of Regents; the State of Michigan, because the project is supported by $100 million in state funding approved by the Michigan Legislature and is subject to applicable state laws and regulations; a reported agreement between U-M and LANL because of the stated federal research mission; and local government, with respect to the authority state law leaves to the township.\n\nU-M has asserted that, as a state constitutional institution, it is exempt from ordinary local zoning and taxes. That legal question is central to this dispute. If a public university\u2019s constitutional authority permits it to override local land-use decisions, the Michigan Legislature needs to determine whether that framework remains appropriate for projects of this size and potential impact. This should not be decided project by project. Communities deserve clarity about their authority when a state institution proposes an industrial-scale facility in or near their neighborhoods.\n\nNo community should have to discover after decisions have been made who has authority over water, electricity, environmental protections, noise, traffic, emergency planning, and other impacts for a project of this size. Those responsibilities must be established publicly and in writing before a project of this magnitude moves forward.\n\nI understand that legislation has been introduced by Michigan State Representatives, including Representatives Jason Morgan, Morgan Foreman, Carrie Rheingans, Jimmie Wilson, and Jennifer Conlin of the Washtenaw legislative delegation, to address some of these issues, and I urge state legislators to support it. Additional work and legislation across all levels of government are necessary to establish clear rules and accountability in this area.\n\nFederal Funding and the University of Michigan-Los Alamos National Laboratory Agreement\n\nWe need clarity about the federal agreement between U-M, LANL, and federal partners. Specifically, does a contractual financial commitment exist between Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), the University of Michigan, and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) regarding this proposed facility? If so, what are the roles, responsibilities, financial interests, and contractual obligations of each party?\n\nAt the time the program was announced, the University stated in its \u201cMake It In Michigan FAQ National AI Research Center\u201d memorandum:\n\nHas the federal funding already been approved/Is there a chance they won\u2019t have it? Federal funding to support this project has not yet been appropriated. However, Los Alamos National Lab has consistently received its funding because its purpose is so vital to national security. In fact, in January 2023, it was reported that LANL received an unprecedented $4.6 billion budget (Source: Albuquerque Journal).\n\nThere is an important distinction between a statement that LANL may contribute $300 million under an agreement and an executed federal appropriation or federal contract that has obligated federal taxpayer dollars for this facility. My understanding from multiple official inquiries that I submitted is that there is no federal money appropriated and there is not a federal financial commitment.\n\nThere is an important distinction between a statement that LANL may contribute $300 million under an agreement and an executed federal appropriation or federal contract that has obligated federal taxpayer dollars for this facility. My understanding from multiple official inquiries that I submitted is that there is no federal money appropriated and there is not a federal financial commitment.\n\nThe public should not have to rely on conflicting descriptions. That is why I urge U-M and LANL to publicly produce the agreement, identify the legal authority and source of the dollars, identify whether the dollars have actually been appropriated or obligated, and identify every condition that must be satisfied before any federal money can be spent. This is basic transparency for a project involving more than $1 billion dollars and a federal national laboratory.\n\nI will be seeking answers from the University of Michigan in a separate letter regarding the exact agreement between LANL and U-M. The public should be able to understand:\n\n\u25cf The date of the agreement;\n\n\u25cf The parties who signed it;\n\n\u25cf Whether it is legally binding;\n\n\u25cf Whether any federal dollars have actually been appropriated, obligated, or transferred;\n\n\u25cf What legal authority allows LANL to make the proposed $300 million contribution;\n\n\u25cf Whether DOE has approved or authorized the agreement;\n\n\u25cf What conditions must be met before any money is provided;\n\n\u25cf Whether the $300 million is contingent on site selection or environmental or other regulatory approvals;\n\n\u25cf What happens to the commitment if the project is delayed, changed, or cancelled;\n\n\u25cf Who is responsible for cost overruns;\n\n\u25cf Whether there are any federal guarantees or commitments; and\n\n\u25cf Whether there is a federal contract, cooperative agreement, grant agreement, memorandum of understanding, or other federal instrument associated with the proposed facility.\n\nConcerns at the Textile Road Site\n\nThe selection of the Textile Road Site in Ypsilanti Township, despite ongoing environmental concerns, requires additional scrutiny. There are specific environmental concerns related to the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) designation of the site under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as Superfund, including its close proximity to the former General Motors (GM) Willow Run Plant.\n\nThe federal cleanup of the site was conducted under CERCLA and its implementing regulations under the National Contingency Plan. Today, EPA maintains a CERCLA record [EPA ID MID980825558] for the Textile Road Site. EPA has stated that removal and cleanup work was completed and that the site is now in an oversight and management phase. EPA\u2019s administrative record identifies the Textile Road Site as a Superfund site and documents EPA\u2019s response actions under CERCLA. That history requires scrutiny, transparency, and answers for the community.\n\nLikewise, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) maintains the state\u2019s contaminated-site databases and RIDE Mapper, which includes federal Superfund sites and Michigan-regulated contaminated properties. EGLE also has responsibilities under Michigan\u2019s environmental laws governing environmental remediation. EPA and EGLE should publicly establish the current environmental status of the site and clearly identify which agency has responsibility for each aspect of monitoring, remediation, and construction oversight.\n\nI will be requesting in a separate letter that EPA and EGLE formally review the current status of the Textile Road Site and determine what environmental protections, monitoring, and restrictions remain in effect. We need answers to the following questions:\n\n\u25cf What contamination remains at or near the proposed development site?\n\n\u25cf What soil and groundwater monitoring is currently required?\n\n\u25cf Who is responsible for conducting that monitoring?\n\n\u25cf How frequently are samples taken?\n\n\u25cf What contaminants are being tested for?\n\n\u25cf Where are the monitoring wells located?\n\n\u25cf What are the most recent test results?\n\n\u25cf Are there existing land-use restrictions, institutional controls, environmental covenants, or other restrictions on the property?\n\n\u25cf Could excavation, grading, foundations, utility installation, dewatering, or other construction activities disturb contaminated soil or groundwater?\n\n\u25cf What agency has the authority to stop construction if contamination is discovered or disturbed?\n\n\u25cf What additional environmental review is required before construction?\n\n\u25cf Who will pay for any additional testing, remediation, or environmental response necessitated by the project?\n\nConcerns about nearby schools are also important, and U-M must address potential impacts on nearby students, teachers, and school operations. That should include construction traffic, noise, air quality, emergency planning, environmental risks, and any other foreseeable impacts. Parents should not have to wait until construction begins to find out what a high-performance computing facility could mean for schools in the surrounding area.\n\nFederal and State Guardrails for AI and Data Centers\n\nThe concerns raised by this project also point to a much larger national and state issue. The United States and Michigan need comprehensive guardrails for large-scale AI and data-center development. AI development can and should continue, but it must be responsible development that protects communities, clean water, environmental protections, and residential ratepayers.\n\nThe recent warnings by AI executives themselves, their employees, and other experts are chilling and require immediate policy action. That\u2019s why I believe at the federal level, Congress must act now to establish appropriate guardrails. At a minimum, these standards should ensure:\n\n\u25cf Large data centers, not residential ratepayers, pay the costs of the generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure required to serve them;\n\n\u25cf Developers disclose projected electricity and water demand and the sources of those resources;\n\n\u25cf Major facilities undergo comprehensive environmental review addressing water, air quality, stormwater, wetlands, wildlife, emissions, backup power, noise, traffic, and cumulative impacts;\n\n\u25cf Water use is independently monitored, publicly reported, and subject to enforceable protections for drinking water, groundwater, rivers, and wetlands;\n\n\u25cf Noise limits are independently measured and enforceable;\n\n\u25cf Nearby schools and residential neighborhoods are protected;\n\n\u25cf Emergency-response planning is developed with local officials;\n\n\u25cf Communities have meaningful participation and enforceable community-benefit agreements; and\n\n\u25cf There is clear public accountability for which governmental entity has authority to enforce each requirement.", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/15/slotkin-statement-on-voting-no-on-clarity-act/", "Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Clarity Act", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding her no vote on proceeding on the Clarity Act, a large package regulating the crypto industry.\n\n\u201cToday, I voted no on the Clarity Act, legislation meant to regulate cryptocurrency in America.\n\n\u201cThe ethics provisions in this bill are simply too thin. President Trump, his children, and his Cabinet are making billions of dollars in the crypto space, in part from bilking everyday Americans out of their hard-earned money. I cannot in good conscience vote for any legislation that codifies that behavior from public officials. Not for President Trump or Secretary Lutnick today, nor for any Democrat who may take advantage of it in the future.\u201c\n\n\u201cOn the national security front, there is more to be done to make sure we have the tools in place to stop money laundering and shut down funding avenues for terrorists and nations like North Korea and Iran. This was essential after 9/11 and remains essential to keep Americans safe.\n\n\u201cAnd as of now, our agencies, including the CFTC, lack the necessary oversight and staffing to implement this legislation, and that should be addressed.\n\n\u201cThere are strong, bipartisan provisions in this bill that could serve as the foundation for a new attempt at providing the crypto industry with the guardrails it needs. I believe that the U.S. should lead the world in cryptocurrency innovation, but we need to get it right. I remain open-minded to that work ahead.\u201d t\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7316", "Dingell, DeSaulnier Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, and Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10) introduced the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Centers to Establish National Training (AACCENT) Act, to expand access to augmentative and alternative communication for Americans across the country. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes any tool, technology, or service that supports people who use little or no verbal speech to communicate. AAC can enhance communication, foster language and literacy development and help millions of people access communication and participate in all aspects of life.\n\n\u201cAugmentative and alternative communication services, devices, and technology are essential for millions of Americans to work, learn, and stay connected with their communities and the world around them,\u201d said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell. \u201cAAC tools can significantly improve individuals\u2019 quality of life and open opportunities that otherwise would not be available to them. This bill is a significant step to increase education and expand access to these vital resources.\u201d\n\n\u201cMaking assistive and augmentative technology more available will help the almost 5 million Americans with complex communication needs better connect with their communities, succeed in the classroom, participate in the workforce, and overall thrive,\u201dsaid Congressman DeSaulnier. \u201cPartnering with and advocating for the disability community has been one of the greatest sources of pride and joy throughout my career and I am proud to continue that work alongside Congresswoman Dingell by introducing this important legislation that will help millions of Americans live with greater independence and dignity.\u201d\n\nThe AACCENT Act will establish three national resource centers coordinated to improve access to AAC information, tools and support for AAC users and their families. They also aim to increase the capacity and leadership skills of people who use AAC, their families and professionals.\n\nMore than 4 million people in the United States cannot reliably meet their daily communication needs using verbal speech. People who use and can benefit from AAC include those with intellectual or developmental disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy, Down syndrome), acquired or degenerative conditions (e.g., Parkinson\u2019s disease, stroke, Alzheimer\u2019s) and those with temporary conditions that limit vocal speech (e.g., those who are intubated post-surgery). Advances in AAC have enhanced communication and improved outcomes for millions of Americans, yet not everyone has access to AAC. Lack of knowledge and resources creates barriers for people who can benefit from AAC. The AACCENT Act will help reduce these barriers by creating resource centers focused on AAC.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the American Music Therapy Association, Disability Belongs, Autism Society of America, The Arc of the U.S., and ANCOR.\n\n\"Communication is fundamental to self-determination, belonging, and full participation in community life. The AACCENT Act recognizes that people with expressive communication disabilities deserve meaningful access to the tools, knowledge, and support needed to communicate authentically. Disability Belongs is proud to support this legislation and its commitment to disability-led solutions that expand opportunity across education, employment, health care, and community living,\u201d said Ariel Simms, President and Chief Executive Officer of Disability Belongs.\n\n\"Communication is a fundamental part of being able to participate fully in our communities, yet too many people with Autism and other developmental disabilities face barriers to accessing the tools and support they need to be heard. The AACCENT Act recognizes that access to augmentative and alternative communication is not a luxury, it is essential to learning, working, building relationships, and participating fully in everyday life. We thank Representative Dingell for championing this important legislation and investing in the training, technical assistance, and resources needed to ensure every person has the opportunity to communicate and participate fully in society,\u201d said Joseph P. Joyce, President and CEO, Autism Society of America.\n\nBill text can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7318", "Dingell, Colleagues Seek Answers on USDA Cancellation of Cyclospora Research", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and nine of her House Democratic colleagues are seeking answers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) following the unauthorized reorganization of its staff and research projects. This reorganization has put two research projects on cyclospora\u2014the bacterium that caused the largest foodborne illness outbreak in United States history, with most of the cases occurring in Michigan\u2013on hold. In a letter to the USDA Secretary, the lawmakers are calling on the USDA to reinvest in this research.\n\n\u201cResearch projects like those focused on cyclospora play an important role in helping researchers, investigators, and public health officials understand the nature of an outbreak and build a strategy to prevent the next potential outbreak. Researchers who worked on the cancelled cyclospora projects have reported that they are unable to continue any research beyond preserving samples they received from previous outbreaks, and that they are having to turn down requests for assistance from other federal agencies investigating the outbreak,\u201d said the lawmakers.\n\nIn addition to Congresswoman Dingell, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Marc Veasey (D-TX-33), Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (D-CA-44), and Yvette Clark (D-NY-09).\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below:This letter is regarding reports that two of three cyclospora-related research projects conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture\u2019s (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) have been shelved on the heels of an unprecedented outbreak of cyclosporiasis \u2014 the gastrointestinal illness associated with the cyclospora parasite \u2014 across 48 states and Washington D.C. The third research project, though not halted, is moving from the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center (BARC) in Maryland to Iowa as part of USDA\u2019s reorganization plan. Given that scientists working on this project are not expected to relocate, it is likely this research will not be conducted. While Americans are increasingly worried about the safety of our food supply and the ability of federal agencies to respond to outbreaks of foodborne illness like cyclosporiasis, it is especially concerning that USDA would rollback critical food safety research.\n\nThis summer\u2019s outbreak of cyclosporiasis is the largest recorded outbreak of foodborne illness in United States history, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting over 18,000 confirmed cases, over 14,000 of which were in Michigan. There are nearly 12,000 additional non-laboratory confirmed cases, and potentially thousands more from people who did not seek medical care or testing. Research projects like those focused on cyclospora play an important role in helping researchers, investigators, and public health officials understand the nature of an outbreak and build a strategy to prevent the next potential outbreak. Researchers who worked on the cancelled cyclospora projects have reported that they are unable to continue any research beyond preserving samples they received from previous outbreaks, and that they are having to turn down requests for assistance from other federal agencies investigating the outbreak. This will likely have a similar effect on private institutions who wish to carry out cyclospora research, since they also rely on samples from ARS. Despite these reported disruptions, USDA has claimed that these labs will be uninterrupted, and that the ARS is \u201cworking with research leaders to ensure an orderly transition of programs.\u201d\n\nUSDA has directed the blame to Congress, who voted to defund the ARS projects as part of a 2026 Continuing Resolution, enacted on November 12, 2025 However, the Department began planning for a significant workforce reduction and agency restructuring as early as April 2025, according to a document submitted to the Office of Management and Budget and the Office of Personnel Management. Notably, the November 2025 Continuing Resolution included language prohibiting the use of USDA funds for the Department\u2019s reorganization plan without congressional approval, which they appear to be circumventing by proceeding with their plan to reduce the workforce and relocate staff and subcomponent agencies. This includes a 43 percent staffing cut for the ARS, which oversees scientific research like the three cyclospora projects at issue.\n\nThe Trump Administration has claimed that research facilities like BARC are too expensive, without regard for the potential cost of stopping this research altogether. According to CDC, there have been 922 cyclosporiasis hospitalizations. While we do not yet know the total cost to the health system of this outbreak, USDA\u2019s Cost Estimates of Foodborne Illness data estimate that, in 2023, the cost of foodborne illness in the United States was $74.7 billion. These costs \u2014 compounded by drastic cuts to Medicaid, expired ACA tax credits, and dismantled public health programs \u2014 make it clear that we must invest in research to prevent foodborne illness outbreaks.\n\nAs we continue to grapple with additional cases of foodborne illnesses in our food supply, the American people should be able to have confidence that the Trump Administration is working to investigate those cases and prevent future outbreaks. Therefore, we respectfully request that you respond to the questions below within two weeks of receipt of this letter.\n\nFor what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law?\n\nHow many staff at ARS have been let go, left for another position or project, or retired?\n\na. What specific research was impacted by these departures?\n\nHow does USDA plan to ensure an \u201corderly transition of programs\u201d throughout their reorganization process, despite their own acknowledgement that their relocation plans will result in significant staff attrition?\n\nIn terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating?\n\nWhat plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures?\n\nWhat is the USDA\u2019s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically:\n\na. How does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa?\n\nb. How will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location?\n\nc. When can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them?\n\nThank you for your prompt attention to this matter and for providing a detailed response to these questions. At a time when Americans are counting on the federal government to protect the safety of their food supply, it is critical that USDA maintain the scientific capacity necessary to investigate outbreaks, support public health officials, and prevent future illnesses.\n\nFor what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law?\n\nHow many staff at ARS have been let go, left for another position or project, or retired?\n\nWhat specific research was impacted by these departures?\n\nHow does USDA plan to ensure an \u201corderly transition of programs\u201d throughout their reorganization process, despite their own acknowledgement that their relocation plans will result in significant staff attrition?\n\nIn terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating?\n\nWhat plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures?\n\nWhat is the USDA\u2019s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically:\n\nHow does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa?\n\nHow will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location?\n\nWhen can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them?\n\nFor what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law?\n\nHow many staff at ARS have been let go, left for another position or project, or retired?\n\nWhat specific research was impacted by these departures?\n\nHow does USDA plan to ensure an \u201corderly transition of programs\u201d throughout their reorganization process, despite their own acknowledgement that their relocation plans will result in significant staff attrition?\n\nIn terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating?\n\nWhat plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures?\n\nWhat is the USDA\u2019s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically:\n\nHow does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa?\n\nHow will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location?\n\nWhen can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them?\n\nFor what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law?\n\nHow many staff at ARS have been let go, left for another position or project, or retired?\n\nWhat specific research was impacted by these departures?\n\nHow does USDA plan to ensure an \u201corderly transition of programs\u201d throughout their reorganization process, despite their own acknowledgement that their relocation plans will result in significant staff attrition?\n\nIn terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating?\n\nWhat plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures?\n\nWhat is the USDA\u2019s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically:\n\nHow does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa?\n\nHow will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location?\n\nWhen can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them?\n\nFor what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law?\n\nIn terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating?\n\nWhat plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures?\n\nWhat is the USDA\u2019s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically:\n\nHow does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa?\n\nHow will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location?\n\nWhen can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them?\n\nFor what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law?\n\nFor what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law?", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-introduces-bipartisan-resolution-honor-national-physician", "Rep. Haley Stevens Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Honor National Physician Suicide Awareness Day", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens, alongside Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), announced a bipartisan resolution to recognize September 17th as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day and recognize the intense pressure and trauma physicians face in the workplace. The resolution enhances national awareness of the mental health crisis facing American physicians and honors the memory of the physicians we have lost to suicide. It also urges the establishment of national awareness and educational activities.\n\nAmerica\u2019s physicians work under intense pressure and are regularly exposed to trauma on the job. Roughly 6 in 10 experience increased feelings of anger, tearfulness, or anxiety, while 55 percent have experienced debilitating levels of stress at one point. Seven in 10 physicians also report stigma surrounding mental health and seeking mental health care among physicians. More than half know a colleague or peer who has contemplated or attempted suicide.\n\n\u201cEvery day, physicians across Michigan and our country dedicate themselves to caring for us during some of the most difficult moments of our lives, but too often, the people we rely on to care for us are struggling without the support they need,\u201d said Rep. Haley Stevens. \u201cWe have lost far too many physicians to suicide, and we cannot allow stigma or fear to prevent health care professionals from seeking help. National Physician Suicide Awareness Day is about honoring those we have lost, starting honest conversations about physician mental health, and making sure the people who care for us know that they do not have to struggle alone.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Stevens and Fitzpatrick, the resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (D-CA).\n\nThe resolution is endorsed by the Dr. Lorna Breen Foundation, Council of Residency Directors in Emergency Medicine (CORD), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), American Medical Association (AMA), American Hospital Association (AHA), American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM), Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM) and American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).\n\n\u201cFor many physicians, caring for patients is more than a job, it's a calling. Yet, our healthcare system has failed to fully support those who care for us all. High administrative burdens, long hours, and stigma around seeking mental health care leave many physicians feeling burned out and isolated,\u201d said Corey Feist, CEO & Co-Founder of the Dr. Lorna Breen Foundation. \u201cThe Dr. Lorna Breen Foundation is proud to support Reps. Stevens and Fitzpatrick's bipartisan resolution designating September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. By shining a light on physician mental health, honoring those we have lost, and prioritizing physician suicide awareness and prevention, this resolution helps take us one step closer to a country where all health workers feel safe seeking the mental health care they need. The Foundation looks forward to working with Congress to better protect and support health worker mental health.\u201d\n\n\u201cNational Physician Suicide Awareness Day was created by the Council of Residency Directors in Emergency Medicine (CORD) in 2018 to remember the physicians who have died by suicide and to shine a light on a hard truth: physicians die by suicide at more than twice the rate of the general population. Physicians devote their careers to caring for others, placing them at the heart of every community and at the bedside of patients and families suffering from illness. The factors leading to suicide are multifactorial and the demands of medicine carry additional emotional weight, including loss and responsibility for patients' lives. When compounded with personal and systemic pressures, a heavy burden is created, which is often borne in silence. In addition, physicians face additional suicide risk from their knowledge and access to deadly means. This resolution recognizes that suicidal ideation is not a burden physicians should carry alone, and implementation of suicide prevention interventions is a responsibility shared by their colleagues, institutions, and communities. Suicide is preventable. CORD proudly supports this resolution as a step toward a future in which physicians receive the same compassion and care they extend to their patients every day,\u201d said Arlene Chung, MD, President-Elect of the Council of Residency Directors in Emergency Medicine.\n\n\u201cPhysicians face disproportionately high rates of burnout, depression, anxiety, and suicide risk, driven by individual, environmental, and systemic factors,\u201d said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). \u201cDesignating September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day is an important opportunity to bring greater visibility to physician mental health and to advance meaningful solutions, including increasing research, reducing stigma, and expanding access to mental health care. AFSP applauds Representatives Stevens and Fitzpatrick for introducing this bipartisan resolution to recognize the critical need to support physicians\u2019 well-being and encourage more open conversations about mental health.\u201d\n\n\u201cPhysicians dedicate their lives to caring for others, yet too many are struggling to care for themselves. Workforce shortages, the frustration and lost productivity caused by relentless prior authorization demands, and the financial pressures of running a medical practice are taking a toll on physicians\u2019 mental health. At the same time, stigma and fear that seeking mental health care could jeopardize a physician\u2019s ability to practice can keep physicians from getting the help they need and contribute to far too many physician suicides. Recognizing and understanding the realities physicians face is an essential first step. We applaud Reps. Stevens and Fitzpatrick for their bipartisan effort to designate September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. The AMA looks forward to working with Congress on meaningful policy solutions to this complex and urgent problem,\u201d said Willie Underwood, MD, MSc, MPH, President of the American Medical Association.\n\n\u201cThe American Hospital Association thanks Representative Haley Stevens for introducing this resolution designating September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. Physician suicide is a tragic issue that demands greater awareness, research, and action. By elevating this issue nationally, we can continue to reduce the stigma surrounding physician mental health. We are grateful for Representative Stevens\u2019 leadership and commitment to supporting the well-being of the physicians and caregivers who care for patients every day,\u201d said Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, Senior Vice President, Federal Relations at the American Hospital Association.\n\n\u201cPhysicians dedicate their lives to caring for others, often meeting patients and families on some of the most difficult days of their lives. But those who support so many must know that support is there for them, too. With research showing that roughly one in ten physicians report recent or current suicidal ideation, we cannot afford to treat physician mental health as an afterthought. Designating National Physician Suicide Awareness Day is an important step toward breaking down stigma and encouraging physicians to seek help without fear,\u201d said Vicki Norton, MD, FAAEM, President of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine.\n\n\u201cThe Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM), representing the nation\u2019s hospitalists, is pleased to support the resolution recognizing September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. This important designation helps to raise awareness, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health challenges and seeking help, and promote a culture of well-being across our healthcare system. Every physician deserves the same compassion, support, and care they provide to their patients each day,\u201d said Efr\u00e9n C. Manjarrez, MD, SFHM, President of SHM\u2019s Board of Directors.\n\n\u201cEmergency physicians care for patients every day, but many of us struggle in silence with our own mental health. We see the toll this takes and we know too many who have lost their lives to suicide. ACEP deeply appreciates Rep. Stevens and Rep. Fitzpatrick for their bipartisan work to shine a light on the mental health struggles of our health care workforce. We must continue the critical progress we are making toward eliminating barriers and stigma to ensure emergency physicians and health care workers can seek the mental health care and support they need and deserve.\u201d said L. Anthony Cirillo, MD, FACEP, president of American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).\n\nText of the resolution can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-collins-klobuchar-murkowski-honor-9/11-first-responders-for-25th-anniversary-of-attacks", "Peters, Collins, Klobuchar, Murkowski Honor 9/11 First Responders for 25th Anniversary of Attacks", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, submitted a joint statement into the Congressional Record honoring the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001, and those who aided in the rescue and recovery efforts in the days and months that followed.\n\nIn their statement marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, the senators paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of America\u2019s fire and emergency services personnel and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting first responders across the country.\n\n\u201cTwenty-five years later, the impact of 9/11 is still felt by all Americans, especially those that risked their life during and after the attacks\u201d said Michaela Campbell, Executive Director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute. \u201cThe Congressional Fire Services Institute thanks the Congressional Fire Services Caucus for its recognition of those that responded to 9/11, and the Caucus\u2019s consistent work in support of the Nation\u2019s fire and emergency services. CFSI looks forward to continuing its work with the Caucus into the future.\u201d\n\nThe senators\u2019 joint statement reads:\n\n\u201cM. President, I rise today on behalf of myself, my fellow Senate co-chairs \u2013 Senator Collins, Senator Klobuchar, Senator Murkowski \u2013 and the entire Congressional Fire Services Caucus to recognize the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001.\n\nOn that tragic morning, nearly 3,000 innocent lives \u2013 including 343 members of the fire and emergency services \u2013 were taken in acts of terrorism that shook our country to its core. As co-chairs of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, we stand today, 25 years later, to remember every individual loss, every family forever changed by unimaginable tragedy, and every community that continues to carry the weight of that day.\n\nAs we reflect on the events of September 11th, we pay special tribute to America's first responders. In a time of fear, confusion, and turmoil, members of the fire and emergency services rushed toward danger with unwavering resolve. They did not hesitate. They answered the call knowing the risks, guided by a profound commitment to protecting lives.\n\nOn 9/11, hundreds of firefighters and EMS providers made the ultimate sacrifice while carrying out their duty. Their courage became a defining symbol of American heroism, reminding us that the measure of service is found not in words, but in selfless action. The courage displayed by these first responders inspired millions and reminded us that hope is strongest when we stand together. In those moments of profound uncertainty, neighbors helped neighbors, communities rallied together, and Americans from every walk of life stood united in compassion and resilience.\n\nWe also honor the thousands of first responders who labored tirelessly in the days, weeks, and months that followed. Amid smoke, debris, and uncertainty, they searched for survivors, recovered the fallen, comforted grieving families, and helped a wounded nation begin the long process of healing. Many have since faced life-threatening illnesses and chronic health conditions resulting from their service. Their sacrifices did not end when the recovery efforts concluded, and our nation's obligation to care for them remains as enduring as their commitment to us.\n\nIn the years since September 11th, that obligation has taken many forms. The Congressional Fire Services Caucus has worked to ensure that the needs of America's first responders remain a priority in Washington, DC \u2013 advocating for the resources, protections, benefits, and support they need to serve their communities and return home safely. The work of the Fire Services Caucus reflects a responsibility that extends far beyond any single anniversary: to understand the needs and challenges of our local fire and EMS personnel, to stand with those who stand ready to protect us, and to ensure that our nation does not forget the sacrifices made every day in service to others.\n\nAcross our cities, towns, and rural communities, first responders answer emergency calls regardless of what awaits them at the scene. They respond to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents, natural disasters, and much more with the same dedication and sense of duty that defined those who responded on September 11th. The work of the fire and emergency services is indispensable to the safety and well-being of every American.\n\nTo the younger generations who know September 11th only through history, we must preserve not only the memory of that day, but also the guiding example set by those who responded. The legacy of September 11th is one of courage over fear, service over self, and unity over division.\n\nToday, we honor the individuals whose lives were cut short, the families who continue to bear their loss, and the first responders whose bravery became a lasting testament to the best of America. May we never forget their sacrifice. May we continue to support those who wear the uniform of the fire and emergency services. And may we strive each day to keep building a nation worthy of the courage they displayed on one of our country's darkest days.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7315", "ICYMI: Dingell Marks 25th Anniversary of September 11", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "As the United States marks 25 years since September 11, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) penned an essay recounting her experience on that day and how Americans united the weeks that followed.\n\n\"We had been attacked, and we pulled together. For a brief time, the things that divided us seemed smaller than the things that united us. We talked to each other. We listened. We comforted strangers. We checked on neighbors. We reached across differences of faith, race and background. We spent time trying to understand one another rather than turning away,\u201d Congresswoman Dingell wrote. \u201cThe Jewish community worked hard to support the Muslim community. Communities reached across lines of faith and ethnicity. People who might never have spoken to one another before stood together. Bridges were built.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Dingell continued: \u201cTwenty-five years later, I look around our country and worry about how many of those bridges are gone or endangered. Antisemitism is real. Hatred and fear directed at Muslims are real. Racism is real. Political and religious hatred can turn quickly into threats, violence and tragedy. We should be worried \u2012 not because America is weak, but because we know how quickly fear can divide us if we allow it to. America did not deserve 9/11. No country deserves terrorism, hatred or violence. And no American should be made to feel unsafe because of their faith, religion, race, ethnicity or heritage. As we mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we will remember the nearly 3,000 people who were killed, and the countless families whose lives were changed forever. We will remember the firefighters, police officers, first responders and ordinary citizens who showed extraordinary courage. But remembrance must be more than looking backward. We should also remember who we were in the days after.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Dingell\u2019s op-ed can be found HERE and text is below:\n\nThe day, Sept. 11, 2001, is seeded in my mind and soul forever.\n\nI was on one of the few planes still flying that morning. We landed at National Airport around 8 a.m., before the first tower was hit. Then U.S.-Rep. David Camp was sitting next to me. Before we left Detroit, I turned to him and said, \"I have the weirdest feeling. If you weren\u2019t sitting next to me, I think I would get off this plane.\"\n\nWe had no idea what was about to happen. As we watched planes crash into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon was attacked, and reports came that another plane might be headed toward the Capitol. But none of us fully understood what we were witnessing.\n\nMy husband, John, was in the Capitol. When people were being told to leave, he refused. He said, \u201cNo one is going to chase me out of the symbol of our democracy. I fought in World War II, and I\u2019m staying here.\u201d\n\nFriends working at the White House came to my General Motors Foundation office in downtown DC, terrified. Secret Service agents had told women in heels to take off their shoes and run. Everything we knew about safety and normal life seemed to disappear in a matter of hours. No one was able to fly home. A few days later, John and I drove back to Michigan with Ohio Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur. We were deeply worried about Dearborn, our hometown, and about the possibility of backlash and violence against our Muslim neighbors.\n\nPresident George W. Bush addressed the nation at a Joint Session of Congress on Sept. 20, but we stayed in Dearborn because we believed that in a moment of fear, we had a responsibility to stand with our community and fight hatred wherever we saw it. Bill Ford and John Dingell hosted a candlelight vigil at the Henry Ford Museum. Thousands came. There was fear, and there was faith. There was grief, but there was also an extraordinary sense that we were going to stand together.\n\nThen came the names. Friends who were lost. Sons and daughters of friends. One of John\u2019s dearest friends. Firefighters and police officers who ran into burning buildings to save people and never came home. The grief was overwhelming.\n\nBut something else happened in those days that I will never forget: America came together.\n\nIt was one of the most horrific times in our nation\u2019s history, and yet, in some ways, it was also one of the most special. We had been attacked, and we pulled together. For a brief time, the things that divided us seemed smaller than the things that united us. We talked to each other. We listened. We comforted strangers. We checked on neighbors. We reached across differences of faith, race and background. We spent time trying to understand one another rather than turning away. The Jewish community worked hard to support the Muslim community. Communities reached across lines of faith and ethnicity. People who might never have spoken to one another before stood together. Bridges were built.\n\nTwenty-five years later, I look around our country and worry about how many of those bridges are gone or endangered. Antisemitism is real. Hatred and fear directed at Muslims are real. Racism is real. Political and religious hatred can turn quickly into threats, violence and tragedy. We should be worried \u2012 not because America is weak, but because we know how quickly fear can divide us if we allow it to. America did not deserve 9/11. No country deserves terrorism, hatred or violence. And no American should be made to feel unsafe because of their faith, religion, race, ethnicity or heritage.\n\nAs we mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we will remember the nearly 3,000 people who were killed, and the countless families whose lives were changed forever. We will remember the firefighters, police officers, first responders and ordinary citizens who showed extraordinary courage. But remembrance must be more than looking backward. We should also remember who we were in the days after.\n\nWe were frightened, but we did not have to be consumed by fear. We were grieving, but we reached out to one another. We were attacked, but we did not have to turn our anger against innocent people in our own communities. We found strength in coming together. That is the lesson I hope we carry into the next 25 years.\n\nWe cannot change what happened on Sept. 11, 2001. We cannot bring back those we lost. But we can decide what their memory asks of us.", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-the-25th-anniversary-of-the-9/11-terrorist-attacks", "Peters Statement on the 25th Anniversary of the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) \u2013 Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, a member of the Armed Services Committee, and a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve \u2014 released the following statement observing the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001:\n\n\u201cTwenty-five years ago, our nation experienced an unspeakable tragedy that took 2,977 innocent lives and forever changed our country. Today, we remember those who never came home, the families who have carried their loss, and the courageous first responders who ran toward danger to save others and helped us rebuild in the aftermath of that terrible day. We also honor the servicemembers and veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as their families, and never forget their tremendous sacrifices for our nation.\n\n\u201cIn the aftermath of that awful tragedy, Americans put their differences aside and came together with a shared resolve to rebuild and ensure that an attack like September 11th could never happen again. Democrats and Republicans worked together to strengthen the institutions charged with protecting our homeland from terrorism because we learned, at an unimaginable cost, what can happen when threats to our nation go undetected. Today, critical pieces of that counterterrorism infrastructure are being dismantled, experienced personnel are being fired, resources are being diverted from serious threats, and authorities meant to protect Americans are being used for political purposes. Twenty-five years after September 11th, we cannot lose sight of why these institutions were built or allow the mission of protecting the American people to be weakened or compromised.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs we mark this solemn anniversary, we must honor those we lost not only through remembrance, but by carrying forward the spirit of service, unity, and common purpose that Americans demonstrated in the face of unimaginable tragedy. We must never forget what our nation lost that day, the sacrifices made in the years that followed, and our shared responsibility to keep our nation safe for generations to come.\u201d\n\nPeters volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks, he volunteered again for drilling status and served overseas as part of his Reserve duty. He later earned a diploma from the College of Naval Command and Staff, U.S. Naval War College.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7314", "Dingell Secures Over $258 Million in Healthcare Funding for the University of Michigan", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) announced she secured $258,717,781 in federal grant funding for the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor to support a wide range of research initiatives, including cancer research, aging research, allergy and infectious diseases research, and more. The funding comes from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and was made possible by Congresswoman Dingell\u2019s advocacy.\n\n\u201cThese funds are a critical step in improving the health and well-being of communities in Michigan and across the country,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cThese grants will bolster the University of Michigan\u2019s leadership in research and innovation. I am proud to have secured this money and will always work to deliver our state federal resources that lead to better treatments and patient outcomes.\u201d\n\nSome of the projects receiving funding include:\n\n$7,168,226 for Cancer Research\n\n$1,169,992 for Diabetes Digestive and Kidney Diseases Extramural Research\n\n$1,520,330 for Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research\n\n$562,696 for Aging Research\n\n$1,028,998 for Cardiovascular Diseases Research\n\n$629,003 for Oral Diseases and Disorders Research\n\n$381,950 for Nursing Research\n\n$376,460 for Human Genome Research\n\n$375,336 for Biomedical Research and Research Training\n\n$577,444 for Minority Health and Health Disparities Research\n\n$598,644 for Child Health and Human Development Extramural Research\n\n$3,831,85 for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Projects of Regional and National Significance\n\n$1,347,673 for Extramural Research Programs in the Neurosciences and Neurological Disorders\n\n$43,947 for Lung Diseases Research\n\n$178,515 for Vision Research\n\n$249,938 for Opioid Programs\n\n$610,843 for Arthritis Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Research\n\n$223,829 for Blood Diseases and Resources Research\n\n$505,710 for Alcohol Research Programs\n\n$500,000 for Sickle Cell Data Collection Program\n\nHHS is the largest grant-making agency in the United States. Most HHS grants are provided directly to states, territories, tribes, and educational and community organizations, then distributed to eligible individuals and organizations. For more information on HHS grants, click HERE.", 1, "2026-09-11T09:25:29Z", "2026-09-11T09:27:08Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-champions-bipartisan-data-science-and-literacy-act-prepare", "Rep. Haley Stevens Champions Bipartisan Data Science and Literacy Act to Prepare Students for Data-Driven Economy", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens alongside Reps. Jim Baird (R-IN), Don Beyer (D-VA), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the Bipartisan Data Science and Literacy Act, to expand access to data science education and make sure Michigan students have the skills needed to compete in an increasingly data-driven economy.\n\nData science draws on statistics, computer science, and mathematics to analyze and derive insights from data. Yet many students graduate from high school without these foundational skills, even as nearly one in four jobs requires data science skills.\n\n\u201cData is powering the technologies and jobs that will define America\u2019s economic future, and our students deserve the skills to lead that future,\u201d said Rep. Haley Stevens. \u201cWhether a student goes on to work on the factory floor, in a research lab, at a small business, or developing the next breakthrough technology, the ability to understand and use data will be increasingly important. This legislation is about making sure Michigan students are ready.\u201d\n\n\u201cData science education can be the catalyst that launches American scientific leadership into the stratosphere. Introducing children to STEM early gives them a foundation to continually build upon, preparing them to tackle increasingly advanced concepts as they reach higher education and enter the workforce. This is how we compound our scientific knowledge and foster the next generation of American innovation. Start early, build upon that knowledge, and grow our nation\u2019s understanding of STEM,\u201d said Rep. Jim Baird.\n\n\u201cData is one of the most powerful tools shaping our society today. It helps businesses streamline supply chain operations, public health officials track and prevent disease, and Americans navigate nearly every aspect of modern life. Yet too many students lack access to the education they need to understand and use data effectively. Our bill would provide educators with the resources necessary to expand access to a quality data science education and prepare students for 21st century jobs,\u201d said Rep. Don Beyer.\n\n\u201cEvery generation has a responsibility to prepare the next for the world they will inherit. As data becomes foundational across nearly every field, our classrooms must keep pace. This legislation builds on the work we have led here in PA-1 to strengthen career and technical education, expand pathways into high-demand fields, and better connect learning with opportunity. The bipartisan Data Science and Literacy Act will carry that mission forward\u2014equipping more students with the skills to succeed, strengthening our workforce, and ensuring America continues to lead,\u201d said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick.\n\nThe Data Science and Literacy Act establishes a grant program at the U.S. Department of Education to expand access to data science education nationwide. The program would support data science instruction from pre-K through community college, strengthen students\u2019 data literacy, and provide professional development opportunities for educators. The legislation also improves federal data collection and establishes evaluation and reporting requirements to guide future investments.\n\nSpecifically, the Data Science and Literacy Act authorizes educational grants for the following purposes:\n\nCurriculum Development: Developing, implementing, and expanding data science curricula and instructional materials.\n\nStudent Support: Improving student outcomes in data science education, including targeted support for students historically underrepresented in the field.\n\nProfessional Development: Providing evidence-based training and recruitment support for educators to effectively teach data science and related subjects.\n\nPartnerships: Supporting collaboration with community colleges, institutions of higher education, and other relevant organizations to strengthen data science education pathways.\n\nText of the bill can be found here.\n\nThe legislation is backed by Data Science 4 Everyone (DS4E), Alliance for Data Science & AI (ADSA), Alliance for Learning Innovation (ALI), American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges (AMATYC), American Statistical Association (AmStat), Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE), Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA), Digital Promise, INFORMS, Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR), National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), and National Science Teaching Association (NSTA).\n\n\u201cThe average school experience is becoming disconnected from the fast-changing world our students are graduating into,\u201d said Zarek Drozda, Executive Director of Data Science 4 Everyone (DS4E). \u201cThe question \u2018why am I learning this?\u2019 needs to have a better answer. Engaging in data science activities allows students to connect their academic subjects to the real-world, and learn a toolkit for navigating (and questioning) AI at the same time.\u201d\n\n\u201cADSA works with more than 100 institutions of higher education, from R1 universities, community colleges, HBCUs, and Hispanic-serving institutions. One thing we hear consistently is that they want to be better partners to the K-12 schools in their regions,\u201d said Dr. Micaela Parker, Founder and Executive Director of Alliance for Data Science and AI (ADSA). \u201cThe Data Science and Literacy Act creates that opportunity by putting flexible resources into district, community college, and university partnerships to update curricula for the modern age. This bill reflects how students actually use data: across their whole education, not in a single elective. ADSA is proud to support it.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo often, promising education investments go unmeasured, leaving us guessing about what actually works. The Data Science and Literacy Act gets this right by building evaluation into the bill from the start by directing the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) to rigorously assess grant effectiveness and requiring grantees to continuously monitor their own progress. That commitment to evidence, not just access, is exactly what we want to see in federal education investments,\u201d Sara Schapiro, Executive Director of Alliance for Learning Innovation (ALI). \u201cAt the Alliance for Learning Innovation (ALI), we believe every student deserves the tools to make sense of data and put it to work solving real problems. We're proud to endorse this bipartisan legislation and thank Representatives Stevens, Beyer, Kim, and Baird for their leadership in building a stronger STEM pipeline for the next generation.\"\n\n\u201cH.G. Wells once said \u2018Statistical thinking will one day be as necessary for efficient citizenship as the ability to read and write.\u2019 (c. 1903) That day is today. This bill is the right step forward,\u201d said Eddie Tchertchian, President of the American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges (AMATYC).\n\n\u201cThe presence of AI in our everyday lives and work has made statistical thinking more critical than ever, so I applaud Representative Stevens and her cosponsors for reintroducing this bill, \" said Jeri Mulrow, President of the American Statistical Association (AmStat). \u201cStatistical thinking, a core component of data literacy, is essential for today's students to effectively use AI, critically assess its outputs, and succeed in today's job market.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn continuing AMTE efforts to bring diverse mathematics teacher education communities together, our organization continues to support educators, coaches, consultants, specialists, and university and community college faculty to share and disseminate research, teaching, and community partnerships in different educational contexts,\u201d said Farshid Safi, President of Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE). \u201cAMTE, intentionally and toward a more comprehensive and inclusive lens, adopts an expansive view of the term mathematics education to include intersections with fields such as data science and statistics education, mathematical modeling, STEM education while partnering with those engaged in early childhood, PK-12, and post-secondary contexts.\u201d\n\n\u201cData shapes the technologies students use, the decisions they encounter, and the world they will help create. The 2026 CSTA PK\u201312 Computer Science Standards identify Data & Analysis as a core concept in foundational computer science education, calling on students to use data to solve problems, make discoveries, and express ideas while critically examining its quality, representation, privacy, and impact,\u201d said Bryan Twarek, Head of Research and Innovation of the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA). \u201cThe Data Science and Literacy Act would invest in the curricula, professional development, and partnerships teachers need to prepare their students to become critical consumers, responsible creators, and informed participants in a world powered by computing.\u201d\n\n\u201cData literacy is a foundational tool for real-world agency. Preparing students for a changing economy requires updating what and how we teach, moving away from narrow metrics of success to build practical skills across disciplines,\u201d said Jean-Claude Brizard, Chief Executive Officer of Digital Promise. \u201cThe Data Science and Literacy Act delivers flexible resources that allow school systems and postsecondary partners to strengthen teacher capacity and create powerful learning experiences for every student. Digital Promise strongly supports this legislation as a crucial investment in long-term economic mobility.\u201d\n\n\u201cEnsuring that data literacy is a foundational aspect of education is a cornerstone of the United States\u2019 long-term economic and national security. Data is everywhere and the ideas and demands to create more of it, and the evermore complex ways to deploy it, are growing more significant by the day,\u201d said Jeff Cohen, Chief External Affairs Officer at INFORMS. \u201cThis bill is a key part of addressing the substantial shortfall of STEM-prepared students for the workforce of tomorrow. Operations research, analytics, and the science and technology of decision-making is predicated on the sound and ethical use of data. INFORMS strongly supports the bipartisan Data Science and Literacy Act of 2026 and looks forward to working to ensure its passage and effective implementation.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur students are graduating into a world where the ability to understand, interpret, and use data is no longer optional; it is essential. Science and STEM education provide powerful opportunities for students to develop these skills as they use data to ask questions and make sense of the world around them,\u201d said Brianna Reilly Oliveira, Director of Professional Learning for the National Science Teaching Association. \u201cNSTA strongly supports the Data Science and Literacy Act and its investment in educators and students. By equipping educators with the confidence, tools and strategies to integrate data literacy into science and STEM instruction, we can better prepare all students to thrive in a data-rich world.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-11T09:25:29Z", "2026-09-11T09:27:08Z"], ["https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shri-thanedar-leads-bipartisan-resolution-designating-september-as-national-suicide-prevention-month", "Congressman Shri Thanedar Leads Bipartisan Resolution Designating September as National Suicide Prevention Month", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Shri Thanedar", "T000488", "thanedar.house.gov", "thanedar", "https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), along with Congressmen Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) and Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing September as \u201cNational Suicide Prevention Month\u201d and September 10, 2026, as \u201cWorld Suicide Prevention Day\u201d. This resolution will bring awareness to the mental health battles that many face silently every day and decrease the stigma behind seeking treatment for mental illness.\n\n\u201cIn 1996, I lost my first wife to her battle with mental illness,\u201d said Congressman Shri Thanedar. The pain my young boys and I suffered was devastating and has stayed with me ever since. Her loss has inspired my work in Congress to ensure everyone has access to high-quality mental health care. By partnering in a bipartisan fashion with Representatives Bell and Lawler, we will bring awareness to this devastating issue and ensure that no more lives are lost to mental illness.\u201d\n\n\"Suicide is an epidemic plaguing our youth that demands urgent attention, because behind every statistic is a family forever changed by a loss words can't capture,\" said Congressman Bell. \"In Missouri and across the nation, too many people are suffering in silence, believing they have nowhere to turn. National Suicide Prevention Month is about changing that. We must meet this crisis head-on by investing in mental health care, breaking down the stigma that keeps people from asking for help, and making clear that reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health is health, and no one should have to face their darkest moments alone. If you're struggling, help is always within reach \u2014 call or text 988.\"\n\n\u201cSuicide is a devastating public health crisis, but it is not inevitable. We have a responsibility to ensure that people who are struggling know they are not alone and have access to the mental health care and support they need. During National Suicide Prevention Month and on World Suicide Prevention Day, we must recommit ourselves to breaking the stigma around mental health, expanding access to care, and doing everything we can to prevent the loss of another life,\u201d said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17).\n\nThis resolution is supported by a broad range of mental health stakeholders, including the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, saying \u201cSuicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, with nearly 49,000 Americans dying by suicide in 2024 and an estimated 2.2 million suicide attempts,\u201d said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). \u201cAFSP commends Representatives Thanedar, Bell, and Lawler for introducing this bipartisan resolution recognizing September as National Suicide Prevention Month and September 10 as World Suicide Prevention Day. By raising awareness about suicide and the critical need to expand access to quality mental health, substance use, and suicide prevention services and care, we can help save lives and create a future where everyone has the support and resources they need to thrive.\u201d\n\nAnother supporter, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, said the following about Thanedar\u2019s resolution: \u201cEvery life lost to suicide is a tragedy, and every effort to prevent suicide must begin with ensuring people have access to the mental health care and support they need,\" said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). \u201cNational Suicide Prevention Month and World Suicide Prevention Day are important opportunities to raise awareness, spread hope, and spark meaningful action. NAMI thanks Rep. Thanedar for recognizing suicide prevention as a national priority.\u201d\n\nCongressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-11T09:25:29Z", "2026-09-11T09:27:08Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ahead-of-25th-anniversary-of-9/11-peters-demands-trump-administration-preserve-records-on-the-dismantling-politicization-of-nations-counterterrorism-infrastructure", "Ahead of 25th Anniversary of 9/11, Peters Demands Trump Administration Preserve Records on the Dismantling, Politicization of Nation\u2019s Counterterrorism Infrastructure", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Ahead of the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), sent letters to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), and the Department of State, demanding that they preserve all records related to the nation\u2019s counterterrorism efforts. Peters also sent a separate letter to the White House raising serious concerns about the Administration\u2019s counterterrorism priorities and calling for the release of a legally required assessment of domestic terrorism threats. The letters follow the release of Peters' report, Failure to Protect, which found that the Trump Administration has dismantled and politicized key aspects of America\u2019s counterterrorism infrastructure, including by diverting resources, cutting personnel, and dismantling programs dedicated to keeping our nation safe from terrorist attacks.\n\n\u201cIn the aftermath of September 11th, Democrats and Republicans came together to build a counterterrorism system designed to prevent another catastrophic attack on our homeland,\u201d Peters said. \u201cNow, as we prepare to mark twenty-five years since those tragic attacks, the Trump Administration has been reversing decades of progress by dismantling that system and diverting resources away from the genuine threats facing Americans. We need to preserve the records of these decisions so Congress can hold this Administration accountable and ultimately rebuild a counterterrorism system driven by facts, not politics, and focused on keeping Americans safe.\u201d\n\nEarlier this summer, Peters released a report detailing how the Administration has dismantled key elements of the nation\u2019s post-9/11 security infrastructure, diverted personnel and resources away from preventing terrorist attacks, and increasingly wielded what remains against the Administration\u2019s perceived political opponents. The report found these actions have left the country less prepared to prevent and respond to terrorism while domestic and foreign terrorist threats remain elevated.\n\nPeters\u2019 report found that the Administration has cut 15,000 positions across DOJ and the FBI and removed 1,300 personnel from DHS components responsible for preventing, countering, and responding to terrorism. It has also allowed nearly $1 billion in public safety and homeland security grants to be delayed or canceled, reassigned law enforcement officers, intelligence analysts, and attorneys away from counterterrorism and other national security responsibilities, and weakened or dismantled programs responsible for terrorism prevention, critical infrastructure security, weapons of mass destruction preparedness, and intelligence sharing.\n\nIn addition to demanding the Trump Administration abide by all records retention requirements related to its actions, Peters also urged the White House to release its annual strategic intelligence assessment on domestic terrorism, as required by a bipartisan law that Peters introduced in 2019, which requires the FBI and DHS to issue annual reports on domestic terrorism threats, related investigations and prosecutions, and how federal resources are being allocated. Since taking office, the Trump Administration has failed to provide Congress and the American people with the transparency required under the law.\n\nThroughout his time in office, Peters has been a leader in ensuring the federal government adequately addresses both foreign and domestic terrorist threats to Americans. In 2019, Peters helped convene HSGAC\u2019s first domestic terrorism hearing focusing on white supremacist violence. He led the Senate\u2019s bipartisan investigation on the January 6th attack on the U.S Capitol and released a joint bipartisan report on the security, planning, and response failures causing this violence, as well as two additional reports on domestic terrorism and the intelligence failures that preceded the January 6th attack. As HSGAC Chair, Peters convened a hearing with experts focused on the threat of white supremacist extremism, and convened a two-part hearing with experts representing faith-based, civil rights, and academic and policy research organizations on the continued rise of domestic terrorism.\n\nClick here to read Peters\u2019 full report on the Trump Administration\u2019s dismantling of U.S. counterterrorism infrastructure.\n\nClick to read Peters\u2019 letters to the White House, DHS, DOJ, FBI, ODNI, and the State Department.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-demands-swift-refunds-businesses-hit-illegal-trump-tariffs", "Rep. Haley Stevens Demands Swift Refunds for Businesses Hit by Illegal Trump Tariffs", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens alongside Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4) led their colleagues in calling on U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Rodney Scott to immediately address administrative backlogs preventing American businesses from receiving refunds for duties paid under the Trump Administration\u2019s illegal use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).\n\nBusinesses have reported that delays in CBP\u2019s Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) system are preventing importers from meeting the agency\u2019s 90-day deadline to request refunds \u2014 potentially costing small businesses money they are legally owed.\n\n\u201cSadly, businesses in our districts have reported significant logistical hurdles that they must clear to receive a refund,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cUnder no circumstances should these companies bear the brunt of both the tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court and the denial of tariff refunds because of administrative mismanagement of the CAPE system.\u201d\n\n\u201cMichigan businesses should not have to pay the price once let alone twice, first through illegal tariffs, and again because government red tape prevents them from getting their money back,\u201d said Rep. Haley Stevens. \u201cSmall businesses in Michigan operate on tight margins, and every dollar matters. CBP must fix these administrative roadblocks and make sure businesses receive every dollar they are owed.\u201d\n\nThe Supreme Court ruled in February 2026 that President Trump\u2019s use of IEEPA to impose sweeping tariffs was unlawful. Rep. Stevens is urging CBP to take all necessary steps to ensure importers receive full refunds for duties paid under the invalidated tariff regime.\n\nFull letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-10T09:25:58Z", "2026-09-10T09:27:09Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-senator-peters-leads-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour-across-michigan", "ICYMI: Senator Peters Leads 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour Across Michigan", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) led his 10th and final official motorcycle tour across Michigan to meet with local leaders and constituents, highlight success stories in Michigan communities, and show his appreciation for the essential partnerships he\u2019s made in every corner of the state. Peters\u2019 \u201cThank You, Michigan\u201d tour made stops in Bay City, Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. Peters was joined on the tour by veterans, union workers, and constituents. Peters is an avid and long-time motorcycle rider who founded the bipartisan Senate Motorcycle Caucus in 2017.\n\nABC12 Flint: Senator Gary Peters highlights federal funding during motorcycle tour\n\n\u201cU.S. Senator Gary Peters kicked off his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan at Bay City Fire Department Station #2, where he saw how federal funding he secured will help clean up toxic PFAS contamination on the property.\n\n\u201cDuring his visit, Peters also highlighted an additional $1.3 million federal grant he secured, funded by his bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act. The grant enabled the Bay City, Midland and Saginaw fire departments to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatus, which allow firefighters to breathe safely during dangerous rescues.\n\n\u201c\u2018Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,\u2019 Peters said. \u2018We have a responsibility to make sure they have the tools and resources they need to stay safe on the job.\u2019\n\n\u201cPeters continued, saying hazardous PFAS chemicals from firefighting foams have posed serious health risks to firefighters for years.\n\n\u201c\u2018I was proud to secure nearly $1 million to help Bay City clean up this site and protect the brave firefighters who serve this community,\u2019 Peters said.\u201d\n\nThe Alpena News: Peters visits NOAA in Alpena during farewell tour\n\n\u201cU.S. Senator Gary Peters, D-Michigan, visited the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary (TBNMS) on Tuesday as part of his motorcycle farewell tour across Michigan. Peters started the tour in Bay City on Monday and will conclude the tour in East Lansing on Friday.\n\n\u201cThe five-day \u2018Thank You, Michigan\u2019 tour will make stops in Bay City, Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. Throughout the tour, Peters will be joined on the ride by veterans, union workers, motorcycle safety advocates, and constituents.\n\n\u201cWhile at TBNMS, Peters reminisced with TBNMS employees regarding his diving experiences in the sanctuary. He also spoke about the importance of re-authorizing the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), which allocates federal tax dollars to the restoration of the Great Lakes.\n\n\u201c\u2018The authorization of it ends this year,\u2019 he said while giving remarks at TBNMS. \u2018I\u2019m the primary sponsor of the bill to extend it for five more years. I'll be leaving in a few months. I've said this is my number one priority. We got to get this done before I leave.\u2019\n\n\u201cAccording to the federal Great Lakes Restoration website, federal agencies have funded over 8,000 projects for over $4 billion. The GLRI was launched in 2010 as a nonregulatory program to accelerate efforts to protect and restore the Great Lakes.\n\n\u201c\u2018My colleagues from around the country are now realizing how important the Great Lakes are for the country,\u2019 he said. \u2018The Great Lakes is not just a regional asset.\u2019\n\n\u201c\u2018Folks now understand that the Great Lakes is a national resource,\u2019 he added. \u2018In a very thirsty world, having a body of freshwater here is incredibly important. I'm cautiously optimistic we're going to get that done.\u2019\n\n\u201cPeters told The News that the bill is making \u2018headway\u2019 in Congress.\u201d\n\nMyUPNews Marquette: Senator Peters tours new D.J. Jacobetti construction site\n\n\u201cU.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) toured the new D.J. Jacobetti construction site on Wednesday morning as part of his final motorcycle tour across Michigan.\n\n\u201cThe 38-acre property along Venture Drive will include a facility that will house 108 private bedrooms and handicap-accessible bathrooms for veterans. Funding for the project costs about $57.6 million, which Peters secured through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) State Home Construction Grant Program.\n\n\u201c\u2018This dream doesn\u2019t become a reality without the support from our legislative officials from the state and federal level. Senator Peters being a champion for many years for the State Veteran Construction Grant Program and then having the backing here locally in Michigan,\u2019 said Chris LaJoie, interim administrator of Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti.\n\n\u201cPeters, who currently serves on the bipartisan Senate Appropriations Committee, said that he\u2019s working to ensure that the grant program receives as much funding as possible to continue supporting veteran needs.\n\n\u201c\u2018It\u2019s absolutely essential that we take care of our veterans. To me, I think that\u2019s a sacred obligation that every American has. The men and women who are willing to go into harm\u2019s way to protect our freedoms and liberties really deserve and have earned the ability to be able to retire with dignity,\u2019 he explained. \u2018That\u2019s what this is about, is making sure that there are housing (units) available for veterans so that they can go someplace, get the kind of care that they need, and live the life that they have earned.\u2019\u201d\n\nUpNorthLive Traverse City: FishPass project stays on track for 2027 as Sen. Peters tours Traverse City site\n\n\u201cU.S. Senator Gary Peters hopped on his motorcycle for his last state tour, stopping Thursday to see a project he helped fund.\n\n\u201cPeters got to see firsthand how the FishPass construction project was coming along. Peters recently secured $22.7 million in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding, which helped make FishPass possible.\n\n\u201cIt replaces the Union Street dam and will reconnect the Boardman/Ottaway River with Lake Michigan\u2019s Grand Traverse Bay.\n\n\u201c\u2018That we're seeing here in Traverse City with this FishPass and the ability to allow really native species of Great Lakes fish to get up into the tributaries while keeping out invasive species that are playing havoc with our ecosystem,\u2019 said Peters. \u2018To be able to put that in place is absolutely incredible. And to think that we\u2019re likely to see what we see here in Traverse City will be the way the future works in projects all over the world.\u2019\u201d\n\n\u201cFishPass workers said the FishPass construction is still on schedule, with 2027 the expected completion date.\u201d\n\nWXMI Grand Rapids: Sen. Peters tours Humane Society of West Michigan, talks PAWS Act\n\n\u201cAs part of his annual motorcycle tour across the state, Michigan Sen. Gary Peters stopped at the Humane Society of West Michigan on Friday to discuss the Pet and Women's Safety (PAWS) Act.\n\n\u201c\u2018A beloved pet is every bit a part of the family,\u2019 Peters said. \u2018To have a pet is a very special relationship.\u2019\n\n\u201cThe PAWS Act, written by Sen. Peters, provides funding to the shelters and programs that take in the pets of those fleeing from domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking or dating violence.\n\n\u201cAt the Humane Society of West Michigan, a program called PETS Network accepts pets affected by such situations. It's the type of program that can seek assistance from the PAWS Act and benefit from a senator's platform.\n\n\u201c\u2018We're one of a few in Michigan who offer anything like this, and so bringing light to this is so important, and foster families are so important,\u2019 Ashley Dahl, Director of Community Programs for the Humane Society of West Michigan, said.\n\n\u201cDahl says PETS Network has served around 200 pets over five years and comes at no cost to their owners.\n\n\u201c\u2018We can only help when we have foster families. So, if there's anybody out there that's leaning towards trying it or wanting to help, we can help more people if they're willing,\u2019 Dahl said.\n\n\u201cIn 2023, funding for the PAWS Act expired. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, though, Sen. Peters has been able to secure funding for the program on a yearly basis. He is now working to reauthorize the program at $3 million for the next four years.\n\n\u201cColleen Nestle says she \u2018can't put into words\u2019 the importance of the legislation.\n\n\u201cYears ago, when she left an abusive relationship, she was forced to give up one of her pets. Through PETS Network, she now fosters the pets of those in similar situations.\n\n\u201c\u2018I've been on the other side,\u2019 Nestle said. \u2018So, if I can help even just one person that has been in my shoes, that is so worth it to me.\u2019\n\nWWMT Kalamazoo: Sen. Gary Peters makes final stops on last 'Thank You, Michigan' tour\n\n\u201cOutgoing U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) made the final stops on his last-ever \u2018Thank You, Michigan\u2019 motorcycle tour that has crossed the state for the last decade.\n\n\u201cOne of those stops was at Grand Rapids Community College, where Peters toured the Automation Lab, an innovative learning space with up-to-date manufacturing and automation equipment and technology.\n\n\u201cPeters secured nearly $1 million for the lab's construction to create workforce development and hands-on training.\n\n\u201cThe Democrat Senator had a chance to see the equipment up close and learn how it is helping create jobs in Michigan.\n\n\u201c\u2018I don't think you can be a great country unless you actually make things,\u2019 Peters said. \u2018That's what we do in Michigan. We have a very proud tradition of making things. But the factory floor and manufacturing looks a whole lot different than your father or grandfather. And it's high tech, it's exciting work, and we would need more young folks interested in getting a manufacturing career.\u2019\u201d\n\nWLNS Lansing: Gary Peters stops at MSU\u2019s rare isotopes lab on final Michigan motorcycle tour\n\n\u201cU.S. Sen. Gary Peters of Bloomfield Township toured Michigan State University\u2019s Facility for Rare Isotope Beams on Friday and highlighted the more than $2 billion federal investment he says he helped secure for the lab, a stop on the final motorcycle tour of his Senate career.\n\n\u201cPeters, who is not seeking reelection in 2026, visited the facility with MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz, FRIB Laboratory Director Thomas Glasmacher and physics professor Artemis Spyrou as part of his 10th and last annual ride across the state. The four spoke at a news conference following the tour.\n\n\u201c\u2018So, when you talk about why we invest in higher education, why do we invest in research universities, it\u2019s those stories, those breakthroughs that make our lives better, and make our lives fuller, and can happen right here,\u2019 Peters said.\n\n\u201cFRIB, which opened in 2022, employs about 460 scientists, engineers and staff, and draws more than 1,800 researchers to East Lansing, according to Peters\u2019 office.\n\n\u201cThe lab houses what Peters\u2019 office describes as the most powerful heavy-ion linear accelerator, which produces rare isotopes \u2014 short-lived atomic nuclei not found on Earth.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-10T09:25:58Z", "2026-09-10T09:27:09Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/09/slotkin-joins-colleagues-to-urge-supreme-court-to-block-postal-service-rule-limiting-mail-in-voting/", "Slotkin Joins Colleagues to Urge Supreme Court to Block Postal Service Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined a bicameral amicus brief challenging the legality of President Trump\u2019s Executive Order and U.S. Postal Service rule seeking to exert control over mail-in ballots ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. This comes as nearly one-third of Americans have voted by mail in recent elections \u2014 a voting practice Trump himself used as recently as August 2026, when he voted in Florida\u2019s Republican primary.\n\n\u201cAs current and former legislators, amici took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States \u2014 including its guarantee of the separation of powers,\u201dwrote the lawmakers.\u201c[We] have a particular interest in defending the institutional role of the Legislative Branch under Article I of the Constitution and in vindicating the long-settled principle that the Constitution commits ultimate regulatory authority over federal elections to Congress. The Constitution does not contemplate the Executive Branch acting unilaterally to assert power over federal elections. Yet that is what the Order and Final Rule do.\u201d\n\nIn the court filing, the amici curiae argue that Trump\u2019s Executive Order 4399 and USPS\u2019s final rule violate the separation of powers and usurp congressional authorities outlined in Article I of the U.S. Constitution, which gives the States and Congress exclusive authority over election administration.\n\nIn addition to Slotkin, the amicus brief was joined by the entire Senate Democratic Caucus.\n\nIn July of 2026, Slotkin released a video in response to President Trump\u2019s Truth Social video post of her in a hearing, defending the mail-in voting process as a safe way for Americans to cast their votes. She has also pressed various Trump Administration officials including, Postmaster General David P. Steiner, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, and various others about any planned attempts to interfere with the upcoming midterm elections.\n\nClick here to read the full brief.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-10T09:25:58Z", "2026-09-10T09:27:09Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/09/slotkin-peters-demand-postal-service-halt-implementation-of-unconstitutional-vote-by-mail-restrictions/", "Slotkin,\u00a0Peters\u00a0Demand\u00a0Postal Service\u00a0Halt Implementation of Unconstitutional Vote-by-Mail Restrictions", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Committee Democrats in demanding that the United States Postal Service (USPS) immediately halt implementation of President Trump\u2019s unlawful vote-by-mail executive order and rescind its recently finalized rule on federal ballot mail. In a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner and the USPS Board of Governors, the senators warned that the Postal Service\u2019s efforts to fundamentally change how absentee ballots are processed and delivered just weeks before the 2026 midterm elections risks disenfranchising millions of eligible voters and disrupting the smooth administration of the elections.\n\nSlotkin recently pressed Trump Administration nominees for USPS about this very topic. You can watch those hearings here and here.\n\nThe lawmakers are also demanding the Postal Service provide overdue answers about what legal authority permits it to regulate federal election mail, its new ballot verification processes, and the operation of its Federal Ballot Mail Portal, as well as its efforts to comply with federal court orders.\n\n\u201cDespite repeated warnings from Congress and court orders not to implement the President\u2019s unlawful directives to regulate mail-in voting, the Postal Service continues to carry out these actions, which will undermine peoples\u2019 faith in the upcoming elections,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cIf the Postal Service does not immediately reverse its current course, it will inflict lasting harm to our democracy and permanently damage a storied American institution.\u201d\n\nOn August 21, USPS finalized a rule to implement President Trump\u2019s vote-by-mail executive order that would require states to provide absentee voter rolls to the federal government and comply with new ballot standards, while giving USPS the authority to verify and refuse to deliver ballots that do not meet its requirements. The senators argue that neither the President nor USPS has the legal authority to regulate absentee voting and noted that despite previous commitments to Congress that it would abide by judicial injunctions, the Postal Service finalized the rule while subject to a federal court order prohibiting it from doing so.\n\nThe Postal Service\u2019s rule is also being challenged in several ongoing federal lawsuits, where the legality of the Administration\u2019s vote-by-mail directives remains under review.\n\nJoining Slotkin and Peters in sending the letter were Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and John Fetterman (D-PA).\n\nRead the letter HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-10T09:25:58Z", "2026-09-10T09:27:09Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/09/slotkin-signs-joint-statement-with-colleagues-on-the-high-cost-of-trumps-trade-war-with-canada/", "Slotkin\u00a0Signs Joint\u00a0Statement\u00a0with Colleagues\u00a0on\u00a0the High Cost of\u00a0Trump\u2019s\u00a0Trade\u00a0War with Canada", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following joint statement with Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Patty Murray (D-WA), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), in response to President Trump\u2019s continued imposition of new tariffs on Canada. This comes after President Trump\u2019s recent decision to hike tariffs to 50% on 500 Canadian goods.\n\n\u201cThe states we represent rely on Canada as a key trading partner and our primary export market. We have deep ties with our neighbors to the north, and we share one of the world\u2019s most enduring defense partnerships. We have built two powerful nations over many decades by working together, growing our economies together, and securing our homelands together. Our countries have achieved great things by working closely together, and we still can.\n\n\u201cInstead of working with our neighbors, President Trump is doubling down on a pointless trade war with Canada. His tariffs will squeeze our states\u2019 small businesses harder and drive costs up for working families. They will raise the cost of the lumber, plywood, and construction equipment we need to build new housing. They will hurt our workers and businesses who manufacture autos, aircraft, and machinery. They will drive up the prices consumers pay for everyday basics like milk, clothing, and paper products.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump\u2019s tariffs have already cost American families as much as $5,000 in some states, and his senseless trade war with Canada will only grow that number. While American families and businesses suffer from Trump\u2019s trade wars, partners around the world, including Canada, are increasingly looking to diversify away from the United States and deepen trade ties with other countries including China. Congressional Republicans need to stand up to the president and do their part to give families and businesses on both sides of the border relief from this insanity.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-10T09:25:58Z", "2026-09-10T09:27:09Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/08/icymi-detroit-news-automakers-urge-congress-to-quickly-pass-law-banning-chinese-cars/", "ICYMI: Detroit News \u201cAutomakers urge Congress to quickly pass law banning Chinese cars\u201d", "2026-09-08", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump\u2019s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in...\n\nAfter Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, MS NOW\u2019s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate...\n\nICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the...\n\nSlotkin Joins Gallego, Colleagues, In Pressing the Israeli Government to Halt Construction Progress for E1 Settlement Project\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),...\n\nSlotkin, Schiff, 45 Senators Press Netanyahu to Protect U.S. Citizens, Stop Settler Violence in West Bank\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by Senator Adam Schiff...\n\nSlotkin Statement on Watchdog Filing Complaint Against Jeanine Pirro After Failed Indictment\n\nComplaints filed accuse Pirro of abusing her prosecutorial powers to seek \u201cmeritless\u201d indictments against President...\n\nPeters, Slotkin Press Armed Services Republicans for Oversight on Troops Serving Extended Deployments in Iran\n\nSASC Democrats hold Administration accountable for the conditions it has allowed to develop that have left troops...\n\nAs President Trump Refuses to Rule it Out, Slotkin Presses Hegseth to Guarantee Military Won\u2019t Interfere in Midterm Elections\n\nSlotkin has sought the same assurances from Pentagon leaders under both parties in 2020 and 2024 WASHINGTON D.C....\n\nSlotkin, Peters, Bergman Press Department of Defense on PFAS Cleanup at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Camp Grayling\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and U.S....\n\nPeters, Slotkin Demand Answers from Hegseth on the Reportedly Poor Conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln\n\nUSS Lincoln\u2019s deployment has now stretched over 250 days, with over 200 days without a port call WASHINGTON,...", 1, "2026-09-09T09:27:09Z", "2026-09-09T09:29:04Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/substack-haley-stevens-what-it-means-be-michigan-democrat", "SUBSTACK: Haley Stevens On What It Means To Be A Michigan Democrat", "2026-09-05", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Ahead of Labor Day, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens shared her reflections on what it means to be a Michigan Democrat.\n\nLink to readhere.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-09T09:27:09Z", "2026-09-09T09:29:04Z"], ["https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shri-thanedar-secures-1031000-for-cybersecurity-operations-center-at-university-of-detroit-mercy", "Congressman Shri Thanedar Secures $1,031,000 for Cybersecurity Operations Center at University of Detroit Mercy", "2026-09-04", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Shri Thanedar", "T000488", "thanedar.house.gov", "thanedar", "https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC - This week, Congressman Shri Thanedar secured $1,031,000 in federal funding for the University of Detroit Mercy. Thanedar fought to pass this funding as part of the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026. This critical investment will help establish a Cybersecurity Operations Center at the University of Detroit Mercy, in the heart of Michigan\u2019s 13th Congressional District.\n\n\u201cSince coming to Congress, I have made it a key priority to bring federal dollars back to every corner of my district,\u201d said Congressman Thanedar. \u201cIn Congress, I have brought Community Project Funding to all 20 towns in Michigan\u2019s 13th District for the first time in over 50 years. As a member of the Homeland Security Committee, I know firsthand the importance of cybersecurity facilities like these to protect Americans from the increasingly sophisticated cyber threats they face from at home and abroad. I am grateful for the partnership of the University of Detroit Mercy in making this facility a reality.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis state-of-the-art cybersecurity center will provide our students one-of-a-kind training in the cybersecurity field and position them well to compete for jobs in the cyber and national security spaces after graduation,\u201d said Donald B. Taylor, president of University of Detroit Mercy. \u201cWe are grateful to Congressman Thanedar for his advocacy in securing this funding, which will create an innovative educational opportunity for our students.\u201d\n\nCongressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-09T09:27:09Z", "2026-09-09T09:29:04Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-haley-stevens-reflects-death-gloria-steinem", "STATEMENT: Haley Stevens Reflects on Death of Gloria Steinem", "2026-09-03", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In response to the death of Gloria Steinem, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cGloria Steinem showed generations of women what it means to speak up, stand strong, and lead with courage. She opened doors, challenged the status quo, and inspired so many of us to keep pushing forward. Her legacy will live on in every woman who steps up to lead.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-04T09:19:37Z", "2026-09-04T09:20:58Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/03/slotkin-supports-bill-to-end-trumps-tariffs-that-cost-michiganders-more-than-any-other-state/", "Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump\u2019s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State", "2026-09-03", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, MS NOW\u2019s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate...\n\nICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the...\n\nSlotkin Joins Gallego, Colleagues, In Pressing the Israeli Government to Halt Construction Progress for E1 Settlement Project\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),...\n\nSlotkin, Schiff, 45 Senators Press Netanyahu to Protect U.S. Citizens, Stop Settler Violence in West Bank\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by Senator Adam Schiff...\n\nSlotkin Statement on Watchdog Filing Complaint Against Jeanine Pirro After Failed Indictment\n\nComplaints filed accuse Pirro of abusing her prosecutorial powers to seek \u201cmeritless\u201d indictments against President...\n\nPeters, Slotkin Press Armed Services Republicans for Oversight on Troops Serving Extended Deployments in Iran\n\nSASC Democrats hold Administration accountable for the conditions it has allowed to develop that have left troops...\n\nAs President Trump Refuses to Rule it Out, Slotkin Presses Hegseth to Guarantee Military Won\u2019t Interfere in Midterm Elections\n\nSlotkin has sought the same assurances from Pentagon leaders under both parties in 2020 and 2024 WASHINGTON D.C....\n\nSlotkin, Peters, Bergman Press Department of Defense on PFAS Cleanup at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Camp Grayling\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and U.S....\n\nPeters, Slotkin Demand Answers from Hegseth on the Reportedly Poor Conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln\n\nUSS Lincoln\u2019s deployment has now stretched over 250 days, with over 200 days without a port call WASHINGTON,...\n\nSlotkin, Joins Colleagues in Demanding RFK Jr. Reverse Cancelations of Lifesaving Research Grants for Michiganders\n\nU.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and 26 of their...\n\nSlotkin Joins Bipartisan Bill to Support Coast Guard Installations, Allow Cost-Saving Community Partnerships\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Lisa...", 1, "2026-09-04T09:19:37Z", "2026-09-04T09:20:58Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/02/after-top-general-says-no-troops-at-our-polls-slotkin-seeks-same-assurances-from-doj-dhs-ice-fbi-and-national-guard/", "After Top General Says No Troops\u00a0at Our Polls,\u00a0Slotkin Seeks\u00a0Same\u00a0Assurances from\u00a0DOJ,\u00a0DHS/ICE,\u00a0FBI\u00a0and\u00a0National\u00a0Guard", "2026-09-02", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, MS NOW\u2019s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, sent letters to Attorney General Todd Blanche, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Kash Patel, and Chief of the National Guard General Steven Nordhaus asking for a written response and commitment to keep federal forces and law enforcement agents out of the midterm elections.\n\nSlotkin sent these letters the day after Secretary Mullin refused to rule out that ICE could be sent to polling places to enforce \u201cspecific threats.\u201d\n\nWatch the Morning Joe segment here\n\n\u201cAs we approach the November 2026 elections, I\u2019d ask you to confirm a simple statement: [DOJ/DHS/FBI/National Guard] will not send armed federal agents to the polls or to unlawfully seize election materials of any kind,\u201d wrote Slotkin. \u201cThe President has made it clear through speeches, statements, official guidance, and continued legal action that he is seeking to use all possible tools to interfere with the midterms, to include publicly lamenting that he did not send federal forces to the polls in 2020. So when and if the President orders the use of [DOJ/DHS/FBI/National Guard] in November, it will fall on you to make a fundamental choice on how to respond.\u201d\n\nRead the letters below:\n\nLetter to Attorney General Blanche\n\nLetter to Secretary Mullin\n\nLetter to Director Patel\n\nLetter to General Nordhaus\n\nBackground:\n\nSlotkin also sent letters to General of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Caine and Secretary of Defense Hegseth asking for a written response and commitment to keep the U.S. military out of the midterm elections. General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, confirmed in writing that the U.S. military has no plans to deploy federal troops or federalized National Guard members to polling places during the November 2026 midterm elections, and no plans to seize ballots, voting machines, or other election-related materials. Secretary Hegseth has yet to respond.\n\nIn previous letters sent in 2020 and 2024 by Slotkin, General Mark Milley, General CQ Brown, Secretary Lloyd Austin, and Secretary Mark Esper, were each able to provide a response and confirm they would follow the law and our constitution\u2014which is clear about military interference in our elections.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-introduces-two-health-care-bills-lower-prescription", "Congresswoman Scholten Introduces Two Health Care Bills To Lower Prescription Drug Prices and Improve Access to Care", "2026-09-02", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Hillary J. Scholten", "S001221", "scholten.house.gov", "scholten", "https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) introduced two bills to bring down health care costs for West Michigan families: the Fair Prescription Pricing Act of 2026, which caps what patients pay out of pocket for prescription drugs, and the Local Health Care Protection Act of 2026, which protects local hospitals from losing drug discount eligibility because of federal Medicaid cuts.\n\n\u201cToo many Americans are forced to choose between filling a prescription or paying for other necessities,\u201d said Congresswoman Scholten. \u201cThese bills are about lowering costs and protecting the patients, families, and local hospitals caught in the middle. No patient should have to skip a prescription because they cannot afford it, and no hospital should have to shoulder unsustainable costs. I\u2019m fighting to make sure hardworking Americans can afford the health care they need and deserve.\u201d\n\nUnder current law, a patient's out-of-pocket cost for a prescription can sometimes exceed the actual average price of the drug itself, largely because of how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and insurers structure cost-sharing behind the scenes. The Fair Prescription Pricing Act would close that gap by barring group health plans and insurers from charging any deductible, coinsurance, or copayment for an in-network pharmacy drug above the drug's nationwide average price\n\nThe Local Health Care Protection Act protects hospitals from losing access to the 340B drug discount program because Medicaid cuts have shrunk their patient rolls. The 340B program, subsidized by drug manufacturers, allows hospitals to buy outpatient drugs at a discount and reinvest those savings into charity care and community health benefits \u2013 free and reduced-cost care, health screenings, mental health and addiction treatment, and other services that keep vulnerable patients covered. Qualifying for the 340B program requires serving a certain volume of Medicaid patients, a threshold some hospitals are now falling below because of Republicans\u2019 nearly $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid. The bill locks in eligibility for any hospital that qualified for 340B as of July 3, 2025, through fiscal year 2030 \u2013 so local hospitals can keep their doors open and continue funding the charity care and health programs their patients rely on.\n\nThis reflects Congresswoman Scholten\u2019s ongoing effort to make life more affordable for American families. The Congresswoman is the co-chair and founder of the Lowering Cost Caucus, which brings together members of Congress to find real solutions to the affordability crisis squeezing communities across Michigan and the country.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-10T09:25:58Z", "2026-09-10T09:27:09Z"], ["https://tlaib.house.gov/posts/rep-tlaib-votes-against-funding-bill", "Rep. Tlaib votes against funding bill\u00a0", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Rashida Tlaib", "T000481", "tlaib.house.gov", "tlaib", "https://tlaib.house.gov/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) released the following statement after voting against the Continuing Resolution to fund the Trump administration\u2019s war and inhumane deportation agenda:\n\n\u201cI refuse to give another dime toward Trump\u2019s reckless war and racist mass deportations. While this wannabe dictator claims there\u2019s no money for healthcare, food assistance, or Social Security, he has no issue funding endless wars, genocide and DHS\u2019s violent deportation machine. Our residents are burdened by skyrocketing gas prices and terrorized by ICE agents, but Congress keeps pushing more money to our already over-inflated defense and DHS budgets. Congress and this administration\u2019s priorities are severely out of touch.\u201d\n\nThe Continuing Resolution includes $839.2 billion for the Department of Defense, $8.4 billion more than the DOD requested. The recently passed funding bill also gives another $11 billion to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for marine vessels, drones, and vehicles for law enforcement.", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-haley-stevens-condemns-socialism", "STATEMENT: Haley Stevens Condemns Socialism", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In response to today\u2019s vote on Condemning and Denouncing the Horrors of Socialism, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI am not a socialist, and I do not support socialism. I\u2019m a Michigan Democrat who believes in capitalism, democracy, making sure billionaires pay their fair share of taxes, and standing with unions in the fight for workers\u2019 rights.\n\n\u201cThis is a cynical, Republican-forced vote designed to present a false choice: that standing up for voting rights means embracing socialism. It doesn\u2019t.\n\n\u201cWe can build things in Michigan, create good-paying union jobs, grow American manufacturing, and defend every citizen\u2019s right to vote.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s the Michigan I believe in.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7272", "Dingell, Colleagues Urge Trump to Recognize Importance of the U.S.-Canada Relationship", "2026-08-31", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and 87 of her House colleagues are urging President Trump to change his administration\u2019s diplomatic approach with Canada and recognize the importance of the U.S.-Canada relationship. The effort follows further fraying in the two country\u2019s relations amid President Trump\u2019s escalating and chaotic use of trade barriers against Canada. In a letter to President Trump, the lawmakers specifically highlighted the risk to America\u2019s economy should the president continue to use demeaning rhetoric and implement damaging policies against Canada.\n\n\u201cYour Administration\u2019s escalating and chaotic use of trade barriers against Canada is putting this relationship at serious risk. Recent tariffs, continued threats of additional trade restrictions, and increasingly adversarial rhetoric are creating uncertainty for businesses, workers, farmers, and consumers on both sides of the border. American exports to Canada declined in 2025, while Canadian exports to the United States also fell substantially following the implementation of U.S. tariffs. Additionally, Canadian businesses are increasingly looking to diversify their supply chains and markets, which should concern your Administration,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nThe lawmakers went on to describe the shared economic interests between the U.S. and Canada and the risks a worsening relationship would have on the American people.\n\n\u201cOur economic relationship is too important to put at risk. Our manufacturers, farmers, producers, small businesses, and consumers depend upon Canada, as Canadian businesses and workers depend upon access to the United States. Materials, parts, and components routinely cross the border as part of shared North American supply chains. Disrupting these relationships increases costs for American businesses and consumers, undermines our competitiveness, and puts good-paying American jobs at risk. For example, the North American automotive industry relies on a highly integrated supply chain in which parts and materials can cross the U.S.-Canada border multiple times before a vehicle reaches a customer. Similar integration exists across energy, agriculture, steel, aluminum, critical minerals, and manufacturing,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below:\n\nDear Mr. President:\n\nThis letter is to urge your Administration to change its diplomatic approach with our closest ally, Canada, and recognize the importance of the United States-Canada relationship.\n\nCanada is not an adversary. Canada is a close friend, neighbor, ally, and economic partner whose security and prosperity is deeply intertwined with the United States. As you know, our countries share the longest international border in the world, generations of family and cultural ties, and deeply integrated economies and supply chains. We have stood together through war and peace and decades of cooperation. Our relationship is one of the world\u2019s most enduring partnerships, built by generations of Americans and Canadians who work together, raise families, conduct business, travel, and share communities and culture.\n\nYour Administration\u2019s escalating and chaotic use of trade barriers against Canada is putting this relationship at serious risk. Recent tariffs, continued threats of additional trade restrictions, and increasingly adversarial rhetoric are creating uncertainty for businesses, workers, farmers, and consumers on both sides of the border. American exports to Canada declined in 2025, while Canadian exports to the United States also fell substantially following the implementation of U.S. tariffs Additionally, Canadian businesses are increasingly looking to diversify their supply chains and markets, which should concern your Administration.\n\nOur economic relationship is too important to put at risk. Our manufacturers, farmers, producers, small businesses, and consumers depend upon Canada, as Canadian businesses and workers depend upon access to the United States. Materials, parts, and components routinely cross the border as part of shared North American supply chains. Disrupting these relationships increases costs for American businesses and consumers, undermines our competitiveness, and puts good-paying American jobs at risk. For example, the North American automotive industry relies on a highly integrated supply chain in which parts and materials can cross the U.S.-Canada border multiple times before a vehicle reaches a customer. Similar integration exists across energy, agriculture, steel, aluminum, critical minerals, and manufacturing.\n\nTo strengthen production and supply chains across North America, we must work with our American and Canadian partners. If our shared goal is to reduce dependence on China and other bad actors, treating Canada increasingly like an adversary is both counterproductive and dangerous. We should instead deepen economic cooperation with allies like Canada to increase domestic production and ensure critical goods and resources come from trusted partners.\n\nWe support fair and reciprocal trade and addressing legitimate trade barriers that disadvantage American workers and businesses. However, disagreements between close allies should be resolved through good-faith negotiations and established trade mechanisms, not through erratic trade policy, threats, and public disputes. Canada has already taken steps toward retaliation, demonstrating the real risk that continued escalation will harm American workers, businesses, farmers, and consumers and weaken the broader North American economy.\n\nOur relationship with Canada also extends far beyond trade. We share vital defense and national security interests, energy resources, the Great Lakes, environmental responsibilities, agricultural markets, tourism, and millions of personal and economic ties across our border. We work together every day to protect North America, respond to emergencies, manage shared resources, and keep our communities safe. At a time of serious global economic and security challenges, we should be strengthening this partnership and the ties that make both countries safer, more prosperous, and more competitive.\n\nWe urge your Administration to treat Canada as the close ally, friend, neighbor, and economic partner that it is, and to resolve our differences through diplomacy while preserving and strengthening the relationship generations of Americans and Canadians have built. Just as a strong and prosperous United States is in Canada\u2019s interest, a strong and prosperous Canada is also in America\u2019s interest.\n\nThank you.", 1, "2026-09-01T09:48:49Z", "2026-09-01T09:49:51Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7273", "Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Bill Prohibiting Any Administration from Renaming Great Lakes", "2026-08-31", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Tim Kennedy (D-NY-26), and Joe Morelle (D-NY-25) introduced legislation to stop the Trump Administration from unilaterally renaming Lake Ontario and protect the official names of all five Great Lakes. The Hands Off Our Great Lakes Act was introduced in response to President Trump\u2019s signing of an executive order seeking to change the name of Lake Ontario to Lake America.\n\nThe Hands Off Our Great Lakes Act would:\n\nProhibit the federal government from renaming Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, or Lake Ontario;\n\nNullify Executive Order 14422, which renames Lake Ontario as \u201cLake America\u201d; and\n\nBlock federal funds from being used to implement, administer, or otherwise give effect to the order or any substantially similar action.\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes are a shared treasure that generations of Americans and Canadians have worked together to protect. Canada is not our enemy. It is our neighbor, our ally, and one of Michigan\u2019s most important economic partners. It is a friendship that no stroke of a pen should be able to erase,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cBy preventing President Trump from trying to divide us with distracting public relations stunts, maybe then he will turn his attention to his reckless trade war that is raising costs and threatening American workers.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans are struggling to afford groceries, housing, and everyday essentials, and yet this President chooses to pick petty fights with our closest ally,\u201d said Congressman Tim Kennedy. \u201cThis unserious, unacceptable attempt to rename the historic, shared Lake Ontario adds insult to injury as Trump\u2019s tariffs drive up costs, making an already difficult situation worse. Our families, workers, and businesses need an administration focused on lowering costs and strengthening our economy, not distractions. Renaming a lake won\u2019t put food on the table, lower anyone\u2019s bills, or create a single job. It is a pathetic attempt to distract from an affordability crisis that this President has failed to fix.\u201d\n\n\u201cLake Ontario is Lake Ontario. President Trump can play games with a map all he wants, but I\u2019m not going to stand by while he wastes the authority and resources of the federal government doing it,\u201d said Congressman Joe Morelle. \u201cThis is ridiculous, it\u2019s embarrassing, and it\u2019s exactly the kind of unserious distraction Americans are tired of.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Dingell is a fierce advocate for the Great Lakes and believes their names are part of our shared history, culture, and identity, and that they should not be used as a political pawn in the Trump Administration\u2019s escalation of an unnecessary trade war. As co-chair of the Great Lakes Task Force in the U.S. House, a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, and a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congresswoman Dingell has been at the forefront of legislative efforts to protect and preserve the Great Lakes.\n\nIn July 2026, Congresswoman Dingell, alongside the other three co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, urged the Trump Administration to lift the stop-work order and end the administrative review on the Brandon Road Lock and Dam complex. The critical project is designed to prevent invasive carp from reaching the Great Lakes and devastating the region\u2019s $11 billion fishing and recreation industry, and work was abruptly halted on July 24, 2026, putting Great Lakes ecosystems and the regional economy at severe risk. Also in July 2026, the congresswoman requested the Trump Administration release delayed funding that supports critical efforts to stop the spread of invasive species across the Great Lakes. Congresswoman Dingell is also a champion of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), which is designed to protect and restore the Lakes, and she has consistently pushed for robust funding for it.\n\nBill text can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-09-01T09:48:49Z", "2026-09-01T09:49:51Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/31/icymi-general-caine-responds-to-slotkin-assures-no-plans-to-send-troops-to-polls-in-november-hegseth-silent/", "ICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops\u00a0to Polls in\u00a0November, Hegseth Silent", "2026-08-31", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has confirmed in writing that the U.S. military has no plans to deploy federal troops or federalized National Guard members to polling places during the November 2026 midterm elections, and no plans to seize ballots, voting machines, or other election-related materials. In his response, Caine noted that \u201celection administration and security remain the fundamental responsibility of state and local officials.\u201d\n\nFrom the AP:\n\nThe highest-ranking officer in the U.S. military says there are no plans to send troops to polling places during November\u2019s midterm congressional elections, addressing concerns among Democrats that the Trump administration could use the military to interfere with the vote.\n\nGen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, made the statement in a letter to Michigan Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin, who recently asked Caine and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to confirm they won\u2019t send troops to the polls.\n\n\u201cThe Joint Force has no plans to send Federal military personnel or Federalized members of the National Guard to polling places during the 2026 elections,\u201d Caine said in the letter to Slotkin, which was obtained Monday by The Associated Press. \u201cLikewise, the Joint Force has no plans to use such personnel to seize ballots, voting machines, or other election-related material.\u201d\n\nCaine, who advises Hegseth and President Donald Trump on military matters, also wrote: \u201cI have neither received nor anticipate receiving any unlawful order concerning the role of the Joint Force in the upcoming November 2026 midterm elections.\u201d\n\nSlotkin told the AP earlier in August that Trump has been laying the groundwork to claim the elections were stolen. She noted that Trump contemplated using the military to seize voting machines after his loss in 2020 and has deployed the National Guard to cities against the wishes of Democratic leaders. He also deployed active duty Marines to Los Angeles during his immigration crackdown in 2025.\n\nThis letter comes in response to U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, who sent letters to General of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Caine and Secretary of Defense Hegseth asking for a written response and commitment to keep the U.S. military out of the midterm elections. In previous letters sent by Slotkin, General Mark Milley, General CQ Brown, Secretary Lloyd Austin, and Secretary Mark Esper, were each able to provide a response and confirm they would follow the law and our constitution\u2014which is clear about military interference in our elections.\n\nThere has been no response from Secretary Hegseth despite Slotkin\u2019s request for a reply by last Friday and the precedent set by Hegseth\u2019s predecessors.\n\nRead the AP story here.\n\nRead the response from Caine here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-01T09:48:49Z", "2026-09-01T09:49:51Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/substack-haley-stevens-reflects-michigan-democratic-party", "SUBSTACK: Haley Stevens Reflects on the Michigan Democratic Party", "2026-08-29", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Ahead of this weekend\u2019s Michigan Democratic Party Convention, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens shared her reflections on the party on Substack.\n\nLink to readhere.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-01T09:48:49Z", "2026-09-01T09:49:51Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-big-rapids-on-day-4-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour", "PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Big Rapids on Day 4 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "BIG RAPIDS, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) toured Ferris State University\u2019s cybersecurity training facility during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted the need to invest in cyber workforce development programs like Ferris State\u2019s to strengthen U.S. national security, boost our global economic competitiveness, and place more Michiganders in good-paying, in-demand jobs.\n\n\u201cSecuring our nation from cyberattacks is one of the most important national security challenges we face, and the work happening right here at Ferris State is helping make sure we have the people and expertise needed to meet that challenge,\u201d Senator Peters said. \u201cMichigan needs talented, well-trained cybersecurity professionals who understand these threats to help prevent attacks before they happen. Developing that workforce is critical not only to our national security, but also to Michigan\u2019s economy and our ability to compete in an increasingly technology-driven world.\u201d\n\nDuring the event, Peters toured the training facility and viewed real-world cyber training demonstrations with Ferris State Provost Sean Lancaster and Professor Dr. Greg Gogolin.\n\nTo view photos from Senator Peters\u2019 stop in Big Rapids, click HERE.\n\nAs Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has been a top leader in ensuring our nation is better prepared to defend against cyberattacks. His historic, bipartisan provision to require critical infrastructure owners and operators to report if they experience a substantial cyberattack or if they make a ransomware payment was signed into law ensuring that incident victims receive needed support and important incident information is shared widely to prevent future attacks. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bills to enhance cybersecurity assistance to K-12 educational institutions, bolster cybersecurity for state and local governments, strengthen the federal cybersecurity workforce, and help secure federal information technology supply chains have also been signed into law.\n\nPeters \u2013 an avid and longtime motorcycle rider \u2013 kicked off his \u201cThank you, Michigan\u201d tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, and Traverse City, before he will make stops in Grand Rapids and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year\u2019s tour \u2013 which is Peters\u2019 10th and last official motorcycle tour.\n\n\u201cI've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,\u201d Peters said. \u201cRepresenting Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year\u2019s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I\u2019ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-grand-rapids-on-day-5-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour", "PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Grand Rapids on Day 5 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "GRAND RAPIDS, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) visited the new Automation Lab at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted the $998,000 in federal funding he secured to create the Automation Lab and strengthen GRCC\u2019s regional workforce development efforts. The fully automated facility serves as a training hub for students pursuing high-demand jobs in advanced manufacturing and automation, as well as those already working in the field who need additional training or credentials for promotion. This effort is part of Peters\u2019 long legacy of fighting to strengthen Michigan\u2019s robust manufacturing sector, expand skills training opportunities, and help place more Michiganders in good paying, in demand jobs.\n\n\u201cGRCC excels at preparing students to get good-paying, in-demand jobs right out of school,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis state-of-the-art and fully automated training facility will not only strengthen those courses, but also GRCC\u2019s efforts to connect students with local employers ahead of graduation to help keep that talent in Michigan. This level of dedication and community investment is remarkable, and why I was proud to help secure nearly $1 million in federal funding to build the new lab.\u201d\n\nPeters toured GRCC\u2019s new, state-of-the-art training facility with GRCC Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Sheila Jones, GRCC Professor John Doneth, Ingrid Tighe, President of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, and Cody Langlois, a graduate of GRCC\u2019s Manufacturing & Applied Technology Program. During the tour, GRCC staff led Peters through demonstrations of cutting-edge robotics equipment that will be used for classroom instruction for the first time this fall semester.\n\n\u201cMy experience at GRCC gave me the hands-on skills I needed to prepare for a good-paying career in advanced manufacturing right here in West Michigan,\u201d said Cody Langlois, a graduate of GRCC\u2019s Manufacturing & Applied Technology Program and current employee at JR Automation. \u201cI\u2019m grateful to Senator Peters for supporting GRCC and helping to secure the federal funding for this new lab. His support is creating opportunities for the next generation of Michigan manufacturing workers, and I\u2019m excited to see other students come through this lab and find the same kind of opportunity that GRCC helped provide for me.\u201d\n\n\u201cI applaud Senator Peters for his steadfast, unwavering commitment to American manufacturing,\u201d said Ingrid Tighe, President of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, the Michigan representative of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). \u201cThe investment in this critical program will not only support students but countless manufacturers in the region who need good talent to grow and thrive. In addition to supporting this project, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center appreciates everything Senator Peters has done to support our state\u2019s robust manufacturing sector and set Michigan workers up for success.\u201d\n\nTo view photos from Senator Peters\u2019 stop in Grand Rapids, click HERE.\n\nPeters has consistently prioritized investing in American manufacturing and workforce development. Peters helped author and pass into law the CHIPS and Science Act to boost U.S. manufacturing of semiconductor chips, strengthen critical domestic supply chains, and create good-paying American jobs. The CHIPS and Science Act additionally increased funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, which supports MEPs like the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC). Peters helped enact bipartisan legislation that expanded access to career and technical education (CTE) opportunities outside of the traditional four-year degree career pathway. Peters also introduced bipartisan legislation that was signed into law to allow more veterans to use their GI bill benefits toward securing a registered apprenticeship.\n\nPeters \u2013 an avid and longtime motorcycle rider \u2013 kicked off his \u201cThank you, Michigan\u201d tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, and Grand Rapids, before he will conclude the tour in East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year\u2019s tour \u2013 which is Peters\u2019 10th and last official motorcycle tour.\n\n\u201cI've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,\u201d Peters said. \u201cRepresenting Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year\u2019s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I\u2019ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-walker-on-day-5-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour", "PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Walker on Day 5 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WALKER, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) toured the Humane Society of West Michigan in Walker during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted the need to reauthorize his Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act that helps protect domestic violence survivors and their pets. The PAWS Act grant program provides funding to facilities that harbor survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence, along with their pets, as well as the animal shelters that partner with domestic violence service providers. Since the grant program was first funded, there has consistently been high demand for PAWS funding. Peters is now leading the effort to protect federal funding for the program by reauthorizing $3 million for the program annually over the next four years.\n\n\u201cDomestic violence is sadly an issue that is all too prevalent in our communities. Unfortunately, we know that in cases of abuse, pets are likely to also become targets, and that abusers will use violence against animals to exert control over their victims.\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cTo me, it\u2019s simple: protecting the PAWS Act means protecting survivors and protecting their pets. That\u2019s why I\u2019m now fighting to extend funding for the program and ensure these resources remain available for shelters in Michigan and across the country.\u201d\n\nDuring the event, Peters learned how Humane Society of West Michigan assists victims of domestic violence through its Providing Emergency Temporary Shelter (PETS) Network, a program that accepts pets affected by a number of situations, including in cases of domestic violence.\n\n\u201cVictims of domestic violence are often put in the position of having to make an impossible choice between protecting their own life or their pet\u2019s,\u201d said Eric Messing, Executive Director of Humane Society of West Michigan. \u201cThat\u2019s why Humane Society of West Michigan is dedicated to providing safe foster homes for these pets and helping victims feel empowered to leave abusive situations. We thank Senator Peters for leading the PAWS Act to support programs like ours that help protect both victims and their four-legged family members from domestic violence.\u201d\n\n\u201cI appreciated having the chance to tell Senator Peters about our PETS Program, a service that can often make the difference between a victim staying in an abusive situation, or seeking out the care they need,\u201d said Ashley Dahl, Humane Society of West Michigan Director of Community Programs. \u201cWe thank Senator Peters for coming here to see our work firsthand and appreciate his continued commitment to the protection of domestic violence survivors and their pets.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen a victim is deciding whether or not to get the help they need, making sure they can find a safe home for their pet is often a key factor in the process,\u201d Dr. Nikia Belcher \u2013 VP of Crisis Services and Community Programs at YWCA West Central Michigan. \u201cWe are proud of our partnership with the Humane Society of West Michigan, which helps connect victims with the resources they need to protect their pets. Thank you to Senator Peters for your efforts to reauthorize the PAWS Act, and for being here today to highlight this important issue.\u201d\n\nTo view photos from Senator Peters\u2019 stop in Walker, click HERE.\n\nResearch has shown that domestic abusers often seek to manipulate or intimidate victims by threatening or harming their pets \u2013 with one study finding that up to 84 percent of women entering domestic violence shelters reported their partners had threatened, abused, or killed the family pet. Moreover, nearly half of survivors reported having stayed with their abuser due to fear over what would happen to their pet.\n\nCurrently, most domestic violence shelters are not equipped to accommodate pets. The Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance Grant Program \u2013 created by Peters\u2019 PAWS Act \u2013 helps address this gap by providing support to ensure shelters and transitional housing services can accommodate victims of domestic violence and their companion animals. The PAWS Act also expanded existing federal domestic violence protections to include threats or acts of violence against a survivor\u2019s pet. The law requires the full amount of the survivor\u2019s losses for purposes of restitution in domestic violence and stalking offenses to include any costs incurred for veterinary services relating to physical care for the survivor\u2019s pet.\n\nProtecting animal welfare is something that Peters has long made a priority. In 2022, he introduced the Planning for Animal Wellness Act which was passed by Congress and signed into law. This law helps protect pets and other animals during and in the aftermath of natural disasters by requiring the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish an advisory group to offer guidance regarding animal welfare in federal disaster preparedness, response and recovery. Peters is also leading bipartisan legislation to help us better understand and respond to the connection between animal cruelty and interpersonal violence. Peters\u2019 Animal Violence Exposes Real Threat of (AVERT) Future Violence Act would commission a Justice Department study to assess the link between acts of animal cruelty and future violence against others, such as domestic violence and gun violence, and authorize a grant program to support mental health experts, law enforcement, and animal welfare organizations in their efforts to stop animal cruelty and rehabilitate offenders.\n\nPeters \u2013 an avid and longtime motorcycle rider \u2013 kicked off his \u201cThank you, Michigan\u201d tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, and Traverse City, before he will make stops in Grand Rapids and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year\u2019s tour \u2013 which is Peters\u2019 10th and last official motorcycle tour.\n\n\u201cI've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,\u201d Peters said. \u201cRepresenting Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year\u2019s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I\u2019ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/28/slotkin-joins-gallego-colleagues-in-pressing-the-israeli-government-to-halt-construction-progress-for-e1-settlement-project/", "Slotkin Joins Gallego, Colleagues, In Pressing the Israeli Government to Halt Construction Progress for E1 Settlement Project", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Patty Murray (D-WA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jack Reed (D-RI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mark Warner (D-VA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ed Markey (D-MA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) in a joint statement opposing the Israeli government\u2019s decision to issue tenders for the construction of 1,234 housing units in the E1 settlement project, following a joint effort with 45 Senators urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to crack down on settler violence, including against U.S. citizens, and settler expansion in the West Bank.\n\n\u201cConstruction in the E1 area would sever East Jerusalem from major Palestinian population centers and make a viable contiguous Palestinian state under a two-state solution far harder to achieve,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cFor decades, Republican and Democratic administrations have recognized that development in E1 would seriously jeopardize the prospects for a Palestinian state. That concern remains just as urgent today.\n\n\u201cAt a time when settler violence \u2014 including violence against Palestinian Americans \u2014 is reaching unprecedented levels in the West Bank and severe restrictions continue to constrain Palestinian movement and the Palestinian economy, moving forward with construction in E1 risks further destabilizing the West Bank and making a negotiated resolution even more difficult.\n\n\u201cWe urge the Israeli government to immediately rescind these tenders, halt settlement expansion in the West Bank, and take urgent action to rein in settler violence. Without a change in course, Israel risks weakening its international standing and undermining its prospects for long-term security,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cWe also urge the Trump administration to make full use of its existing authorities, including targeted sanctions on individuals and entities.\n\n\u201cThe United States must remain committed to a two-state solution that delivers lasting peace and security for both the Jewish, democratic State of Israel and for a future Palestinian state. Construction in E1 would take us further away from that goal.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-concludes-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour-in-east-lansing", "PHOTOS: Peters Concludes 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour in East Lansing", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "EAST LANSING, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) toured the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at Michigan State University (MSU) during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted his bipartisan efforts to secure more than $2 billion in public investment for FRIB during his time in Congress.\n\n\u201cThe opening of the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams has been a groundbreaking success for Michigan State University and our entire state,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cIn addition to its contributions to science, FRIB is furthering our state\u2019s economic competitiveness on the national and global stage. That\u2019s why supporting FRIB\u2019s work has been so important. It will continue to spur transformational innovation, strengthen our national security, and create high-paying jobs for future innovators in Michigan.\u201d\n\nDuring the event, Peters toured FRIB and its new K500 Chip Testing Facility with MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz, FRIB Laboratory Director Thomas Glasmacher, and MSU Professor Dr. Artemis Spyrou.\n\n\u201cBecause of sustained bipartisan support in Congress\u2014including the leadership of Senator Peters\u2014MSU designed, built and now operates the premier rare isotope research facility on the planet,\u201d said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph. D. \u201cFRIB firmly anchors Michigan State as a global epicenter for nuclear science, elevating our university's standing among the top research institutions in the world. That global standing allows us to attract, retain, and activate extraordinary talent. Through FRIB, we are training the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators in high-demand fields.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are honored to welcome Senator Peters back to FRIB as he concludes his career in the U.S. Senate, and we thank him and the entire Michigan delegation for their steadfast support of FRIB for two decades,\u201d said FRIB Laboratory Director Thomas Glasmacher. \u201cWe are privileged to operate FRIB as a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science user facility that enables scientists to make discoveries, while also leveraging technical capabilities in service to the nation\u2014such as our heavy-ion chip-testing facilities.\u201d\n\n\u201cFundamental basic science, like the experimental nuclear astrophysics research my group conducts at FRIB, is the foundation for innovations that directly improve our daily lives,\u201d said Artemis Spyrou, professor of physics at FRIB and in the MSU Department of Physics and Astronomy. \u201cThrough sustained federal support, our research unlocks the mysteries of the universe while building a highly skilled STEM workforce. By coupling world-class science with hands-on training and public engagement, we are actively inspiring and developing the next generation of science and technical leaders.\u201d\n\nTo view photos from Senator Peters\u2019 stop in East Lansing, click HERE.\n\nPeters has been a champion for FRIB and Michigan\u2019s world-class research institutions like MSU. In 2015, Peters held a roundtable discussion with academic leaders and researchers from MSU to help craft legislation that was signed into law to strengthen federal investment in U.S. research and development.\n\nFRIB houses the most powerful heavy-ion linear accelerator, which accelerates heavy ions and produces rare isotopes, short-lived atomic nuclei that cannot be found on Earth. FRIB allows researchers to study the properties and fundamental interactions of rare isotopes and nuclear astrophysics and their impact on medicine, national security, and industry, including diagnosing diseases, improving next generation nuclear reactors for energy, and finding processes to destroy nuclear waste. FRIB\u2019s heavy-ion chip-testing facilities\u2014the FRIB Single Event Effects Facility and the K500 Chip Testing Facility\u2014address the national shortage of testing capacity for advanced microelectronics used in industries like spaceflight, wireless technology, and autonomous vehicles. FRIB employs approximately 460 scientists, engineers, and staff, as well as more than 200 students, and brings together over 1,800 scientists to conduct cutting-edge research in Michigan.\n\nPeters \u2013 an avid and longtime motorcycle rider \u2013 kicked off his \u201cThank you, Michigan\u201d tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. He rode more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year\u2019s tour \u2013 which is Peters\u2019 10th and last official motorcycle tour.\n\n\u201cI've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,\u201d Peters said. \u201cRepresenting Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year\u2019s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I\u2019ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-30T10:18:21Z", "2026-08-30T10:19:31Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7292", "Dingell, Harshbarger Introduce Legislation to Study Chinese Threats to the U.S. Auto Industry", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01) introduced the Automotive National and Economic Security Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation that would direct the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to conduct a comprehensive study of the national and economic security risks foreign adversaries pose to the United States automotive industry.\n\n\u201cI'm a car girl\u2014I will always fight for our auto workers and this critical industry that is the backbone of America's economy. I am proud to help lead this bipartisan piece of legislation that will create good-paying jobs and protect our national security. And we must continue our efforts to decrease our reliance on China and create a level playing field,\u201d said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.\n\n\u201cChina has a playbook, and we've watched them run it on critical minerals, shipbuilding, and batteries,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cNow they're setting their sights on the global automotive market, building out their industrial base with state subsidies and flooding markets with artificially cheap products to undercut American manufacturers. As vehicles become more connected and software-driven, that strategy isn't just an economic threat, it's a national security threat and a risk to the data of every American behind the wheel. This bill gives policymakers the facts we need to understand how deep this penetration goes and to protect our automotive industry before it's too late.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the study would examine:\n\nForeign ownership of, and state-directed investment in, U.S. automakers by foreign military organizations, political parties, and state-owned enterprises.\n\nJoint ventures, subsidiaries, and commercial partnerships between U.S. manufacturers and foreign adversaries.\n\nTransfers of critical and emerging technologies to foreign adversaries.\n\nImpacts on U.S. national security, economic competitiveness, and intellectual property protection.\n\nThe bill requires the Secretary of Commerce to submit findings to the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and to publish an unclassified report, within two years of enactment.\n\nBill text can be found HERE.\n\nForeign ownership of, and state-directed investment in, U.S. automakers by foreign military organizations, political parties, and state-owned enterprises.\n\nJoint ventures, subsidiaries, and commercial partnerships between U.S. manufacturers and foreign adversaries.\n\nTransfers of critical and emerging technologies to foreign adversaries.\n\nImpacts on U.S. national security, economic competitiveness, and intellectual property protection.\n\nForeign ownership of, and state-directed investment in, U.S. automakers by foreign military organizations, political parties, and state-owned enterprises.\n\nJoint ventures, subsidiaries, and commercial partnerships between U.S. manufacturers and foreign adversaries.\n\nTransfers of critical and emerging technologies to foreign adversaries.\n\nImpacts on U.S. national security, economic competitiveness, and intellectual property protection.", 1, "2026-09-05T08:49:07Z", "2026-09-05T08:50:44Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7268", "Dingell, Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Sunscreen Access at National Parks", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) introduced the Sunscreen in Parks Findings Act (SPF) Act, bipartisan legislation that would direct the National Park Service (NPS) to study and report on ways to make sun protection more available in national parks at low or no cost.\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan legislation is about keeping people safe, expanding access to sunscreen, and decreasing rates of skin cancer. I am grateful for Congressman Lawler\u2019s partnership as we work across the aisle to keep Americans safe as they enjoy the beauty and recreation our national parks have to offer,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell, Co-chair of the bipartisan House Cancer Caucus.\n\nThe legislation would require the NPS Director to submit a report to the House Committee on Natural Resources within one year after enactment, including:\n\nThe possible environmental effects of any sunscreen distributed in parks.\n\nHow usable the sunscreen would be for people with different skin tones.\n\nA plan to increase visitor awareness about the importance of sun protection to help prevent skin damage and skin cancer.\n\n\u201cProtecting Americans from skin cancer starts with making basic sun protection readily accessible. Our national parks should be places where families can enjoy the outdoors while taking simple, commonsense steps to protect their health. I\u2019m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to expand access to sunscreen and other sun-protective measures in our national parks,\u201d said Congressman Lawler, Co-chair of the Extreme Heat Caucus and the Appalachian Trail Caucus.\n\nA copy of the bill text can be found HERE.\n\nThe possible environmental effects of any sunscreen distributed in parks.\n\nenvironmental effects of any sunscreen distributed in parks.\n\nHow usable the sunscreen would be for people with different skin tones.\n\nA plan to increase visitor awareness about the importance of sun protection to help prevent skin damage and skin cancer.\n\nThe possible environmental effects of any sunscreen distributed in parks.\n\nHow usable the sunscreen would be for people with different skin tones.\n\nA plan to increase visitor awareness about the importance of sun protection to help prevent skin damage and skin cancer.", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7269", "Dingell Statement on Trump\u2019s Attempt to Rename Lake Ontario", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) released the following statement after President Trump signed an Executive Order attempting to rename Lake Ontario:\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes are a shared treasure that generations of Americans and Canadians have worked together to protect. Donald Trump can sign all the executive orders he wants, but it will always be Lake Ontario. Canada is not our enemy. It is our neighbor, our ally, and one of Michigan\u2019s most important economic partners. It is a friendship that no stroke of a pen can erase,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cPresident Trump is trying to divide us and distract people from his reckless trade war that is raising costs and threatening American workers. When he is done doing arts and crafts in the Oval, I\u2019d suggest he turn his attention to his failed economy that is raising costs, eliminating jobs, and leaving working men and women behind.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-traverse-city-on-day-4-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour", "PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Traverse City on Day 4 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "TRAVERSE CITY, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) visited FishPass in Downtown Traverse City during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted the $22.7 million in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funding he secured to help make the FishPass project possible. FishPass replaced the deteriorated Union Street Dam and will reconnect the Boardman/Ottaway River with Lake Michigan\u2019s Grand Traverse Bay. Once open, FishPass will sort and selectively pass native fish while blocking harmful invasive species, such as sea lamprey. FishPass is the capstone of a 20-year project to restore more than 100 miles of the Boardman/Ottaway River, strengthening local ecosystems and fisheries.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s an honor be here to see the progress and final touches made to FishPass before this exciting, long-term project is officially open,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cFishPass is a reminder of the passion and commitment that Michiganders have for protecting our Great Lakes and natural resources. It shows that we are creating new and innovative solutions for that work. As long as I have the privilege of serving the state of Michigan, I will continue working to protect the Great Lakes, manage invasive species, and safeguard our state\u2019s precious waterways.\u201d\n\nAs construction of FishPass nears its completion, Peters toured the site with Traverse City Mayor Amy Shamroe, Angelina Raphael, Vice Chairwomen of the Grand Traverse Band of Chippewa Indians, and Dr. Marc Gaden, Executive Secretary of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. During the visit, Gaden, a fellow motorcycle rider and annual participant in Peters\u2019 motorcycle tour, ceremoniously dedicated a new pedestrian bridge in honor of Peters. The bridge will be on display in Rotary Square and installed over the Boardman/Ottaway River in the coming months.\n\n\u201cWe are fortunate to have such incredible freshwater resources here in Traverse City, and our community has long understood the importance of protecting them,\u201d said Traverse City Mayor Amy Shamroe. \u201cWe are grateful to Senator Peters for fighting to secure robust federal funding for FishPass, an investment that will strengthen our waterways while creating exciting new opportunities for research and economic growth in Traverse City.\u201d\n\n\u201cInvasive species remain one of the most serious threats facing the Great Lakes. FishPass demonstrates how innovative solutions can protect native fish while restoring the health of our waterways,\u201d said Marc Gaden, Executive Secretary of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. \u201cThis project is a major priority for our Commission, so we\u2019re thankful for Senator Peters\u2019 efforts to secure the federal resources needed to move FishPass forward.\u201d\n\nTo view photos from Senator Peters\u2019 stop in Traverse City, click HERE.\n\nSupporting FishPass is part of Peters\u2019 legacy of protecting the Great Lakes and Michigan\u2019s precious waterways for future generations. FishPass received federal funding from the GLRI, which has provided over $4.7 billion to fund more than 9,000 projects to combat the greatest threats to the Great Lakes, including invasive species, harmful algal blooms and loss of fish and wildlife habitats. Peters has consistently led the charge to fund the GLRI, including by securing $1 billion for the program \u2013 the largest investment in GLRI ever \u2013 as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Today, he is leading the effort to reauthorize the program for another five years at increased funding levels, which would put GLRI on solid footing for years to come.\n\nPeters also created the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Oil Spill Center of Expertise. Collocated in Ann Arbor and Sault Ste. Marie, the center is actively working to develop best practices for effectively responding to an oil spill in freshwater environments like the Great Lakes.\n\nAs Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, Peters plays a key role in uniting Great Lakes lawmakers to coordinate legislative initiatives, funding priorities, and oversight efforts to address the most important issues facing the Great Lakes, such as invasive species, environmental contamination, shoreline erosion, water quality, infrastructure needs, and more.\n\nPeters \u2013 an avid and longtime motorcycle rider \u2013 kicked off his \u201cThank you, Michigan\u201d tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, and Traverse City, before he will make stops in Grand Rapids and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year\u2019s tour \u2013 which is Peters\u2019 10th and last official motorcycle tour.\n\n\u201cI've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,\u201d Peters said. \u201cRepresenting Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year\u2019s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I\u2019ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7274", "Dingell, Latta Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Reshore American Manufacturing", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Bob Latta (R-OH-05) introduced the bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence, Domestic Resilience, Output, and Competitive Know-how Act, or the BEDROCK Act. This legislation would help turn products invented in America into products made in America\u2014supporting American manufacturing jobs, strengthening American supply chains, and reducing American dependence on Communist China.\n\nBiomanufacturing uses biology to make products at industrial scale, such as new materials and medicines. American companies lead the world in discovering these new products, but all too often, the factories, suppliers, and jobs required to produce them at scale move overseas. Communist China has repeatedly made biomanufacturing a national priority; they now dominate the world\u2019s fermentation capacity.\n\n\u201cAmerica's manufacturing might has been hollowed out for decades,\u201d Congresswoman Dingell said. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will strengthen and create good-paying jobs, as well as reduce our reliance on China. I am proud to support this effort to invest in America's workers and ensure we do not cede our competitive edge to our adversaries.\u201d\n\n\u201cNorthern Ohio knows that manufacturing is the lifeblood of our economy,\u201d Congressman Latta said. \u201cFor far too long, America has pioneered new inventions, only for Communist China to build the facilities\u2014stealing the jobs that come with them. The BEDROCK Act would help reshore that work. This bipartisan legislation would create new opportunities for Ohio workers, strengthen the biomanufacturing supply chain, and make it easier for American manufacturers to produce at home.\u201d\n\nThe BEDROCK Act would:\n\nDesignate a senior Department of Commerce official to lead efforts to strengthen U.S. biomanufacturing competitiveness;\n\nAssess critical supply-chain inputs, domestic production capacity, commercialization barriers, and reliance on China and other foreign adversaries;\n\nDevelop a prioritized action plan and consolidate existing federal resources to address the most significant risks and barriers; and\n\nMap federal commercialization processes, establish FDA and EPA points of contact, and publish industry-led practices to help companies scale production.", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7293", "Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Water Infrastructure and Protect Great Lakes Communities", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06),Tim Kennedy (D-NY-26), and Nick Langworthy (R-NY-23), introduced the bipartisan Stormwater Treatment, Optimization, Resilience, and Management with Academic Technological Expertise and Research (STORMWATER) Act, legislation to strengthen communities\u2019 ability to manage stormwater, reduce flooding, and protect local waterways from pollution. This legislation is endorsed by the Great Lakes Commission.\n\n\u201cIt is crucial we have protective measures in place for overflows in our lakes. Michiganders know all too well how drastic weather conditions can cause millions of dollars in damages and risk people\u2019s lives. This reauthorization will not only continue to fund these lifesaving agencies, but will establish a new facility in the Great Lakes Basin,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell.\n\n\u201cEvery Western New Yorker deserves to know that when the next major storm comes, our communities have the infrastructure and expertise to withstand it,\u201d said Congressman Kennedy. \u201cThe STORMWATER Act is about making that investment now \u2013 strengthening our water infrastructure, protecting our neighborhoods and businesses, and putting Great Lakes communities at the forefront of the technologies we need to safeguard the critical waters we all call home.\u201d\n\n\u201cCommunities across the Great Lakes region know firsthand the challenges that stormwater runoff and flooding can create for our homes, businesses, farms, and infrastructure,\u201d said Congressman Langworthy. \u201cThe STORMWATER Act will strengthen research and innovation, support communities working to address flooding, and establish a dedicated Center of Excellence focused on the unique needs of the Great Lakes Basin. As a member of the Great Lakes Caucus, I\u2019m proud to join Congressman Kennedy in advancing this legislation and ensuring our region has the tools and expertise needed to protect our communities and keep our Great Lakes healthy for generations to come.\u201d\n\nThe STORMWATER Act would reauthorize federal grant programs established through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that support stormwater innovation, technical assistance, and flood mitigation. The existing grant programs are currently set to expire in September 2026. The legislation would extend them through fiscal year 2031, providing communities with the resources and continuity needed to plan and implement long-term infrastructure improvements.\n\nThe legislation would establish a Stormwater Center of Excellence specifically focused on the Great Lakes region. While four existing Stormwater Centers of Excellence currently provide regional expertise on stormwater infrastructure, there is no federally designated center focused specifically on the Great Lakes basin, a region containing approximately 21 percent of the world\u2019s fresh water and 84 percent of North America\u2019s surface fresh water. This Great Lakes-focused Center would ensure that communities across the region can access technical expertise tailored to their unique stormwater and water-quality challenges, including strategies to improve infrastructure, reduce flooding, and protect the lakes and waterways that are central to the region\u2019s economy and quality of life.\n\nSpecifically, the STORMWATER Act would:\n\nEstablish a fifth Center of Excellence focused on the Great Lakes region, ensuring the region\u2019s unique stormwater and water-quality challenges receive dedicated expertise;\n\nReauthorize $5 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to support and maintain five Centers of Excellence;\n\nReauthorize $10 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 for competitive Stormwater Control Infrastructure Project grants to support communities\u2019 stormwater infrastructure needs.\n\n\"The Great Lakes Commission commends Rep. Kennedy for introducing the STORMWATER Act, which will ensure the Stormwater Centers of Excellence program continues nationwide while recognizing the Great Lakes as a unique resource increasingly threatened by stormwater impacts,\u201d said Tim Bruno, Chair of the Great Lakes Commission. \u201cCommunities across the Great Lakes region are confronting more frequent flooding that threatens public health and water quality, carrying nutrients, debris, chemicals and other pollutants into our waterways. This bill will provide crucial resources to help communities prepare for and address these growing challenges.\"\n\nStormwater runoff occurs when rain or melted snow cannot absorb into the ground and instead flows over hard surfaces like roads, rooftops, and parking lots. As that water moves rapidly into drainage systems and waterways, it can overwhelm infrastructure, contribute to flooding, and carry oil, debris, fertilizers, chemicals, and other pollutants into local streams and lakes.\n\nFor communities surrounded by the Great Lakes, these challenges are both environmental and economic. Stronger stormwater infrastructure can help protect homes and businesses from flooding, reduce pollution entering local waterways, and preserve the health and economic vitality of the Great Lakes for generations to come.\n\nBill text can be found HERE.\n\nEstablish a fifth Center of Excellence focused on the Great Lakes region, ensuring the region\u2019s unique stormwater and water-quality challenges receive dedicated expertise;\n\nReauthorize $5 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to support and maintain five Centers of Excellence;\n\nReauthorize $10 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 for competitive Stormwater Control Infrastructure Project grants to support communities\u2019 stormwater infrastructure needs.\n\nEstablish a fifth Center of Excellence focused on the Great Lakes region, ensuring the region\u2019s unique stormwater and water-quality challenges receive dedicated expertise;\n\nReauthorize $5 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to support and maintain five Centers of Excellence;\n\nReauthorize $10 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 for competitive Stormwater Control Infrastructure Project grants to support communities\u2019 stormwater infrastructure needs.\n\nEstablish a fifth Center of Excellence focused on the Great Lakes region, ensuring the region\u2019s unique stormwater and water-quality challenges receive dedicated expertise;\n\nReauthorize $5 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to support and maintain five Centers of Excellence;\n\nReauthorize $10 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 for competitive Stormwater Control Infrastructure Project grants to support communities\u2019 stormwater infrastructure needs.\n\nEstablish a fifth Center of Excellence focused on the Great Lakes region, ensuring the region\u2019s unique stormwater and water-quality challenges receive dedicated expertise;\n\nReauthorize $5 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to support and maintain five Centers of Excellence;\n\nReauthorize $10 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 for competitive Stormwater Control Infrastructure Project grants to support communities\u2019 stormwater infrastructure needs.", 1, "2026-09-05T08:49:07Z", "2026-09-05T08:50:44Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-82626", "Statement [8.26.26]", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the office of Haley Stevens issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cToday, Congresswoman Haley Stevens is thrilled to announce her engagement to longtime friend, attorney, and Huntington Woods resident Jason Turkish.\n\n\u201cHaley and Jason share a deep love of family, community, and long conversations that have only gotten better over the years. Jason, who is legally blind, has devoted his career as an attorney to advocating for the rights of people with disabilities, from the courtroom to Capitol Hill. It was along the path of that work that Haley and Jason first met, brought together by a shared commitment to giving a voice to those too often unheard.\n\n\u201cWhat began as a friendship grew into a partnership grounded in shared values, plenty of laughter, and a deep love for the community they call home.\n\n\u201cThey are overjoyed to begin planning their life together, surrounded by the family and friends they love in Oakland County, Michigan.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-marquette-on-day-3-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour", "PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Marquette on Day 3 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "MARQUETTE, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) toured the ongoing construction of the new Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters secured the $57.6 million investment needed to begin construction of the new facility, which was made possible through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program. Peters toured the construction site alongside Chris LaJoie, Interim Administrator of the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti, Ryan Engle, Director of Development and Strategic Engagement for Michigan Veteran Homes, and Jim Provost, Chair of the Marquette County Veterans Alliance.\n\n\u201cVeterans in Michigan and across our country made incredible sacrifices to defend our democracy, our freedoms, and our American way of life. We have a duty and moral obligation to support them when they return home, ensuring they can receive the quality care they earned in service. Maintaining safe, comfortable homes for our veteran populations across the state is a key part of that mission,\u201d said Peters, a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. \u201cThis new, state-of-the-art facility will ensure that our state\u2019s veterans continue to receive the skilled nursing care they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cConstruction of the new D.J. Jacobetti veterans home represents an incredible commitment to our UP veterans,\u201d said Chris LaJoie, Interim Administrator of the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti. \u201cWe\u2019re thankful for the support of partners like Senator Peters, who has been instrumental in securing the federal investment needed to begin construction of this state-of-the-art facility.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe new Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti represents a generational promise to those who\u2019ve worn the uniform,\u201d said Ryan Engle, Director of Development and Strategic Engagement for Michigan Veteran Homes. \u201cWe\u2019re grateful for the state and federal leaders who\u2019ve championed this cause and our state\u2019s robust veteran population for years, including Senator Gary Peters.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Marquette County Veterans Alliance thanks Senator Gary Peters for his persistent and continuous support for this much-needed replacement of the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti,\u201d said Jim Provost, Chair of the Marquette County Veterans Alliance. \u201cHaving access to private rooms, up-to-date technology, and expanded facilities, along with the outstanding medical, administrative, and support staff, will be greatly appreciated by local veterans and their families. We look forward to seeing the progress and completion of this project in the near future.\u201d\n\nTo view photos from Senator Peters\u2019 stop in Marquette, click HERE.\n\nState Veteran Homes are operated by state governments and partner with the VA to provide nursing home, domiciliary, and adult care services to veterans with special medical needs, including many elderly veterans. Federal funds provided by the State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program allow states to make critical facility upgrades or construct new facilities to serve aging veteran populations.\n\nPeters has been committed to supporting our nation\u2019s servicemembers and veterans, including by championing the State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program during his time in the Senate. Peters annually leads a group of bipartisan lawmakers in urging the Senate Appropriations Committee to provide robust funding for the program. Since his appointment to the Senate Appropriations Committee, Peters has also repeatedly helped secure robust funding for the grant program through the annual government funding laws.\n\nGerald\u2019s Law, which was led by Peters and signed into law in 2024, updated this policy to ensure veterans aren\u2019t penalized if they choose to spend their final days in the comfort of their homes or surrounded by loved ones. The Gerald\u2019s Law Reauthorization of 2026 would extend this expanded benefit, which is currently set to expire in October 2026, through 2030.\n\nIn 2021, Peters was inducted into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor for his efforts to support our nation\u2019s veterans and military. In 2017, Peters was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Vietnam Veterans of America for authoring the bipartisan Fairness for Veterans Act, which was signed into law as part of the national defense bill. The legislation requires veteran discharge review boards to give liberal consideration to petitions for honorable discharge status if the servicemember has been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI, or other related conditions connected to their military service. In 2022, Peters helped enact the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act \u2013 which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans and their survivors for the first time in our nation\u2019s history.\n\nPeters \u2013 an avid and longtime motorcycle rider \u2013 kicked off his \u201cThank you, Michigan\u201d tour in Bay City. He will then make stops in Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year\u2019s tour \u2013 which is Peters\u2019 10th and last official motorcycle tour.\n\n\u201cI've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,\u201d Peters said. \u201cRepresenting Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year\u2019s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I\u2019ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/26/slotkin-schiff-45-senators-press-netanyahu-to-protect-u-s-citizens-stop-settler-violence-in-west-bank/", "Slotkin,\u00a0Schiff,\u00a045 Senators Press Netanyahu to Protect U.S. Citizens,\u00a0Stop Settler Violence in West Bank", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) and alongside a coalition of 45 senators, almost the entire Democratic caucus, called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to curb escalating violence in the West Bank and prevent further incidents amid a sharp rise in intimidation, threats, and attacks in recent weeks. The lawmakers also pressed Israel to complete investigations into the deaths of nine American citizens killed by settlers or security personnel in the West Bank over recent years.\n\n\u201cWe urge you to take measures to prevent and intercede in this violence, establish a credible mechanism to investigate violations of law, and to make clear that the Government of Israel will not tolerate violence by its people, just as it does not tolerate violence against its people,\u201d wrote the Senators.\n\nThe senators called for a full accounting and investigation of those responsible for the violence. The senators also noted that both President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have voiced opposition to West Bank annexation and violence in the past, concerns Israel\u2019s government has yet to act on.\n\n\u201cLike you, the safety and security of our constituents is of paramount importance,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cWe urge your government to ensure that Americans in the Israeli-controlled parts of the West Bank are able to enjoy the security and protection of property to which they are entitled. We also hope to see the conditions improved so that Israelis and Palestinians may one day live in peace with each other without the fear of terrorism or lawless violence.\u201d\n\nThe Senators joining Schiff, Leader Schumer, and Booker on the letter are U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt-Rochester (D-Del.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai\u2019i), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2019i), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).\n\nRead the full letter here and below:\n\nDear Mr. Prime Minister,\n\nWe write in shared concern and opposition to the growing levels of violence in the West Bank. Many of us have previously expressed to President Trump that continued settlement expansion and fighting in the West Bank will harm Israel\u2019s long-term security and the prospects for lasting peace, prosperity, and freedom for Israelis and Palestinians alike.\n\nIncidents of fatal violence by settlers have reportedly already surpassed 2025 levels and continue to increase. The last few weeks alone saw a significant surge in violence on both sides, resulting in a large-scale response by Israeli security forces, mass arrests of Palestinians, and reported attacks by settlers on mosques. We urge you to take measures to prevent and intercede in this violence, establish a credible mechanism to investigate violations of law, and to make clear that the Government of Israel will not tolerate violence by its people, just as it does not tolerate violence against its people.\n\nWe write particularly on behalf of American citizens who have been killed or threatened in such violence. Many of us have heard first-hand from their families and other constituents who have themselves been threatened without cause by settlers. We have engaged the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem and your embassy in Washington to ensure their protection and appreciate measures taken on their behalf, but a more significant response from your government is clearly needed. We ask for your personal and direct engagement and intervention in order to protect our constituents and their families.\n\nPresident Trump and Secretary of State Rubio have expressed their opposition to all violence in the West Bank and actions aimed at annexation, but those concerns have gone unaddressed. Now, we urge you to take the following actions:\n\nIssue clear directives to the Israeli Police and Israeli Defense Forces to prevent and intervene in harassment, threats, and actual use of violence, regardless of the perpetrators.\n\nEnsure that all those responsible for harassment, threats, and violence against Palestinians, including Palestinian-Americans, are held accountable through a transparent and credible process. This includes completing investigations into and ensuring accountability for the deaths of nine American citizens who have been killed by settlers or security forces in the West Bank since 2022.\n\nStop approving additional settlements and stop allowing the construction of, and take steps to remove, illegal outposts in the West Bank.\n\nLike you, the safety and security of our constituents is of paramount importance. We urge your government to ensure that Americans in the Israeli-controlled parts of the West Bank are able to enjoy the security and protection of property to which they are entitled. We also hope to see the conditions improved so that Israelis and Palestinians may one day live in peace with each other without the fear of terrorism or lawless violence.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-announces-249404-federal-funding-public-safety", "Congresswoman Scholten Announces $249,404 in Federal Funding for Public Safety Investments Across West Michigan", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Hillary J. Scholten", "S001221", "scholten.house.gov", "scholten", "https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) announced $249,404 in federal funding for the City of Wyoming, the City of Kentwood, and the City of Grand Rapids and Kent County, through the U.S. Department of Justice's Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. The funding will support public safety equipment, community policing, and emergency response capabilities across West Michigan.\n\n\u201cKeeping our communities safe requires consistent investments in the personnel and tools that protect them,\u201d said Congresswoman Scholten. \u201cFrom new patrol equipment on our trails to community policing programs and emergency operations upgrades, this funding reflects the kind of practical, on-the-ground investment that makes a real difference here in West Michigan. I am proud to support the local leaders and first responders on the front lines of this work every day.\u201d\n\nIndividual awards listed below:\n\n$196,530 \u2013 City of Grand Rapids and Kent County\n\nThis funding will support the City of Grand Rapids' Neighborhood-Based Public Safety program, which organizes block clubs and neighborhood watch groups, and will fund technology upgrades for Kent County's Emergency Operations Center.\n\n$33,574 \u2013 City of Wyoming\n\nThis funding will support the purchase and upfit of a street-legal utility task vehicle (UTV) for public safety patrols on the city's nonmotorized trail network and at large community events.\n\n$19,300 \u2013 City of Kentwood\n\nThis funding will support the establishment of the city's Bicycle Program, used for public safety at festivals and parades, proactive enforcement in parks and commercial areas, and support for the County Metro Field Force protecting critical infrastructure.\n\nThis funding reflects Congresswoman Scholten's ongoing work to strengthen public safety infrastructure across West Michigan. In March, the Congresswoman secured $750,000 in federal funding for the Kent County Sheriff's Office through the Community Project Funding (CPF) process.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7265", "Dingell Statement on U.S.-Canada Trade War", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) released the following statement in the wake of a growing trade war between the United States and Canada:\n\n\u201cIt is a dark moment for our country when the president is more comfortable cozying up to dictators and autocrats than working together to find common ground with our closest friend and ally. Canada and the United States share the longest international border in the world; we are bound together by generations of friendship, family, culture, and common democratic values, and yes, even Great Lakes,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cThe values that unite us are stronger than any policy disagreement that divides us. We are intertwined not just in our values, but also in our economies. Canada is a critical market for American manufacturers, farmers, energy producers, and more. And Americans depend upon Canadian products, energy, and natural resources. The United States needs to start treating Canada like the close partner they are, and both countries need to come back to the negotiating table and work out a fair and comprehensive deal. A prolonged and growing trade war will only hurt working men and women on both sides of the border.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://tlaib.house.gov/posts/rep-tlaib-40-colleagues-demand-release-of-u-s-citizen-in-israeli-military-prison-in-bicameral-letter", "Rep. Tlaib, 40 colleagues demand release of U.S. citizen in Israeli military prison in bicameral letter", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Rashida Tlaib", "T000481", "tlaib.house.gov", "tlaib", "https://tlaib.house.gov/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) led 40 Members of Congress, including six Senators, in a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, demanding the immediate and permanent release of U.S. citizen Sama Safi, a 20-year-old student with a severe chronic health condition, from Israeli military prison. On June 2, in the middle of the night, Sama was torn from her family\u2019s home in the occupied West Bank as part of a series of raids targeting Birzeit University students.\n\nRep. Tlaib also met virtually with Sama\u2019s parents to discuss efforts for her release.\n\n\u201cWith every additional day that Sama is subjected to deprivation and abuse by Israel, our fear grows that her spark is being dimmed; that we are losing pieces of her health, her strength, and the vibrant, loving spirit that makes her who she is,\u201d said Sama\u2019s parents. \u201cEvery morning, we wake wishing this was only a nightmare, hoping to open our eyes to the sound of Sama playing music. Every waking moment, we cannot help but imagine what she must be facing alone. Yet we are holding on to hope through those who stand with us and are helping us bring Sama home. We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Tlaib and all the signatories of this letter for standing with us in our urgent call to free Sama.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery day that Sama remains wrongfully detained in these inhumane conditions, she is at greater risk of irreversible and life-threatening repercussions,\u201d the Members wrote to Secretary Rubio. \u201cIt is your responsibility to ensure the safety of all Americans abroad, with no exceptions. Her life is at risk on your watch. We urge you to act swiftly and use every tool at your disposal to secure the immediate release of Sama Safi so that she can receive the medical care she urgently needs and return to her family, her studies, and the life and freedom that every 20-year-old deserves.\u201d\n\nSama has described horrific conditions and violence by guards in Israeli military detention, including frequent physical assault, gas and stun grenades thrown in overcrowded cells, and lack of food and water. Every day, thousands of Palestinians in Israeli detention are subjected to these conditions as part of what the United Nations Committee Against Torture described as \u201ca de facto State policy of organized and widespread torture and ill-treatment.\u201d\n\n\u201cSuch wretched conditions and treatment have caused Sama\u2019s health to rapidly decline to dangerous levels in detention. Sama suffers from a severe and complex chronic medical condition known as Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), which requires regular monitoring, daily medication, and recurring specialized biologic treatment abroad,\u201d the Members wrote. \u201cSama has reported receiving her medication inconsistently, resulting in several missed doses. Stress positions and shackling have exacerbated her condition, causing severe rheumatoid and chest pain. Her doctors have warned that with her continued military detention and \u2018being constantly exposed to conditions that exacerbate her inflammatory status, the possibility of progressive tissue injury and irreversible organ damage is our greatest concern.\u2019\u201d\n\nOn August 17, over 100 faith-based groups wrote a letter to Secretary Rubio demanding Sama\u2019s release.\n\nThe letter was also signed by 34 Members of Congress: U.S. Reps. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Greg Casar (TX\u201335), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Christopher Deluzio (PA-17), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Jes\u00fas \u201cChuy\u201d Garc\u00eda (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Al Green (TX-09), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Henry C. \u201cHank\u201d Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Summer Lee (PA-12), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Betty McCollum (MN-04), James McGovern (MA-02), Analilia Mejia (NJ-11), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Derek Tran (CA-45), Nydia Vel\u00e1zquez (NY-07), Maxine Waters (CA-43), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NY-12).\n\nSix U.S. Senators also signed the letter: Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Peter Welch (D-VT).\n\nThe letter is endorsed by 85 organizations: IMEU Policy Project, A New Policy, Action Corps, American Muslims for Palestine (AMP), Americans for Justice in Palestine Action (AJP Action), Arab American Caucus of the California Democratic Party, Arab and Muslim Ethnicities and Diasporas Studies at San Francisco State University, Arab Resource & Organizing Center Action (AROC Action), Arlington for Palestine, Beyt Tikkun Synagogue, Boston Coalition For Palestine, Brooklyn For Peace, CAIR Action, California Democrats for Justice in Palestine, Center for Constitutional Rights, Christians for a Free Palestine, Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP), Cleveland Peace Action, Codepink, Common Defense, Community Alliance for Peace and Justice, Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN), Detroit & MI National Lawyers Guild, Disability Justice for Palestine, Doctors Against Genocide, Emgage Michigan, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Gen-Z for Change, Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ, Hind Rajab Foundation, Historians for Peace and Democracy, IfNotNow Movement, Indiana Center for Middle East Peace, Institute for Policy Studies New Internationalism Project, Jewish Voice for Peace, Just Foreign Policy, Majdal: Arab Community Center of San Diego, MARUF CT, Massachusetts Peace Action, Methodist Federation for Social Action, Minnesota Peace Project, MPower Change Action Fund, Musicians Against Genocide, Muslim Advocates, Muslims for Just Futures, NE Oakland Indivisible, NH Peace Action, North Carolina Peace Action, Northshore For Palestine, Orange County for Justice in Palestine, Palestine House of Freedom, Palestine Legal, Palestinian House Of New England, Pax Christi New York State, Peace Action Montgomery, Peace Action New York State, Peace Action of San Mateo County, Peace Justice Sustainability NOW, Philly Neighborhood Networks, Pittsburgh Palestine Solidarity Committee, Progressive Democrats of America \u2013 Central New Mexico, Queer Folk Inc., Rabbis for Ceasefire, Rachel Corrie Foundation for Peace and Justice, ReThinking Foreign Policy, River Valley for Palestine, RootsAction, Statewide Indivisible Michigan, Stu Maismith Veterans For Peace, Syrian Community Network, Teaching Palestine: Pedagogical Praxis and the Indivisibility of Justice, The American Council for Judaism, The Justice Coalition, Transition Security Project, U.S. Palestinian Community Network (USPCN), United Methodists for Kairos Response (UMKR), US Campaign for Palestinian Rights Action, US Palestinian Council, Veterans For Peace, Veterans For Peace Chapter 74, Washington for Peace and Justice, and We the People Dissent.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-alpena-on-day-2-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour", "PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Alpena on Day 2 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ALPENA, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) stopped at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters, a longtime supporter of the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary, highlighted the sanctuary\u2019s importance to local tourism, the regional economy, Michigan\u2019s maritime heritage, and Great Lakes preservation efforts. Peters also received a briefing on the sanctuary\u2019s current research priorities and mapping efforts.\n\n\u201cThunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a critical tourism destination and an integral part of Michigan\u2019s cultural landscape. So, I\u2019m thrilled to be back in Alpena to get an update on the exciting work happening right here,\u201d Peters said. \u201cWe must invest in special places like this so that researchers and scientists at Thunder Bay can continue their conservation and research efforts. That's why I've long worked to secure federal funding for the great work done here at Thunder Bay, and I\u2019ll keep pushing to ensure they get the support they need.\u201d\n\nTo view photos from Senator Peters\u2019 stop in Alpena, click HERE.\n\nPeters has led numerous efforts to protect and strengthen the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Throughout his time in Congress, Peters has secured robust federal funding to enhance the sanctuary\u2019s Great Lakes restoration, mapping, and historical preservation efforts. Peters also led the bipartisan Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Assessment Act to recognize historically significant underwater areas in the Great Lakes as National Marine Sanctuaries, aiming to increase local tourism and boost Michigan\u2019s economy.\n\nLocated in Lake Huron, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary was established in 2000 to protect one of the nation\u2019s most historically significant collections of shipwrecks. In 2014, the sanctuary expanded from 448 to 4,300 square miles, making it the nation\u2019s largest marine protected area focused on underwater cultural heritage sites. Within this new boundary, approximately 100 known shipwreck sites exist, while historic research indicates as many as 100 additional sites in the area remain undiscovered.\n\nPeters \u2013 an avid and longtime motorcycle rider \u2013 kicked off his \u201cThank you, Michigan\u201d tour in Bay City. After Alpena, he will make stops in Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year\u2019s tour \u2013 which is Peters\u2019 10th and last official motorcycle tour.\n\n\u201cI've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,\u201d Peters said. \u201cRepresenting Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year\u2019s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I\u2019ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/25/slotkin-statement-on-watchdog-filing-complaint-against-jeanine-pirro-after-failed-indictment/", "Slotkin Statement on Watchdog Filing Complaint Against Jeanine Pirro After Failed Indictment", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "Complaints filed accuse Pirro of abusing her prosecutorial powers to seek \u201cmeritless\u201d indictments against President Donald Trump\u2019s \u201cperceived political enemies\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding reporting of a legal watchdog organization\u2019s filing of a complaint against U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro and her team. This comes at the near six month mark of a grand jury refusing to indict Senator Slotkin, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO), Rep. Maggie, Goodlander (D-NH), Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-PA), and Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) over a video restating the law.\n\nThe filing accuses Pirro of violating her ethical duties when attempting to indict Senator Slotkin, Senator Kelly, and their colleagues under instruction from President Trump, in a blatant misuse of the power of her office to go after the President\u2019s perceived political enemies.\n\n\u201cSix months ago, Jeanine Pirro saluted President Trump and tried to criminally indict me and five colleagues for a 90-second video that simply restated the law.\n\n\u201cThat was on top of doing the same to a number of other public figures who the President perceived as enemies of the state.\n\n\u201cIt was the weaponization of the government, demonstrating an amazing disregard for the law, and for her oath of office. She should be investigated and held accountable.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-statement-hasan-pikers-recent-antisemitic-comments", "Congresswoman Scholten Statement on Hasan Piker\u2019s Recent Antisemitic Comments", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Hillary J. Scholten", "S001221", "scholten.house.gov", "scholten", "https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "GRAND RAPIDS, MI \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten issued the following statement after Twitch streamer Hasan Piker said that American Jews who support Israel are inviting violence. In his stream, Piker directly discussed and targeted Michigan State Senator Jeremy Moss, showing his picture and stating that \u201ceventually someone will come around and take action not against Israel, but against American Jews.\u201d\n\n\u201cHasan Piker's talk of violence against American Jews, and directly naming a Michigan elected official, and future member of Congress, Jeremy Moss, is unacceptable. Full stop. Piker is a hack who thrives on hate, shock and awe because he lacks substance. It's dangerous for everyone. We should all be calling out this disgusting rhetoric so it loses its grip on our politics once and for all. It has no place in Michigan, and no place in our country.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-kicks-off-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour-in-bay-city", "PHOTOS: Peters Kicks Off 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour in Bay City", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "BAY CITY, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) kicked off his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan at Bay City Fire Department Station #2, where he saw how federal funding he secured will help clean up toxic PFAS contamination on the property. During his visit, Peters also highlighted an additional $1.3 million federal grant he secured, funded by his bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act, which enabled the Bay City, Midland, and Saginaw fire departments to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs). SCBAs allow firefighters to breathe safely during dangerous rescues.\n\n\u201cOur firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities. We have a responsibility to make sure they have the tools and resources they need to stay safe on the job,\u201d Peters said. \u201cFor years, hazardous PFAS chemicals from firefighting foams have posed serious health risks to firefighters, which is why it\u2019s so important that we clean up contaminated sites like this one. I was proud to secure nearly $1 million to help Bay City clean up this site and protect the brave firefighters who serve this community.\u201d\n\nPeters continued, \u201cI\u2019m also proud that fire departments across the Bay Region have been able to use grant programs I fought for to purchase critical safety equipment that helps keep first responders safe when they go into harm\u2019s way.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Peters has worked to secure robust federal investments to help the Bay City Fire Department replace lifesaving equipment and address toxic PFAS contamination at Fire Station #2,\u201d said Kurt Corradi, Bay City Fire Chief. \u201cI\u2019ve been proud to partner with him to protect our firefighters and keep our communities safe, and I was honored to welcome him to Bay City on this year\u2019s motorcycle tour.\u201d\n\n\u201cAddressing the PFAS contamination at Fire Station #2 has been a long-term priority for Bay City, but identifying a revenue stream became one of the biggest challenges for getting remediation work started,\u201d said Bay City Public Safety Director Caleb Rowell. \u201cThanks to our partnership with Senator Peters, we were able to secure the nearly $1 million investment needed to begin the process of cleaning up this site. Once finished, this project will help protect our firefighters and the neighboring communities from any potential impacts of these harmful chemicals.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday, firefighters in Midland, Bay City, and Saginaw respond to emergencies using top-of-the-line safe breathing equipment thanks to funding made possible by Senator Peters\u2019 Fire Grants and Safety Act,\u201d said Joshua Mosher, City of Midland Fire Chief. \u201cOur departments were proud to work collaboratively to secure this robust funding, and we appreciate Senator Peters\u2019 long-term support of fire and emergency response here in the Bay Region.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Peters understands that local fire departments need to have the best equipment available to protect first responders when they enter harm\u2019s way,\u201d said Brandon Hausbeck, City of Saginaw Fire Chief. \u201cNot only does this federal investment help us protect our firefighters, these new breathing apparatuses put our department in compliance with current regulations, which wouldn\u2019t have been possible without this funding.\u201d\n\nTo view photos from Senator Peters\u2019 tour in Bay City, click HERE.\n\nPeters secured $959,000 in government funding legislation signed into law earlier this year to support the excavation and demolition of existing fire station property where PFAS contamination was detected. Peters also advocated for and helped secure a $1.3 million federal grant for a joint application between the Bay City Fire Department, Midland Fire Department, and Saginaw Fire Department. The funding allowed the departments to purchase a total of 120 SCBAs, which are now in use across each department. The grant funding comes from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, which Peters passed bipartisan legislation into law to reauthorize in 2024.\n\nPeters has a long legacy of fighting to address toxic PFAS chemicals. In September 2018, Peters convened the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, and has held numerous hearings since to continue to conduct oversight and hold Administrations accountable to address PFAS. Peters also authored bipartisan legislation that was signed into law to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. In 2022, Peters\u2019 bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law.\n\nSecuring this funding for Bay City is also part of Peters\u2019 legacy of delivering for firefighters and first responders in Michigan. Peters led the charge to extend the federal programs that are used by local fire departments to address staffing needs, purchase equipment, develop fire training and education programs, and improve emergency medical services.\n\nPeters \u2013 an avid and longtime motorcycle rider \u2013 kicked off his \u201cThank you, Michigan\u201d tour in Bay City. He will then make stops in Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year\u2019s tour \u2013 which is Peters\u2019 10th and last official motorcycle tour.\n\n\u201cI've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,\u201d Peters said. \u201cRepresenting Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year\u2019s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I\u2019ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/24/peters-slotkin-press-armed-services-republicans-for-oversight-on-troops-serving-extended-deployments-in-iran/", "Peters, Slotkin Press\u00a0Armed Services Republicans for Oversight on Troops Serving Extended Deployments in Iran", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "SASC Democrats hold Administration accountable for the conditions it has allowed to develop that have left troops stranded indefinitely\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), alongside U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and fellow Senate Armed Services Committee Democrats, called on Chairman Roger Wicker to hold a hearing on the Trump Administration\u2019s failure to support troops who are currently experiencing indefinite extended deployments tied to the Administration\u2019s war in Iran. The effort comes after reports of dwindling supplies and deteriorating conditions aboard ships like the USS Abraham Lincoln and at bases across the region.\n\n\u201cThe toll this unauthorized, disastrous war is taking on our troops is unconscionable,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cTroops are suffering because of this Administration\u2019s inability to end this war or make the environment safe enough for our servicemembers to be delivered the food, medication or supplies they need.\u201d\n\nThe Senators pointed to mounting evidence that extended deployments with no end in sight are taking a serious physical, emotional, and mental toll on servicemembers, and said the American people and military families deserve honest answers.\n\n\u201cMilitary families and the American people deserve answers about when our heroes will come home and how DoD plans to restore military readiness that has been drained by this war,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cSupply shortages and unjustified extended deployments also have a real impact on our ability to recruit and retain our servicemembers \u2013 why would anyone sign up to fight when they fear they will be exploited and left without supplies, recourse or support? Not only do we owe our troops the bare minimum respect and support they deserve, but it is a recruitment and retention imperative.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe stakes couldn\u2019t be higher. The longer this Administration fails to articulate a plan to end this disastrous war, the longer our brave servicemembers will pay the price.\u201d\n\nThe Senators also called for the Committee to examine the conditions driving down morale, the strain on military families struggling to make ends meet, and the Administration\u2019s plan for ending the extended deployments tied to the war.\n\nRead the full letter below:\n\nDear Chairman Wicker:\n\nWe request that you convene a public Armed Services Committee hearing with Department of Defense (DoD) leadership regarding the poor planning and mismanagement of extended deployments to support Iran operations and the impact on our troops. Recent reports of sailors suffering from severe mental health issues amid deteriorating conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln have only added to a disturbing pattern of failures to adequately plan and support our troops, who have been away from their families indefinitely as the Iran War drags on.\n\nOn August 11, Military Times reported that multiple sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln currently supporting Iran operations attempted to jump overboard, a heartbreaking decision in effort to escape the mental health toll of an extended deployment that was planned to end in May but is now at 9 months and counting. Horrifying messages from military families described other poor conditions onboard the Lincoln, including food rationing, rotten meals, shortages of supplies like water and soap, overflowing toilets, broken facilities and disrupted mail delivery. It took nine months for the Navy to relieve the Lincoln with the USS George Washington, after conditions had reached such severity that military families directly confronted the Acting Secretary of the Navy. This has revealed the real impact of unplanned deployment extensions on our ability to maintain and logistically support our ships in a contested environment.\n\nThis is not the first time during this war that we have seen the consequences of extended deployments onboard an aircraft carrier or even other ships. Sailors on the USS Ford experienced hundreds of broken toilets and significant damage from a non-combat fire that injured multiple sailors and affected 100 sleeping berths and forced it to redirect to Greece for emergency repair. After this emergency repair, the Ford was again sent back to the Red Sea to support Iran operations \u2013 eventually completing 11 months of deployment, even though the Navy tries to limit deployments to seven months. Military families of servicemembers on board the multiple ships as part of the Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) in the region have reported emotional and financial strain from the unplanned extensions, struggling to balance work and childcare and caught in limbo with disrupted plans every time orders are extended.\n\nBoth the Lincoln and the Ford Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) were redirected from their original missions to support President Trump\u2019s illegal wars of choice. The Lincoln originally deployed in November to conduct routine patrols in the Indo-Pacific, but was redirected to the Middle East in January to support the start of the Iran operations. The Ford ultimately served a whopping 11 months at sea \u2013 redirected three times from an original mission to support deterrence in Europe, to operations in the Caribbean Sea and against Venezuela, to Iran operations. This Administration has failed to explain why it has insisted on stretching our sailors in this way without adequate planning \u2013 let alone for unauthorized wars of choice.\n\nThe strain on our troops is not confined to the Navy. In fact, our offices and press have heard story after story of Soldiers and Airmen, including National Guardsmen and Reservists, seeing their deployments extended with uncertainty about when they will be relieved by other units and can return home to their families. Bases in the Middle East originally designed to support a specific footprint have been stretched to support a much larger scale of units now stationed there \u2013 and conditions are deteriorating as too many people meet too little space and supplies.\n\nThe toll this illegal, disastrous war is taking on our troops is unconscionable. Troops are suffering because of this Administration\u2019s inability to end this war or make the environment safe enough for our servicemembers to be delivered the food, medication or supplies they need.\n\nAll these developments strongly indicate a systemic failure of planning and adaptation by the Secretary of Defense and senior DoD leaders. It is appalling that in month seven of the Iran War, DoD still continues to fail to anticipate and plan for the second-order consequences of the President\u2019s choices to continue this war with no end.\n\nMilitary families and the American people deserve answers about when our heroes will come home and how DoD plans to restore military readiness that has been drained by this war. Supply shortages and unjustified extended deployments also have a real impact on our ability to recruit and retain our servicemembers \u2013 why would anyone sign up to fight when they fear they will be exploited and left without supplies, recourse or support? Not only do we owe our troops the bare minimum respect and support they deserve, but it is a recruitment and retention imperative.\n\nThe stakes couldn\u2019t be higher. The longer this Administration fails to articulate a plan to end this disastrous war, the longer our brave servicemembers will pay the price.\n\nWe request a public hearing to help Congress and the public better understand how we got here and how the Department will ensure it never happens again. We call on the Department to explain to Congress, military families and the American people how it assesses and justifies the readiness impacts of these extended deployments, how it plans for relief rotations and what accounts for the systemic failures to provide troops with the support they need to do the mission the President has illegally asked of them. Importantly, the Department must justify and detail exactly how it plans to sustain our troops in this war indefinitely \u2014 as the President\u2019s negotiations continue to fail.\n\nAs Members of this Committee, we take seriously our responsibility to make sure the U.S. military is properly led, well-resourced, supported and able to conduct its missions. We believe it is critical that we conduct public oversight to ensure that whenever we ask the military to answer the Nation\u2019s call, we will have their backs \u2013 not leave them stranded with no support. For these reasons, we urge the Committee to convene a hearing at the earliest opportunity to examine these issues directly with DoD leaders.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/mi-congresswoman-haley-stevens-applauds-benson-and-brinks-leadership-says", "MI Congresswoman Haley Stevens Applauds Benson and Brinks\u2019 Leadership, Says Michigan\u2019s Future Is Bright", "2026-08-20", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens released the following statement:\n\n\u201cSecretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinx fill me with a deep and profound excitement for Michigan\u2019s future! Winnie has led Lansing with Michigan grit and determination, stopping MAGA insanity and delivering for Michiganders time and again, from lowering health care costs to making groceries more affordable to standing up for manufacturing and recognizing Canada as a strong ally to the U.S and Michigan.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-21T05:30:57Z", "2026-08-21T05:32:22Z"], ["https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shri-thanedar-introduces-the-stop-ice-price-gouging-act", "Congressman Shri Thanedar Introduces the Stop ICE Price Gouging Act", "2026-08-19", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Shri Thanedar", "T000488", "thanedar.house.gov", "thanedar", "https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) introduced the Stop ICE Price Gouging Act and released the following statement:\n\n\u201cPrivate detention companies should not be able to charge people in detention outrageous prices for basic necessities,\u201d said Rep. Thanedar. \u201cPeople should not have to pay unreasonable prices for everyday items like soap, toothpaste, or snacks. Everyone deserves to be treated fairly and with dignity.\u201d\n\nRecent reports have found markups of 50% to 110% on basic items such as coffee, tampons, snacks, and batteries at detention facilities. While ICE detention standards require certain hygiene products to be provided at no cost, detainees are often given limited quantities that may not meet their needs. When detainees need to purchase additional items, they should not be subjected to excessive prices.\n\nThe Stop ICE Price Gouging Act would:\n\nCap the markup for essential items like soap, menstrual products, and toothpaste at 5%;\n\nCap the markup for all other items at 35%;\n\nProhibit additional fees, kickbacks, and revenue sharing arrangements.\n\nCongressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-20T05:28:41Z", "2026-08-20T05:29:58Z"], ["https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-announces-271000-grand-rapids-childrens-museum", "Congresswoman Scholten Announces $271,000 for Grand Rapids Children\u2019s Museum", "2026-08-19", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Hillary J. Scholten", "S001221", "scholten.house.gov", "scholten", "https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "GRAND RAPIDS, MI \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) announced Grand Rapids Children's Museum (GRCM) will receive a $271,000 matching grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), an independent federal agency that provides funding to libraries, archives, and museums across the country. This grant will support GRCM\u2019s Play-Based Professional Development program, which provides hands-on training for early childhood educators in play-based learning methods and techniques.\n\n\u201cGrand Rapids Children's Museum has always understood that play is powerful \u2014 it's how kids learn, process the world, and build resilience,\u201d said Congresswoman Scholten. \u201cAs families across West Michigan navigate rising rates of mental and behavioral health challenges in young people, this investment will help GRCM's staff deepen their expertise and expand access to play-based learning for even more kids in our community. I'm proud to see federal dollars going towards work that's already making a real difference in our community.\u201d\n\n\u201cGRCM is our community's leader and primary advocate for the purpose and power of play. We are so excited for our team to develop and implement a new museum education initiative that will advance our mission and directly impact our community,\u201d said Maggie Lancaster, CEO of Grand Rapids Children's Museum.\n\nThis funding is through the IMLS\u2019 Museums Empowered grant program, an initiative that supports professional development and training to drive change and growth within museums. The initiative funds staff learning in three areas: integrating digital technology into museum operations, using evaluation to shape programs and improve outcomes, and strengthening organizational culture and staff capacity.\n\nThis funding reflects Congresswoman Scholten's ongoing efforts to bring federal investment to Michigan's Third Congressional District and support the institutions that strengthen education in West Michigan.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://tlaib.house.gov/posts/rep-tlaib-responds-to-targeting-of-michigan-muslim-families", "Rep. Tlaib responds to targeting of Michigan Muslim families", "2026-08-18", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Rashida Tlaib", "T000481", "tlaib.house.gov", "tlaib", "https://tlaib.house.gov/press", "scraper", "Dearborn, Mich. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) released the following statement in support of the Muslim community in Dearborn, Michigan, which is being targeted by Islamophobic white supremacists and Christian nationalists:\n\n\u201cIslamophobic racists are yet again marching in Dearborn to terrorize a whole faith community. Dearborn is a beautifully diverse place, home to a vibrant, loving Muslim community, and our families do not deserve to be subjected to such hate and bigotry. Families are told to stay home for their own safety, unable to go back-to-school shopping, get groceries, or even walk outside. To all our Dearborn families and residents: I have your back. I wish I could take away this pain, but know that you are not alone. To our interfaith community that\u2019s standing in solidarity with their Muslim neighbors: thank you for speaking out against this hatred. We need more of this love and compassion.\n\n\u201cMore leaders, including local elected officials, must speak out, especially against the local instigators participating in the spread of hatred under the guise of faith. Their silence is complacent and normalizes fearmongering and racism. We know that targeting any community doesn\u2019t allow any of us to be safe. People of all faiths and of all backgrounds belong, and deserve to practice their religion and celebrate their cultures freely without fear.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-19T05:29:02Z", "2026-08-19T05:30:24Z"], ["https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/18/as-president-trump-refuses-to-rule-it-out-slotkin-presses-hegseth-to-guarantee-military-wont-interfere-in-midterm-elections/", "As\u00a0President\u00a0Trump Refuses to Rule it Out,\u00a0Slotkin Presses Hegseth\u00a0to\u00a0Guarantee\u00a0Military Won\u2019t Interfere in\u00a0Midterm\u00a0Elections", "2026-08-18", "2026", "2026-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Elissa Slotkin", "S001208", "www.slotkin.senate.gov", "slotkin", "https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/", "scraper", "Slotkin has sought the same assurances from Pentagon leaders under both parties in 2020 and 2024\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) sent letters to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, calling on them to publicly confirm that the U.S. military will play no role in this November\u2019s elections. President Donald Trump has stated he would not rule out sending ICE or the military to the polls in November.\n\nFederal law already makes it a crime to use the military to interfere in elections, including seizing ballots or voting equipment. But Hegseth has repeatedly declined to rule out using troops in this way, going so far as to make false claims to Congress to get out of answering. President Trump said earlier this year that he regretted not deploying the military after the 2020 election and that he would consider doing this during the November election.\n\n\u201cThe nonpartisan tradition of military service and the constitutional guardrails that prevent our military from becoming a domestic police force for one political party are essential to maintaining our democracy,\u201d wrote Senator Slotkin. \u201cThus, our nation\u2019s senior-most defense and security leaders are the final failsafe for our democracy.\u201d\n\nIn 2020, then-Representative Slotkin joined then-Representative Mikie Sherrill in submitting questions for the record to Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Mark Milley, asking whether the military would ever be directed to interfere in an election and whether they would refuse such an order if given one. General Milley swiftly rejected the notion that the military would be used in any election duties, as that would violate the Constitution and laws of the United States.\n\nIn 2024, Slotkin and Sherrill again wrote to then-Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Joint Chiefs Chairman General CQ Brown, seeking renewed assurance that the military\u2019s nonpartisan tradition and constitutional limits would hold ahead of that year\u2019s elections.\n\nSlotkin has raised the issue repeatedly as a member of the Senate Armed Services and Homeland Security Committees, questioning Hegseth and other Trump administration nominees about their willingness to follow illegal orders, pressing Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin on the possibility of deploying ICE to polling sites, and questioning Defense Department officials and NORTHCOM\u2019s commander during Senate Armed Services Committee hearings.\n\nSlotkin has introduced the Protect Our Polls Act, which would block President Trump from sending federal law enforcement or uniformed military to interfere in elections.\n\nRead the letters to Secretary Hegseth here and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Caine here.\n\nRead one pager on the letters here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-19T05:29:02Z", "2026-08-19T05:30:24Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 703, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Democrat", "p1": "MI", "p2": "2026"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=MI&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 703, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=MI&year=2026", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=MI&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 452, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=MI&year=2026&chamber=House", "selected": false}, {"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 251, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=MI&year=2026&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=MI&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "MI", "label": "MI", "count": 703, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2026", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=MI&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "2026", "label": "2026", "count": 703, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=MI", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2026-08-18,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eslotkin~2Esenate~2Egov~2F2026~2F08~2F18~2Fas-president-trump-refuses-to-rule-it-out-slotkin-presses-hegseth-to-guarantee-military-wont-interfere-in-midterm-elections~2F", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=MI&year=2026&_next=2026-08-18%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eslotkin~2Esenate~2Egov~2F2026~2F08~2F18~2Fas-president-trump-refuses-to-rule-it-out-slotkin-presses-hegseth-to-guarantee-military-wont-interfere-in-midterm-elections~2F&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 279.29534995928407, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}