{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"KY\" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/newsletters?ContentRecord_id=6AB7BEA5-11F9-4B94-AE08-EDE1793F9DB2", "Preventing the Tragedy of Maternal Mortality", "2018-12-22", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell  \r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\tIt's a trend that seems like it should be impossible in the wealthiest nation on Earth. But across America, the rate of maternal mortality is actually climbing  more than doubling in the last three decades.\r\n\r\nBeneath these figures are heartbreaking personal tragedies. Sadly, families often face unavoidable health challenges, and it's important that policy makers, community leaders, health providers and researchers continue working together to prevent the health threats that are avoidable.\r\n\r\nThroughout my career, I have heard directly from so many families and communities across Kentucky. When they tell me about their struggles, I am called to help.\r\n\r\nThis month, within days of the bill passing the House, I stood on the floor and led the Senate in passing the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act. This bill is the product of months of collaboration between legislators in the House and Senate, medical professionals, advocates, and survivors. After all this hard work, both houses of Congress moved quickly to pass it and send the legislation to the president's desk. When he signed the bill into law, President Trump joined us in taking an important step to reverse the trend of preventable tragedies.\r\n\r\nThis new law authorizes federal resources for states to establish maternal mortality review committees. These are groups of medical professionals who would collect information on pregnancy-related deaths, study why they happen, and develop recommendations to prevent them in the future.\r\n\r\nI'm proud to say that passing this important law is far from the beginning of my involvement in this critical area.\r\n\r\nAlso in December, the Senate passed the Improving Access to Maternity Care Act. It will help remedy the shocking fact that half the counties across our nation lack an OB/GYN to provide vital care for women by creating new incentives for physicians to practice in these areas.\r\n\r\nEarlier this fall, communities throughout Kentucky celebrated the passage of landmark legislation to combat opioid addiction and substance abuse. I made sure that law included my own Protecting Mom and Infants Act, which will ensure the federal government does more to improve substance abuse treatment for expecting and new mothers and to help infants born into addiction and suffering from neonatal abstinence syndrome. By promoting the health of both mom and baby from the beginning, they have a better chance at a healthy future.\r\n\r\nThat provision built on legislation I sponsored in 2015, which was the first-ever federal law to directly address prenatal opioid exposure.\r\n\r\nAnd going back more than a decade, I secured federal resources to help launch the University of Kentucky's Centering Pregnancy program to provide prenatal services to help ensure the health of mothers and their babies. Bringing caregivers and researchers together, the Center is advancing science and developing new ways to save lives.\r\n\r\nAs Senate Majority Leader, while I still only have one vote, I do have the privilege of setting our schedule. I can personally make sure that Kentucky's needs and priorities receive the full consideration they deserve. And in this case, I made sure that is exactly what happened.\r\n\r\nI have been proud to help secure important programs and funding, and I will continue to collaborate with leaders across our state to deliver on solutions here and across the country.\r\n\r\nProtecting our expecting and new mothers isn't a partisan issue. Every piece of legislation I've discussed passed the Senate with bipartisan support. Each of them was developed with guidance from medical professionals and experts to help get closer to a goal we all should share: protecting the health of our moms and babies.\r\n\r\n###\r\nMitch McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, is the Senate Majority Leader.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://barr.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/barr-introduces-legislation-to-protect-lending-to-military", "Barr Introduces Legislation to Protect Lending to Military", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Andy Barr", "B001282", "barr.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This week, Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) introduced legislation, the Financial Protection for Our Military Families Act, to give the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) supervisory authority over all financial firms that lend to our troops and their families protected under the Military Lending Act.\nOur nation's military and their families should never be subject to inappropriate or usurious financial fees, said Congressman Barr. As the agency with jurisdiction over consumer financial protection, the CFPB should have statutory authority to assist the Department of Defense with the oversight of the Military Lending Act, which will ensure our troops and their families can access the credit they need without being subject to unscrupulous practices or usurious fees. Moreover, financial firms are familiar with the CFPB and are already accustomed to working with the CFPB on a number of other consumer protection issues, allowing for more timely guidance for the regulated community. After selflessly defending our nation, our troops and their families deserve reliable financial services.\nBackground:\nThe Military Lending Act was enacted in 2006 and further amended in 2013  both through the annual National Defense Authorization Acts. Currently, the CFPB has authority to enforce violations of the Military Lending Act but does not have explicit authority to supervise for Military Lending Act compliance. This legislation would give the CFPB this explicit authority.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases?ID=86C70119-6AFB-4B23-B730-593CF9D1571E", "McConnell, Rogers Secure Funding To Clean Up Fishtrap Lake", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Harold Rogers", "R000395", "halrogers.house.gov", "halrogers", "https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and U.S. Representative Harold \"Hal\" Rogers (KY-05) applauded the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers\u2019 (USACE) announcement today to dedicate $300,000 in additional funds to clean up Fishtrap Lake in Pike County, Kentucky. Attracting hundreds of thousands of anglers and sightseers from across the region, Fishtrap Lake is one of the largest lakes in Eastern Kentucky.\n\nEach year, however, rainfall and flooding carry incredible amounts of trash and debris into the lake, which float downriver and eventually collect at Fishtrap Dam. This collection of trash at the dam negatively impacts the economic drivers of the community, including tourism and small businesses. With the potential to draw approximately 200,000 visitors annually, the trash at the dam threatens this natural resource and attraction for the region. Kentuckians who live near Fishtrap Lake contacted Senator McConnell and Congressman Rogers about the failure of the Army Corps, which is responsible for managing the lake.\n\nThe additional funding will be used to expand the Army Corps\u2019 current cleanup activities around the lake.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s announcement by the Army Corps is welcome news for the Fishtrap Lake community because it can restore one of the largest lakes in Eastern Kentucky,\u201d said Senator McConnell. \u201cHundreds of the thousands of people visit the lake every year to enjoy its fishing and recreational activities. As Senate Majority Leader, I joined with my friend, Congressman Hal Rogers, to contact the Army Corps to help our constituents in Pike County, and I\u2019m glad the agency answered our call to devote the critical resources necessary to help clean up the lake.\u201d\n\n\u201cI applaud the Army Corps for dedicating additional funding to clean up debris from Fishtrap Lake and restore its natural beauty,\u201d said Congressman Rogers. \u201cWe are also working with our friends in Virginia to mitigate the amount of debris floating downstream across the state border in hopes of minimizing this recurring problem. Senator McConnell and I are always honored to stand with the people of Eastern Kentucky to advocate for improvements across the region.\u201d\n\nEarlier this fall, Senator McConnell and Congressman Rogers contacted Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) R.D. James, the head of the Army Corps, regarding the heaps of trash accumulating at the lake and asking for help to clean up Fishtrap Lake.\n\nAssistant Secretary James agreed to the McConnell and Rogers requests, devoting $300,000 for cleanup.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D242CAAB-6B25-40A2-916B-560FDFAAAB24", "Floyd County Students Win 2018 Congressional App Challenge", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Harold Rogers", "R000395", "halrogers.house.gov", "halrogers", "https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Rep. Harold \"Hal\" Rogers (KY-05) announced today that a team of Floyd County students have won the 2018 Congressional App Challenge for the fourth consecutive year. The winning team from the Floyd County Area Techonology Center includes: Bobbie Fisher, Nathaniel Curnette, Dustin Janis and Samuel Carroll. They won the competition by developing the KY Safe Student mobile application. Their winning app will be featured in the U.S. Capitol Building this year, representing Kentucky's Fifth Congressional District.\n\nDuring the fall school semester, thousands of high school students coded original apps as part of district-wide competitions hosted by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives for the nation-wide Congressional App Challenge.\n\n\"This team did a wonderful job of developing an app that could be a vital resource for students across the state. The KY Safe Student app organizes information about potential emergency situations, active threats and how to respond during a crisis. It is a truly viable app that could be implemented by our schools to give students critical information at their fingertips,\" said Congressman Rogers. \"I applaud their ingenuity and diligent work on this concept. We have incredibly talented students in Eastern Kentucky and I'm proud that their ideas will be on display in Washington, DC.\"\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge invites winners from across the country to showcase their apps to Members of Congress and members of the tech community at House of Code, a reception on Capitol Hill that will be held in 2019.\n\n\"We had a brand new app team this year. They did fantastic! They picked up on the coding quickly and chose an app topic that benefits their community,\" said Dr. Jeff M. Shannon, IT Teacher for Floyd County Area Technology Center. \"I'm incredibly proud of them.\"\n\n\"Being a part of the Congressional App Challenge made me feel more successful and I always look forward to going to the meetings and programming,\" said Bobbie Fisher, a member of the winning team.\n\n\"This experience will help me with college and how to code for a living,\" said Nathaniel Curnutte, a member of the winning team.\n\n\"I hope this app will help students be safe and maintain a safe, positive lifestyle,\" said Samuel Carroll, a member of the winning team.\n\nThe students' work will be featured for one year in the U.S. Capitol Building and online at https://House.gov. The winning students will also receive $250 each in Amazon Web Service Credits and one travel voucher from Southwest Airlines to attend the House of Code reception in Washington, DC.\n\nTo participate in next year's Congressional App Challenge, stay updated at https://halrogers.house.gov and on Facebook @CongressmanHalRogers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=AFA84E53-7D96-4BED-9180-E4F6985667EF", "McConnell, Rogers Secure Funding To Clean Up Fishtrap Lake", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and U.S. Representative Harold \"Hal\" Rogers (KY-05) applauded the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' (USACE) announcement today to dedicate $300,000 in additional funds to clean up Fishtrap Lake in Pike County, Kentucky. Attracting hundreds of thousands of anglers and sightseers from across the region, Fishtrap Lake is one of the largest lakes in Eastern Kentucky.\r\nEach year, however, rainfall and flooding carry incredible amounts of trash and debris into the lake, which float downriver and eventually collect at Fishtrap Dam. This collection of trash at the dam negatively impacts the economic drivers of the community, including tourism and small businesses. With the potential to draw approximately 200,000 visitors annually, the trash at the dam threatens this natural resource and attraction for the region. Kentuckians who live near Fishtrap Lake contacted Senator McConnell and Congressman Rogers about the failure of the Army Corps, which is responsible for managing the lake.\r\nThe additional funding will be used to expand the Army Corps' current cleanup activities around the lake.\r\nToday's announcement by the Army Corps is welcome news for the Fishtrap Lake community because it can restore one of the largest lakes in Eastern Kentucky, said Senator McConnell. Hundreds of the thousands of people visit the lake every year to enjoy its fishing and recreational activities. As Senate Majority Leader, I joined with my friend, Congressman Hal Rogers, to contact the Army Corps to help our constituents in Pike County, and I'm glad the agency answered our call to devote the critical resources necessary to help clean up the lake.\r\nI applaud the Army Corps for dedicating additional funding to clean up debris from Fishtrap Lake and restore its natural beauty, said Congressman Rogers. We are also working with our friends in Virginia to mitigate the amount of debris floating downstream across the state border in hopes of minimizing this recurring problem. Senator McConnell and I are always honored to stand with the people of Eastern Kentucky to advocate for improvements across the region.\r\nEarlier this fall, Senator McConnell and Congressman Rogers contacted Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) R.D. James, the head of the Army Corps, regarding the heaps of trash accumulating at the lake and asking for help to clean up Fishtrap Lake.\r\nAssistant Secretary James agreed to the McConnell and Rogers requests, devoting $300,000 for cleanup.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=B6D2CB79-CB9E-4A4F-9EDC-36225537A53E", "McConnell: Lets Secure Our Country", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the need to secure our border and fund the government:\r\nYesterday, the House passed an amended version of the continuing resolution to sustain government funding and sent it here for our consideration. In addition to giving the entire federal government the necessary resources to operate into the New Year, this legislation also provides much-needed investments in disaster relief for hard-hit communities and in our national security, particularly the integrity of our borders.\r\nIn my view, this is legislation that would be quite uncontroversial in a more normal political moment -- in a moment when both parties put the obvious national interest ahead of any personal spite for the president. I support the additional border security and disaster aid that the House added to the bill and I will proudly vote for it.\r\n\r\nIt's not a radical concept that the American people's government should be able to control the people and goods that flow into our country. It's not a radical concept that physical barriers play an important role in achieving security -- unless there's a caucus of lawmakers who go to bed at night with their front doors wide open that I'm not aware of. What is radical, what is way out of the mainstream, is this absurd premise of the open-borders Far Left that achieving basic stability and law enforcement on our Southern border is somehow -- in itself -- uncompassionate, or discriminatory, or immoral.\r\n\r\nFairness and compassion don't mean only enforcing some of our laws, half-heartedly. Fairness and compassion mean that we fulfill our governing duties for the American people. And if we continue to throw up our hands and tolerate a status quo that is allowing too many drugs and dangerous criminals to travel freely into our land, then this federal government is not doing its duty.\r\n\r\nThe facts are clear on this. The need for greater security on our southern border is not some partisan invention. It's an empirical fact. And the need is only growing. Apprehensions along the border have nearly doubled in the past year. The men and women of the border patrol are encountering greater numbers of gang members and individuals with criminal histories, more family units, more seizures of cocaine and fentanyl.\r\n\r\nThis is a real crisis. The implications -- for American communities, for vulnerable children, and for the Border Patrol units that are already stretched thin -- are very real. There's no bright line of principle that sets this request for border funding apart from similar requests that many Democrats have supported in the past. A lot of them have supported this in the past. There is no sharp distinction between the proposal my friends across the aisle have decided to oppose today and proposals they've been happy to endorse in the past.\r\n\r\nThe only thing that's really changed are the political winds way over  way over-- on the Far Left. So let's not end this year the way we began it -- with another shutdown over the issue of illegal immigration. Remember this back in January? All because the Democrats are unwilling to support common-sense measures to address it. Let's advance this legislation. Let's pass it. Let's finish our work for this year. Let's secure our country.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-dr-rand-paul-releases-2018-festivus-edition-waste-report/", "Dr. Rand Paul Releases 2018 \u2018Festivus\u2019 Edition of \u2018The Waste Report\u2019", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 21, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), chairman of the Federal Spending Oversight and Emergency Management (FSO) Subcommittee for the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), released his 2018 Festivus edition of The Waste Report, an ongoing project cataloguing egregious examples of waste within the U.S. government.\n\nDr. Paul\u2019s Festivus Waste Report, now in its fourth year, shines a spotlight on some of the wasteful spending and misplaced priorities that have helped the federal government place taxpayers on the hook for a debt that is rapidly closing in on $22 trillion.\n\nHighlights include: providing over $76 million in stipends to soldiers in the Somali National Army, devoting over $650,000 to develop a drama series to air in Afghanistan, spending up to $1 million on helping support and develop the legislative process in Libya, and setting aside $18 million to support tourism in Egypt.\n\nYou can find Dr. Paul\u2019s 2018 Festivus edition of The Waste Report, which totals up over $114 million in waste, below:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-rand-paul-releases-2018-%E2%80%98festivus%E2%80%99-edition-%E2%80%98-waste-report%E2%80%99", "Dr. Rand Paul Releases 2018 \u2018Festivus\u2019 Edition of \u2018The Waste Report\u2019", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 21, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343   WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), chairman of the Federal Spending Oversight and Emergency Management (FSO) Subcommittee for the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), released his 2018 Festivus edition of The Waste Report, an ongoing project cataloguing egregious examples of waste within the U.S. government.    Dr. Paul's Festivus Waste Report, now in its fourth year, shines a spotlight on some of the wasteful spending and misplaced priorities that have helped the federal government place taxpayers on the hook for a debt that is rapidly closing in on $22 trillion.    Highlights include: providing over $76 million in stipends to soldiers in the Somali National Army, devoting over $650,000 to develop a drama series to air in Afghanistan, spending up to $1 million on helping support and develop the legislative process in Libya, and setting aside $18 million to support tourism in Egypt.    You can find Dr. Paul's 2018 Festivus edition of The Waste Report, which totals up over $114 million in waste, below:", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://guthrie.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=386052", "Guthrie Alzheimers Bill Passes House, Heads to Presidents Desk", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Brett Guthrie", "G000558", "guthrie.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday the House passed Congressman Brett Guthrie\u2019s (KY-02) Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Act (H.R. 4256/S. 2076) with overwhelming bipartisan support by a vote of 361-3.\n\n\u201cOver 5 million Americans have Alzheimer\u2019s, and sadly, that number is only expected to go up. I have met with countless Kentuckians who either know someone with Alzheimer\u2019s, or they themselves are suffering from Alzheimer\u2019s,\u201d said Guthrie. \u201cThe BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Act is an important step for helping those suffering from Alzheimer\u2019s disease and other related dementias receive the best care possible.\u201d\n\nThe BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Act will create a public health infrastructure to support prevention, treatment, and care for patients with Alzheimer\u2019s and related diseases. Guthrie introduced the bipartisan House bill last year with Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-20), and the Senate companion was introduced by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Tim Kaine (D-VA). Following Senate passage last week and yesterday\u2019s approval in the House, the bill will be presented to President Donald Trump to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cThis new public health network will help those with Alzheimer\u2019s and other dementias receive better care now and will lay the groundwork for future research into these debilitating diseases,\u201d said Guthrie. \u201cI want to thank the many advocates in the Second District of Kentucky who are leading the charge against Alzheimer\u2019s. This bill would not have been successful without you. I look forward to seeing this bill signed into law so we can provide relief for people suffering from Alzheimer\u2019s.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Act will:\n\nBuild an Alzheimer\u2019s and related dementias network by establishing Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Public Health Centers of Excellence and awarding cooperative agreements to public health departments, which will help the Centers and state, local and tribal public health departments develop and carry out Alzheimer\u2019s interventions. This crucial support will help the Centers and public health departments across the country strengthen their efforts aimed at increasing early detection and diagnosis, reducing risk, and preventing unnecessary hospitalizations of people living with Alzheimer's and related dementias.\n\nRequire robust data analysis and reporting through Cooperative Agreements with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that would ensure data on Alzheimer\u2019s, cognitive decline, caregiving, and health disparities are analyzed and disseminated to the public in a timely manner.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=9D49CBE2-18CD-471A-B226-BE9BF0B24663", "President Trump Signs McConnell Hemp Bill into Law", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) praised President Trump for signing into law the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Farm Bill). The measure contains the legislation  authored and championed by Majority Leader McConnell -- that will empower farmers to expand cultivation of industrial hemp, a crop that has the potential to play a key role in the agricultural future of Kentucky and the nation.\r\n\r\nSenator McConnell's bill legalizes hemp as an agricultural commodity by removing it from the federal list of controlled substances. It also gives states the opportunity to become the primary regulators of hemp production, allows hemp researchers to apply for competitive federal grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and makes hemp eligible for crop insurance. This measure builds upon the hemp pilot programs, which Senator McConnell secured in the 2014 Farm Bill.\r\n\r\nWith the stroke of his pen, President Trump has made it official. My bill legalizing industrial hemp is law. Now that the President has signed it, Kentuckys farmers can continue to lead the nation in the growing, processing and manufacturing of industrial hemp, said Senator McConnell. I am confident the ingenuity of Kentucky's farmers and producers will find new and creative uses for this exciting crop. We are at the beginning of a new era, and I cannot wait to see what comes next. As Senate Majority Leader, I was proud to do my part to bring hemp back to Kentucky, and I look forward to continuing to support its bright future in the Bluegrass State.\r\n\r\nIn collaboration with agriculture leaders in Kentucky and throughout the nation, Senator McConnell secured language in the 2014 Farm Bill to authorize hemp research pilot programs. He also used his position as a senior member of the Appropriations Committee to insert provisions in yearly appropriations bill to ensure that hemp produced from the pilot programs could be transported, processed, and marketed without interference from the federal government. Under the guidance of Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles and his predecessor, now-U.S. Representative James Comer, these programs have allowed Kentucky farmers to both research the plant and to demonstrate its full potential. The passage of the 2018 Farm Bill -- which includes Senator McConnell's Hemp Farming Act of 2018 -- is a culmination of years of work on this issue.\r\n\r\nAccording the 2017 processor production reports: Kentucky licensed processors paid Kentucky growers $7.5 million for harvested hemp. Additionally, Industrial Hemp Research Pilot Program processor licensees reported $25.6 million in capital improvements and investments and $16.7 million in gross product sales. In 2017, more than 3,200 acres of hemp were being grown across Kentucky.\r\n\r\nIn addition to the hemp initiative, the Farm Bill strengthens the safety measures that directly help commodity producers as they confront low prices, volatile markets, and the constant threat of natural disasters. It also invests in the future of American agriculture and rural communities by expanding rural broadband, enhancing water infrastructure, and continuing the fight against the opioid epidemic that is devastating rural America.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-dr-rand-paul-retirement-paradise-fossil-plant-would-be-contrary-tvas-mission-have-dire/", "Dr. Rand Paul: Retirement of Paradise Fossil Plant Would Be \u2018Contrary\u2019 to TVA\u2019s Mission, Have \u2018Dire\u2019 Economic Impact", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 20, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nBOWLING GREEN, KY \u2013 Yesterday, as part of his continued efforts to defend Kentuckians from federal overreach, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) submitted official comments to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) regarding its environmental assessment on the potential retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant in Muhlenberg County, which it issued shortly before Thanksgiving.\n\n\u201cThe retirement of Paradise would be detrimental to the local economy of Muhlenberg and its negative impact would be felt throughout the surrounding counties. Such action would not only prolong the war on coal, picking winners and losers in the energy sector, but it would also be contrary to the core mission of TVA to provide reliable, low-cost energy to those in its service area. It is for these reasons I ardently oppose the retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant,\u201d Dr. Paul stated in the introduction to his comments.\n\nFor the past several months, Dr. Paul and his staff have actively engaged in discussions with Kentuckians, officials in Muhlenberg County, and the TVA regarding the status of Unit 3, the last coal-fired unit at the Paradise Fossil Plant.\n\nOn December 4, Dr. Paul called for Kentuckians to make their voices heard by joining him in filing a comment with the TVA.\n\nBelow you can find Dr. Paul\u2019s entire introduction, along with a summary of his comments:\n\nIntroduction to Dr. Paul\u2019s Comments\n\n\u201cOn behalf of my constituents, I write in strong opposition to the potential retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. In 2013, I joined other members of the Kentucky congressional delegation urging the Tennessee Valley Authority to maintain its use of coal for electricity generation at Paradise Units 1 and 2. At the time, Paradise employed 400 full-time employees and generated $13.19 million in tax receipts in 2012 for the Muhlenberg area. After the Supreme Court\u2019s 2015 ruling regarding the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s Mercury and Air Toxics Standards regulation, I again joined my fellow Kentuckians in voicing support of maintaining operations at Paradise Units 1 and 2. Our fears that retiring Units 1 and 2 would cut the Paradise workforce in half were realized in 2017 as the doors of Units 1 and 2 closed.\n\n\u201cToday, Paradise Unit 3 directly employs 131 full-time employees and indirectly impacts hundreds more jobs from the miners who supply coal and limestone to Unit 3 to the trucking companies who deliver approximately 200 truckloads of coal to Paradise each day.[1] The retirement of Paradise would be detrimental to the local economy of Muhlenberg and its negative impact would be felt throughout the surrounding counties. Such action would not only prolong the war on coal, picking winners and losers in the energy sector, but it would also be contrary to the core mission of TVA to provide reliable, low-cost energy to those in its service area. It is for these reasons I ardently oppose the retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant.\u201d\n\nSummary of Dr. Paul\u2019s Comments\n\n\u201cThe Paradise facility aids both the mission and purpose of TVA in helping provide reliable, low-cost energy to those living in the Tennessee River Valley, and promoting economic development throughout the service area. Retiring Paradise would be contrary to that mission. Additionally, Paradise plays a vital role in the economies of Muhlenberg and the surrounding counties, facts not fully accounted for in the Environmental Assessment. The draft Environmental Assessment released in November poses only two options for Paradise: (1) maintain Paradise as is, or (2) completely retire it. Neglecting additional alternatives would be short-sighted considering the dire economic consequences that would result from retirement. For these reasons I urge the TVA Board to maintain the use of coal-fired electricity generation at the Paradise Fossil Plant and stop all plans for its retirement.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-rand-paul-retirement-paradise-fossil-plant-would-be-%E2%80%98contrary%E2%80%99-tva%E2%80%99s-mission-have-%E2%80%98dire%E2%80%99", "Dr. Rand Paul: Retirement of Paradise Fossil Plant Would Be \u2018Contrary\u2019 to TVA\u2019s Mission, Have \u2018Dire\u2019 Economic Impact", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 20, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343 BOWLING GREEN, KY  Yesterday, as part of his continued efforts to defend Kentuckians from federal overreach, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) submitted official comments to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) regarding its environmental assessment on the potential retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant in Muhlenberg County, which it issued shortly before Thanksgiving.    The retirement of Paradise would be detrimental to the local economy of Muhlenberg and its negative impact would be felt throughout the surrounding counties. Such action would not only prolong the war on coal, picking winners and losers in the energy sector, but it would also be contrary to the core mission of TVA to provide reliable, low-cost energy to those in its service area. It is for these reasons I ardently oppose the retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant, Dr. Paul stated in the introduction to his comments.    For the past several months, Dr. Paul and his staff have actively engaged in discussions with Kentuckians, officials in Muhlenberg County, and the TVA regarding the status of Unit 3, the last coal-fired unit at the Paradise Fossil Plant.    On December 4, Dr. Paul called for Kentuckians to make their voices heard by joining him in filing a comment with the TVA.    Below you can find Dr. Paul's entire introduction, along with a summary of his comments:    Introduction to Dr. Paul's Comments       On behalf of my constituents, I write in strong opposition to the potential retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. In 2013, I joined other members of the Kentucky congressional delegation urging the Tennessee Valley Authority to maintain its use of coal for electricity generation at Paradise Units 1 and 2. At the time, Paradise employed 400 full-time employees and generated $13.19 million in tax receipts in 2012 for the Muhlenberg area. After the Supreme Court's 2015 ruling regarding the Environmental Protection Agency's Mercury and Air Toxics Standards regulation, I again joined my fellow Kentuckians in voicing support of maintaining operations at Paradise Units 1 and 2. Our fears that retiring Units 1 and 2 would cut the Paradise workforce in half were realized in 2017 as the doors of Units 1 and 2 closed.       Today, Paradise Unit 3 directly employs 131 full-time employees and indirectly impacts hundreds more jobs from the miners who supply coal and limestone to Unit 3 to the trucking companies who deliver approximately 200 truckloads of coal to Paradise each day.[1] The retirement of Paradise would be detrimental to the local economy of Muhlenberg and its negative impact would be felt throughout the surrounding counties. Such action would not only prolong the war on coal, picking winners and losers in the energy sector, but it would also be contrary to the core mission of TVA to provide reliable, low-cost energy to those in its service area. It is for these reasons I ardently oppose the retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant.    Summary of Dr. Paul's Comments       The Paradise facility aids both the mission and purpose of TVA in helping provide reliable, low-cost energy to those living in the Tennessee River Valley, and promoting economic development throughout the service area. Retiring Paradise would be contrary to that mission. Additionally, Paradise plays a vital role in the economies of Muhlenberg and the surrounding counties, facts not fully accounted for in the Environmental Assessment. The draft Environmental Assessment released in November poses only two options for Paradise: (1) maintain Paradise as is, or (2) completely retire it. Neglecting additional alternatives would be short-sighted considering the dire economic consequences that would result from retirement. For these reasons I urge the TVA Board to maintain the use of coal-fired electricity generation at the Paradise Fossil Plant and stop all plans for its retirement. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/leader-mcconnell-meets-with-senator-designate-martha-mcsally", "Leader McConnell Meets with Senator-Designate Martha McSally", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.republicanleader.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.18\n\t\t\t Leader McConnell Meets with Senator-Designate Martha McSally \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement following his meeting with Senator-designate Martha McSally (R-AZ): \r\nGovernor Ducey made a terrific choice to appoint Martha McSally to the United States Senate. Her career of patriotic service to her state and nation make her uniquely qualified to serve the people of Arizona in the Senate.\r\nI look forward to working closely with Senator-designate McSally as she continues her service and fights for all Americans, with the men and women who serve in uniform and her fellow Veterans always on her mind. I'm glad she will be part of our expanded Republican majority when the 116th Congress begins in January.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n     \n\t\n \n\t\n    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t  \n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/mcconnell-statement-on-secretary-mattis", "McConnell Statement on Secretary Mattis", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.republicanleader.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.18\n\t\t\t McConnell Statement on Secretary Mattis \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t It is regrettable that the President must now choose a new Secretary of Defense. But I urge him to select a leader who shares Secretary Mattis's understanding of these vital principles and his total commitment to America's servicemembers.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement regarding Secretary of Defense James Mattis:\r\nI believe it's essential that the United States maintain and strengthen the post-World War II alliances that have been carefully built by leaders in both parties. We must also maintain a clear-eyed understanding of our friends and foes, and recognize that nations like Russia are among the latter.\r\nSo I was sorry to learn that Secretary Mattis, who shares those clear principles, will soon depart the Administration. But I am particularly distressed that he is resigning due to sharp differences with the President on these and other key aspects of America's global leadership.\r\nIt is regrettable that the President must now choose a new Secretary of Defense. But I urge him to select a leader who shares Secretary Mattis's understanding of these vital principles and his total commitment to America's servicemembers.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n     \n\t\n \n\t\n    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t Related Issues:\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAmerica's Military,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tNational Security,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tWar on Terror\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \n\t\t\n\t\t  \n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=41D4847B-4C82-414D-9CA2-143415E386A7", "Majority Leader McConnell Thanks Speaker Paul Ryan", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding friend and colleague, Speaker Paul Ryan:\r\nFrom time to time, each of us has indulged in the jokes and finger-pointing that sustain a friendly rivalry between the House and Senate -- the founders' metaphorical teacup and saucer. And make no mistake: I am thankful every day that so many former representatives see the light and come to join us in the upper chamber. But for the past three years, there is no one outside the Senate with whom I've partnered more closely than the Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan.\r\nAs history will remember, the Speakership was far from the destination that the contented Ways & Means chairman had in mind when our friend John Boehner announced his retirement in 2015. But to the great fortune of the entire Republican Party -- Paul had demonstrated over his years in the House the very qualities his conference needed most.\r\nEveryone knew he had uncompromising integrity. Seemingly inexhaustible energy. The trust and admiration of his fellow members. And he had an aspirational message about what we stood for, as Republicans. He's reminded our party, as clearly and forcefully as any leader of his generation, about all that our party can and should aspire to be. Not pale pastels,' in President Reagan's timeless words, but bold colors.' His colleagues knew he had all these qualities -- and we knew it, here in the Senate.\r\nSo while I was far from the most crucial member of the pressure campaign -- a draft effort that even roped in the Cardinal-Archbishop of New York -- I'll admit I picked up the phone, too. I called Paul and told him exactly what he didn't want to hear: He was the right man at the right moment. Conveniently, I was about to get on a plane to Iraq at the time, so Paul didn't have much of an opportunity to push back. And over the past three years, I've had more opportunities than most to see the right man in action.\r\nWe've met weekly to coordinate the efforts of our majorities and present a unified front on behalf of the American people. At times, the cohesion between our teams made it feel like we shared one large staff. So I have seen firsthand how much of what we've been able to accomplish this Congress has been due in huge part to Paul's serious approach. To his principles and his pragmatism alike.\r\nHe helped lead the way on last year's comprehensive reform of our tax code, turning his decades-long personal mission into a brighter future for millions of American workers and job creators. He navigated tense funding negotiations with deep understanding of his members' concerns and stood firm in support of America's military, helping to deliver the largest year-on-year increase in defense funding in fifteen years. He stayed true to his heart, putting Catholic Social Teaching into practice and fighting for policies of all shapes and sizes to lift up the most vulnerable among us, from the working poor to victims of human trafficking.\r\nHis tenure as Speaker has proved a perfect capstone to a remarkable career in Congress. Every step of the way, Paul's shattered myths and stereotypes about what conservative leaders are like. Through his long list of accomplishments and his personal witness alike, he's demonstrated that faith in American free enterprise and individual liberty are not quaint, outdated ideas, but essential and timeless principles.\r\nHe's helped prove that right-of-center values are not only the basis for protest movements, as some cynics had liked to suggest -- they are also the foundation for governing majorities. He's shown that our party's ideals and principles do not clash whatsoever with the moral priority that we should place on those at the margins of society; but rather, that those very ideas are often the best means to honor that commitment. Talk about a product of the Jack Kemp coaching tree. It's safe to say the Speaker's cherished mentor would be mighty proud.\r\nPaul's time at the center-stage of our nation's politics has inspired countless Americans, including a new generation of leaders. But speaking personally, more than any one of the accomplishments that I've been proud to work with Paul to help secure, I think I will most remember how he's done the job. How energetically and happily the Speaker has poured himself into each and every task at hand.\r\nNo matter if some said it couldn't be done. No matter that he hadn't sought the job in the first place. The happy warrior has been undeterred. For all this says about Paul Ryan the Speaker, it says even more about Paul Ryan the man. He's got a big heart and a razor-sharp mind. It doesn't take long to notice either. And he knows how to lead with both. He's a man of profound faith and abiding patriotism. And even after twenty years in Washington, he remains a staunch optimist. Paul is quick to insist that America's brightest days are yet to come and even quicker to back up the sentiment with action.\r\nSo, working with Speaker Ryan has been among the great joys of my career in the Senate. The nation is so much better for his leadership -- and I am better for his friendship. I am so grateful to Paul for everything. I wish him, Janna, and their lovely family great happiness in whatever adventures lie ahead.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=A647B18B-125E-449F-8D34-DE887122234A", "McConnell Thanks Cornyn For His Service As Republican Whip", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding friend and colleague, Senator John Cornyn (R-TX):\r\nNow I'm down to my very last end-of-year tribute to a member of this body. I offer this one with the very greatest reluctance. This one isn't occasioned by any retirement. Fortunately for all of us, Senator John Cornyn isn't going anywhere. He'll be right here with us when the 116th Congress convenes in January. But he will no longer be serving as Republican Whip. His tenure in this key leadership role is almost complete. So I could not let this week pass by without sharing  for the official record, and with all of our colleagues  a small slice of the tremendous gratitude, and respect, and admiration that I feel for the senior Senator from Texas.\r\nOf course John and I were already well acquainted when he took over the Whip role six years ago, in relief of Jon Kyl. But still, I wasn't sure exactly what our relationship would look like. You never quite know in advance. Everyone's different. But just a few weeks into our partnership as Leader and Whip, John presented me with a birthday gift  and it told me at least three things about him.\r\nHe'd framed and autographed a picture of ourselves. Just an ordinary, not-particularly-glamorous shot of the two of us plus John Barrasso, probably talking with the press there in the Ohio Clock corridor. A somewhat unusual gift, I thought. Lesson number one: This guy has a sense of humor and good cheer. Now, in this photo, I'm kind of standing front and center. Six-foot-one John is standing right behind me, a little out of focus and halfway in the shadow. So there's lesson number two: Humility.\r\nAnd then there was his handwritten message. Happy birthday, Mitch  I've got your back!' That was lesson number three. It spoke for itself. And how fortunate I have been to be reminded every single day since that John Cornyn means exactly what he says. John has proven to be a stunningly effective Whip for the Republican conference these past years. He's also been a more solid friend and a wiser, more loyal counselor than I had any right to expect.\r\nWhip is a powerful position. Your conference trusts you to help lead them. Your peers trust you with their candor and their concerns. As each piece of legislation progresses, different groups of your colleagues are trusting you to help secure accomplishments that are huge priorities for them and their own constituents. So it's easy to imagine ways this critical role might go off the rails. You could wear out your welcome with your colleagues. You could become too focused on notching today's win at the expense of tomorrow's relationships and good feelings. You could let personal disagreements threaten the unity of your leadership team and your conference.\r\nBut as those who know him well can attest, these aren't worries that keep John up at night. That's because he's the quintessential team player: Not focused on personal gain. Dedicated to the causes that matter to Texas and his members. And willing to roll up his sleeves and do the heavy lifting himself to advance them. You know, they say everything's bigger in Texas. And sure enough, Big John' has been known to ride across the screen in campaign spots from time to time.\r\nBut somewhere along the way, John's ego didn't get the message. John doesn't twist arms or get angry. He doesn't play-act at being the bad cop.' Instead, he listens. He learns. He pours his time and energy into learning all about his colleagues, their concerns, their states' priorities. People outside the Senate might think someone in John's position would need to act like a bully. The term whip' certainly sends that message. But John knows that scare tactics don't do many favors in the long run. The winning strategy on Team Cornyn has been less like the Mafia and more like savvy and heartfelt customer service. And they sure have a lot to show for it.\r\nThe more I've been reflecting on why John has had so much success, I've kept coming back to his the fact that this man was a judge -- a Texas Supreme Court justice, to be exact. And in a courtroom, the judge has the power -- but their job isn't to wheedle or persuade. It's to listen fairly to all parties, all theories, and all ideas. Give everyone a hearing, take it all in, and then chart the best course possible. How lucky we've all been to have someone like that whipping votes.\r\nSo, it's a privilege to see John at work. And it's been an honor to work in the trenches with John, day after day, these past years. Well, to be more accurate, it's been a pleasure to stand shoulder to shoulder with him here in the well. We've had our fair share of quality time. At the end of any Congress, you'd expect the Majority Leader and Whip might have a small handful of close shaves and dramatic moments to reflect on. But John's helped steer the ship with the slimmest possible majorities. Week after week, 51 to 49 -- 50 to 49, in many cases. We've seen this play out in the confirmation of a historic number of well-qualified nominees to the federal judiciary and in the passage of major legislation with delicate moving parts -- from comprehensive tax reform to a landmark opioids package.\r\nAnd the truth is, even a comprehensive catalog of all the big floor votes would only capture a fraction of John's excellent work. More key nominees and important pieces of legislation have traveled quietly through the Senate -- because John has been there, diligent and patient and respectful, working through challenges and addressing concerns around the clock. And as if this wasn't enough to fill John's plate, let's remember: While serving as Whip, he's also been a vital member of the Select Committee on Intelligence, the Judiciary Committee, and the Finance Committee -- and been an outstanding senior senator for Texas all the while.\r\nIn fact, in each of the past two Congresses, no Senator has been the lead sponsor on more bills that have become law than John Cornyn. He led on Fix NICS. He led on the fight against human trafficking. All in a couple years' work.\r\nOf course, he doesn't do it alone. John has assembled a whip staff that are as much a testament to his eye for talent as they are a tremendous asset for the entire conference. And at the helm of the operation is the Chief of Staff in his whip office, Monica Popp. In so many ways, John and Monica seem to be cut from the same cloth. Like her boss, Monica has a sixth sense when it comes to reading a room and getting people what they need. She relishes the chance to tackle tough problems. As far as she's concerned, a troublesome situation is really just an opportunity. And just like John, Monica is an attentive listener.\r\nThis has made her an encyclopedic authority on what makes each member of the conference tick. When Monica makes a recommendation, you know it's based on the best possible information. And on so many occasions, I've relied directly on her sharp counsel here on the floor. I'm not sure I've ever worked with someone who had such a warm heart and such ice in her veins at the very same time. She operates with calm and confidence precisely because she's built so many genuine and solid friendships that she knows just where things stand.\r\nOutside observers get Congress wrong when they say, It's all about the math.' It's really all about relationships. And ironically enough, this former math teacher turned all-star Hill staffer is just about the ultimate living proof. We may not be losing Senator Cornyn this month, but I'm sorry to say we are saying goodbye to Monica. I will miss her, and I know the entire conference will miss her.\r\nIt's all about relationships with John, too. Even as he was constantly tasked with walking a tightrope through a pressure cooker, he's also managed to be one of kindest, most down-to-earth human beings around. In no place is this more evident than in the way he treats the unelected members of this Senate family. He gets to know everyone. He wants to earn your trust. He wants to know how you're doing. After all, before he was the Senate's Majority Whip, or a Justice of the Texas Supreme Court, or the state's Attorney General, he was a husband and a father.\r\nAnd I know his wife, Sandy, and their family are hoping that the end of John's service as Whip will bring at least a nominal relaxing of his schedule. Ordinarily, I might guess that John might be able to spend more time on his hobbies. But somehow -- as his prolific Twitter and Instagram pages regularly notify the whole world -- he's kept right at them, all along. For all the different hats John wears in the Senate, he's managed to hang on to his chef's cap, too -- marching through the Rasika cookbook and whipping up feasts for the family. And the dove hunts certainly haven't gone anywhere, either.\r\nSo really, whatever his title happens to say, what I'm looking forward to from John is more of the same. More invaluable guidance. More exemplary legislating. I know the press corps is certainly hoping for more of his informative one-liners. Like I said, I'm so happy we aren't saying goodbye to John today. What I am saying -- with complete personal sincerity, and also for the entire conference -- is thank you. Thank you for your friendship and partnership. Thank you for making all of us look better than any of us deserve. Thank you for helping the Senate deliver for the country. Thank you for always having all of our backs.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=EC0CE18D-CF4D-43B4-92FD-3DE9D8E608A1", "Senate to Consider Government Funding Bill", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding Senate consideration of the government funding bill and the need to secure our border:\r\nFirst, for the information of all senators: Later this morning, we'll introduce a continuing resolution that will ensure continuous funding for the federal government. The measure will provide the resources necessary to continue normal operations through February 8th.\r\nLet's review why this step was necessary. Even in the face of a great need to secure the border, and following good-faith efforts by the president's team, our Democratic colleagues rejected an extremely reasonable offer yesterday. It would have cleared the remaining appropriations bills -- which had received bipartisan support in committee -- and provided an additional $1 billion to tackle a variety of urgent border security priorities.\r\nI'm sorry that my Democratic colleagues couldn't put partisanship aside and show the same good-faith flexibility that the President has shown in order to provide the resources our nation needs to secure the integrity of our borders and the safety of American families. But this seems to be the reality of our political moment. It seems like political spite for the president may be winning out over sensible policy -- even sensible policies that are more modest than border security allocations which many Democrats supported themselves, in the recent past.\r\nBut faced with this intransigence -- with Democrats' failure to take our borders seriously -- Republicans will continue to fulfill our duty to govern. That's why we will soon take up a simple measure that will continue government funding into February: So we can continue this vital debate after the new Congress has convened. Because, make no mistake -- there will be important unfinished business left in front of us. And we'll owe it to the American people to tackle it.\r\nJust last week, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan, told our colleagues on the Judiciary Committee that the United States faces, quote, a border security and humanitarian crisis.' These are some of the facts. In the past year alone, we saw a 30% increase in apprehensions by the CBP, including nearly 6,700 apprehensions of individuals with criminal histories and a 50% increase in apprehensions of known gang members. We've seen a 75% spike in methamphetamine seizures since FY 2015. So it is quite obvious that shoring up our borders is an urgent need of our national security. An urgent need. Secure borders are what the American people expect and deserve. That's why it continues to be a major focus of President Trump and his administration.\r\nAlready, the president's approach to border security is yielding undeniable results. In each of four CBP sectors where physical barriers have been improved or expanded -- El Paso, Yuma, Tucson, and San Diego -- illegal traffic has dropped by at least 90%. And while you wouldn't know it from listening to the far-left special interests, this administration's focus on border security actually follows similar commonsense efforts that used to be bipartisan consensus points in years past.\r\nIn 2006, the Secure Fence Act -- which was designed to strengthen physical security measures at the border -- received the support of no fewer than 26 of our Democratic colleagues, including the current Democratic Leader along with Senators Feinstein, Carper, Nelson, Stabenow, Wyden and Obama. In 2010, President Obama signed a bill to increase the CBP's physical presence at the border. It passed the Senate by unanimous consent, by the way.\r\nSo let's not pretend there is some bright line of principle that separates the billions of dollars that our Democratic colleagues were willing and eager to spend on border security in the recent past and the resources now requested by the president and his team. There's no big difference of principle. There's just been a shift in the political winds on the far left. This is knee-jerk, partisan opposition to the administration's reasonable and flexible requests. This is making political obstruction a higher goal than the integrity of our nation's borders. It's political spite. And the American people know it when they see it.\r\nThe Senate will continue our work on the remaining bills -- the products of much bipartisan hard work and collaboration. And in the meantime, we will turn to a clean continuing resolution later today, so we can make sure we don't end this year the way we began it -- with another government shutdown because of Democrats' allergy to sensible immigration policies. That's what they did at the beginning of the year. We need the government to remain open for the American people. We need to wrap up our work for this year. And I hope that my Democratic friends return next year ready to join the president, this Senate majority, and the American people in our desire to secure our border.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-dr-rand-paul-syria-diplomacy-and-president-trump-bringing-troops-home/", "Dr. Rand Paul on Syria, Diplomacy, and President Trump Bringing Troops Home", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 19, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Tonight, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) took to the Senate floor to object to legislation that would prolong the conflict in Syria and hinder their rebuilding process.\n\nIn his brief remarks, Dr. Paul thanked President Trump for bringing American troops home from the war-torn country, a decision Dr. Paul has long advocated for as part of his efforts to restore a focused and constitutional foreign policy. Dr. Paul also called for a shift to diplomacy instead of new sanctions.\n\n\u201cToday, President Trump announced that we have won the war against ISIS in Syria. Our troops are coming home. Thank you, Mr. President. The Syrian Civil War is largely over, but Syria\u2019s a mess and desperately needs reconstruction. These sanctions will delay and possibly prevent reconstruction of Syria and the beginning of a healing time. Now is the time for diplomacy. There are many actors, including Russia, Iran, Turkey, the U.S., and others, but this is the time for diplomacy, not for new sanctions. So I object,\u201d Dr. Paul said on the Senate floor.\n\nYou can find video of tonight\u2019s remarks HERE.\n\nIn another speech on the Senate floor earlier today, where he also called for greater oversight of the Deep State, Dr. Paul addressed the Washington mentality that has weakened our national security and led politicians to keep U.S. troops perpetually tied up in conflicts all over the world, saying, \u201cMost of the voices around here like to stay everywhere for all time, and they believe that it doesn\u2019t work unless you go somewhere and stay forever.\u201d\n\nIn contrast, Dr. Paul observed that President Trump \u201chas the courage to say, \u2018We won in Syria, and we\u2019re coming home.'\u201d On multiple occasions, Dr. Paul has encouraged President Trump to focus on an America-First policy, which would include bringing troops home from multiple locations in the Middle East, including Syria and Afghanistan.\n\nYou can watch Dr. Paul\u2019s earlier comments on Syria HERE, and you can find his entire speech from this morning HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-icymi-dr-rand-paul-proud-president-syria/", "ICYMI: Dr. Rand Paul: \u2018Proud of the President\u2019 on Syria", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 19, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 At the conclusion of his remarks this morning on the need to increase oversight of the Deep State, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) discussed today\u2019s news that President Donald J. Trump will withdraw American troops from Syria, a decision Dr. Paul has long advocated for to help return the United States to a common-sense foreign policy and avoid forcing our troops to stay without end in yet another country.\n\nOn multiple occasions, Dr. Paul has encouraged President Trump to focus on an America-First policy, which would include bringing troops home from multiple locations in the Middle East, including Syria and Afghanistan.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud of the president today to hear that he is declaring victory in Syria. Most of the voices around here like to stay everywhere for all time, and they believe that it doesn\u2019t work unless you go somewhere and stay forever. The president has the courage to say, \u2018We won in Syria, and we\u2019re coming home.\u2019 First president in my lifetime really to do that. And that\u2019s why President Trump is different, and that\u2019s why I think President Trump is one that we should all look to for some changes and for some reform of the Deep State,\u201d Dr. Paul stated on the floor.\n\nBefore his speech, Dr. Paul also responded to the news on Twitter, saying, \u201cI am happy to see a President who can declare victory and bring our troops out of a war. It\u2019s been a long time since that has happened.\u201d\n\nYou can find video of Dr. Paul\u2019s remarks HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-icymidr-rand-paul-senate-floor-deep-state-needs-more-oversight/", "ICYMI:Dr. Rand Paul on the Senate Floor: \u2018The Deep State Needs More Oversight\u2019", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 19, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Shortly before the U.S. Senate held a procedural vote on an intelligence community nomination this morning, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) spoke on the need for greater oversight of the Deep State.\n\nDr. Paul specifically cited the secretive drone strike program\u2019s \u201cpower to kill anyone, anywhere, anytime\u201d as \u201can ominous power\u201d and called out the lack of checks and balances. He noted that only a select few in Congress are briefed on intelligence matters, even then often being told only after the fact.\n\n\u201cWhat happens is you get imperfect and not very good oversight. The checks and balances are not working because the only people being told about what the intelligence community is doing are the people who are rubber stamps for what they are doing,\u201d Dr. Paul stated on the floor.\n\nDr. Paul also discussed how he has not received answers, including from the nominee, to a simple question: does the United States kill people around the world based on metadata? He noted that his objection to cloture was not based on the individual being nominated but on the need for an answer to this question and greater accountability.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve been holding this nominee and will vote against this nominee because I believe that the Deep State needs more oversight. I believe that we shouldn\u2019t kill anyone, anywhere, anytime around the world without some checks and balances. I also believe that our drone program, our targeted killing, actually makes the country less safe and makes us more at risk for terrorism,\u201d Dr. Paul said in his speech.\n\nYou can watch Dr. Paul\u2019s entire speech HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-rand-paul-syria-diplomacy-and-president-trump-bringing-troops-home", "Dr. Rand Paul on Syria, Diplomacy, and President Trump Bringing Troops Home", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 19, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343   WASHINGTON, D.C.  Tonight, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) took to the Senate floor to object to legislation that would prolong the conflict in Syria and hinder their rebuilding process.    In his brief remarks, Dr. Paul thanked President Trump for bringing American troops home from the war-torn country, a decision Dr. Paul has long advocated for as part of his efforts to restore a focused and constitutional foreign policy. Dr. Paul also called for a shift to diplomacy instead of new sanctions.    Today, President Trump announced that we have won the war against ISIS in Syria. Our troops are coming home. Thank you, Mr. President. The Syrian Civil War is largely over, but Syria's a mess and desperately needs reconstruction. These sanctions will delay and possibly prevent reconstruction of Syria and the beginning of a healing time. Now is the time for diplomacy. There are many actors, including Russia, Iran, Turkey, the U.S., and others, but this is the time for diplomacy, not for new sanctions. So I object, Dr. Paul said on the Senate floor.    You can find video of tonight's remarks HERE.    In another speech on the Senate floor earlier today, where he also called for greater oversight of the Deep State, Dr. Paul addressed the Washington mentality that has weakened our national security and led politicians to keep U.S. troops perpetually tied up in conflicts all over the world, saying, Most of the voices around here like to stay everywhere for all time, and they believe that it doesn't work unless you go somewhere and stay forever.    In contrast, Dr. Paul observed that President Trump has the courage to say, We won in Syria, and we're coming home.' On multiple occasions, Dr. Paul has encouraged President Trump to focus on an America-First policy, which would include bringing troops home from multiple locations in the Middle East, including Syria and Afghanistan.    You can watch Dr. Paul's earlier comments on Syria HERE, and you can find his entire speech from this morning HERE. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/icymi%C2%A0dr-rand-paul-senate-floor-%E2%80%98-deep-state-needs-more-oversight%E2%80%99", "ICYMI:\u00a0Dr. Rand Paul on the Senate Floor: \u2018The Deep State Needs More Oversight\u2019", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 19, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343 WASHINGTON, D.C. Shortly before the U.S. Senate held a procedural vote on an intelligence community nomination this morning, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) spoke on the need for greater oversight of the Deep State.    Dr. Paul specifically cited the secretive drone strike program's power to kill anyone, anywhere, anytime as an ominous power and called out the lack of checks and balances. He noted that only a select few in Congress are briefed on intelligence matters, even then often being told only after the fact.    What happens is you get imperfect and not very good oversight. The checks and balances are not working because the only people being told about what the intelligence community is doing are the people who are rubber stamps for what they are doing, Dr. Paul stated on the floor.    Dr. Paul also discussed how he has not received answers, including from the nominee, to a simple question: does the United States kill people around the world based on metadata? He noted that his objection to cloture was not based on the individual being nominated but on the need for an answer to this question and greater accountability.    I've been holding this nominee and will vote against this nominee because I believe that the Deep State needs more oversight. I believe that we shouldn't kill anyone, anywhere, anytime around the world without some checks and balances. I also believe that our drone program, our targeted killing, actually makes the country less safe and makes us more at risk for terrorism, Dr. Paul said in his speech.    You can watch Dr. Paul's entire speech HERE. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/icymi-dr-rand-paul-%E2%80%98proud-president%E2%80%99-syria", "ICYMI: Dr. Rand Paul: \u2018Proud of the President\u2019 on Syria", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 19, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343   WASHINGTON, D.C.  At the conclusion of his remarks this morning on the need to increase oversight of the Deep State, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) discussed today's news that President Donald J. Trump will withdraw American troops from Syria, a decision Dr. Paul has long advocated for to help return the United States to a common-sense foreign policy and avoid forcing our troops to stay without end in yet another country.    On multiple occasions, Dr. Paul has encouraged President Trump to focus on an America-First policy, which would include bringing troops home from multiple locations in the Middle East, including Syria and Afghanistan.    I'm proud of the president today to hear that he is declaring victory in Syria. Most of the voices around here like to stay everywhere for all time, and they believe that it doesn't work unless you go somewhere and stay forever. The president has the courage to say, We won in Syria, and we're coming home.' First president in my lifetime really to do that. And that's why President Trump is different, and that's why I think President Trump is one that we should all look to for some changes and for some reform of the Deep State, Dr. Paul stated on the floor.    Before his speech, Dr. Paul also responded to the news on Twitter, saying, I am happy to see a President who can declare victory and bring our troops out of a war. It's been a long time since that has happened. You can find video of Dr. Paul's remarks HERE. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://comer.house.gov/2018/12/marking-end-115th-congress", "Marking the End of the 115th Congress", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "James Comer", "C001108", "comer.house.gov", "comer", "https://comer.house.gov/media", "scraper", "2018 has been packed with important debate, deliberation, and compromises as well as many successes. My Republican colleagues and I have worked hard to deliver on our promises to the American people and to uphold President Trump\u2019s America-first agenda. While perspectives are diverse among the 435 Members of the House of Representatives, each of us play a significant role in serving our unique portions of the nation. Over the past year, and throughout the 115th Congress, it is important to reflect on some of the major accomplishments that lead us into the next Congress.\n\nHouse Republicans have fought hard to protect American interests and values. From upholding pro-life policies to fostering a stronger economy, we have kept our promises. The House passed the Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, and we also directed Title X funds away from Planned Parenthood and other abortion clinics. We made significant changes to Dodd-Frank regulations to give much-needed relief to our small and community banks. Our tax code received its first major overhaul in over 30 years, setting our sights on better outcomes for small businesses, families, and Americans across the board. And as the Representative of a district many active duty and retired servicemembers and veterans call home, I was proud of all the House accomplished to reform the Department of Veterans\u2019 Affairs (VA) to better serve our nation\u2019s patriots. The VA Mission Act was signed into law this past June, generating major revisions to the functionality of the agency and providing accessible, timely care for our heroes. The VA Mission Act is a tremendous triumph for millions of military veterans across the U.S.\n\nAfter extensive debate on policy that impacts countless Kentuckians in the 1st District, we passed a 2018 Farm bill that helps serve the needs of rural America. After I was selected to serve on the influential Farm Bill conference committee, I knew there was much work to accomplish on behalf of farmers and producers back home. We crossed the finish line and passed a Farm Bill that fully protects crop insurance and provides certainty to our farmers, makes significant improvements to rural broadband, and implements key changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Of course, seeing the provision to remove hemp from the controlled substances list was a great accomplishment along this journey. Working with Leader McConnell to de-schedule hemp and set it on the path to be an important agricultural commodity is a significant win within the 2018 Farm Bill. The impact of this is already being realized, with the recently-announced investment of $40 million and creation of 80 new jobs by a Kentucky hemp company in Graves County.\n\nAll this work is made possible through hearing important insights and feedback from my constituents. To that end, providing excellent constituent services is always my top priority as the Representative for Kentucky\u2019s 1st District. My casework team, based out of Tompkinsville, works tirelessly with my constituents to help resolve an array of issues with federal agencies like the VA, State Department and Social Security Administration. We work with the VA to help veterans like Richard, of Burkesville, who had been trying for eight months to get a medical reimbursement. With our help, Richard received a full refund for his service-connected expenses. We worked with another agency to help Brenda, of Tompkinsville, receive a set of her late father\u2019s war medals. Brenda can now share the memory of her father with others by displaying these well-deserved medals. Finally, we had the privilege of assisting Father Saju, of Campbellsville, who requested help with his Green Card. Working as a liaison to help cut through government bureaucracy, we helped Father Saju obtain his new Green Card so that he can continue contributing to his community. As the 116th Congress approaches, my team and I remain committed to working toward positive outcomes for all constituents we assist with casework.\n\nIn addition to our casework successes, in the 115th Congress my field representatives conducted a total of 128 Community Office Hours in all 35 counties. I also take every available opportunity to travel the entire district. In the past year, I have made a total of 340 visits to the 1st District and increased my town hall total to 47 town halls. I also had a total of 1,558 constituent meetings throughout the District and D.C. since taking office in November of 2016. One of these meetings even included a House Oversight and Government Reform Field Briefing in Eddyville to explore the federal, state and local government efforts to control and eradicate Asian carp from our waterways, an issue that I continue to work on.\n\nLooking back at what has been accomplished in the 115th Congress, I am proud to be working toward the goals President Trump outlined for our nation: strengthening policies that uphold American values, enforcing border security and immigration laws, and fighting for a more pro-growth economy. I remain grateful to the people of the 1st District whom I serve, and I am eager to head into the 116th Congress to fight for policies that will help our communities grow and prosper.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=60C32B76-7182-47EB-8A1F-A26E39BBEFB8", "Leader McConnell Pays Tribute to Senator Jon Kyl", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the retirement of friend and colleague, Senator Jon Kyl (R-AZ):\r\nTo the untrained eye, it might seem that I've completed my thanks and farewells to all my Republican colleagues who will depart at the end of this Congress. But I would be remiss if I did not also mention the junior Senator from Arizona  our good friend, Jon Kyl. When Senator Kyl bid farewell to this body in 2012, it took me quite a while to come to terms with the prospect that we'd cast our final votes together. I went through the stages of grief. Eventually, I came to acceptance. But as it turned out, the great state of Arizona was not quite finished with this distinguished leader after all.\r\nIf Jon had planned on a relaxing, undisturbed post-Senate career, then his biggest mistake was leaving a record as one of the most earnest and effective legislators this body had seen in recent memory. Because, when the people of Arizona needed someone to step in and honor the towering legacy of our dear friend, John McCain, through the end of this Congress, his counterpart of 18 years was the natural choice.\r\n\r\nAs the entire nation mourned the loss of a decorated hero and statesman, Jon Kyl volunteered his even keel and sound judgment to fill the void. And while the Senate may have changed in some small ways in the six years since Jon left us, he's likely noticed over the past few months that some things never do. This floor remains the stage for the most important policy challenges facing our country. There is still an urgent need for hardworking public servants with expertise to enter the fray. And he's still the junior senator from Arizona.\r\n\r\nFrom his first day back, Jon has smoothly continued Senator McCain's habit of making an outsized impact for his state. He's cast his vote to confirm a well-qualified Supreme Court nominee. He's joined in advancing major legislation. And he's continued his advocacy for improving America's military readiness. As we say goodbye one more time, I know every member of this body will join me in gratitude that Jon answered the call when his experience and talents were needed. Like the others who have been lucky enough to spend eighteen years serving with Jon already, I am especially grateful for this second opportunity to work alongside such a dear friend. So I thank Jon for his abiding commitment to service. We wish him and his wonderful wife Caryll much health and happiness in the years to come.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=AC33BE68-A507-4D26-BA13-D7DCAECC0F24", "Senate Votes to Advance Criminal Justice Legislation", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding last night's vote to advance criminal justice legislation in the Senate:\r\nYesterday, the Senate voted to advance the pending criminal justice legislation. As I noted, at the request of President Trump and after improvements were secured, we're considering the bill here on the floor this week.\r\nParticular credit for this belongs to Senator Cornyn, who has carefully and impressively balanced his role as Majority Whip with his own personal support for this legislation. His leadership has benefitted everyone who shares his position and would like to see this bill become law, and he deserves every bit of their gratitude.\r\n\r\nWith respect to the substance of the legislation, a number of members continue to have outstanding concerns that the bill currently leaves unaddressed. Members will have the opportunity to debate and vote on the pending, germane amendments before we vote on final passage.\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=E060C377-FE99-4490-B88B-B5BF2471478D", "Leader McConnell Thanks General John Kelly", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding White House Chief of Staff, General John Kelly:\r\nBidding farewell to our departing colleagues is never easy. Neither is seeing off a number of other colleagues, beyond the Senate, with whom we've had the privilege of working closely. For the past two years, America has been treated to a brilliant example of public service on one of its highest possible stages. First as Secretary of Homeland Security and then as White House Chief of Staff, John Kelly has served the president and the nation with great distinction. But this was far from the first chapter. His entire career -- and life  have been utterly oriented around his deep patriotic commitment.\r\nJohn Kelly spent the better part of his four decades in the Marine Corps stationed far from Washington. As thousands of his peers waited to be drafted into military service, John took the initiative. He enlisted. Then he completed Officer Candidate School. He earned a reputation as a loyal brother in arms and an outstanding leader of Marines. He commanded infantry units at Camp Lejeune, Quantico, and Camp Pendleton. He served at the Supreme Allied Command in Europe, and as Commander of U.S. Southern Command. He took on real hardship postings  like the House of Representatives. He served there in the Commandant's Liaison Office. And when the call came, he led Marines into combat in Iraq.\r\n\r\nAs his Marines would tell anyone, he leads with a confidence that comes from decades of dedicated preparation. He leads with a resolve that comes from deep-rooted patriotism. And he leads with an understanding  as personal and painful an understanding as could be possible  about the sacrifice that our freedom requires.\r\n\r\nGeneral Kelly once said this to a gathering of his fellow Gold Star parents: Those with less of a sense of service to the nation will never understand it when men and women of character step forward and look danger and adversity straight in the eye, and refuse to blink or give ground even to their own deaths. The protected can't begin to understand the price paid so they and their families can sleep safe and free at night.' John Kelly and his family know that price. They have paid that price as fully as anyone has. But as is so often the case, it is those who have already given so much who seem the most willing to give more.\r\n\r\nJohn's service as Secretary of Homeland Security and now as White House Chief of Staff reflected the values and instincts that made him such an effective leader of Marines. It was only by working closely with him and his team that this Congress has been able to record so many substantial accomplishments for the American people. The Marine Corps is stronger for John Kelly's years of leadership. America is better for his distinguished career of service. As he departs the White House this month, I extend my deep gratitude for his job well done.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-sen-rand-paul-applauds-historic-senate-passage-first-step-act/", "Sen. Rand Paul Applauds Historic Senate Passage of First Step Act", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 18, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Tonight, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) applauded the U.S. Senate\u2019s passage of the First Step Act (S. 756), a bipartisan sentencing and prison reform bill. The bill passed by a vote of 87-12 and is headed to the U.S. House for passage before being sent to President Trump\u2019s desk, where he is expected to sign this important legislation into law.\n\nSince arriving in the U.S. Senate in 2011, Senator Paul has been passionate about reforming a broken criminal justice system. Having introduced countless bipartisan bills in previous Congresses and once again in this Congress, Senator Paul will continue to advocate for more change on this matter across the political aisle.\n\n\u201cAs a leading voice for criminal justice reform who has introduced and cosponsored nearly a dozen bipartisan bills to fix the problems that still plague our justice system, and someone who has loudly and successfully pushed for getting this important piece of legislation to the Senate floor for a vote, I am absolutely thrilled with tonight\u2019s passage of the First Step Act,\u201d said Sen. Paul. \u201cTrue to its name, this prison and sentencing reform bill is a much-needed first step toward shifting our focus to rehabilitation and reentry of offenders, rather than taking every person who ever made a mistake with drugs, locking them up, and throwing away the key.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/sen-rand-paul-applauds-historic-senate-passage-first-step-act", "Sen. Rand Paul Applauds Historic Senate Passage of First Step Act", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 18, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343   WASHINGTON, D.C.  Tonight, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) applauded the U.S. Senate's passage of the First Step Act (S. 756), a bipartisan sentencing and prison reform bill. The bill passed by a vote of 87-12 and is headed to the U.S. House for passage before being sent to President Trump's desk, where he is expected to sign this important legislation into law.    Since arriving in the U.S. Senate in 2011, Senator Paul has been passionate about reforming a broken criminal justice system. Having introduced countless bipartisan bills in previous Congresses and once again in this Congress, Senator Paul will continue to advocate for more change on this matter across the political aisle.    As a leading voice for criminal justice reform who has introduced and cosponsored nearly a dozen bipartisan bills to fix the problems that still plague our justice system, and someone who has loudly and successfully pushed for getting this important piece of legislation to the Senate floor for a vote, I am absolutely thrilled with tonight's passage of the First Step Act, said Sen. Paul. True to its name, this prison and sentencing reform bill is a much-needed first step toward shifting our focus to rehabilitation and reentry of offenders, rather than taking every person who ever made a mistake with drugs, locking them up, and throwing away the key. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=35D96972-5C94-48D4-ADE3-7A1D0C347596", "Leader McConnell Statement on Senator Lamar Alexander", "2018-12-17", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding Senator Lamar Alexander's announcement that he will not seek reelection in 2020:\r\nI'd like to say a few words following today's announcement from our dear friend, the senior senator from Tennessee. The great state of Tennessee has been generous to the U.S. Senate over the years. A number of the state's Senators from both parties have enriched this institution through especially distinguished service and built reputations as national leaders. And no one embodies this legacy more fully than Lamar Alexander.\r\nWhile I'm sure he will accomplish even more over the next two years, Lamar is already one of the most consequential Senators on domestic policy in memory. Lamar was a success long before he came to the Senate. He'd already been a popular, accomplished Governor and a brilliant Secretary of Education. But fortunately for this body and for our nation, sixteen years ago, the Volunteer State saw fit to continue that career of excellence by sending Lamar here.\r\n\r\nHe's chaired the Republican Conference. He's chaired the HELP Committee. For his colleagues in both parties, he is a go-to expert on some of the most critical subjects that directly impact Americans' lives  particularly American families' healthcare and our children's schools.\r\n\r\nThe Every Student Succeeds Act' and this year's landmark opioids legislation are two perfect examples of signature Lamar Alexander accomplishments. They tackled challenging issues in a thoughtful and substantive way. They will tangibly improve Americans' lives. And they passed both houses of Congress with big, bipartisan majorities.\r\n\r\nSo the Senate will be lesser without Lamar's wisdom, collegiality, and expertise when he retires. I am glad that day is two years away and grateful that we'll keep benefiting from his leadership through the 116th Congress.\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=AE848E8B-77EC-462F-92E4-549AF9C8CA7B", "Senate Continues Work on Remaining Priorities", "2018-12-17", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the remaining business to be completed in the Senate before the end of the year:\r\nIn recent days, I've spoken about the Senate's agenda for the remainder of the 115th Congress. As was the case at this time last week, there are important items that have yet to be addressed. But thanks to the bipartisan progress we made last week, we are significantly closer to the finish line.\r\nTogether, guided by Chairman Blunt and Senator Klobuchar, the Senate met the need to revise how Congress handles claims of sexual harassment, workplace discrimination, and other workplace violations. Under the leadership of Chairman Roberts and Senator Stabenow, we cleared the conference report for the 2018 farm bill, sending my industrial hemp legislation  and other critical provisions for America's farming communities  to the president's desk to become law. And to cap off a year of historic progress on judicial nominations, the Senate voted to confirm the 30th federal circuit judge of this Congress, and this administration.\r\n\r\nNow we will turn our attention to the remaining priorities and completing the American people's business. Last week, I announced that -- at the request of the president and following improvements that were secured by several members -- the Senate would take up criminal justice legislation here on the floor. Later this afternoon, we'll vote on advancing the legislation.\r\n\r\nI know the proponents of this bill have spent a great deal of time and energy drafting their proposal. At the same time, there are a number of members with outstanding concerns that they feel are still unresolved. So, if cloture is invoked later today, the Senate will be considering amendments before we vote on final passage later this week.\r\n\r\nOf course, the most high-profile items still before us are border security and government funding. We need to make a substantial investment in the integrity of our border and the safety of American families. And we need to close out the year's appropriations process and reach a bipartisan agreement to supply the 25% of the federal government for which we haven't already passed funding legislation. I hope the same bipartisan, collaborative spirit that has carried us this far will enable the Senate and the House to complete this business without undue delay.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/newsletters?ContentRecord_id=4415A7BA-5FC5-437C-9C08-566B936DBC56", "My hemp legalization provision passed Congress, will become law", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell \r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\tThe Senate has opened a door to new opportunities for Kentucky agriculture. After extensive collaboration with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, we passed one of my top Kentucky priorities for the year  a Farm Bill containing my legislation to legalize the production of industrial hemp. When President Trump signs the bill into law, Kentuckys farmers can continue to lead the nation in the growing, processing and manufacturing of industrial hemp.\r\nYou may be familiar with hemp's storied history in Kentucky  even Henry Clay is said to have grown it in the fields of his Lexington estate, Ashland. During World War II, the federal government went as far as to produce a promotional video encouraging the growth of Kentucky hemp, which was used to make the necessary supplies to help win the war. The crop, however, was later prohibited because of its dubious connection with an illicit cousin, marijuana.\r\nIn early 2013, Kentucky farmers and then-Agriculture Commissioner Jamie Comer brought to my attention just how wrongheaded the federal ban on hemp was. The demand for tobacco had fallen from its all-time high, the tobacco buyout I secured years earlier was winding down and Kentucky farmers needed a new cash crop. While customers could already find hemp products on store shelves, the hemp used had to be imported from other countries.\r\nKentucky has a proven track record for favorable growing conditions for hemp and there was no legitimate reason why our farmers shouldn't be allowed to grow the crop and capitalize on this growing market. That's why I secured an initiative in the 2014 Farm Bill paving the way for state hemp pilot programs that would give farmers in Kentucky the opportunity to grow and research hemp and demonstrate its potential.\r\nSince the pilot programs began, Kentucky's success has surpassed all of my expectations. Hemp can be found in food and clothing, in home insulation and your car dashboard, and in many other Kentucky Proud products. Last year alone, hemp surpassed more than $16 million in product sales and attracted more than $25 million in investments to the Commonwealth. Given this remarkable progress, I feel confident that hemp's economic contributions will keep growing with full legalization.\r\nEarlier this year, I introduced my Hemp Farming Act of 2018 to revitalize the crop in Kentucky by making it a legal commodity. Working with organizations like the Kentucky Farm Bureau, we built support for my legislation throughout the Commonwealth and in the Senate. As a senior member of the Agriculture Committee, I successfully included it in the 2018 Farm Bill, which passed the Senate overwhelmingly.\r\nThen, as Majority Leader, I appointed myself to the Conference Committee responsible for negotiating the final Farm Bill text to ensure my hemp provision made it in the final version. With my fellow conferee, Congressman Jamie Comer, we worked tirelessly to protect hemp and other measures important to Kentucky's farm economy. After months of intense negotiations, Congress recently passed the final Farm Bill and sent it to President Trump to become law.\r\nIn addition to legalizing the growth and production of domestic hemp, this new law gives states the opportunity to have oversight responsibility of the plant. That means Commissioner Ryan Quarles  another strong champion of hemp  will be in charge of the crop's regulatory framework in Kentucky. Further, hemp farmers and researchers will be eligible for competitive federal grants as well as for crop insurance.\r\nHemp is a versatile crop, and we continue to learn more about it every day. While we may not yet know its full capabilities, I am confident the ingenuity of Kentucky's farmers and producers will find new and creative uses for this exciting crop.\r\nWe are at the beginning of a new era, and I can't wait to see what comes next. It's time to show the world what Kentucky farmers can do with hemp. I was proud to do my part to bring hemp back to Kentucky, and I look forward to continuing to support its bright future in the Bluegrass State.\r\n###\r\nMitch McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, is the Senate Majority Leader. He championed the 2014 hemp pilot program, sponsored the Hemp Farming Act of 2018 and served as a key negotiator on the 2018 Farm Bill conference committee to protect his hemp legalization provision.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://barr.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/barr-holds-va-accountable-to-kentucky-student-veterans", "Barr Holds VA Accountable to Kentucky Student Veterans", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Andy Barr", "B001282", "barr.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY) this week introduced bipartisan legislation, the Forever GI Bill Housing Payment Fulfillment Act, to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) properly and retroactively pays student veterans with the educational housing benefits they have earned.\nThis legislation, introduced in response to the VA's failure to comply with the reimbursement rates set by the Forever GI Bill and an IT glitch, requires the VA to correct all under-payments and non-payments no later than January 1, 2020. Additionally, this legislation requires the VA to establish a team of specialists to establish a plan to identify all impacted veteran students, execute proper retroactive payments, and develop a new, functional IT system.\nThe Forever GI Bill provides housing benefits to thousands of Kentucky's active military, reservists, and veterans as they pursue higher education, said Congressman Barr. The VA must be held accountable for properly implementing the law and administering the Forever GI Bill in accordance with Congressional intent. Our nation's veterans deserve better than to be faced with inaccurate, late payments. This legislation will remedy an undue hardship placed on veteran students and provide oversight and accountability to ensure these payments are made in a timely manner. I look forward to the swift passage of this legislation to provide relief and certainty to our veterans.\nThe Senate is expected to pass the companion bill this week and the House of Representatives is expected to consider the Forever GI Bill Housing Payment Fulfillment Act next week.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/audiostatements?ContentRecord_id=049EDCD6-50FD-433E-BA63-E60195082E44", "12.13.18 WKYX Greg Dunker", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.13.18 WKYX Greg Dunker\nDecember\n13\n,\n2018\nRelated Files\n12.13.18 WKYX Greg Dunker - Hemp.mp3\n(3.5 MBs)\nPermalink:\nhttps://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/12-13-18-wkyx-greg-dunker", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/audiostatements?ContentRecord_id=05CCE764-ED9F-47A3-AC54-806289488A7A", "12.13.18 840 WHAS Leland Conway", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.13.18 840 WHAS Leland Conway\nDecember\n13\n,\n2018\nRelated Files\n12.13.18 840 WHAS Leland Conway.mp3\n(3.9 MBs)\nPermalink:\nhttps://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/12-13-18-840-whas-leland-conway", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=8665D78B-B880-47B9-8557-C5876E3DB60A", "Farm Bill Headed To Presidents Desk For Signature", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Farm Bill and the inclusion of a pro-hemp provision:\r\nYesterday afternoon, the House of Representatives joined the Senate in passing the Farm Bill Conference Report. Now it's on its way to the president's desk. The boost this bill delivers couldn't come soon enough. It's no secret that these are tough times for farm country. Falling prices and volatile markets make it harder to make ends meet. Net farm income continues to decline. The threat of natural disasters is a constant fear for even the most skilled and prepared farmers.\r\nFamilies in my home state of Kentucky are all too familiar with these challenges. Months of heavy rain and severe weather this year have damaged crop yields and increased the burden on producers. We're home to more than 75,000 farms. They produce everything from soybeans and poultry to horses and corn. Those families are looking to us for help and stability. And when President Trump signs our Farm Bill into law, more stability is just what they will get.\nI'd like to share some of the bill's highlights that will support farm families in the Bluegrass State, by way of example. In need of certainty and predictability, this Farm Bill extends a strong commodity safety net and protects crop insurance. It contains policies to encourage future generations of farmers to plant their own roots  particularly important in states like mine with aging agricultural populations. To preserve our land for the future, the legislation promotes conservation programs, outdoor recreation, and upgraded watershed and drinking water infrastructure.\nFor our rural communities, it expands broadband deployment and dedicates further resources to combat the opioid epidemic. For hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians faced with food insecurity, the Farm Bill increases funding for emergency programs at food banks. The legislation provides continued funding for ground-breaking agricultural research at universities and research institutions. And for producers looking for markets abroad, it strengthens our trade programs to develop new opportunities for Kentucky around the globe.\nOf course, each of these important victories for Kentucky's farmers comes in addition to the new opportunities available with the full legalization of industrial hemp, as I've discussed extensively here on the floor. So all in all, this legislation is a big win for farmers in Kentucky and across our country. I'm proud to have played a part in delivering that victory. It's been my privilege to represent Kentucky farmers on the Agriculture Committee every day that I've served in the Senate. The multi-year bill we've produced is a credit to the leadership of Chairman Roberts and Ranking Member Stabenow. And now the fruits of their labor are finally on their way to the White House. \nI'd like to express my gratitude to my fellow conferees, especially my colleague from Kentucky, Congressman Jamie Comer. I would also like to thank the Kentucky Farm Bureau, which has been my partner every step of the way. Earlier this month, the KFB announced the beginning of its centennial year. I would be hard pressed to think of a better way to celebrate that 100th birthday than with a new Farm Bill. There's a reason this bill passed both Houses with overwhelming, bipartisan majorities. There's a reason this has been a big priority for Congress and the administration. Farming families deserve more stability. Once the president signs this Farm Bill into law, that is precisely what they will have.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=D75F60CA-0C1B-4CAC-98F3-4C9B73ABE256", "An Already Productive Congress Adds More Accomplishments", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding this week's accomplishments so far and the remaining business to be completed in the Senate before the end of the year:\r\nThe Senate began this week with a long list of important, unfinished business. And make no mistake: that list remains lengthy. It will require the continued, good-faith efforts of members on both sides of the aisle to keep up the progress. We need to confirm more of the well-qualified nominees who remain waiting on the Senate's calendar. We need to deliver the targeted resources that are necessary for securing our border and fund the remaining parts of the federal government.\r\nToday, of course, debate will continue on the Sanders-Lee resolution with respect to U.S. involvement in Yemen. As I stated yesterday, their resolution is neither sufficiently prudent nor sufficiently precise for the job at hand. Yes, the Senate wants Saudi Arabia to act responsibly. We want to see a more stable Yemen for the sake of the Yemeni people. We also want to preserve this 70-year partnership, which serves our interests and helps stabilize a critical region.\r\n\r\nThis resolution before us is a blunt and imprecise measure that would not advance these delicate goals. To the contrary, it would jeopardize U.S. support that is actually limiting civilian casualties. And I maintain that, since genuine hostilities' are not involved, the resolution should not even be privileged under the War Powers Act. I urge my colleagues to vote against their resolution, and to support Chairman Corker's more responsible alternative in its place.\r\n\r\nBut even considering the work still before us, members should take pride in the significant milestones we've checked off this week. On Tuesday, the Senate completed the 30th federal circuit court confirmation of this Congress. And yesterday evening, the Senate and the House reached a landmark agreement to reform the process by which Capitol Hill itself handles claims of sexual harassment, discrimination, and other workplace violations.\r\n\r\nIt's a bicameral and bipartisan agreement. It strengthens protections for victims. It ensures that Members of Congress will be held responsible for their own misconduct -- not taxpayers. And it contains a number of other important reforms to create more transparency and accountability in this process. I am very glad that Congress will be taking this important step. I want to thank Chairman Blunt and Ranking Member Klobuchar and their counterparts in the House for working hard to get this across the finish line.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-dr-rand-paul-applauds-historic-senate-action-end-us-support-war-yemen/", "Dr. Rand Paul Applauds Historic Senate Action to End U.S. Support for the War in Yemen", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 13, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator and Senate Foreign Relations Committee member Rand Paul (R-KY) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted 56-41 to pass S.J. Res. 54. For the first time since the Vietnam War, the Senate voted to prevent a president from involving the U.S. in war.\n\n\u201cToday, in an historic vote, the Senate sent a clear message to Saudi Arabia that we will not turn a blind eye to their abuse of human rights, killing of dissidents and innocent Yemenis, and fueling of a humanitarian crisis. Since entering the Senate, I have spoken out against Congress\u2019 abdication of its constitutional responsibilities in foreign policy, and I have worked across the aisle to help build the bipartisan consensus that made its voice loudly heard today. I will continue working to ensure that today\u2019s victory is just the beginning of a long-awaited change in how Congress operates.\u201d\n\nOver the past five years, Dr. Paul has spoken out and led multiple bipartisan efforts against U.S. involvement in Yemen. Most recently, in November, he forced a procedural vote on his resolution that would have blocked the sale of an estimated $300 million in high-explosive rocket artillery and associated training and support to Bahrain, a member of the Saudi-led coalition waging the war in Yemen.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-rand-paul-applauds-historic-senate-action-end-us-support-war-yemen", "Dr. Rand Paul Applauds Historic Senate Action to End U.S. Support for the War in Yemen", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 13, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator and Senate Foreign Relations Committee member RandPaul(R-KY) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted 56-41to pass S.J. Res. 54. For the first time since the Vietnam War, the Senate voted to prevent a president from involving the U.S. in war.   Today, in an historic vote, the Senate sent a clear message to Saudi Arabia that we will not turn a blind eye to their abuse of human rights, killing of dissidents and innocent Yemenis, and fueling of a humanitarian crisis. Since entering the Senate, I have spoken out against Congress' abdication of its constitutional responsibilities in foreign policy, and I have worked across the aisle to help build the bipartisan consensus that made its voice loudly heard today. I will continue working to ensure that today's victory is just the beginning of a long-awaited change in how Congress operates. Over the past five years, Dr.Paulhas spoken out and led multiple bipartisan efforts against U.S. involvement in Yemen. Most recently, in November, he forced a procedural vote on his resolution that would have blocked the saleofan estimated $300 million in high-explosive rocket artillery and associated training and support to Bahrain, a member of the Saudi-led coalition waging the war inYemen.   ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://comer.house.gov/2018/12/farm-bill-passes-house-representatives", "Farm Bill Passes the House of Representatives", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "James Comer", "C001108", "comer.house.gov", "comer", "https://comer.house.gov/media", "scraper", "Today the House of Representatives passed a five-year Farm Bill. Congressman Comer, along with 368 other congressional colleagues, voted in support of the bill. The Agriculture Improvement Act (H.R. 2) includes many incremental wins for rural America. It fully protects crop insurance, makes significant improvements to rural broadband, and implements key changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).\n\n\u201cThis Farm Bill will help America\u2019s farmers survive a nearly 50% drop in net farm income over the past five years, and we importantly moved the needle on SNAP to make the program more effective for recipients. I\u2019m particularly happy to see \u2013 with Leader McConnell\u2019s help \u2013 the provision de-scheduling hemp from the controlled substances list included in the bill. With a strong USDA and state-based framework, the unnecessary government restrictions on hemp have finally been lifted and now farmers across the country can take full advantage of the crop\u2019s potential as an agriculture commodity,\u201d Congressman Comer said. \u201cDuring difficult economic times for farm country, overall this bill provides certainty to our farmers and provides tools for a more successful future in rural America.\u201d\n\nHouse Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway commented, \u201cHouse Republicans refused to stop fighting for rural America and we\u2019ve reached a deal that sets us on a better path \u2013 for producers, for rural communities and for American consumers. Congressman Comer has been a strong advocate and critical voice for production agriculture in this farm bill conference process and I\u2019m thankful for his leadership, which helped get this across the finish line.\u201d\n\nOn Tuesday, the Senate adopted the compromise with an 87-13 vote. The Agriculture Improvement Act will now be sent to President Trump to be signed into law.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases?ID=5F999EBB-9EAF-4BFE-B52D-987E7C5F0CF5", "Congress Passes Bipartisan Farm Bill", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Harold Rogers", "R000395", "halrogers.house.gov", "halrogers", "https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "\"The Farm Bill provides important investments for infrastructure projects, like access to broadband and clean water in rural America. It also strengthens the nation's flagship nutrition program, while boosting workforce development and addiction treatment resources,\" said Congressman Rogers. \"This legislation modernizes the SNAP program in a way that helps participants get back on their feet, while preserving resources for the most vulnerable among us who can't afford basic necessities. It also strengthens the farm safety net, cuts burdensome red tape and supports future farmers.\"\n\n\"I'm pleased that this bill invests in broadband development, working in concert with our vision for Kentucky Wired, which will provide connectivity to every county in the state, starting with Eastern Kentucky,\" said Rogers.\n\nThe Farm Bill also directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture to prioritize Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) assistance for producers striving to stabilize water resources and cost-share practices, which improve drought resiliency and agricultural productivity.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/audiostatements?ContentRecord_id=A381420E-6510-4D26-A1C3-20EE9C86AD5C", "12.12.18 WVLK Larry Glover", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.12.18 WVLK Larry Glover\nDecember\n12\n,\n2018\nRelated Files\n12.12.18 WVLK Larry Glover - Hemp.mp3\n(4.8 MBs)\nPermalink:\nhttps://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/12-12-18-wvlk-larry-glover", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=0B093C4E-3D73-43E6-8437-52FA7137107D", "McConnell Hemp Provision Will Soon Become Law", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Farm Bill's pro-hemp provision and the Senate's remaining business for the year:\r\nThe end of the year is fast approaching. There are a number of important items left on the Senate's agenda and little time to address them. We will clear more of the president's well-qualified executive branch and judicial nominees from the calendar. We will consider updated legislation supported by the administration to address criminal justice. And we need to pass an agreement to fill the remaining gaps in appropriations, including critical funding for securing our borders.\r\nFortunately, the Senate took a major step yesterday by passing the Farm Bill. We got that much closer to delivering a big shot in the arm to farmers and rural communities across the country. Along with providing certainty to agricultural communities, I am especially proud that the legislation will open a new door for farmers in Kentucky and around the country to explore the full potential of industrial hemp.\r\nThis is the culmination of a lot of work by a number of us here in Washington. But really, the victory is for the growers, processors, manufacturers, and consumers who stand to benefit from this growing marketplace. American hemp has a long and distinguished history. Some of this very body's notable figures  including Thomas Jefferson and Henry Clay  are believed to have grown it. During World War II, the federal government even encouraged hemp production to support the war effort.\r\nUnfortunately, because of hemp's illicit cousin, marijuana, the federal government subsequently banned it altogether for generations. In 2013, Kentucky agricultural leaders showed me hemp's incredible potential for the Bluegrass State. We decided it was time to let America's farmers show everyone what hemp could do.\r\nFirst, I included experimental pilot programs for states like Kentucky in the 2014 Farm Bill. And the results have been undeniable. Hemp has quickly become a booming success. Its uses range from food and pharmaceuticals to home insulation and automotive parts. Enthusiastic farmers quickly applied to plant the crop in their fields. Entrepreneurs opened businesses selling hemp-based products. And consumers got to enjoy a whole new set of goods featuring American-made hemp.\r\nIn my home state alone, farmers grew in excess of 3,200 acres of hemp in 2017. This year, the number of acres more than doubled. Estimates show that, once legalized, sales from hemp will soon surpass $1 billion. Watching this remarkable success, we knew it was time to take the next step. I introduced legislation to finally and fully legalize hemp.\r\nWorking with agriculture leaders and law enforcement in Kentucky and here in Washington, we built support. And as a member of the Agriculture Committee, I was proud that the legislation was included in the Senate's version of the Farm Bill. I was proud to serve personally on the Conference Committee to ensure that language stayed in place. And yesterday, the Senate passed that conference report. The House will pass it as early as later today, and this provision and the rest of the Farm Bill will be on its way to President Trump's desk to become law.\r\nSo what exactly will this legislation do? The Farm Bill we passed yesterday both legalizes hemp as an agricultural commodity and removes it from the controlled substances list. It gives states the opportunity to be the primary overseers of hemp production. It also allows hemp researchers to apply for competitive federal grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and made hemp eligible for crop insurance. Together, these features will encourage new opportunities for struggling farmers and their families. New products for use in construction, health care, and manufacturing. And new jobs in a broad range of fields.\r\nI've been honored to gain many partners throughout this process. Here in the Senate, thanks to the leading Democratic cosponsor of our original bill, Sen. Wyden, and to my Kentucky colleague Senator Paul. Congressman Jamie Comer has championed hemp for years and sponsored our legislation in the House. And in Kentucky, Commissioner Ryan Quarles has been a longtime ally of this crop's bright future in our Commonwealth. I look forward to the House passing our Farm Bill soon and sending it to President Trump for signature. I'd be happy to loan him my hemp pen for the occasion.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=43811936-D080-4354-914C-D71F110A55F0", "Leader McConnell Pays Tribute to Senator Orrin Hatch", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the retirement of friend and colleague, Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT):\r\nIt is my bittersweet job this morning to pay tribute to an historic Senate career that will conclude at the end of this Congress. Senator Orrin Hatch has faithfully represented the people of Utah in this body for the last 42 years. That makes him dean of our Republican conference and, of course, president pro tempore of the Senate. It also makes him the longest-serving Republican Senator in our nation's history.\r\nSo Orrin's longevity alone would have guaranteed him a place among the giants of the Senate. As he joked a couple of weeks ago, one of the most memorable experiences from his early Senate tenure was the confirmation process for Justice Joseph Story back in 1811. Apparently it was quite the scene, Orrin tells us. Seriously, though -- the most impressive thing about Orrin Hatch is not the historic length of his tenure here, but how completely filled with accomplishments that time has been.\r\nBut let's back up for a moment. It wasn't always obvious that our friend would become a star U.S. Senator. At one point, it looked like another kind of stardom might be more probable. And I'm not just talking about the successful law practice he set aside to run for office. We all know about Orrin's musical talent and his contributions to the recording industry. And I am told that, just a few years before Orrin's first campaign in 1976, the lawyer and family man was moonlighting as band manager for a groundbreaking Mormon folk group called The Free Agency.'\r\nWell, it's fortunate for all of us that this free agent felt called to bring his talents here to Washington. There's a famous story from that first campaign in 1976. Orrin had no political experience. A stranger to running for office. But he had this sense that public service was his mission. Perhaps he was thinking of his beloved big brother Jesse, who gave his life in World War II when Orrin was just ten. He started asking around: Did his friends and family think he had a shot at a Senate seat? Few liked his chances in the primary. Even fewer, against the three-term incumbent. But the worst reaction of all came from his beloved wife Elaine.\r\nThe story goes, when Orrin filed his papers to run, she cried for three days straight. I'm not sure whether that was unhappiness at the prospect of an East Coast life they hadn't planned for, or a fairly accurate assessment of his chances at that point. But Orrin beat the odds. With the help of a big endorsement from a former California Governor named Ronald Reagan, this young, conservative upstart pulled off the upset.\r\nActually, there's a little secret surrounding this endorsement. Few people know this, but I'm sorry to say, Orrin was actually the Gipper's second choice. You see, our friend was so unknown that Reagan's first telegram offered a ringing endorsement of somebody called Warren Hatch.' Happily, the error was quickly corrected. Orrin earned Utah's trust and found his way here to this chamber.\r\nSome of his new Senate peers thought their new colleague should lay low and keep quiet about his principles. They had no idea what they were in for. This Pittsburgh-born son of a metal lather was ready for action. Orrin was once an amateur boxer, and he came ready to brawl. In his very first term, he decided he had to take down this far-left Labor Law Reform' effort that would have hurt free enterprise and future prosperity. So he took on a couple of heavyweights -- Senator Robert Byrd plus George Meany and the whole machinery of Big Labor.\r\nThis freshman became the public face and the private backbone of the opposition. It was an epic showdown. Orrin worked 18-hour days. He taught his whole staff how to draft amendments. He gave pep talks to his ragtag bipartisan band of brothers -- Dick Lugar, Howard Baker, Fritz Hollings from across the aisle -- trying to keep everyone in the boat. And it worked. They withstood six cloture votes, breaking the record for a single bill. They won. And American prosperity was kept safe from a big power grab by union bosses.\r\nIt only seems fitting, decades later, the other end of Orrin's Senate tenure would also be marked by a major, hard-won, right-of-center accomplishment to help advance prosperity for all Americans. Orrin has chaired three of the Senate's most distinguished and critical committees -- HELP, Judiciary, and most recently, Finance. And this Congress, as Finance chairman, he led the charge to deliver once-in-a-generation tax relief to middle-class American families and tax reform to American job creators. More late nights. More painstaking negotiation. Chairman Hatch had to thread the needle, attending carefully to his colleagues' needs and keeping his eyes on the prize. And once again -- he got it done.\r\nWhat about the decades in between those big bookmarks? First and foremost may be Senator Hatch's special devotion to the federal judiciary -- to its essential role in our constitutional order, and to its need for the highest-quality personnel. Well, over his Senate tenure, Orrin has participated in the confirmation of more than half of all the Article III judges who have served the United States of America in our nation's history. Let me say that again: Orrin has met with, studied up on, questioned, or at least voted on more than half of all the federal judges in American history.\r\nThat includes all nine members of the current Supreme Court. When he's supported a particular nominee -- such as Justices Thomas, Gorsuch, and Kavanaugh -- Orrin has been a leading champion of their cause, even in the face of unfair slights and smears. And even in cases when he's felt compelled to vote against nominees, he's treated them and the process itself with the respect and dignity that it is due. The pile of Orrin's legislative victories is almost as high as that tower of distinguished judges. And many of them are defined by one signature thread that connects much of his proudest work: His great care for -- and commitment to serve -- the most vulnerable members of our society.\r\nThe State Children's Health Insurance Program. The Americans With Disabilities Act. Hatch-Waxman, for generic drugs. Some of the earliest work funding AIDS research. Even his very recent work to designate 6-1-1' as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.\r\nSo Orrin has led a bit of a double life' here in the Senate. And I mean that in the best possible way. He's been every bit the principled fighter, as advertised. He's led the charge often and hasn't flinched from the big battles. But at the very same time, there was Orrin, constantly working quietly behind the scenes and across the aisle to tick off victories for vulnerable Americans who could easily have been left behind.\r\nOne perfect illustration of this was Orrin's friendship with the late Ted Kennedy. For many of the years they spent here in the Senate, it seemed like they managed to rank among each other's closer friends, top collaborators, and most persistent sparring partners all at the same time. But that's Orrin. He loves the give and take. He loves to discuss and debate. His colleagues and his staff can rely on him equally to sit down and talk at length if they see an issue differently than he does. He does not dismiss or overrule. He wants to learn, to persuade, and to be persuaded.\r\nNo wonder Orrin's peers are so fond of him, and his team is so loyal to him. I'm thinking especially of Ruthie Montoya, Orrin's scheduler for more than three decades -- a member of the Senate family in her own right. But really, you can't help but respect Orrin. Because his own respect -- for this institution, and for the dignity of every individual he meets -- is so evident.\r\nUtahns know this better than anyone. They know they can run into their senior Senator on the sidewalk, or out shopping, and he will stop and listen carefully to their thoughts and concerns and life story -- maybe over a Costco hot dog. And he will take all of it to heart. And how could this be surprising? This distinguished statesman grew up modestly. His mother had her hands full raising seven children and his father supported the family with his work as a metal lather.\r\nThe hours were long. The work was hard. But the life lessons were invaluable. Orrin worked his way through college and law school. When his scholarship didn't prove quite enough to support a young family, he worked nights as a janitor and attendant -- and still graduated with honors. That education has carried Orrin far. But not as far as something else he gained in college. It was in one BYU classroom that providence did Orrin a great favor -- with an assist from alphabetical order. Because Hatch -- comma -- Orrin' came right after Hansen -- comma -- Elaine,' he found himself seated next to this pretty young lady, and struck up a conversation.\r\nThat seating chart kicked off a blessed marriage of sixty-plus years and counting. Not every young husband would have left a successful law practice on the East Coast and started over in Utah to be closer to his wife's family. Not every wife and mother would tolerate  let alone encourage and support  half a lifetime of public service two thousand miles from where they'd planned to call home. That loving partnership has brought six children, 23 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren. Orrin's been known to refer to this brood as the Hatchlings.'\r\nSo it's our hope that the Senate's great loss upon Orrin's retirement will at least be this great family's loving gain. We are sad to bid farewell to our artist-in-residence and his platinum records. To this former all-star missionary and LDS bishop who still practices what he preached. To this living example of the American dream at its most extraordinary. This Pittsburgh fighter who climbed up from working poverty and became The Gentleman of the Senate' -- where he dedicated his work to strengthening that ladder for the generations that would follow.\r\nOrrin has been so generous to his colleagues, to this institution, to the state and the nation he's served. He has given us so much. He retires with great congratulations on a most distinguished career, and our very warmest wishes for a peaceful and happy retirement.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://guthrie.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=24&itemid=1793", "Guthrie Medicaid Bill Passes House", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Brett Guthrie", "G000558", "guthrie.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. Today the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Brett Guthrie's (KY-02) legislation to help certain Medicaid beneficiaries voluntarily transition to receiving care in their communities or in their own homes rather than at a facility.  Guthrie introduced the EMPOWER Care Act earlier this year with Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) to extend the federal Money Follows the Person program, which allows certain Medicaid beneficiaries  such as the elderly or individuals with disabilities  to transition from a health care facility to receiving care in their own homes. Their bill was included in the broader IMPROVE Act (H.R. 7217), and extends the Money Follows the Person program into next year. The IMPROVE Act passed in the House by a vote of 400 to 11.  I was proud to introduce the EMPOWER Care Act to help patients with disabilities and elderly get the care they want to receive in the way they want to receive it,said Guthrie. It does not force patients to leave a facility if they don't want to. My home state of Kentucky is currently working to voluntarily transition 50 individuals from health care facilities back into their own communities, empowering these individuals who have chosen to receive care in the community.      ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/audiostatements?ContentRecord_id=1BE2C69E-46EF-42FB-B761-86A7AC70D6BD", "12.11.18 840WHAS Terry Meiners", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.11.18 840WHAS Terry Meiners\nDecember\n11\n,\n2018\nRelated Files\n12.11.18 840WHAS Terry Meiners.mp3\n(3.9 MBs)\nPermalink:\nhttps://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/12-11-18-840whas-terry-meiners", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/audiostatements?ContentRecord_id=20485C66-6D6B-4C54-B2A5-BDCD036F1760", "12.11.18 WKDZ Alan Watts", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.11.18 WKDZ Alan Watts\nDecember\n11\n,\n2018\nRelated Files\n12.11.18 WKDZ Alan Watts - Hemp.mp3\n(939.9 KBs)\nPermalink:\nhttps://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/12-11-18-wkdz-alan-watts", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=0B351A44-2C7D-429B-9EC0-A699674F0285", "Senate Passes Farm Bill; McConnells Hemp Language Included", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) applauded Senate passage today of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Farm Bill). The Farm Bill takes serious steps to ensure the future of American agriculture, and it contains the legislation -- championed by Majority Leader McConnell -- that will empower farmers to expand cultivation of industrial hemp, a crop that has the potential to play a key role in the economic future of Kentucky and the nation. The House of Representatives will vote on the Farm Bill in the coming days, prior to it being sent to President Donald Trump for his signature.\r\n\r\nSenator McConnell's measure legalizes hemp as an agricultural commodity by removing it from the federal list of controlled substances. It also gives states the opportunity to become the primary regulators of hemp production, allows hemp researchers to apply for competitive federal grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and makes hemp eligible for crop insurance. This measure builds upon the hemp pilot programs, which Senator McConnell secured in the 2014 Farm Bill.\r\n\r\nLast year alone, Kentucky hemp recorded more than $16 million in product sales through the state pilot program I previously secured, demonstrating that hemp holds great potential for the future of Kentucky agriculture, said Senator McConnell. My Hemp Farming Act as included in the Farm Bill will not only legalize domestic hemp, but it will also allow state departments of agriculture to be responsible for its oversight. In Kentucky, that means that Commissioner Ryan Quarles, another champion of hemp, will oversee hemp production in Kentucky. I applaud the Senate for approving the Farm Bill, which will give farmers throughout the country the chance to continue tapping into hemp's potential and expand its market. I also would like to thank my colleague U.S. Representative James Comer (KY-1) for his work on this issue over the years and for sponsoring my bill in the House.\r\n\r\nWhen I was elected Commissioner of Agriculture, I promised to take Kentucky's hemp program to the next level and establish our state as the epicenter of the industry in the United States, said Commissioner of Agriculture Ryan Quarles. This Farm Bill helps achieve that goal, and demonstrates that hemp is no longer a novelty but a serious crop that will unleash economic opportunity for our farmers. We would not be here today without the unwavering support of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and our congressional delegation.\r\n\r\nIn collaboration with agriculture leaders in Kentucky and throughout the nation, Senator McConnell utilized his position as Senate Majority Leader to secure his language in the 2014 Farm Bill to authorize hemp research pilot programs. He built on that success with federal legislation to ensure that hemp produced from the pilot programs could be transported, processed, and marketed without interference from the federal government. Under the guidance of Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Quarles and his predecessor, now-U.S. Representative Comer, these programs have allowed Kentucky farmers to both research the plant and to demonstrate its full potential.\r\n\r\nWithout Senator McConnell's leadership on the 2018 Farm Bill and the Hemp Language, it would not have gotten this far. I am grateful that the Majority Leader found this issue so important that he appointed himself as a Farm Bill conferee to ensure his bill to legalize hemp will become a reality. As a Kentucky hemp farmer and processor, it is very important to me that Congress passes this bill and sends it to the President's desk, said Brian Furnish, Director of Farming & Global Production at Ananda Hemp in Cynthiana, Kentucky.\r\n\r\n\"We appreciate Senator McConnell's unwavering support and leadership on behalf of hemp in Congress. By securing hemp legalization in the Farm Bill, Kentuckians can feel confident in the future of hemp and fully embrace its potential as an agricultural crop. This will open a vast amount of new opportunities for farmers, processors, retailers, and entrepreneurs like us here in Kentucky and nationwide, said Alyssa Erickson, Co-founder of Kentucky Hempsters.\r\n\r\nIn addition to the hemp measure, the Farm Bill strengthens the safety measures that directly help commodity producers as they confront low prices, volatile markets, and the constant threat of natural disasters. It also seizes on a number of opportunities to invest in the future of American agriculture and rural communities by expanding rural broadband, enhancing water infrastructure, and continuing the fight against the opioid epidemic that is devastating rural America.\r\n\r\nAccording the 2017 processor production reports: Kentucky licensed processors paid Kentucky growers $7.5 million for harvested hemp. Additionally, Industrial Hemp Research Pilot Program processor licensees reported $25.6 million in capital improvements and investments and $16.7 million in gross product sales. In 2017, more than 3,200 acres of hemp were being grown across Kentucky.\r\n\r\nNOTE: The Farm Bill Conference Report was signed by conferees on Monday night, including Senator McConnell who signed it with a pen made from hemp grown in Kentucky. Here is a link to download a high resolution photo of Senator McConnell signing it with the hemp pen: https://bit.ly/2LbWnV5\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=0F98C0E4-2E6B-4EED-AB14-60F754DA10E7", "Senator McConnells Hemp Provision Included in Farm Bill; One Step Closer to Becoming Law", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today that his language to legalize industrial hemp is officially included in the finalized Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Farm Bill). The Farm Bill Conference Report takes serious steps to ensure the future of American agriculture, and it contains the legislation -- championed by Majority Leader McConnell -- that would empower farmers to begin cultivating industrial hemp, a crop that can play a key role in the economic future of Kentucky and the nation.\r\nThe Farm Bill Conference Report was signed by conferees last night, including Senator McConnell who signed it with a pen made from hemp grown in Kentucky. U.S. Representative James Comer (KY-01), another Farm Bill conferee and the sponsor of Senator McConnell's hemp provision in the House of Representatives, also signed the Farm Bill Conference Report.\r\nSenator McConnell's measure legalizes hemp as an agricultural commodity by removing it from the federal list of controlled substances. It also gives states the opportunity to become the primary regulators of hemp production, allows hemp researchers to apply for competitive federal grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and makes hemp eligible for crop insurance. This measure builds upon the hemp pilot programs, which Senator McConnell secured in the 2014 Farm Bill.\r\nLast year alone, Kentucky hemp recorded more than $16 million in product sales through the state pilot program I previously secured, demonstrating that hemp holds great potential for the future of Kentucky agriculture, said Senator McConnell. My Hemp Farming Act as included in the Farm Bill will not only legalize domestic hemp, but it will also allow state departments of agriculture to be responsible for its oversight. In Kentucky, that means that Commissioner Ryan Quarles, another champion of hemp, will be able to help farmers thrive. When the Senate votes on this legislation in the coming days, we will also be voting to give farmers throughout the country the chance to tap into hemp's potential and take part in its future.\r\nWhen I was elected Commissioner of Agriculture, I promised to take Kentucky's hemp program to the next level and establish our state as the epicenter of the industry in the United States, said Commissioner of Agriculture Ryan Quarles. This Farm Bill helps achieve that goal, and demonstrates that hemp is no longer a novelty but a serious crop that will unleash economic opportunity for our farmers. We would not be here today without the unwavering support of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and our congressional delegation.\r\nIn collaboration with agriculture leaders in Kentucky and throughout the nation, Senator McConnell utilized his position as Senate Majority Leader to secure language in the 2014 Farm Bill to authorize hemp research pilot programs. He built on that success with federal legislation to ensure that hemp produced from the pilot programs could be transported, processed, and marketed. Under the guidance of Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Quarles and his predecessor, now-U.S. Representative Comer, these programs have allowed Kentucky farmers to both research the plant and to demonstrate its full potential.\r\nWithout Senator McConnell's leadership on the 2018 Farm Bill and the Hemp Language, it would not have gotten this far. I am grateful that the Majority Leader found this issue so important that he appointed himself as a Farm Bill conferee to ensure his bill to legalize hemp will become a reality. As a Kentucky hemp farmer and processor, it is very important to me that Congress passes this bill and sends it to the President's desk, said Brian Furnish, Director of Farming & Global Production at Ananda Hemp in Cynthiana, Kentucky.\r\n\"We appreciate Senator McConnell's unwavering support and leadership on behalf of hemp in Congress.By securing hemp legalization in the Farm Bill, Kentuckians can feel confident in the future of hemp and fully embrace its potential as an agricultural crop.This will open a vast amount of new opportunities for farmers, processors, retailers, and entrepreneurs like us here in Kentucky and nationwide, said Alyssa Erickson, Co-founder of Kentucky Hempsters.\r\nThe Farm Bill Conference Report is expected to be approved by the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives in the coming days; it will then be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature. In addition to the hemp measure, the Farm Bill strengthens the safety measures that directly help commodity producers as they confront low prices, volatile markets, and the constant threat of natural disasters. It also seizes on a number of opportunities to invest in the future of American agriculture and rural communities by expanding rural broadband, enhancing water infrastructure, and continuing the fight against the opioid epidemic that is devastating rural America.\r\nAccording the 2017 processor production reports: Kentucky licensed processors paid Kentucky growers $7.5 million for harvested hemp. Additionally, Industrial Hemp Research Pilot Program processor licensees reported $25.6 million in capital improvements and investments and $16.7 million in gross product sales. In 2017, more than 3,200 acres of hemp were being grown across Kentucky.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=48A30503-720D-4383-AABB-A49563458D25", "McConnell Hemp Provision Clears Another Hurdle; Final Vote Expected Soon", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate regarding the Farm Bill and the inclusion of a pro-hemp provision: \r\nAs I mentioned a moment ago, one key piece of our unfinished business is the Farm Bill. Last night I used my very own hemp pen to sign the conference report, clearing the way for the House and the Senate to pass the legislation and send it to the president's desk. And I'm proud that the bill includes my provision to legalize the production of industrial hemp. It's a victory for farmers and consumers throughout our country.\r\nFighting for Kentucky hemp has been a long struggle. My state was once the national leader in the growing and production of industrial hemp. But then, for decades, a federal ban halted that progress and shut American farmers out of the hemp field. Don't get me wrong, hemp could still be found in this country, in all kinds of products. The problem is that it's just all being grown somewhere else and imported.\r\nIt's time to let American growers get back in business with this versatile crop once again. The farmers, processors, and manufacturers in my state and across this country are ready for the hemp comeback. It began in 2014 when I secured the establishment of hemp pilot programs, with the help of then-Agriculture Commissioner Jamie Comer. States like Kentucky got the chance to explore the plant's potential and to show us all just what hemp could do. And the results have been nothing short of extraordinary.\r\nNow, American-grown hemp can be found in your food, your clothes, even in your car dashboard. The results mean jobs, economic growth, and new opportunity. Last year alone, hemp products contributed more than $16 million to Kentucky's economy. And this is just the pilot program. At a time when farm income is down and our growers are struggling, industrial hemp is a bright spot of agriculture's future. My provision in the Farm Bill will not only legalize domestic hemp, but it will also allow state departments of agriculture to be responsible for its oversight. In Kentucky, that means that Commissioner Ryan Quarles, another champion of hemp, will be able to help farmers thrive.\r\nWhen the Senate votes on this legislation in the coming days, we will also be voting to give farmers throughout the country the chance to tap into hemp's potential and take part in its future. I've been proud to work with my colleagues in Congress, like Senator Wyden, and with hemp's advocates in Kentucky to get to this point. And I will proudly vote for this bill.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-dr-rand-paul-applauds-senate-taking-criminal-justice-reform/", "Dr. Rand Paul Applauds Senate for Taking Up Criminal Justice Reform!", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 11, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) released the following statement after U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell announced the Senate would take up the bipartisan First Step Act:\n\n\u201cHaving led the fight on criminal justice reform for the past six years, I applaud Senator McConnell for scheduling this very important vote. This is bipartisan, has the support of President Donald J. Trump, and, simply put, makes common sense. I have worked in a bipartisan fashion and introduced six different pieces of criminal justice legislation to help bring much-needed reform to our system, and I look forward to passing this in the Senate as soon as possible.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-dr-rand-paul-applauds-trump-administration-proposal-would-protect-kentucky-farmers-and-coal/", "Dr. Rand Paul Applauds Trump Administration for Proposal that Would Protect Kentucky Farmers and Coal Miners", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 11, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced a proposal to overturn a bureaucratic power grab by the Obama administration and redefine the \u201cWaters of the United States\u201d (WOTUS) in a manner mirroring legislation Dr. Paul previously introduced to help protect Kentucky farmers and coal miners:\n\n\u201cThe current, overly burdensome \u2018Waters of the United States\u2019 rule from the Obama administration places significant hardships on states, landowners, and farmers, granting broad federal control over water, and I have long called and worked for action to protect Kentuckians and all other Americans from its effects. As part of those efforts, I have previously introduced the Defense of Environment and Property Act, which I will reintroduce before the end of this Congress, to provide a permanent statutory fix for this issue. I applaud the Trump administration for its action today to revise the definition of WOTUS and provide needed clarity on the scope of federal water jurisdiction.\u201d\n\nIn 2015, the Obama administration\u2019s WOTUS rule significantly expanded the definition of waters in the U.S. to include non-navigable waters, certain dry land, drains, ditches, small ponds, and even depressions in fields that are only wet after heavy rains.\n\nAlong with cosponsoring S.J. Res. 22 in 2015, which would have nullified the WOTUS rule, Dr. Paul introduced his Defense of Environment and Property Act that same year to define \u201cnavigable waters\u201d as navigable-in-fact and relatively permanent bodies of water. Earlier this year, during Senate consideration of the Farm Bill, Dr. Paul and U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) offered an amendment that would have repealed the WOTUS rule.\n\nBackground on EPA/Army Corps of Engineers Proposal:\n\nProposed Revised Definition of \u201cWaters of the United States\u201d:\n\nClearly defines \u201cWaters of the United States\u201d as:\n\nTraditional navigable waters;\n\nTributaries of such waters;\n\nCertain ditches;\n\nCertain lakes and ponds;\n\nImpoundments of otherwise jurisdictional waters; and\n\nWetlands adjacent to other jurisdictional waters.\n\nEliminates the \u201csignificant nexus test\u201d\n\nYou can read the Trump administration\u2019s proposed revised definition here and a summary here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-rand-paul-applauds-senate-taking-criminal-justice-reform", "Dr. Rand Paul Applauds Senate for Taking Up Criminal Justice Reform!", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 11, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343     WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) released the following statement after U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell announced the Senate would take up the bipartisan First Step Act:    Having led the fight on criminal justice reform for the past six years, I applaud Senator McConnell for scheduling this very important vote. This is bipartisan, has the support of President Donald J. Trump, and, simply put, makes common sense. I have worked in a bipartisan fashion and introduced six different pieces of criminal justice legislation to help bring much-needed reform to our system, and I look forward to passing this in the Senate as soon as possible.   ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-rand-paul-applauds-trump-administration-proposal-would-protect-kentucky-farmers-and-coal", "Dr. Rand Paul Applauds Trump Administration for Proposal that Would Protect Kentucky Farmers and Coal Miners", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 11, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343     WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced a proposal to overturn a bureaucratic power grab by the Obama administration and redefine the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) in a manner mirroring legislation Dr. Paul previously introduced to help protect Kentucky farmers and coal miners:   The current, overly burdensome Waters of the United States' rule from the Obama administration places significant hardships on states, landowners, and farmers, granting broad federal control over water, and I have long called and worked for action to protect Kentuckians and all other Americans from its effects. As part of those efforts, I have previously introduced the Defense of Environment and Property Act, which I will reintroduce before the end of this Congress, to provide a permanent statutory fix for this issue. I applaud the Trump administration for its action today to revise the definition of WOTUS and provide needed clarity on the scope of federal water jurisdiction. In 2015, the Obama administration's WOTUS rule significantly expanded the definition of waters in the U.S. to include non-navigable waters, certain dry land, drains, ditches, small ponds, and even depressions in fields that are only wet after heavy rains.    Along with cosponsoring S.J. Res. 22 in 2015, which would have nullified the WOTUS rule, Dr. Paul introduced his Defense of Environment and Property Act that same year to define navigable waters as navigable-in-fact and relatively permanent bodies of water. Earlier this year, during Senate consideration of the Farm Bill, Dr. Paul and U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) offered an amendment that would have repealed the WOTUS rule.    Background on EPA/Army Corps of Engineers Proposal:    Proposed Revised Definition of Waters of the United States:  Clearly defines Waters of the United States as:    Traditional navigable waters;    Tributaries of such waters;    Certain ditches;    Certain lakes and ponds;   Impoundments of otherwise jurisdictional waters; and    Wetlands adjacent to other jurisdictional waters. Eliminates the significant nexus test   You can read the Trump administration's proposed revised definition here and a summary here.   ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=9F91B834-9FF9-43E0-9FAB-9C415EB3B1D6", "Senate to Confirm Presidents Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Nominee", "2018-12-10", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate regarding the need to confirm more of the president's well-qualified nominees: \r\nThis will be a busy week here in the Senate. We'll begin by making more progress on the president's nominees. Later today, we will vote to advance the nomination of President Trump's choice to serve as Deputy Secretary at the Department of the Treasury, Justin Muzinich. This nomination was reported favorably by our colleagues on the Finance Committee earlier this year. Chairman Hatch has characterized the nominee as, quote, qualified, competent, and ready to get to work.'\r\nAs we speak, of course, Mr. Muzinich is already serving as senior counselor to Secretary Mnuchin. He is drawing on years of experience in financial management and putting that experience to work through public service. The nominee holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a JD from Yale. He has a distinguished record in the private sector and as an instructor at Columbia Business School.\r\nAs the Treasury Department continues its work  implementing the new tax code, developing foreign sanctions, and in a variety of other important areas  it is more important than ever that the Deputy Secretary position be filled. I urge each of my colleagues to join me in voting to fill that vacancy with this well-qualified nominee as we advance his nomination later today.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://guthrie.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=24&itemid=1790", "Guthrie Announces Warren County Rural Development Water Loan", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Brett Guthrie", "G000558", "guthrie.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) office of Rural Development is awarding a $645,000 loan to the Warren County Water District to improve wastewater systems.    I'm proud to announce this water development investment for Warren County, said Guthrie.This loan package will be used to rehabilitate 35 miles of sewer lines to preserve water safety for over 6,000 residents in Warren County. This is great news for Warren County, and I congratulate the Warren County Water District on receiving this competitive award.    ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://guthrie.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=24&itemid=1791", "Guthrie Announces Washington County Rural Development Water Grant", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Brett Guthrie", "G000558", "guthrie.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) office of Rural Development is awarding a $2,903,720 grant and a $9 million loan to the City of Springfield to improve wastewater systems.    I'm proud to announce this water development investment for Washington County, said Guthrie.This grant and loan package will be used to expand the existing wastewater treatment plant capacity, which will serve over 1,300 residents in Washington County. This is great news for Washington County, and I congratulate the City of Springfield on receiving this competitive award.    ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://guthrie.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=24&itemid=1792", "Guthrie Announces $11.5 Million Daviess County Transportation Grant", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Brett Guthrie", "G000558", "guthrie.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) program is awarding a $11,520,000 grant to Daviess County to reconstruct KY 331 between 2nd and 4th Streets and the Owensboro Riverport.    I am proud to announce this huge grant for Daviess County to improve KY 331, said Guthrie. KY 331 is a narrow roadway that is utilized by a high percentage of daily truck traffic, which then mixes with area residential traffic. This grant will allow Owensboro to widen approximately 2.6 miles of KY 331 and to reconstruct the CSX railroad crossing. This is great news for Daviess County residents and businesses. I congratulate Daviess County on receiving this competitive grant.      ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://guthrie.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=385781", "Guthrie Announces Washington County Rural Development Water Grant", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Brett Guthrie", "G000558", "guthrie.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC\u2013 Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) office of Rural Development is awarding a $2,903,720 grant and a $9 million loan to the City of Springfield to improve wastewater systems.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to announce this water development investment for Washington County,\u201d said Guthrie.\u201cThis grant and loan package will be used to expand the existing wastewater treatment plant capacity, which will serve over 1,300 residents in Washington County. This is great news for Washington County, and I congratulate the City of Springfield on receiving this competitive award.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://guthrie.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=385782", "Guthrie Announces Warren County Rural Development Water Loan", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Brett Guthrie", "G000558", "guthrie.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC\u2013 Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) office of Rural Development is awarding a $645,000 loan to the Warren County Water District to improve wastewater systems.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to announce this water development investment for Warren County,\u201d said Guthrie.\u201cThis loan package will be used to rehabilitate 35 miles of sewer lines to preserve water safety for over 6,000 residents in Warren County. This is great news for Warren County, and I congratulate the Warren County Water District on receiving this competitive award.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://guthrie.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=385783", "Guthrie Announces $11.5 Million Daviess County Transportation Grant", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Brett Guthrie", "G000558", "guthrie.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC\u2013 Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) program is awarding a $11,520,000 grant to Daviess County to reconstruct KY 331 between 2nd and 4th Streets and the Owensboro Riverport.\n\n\u201cI am proud to announce this huge grant for Daviess County to improve KY 331,\u201d said Guthrie. \u201cKY 331 is a narrow roadway that is utilized by a high percentage of daily truck traffic, which then mixes with area residential traffic. This grant will allow Owensboro to widen approximately 2.6 miles of KY 331 and to reconstruct the CSX railroad crossing. This is great news for Daviess County residents and businesses. I congratulate Daviess County on receiving this competitive grant.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases?ID=BFE119D8-21A7-40B6-B232-3A3B34C75715", "McConnell, Rogers Announce $25M Federal Transportation Grant in Pulaski County", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Harold Rogers", "R000395", "halrogers.house.gov", "halrogers", "https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and U.S. Rep. Harold \"Hal\" Rogers announced today that Pulaski County has been awarded $25 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s (DOT) \u201cBetter Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development\u201d (BUILD) grant program. Senator McConnell contacted the Assistant Secretary of Transportation in support of Pulaski County\u2019s competitive federal grant application.\n\nAccording to Pulaski County officials, this grant funding will be utilized to improve safety conditions at the intersection of KY 80 and KY 461 for the more than four million visitors to Lake Cumberland each year. This intersection, which is a critical gateway to Lake Cumberland\u2019s economy, is in desperate need of safety improvements. Specifically, the project will construct a grade-separated intersection and expand KY 461 to four lanes. These improvements will increase capacity and allow for more economic development along this vital access-point for the Lake Cumberland region.\n\n\u201cThe Lake Cumberland region is one of Kentucky\u2019s most treasured destinations, and I was proud to work with Pulaski County to deliver these critical resources to promote traffic safety and encourage economic development,\u201d said Senator McConnell. \u201cAs Senate Majority Leader, I made it a priority to secure increased infrastructure grant funding in the hopes that more Kentucky communities would be able to benefit from these resources. When the county asked for my help, I strongly advocate for its needs in Washington. I look forward to the new opportunities for growth in this region, and I am glad to work with Congressman Rogers to help continue bringing resources to Kentucky.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe safety and transportation improvements resulting from this road project will have a regional impact, saving lives at a dangerous intersection that is heavily traveled, providing better access to a high-tech regional industrial park, and paving the way for future development of the northern bypass,\u201d said Congressman Hal Rogers. \u201cI commend the local leaders who diligently advocated for a road project of this magnitude. It is a great example of successful local, state and federal partnerships for economic development. As always, it is a pleasure for Senator McConnell and I to collaborate with the good people of southern and eastern Kentucky to make this region a better place to live.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=C2482C2A-2665-4A73-9EDF-4EF07034F25B", "McConnell Applauds Rollback of  Anti-Coal Regulation", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the rollback of a harmful Obama anti-coal regulation: \r\nFor eight years, President Obama landed blow after blow in his War on Coal. As we all know, it wasn't just the coal companies that endured the pain. Hardworking families  many who live in economically-distressed communities that relied on mining jobs  became the casualties of this ideological agenda. In my home state of Kentucky, for example, these policies inflicted serious damage that's still being felt years later.\r\nThat's why I was so grateful to hear that later today, the Trump Administration will begin the process to undo and replace another Obama anti-coal regulation. Throughout the Obama Administration, my Republican colleagues and I did everything we could to stop this assault on vulnerable communities. Where this particular rule is concerned, I personally led the charge, including as the lead sponsor of a resolution to cancel it altogether.\r\nRepublicans knew these policies would stymie American competitiveness and do little to actually help the environment. But despite our best efforts, President Obama's EPA worked overtime to shutter existing coal plants and with this rule in particular, stop new ones from being built. It was the fulfillment of one of his most troubling campaign promises: Quote, If somebody wants to build a coal-fired power plant, they can. It's just that it will bankrupt them.'\r\nWhen we blocked the legislation he originally pitched, President Obama chose to go it alone and try to implement aggressive regulations, often bending the rule of law in the process. When we used the tools available to us to bring relief to American families, we were met each time with vetoes. But everything changed when the American people elected President Trump. We've worked hand-in-hand to end the War on Coal and bring relief.\r\nEarlier this year, the president unveiled his plan to dismantle the so-called Clean Power Plan,' a policy designed to shut down nearly every active coal plant. Now President Trump's EPA is also targeting another regulation that would have made it nearly impossible to build any new plants in the future. This is a crucial step toward undoing the damage and putting coal back on a level playing field.\r\nOn behalf of coal families throughout Kentucky, I applaud the Trump Administration. This runaway regulation needs to be rolled back and replaced with a more reasonable and achievable set of standards. Coal deserves a level playing field -- and that's what this White House is trying to accomplish. I look forward to reviewing the proposal in the coming days and continuing to work with President Trump on this critical issue.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=67F96485-C7AF-492C-B591-AFA5DDC10CDB", "Senate to Vote on Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Nominee", "2018-12-05", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president's nominee to serve on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Bernard McNamee: \r\nThe Senate is resuming our work this afternoon. Later today we will vote to advance the nomination of Bernard McNamee, the president's choice to serve on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.\r\nThis is an impressive nominee who has the right qualifications for this important job. In his career as a well-regarded lawyer on energy issues, he's represented clients and gained expertise all across the energy sector. He's helped clients build solar projects and natural gas facilities and get renewable energy standards approved. In his own words -- quote  I have not just talked about fuel diversity and all of the above energy policies; I have worked to help make them a reality.'\r\nAnd Mr. McNamee has worked as an energy policy expert at the Department of Energy and right here in the Senate. FERC plays a pivotal role in ensuring our nation's energy security and enabling prosperity. Among other responsibilities, the Commission is responsible for permitting important infrastructure investments such as pipelines and export terminals. So continuing with a deadlocked and understaffed Commission could threaten the status of these investments and the jobs that revolve around them.\r\nWe need to confirm Mr. McNamee promptly. Mr. McNamee's obvious qualifications and his commitment to fairness and impartiality earned him a bipartisan vote out of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee last month, with a favorable recommendation. I hope the same common sense will prevail today so we can move this nominee forward with the bipartisan vote he deserves.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=AC2ABF0C-9699-4762-ACFC-087423AA6D5E", "Remembering President George H. W. Bush", "2018-12-05", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the passing of President George H. W. Bush: \r\nEarlier today, our forty-first president George Herbert Walker Bush departed the Capitol Rotunda and was memorialized at the National Cathedral. Now his remains are on the way back to Houston for a funeral service at St. Martin's Episcopal Church, before he is laid to rest right next to Barbara, his loving wife and partner of 73 years, and their daughter, Robin.\r\nIt's been reported that, some years ago, as the Bush family discussed funeral plans and the subject of lying in state came up, the former President joked in his self-deprecating way: Do you think anyone will come?' Well, they sure did.\r\nDignitaries, world leaders, and thousands of Americans from all walks of life waited for hours and streamed through this Capitol to pray for and pay tribute to the life and legacy of George Bush. Today, at the president's direction, the entire country is observing a National Day of Mourning. I know this body continues to stand with all Americans in appreciation for his inspiring example and in solidarity with the Bush family.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://comer.house.gov/2018/12/congressman-comer-announces-congressional-app-challenge-winner", "Congressman Comer Announces Congressional App Challenge Winner", "2018-12-04", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "James Comer", "C001108", "comer.house.gov", "comer", "https://comer.house.gov/media", "scraper", "On Tuesday, Congressman James Comer (KY-01) recognized Jay Tucker for winning the 1st District 2018 Congressional App Challenge.\n\nTucker is a Senior at Campbellsville High School. Her winning app is called \u201cLearn Your Sounds!\u201d It is intended to be an educational tool to help early learners or students with disabilities learn sounds and words.\n\n\u201cI want to congratulate Jay on winning the 1st District 2018 App Challenge. Her app is not only an impressive technological creation, but a tool to help future generations achieve educational success. Jay\u2019s coding and precision are great examples of the inventiveness and intelligence of students throughout the 1st District. Technology is vital to this district, state and country, and competitions like these are important for our country and the future,\u201d said Congressman Comer.\n\n\u201cTwo years ago, our school district was one of the first in the nation to offer the new AP Computer Science Principles course. We use MIT\u2019s App Inventor as part of our class and the Congressional App Challenge fits in well as a class project. Jay Tucker has shown substantial growth in not just coding skills, but also in problem solving and critical thinking and learning how to work collaboratively with her peers. These real-life skills will ensure her success in the future and possibly a career in Computer Science where many jobs are currently going unfilled. Thanks to Congressman Comer and the organizers of the Congressional App Challenge for recognizing and encouraging our students,\u201d said Sonya Kessler, teacher at Campbellsville Independent Schools.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://comer.house.gov/2018/12/kentucky-delegation-strongly-opposes-possible-closure-paradise-unit-3", "Kentucky Delegation Strongly Opposes Possible Closure of Paradise Unit 3", "2018-12-04", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "James Comer", "C001108", "comer.house.gov", "comer", "https://comer.house.gov/media", "scraper", "This morning, Congressman James Comer (KY-01) commented on the Tennessee Valley Authority\u2019s (TVA) decision to possibly close Unit 3 at the Paradise Fossil Plant near Drakesboro, Kentucky. This is the last operating coal-fired unit at the Muhlenberg County plant.\n\nCongressman Comer stated, \u201cI am very concerned following TVA\u2019s announcement that it is seriously considering shutting down Unit 3. Retiring this last operating unit will have detrimental consequences for the local economy and folks in Muhlenberg County. This facility is simply too important in providing necessary, reliable energy and jobs for hard-working Kentuckians. I pledge to work with my colleagues in the federal delegation to see that TVA reconsiders this decision for the sake of our regional workforce and our important coal community.\u201d\n\nSenate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell echoed Congressman Comer\u2019s response to the announcement, commenting, \u201cAs a supporter of Kentucky coal, the decision by the TVA to possibly close the Paradise Plant Unit 3 is disturbing. I continue to be concerned with the TVA\u2019s efforts to move away from coal. This facility supports over a hundred jobs and helps provide affordable and reliable energy, which many Kentuckians rely on. The TVA\u2019s mission includes improving the quality of life for the people they serve, promoting economic development, and delivering safe and reliable energy. As the TVA continues to weigh this decision, they should consider its negative impact on the people of this community. I will work with my colleagues to make sure the TVA understands the importance of this facility to Kentucky\u2019s economy and the region\u2019s workforce.\u201d\n\nSenator Rand Paul also offered his comments on the announcement, saying, \u201cIt is absolutely unacceptable that unelected government bureaucrats can single-handedly decide which types of energy Kentuckians\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars should support and ultimately be allowed to determine the fate of entire local economies without any accountability. Not only are the livelihoods of the over 130 Kentuckians employed at Unit 3 at stake, but also at risk are the trucking companies who bring coal into the plant, as well as the many related businesses and industries in Muhlenberg County. While the need to maintain a diversified energy production fleet that is efficient and profitable is understandable, the federal government has no business picking winners and losers in Kentucky\u2019s energy sectors. When I met with Kentucky State Representative Melinda Gibbons Prunty, community leaders, and other fellow Kentuckians in Central City in October, I listened to their concerns about Paradise and promised to advocate on their behalf, which is why I will be filing a comment to TVA\u2019s draft Environmental Assessment and sending a letter to the TVA Board along with other members of the Kentucky delegation. I strongly urge all Kentuckians to join us in filing comments.\u201d\n\nTVA has prepared a comprehensive assessment to analyze the site-specific impacts of the potential retirement of Unit 3, which can be viewed here. Unit 3 became operational in 1970 and has a generating capacity of 1,150 megawatts, enough to supply more than 950 thousand homes. This is the last operating unit at Paradise Fossil Plant, as Units 1 and 2 were replaced with natural gas generation in Spring 2017.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-sen-rand-paul-blasts-tva-proposed-closure-western-kentucky-coal-fired-plant/", "Sen. Rand Paul Blasts TVA for Proposed Closure of Western Kentucky Coal-Fired Plant", "2018-12-04", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nDecember 4, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nBOWLING GREEN, KY \u2013 For the past several months, U.S. Senator Rand Paul and his staff have actively engaged in discussions with Kentuckians, officials in Muhlenberg County, and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) regarding the status of Unit 3, the last coal-fired unit at the Paradise Fossil Plant. Throughout discussions regarding TVA\u2019s entire generating fleet being placed under review, no mention of a potential retirement of Paradise Unit 3 was made. Recently, however, TVA issued a draft Environmental Assessment on the potential retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant.[1]\n\nToday, Senator Paul released the following statement condemning the move and calling for action to help protect Kentuckians\u2019 livelihoods from federal overreach:\n\n\u201cIt is absolutely unacceptable that unelected government bureaucrats can single-handedly decide which types of energy Kentuckians\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars should support and ultimately be allowed to determine the fate of entire local economies without any accountability.\n\n\u201cNot only are the livelihoods of the over 130 Kentuckians employed at Unit 3 at stake, but also at risk are the trucking companies who bring coal into the plant, as well as the many related businesses and industries in Muhlenberg County. While the need to maintain a diversified energy production fleet that is efficient and profitable is understandable, the federal government has no business picking winners and losers in Kentucky\u2019s energy sectors.\n\n\u201cWhen I met with Kentucky State Representative Melinda Gibbons Prunty, community leaders, and other fellow Kentuckians in Central City in October, I listened to their concerns about Paradise and promised to advocate on their behalf, which is why I will be filing a comment to TVA\u2019s draft Environmental Assessment and sending a letter to the TVA Board along with other members of the Kentucky delegation. I strongly urge all Kentuckians to join us in filing comments.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nIn August, Kentucky State Representative Melinda Gibbons Prunty spoke with a member of Senator Paul\u2019s staff at the Kentucky Farm Bureau\u2019s breakfast in Louisville and conveyed the concerns of her constituents in Muhlenberg. Since the first week of September, Senator Paul\u2019s office has been in continuous communication with TVA, pressing for answers as to their intentions for Unit 3 and ultimately the fate of the Paradise Fossil Plant.\n\nIn October, Senator Paul\u2019s office met with TVA\u2019s Senior Vice President of Power Operations, Vice President of Government Relations, and Senior Washington Representative of Government Relations. TVA\u2019s representatives stated they were supporters of coal and planned for at least 20% of their energy production to be generated from coal for the next decade. As stated above, no mention of a potential retirement of Paradise Unit 3 was made during the discussion of the TVA\u2019s entire generating fleet being placed under review. TVA then proceeded to release its draft Environmental Assessment on the potential retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant just before Thanksgiving.\n\nThe TVA Board of Directors will ultimately be the entity to decide whether or not to retire Paradise Unit 3, and when the TVA Board meets again in February to take action on this issue, it will still be one member short. President Trump nominated John Ryder to be a Member of the Board of Directors in February of this year. Mr. Ryder has submitted all the necessary paperwork, testified in his confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, and been favorably reported from the Committee. However, Mr. Ryder\u2019s nomination still awaits final confirmation by the Senate. Given the time sensitive nature of this situation, Senator Paul urges Leader McConnell to bring Mr. Ryder\u2019s nomination to the Senate floor for a vote before the end of the year and fill this vacancy.\n\nKentuckians may submit comments directly to TVA HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/sen-rand-paul-blasts-tva-proposed-closure-western-kentucky-coal-fired-plant", "Sen. Rand Paul Blasts TVA for Proposed Closure of Western Kentucky Coal-Fired Plant", "2018-12-04", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 4, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343     BOWLING GREEN, KY  For the past several months, U.S. Senator Rand Paul and his staff have actively engaged in discussions with Kentuckians, officials in Muhlenberg County, and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) regarding the status of Unit 3, the last coal-fired unit at the Paradise Fossil Plant. Throughout discussions regarding TVA's entire generating fleet being placed under review, no mention of a potential retirement of Paradise Unit 3 was made. Recently, however, TVA issued a draft Environmental Assessment on the potential retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant.[1]    Today, Senator Paul released the following statement condemning the move and calling for action to help protect Kentuckians' livelihoods from federal overreach: It is absolutely unacceptable that unelected government bureaucrats can single-handedly decide which types of energy Kentuckians' hard-earned tax dollars should support and ultimately be allowed to determine the fate of entire local economies without any accountability.    Not only are the livelihoods of the over 130 Kentuckians employed at Unit 3 at stake, but also at risk are the trucking companies who bring coal into the plant, as well as the many related businesses and industries in Muhlenberg County. While the need to maintain a diversified energy production fleet that is efficient and profitable is understandable, the federal government has no business picking winners and losers in Kentucky's energy sectors.    When I met with Kentucky State Representative Melinda Gibbons Prunty, community leaders, and other fellow Kentuckians in Central City in October, I listened to their concerns about Paradise and promised to advocate on their behalf, which is why I will be filing a comment to TVA's draft Environmental Assessment and sending a letter to the TVA Board along with other members of the Kentucky delegation. I strongly urge all Kentuckians to join us in filing comments. BACKGROUND:    In August, Kentucky State Representative Melinda Gibbons Prunty spoke with a member of Senator Paul's staff at the Kentucky Farm Bureau's breakfast in Louisville and conveyed the concerns of her constituents in Muhlenberg. Since the first week of September, Senator Paul's office has been in continuous communication with TVA, pressing for answers as to their intentions for Unit 3 and ultimately the fate of the Paradise Fossil Plant.    In October, Senator Paul's office met with TVA's Senior Vice President of Power Operations, Vice President of Government Relations, and Senior Washington Representative of Government Relations. TVA's representatives stated they were supporters of coal and planned for at least 20% of their energy production to be generated from coal for the next decade. As stated above, no mention of a potential retirement of Paradise Unit 3 was made during the discussion of the TVA's entire generating fleet being placed under review. TVA then proceeded to release its draft Environmental Assessment on the potential retirement of the Paradise Fossil Plant just before Thanksgiving.    The TVA Board of Directors will ultimately be the entity to decide whether or not to retire Paradise Unit 3, and when the TVA Board meets again in February to take action on this issue, it will still be one member short. President Trump nominated John Ryder to be a Member of the Board of Directors in February of this year. Mr. Ryder has submitted all the necessary paperwork, testified in his confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, and been favorably reported from the Committee. However, Mr. Ryder's nomination still awaits final confirmation by the Senate. Given the time sensitive nature of this situation, Senator Paul urges Leader McConnell to bring Mr. Ryder's nomination to the Senate floor for a vote before the end of the year and fill this vacancy.    Kentuckians may submit comments directly to TVA HERE. ### [1]https://www.tva.gov/Environment/Environmental-Stewardship/Environmental-Reviews/Potential-Retirement-of-Paradise-Fossil-Plant", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://comer.house.gov/2018/12/congressman-comer-recognized-friend-farm-bureau-award", "Congressman Comer Recognized with Friend of Farm Bureau Award", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "James Comer", "C001108", "comer.house.gov", "comer", "https://comer.house.gov/media", "scraper", "Congressman James Comer was recently awarded the Friend of Farm Bureau Award by the American Farm Bureau Federation for his commitment to improving the lives of those in rural America. This award is given to Members of Congress who have supported Farm Bureau\u2019s position on policy issues, as shown through their voting records.\n\nKentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) First Vice President, Eddie Melton, commented, \u201cKentucky Farm Bureau appreciates the support Congressman James Comer gives to agriculture in this state and across the country. As a farmer himself, he brings a true perspective of our industry to his service on the House Agriculture Committee and has worked tirelessly on such issues as the Farm Bill. The Friend of Farm Bureau Award recognizes those legislative leaders who support the organization\u2019s agricultural policy and its advocacy efforts. Congressman Comer is truly deserving of this honor and we congratulate him.\u201d\n\nSharon Furches, owner of Furches Farms Partnership and newly-elected Second Vice President of KFB also commented on the award, \u201cCongressman Comer is a friend of farmers in Kentucky and the Kentucky Farm Bureau organization in every way. He has supported and been a part of KFB for many years and truly understands the issues facing agriculture. As our former Commissioner of Agriculture prior to being elected to the U.S. Congress, he worked tirelessly to improve farm and rural life in Kentucky. Now he champions agriculture to support this great industry across America.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FEDCF638-3669-4346-9BC4-B55E65D08CF5", "University Center of Southern Kentucky to Open Fall 2019 in Somerset", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Harold Rogers", "R000395", "halrogers.house.gov", "halrogers", "https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "SOMERSET, Ky. -- U.S. Rep. Harold \"Hal\" Rogers announced today that the new University Center of Southern Kentucky (UCSK) will open with the fall semester of 2019 on the campus of Somerset Community College (SCC). Rogers launched the initiative with Dr. Jay Box, President of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System; Dr. Carey Castle, President and CEO of Somerset Community College; and local community leaders in the Lake Cumberland region.\n\nThe University Center of Southern Kentucky, described by Congressman Rogers as a \"multi-versity\" for student success, will provide several pathways and delivery methods for students to earn a four-year degree from partnering universities in Kentucky on the campus of Somerset Community College. After completing a two-year degree at SCC, students will be able to choose from the partnering university of their choice and have access to student support services to complete a four-year bachelor's degree at the Somerset campus. Partnering universities and baccalaureate programs will be announced in the near future.\n\n\"The one thing missing from the Lake Cumberland region is the option for students to get an affordable bachelor's degree. Now spring graduates in May 2019 will have the option to stay here at home to get a four-year degree at an affordable rate. I applaud Dr. Castle and Dr. Box for working directly with some of the largest public universities in Kentucky to make that dream a reality,\" said Congressman Rogers. \"Instead of a uni-versity, we're calling this center a multi-versity, because students will be able to choose which university offers the best degree for their career path without leaving Somerset. Opening new doors of opportunity for education here at home is a key factor to ending the out-migration of our best and brightest students.\"\n\n\u201cAs I travel around the state, I hear a common refrain from Kentucky students. They want opportunities to live and work in their home communities while pursuing their post-secondary education,\u201d said Gov. Bevin. \u201cSCC\u2019s University Center, in coordination with other Kentucky universities, will provide these opportunities by creating new pathways for students to obtain a degree of their choice while enrolled at the Somerset campus. I applaud the leadership of Congressman Rogers, Dr. Box, and SCC administrators for developing this innovative program to benefit students in the Lake Cumberland region and beyond.\u201d\n\nDr. Castle named Mr. Trent Pool as the new UCSK Director to incorporate programming and workforce needs in the region as university partnerships develop. Pool lives in London and has been with Somerset Community College for 16 years. He most recently served as the advising center coordinator for the SCC Laurel Campus.\n\n\u201cThe drive to succeed doesn\u2019t have to involve driving great distances to obtain a bachelors\u2019 degree. You will now be able to get your degree in Somerset at the university center,\u201d said Dr. Castle. \u201cIt is a mix of institutions that are complementary and different. I think the opportunities are going to be great for this region.\u201d\n\n\"This center is a win-win for students in the Somerset area because it will allow them to get a four-year degree right in their own backyard and save money at the same time by getting the first two years of their degree at SCC,\" said Dr. Box. \"I applaud Congressman Rogers' leadership in making this partnership happen.\"\n\nPrior to the announcement, a group of approximately 100 leaders from the Lake Cumberland region met on campus to discuss support and guidance for UCSK, establishing the university center's Founder's Club. The club elected the following leaders: Chairman Bill Turpen of Somerset, Vice-Chair Paula Thompson of London and Secretary Cindy Clouse of Somerset.\n\nMore details about UCSK are expected to be announced in early 2019.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=3F60EFB6-2A2F-4D00-BC97-1324FBABA532", "Leader McConnell Pays Tribute to  President George H. W. Bush", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the passing of President George H. W. Bush: \r\nOn Friday, the 94-year journey of George Herbert Walker Bush came to a close. At once, Americans from all walks of life began paying tribute to this great patriot, and giving thanks -- For his fearless heroism in wartime skies. For his dedicated, expert service at the highest levels of government, in one essential role after another. For his loving fatherhood of a great family.\r\nI am not the first to observe that George Bush seemed like the Greatest Generation distilled into a single life story. The immense contributions in both wartime and peacetime. The stunning bravery paired with quiet humility. The belief that devoted service is not cause for special praise but simply each citizen's duty.\r\nThe Greatest Generation achieved all-American accomplishments and exhibited all-American virtues. And it may just be that no one did that as fully as our forty-first president. Even in the ranks of his remarkable generation, he will stand out forever as one of its most especially remarkable sons. George Bush was the best -- of the best.\r\nMonths after Pearl Harbor, our future president celebrated his eighteenth birthday and high school graduation by enlisting in the Navy. He was still a teenager when he got his wings. The youngest naval aviator. And he was only 20 on that fateful day in September 1944. He was piloting one of four Avenger bombers aiming to take out a Japanese radio tower. His plane was hit. The engine caught fire and the cockpit began filling with smoke.\r\nBut George Bush kept his steady hands on the controls. Rather than turn tail, he and his crew went right on with their mission. Only after he'd released the bombs -- and successfully damaged his target -- did he finally bail out over the Pacific. With a steady hand on the controls -- more worried about doing his duty for others than about himself -- George Bush stayed the course. According to one biographer, that was a key phrase for him. It concluded a list of core principles he once laid out in a letter to his mother. Here's what he said: Tell the truth. Don't blame people. Be strong. Do your best. Try hard. Forgive. Stay the course.' Year after year, post after post, George Bush stayed the course. And he helped his country do the same.\r\nThrough the fog of war in the Persian Gulf, when international order needed defending, America's commander-in-chief led just as steadily as he had in that smoking cockpit almost 50 years earlier. And in between the Pacific and the presidency, he steered us straight through countless challenges as a Congressman, Ambassador to the United Nations, Envoy to China, CIA Director, and Vice President.\r\nServing capably in just one or two of these posts would ensure any citizen's place in American history. But George Bush served in all of them -- and always with excellence. On the home front, President Bush was a warrior for hope, optimism, and opportunity. As president he paved the way for education reform and signed legislation to give disabled Americans a better shot. Overseas, he was a talented diplomat and powerful champion for our interests.\r\nIt was on his watch that the Cold War finally ended. The free people of Europe threw off the shackles of communism. But President Bush knew America should not kick up our heels and enjoy a holiday from history. We fought and won the Gulf War in order to make something perfectly clear to allies and enemies alike: It had to be right, and not might, that filled the void.\r\nWe needed, he said, a world where the rule of law supplants the rule of the jungle.' And his leadership moved us towards such a world. Through global change, domestic turmoil, and economic transformation-- whether in jobs that he'd passionately sought out or in other assignments he dutifully accepted -- George Bush kept us on course.\r\nHe wasn't a dramatic or revolutionary leader. He didn't advertise radical change. He never quite seemed at home in the spotlight. Instead, he offered humility and a servant's heart. He aspired to govern his country well, preserve what was good, and improve things where possible. He wanted to keep us flying high and challenge us to fly a little higher. And he led us as he seemingly did everything in his life -- with grace and kindness that seemed almost unbelievable, given all that he'd accomplished. Daring aviator, chief spy, wartime president. You'd think this must be a tough and gruff guy. But it is the man's good cheer and generous spirit that stand out most of all in our national memory.\r\nHe was a prolific hand-writer of notes and letters. He freely changed his own plans to make life easier for his staff or Secret Service detail. I saw recently that, some years after his presidency, he couldn't even bring himself to simply turn down a reporter's request for an interview without crafting a warm, apologetic, full-page letter explaining his rationale. His decency and attentiveness to others was a credit to his upbringing. But it wasn't only habit. It was principle.\r\nThis is a man who said this in his inaugural address: In our hearts, we know what matters. We cannot hope only to leave our children a bigger car, a bigger bank account. We must hope to give them a sense of what it means to be a loyal friend; a loving parent; a citizen who leaves his home, his neighborhood, and town better than he found it.' Looking beyond the day's drama. Issuing a deep moral challenge. George Bush set the bar high. And his country listened, because we saw him meet those standards himself.\r\nGeorge Bush's gifts were many. But some gifts were greater than others. George Bush and Barbara Pierce met at a Christmas party in 1941. He'd describe her to his mother as the niftiest girl at the dance.' Weeks after he returned from the war, they married. I have climbed perhaps the highest mountain in the world,' he would write much later, but even that cannot hold a candle to being Barbara's husband.' Their love story would grow to include six children. It would span great joys and tragic loss. It weathered the challenges of the spotlight. In every chapter, George Bush served as comforter and counselor. He cared for loved ones with a dedication that never ceased to amaze them.\r\nSo much for the myth of the starched, Episcopalian New Englander. George Bush was no stoic. In fact, he developed his own teary-eyed reputation as a founding member of what the Bush family calls The Bawl Brigade.' That's B - A - W -L. He was considerate, empathetic, and kind. And the Bushes passed on those values to their children. They nurtured a family of leaders whose contributions have enriched this country even more.\r\nFew men so powerful would have even thought to call for a kinder, gentler nation.' Even fewer could have lived it themselves. His words lifted our spirits. His example inspired us. A quarter-century after George Bush left the Oval Office, his legacy continues to directly inspire not just a thousand points of light,' but millions of volunteers who serve others.\r\nSo, in war and peace in public and in private in high office and in family moments, George Bush stayed the course. The Greatest Generation, indeed. The grand heroism that saved our nation, the quiet diligence that built it up, and the basic goodness that sustains it -- all in one. Today, the United States Senate joins the nation and the Bush family in mourning and prayer. But we are also joined in gratitude. We are thankful that God gave this country George Bush, and Barbara. Thankful that they built such a loving family. And thankful they may now be reunited, their great love story perfected in the light of His grace.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=DB4B8421-C759-447A-B6D4-082995A9A3FE", "President George H. W. Bush", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Thirty years ago, on the West Front of this Capitol, George Herbert Walker Bush addressed the nation for the first time as our president. He said: We meet on democracy's front porch. A good place to talk as neighbors and as friends.' The words of a humble servant who loved his fellow citizens. And of a principled leader who knew America not only guards our own future, but also safeguards democracy for the world.\r\nToday, this hero has returned to the Capitol a final time. Not on the front porch of our democracy, this time -- but here, in its hallowed cathedral. Beneath paintings that tell the story of our land and our liberty. And flanked by statues of his fellow champions whom he joined in making that story possible.\r\nGeorge Bush was just a teenager when he volunteered for military service and became the Navy's youngest aviator. He was only 20 on that September day in 1944 when his plane was hit on a bombing run. But through the fire and smoke, George Bush stayed steady at the controls. Only once he accomplished his mission did he parachute out over the Pacific.\r\nA steady hand, staying the course. That's what George Bush gave us for decades. Decorated aviator. Congressman. Ambassador to the United Nations. Envoy to China. CIA Director. Eight years as Vice President and four as Commander-in-Chief. Through the Cold War and the Soviet Union's collapse, he kept us on course. When the rule of law needed defending in the Persian Gulf, he kept us on course.\r\nWith his even temperament and hard-won expertise, George Herbert Walker Bush steered this country as straight as he steered that airplane. He kept us flying high and challenged us to fly higher still. And he did it with modesty and kindness that would have been surprising in someone one-tenth as tough and as accomplished as he was.\r\nThe patriot who lies before us was blessed with many gifts. But there was no doubt which he prized most of all. A great love story began at that Christmas dance where George Bush met Barbara Pierce. And the grace and virtue they taught their children have enriched this nation through a family of leaders.\r\nToday, the nation stands with that family  with our 43rd president, with Jeb, Neil, Marvin, and Doro  and all the Bush grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We stand with you in mourning, but also in gratitude. Gratitude for lives well lived, and duties thoroughly fulfilled. Gratitude that God gave this country George and Barbara Bush. And that they may now be reunited in the light of His Grace.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D85DE0DB-C3F6-4140-AC3E-30F6A378089F", "Statement from Congressman Hal Rogers on the Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Harold Rogers", "R000395", "halrogers.house.gov", "halrogers", "https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "\"President George H.W. Bush was one of America\u2019s most beloved leaders and the epitome of public service.\n\n\"He was a personal friend and a political mentor, never neglecting time to enjoy life and helping others do the same.\n\n\"He was an American hero and a brilliant strategist who courageously defended our country and the conservative values we hold so dear.\n\n\"My wife, Cynthia, and I join the Nation in mourning the loss of President George H.W. Bush, as we celebrate his accomplished life and the legacy he leaves behind.\"\n\n#####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=7DDD6C4A-3AE3-4291-995C-E3E85A75F152", "President George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LOUISVILLE, KY  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement following the death of the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush:\r\nElaine and I join the Senate and the nation in grieving the loss of President George H. W. Bush.  This devoted father and decorated patriot spent decades serving his country, from the skies above the south Pacific to our nation's highest office.\nHe kept America safe as CIA Director. He represented us with skill as Ambassador to the United Nations, envoy to China, and Vice President. And as our forty-first president, George Bush brought clear-eyed, principled leadership to a nation and world in transition.\nAmerica led an international coalition that fought and won the Gulf War. Freedom triumphed over the Soviet Union. The global economy began to transform. And through it all, Americans could rest assured that the public servant they'd placed in the White House was equipped to meet these challenges.\nGeorge Bush built his life on the premise that loving and serving America was simply a citizen's duty. He fulfilled that duty time and time again, as completely as anyone could. His legacy will rank among the most distinguished statesmen our nation has ever produced.\nGeorge Bush was blessed with many gifts. First among them were his beloved Barbara and the family they built together. Today, we accompany the entire Bush family in mourning and prayer. But we also join them in gratitude that God gave this country George and Barbara Bush.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-george-hw-bush", "President George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.republicanleader.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.01.18\n\t\t\t President George H.W. Bush \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t George Bush built his life on the premise that loving and serving America was simply a citizen's duty. He fulfilled that duty time and time again, as completely as anyone could. His legacy will rank among the most distinguished statesmen our nation has ever produced.'\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement following the death of the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush:\r\n\r\nElaine and I join the Senate and the nation in grieving the loss of President George H. W. Bush.\r\nThis devoted father and decorated patriot spent decades serving his country, from the skies above the South Pacific to our nation's highest office.\r\nHe kept America safe as CIA Director. He represented us with skill as Ambassador to the United Nations, envoy to China, and Vice President. And as our forty-first president, George Bush brought clear-eyed, principled leadership to a nation and world in transition.\r\nAmerica led an international coalition that fought and won the Gulf War. Freedom triumphed over the Soviet Union. The global economy began to transform. And through it all, Americans could rest assured that the public servant they'd placed in the White House was equipped to meet these challenges.\r\nGeorge Bush built his life on the premise that loving and serving America was simply a citizen's duty. He fulfilled that duty time and time again, as completely as anyone could. His legacy will rank among the most distinguished statesmen our nation has ever produced.\r\nGeorge Bush was blessed with many gifts. First among them were his beloved Barbara and the family they built together. Today, we accompany the entire Bush family in mourning and prayer. But we also join them in gratitude that God gave this country George and Barbara Bush.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n     \n\t\n \n\t\n    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t Related Issues:\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tTributes\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \n\t\t\n\t\t  \n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-sen-rand-pauls-push-legalization-industrial-hemp-included-farm-bill/", "Sen. Rand Paul\u2019s Push for Legalization of Industrial Hemp Included in Farm Bill", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nNovember 29, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 For over six years, U.S. Senator Rand Paul has led the charge to legalize industrial hemp in Kentucky and across the country. Today it was announced that a deal in principle had been reached for the 2018 Farm Bill, which includes a provision to legalize hemp. Sen. Paul released the below statement celebrating the most recent victory in his fight for Kentucky\u2019s hemp industry:\n\n\u201cFrom being the lead Republican cosponsor of a bipartisan bill to legalize industrial hemp in 2012 \u2013 the very first hemp bill in the Senate, to convincing my colleagues in Congress to support the deregulation of this vital resource, to pushing the Food and Drug Administration to declassify its status as a Schedule I drug, I\u2019ve been proud to lead the charge on the legalization of industrial hemp from day one, and am grateful for the support of Kentucky\u2019s federal delegation and leaders in Frankfort,\u201d said Sen. Paul. \u201cToday\u2019s good news has truly been years in the making, from testifying in front of Kentucky\u2019s General Assembly in 2013 in support of legalizing this crop and creating a hemp pilot research program, to years of introducing and cosponsoring legislation on this issue and demanding big government get out of the way so Kentucky farmers can succeed. I\u2019m happy to see that we are closer than ever to truly removing the regulatory barriers standing in the way of the Commonwealth reaping the economic benefits of this crop, and look forward to continuing my efforts on this issue.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:10:16Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/sen-rand-paul%E2%80%99s-push-legalization-industrial-hemp-included-farm-bill", "Sen. Rand Paul\u2019s Push for Legalization of Industrial Hemp Included in Farm Bill", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 29, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343 WASHINGTON, D.C.  For over six years, U.S. Senator Rand Paul has led the charge to legalize industrial hemp in Kentucky and across the country. Today it was announced that a deal in principle had been reached for the 2018 Farm Bill, which includes a provision to legalize hemp. Sen. Paul released the below statement celebrating the most recent victory in his fight for Kentucky's hemp industry: From being the lead Republican cosponsor of a bipartisan bill to legalize industrial hemp in 2012 - the very first hemp bill in the Senate, to convincing my colleagues in Congress to support the deregulation of this vital resource, to pushing the Food and Drug Administration to declassify its status as a Schedule I drug, I've been proud to lead the charge on the legalization of industrial hemp from day one, and am grateful for the support of Kentucky's federal delegation and leaders in Frankfort, said Sen. Paul. \"Today's good news has truly been years in the making, from testifying in front of Kentucky's General Assembly in 2013 in support of legalizing this crop and creating a hemp pilot research program, to years of introducing and cosponsoring legislation on this issue and demanding big government get out of the way so Kentucky farmers can succeed. I'm happy to see that we are closer than ever to truly removing the regulatory barriers standing in the way of the Commonwealth reaping the economic benefits of this crop, and look forward to continuing my efforts on this issue. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/mcconnell-statement-on-joint-select-committee-on-budget-and-appropriations-process-reform", "McConnell Statement on Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.republicanleader.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.29.18\n\t\t\t McConnell Statement on Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement regarding the Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform:\r\n\r\nI want to thank Senators Blunt, Ernst, Lankford, and Perdue for their work and everyone's contributions to the Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform.\r\nIt is my hope that members from both chambers and parties can build on the foundation this important select committee laid and we can continue to work towards meaningful reforms to improve the budget and appropriations process.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n     \n\t\n \n\t\n    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t Related Issues:\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBudget,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAppropriations\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \n\t\t\n\t\t  \n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://barr.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-barr-urges-fed-to-keep-its-commitment-to-normalization", "Chairman Barr Urges Fed to Keep its Commitment to Normalization", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Andy Barr", "B001282", "barr.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06), Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee's Monetary Policy and Trade Subcommittee, issued the following statement in response to Federal Reserve (Fed) Chairman Jerome Jay Powell's speech today before the Economic Club of New York: \nI appreciate Chairman Powell's continued efforts, through his public comments today and regular communications with Members of Congress, to clarify the Federal Reserve's monetary policy trajectory. Today, Chairman Powell offered for the first time his view that the policy rate is just below' estimates of the neutral rate.\nWhile I have no reason to question the Fed's updated estimate of the level of interest rates that would be neutral for the economy  that is, neither speeding up nor slowing down growth  I would urge the Fed to keep its overall commitment to normalize interest rates and reduce its oversized balance sheet after a protracted period of unconventional monetary policy.\nIn sum, I agree with Chairman Powell's assessment that just as there are risks in raising interest rates too quickly, there are also risks in keeping rates too low for too long and failing to remove distortions in the economy created by a decade of improvisational and overly accommodative policy.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=04325510-3C9E-498E-8733-36F325E08BBF", "Senate Focused on Wrapping Up This Years Priorities", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding remaining business to be completed before the end of the year:\r\nFirst, for the information of all Senators, key members of the administration will be coming to the Senate at 11:00am this morning for an all-members briefing with respect to Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Senators on both sides of the aisle have legitimate concerns about the war in Yemen, the terrible humanitarian plight of Yemeni citizens caught in the cross-fire, and the multiple U.S. interests wrapped up in this conflict. The U.S.-Saudi relationship is a long-standing and critical one. But Senators on both sides of the aisle also have legitimate concerns about the recent conduct of the Saudi government.\r\nAll of us want to see our critical foreign partners behave responsibly. I've been encouraged to hear both Secretary Mattis and Secretary Pompeo call for an end to the war in Yemen and for accountability following the murder of Jamal Khashoggi. So I look forward to hearing from both Secretaries today and learning more about the administration's strategy to achieve these and other important objectives.\r\n\r\nThere is still more work to do. That has been our message returning from the Thanksgiving holiday. The Senate is staying focused on wrapping up this year's remaining priorities. Getting more of the president's team in place, confirming well-qualified nominees to our federal courts, and attending to the pressing legislative business the American people need and expect us to handle.\r\nYesterday, the nomination of Stephen Vaden to serve as General Counsel at the Department of Agriculture was confirmed with bipartisan support. And the motion to advance the nomination of Karen Kelley for Deputy Secretary of Commerce cleared by an even wider margin. But these important steps haven't always come easily. Like I mentioned yesterday, between the day the Vaden nomination was favorably reported by our colleagues on the Agriculture Committee and yesterday's confirmation vote, 351 days elapsed. 351 days on the executive calendar.\r\n\r\nThe stories are similar for so many of the president's well-qualified nominees. Needless delays. A record-breaking number of cloture votes. And then many go on to clear this chamber with bipartisan support. In some cases, that support is nearly unanimous. But my Democratic colleagues made this body drag its feet, regardless. So we'll press on, and continue this week to make progress and put to rest the various outstanding items that must be completed before the close of the 115th Congress.\r\n\r\nToday, the Senate will vote to confirm Karen Kelley to serve as Deputy Secretary of Commerce. By any metric, Ms. Kelley has the experience and economic acumen to continue a record of outstanding service in the role -- a record she's already begun by serving capably in an acting capacity since last year. I hope each of my colleagues will join me in voting to confirm her.\r\n\r\nThen, the Senate will turn to consideration of a judicial nominee: Thomas Farr, to be U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of North Carolina. Mr. Farr is a graduate of Hillsdale College, Emory Law School, and Georgetown University. Over a nearly 40-year career in law, he's developed expertise in labor relations and constitutional law. The American Bar Association's Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary -- a body that's frequently been held up by my Democratic colleagues as the gold standard' -- has awarded Mr. Farr its highest possible rating: unanimously well qualified.\r\n\r\nMy friend, Senator Burr, has testified that his fellow North Carolinian has, quote, the requisite expertise, character, and judgment required for the federal bench,' and that he will serve in this role honorably.' So I urge every one of my colleagues to join me in voting to advance his nomination later today.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-dr-rand-paul-welcomes-senate-debate-ending-us-support-war-yemen/", "Dr. Rand Paul Welcomes Senate Debate on Ending U.S. Support for the War in Yemen", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nNovember 28, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator and Senate Foreign Relations Committee member Rand Paul (R-KY) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted 63-37 to discharge S.J. Res. 54, which would end U.S. support for the war in Yemen, from the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and bring it to the Senate floor for debate:\n\n\u201cI applaud the Senate for taking action today to ensure a long-overdue debate on the Senate floor over ending the United States\u2019 unauthorized support for the devastating war in Yemen. With thousands upon thousands of innocent lives lost in Yemen, and millions living on the edge of famine, we must send a clear message that this is not what America stands for, and I welcome a robust debate on ending our involvement in the war, stopping arms sales to Saudi Arabia, and restoring Congress\u2019 voice in foreign policy.\u201d\n\nPreviously, Dr. Paul has led multiple bipartisan efforts to stand against U.S. involvement in the war in Yemen by blocking arms sales to Saudi Arabia. Earlier this month, he forced a procedural vote on his resolution that would have blocked the sale of an estimated $300 million in high-explosive rocket artillery and associated training and support to Bahrain, a member of the Saudi-led coalition waging the war in Yemen.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:10:16Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-rand-paul-welcomes-senate-debate-ending-us-support-war-yemen", "Dr. Rand Paul Welcomes Senate Debate on Ending U.S. Support for the War in Yemen", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 28, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343   WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator and Senate Foreign Relations Committee member Rand Paul (R-KY) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted 63-37 to discharge S.J. Res. 54, which would end U.S. support for the war in Yemen, from the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and bring it to the Senate floor for debate:   I applaud the Senate for taking action today to ensure a long-overdue debate on the Senate floor over ending the United States' unauthorized support for the devastating war in Yemen. With thousands upon thousands of innocent lives lost in Yemen, and millions living on the edge of famine, we must send a clear message that this is not what America stands for, and I welcome a robust debate on ending our involvement in the war, stopping arms sales to Saudi Arabia, and restoring Congress' voice in foreign policy. Previously, Dr. Paul has led multiple bipartisan efforts to stand against U.S. involvement in the war in Yemen by blocking arms sales to Saudi Arabia. Earlier this month, he forced a procedural vote on his resolution that would have blocked the saleofan estimated $300 million in high-explosive rocket artillery and associated training and support to Bahrain, a member of the Saudi-led coalition waging the war in Yemen.   ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/mcconnell-again-selects-crapo-to-lead-committee-on-committees", "McConnell Again Selects Crapo to Lead Committee on Committees", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.republicanleader.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.28.18\n\t\t\t McConnell Again Selects Crapo to Lead Committee on Committees \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Senator Tim Scott will help lead the committee selection process\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, DC  Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has once again selected Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) to chair the Senate Republicans' Committee on Committees, the panel responsible for committee assignments for the 116th Congress.This is the eighth consecutive congressional two-year term that Senate leadership has asked Crapo to chair negotiations among his Republican peers in the Senate. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) will be assisting in the committee selection process in the 116th Congress as he did in the previous two Congresses.\r\nMike Crapo and Tim Scott have earned the trust of our colleagues in the Republican Conference by effectively leading these important negotiations in years past. McConnell said. I am very pleased they will be leading this effort once again.\r\nThe Committee on Committees negotiates the process of assigning Republican senators to committees.After general elections, Senate party leaders negotiate the ratios on standing committees.Sens. Crapo and Scott will provide leadership in the negotiations surrounding subsequent committee assignments.\r\nI thank Leader McConnell for his continued trust in having me partner with him to lead the work of this important committee, said Crapo, Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee. This Congress has been successful in passing legislation that benefits all Americans. Bipartisan accomplishments are reducing unemployment, creating new jobs, providing tax relief to working families, and creating the conditions for businesses of all sizes to expand. I look forward to working with my colleagues, including our Senators-elect from Florida, Indiana, Missouri, Utah Tennessee and North Dakota, to form committees that reflect the priorities of our constituents and build upon the successes of this Congress when we convene in 2019.\r\nI want to thank Majority Leader McConnell and Chairman Crapo for their leadership, and I know I will enjoy serving on the Committee on Committees for the third consecutive Congress. I look forward to this opportunity to help our members receive the committee assignments that will ensure we are serving the American people in the best way possible. The economy is humming, unemployment is low, and Senate Republicans will work to make sure that momentum keeps moving forward, said Scott.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n     \n\t\n \n\t\n    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t  \n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1EBA81C0-8BD9-4B9A-89E1-944887BED57E", "Important Business to Be Completed in Senate Before End of the Year", "2018-11-26", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding remaining business to be completed before the end of the year: \r\nWith the Thanksgiving holiday behind us, we are reminded that this year -- and this Congress -- will soon come to a close. The past two years have been a time of historic accomplishments on behalf of the American people.\r\nHistoric tax and regulatory reform. Landmark legislation to combat the opioid epidemic. A return to regular-order appropriations. Much-needed reforms and resources for our men and women who wear the uniform today and for our veterans. The list goes on and on. As the 115th Congress comes to a close, my colleagues will have much to be proud of. But we aren't finished yet. The Senate still has a full slate of important business that we must complete before the end of the year.\r\nAt the top of the list are more nominations -- well-qualified individuals the president has chosen for executive and judicial service. Since the beginning of this Congress, the majority has taken the Senate's role in the personnel business very seriously. We've taken every opportunity to process nominations efficiently and fulfill our responsibility to advise and consent.\r\nOf course, thanks to a concerted delaying effort from our colleagues across the aisle, a number of important offices remain unfilled. Accomplished nominees have waited patiently on the Senate calendar. Important posts have remained vacant while my colleagues on the other side of the aisle slow-walked nominations and forced a record-breaking number of cloture votes. We are two years into this administration. The president deserves his team. Our constituents deserve the government they voted for. So, as we have this entire Congress, we will continue to make nominations a top priority -- for as long as need be. The nominees we'll consider this week are highly regarded and well equipped for public service.\r\nWe'll begin with Stephen Vaden, who's been nominated to serve as General Counsel at the Department of Agriculture. Mr. Vaden is a graduate of Vanderbilt and Yale Law School. He brings experience from multiple federal court clerkships and from years in practice in administrative law and appellate litigation. This nominee was voted out of the Agriculture Committee with bipartisan support, including that of the Ranking Member. So I urge each of my colleagues to join me in voting to advance Mr. Vaden's nomination this afternoon and to confirm him this week.\r\nThen we'll turn to more nominations -- for the Department of Commerce, for the federal judiciary, and for the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. I look forward to confirming each of them without further undue delay.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/mcconnell-op-ed-a-long-proud-list-of-accomplishments-in-this-congress", "McConnell Op-Ed: A Long, Proud List of Accomplishments in this Congress", "2018-11-26", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.republicanleader.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.26.18\n\t\t\t McConnell Op-Ed: A Long, Proud List of Accomplishments in this Congress \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Over the last two years, a Republican Congress, working with the Trump Administration, has delivered a long series of policy accomplishments that have created real, tangible change for the American middle class. Along the way, this Senate has proven to be fertile ground for productive bipartisan work.'\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t Over the last two years, a Republican Congress, working with the Trump Administration, has delivered a long series of policy accomplishments that have created real, tangible change for the American middle class. Along the way, this Senate has proven to be fertile ground for productive bipartisan work.\r\nWhat remains to be seen, and what the country will soon learn, is whether or not a Democrat-led House of Representatives will follow suit.\r\nHere's where we are after the first two years of the partnership between Congress and the White House: Unemployment has hit its lowest level in nearly 50 years. For the first time ever on record, our nation has more job openings than job seekers. Worker wages recently logged their fastest year-on-year growth since the Great Recession. Small business optimism is as high as it's ever been measured, dating back at least 45 years.\r\nDuring the remarkably uneven Obama era, too little new prosperity was created, and most of it piled up disproportionately in the largest metropolitan areas. Now all that has changed. This new economic boom is reaching the working families and communities that Democrats' policies had left behind.\r\nMain Street businesses are dusting off Help Wanted' signs. Factories are expanding. Family farmers can afford new equipment. Smaller cities in states such as Ohio, Indiana, and Nebraska are so flush with jobs that local governments are themselves offering multi-thousand-dollar bonuses to workers who move there. And researchers at the Brookings Institution have found that smaller communities and rural communitiesrecently outpaced the rest of the countryin relative job creation.\r\nThis all-American comeback is thanks in part to the transformation in governing philosophies that Americans voted for in 2016. Without a single Democrat's vote, Republicans passed and President Trump signed the first comprehensive tax reform law in a generation. Congress and the president have slashed Obama-era regulatory red tape. And Republicans have taken big bites out of Obamacare, repealing central pieces like the individual mandate tax and the board of bureaucrats that was supposed to ration health care.\r\nThis leadership has helped transform the economic mood in our nation, from shop floors to kitchen tables. Back in 2013, on Democrats' watch, more than 75 percent of U.S. manufacturers said that a hostile climate due to taxes, regulations, and policy uncertainty was a major obstacle to their business. Today, fewer than 12 percent say that. And just last month, consumer confidence hit an 18-year high.\r\nRepublicans' signature policy victories have helped amplify this exceptional economic moment. But while the media are mostly interested in the big, contentious battles, a number of this Congress' other major achievements for American families have come on a bipartisan basis.\r\nWorking together, Republicans and Democrats passed landmark legislation to tackle the opioid crisis that has victimized communities across America.\r\nWorking together, we reformed the burdensome Dodd-Frank banking regulations to expand access to capital, particularly for farmers and small businesses.\r\nWorking together, we delivered new resources and reforms for our nation's veterans, began rebuilding our infrastructure, and gave our all-volunteer armed forces the pay raise they deserve.\r\nAnd by working together, Republicans and Democrats rebuilt a regular appropriations process that avoided another omnibus and delivered the largest year-on-year increase in defense funding in 15 years.\r\nThis mixture of big Republican wins combined with constant bipartisan work is proving transformative for American workers, families, service members, and veterans. But our work on urgent challenges is far from finished. So I sincerely hope this collaboration will continue in the months ahead. While Senate Republicans will continue advancing the right-of-center principles that have helped jump-start our economy and keep confirming Trump's well-qualified nominees, we also hope to keep growing this long list of bipartisan accomplishments.\r\nBut we can't do that all by ourselves.\r\nHouse Democrats will need to make up their minds. Will they will rise to the occasion and focus on serious policymaking on behalf of the American people? Or will they heed the demands of the far-left resistance' and opt for unhinged partisan tactics and blind presidential harassment instead? Are these new Democrats coming to Washington, D.C., to make laws, or just to make points?\r\nRepublicans know what our priorities are. The past two years have seen one policy after another that have helped make life better for middle-class Americans. With our expanded Senate majority, we intend to keep it up. I hope, for the sake of the American people, that our new Democratic colleagues across the Capitol will come ready to join in that work.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n     \n\t\n \n\t\n    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t Related Issues:\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tMiddle Class,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tCongressional Review Act,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAmerica's Military,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tHealth Care,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAppropriations,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tRegulations,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tTaxes,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenate Democrats,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tTax Reform,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSmall Business,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tEconomy,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tOpioid Abuse,\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t         \n\t\t\t\t\t     \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tJobs", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F452D2A4-AF4B-4E11-931C-AC2710C6EBB8", "Congressman Rogers Applauds Army Corps Plan for 2019", "2018-11-21", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Harold Rogers", "R000395", "halrogers.house.gov", "halrogers", "https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Rep. Harold \"Hal\" Rogers (KY-05) applauds the 2019 Work Plan released today by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which includes multiple projects in Southern and Eastern Kentucky. The plan includes critical water and wastewater expansion, tourism development, environmental clean-up efforts and flood control projects in Kentucky's Appalachian region.\n\nThe Army Corps' plan is directly funded by one of the federal funding packages passed this fall by Congress for fiscal year 2019. Congressman Rogers, who serves as Chairman Emeritus of the House Appropriations Committee, voted in support of the funding for the Army Corps.\n\n\"The Army Corps provides vital work for our rural communities every year, protecting Southern and Eastern Kentuckians from future flood damage, improving basic infrastructure needs in our mountainous region and boosting economic development in our small counties,\" said Congressman Rogers. \"Each year, I have the opportunity to advocate for important projects in our region and I applaud the Army Corps for aligning its priorities with those of Eastern Kentucky. This year, I was especially proud to work with Corps leadership to help secure additional funding to bolster efforts to remove debris and trash from Fishtrap Lake - an issue that has plagued the Fishtrap area for far too long. Together, we are making significant progress in our communities.\"\n\nThe 2019 Work Plan includes the following projects in Kentucky's Fifth Congressional District:\n\n$1.869 million for water and sewer projects as part of the Southern and Eastern Kentucky Environmental Infrastructure Program (Section 531);\n\n$300,000 for additional debris clean-up efforts at Fishtrap Lake;\n\n$9.8 million for several other nonstructural flood control projects (Section 202), such as relocation, elevation, floodproofing and restoration of wetlands. The plan includes $5.5 million for Harlan County, $4 million for Pike County and $300,000 for Bell County.\n\nTo review the entire 2019 Work Plan, visit usace.army.mil.\n\nRogers has served Kentucky\u2019s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia\u2019s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information, visit http://halrogers.house.gov/ or follow Rogers on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:10:16Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/newsletters?ContentRecord_id=AB3E7700-21FD-4DD0-97A2-09B8AF041A02", "U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnells eNewsletter - - Week of November 11, 2018", "2018-11-15", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's eNewsletter - - Week of November 11,2018\r\n  \r\n Senator McConnell Unanimously Elected to Serve as Majority Leader for the 116th Congress  \r\n  The doors of the Office of theSenate Republican Leader in the United States Capitol  \r\nOn Wednesday, Senator Mitch McConnell was unanimously re-elected by his colleagues to serve asSenate Majority Leader. Senator McConnell is only the second Kentuckian to lead his party in the U.S. Senate. The other Senator from Kentucky to serve as party leader was Alben Barkley.\r\nU.S. Senate Majority Leader McConnell said, I am grateful to my colleagues for again placing their trust in me. As Majority Leader, I set the Senate's schedule and agenda. Therefore, I have and will continue to consistently choose to prioritize legislation and nominations that will directly benefit the Commonwealth of Kentucky. I am proud of our incredible record of achievement. Working with President Trump, we have made the last two years the most productive in moving our country right-of-center since I came to Washington.\r\nWe passed tax reform that put more money in the pockets of hard working Kentuckians and helped people get back to work. We stopped the War on Coal in its tracks. We passed landmark legislation to combat the opioid epidemic. We also began a transformation of the federal judiciary, ended Obamacare's individual mandate, and provided relief to community financial institutions. After harmful Obama-era cuts to our military, we rebuilt our defense forces and delivered a well-earned pay raise for our servicemembers at Kentucky's military installations and we delivered improved care to our veterans.\r\nWhen the new Congress begins next year, there is more work to be done. I will keep fighting for Kentucky in the Senate, and as Majority Leader, I look forward to many more accomplishments for our state.\r\n On Wednesday, the Senate GOPleadership team for the next Congress hosted a media stakeout in the U.S. Capitol.  Photo credit: Associated Press\n \r\nAlso this week,Senator Mitch McConnell congratulated and welcomed the newest GOP members of the Senate in his office in the U.S. Capitol. Pictured from left to right:Mike Braun of Indiana, Mitt Romney of Utah, Josh Hawley of Missouri, Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee,Majority LeaderMcConnell, Rick Scott of Florida, Kevin Cramer of North Dakota.\r\n\r\nClickbelow to view the video welcoming the incoming class of Republican Senators:\r\n\r\n Senate Passes Legislation Benefiting Kentucky Waterways, Jobs  \r\n Kentuckyemployer praises Senator McConnell for his leadership \r\nOn Wednesday,the Senate passed bipartisanlegislation to reauthorize the U.S. Coast Guardand to support the brave men and women who put themselves in harm's way every single day. This important legislation also includes the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA), which will benefit Kentucky and its 13,000 maritime jobs.\r\nSenator McConnell praised Senate passage saying, America calls on our Coast Guard to protect our ports and coasts, to safeguard the shipping lanes that enable American commerce, and to stem the tide of illegal drugs before they reach our shores. By passing this bipartisan legislation, the Senate fulfilled an important promise to some of the brave men and women who have taken an oath to keep us safe. Aspects of this legislation are particularly important to states like my home state of Kentucky  the heart of our nation's inland waterways system.\r\nFor too long, maritime workers have struggled under a complex system of overlapping and duplicative regulations. They make normal shipping functions needlessly difficult, including the incidental discharge of ballast water. A confusing web of rules from states, the Coast Guard, and the EPA leave operators to face constant uncertainty -- and lead to higher costs, Senator McConnell added. This bipartisan legislation replaces the existing system with a uniform, cost-effective, and national standard enforced by the Coast Guard. For the 13,000 Kentuckians whose jobs depend on our state's inland waterways, this provision can help cut costs, promote efficiency, and protect our natural waters.\r\nI am thankful for the leadership and support of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell in getting the VIDA legislation through the Senate and in recognizing its importance to the inland waterways industry, which plays a vital role in our nation's economy and in particular the Commonwealth of Kentucky. VIDA fixes a burdensome patchwork system of regulations and provides clear and consistent regulations for inland waterways operators while maintaining the high standards of environmental protection under the direction of the Coast Guard. Once again, Leader McConnell has stepped up for the nation and the Commonwealth of Kentucky, said Matt Ricketts, President & CEO of Crounse Corporation in Paducah, Kentucky.\r\nThe legislation now goes to the House for approval and then will be sent to President Trump for his signature. Follow Senator McConnell's press offices on Twitter at @McConnellPress and @SenateMajLeader to stay up to date on the latest on what is happening with this legislation.\r\n Click the image below to view the Senator's floor remarks regarding the U.S. Coast Guard funding reauthorization. \n \r\n Veterans Day \r\n On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent. \r\n\r\nSunday, November 11th marked 100 years since the end of the First World War. Click below to view the Senator's Veterans Daytweet:\r\n\r\n McConnell Op-Ed: Will Democrats Choose to Continue Bipartisan Achievements in New Congress, or Put Politics First? \r\n  \r\nThis week, Senator McConnell penned an op-ed for FoxNews.com, writing:\r\n\"Last Tuesday I was proud to see that the American people voted to keep Republicans in control of the U.S. Senate. But we also learned that, come January, the Republican Senate majority will be dealing with a House of Representatives under Democratic control...\r\n\"So make no mistake. The Senate has proven its ability to reach bipartisan solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing our nation. And looking ahead to the coming year, there will be no shortage of opportunities to continue this impressive record of cooperation across the aisle and across the Capitol. What we can make of those opportunities will depend on our Democratic colleagues. Will they choose to go it alone and simply make political points? Or will they choose to work together and actually make a difference?\"\r\nClick HERE to read the Senator's full op-ed.\r\n Visiting Washington, D.C. \r\n\r\nEvery week, many Kentuckians from across the Commonwealth visitSenator McConnell'soffice in the U.S. Capitol. If you're planning a trip to Washington, D.C., please check out Senator McConnell'swebsiteand visit his office while you are in town. Also, the Senator's office has information on tours, places to visit and local restaurants to help make your trip to the nation's capital one to remember.\r\n Keeping Up With Senator McConnell \r\nKeep up with things happening in our nation's capital and Kentucky by becoming a fan of Senator McConnell'sFacebookpage and following on Instagram at@McConnellPress. Receive news updates and alerts from Senator McConnell's Press Office by following on Twitter at@McConnellPress.\r\nFor a more behind-the-scenes view of the Senate Majority Leader's office, be sure to follow@SenateMajLdron Twitter and@SenateMajLdron Instagram.\r\n\r\nGet this newsletter delivered to your inbox by signing upHERE", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=7B1EB6BB-5D2D-4433-9AAA-D31E0824E27E", "Long List of Bipartisan Accomplishments", "2018-11-15", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the nomination of Michelle Bowman for the Federal Reserve Board and the recent bipartisan accomplishments in the Senate: \r\nThe Senate's final order of business this week will be to confirm Michelle Bowman, the president's choice to serve on the Federal Reserve Board. As I've highlighted in recent days, we have before us a nominee whose skills and background are tailor-made for the responsibilities of the office. Ms. Bowman has extensive experience in community banking, and the seat to be filled is intended for an expert in that very field.\r\nMy colleagues hardly need me to illustrate any further the role small, community banks play in the lives of family farms, small businesses, and communities across the country. It is time to take an important step for them and confirm this well-qualified nominee. Yesterday, we passed legislation to reauthorize the Coast Guard by an overwhelming bipartisan majority. The Senate took action to reaffirm the critical security, interdiction, and rescue missions that keep Americans safe, and to streamline duplicative regulations at the same time.\r\nThe provision to clarify the regulation of vessel incidental discharge delivered a much-needed victory for the communities and small maritime businesses, including so many in my state of Kentucky, that rely on America's inland waterways for livelihood. And the reauthorization delivered some well-earned certainty to the brave men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard, whose commitment to service should make all Americans proud.\r\nOf course, the Coast Guard legislation was just the very latest installment in a long list of bipartisan successes passed by this Senate, in this Congress, on behalf of the American people. The big battles may be what captivate the press. And Republicans are certainly proud of our signature accomplishments like historic tax reform and confirming nominees like Justice Gorsuch and Justice Kavanaugh. But at the same time, it's frequently been overlooked how many of this Congress's other major achievements have been thoroughly bipartisan.\r\nRepublicans and Democrats together passed landmark legislation that marshaled more resources to the front lines of communities' fight against the opioid crisis. More specialized training and resources for first responders. Greater access to grant support for state and local authorities. More support for treatment, recovery, and workforce reentry programs to heal the wounds of this devastating epidemic.\r\nTogether we reformed some of the excesses of Dodd-Frank and lightened the load on the local lenders. Together we ended the cycle of chronic continuing resolutions for defense funding that denied certainty to our armed forces and eroded readiness. We rebuilt a regular appropriations process. It featured the largest year-on-year defense funding increase in 15 years and the biggest pay raise for servicemembers in nearly a decade.\r\nTogether we made new investments to start rebuilding our nation's infrastructure. Together we brought new resources and new reforms to the systems that serve our veterans. Together we approved comprehensive sanctions to target malign behavior throughout the international system. We passed major bills to combat sex trafficking, improve school safety, expand opportunities for vocational and technical training, and extend the right to try' new medical treatments to those with terminal illnesses. And this isn't even an exhaustive list.\r\nSo clearly, the Senate has proven to be fertile soil for bipartisan work. It's made life better for the American people in tangible ways. We should all take real pride in this. And we'll need to keep up this momentum for the remainder of this year, as we consider more legislation and confirm more nominees. And we will need it throughout the next Congress. We'll need to work across the aisle within this body, and this Republican Senate and a Democratic House will need to collaborate as well. This long list of accomplishments offers just the blueprint we will need.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-dr-rand-paul-condemns-war-yemen-senate-floor/", "Dr. Rand Paul Condemns War in Yemen on Senate Floor", "2018-11-15", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nNovember 15, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator and Senate Foreign Relations Committee member Rand Paul (R-KY) condemned the war and growing humanitarian crisis in Yemen on the Senate floor, where he urged support for S.J. Res. 65, his resolution of disapproval to block the sale of offensive weapons and support to Bahrain, a member of the Saudi-led coalition waging the devastating war in Yemen.\n\nThe war has led to the death of thousands of innocent civilians and left millions of Yemenis on the edge of famine.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m only saying stop one sale of arms to send a message that we are done with the war in Yemen. That we are no longer going to sell weapons to countries that are fighting this war in Yemen. That the war must come to a close,\u201d Dr. Paul stated in his speech.\n\n\u201cIt must stop. Someone must take a stand and say, \u2018Enough\u2019s enough. We are against the humanitarian disaster in Yemen,'\u201d he later added.\n\nUnfortunately, the Senate voted against taking a stand to help stop the loss of innocent life in Yemen.\n\nAmid growing international calls to end the war in Yemen, Dr. Paul\u2019s resolution would have blocked the sale of an estimated $300 million in high-explosive rocket artillery and associated training and support to Bahrain.\n\nThe Arms Export Control Act of 1976 provides the special procedures whereby a senator can force a vote on an arms sale. Dr. Paul has previously led multiple bipartisan efforts to stand against U.S. involvement in the war in Yemen by blocking arms sales to Saudi Arabia.\n\nYou can watch Dr. Paul speak against the war in Yemen on the Senate floor below:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:10:16Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-icymi-sen-rand-paul-calls-asylum-asia-bibi-has-discussed-president-trump/", "ICYMI: Sen. Rand Paul Calls for Asylum for Asia Bibi, Has Discussed with President Trump", "2018-11-15", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nNovember 15, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) appeared on \u201cCNN Right Now\u201d with Brianna Keilar to discuss his support for granting asylum to Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi, who was charged with blasphemy after a disagreement with neighbors, ultimately resulting in her imprisonment, conviction, and subsequent sentencing to death row.\n\nWhile the Pakistani Supreme Court acquitted Asia Bibi in October 2018, pushback has left her fate uncertain, and she remains in Pakistan. Earlier this week, Senator Paul discussed the importance of the U.S. granting her asylum directly with President Donald J. Trump.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve been fighting for them to free Asia Bibi. I\u2019ve talked to the President about granting her asylum and refugee status here,\u201d Senator Paul stated in the interview, later adding, \u201cI\u2019m worried that she won\u2019t survive.\u201d\n\nDuring the interview, Senator Paul also discussed his opposition to the Saudi-led coalition\u2019s war in Yemen.\n\nYou can watch Senator Paul\u2019s entire interview below:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:10:16Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-rand-paul-condemns-war-yemen-senate-floor", "Dr. Rand Paul Condemns War in Yemen on Senate Floor", "2018-11-15", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 15, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator and Senate Foreign Relations Committee member Rand Paul (R-KY) condemned the war and growing humanitarian crisis in Yemen on the Senate floor, where he urged support for S.J. Res. 65, his resolution of disapproval to block the sale of offensive weapons and support to Bahrain, a member of the Saudi-led coalition waging the devastating war in Yemen. The war has led to the death of thousands of innocent civilians and left millions of Yemenis on the edge of famine. I'm only saying stop one sale of arms to send a message that we are done with the war in Yemen. That we are no longer going to sell weapons to countries that are fighting this war in Yemen. That the war must come to a close, Dr. Paul stated in his speech. It must stop. Someone must take a stand and say, Enough's enough. We are against the humanitarian disaster in Yemen,' he later added. Unfortunately, the Senate voted against taking a stand to help stop the loss of innocent life in Yemen. Amid growing international calls to end the war in Yemen, Dr. Paul's resolution would have blocked the sale of an estimated $300 million in high-explosive rocket artillery and associated training and support to Bahrain. The Arms Export Control Act of 1976 provides the special procedures whereby a senator can force a vote on an arms sale. Dr. Paul has previously led multiple bipartisan efforts to stand against U.S. involvement in the war in Yemen by blocking arms sales to Saudi Arabia. You can watch Dr. Paul speak against the war in Yemen on the Senate floor below:", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/icymi-sen-rand-paul-calls-asylum-asia-bibi-has-discussed-president-trump", "ICYMI: Sen. Rand Paul Calls for Asylum for Asia Bibi, Has Discussed with President Trump", "2018-11-15", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 15, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343   WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) appeared on CNN Right Now with Brianna Keilar to discuss his support for granting asylum to Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi, who was charged with blasphemy after a disagreement with neighbors, ultimately resulting in her imprisonment, conviction, and subsequent sentencing to death row.    While the Pakistani Supreme Court acquitted Asia Bibi in October 2018, pushback has left her fate uncertain, and she remains in Pakistan. Earlier this week, Senator Paul discussed the importance of the U.S. granting her asylum directly with President Donald J. Trump.    I've been fighting for them to free Asia Bibi. I've talked to the President about granting her asylum and refugee status here, Senator Paul stated in the interview, later adding, I'm worried that she won't survive.    During the interview, Senator Paul also discussed his opposition to the Saudi-led coalition's war in Yemen.    You can watch Senator Paul's entire interview below:", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=27D4BDFB-5EEA-42E4-9600-799F49A5CD73", "Senate Passes Legislation Benefiting Kentucky Waterways, Jobs", "2018-11-14", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) praised Senate passage today of legislation to reauthorize Coast Guard operations to support the brave men and women who put themselves in harm's way every single day. This important legislation also includes the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA), which will benefit Kentucky and its 13,000 maritime jobs.\r\nAmerica calls on our Coast Guard to protect our ports and coasts, to safeguard the shipping lanes that enable American commerce, and to stem the tide of illegal drugs before they reach our shores, Senator McConnell said. By passing this bipartisan legislation, the Senate fulfilled an important promise to some of the brave men and women who have taken an oath to keep us safe. Aspects of this legislation are particularly important to states like my home state of Kentucky  the heart of our nation's inland waterways system.\r\nFor too long, maritime workers have struggled under a complex system of overlapping and duplicative regulations. They make normal shipping functions needlessly difficult, including the incidental discharge of ballast water. A confusing web of rules from states, the Coast Guard, and the EPA leave operators to face constant uncertainty -- and lead to higher costs, Senator McConnell added. This bipartisan legislation replaces the existing system with a uniform, cost-effective, and national standard enforced by the Coast Guard. For the 13,000 Kentuckians whose jobs depend on our state's inland waterways, this provision can help cut costs, promote efficiency, and protect our natural waters.\r\nI am thankful for the leadership and support of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell in getting the VIDA legislation through the Senate and in recognizing its importance to the inland waterways industry, which plays a vital role in our nation's economy and in particular the Commonwealth of Kentucky. VIDA fixes a burdensome patchwork system of regulations and provides clear and consistent regulations for inland waterways operators while maintaining the high standards of environmental protection under the direction of the Coast Guard. Once again, Leader McConnell has stepped up for the nation and the Commonwealth of Kentucky, said Matt Ricketts, President & CEO of Crounse Corporation in Paducah, Kentucky.\r\nThe legislation now goes to the House for approval and then will be sent to President Trump for his signature.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=5CF53C2C-4716-4C87-A8D4-B676E32549BC", "McConnell Welcomes New Senators", "2018-11-14", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the newly-elected Senators and Republican Leadership who will serve for the 116th Congress: \r\nWe're continuing to welcome our new Senators-elect, who are in town this week for orientation, meetings, and votes on party leadership. Yesterday evening, the Democratic Leader and I had the honor of toasting our future colleagues at our traditional bipartisan welcome dinner.\r\nIt's quite a distinguished group. Some of our new colleagues are talented legislators who will simply be relocating from the other side of the Capitol. Some are coming to the Senate as private citizens who've built successful careers outside the world of politics. Some have already served as statewide elected officials and are coming to Washington for the first time. It was our pleasure to welcome these future Senators and congratulate them.\r\nSpeaking of looking ahead, just a few hours ago, our Republican conference came together and chose the leadership team that will serve for the 116th Congress. Our Republican Leadership will feature faces both new and familiar. We are looking forward to honoring our colleagues' trust and working as hard as we can to seize the opportunities that will lie before us this coming Congress.\r\nIt is my honor to have been asked by my colleagues to continue serving as leader. I can honestly say: Not a day goes by when I am not humbled and honored by this opportunity to serve my colleagues, the institution of the Senate, and our incredible country in whatever measure I am capable. I know that my friend the Democratic Leader feels much the same. I want to congratulate him on his own selection as leader once again. I look forward to working with him and his colleagues to move the ball and make bipartisan progress for the American people.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=B167E88B-77EA-40CF-92D7-6ADF727C716F", "McConnell Re-Elected Senate Majority Leader", "2018-11-14", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Mitch McConnell", "M000355", "www.mcconnell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) was unanimously re-elected today by his Senate Republican colleagues to serve as Senate Majority Leader for the 116th Congress. Following the vote, Majority Leader McConnell said:\r\nI am grateful to my colleagues for again placing their trust in me. As Majority Leader, I set the Senate's schedule and agenda. Therefore, I have and will continue to consistently choose to prioritize legislation and nominations that will directly benefit the Commonwealth of Kentucky. I am proud of our incredible record of achievement. Working with President Trump, we have made the last two years the most productive in moving our country right-of-center since I came to Washington.\r\nWe passed tax reform that put more money in the pockets of hard working Kentuckians and helped people get back to work. We stopped the War on Coal in its tracks. We passed landmark legislation to combat the opioid epidemic. We also began a transformation of the federal judiciary, ended Obamacare's individual mandate, and provided relief to community financial institutions. After harmful Obama-era cuts to our military, we rebuilt our defense forces and delivered a well-earned pay raise for our servicemembers at Kentucky's military installations and we delivered improved care to our veterans.\r\nWhen the new Congress begins next year, there is more work to be done. I will keep fighting for Kentucky in the Senate, and as Majority Leader, I look forward to many more accomplishments for our state.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-dr-rand-paul-secures-senate-vote-sale-weapons-bahrain/", "Dr. Rand Paul Secures Senate Vote on Sale of Weapons to Bahrain", "2018-11-14", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nNovember 14, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) announced he has secured a vote to proceed to S.J. Res. 65, his resolution of disapproval to block the sale of offensive weapons and support to Bahrain, a member of the Saudi-led coalition waging a devastating war in Yemen that has killed thousands of innocent civilians and left millions of Yemenis on the edge of famine.\n\nThe Senate is expected to vote early Thursday afternoon.\n\n\u201cThis vote is about more than yet another arms sale. The Senate has a chance to stand up for innocent life, speak out against a humanitarian tragedy that is getting worse by the day, and demonstrate it will not support further destruction in Yemen,\u201d said Dr. Paul.\n\nAmid growing international calls to end the war in Yemen, Dr. Paul\u2019s resolution would block the sale of an estimated $300 million in high-explosive rocket artillery and associated training and support to Bahrain.\n\nThe Arms Export Control Act of 1976 provides the special procedures whereby a senator can force a vote on an arms sale.\n\nDr. Paul has previously led multiple bipartisan efforts to stand against U.S. involvement in the war in Yemen by blocking arms sales to Saudi Arabia.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:10:16Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-sens-paul-gillibrand-introduce-bill-protecting-pregnant-women-federal-custody/", "Sens. Paul, Gillibrand Introduce Bill Protecting Pregnant Women in Federal Custody", "2018-11-14", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "Senate", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", "paul", "https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nNovember 14, 2018\n\nContact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Rand Paul (R-KY) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) will introduce the Pregnant Women in Custody Act of 2018 to help guarantee the health and safety of women who are pregnant and give birth while in federal custody, as well as to encourage states to pursue reforms that would ensure adequate protections for such inmates.\n\nThe bill would prohibit the use of restraints and restrictive housing on pregnant federal inmates and incentivize states to adopt similar practices by leveraging existing federal assistance programs. It serves as a companion to H.R. 6805, introduced in the U.S. House by Representatives Karen Bass (D-CA) and Mia Love (R-UT) in September 2018.\n\n\u201cWhile debates over the best ways to address problems in our criminal justice system have been occurring for years, there are some reforms that are just common sense, like protecting the health of pregnant incarcerated women and their unborn children. An incarcerated individual is still a human being whose life deserves to be valued and protected, which is why our proposal prohibits the use of restraints on pregnant federal inmates, particularly when they are in labor, and ensures these women are treated with compassion and respect as they bring new life into the world,\u201d said Senator Paul.\n\n\u201cPregnancy and childbirth take an enormous physical toll on women\u2019s bodies and require consistent medical attention, but in many states across our country, incarcerated pregnant and postpartum women are often restrained and placed in solitary without access to adequate medical and nutritional care. This inhumane and archaic treatment of pregnant women and new mothers is why I am proud to introduce the Pregnant Women in Custody Act of 2018,\u201d said Senator Gillibrand. \u201cThis legislation would create and uphold a national standard of care for mothers who are serving their time in an already flawed criminal justice system in dire need of reforms. Congress should be protecting and valuing mothers wherever they are in our society, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bipartisan legislation.\u201d\n\nOver 2,000 women give birth while in custody each year. During the course of their pregnancies and in postpartum recovery, a majority of pregnant inmates are placed in restraints and restrictive housing, even during labor. The use of such restraints can lead to muscle tears, bone separation, blocked blood circulation, and miscarriage. Placing pregnant inmates in restrictive housing creates a risk of mental and physical harm from a lack of medical and nutritional care.\n\nWhile 25 states and the District of Columbia have already restricted the use of restraints on pregnant inmates, no federal law exists prohibiting that practice.\n\nYou can find more background on this bipartisan legislation below, and you can read the entire bill below.\n\nThe Pregnant Women in Custody Act of 2018:\n\n\u2022 Ensures access to resources necessary to meet the unique needs of pregnant women;\n\n\u2022 Ensures the Bureau of Prisons captures accurate data on the health care needs of pregnant inmates, while also prohibiting the cataloging of personally identifiable information;\n\n\u2022 Prohibits the use of restraints on pregnant and postpartum inmates (up to eight weeks postpartum), unless she poses an immediate risk of escape or physical harm to herself or others; and\n\n\u2022 Encourages reform at the state level by providing for a preference in grant funding for states who have enacted or implemented services or pilot programs aimed at enhancing the safety and wellness of pregnant inmates.\n\no This bill does not call for new funding but rather provides incentives by asking the Department of Justice to prioritize awards from existing grant programs to states who have made these changes.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:10:16Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-rand-paul-secures-senate-vote-sale-weapons-bahrain", "Dr. Rand Paul Secures Senate Vote on Sale of Weapons to Bahrain", "2018-11-14", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 14, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343   WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) announced he has secured a vote to proceed to S.J. Res. 65, his resolution of disapproval to block the sale of offensive weapons and support to Bahrain, a member of the Saudi-led coalition waging a devastating war in Yemen that has killed thousands of innocent civilians and left millions of Yemenis on the edge of famine.    The Senate is expected to vote early Thursday afternoon.    \"This vote is about more than yet another arms sale. The Senate has a chance to stand up for innocent life, speak out against a humanitarian tragedy that is getting worse by the day, and demonstrate it will not support further destruction in Yemen, said Dr. Paul.    Amid growing international calls to end the war in Yemen, Dr. Paul's resolution would block the sale of an estimated $300 million in high-explosive rocket artillery and associated training and support to Bahrain.    The Arms Export Control Act of 1976 provides the special procedures whereby a senator can force a vote on an arms sale.    Dr. Paul has previously led multiple bipartisan efforts to stand against U.S. involvement in the war in Yemen by blocking arms sales to Saudi Arabia.  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/sens-paul-gillibrand-introduce-bill-protecting-pregnant-women-federal-custody", "Sens. Paul, Gillibrand Introduce Bill Protecting Pregnant Women in Federal Custody", "2018-11-14", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "KY", "Rand Paul", "P000603", "www.paul.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 14, 2018  Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343 WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Rand Paul (R-KY) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) will introduce the Pregnant Women in Custody Act of 2018 to help guarantee the health and safety of women who are pregnant and give birth while in federal custody, as well as to encourage states to pursue reforms that would ensure adequate protections for such inmates.  The bill would prohibit the use of restraints and restrictive housing on pregnant federal inmates and incentivize states to adopt similar practices by leveraging existing federal assistance programs. It serves as a companion to H.R. 6805, introduced in the U.S. House by Representatives Karen Bass (D-CA) and Mia Love (R-UT) in September 2018. \"While debates over the best ways to address problems in our criminal justice system have been occurring for years, there are some reforms that are just common sense, like protecting the health of pregnant incarcerated women and their unborn children. An incarcerated individual is still a human being whose life deserves to be valued and protected, which is why our proposal prohibits the use of restraints on pregnant federal inmates, particularly when they are in labor, and ensures these women are treated with compassion and respect as they bring new life into the world, said Senator Paul. Pregnancy and childbirth take an enormous physical toll on women's bodies and require consistent medical attention, but in many states across our country, incarcerated pregnant and postpartum women are often restrained and placed in solitary without access to adequate medical and nutritional care. This inhumane and archaic treatment of pregnant women and new mothers is why I am proud to introduce the Pregnant Women in Custody Act of 2018, said Senator Gillibrand. This legislation would create and uphold a national standard of care for mothers who are serving their time in an already flawed criminal justice system in dire need of reforms. Congress should be protecting and valuing mothers wherever they are in our society, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bipartisan legislation. Over 2,000 women give birth while in custody each year. During the course of their pregnancies and in postpartum recovery, a majority of pregnant inmates are placed in restraints and restrictive housing, even during labor. The use of such restraints can lead to muscle tears, bone separation, blocked blood circulation, and miscarriage. Placing pregnant inmates in restrictive housing creates a risk of mental and physical harm from a lack of medical and nutritional care. While 25 states and the District of Columbia have already restricted the use of restraints on pregnant inmates, no federal law exists prohibiting that practice. You can find more background on this bipartisan legislation below, and you can read the entire bill HERE. The Pregnant Women in Custody Act of 2018:  Ensures access to resources necessary to meet the unique needs of pregnant women;   Ensures the Bureau of Prisons captures accurate data on the health care needs of pregnant inmates, while also prohibiting the cataloging of personally identifiable information;   Prohibits the use of restraints on pregnant and postpartum inmates (up to eight weeks postpartum), unless she poses an immediate risk of escape or physical harm to herself or others; and   Encourages reform at the state level by providing for a preference in grant funding for states who have enacted or implemented services or pilot programs aimed at enhancing the safety and wellness of pregnant inmates.     o This bill does not call for new funding but rather provides incentives by asking the Department of          Justice to prioritize awards from existing grant programs to states who have made these changes.  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 1010, "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 \"state\" = :p0 and \"year\" = :p1 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "KY", "p1": "2018"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=KY&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 989, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=KY&year=2018&party=Republican", "selected": false}, {"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 21, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=KY&year=2018&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=KY&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 924, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=KY&year=2018&chamber=House", "selected": false}, {"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 86, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=KY&year=2018&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=KY&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "KY", "label": "KY", "count": 1010, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2018", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=KY&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "2018", "label": "2018", "count": 1010, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=KY", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2018-11-14,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Epaul~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fsens-paul-gillibrand-introduce-bill-protecting-pregnant-women-federal-custody", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=KY&year=2018&_next=2018-11-14%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Epaul~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fsens-paul-gillibrand-introduce-bill-protecting-pregnant-women-federal-custody&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 151.67991118505597, "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"}