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Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press

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1,248 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "IL" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending

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  • 2025 · 1,248 ✖

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  • IL · 1,248 ✖

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  • Democrat 1,248

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  • Senate · 1,248 ✖
url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-highlights-key-2025-efforts-as-2025-draws-to-a-close Duckworth Highlights Key 2025 Efforts as 2025 Draws to a Close 2025-12-29 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – As 2025 comes to a close, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) highlighted several key accomplishments she secured over the last year: “Whether helping nearly 2,900 Illinoisans recover more than $13 million the federal government owed them, passing a law making it easier for new parents to travel with critical breast milk supplies, pushing back against Trump and Republicans as they work to jack up costs for everything from groceries to health care, fighting Donald Trump’s illegal and reckless invasion of our state or getting Veterans’ jobs back after this Administration cruelly fired Veterans Crisis Line workers—I’m proud of everything we’ve been able to do this past year,” Duckworth said. “While this year was far too difficult for far too many in our community, I am as committed as ever to showing up and getting things done for my fellow Illinoisans—and all those who feel targeted by the Trump Administration. I look forward to continuing my work for our state in 2026.” Over the past year, Duckworth and her office responded to over 1,047,000 emails as well as other messages and assisted more than 2,800 Illinoisans who were experiencing difficulties navigating the federal bureaucracy, helping recover more than $13.2 million in Social Security payments, Veterans’ benefits, tax refunds and more for her constituents. A select list of Duckworth’s accomplishments from the past year is below. Duckworth hosted a series of town halls and telephone town halls this year to hear directly from her constituents on how the Trump Administration is negatively impacting their lives and the lives of their families and communities, hearing from Illinoisans in McHenry County, Rockford, Carbondale and throughout Chicagoland. Key Efforts: Duckworth’s Bipartisan BABES Enhancement Act Became Law: After passing the House and unanimously passing the Senate, bipartisan legislation authored and championed by Senator Duckworth to make it easier for parents to safely embark on air travel with breast milk and breastfeed… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-statement-on-trumps-va-abortion-ban-that-denies-millions-of-veterans-the-care-theyve-earned Duckworth Statement on Trump’s VA Abortion Ban That Denies Millions of Veterans the Care They’ve Earned 2025-12-24 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after the Trump Administration quietly implemented a policy banning the VA from providing abortion care to Veterans and their families—including in cases of rape, incest or to protect the health of the mother—despite widespread opposition from advocates and the Veteran community: “Our Veterans risked their lives to safeguard our freedoms. And yet a man who has never served a day in his life is taking away their own freedom to choose what's best for their health. “In cases of rape, incest or when the health of the mother is at risk, Trump is denying our heroes the care they’ve earned through their service—and it’ll be those living in states with extreme abortion bans who will suffer the most. “Trump implemented this extreme policy during the holiday season, quietly and over the objections of Veterans, thinking we wouldn’t notice. Well, we did. And I will keep fighting to give Veterans and all Americans the health care and reproductive freedom they deserve.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-statement-on-supreme-court-ruling-blocking-deployment-of-national-guard-troops-to-chicago Duckworth, Durbin Statement on Supreme Court Ruling Blocking Deployment of National Guard Troops to Chicago 2025-12-23 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after the Supreme Court declined to stay a federal judge’s temporary restraining order that blocked President Trump’s plans to deploy the National Guard to Chicago: “It’s long past time for the Trump Administration to back off Chicago. The majority of Americans believe they’ve gone too far, and even the Supreme Court’s conservative supermajority refused to greenlight this blatantly unlawful overreach. Our government is supposed to help our communities—not go to war with them. “Immigrants make our country better, and we will keep fighting like hell to protect the promise of America.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-statement-on-supreme-court-ruling-blocking-deployment-of-national-guard-troops-to-chicago Durbin, Duckworth Statement On Supreme Court Ruling Blocking Deployment Of National Guard Troops To Chicago 2025-12-23 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) released the following statement after the Supreme Court declined to stay a federal judge’s temporary restraining order that blocked President Trump’s plans to deploy the National Guard to Chicago: “It’s long past time for the Trump Administration to back off Chicago. The majority of Americans believe they’ve gone too far, and even the Supreme Court’s conservative supermajority refused to greenlight this blatantly unlawful overreach. Our government is supposed to help our communities—not go to war with them. “Immigrants make our country better, and we will keep fighting like hell to protect the promise of America.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-trump-administration-failure-to-release-the-complete-epstein-files Durbin Statement On Trump Administration Failure To Release The Complete Epstein Files 2025-12-20 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after the Department of Justice failed to produce the complete Epstein files yesterday in accordance with federal law: “Yesterday could have been a win for survivors, accountability, and transparency to the public. It wasn’t. After mishandling the Epstein files all year, the Trump Administration is now violating federal law to protect the rich and powerful. “It took an act of Congress to force Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, and Dan Bongino to even consider providing justice. They had a choice: survivors or Donald Trump. They chose the latter. “Senate Judiciary Democrats will investigate this violation of law and make sure the American people know about it. “The survivors deserve better. It’s clear Donald Trump and his Republican enablers are working for the rich and powerful elites—and not you.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-blumenthal-demand-investigation-into-trumps-misuse-of-va-resources-to-help-execute-his-extreme-deportation-campaign Duckworth, Blumenthal Demand Investigation into Trump’s Misuse of VA Resources to Help Execute His Extreme Deportation Campaign 2025-12-19 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) member Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), along with SVAC Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), today demanded an independent investigation into the Trump Administration’s decision to divert personnel, equipment and financial resources away from serving our nation’s Veterans and toward developing a database to track non-U.S. citizen employees as part of Donald Trump’s inhumane mass deportation campaign. After Donald Trump fired 30,000 VA employees and jeopardized timely VA care for our Veterans earlier this year, Duckworth’s letter underscores that aiding immigration enforcement does not support or advance the VA’s sacred mission of caring for our Veterans and their families and only further demoralizes the dedicated VA workforce. “Beyond cutting 30,000 Federal employees from the workforce this year, VA leadership is hindering Veterans’ prompt access to exemplary healthcare, and their swift delivery of benefits, by pursuing policy functions and using valuable resources irrelevant to its statutory responsibilities,” wrote Duckworth. “These actions are indicative of potential fraud, waste and misuse of Congressionally appropriated funds at VA. Furthermore, they also suggest possible gross mismanagement that undermines VA’s mission.” Demanding an independent investigation into this latest attempt by the Trump Administration to undermine the mission of the VA, Duckworth wrote: “…we request VA OIG conduct an independent investigation to include findings, if warranted, on the database’s adverse impact on delivering and managing healthcare and benefits and whether such activities are consistent with congressional intent for VA’s congressionally appropriated resources.” Duckworth has been a fierce leader and advocate for improving our Veterans’ and servicemembers’ access to care amid Trump’s ongoing attacks on the VA. In October, she defended disabled Veterans as Senate Republicans shamefully promoted Trump’s dangerous efforts to cut even … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-announce-135-million-in-federal-funding-to-support-illinois-students Durbin, Duckworth Announce $13.5 Million In Federal Funding To Support Illinois Students 2025-12-19 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today announced $13,467,325 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Education for mental health and literacy support for students in Illinois. “There is a growing mental health and literacy crisis amongst today’s youth that must be addressed,” said Durbin. “Today’s announced federal funding for programs that build the pipeline of mental health professionals, connect professionals to students, and support literacy research will help Illinois face these concerns head-on. It also demonstrates the importance of the Department of Education as the Trump Administration continues its attempts to dismantle the agency. Senator Duckworth and I will always work to ensure our students have access to resources that help put them on a path toward success.” “Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, which is why I’m proud to see this investment support critical mental health programs that help students across Illinois thrive,” said Senator Duckworth. “While this funding will reach our state this time around, it’s cruel that Donald Trump’s cuts to federal services have jeopardized programs that prepare the next generation—hurting the very middle-class families he swore to protect, all while enriching his billionaire buddies. That’s why I will continue doing everything I can at the federal level, alongside Senator Durbin, to safeguard these investments and ensure every student across our state has the chance to succeed, both inside and outside the classroom.” The Department of Education’s School-Based Mental Health Grant Program and Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grant Program provide competitive grants to State educational agencies (SEAs), local educational agencies (LEAs), and consortia of LEAs to train and increase the number of credentialed mental health services providers providing school-based mental health services to students. The Education Innovation and Research gran… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-members-of-illinois-delegation-request-25-million-in-reimbursements-for-mwrds-work-on-the-thornton-reservoir Durbin, Duckworth, Members Of Illinois Delegation Request $25 Million In Reimbursements For MWRD’s Work On The Thornton Reservoir 2025-12-19 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), along with U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Representatives Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07), Jesus G. “Chuy” Garcia (D-IL-04), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09) today sent a letter to Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Adam Telle urging the Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) to include $25 million in construction funds in its Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Work Plan to reimburse the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) of Greater Chicago for the work it has completed on the design and construction of the Thornton Composite Reservoir. “We are writing to request that you include $25 million in Construction funds in the Army Corps of Engineers’ Fiscal Year 2026 Work Plan to reimburse the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago for design and construction work conducted on the Thornton Composite Reservoir,” the lawmakers wrote. In 2009, MWRD executed an amendment to its Project Cooperation Agreement with the Army Corps for the design and construction of the Thornton Composite Reservoir, enabling MWRD to work on the project while being eligible for federal reimbursement. Despite the reservoir being in service since 2015 and providing an estimated $660 million in flood reduction benefits to 14 communities, the Army Corps still owes MWRD approximately $200 million in reimbursements. “Currently, the Army Corps of Engineers owes MWRD approximately $200 million in reimbursements for the cost of designing and constructing the Thornton Reservoir, which is needed to support flood-prone communities struggling to build resilient infrastructure. Cook County experienced significant flooding during storm events in 2023, 2024, and 2025, leading to three disaster declarations. These reimbursement funds would be used to advance shovel-ready projects to address flood damages in the Chicagoland area,” the lawm… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-joins-blumenthal-ross-to-introduce-legislation-to-shine-light-on-supreme-court-shadow-docket-decisions Durbin Joins Blumenthal, Ross To Introduce Legislation To Shine Light On Supreme Court Shadow Docket Decisions 2025-12-19 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The Shadow Docket Sunlight Act requires the Supreme Court to provide a written explanation for shadow docket decisions and a vote count detailing how each justice voted on the decision, promoting transparency and consistency in judicial decision making. WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Deborah Ross (D-NC) to introduce bicameral legislation establishing transparency in decisions on the Supreme Court’s emergency docket, also known as the “shadow docket.” The Shadow Docket Sunlight Act requires the Supreme Court to provide a written explanation for shadow docket decisions and a vote count detailing how each Justice voted on the decision, promoting transparency and consistency in judicial decision making. The Supreme Court’s increasing reliance on the shadow docket allows it to make decisions on short notice without oral argument or any legal explanation of the Court’s reasoning. The Court has utilized the shadow docket to decide a number of wide-ranging, highly consequential cases, including the September 8, 2025 decision in Noem v. Vasquez Perdomo. The decision allows ICE agents to stop and arrest individuals based on their appearance, the language they speak, where they live, and what they do for work. The Trump Administration has also urged the Supreme Court to decide Trump v. Illinois, a case that will determine the legality of the Trump Administration’s federalization and deployment of the National Guard in Illinois, on the shadow docket. The Trump Administration’s emergency application is still pending. “The Supreme Court’s abuse of the shadow docket has allowed justices to hand down major rulings without justification and sets a dangerous precedent under which consequential cases are decided without a clear rationale—even when those cases involve a presidential administration that has shown little regard for the Constitution. This abuse of process must stop,” … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-whistleblower-disclosure-regarding-uscis-circumventing-court-order Durbin Statement On Whistleblower Disclosure Regarding USCIS Circumventing Court Order 2025-12-19 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement regarding a whistleblower disclosure alleging that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is feigning compliance with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and a court order in a class action lawsuit in order to avoid court oversight. The Nightingale court order simply requires USCIS to comply with existing FOIA law to process immigration case files and report its progress to the court. Yet, according to this whistleblower report, USCIS is trying to avoid court reporting requirements and obligations under FOIA by prematurely closing cases, even when a USCIS FOIA officer has found the case file information and could provide it to the FOIA requester. The disclosure comes after USCIS reported to the court that it had a 99 percent timely completion rate for immigration case file FOIA requests. “Today’s disclosure alleges that the DHS FOIA office wants a district court judge to believe FOIA requests are being processed more efficiently. But in fact, they are being summarily closed to cook the numbers. “The agency’s actions directly conflict with the spirit of the Nightingale lawsuit, which was filed to ensure due process for individuals who only can access their records through FOIA. They also appear to conflict with the Freedom of Information Act, which instructs agencies not to withhold information unless the agency reasonably foresees that the disclosure would harm an interest protected by a FOIA exemption. “New policies that allow the agency to reject FOIA requests reduce transparency and are just one more way that the Trump-Noem DHS is operating with impunity. The information contained in case files is vital as immigrants increasingly are the targets of violent enforcement actions and must dispute false narratives devised by this Administration. USCIS must respond to FOIA requests fully and in a timely fashion.” Records contained in immigration case fil… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-leads-her-colleagues-in-demanding-the-trump-administration-reverse-its-termination-of-tps-for-burma Duckworth Leads Her Colleagues in Demanding the Trump Administration Reverse its Termination of TPS for Burma 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – After Donald Trump continued his extreme, anti-immigrant campaign by terminating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) led her Senate Democratic colleagues in demanding that the Trump Administration immediately reverse this harmful, misguided policy and reinstate Burma’s TPS designation. In the letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Senators highlighted the inconsistencies in the Department of Homeland Security’s rationale for terminating TPS and urged the Administration to stop staking the lives of lawful TPS beneficiaries on the misleading claims of authoritarian leaders and advancing a policy that will force them to return to an active war zone. In addition to Duckworth, the letter is co-signed by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tina Smith (D-MN), Edward Markey (D-MA) and Michael Bennet (D-CO). In the letter, the Senators wrote: “Your termination notice ignores the Burmese military’s brutality, often targeted at returnees, and heartlessly requires TPS holders to return to an active war zone. We ask that you stop relying on the claims of authoritarian leaders to justify politically expedient TPS terminations and immediately reverse this decision.” The Senators continued: “We are particularly alarmed that your justification for terminating TPS for Burma embraces the talking points of Burma’s military junta. In your termination notice, you highlight the military State Administration Council’s self-dissolution and revocation of its 2021 state of emergency and the National Defense and Security Council’s plans to hold what you deem “free and fair” elections as signs of major improvement in Burma that guided your decision. However, you fail to acknowledge that, after ending emergency rule in July, military leaders immediately reimposed a state of emerg… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-led-provision-to-rein-in-trumps-misuse-of-the-military-passes-congress-awaits-presidents-signature Duckworth-Led Provision to Rein in Trump’s Misuse of the Military Passes Congress, Awaits President’s Signature 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] — As the Trump Administration continues to send federal agents and our nation’s servicemembers into American communities to intimidate their fellow Americans, the Senate passed a provision authored and championed by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) that would rein in Trump’s misuse of the military, help strengthen public trust in the military and ensure servicemembers identify themselves as part of the Armed Forces when assisting federal law enforcement in the United States. The Senator’s provision—which is a modified version of her Military in Law Enforcement Accountability (MiLEA) Act—was included in the National Defense Authorization Act that both chambers of Congress have now passed. The provision will ensure that servicemembers identify themselves properly to avoid public misunderstanding about who is providing logistical support versus conducting arrests or law enforcement duties. “It is inexcusable that the Trump Administration is intentionally trying to borrow the respected image of the military and make it hard for Americans to tell the difference between abusive federal agents and our professional servicemembers—with DHS agents dressing in camo and wielding military-style weapons,” said Duckworth. “In my own experience serving in the National Guard, I saw firsthand the difference that drawing a bright line between the roles of our military and law enforcement can make in terms of maintaining public trust in our military. Although the courts have stopped him in city after city, it’s clear Donald Trump wants our professional military to defend his incredibly abusive and unprofessional agents in carrying out his cruel and extreme domestic policies. My provision would provide accountability to the public during tense moments when troops might be interacting with citizens, from protests to natural disasters to humanitarian crises—and help build back the public’s trust in the military.” Duckworth has repeatedly criticized Trump and his Administration for repeatedly trying to blur the l… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-led-provisions-to-protect-rock-island-arsenal-support-illinois-quantum-technology-research-and-safeguard-care-for-veterans-passes-congress-awaits-presidents-signature Duckworth-Led Provisions to Protect Rock Island Arsenal, Support Illinois Quantum Technology Research and Safeguard Care for Veterans Passes Congress, Awaits President’s Signature 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] — Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), successfully secured several important provisions to support Illinoisans, servicemembers, Veterans and our state’s economy that passed Congress this week and are heading to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Some of the priorities Duckworth secured to help Illinoisans include protecting Rock Island Arsenal from any restructuring until the Army provides more information about their proposed plans, supporting research and development at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago and expanding access to vital health care services for our state’s servicemembers, Veterans and military families. “Throughout bipartisan negotiations, I’m proud to have helped lead the charge to secure several important provisions that will support our servicemembers and ensure Illinois’s defense innovation ecosystem and Rock Island Arsenal are as strong as possible,” said Senator Duckworth. “These critical provisions will help benefit our state by protecting operations at Rock Island Arsenal, protecting health care access for our military and Veteran families and supporting groundbreaking quantum computing research in Chicago.” Key Duckworth-led provisions set to be signed into law that will support Illinoisans include: Supporting and Protecting Rock Island Arsenal Operations: By Protecting Jobs: This provision limits funds available to the Secretary of the Army allocated for restructuring Joint Munitions Command and Army Sustainment Command until the Army provides more information about their proposed plan to integrate the two commands, helping ensure operations and jobs at Rock Island Arsenal are not unnecessarily affected. By Sustaining Workload and Industrial Base: This provision establishes a 5-year pilot program requiring DoD to give preference to public-private partnerships in arsenals and depots, especially those n… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-casten-introduce-resolution-honoring-illinois-blue-ribbon-schools-after-trump-administration-ends-program Durbin, Duckworth, Casten Introduce Resolution Honoring Illinois’ Blue Ribbon Schools After Trump Administration Ends Program 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The resolution recognizes the 28 Illinois schools who earned a designation as a Blue Ribbon School before the Trump Administration ended the program earlier this year WASHINGTON— After the Trump Administration ended the Blue Ribbon Schools Program, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Sean Casten (D-IL-06) today introduced a resolution to recognize the 28 Illinois schools that were selected to receive the designation of Blue Ribbon Schools this year. The Blue Ribbon Schools Program was a national recognition from the U.S. Department of Education given to public, charter, and private schools for their exemplary education and work to close the achievement gap. “Rather than continue our nation’s tradition of celebrating schools that have dedicated themselves to closing the achievement gap, the Trump Administration has focused its energy on closing the Department of Education at the detriment of our nation’s students and their education. While the Trump Administration will not recognize the hard work of educators, I am proud to celebrate the achievements of Illinois schools who earned the title of being a Blue Ribbon School,” said Durbin. “My resolution with Senator Duckworth and Congressman Casten gives these schools – and the educators, faculty, and staff that run them – the recognition they deserve.” “Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our schools and support our teachers,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to recognize this year’s National Blue Ribbon Schools across Illinois and their efforts to help students thrive inside and outside the classroom. I will continue to work alongside Senator Durbin to ensure that all students—no matter their zip code—have the opportunity to grow and thrive.” “Illinois’ Blue Ribbon Schools represent the very best of our state’s education system,” said Casten. “Teachers, administrators, and students work tirelessly to earn this distinction, which recognizes a sustained commitment to academic ex… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-submit-criminal-referral-to-doj-regarding-trump-officials-unconstitutional-immigration-enforcement-activity Durbin, Duckworth Submit Criminal Referral To DOJ Regarding Trump Officials’ Unconstitutional Immigration Enforcement Activity 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The Senators notify DOJ they are gathering and preserving additional evidence of violations of Section 242 amid “Operation Midway Blitz” and other unlawful immigration raids across the country WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today referred the unlawful actions of Trump Administration officials and federal law enforcement agents responsible for immigration enforcement in Illinois to Attorney General Pam Bondi for investigation. The Trump Administration repeatedly appears to have violated the constitutional rights of individuals in Illinois during “Operation Midway Blitz,” and the officials responsible for these violations are acting with impunity. Under 18 U.S.C. § 242, it is a federal crime for any person acting “under color of any law, statute, ordinance, regulation, or custom” to “willfully subject[] any person . . . to the deprivation of any rights, privileges, or immunities secured or protected by the Constitution or laws of the United States.” Anyone who willfully violates another person’s Fourth Amendment rights by engaging in warrantless arrests or use of excessive force under color of law may be held liable under Section 242. If this Administration fails to pursue charges, the statute of limitations will permit the next Administration to prosecute officials who acted unlawfully. The Senators wrote, “We write to alert the Department of Justice to potential violations of law by federal immigration agents and senior Administration officials during implementation of President Trump’s mass deportation campaign—and specifically the so-called ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ in Illinois. This enforcement campaign—defined by use of excessive force and warrantless arrests—has reached multiple states and is intentionally creating fear and havoc in cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, Charlotte, New Orleans, and Minneapolis. As indicated by agency leadership, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-graham-introduce-bill-to-sunset-section-230-immunity-for-tech-companies-protect-americans-online Durbin, Graham Introduce Bill To Sunset Section 230 Immunity For Tech Companies, Protect Americans Online 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The Sunset Section 230 Act would repeal Section 230 two years after the date of enactment so that those harmed online can bring legal action against companies WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) today introduced the Sunset Section 230 Act, which would repeal Section 230 two years after the date of enactment so that those harmed online can bring legal action against companies and finally hold them accountable for the harms that occur on their platforms. “Children are being exploited and abused because Big Tech consistently prioritizes profits over people. Enough is enough. Sunsetting Section 230 will force Big Tech to come to the table to take ownership over the harms it has wrought. And if Big Tech doesn’t, this bill will open the courtroom to victims of its platforms. Parents have been begging Congress to step in, and it’s time we do so. I’m proud to partner with Senator Graham on this effort, and we will push for it to become law,” said Durbin. “I am extremely pleased that there is such wide and deep bipartisan support for repealing Section 230, which protects social media companies from being sued by the people whose lives they destroy. Giant social media platforms are unregulated, immune from lawsuits and are making billions of dollars in advertising revenue off some of the most unsavory content and criminal activity imaginable. It is past time to allow those who have been harmed by these behemoths to have their day in court,” said Graham. In addition to Durbin and Graham, the bill is sponsored by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ashley Moody (R-FL), and Peter Welch (D-VT). “For nearly 30 years, Section 230 has provided Big Tech cover as they turn a blind eye to heinous crimes committed on their platforms. As Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, I’m glad to join my bipartisa… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-shaheen-meet-with-polish-embassys-head-of-mission Durbin, Shaheen Meet With Polish Embassy’s Head Of Mission 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, and U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, met with the Head of Mission at the Polish Embassy, Bogdan Klich, to discuss Poland’s strong support of Ukraine as Vladimir Putin continues his brutal war. They also discussed Russia’s provocative incursion into Polish airspace, creating a dangerous escalation of the war in Ukraine that marks the first time NATO planes engaged enemy targets in alliance airspace. “While I support efforts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine started by Russia, it is also clear that after each such engagement or threatened deadline from President Trump, Russia’s attacks on Ukraine brazenly increased, not decreased,” said Durbin. “As I reiterated to Mr. Klich, we must stand strong together—the United States, Poland, and Ukraine—to push back on Vladimir Putin and ensure any peace agreement is not a sellout to Putin. I also reiterated that Poland is our ally, and I hope the Trump Administration takes the Russian drone incursions to NATO seriously.” “Poland is an invaluable NATO ally, a keystone of our collective defense on the Eastern flank and a steadfast partner in supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom,” said Shaheen. “In our meeting today, I reiterated my deep reservations about the Trump Administration’s initial so-called ‘peace’ proposal that is willing to accommodate Putin’s demands at the expense of Ukraine’s sovereignty and broader U.S. and European security interests. The United States should follow Poland’s lead and recognize the urgency of the moment—now is the time for a strong, coordinated Allied posture.” In October, Durbin and Shaheen introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Russian incursions into NATO territory and reaffirming Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty. Durbin has visited Poland multiple times in recent years, including in February 2022 just days before Russia began its most recent assault on Ukra… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-fbi-deputy-directors-announced-departure Durbin Statement On FBI Deputy Director’s Announced Departure 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced he’s departing his post after less than a year of service: “Dan Bongino was a bad pick from the start. His service was remarkably ineffective, highlighted by his woeful mishandling of the Epstein files and his need for a polygraph exam waiver to be eligible for the job. The men and women who protect our nation at the FBI deserve better than a conspiracy theorist podcaster with an axe to grind. “I encourage Director Patel to return to longstanding tradition and appoint an experienced career FBI agent who is interested in the agency’s ever-important day-to-day work of keeping our nation safe.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-upcoming-epstein-files-deadline Durbin Statement On Upcoming Epstein Files Deadline 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement as tomorrow marks the statutory deadline for the Trump Administration to release the Epstein files: “This should be a big step towards transparency to the American public about the horrors of Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes. “As the statutory deadline to release the Epstein files approaches, it’s important to center survivors at the forefront. Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell committed horrific crimes that put young women through unspeakable trauma. Because of these survivors’ bravery, the American people may soon know a fuller truth. “That said, it’s also important to hold those responsible for the politicization of this case accountable. Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, and Dan Bongino intentionally misled the public before their appointments. Once in office, they let politics serve as their North Star—not justice. Stunt press conferences, binders with no new information, false proclamations on TV, and shoddy searches for the President’s name are shameful distractions from meaningful efforts to seek justice for survivors. “It took an act of Congress to get to this point. I will be looking closely for: appropriate redactions of victim’s identifying information, faulty redactions shielding those who caused harm from accountability, and any sense that the Administration is covering up for the wealthy and powerful. “Survivors and the public deserve transparency and accountability—no matter who it implicates.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-tillis-conaway-maloy-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-and-improve-enforcement-of-illegal-tobacco-products Durbin, Tillis, Conaway, Maloy Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Strengthen And Improve Enforcement Of Illegal Tobacco Products 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper In 2024, DOJ and FDA established a task force to crack down on illegally sold vape products after Durbin urged the agencies to enforce federal laws against the unlawful sale of unauthorized e-cigarette products to children WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), along with U.S. Representative Herb Conaway Jr., MD (D-NJ-03) and U.S. Representative Celeste Maloy (R-UT-02), today introduced new bicameral and bipartisan legislation to crack down on illegal vape products that are targeted to children. The Strengthening Task Force Operations to Prevent Illicit Vaping Act (S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act) would strengthen a federal multi-agency task force, led by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to coordinate enforcement, information sharing, and strategy to combat the illegal importation, distribution, and sale of unauthorized e-cigarettes. In 2024, FDA and DOJ established this task force after Durbin repeatedly called on the agencies to better enforce federal laws against the unlawful sale of unauthorized e-cigarette products. Durbin secured $2 million for the task force in the Fiscal Year 2026 funding bill for Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA and Related Agencies. This funding will support the task force’s efforts to bring all criminal and civil tools to bear against the illegal manufacture, importation, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes from China and other foreign countries. “If we hope to prevent the next generation of children from getting hooked on nicotine, we must enforce our existing laws and finally crack down on the illegal e-cigarette products that are flooding stores nationwide,” Durbin said. “My bipartisan legislation, the S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act, would cement DOJ and FDA’s task force dedicated to preventing the unlawful sale of these unauthorized vape products.” “The flood of illegal and unregulated e-cigarettes, particularly from China, under… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-senate-floor-durbin-announces-criminal-referral-to-doj-regarding-trump-officials-unconstitutional-immigration-enforcement-activity On Senate Floor, Durbin Announces Criminal Referral To DOJ Regarding Trump Officials’ Unconstitutional Immigration Enforcement Activity 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin: Today, I am putting those participating in “Operation Midway Blitz” on notice; you will be held accountable for unlawful actions WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, announced he, along with U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), have submitted a criminal referral to the Justice Department regarding the unlawful actions of senior Administration officials and federal immigration agents in “Operation Midway Blitz.” The Trump Administration repeatedly appears to have violated the constitutional rights of individuals in Illinois during “Operation Midway Blitz,” and the officials responsible for these violations are acting with impunity. Durbin said, “Earlier this year, the Trump Administration began a calculated show of political theater and force designed to spread fear and terror in Illinois communities. Masked federal agents pepper sprayed, punched, body slammed, and even shot individuals, including U.S. citizens, during violent immigration enforcement actions… They deployed tear gas canisters against clergy, broke into apartments, and zip-tied children.” Durbin continued, “President Trump has not gone after ‘the worst of the worst,’ as he promised—instead, he has brought some of the worst, most unprofessional, and most poorly trained federal law enforcement officers and agents into our city. Because of his so-called ‘Operation Midway Blitz,’ children are afraid to go to school, businesses are closing, and families are being torn apart. Yet the Trump Administration has shown no regret. They are reveling in the fear and chaos they have created. Just look at Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino.” On Tuesday, Bovino returned to Chicago after leaving last month to bring his campaign of fear to North Carolina and New Orleans. As soon as he arrived back in Chicago, Bovino went to the picket line of Local 705 Teamsters at Mauser Packaging Solutions. Durbin said, “Bovino brought federal agents to the line… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-judiciary-democrats-press-for-hearing-on-legality-of-trumps-extrajudicial-killings-in-caribbean-sea Senate Judiciary Democrats Press For Hearing On Legality Of Trump’s Extrajudicial Killings In Caribbean Sea 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin, SJC Dems to Grassley: “These strikes are extrajudicial killings and shocking violations of fundamental principles of due process and the right to life under U.S. and international law.” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led all Senate Judiciary Democrats in urging Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to hold a hearing on the Trump Administration’s executions of alleged drug traffickers via military strikes on boats at sea, which have killed at least 95 people so far in 25 separate strikes. The Committee has jurisdiction over extrajudicial killings, murder, war crimes, and the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Legal Counsel (OLC), which authored a classified memo providing cover for these killings. In a letter to Grassley, the Senators highlighted the shocking conduct by the Trump Administration, writing: “Since September, the Trump Administration has summarily executed at least 95 people in 25 known strikes on alleged drug smugglers in vessels at sea. This is not a time to mince words. These strikes are extrajudicial killings and shocking violations of fundamental principles of due process and the right to life under U.S. and international law. The Administration’s claims that the people it is killing are guilty of crimes, affiliated with a criminal or terrorist organization, or ‘combatants’ in a nonexistent armed conflict, do not render these extrajudicial killings any less unlawful. This Committee must address the serious concerns that these strikes may violate U.S. criminal laws, and that Department of Justice attorneys who gave President Trump and Secretary Hegseth legal cover to summarily execute suspected criminals have violated their ethical obligations.” The Senators then made their request, writing: “We respectfully request that you immediately convene a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to ensure that those who authorized these extrajudicial killings are held to account.” The Senators denounced state-sanctioned extra… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/amid-trumps-escalating-misuse-of-our-military-against-americans-duckworth-votes-to-block-final-passage-of-defense-authorization-bill-for-the-first-time-in-her-career Amid Trump’s Escalating Misuse of Our Military Against Americans, Duckworth Votes to Block Final Passage of Defense Authorization Bill for the First Time in Her Career 2025-12-17 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Citing her deep concern over Donald Trump’s continuing—and escalating—abuse of our nation’s nonpartisan military and servicemembers by unconstitutionally deploying them into American cities including Chicago to intimidate Americans in their own communities, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today voted against the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the first time in her career. Duckworth has supported every NDAA since she was first elected to Congress in 2012. “Each year, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to forge a bipartisan Defense Authorization bill that supports our military and protects our national security. This year’s NDAA, however, authorizes DoD funding that Donald Trump has misused—and that he continues misusing—to deploy our troops into American cities in an effort that neither protects our national security nor makes our communities safer. And it is because I love our military so much, and respect our troops so deeply, that I had no choice but to vote against this authorization. “The power to deploy troops domestically must remain exceptional, accountable and rooted in law—not in one man’s judgment about what constitutes disorder.?I will never vote to enable a wannabe tinpot dictator to use the authorities or money Congress allocates to our Armed Forces in an un-American campaign—especially when that campaign abuses our servicemembers and disrespects their sacrifices by ordering them to intimidate Americans in their own communities rather than defend our nation against its adversaries.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-pushes-for-long-term-funding-certainty-for-air-traffic-control-system-modernization-project-and-calls-on-faa-to-invest-in-both-technology-and-training Duckworth Pushes for Long-Term Funding Certainty for Air Traffic Control System Modernization Project and Calls on FAA to Invest in Both Technology and Training 2025-12-17 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – At today’s U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee (CST) Aviation Subcommittee hearing, Ranking Member Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) reiterated the urgent need to modernize our nation’s air traffic control system, expressing support for providing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with an additional $20 billion to ensure long-term funding certainty, while calling on the FAA to prioritize phase one investments on the systems and infrastructure that is guaranteed to deliver long-term value. Video of the Senator’s opening remarks are available on her YouTube. “If we want any chance of success at ATC modernization, we simply cannot afford to deny FAA the certainty of long-term funding—$12.5 billion is a meaningful downpayment, but it’s not nearly enough,” said Duckworth. “Over the past several decades, the FAA has neglected the capabilities and capacity of the ATC system’s most important asset—its people. The bottom line is that successfully building a ‘Brand New’ ATC system will require rebuilding a depleted and demoralized workforce.” In addition to upgrading radars and replacing telecom equipment, Duckworth urged FAA Administrator Brian Bedford to invest a portion of the modernization project’s existing $12.5 billion downpayment toward enhancing the FAA’s workforce infrastructure to enhance its capabilities and capacity to hire, train and retain more desperately needed air traffic controllers and FAA technicians. Specifically, Duckworth expressed support for the FAA using modernization funds to procure ATC training equipment to entice far more academic institutions to join the FAA’s Enhanced Collegiate Training Initiative and pushed Administrator Bedford to invest in additional FAA Academies in population centers across the country. Duckworth also stressed her concerns over the FAA’s self-imposed 2028 deadline to complete the latest massive ATC modernization project, and she pressed FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford on how he plans to ensure standards aren’t compromised for… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-highlights-the-senates-responsibility-to-hold-the-executive-branch-accountable-amid-president-trumps-abuses-of-powers Durbin Highlights The Senate’s Responsibility To Hold The Executive Branch Accountable Amid President Trump’s Abuses Of Powers 2025-12-17 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper During Durbin’s opening statement in a Senate Judiciary Committee nominations hearing, he also condemned President Trump’s attempts to undermine the Senate blue slip tradition WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today delivered an opening statement at a Senate Judiciary Committee nominations hearing highlighted the Senate’s responsibility to provide advice and consent on presidential nominees; called out President Trump’s cruel immigration tactics, as well as his unlawful and un-American actions; and commented on the longstanding bipartisan Senate tradition, the blue slip. Durbin also condemned Secretary Hegseth’s refusal during a classified briefing yesterday to share with all Senators the full, unedited video of the September 2nd lethal strikes on an alleged drug boat that killed two survivors. Today’s hearing is on the nominations of Daniel Edward Burrows, to be Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Policy (OLP); Megan Blair Benton, to the U.S District Court for the Western District of Missouri; Brian Charles Lea, to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee; and Justin Ross Olson, to the U.S District Court for the Southern District of Indiana. Key Quotes: “The Senate, as part of the legislative branch, must provide advice and consent on presidential nominees. It is a responsibility that goes back to our nation’s founding…To ensure the president could not become a despot like King George III, our Founders designed a system of checks and balances [that] separated the federal government’s powers among its three branches.” “The Senate’s role in providing advice and consent on presidential nominees is one critical check on the executive branch. Today’s hearing is a step in that process. And it has never been more important that the Senate exercise this role—because the President is determined to push the bounds of his power at every opportunity.” “Across the country, immigration agents are racially pro… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-secures-key-provisions-to-support-rock-island-arsenal-defense-manufacturing-in-illinois-in-national-defense-authorization-act Durbin Secures Key Provisions To Support Rock Island Arsenal, Defense Manufacturing In Illinois In National Defense Authorization Act 2025-12-17 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The FY26 NDAA, which passed the Senate today and now heads to the President’s desk, includes a number of Durbin-led measures & authorizations for military construction projects in Illinois WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, today highlighted the critical provisions he secured in the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was passed by the Senate today and now heads to the President’s desk for signature. The bill includes significant support for Rock Island Arsenal, provides security aid to Ukraine, and authorizes $113 million in military construction funds for Illinois. “The NDAA is a strong, bipartisan show of support for our national defense and to our men and women in uniform. The bill, which has earned the support of both chambers of Congress, includes my provisions to ensure that Rock Island Arsenal remains central to our nation’s effort to modernize the military and strengthens security cooperation with our allies around the world,” said Durbin. Durbin-led measures included in the FY26 NDAA are: Rock Island Arsenal: Authorizes a new pilot program modeled after Durbin’s Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act to give contracting preference to public-private partnerships between industry and Army arsenals such as at Rock Island. This provision will help ensure Rock Island Arsenal remains active and viable while preserving the skilled workforce, equipment, and production capacity critical to the nation’s defense industrial base. Restricts the Army from using any funds allocated for restructuring until the Army provides more information about its proposed plan to integrate Joint Munitions Command and Army Sustainment Command, helping to ensure operations and protect jobs at Rock Island Arsenal from unnecessary cuts. Authorizes the Army to expand robotic munitions manufacturing capabilities at government-owned, contractor-operated facilities, which will help boost workload for facilities such a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-jack-smiths-closed-door-house-testimony Durbin Statement On Jack Smith’s Closed Door House Testimony 2025-12-17 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement on Jack Smith’s closed-door testimony to the House Judiciary Committee today: “If Senate Republicans and the Attorney General are truly committed to transparency, they’ll allow Jack Smith to testify publicly under oath, as he’s offered. They also must release the unredacted Volume II of his report and any materials not already produced related to Volumes I and II. But they refuse. “Mr. Smith is the only person with direct knowledge of decisions and actions taken under his leadership as Special Counsel. If Republicans have so many questions, a transparent means of answering is necessary. Anything less than public testimony under oath is unacceptable.” On October 30, Durbin and Senate Judiciary Democrats called on Chairman Grassley to allow Former Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify publicly before the Committee. In their letter, the Senators also urged Grassley to request the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) release Volume II of the unredacted “Final Report of the Special Counsel’s Investigations and Prosecutions,” which was submitted to then-Attorney General (AG) Merrick Garland in January 2025. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-help-introduce-no-check-no-sale-bill-to-close-the-charleston-loophole Duckworth, Durbin Help Introduce “No Check, No Sale” Bill to Close the Charleston Loophole 2025-12-16 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper In 2024, nearly 3,000 firearms were sold to people who legally shouldn’t have access to firearms because dealers were not required to wait for completed background checks [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) with 23 of their Senate Democratic colleagues in introducing legislation to close a current loophole that allows firearm sales to proceed if a background check is not completed within a certain time period, even if the buyer is not legally allowed to purchase a firearm. The gap in existing law has allowed thousands of firearm sales to prohibited buyers, including the sale of the firearm used by the shooter in the deadly attack at Charleston’s Emanuel AME Church. “It’s just common sense that if you can’t pass a background check, you shouldn’t be able to purchase a firearm—and the vast majority of Americans agree,” said Duckworth. “This legislation will help us close this senseless loophole and help keep weapons out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them. Enough is enough.” “We have seen the tragic consequences when guns end up in the hands of prohibited buyers because a background check was not able to be completed in time. The Background Check Completion Act would finally ensure that no one will be able to purchase a firearm from a gun dealer without first passing a background check,” said Durbin. “It’s long past time that we fixed this loophole.” When a criminal background check indicates that a firearm purchaser may have a criminal record, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tries to determine whether the purchaser can legally buy a firearm. If this process takes longer than 72 hours for those 21 years of age or older, or 10 days for those under 21, firearm dealers can complete the sale even though there is a heightened risk that the purchaser is legally disqualified from purchasing a firearm. The Background Check Completion Act would require a completed background check for… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-celebrates-seventh-anniversary-of-the-first-step-act-in-speech-on-senate-floor Durbin Celebrates Seventh Anniversary Of The First Step Act In Speech On Senate Floor 2025-12-16 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, celebrated the seventh anniversary of the First Step Act (FSA)—bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation designed to make our justice system fairer and our communities safer by reforming sentencing laws and providing opportunities for those who are incarcerated to prepare to re-enter society successfully. The First Step Act was signed into law by President Trump in December 2018, and was championed by Durbin and U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Mike Lee (R-UT). “This December marks the seventh anniversary of the passage of the First Step Act—the most significant reform to our criminal justice system in a generation. That victory was born out of years of bipartisan negotiations led by myself and my colleagues, Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey, Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, and Senator Mike Lee of Utah. The end result was—and continues to be—life-changing for the people who were impacted. The First Step Act delivered much-needed reforms to our outdated sentencing laws and provided opportunities for incarcerated Americans to safely reenter their communities. Those reforms have reduced populations in overcrowded prisons, reunited families, and revitalized the communities these men and women reenter as productive neighbors. And the evidence backs that up.” Durbin noted that the reforms made by the First Step Act have been tremendously successful. Of more than 40,000 people released under the law through January 2024, just under 10 percent have been rearrested compared to the Bureau of Prisons’ overall recidivism rate of about 45 percent. Durbin went on to share the story of Eugenia Jennings from Alton, Illinois, who sadly experienced the injustice of our antiquated sentencing laws firsthand. Eugenia was terribly abused as a child, and by age 15, she was addicted to crack cocaine. At age 23, then a mother of three, Eugenia was sentenced to… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-grassley-introduce-criminal-justice-reform-bills Durbin, Grassley Introduce Criminal Justice Reform Bills 2025-12-16 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper As lead sponsors of the landmark First Step Act, Durbin and Grassley are working to continue to make our justice system fairer and our communities safer, including introducing new legislation to extend the First Step Act’s annual reporting requirement by five years WASHINGTON – Around the seventh anniversary of the First Step Act (FSA), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, introduced four pieces of criminal justice reform legislation to further implement the FSA and advance its goals. Durbin and Grassley were the lead sponsors of the landmark First Step Act, which is bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation designed to make our justice system fairer and our communities safer by reforming sentencing laws and providing opportunities for those who are incarcerated to prepare to reenter society successfully. It was signed into law in December 2018. Durbin and Grassley reintroduced the First Step Implementation Act, the Safer Detention Act, and the Prohibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act. They also introduced new legislation to extend the FSA’s annual reporting requirement by five years. “Seven years ago, Congress came together to pass the most important criminal justice reform law in a generation. But as its name suggests, it was just the first step,” Durbin said. “In order to keep making our justice system fairer and our communities safer, we must continue reforming our antiquated and outdated sentencing laws and providing opportunities for those who are incarcerated to prepare to reenter society successfully. I appreciate Senator Grassley’s partnership in this important endeavor.” “Criminals must face just penalties, and our nation’s criminal justice system should seek to prevent recidivism,” Grassley said. “I’m committed to advancing efforts that will help reduce crime, improve our nation’s justice system and safeguard American communities.” First Step I… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-speaks-at-spotlight-forum-raising-alarm-about-president-trumps-crusade-to-dismantle-the-department-of-education Durbin Speaks At Spotlight Forum Raising Alarm About President Trump’s Crusade To Dismantle The Department Of Education 2025-12-16 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today participated in a spotlight forum entitled “Dismantling Education: What the Trump Administration’s Illegal Attacks on Federal Programs Mean for Students, Families, and Educators.” The forum, convened by U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), focused on the dangerous consequences of the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education (ED) for the nation’s students, families, and schools. “The creation of the Department of Education, in my mind, was an effort to take Brown v. Board of Education to a new level. Once we established equality of opportunity in the law, we looked around and said, ‘This isn’t even close to being equal. We’re going to have to focus resources and expertise into improving schools to get rid of the disparities.’ Now comes the Trump Administration, which says we don’t need it [ED] anymore. They’ll parcel out the functions of the Department of Education,” Durbin said. Durbin then asked Ms. Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, about her thoughts on the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle ED. “Ms. Weingarten, I noticed that you’re not only a professional teacher but also went to law school. So with that combination of education and law that I just made, would you like to comment on that?” Durbin asked. Ms. Weingarten replied that the initial destruction of ED by the Trump Administration is a direct challenge to the constitutional standard that all children in the United States, regardless of race and immigration status and including students with disabilities, deserve equal opportunity. Video of Durbin’s remarks are available here. Audio of Durbin’s remarks are available here. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-statement-on-trumps-plan-to-eliminate-more-than-35000-va-health-care-positions Duckworth Statement on Trump’s Plan to Eliminate More Than 35,000 VA Health Care Positions 2025-12-15 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement in reaction to the Trump Administration’s reported plan to eliminate more than 35,000 VA health care positions this month—on top of the almost 30,000 employees cut from the VA workforce earlier this year: “Trump has already fired more Veterans than any other President in history. And now, by cruelly planning to eliminate tens of thousands of VA health care positions in addition to the indiscriminate cuts he made to the VA workforce earlier this year, Trump is proving once again that he couldn’t care less about those actually brave enough to wear the uniform of this great nation. Not only is Trump guaranteeing that our VA won’t have the number of staff needed to handle the influx of new claims, but he is also ensuring that our Veterans will wait even longer to get treated—if they can get treatment at all. “In his first year in office, Trump’s track record easily makes his Administration the most anti-Veteran Administration our country has ever seen. He continues to make it clear that once our troops have completed their service to our country and hang up their uniform, Trump will not keep his promise to ensure these heroes have the support, care and benefits they’ve earned. “It’s downright insulting, un-American and the ultimate betrayal.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-condemns-antisemitic-attack-at-bondi-beach-as-hanukkah-begins-violent-shooting-at-brown-university Durbin Condemns Antisemitic Attack At Bondi Beach As Hanukkah Begins, Violent Shooting At Brown University 2025-12-15 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin: “As we seek to address the scourge of antisemitism and gun violence, may we act in the path of these brave bystanders—who in crisis chose humanity and love over violence and hate” WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, condemned the antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Australia as Hanukkah begins, as well as the shooting at Brown University. “In Skokie, Illinois, just a few miles north of Chicago, is America’s second largest Holocaust Museum. Those who visit see thousands of artifacts from victims and survivors and their families. And there is one lesson that every visitor takes away: All who walk through its doors learn the importance of tolerance—the need to choose love over hate. I have been reflecting on this lesson in the wake of two awful acts of violence that took place this past weekend,” said Durbin. “On Sunday night in Australia, as hundreds of people gathered at Bondi Beach to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah, two men opened fire on the crowd. The attendees at Bondi Beach were targeted simply for one reason: they were Jewish. They were out to celebrate their faith. At least 15 people were killed and dozens more were injured. I am offering my prayers for the victims and their families. I am thankful for the heroic actions of both first responders and civilians to end the gunmen’s rampage. This act of horrific violence is a grim reminder that we cannot stop combatting antisemitism. This tragedy occurred just hours after Brown University here in the United States experienced its own mass shooting.” continued Durbin. Durbin then offered acknowledgment and support to two men who exhibited tremendous bravery at these horrific events. “In the aftermath of these two tragedies, I am in awe of the bravery and sacrifice displayed by those caught up in these attacks. One of them, Ahmed al Ahmed, tackled one of the shooters at Bondi Beach, saving countless lives. He is now undergoing sur… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-slams-trump-administration-for-cuts-to-nih-medical-research-in-speech-on-the-senate-floor Durbin Slams Trump Administration For Cuts To NIH, Medical Research In Speech On The Senate Floor 2025-12-15 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today spoke out against the Trump Administration’s dangerous cuts to medical research. In his remarks, Durbin stressed that the President’s decision to cut medical research funding at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will set back medical advancement by decades by disrupting research into cancer, brain diseases, mental health, drug development, and more. Durbin began his speech by recalling his first time meeting Dr. Francis Collins, then-Director of NIH, who urged him to steadily increase NIH’s budget year over year. Over the past decade, Durbin has pushed for annual, real five percent funding increases for NIH. Since Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15), because of Durbin’s efforts, Congress has provided NIH with a 60 percent increase in annual funding, raising the appropriations level from $30 billion in FY15 to $48 billion today. However, President Trump continues to target NIH by cancelling hundreds of grant awards, firing or forcing out thousands of scientists, and freezing billions of dollars in research funding—which jeopardizes new breakthroughs that provide hope for patients. “Ten years ago, I met with Dr. Francis Collins, then-Director of the National Institutes of Health, the world’s premier biomedical research agency. I admired his work so much I asked what I could do to help. He said, ‘if you could provide a five percent increase to NIH’s medical research budget year after year, we’ll light up the scoreboard,’” Durbin said. “With the help of colleagues on both sides of the aisle—[including] Republican Senators Roy Blunt, Lamar Alexander, and Democratic Senator Patty Murray—we increased NIH funding from $30 billion to $48 billion over those next ten years. [That was a] 60 percent increase in research; a 60 percent increase in cures, hope, and breakthroughs. But what took us 10 years to build, President Donald Trump has all but dismantled in less than 11 months.” Durbin then emphasized the consequences of these dangerous cuts. This year, the Pre… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-to-congressional-republicans-let-us-come-together-and-give-american-families-the-gift-of-health-coverage-for-christmas Durbin To Congressional Republicans: Let Us Come Together And Give American Families The Gift Of Health Coverage For Christmas 2025-12-15 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper On the Senate floor and following Senate Republicans rejecting the Democratic ACA proposal last week, Durbin continues to push his Republican colleagues to come to the table and negotiate with Democrats on a solution to address the looming health care crisis WASHINGTON – As open enrollment for 2026 individual market health insurance plans is underway and Americans across the country are facing astronomic increases in their monthly premiums for next year, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate floor about the health care affordability crisis, caused by congressional Republicans refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits. Last Thursday, Senate Republicans rejected Senate Democrats’ proposal to extend the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits. “In 17 days, 22 million Americans will be asked to pay double or triple for their health insurance premiums. Rural hospitals will be facing closure. Small businesses won’t be able to cover expenses. And more than four million Americans will lose their insurance if we fail to do anything in Congress,” Durbin said. Shortly before the Senate held its vote on extending the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits last week, Durbin spoke on the floor about protecting Americans’ health care coverage. “Last Thursday, Senate Democrats put forward a bill to prevent this catastrophe. Our bill would have provided a clean extension of the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits, which 22 million Americans rely on to help them pay their insurance premiums. These credits expire at the end of this year, but too many Senate Republicans voted against extending them. They instead rushed to vote on a partisan proposal that would upend the Affordable Care Act and the American health care system, less than a month before the insurance premiums spike. Their bill was introduced last week, [was] not debated in committee, and no member had a chance to amend it. I say this to my friends on the other side of the aisle: You are in the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-blumenthal-release-gao-report-recommending-expansion-of-fdas-personnel-and-authority-to-oversee-medical-device-recalls Durbin, Blumenthal Release GAO Report Recommending Expansion Of FDA’s Personnel And Authority To Oversee Medical Device Recalls 2025-12-12 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin and Blumenthal requested the report in December 2023 after reporting uncovered Philips Respironics’ failure to recall faulty machines despite the company’s knowledge that patients could be harmed by the medical devices WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today released the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) newly-completed report on the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) oversight of medical device recalls. In December 2023, Durbin and Blumenthal requested the report from GAO following the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s and ProPublica’s reporting on Philips Respironics’ failure to submit timely and comprehensive adverse event reports, or recall faulty CPAP machines for more than a decade, despite the company’s knowledge that patients could be experiencing severe health consequences from using the medical devices. The report, which is entitled “Medical Device Recalls: HHS and FDA Should Address Limitations In Oversight of Recall Process,” lays out how FDA’s lack of legal authority jeopardizes patients’ safety. GAO reports that “FDA does not have the legal authority to require the manufacturer to implement FDA’s recommendations.” For example, there have been instances in which the agency wanted a medical device manufacturer to inform patients about a recall, but the manufacturer believed communicating with the providers about the recalled device was sufficient. This issue leaves some patients with medical devices—including implanted ones—uninformed and at risk of significant health consequences. Further, the report underscored the damaging impact of insufficient FDA staffing. GAO reports that FDA has insufficient staff to oversee medical device recalls, forcing FDA to forgo critical recall activities like conducting in-person recall audit checks. Despite these shortages, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) fired 3,500 FDA workers earlier this year, including personnel who worked to oversee medical devices. “This report so… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-calls-out-republican-vote-to-raise-health-insurance-premiums Durbin Calls Out Republican Vote To Raise Health Insurance Premiums 2025-12-12 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper CAHOKIA HEIGHTS - U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today held a press conference at Southern Illinois Healthcare Foundation’s (SIHF) Cahokia Heights Health Center following Senate Republicans’ vote yesterday to raise health insurance premiums for tens of millions of Americans. Senate Republicans voted against the Democratic legislation to extend the expiring Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits, meaning Illinoisans who purchase marketplace health plans will see an average 78 percent increase in their monthly ACA premium expenses next year. Families in St. Clair and Madison Counties, which Cahokia Heights Health Center serves, will see an average $1,500 per year increase and a $1,700 per year increase, respectively. “Because congressional Republicans refused to extend the expiring tax credits, 160,000 Illinoisans are expected to lose health care coverage,” said Durbin. “Our health care providers, like the ones here at Cahokia Heights Health Center, know all too well how devastating this will be. If Republicans don’t get serious about negotiating with Democrats to extend these tax credits, our nation’s affordability crisis is going to get worse on January 1, and families will suffer.” “The premium spikes to the ACA will impact the coverage of over 5,000 individuals we presently care for at SIHF Healthcare locations across southern Illinois. This in return will increase uncompensated care and place financial risk to our communities served,” said Larry McCulley, CEO of SIHF Healthcare. Shortly before the Senate held its vote on extending the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, Durbin spoke on the floor about protecting Americans’ health care coverage. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/15/2025/duckworth-slams-senate-republicans-after-they-pass-up-last-chance-to-save-the-aca-tax-credits-that-millions-depend-on Duckworth Slams Senate Republicans After They Pass Up Last Chance to Save the ACA Tax Credits That Millions Depend On 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after Senate Republicans voted to block an extension of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credit enhancements that millions of Americans depend on to afford health insurance: “Today, my Republican colleagues had a simple choice: vote yes with Democrats to help us stop health care premiums from skyrocketing or vote no and abandon their own constituents, who could be priced out of health insurance altogether.” “After forcing Americans through the longest shutdown in our nation's history to avoid dealing with this, Republicans now own the healthcare crisis to come. Millions of middle-class Americans will soon feel the pain caused by this vote in their own wallets—with the highest insurance premium spikes set to hit people in red states the hardest.” “Today’s vote was Republicans' last chance to do right by families and help extend the ACA tax credits before they expire. We could’ve stopped millions of families from the pain of paying thousands of dollars extra per month for health insurance—or losing their health care completely, but Republicans chose to do nothing. This should’ve been a no-brainer.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-secured-hearing-on-domestic-deployments-exposes-three-damning-revelations-from-top-trump-defense-officials Duckworth-Secured Hearing on Domestic Deployments Exposes Three Damning Revelations from Top Trump Defense Officials 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper In first Senate hearing on Trump’s illegal deployments, Duckworth warned that Trump’s continued misuse of the military in our communities risks making Americans fear, rather than respect, our troops [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – At this morning’s U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) hearing, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) exposed three damning revelations from top leaders at the Department of Defense (DoD) and she underscored the devastating toll Donald Trump’s domestic military deployments are having on American servicemembers and citizens alike in Illinois and across the country. During her questioning of top Trump Defense officials, the Administration refused to rule out the possibility that the mission would expand beyond protecting federal property and personnel, the possibility that troops could be deployed for law enforcement functions or the possibility that the DoD would fail to provide legal protection for servicemembers who try to protect civilians from abusive federal agents. The Senator also slammed Trump for manufacturing circumstances where reasonable civilians could end up fearing the same troops they once counted on to protect them—something that neither makes America safer nor more secure. Duckworth’s full opening remarks, initial questioning and closing questioning can be found on the Senator’s YouTube. In her opening statement at the hearing, Duckworth said: “Military service involves risks. And our servicemembers accept those risks knowingly... selflessly. So we better be damn sure that the mission is the right one...that it is clear and effective...and that it serves our national security. If we stand by while this Administration pursues another irresponsible, open-ended campaign with no defined mission, no clear authorities, no set timeline and no transparent end state, we fail our troops. We fail their families. And we fail the American people. “The power to deploy troops domestically must remain exceptional, accountable and rooted in law—not in one man's judgment … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-slams-senate-republicans-after-they-pass-up-last-chance-to-save-the-aca-tax-credits-that-millions-depend-on Duckworth Slams Senate Republicans After They Pass Up Last Chance to Save the ACA Tax Credits That Millions Depend On 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after Senate Republicans voted to block an extension of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credit enhancements that millions of Americans depend on to afford health insurance: “Today, my Republican colleagues had a simple choice: vote yes with Democrats to help us stop health care premiums from skyrocketing or vote no and abandon their own constituents, who could be priced out of health insurance altogether.” “After forcing Americans through the longest shutdown in our nation's history to avoid dealing with this, Republicans now own the healthcare crisis to come. Millions of middle-class Americans will soon feel the pain caused by this vote in their own wallets—with the highest insurance premium spikes set to hit people in red states the hardest.” “Today’s vote was Republicans' last chance to do right by families and help extend the ACA tax credits before they expire. We could’ve stopped millions of families from the pain of paying thousands of dollars extra per month for health insurance—or losing their health care completely, but Republicans chose to do nothing. This should’ve been a no-brainer.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-trump-is-forcing-our-servicemembers-to-make-a-horrible-choice Duckworth: Trump is Forcing Our Servicemembers to Make a Horrible Choice 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – At this morning’s U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) hearing, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) underscored the devastating toll Donald Trump’s domestic military deployments are having on American servicemembers and citizens alike in Illinois and across the country. The Senator slammed Trump for manufacturing circumstances where reasonable civilians could end up fearing the same troops they once counted on to protect them—something that neither makes America safer nor more secure. Video of the Senator’s questioning can be found on her YouTube. Key Quotes: “For the past two months, Illinoisans have seen DHS federal agents abusing our communities, and President Trump wanted to put our troops in the middle. He wants our military to protect agents who were tear-gassing toddlers, pointing loaded weapons at unarmed bystanders, hauling preschool teachers from daycare in front of kids and propelling from helicopters onto apartment buildings in the dead of night to rip families from their beds and detain them for hours—just to admit later that they have no basis to file any charges.” “What are our troops supposed to do if they witness an agent throw a child to the ground? Do they intervene and pull the agent off the kid? Do they stand by and do nothing? Trump is forcing them to make a horrible choice: uphold their loyalty to the Constitution and protect peaceful protesters, or execute orders from the President…Our troops could be dragged into court and would be on their own to plead their case to a jury, all because their Commander in Chief put them in an unprecedented situation that they don’t regularly train for. And if that servicemember decides not to intervene, what will Americans think when they see someone in uniform—who they were taught serves to protect them—standing by as a child is harmed by one of Trump’s abusive DHS agents?” “I fear the day when Americans stop thanking our troops for their service because they’re afraid of them. We know that this Administ… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-capito-introduce-bipartisan-rise-from-trauma-act-to-address-childhood-trauma Durbin, Capito Introduce Bipartisan Rise From Trauma Act To Address Childhood Trauma 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The legislation would expand support for children who have experienced trauma and address the cycle of violence and addiction WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), along with U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), today reintroduced bipartisan legislation to increase support for children who have been exposed to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and trauma, including witnessing community violence, parental addiction, or abuse. The Resilience Investment, Support, and Expansion (RISE) from Trauma Act dramatically increases funding for community-based efforts to prevent and mitigate the impact of trauma, and it expands training and workforce development efforts to support health care, education, social services, first responders, and community leaders to foster resilience and deliver services to heal the impact of trauma. U.S. Representatives Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07) and Bryan Steil (R-WI-01) plan to re-introduce companion legislation in the House of Representatives. Portions of the Senators’ legislation were recently signed into law by President Trump through the SUPPORT Reauthorization Act, which will extend and increase funding for: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data collection activities on ACEs; an interagency task force to establish best practices on addressing trauma; and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Child Traumatic Stress Network to develop and deliver mental health services in communities. Since Durbin, Capito, Duckworth, and Murkowski began working on child trauma issues together, among other provisions, they have increased appropriations for SAMHSA’s National Child Traumatic Stress Network from $47 million to $99 million today. In Illinois, this is supporting research and services at Lurie Children’s Hospital, Sinai Health, University of Chicago, La Rabida Children’s Hospital, Northwestern University, and University of Illinois at Ch… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-condemns-president-trumps-racist-comments-towards-immigrants-in-senate-judiciary-committee-executive-meeting Durbin Condemns President Trump’s Racist Comments Towards Immigrants In Senate Judiciary Committee Executive Meeting 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper During his opening remarks, Durbin again called on DHS Secretary Noem to testify in front of the Committee, urged Chairman Grassley to consider a subpoena if she refuses to appear WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered an opening statement during today’s Senate Judiciary Committee executive business meeting condemning the Trump Administration’s failing immigration enforcement tactics and the diversion of necessary resources away from drug trafficking, gun violence, and other threats that put our nation’s security at risk—all while pardoning drug kingpins, including former Honduras President, Juan Orlando Hernández. Durbin also again called on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem to testify in front of the Committee. Durbin also spoke about President Donald Trump finally admitting that he used the slur “shithole countries” to denigrate Haiti and African nations during a 2018 meeting in the Oval Office that Durbin attended. Trump admitted to this comment during his rally in Pennsylvania on Tuesday. Key Quotes “Consider President Trump’s extrajudicial killings of alleged drug traffickers… Since September, the Administration has carried out at least 22 attacks, killing at least 87 people. The President and Secretary Hegseth allege they are killing ‘narco-terrorists’—but the Administration refused to provide any evidence of an imminent threat justifying lethal force. If these are actually drug traffickers, law enforcement should stop the boats, confiscate and destroy the drugs, and prosecute the traffickers. The Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel has tried to provide legal cover for these summary executions in a deeply flawed legal opinion, which it refuses to make public to the American people.” “At the same time, President Trump has pardoned Juan Orlando Hernández, the former President of Honduras who was convicted of orchestrating a massive conspiracy to flood our country with illegal narcotic… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-republicans-voting-to-raise-health-insurance-premiums-for-tens-of-millions-of-americans Durbin Statement On Republicans Voting To Raise Health Insurance Premiums For Tens Of Millions Of Americans 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released the following statement after Senate Republicans rejected Senate Democrats’ proposal to extend the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits to ensure millions of Americans could continue to afford their health care plans in 2026: “Need I remind my Republicans colleagues that their votes have real consequences for the people of this country? “Shame on Republicans for, once again, voting to push millions of their own constituents off their health care. Senate Republicans’ vote today was the latest action in their 15 year crusade to demolish the Affordable Care Act despite the law putting affordable, quality health care within reach for tens of millions of Americans. “I want to work with my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, to make the Affordable Care Act better. But we need buy-in from congressional Republicans to move forward. I hope that my Republican colleagues, after today’s failed vote to extend the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, will finally understand the urgency of this health care crisis and make a real effort to protect Americans’ health care.” Shortly before the Senate held its vote on extending the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, Durbin spoke on the floor about protecting Americans’ health care coverage. In his remarks, he underscored that Congress must swiftly address the rising cost of health care to ensure that Americans are not priced out of their insurance. He spoke about a constituent working at a diner in Chicago who relies on the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits to afford her insurance, but she is worried that she will not be able to afford her insurance come January 1. “I met a waitress at a Chicago Loop restaurant during breakfast last Sunday. She’s 63 years old, and she spent her life as a waitress. It’s taken its toll on her physically. She was in tears as she described to me about what is going to happen to her if we fail to act the right way on this legislation. She’s going to see her… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-cruz-cantwell-moran-criticize-widening-of-military-aircraft-safety-loophole-in-2026-ndaa Duckworth, Cruz, Cantwell, Moran Criticize Widening of Military Aircraft Safety Loophole in 2026 NDAA 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator and Ranking Member of the Senate’s Aviation Subcommittee Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined fellow U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) leaders Ted Cruz (R-TX), Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) in issuing a joint statement criticizing the inclusion of a provision in the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) widening a loophole for military helicopters that threatens the safety of the flying public. Almost a year after the fatal crash near DCA, the Senators—who are working to close that loophole completely with their bipartisan ROTOR Act—join with the Families of Flight 5342 and the Lilley family in voicing serious concern that the NDAA, as written, would make American skies less safe. “Almost a year after 67 lives were lost when a military helicopter hit American Airlines flight 5342 over the Potomac River, the NDAA fails to make the skies safer. As drafted, the NDAA protects the status quo, allowng military aircraft to keep flying in DC airspace under different rules and with outdated transmission requirements,” said the Senators. “This comes as Pentagon data shows a spike in military aircraft accidents since 2020. The families of the victims deserve accountability. The NDAA should be stripped of this new loophole and instead include the ROTOR Act -- a bipartisan bill that closes the dangerous exemption that allows military aircraft to operate in domestic skies without communicating their position. We must act decisively to prevent future tragedies,” the Senators said. The Families of Flight 5342 issued a statement in solidarity with the Senators: "Over the past year the Families of Flight 5342 have united to push for meaningful aviation safety reforms so that no other families suffer the same devastating loss. While we appreciate congressional attention to rotary-wing operations in the National Defense Authorization Act, Section 373 does not resolve the visibility and coordination failures that contributed to the tragedy. As wr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-urges-senate-republicans-not-to-pass-up-last-chance-to-save-the-aca-tax-credits-that-millions-depend-on Duckworth Urges Senate Republicans Not to Pass Up Last Chance to Save the ACA Tax Credits That Millions Depend On 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement ahead of tomorrow’s vote to extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credit enhancements that millions of Americans depend on to afford health insurance: “Tomorrow, my Republican colleagues will have a simple choice: vote yes with Democrats to help us stop health care premiums from skyrocketing or vote no and abandon their own constituents, who could be priced out of health insurance altogether.” “After forcing Americans through the longest shutdown in our nation's history to avoid dealing with this, Republicans can’t run away from the healthcare crisis they created any longer. If they vote no, millions of middle-class Americans will feel the pain in their own wallets—with the highest insurance premium spikes set to hit people in red states the hardest.” “Tomorrow’s vote will be Republicans' last chance to do right by families and help extend the ACA tax credits before they expire. We can stop millions of families from the pain of paying thousands of dollars extra per month for health insurance—or losing their health care completely, but only if Republicans finally get off the sidelines and vote to help us. This should be a no-brainer.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ahead-of-the-senates-aca-tax-credit-vote-durbin-joins-spotlight-forum-highlighting-the-importance-of-the-aca Ahead Of The Senate’s ACA Tax Credit Vote, Durbin Joins Spotlight Forum Highlighting The Importance Of The ACA 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper During his remarks, Durbin highlighted how the ACA addressed addiction treatment and mental health services WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today participated in a spotlight forum hosted by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mark Warner (D-VA) focused on the need to extend the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits ahead of the Senate’s vote tomorrow on the Democratic proposal for a clean three-year extension of the ACA tax credits. These tax credits have put health care within reach for Americans by lowering health insurance premiums for more than 20 million Americans nationwide, including upwards of 500,000 Illinoisans. If Republicans vote against extending these enhanced premium tax credits, more than four million Americans are expected to lose their health care coverage next year, including more than 160,000 people in Illinois. Tens of millions of others will see their monthly premiums double or even triple. Durbin began his remarks by reflecting on his own family’s experience of being uninsured when his newborn daughter was in need of critical care. “Many members are motivated and inspired by their own personal experiences. This is one for me. I was a student at Georgetown Law School when I got married… and God sent us a baby. She was a beautiful little girl with a serious medical condition, and I had no health insurance… What was next was to go to the old Children’s Hospital here in Washington and to sit in the charity ward for people who couldn’t afford to pay and didn’t have any insurance… I’ll never forget that moment and that has inspired me to be part of this conversation [on health care] for a long time,” said Durbin. Durbin then commented on the ACA including provisions to address mental health and addiction. “It made so much sense we included it and thank God we did. As we faced the opioid crisis, many lives [were] saved by the fact there was paid-for counseling available through the ACA,” said Durbin. He asked Susan Stearns, Executive Direct… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/amid-surge-in-ice-hiring-durbin-remarks-on-low-standards-of-ice-recruits-who-have-failed-drug-tests-have-pending-criminal-charges-and-more Amid Surge In ICE Hiring, Durbin Remarks On Low Standards Of ICE Recruits Who Have Failed Drug Tests, Have Pending Criminal Charges, And More 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper In a speech on the Senate floor, Durbin again denounced President Trump’s so-called “Operation Midway Blitz” and called on his Republican colleagues to stand up against the President’s cruel mass deportation scheme WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today denounced the low hiring standards of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recruits amid a surge in hiring. The Trump Administration announced their goal of onboarding 10,000 new agents by the end of the year—which would double the number of deportation officers, from roughly 6,000 to 16,000. Durbin also spoke out on the Administration’s so-called “Operation Midway Blitz,” which has been used as a mechanism by the President to sow fear in Illinois communities as immigration officials have been tasked with carrying out the Trump Administration’s cruel mass deportation scheme. Durbin began by denouncing the Trump Administration’s false narrative that federal agents are only going after the “worst of the worst” during these aggressive immigration raids. “Of more than 600 immigrants recently arrested, do you know how many of them had significant criminal history? Sixteen—16 out of more than 600. Nationwide, ICE arrested nearly 75,000 people with no criminal history between January 20 and October [15]. Federal immigration agents have arrested and detained: a mother on her way to visit her 15-day-old baby in the NICU; a teacher at a preschool in front of her young students; [and] day laborers, vendors, construction workers, and cooks simply trying to make a living and support their families. Immigration agents arrested and detained at least 40 U.S. citizens in Illinois alone between late August and early November. Does that sound like we’re getting rid of ‘the worst of the worst’? People with no criminal history,” Durbin said. Durbin continued his remarks by calling on his Republican colleagues to stand up against the Trump Administration’s cruel campaign against immigrants. “I … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-delauro-introduce-the-federal-food-administration-act Durbin, Delauro Introduce The Federal Food Administration Act 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) reintroduced the Federal Food Administration Act, legislation that would streamline our food safety system by consolidating the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) food oversight responsibilities into a single agency dedicated to keeping the foods Americans eat safe. “The sad reality is that FDA has failed to protect Americans from preventable foodborne illnesses and death. In recent years, FDA has failed to protect babies from bacterial infections in their infant formula and lead-tainted applesauce pouches,” said Durbin. “This is why Congresswoman DeLauro and I are introducing legislation to create a Federal Food Administration. With the Federal Food Administration Act, we hope our nation will have greater success in protecting the foods in our kids’ lunch boxes and on our dining room tables.” “We need a single food safety agency to ensure the food Americans eat is safe,” said DeLauro. “Currently, food safety oversight is scattered across multiple agencies with the bulk of the responsibility falling to the Food and Drug Administration – where food safety has often been treated like a second-class citizen. This legislation would put one agency clearly in charge with the singular mission of protecting our food supply with the resources, staff, and focus to achieve that goal. I am proud to partner with Senator Durbin in this effort, because Americans deserve peace of mind that the government is keeping companies accountable with clear, consistent safety standards.” FDA regulates approximately 80 percent of our food supply. Consumers and companies depend on FDA to perform its regulatory role effectively. Yet, despite increased authorities included in the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and the creation of the Human Foods Program at FDA, the agency has failed to make significant inroads in reducing rates of foodborne illness and death in the U.S. About one in six Americans—or 48 million people—g… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-schakowsky-introduce-legislation-to-improve-the-medical-device-recall-process Durbin, Schakowsky Introduce Legislation To Improve The Medical Device Recall Process 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The Medical Device Recall Improvement Act would bolster communication between medical device manufacturers, hospitals and health care professionals, and patients WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09) today reintroduced legislation to improve the medical device recall process in order to protect patients. The Medical Device Recall Improvement Act would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to establish an electronic format for medical device recall notifications to streamline communication between device manufacturers, FDA, hospitals, and health care professionals. It also would require manufacturers to include in recall notices information about how the recall could affect patients with medical devices and instruct hospitals and health care professionals to provide that information to patients. The legislation was inspired by Illinois constituents who had shared their personal stories about medical harms and other concerns related to recalled devices. “Millions of Americans rely on a medical device to stay healthy. But if their medical device is recalled, patients have the right to know as soon as possible so that they can understand the risks and consult with their health care provider,” Durbin said. “The Medical Device Recall Improvement Act is an obvious solution to ensure that medical device manufacturers, FDA, and health providers can quickly share up-to-date information with patients.” “Americans deserve to know that the medical devices they depend on for their health and wellbeing are safe and effective,” said Schakowsky. “That’s why I’m proud to work with Senator Dick Durbin on the Medical Device Recall Improvement Act. Our bill ensures that all medical device recall information is sent to the Food and Drug Administration electronically, rather than through physical mail, so providers and patients can receive critical updates faster. With more than 1,000 recalls issued each year affecting millions of devices, timely communi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-trumps-2018-racist-reference-to-s-hole-countries-was-an-embarrassment Durbin: Trump’s 2018 Racist Reference To “S-Hole” Countries Was An Embarrassment 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper After nearly eight years, Trump admitted to using the slur “shithole countries” to denigrate Black immigrants during a meeting in the Oval Office, confirming Durbin’s statement from that time WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, spoke about President Donald Trump finally admitting that he used the slur “shithole countries” to denigrate Haiti and African nations during a 2018 meeting in the Oval Office that Durbin attended. Trump admitted to this comment during his rally in Pennsylvania last night. Following the 2018 meeting, Durbin was criticized by Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) and then-Senator David Perdue (R-GA), as well as President Trump himself, for corroborating media reports of Trump’s “shithole countries” comment, with Trump claiming Durbin “totally misrepresented” what he had said. “The meeting was historic… The President spoke at length about his views on immigration. The conversation declined at some point to a level I’d never expected to witness in my life. The President started saying things about immigrants in ways I thought had never been said before in the White House,” Durbin said. “He used terminology, which I will not repeat on the Senate floor, but he referred to a phrase of ‘s-hole’ nations. I was shocked to hear it. I heard him refer to several countries in this fashion. And I thought to myself, how have we reached a point where we discuss immigration in such crude and vulgar terms. After I left the White House, it leaked out what the President had said, and the White House denied it. They said it didn’t happen. I said it did, they said I’m lying to the point where two of my Republican Senate colleagues went on television several days later and said that I lied when the President made those statements. Well yesterday at his rally in Pennsylvania, President Trump admitted that he used the slur that I referred to earlier to disparage Haiti and African nations during that 2018 meeting with … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-judiciary-democrats-push-back-against-fbi-doj-investigation-threats-into-six-members-of-congress Senate Judiciary Democrats Push Back Against FBI, DOJ Investigation Threats Into Six Members Of Congress 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper FBI political leadership is reportedly pressuring the Washington Field Office to open a seditious conspiracy investigation into Senators Kelly and Slotkin, Representatives Goodlander, Crow, Deluzio, and Houlahan WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led all Senate Judiciary Democrats in pushing back against the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) attempt to use the threat of investigation to harass and intimidate U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), as well as U.S. Representatives Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-01), Jason Crow (D-CO-06), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06)—after the Members of Congress reiterated current law when they released a video telling active members of the Armed Forces not to obey unlawful or illegal orders. In a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, the Senators began by characterizing the threats of investigation as retributive, writing: “We write with grave concern that the Trump Administration is weaponizing the FBI against federal lawmakers who merely restated current law. This abuse of federal law enforcement authority as an instrument of retribution against the President’s political opponents is a threat to the constitutional freedoms of all Americans.” The Senators then reiterated current law, which aligns with the Democratic Members of Congress’s message to military members, writing: “As you know, the Uniform Code of Military Justice requires servicemembers to follow ‘lawful government order[s] or regulation[s],’ and the Manual for Courts-Martial explicitly states that the ‘inference [of lawfulness] does not apply to a patently illegal order.’ With regard to violations of the law of war, the Department of Defense’s Law of War Manual also states that ‘each member of the armed services has a duty to refuse to comply with clearly illegal orders to commit violations of the law of war.’ Indeed, servicemembers may be prosecuted for carrying out … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-calls-on-congress-to-pass-his-bill-combatting-online-child-sexual-abuse-material Durbin Calls On Congress To Pass His Bill Combatting Online Child Sexual Abuse Material 2025-12-09 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper On the Senate floor, Durbin asked for unanimous consent to pass his bipartisan STOP CSAM Act alongside Sen. Hawley, before Sen. Wyden objected WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, asked for unanimous consent (UC) for the Senate to pass his bipartisan STOP CSAM Act alongside the bill’s cosponsor U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO). “I come to the floor today to ask the Senate to pass the STOP CSAM Act, bipartisan legislation that would finally open the courthouse doors to survivors of child exploitation and their families. Too many parents feel a pit in their stomachs every time their child logs onto a phone, tablet, or video game console. They know that the internet has become a hunting ground for predators,” began Durbin. Earlier today, the Senate Judiciary Committee learned more about the horrors facing our children online at a committee hearing featuring a victim impact family. “Three years ago, 17-year-old James Woods, an honor student and accomplished track athlete from the state of Ohio, died by suicide after being targeted by predators on Instagram. We asked his mother today how long this relationship online lasted. Start to finish, which was the end of her son’s life, was 19 hours. They tricked James into sending them sexually explicit photos and they threatened to ruin his life if he did not pay them. His tormentors sent him 200 messages in 19 hours, encouraging him to end his life, which he ultimately did,” shared Durbin. In 2014, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, or NCMEC, received 1.1 million CyberTips of child sexual abuse material, also known as CSAM. By 2023—less than 10 years later—the number of CyberTips had exploded to 36 million. “As I have learned more about the horrors of online child sexual exploitation, I have made it my mission to try to put an end to it. That’s why I have worked with survivors, prosecutors, law enforcement, victim advocates, and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-delivers-opening-statement-in-judiciary-committee-hearing-on-protecting-kids-online Durbin Delivers Opening Statement In Judiciary Committee Hearing On Protecting Kids Online 2025-12-09 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper During his opening statement, Durbin commented on his STOP CSAM Act, legislation that would crack down on the proliferation of child sexual abuse material online WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered opening remarks in today’s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled “Protecting Our Children Online Against the Evolving Offender.” During his opening, Durbin highlighted his STOP CSAM Act, bipartisan legislation that would crack down on the proliferation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online by allowing victims to sue companies that host this material, among other things. The Judiciary Committee unanimously advanced this legislation earlier this year. In 2021, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a total of 139 CyberTips involving financially-motivated sextortion. In the first six months of 2025 alone, there have already been 23,593 financial-sextortion CyberTips. Another disturbing trend is a rise in offenders who do not just view or trade images of abuse, but direct real-time torture, encourage escalating violence, and groom children to produce CSAM and self-harm videos of themselves and others. NCMEC has identified this behavior as “sadistic online exploitation.” In the first six months of 2025, NCMEC received 1,093 sadistic exploitation reports—double the number from the same period in 2024. Key Quotes: “Let’s have a sense of urgency about what we are setting out to do. I have worked with Senator Hawley and many others—survivors, law enforcement, [and] advocates—to put together the STOP CSAM Act. The bill takes a comprehensive approach to stemming the tide of online child exploitation.” “I have repeatedly said that we must bring the same urgency to protecting kids in the virtual world that we do in the real world. But the landscape of online child exploitation has changed dramatically by the day. Two trends in particular demand our immediate attention: financially-motivated sextortio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-grassley-introduce-landmark-legislative-package-to-protect-kids-online Durbin, Grassley Introduce Landmark Legislative Package To Protect Kids Online 2025-12-09 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The three bills target lax sentencing laws, violent online criminal networks, and child sextortion WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, introduced three bipartisan bills to hold violent criminals accountable and combat the disturbing rise in online child exploitation. The Committee is convening a hearing on child safety online today. The Sentencing Accountability for Exploitation Act (SAFE Act), Ending Coercion of Children and Harm Online Act (ECCHO Act) and Stop Sextortion Act would each address concerning developments in online child abuse by revamping federal sentencing laws, targeting online criminal networks and cracking down on offenders who use child sex abuse material (CSAM) to extort and coerce children. “Because of modern technology, child predators from anywhere in the world can target American kids online. As technology has evolved, so have online child exploiters. Today, offenders are engaging in sadistic online exploitation and coercing kids to take their own lives. Big Tech continues to fail our most vulnerable because they refuse to incorporate safety-by-design measures into their platforms or make meaningful efforts to detect the increasingly violent and depraved sexual exploitation of children on their services. I’m proud to join Senator Grassley in introducing three bills aimed at curbing these horrific crimes online, in addition to continuing to work on advancing other critical reforms like my STOP CSAM Act. Congress has spent enough time investigating tech platforms’ failures; it’s now time that we deliver for the American people,” said Durbin. “Changes in technology have created new opportunities for criminals to harass, exploit, intimidate and harm American children. These horrific crimes – often committed by violent online groups who take advantage of our nation’s outdated laws – have gone unchecked for far too long. Congress must… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-speaks-at-spotlight-forum-examining-the-trump-administrations-aggressive-tactics-in-pursuing-its-mass-deportation-scheme Durbin Speaks At Spotlight Forum Examining The Trump Administration’s Aggressive Tactics In Pursuing Its Mass Deportation Scheme 2025-12-09 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin introduced Chicagoan Dayanne Figueroa, a U.S. citizen who was brutally arrested and detained without due process, during the Trump Administration’s so-called “Operation Midway Blitz” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today participated in a bicameral spotlight forum entitled “Our Values at Stake: DHS Overreach and Violations of U.S. Citizen Rights.” The forum, convened by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), provided a public platform for five U.S. citizens, including Dayanne Figueroa of Chicago, to share their story of being arbitrarily arrested and detained by federal immigration agents as part of the Trump Administration’s mass deportation scheme. Today’s forum was a powerful response to the Trump Administration’s false narrative that federal agents are only going after the “worst of the worst” during these aggressive immigration raids. Detailed reporting across the country has shown that federal agents have arrested or detained more than 170 U.S. citizens, and during the first half of the so-called “Operation Midway Blitz,” 70 percent of the nearly 1,900 people detained by immigration agents did not have serious criminal convictions or pending charges. At the beginning of the forum, Durbin introduced Ms. Figueroa, detailing her brutal arrest and detention after agents sideswiped her car and then violently pulled her from her vehicle. She was aggressively forced to the ground by federal agents and detained for several hours without medical care or the ability to contact her family or legal representation. Ms. Figueroa, who had recently had kidney surgery, was injured and bleeding from the aggressive arrest, and after being released from immigration detention, her mother rushed her to a nearby hospital. Last month, Durbin shared Ms. Figueroa’s story on the Senate floor. “Ms. Figueroa experienced one of the most egregious examples of federal immigration agents’ unacceptable ag… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-senate-judiciary-committee-hearing-durbin-questions-witnesses-on-addressing-csam-and-protecting-children-online In Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, Durbin Questions Witnesses On Addressing CSAM & Protecting Children Online 2025-12-09 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin’s STOP CSAM Act would crack down on the proliferation of child sexual abuse material online WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, questioned witnesses in today’s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled “Protecting Our Children Online Against the Evolving Offender.” Durbin first questioned Jessica Smolar, a former federal prosecutor who investigated and prosecuted child exploitation offenses, about the current child exploitation sentencing guidelines and whether those current guidelines are deficient in assessing the evolving child sexual offender. “What you tell us [in Ms. Smolar’s testimony] is [that] less than 30 percent of nonproduction child pornography defendants were sentenced within the recommended guidelines, reflecting broad judicial dissatisfaction at 70 percent, and inconsistent sentencing nationwide. You say, ‘as federal prosecutors, my colleagues and I often considered plea offers to binding sentences to avoid the application of the insufficient sentencing guidelines and disparities.’ Tell me a little more, what are you talking about here?” Durbin asked. Ms. Smolar responded in cases when ‘you are talking about possession of CSAM, where there is no mandatory minimum sentence—often times, my colleagues and I, not just in the Western District of Pennsylvania but nationwide, would see sentences that we felt were insufficient.’ She continued to state she believes that sentences for “people who are collecting that type of material [CSAM] should be significant in order to protect victims and to deter others from collecting it. So, it's important that the sentencing guidelines are useful.” “I understand part of the problem was a numeric issue. Initially, so many instances of objects that a person had led to a certain sentencing guideline. Now that they are being collected in video form [or] different technology form—that counting numbers doesn't really tell the story, is that your impression?” Durbin asked. Ms. Smolar r… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-senate-floor-speech-durbin-calls-on-republicans-to-protect-health-care-coverage-for-their-constituents-ahead-of-this-weeks-vote-to-extend-aca-tax-credits In Senate Floor Speech, Durbin Calls On Republicans To Protect Health Care Coverage For Their Constituents Ahead Of This Week’s Vote To Extend ACA Tax Credits 2025-12-08 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today delivered a speech on the Senate floor ahead of the Senate’s anticipated vote to extend the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits this week. These tax credits have put health care within reach for Americans by lowering health insurance premiums for more than 20 million Americans nationwide, including upwards of 500,000 Illinoisans. Durbin received a commitment from Republican Leader John Thune to put a bill on the Senate floor in December to address the ACA enhanced premium tax credits. If Republicans vote against extending these enhanced premium tax credits, more than four million Americans are expected to lose their health care coverage next year, including more than 160,000 people in Illinois. Tens of millions of others will see their monthly premiums double or even triple. Durbin began his speech with his own family’s experience of being uninsured when his newborn daughter was in need of critical care. “The issue of quality, affordable health insurance is personal to me. I know what it feels like to be a new dad with a beautiful baby girl with a serious medical condition. I was a student in law school at Georgetown [University], here in Washington, D.C. God gave us this beautiful little girl, but I didn’t have health insurance as a law student. We ended up in the charity ward of Children’s National Hospital waiting for our name to be called to be introduced to the doctor who would do his best to help my daughter… I have never felt so helpless as I did in that moment,” Durbin began. “As lawmakers, I believe that our job is to help make life a little bit better for the people we represent, and this week that means tackling the issue of quality, affordable health insurance,” Durbin said. Durbin then shared the story of a Chicago waitress who relies on ACA tax credits to make her health care plan affordable. “Yesterday, when my wife and I went to Lou Mitchell’s for breakfast before church, I had a conversation with another … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-calls-out-trump-and-speaker-johnson-for-ripping-ivf-coverage-for-military-families-away-after-bipartisan-majorities-passed-them Duckworth Calls Out Trump and Speaker Johnson for Ripping IVF Coverage for Military Families Away After Bipartisan Majorities Passed Them 2025-12-07 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper This is the second year in a row Republicans worked behind closed doors to strip the Senator’s IVF provision in the NDAA [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement calling out Donald Trump—who promised to provide IVF coverage for all Americans—for doing nothing to stop Speaker Mike Johnson from single-handedly killing her provision in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act to provide our nation’s brave servicemembers with the same access to IVF coverage that Members of Congress have, despite wide bipartisan majorities voting to include IVF coverage for troops in both the House and the Senate: “Republicans repeatedly make promises to the public that they support IVF, but their extreme actions tell a different story from their lip service during election years. Time and again when given the chance to make IVF available and affordable, they cave to far right extremists who see families and their doctors as murderers. And for the second year in a row, our servicemembers are paying the price of that extremism. “Trump claimed on the campaign trail that he’d make IVF free for all Americans, creepily declaring himself the ‘father of IVF.’ Well, he proved he’s a deadbeat dad by not only failing to make IVF free for anyone but standing by as Speaker Johnson undermined one of his key campaign promises and stripped coverage from servicemembers behind closed doors that both the House and Senate approved. Shame on them. “Worse yet, it is deeply hypocritical that Mike Johnson worked to deprive our heroes and their families of the same access to IVF coverage that Members of Congress enjoy. While Trump and Republicans routinely let down the American people and fail to deliver on their claims to truly support IVF, I will never stop fighting to protect IVF for all Americans who depend on it to start or grow their families. Our work continues.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/08/2025/duckworth-hosts-town-hall-in-carbondale Duckworth Hosts Town Hall in Carbondale 2025-12-06 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CARBONDALE, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today hosted a town hall meeting in Carbondale to answer constituents’ questions and hear their concerns directly. During today’s town hall meeting, constituents asked her about the profound negative impacts Republicans’ “Big Beautiful Bill” and will have on Southern Illinois, the impending health insurance cost increases facing middle-class Americans if Republicans continue refusing to act and how the Trump Administration has put our servicemembers at risk and left our Veterans behind. Today’s town hall was moderated by Jackson County Board member Tamiko Mueller. Photos of the Senator’s town hall are available on her website. “Families are on the brink of a health care crisis caused by Republicans who keep voting to help their billionaire buddies instead of the American people,” Duckworth said. “Thanks to Republicans’ so-called ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ that will force rural hospitals to shut down, nursing homes to close and thousands of Illinoisans to lose coverage—and their refusal to extend ACA credits and keep health care costs down for millions of Americans—Illinoisans are understandably upset, scared and angry. The most patriotic thing you can do is show up and speak truth to power—that’s democracy at work.” Duckworth has hosted a series of town halls and telephone town halls this year to hear directly from her constituents how the Trump Administration is negatively impacting their lives and the lives of their families and communities, hearing from Illinoisans in McHenry County, Rockford and throughout Chicagoland. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-announces-senate-hearing-on-trumps-military-deployments-to-american-cities Duckworth Announces Senate Hearing on Trump’s Military Deployments to American Cities 2025-12-05 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) announced the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) will hold a hearing next Thursday, December 11, to receive sworn testimony directly from the Trump Administration’s Department of Defense (DoD) on Trump’s unlawful and unconstitutional domestic deployments of American military troops to intimidate Americans in their own communities. “Across the United States, Donald Trump has illegally deployed our nation’s servicemembers into American cities under unclear and false pretexts and despite the costs to our military and civil rights. The American people and our troops deserve answers. “I’m proud to have secured this hearing, which will finally provide the American people an opportunity to hear just how unjustifiable these domestic deployments have been—along with the costs they’ve had on our communities, our civil rights and our servicemembers who selflessly volunteered to protect Americans only to find themselves cruelly forced to turn against them. “While we never should have had to wait this long, I appreciate Chairman Wicker and Leader Thune working with me to hold this hearing so the members of this committee can carry out our constitutional authority and conduct this important oversight over this Administration’s egregious abuse of our military. I look forward to asking tough questions of the Trump Administration, holding them accountable and seeking the answers our country deserves.” Duckworth successfully secured this hearing in early October—weeks after she led all of her fellow SASC Democrats in calling on SASC Chairman Wicker to hold this hearing, and shortly after she blocked expedited passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) until said hearing was secured. The details of this hearing are as follows: -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-discusses-impact-of-trumps-tariffs-on-agriculture-with-southern-illinois-farmers Duckworth Discusses Impact of Trump’s Tariffs on Agriculture with Southern Illinois Farmers 2025-12-05 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [DU QUOIN, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with Southern Illinois farmers and agriculture leaders to discuss how Trump’s erratic trade wars have affected their livelihood and the agriculture industry across the region as well as her efforts to push back on Trump’s lawlessness at the federal level while supporting our state’s agriculture industry and our farmers. Photos from the roundtable can be found on the Senator’s website. “America has always depended on our nation’s farmers to grow the food and fuel we need, and I’m proud to advocate for them on both the national and international stage,” Duckworth said. “The work of Illinois’s farmers and agriculture industry is so important to the strength of our state and our nation, yet these farmers are taking hit after hit under this administration. I will continue to do everything I can to support our farmers and agricultural producers across the state at the federal level.” Illinois’ agriculture industry exports $13.7 billion in goods annually and is already feeling the damaging effects of the Trump Administration’s tariffs—from falling commodity prices to import plans that put the future of Illinois farms at risk. As the nation’s top soybean producer, Illinois is seeing farmers face losses of $100–$200 per acre as prices fall below break-even levels. Additionally, the Trump Administration’s proposal to import tariff-free beef from Argentina threatens 10,713 beef farms across our state and approximately 333,000 head of cattle by lowering prices and jeopardizing the stability of Illinois beef producers. Duckworth met with Josh Maschhoff, President of IL Pork Association; Josh St. Peters, President of IL Beef Association; Gerald Kuberski, President of Washington County Farm Bureau; Patrick Scates, President of the Scates Group Intermodal River Terminal, LLC; Joe Heard, Location Manager of Southern FS in Macedonia; Donnie Sneed of Sneed Farms; Ed Wielbacher and Brent Donovan of Kaskaskia Regional Port District; Dr. Karla Gage, Professor of College… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-celebrates-final-introduction-of-the-dream-act-with-local-immigration-advocates Durbin Celebrates Final Introduction Of The Dream Act With Local Immigration Advocates 2025-12-05 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin has introduced the Dream Act every Congress since 2001; this week marks his final introduction of the legislation before the end of his congressional career CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today joined The Resurrection Project and other Chicago immigration advocacy groups to celebrate the introduction the bipartisan Dream Act of 2025, which would allow noncitizens without lawful status who were brought to the United States as children and meet certain education, military service, or work requirements to earn lawful permanent residence. These young people, known as Dreamers, have lived in America since they were children, built their lives here, and are American in every way except for their immigration status. However, under current law there is often no chance for them to ever become citizens and fulfill their potential. “For more than three months, Chicago has endured President Trump’s ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ – a cruel campaign that has swept up innocent citizens, legal residents, and immigrants who pose absolutely no threat to public safety,” said Durbin. “I am grateful for the community organizations that have stepped up in the face of violence, and I hope that today’s celebration of the Dream Act provides a tiny bright spot in an otherwise dark year. I first introduced this bill 24 years ago, and over those years I’ve met hundreds of amazing young men and women—Dreamers—who are American in every sense of the word except on paper. But because DACA hangs by a thread in the courts, and many are not covered by DACA, they live each day in fear of deportation. This is a matter of simple American fairness and justice. To the Dreamers here in Chicago and across our country who have been with me in this fight: I promise to do everything in my power to fight for you and your future every day.” “For more than a century, Dominican University has served the children of immigrants, welcoming and supporting students whose families came t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-casten-mcclellan-introduce-legislation-to-mitigate-negative-impacts-of-natural-gas-pipelines Duckworth, Durbin, Casten, McClellan Introduce Legislation to Mitigate Negative Impacts of Natural Gas Pipelines 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), both members of the Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, and U.S. Representatives Sean Casten (D-IL-06) and Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04) introduced the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act of 2025, legislation to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to assess and mitigate the impacts that natural gas pipelines approved by FERC under the Natural Gas Act (NGA) will have on climate change and Environmental Justice communities. “As extreme weather events become more frequent, we can’t afford to ignore the climate crisis and the harm it’s inflicting on families across our country,” said Duckworth. “Every American deserves to breathe clean air, drink safe water and live, work and play on uncontaminated land, and we have a responsibility to confront the environmental injustices that far too often fall on low-income communities and communities of color. I’m proud to help introduce this legislation that would curb the climate impact of natural gas pipelines and better protect the vulnerable families who live near them.” “Across the country, we are seeing rising temperatures and more frequent natural disasters—a clear sign that we are facing a serious climate crisis. If we hope to mitigate this crisis and protect our most vulnerable communities, we must evaluate the climate impacts of new natural gas pipelines before we build them,” Durbin said. “Enacting the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act will protect the communities most impacted by climate change and climate pollution while ensuring access to safe and affordable energy.” “For too long, we have placed the interests of energy producers above all else in setting our energy policy, including when deciding whether to permit a new natural gas pipeline,” said Casten. “It’s past time we put the national interest first. I’m proud to introduce this legislation that would require FERC to consider the potent… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-introduce-bill-to-rename-plainfield-post-office-in-honor-of-staff-sergeant-jose-duenez-jr Duckworth, Durbin Introduce Bill to Rename Plainfield Post Office in Honor of Staff Sergeant Jose Dueñez, Jr. 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced bipartisan legislation to rename the U.S. Post Office facility located at 14855 South Van Dyke Road in Plainfield, Illinois, in honor of Staff Sergeant Jose Dueñez, Jr. Dueñez was one of four U.S. soldiers were killed during an Army training exercise in Lithuania on March 31, 2025. U.S. Representative Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) introduced a companion bill in the House of Representatives. “Staff Sergeant Jose Dueñez, Jr.’s commitment to bravely serving his country was commendable, and I’m proud to introduce this legislation to recognize his dedication to his community and his country,” Duckworth said. “We honor and salute his sacrifice to this nation, and I hope to see the Plainfield Post Office renamed to help ensure his memory is rightfully honored.” “Sergeant Jose Dueñez Jr., a proud son of Illinois, made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and should be remembered for generations to come,” Durbin said. “Renaming the Plainfield Post Office after Sgt. Dueñez would honor his legacy of service and bravery.” “Staff Sergeant Jose Dueñez Jr. represents the best of our community. He was an extraordinary hero who served his country with strength and resilience,” said Underwood. “I’m honored to introduce this legislation to permanently commemorate his sacrifice and service. The Plainfield Post Office will bear his name as reminder of his contributions not only to his country, but to his community and family as a father, husband, brother, and son.” Dueñez was born on April 8, 1999, and was raised in Joliet along with his five sisters. Dueñez was promoted five times over the course of his service, ultimately reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant in November 2020. He served in three overseas deployments—Poland in 2019, Germany in 2022 and Lithuania in 2025—and was recognized with two Army Commendation Medals, three Army Achievement Medals, one Certificate of Achievement, two Army Good Conduct Medals a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-reacts-to-dod-igs-report-on-signalgate-reiterates-call-for-hegseth-to-resign Duckworth Reacts to DoD IG’s Report on SignalGate, Reiterates Call for Hegseth to Resign 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] — Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today issued the following statement in reaction to the U.S. Department of Defense Inspector General’s report which confirmed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth put American servicemembers at greater risk by sharing sensitive information about military operations that obviously should have remained classified in unclassified, unsecure Signal chains: “The report confirms what anyone who has served in uniform already knew about the information he sent on that Signal chain: Hegseth shared sensitive operational information that put our troops at greater risk. “This was a jaw-dropping breach of our national security. Hegseth needs to resign in disgrace immediately—and every other official who was included in this group chat must be subject to an independent investigation. If my Republican colleagues won’t join us in holding the Trump Administration accountable for failing to protect our nation’s secrets, then they are complicit. “Every single day Hegseth remains our Secretary of Defense emboldens our adversaries, weakens our national security and makes Americans less safe.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-statement-on-the-trump-administrations-reckless-rollback-of-vehicle-efficiency-standards Duckworth Statement on the Trump Administration’s Reckless Rollback of Vehicle Efficiency Standards 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper "President Trump’s decision to terminate our nation’s vehicle efficiency standards is not about saving money for American families, it’s about Trump giving yet another handout to the corporate class to offset the economic devastation caused by his own reckless tariff policies. Once again, Trump is proving he does not care about the health of average Americans or the sky-high cost of vehicle ownership. By abandoning these standards, he is forcing families to drive less efficient cars that burn more gas and cost more cash—without doing anything to help Americans actually save money on their vehicles. “Trump’s administration has spent months suffocating American automakers with massive tariffs on countless parts critical to building cars, driving up production costs and costing American consumers billions. And now, instead of rolling back his costly tariffs or actually helping the middle class Americans they hurt, he’s choosing to gut air pollution protections as a desperate kickback for mega-corporation so his billionaire friends won’t complain too loudly about the harm his policies are causing. This move is designed for one purpose: to keep mega-companies happy and quiet, while forcing working families to pay the price at the pump and with their health." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-accepts-lifetime-achievement-award-for-decades-of-work-protecting-students-from-predatory-for-profit-colleges Durbin Accepts Lifetime Achievement Award For Decades Of Work Protecting Students From Predatory For-Profit Colleges 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Today, Durbin accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Institute for College Access and Success and the Protect Students and Taxpayers Coalition in honor of his work protecting students from predatory and deceptive practices of the for-profit college industry WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Institute for College Access and Success (TICAS) and the Protect Students and Taxpayers Coalition at their annual meeting, which brings together more than 30 organizations representing veterans, consumers, civil rights organizations, and state attorneys general. Durbin was presented the award in recognition of his decades of work protecting students from the predatory and deceptive practices of the for-profit college industry. “When students explore their prospective colleges, they think about what school will set them up for long-term success. These students are doing the responsible thing by investing in their education. But far too often, predatory for-profit colleges will take advantage of students’ hope and optimism by enticing them to enroll with glossy brochures, just to offer a flimsy degree and mountains of student debt. I’m grateful for the work the Institute for College Access and Success and the Protect Students and Taxpayers Coalition do to help protect students from these predatory practices,” Durbin said. “It’s been my honor to fight with you for more protections for students and to push back against the for-profit college industry, and I will continue to advocate for students as they pursue a higher education.” During his Senate career, Durbin has been a leader in cracking down on for-profit colleges. Each spring, Durbin sends a letter to high school teachers, principals, and counselors urging them to warn their students of the risks associated with for-profit colleges. To curb the power of the for-profit college industry, he has introduced a number of bills, including the PROTECT Students Act; the Proprietary Education Ov… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-casten-mcclellan-introduce-legislation-to-mitigate-negative-impacts-of-natural-gas-pipelines Durbin, Duckworth, Casten, McClellan Introduce Legislation To Mitigate Negative Impacts Of Natural Gas Pipelines 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), both members of the Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, and U.S. Representatives Sean Casten (D-IL-06) and Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04) introduced the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act of 2025, legislation to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to assess and mitigate the impacts that natural gas pipelines approved by FERC under the Natural Gas Act (NGA) will have on climate change and Environmental Justice communities. “Across the country, we are seeing rising temperatures and more frequent natural disasters—a clear sign that we are facing a serious climate crisis. If we hope to mitigate this crisis and protect our most vulnerable communities, we must evaluate the climate impacts of new natural gas pipelines before we build them,” Durbin said. “Enacting the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act will protect the communities most impacted by climate change and climate pollution while ensuring access to safe and affordable energy.” “As extreme weather events become more frequent, we can’t afford to ignore the climate crisis and the harm it’s inflicting on families across our country,” said Duckworth. “Every American deserves to breathe clean air, drink safe water and live, work and play on uncontaminated land, and we have a responsibility to confront the environmental injustices that far too often fall on low-income communities and communities of color. I’m proud to help introduce this legislation that would curb the climate impact of natural gas pipelines and better protect the vulnerable families who live near them.” “For too long, we have placed the interests of energy producers above all else in setting our energy policy, including when deciding whether to permit a new natural gas pipeline,” said Casten. “It’s past time we put the national interest first. I’m proud to introduce this legislation that would require FERC to consider the potential impa… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-meets-with-priests-for-justice-for-immigrants-amid-the-trump-administrations-cruel-immigration-tactics Durbin Meets With Priests For Justice For Immigrants Amid The Trump Administration’s Cruel Immigration Tactics 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, met with Priests for Justice for Immigrants from the Chicago-area and members of the Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership (CSPL). During the meeting, they discussed the importance of supporting immigrants in the face of the Trump Administration’s cruel mass deportation scheme, including the so-called “Operation Midway Blitz,” which has been used as a mechanism by the President to sow fear in Illinois communities as Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) increased their aggressive immigration enforcement operations in the state. Durbin was joined by Father Gary Graf, Father Larry Dowling, and Father Brendan Curran. “For more than three months, Chicago has endured President Trump’s ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ – a cruel campaign that has swept up innocent citizens, legal residents, and immigrants who pose absolutely no threat to public safety,” said Durbin. “These faith leaders have extended spiritual support to our communities, including by walking 800 miles to spread a message of humanity for immigrants and showing up to the ICE Broadview Processing Facility every day to offer their prayers. Today’s discussion with the Fathers reminded me that during these horrific times, we must come together and stand up for our immigrant communities.” Photos of the meeting can be found here. In response to the Trump Administration’s surge in federal law enforcement in Chicago and continuous threats to deploy the military in the area, Durbin has taken a number of steps to push back on these unlawful actions carried out by DHS and Secretary Noem under the direction of President Trump. Durbin has taken the following actions to push back on the Trump Administration’s so-called “Operation Midway Blitz”: Meeting with state, local, and community leaders. Durbin has been in regular contact with both Illinois Governor JB … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-murkowski-introduce-the-dream-act Durbin, Murkowski Introduce The Dream Act 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin has introduced the Dream Act every Congress since 2001; today marks his final introduction of the legislation before the end of his congressional career WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) today introduced the Dream Act of 2025, which would allow noncitizens without lawful status who were brought to the United States as children and meet certain education, military service, or work requirements to earn lawful permanent residence. These young people, known as Dreamers, have lived in America since they were children, built their lives here, and are American in every way except for their immigration status. However, under current law there is often no chance for them to ever become citizens and fulfill their potential. “I first introduced the Dream Act 24 years ago, and over those years I’ve met hundreds of amazing young men and women—Dreamers—who are American in every sense of the word except on paper. They are teachers, nurses, doctors, and small business owners throughout our communities and in all 50 states. But because DACA hangs by a thread in the courts, and many are not covered by DACA, they live each day in fear of deportation. It is clear that only Congress can give them the stability they crave and deserve,” Durbin said. “This is a matter of simple American fairness and justice. To the Dreamers who have been with me in this fight: I promise to do everything in my power to fight for you and your future every day. And to Senator Murkowski, I want to thank you for your longtime support of Dreamers and your partnership in this important bipartisan effort.” The Dream Act of 2025 would allow these young people to earn lawful permanent residence and eventually American citizenship if they: Came to the U.S. as children and are without lawful status; Graduate from high school or obtain a GED; Pursue higher education, work lawfully for at least three years, or serve in the military; Pass s… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-dod-igs-report-on-signalgate-determination-that-secretary-hegseth-endangered-us-service-members Durbin Statement On DOD IG’s Report On ‘Signalgate,’ Determination That Secretary Hegseth Endangered U.S. Service Members 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement on the U.S. Department of Defense Inspector General (DOD IG) report which concluded that U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth endangered the lives of American service members by discussing military operations via unsecured text chains: “Today’s DOD Inspector General report reinforces what we already knew to be true: Secretary Hegseth does not have the good judgement required of the person tasked with leading the U.S. Department of Defense. By recklessly shooting off about classified war plans in two separate group chats – one of which included his wife and brother — on a commercial messaging app, Secretary Hegseth risked the lives of American service members. “Secretary Hegseth has proved, yet again, that my vote against his confirmation was the right choice.” In March, Durbin joined U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and top Senate Democrats on national security committees in sending a letter to President Trump for answers after The Atlantic revealed that an unsecured text chain with at least 18 senior-level Trump administration officials was used to coordinate and share classified information about sensitive military planning and operations. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-demands-all-air-traffic-controllers-who-worked-without-pay-during-republican-shutdown-not-only-trumps-favorites-receive-10000-bonuses Duckworth Demands All Air Traffic Controllers Who Worked Without Pay During Republican Shutdown, Not Only Trump’s Favorites, Receive $10,000 Bonuses 2025-12-03 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – After the Trump Administration cruelly provided only four percent of the air traffic controller (ATC) and technician workforce with $10,000 bonuses, despite all of them working without pay during the Republican-led government shutdown, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation—demanded U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy award those bonuses to every single ATC and technician. In her letter to Secretary Duffy, Duckworth lambasted the Administration for punishing the other 96% of the men and women who bravely keep our skies safe without considering whether they had medical procedures, family obligations or any other life events beyond their control. “Excluding 96 percent of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Air Traffic Controller and Technician workforce from this bonus is unfair, divisive and disrespectful to the over 20,000 dedicated Federal employees who worked under extremely stressful conditions to ensure our Nation Airspace System (NAS) was safe during the 2025 shutdown,” said Duckworth. “Whether an Air Traffic Controller had a medical emergency or important medical procedure scheduled long before the lapse in appropriations; or had to organize and attend funeral services for a loved one; or had to care for a sick child; or simply had to find time to make ends meet to put food on the table; it is wrong to financially penalize these Federal employees for responsibly managing life events beyond their control while working without pay.” Duckworth also slammed Duffy’s decision for setting a dangerous precedent for ATCs and technicians to avoid using authorized leave during future shutdowns, even while suffering from illnesses that could degrade their performance, which could make our skies less safe. “Air Traffic Organization jobs are extremely stressful for good reason: one mistake may be deadly,” Duckworth continued. “These dedicated professionals must be at their best when on the job, but your policy… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-announces-his-final-introduction-of-the-dream-act-and-shares-150th-dreamer-story-on-the-senate-floor Durbin Announces His Final Introduction Of The Dream Act & Shares 150th Dreamer Story On The Senate Floor 2025-12-03 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin has introduced the Dream Act every Congress since 2001; this introduction marks his final introduction of the legislation before the end of his congressional career WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, announced that he and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) will introduce the Dream Act of 2025 tomorrow. The bipartisan legislation would allow noncitizens without lawful status who were brought to the United States as children and meet certain education, military service, or work requirements to earn lawful permanent residence. These young people, known as Dreamers, have lived in America since they were children, built their lives here, and are American in every way except for their immigration status. However, under current law there is often no chance for them to ever become citizens and fulfill their potential. Beginning in 2001, Durbin introduced the Dream Act to give young immigrants the chance to earn U.S. citizenship. He has introduced the legislation every Congress since. “It was 24 years ago that I introduced a measure called the Dream Act… These young immigrants [were] brought to the United States as children. Like millions of American children… [they] grew up dreaming of getting their first job, passing their driver’s license test, and applying to college. But they had a problem. Under the current law, they were not legal to do those things. So the Dream Act gives them a chance, if brought to the United States as children, [to] have a path to citizenship after earning their way in a rather long and rigorous process,” Durbin said. Durbin continued, “It was 2001 when I first introduced bipartisan legislation to provide Dreamers with a pathway to citizenship. My cosponsor was Republican Senator Orrin Hatch, who was then the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee… I’m sad to say that more than two decades later, Dreamers are still waiting for that bill to pass.” In 2010, Durbin sent a le… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-condemns-pardon-of-former-president-of-honduras Durbin Condemns Pardon Of Former President Of Honduras 2025-12-02 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin: “Donald Trump issued a full and unconditional pardon to [more than 1,500] people who stormed the Capitol. It comes as no surprise [that] when it comes to major drug traffickers like the former Honduran president, Donald Trump got out his pardon pen.” WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, condemned President Trump’s pardon of the former Honduran president, Juan Orlando Hernández. Durbin began by outlining the horrendous conduct of Mr. Hernández, a convicted drug trafficker. “The former president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernández, was prosecuted by the federal government of the United States for his involvements in the trade in narcotics. He was found guilty of having been involved and sentenced to some 45 years in prison. He once boasted that he ‘would stuff the drugs up the gringos’ noses.’ He accepted a million-dollar bribe from El Chapo to allow cocaine shipments to pass through Honduras destined to the United States. This former president, [President] Hernández, had a man killed in prison to protect him. Honduras has become a bastion of the global drug trade. This former president, [President] Hernández, orchestrated a vast trafficking conspiracy that prosecutors said raked in millions of dollars for cartels while making Honduras one of Central America’s poorest, most violent, most corrupt countries. So, they prosecute him, find him guilty of selling narcotics through these cartels into the United States. Can you think of anyone more reprehensible than that? Selling drugs to this country, finding more victims by the day… Of course, it’s terrible… so terrible that he was found guilty and sentenced to 45 years in prison,” said Durbin. “Then what happened? Well, you won't believe it. Donald Trump pulls out his pardon pen,” continued Durbin. Durbin then highlighted the hypocrisy of this pardon, which forgives the crimes prosecuted by then-Assistant U.S. Attorney and now Trump-appointed U.S. Circ… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-if-republicans-reject-the-democratic-proposal-to-address-aca-subsidies-the-american-public-will-know-which-party-abandoned-them Durbin: If Republicans Reject The Democratic Proposal To Address ACA Subsidies, The American Public Will Know Which Party Abandoned Them 2025-12-02 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper On the Senate floor, Durbin continues to push his Republican colleagues to come to the table and negotiate with Democrats on a solution to address the looming health care crisis WASHINGTON – As open enrollment for 2026 individual market health insurance plans has begun and Americans across the country are facing astronomic increases in their monthly premiums for next year, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate floor about the health care affordability crisis, caused by congressional Republicans refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits. These tax credits lower health insurance premiums for more than 20 million Americans nationwide, including upwards of 500,000 Illinoisans. Durbin received a commitment from Republican Leader John Thune to put a bill on the Senate floor in December to address the ACA enhanced premium tax credits. If Republicans vote against extending these enhanced premium tax credits, more than four million Americans are expected to lose their health care coverage, including more than 160,000 people in Illinois. Tens of millions of others will see their monthly premiums double or even triple. Durbin began his speech by recounting his experience as a young father when he couldn’t provide health insurance for his child. “My wife and I were blessed with a beautiful baby girl. I was going to law school here in Washington, D.C. Turns out our little girl had a serious, serious medical problem. The difficulty I faced was the fact that I had no health insurance. I was a law student, and I ended up going to Children’s [National] Hospital here in Washington, D.C., with my wife and our little baby girl, and sat in the charity ward [that] was there for people who could not pay their medical bills and had no health insurance. We waited for the door to open and for our family name to be called out to meet for the first time the doctor who was going to treat my little girl. I never felt more helpless in my life, as a father, to have that baby… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-investigates-arrests-of-us-citizens-by-president-trumps-out-of-control-immigration-forces Durbin Investigates Arrests Of U.S. Citizens By President Trump’s Out-Of-Control Immigration Forces 2025-12-02 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin in oversight request to Secretary Noem: “The disturbing reality is that many American citizens have been caught in the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate and violent immigration enforcement dragnet across the country.” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today launched an investigation into the reported arrests of U.S. citizens under the Trump Administration’s violent immigration enforcement agenda. In a letter to Secretary Noem, Durbin called out the dangerous and reckless enforcement actions, including arrests and detentions of U.S. citizens and targeting of minorities in cities like Chicago. Durbin began by citing Secretary Noem’s blatant falsehood at a recent press conference, writing: “You recently stated in a news conference: ‘There’s no American citizens that have been arrested or detained. We focus on those that are here illegally. And anything that you would hear or report that would be different than that is simply not true.’ This statement is patently false. The disturbing reality is that many American citizens have been caught in the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate and violent immigration enforcement dragnet across the country.” Durbin then highlighted the known wrongful detentions of the Trump Administration’s immigration crackdown, writing: “In the first nine months of President Trump’s immigration crackdown, at least 170 citizens were wrongfully detained. As of mid-October, approximately two dozen U.S. citizens had been held for more than a day without being able to contact anyone, including their lawyers. The numbers continue to grow. My staff has documented the reported detention of at least 40 U.S. citizens in Illinois alone between late August and early November 2025. Since the President ramped up his militarized immigration raids in the Chicagoland area, arrests of U.S. citizens have occurred with increasing frequency.” Durbin then connected the aggression against U.S. citizens with a recent Supreme … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-lee-lead-reintroduction-of-bipartisan-legislation-bolstering-accountability-for-alleged-justice-department-attorney-misconduct Durbin, Lee Lead Reintroduction Of Bipartisan Legislation Bolstering Accountability For Alleged Justice Department Attorney Misconduct 2025-12-02 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The Inspector General Access Act would expand the jurisdiction of the Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General to include alleged DOJ attorney misconduct WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) re-introduced bipartisan legislation to expand the jurisdiction of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Office of the Inspector General to include alleged DOJ attorney misconduct. Currently, the DOJ Inspector General (IG) has no authority to investigate professional misconduct by DOJ lawyers. DOJ is the only agency whose IG has such a jurisdictional carve-out. The Inspector General Access Act would simply strike this loophole, which leads to an unfair double standard where every DOJ employee—including FBI and DEA agents, U.S. Marshals, and federal prison guards—can be investigated by the DOJ IG except DOJ lawyers. “The American people deserve top-notch attorneys representing them at the Justice Department, and Justice Department prosecutors should be subject to independent oversight regardless of the Attorney General. Allegations of professional misconduct should be investigated by the Inspector General, or else we could end up with another instance like the Jeffrey Epstein sweetheart deal struck by then-U.S. Attorney Alex Acosta. This is a simple, bipartisan fix for a clear loophole in federal law, and I thank Senator Lee for joining me in this effort,” said Durbin. “The current IG oversight exemption for attorneys is a nonsensical carve out. Our simple bill changes that, ensuring DOJ attorneys are held to the same standard as other federal agencies. I'm proud to partner again with Senator Durbin on this common-sense bipartisan effort,” said Lee. The Inspector General Access Act solves the problem that has long prevented independent oversight of DOJ prosecutors by simply striking the jurisdictional carve out in Section 413 of Title 5, United States Code. As a result, DOJ’s Inspector General would be fully … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-on-the-affordability-crisis-costs-are-through-the-roof-because-of-president-trump-and-his-maga-policies Durbin On The Affordability Crisis: Costs Are Through The Roof Because Of President Trump And His MAGA Policies 2025-12-02 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper In his speech on the Senate floor, Durbin denounced President Trump’s economic policies, ranging from cuts to SNAP to instituting damaging tariffs, that are costing Americans more WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) delivered a speech on the Senate floor about the nation’s affordability crisis, which has been spurred by the Trump Administration’s short-sighted economic policies, including tariffs, billions of dollars in cuts to SNAP, and attacks on immigrant workers. Despite claims made by President Trump, Americans are seeing a sharp spike in the cost of groceries and household goods. “Last week, families gathered around the table to give thanks and enjoy a plate or two of turkey, mashed potatoes, casserole, cranberry sauce, and more. Except this year, the Thanksgiving feast cost more than last year because President Trump’s economic policies are driving up the prices of groceries,” Durbin began. “The President claims the opposite, but that’s not a fact. In a social media post, President Trump said ‘Prices for a Thanksgiving Dinner is now down 25%...since 2024…AFFORDABILITY is a Republican Stronghold.’” “Does the President of the United States actually have any conversation with families who are shopping for groceries? Here’s the truth: costs are through the roof because of President Trump and his MAGA policies. The American people know too. Recent polling from none other than Fox News shows that nearly two-thirds of Americans blame President Trump for higher prices,” Durbin said. Durbin underscored the impact these rising prices have on Illinoisans by sharing stories of constituents, Tria and Esther, from Chicago. “After experiencing the sticker shock at a South Loop grocery store, she [Tria] said, ‘No matter if it’s organic or if it’s regular, it’s still going to be an arm and a leg for it. It’s like you’re spending your soul on groceries,’” Durbin said. “Ester said, ‘A loaf of bread costs us $4, and it looks like it’s getting smaller.” The Trump Administration’s disastrous econom… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-new-report-regarding-kash-patels-leadership-of-the-fbi Durbin Statement On New Report Regarding Kash Patel’s Leadership Of The FBI 2025-12-02 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement regarding reports of a 115-page assessment compiled by a national alliance of retired and active-duty Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) special agents and analysts that describes the FBI under Director Kash Patel’s leadership as a “rudderless ship.” Detailed in the assessment is how Patel stopped the work of several agents because he refused to leave the FBI jet without a raid jacket when he arrived in Provo, Utah, following the assassination of Charlie Kirk. “This stark assessment of the damage Kash Patel has done to the nation’s leading law enforcement agency cries out for one—just one—Republican Senator to break the ranks of silence and demand that Kash Patel be held accountable for his mismanagement of the FBI. America deserves better than this self-absorbed FBI Director fussing over his wardrobe in the midst of a national crisis. “The men and women of the FBI who risk their lives to keep America safe are entitled to a leader who is more concerned with fighting crime than attending a wrestling match.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-to-his-republican-colleagues-what-if-operation-midway-blitz-comes-to-your-state-or-hometown Durbin To His Republican Colleagues: What If ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ Comes To Your State Or Hometown? 2025-12-02 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper In a speech on the Senate floor, Durbin again denounced President Trump’s so-called “Operation Midway Blitz” and called on his Republican colleagues to stand up against the President’s cruel mass deportation scheme WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today spoke out on the Trump Administration’s so-called “Operation Midway Blitz,” which has been used as a mechanism by the President to sow fear in Illinois communities as Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) have been tasked with carrying out the Trump Administration’s cruel mass deportation scheme. Rather than going after the “worst of the worst” as the President promised, DHS, ICE, and CBP agents have gone after U.S. citizens and immigrants who are legally in the United States, racially profiling people on the street and detaining them. During “Operation Midway Blitz,” federal agents have used extreme tactics, including ripping a U.S. citizen from her car after federal agents hit her vehicle, causing her to experience internal bleeding; detaining a green card holder while he was walking in Chicago and then releasing him without contacting his family, resulting in him going missing for two weeks; deploying pepper spray and disrupting a children’s Halloween parade in the Old Irving Park neighborhood of Chicago; pulling a teacher, who had work authorization in the U.S., from her school in front of students and parents; and deploying pepper spray into the car of a U.S. citizen, causing him and his one-year-old daughter to be hospitalized. “For more than three months, Chicago has endured President Trump’s ‘Operation Midway Blitz.’ It is a cruel campaign. It has swept up innocent citizens, legal residents, and immigrants who pose absolutely no threat to public safety. Remember why the President wanted to send troops and more resources and the Department of Homeland Security into the city of Chic… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/bipartisan-duckworth-daines-cruz-hirono-bill-to-better-protect-parents-traveling-with-breast-milk-signed-into-law Bipartisan Duckworth-Daines-Cruz-Hirono Bill to Better Protect Parents Traveling with Breast Milk Signed into Law 2025-12-01 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – After unanimously passing the Senate in May and passing the House in November, bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) to make it easier for parents to safely embark on air travel with breast milk and breastfeeding supplies is now law. Senator Duckworth’s Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Enhancement Act—co-led by U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI)—requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to clarify and regularly update guidance on handling breast milk, baby formula and other related nutrition products, including ice packs, in consultation with leading maternal health groups. “This is a hard-won victory for so many moms who have been mistreated by TSA while traveling with breastmilk and the breastfeeding equipment they need to pump and feed their babies,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m thankful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and champions like Emily Calandrelli who spoke out on this issue for families everywhere. Our bipartisan law will make it easier for new moms to travel by ensuring the TSA keeps its employees up to speed on their own policies and updates those policies as necessary. It marks important progress to ensure parents can travel through airports with the dignity and respect they deserve.” “I’m thrilled to see our bipartisan BABES Enhancement Act officially signed into law,” said Senator Daines. “Being a mom is already a tough job, and this new law will make it easier for mothers to safely transport breastmilk and formula while traveling. This is a big win for families, and I’m proud to see it signed into law.” “Far too often, families traveling with infants and young children are subjected to inconsistencies when going through TSA’s screening, causing inconveniences that can make traveling together even more difficult. This simple legislation to update the TSA’s compliance guidance for the 3-1-1 liquids will help families travel without added hassles,” said Sen… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-a-speech-on-the-senate-floor-durbin-honors-the-two-national-guard-members-who-were-shot-in-dc-before-thanksgiving In A Speech On The Senate Floor, Durbin Honors The Two National Guard Members Who Were Shot In DC Before Thanksgiving 2025-12-01 2025 2025-12 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper On the Senate floor, Durbin offered condolences to Specialist Sarah Beckstrom’s family who tragically passed away, and prayed for Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe’s recovery WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate floor to honor the two National Guard members who were shot in Washington, DC, last week. During his speech, Durbin remembered 20-year-old Specialist Sarah Beckstrom who tragically passed away on Thanksgiving Day. He also prayed for 24-year-old Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe’s recovery. Staff Sergeant Wolfe remains in critical condition. “We pray for his [Staff Sergeant Wolfe’s] recovery and—as one nation—send our deepest condolences to the Beckstrom family,” said Durbin. “Now whether or not you agree with [sending] National Guard troops to Chicago or Washington, D.C., or any other place, that is really beside the point. We should make a note today that this is really an acknowledgement of the importance of the National Guard to America's defense at home and abroad many times.” Durbin continued, “There must be a full investigation into the attack on [Specialist] Sarah Beckstrom and [Staff] Sergeant Andrew Wolfe.” Durbin concluded, “I implore the President to lower the temperature on political rhetoric and try not to exploit this [tragedy] to demonize immigrants, including many who have been willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Instead, the President should work with Congress on common-sense and evidence-proven strategies to reduce crime and reform our broken immigration system. My wife and I send our deepest condolences to the Beckstrom family, and we pray Staff Sergeant Wolfe makes a full, speedy recovery.” Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-joins-senate-democrats-in-pressing-buy-now-pay-later-companies-for-data-on-rapidly-growing-industry-as-trumps-attack-on-cfpb-leaves-consumers-vulnerable Duckworth Joins Senate Democrats in Pressing “Buy Now, Pay Later” Companies for Data on Rapidly Growing Industry as Trump's Attack on CFPB Leaves Consumers Vulnerable 2025-11-25 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [Washington, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) in pushing seven major companies offering “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) services to provide critical data needed to understand the risks and economic impact of BNPL products, as consumers’ use of these opaque products rapidly grows. The Senators’ letter comes as the Trump Administration undermines the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) ability to monitor the BNPL industry. “BNPL loans are becoming increasingly common with consumers, with up to half of Americans having used a BNPL loan,” wrote the Senators in letters to each of the companies. “A consumer with a BNPL loan had, on average, $871 more in credit card debt in the month of origination than a consumer of the same age and credit score category who did not originate a BNPL loan that month. This could suggest that consumers are turning to BNPL when their other sources of credit are less available—and may be taking on debt they cannot afford.” They then raised concerns about the lack of regulation of BNPL products under the Trump Administration: “Notably, BNPL providers had previously been regulated by the CFPB pursuant to an interpretative rule that classified them as ‘credit card issuers’ and ‘creditors’ and classified BNPL loans largely as ‘credit cards….’ However, under the Trump Administration, the CFPB announced it would no longer prioritize enforcement actions against BNPL providers and withdrew the interpretative rule authorizing CFPB regulation under the Truth in Lending Act.” “We are also aware of recent reporting that FICO is releasing two new versions of its credit score that will encompass BNPL data. The new scores will purportedly ‘aggregat(e) separate BNPL loans together when calculating certain in-model variables.’ However, multiple major BNPL players are not providing their customers’ data due to concerns about FICO’s current methodology and the effects on thei… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/after-recall-duckworth-calls-on-ftc-to-investigate-formula-manufacturer-byhearts-refund-policy After Recall, Duckworth Calls on FTC to Investigate Formula Manufacturer ByHeart’s Refund Policy 2025-11-21 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) is calling on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to open an investigation into whether the refund policy of infant formula manufacturer ByHeart is unfair and deceptive, advocating for families to get the full refund they deserve. Earlier this month, all ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products were recalled due to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s ongoing outbreak investigation of infant botulism—a serious medical condition that can be fatal. In a letter to FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson, Duckworth highlights that despite this sweeping recall, ByHeart’s policy fails to fully reimburse families, only refunding up to two units of ByHeart products purchased on or after October 1. “Customers who purchased far more than two units could face significant financial loss under ByHeart’s restrictive refund policy,” Duckworth wrote. “Limiting refunds to only ‘up to two units of ByHeart product’ substantially injures the typical infant formula consumer, who often purchase expensive, essential infant nutrition products in bulk to save money.” Duckworth continued, “ByHeart’s own promotional and marketing claims, which have included phrases like ‘satisfaction guaranteed,’ ‘full refunds’ and a commitment to a ‘no-compromise’ infant nutrition experience, appear to be an effort to deceive prospective customers into believing the company is not the type of corporation that would only provide restrictive, discriminatory and limited refunds in the event a major recall triggered by a multistate infant botulism outbreak.” ByHeart is only offering full refunds for first-time customers, harming longtime, loyal customers the most. This outbreak to date has resulted in more than 30 babies across 15 states, including Illinois, being hospitalized and treated for infant botulism. “Parents who trusted ByHeart to produce safe and nutritious infant formula are experiencing anxiety and fear over the spreading outbreak of infant botulism that, to date, has resulted in at… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-fischers-protecting-children-with-food-allergies-bill-passes-senate Durbin, Fischer’s Protecting Children With Food Allergies Bill Passes Senate 2025-11-21 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The legislation, which was added as an amendment to the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, would train school food service staff to prevent and respond to food-related allergic reactions WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), both members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, applauded the Senate passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which included their bipartisan Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act as an amendment. Durbin and Fischer’s legislation would ensure school food service staff receive essential training about food allergies, so that they are better equipped to prevent, recognize, and respond to food allergic reactions, which can save lives. The Senate bill heads to the House one final time before being presented to the President for signature. “When parents drop their kids off at school, they should have peace of mind knowing that their children are safe with personnel who are trained to handle their children’s food allergies,” said Durbin. “Peanuts, eggs, soy, and milk are nutritious, but for some kids, they are allergens that can be deadly. I’m encouraged to see the Senate pass our Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act to ensure that kids will be safe in the event of an allergic reaction.” “America’s parents have enough on their plate without worrying about whether their kids’ schools can respond to serious allergic reactions. While Nebraska has already led the way as the first state to require schools to stock epinephrine, we need more national solutions to protect our children. I’m grateful for the bipartisan support of our Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act here in the Senate, and I look forward to working with our colleagues in the House to send this bill to the President’s desk,” Fischer said. Food allergies are a growing public health concern. Over the past two decades, the number of children with food allergies in the U.S. has more than doubled. Approximately six million chil… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ranking-members-raskin-jayapal-durbin-and-padilla-secretaries-noem-rubio-and-kennedy-too-cowardly-to-defend-shocking-decision-to-abandon-refugees-unlawfully-dispatch-deputies-instead Ranking Members Raskin, Jayapal, Durbin, and Padilla: Secretaries Noem, Rubio, and Kennedy Too Cowardly to Defend Shocking Decision to Abandon Refugees, Unlawfully Dispatch Deputies Instead 2025-11-21 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. (November 20, 2025)—Today, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, Sen. Dick Durbin, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Sen. Alex Padilla, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration, issued the following statement after Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. refused to meet their legal obligation to consult with Congress on the Administration’s refugee admissions plan—sending deputies to stage a charade consultation instead: “Fifty-one days after the legal deadline, the Trump Administration today came to Capitol Hill in response to our monthslong bipartisan demands that they follow the law and consult with Congress on their refugee admissions plan. “It is outrageous that Secretaries Noem, Rubio, and Kennedy were too cowardly to come before us and explain their shocking decision to abandon nearly 130,000 vetted, approved refugees facing persecution and violence abroad. Instead they sent their deputies, in brazen violation of the lawwhich explicitly requires a consultation by ‘Cabinet-level representatives of the President.’ “The Trump Secretaries ignored their legal obligations to face us because their policy is indefensible. It is impossible to defend leaving desperate families—men, women, and children who were promised a lifeline—twisting in the winds of global violence. It is impossible to justify a policy that abandons America’s historic commitment to offering safe harbor to the persecuted. Trump’s team has slashed refugee admissions to the lowest level in our nation’s history and reserved the bulk of the few remaining slots for white South African Afrikaners. They didn’t show up because their betrayal is unspeakable. “The U.S. Refugee Resettlement program has always been a bipartisan matter of pride for our… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-hoeven-introduce-two-bipartisan-bills-to-strengthen-aviation-safety-and-support-commercial-pilots-and-air-traffic-controllers Duckworth, Hoeven Introduce Two Bipartisan Bills to Strengthen Aviation Safety and Support Commercial Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Ranking Member of the Aviation Subcommittee—and U.S. Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) introduced two bipartisan bills aimed to help strengthen aviation safety and support our aviation workforce by fostering transparency surrounding medication guidelines, improving access to mental health care and protecting job security for our nation’s commercial pilots and air traffic controllers (ATC). Senator Duckworth’s Aviation Medication Transparency Act, co-led by Senator Hoeven, would require the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue accessible, user-friendly guidance on medications that are safe for individuals holding, applying for or training for a position that requires an FAA medical certificate—helping ensure these individuals don’t unknowingly take medications that could jeopardize their careers. Senator Hoeven’s Mental Health in Aviation Act, co-led by Senator Duckworth, would require the FAA to modernize and strengthen access to mental health care—removing barriers to timely treatment, promoting early intervention and supporting the well-being of our pilots and ATCs that lead to safer skies. “Our aviation system depends on the well-being of our pilots and air traffic controllers, who operate under an immense amount of stress—and their careers should never be threatened because they weren’t properly informed about which medications they’re allowed to take or dared to seek the mental health care they need,” said Duckworth. “These two bipartisan, commonsense bills would help make it easier for those in our aviation workforce to take care of themselves without fearing for their job security—while also sending this important message to future recruits. Congress must continue to show our pilots and air traffic controllers that we are invested in them by passing our bills to reform bureaucratic shortcomings within the FAA, dismantle the dangerous culture of silence surroun… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-statement-on-progress-toward-achieving-goals-of-her-bipartisan-she-drives-act-with-new-advanced-female-crash-test-dummy Duckworth Statement on Progress Toward Achieving Goals of Her Bipartisan She DRIVES Act with New Advanced Female Crash Test Dummy 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) unveiled designs for a female crash test dummy—a safety reform Duckworth has been pushing for through her bipartisan She DRIVES Act, which she co-leads alongside U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE). The She DRIVES Act would help modernize vehicle safety tests by requiring the use of the most advanced testing devices available, including a female crash test dummy. “Any progress here is good because there’s simply no good reason why women are more likely to be injured or die in car crashes. For years, I’ve pushed for the bipartisan SHE Drives Act alongside Senator Fischer to help modernize vehicle safety tests by requiring the use of the most advanced testing devices available, including a female crash test dummy, so we can have the data we need to reduce this disparity. It’s a simple, commonsense fix, and I urge Republican leadership to bring our legislation to the floor for a vote so we can continue making progress to keep women safe and save lives.” The She DRIVES Act is estimated to help save more than 1,300 lives, prevent and mitigate tens of thousands of serious injuries and save billions of dollars in economic impact from preventing and mitigating injuries and deaths. Last December, Duckworth announced more than $2 million in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to improve crash reporting in Illinois to help make our roads as safe as possible and reduce the number of lives lost to car crashes. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-again-condemns-trump-administrations-extreme-operation-midway-blitz-after-ice-agents-pepper-spray-us-citizen-and-his-one-year-old-daughter Durbin Again Condemns Trump Administration’s Extreme “Operation Midway Blitz” After ICE Agents Pepper Spray U.S. Citizen And His One-Year-Old Daughter 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper “President Trump is turning federal immigration officers into his own secret, masked police force. I see it every day in the city of Chicago,” Durbin said in his speech on the Senate floor WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, spoke on the Senate floor to call out the Trump Administration’s extreme and unlawful actions during the so-called “Operation Midway Blitz,” in which hundreds of residents of Illinois and immigrants without a criminal record have been detained. Today, Durbin shared the story of Rafael Veraza and his one-year-old daughter Arianna, who are both U.S. citizens, being pepper sprayed at close range by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents while they were on a shopping trip to a local Sam’s Club. Durbin began his remarks by reiterating that “Operation Midway Blitz” is a mechanism used by the Trump Administration to sow fear in Illinois communities. Rather than going after the “worst of the worst” as the President promised, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials from ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have gone after U.S. citizens and immigrants who are legally in the United States, racially profiling people on the street and detaining them. “For almost three months, Chicago and my home state of Illinois have been under attack by President Trump since he launched what he calls ‘Operation Midway Blitz.’ During that time, chaos and terror have reigned supreme. This operation isn’t just targeting the ‘worst of the worst’…American citizens, legal residents of the United States, and immigrants who have built their lives and raised their families here and pose no threat to public safety have been the actual targets,” Durbin began. “A court forced the Administration to come clean on this. Just how many of these dangerous ‘worst of the worst’ criminals are you arresting and [detaining] in the process of ‘Operation Midway Blitz?’ The Administration finally released their numbers—[of] 600 people . .… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-condemns-president-trumps-january-6-pardons-as-more-rioters-continue-to-commit-heinous-crimes Durbin Condemns President Trump’s January 6 Pardons As More Rioters Continue To Commit Heinous Crimes 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper During a Senate Judiciary Committee executive business meeting, Durbin condemned Trump’s January 6 pardons, and Senate Republicans’ refusal to defend the Constitution WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered an opening statement during today’s Senate Judiciary Committee executive business meeting. He began by commenting on the Trump Administration’s judicial nominees who received a “Not Qualified” rating from the American Bar Association (ABA). Durbin then condemned President Trump’s blanket pardon of the January 6 rioters, some of whom have gone on to commit additional heinous crimes. Durbin first commented on the tradition of ABA ratings, noting that Committee Republicans no longer require one for a judicial nominee to receive consideration. He said, “For the first time in decades… we decided we do not care what the American Bar Association finds out when they interviewed other judges and lawyers in the community for these nominees…There have been [Trump] nominees found [‘Not Qualified’]… So, to have any bragging and boasting about nominees, why did you eliminate the ABA rating? That has been there for a long time and now you do not want Trump nominees to face that scrutiny [and] that tells us a lot.” Durbin then commented on President Trump’s blanket pardon of more than 1,500 January 6 rioters. He said, “Last week, he [President Trump] pardoned Dan Wilson… a member of the Oath Keepers militia. Mr. Wilson had pleaded guilty to conspiracy to impede [or] injure a law-enforcement officer and was sentenced to five years in prison. He remained incarcerated due to a felony conviction for illegally possessing firearms. But President Trump decided that Mr. Wilson should receive a pardon for this offense as well. The President also pardoned Suzanne Kaye, who was sentenced to 18 months in prison after threatening to shoot FBI agents. Ms. Kaye had posted a video online saying she would exercise ‘my Second Amendment right to shoot your f---i… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-join-heinrich-kelly-to-introduce-anti-cash-grab-act-to-repeal-arctic-frost-provision Durbin, Duckworth Join Heinrich, Kelly To Introduce Anti-Cash Grab Act To Repeal ‘Arctic Frost’ Provision 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The Anti-Cash Grab Act repeals last-minute provision allowing Republican senators to collect $500,000 per lawfully subpoenaed phone record WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) in leading 24 Senate colleagues to introduce the Anti-Cash Grab Act, legislation that will repeal a provision — quietly added into the Senate government funding bill by U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) at the last minute — that allows Senators to collect $500,000 for every phone record lawfully obtained. “After shutting down the government, Senate Republicans took further advantage of the chaos they created to sneak in a $500,000 taxpayer-funded payout for Senators into the government funding deal. While working families were worrying about how to put food on the table, Senate Republicans were scheming about how to personally enrich themselves,” Durbin said. “The Anti-Cash Grab Act would nullify this provision in the government funding deal and prevent lawmakers from attempting to line their own pockets with taxpayer dollars.” “While Republicans refused to lift a finger to stop health care premiums from skyrocketing, provide SNAP benefits to hungry children or do anything that actually improves people’s lives, they had no problem sneaking themselves a bonus on the taxpayers’ dime,” Duckworth said. “Republicans’ shameless decision to line their own pockets while Illinois families struggle to make ends meet is despicable and un-American. Not shaking down the American taxpayer shouldn’t be a partisan issue, which is why I’m proud to join Senator Durbin and our colleagues in urging the Senate to pass the Anti-Cash Grab Act to protect our tax dollars from political games.” The introduction of the Anti-Cash Grab Act comes after Durbin has repeatedly called for former Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify publicly before the Senate Judiciary Committee ab… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-ramirez-introduce-bill-to-expand-student-loan-refinancing-for-service-members Durbin, Duckworth, Ramirez Introduce Bill to Expand Student Loan Refinancing For Service Members 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper The Servicemember Student Loan Affordability Act would allow service members to consolidate or refinance pre-service private or federal student loan debt, and retain six percent rate cap WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03) today introduced the Servicemember Student Loan Affordability Act, bicameral legislation that would amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to allow service members to consolidate or refinance student loan debt they had when they entered the military and continue to benefit from the six percent interest rate cap to which they are entitled through the SCRA. A provision in the SCRA protects service members from high student loan interest rates by capping interest rates at six percent on loans that they took out before entering active-duty military service. However, if a service member consolidates or refinances their student loans, which is required for Federal Family Education Loans or Perkins student loan borrowers to benefit from the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, that new loan is no longer eligible for this interest rate protection. “When someone volunteers to serve in our military, they shouldn’t be met with bureaucratic roadblocks that make it harder for them to pay back their student loans,” Durbin said. “The Servicemember Student Loan Affordability Act would make a commonsense fix to the SCRA to ensure that service members are not penalized for participating in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.” “As higher education slips further out of reach for so many Americans, we should be doing everything we can to make it more affordable—especially for those who choose to serve in the military,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to continue working with Senator Durbin on this commonsense legislation that would protect our Servicemembers from high interest rates when they consolidate or refinance their student loans.” “Our veterans deserve every benefit our… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-introduces-new-bill-to-support-fdas-efforts-to-prevent-foodborne-illness Durbin Introduces New Bill To Support FDA’s Efforts To Prevent Foodborne Illness 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Durbin’s FSMA Fee Technical Corrections Act would help FDA to collect already-authorized fees from food companies for food safety inspections WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced legislation, the FSMA Fee Technical Corrections Act, to make it easier for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct food safety inspections and recalls by collecting fees from food manufacturers and importers in order to better support the agency’s efforts to prevent foodborne illnesses. In 2010, Durbin led Congress in passing the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) to expand FDA’s mission to prevent foodborne illnesses rather than solely responding to crises after they had occurred. FSMA provided FDA with new authorities and resources to accomplish its newly expanded mission, including the authority to collect fees from food manufacturers and importers for reinspection and recall order-related costs. However, since FSMA’s enactment in 2011, FDA has not once collected these fees because of the complexity of the structure created to collect the fees and because “reinspection” is not well defined in the statute. Durbin’s FSMA Fee Technical Corrections Act would make technical corrections to FSMA and redefine “reinspection” to allow FDA to collect these fees from food manufacturers and importers who fail to meet federal food safety standards. Specifically, the FSMA Technical Corrections Act would allow FDA to collect: $15,000 per reinspection, up to a total of $30 million per year; and $15,000 per recall order, up to a total of $25 million per year. FDA requested these authorities in its Fiscal Year 2025 budget request. “Americans want to think about what to make for dinner when at the grocery store, not if the food they buy will make them sick. FDA is tasked with protecting Americans from foodborne illnesses and addressing an outbreak as quickly as possible, but for years, FDA has been unable to use a critical funding source that would provide the agency with additional resources,”… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-calls-out-republicans-for-refusing-to-help-stop-health-insurance-bills-from-skyrocketing-for-millions-of-families-including-their-own-constituents Duckworth Calls Out Republicans for Refusing to Help Stop Health Insurance Bills from Skyrocketing for Millions of Families, Including Their Own Constituents 2025-11-19 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper At today’s Commerce subcommittee hearing, Duckworth invited Kansas resident Eileen Spickler as a witness to share how her family depends on the ACA tax credits that are set to expire at the end of the year [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – At today’s Republican-led Senate Commerce subcommittee hearing, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) called out her Republican colleagues for holding this highly partisan hearing in attempt to distract the American people from the pain Republicans continue to cause for millions of families by refusing to help stop ACA premiums from skyrocketing at the end of the year. To underscore the urgency of the looming health care crisis Republicans are trying to evade, Duckworth invited Kansas resident Eileen Spickler to appear as a witness and share her powerful story about how ACA tax credits have allowed her family to afford health insurance for her husband, Barry, whose health depends on it. Full video of Senator Duckworth’s opening remarks and Eileen Spickler’s testimony can be found on the Senator’s YouTube. “Republicans control the House, the Senate and the White House—if they want someone to blame for the consequences of the shutdown, they should look in the mirror,” said Duckworth. “Democrats have always known that shutdowns are bad, but unlike Republicans, we also want to stop millions from losing their health care coverage or being forced to pay thousands more each month—a looming crisis Republicans still have no plan to address.” Duckworth continued: “Just as Trump could have paid air traffic controllers or prevented Americans from going hungry if he had wanted to, Republicans could also join Democrats to at the table at any time to help find a bipartisan solution to avert this health care crisis for people like Eileen and her husband, Barry. But shamefully, they’d rather spend their time trying to distract the American people and point fingers at anyone but themselves.” Spickler’s husband will be forced to forgo insurance because they simply can’t afford to lose the $1,100 in tax reli… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-calls-out-recent-uptick-in-threats-against-federal-judges Durbin Calls Out Recent Uptick In Threats Against Federal Judges 2025-11-19 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper During Durbin’s opening statement in a Senate Judiciary Committee nominations hearing, he condemned the recent uptick in threats against federal judges as President Trump continues his harmful rhetoric targeted at the Judiciary WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today delivered an opening statement at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the judicial nominations of David Clay Wilkerson Fowlkes, to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas; Nicholas Jon Ganjei, to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas; and Aaron Christian Peterson, to the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. During his opening, Durbin highlighted President Trump’s attacks on the judiciary. Key Quotes: “The dockets are busy. The questions of law are complicated. But more recently—and especially this year—the work has become even more difficult as jurists across the country face increasing personal attacks and even threats of violence.” “The uptick in threats is not random. The attacks against individual judges by this Administration and their passionate followers have been recorded. In March, the President demanded the impeachment of a federal judge, simply for ruling against the Administration. The President called the judge ‘a Radical Left Lunatic, a troublemaker and agitator.’ The President added, ‘this judge, like many of the Crooked Judges’ [sic] I am forced to appear before, should be IMPEACHED!!!’ The President is not the only member of his Administration to use this kind of inflammatory language.” “MAGA loyalists in Congress have eagerly piled on. So far this year, Republican congressmen have filed impeachment resolutions against at least eight district court judges for [a] high crime and misdemeanor. And the crime they’re accused of? Disagreeing with the President.” “As a result of the surge in threats, many judges now require additional security—including judges in my home state of Illinois. The Administ… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-questions-judicial-nominees-during-a-senate-judiciary-committee-nominations-hearing Durbin Questions Judicial Nominees During A Senate Judiciary Committee Nominations Hearing 2025-11-19 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned three judicial nominees at a Senate Judiciary Committee nominations hearing. Durbin first questioned Nicholas Jon Ganjei, nominated to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, about whether his statements condemning those who assault law enforcement apply to the January 6 offenders who attacked law enforcement during the January 6 insurrection. Mr. Ganjei has stated on multiple occasions that he employs a “zero tolerance policy” against those who assault law enforcement officials, and he has argued that individuals who attack law enforcement are “attacking the American system of justice.” “Do you stand by your comments criticizing individuals who violently assault law enforcement?” Durbin asked. Mr. Ganjei responded that he does. “Do you believe that January 6 offenders who were convicted of assaults on law enforcement [had] attacked the American system of justice?” Durbin asked. Mr. Ganjei deflected, claiming he could not answer as a judicial nominee. Durbin then questioned David Clay Wilkerson Fowlkes, nominated to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas, about the First Step Act. The bill, led by Durbin and U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Cory Booker (D-NJ), is bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation designed to make our justice system fairer and our communities safer by reforming sentencing laws and providing opportunities for those who are incarcerated to prepare to re-enter society successfully. “What are your thoughts on the First Step Act as a federal prosecutor, and what steps will you take as a judge, if you are confirmed, to ensure that you encourage rehabilitation whenever possible?” Durbin asked. Mr. Fowlkes responded that the First Step Act is an “important piece of legislation.” He continued to say that bill is an “important part of… [the] rehabilitation of some of the c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-senate-passing-bill-to-release-the-epstein-files Durbin Statement On Senate Passing Bill To Release The Epstein Files 2025-11-19 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Richard J. Durbin D000563 www.durbin.senate.gov durbin https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after the Senate unanimously passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which passed the House of Representatives in a 427-1 vote and now heads to the President’s desk: “First and foremost, this vote is in tribute to and honor of the victims of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell’s horrific crimes—and any victim or survivor of sexual abuse. Never in America can we tolerate such atrocious crimes. “President Trump and his MAGA allies spent years peddling lies on the campaign trail about the ‘Epstein files’—only to conduct a massive cover-up once they got into office. “No more. No more lies, no more secrets. It’s time to provide true transparency to the American people about one of our country’s most extreme sex traffickers and the extent of his horrifying crimes—so we can work to prevent it from ever happening again. “Now, it’s time for President Trump to sign this bill into law, support transparency, and stand with victims.” Earlier today, Durbin joined his Senate Democratic colleagues in calling on Leader John Thune (R-SD) to immediately bring the Epstein Files Transparency Act to the Senate floor for a vote, without delay or unnecessary process distractions. The legislation requires the Department of Justice (DOJ) to “to publish … all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials in DOJ’s possession that relate to the investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein,” including materials that relate to Ghislaine Maxwell, flight logs and travel records, and individuals named or referenced (including government officials) in connection with the investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein. The bill includes protections for victims, stating that “DOJ is permitted to withhold certain information such as the personal information of victims and materials that would jeopardize an active federal investigation.” In July, Durbin reveale… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-illinois-democrats-release-fact-sheet-debunking-the-dhs-misinformation-campaign Duckworth, Durbin, Illinois Democrats Release Fact Sheet Debunking the DHS Misinformation Campaign 2025-11-18 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and their Illinois House Democratic colleagues in releasing a comprehensive fact check of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) misinformation campaign regarding its dangerous immigration enforcement actions. “The Trump Administration has continued to spin lies—about our city, the people they’re targeting and their excessive use of force against Illinoisans,” said Duckworth. Trump’s agents have deployed tear gas outside elementary schools, shot a priest in the head with pepper balls, violently attacked peaceful protestors and brandished weapons at innocent bystanders. They’ve detained a preschool teacher at a daycare, hardworking people with work permits and even scores of American citizens—and then put out misleading or outright false public statements to try and justify their unlawful actions. We will continue to push back against this misinformation, and I encourage Illinoisans to continue recording everything they see to shed light on the truth and help us hold this Administration accountable.” “The Trump Administration continues to peddle outright lies since its unprovoked, unnecessary, and unhelpful enforcement activity in Illinois. The photos and videos out of Illinois are horrific, showing unspeakable acts committed by the United States government against its own civilians including teargassing, pepper spraying, racial profiling, excessive force, and physical violence. Neighbors are looking out for neighbors—but it shouldn’t have to be this way. We will continue to document and share the reality of what’s actually happening in Chicago and communities impacted by this anti-immigrant agenda—and hold the Trump Administration accountable for these atrocities,” said Durbin. In addition to Duckworth and Durbin, the fact check below is issued by U.S. Representatives Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-joins-peters-senate-democrats-in-calling-on-senate-majority-leader-to-quickly-bring-the-epstein-files-transparency-act-to-floor-for-vote Duckworth Joins Peters, Senate Democrats in Calling on Senate Majority Leader to Quickly Bring the Epstein Files Transparency Act to Floor for Vote 2025-11-18 2025 2025-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] — U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) and their Senate Democratic colleagues in calling on U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) to immediately bring the Epstein Files Transparency Act to the Senate floor for a vote, without delay or unnecessary process distractions. The letter follows the U.S. House of Representatives’ overwhelming bipartisan approval of the measure by a vote of 427-1. For two decades, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein have sought justice and accountability for his alleged sexual crimes involving underage girls. The bipartisan legislation would require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release all documents and records related to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, ensuring transparency and providing the American people with access to critical information. “The victims of Jeffrey Epstein – and the American people – deserve answers, accountability and the truth,” the Senators wrote. “So far, they have only seen empty promises from President Trump and his Administration. Now that a majority of the U.S. House of Representatives has acted to provide transparency on this matter – we call on you to quickly hold a vote in the U.S. Senate to help deliver the accountability that was promised and that so many Americans are demanding.” “Despite multiple Senate oversight requests and House subpoenas for release of the full and complete Epstein files, the DOJ and FBI have refused to produce any information to the Senate and have failed to provide the complete set of files to the House,” wrote the Senators. In a social media post over the weekend, President Donald J. Trump abruptly changed course and encouraged House Republicans to vote for the bill, despite having tried for months to prevent the complete release of the files. Given longstanding efforts by President Trump and his Administration to slow walk or discourage the release of these files, the Senate must take action to provide transparency and help restore the public’s trust. “The U.S. Sen… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z

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