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

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text
Extracted body text (may be empty if the page could not be fetched)
has_text
1 if body text was successfully extracted
date_source
How the publication date was determined
bioguide_id
Bioguide ID of the member

1,129 rows where chamber = "Senate" and state = "NC" sorted by date descending

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year 6

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  • NC · 1,129 ✖

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  • Senate · 1,129 ✖
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.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/28/senator-budd-wraps-second-official-100-county-tour/ Senator Budd Wraps Second Official 100 County Tour and is Ready to Get Back on the Road 2026-09-28 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) has completed his second official 100-County Tour during his time serving in the Senate, traveling to all 100 counties across North Carolina. Senator Budd has completed a total of three 100-County Tours, spanning from Murphy to Manteo, the first of which he completed during his 2022 U.S. Senate campaign. Upon wrapping his second tour of the state, Senator Budd said: “Throughout my career in public service, I have firmly believed that representing North Carolina cannot be done from behind a desk in Washington. I work for the people of North Carolina, and that means being where they are, listening to their concerns firsthand, and bringing their voices back to Washington to shape the policies that affect their lives. That is what my 100-County Tour is all about. “North Carolina didn’t become the number one state economy by accident. It happened because communities across all 100 counties are building, innovating, and investing in our state’s future. That’s why I have made it a point to travel to every corner of our state to understand what is happening on the ground and ensure Washington is working with North Carolina—not against it. “In Western North Carolina, that means keeping up the momentum to rebuild the communities and infrastructure devastated by Hurricane Helene and making them more resilient than before. In the Piedmont Triad and the Northeast, it means strengthening our workforce and supporting the farmers who power North Carolina’s number one industry. In the Triangle, it means driving investment and innovation to keep our state at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge technology. In Central North Carolina, it means fostering a business environment where companies want to invest. And in the Southeast, it means standing with our service members and ensuring they have the resources and support they need to defend our nation and put America first. “Now that I’ve completed my second tour, my work is far from over. I’m resetting the odo… 1 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/25/budd-blunt-rochester-introduce-bill-to-establish-biometrology-laboratory-program/ Budd, Blunt Rochester Introduce Bill to Establish Biometrology Laboratory Program, Accelerate Development in Biotech 2026-09-25 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) this week introduced the Standards and Collaboration for American Leadership in Engineering (SCALE) Biology Act, legislation that would establish a Biometrology Laboratory Program for the research of engineering biology, biomanufacturing, and biotechnology under the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This new program would advance research into the measurement of key units and inputs and promote U.S. competitiveness in biotech development. “If the U.S. is going to continue to lead the world in biotechnology innovation, we must ensure that the accepted standards for the most fundamental inputs that these programs will rely on are developed in America,” said Senator Budd. “With China’s recent increases in state support for their bioeconomy, I am grateful to Senator Blunt Rochester for her partnership on this effort to facilitate commercial development here in America.” “America’s bioeconomy is critical to our economy, national security, and leadership in fields from health care to agriculture. The bipartisan SCALE Biology Act will strengthen the measurement science and technical standards needed to accelerate innovation and bring new biotechnology from the lab to the marketplace. Delaware is home to a robust life sciences and biomanufacturing ecosystem, and I’m proud to work with Senator Budd to strengthen this important sector and ensure the United States continues to set the global standard for biotechnology and biomanufacturing,” said Senator Blunt Rochester. In July, Senator Budd chaired a hearing in the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Science, Manufacturing, and Competitiveness, where he discussed China’s evolving biology standards. Drew Endy, PhD, a bioengineering professor and Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, was a witness at the hearing and urged Congress to support the creation of a biomeasurement laboratory. About the introduction of the SCALE Biology Act, Dr. Endy said: “Biolog… 1 2026-09-26T09:43:57Z 2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/25/budd-markey-lead-bipartisan-resolution-condemning-chinas-wrongful-detention-of-american-academics/ Budd, Markey Lead Bipartisan Resolution Condemning China’s Wrongful Detention of American Academics 2026-09-25 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) were joined by Senators John Curtis (R-Utah) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) in introducing a bipartisan resolution condemning the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) repeated pattern of arbitrary or wrongful detention of American academics. The resolution urges the United States government to prioritize the safe return of all American citizens wrongfully detained in China. U.S. Representatives Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.-08) and John Moolenaar (R-Mich.-02) led a companion resolution in the House of Representatives. “The Chinese Communist Party’s pattern of unjustly detaining innocent Americans on baseless allegations cannot carry on unchecked. It is long past time for the CCP to return American academics Dr. Youlin Chen and Mr. Min Zin home to their loved ones and end the targeting of American citizens. I am proud to stand with Senator Markey and my colleagues, as a bipartisan front, against these escalatory actions,” said Senator Budd. “The wrongful detainment of innocent civilians is never justifiable and should always be condemned in the strongest possible terms. We owe it to the American people to stand up and speak out when our citizens are wrongfully detained in foreign prisons. It is my hope that this bipartisan resolution from the United States Congress will bring increased attention to the unjust detention of Dr. Youlin Chen and Min Zin and force the Chinese government to do the right thing and release them immediately. I am praying for Dr. Chen, Mr. Zin, and their families today,” said Senator Markey. “China’s repeated and cruel pattern of wrongful detentions of American citizens, leaving some without access to legal counsel, is nothing short of an affront to the rule of law and infringes on their rights and freedoms. The U.S. government must redouble its efforts to ensure U.S. citizens unjustly detained abroad, like Min Zin and Dr. Chen, return safely back home to their loved ones,” said Senator Schiff. Read the full bill text HERE. … 1 2026-09-26T09:43:57Z 2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/23/ahead-of-trump-xi-summit-budd-leads-colleagues-in-calling-out-chinese-effort-to-flood-u-s-markets-with-illicit-dangerous-vapes/ Ahead of Trump-XI Summit, Budd Leads Colleagues in Calling Out Chinese Effort To Flood U.S. Markets With Illicit, Dangerous Vapes 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led several of his Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump today, urging him to confront the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on its efforts to flood the United States with illicit, unauthorized vapes. In the letter, the senators call on the administration to press President Xi to enforce the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) existing export rules, halt the manufacturing and exporting of illicit vape products targeting U.S. markets, and cooperate with U.S. enforcement agencies to address the national drug crisis at its source. In the letter, the senators wrote: “China has the power to stop this but has chosen not to. … Beijing enforces this rule selectively while allowing hundreds of millions of illegal e-cigarettes to be exported to the U.S. annually, generating billions of dollars in revenue. This is a deliberate strategy that exploits gaps in U.S. enforcement. … “This is a public health crisis, a national security threat, and a trade-fairness failure at once. Honest American retailers who follow federal law are being undercut by a black market supplied almost entirely from a single country that profits while our families pay the price.” U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) joined in co-signing the letter. Read the full letter text HERE or below: Dear Mr. President: As you prepare to meet with President Xi Jinping, I write to urge you to press him on a threat that continues to harm American families, undercut law-abiding retailers, and enrich our foremost geopolitical adversary: the flood of illicit, unauthorized vaping products manufactured in China and smuggled into the United States. I am encouraged that you have previously signaled your intention to raise this issue with President Xi, and I commend the aggressive enforcement your Administration has… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/23/icymi-budd-delivers-floor-speech-urging-trump-admin-to-hold-china-accountable-for-targeting-the-safety-security-of-americans/ ICYMI: Budd Delivers Floor Speech Urging Trump Admin to Hold China Accountable for Targeting the Safety & Security of Americans 2026-09-23 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper “The CCP’s malign influence on the world stage is growing rapidly, and American citizens are paying the price.” Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor yesterday ahead of President Trump’s meeting with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. In his speech, Senator Budd called attention to China’s war on religious freedom, its role in fueling the U.S. drug epidemic, its relationship with key U.S. adversaries, and the consequential state of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) race. Watch Senator Budd’s remarks: Read Senator Budd’s remarks, as prepared for delivery: This week, President Xi Jinping will visit the U.S. for bilateral meetings at a pivotal moment for U.S.-China relations. During his two terms in office, President Trump has been clear that under his leadership, the United States must engage with China given the reality of our economic relationship, but we can’t forget that China is also a competitor and an adversary. The Chinese Communist Party’s malign influence on the world stage is growing rapidly, and American citizens are paying the price. America’s economy, our fundamental values, and our security—both at home and abroad—have been challenged by the CCP. I’ve long believed a whole-of-government approach is necessary to address this, and I am grateful that President Donald Trump is at the helm for these crucial negotiations. China is our most consequential geopolitical competitor, and we cannot afford to ignore the CCP’s ambitions to reorganize global order at the expense of the United States or underestimate the CCP’s rapidly progressing hard and soft power influence around the world to execute this goal. When President Xi enters the White House later this week, I hope discussions between our two nations include America’s most fundamental values and responsibilities upfront: the protection of American citizens abroad and reiterating a zero-tolerance for violating the God-given right to religious freedom. Let me be clear: there is n… 1 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/22/budd-kaine-lead-letter-urging-trump-to-prioritize-securing-the-freedom-of-detained-pastors-people-of-faith-at-u-s-china-summit/ Budd, Kaine Lead Letter Urging Trump to Prioritize Securing the Freedom of Detained Pastors & People of Faith at U.S-China Summit 2026-09-22 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) led a bipartisan letter to President Trump today, encouraging the administration to continue raising concerns with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) at this week’s meeting in Washington, D.C. on the persecution of religious groups in China and specifically pastors and religious minorities being unjustly held simply because of their faith. The letter highlights the persecution of ethnic and religious minority groups such as Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, Uyghur Muslims, and Falun Gong practitioners. In May, President Trump successfully secured the release of Pastor Ezra Jin following conversations with President Xi Jinping at the U.S.-China Summit in Beijing. In this letter, senators are now urging President Trump to specifically raise the cases of Pastor Gao Quanfu and his wife Pang Yu, Pastor Tang Bingyi of Light of Zion Church, and the eight remaining members of Zion Church—Gao Yingjia, Wang Lin, Yin Huibin, Wang Zhong, Wang Cong, Liu Zhenbin, Lin Shucheng, and Wu Qiuyu at the U.S.-China Summit in Washington. In the letter, the senators wrote: “The United States should continue to promote international religious freedom by calling on the Government of the People’s Republic of China to end its harassment and persecution of members of religious organizations, unconditionally release all unjustly detained political prisoners imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom of religious belief, and ensure that detainees who have not yet been released are treated humanely.” U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) joined in co-signing the letter. Read the full letter text HERE or below: Dear President Trump, Thank you for raising Pastor Ezra Jin’s case with President Xi earlier this year and working to secure his release. We were incredibly grateful to see him reunited with his fam… 1 2026-09-23T09:45:16Z 2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/18/senator-budd-announces-departure-of-state-director-kyle-bridges/ Senator Budd Announces Departure of State Director Kyle Bridges 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement marking the departure of State Director Kyle Bridges, who served as Senator Budd’s State Director since 2023, and previously worked for Senator Budd during his tenure in the House of Representatives. Kyle also worked for the Office of Senator Richard Burr before positions in the private sector. “Kyle has traveled to every single corner of North Carolina with me during his time as my office’s State Director, and his strong relationships have helped our team better serve North Carolina’s 100 counties,” said Senator Budd. “Kyle has led our robust state outreach and casework operations and provided critical guidance to ensure the work in Washington stays in lockstep with the communities we serve. I have no doubt that his immense experience and sound judgment will carry him forward as he returns to the private sector.” ### 1 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/09/14/budd-applauds-edas-investment-to-support-key-north-carolina-disaster-relief-projects/ Budd Applauds EDA’s $32M+ Investment to Support Key North Carolina Disaster Relief and Public Works Projects 2026-09-14 2026 2026-09 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement after the Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced over $32 million for disaster relief and public works projects across the state. Following the EDA’s announcement, Senator Budd said: “The EDA’s recent announcement of more than $32 million in federal investments for disaster recovery and public works projects across North Carolina is a major step toward rebuilding communities devastated by Hurricane Helene and creating new opportunities for North Carolina workers. “Nearly two years after Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, communities like Hendersonville and Forest City are still working to rebuild critical infrastructure. More than $20 million in federal funding to restore Hendersonville’s water treatment facility will return the plant to full operational capacity, protecting public health and ensuring residents have access to safe, reliable water. And nearly $8 million to build a new electric substation in Forest City will strengthen power reliability and give the community greater resilience against future disasters. “When Hurricane Helene struck Western North Carolina nearly two years ago, communities like Hendersonville and Forest City were strapped with multi-million-dollar disaster relief projects to rebuild. By investing over $20 million in federal funding to repair Hendersonville’s water treatment facility, the public health of the city’s residents will be prioritized once again to prevent the spread of disease by restoring the plant to full operational capacity. Additionally, nearly $8 million in federal dollars to build a new electric substation in Forest City will significantly improve local power reliability and help the region better withstand future disasters. “The EDA’s public works investments in Cumberland and Jackson Counties will also undoubtedly drive economic growth while creating more jobs for hardworking North Carolinians and their families. I’m grateful to the Trump administ… 1 2026-09-15T09:50:21Z 2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/08/20/senator-budd-secures-f-15ex-aircraft-for-seymour-johnson-air-force-base/ Senator Budd Secures F-15EX Aircraft for Seymour Johnson Air Force Base 2026-08-20 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after receiving notice from Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink that Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (AFB) will be the recipient of modernized F-15EX aircraft procured through the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. In a statement following confirmation from Secretary Meink, Senator Budd said: “Since 2023, when I began serving the great state of North Carolina in the U.S. Senate, one of my top defense priorities has been protecting the future of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and its F-15 mission. “North Carolina is at the epicenter of American military dominance, and Seymour Johnson’s role in maintaining our air superiority is critical to our national security. The 4th Fighter Wing has operated at a significantly high operational tempo, including deployments to the Middle East and the Pacific, demonstrating the critical role Seymour Johnson plays in defending our nation. The base is also the primary training ground for Air Force F-15 pilots and home to two operational F-15E squadrons, currently deployed to undisclosed locations in Southwest Asia in support of Operation Epic Fury. “This confirmation from the Department of the Air Force that Seymour Johnson’s mission is being prioritized and modernized with the procurement of F-15EX aircraft is an important step toward ensuring America maintains its air dominance. But we cannot stop here. Congress must do its job and pass the NDAA with a multiyear procurement provision that accelerates F-15EX production, strengthens our air defenses, and ensures we have no gap in our operational or training capabilities. Our adversaries are picking up pace on their defense modernization efforts, and we risk falling behind if we stall any longer.” Read the full letter text HERE or below: Dear Senator Budd: Thank you for your inquiry dated July 29, 2026, regarding the future of the F-15 mission at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. I appreciate the opportunity… 1 2026-08-21T05:30:57Z 2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-kelly-press-trump-administration-to-reverse-cuts-to-joint-military-exercises-with-south-korea Tillis, Kelly Urge Trump Administration to Reverse Cuts to Joint Military Exercises with South Korea 2026-08-18 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) sent a letter to Department of War (DOW) Secretary Pete Hegseth urging the Trump Administration to reverse its decision to substantially reduce joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea and urged the administration to maintain the training necessary to preserve the readiness of the alliance. “For more than 70 years, the alliance between the United States and South Korea has been a cornerstone of peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and throughout the Indo-Pacific,” the senators wrote. “South Korea is a capable military ally, and the ability of our forces to operate together is not guaranteed. It is built and sustained through rigorous, realistic, and recurring joint training.” “This is not the time to reduce the readiness of U.S. and allied forces in the region,” the senators continued. “Joint exercises such as Ulchi Freedom Shield provide U.S. and ROK forces critical opportunities to practice command and control, combined operations, logistics, and responses to evolving threats. Reducing these exercises risks degrading interoperability and readiness while sending the wrong signal to North Korea and our adversaries.” “Our allies should not be punished for declining to support unilateral U.S. military actions in the Middle East, particularly when such shortsighted measures undermine American military readiness…The United States should continue to stand firmly alongside our South Korean allies and ensure our servicemembers have the training they need to fight and win should deterrence fail,” the senators concluded. Click here to read the full text of the letter. ###? 1 2026-08-19T05:29:02Z 2026-08-19T05:30:24Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-rounds-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-preserve-records-for-at-risk-afghan-allies Tillis, Rounds Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Preserve Records for At-Risk Afghan Allies 2026-08-10 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced the Afghan Ally Records and Credential Heritage (ARCH) Act, legislation requiring the Department of War (DOW) to establish a process to identify, verify, and preserve the service records of certain Afghan allies who served alongside our forces during the war in Afghanistan. Under the ARCH Act, the DOW would establish a secure online application system through which eligible Afghan allies or their representatives could submit service information and supporting documentation. After reviewing available military, contractor and biometric records, the DOW would preserve verified records for future use. The bill also provides applicants with notice of adverse decisions, an opportunity to appeal and the ability to request reconsideration when new evidence becomes available. “We owe it to our Afghan allies to provide a fair and efficient process to preserve the service records documenting the sacrifices they made while serving alongside U.S. forces,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to cosponsor this effort to ensure those records are available for those who stood with our servicemembers in Afghanistan.” “We owe an enormous debt to the Afghans who supported U.S. forces during their 20-year mission in Afghanistan,” said Senator Coons. “In exchange for the huge risk to themselves and their families, we promised them protection. This is a first step to fulfilling that promise by ensuring those who put their lives on the line for our country don’t fall through the cracks.” “Thousands of brave Afghans stood shoulder-to-shoulder with American service members in some of the most dangerous missions of the war,” said Senator Rounds. “Many of these individuals risked everything to support the United States, yet the records documenting their service remain vulnerable to loss or destruction. The ARCH Act creates a secure process to preserve this documentation, making certain that accurate reco… 1 2026-08-11T05:54:29Z 2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/08/05/icymi-budd-calls-on-colleagues-to-permanently-stop-dangerous-hemp-loophole-targeting-american-children/ ICYMI: Budd Calls on Colleagues to Permanently Stop Dangerous Hemp Loophole Targeting American Children 2026-08-05 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper “Our children should never be the testing ground for an industry willing to exploit a loophole in federal law for profit.” Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) today delivered remarks on the Senate floor calling for his Senate Colleagues to join his effort to permanently close the dangerous “hemp loophole” that has allowed the intoxicating hemp industry to sell unregulated hemp-derived products that have been marketed to American children. Watch Senator Budd’s remarks below: Read Senator Budd’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, below: Mister President, Every parent in America wants the same thing: to know their child is safe. As United States Senators, each of us has a responsibility to the millions of parents we represent to put the safety and welfare of American children first. That is exactly why, just nine months ago, 76 members of this body voted to close the hemp loophole that allowed these dangerous substances to be sold in unregulated retail stores. But since last November, the intoxicating hemp industry has attempted to delay our effort to close this dangerous loophole. These companies want to continue selling intoxicating THC substances, loosely labeled as “hemp” products, on the shelves of local convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery stores nationwide. And the problem does not stop there. The packaging is unmistakably designed to appeal to children, using bright colors and intentionally mimicking popular snack food and candy brands. But what is most concerning is how easy it is for a child to walk into a convenience store and pick up what looks like their favorite snack or candy—without realizing they’re actually buying an intoxicating substance. It is difficult enough for an adult to distinguish the minor difference between these name-brand products and intoxicating substances on the shelves. Just look at these examples. Are you telling me this isn’t intentional? The four basic principles of marketing are: product, price, place, and promotion. And what we’re looking a… 1 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/08/04/budd-welch-bill-to-crack-down-on-foreign-robocall-scammers/ Budd, Welch Bill to Crack Down on Foreign Robocall Scammers Targeting Americans Passes the Senate with Unanimous Support 2026-08-04 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statements after their Foreign Robocall Elimination Act passed the Senate floor with unanimous support. The bill brings together government and private sector experts to eliminate unlawful robocalls originating abroad and prevent them from entering the U.S. to target Americans. The Foreign Robocall Elimination Act is now headed to the House of Representatives for consideration. “Too many American households have been targeted by foreign scam calls that threaten to steal identities and defraud innocent victims. We cannot allow these criminals to continue preying on Americans without consequence. I am proud this timely legislation passed the Senate with unanimous support, and I urge my House colleagues to swiftly pass it so we can strengthen international cooperation to crack down on foreign robocall scammers,” said Senator Budd. “Vermonters have received 27 million robocalls so far in 2026. And it’s not only our state—folks in red and blue states alike are sick and tired of picking up the phone and wondering if they’re being scammed. As foreign robocallers step up their efforts to exploit and prey on vulnerable people, we need to do more to combat this unlawful practice and protect Americans from scams. I’m proud to work with Senator Budd on this bipartisan legislation and am grateful for the Senate’s support. I urge the House to join us in sending it to the president’s desk,” said Senator Welch. “Illegal robocalls and other abuses of our phone networks are not just a nuisance – they are tools scammers around the world use to target Americans here at home. Thanks to strong partnerships between the Industry Traceback Group and federal, state, and local law enforcement, we’ve made measurable progress in combatting these bad actors, but there is much more work to be done. The Foreign Robocall Elimination Act builds on this success to empower… 1 2026-08-05T07:37:37Z 2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-applauds-commission-of-peter-anthony-pappas-to-usitc Tillis Applauds Commission of Peter-Anthony Pappas to USITC 2026-08-04 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after Peter-Anthony Pappas was sworn in as a Commissioner of the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC): “Since 2022, Peter-Anthony Pappas has been one of my most trusted advisors, leading my Judiciary team’s intellectual property efforts and helping advance bipartisan solutions on technology, antitrust, and cybersecurity. Those who have worked alongside Peter-Anthony know why he earned the nickname ‘Juice.’ His energy, sound judgment, and tireless work ethic have made him an indispensable member of my team. Given the trade and intellectual property matters before the USITC, I can think of no one better qualified to serve as a commissioner. “Peter-Anthony has earned the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and I am grateful to President Trump for recognizing his talents and nominating him to this important role. I also thank my Senate colleagues for confirming his nomination. While my office will certainly miss ‘Juice,’ I am confident he will faithfully uphold the USITC’s mission and continue serving the American people with integrity and distinction.” ### 1 2026-08-05T07:37:37Z 2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/cornyn-tillis-announce-agreement-with-blanche-on-anti-weaponization-fund-irs-settlement Cornyn, Tillis Announce Agreement with Blanche on Anti-Weaponization Fund, IRS Settlement 2026-08-03 2026 2026-08 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) released the following statement announcing the successful negotiation of a legally enforceable document clarifying the anti-weaponization fund and the IRS audit release included in the Settlement Agreement signed by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche last May: “From the outset, we were clear that we needed a written document addressing our concerns on the IRS audit agreement and the anti-weaponization fund that included constraining the scope of audit protection by limiting it to the parties of the Settlement Agreement and legally ending the anti-weaponization fund. “We are pleased that the Department of Justice has issued a formal order terminating the anti-weaponization fund. Additionally, the Department has acknowledged in a binding written order that the audit settlement is limited to the plaintiffs and the scope does not extend beyond the defendants in the lawsuit, the IRS and the Treasury, addressing concerns that multiple of our Republican colleagues share. “We want to express our gratitude to Mr. Blanche and his staff for working with us on this, and we look forward to voting to advance his nomination out of the Senate Judiciary Committee soon.” ### 1 2026-08-04T07:35:49Z 2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-provider-reimbursement-stability-act-to-ensure-long-term-access-to-medical-care Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Provider Reimbursement Stability Act to Ensure Long-Term Access to Medical Care 2026-07-31 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Boozman (R-AR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Roger Marshall M.D. (R-KS), Angus King (I-ME), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced the Provider Reimbursement Stability Act to modernize Medicare’s Physician Fee Schedule (MFPS). The bipartisan, comprehensive legislation would create greater predictability in Medicare physician payments, preserve patient access to care and better reflect the actual cost of delivering medical services. According to the American Medical Association (AMA), when adjusted for inflation, Medicare reimbursement for physician services has declined 33 percent since 2001. This reduction, attributed to the Medicare budget neutrality threshold last updated in 1992 and other factors, has failed to keep pace with the rising cost of care. The legislation reforms key structural components of the MPFS, helping preserve physicians’ ability to care for Medicare patients. “More than two million Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina depend on timely access to quality care,” said Senator Tillis. “Year after year, Medicare reimbursement cuts have made it harder for physicians to care for patients. This bipartisan legislation makes long overdue reforms to outdated policies to ensure physicians are fairly reimbursed and seniors continue to have access to the care they deserve.” “Providers should not face unpredictable payment cuts that make it more difficult to care for patients. Modernizing Medicare reimbursement is an important step toward ensuring long-term financial stability for our health care providers and preserving access to quality care. Our bill is a bipartisan solution that will more accurately reflect the costs of delivering quality care, which ultimately benefits patients in Arkansas and across our country,” said Senator Boozman. “Outdated policies are creating instability for doctors and threatening access to care for Medicare patients in Vermont and across the country. Our commonsense, bipartisan bill will help ensure physician… 1 2026-08-01T07:27:26Z 2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-in-support-of-ukrainian-defense Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation in Support of Ukrainian Defense 2026-07-30 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), Alan Armstrong (R-OK), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the bipartisan Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act to boost Ukraine’s defense by allowing for the more consistent and timely provision of high-volume, low-tech munitions critical to the country’s fight against Russian aggression. The legislation would foster greater investment by NATO allies in Ukraine’s defense as well as build out the capacity of the U.S. defense industrial base. “As Russia continues it’s illegal attack on Ukraine, it’s imperative we work alongside NATO to do everything we can to provide Ukraine with the valuable resources they need,” said Senator Tillis. “I am proud to join my colleagues in this bipartisan legislation that will help us better support Ukraine in its fight against Putin’s authoritarian aggression by ensuring a consistent supply of critical low-tech munitions.” “I’ve been to Ukraine twice—most recently in June—and saw firsthand how critical U.S. investments have been for Ukrainians’ defense,” said Senator Kaine. “We’re currently at a pivotal point in the war—we must keep up the pressure on Russia and show that the democracies of the world continue to stand united against authoritarian regimes. I’m glad to be working with this bipartisan group of senators to boost U.S. and allied support and help ensure our European partners can invest in the swift high-volume production and transfer of urgently-needed low-tech munitions to Ukraine. I’m going to keep urging my colleagues to join us in this important effort.” “Third-party transfers of high-volume munitions have helped Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression while also ensuring our European allies share the cost burden, and it’s unfortunate that this valuable tool is often caught in a cumbersome arms export approval process,” said Senator Cornyn. “Our commonsense legislation would cut red tape to expedite … 1 2026-07-31T07:49:23Z 2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-unanimously-pass-grassley-coons-anti-counterfeiting-month-resolution Tillis, Colleagues Unanimously Pass Grassley-Coons Anti-Counterfeiting Month Resolution 2026-07-30 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) in applauding the Senate’s unanimous passage of their resolution designating July as “National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month.” The bipartisan resolution aims to educate Americans on the economic importance of trademarks and their role in protecting consumers from dangerous knockoffs. “For too long, counterfeit products have threatened American businesses and put consumers at a serious risk,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to support this resolution recognizing the importance of protecting trademarks and raising awareness on the dangers of counterfeiting.” “Counterfeit goods endanger consumers, harm businesses and threaten the U.S. economy. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort as Judiciary Chairman to raise awareness of the dangers of illicit knockoffs and the value of protecting American trademarks and intellectual property,” said Senator Grassley. “To ensure our nation remains the global leader in innovation, we must secure Americans’ intellectual property rights. That includes combatting the counterfeit goods that steal our incomes, endanger our safety, and degrade trust in the products we buy,” said Senator Coons. “As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Trademark Caucus, I’m proud to mark July as Anti-Counterfeiting Month to help raise awareness of the harms of counterfeit goods and the importance of trademarks to our intellectual property system.” “The rise of online shopping has heightened the long-standing threat counterfeit goods pose to American businesses and consumers. By recognizing the importance of protecting trademarks and raising awareness about the dangers of counterfeiting, this resolution reaffirms the importance of protecting American consumers from the dangers of deceptive and harmful products,” said Senator Hirono. Read the full resolution HERE. ### 1 2026-07-31T07:49:23Z 2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/23/budd-welch-bipartisan-bill-supporting-the-next-generation-of-american-aviation-advances-out-of-committee/ Budd, Welch Bipartisan Bill Supporting the Next Generation of American Aviation Advances Out of Committee 2026-07-23 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statements after an amended version of their bipartisan Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act passed out of committee. The Senators’ legislation would improve the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) type certification process for American Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft companies to help them succeed and cement the United States’ role as a global leader in aviation. Updates to the bill reflect further technical assistance from the FAA and the acceptance of a modified amendment by Senator Ed Markey (D-Mass.) to give airline pilots a seat at the table. “By ensuring that the FAA prioritizes the certification of novel aircraft like eVTOLs, we can quickly incorporate innovative technology into the National Airspace System. I am glad that our common-sense efforts to usher in the next generation of advanced air mobility aircraft will soon be considered by the full Senate,” said Senator Budd. “Building on generations of leadership in aviation, American companies are spearheading electric aircraft innovation. That includes companies like Vermont’s Beta Technologies, which completed its historic, first-ever electric flight last year in South Burlington. Ensuring the FAA certification process is safe, efficient, and more transparent for emerging AAM companies like Beta is critical to promoting aviation innovation,” said Senator Welch. “I’m thankful for the support of my colleagues on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, including my bipartisan co-lead Senator Budd, in helping this bill fly through to the Senate Floor to support American ingenuity, good-paying jobs in Vermont, and our global leadership in aviation.” Joining Senators Budd and Welch as cosponsors of this legislation are Sens. John Curtis (R-Utah), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bern… 1 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-coons-renew-call-for-release-of-dr-gubad-ibadoghlu Tillis, Coons Renew Call for Release of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu 2026-07-23 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Coons (D-DE), co-chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, led a group of seven Senators urging for the immediate release of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu on the third anniversary of his arrest and released the following statement: “This week marks three years since Azerbaijani authorities violently and arbitrarily detained internationally renowned economist, anti-corruption expert, and academic Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu on false charges, which have been universally condemned as politically motivated and baseless. To this day, Dr. Ibadoghlu has never received a fair trial. “Today, more than 1,000 days since his arrest, Dr. Ibadoghlu remains under indefinite house arrest, under constant surveillance, barred from domestic and international travel, and required to report to police twice a week. His health has deteriorated gravely. He suffers from a worsening aortic aneurysm requiring urgent surgery, type 2 diabetes with chronically uncontrolled blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Doctors have warned that without immediate specialist intervention, his life is at serious risk, yet Azerbaijan's travel ban continues to block him from receiving the lifesaving care he urgently needs. “Dr. Ibadoghlu has dedicated his career to democracy, good governance, and anti-corruption research, including years of teaching and conducting research at leading American universities. He is not simply a political prisoner; he is a man whose life is slipping away while the world watches. That is unacceptable. “We call on Azerbaijani authorities to release Dr. Ibadoghlu immediately and unconditionally and to lift his travel ban without delay. Three years is too long. His life is at stake. The time for action is now.” Joining Senators Tillis and Coons are Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Peter Welch (D-VT). ### 1 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/22/budd-chairs-subcommittee-hearing-to-examine-u-s-competition-with-china-in-race-for-global-leadership-in-science-and-technology/ Budd Chairs Subcommittee Hearing to Examine U.S. Competition with China in Race for Global Leadership in Science and Technology 2026-07-22 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) chaired a hearing in the Senate Subcommittee on Science, Manufacturing, and Competitiveness yesterday entitled Measuring What Matters: Science, Standards, and Strategic Competition to discuss how the U.S. can more strategically align our scientific research, federal science agencies and assets, and the private sector to compete with China. In his opening statement, Senator Budd emphasized three priorities to pave the way for stronger American competition: prioritizing outcome-based metrics, streamlining our world-class science agencies, and identifying Chinese intellectual property theft undermining our national security. Watch the full hearing HERE. Below are Senator Budd’s opening remarks: “I want to thank Ranking Member Baldwin, Chairman Cruz, and Ranking Member Cantwell for helping to convene this important hearing. “For 250 years, the American economy has told a single, consistent story: one of relentless innovation and bold risk-taking, and an unmatched ability to turn ideas into industries. The secret sauce in that formula for continued growth and expanded American prosperity is innovation. “Throughout our history, and particularly since the end of World War II, the U.S has been the world’s foremost laboratory for fundamental science, and we lead the world in turning that research into revolutionary inventions and commercial products. “As our expert witnesses will discuss, the Vannevar Bush model of the federal government funding basic research through universities and research institutions has served our nation incredibly well. “However, we have never faced as fierce a competition as we do today. “Earlier this year, China approved its 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development. According to a recent Congressional Research Service report, the PRC’s goal is to build self-reliance in areas it currently relies on the United States and Europe for, by boosting advanced manufacturing with decisive breakthroughs in advanced materials,… 1 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/22/budd-coons-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-u-s-international-leadership-in-civil-nuclear-energy/ Budd, Coons Lead Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen U.S. International Leadership in Civil Nuclear Energy 2026-07-22 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) today introduced the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) Act to codify the U.S. State Department’s FIRST program advocating for the responsible deployment of civil nuclear energy around the world. The bipartisan bill would ensure that U.S. economic and national security interests are prioritized as we advance our nuclear industry and continue supporting the partnerships American companies have with other countries working to expand their nuclear energy programs. “The responsible development of civil nuclear energy, on an international scale, contributes to U.S. national security and bolsters our economy. The FIRST program has been a productive way for our nation to partner with good-faith actors who are building their nuclear arsenals, and continuing to leverage these public and private partnerships will help us advance our own energy dominance. Since North Carolina is a leader in next-generation nuclear technology, I am proud to partner with Senator Coons to bring this bipartisan solution forward and codify this program that will expand markets for our great innovators into law,” said Senator Budd. “Nuclear energy is a source of clean and abundant power, and its growth in the U.S. and around the world will lower costs for consumers and combat climate change,” said Senator Coons. “Right now, too many nations that want to embrace nuclear power need to buy Chinese and Russian technology at huge cost, trapping them in debt. The United States should offer an alternative that keeps us on the cutting edge, strengthens our relationships around the world, and keeps Americans safe.” “The FIRST Act would codify the State Department’s successful FIRST program and help secure America’s global energy dominance. Helping our trusted allies develop advanced nuclear energy with Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) will strengthen American competitiveness and counter advances from Communist China, Russia,… 1 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/22/budds-supersonic-aviation-modernization-act-clears-committee-and-heads-to-senate-floor/ Budd’s Supersonic Aviation Modernization Act Clears Committee and Heads to Senate Floor 2026-07-22 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement after his Supersonic Aviation Modernization (SAM) Act received bipartisan support and passed out of the committee. The bill is now headed to the Senate floor. “If we want to maintain America’s global leadership in technological innovation, we must lift the outdated ban on civil supersonic flight. The SAM Act would unlock the potential for the U.S. to defeat China in the race to develop the next generation of supersonic aircraft. I am grateful to my colleagues on the Senate Commerce Committee for advancing my legislation to the Senate floor, and I commend President Trump and Secretary Duffy for their efforts to reduce regulations that have limited civil supersonic flight. Congress has the ability, by passing the SAM Act, to ensure the supersonic industry will not face government headwinds into the future,” said Senator Budd. Joining Senator Budd as cosponsors of this legislation are Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.). “Outdated regulations are keeping America’s supersonic innovation grounded while China soars full speed ahead. Our national security depends on cutting outdated red tape around supersonic flight – we need to deregulate so Americans can innovate. The Supersonic Aviation Modernization Act will lift unnecessary restrictions around supersonic flight to unleash American dominance. I’m pleased to see it marked up in committee and look forward to voting for it on the Senate floor,” said Senator Lee. “We can’t continue to hinder innovation due to outdated restrictions. It’s common sense: if no sonic boom reaches the ground, supersonic flight should be allowed. The Supersonic Aviation Modernization (SAM) Act gets rid of burdensome red tape so the United States can continue leading the way in aviation on the world stage, while maintaining protections for … 1 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/21/budd-makes-case-for-disaster-relief-funding-for-western-north-carolina-before-senate-appropriations-committee/ Budd Makes Case for Disaster Relief Funding for Western North Carolina Before Senate Appropriations Committee 2026-07-21 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee to highlight how additional disaster relief funding would benefit Western North Carolina as the region continues to rebuild twenty-one months after Hurricane Helene. Senator Budd was invited to appear at the hearing, which was convened to review President Trump’s Supplemental Funding Request. Last month, Senator Budd vowed that he would not support any supplemental appropriations package that does not include additional funding for Western North Carolina. Here are Senator Budd’s remarks as prepared for delivery: “Chair Collins, Vice Chair Murray, and Members of the Committee: Thank you for the opportunity to testify this afternoon to provide a voice for the people in Western North Carolina. “More than 21 months ago, Hurricane Helene unleashed an unprecedented amount of rainfall upon the Blue Ridge Mountains, causing severe flooding and devastating landslides. The storm left behind tens of billions in damage. “In December 2024, Congress responded by approving a disaster supplemental that provided billions of dollars to Western North Carolina recovery. Additionally, North Carolina’s state government stepped up by committing roughly $2.4 billion in state appropriations and redirecting more than $2 billion from state agencies for reconstruction. “But the Blue Ridge Mountains’ challenging terrain has made it uniquely difficult for federal programs to operate, resulting in delays and inefficiencies. And there is still work to be done. “Too many projects in Western North Carolina have stalled due to insufficient funding, or because of financial shortfalls from expensive debris removal and rebuilding efforts. “I greatly appreciate that President Trump and Secretary Mullin have empowered FEMA to more rapidly reimburse the state & local governments for public assistance projects. However, FEMA is only one part of the equation. The Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Housing and Urban Development, … 1 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/20/budd-joins-60-senate-colleagues-in-leading-sanctions-package-holding-russia-accountable-honoring-senator-lindsey-graham/ Budd Joins 60+ Senate Colleagues in Leading Sanctions Package Holding Russia Accountable, Honoring Senator Lindsey Graham 2026-07-20 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Darline Graham (R-S.C.), and 59 of his Senate colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026. The legislation aims to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. “The time to increase pressure on Moscow is now. Our overwhelmingly bipartisan sanctions package has the power to cripple Putin’s revenue streams by targeting the energy exports that bankroll Russia’s unjust war machine. Our colleague and friend, Senator Lindsey Graham, worked tirelessly to stand up to Russian aggression, and now we have the opportunity to honor his leadership and cement his legacy,” said Senator Budd. “Ukraine is at a critical crossroads — and we must meet this pivotal moment with a powerful sanctions bill. As Ukraine turns the tide on the battlefield, our Russia sanctions bill would be historically impactful in stopping Russia’s murderous slaughter,” said Senator Blumenthal.“When Senator Graham and I last spoke, he was absolutely exultant, calling from Kyiv with news that President Trump would support this bill to impose scorching tariffs and sanctions on purchasers of Russian oil and stop them from fueling Putin’s war machine. Now is the time to push Russia toward peace. Ukraine is gaining net territory and reaching deep into Russia with its drones and missiles. Sanctions provide a path toward peace. Our bill is the product of lengthy, detailed, difficult bipartisan work, and now has broad bipartisan support. Passing this legislation right now would be a fitting tribute to Senator Graham’s fierce support for Ukraine’s freedom.” “Until the very day he passed, Lindsey remained focused on passing the Russia sanctions bill. Passing this legislation would honor my brother’s steadfast commitment to our national security and it would provide President Trump with additional leverage to bring this war to an end. I look forward to working with my c… 1 2026-07-21T07:32:02Z 2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/20/budd-returns-from-leading-european-codel-to-examine-regional-security-challenges-tied-to-russian-threats/ Budd Returns from Leading European CODEL to Examine Regional Security Challenges Tied to Russian Threats 2026-07-20 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, returned earlier this month from leading a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to Belgium, Moldova, Ukraine, Sweden, and Austria. CODEL Budd, which occurred prior to the 2026 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit, met with Heads of State and senior defense leaders in each country to discuss the continent’s regional security challenges, reiterate the importance of the NATO Alliance, and to examine how the United States and Europe can partner to counter threats posed by the Russian Federation. Senator Budd was joined by his colleagues, U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), and Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.) on the CODEL. “The security of the United States and Europe is inseparable. As Russia continues its campaign of aggression in Ukraine and threatens the security of Eastern Europe and the Baltics, our partnership with our European allies remains indispensable to deterring adversarial aggression and maintaining Europe’s strength to defend itself. By leading this CODEL ahead of the NATO Summit, my colleagues and I sought to reaffirm the strength of the NATO Alliance and express our unwavering support for the U.S.-European partnership to promote security, prosperity, and freedom for our citizens,” said Senator Budd. BELGIUM CODEL Budd began in Brussels, Belgium, with a meeting with the Commander of U.S. European Command and NATO Supreme Allied Commander, General Alexus Grynkeiwch, during which they discussed U.S. force posture on the continent, European defense spending improvements, opportunities to partner with European countries to combat Russian and terrorism threats, and the current operational situation in Ukraine. The Senators also met with the Minister of Defense of the Kingdom of Belgium, Theo Francken, to discuss the defense and trade partnership between the United States and Belgium and opportunities to co-produce defense technolo… 1 2026-07-21T07:32:02Z 2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-joins-60-senators-in-co-sponsoring-bipartisan-legislation-to-hold-purchasers-of-russian-oil-and-gas-accountable Tillis Joins 60+ Senators in Co-sponsoring Bipartisan Legislation to Hold Purchasers of Russian Oil and Gas Accountable 2026-07-17 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), co-chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group (SNOG), joined Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Darline Graham (R-SC), along with 60+ colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Senator Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 legislation to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the effort last week and secured an agreement with the White House on Friday, before his death. “There is no doubt that Vladimir Putin must be severely punished for his illegal aggression, and crippling economic sanctions on Russia are long overdue,” said Senator Tillis. “Lindsey led the Senate’s fight to impose meaningful consequences on Putin, and we owe it to the Ukrainian people and to his legacy to pass this legislation.” The legislation is cosponsored by Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Katie Britt (R-AL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jim Risch (R-ID), Chris Coons (D-DE), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tim Scott (R-SC), Angus King (I-ME), John Barrasso (R-WY), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Brian Schatz (D-HI), John Cornyn (R-TX), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Curtis (R-UT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), James Lankford (R-OK), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jon Husted (R-OH), John Hoeven (R-ND), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Jim Justice (R-WV), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Ke… 1 2026-07-20T07:56:32Z 2026-07-20T07:57:48Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/14/budd-releases-statement-after-north-carolina-receives-nsf-engines-award/ Budd Releases Statement After North Carolina Receives NSF Engines Award to Develop Replicable National Model for Grid Modernization 2026-07-14 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Science, Manufacturing, and Competitiveness, released the following statement after the National Science Foundation (NSF) announced awards to 12 U.S. teams for Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines). As Chairman of the subcommittee with jurisdiction over NSF, Senator Budd successfully advocated for the Carolinas Engine for Grid Modernization proposal, led by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, to accelerate technology development and ensure a secure, resilient American energy grid. “North Carolina has earned a national reputation as a leader in technological innovation, and I am proud that the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is among the newest recipients of the NSF Engines award. The NSF Grid Modernization Engine in the Carolinas builds on our state’s strengths by leveraging a highly skilled workforce and world-class research institutions to accelerate innovation, strengthen our energy infrastructure, and support long-term economic growth. The future of the United States depends on a reliable, secure, and resilient electric grid, and North Carolina is leading the way by developing a replicable national model for grid modernization,” said Senator Budd. BACKGROUND The newest NSF Engines awards span critical technologies and applications ranging from enhancing energy grid security to maximizing the yield of critical mineral mining extraction to advancing quantum computing. Each team, led by a coalition of regional organizations, including universities, nonprofits, and private industry, will initially receive an award of $15 million over two years. Teams that demonstrate progress on well-defined milestones will have the potential to eventually receive up to $160 million each from NSF over the next decade as they seek to build an internationally competitive technology and innovation cluster in their region. No single region can solve America’s technology challenges alone. NSF Engines are designed as a… 1 2026-07-15T07:12:08Z 2026-07-15T07:13:45Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/14/icymi-budd-bills-to-cut-red-tape-are-now-law/ ICYMI: Budd Bills to Cut Red Tape for Community Banks, Expand Access to Housing Downpayment Assistance Are Now Law 2026-07-14 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — In case you missed it, two bipartisan pieces of legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) — the TRUST Act and the HOME Expansion Act — are now law, after the legislation’s inclusion in the final version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which passed the House and Senate. About the TRUST Act, Senator Budd said: “By allowing community banks to carry out their most important mission—helping capital reach lenders to invest in their future homes and businesses—we will help Main Streets across America thrive. I am grateful to this legislation’s co-lead, Senator Kim, and our colleagues who supported this effort to reduce burdensome regulations so more Americans can access the capital they need to grow their families and keep our local economies strong. While we have more to do to help reform our banking system to help even more Americans achieve their version of the American dream, the TRUST Act’s passage into law is a strong step toward modernizing the lending process.” About the HOME Expansion Act, Senator Budd said: “First-time homebuyers are often at a disadvantage as they juggle the associated costs of purchasing a home, while still responsible for monthly rent. At a time when demand for homes is increasing, and the available supply is short, I am proud that my HOME Expansion Act is now law so that we can help more families afford their first home by expanding eligibility to existing homebuyer assistance programs.” BACKGROUND In February, Senator Budd introduced the HOME Expansion Act, legislation to expand and modernize eligibility requirements for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program. These funds currently support the construction of affordable owner-occupied homes, housing rehabilitation, and first-time homebuyer assistance. Now, the law will help more Americans afford homeownership without increasing federal spending, allow more Americans to repair their homes after disasters, and support the const… 1 2026-07-15T07:12:08Z 2026-07-15T07:13:45Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/02/budd-releases-statement-after-fema-announces-over-197m-in-federal-aid-to-rebuild-western-north-carolina-after-hurricane-helene/ Budd Releases Statement After FEMA Announces Over $197M in Federal Aid to Rebuild Western North Carolina After Hurricane Helene 2026-07-02 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper TOTAL PROJECT COSTFEMA SHAREFEDERAL COST SHAREGRANT TYPESUMMARY$158,798.76 $158,798.76 100%PANOVANT HEALTH, INC. Declaration Date: 3/25/2020 This grant will fund costs related to the Management of PA Grants as a result of FEMA-DR-4487-NC (COVID-19 Pandemic). This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $135,979,522.47 $135,979,522.47 100%PANORTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $135,979,522.47 in federal funding to North Carolina Emergency Management for state management costs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $292,374.46$263,137.0190%PATOWN OF CROSSNORE Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund water pipe repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $392,026.00 $352,823.4090%PAASHEVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund water control facilities repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $3,109,144.56 $2,798,230.11 90%PACITY OF MORGANTON – Boardwalk Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $2,798,230.11 in federal funding to the city of Morganton for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $127,312.72 $114,581.45 90%PAFERN LEAF COMMUNITY CHARTER SCHOOL Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund building exterior and building interior repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $163,981.55 $147,583.40 90%PARUTHERFORD COUNTY SCHOOLS Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund storm water pipe repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tr… 1 2026-07-03T08:00:00Z 2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/07/01/budd-joins-risch-shaheen-and-colleagues-in-releasing-bipartisan-statement-pushing-back-on-chinas-ethnic-unity-law/ Budd Joins Risch, Shaheen, and Colleagues in Releasing Bipartisan Statement Pushing Back on China’s Ethnic Unity Law 2026-07-01 2026 2026-07 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, in releasing a statement ahead of the Chinese government’s enactment of a law promoting “ethnic unity and progress.” In a joint statement, the Senators said: “For decades, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has denied ethnic and religious minority groups—including Tibetans, Uyghurs, and Mongolians—the right to self-determination, even as this internationally recognized human right remains in China’s constitution. China’s newly enacted Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress, approved by its rubber-stamp parliament, codifies Beijing’s unjust policies that increasingly seek to erase the religion, culture, and language of minority groups located both inside and outside China. “In particular, we are deeply concerned by language in the law that demands ideological compliance with the CCP, mandating that even people outside China deemed to be undermining ‘ethnic unity and progress’ by the Chinese government can be held legally responsible in China. This sweeping legislation gives Beijing near limitless authority to prosecute those who would speak out against Beijing’s oppression and only continues its development of a legal framework to legitimize its transnational repression. “We will continue to push back against the CCP’s efforts to undermine the sovereignty of other countries and support the internationally recognized human rights of Tibetans, Uyghurs, and other ethnic and minority groups. All people deserve to have a say in their own future, preserve their culture, and freely express their religious beliefs.” U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-Utah), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) also joined in releasing the statement. Additionally, the House Select Committee on China Chairman John Moolenaar (R-Mich.-02), Select Committee Ranking Member Ro… 1 2026-07-14T07:08:55Z 2026-07-14T07:10:52Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/30/budd-calls-for-caisi-to-resume-publishing-research-on-frontier-ai-models/ Budd Calls for CAISI to Resume Publishing Research on Frontier AI Models to Maintain America’s Competitive Edge in AI Innovation 2026-06-30 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) sent a letter to the National Cyber Director, Sean Cairncross, and the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, Michael Kratsios, calling for the Center for AI Standards and Innovation (CAISI) to resume publishing its findings and evaluations of frontier Artificial Intelligence (AI) models. In the letter, Senator Budd addresses CAISI’s role in identifying potential vulnerabilities and risks associated with Chinese AI models. Additionally, he notes the need to coordinate and leverage both the private and public sectors to evaluate and monitor AI development to advance American leadership in AI. In the letter, the Senator wrote: “To continue to build on the groundbreaking innovation of America’s AI industry, I request that you continue to allow CAISI to perform its important mission in conjunction with the AI missions of other components of the government and, to the extent possible, allow its research to be published. More high-quality research conducted by CAISI’s informed experts deepens America’s AI competitive ecosystem for model and benchmark developers. Leveraging the strength of both America’s public and private sector capacity to evaluate, monitor, and understand frontier AI development will only become more critical as industries in every sector of our economy continue to embrace AI technology.” Read the full letter text HERE or below: Dear Director Cairncross and Director Kratsios, I write regarding reports that the Center for AI Standards and Innovation (CAISI) has been directed to cease the publication of its findings from testing and evaluating frontier AI models. This comes on the heels of President Trump’s June 2, 2026, Executive Order (EO) on “Promoting Advanced Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Security.” The EO notably directs the Secretary of the Treasury, the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA), and the Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to “develop and maintain a classifi… 1 2026-07-01T06:34:07Z 2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/29/budd-leads-bipartisan-letter-to-protect-u-s-specialty-crop-producers-restore-competitive-trade-balance-with-mexico/ Budd Leads Bipartisan Letter to Protect U.S. Specialty Crop Producers & Restore Competitive Trade Balance with Mexico 2026-06-29 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led a coalition of bipartisan Senators in sending a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, calling for measures to restore a more competitive trade balance for U.S. specialty crops with Mexico. In the letter, the Senators advocate alleviating the unsustainable pressures on U.S. specialty crop producers caused by an increasing volume of foreign products unfairly flooding U.S. markets while U.S. crops are reaching their peak in-season period. The letter comes as Ambassador Greer works to reauthorize the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). In the letter, the Senator wrote: “Without measures to restore competitive balance, specialty crop production will increasingly move to foreign countries. We urge you to evaluate trade actions that can safeguard U.S. growers from unfair pressures from Mexico. This work is essential to maintaining U.S. competitiveness in the specialty crop sector and ensuring Americans continue to have access to high-quality, domestically grown food, which is fundamental to our national security.” U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) joined in co-signing the letter. U.S. Representative Austin Scott (R-Ga.-08) led the letter in the House of Representatives and was joined by 79 members in sending the bipartisan letter. The letter is endorsed by: American Farm Bureau Federation, Alabama Farmers Federation, Blue Ridge Apple Growers Association, California Table Grape Commission, Colorado Fruit and Vegetable Association, Florida Blueberry Growers Association, Florida Farm Bureau Federation, Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association, Florida Tomato Exchange, Georgia Agribusiness Council, Georgia Berry Exchange, Georgia Blueberry Commission, Georgia Department of Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, Georgia Farm Bureau, Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, Georgia Green Industr… 1 2026-06-30T06:29:10Z 2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/25/budd-vows-to-oppose-supplemental-appropriations-unless-it-includes-helene-recovery-funding/ Budd Vows To Oppose Supplemental Appropriations Unless It Includes Helene Recovery Funding 2026-06-25 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) issued the following statement regarding the Office of Management and Budget’s supplemental funding request that was sent to Congress. “Yesterday, the Office of Management and Budget submitted a supplemental request to Congress to cover unanticipated funding needs related to operational costs from Operation Epic Fury and to help American farmers. “I fully support President Trump’s request to replenish our munitions stockpile and strengthen our military, as well as provide economic assistance to farmers impacted by disaster and unfair trade practices. I am disappointed, however, that the supplemental request did not include funds for Western North Carolina’s significant ongoing recovery needs. “Nearly two years since Hurricane Helene ravaged our state, debris still clogs waterways. Roads, bridges, and dams require repair or replacement. Homeowners are paying mortgages on properties that were wiped away. Quite simply, the need continues to outweigh what the state and local communities can bear. “For that reason, I will vote against any supplemental appropriations package that does not include additional funding for Western North Carolina. “Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin has empowered FEMA to more rapidly reimburse state & local governments for public assistance projects. I’m pleased projects are now being approved on a regular basis—something I called for more than a year ago. I’m immensely grateful to my former Senate colleague, but FEMA is only one piece of the puzzle. “The Small Business Administration, Environmental Protection Agency, and Department of Housing and Urban Development play a major role in disaster recovery, and the disaster funding that Congress passed in December 2024 for those agencies has already been largely allocated. “Western North Carolina’s water infrastructure remains particularly vulnerable. In places like Beech Mountain, residents face major uncertainty with their water system. Replacing it could take years and te… 1 2026-06-26T06:29:35Z 2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/23/budd-leads-bill-to-codify-trump-admin-policy-eliminating-u-s-foreign-aid-funding-for-abortion-dei-gender-ideology/ Budd Leads Bill to Codify Trump Admin Policy Eliminating U.S. Foreign Aid Funding for Abortion, DEI & Gender Ideology 2026-06-23 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) introduced the Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance Act today to codify the Trump Administration’s Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance (PHFFA) Policy. This legislation would reinstate and expand Mexico City Policy by preventing U.S. foreign assistance from being used to fund abortion or the promotion of abortion, discriminatory equity ideology (DEI), and radical gender ideology. “U.S. foreign assistance programs have been exploited as a loophole to promote far-left, radical ideology on the dime of American taxpayers for far too long. Future administrations must not be permitted to spend millions of taxpayer dollars on programs funding abortion, DEI, and gender ideology abroad. Our country’s foreign assistance priorities should benefit our national security and strengthen our relationship with allies and partners—not advance a politically driven checklist of radical agenda items,” said Senator Budd. “Tax dollars should never be used to perform or promote abortion services, or to fund the promotion of radical gender ideology and divisive DEI programs in the U.S. or abroad. Unfortunately, activist groups continue attempting to exploit loopholes and undermine long-standing protections put in place by Congress. American taxpayers should not be forced to bankroll ideological agendas that do not reflect our values,” said Chairman Risch. “American foreign assistance should reflect American values. This legislation would keep taxpayers from supporting abortion or left-wing social programs and would focus our foreign aid on those who need it the most,” said Senator Wicker. “The Trump administration has taken decisive action to ensure U.S. foreign aid does not fund abortion, DEI, or radical gender ideology, and we need to make these critical policies permanent. The Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance Act would close loopholes to ensure that American tax dollars promote American values and interests, not wokeness abroad,” said Sena… 1 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/18/budd-coons-bill-to-reauthorize-uscirf-advance-international-religious-freedom-heads-to-senate-floor/ Budd, Coons Bill to Reauthorize USCIRF & Advance International Religious Freedom Passes Committee & Heads to Senate Floor 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Chris Coons’ (D-Del.) legislation to extend the authorization of the independent, bipartisan United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) through Fiscal Year (FY) 2028 advanced out of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) yesterday, as amended, and is now headed to the Senate floor. Following the bill’s passage out of SFRC, the Senators said: “Every day, terrorists in the Sahel, brutal regimes in Iran and North Korea, and the CCP’s cruel political leadership actively surveil and target churches, depriving religious groups of their freedom to worship, pray, and practice their faith—often with no consequence. These malign actors also detain, harass, and even kill pastors and religious leaders for daring to lead and speak on matters of faith. Congress cannot allow USCIRF’s reauthorization to lapse. I urge my colleagues to quickly take up and pass this legislation, so the commission can continue monitoring and exposing violations of international religious freedom, combating the war on faith around the world, and calling out actors responsible for religious persecution and threatening U.S. national security,” said Senator Budd. “The right to worship – or not worship – is fundamental to democracy and stability around the world. With it go freedom of speech, assembly, and petition,” said Senator Coons. “I’m proud to see our bill reauthorizing the United States Commission for International Religious Freedom advance out of the Foreign Relations Committee. I will continue to work with my colleagues in the Senate to pass this important bill so that our government can get back to the work of protecting religious freedom globally and ensuring that everyone has the space to live and breathe free.” BACKGROUND In March 2026, Senators Budd and Coons led a bipartisan coalition in introducing legislation to reauthorize USCIRF through FY2028. The International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) of 1998, as amended by the Frank Wolf International … 1 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/18/budd-joins-cruz-cantwell-in-introducing-bipartisan-bill-to-codify-noaas-hurricane-hunter-mission/ Budd Joins Cruz & Cantwell in Introducing Bipartisan Bill to Codify NOAA’s Hurricane Hunter Mission to More Accurately Track Storms 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce and Science Committee, joined committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) in introducing the Hurricane Hunter Aircraft Recapitalization Act. The legislation will, for the first time, codify the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Hurricane Hunter mission in federal law and authorize up to nine Hurricane Hunter aircraft. It also includes provisions to better prepare the nation’s first line of defense against stronger and more frequent hurricanes, atmospheric rivers, and winter storms. “NOAA’s Hurricane Hunter aircraft play a pivotal role in gathering the data that helps inform our forecasts of potentially dangerous storms. Continuing to invest in this fleet of aircraft will allow us to have more accurate information that will help federal, state, and local leaders make informed decisions to keep our communities safe,” said Senator Budd. “Hurricane Hunter aircraft are one of NOAA’s most important tools for protecting Americans along the coast during hurricane season, particularly in my home state of Texas. By flying directly into storms, they collect critical data that produces more accurate forecasts and earlier warnings. These forecasts help save lives, safeguard critical infrastructure, and reduce costly disruptions to ports, commerce, and supply chains. The Hurricane Hunter Aircraft Recapitalization bill will ensure NOAA has the modern fleet and capabilities needed to continue delivering the reliable, accurate forecasts Americans depend on,” said Chairman Cruz. “As atmospheric rivers become more frequent and severe across the Pacific Northwest, our communities increasingly depend on accurate forecasts to prepare for flooding and other extreme weather. NOAA’s Hurricane Hunter aircraft collect critical data that improves those forecasts, but much of the fleet is more than 50 years old. This bipartisan legislation will modernize and expand the fleet, strengthening NOAA’s ab… 1 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/18/budd-secure-passage-of-bipartisan-resolution-honoring-nascar-legend-kyle-busch/ Budd, Cortez Masto, Tillis, Rosen Secure Passage of Bipartisan Resolution Honoring the Life of NASCAR Legend Kyle Busch 2026-06-18 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) secured passage of their bipartisan resolution honoring the life of two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, Kyle Busch. Below is an excerpt from the resolution, in which the Senators recognized Busch’s legendary NASCAR career and his commitment to family: “Busch had 19 consecutive seasons with a NASCAR Cup Series win (2005 through 2023), the longest of any driver. … [He] rounded out his career as the winningest driver across NASCAR’s 3 national series, with a record of 234 victories, including 63 Cup Series wins, 102 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series wins, and 69 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series wins. … “Busch earned the respect of both opposing drivers and fans through his commitment to providing thrilling entertainment to NASCAR crowds with his performative driving style. … He embraced his role as a champion driver and devoted father, proudly mentored and coached his son, Brexton, who began his own journey in motorsports, and helped to foster the passion for racing in the next generation.” Read the full resolution HERE. BACKGROUND Kyle Thomas Busch was born May 2, 1985, and raised in a racing family in Las Vegas. The NASCAR champion, who was a resident of North Carolina, passed away on May 21, 2026, at the age of 41 in Charlotte, after a brief illness. Busch leaves behind his wife, Samantha; his two children, Brexton and Lennix; his parents; and his brother. ### 1 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/16/budd-secures-landmark-ndaa-provisions-to-strengthen-military-airpower-and-enhance-u-s-counterterrorism-operations/ Budd Secures Landmark NDAA Provisions to Strengthen Military Airpower and Enhance U.S. Counterterrorism Operations 2026-06-16 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), released the following statement after voting in favor of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in committee markup. During the markup process, Senator Budd secured 49 provisions that have advanced to the Senate Floor. “Investing in our national defense not only ensures our military remains the most lethal fighting force in the world but also drives economic growth and strengthens American manufacturing competitiveness. I am proud that North Carolina leads the nation in military readiness as the strategic hub for several of our nation’s largest military installations while also serving as a reliable center for defense manufacturing. “As the Senator representing Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, I led several provisions focused on rebuilding our defense industrial base to maintain air superiority and preserve American airpower in modern warfare to compete with China. I also fought to secure the funding needed for military construction projects at installations across the state, ensuring our men and women in uniform who come through North Carolina have the best environments to live, work, and train. We’ve also prioritized strategic funding for counterterrorism efforts in the Middle East, which will bolster defense cooperation with key allies. Above all, this historic NDAA puts our national security first by making critical investments in the men and women who wear our nation’s uniform and helping to build the capabilities needed to defend the homeland against evolving threats,” said Senator Budd. Below is a summary of the provisions Senator Budd championed in the recent SASC committee markup that the full Senate will consider in the coming weeks: Preserving American Military Airpower Dominance: The FY 2027 NDAA includes Budd-led provisions to enhance military airpower by expanding fighter aircraft production, providing financial stability… 1 2026-06-17T06:49:24Z 2026-06-17T06:50:53Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/16/budd-joins-cruz-moody-harrigan-in-introducing-legislation-to-support-military-homeschool-families/ Budd Joins Cruz, Moody & Harrigan in Introducing Legislation to Support Military Homeschool Families 2026-06-16 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Ashley Moody (R-Fla.) in introducing the Continuity of Military Parents’ Academic Schooling and State Standards (COMPASS) Act. This legislation allows military families to continue following the homeschooling laws of the servicemember’s legal home state during Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves, rather than immediately shifting to the laws of the new duty station state, reducing the burdens on those families and enhancing homeschooling options. “As a father of three children who benefited from a homeschool education, I am proud to be a strong advocate for homeschool families in the Senate. With many of our nation’s military families choosing to homeschool, it is important that their children’s education isn’t disrupted amidst the unpredictability of moving duty stations. I am proud to join Senator Cruz in introducing common-sense legislation to eliminate this unnecessary burden and streamline the homeschooling process for military families,” said Senator Budd. “Military families homeschool their children at roughly twice the rate of civilian families. Conflicting state homeschooling laws can undermine military readiness, family resilience, and retention by forcing servicemembers and their spouses to navigate different requirements each time the Department of War relocates them. This bill will provide military homeschool families with the stability and flexibility they deserve. I’m proud to introduce it and urge my colleagues to move swiftly to pass this legislation,” said Senator Cruz. “Military families make many sacrifices so their loved ones can serve. They should not have to stress over a new set of homeschooling rules every time duty calls them to a new state. The COMPASS Act ensures the children of our service members can continue their education without disruption while their parents serve our country,” said Senator Moody. U.S. Representative Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.-10) introduced companion legislation in the Hou… 1 2026-06-27T06:16:17Z 2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/11/budd-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-unlock-u-s-space-based-chip-manufacturing/ Budd, Bennet Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Unlock U.S. Space-Based Chip Manufacturing & Close Advanced Manufacturing Gap with China 2026-06-11 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Michael Bennet (D-Co.), today introduced the Semiconductor Superiority Act. This bipartisan legislation amends Section 48D of the CHIPS and Science Act to clarify that space-based semiconductor manufacturing in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is an included use for tax credits. The legislation eliminates uncertainty for American manufacturers regarding microgravity semiconductor technology, bolstering U.S. global competitiveness. “Every day, over 300 million Americans utilize semiconductor chips, whether in smartphones, televisions, bank ATMs, or home appliances, but now that China has already implemented space-based chip fabrication into its supply chain, the U.S. is at risk of losing our global competitive edge. The Semiconductor Superiority Act gives domestic manufacturers the green light to develop microgravity semiconductor technology to compete with China. Given that several American companies are already investing in the equipment, launch capacity, and advanced chips manufacturing, we already have momentum, and we cannot afford to stall,” said Senator Budd. “Colorado’s aerospace industry makes our state a natural leader for space-based semiconductor manufacturing due to our talent, research institutions, and aerospace ecosystem. China is already racing to manufacture semiconductors in space. We cannot afford to fall behind. We must act now to protect our competitive edge and drive the next generation of innovation. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this bipartisan bill into law,” said Senator Bennet. U.S. Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.-16), Terri Sewell (D-Ala.-07), and Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.-01) led the companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “Alabama has long been at the forefront of American innovation and advanced manufacturing. As our global competitors race to dominate the technologies of the future, Congress must ensure that the Unite… 1 2026-06-12T06:37:16Z 2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/09/budd-releases-statement-after-fema-announces-nearly-300-million/ Budd Releases Statement After FEMA Announces Nearly $300 Million in Federal Funding for Hurricane Helene Recovery Projects 2026-06-09 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper TOTAL PROJECT COSTFEMA SHAREFEDERAL COST SHAREGRANT TYPESUMMARY$1,651,521.59$1,238,641.1975%PAPENDER COUNTY SCHOOLS – Emergency Mold Remediation Declaration Date: 9/14/2018 This award provides $1,238,641.19 in federal funding to the Pender County Schools for emergency protective measures as a result of FEMA-DR-4393-NC (Hurricane Florence). This funding is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $37,471,657.49$33,724,491.7590%PANORTH CAROLINA BAPTIST HOSPITAL Declaration Date: 3/25/2020 This award provides $33,724,491.75 in federal funding to North Carolina Baptist Hospital for emergency protective measures as a result of FEMA-DR-4487-NC (COVID-19 Pandemic). Funding for this project is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,418,236.80$1,276,413.1290%PATOWN OF WOODFIN – Culverts Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $1,276,413.12 in federal funding to the town of Woodfin for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $356,810.52$321,129.4790%PAVILLAGE OF FLAT ROCK Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund park trail, rip-rap repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $205,852.51$205,852.51100%PATOWN OF CANTON Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund emergency protective measures to provide temporary relocation of the Fire Department living quarters as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $390,241.87$351,217.6990%PATOWN OF BOONE Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund building exterior and interior, repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,069,973.42$962,976.0890%PATOWN OF LAUREL PARK Declaration Date: 09/28/2024 This gra… 1 2026-06-10T06:36:00Z 2026-06-10T06:37:32Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/06/04/budd-warnock-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-reduce-regulatory-risks-for-companies/ Budd, Warnock Lead Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Regulatory Risks for Companies to Sell Public Shares & Strengthen U.S. Financial Markets 2026-06-04 2026 2026-06 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) led several of their colleagues in introducing the Encouraging Public Offerings Act today to limit regulatory risk that holds companies back from engaging with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the Initial Public Offering (IPO) process. The bipartisan legislation would codify existing SEC rules and make the initial IPO registration process more confidential and less burdensome, thereby reducing the regulatory risk of going public and encouraging companies to do so sooner. “Limiting regulatory risks for companies interested in going public is essential to keeping U.S. financial markets the best in the world. Far too many companies are unwilling to go public because regulatory barriers are too costly, complex, and time-consuming, making the IPO process less attractive. My bipartisan legislation with Senator Warnock will help restore the U.S. IPO market by codifying confidential registration rules and allowing companies to ‘test the waters.’ The aim here is to encourage more businesses to enter public markets and expand investment opportunities for Americans,” said Senator Budd. “This bipartisan legislation helps more businesses—especially small and growing businesses—access the public markets and capital they need to expand. That means more investment in Georgia, more Georgia jobs, and a stronger economy for our country. I’m proud to work with Senator Budd on this commonsense bill,” said Senator Warnock. “IPOs give companies crucial access to capital markets and drive economic growth. When private companies consider going public, we should be doing everything possible to make this process easy and to encourage it without jeopardizing investor protections. This bipartisan legislation will reduce unnecessary red-tape and encourage these companies to continue to grow,” said Senator Tillis. “Taking a company public can be complex and costly – especially for our small businesses. This bipartisan legislation pro… 1 2026-06-05T06:35:23Z 2026-06-05T06:36:42Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/05/21/budd-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-legislation-to-prevent-thousands-of-illegal-aliens-from-escaping-mandatory-detention/ Budd Leads Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Prevent Thousands of Illegal Aliens from Escaping Mandatory Detention 2026-05-21 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led several Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Detention Authority Clarification Act today, which would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to make unambiguous Congress’ intent that illegal aliens be subject to detention without bond pending removal from the United States. This is in response to split decisions by federal courts across the country about what should already be clear in section 235 of the INA—all who have entered the United States illegally are subject to mandatory detention. “We are a nation of laws, and those who break these laws by coming to our country illegally must be held accountable for their actions. President Trump has worked hard to reaffirm the integrity of our nation’s immigration system, yet hundreds of federal district court judges are allowing illegal aliens to avoid mandatory detention based on a supposed loophole. The Detention Authority Clarification Act would eliminate any doubt by reaffirming mandatory detention for those who have violated U.S. law by entering the country illegally,” said Senator Budd. “Aliens who enter our country illegally and threaten American lives must face mandatory detention and should not be able to seek bond to be released into our communities,” said Senator Cornyn. “This legislation would clarify current law to stop woke judges from allowing illegal aliens to roam American streets and commit further crimes while they await deportation from the United States.” “Illegal immigrants who break our laws must be detained while they await deportation,” said Senator Scott. “The Detention Authority Clarification Act would make sure that no one can enter our country illegally and evade removal. Illegal immigrants must be detained and deported promptly. This is a nation of laws, and breaking the law has consequences.” “During the four years under Biden, weak and ineffective enforcement of our nation’s immigration laws created an opportunity for millions of dangerous illegal aliens to p… 1 2026-05-22T06:27:39Z 2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/05/21/budd-leads-group-of-bipartisan-senators-in-introducing-farm-ai-act/ Budd Leads Group of Bipartisan Senators in Introducing FARM AI Act to Expand Access to Technology for American Farmers 2026-05-21 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led a bipartisan group of his Senate colleagues, including U.S. Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), in introducing the Fostering Agricultural Research and Modernization through Artificial Intelligence (FARM AI) Act today. The bill would increase capital for AI projects through U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grants and ensure USDA programs are deployed to educate farmers on the latest AI technologies to advance American production. By investing in agricultural workforce development, this bipartisan legislation will expand access to AI in farming, enabling America’s producers to compete more effectively in the global marketplace. “AI technologies are advancing at a rapid pace, and if we fail to address the barriers of access to AI deployment in agriculture, America’s producers will fall behind. Precision technologies have the potential to enhance innovation and productivity in farming and ranching, but outdated USDA programs are holding this potential back from reaching our rural communities. I am proud to be leading the bipartisan FARM AI Act to unlock the untapped potential of AI technology to advance American agriculture,” said Senator Budd. “We must ensure that America’s farmers and ranchers are not left behind in utilizing AI innovations and cutting edge technologies to keep our food systems and rural economies strong. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the FARM AI Act, because American agriculture must have access to AI advances to stay competitive in our increasingly global economy,” said Senator Schiff. “Nevada’s farmers and ranchers work hard every day to help American families put food on the table. New artificial intelligence technology could help the agriculture industry cut costs, boost productivity, and expand U.S. competitiveness. That’s why I’m proud to support bipartisan legislation to responsibly invest in this technology… 1 2026-05-22T06:27:39Z 2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/05/13/budd-releases-statement-after-fema-announces-over-38-million-for-hurricane-helene-recovery/ Budd Releases Statement After FEMA Announces Over $38 Million for Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts 2026-05-13 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper TOTAL PROJECT COSTFEMA SHAREFEDERAL COST SHAREGRANT TYPESUMMARY$1,476,385.00$1,328,746.5090%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Yancey County: State Routes 1136 Banks Creek Bridge, 1102 Colbert’s Creek Road Bridge, and 1425 Phillips Road Bridge Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $1,328,746.50 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $4,097,347.23$3,687,612.5190%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Yancey County: State Routes 1153, 1158, and 1357Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $3,687,612.51 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,578,279.18$1,420,451.2790%PAMOUNTAIN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE – Beech Mountain Substation Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $1,420,451.27 in federal funding to the Mountain Electric Cooperative for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $3,468,899.96$3,122,009.9790%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Mitchell County: State Route 1305 Whitson Branch Road Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $3,122,009.97 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $6,028,561.52$5,425,705.3790%PAFRENCH BROAD ELECTRIC MEMBERSHIP CORPORATION – Capitola Hydroelectric Power Plant Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $5,425,705.37 in federal funding to the French Broad Electric Membership Corporation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorize… 1 2026-05-14T06:11:37Z 2026-05-14T06:12:56Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/05/08/budd-applauds-fema-approval-of-58-8-million-in-hazard-mitigation-grant-program-funds/ Budd Applauds FEMA Approval of $58.8+ Million in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Funds for Helene Recovery in WNC 2026-05-08 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper StateDisaster NumberProject NumberTotal Project CostFEMA ShareCost Share (%)BCRType of GrantCategorySummaryNC48279$1,316,897.00$987,672.7575%N/AHMHMGPTitle: Madison County Acquisition Group I Declaration Date: 09/28/2024 Project Description: This grant will fund the acquisition and demolition of two (2) additional properties in Madison County. The acquired properties will be returned to green space and deed restricted, eliminating future damage to the structures as a result of flooding and landslides. This award is pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, Section 404, as amended by the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018, and 44 CFR Part 206.434. Prior Obligations: 01/14/2026 $279,081.56 NC48279$13,394.57$13,394.57100%N/AHMHMGPTitle: Madison County Acquisition Group I Declaration Date: 09/28/2024 Project Description: This grant will fund subrecipient management costs for Madison County to acquire and demolish two (2) additional properties. The properties will be returned to green space and deed restricted, eliminating future damage to the structures as a result of flooding and landslides. This award is pursuant to Section 1215 of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018, which amended Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, allowing Subrecipient Management Costs (SRMC) up to 5% of the total project cost, available to the subrecipient at a Federal Cost Share of 100%. Prior Obligations: 01/14/2026 $18,605.43NC482719$3,297,706.25$2,473,279.7575%N/AHMHMGPTitle: Haywood County Acquisition Group II Declaration Date: 09/28/2024 Project Description: This grant will fund the acquisition and demolition of 11 properties impacted by Tropical Storm Helene in Haywood County. The acquired properties will be returned to green space and deed restricted, eliminating future damage to the structures as a result of flooding and landslides. This award is pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, Section… 1 2026-05-12T06:07:57Z 2026-05-12T06:09:10Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/5/tillis-gillibrand-resolution-honoring-donut-dollies-passes-senate Tillis, Gillibrand Resolution Honoring ‘Donut Dollies’ Passes Senate 2026-05-05 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) announced Senate passage of their resolution commending the “Donut Dollies” for their patriotic service and steadfast support of United States servicemembers in combat and honoring their extraordinary contributions to the morale and well-being of United States servicemembers during wartime. “The Donut Dollies served our troops in some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable, bringing comfort, connection, and a reminder of home to those far from it,” said Senator Tillis. “Their courage and compassion lifted morale on the front lines and left a lasting impact on generations of servicemembers. This resolution honors these extraordinary women for their selfless service and ensures their contributions to our nation are never forgotten.” “The Donut Dollies are a vital part of our nation’s history, and they deserve recognition for their bravery and selfless commitment to service,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These young women put their own lives in danger to aid our troops in combat zones, providing service members with emotional support and a sense of home in some of the most difficult conditions imaginable. I am so grateful that we were able to pass this vital resolution and properly honor the Donut Dollies’ contributions.” Background: During World War I, Salvation Army volunteers known as the “Doughnut Lassies” served near the front lines, providing coffee, doughnuts, and comfort to American troops, inspiring the later Red Cross “Donut Dollies” programs. During World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, American Red Cross volunteers traveled to bases and combat zones to boost morale by offering refreshments, recreation, and a connection to home. From 1965 to 1972 alone, more than 600 Donut Dollies served in Vietnam through the Supplemental Recreation Activities Overseas program, reaching hundreds of thousands of servicemembers and often traveling by helicopter or convoy into dangerous areas. Military leaders credited the… 1 2026-05-06T06:05:57Z 2026-05-06T06:07:49Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/05/01/budd-cortez-masto-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-veterans-from-criminal-fraud-schemes/ Budd, Cortez Masto Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Veterans from Criminal Fraud Schemes 2026-05-01 2026 2026-05 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced the bipartisan Veterans Protection from Fraud Act to establish a sentencing enhancement of up to ten years in prison for anyone convicted of committing or conspiring to commit fraud that targets a veteran. U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.-02) introduced the companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “Our nation’s veterans, who bravely served our country in defense of our freedoms, have become the primary targets of criminal fraud schemes. Those who attempt to defraud our service members must face strict criminal penalties for their actions. I am proud to join Senator Cortez Masto to ensure these criminals are held accountable under federal law,” said Senator Budd. “Every day, our service members risk everything to protect our homeland and defend our freedoms. The least we can do when these brave men and women come home is ensure that we protect their financial wellbeing from those bad actors who target them because of their service. With this bill, we can crack down on the fraudsters who try to scam our veterans,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Veterans put their lives on the line for us at home and abroad. Our duty is to protect them when they return. I am proud to have introduced this legislation in the House, and I appreciate Senator Cortez Masto and Senator Budd for protecting our veterans in the Senate,” said Representative Burchett. Read the full bill text HERE. BACKGROUND In 2023, our nation’s veterans, service members, and their families had $477 million stolen due to fraud schemes. Federal law already includes a sentencing enhancement for fraud crimes targeting senior citizens, but there are no similar criminal penalties for fraudsters who target veterans. Veterans Protection from Fraud Act: • Deters criminals from defrauding veterans by increasing penalties to up to ten years in prison. • Applies sentencing enhancements to fraud offenses, including false document fraud, device fra… 1 2026-05-13T06:12:22Z 2026-05-13T06:13:52Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/04/30/budd-hassan-introduce-bipartisan-bill-speeding-up-the-development-of-generic-medications/ Budd, Hassan Introduce Bipartisan Bill Speeding Up the Development of Generic Medications to Lower Prescription Drug Costs 2026-04-30 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) recently introduced the bipartisan Medication Competition Act, which would expedite the development of lower-cost alternatives to biologic medications, known as biosimilars. The legislation would require the FDA to publicly determine and list when brand-name drug exclusivity ends, allowing cheaper alternatives to come to market more quickly. Biologic drugs are a complex class of medications commonly used in cancer immunotherapy, autoimmune disease treatment, and certain insulin products. Biologic drugs tend to cost more than other medications, and very few biologic drugs face lower-cost competition. “To lower the cost of prescription drugs, we need to enable low-cost biological drugs to reach consumers faster. Unclear policy on the exclusivity periods of biologics at the FDA is inhibiting competition, making it more challenging for the manufacturers of these lower-cost alternatives to develop new medicines. I am glad to join Senator Hassan in closing this loophole to help patients access the drugs they need at more affordable prices,” said Senator Budd. “Big Pharma benefits from a loophole in federal law where it can keep the exclusivity dates on certain prescription drugs secret, making it harder for competitors to enter the market. This bipartisan bill requires the FDA to publicly determine and disclose when these exclusivity periods end, helping bring lower-cost alternatives to the market sooner. I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense effort to bring more transparency and competition to the market,” said Senator Hassan. Read the full bill text HERE. BACKGROUND Federal law requires the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to publicly specify the exclusivity period for biologic medications and list it. However, a loophole in federal law does not require the FDA to calculate the exclusivity period for all biologic drugs, meaning that of the more than 200 currently approved drugs in this category, only three have the exclusi… 1 2026-05-13T06:12:22Z 2026-05-13T06:13:52Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/04/30/budd-shaheen-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-to-counter-the-prcs-growing-influence-across-latin-america-and-the-caribbean/ Budd, Shaheen Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Counter the PRC’s Growing Influence Across Latin America and the Caribbean 2026-04-30 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced a bipartisan resolution expressing concern about the increasing influence of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. This bipartisan resolution calls for greater focus on American economic and national security, as well as on diplomatic engagement in the region. The resolution highlights the PRC’s rapidly expanding footprint across the Western Hemisphere—from trade and infrastructure investment to military cooperation and information operations—and underscores the need for a coordinated strategy to ensure the United States remains the partner of choice for countries in the region. “Our national security is increasingly under threat as the PRC rapidly works to expand its global reach and exploit countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The United States must be a steadfast neighbor, partner, and leader for the Western Hemisphere to effectively counter China’s malign influence, including its predatory Belt and Road Initiative. We cannot afford to cede leadership in our own hemisphere,” said Senator Budd. “China has made clear that it seeks to expand its influence in Latin America and the Caribbean, and the United States cannot afford to cede ground in our own hemisphere. This resolution underscores that we must show up as a reliable partner through sustained investment, stronger diplomatic engagement and deeper security cooperation to ensure countries in the region have real alternatives to Beijing’s coercive and often destabilizing approach. Strengthening our ties in the Western Hemisphere is a national security imperative,” said Ranking Member Shaheen. Read the full bill text HERE. BACKGROUND The bipartisan resolution: • Affirms that the United States is positioned to be the closest and strongest partner to countries in Latin America and the Caribbean and remains committed to countering the PRC’s growing influence w… 1 2026-05-13T06:12:22Z 2026-05-13T06:13:52Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/04/30/budd-shaheen-lead-resolution-to-maintain-u-s-dollar-reserve-currency-status/ Budd, Shaheen Lead Resolution to Maintain U.S. Dollar Reserve Currency Status as China Competes for Global Financial Influence 2026-04-30 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) today reintroduced their bipartisan resolution in support of the United States dollar maintaining its status as the world’s reserve currency. Additionally, the resolution affirms the need to keep the U.S. dollar at the forefront of global financial systems as the People’s Republic of China (PRC) continues its concentrated efforts to internationalize the Yuan and expand their influence in developing nations. “Continued cooperation and sustained success in international trade rely on the U.S. dollar maintaining its status as the global reserve currency. For years, the PRC has sought to expand its global financial influence, targeting the economic and national security of the United States and our partners. Allowing China to drive global currency flows and create alternative financial infrastructure would be a policy failure that could fragment the world economy, threatening the continued growth of free markets, especially in developing nations. The US dollar must preserve its internationally stabilizing and prosperity-enabling role,” said Senator Budd. “Maintaining the United States dollar as the global reserve currency is important not only for the long-term stability and prosperity of the American economy, but it is also crucial for maintaining America’s national security. As China continues to attempt to undermine the global currency system, this Senate resolution sends a bipartisan message that the United States must prioritize maintaining the U.S. dollar as the global reserve currency. After America’s standing as a reliable economic partner has been shaken by haphazard tariff rollouts and self-imposed volatility, it is imperative that Congress demonstrate the United States’ willingness to remain a lynchpin in the global financial system,” said Senator Shaheen. Read the full bill text HERE. BACKGROUND Senator Budd and Shaheen previously introduced the bipartisan resolution in 2023, during the 118th Congress. ### 1 2026-05-01T06:06:26Z 2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/04/29/budd-warner-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-collect-data-on-ais-impact-on-the-american-workforce-to-guide-lawmakers/ Budd, Warner Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Collect Data on AI’s Impact on the American Workforce to Guide Lawmakers 2026-04-29 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) recently introduced the Workforce Transparency Act, which would establish a federal framework to collect timely data to guide policymakers in developing evidence-based solutions around Artificial Intelligence’s (AI) impact on the American workforce. Under this bipartisan bill, the Department of Labor (DOL) will collect data on AI usage from the public and private sectors and make that data publicly available so that researchers and businesses, as well as local, state, and federal governments, can use that data to better understand how AI is driving changes in employment. “As we adopt AI technologies that will enhance Americans’ capabilities in the workplace, policymakers must ensure that we are equipped with real-time data that informs us on how novel technologies are changing employee behavior. I am proud to join Senator Warner to help establish a channel that shares new data around the expansion of productivity we are seeing as a result of innovation,” said Senator Budd. “As AI is being developed, deployed, and integrated across industries, we’re already seeing it have a measurable effect on the U.S. workforce, and we know that its impact is only going to grow. It’s critical that everyone has access to accurate and timely information that can prepare them for a changing labor market,” said Senator Warner. This legislation is supported by Anthropic, the Alliance for Secure AI, the Business Software Alliance, Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, SCSP Action Program, SeedAI, and Stanford’s Dr. Erik Brynjolfsson. “More than a hundred thousand Americans have already lost their jobs due to AI-driven layoffs, and that number will grow as companies integrate AI more deeply. We need better data to understand what’s happening and craft policies that prepare the American people for the economic and workforce disruption that AI will create. Senators Warner and Budd are taking an important first step to address this issue. By creating a channel for compani… 1 2026-05-13T06:12:22Z 2026-05-13T06:13:52Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/4/tillis-statement-on-powell-investigation Tillis Statement on Powell Investigation 2026-04-26 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement: “I have been clear from the start: the U.S. Attorney’s Office criminal investigation into Chair Powell was a serious threat to the Fed’s independence, and it needed to end before I could support Kevin Warsh’s confirmation. I welcome the Inspector General's investigation. This is a necessary and appropriate measure, and I have confidence it will be conducted thoroughly and professionally. “I take the Department of Justice at its word: the investigation is closed, and any appeal of Judge Boasberg’s ruling will be with respect to legal principles and not for the purpose of reissuing subpoenas. Only a criminal referral from the inspector general would cause a reopening of the investigation. “With these assurances, I look forward to supporting Kevin Warsh’s confirmation. He is an outstanding nominee, and it is time for the Federal Reserve to move beyond this distraction and return its full attention to its mission.” ### 1 2026-04-28T06:05:12Z 2026-04-28T06:07:17Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/04/23/budd-announces-approval-of-238-million-in-helene-public-assistance/ Budd Announces Approval of $238+ Million in Helene Public Assistance Thanks to Secretary Mullin’s DHS Reforms 2026-04-23 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper DisasterPW#FEMA ShareFederal Cost ShareType of GrantSummary482700053(2)$1,408,031.6490%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Buncombe County: State Route 2153 Ivy Hill Road Bridge Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $1,408,031.64 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. During the incident period, Tropical Storm Helene made landfall generating strong winds, storm surge, and flooding, causing damage to roads throughout North Carolina. As a result, state route 2153 Ivy Hill Road bridge sustained catastrophic damages. In response to the event, the applicant will utilize contract resources for full replacement of the bridge, to restore it back to its pre-disaster function utilizing best construction practices and applicable codes and standards. Work to be completed includes architectural and engineering design services, and the demolition and replacement of a 1,820 square foot (SF) bridge. The cost estimate was generated using FEMA’s Rapid Assessment with Public Infrastructure Data (RAPID). This program uses geospatial and aerial imagery as well as available Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and State Department of Transportation (DOT) data to develop a conceptual estimate for known public infrastructure. The scope of work will be updated/versioned at the appropriate time when the method of repair and surveys/assessments are completed. Version 0 (V0) was written to capture the demolition of the damaged bridge, the approaches, site excavation, and architectural and engineering costs. The cost of this version was $1,388,660.00 funded at a 75% federal cost share = $1,041,495.00. Version 1 (V1) was written to capture a cost share adjustment from 75% to 90%. The cost of this version was $208,299.00. Version 2 (V2) is being written to capture the work to be completed for the design and construction of the replacement bridge. … 1 2026-04-24T05:51:25Z 2026-04-24T05:53:00Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/04/22/budd-shaheen-lead-three-bill-package-to-enhance-american-airpower-and-boost-defense-industrial-base/ Budd, Shaheen Lead Three-Bill Package to Enhance American Airpower and Boost Defense Industrial Base 2026-04-22 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, led several of their colleagues in introducing a robust bipartisan legislative package of three bills focused on elevating and preserving the dominance of American military airpower in modern warfare. The Airpower Acceleration Act would ensure strategic and generational investment in American air superiority by expanding fighter aircraft production, providing financial stability to the Defense Industrial Base, saving taxpayer dollars, and recapitalizing aged aircraft with modern fighters to ensure our combat aviators prevail in conflict. Read the full bill text HERE. The Retention Enhancements for Tactical Aircrew Initiative (RETAIN) Act would focus on retaining mid-career Air Force aviators by increasing Aviation Incentive Pay for more experienced pilots, authorizing greater and more flexible Aviation Bonus options, and expanding non-monetary incentives, such as minimizing Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. Read the full bill text HERE. The Fighter Aircrew Career Flexibility Act would establish a program that permits a one-time career intermission for Fighter Pilots and Weapon Systems Officers (WSOs). The purpose of this program is to permit targeted service intermissions to reduce the number of fighter aircrew separating from active duty and correct the most acute pilot manning challenges for the Air Force. Read the full bill text HERE. U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) joined in co-sponsoring the legislative package. “The future of American military dominance relies on maintaining our air superiority, and the path forward is clear – rebuild our Defense Industrial Base through restoring our combat aircraft forces and retaining experienced aviators. We cannot afford to fall behind China, and that is why Senator Shaheen and I have brought forward a robust, bipartisan legislative package that gives the U.S.… 1 2026-04-23T05:48:52Z 2026-04-23T05:50:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/04/21/budd-joins-durbin-cruz-in-introducing-bipartisan-resolution-urging-release-of-political-prisoners-in-communist-china/ Budd Joins Durbin, Cruz in Introducing Bipartisan Resolution Urging Release of Political Prisoners in Communist China 2026-04-21 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and a bipartisan group of Senators in calling on President Trump to prioritize securing the release of Pastor Erza Jin, Pastor Gao Quanfu and his wife Pang Yu, Dr. Gulshan Abbas, and Jimmy Lai in future meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The resolution also urges President Trump to prioritize securing their release during his visit to China this month. “It is well known that Communist China is a leading violator of internationally recognized human rights, unjustly imprisoning or detaining individuals to suppress their freedom of religion or speech. I stand with my colleagues in urging President Trump to advocate for the release of Pastor Ezra Jin, Pastor Gao Quanfu and his wife, Pang Yu, Dr. Gulshan Abbas, and Jimmy Lai at the upcoming U.S.-China summit. Their wrongful detentions are completely unacceptable,” said Senator Budd. “No one should fear for their lives or political imprisonment for standing up for democracy and freedom. While the Chinese have worked with my office on such cases in the past and made some important gestures, it’s time for the immediate release of Dr. Gulshan Abbas, Pastor Jin Mingri, Pastor Gao Quanfu and Pang Yu, and Jimmy Lai. I urge President Trump to raise their cases with Chinese President Xi Jinping when he visits China in the near future,” said Senator Durbin. “The Chinese Communist Party is a brutal authoritarian regime, and those under its rule face persecution, violence, and even execution for their beliefs. I’m grateful to stand with Senator Durbin to hold the CCP accountable, secure the release of wrongly detained individuals, and deliver justice for the victims of its abuses,” said Senator Cruz U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and John Curtis (R-Utah)… 1 2026-04-22T05:46:42Z 2026-04-22T05:48:06Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/04/20/senator-budd-introduces-bill-to-provide-transparency-on-medicaid-spending-resulting-from-marijuana-use/ Senator Budd Introduces Bill To Provide Transparency on Medicaid Spending Resulting From Marijuana Use 2026-04-20 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) introduced the Marijuana Impact on Medicaid Act today, which would require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to collect data on Medicaid spending associated with both hospital inpatient and outpatient care, as well as emergency room visits that result from marijuana use. “The health consequences tied to marijuana use are serious, leading to increased risk for heart attacks, strokes, psychotic disorders, and further addictions. When legislating on this issue, Congress needs to put the health and safety of the American people first, full stop. This is exactly why lawmakers need access to reliable data that details Medicaid spending associated with marijuana abuse. Millions of Americans rely on Medicaid healthcare benefits, and my legislation will ensure Congress understands the dangers of this drug and its impact on federally funded health programs,” said Senator Budd. “Marijuana is a dangerous drug. The average THC potency in marijuana has more than tripled since 1995. High-potency marijuana is an increasingly concerning threat to public health. It is important for Congress and HHS to understand the costs and impact to healthcare of increased marijuana usage,” said Senator Ricketts. Read the full bill text HERE. The Marijuana Impact on Medicaid Act is supported by Smart Approaches to Marijuana. “We enthusiastically support this important piece of legislation which advances public awareness of marijuana’s costs to society. Senator Budd’s bill calls for an accounting of taxpayer-funded health programs and the impact of normalizing this dangerous drug on their costs—and that’s long overdue. In study after study, significant data appear linking marijuana to serious physical and mental health issues like heart attacks and schizophrenia. Enough is enough,” said Kevin A. Sabet, CEO, Smart Approaches to Marijuana. BACKGROUND In addition to collecting data on Medicaid costs associated with marijuana use, the Marijuana Impact on Medicaid Act would mandate the… 1 2026-04-21T05:46:59Z 2026-04-21T05:48:34Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/04/01/budd-issues-statement-after-fema-announces-an-additional-103-million-for-recovery-efforts/ Budd Issues Statement After FEMA Announces an Additional $103 Million for Hurricane Helene and Florence Recovery Efforts 2026-04-01 2026 2026-04 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper TOTAL PROJECT COSTFEMA SHAREFEDERAL COST SHAREGRANT TYPESUMMARY$8,060,251.06$6,045,188.3075%PATOWN OF NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH – Engineered Beach Declaration Date: 9/14/2018 This award provides $6,045,188.30 in federal funding to the town of North Topsail Beach for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4393-NC (Hurricane Florence). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,581,049.63$1,581,049.63100%PAWATAUGA COUNTY Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $1,581,049.63 in federal funding to Watauga County for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.$1,617,601.72$1,617,601.72100%PARUTHERFORD COUNTY – 100% Federal Cost Share: 2/16/2025 and 3/24/2025 Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $1,617,601.72 in federal funding to Rutherford County for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $5,430,655.00$4,887,589.5090%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Mitchell County: State Route 197 Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $4,887,589.50 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $6,237,862.58$6,237,862.58100%PAAVERY COUNTY Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $6,237,862.58 in federal funding to Avery County for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $29,037,189.11$29,037,189.1190%PAWATAUGA COUNTY SCHOOLS – Valle Crucis School Building Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $26,133,470.20 in federal funding to the Watauga County Schools for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm … 1 2026-04-02T05:33:17Z 2026-04-02T05:34:59Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/27/budd-joins-cornyn-colleagues-to-introduce-the-dalilahs-law-act/ Budd Joins Cornyn, Colleagues to Introduce Bill Preventing Illegal Aliens from Receiving Commercial Driver’s Licenses 2026-03-27 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) in introducing the Dalilah’s Law Act, which would create new criminal and civil penalties for illegal aliens who obtain or use Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL) as well as the Democrat-led states that issue CDLs to these illegal aliens. This legislation delivers on President Trump’s State of the Union remarks calling on Congress to take action before any more American lives are threatened or lost on our roadways due to unvetted, untrained illegal alien commercial drivers. “Far too many innocent Americans have faced life-altering consequences due to the actions of illegal aliens and the negligence of sanctuary states. A five-year-old little girl is now living with significant injuries because an illegal alien recklessly drove an 80,000-pound commercial vehicle after being issued a CDL by the state of California. This cannot happen again. I am proud to join Senator Cornyn in introducing the Dalilah’s Law Act to ensure that no state bypasses necessary driver vetting requirements when an illegal alien attempts to obtain a CDL,” said Senator Budd. “It is reprehensible that innocent Americans like Dalilah Coleman continue to pay the price for Democrats’ open-border policies, which have led to illegal aliens – who cannot speak English or read our road signs – dangerously operating massive commercial vehicles on our roadway. Our bill would build on President Trump’s State of the Union remarks honoring Dalilah to put an end to this pull factor and hold illegal alien drivers and the sanctuary states that enable them accountable,” said Senator Cornyn. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) also joined in introducing the legislation. Read the full bill text HERE. BACKGROUND In 2024, Partap Singh, an illegal alien from India, caused a multi-car pileup while driving a commercial 18-wheeler in California. Even though he was an illegal alien, California still issued Singh a C… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/27/budd-joins-moran-colleagues-in-requesting-briefing-on-joint-task-force-to-hold-october-7th-attack-perpetrators-accountable/ Budd Joins Moran, Colleagues in Requesting Briefing on Joint Task Force to Hold October 7th Attack Perpetrators Accountable 2026-03-27 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and several of his Senate Republican colleagues in requesting that United States Attorney General Pam Bondi and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel convene a briefing on the Joint Task Force October 7 to update Congress on efforts to investigate and prosecute terrorist networks such as Hamas. In light of the recent string of violent incidents and terror attacks with antisemitic motivations, the senators also requested that the task force provide recommendations for legislative action to further strengthen efforts to identify terrorist support networks and monitor potential domestic radicalization. In the letter, the Senators wrote, “Ensuring that the perpetrators of this attack are brought to justice is a necessary step in not only upholding the rule of law but protecting American interests. We write to express our strong support for the joint task force and to request a congressional briefing on its progress and future priorities. Specifically, we would appreciate additional information regarding the number of individuals or entities held accountable to date, the number of investigations currently underway, and any recommendations the task force may have for congressional action.” “The events of October 7 underscored the ongoing and evolving nature of the global terrorist threat and the risks it poses to the United States, our allies, and our national security,” continued the senators. “In recent weeks, a series of violent incidents and terror attacks with antisemitic motivations or links to extremist rhetoric, both abroad and here at home, have further reinforced the urgency of this work.” U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), James Risch (R-Idaho), and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) also joine… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/27/budd-leads-farm-stability-act-to-stabilize-agricultural-labor-costs/ Budd Leads FARM Stability Act to Stabilize Agricultural Labor Costs 2026-03-27 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led several of his Senate colleagues in introducing the Farmworker Access and Retention Modernization (FARM) Stability Act today, which would codify the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) initiative to stabilize agricultural labor costs. This legislation aims to provide farmers with greater certainty and clarity when forecasting labor costs as they plan for future growing seasons. “As labor costs continue to climb, our nation’s farmers and ranchers deserve to know the price tag associated with keeping their operations going. Agriculture is North Carolina’s leading industry and a cornerstone of our economy, but without a stable, reliable workforce, our producers cannot plan, threatening both their livelihoods and our nation’s food supply. The DOL has helped provide farmers with the transparency they deserve, but now we must ensure agricultural labor costs remain affordable by passing the FARM Stability Act,” said Senator Budd. “Farmers are extremely resourceful and resilient, but their success depends on circumstances beyond their control. Ensuring they can secure a dependable agriculture workforce will lift a major burden on them and help provide needed certainty. I’m proud to join Senator Budd in championing the FARM Stability Act to bring reliable and affordable labor to farm operations across the country,” said Senator Boozman. “Farmers across South Carolina have been struggling with skyrocketing labor costs and an Adverse Effect Wage Rate that simply hasn’t reflected reality. That’s why I’m helping to lead the FARM Stability Act, which establishes a clear, fair, and consistent wage rate for agricultural workers. These reforms will help deliver the stability and predictability our farmers need to keep feeding our nation, while continuing to protect wages in the H-2A program,” said Senator Scott. “The skyrocketing labor costs hitting Mississippi farmers are threatening their operations and their ability to put food on American tables. The FARM Stability Act ta… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/26/budd-ernst-lead-abraham-accords-defense-cooperation-act/ Budd, Ernst Lead Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Act to Deter Iranian Aggression Across the Middle East 2026-03-26 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced the Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Act today, which would require the U.S. Secretary of Defense to establish a defense cooperation initiative to strengthen regional defense partnerships between Abraham Accords countries and encourage other Arab nations to join the normalization agreements. Additionally, this bill would establish a funding stream for military cooperation amongst Abraham Accords countries to deter aggression from Iran and its proxies across the Middle East. “Many of our Arab allies in the Middle East, such as Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), signatories of the Abraham Accords, remain in the crosshairs of Iranian missiles and drones. Iran continues to carry out attacks not only on regional Arab allies but is also intentionally targeting American military installations in the region and our ally Israel. For far too long Iran—the world’s greatest sponsor of state terror—and its proxies have threatened U.S. national and economic security while also disrupting peace in the Middle East. By bolstering defense cooperation among Abraham Accords countries, we can strengthen regional partnerships and fortify deterrence against Iranian aggression,” said Senator Budd. “The Abraham Accords delivered what Iran fears most, a united front committed to peace instead of chaos. As co-chair of the bipartisan Abraham Accords Caucus, I have been proud to build upon the success of the Accords through my DEFEND Act and now through the Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Act to unite our partners against Iran-backed terror. When our partners are prepared to deter the Iranian regime and its proxies, our world and our homeland are safer,” said Senator Ernst. Read the full bill text HERE. BACKGROUND The historic Abraham Accords, negotiated by the United States in 2020, set the stage for a renewed era of cooperation in the Middle East. These diplomatic agreements sought to b… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/25/budd-kaine-lead-bipartisan-letter-urging-president-trump-to-advocate-for-pastor-ezra-jins-release/ Budd, Kaine Lead Bipartisan Letter Urging President Trump to Advocate for Pastor Ezra Jin’s Release Ahead of U.S.-China Summit 2026-03-25 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Reps. Riley Moore and Thomas Suozzi lead letter in the House Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) Tim Kaine (D-Va.), alongside U.S. Representatives Riley Moore (R-W.Va.-02) and Thomas Suozzi (D-N.Y.-03), led twenty-nine of their colleagues in sending a bipartisan, bicameral letter to President Trump advocating for the release of Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri, lead pastor of Zion Church, ahead of the President’s upcoming meeting with Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Lawmakers also called President Trump’s attention to the many other Christian leaders imprisoned in China due to the PRC’s violent crackdown on unsanctioned churches. Additionally, the lawmakers urged the Administration to use authorities under the International Religious Freedom Act to impose targeted sanctions and visa restrictions to address severe violations of religious freedom in China. In the letter, the lawmakers wrote, “We encourage you to advocate for their release and request the PRC to allow Mr. Jin to leave China, in addition to raising concerns regarding the ongoing unjust imprisonment and persecution of Christians, Tibetans, and Uyghurs, among other religious and ethnic minority groups across China. … “These abuses include arbitrary detentions, lengthy prison sentences, forced closures of places of worship, destruction of religious property, and surveillance and intimidation of clergy and congregants. … “Through the International Religious Freedom Act, the Administration is empowered to use targeted sanctions and increase reporting and diplomatic engagement to support your efforts to address severe violations of individuals’ right to freedom of religion.” U.S. Senators James Lankford (R-Okla.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Bill Cassidy (… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/3/tillis-statement-on-the-save-america-act Tillis Statement on the SAVE America Act 2026-03-19 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), issued the following statement on the SAVE America Act: “I am one of the few members of Congress who has actually passed a voter ID law (on a bipartisan basis), which I did as Speaker of the House in North Carolina, and that’s why I proudly co-sponsored the SAVE Act. While I support strengthening mail-in ballot integrity, many states like Utah, Florida, Alaska, and Montana rely on the use of mail-in ballots to conduct their elections, and we should not be completely upending how states already securely conduct their elections. Even if this issue is fixed, the SAVE America Act still will not have the 60 votes required to pass it. “While the so-called ‘talking filibuster’ has been floated as an option, there is a reason why previous attempts to utilize it in recent history have failed. A ‘talking filibuster’ would effectively make Chuck Schumer the new Senate Majority Leader, allowing Democrats to block every single Trump judge and executive branch nominee, and allow them to force endless votes on anything they want. Democrats would control the floor of the U.S. Senate until the end of the year. “There are only two ways out of a ‘talking filibuster.’ The first is for Democrats to miraculously give up and allow Republicans to pass the bill with a simple majority. That is never going to happen, and anyone who claims it’s even a remote possibility is either completely misinformed or intentionally misleading the American people. “The second way is for Republicans to substantially weaken or eliminate the filibuster altogether. I have made it crystal clear that I will never vote to do this. Eliminating the filibuster is a foolish and lazy idea pushed by politicians seeking short-term gain at the expense of causing irreparable long-term harm to our nation. Succeeding in eliminating the filibuster would significantly weaken the minority party, end the need for bipartisan compromise, and allow erratic swings in policy that would transform America for the worse. Those… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/18/budd-klobuchar-cortez-masto-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-modernize-outdated-technology-at-9-1-1-call-centers-nationwide/ Budd, Klobuchar, Cortez Masto Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Modernize Outdated Technology at 9-1-1 Call Centers Nationwide 2026-03-18 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), co-chairs of the Senate Next Generation 9-1-1 Caucus and members of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, were joined by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) in introducing the bipartisan Next Generation 9-1-1 Act to accelerate federal efforts to modernize our nation’s outdated 9-1-1 systems. This bill provides funding to state and local governments to deploy modern technology upgrades at 9-1-1 call centers to enable operators to utilize text messages, pictures, videos, and other information sent by smartphones, tablets, and other devices during an emergency. “Our nation’s 9-1-1 call centers are on the front lines of emergency response, but outdated technologies have limited the ability of operators to best assist callers in crisis and support first responders in the field. It’s time to bring 9-1-1 systems into the digital age so emergency personnel can respond faster and more effectively to medical emergencies, crimes, and natural disasters in our communities. I am proud to join Senators Klobuchar and Cortez Masto in introducing practical legislation to modernize our 9-1-1 systems to meet the demands of the 21st Century and help save lives,” said Senator Budd. “Infrastructure is more than just roads and bridges—it also includes critical technologies. We must bring our 9-1-1 systems into the 21st century by providing state and local governments with the resources they need to update our emergency response networks and keep our communities safe. In a crisis, no one should be put in danger because of outdated 9-1-1 systems, and first responders, public safety officials, and law enforcement must be able to communicate seamlessly. This legislation will enable them to do just that,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Recent communications technology advancements have helped us stay connected and support our first responders. Unfortunately, our 9-1-1 systems haven’t kept up. This bipartisan legislation will support updated… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/3/tillis-statement-on-powell-investigation Tillis Statement on Powell Investigation 2026-03-13 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement: “This ruling confirms just how weak and frivolous the criminal investigation of Chairman Powell is and it is nothing more than a failed attack on Fed independence. We all know how this is going to end and the D.C. U.S. Attorney’s Office should save itself further embarrassment and move on. Appealing the ruling will only delay the confirmation of Kevin Warsh as the next Fed Chair.” ### 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/11/budd-secures-key-provisions-in-weather-act-to-improve-hurricane-forecasting-and-update-radar-technology/ Budd Secures Key Provisions in Weather Act to Improve Hurricane Forecasting and Update Radar Technology 2026-03-11 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, secured two of his bills as provisions in the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Reauthorization Act of 2026, which was unanimously passed out of committee last week. The two Budd-led provisions include the Hurricane Forecast Improvement Program and the Radar Next Program. “For well over a year, I have worked with local, state, and federal officials to coordinate recovery efforts for Western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. Through my efforts, I have identified significant gaps in our weather system that must be addressed to ensure future storms are tracked as effectively and efficiently as possible, preventing loss of life and property. Following storms of mass destruction, we can only learn to be better prepared. I am proud that two of my bills have been included as provisions to this year’s Weather Act to enhance the accuracy of hurricane forecasts, predictions, and warnings, and modernize our radar technology to increase warning lead times. We cannot afford to be unprepared when the next great storm strikes,” said Senator Budd. Read the full bill text HERE. BACKGROUND The Weather Act updates the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) research and forecasting programs to ensure the agency remains focused on public safety by modernizing weather systems and upgrading critical safety systems. Below is a summary of the Budd-led provisions included in the final package of the Weather Act: Hurricane Forecast Improvement Program Enhancement Act: Enhances the Hurricane Forecast Improvement Program at NOAA by developing and extending accurate hurricane forecasts, predictions, and warnings to reduce loss of life, injury, and damage to the economy. This legislative provision would: Improve the prediction of rapid intensification and the track of hurricanes; Improve the forecast and communication of storm surges from hurricanes; Incorporate risk communica… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/06/budd-warnock-introduce-bill-to-create-task-force-to-reform-the-deployment-of-federal-disaster-aid/ Budd, Warnock Introduce Bill to Create Task Force to Reform the Deployment of Federal Disaster Aid 2026-03-06 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) introduced the bipartisan Disaster Recovery Improvement Act this week to establish the Disaster Recovery Improvement Task Force. The interagency task force would take input from local leaders, including county commissioners and governors, to evaluate necessary reforms needed to strengthen federal government programs responsible for providing disaster aid and resources to communities in the wake of major natural disasters, including hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, and earthquakes. “For well over a year, I have worked with DHS to unlock FEMA funding for Western North Carolina that has been stuck in longstanding regulatory bottlenecks. Through that work, I’ve also uncovered additional gaps in our federal disaster response, including programs run by other agencies that have slowed recovery efforts. This cannot continue. Reform is clearly needed to fix these programs which is why Senator Warnock and I have put forth a solution to establish a task force that would bring local, state, and federal officials together to eliminate hurdles holding back the deployment disaster relief,” said Senator Budd. “When disaster strikes, Georgians should not have to navigate a confusing, bureaucratic maze to rebuild their lives. Lately, the federal government has not acted with the urgency our neighbors need when they are hurting, and Georgians have felt these delays,” said Senator Warnock. “This bipartisan task force Senator Budd and I are proposing would bring local and federal leaders to the same table so we can better deliver relief to the people who need it most.” The Disaster Recovery Improvement Act is supported by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC). “The voice of county leaders is critical in disaster recovery. We appreciate Senator Budd’s recognition of that fact by including county-level input in his proposed legislation, which seeks to craft meaningful reforms for disaster recovery programs that span num… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/05/budd-baldwin-cotton-blunt-rochester-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-stop-dot-from-using-lidar-technologies-china-uses-to-spy-on-america/ Budd, Baldwin, Cotton, Blunt Rochester Lead Bipartisan Bill to Stop DOT from Using LiDAR Technologies China Uses to Spy on America 2026-03-05 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, led his colleagues, Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) in introducing the Securing Infrastructure from Adversaries Act today. This bipartisan legislation would prohibit the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) from purchasing or deploying light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technologies from malign foreign actors, including China, that could be used for military or industrial espionage. “U.S. military installations and homeland security operations have already been targeted by Chinese espionage. By failing to hold DOT to the same standard as DoD, we are leaving the door wide open for China to continue using LiDAR technologies that could allow our leading adversary to map and shut down U.S. critical infrastructure without warning. That is a national security gamble we cannot afford to take. I am proud to lead my colleagues in introducing common-sense legislation to ensure our enemies, like China, find no refuge in using LiDAR technology to spy on the homeland,” said Senator Budd. “We cannot allow our adversaries like China to get their hands on Americans’ sensitive data. Period. I’m proud to work with Republicans and Democrats to cut off potential avenues for countries like China to surveil us and our infrastructure and keep Wisconsin families, servicemembers, and communities safe from foreign threats,” said Senator Baldwin. “Chinese technology collecting data on American infrastructure and Arkansans going about their daily lives poses a grave threat to our national security and homeland security. Our bill will secure our homes and critical infrastructure and keep our adversaries in the dark,” said Senator Cotton. “We must take threats from our adversaries seriously, including efforts to compromise our infrastructure. Emerging technologies like LiDAR collect highly sensitive information that, in the wrong hands, could jeopardize our n… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/04/budd-coons-lead-bipartisan-coalition-to-reauthorize-the-u-s-commission-on-international-religious-freedom/ Budd, Coons Lead Bipartisan Coalition to Reauthorize the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom 2026-03-04 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) lead a bipartisan coalition including Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in introducing legislation to reauthorize the independent, bipartisan United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) today. The bipartisan bill would ensure the commission, set to expire on September 30, 2026, can continue its work to monitor religious freedom around the world. “Since its inception in 1998, USCIRF has played an indispensable role in exposing violations of religious freedom around the world through reporting and providing recommendations to strengthen U.S. foreign policy. Every day, Christians, Jews, Muslims, and other religious minorities face brutal and unjust persecution, imprisonment, terrorism, and even death for practicing their faith. These assaults on religious freedom, impacting religious minorities in countries such as China, Nigeria, Iran, Syria, North Korea, and Russia, cannot go unaddressed. Alongside Senator Coons, I am proud to lead a strong bipartisan coalition to reauthorize this vital commission and ensure their work continues at this pivotal moment,” said Senator Budd. “As co-chair of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, I know far too many people around the world are unfairly and brutally targeted for their beliefs. The right to worship whomever you want – or no one at all – is fundamental to democracy and stability around the world. I’m proud to once again lead this bipartisan effort to highlight the importance of promoting international religious freedom everywhere and for all persons, regardless of belief or non-belief, sexual orientation, gender, race, or other protected classes,” said Senator Coons. “Religious freedom is the cornerstone of American society and the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom helps to safeguard this most inherent right. I’m proud to work with my colleague, Senator Budd… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/03/03/senator-budd-chairs-subcommittee-hearing-to-evaluate-innovative-deployment-of-ai-to-support-workforce-healthcare-and-industry/ Senator Budd Chairs Subcommittee Hearing to Evaluate Innovative Deployment of AI to Support Workforce, Healthcare, and Industry 2026-03-03 2026 2026-03 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper “Innovation is the lifeblood of the American economy.” Washington, D.C. — In his opening statement at today’s Senate Subcommittee on Science, Manufacturing, and Competitiveness hearing, Chairman Ted Budd (R-N.C.) discussed the potential to maximize the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver a higher quality workforce, healthcare, industry, and productivity for Americans. Watch the full hearing HERE. Below are Senator Budd’s opening remarks as prepared for delivery and several of his questions for the witnesses: “Thank you, Ranking Member Baldwin, Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and our witnesses for working to put this important hearing together. “Artificial Intelligence will undoubtedly usher in significant improvements in quality of life for the American people. It will make many workplaces safer and more productive, helping to increase output, raise wages, and grow the economy. It will enhance manufacturing capabilities, especially those of critical importance to our economic and national security, such as semiconductors and those in the defense industrial base. It will make it easier to reshore manufacturing through human-enhancing automation and digital twinning simulation. “Smart systems and devices have the potential to revolutionize healthcare, improving early detection of diseases such as cancer and helping people with disabilities live better lives, not by replacing doctors, but by augmenting their diagnostic and treatment capabilities. AI-enabled research, aided by self-driving cloud labs, could massively reduce barriers to the discovery of new drugs. AI’s potential in the healthcare industry presents unique opportunities to save and improve lives. “I have also noted that, as I travel the state, some North Carolinians share concerns about the growth of AI and automated or autonomous technology. There is a natural hesitancy toward technology that may disrupt incumbent industries or systems. It is normal to worry about the impacts of advancement on your job, your children, and your… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/27/budd-announces-tens-of-millions-of-fema-funding-for-north-carolina/ Budd Announces Tens-of-Millions of FEMA Funding for North Carolina, Including Long Awaited Funding for Helene, COVID-19 Pandemic 2026-02-27 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper TOTAL PROJECT COSTFEMA SHAREFEDERAL COST SHAREGRANT TYPESUMMARY$2,503,430.95$2,503,430.95100%PATOWN OF BILTMORE FOREST Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $2,503,430.95 in federal funding to the town of Biltmore Forest for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $3,364,167.90$3,364,167.90100%PACOUNTY OF ASHE Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $3,364,167.90 in federal funding to the county of Ashe for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,916,520.68$1,916,520.68100%PAMADISON COUNTY – Emergency Support Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $1,916,520.68 in federal funding to Madison County for emergency protective measures as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $6,983,492.05$6,983,492.05100%PABLUE RIDGE ELECTRIC MEMBERSHIP – Electric Distribution System Emergency Support Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $6,983,492.05 in federal funding to the Blue Ridge Electric Membership for emergency protective measures as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $7,577,605.79$7,577,605.79100%$7,577,605.79BURKE COUNTY Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $7,577,605.79 in federal funding to Burke County for Public Assistance Alternative Procedures Debris Removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 428 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,754,682.76$1,579,214.4990%PAMETROPOLITAN SEWERAGE DISTRICT OF BUNCOMBE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA – Sewer Line System Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $1,579,214.49 in federal funding to the Metropolitan Sewerage District of Buncomb… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/27/icymi-senator-budd-discusses-powering-the-ai-age-at-washington-post-live/ ICYMI: Senator Budd Discusses Powering the AI Age at Washington Post Live 2026-02-27 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper “I don’t worry about being replaced because humanity is going to be collaborating with AI. Let’s remember that AI exists inside of human ingenuity.” Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, was a featured guest speaker at The Washington Post Live event “Building America: Powering the AI Age” this week. Senator Budd sat down with Dan Merica, co-anchor of the Post’s “Early Brief” flagship political newsletter, where he discussed a range of topics related to the future of artificial intelligence (AI). See excerpts below: Building an AI-Ready Workforce “I’m a small business owner, and I remember looking at the monthly financial statements, sharing them with the team … and you can see the look of panic on their eyes. And then they thought, well, is this the end of their job? Because now there are comments on the financial statements from one of the AI tools. And I was like, no, no, no. We’re going to do more with this team, rather than the same work with less people. So, I think we need to realize this is an opportunity, and more of an opportunity than a threat.” “This goes back to my PELL Act in the Working Families Tax Cut. For American workers, the new skill is that of change and switching. Rather than massive job displacement, people can find new jobs by retooling and reskilling quickly.” “The PELL Act allows Pell money for quick credentialing. [Businesses] may need somebody who just needs an eight-week course to get retooled and reconfigured for the workforce. [This] gives them the tools and flexibility that they need.” Competing with China “We cannot afford to be behind in AI.” “[China] is working at three to four times the population of the U.S. So, they will be adding more [power to their grid]. … We need to add about 85 gigawatts per year in order to keep pace with our demand. Creating More Energy “Power is good. If we’re going to compete as a country, we need more energy. We’re going to run out. … If you’re going to pr… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/26/budd-introduces-home-investment-partnerships-program/ Budd Introduces Bill to Help Expand Access to Downpayment Assistance, Increase Grant Limits to Help Build More Affordable Homes 2026-02-26 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) introduced legislation today to expand and modernize eligibility requirements for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program. These funds currently support the construction of affordable owner-occupied homes, housing rehabilitation, and first-time homebuyer assistance. The HOME Expansion Act would help more Americans afford homeownership without increasing federal spending, allow more Americans to repair their homes after disasters, and support the construction of new affordable homes. “For too many families, the costs of buying a home hold them back from chasing this key component of the American Dream. With a shortage of affordable homes and rising demand, first-time homeowners must scrape together substantial savings just to cover closing costs and initial expenses, while shouldering high rents. My HOME Expansion Act will help more lower-income families afford homes and increase supply by expanding eligibility to existing assistance programs, without increasing federal spending,” said Senator Budd. Read the full bill text HERE. BACKGROUND HOME funds support six broad activities: new construction of owner-occupied housing, rehabilitation of owner-occupied housing, homebuyer assistance, new construction of rental housing, rehabilitation or acquisition of rental housing, and tenant-based rental assistance. Each year, HUD distributes 40% of appropriated HOME Funds to states and 60% to eligible localities. The HOME Expansion Act would: Expand eligibility for new construction or Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) projects in areas not already receiving assistance from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Modernize homeownership assistance by increasing the maximum purchase price allowed to receive HOME Program downpayment assistance from 95% to 110%. In the Charlotte metropolitan area, this makes a $451,500 home eligible for HOME Program downpayment assistance, versus the curre… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/25/sen-budd-rep-miller-lead-bill-to-close-loophole-exploited-by-illegal-aliens-employed-as-police-officers/ Sen. Budd, Rep. Miller Lead Bill to Close Loophole Exploited by Illegal Aliens Employed as Police Officers 2026-02-25 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and U.S. Representative Mary Miller (R-Ill.-15) led several of their Republican colleagues in introducing the bicameral Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act today. The legislation is aimed at prohibiting illegal aliens who work as armed law enforcement officers from possessing firearms or ammunition provided to them by a government entity, such as a police department. This bill aligns with existing federal law that already prohibits illegal aliens from possessing firearms or ammunition in the United States. “Illegal aliens have no Second Amendment rights. It is irresponsible for police departments to arm illegal aliens who have blatantly ignored our immigration laws with firearms and ammunition, let alone on the taxpayers’ dime. Federal law already prohibits those who enter our country illegally from possessing firearms, and it’s time we ensure illegal aliens working at local police departments are held to the same legal standard,” said Senator Budd. “Sanctuary policies in states like Illinois have gone so far as to allow illegal aliens to wear the badge and carry a firearm. That is a disgrace to every honorable officer and a threat to public safety. Law enforcement authority must be reserved for those who respect and uphold our laws, not those who are in violation of them,” said Representative Miller. “Illegal aliens do not have the right to possess firearms or ammunition in America. The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act would ensure local police departments that try to hire illegal aliens cannot provide them with guns or ammunition,” said Senator Blackburn. “This is common sense. Illegal aliens who have already broken our nation’s laws should certainly not be carrying a badge or a firearm. We hold our brave men and women in law enforcement to the highest standards and the Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act will only bolster those standards,” said Senator Mullin. “No one who enters the U.S. illegally should get to enjoy our God-given constitutional rights, including the right to … 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/19/budd-joins-cte-caucus-co-chairs-in-leading-bipartisan-resolution-to-recognize-february-as-career-and-technical-education-month/ Budd Joins CTE Caucus Co-Chairs in Leading Bipartisan Resolution to Recognize February as Career and Technical Education Month 2026-02-19 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined his Senate co-chairs on the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus, Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), in introducing a bipartisan resolution recognizing February 2026 as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. “Career and Technical Education programs don’t just help provide students with the skills they need to enter the workforce, they are pivotal to breaking the ‘bachelor’s or bust’, one-size-fits-all approach to education and career preparedness. CTE Month recognizes the programs and hard-working educators who have helped train millions of Americans with the expertise to go into the workforce and keep America building and innovating,” said Senator Budd. “Growing up working in our family’s ironworking business and later serving as the principal of a technical school in Honduras, I’ve seen firsthand the impact career and technical education can have on people. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to introduce this legislation and will continue to fight to expand access to CTE programming to ensure all Virginians have the skills they need to fill critical jobs,” said Senator Kaine. “This resolution recognizes the importance of career and technical education and encourages more educators and students to seek out CTE programs. Preparing the students of today for the jobs of tomorrow will lead to more opportunities, a stronger economy, and a highly skilled workforce,” said Senator Young. “I’m committed to creating pathways to connect Wisconsinites to good-paying careers in the trades and making sure businesses across the state have the workforce they need to grow and thrive. Career and Technical Education is a worthwhile investment in Wisconsin’s students, workforce, and future, and I’m proud to join my Republican and Democratic colleagues to show just that,” said Senator Baldwin. U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-Va.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blume… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/13/budd-fetterman-bipartisan-bill-to-create-network-of-ai-enabled-automated-labs-clears-committee-and-heads-to-senate-floor/ Budd, Fetterman Bipartisan Bill to Create Network of AI-Enabled Automated Labs Clears Committee and Heads to Senate Floor 2026-02-13 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and John Fetterman (D-Pa.), members of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statements after their National Programmable Cloud Lab Network (NPCLN) Act received overwhelming bipartisan support and passed out of committee yesterday. This legislation would create a national network of six remotely accessible programmable cloud laboratories (PCLs) for academic research, led by the National Science Foundation (NSF), and is now headed to the Senate floor. “Building out a national network of AI-enabled and automated labs would be a pivotal step in pushing the boundaries of American data integration and technological leadership. With North Carolina remaining at the forefront of American innovation, I am proud to be working with Senator Fetterman to advance the NPCLN Act to do just that. I appreciate the wide bipartisan support from my colleagues on the Senate Commerce Committee to get this legislation one step closer to the president’s desk,” said Senator Budd. “I’m glad to see the NPCLN Act pass the Senate Commerce Committee, bringing us one step closer to empowering researchers and developing cutting edge technologies in Pennsylvania and across our great country. This is an effort I’m proud to lead with Senator Budd, and I appreciate the work of my colleagues to ensure this network of cloud labs enables biotechnical research for the U.S. to lead in,” said Senator Fetterman. “Cloud labs are essential to accelerating scientific discovery and lowering barriers to innovation in North Carolina and beyond. We applaud Senator Budd and Senator Fetterman for leading the National Programmable Cloud Lab Network Act, a transformative step that expands access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and strengthens U.S. leadership, advance high-tech workforce development, and spur biotech innovation across life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and national security,” said Doug Edgeton, President and CEO, North Carolina Biotechnology … 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/13/budd-peters-hickenlooper-reintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-give-states-flexibility-to-respond-to-local-workforce-needs/ Budd, Peters, Hickenlooper Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Give States Flexibility to Respond to Local Workforce Needs 2026-02-13 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) in reintroducing the Lifelong Learning Act,which would provide states and Local Workforce Development Boards (LWDBs) with budgetary flexibility to implement programming that responds directly to local employment needs. The bipartisan legislation would update the 2014 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to allocate additional resources to workforce training programs that address current talent shortages by upskilling existing employees and reconnecting individuals to the job market. “In today’s labor market, practical knowledge and on-the-job training are essential, especially for workers who may have lost their jobs or who face some career uncertainty. Increasing funding flexibility for training programs and offering Workforce Development Boards more leeway is critical for modernizing the American workforce and closing the skills gap. I am proud to join Sen. Peters and Hickenlooper in this bipartisan effort that will help workers and employers alike keep our economy moving forward,” said Senator Budd. “I’m proud to lead this commonsense legislation that would allow local workforce development leaders, who know their communities best, to implement the right strategies for strengthening their regional job markets. This bipartisan legislation empowers communities to respond to changing employment needs and connect more individuals to in-demand jobs,” said Senator Peters. “If we want a workforce that can keep up with a changing economy, we have to give local communities the flexibility to adapt. This bill modernizes training programs and ensures investments go towards what actually works for Coloradans so they can succeed in the future,” said Senator Hickenlooper. The Lifelong Learning Act is endorsed by Third Way and the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB). BACKGROUND The Lifelong Learning Act updates WIOA guidelines, allowing LWDBs to: • Utilize up to 30 percent of t… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/13/budd-welch-lujan-curtis-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-support-next-generation-of-aviation/ Budd, Welch, Luján, Curtis Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Next Generation of Aviation 2026-02-13 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, joined Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and John Curtis (R-Utah) in introducing the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act to streamline the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) type certification process for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft. This bipartisan legislation sets timelines and standards for FAA’s certification process to prevent gridlock and provide clarity to industry applicants without compromising air safety. This bill will bring transparency to FAA certification, helpAmerican AAM companies succeed, and cement the United States’ role as a global leader in aviation. “Innovative aircraft like eVTOLs promise to revolutionize America’s aviation system, but the certification process for new entrants to our airspace lacks clarity and efficiency, delaying next-generation advanced air mobility development. I am pleased to join Sen. Welch, Rep. Nehls, and our colleagues to introduce legislation that will ensure the FAA prioritizes timely certification of novel aircraft, allowing manufacturers to focus their efforts on developing their groundbreaking technology, not bureaucratic hurdles,” said Senator Budd. “Building on generations of leadership in aviation, American companies are spearheading electric aircraft innovation. That includes companies like Vermont’s Beta Technologies, which completed its historic, first-ever electric flight last year in South Burlington. Streamlining FAA certification processes and creating more transparency for emerging AAM companies like Beta is critical to chipping away at gridlock to keep up with our allies. I’m proud to join my colleagues on this bipartisan legislation that will bolster the United States’ storied legacy of global leadership in aviation—and support American and ingenuity and American jobs,” said Senator Welch. “American innovators are shaping the future of flight, and Congress must ensure our regul… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/12/budd-gillibrand-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-bilateral-defense-programs-between-the-u-s-and-israel/ Budd, Gillibrand Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Bilateral Defense Programs between the U.S. and Israel 2026-02-12 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral United States-Israel Framework for Upgraded Technologies, Unified Research, and Enhanced Security (FUTURES) Act today, which would strengthen cooperation on bilateral defense programs between the United States and Israel. This bill aims to expand and accelerate defense technology research, development, testing, evaluation, and industrial cooperation between both countries. “The U.S. has a long history of working with our ally Israel on defense programs to counter unmanned aerial systems from our adversaries, strengthen missile defense, and detect and neutralize underground tunnels threatening the security of our two respective countries. The U.S.-Israel FUTURES Act offers an opportunity to strengthen existing bilateral programs by advancing joint investments such as emerging technologies, defense industrial base cooperation, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology initiatives. I am proud to be working with Senator Gillibrand to advance regional security in the Middle East and strengthen U.S. and Israeli defense,” said Senator Budd. “This bipartisan initiative will enable long-term collaboration on shared security goals between the United States and our vital democratic ally Israel. We must strengthen our military and technological capabilities to counter continued and future threats in the region,” said Senator Gillibrand. U.S. Representatives Ronny Jackson (R-Texas-13) and Don Davis (D-N.C.-01) introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives. “This legislation secures America’s competitive edge in defense technology and reinforces our alliance with Israel, our greatest partner in the Middle East, to deter evolving global threats. Under President Trump’s leadership, we are ensuring the technological supremacy of our military and delivering the unmatched capabilities our warfighters need to dominate the battlefield and protect the American people,” said Congressman Jackson. “By… 1 2026-04-01T05:41:29Z 2026-04-01T05:42:36Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/11/budd-cassidy-lead-push-to-streamline-access-to-employer-directed-skills-programs-strengthen-americas-workforce/ Budd, Cassidy Lead Push to Streamline Access to Employer-Directed Skills Programs, Strengthen America’s Workforce 2026-02-11 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, reintroduced the Employer-Directed Skills Acttoday to revitalize America’s workforce by streamlining businesses’ access to skills programs under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). This legislation would give American businesses the opportunity to identify prospective employees to participate in training programs and select or design the training program that best meets their needs, while accessing WIOA funds to offset training costs. “The stability of America’s workforce depends upon investing in a modern approach to employee development, but outdated rules and red tape in the workforce system discourage businesses from accessing federal resources to close the skills gap to fill in-demand jobs. As companies continue to innovate, we cannot afford to delay providing our workforce with the necessary training to compete in today’s rapidly changing economy. The Employer-Directed Skills Act would unlock access for American businesses to take advantage of valuable skills development programs to recruit and retain qualified personnel to strengthen our workforce,” said Senator Budd. “Washington bureaucrats need to stop blocking good job opportunities. This bill cuts red tape and empowers workers with skills to succeed in a 21st century economy,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Our members consistently tell us that attracting and retaining skilled workers is their top priority. The Employer Directed Skills Act addresses this challenge by making WIOA funds more accessible, flexible, and effective for employers and workers alike. We are immensely grateful to Senator Budd and his team for their work on this bill and their commitment to strengthening and modernizing the skilled trades workforce,” said Barton James, President and CEO, Air Conditioning Contractors of America. “The labor shortage in our industry continues to be a major barrier to growth and me… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T17:26:08Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/11/budd-kim-lead-bipartisan-federal-banking-reform-effort-to-cut-red-tape-limiting-community-banks/ Budd, Kim Lead Bipartisan Federal Banking Reform Effort to Cut Red Tape Limiting Community Banks 2026-02-11 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), John Kennedy (R-La.), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) are introducing the Tailored Regulatory Updates for Supervisory Testing (TRUST) Act today, which would increase the examination threshold for well-managed institutions from $3 billion to $6 billion in total assets to qualify for an extended 18-month exam cycle. This bipartisan reform targets regulatory bottlenecks that subject low-risk community banks to unnecessarily frequent exams by federal banking regulators, diverting resources from serving their communities. Additionally, the TRUST Act would instead free up federal banking regulators to focus on riskier or larger institutions and increase efficiency. “The federal regulatory threshold for well-managed institutions has failed to keep up with inflation, industry consolidation, and modern risk management practices, and as a result has sacrificed both the resources and efficiency of our community banks. Increasing the statutory 18-month exam cycle asset threshold for community banks would free these small, low-risk institutions to do what they do best—provide financial resources to their communities, such as lending more to small businesses and offering more mortgages and private loans. The TRUST Act delivers responsible regulatory reforms that cut unnecessary red tape and modernize federal bank supervision,” said Senator Budd. “For rural and small towns left behind in bank deserts like we have in South Jersey, community banks are a game changer – driving economic and community development and supporting our small businesses and entire local economies. By uplifting the promise of community banking in this legislation, we give working families greater flexibility and help unlock paths to buying a home, new jobs, and the greater economic stability they deserve,” said Senator Kim. “Because Washington rules haven’t kept up with inflation, many community banks are tied up in unnecessarily frequent examinations. That isn’t right. Our TRUST Act … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T17:26:08Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/11/icymi-budds-trust-act-gains-strong-support-across-leading-bank-trade-groups/ ICYMI: Budd’s TRUST Act Gains Strong Support Across Leading Bank Trade Groups 2026-02-11 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd’s (R-N.C.) bipartisan Tailored Regulatory Updates for Supervisory Testing (TRUST) Act, aimed at increasing the examination threshold for well-managed institutions from $3 billion to $6 billion in total assets to qualify for an extended 18-month exam cycle. The TRUST Act would allow qualifying community banks to focus more on providing financial resources to Main Street, such as small-business lending and home mortgages. This landmark legislation has gained widespread support across major banking associations: “We thank Sen. Budd and Sen. Kim for introducing the TRUST Act and appreciate their leadership on this important issue. This legislation will help ensure bank regulations remain right-sized and that the examination process is appropriately tailored for community banks. We look forward to working with members of Congress and other stakeholders to move this commonsense bill forward as we continue our efforts to ensure statutory asset thresholds are indexed for growth so they remain relevant and effective over time,” said Rob Nichols, President and CEO, American Bankers Association (ABA). “ICBA and the nation’s community bankers strongly support the Tailored Regulatory Updates for Supervisory Testing (TRUST) Act and thank Sens. Budd and Kim for introducing this critical legislation in the Senate. Raising the 18-month examination cycle asset threshold from $3 billion to $6 billion will help address needlessly excessive regulatory burdens on community banks. Following House passage of this policy on a 390-9 vote as part of bipartisan housing affordability legislation, we encourage the Senate to advance this common-sense reform,” said Rebeca Romero Rainey, President and CEO, Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA). “The introduction of a bipartisan Senate companion to the TRUST Act is an important step toward modernizing bank supervision in a way that reflects today’s financial landscape. We commend Senator Budd and the bill’s bipartisan sponsors for their leader… 1 2026-03-31T05:33:41Z 2026-03-31T05:34:51Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/10/senator-budd-pushes-to-modernize-access-to-employment-resources-for-americans/ Senator Budd Pushes to Modernize Access to Employment Resources for Americans 2026-02-10 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) introduced the Workforce Development Modernization Act today, which would amend the Workforce and Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) to give local Workforce Development Boards the option to create virtual One-Stop Centers, share resources with other workforce development regions and One-Stop Centers, or co-locate at community colleges. This legislation would expand access to employment resources by allowing job seekers to gain information about in-demand jobs and training online, while also addressing labor shortages. “Strengthening our workforce starts with meeting people where they are and modernizing our approach to employment support. American Job Centers provide valuable services such as training referrals, job listings, and career counseling, but requiring in-person access to these resources leaves many Americans behind. My Workforce Development Modernization Act creates a virtual option so job seekers with transportation challenges, childcare responsibilities, demanding schedules, or rural addresses can still access the benefits they’ve earned as taxpayers,” said Senator Budd. “In Louisiana, there are workers looking for work and employers looking for employees. By modernizing workforce development programs with virtual services, this common sense bill increases flexibility and increases employment opportunities,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Nebraska’s workforce needs modern solutions to meet today’s labor demands. The Workforce Development Modernization Act provides essential flexibility for our states. Local boards can now choose between physical or virtual centers. This bill helps Nebraskans find great jobs more efficiently. It’s a win for our workers and our economy,” said Senator Ricketts. “Our workforce development system should be flexible enough to serve workers in today’s economy. Allowing virtual One-Stop Centers and shared partnerships with community colleges will help more North C… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T17:26:08Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/09/budd-cantwell-introduce-bill-to-develop-and-deploy-next-generation-weather-radar-technology/ Budd, Cantwell Introduce Bill to Develop and Deploy Next Generation Weather Radar Technology 2026-02-09 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), introduced legislation to establish the Radar Next Program, which would carry out the deployment of the nation’s next-generation weather radar system. “North Carolinians rely on accurate and reliable weather radar equipment, and making sure these current capabilities are maximized while we prepare to integrate the next generation of technology is vital for emergency personnel to keep folks out of harm’s way. Given the severe storms that have impacted communities across our state, we can’t afford to have coverage gaps where up-to-the-minute data isn’t available because of aging technology. I am grateful to partner with Sen. Cantwell to make sure Americans have all the information they need to keep their families safe when weather emergencies strike now and into the future,” said Senator Budd. “Washingtonians know firsthand how damaging atmospheric rivers and Pacific windstorms can be when weather radar coverage falls short and residents don’t have enough time to prepare. This legislation builds on years of work to close radar gaps and puts us on a path toward faster, more accurate systems for today’s weather threats. By planning now for the replacement of our aging radar network, we can deliver earlier warnings and stronger protection for families across the country,” said Senator Cantwell. Read the full bill text HERE. BACKGROUND The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) current Doppler radar network has been in operation since the late 1980s and is approaching the end of its lifespan. The national radar network will need to be completely replaced in the 2030s, and the National Weather Service is still determining the best option for replacing the technology. Failure to plan for and build a next-generation weather radar system will lead to a decline in warning capability—including more outages, higher maintenance costs, slowe… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T17:26:08Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/02/04/senator-budd-releases-statement-after-congress-passes-fy26-funding-for-the-department-of-defense/ Senator Budd Releases Statement After Congress Passes FY26 Funding for the Department of Defense 2026-02-04 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after Congress passed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Defense Appropriations Act. “The FY26 appropriations package makes a critical investment in our troops by ensuring the U.S. military has the very best equipment, training, and capabilities to defend the homeland as America’s adversaries continue to threaten global stability and U.S. security. “As the Senator for North Carolina, one of our country’s top states for our military, I am proud to have fought for key provisions increasing funding for special operators’ counter-drone technology, upgrades for the F-15E fleet, and new Army tactical vehicles. Additionally, I championed measures to continue support for our Allies and partners, including Israel, Taiwan, and the Baltics. This appropriations package also follows through on our commitment to take care of our service members by giving junior enlisted a ten percent pay raise and providing a historic investment to improve Marine Corps barracks. “North Carolina will greatly benefit from this funding package, from revitalizing our defense industrial base to prioritizing counterdrug operations. Our state will be more secure and prosperous because of these investments,” said Senator Budd. Below is a summary of provisions Senator Budd championed that were passed by Congress: ADVANCING TECHNOLOGY $3M for Rare Earth Magnet Manufacturing $52.3M for Hypersonic Readiness Assessment Vehicle $5M for Advanced Manufacturing Technologies and Equipment for Supersonic Aircraft $16M for DIU OnRamp Hub Geographic Expansion STANDING WITH OUR ALLIES $1B for weapons and training for Taiwan $342M for the Counter-ISIS Train and Equip Fund Restricts defense funds going to the Taliban $80M for U.S.-Israel Anti-tunneling Cooperation $75M for U.S.-Israel Counter-UAS Cooperation $47.5M for U.S.-Israel Emerging Technology Cooperation $500M for Israel Missile Defense programs MILITARY SERVICES Air For… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T17:26:08Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/2/tillis-demands-accountability-from-dhs-on-immigration-enforcement-operations Tillis Demands Accountability from DHS on Immigration Enforcement Operations 2026-02-03 2026 2026-02 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) recently sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem seeking answers about interior enforcement operations conducted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including Operation Charlotte’s Web and recent activity in Minneapolis ahead of Secretary Noem’s hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 3. “The Trump Administration has made measurable progress in restoring order at the southern border. Under the leadership of Border Czar Tom Homan, conditions no longer resemble the instability of the previous administration. That same level of successful and seamless execution has not always been achieved in the Department of Homeland Security’s recent interior immigration enforcement operations. Interior enforcement carried out by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement must be effective, disciplined, and fully compliant with constitutional and statutory limits. While these agencies have historically met that standard, recent operations raise serious questions that require direct oversight,” Tillis wrote. “On November 15, 2025, DHS conducted Operation Charlotte’s Web in my home state of North Carolina. The operation resulted in the apprehension of several criminal illegal aliens with extensive criminal records, an outcome I applaud. At the same time, multiple public reports allege that U.S. citizens were detained, subject to force, and experienced damage to personal property. I seek clarification as to whether these reports are merely disingenuous accounts from partisans who do not share our commitment to a secure border, or if they reflect substantiated incidents,” Tillis continued. “Similar concerns have since emerged in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where DHS enforcement actions reportedly involved U.S. citizens, use of force, reliance on administrative warrants, and unclear predication for initial engagements. Taken together, t… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/01/30/senator-budd-releases-statement-after-voting-to-support-appropriations-package/ Senator Budd Releases Statement After Voting to Support Appropriations Package 2026-01-30 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) issued the following statement after casting his vote to pass the five-bill appropriations minibus and a two-week continuing resolution for the Department of Homeland Security(DHS). “Yesterday, I opposed a procedural vote for the appropriations package over the inclusion of several troubling earmarks. Unfortunately, not enough Senators supported stripping them out. “While my concerns about these earmarks remain, I agree with President Trump that Congress must avert a government shutdown, and I voted to advance this bipartisan package that will benefit North Carolina’s military families, infrastructure, and disaster recovery. “Because our state is still recovering from Hurricane Helene and faces an onslaught of severe winter weather, I would have preferred the pre-negotiated full-year appropriations for DHS stay in this package. Still, advancing stopgap funding for DHS ensures that core agency components, including immigration enforcement agencies, FEMA, the Coast Guard, and the TSA, can continue their missions over the next two weeks,” said Senator Budd. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T15:05:35Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-blumenthal-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-honor-law-enforcement-and-strengthen-officer-safety Tillis, Blumenthal Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Honor Law Enforcement and Strengthen Officer Safety 2026-01-30 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) recently introduced the bipartisan National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support, and Community Outreach Act, legislation to establish a formal program within the U.S. Department of the Interior to support community outreach, public education, and officer safety and wellness initiatives of the National Law Enforcement Museum through grants to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe, and they deserve our full support,” said Senator Tillis. “This bipartisan legislation honors the sacrifice of fallen officers while strengthening officer safety, wellness, and public education through the National Law Enforcement Museum and Memorial. I’m proud to stand with our law enforcement officers to ensure these vital programs continue and grow.” “Our bipartisan measure brings law enforcement closer to the communities they serve,” said Senator Blumenthal. “By investing in programs that support community outreach and honoring the service of fallen officers, our legislation fosters stronger bonds between law enforcement and the public.” “On behalf of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), I want to express our sincere thanks to Senators Tillis and Blumenthal for taking the lead in authoring the National Law Enforcement Remembrance, Support and Community Outreach Act,” said Lori Sharpe Day, Chair, National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “The fact that Congress saw fit to create the National Law Enforcement Memorial and the National Law Enforcement Museum set a powerful precedent for Congress recognizing the vital importance of our mission. This legislation is a logical next step for Congress to take to ensure that the vital mission of NLEOMF continues and, in these challenging times for law enforcement, that the important educational and outreach programs run by NLEOMF and the National Law Enforcement Mus… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-statement-on-the-nomination-of-kevin-warsh-for-federal-reserve-chairman Tillis Statement on the Nomination of Kevin Warsh for Federal Reserve Chairman 2026-01-30 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, released the following statement regarding the nomination of Kevin Warsh to serve as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System: “Kevin Warsh is a qualified nominee with a deep understanding of monetary policy. However, the Department of Justice continues to pursue a criminal investigation into Chairman Jerome Powell based on committee testimony that no reasonable person could construe as possessing criminal intent. Protecting the independence of the Federal Reserve from political interference or legal intimidation is non-negotiable. “My position has not changed: I will oppose the confirmation of any Federal Reserve nominee, including for the position of Chairman, until the DOJ’s inquiry into Chairman Powell is fully and transparently resolved.” 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/01/28/senator-budd-announces-additional-233-million-in-helene-aid-funding-for-wnc-communities/ Senator Budd Announces Additional $233+ Million in Helene Aid Funding for WNC Communities 2026-01-28 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced approval for $233+ million in public assistance grant reimbursements for Hurricane Helene recovery projects in Western North Carolina. “Communities across Western North Carolina have fronted millions of dollars to clear and repair damage caused by Hurricane Helene. I’ve continued to engage with the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA to expedite the release of federal aid for recovery and repairs that had been stalled, and I am proud to announce that another $233 million is on the way. I am grateful to President Trump for his consistent support for Western North Carolina and to his administration for helping get these funds out the door,” said Senator Budd. BACKGROUND Attached is a chart detailing the funds that will be disbursed in the coming days. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T15:05:35Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/01/16/icymi-senator-budd-appointed-to-united-states-air-force-academy-board-of-visitors/ ICYMI – Senator Budd Appointed to United States Air Force Academy Board of Visitors 2026-01-16 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after U.S. Representative August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Chairman of the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) Board of Visitors, announced his appointment to serve on the board. Senator Budd was appointed by U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, to the USAFA Board of Visitors. “I am honored to join the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors to help ensure our cadets receive a world-class education and rigorous leadership development as they prepare to serve as officers in the U.S. Air Force and Space Force. As recent operations have proven, maintaining American air superiority is critical to the success of our modern military operations, and it is our responsibility to ensure the next generation of warfighters are prepared to operate and lead under the most demanding conditions. I look forward to working with my colleagues on this board to uphold the highest standards of education and training to ensure the continued strength, readiness, and lethality of the Air Force and Space Force,” said Senator Budd. “As the Board prepares to deliver one of its most consequential reports, adding three proven leaders strengthens our ability to produce a foundational product that will serve both the Academy and, more importantly, our cadets. My mission as Chairman of the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors is to restore America’s Fighting Force and ensure the Air Force Academy is preparing cadets to become the next generation of warfighting leaders our nation needs,” said Chairman Pfluger. “While we will never be able to know when or where the next conflict will occur, we do get to decide how prepared our fighting force will be. Senators Mullin, Cramer, and Budd bring the grit and leadership needed to help us meet and exceed that mission. I am proud to welcome them aboard.” BACKGROUND Established by law in 1956, the U.S. Air Force Academy Board prov… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T15:05:35Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/01/16/senator-budd-leads-legislation-banning-foreign-violators-of-religious-freedom-from-obtaining-u-s-visas/ Senator Budd Leads Legislation Banning Foreign Violators of Religious Freedom from Obtaining U.S. Visas 2026-01-16 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — This week, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) introduced the Banning Perpetrators of Religious Persecution Act to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by restricting the issuance of visas to individuals who have directed, authorized, significantly supported, participated in, or carried out violations of religious freedom. The bill would additionally amend the INA to expand visa ineligibility to terrorist or non-state actors responsible for violations of religious freedom, in addition to foreign government officials responsible for the persecution of religious groups. “Nigeria is just one of many examples where non-state actors and terrorist groups are carrying out kidnappings and killings of Christians and other religious minorities. It is entirely unacceptable for the U.S., a nation founded on the principle of religious freedom, to allow such foreign nationals into our country. By codifying the Trump administration’s directive to bar these malign actors from obtaining U.S. visas, we are establishing robust consequences for violators and sending a loud and clear message to the rest of the world that America will not tolerate any attack on religious freedom,” said Senator Budd. “Any foreign official that is involved in the persecution of Christians, in Nigeria or anywhere else, has no business setting foot in the United States. This bill builds upon the decisive actions taken by Secretary of State Rubio and President Trump,” said Senator Cotton. “Religious freedom is a God-given right, and our nation should never open its doors to those who persecute people of faith. If you direct, support, or take part in religious persecution, you should never be allowed to enter the United States,” said Senator Lankford. “Our great country was founded on protecting the God given rights of man. Our nation’s Constitution guarantees it. I am proud to support the Banning Perpetrators of Religious Persecution Act which prevents religious terrorists and oppressors of Christians and other religious minori… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T15:05:35Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/01/15/budd-shaheen-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-the-identity-of-special-operations-forces-executing-dangerous-u-s-military-operations/ Budd, Shaheen Lead Bipartisan Bill to Protect the Identity of Special Operations Forces Executing Dangerous U.S. Military Operations 2026-01-15 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Reps. Hudson & Harrigan will lead effort in House of Representatives Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Special Operator Protection Act today, to protect the identity of Special Operations Forces (SOF), federal law enforcement officers attached to SOF, and other Department of Defense (DOD) personnel who conduct highly sensitive DOD missions, by creating a criminal penalty for doxing their personally identifiable information. U.S. Representatives Richard Hudson (R-N.C.-09) and Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.-10) introduced the companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “As recent events underscore, our SOF operators put themselves in extreme danger in service to our nation. These heroes should not fear for their personal safety or their families’ security after they return home from sensitive missions. There is no compelling reason for their identities to be made public, especially given the significant risks from foreign threats. I’m proud to work with Senator Shaheen as well as Representatives Hudson and Harrigan to introduce the Special Operator Protection Act to set reasonable criminal penalties for doxing America’s most elite servicemembers, and to protect them and their loved ones from harassment and harm at home,” said Senator Budd. “Special operators lead our military’s highest-risk missions. With an increasingly complex array of global threats, they should be protected from foreign adversaries who seek to harm them. This bipartisan bill would help shield those who put their lives on the line to advance America’s national security,” said Senator Shaheen. “As Fort Bragg’s congressman, I know our Special Operations Forces take on the most dangerous missions in defense of this country, and they shouldn’t have to worry about their own or their families’ safety when they return home. The Special Operator Protection Act closes a clear gap in the law and makes one thing clear: if … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T15:05:35Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/01/15/budd-tillis-announce-strong-support-for-president-trumps-u-s-attorney-for-the-middle-district-of-n-c-nominee-dan-bishop/ Budd, Tillis Announce Strong Support for President Trump’s U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of N.C. Nominee, Dan Bishop 2026-01-15 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) today announced their support for the nomination of Dan Bishop, former U.S. Congressman and Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to become the Senate-confirmed U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina. “Dan Bishop is an experienced America First patriot with a distinguished private sector legal career, making him an excellent choice to serve as the next U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina. I have no doubt that under Dan’s leadership, communities in North Carolina will be safer, as he will execute the safer streets priorities I share with President Trump to prosecute dangerous criminals, enforce federal immigration law, hold drug cartels accountable, combat the evils of human trafficking, and boldly stand up for law enforcement. President Trump has made a strong choice in nominating him to serve North Carolinians in this new capacity, and I look forward to joining Senator Tillis in supporting his nomination in the Senate,” said Senator Budd. “Dan Bishop is an experienced litigator with a deep understanding of the law and a commitment to the safety of our communities. Having served North Carolina at the local, state, and federal levels, he brings a unique and valuable perspective to the Middle District and I look forward to supporting his confirmation as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee,” said Senator Tillis. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T15:05:35Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/01/14/senator-budd-secures-72-million-in-fema-public-assistance-44-6-million-in-hazard-mitigation-grants-for-western-north-carolina/ Senator Budd Secures $72 Million in FEMA Public Assistance & $44.6 Million in Hazard Mitigation Grants for Western North Carolina 2026-01-14 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem today announced more than $72 million in Public Assistance (PA) grant program reimbursements and $44.6 million in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds for Hurricane Helene recovery projects across Western North Carolina. These HMGP funds are critical for protecting Western North Carolina from potential flooding and storm damage in the future. “Ever since Hurricane Helene devastated the lives of more than half a million North Carolinians, I have been working non-stop to obtain approval for federal relief necessary to rebuild Western North Carolina. In recent months, I’ve engaged extensively with the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA regarding applications under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. I am glad that today, in addition to another tranche of public assistance funding totaling over $72 million, Secretary Noem has approved $44.6 million in grants for projects under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. While this is another promising step in the right direction, there are still families awaiting buyouts for their damaged and destroyed properties. As I have with the public assistance program, I pledge that I will continue to work closely with all federal, state, and local leaders to continue to identify projects that qualify for federal reimbursement, and I will be in constant contact with FEMA to get these dollars to Western North Carolina communities,” said Sen. Budd. According to the Department of Homeland Security, below are some of the notable FEMA Public Assistance grants obligated to the state and communities: $34.7 million to North Carolina Department of Transportation for road and bridge repairs across more than 300 sites in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Caldwell, Henderson, Mitchell, Surry, and Watauga counties. $17.6 million to Rutherford County for the removal of nearly 700,000 cubic yards of debris and 75,000 trees and li… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T15:05:35Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-applauds-appointment-of-nc-agricultural-leaders-to-usda-farm-service-agency-state-committee Tillis Applauds Appointment of NC Agricultural Leaders to USDA Farm Service Agency State Committee 2026-01-13 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) applauded the appointment of five leaders in agriculture to serve on the North Carolina USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) state committee. “North Carolina’s farmers and producers deserve leaders who understand agriculture from the ground up, and these appointees bring decades of real-world experience to the board,” said Senator Tillis. “I was proud to nominate these outstanding agricultural leaders and appreciate Secretary Rollins appointing them to help ensure USDA programs are delivered fairly and efficiently while supporting rural communities and strengthening North Carolina’s agricultural economy.” Each FSA state committee is comprised of three to five members including a designated chairperson. The individuals appointed to serve on this committee for North Carolina are: Jeffrey Claybourne Lee, Chair (Benson) - Lee is the owner, president, and chief executive officer of his farm, where he manages tobacco, sweet potato, and cotton production. He implements conservation tillage, precision guidance, and nutrient banding practices to improve crop quality and land stewardship. Lee previously served on the North Carolina FSA state committee. Steve Leggett Griffin, Member (Washington) – Griffin is the president and owner of his farm, where he manages a diversified crop and farming operation. He previously served on the Beaufort FSA County committee. Joseph Brent Leggett, Member (Nashville) – Leggett is the owner and operator of his farm, where he manages a diversified row crop operation that produces tobacco, sweet potatoes, cotton, peanuts, and other crops. He’s responsible for agronomic and strategic management, workforce oversight, and long-term sustainability. Richard Paul Renegar, Member (Harmony) – Renegar operates a diversified family farm in Iredell and Yadkin Counties, producing beef cattle, tobacco, row crops, and hay. He diversified into farm equipment sales and agritourism with hunting preserves and sporting clays. He is currently president of the I… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/01/12/budd-joins-scott-colleagues-recognize-trump-administrations-successful-military-operation-in-venezuela/ Budd Joins Scott, Colleagues Recognize Trump Administration’s Successful Military Operation in Venezuela 2026-01-12 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Ted Budd B001305 www.budd.senate.gov budd https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.) and several of his Senate Republican colleagues in introducing a resolution commending the U.S. military’s execution of Operation Absolute Resolve, in Venezuela, to arrest indicted narco-terrorist dictator Nicolás Maduro. The resolution praises the Trump administration’s leadership in the fight for a freer and more secure Western Hemisphere, paving the way for a democratic Venezuela. “Operation Absolute Resolve was a successful use of U.S. military strength to hold Maduro accountable for years of rampant narco-terrorism, violent oppression of the Venezuelan people, and threats to America’s security in the Western Hemisphere. I stand firmly with my colleagues in applauding the Trump administration’s flawless operation, led by special operations forces from Fort Bragg, to remove Venezuela’s illegitimate dictator and send a clear message to hostile nations that jeopardizing the safety of the American people will not go without consequences,” said Senator Budd. “This decisive mission demonstrated American strength and resolve, arrested an indicted narco-terrorist who has killed hundreds of thousands of Americans, and sent a clear message that the United States will no longer tolerate criminal regimes that endanger American families, especially in our hemisphere. A Latin America free of socialist and communist rule is in the best interest of the United States, and that’s why for years, I have fought alongside the people of Venezuela to restore their God-given freedom and liberty. It’s incredible to see the community come together with such gracious excitement for the future of their nation. Thank you, President Trump, Secretary Rubio, and Secretary Hegseth, for fighting for the Venezuelan people. I am proud to stand with them and all of Latin America in celebrating this incredible occasion,” said Senator Scott. U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), John Curtis (R-Utah), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Katie Britt … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T15:05:35Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-statement-on-federal-reserve-nominations Tillis Statement on Federal Reserve Nominations 2026-01-11 2026 2026-01 Republican Senate NC Thom Tillis T000476 www.tillis.senate.gov tillis https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement: “If there were any remaining doubt whether advisers within the Trump Administration are actively pushing to end the independence of the Federal Reserve, there should now be none. It is now the independence and credibility of the Department of Justice that are in question. “I will oppose the confirmation of any nominee for the Fed—including the upcoming Fed Chair vacancy—until this legal matter is fully resolved.” ### 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z

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