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234 rows where party = "Independent", state = "VT" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending

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chamber 2

  • House 192
  • Senate 42

year 1

  • 2020 · 234 ✖

state 1

  • VT · 234 ✖

party 1

  • Independent · 234 ✖
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.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-to-demand-votes-on-house-passed-2000-direct-payments-bill-and-mcconnells-bill/ Sanders to Demand Votes on House-Passed $2,000 Direct Payments Bill and McConnells Bill 2020-12-31 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, December 31 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) announced on Thursday that he will challenge Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to bring his own legislation to the floor, in addition to the bill passed by the House of Representatives with support from 44 Republicans and 231 Democrats to give working-class Americans $2,000 direct payments, for an up-or-down vote. The working class of America is facing more economic desperation than at anytime since the Great Depression, Sanders said. They need our help and they need it now. I'm offering a compromise path forward to resolve our current impasse and give Americans the vote they deserve on direct payments. Tomorrow, we should vote on the McConnell bill and the House-passed bill. What objection could Leader McConnell have for not voting on his own bill? McConnell's legislation was introduced after the Republican Leader told the Senate that he would prioritize moving a package of President Trump's priorities, including $2,000 direct payments. Packaging a repeal of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act and a Congressional inquiry into supposed voter fraud in addition to direct payments, McConnell announced that those are the three important subjects the president has linked together. This week, the Senate will begin a process to bring these three priorities into focus. Sanders responded: McConnell began the process on Tuesday, and he should finish that work by putting his bill on the floor of the U.S. Senate for consideration before we go home for the New Year. Sanders will ask for unanimous consent to bring both pieces of legislation up for a vote on Friday afternoon. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/vermonts-congressional-delegation-recognizes-vermont-u-s-service-academy-nominees-via-video-livestream-wednesday-december-30/ Vermonts Congressional Delegation Recognizes Vermont U.S. Service Academy Nominees via Video Livestream Wednesday, December 30 2020-12-31 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, and U.S. Representative Peter Welch on Wednesday evening recognized 28 young Vermonters who received nominations to the United States Service Academies, Class of 2025. Each year the Vermont delegation hosts a reception at the Vermont State House for the nominees. However, for everyone's safety, this year's ceremony was held virtually. The names of this year's nominees, selected by Leahy, Sanders, and Welch through a competitive vetting process, and forwarded to the Academies for final decisions, are: Mr. Eusebio Aja IIIof Barre, Vermont (U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Mr. Matthew Bayardof Saint Albans, Vermont (U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Ms. Allison Bradleyof Woodstock, Vermont(U.S. Naval Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Mr. Matthew Durginof Cabot, Vermont (U.S. Military Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Mr. Fletcher Footeof Newport, Vermont (U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy) Nominated by: Leahy Ms. Pauline Garzaof Essex Junction, Vermont (U.S Naval Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Mr. Aidan Geboof Vergennes, Vermont (U.S. Naval Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Ms. Katherine Hawkoof Shelburne, Vermont (U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Ms. Charlotte Hillof Williston, Vermont (U.S. Naval Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Ms. Julia Hortonof Saint Albans, Vermont (U.S. Naval Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Mr. Ethan Howellof Milton, Vermont(U.S. Air Force Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Mr. Patrick Kwassof South Burlington, Vermont(U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy) Nominated by: Leahy Mr. Joshua Lajeunesseof Montpelier, Vermont (U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Naval Academy) Nominated by: Leahy, Sanders, Welch Ms. Wylie Lucasof Norwich, Vermont (U.S. Milit… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-demands-mcconnell-hold-vote-on-2000-direct-payments/ Sanders Demands McConnell Hold Vote on $2,000 Direct Payments 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, December 28 Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement in response to the House of Representatives' overwhelming 275-134 passage of $2,000 direct payments for the working class: The House has passed a $2,000 direct payment for working people. It is time for the Senate to act. This week on the Senate floor Mitch McConnell wants to vote to override Trump's veto of the $740 billion defense funding bill and then head home for the New Year. I'm going to object until we get a vote on legislation to provide a $2,000 direct payment to the working class. Let me be clear: If Senator McConnell doesn't agree to an up or down vote to provide the working people of our country a $2,000 direct payment, Congress will not be going home for New Year's Eve. Let's do our job. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-calls-on-mitch-mcconnell-to-pass-2000-direct-payments-legislation-in-the-senate/ Sanders Calls on Mitch McConnell to Pass $2,000 Direct Payments Legislation in the Senate 2020-12-24 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy BURLINGTON, December 23 In response to President Trump's disapproval of the $908-billion COVID-19 relief package passed by Congress on Monday, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement: In America today, millions of Americans are facing economic desperation and need help now.I have been calling on Congress for months to pass legislation to provide every working class American with $2,000 a month until the pandemic ends.Now that Senator Schumer, Speaker Pelosi and President Trump have all indicated strong support for a $2,000 direct payment the ball is in Senate Majority Leader McConnell's court. I say to Senator McConnell: Let the Senate vote immediately on a stand-alone bill to provide a $2,000 direct payment for the working class and $4,000 for couples. If no Republican objects to that bill, it could pass by unanimous consent today. Sanders is the co-author, with Senators Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), of the Monthly Economic Crisis Support Act, which would provide $2,000 direct monthly payments to working-class Americans for the duration of the pandemic. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-leahy-welch-applaud-dam-repair-funding-for-vermont/ Sanders, Leahy, Welch Applaud Dam-Repair Funding for Vermont 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, Dec. 22 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) announced that legislation passed by Congress last night will fund critical water infrastructure projects, including three aging flood-control dams. The Vermont delegation also announced that the state of Vermont has signed an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to make much-needed repairs to the Waterbury Dam. The project will begin in early 2021, using $40 million in federal funding secured by the delegation. The America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2020, to be signed into law today, includes language first authored by Senator Sanders in 2016 in the Water Resources Development Act. This year, the amendment authored by Sanders in the Senate and Welch in the House increases the authorization of federal funding to $60 million each for safety improvements at certain state-owned flood control dams constructed by the federal government before 1940. In Vermont, three dams the Waterbury, East Barre and Wrightsville dams are eligible to receive funding under this provision. These dams are essential pieces of Vermont's infrastructure,said Sanders,who is a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, which has jurisdiction over the water infrastructure legislation. Maintaining and repairing the dams especially the Waterbury Dam has long been a priority for our state. This bipartisan legislation is an important step toward rebuilding aging dams in Vermont and throughout the United States. Leahy, Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said: I have been proud to secure funding for the Waterbury Dam through the appropriations process, and I'm pleased to see the increased spending authorized by this legislation at the request of Senator Sanders and Congressman Welch.Those funds may be very helpful if the cost exceeds the $40 million already appropriated for work on this critical project, and funds may also be needed for work to the other eligible Vermont dams. I was pr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-statement-on-passage-of-covid-19-relief-package/ Sanders Statement on Passage of COVID-19 Relief Package 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, December 21 Upon the Senate's passage of the $908-billion COVID-19 spending package, Sen. Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement: Tonight, Congress passed a $908-billion COVID-19 relief bill that extends unemployment benefits through the early spring, and provides support for small businesses, schools, healthcare, nutrition, rentalassistance, child care, broadband, the Postal Service, as well as funding to help distribute vaccines. During the last several weeks, I have been working very hard, along with Republican Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri, to provide direct payments to working families throughout the country. Our goal was to replicate what was in the CARES bill of March, which was $1200 for every working-class adult and $500 for each child. While we did not get as much as we wanted, because of opposition from the Republican leadership and too many Democrats, the bill does include a $600 direct payment for every working-class American earning less than $75,000 a year, and a $1,200 direct payment for couples making less than $150,000 a year, plus $600 for each child. That means that the average family of four will receive a direct payment of $2400. While including these direct payments ultimately improved this bill, given the enormous economic desperation that so many working families across this country are now experiencing, there is no question but that this legislation did not go anywhere near far enough. When President-Elect Biden assumes office next month and when the Senate comes back into session in January, I will immediately begin fighting for another relief bill to help America's working familiesincluding another round of direct payments and more relief for the unemployed, the hungry, the uninsured and those who owe back rent and are behind on their mortgage payments. In this unprecedented crisis, it is imperative that we do everything we can to protect the working families of our country, the elderly, the children and the poor. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-bernie-sanders-receives-covid-19-vaccine-from-u-s-capitol-physician-dr-brian-p-monahan/ Senator Bernie Sanders Receives COVID-19 Vaccine from U.S. Capitol Physician, Dr. Brian P. Monahan 2020-12-19 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON December 19 U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders received the COVID-19 vaccine from U.S. Capitol physician, Dr. Brian P. Monahan on Saturday. Sanders said, Following the advice of the Office of the Attending Physician, today I received the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. As the vaccine is being distributed, we must all continue wearing masks and engage in social distancing. That is how we will beat this virus and end this terrible pandemic. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/over-2000-vermonters-join-sanders-for-virtual-seniors-town-hall/ Over 2,000 Vermonters Join Sanders for Virtual Seniors Town Hall 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy BURLINGTON December 18 U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders held a virtual town hall Thursday evening to provide an update from Congress and to hear the thoughts and concerns of older Vermonters. Over 2,000 Vermont seniors joined Sanders for the town meeting which was held via phone call and streamed live on Sanders' website. Each December, Sanders hosts holiday meals for seniors throughout the state. However, for everyone's safety, this year's event was held virtually. Sanders participated by video from his Senate office in Washington, D.C. Our senior meals and town meetings are always a highlight of the holiday season. While we couldn't be together in person this year, I'm very pleased we had the opportunity to gather virtually, said Sanders. Especially at a time when many seniors are unable to be with friends and family, I thought it was important to continue this annual event and hear from my constituents about the issues that matter most to them, as well as the challenges they are facing. After Sanders' introductory remarks, Vermonters asked questions on a wide range of issues. Areas of interest ranged from ways to expand and protect Medicare and Social Security, to struggles affording housing, heat, food, and prescription medications. With negotiations continuing in Congress, the COVID-19 relief package was on the minds of many who participated in the town hall. Many asked Sanders about the effort he is leading to ensure that a direct payment provision is included in the final relief bill, as well as his hope that Congress and a Biden Administration will continue to work on and pass additional, much-needed emergency relief in the new year. If approved, these direct payments to Vermonters would add about $350 million to the local economy. It's interesting that all of the questions tonight touched on issues that millions and millions of people are struggling with. Whether it's inadequate Social Security benefits, whether it's the high cost of prescription drugs, whether it's the housing crisis, whether it is student d… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-delivers-floor-speech-urging-senate-to-pass-1200-in-direct-relief-to-working-class/ Sanders Delivers Floor Speech Urging Senate to Pass $1,200 in Direct Relief to Working Class 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, December 18 Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) went to the Senate floor this afternoon to seek unanimous consent to pass legislation he had introduced earlier today to provide direct payments to working families across the United States. Sanders' proposal provides a direct payment of $1,200 for every working-class American, $2,400 for couples, and $500 for children. He was joined on the floor by Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), who spoke in support of the legislation. Sanders stated, If this country means anything, if the U.S. government means anything, it means that we cannot turn our backs on that suffering, and that we cannot leave Washington for the holidays to go back to our families unless we address the pain and anxiety of other families throughout this country. Read the legislation here. Sanders' speech can be watchedhere, and the prepared remarks can be read below: Mr. President, this country faces the worst set of public health and economic crises that we have faced in over a hundred years. As a result of the pandemic more people are becoming infected than ever before. Hospitalization is higher than ever before. And more people are dying than ever before. We all hope and pray that the new vaccine will be distributed as quickly as possible and that it will put an end to this nightmare. But, today, the truth is that millions of low-income and middle class families are suffering in a way that we have not seen since the Great Depression. Today, the reality is that over half of our workers are living paycheck to paycheck trying to survive on $10 or $12 an hour. The reality is that millions of senior citizens all over this country are trapped in their homes, unable to see their kids or grandchildren, unable to go to a grocery store, and are trying to survive on $12 or $14,000 a year. In addition, millions more with disabilities are also suffering. Further, in America today, one out of four workers are either unemployed or make less than $20,000 a year. And, in the midst of this pandemic, b… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-helps-lead-fight-for-direct-payments/ Sanders Helps Lead Fight for Direct Payments 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, December 16 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has been leading the fight in Washington to provide direct benefits to working families as they struggle through the pandemic and economic downturn. Sanders is fighting for $1,200 for every worker earning less than $75,000 a year, and $2,400 a couple earning less than $150,000 a year. Each child would receive a benefit of $500. This is what existed in the CARES Act passed in March. Currently, negotiations have the benefit set at $600 per adult and $600 per child. At this level, approximately 445,000 Vermont adults and 153,000 children roughly 93 percent of the state's population would receive these benefits. This amounts to over $345 million in direct benefits going to Vermonters, which will be an important economic stimulus. Sanders said: At a time when many Vermonters are struggling to put food on the table, pay their rent or mortgage, or have the necessary income to go to the doctor, it is imperative that Congress provide direct payments for working families. I am glad that we are making progress on this issue, but more has to be done, and I will continue that fight. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-on-manchin-romney-deal-congress-cannot-go-home-until-working-class-receives-1200-direct-payments Sanders on Manchin-Romney Deal: Congress Cannot Go Home Until Working Class Receives $1,200 Direct Payments 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders on Manchin-Romney Deal: Congress Cannot Go Home Until Working Class Receives $1,200 Direct Payments Monday, December 14, 2020 WASHINGTON, December 14 Sen. Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement in response to the Manchin-Romney COVID19 legislation to be released this afternoon: As a result of the pandemic, tens of millions of Americans are facing economic desperation.They can't afford to pay their rent and face eviction, they can't afford to go to the doctor, they can't afford to feed their children and they are going deeper and deeper into debt.Congress cannot go home for the Christmas holidays until we pass legislation which provides a $1,200 direct payment to working class adults, $2,400 for couples, and a $500 payment to their children. This is what Democrats and Republicans did unanimously in March through the CARES Act.This is what we have to do today. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-on-manchin-romney-deal-congress-cannot-go-home-until-working-class-receives-1200-direct-payments/ Sanders on Manchin-Romney Deal: Congress Cannot Go Home Until Working Class Receives $1,200 Direct Payments 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, December 14 Sen. Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement in response to the Manchin-Romney COVID19 legislation to be released this afternoon: As a result of the pandemic, tens of millions of Americans are facing economic desperation.They can't afford to pay their rent and face eviction, they can't afford to go to the doctor, they can't afford to feed their children and they are going deeper and deeper into debt.Congress cannot go home for the Christmas holidays until we pass legislation which provides a $1,200 direct payment to working class adults, $2,400 for couples, and a $500 payment to their children. This is what Democrats and Republicans did unanimously in March through the CARES Act.This is what we have to do today. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/we-must-get-1200-direct-checks-to-the-working-class-of-america We Must Get $1,200 Direct Checks To The Working Class Of America 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy We Must Get $1,200 Direct Checks To The Working Class Of America Members of Congress cannot go back to our families for the holidays when children in the richest country on Earth are going hungry and millions are scared to death of eviction. We must pass my amendment with Republican Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri to get $1,200 direct checks to the working class ofAmerica. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-demands-direct-payments-for-working-families Sanders Demands Direct Payments for Working Families 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders Demands Direct Payments for Working Families Thursday, December 10, 2020 WASHINGTONSenator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) stated today on the Senate floor that given the enormity of the current economic crisis, the Senate must pass a $1,200 direct payment for working class adults and $500 for their children as part of any COVID-19 relief package. He is filing an amendment today to the one-week Continuing Resolution to do just that. Sanders said that it would be unacceptable for Congress to adjourn for the holidays while turning its back on the economic desperation facing tens of millions of Americans. In a speech on the floor today, he stated: When a national emergency occurs the United States government must respond. And we are in an economic emergency today. To get out of Washington, to turn our backs on the suffering of so many of our people would be immoral, would be unconscionable, and cannot be allowed to happen. Sanders' speech can be watched here, and the prepared remarks can be read below: "Mr. President: This country today faces an unprecedented crisis both in terms of the pandemic and the economic meltdown. I understand that there are negotiations going on in terms of coming up with an economic package dealing with COVID-19 relief. I applaud the hard work that each of the negotiators are doing. But the truth is that the results up to this point are totally unsatisfactory given the economic desperation facing tens of millions of working families. Back in March, at the beginning of the pandemic, the United States Congress unanimously Democrats and Republicans worked with President Trump to come up with an economic package that went a long way toward preventing absolute misery and destitution for so many of our people. Through no fault of their own, COVID-19 resulted in millions of people losing their jobs and their income. And, in response, Democrats and Republicans in the Congress came together, worked with the President of the United States and, in a very significant wa… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-hawley-introduce-1200-direct-payments-amendment-to-attach-to-end-of-year-legislation Sanders, Hawley Introduce $1,200 Direct Payments Amendment to Attach to End-of-Year Legislation 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Hawley Introduce $1,200 Direct Payments Amendment to Attach to End-of-Year Legislation Thursday, December 10, 2020 WASHINGTON, December 10 Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) are introducing a bipartisan amendment to attach to must-pass legislation to be considered by Congress, which would provide $1,200 in direct payments to working-class adults and $500 to each of their children.This amendment, similar to what was passed in the CARES Act, would be attached to must-pass legislation to keep the government going. In the midst of this terrible pandemic and economic crisis, this amendment would make certain that working families get the urgent, direct support they need to survive, said Sanders. A direct payment of $1,200 for adults and $500 for kids would help desperate families pay rent and heating bills, put food on the table, and be able to go to the doctor.In the midst of so much economic desperation, Congress cannot go on recess without providing this $1,200 emergency assistance to the American people in their time of need.I look forward to working across the aisle with Senator Hawley to ensure that the United States Senate passes this amendment. It would be a dereliction of duty if Congress adjourns for Christmas without having a vote on providing working families with direct payments, said Hawley. Working people are struggling. And they should be the first people given relief, not last. The crisis of rising unemployment claims, ever-expanding food lines, evictions, and growing credit card debt has been staring us in the face for months. It's time we do something about it and provide emergency relief to Americans. The amendment is modeled on the $1,200 direct payment for working-class adults plus $500 for their children passed by Congress unanimously in the $2.2 trillion CARES Act in March and signed into law by President Trump. Watch Sanders' and Hawley's floor remarks on this proposal here. Read the text of the amendment here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/responding-to-the-needs-of-the-americanpeople Responding to the needs of the AmericanPeople 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Responding to the needs of the AmericanPeople Yesterday alone, over 3,000 died from this horrific virus. The working class of this country is in the worst financial shape since the Great Depression of the 1930s. The American people need help and they need help NOW! 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-gillibrand-warren-merkley-markey-and-wyden-urge-colleagues-to-defend-working-class-in-covid-19-relief-proposal-2/ Sanders Demands Direct Payments for Working Families 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, December 10 Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) stated today on the Senate floor that given the enormity of the current economic crisis, the Senate must pass a $1,200 direct payment for working class adults and $500 for their children as part of any COVID-19 relief package. He is filing an amendment today to the one-week Continuing Resolution to do just that. Sanders said that it would be unacceptable for Congress to adjourn for the holidays while turning its back on the economic desperation facing tens of millions of Americans. In a speech on the floor today, he stated: When a national emergency occurs the United States government must respond. And we are in an economic emergency today. To get out of Washington, to turn our backs on the suffering of so many of our people would be immoral, would be unconscionable, and cannot be allowed to happen. Sanders' speech can be watchedhere, and the prepared remarks can be read below: Mr. President: This country today faces an unprecedented crisis both in terms of the pandemic and the economic meltdown. I understand that there are negotiations going on in terms of coming up with an economic package dealing with COVID-19 relief. I applaud the hard work that each of the negotiators are doing. But the truth is that the results up to this point are totally unsatisfactory given the economic desperation facing tens of millions of working families. Back in March, at the beginning of the pandemic, the United States Congress unanimously Democrats and Republicans worked with President Trump to come up with an economic package that went a long way toward preventing absolute misery and destitution for so many of our people. Through no fault of their own, COVID-19 resulted in millions of people losing their jobs and their income. And, in response, Democrats and Republicans in the Congress came together, worked with the President of the United States and, in a very significant way, responded to that crisis. Mr. President, what I don't understand is that at a time when, in many … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-hawley-introduce-1200-direct-payments-amendment-to-attach-to-end-of-year-legislation/ Sanders, Hawley Introduce $1,200 Direct Payments Amendment to Attach to End-of-Year Legislation 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, December 10 Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) are introducing a bipartisan amendment to attach to must-pass legislation to be considered by Congress, which would provide $1,200 in direct payments to working-class adults and $500 to each of their children.This amendment, similar to what was passed in the CARES Act, would be attached to must-pass legislation to keep the government going. In the midst of this terrible pandemic and economic crisis, this amendment would make certain that working families get the urgent, direct support they need to survive,said Sanders.A direct payment of $1,200 for adults and $500 for kids would help desperate families pay rent and heating bills, put food on the table, and be able to go to the doctor.In the midst of so much economic desperation, Congress cannot go on recess without providing this $1,200 emergency assistance to the American people in their time of need.I look forward to working across the aisle with Senator Hawley to ensure that the United States Senate passes this amendment. It would be a dereliction of duty if Congress adjourns for Christmas without having a vote on providing working families with direct payments,said Hawley.Working people are struggling. And they should be the first people given relief, not last. The crisis of rising unemployment claims, ever-expanding food lines, evictions, and growing credit card debt has been staring us in the face for months. It's time we do something about it and provide emergency relief to Americans. The amendment is modeled on the $1,200 direct payment for working-class adults plus $500 for their children passed by Congress unanimously in the $2.2 trillion CARES Act in March and signed into law by President Trump. Watch Sanders' and Hawley's floor remarks on this proposalhere. Read the text of the amendmenthere. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-gillibrand-warren-merkley-markey-and-wyden-urge-colleagues-to-defend-working-class-in-covid-19-relief-proposal Sanders, Gillibrand, Warren, Merkley, Markey and Wyden Urge Colleagues to Defend Working Class in COVID-19 Relief Proposal 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Gillibrand, Warren, Merkley, Markey and Wyden Urge Colleagues to Defend Working Class in COVID-19 Relief Proposal Tuesday, December 8, 2020 WASHINGTON, December 8 Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.),Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.),Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.)urged Senate Democrats today to recognize the enormity of the economic and public-health crisis posed by COVID-19 and join them in demanding that any new COVID-19 relief proposal includes a $1,200 direct payment to adults and $500 to their children, while rejecting provisions to give a liability shield to corporations who threaten the health and safety of workers and customers. In aletterto their colleagues, the Senators note that COVID-19 is infecting nearly 200,000 Americans and killing 2,000 Americans daily, and argue that a bipartisan proposal under negotiation does not go anywhere near far enough, as America experiences the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Only $348 billion in new money is currently allocated in that proposal, the Senators point out, even though the Trump Administration and a bipartisan coalition in the House supported over $1.8 trillion in COVID-19 relief that also included another $1,200 direct payment. It would be unacceptable to take a major step backwards from those previous efforts by passing legislation that only included $348 billion in new money, the Senators wrote to their Democratic colleagues. The lawmakers further expressed their opposition to a get-out-of-jail free card to companies that put the lives of their workers and customers at risk currently under consideration in a bipartisan COVID-19 relief measure, and cited concerns from labor groups that granting immunity would make the country less safe at the exact moment when the COVID-19 pandemic is entering a new, dangerous phase. The letter's signatories also registered their agreement with President-elect Biden that a $1,200 direct payment should be included in … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-gillibrand-warren-merkley-markey-and-wyden-urge-colleagues-to-defend-working-class-in-covid-19-relief-proposal/ Sanders, Gillibrand, Warren, Merkley, Markey and Wyden Urge Colleagues to Defend Working Class in COVID-19 Relief Proposal 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, December 8 Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.),Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.),Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.)urged Senate Democrats today to recognize the enormity of the economic and public-health crisis posed by COVID-19 and join them in demanding that any new COVID-19 relief proposal includes a $1,200 direct payment to adults and $500 to their children, while rejecting provisions to give a liability shield to corporations who threaten the health and safety of workers and customers. In a letter to their colleagues, the Senators note that COVID-19 is infecting nearly 200,000 Americans and killing 2,000 Americans daily, and argue that a bipartisan proposal under negotiation does not go anywhere near far enough, as America experiences the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Only $348 billion in new money is currently allocated in that proposal, the Senators point out, even though the Trump Administration and a bipartisan coalition in the House supported over $1.8 trillion in COVID-19 relief that also included another $1,200 direct payment. It would be unacceptable to take a major step backwards from those previous efforts by passing legislation that only included $348 billion in new money, the Senators wrote to their Democratic colleagues. The lawmakers further expressed their opposition to a get-out-of-jail free card to companies that put the lives of their workers and customers at risk currently under consideration in a bipartisan COVID-19 relief measure, and cited concerns from labor groups that granting immunity would make the country less safe at the exact moment when the COVID-19 pandemic is entering a new, dangerous phase. The letter's signatories also registered their agreement with President-elect Biden that a $1,200 direct payment should be included in this proposal, as over half of American workers live paycheck to paycheck and one in four are either unemployed or make less than $20,000 a year, while millions more face evicti… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-statement-on-manchin-romney-covid19-proposal Sanders Statement on Manchin-Romney COVID19 Proposal 2020-12-04 2020 2020-12 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders Statement on Manchin-Romney COVID19 Proposal Friday, December 4, 2020 BURLINGTON, December 4 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement on the Manchin-Romney COVID19 legislative proposal: Given the enormous economic desperation facing working families in this country today, I will not be able to support the recently announced Manchin-Romney COVID proposal unless it is significantly improved. Unfortunately, despite long-time Democratic opposition, this proposal provides 100% legal immunity to corporations whose irresponsibility has led to the deaths of hundreds of workers. It would continue to provide a get-out-of-jail free card to companies that put the lives of their workers and customers at risk. In fact, the Manchin-Romney proposal will, through this liability provision, encourage corporations to avoid implementing the common sense safety standards needed to protect workers and consumers - and make a bad situation worse. Further, during the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, when over half of our workers are living paycheck to paycheck, when one out of four workers are either unemployed or make less than $20,000 a year, when 92 million Americans are uninsured or under-insured, when tens of millions of people face eviction and when hunger in America is exploding, it is unacceptable that the Manchin-Romney proposal does not even do what the CARES Act did and provide, at the very least, a $1,200 direct payment to working class Americans and $500 for their kids. Tens of millions of Americans living in desperation today would receive absolutely no financial help from this proposal. That is not acceptable. Last March, with unanimous support in Congress, President Trump signed the $2 trillion CARES Act into law that provided a $600 a week supplement in unemployment benefits and a $1,200 direct payment to every working class adult, $500 per child and significant help for small businesses, states and cities. In October, as part of the negotiating process… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-statement-on-manchin-romney-covid19-proposal/ Sanders Statement on Manchin-Romney COVID19 Proposal 2020-12-04 2020 2020-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy BURLINGTON, December 4 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement on the Manchin-Romney COVID19 legislative proposal: Given the enormous economic desperation facing working families in this country today, I will not be able to support the recently announced Manchin-Romney COVID proposal unless it is significantly improved. Unfortunately, despite long-time Democratic opposition, this proposal provides 100% legal immunity to corporations whose irresponsibility has led to the deaths of hundreds of workers. It would continue to provide a get-out-of-jail free card to companies that put the lives of their workers and customers at risk. In fact, the Manchin-Romney proposal will, through this liability provision, encourage corporations to avoid implementing the common sense safety standards needed to protect workers and consumers and make a bad situation worse. Further, during the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, when over half of our workers are living paycheck to paycheck, when one out of four workers are either unemployed or make less than $20,000 a year, when 92 million Americans are uninsured or under-insured, when tens of millions of people face eviction and when hunger in America is exploding, it is unacceptable that the Manchin-Romney proposal does not even do what the CARES Act did and provide, at the very least, a $1,200 direct payment to working class Americans and $500 for their kids. Tens of millions of Americans living in desperation today would receive absolutely no financial help from this proposal. That is not acceptable. Last March, with unanimous support in Congress, President Trump signed the $2 trillion CARES Act into law that provided a $600 a week supplement in unemployment benefits and a $1,200 direct payment to every working class adult, $500 per child and significant help for small businesses, states and cities. In October, as part of the negotiating process, the Trump Administration and a bi-partisan coalition in the House supported over $1.8 trillion in COVID… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/vermont-students-share-what-you-think-our-national-priorities-should-be Vermont Students: Share What You Think Our National Priorities Should Be 2020-11-25 2020 2020-11 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Vermont Students: Share What You Think Our National Priorities Should Be The deadline for my annual State of the Union Essay contest is approaching. This contest is a great opportunity for high school students to be actively engaged in our democratic process and think about solutions to the major problems facing our country. If you're a Vermont High school student, join us for the 11th year of the contest and submit your essay by January 12th. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-announces-eleventh-annual-state-of-the-union-essay-contest Sanders Announces Eleventh Annual State of the Union Essay Contest 2020-11-24 2020 2020-11 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders Announces Eleventh Annual State of the Union Essay Contest Tuesday, November 24, 2020 BURLINGTON, November 24 Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has launched his eleventh annual State of the Union essay contest. Each January, the President of the United States delivers the State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress, which outlines priorities for the coming year. Because Senator Sanders knows that great ideas can come from everyone not just those in power and wants to encourage young people to become engaged in the political process, he created the State of the Union Essay Contest. The contest is an opportunity for Vermont high school students to describe a major issue facing our country and propose what they would do to solve it. The 250-500 word essays can be on any issue of national importance. A volunteer panel of Vermont teachers will judge the essays on the students' ability to articulate an issue and propose a solution, without regard to the students' political views. Senator Sanders will enter the essays of the ten finalists into the Congressional Record the official archive of the U.S. Congress. I started this essay contest 11 years ago to help our students be actively engaged, no matter where they stand on the issues, said Sanders, who serves on the Senate education committee. This year, our state and nation face a health and economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with a renewed fight for racial justice. Many of you have seen family members struggle because of lost wages or health concerns, you have been asked to learn online, and you face a future that may feel uncertain. To my mind, the unprecedented nature of this time makes it more important than ever to hear perspectives and innovative ideas from you, our young people. More than 4,600 students from high schools throughout Vermont have written essays in the past ten years about critically important issues, including climate change, access to mental health care, the rising cost of … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/taxpayers-subsidize-poverty-wages-at-walmart-mcdonalds-other-large-corporations-gao-finds Taxpayers Subsidize Poverty Wages at Walmart, McDonalds, Other Large Corporations, GAO Finds 2020-11-18 2020 2020-11 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Taxpayers Subsidize Poverty Wages at Walmart, McDonald's, Other Large Corporations, GAO Finds Wednesday, November 18, 2020 WASHINGTON, November 18 Many full-time workers employed by some of America's largest and most profitable corporations receive wages so low that they qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, or food stamps) benefits and Medicaid, according to a report released today by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The report,Millions of Full-time Workers Rely on Federal Health Care and Food Assistance Programs,commissioned by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), found that 5.7 million Medicaid enrollees and 4.7 million SNAP recipients who worked full-time for 50 or more weeks in 2018 earned wages so low that they qualified for these federal benefits. An estimated 12 million wage-earning adults enrolled in Medicaid and 9 million wage-earning adults living in households receiving SNAP benefits worked at some point in 2018. At a time when huge corporations like Walmart and McDonald's are making billions in profits and giving their CEOs tens of millions of dollars a year, they're relying on corporate welfare from the federal government by paying their workers starvation wages. That is morally obscene.U.S. taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize some of the largest and most profitable corporations in America.It is time for the owners of Walmart, McDonald's and other large corporations to get off of welfare and pay their workers a living wage,said Sanders.No one in this country should live in poverty. No one should go hungry. No one should be unable to get the medical care they need. It is long past time to increase the federal minimum wage from a starvation wage of $7.25 an hour to $15, and guarantee health care to all Americans as a human right. GAO sent questionnaires to state Medicaid and SNAP agencies and analyzed data from 15 such agencies across 11 states. Each agency reported the 25 most common employers of Medicaid enrollees and SNAP recipients. A… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/taxpayers-subsidize-poverty-wages-at-walmart-mcdonalds-other-large-corporations-gao-finds/ Taxpayers Subsidize Poverty Wages at Walmart, McDonalds, Other Large Corporations, GAO Finds 2020-11-18 2020 2020-11 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, November 18 Many full-time workers employed by some of America's largest and most profitable corporations receive wages so low that they qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, or food stamps) benefits and Medicaid, according to a report released today by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The report,Millions of Full-time Workers Rely on Federal Health Care and Food Assistance Programs,commissioned by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), found that 5.7 million Medicaid enrollees and 4.7 million SNAP recipients who worked full-time for 50 or more weeks in 2018 earned wages so low that they qualified for these federal benefits. An estimated 12 million wage-earning adults enrolled in Medicaid and 9 million wage-earning adults living in households receiving SNAP benefits worked at some point in 2018. At a time when huge corporations like Walmart and McDonald's are making billions in profits and giving their CEOs tens of millions of dollars a year, they're relying on corporate welfare from the federal government by paying their workers starvation wages. That is morally obscene.U.S. taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize some of the largest and most profitable corporations in America.It is time for the owners of Walmart, McDonald's and other large corporations to get off of welfare and pay their workers a living wage,said Sanders.No one in this country should live in poverty. No one should go hungry. No one should be unable to get the medical care they need. It is long past time to increase the federal minimum wage from a starvation wage of $7.25 an hour to $15, and guarantee health care to all Americans as a human right. GAO sent questionnaires to state Medicaid and SNAP agencies and analyzed data from 15 such agencies across 11 states. Each agency reported the 25 most common employers of Medicaid enrollees and SNAP recipients. Among the 15 agencies, Walmart was in the top four employers of program beneficiaries in each and every one. McDonald's was a top-five employer of employ… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/fafsa-helping-students-afford-college-2020-11-06 FAFSA: Helping Students Afford College 2020-11-06 2020 2020-11 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy FAFSA: Helping Students Afford College Are you looking to pursue further education after high school, but are worried about the cost? If you are considering college, technical, or vocational education, you can now fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (the FAFSA), to help you secure federal, state, and college-specific financial assistance. Now, more than ever, we must keep fighting to make College for All a reality. But until then, students and families deserve to know what resources are available to help pay for continued education. If you have questions, or need help filling out the FAFSA, contact the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation at www.vsac.org or 800-642-3177. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/healthcare-must-no-longer-be-a-privilege Healthcare Must No Longer Be A Privilege 2020-10-30 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Healthcare Must No Longer Be A Privilege While 12 million Americans recently lost their health insurance, the private health insurance companies are making record profits during this horrific pandemic. Healthcare must no longer be a privilege or an employee benefit in America. It must be a human right. #MedicareForAll 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-klobuchar-issue-statement-correcting-misinformation-from-president-trump-and-justice-kavanaugh-on-voting-processes Sanders, Klobuchar Issue Statement Correcting Misinformation from President Trump and Justice Kavanaugh on Voting Processes 2020-10-28 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Klobuchar Issue Statement Correcting Misinformation from President Trump and Justice Kavanaugh on Voting Processes Wednesday, October 28, 2020 WASHINGTON, October 28- U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) released the statement below following President Trump's recent false statement that it is inappropriate and illegal to count ballots after Election Day, and the Supreme Court's ruling inDemocratic National Committee v. Wisconsin Legislature,where Justice Kavanaugh's concurring opinion contains incorrect information regarding voting: "In America, we count the votes to determine who wins an election. Despite the incorrect assertions from President Trump and Justice Kavanaugh, election officials across the country accept ballots well after Election Day every year, and results are not certified until the votes are counted and a canvas to confirm the results is conducted.Absentee ballots counted after election day do not flip the results of an election,' as Justice Kavanaugh claimed. They are the results of the election. More than twenty states, including states like Mississippi, Kansas, and Utah, require ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted even if they are received after Election Day. This is critical to ensuring that those who may face hardships in voting, including members of our military serving abroad and those affected by COVID-19, are not disenfranchised by things like mail delays. These are not new rules and they do not serve any political party. It is on all of us to reject misinformation and to tell the truth. Our election systems span 50 states, five territories, and thousands of jurisdictions. State and local election officials are working around the clock, and experts have concluded that the integrity of our election system is strong. The best defense against those trying to undermine our democracy is the resolve of the American people, who are voting by the millions as we speak. Keep voting. On October 18, Sanders and Klobuch… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/sanders-and-klobuchar-explain-to-trump-in-america-we-count-the-votes-to-determine-who-wins Sanders and Klobuchar Explain to Trump: 'In America, We Count the Votes to Determine Who Wins' 2020-10-28 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders and Klobuchar Explain to Trump: 'In America, We Count the Votes to Determine Who Wins' Wednesday, October 28, 2020 Sens. Bernie Sanders and Amy Klobucharreleaseda joint statement Wednesday in response to two recent developments that have amplified fears about next week's general election: President Donald Trump's falsesuggestionthat counting votes after Election Day is unlawful and an ominous concurringopinionfrom U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Trump, who has repeatedlyrefusedto commit to a peaceful transition of power if he loses reelection,saidTuesday that "it would be very, very proper and very nice if a winner were declared on November 3rd, instead of counting ballots for two weeks, which is totally inappropriate and I don't believe that that's by our laws. I don't believe that. So we'll see what happens." Those widely rebuked remarks came a day after Kavanaugh, a Trump appointee,issuedan opinion parroting the president's lies about mail-in voting fraud. In a 5-3 decision along ideological lines, the high court rejected an attempt by Wisconsin Democrats and rights groups to extend the state's deadline for receiving mailed ballots that are postmarked by Election Day. "In America, we count the votes to determine who wins an election," declared Sanders (I-Vt.) and Klobuchar (D-Minn.), both ex-Democratic presidential primary candidates who have since endorsed the party's nominee, former Vice President Joe Biden. "Despite the incorrect assertions from President Trump and Justice Kavanaugh, election officials across the country accept ballots well after Election Day every year, and results are not certified until the votes are counted and a canvas to confirm the results is conducted," the senators said. "Absentee ballots counted after Election Day do not 'flip the results of an election,' as Justice Kavanaugh claimed. They are the results of the election." "More than 20 states, including states like Mississippi, Kansas, and Utah, require ballots postmarked by … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-klobuchar-issue-statement-correcting-misinformation-from-president-trump-and-justice-kavanaugh-on-voting-processes/ Sanders, Klobuchar Issue Statement Correcting Misinformation from President Trump and Justice Kavanaugh on Voting Processes 2020-10-28 2020 2020-10 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, October 28 U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) released the statement below following President Trump's recent false statement that it is inappropriate and illegal to count ballots after Election Day, and the Supreme Court's ruling inDemocratic National Committee v. Wisconsin Legislature,where Justice Kavanaugh's concurring opinion contains incorrect information regarding voting: In America, we count the votes to determine who wins an election. Despite the incorrect assertions from President Trump and Justice Kavanaugh, election officials across the country accept ballots well after Election Day every year, and results are not certified until the votes are counted and a canvas to confirm the results is conducted.Absentee ballots counted after election day do not flip the results of an election,' as Justice Kavanaugh claimed. They are the results of the election. More than twenty states, including states like Mississippi, Kansas, and Utah, require ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted even if they are received after Election Day. This is critical to ensuring that those who may face hardships in voting, including members of our military serving abroad and those affected by COVID-19, are not disenfranchised by things like mail delays. These are not new rules and they do not serve any political party. It is on all of us to reject misinformation and to tell the truth. Our election systems span 50 states, five territories, and thousands of jurisdictions. State and local election officials are working around the clock, and experts have concluded that the integrity of our election system is strong. The best defense against those trying to undermine our democracy is the resolve of the American people, who are voting by the millions as we speak. Keep voting. On October 18, Sanders and Klobuchar, along with Senators Schumer (D-N.Y.), Heinrich (D-N.M.), Murphy (D-Conn.), and Duckworth (D-Ill.), issued a report titled2020 General Election: Counting Votes & What to Expect… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-condemns-senate-confirmation-of-judge-barrett-to-supreme-court Sanders Condemns Senate Confirmation of Judge Barrett to Supreme Court 2020-10-26 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders Condemns Senate Confirmation of Judge Barrett to Supreme Court Monday, October 26, 2020 WASHINGTON, October 26 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement criticizing the Republican-controlled Senate's confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court: Tonight's vote to confirm Amy Coney Barrett as a Supreme Court justice is a disgrace, not only because of what she will do when she gets on the bench, but because of the entire process, which was pushed through with extraordinary hypocrisy by Senate Republicans in the last days of a president's term. At this particular moment, over 50 million people have already cast their ballots to determine who the next President of the United States should be. Now is not the time to be voting on a Supreme Court justice. What we should be voting on instead is a major Covid-19 stimulus package to protect the working people of this country, who, by the tens of millions, have lost their jobs. They're struggling right now to pay their rent, get health insurance, and put food on the table to feed their kids. That is the issue we should be dealing with right now, and I am committed to ensuring that the next U.S. Senate, under Democratic leadership, will make a major Covid-19 stimulus bill the first order ofpriority. Watch Sanders' remarks on his vote against Barrett's confirmation here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/https//vtdiggerorg/2020/10/26/leahy-sanders-say-theyll-vote-against-barrett-nomination-to-supreme-court/ Leahy, Sanders vote against Barrett nomination to Supreme Court 2020-10-26 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy   0 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/we-should-not-be-voting-on-a-supreme-court-justice We Should Not Be Voting On A Supreme Court Justice 2020-10-26 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy We Should Not Be Voting On A Supreme Court Justice I am going down to the Senate floor to vote AGAINST the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett. We should not be voting on a Supreme Court justicewe should be voting on major COVID19 relief to protect working families. We will make this the top priority of a Democratic Senate. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-condemns-senate-confirmation-of-judge-barrett-to-supreme-court/ Sanders Condemns Senate Confirmation of Judge Barrett to Supreme Court 2020-10-26 2020 2020-10 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, October 26 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement criticizing the Republican-controlled Senate's confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court: Tonight's vote to confirm Amy Coney Barrett as a Supreme Court justice is a disgrace, not only because of what she will do when she gets on the bench, but because of the entire process, which was pushed through with extraordinary hypocrisy by Senate Republicans in the last days of a president's term. At this particular moment, over 50 million people have already cast their ballots to determine who the next President of the United States should be. Now is not the time to be voting on a Supreme Court justice. What we should be voting on instead is a major Covid-19 stimulus package to protect the working people of this country, who, by the tens of millions, have lost their jobs. They're struggling right now to pay their rent, get health insurance, and put food on the table to feed their kids. That is the issue we should be dealing with right now, and I am committed to ensuring that the next U.S. Senate, under Democratic leadership, will make a major Covid-19 stimulus bill the first order ofpriority. Watch Sanders' remarks on his vote against Barrett's confirmationhere. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/the-most-essential-people-in-our-economy-are-not-hedge-fund-managers The Most Essential People In Our Economy Are Not Hedge Fund Managers 2020-10-23 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy The Most Essential People In Our Economy Are Not Hedge Fund Managers Maybejust maybethe most essential people in our economy are not hedge fund managers. If our farmworkers fall ill, we go hungry. We must put an end to their exploitation and provide free health care, paid sick leave, and good wagesregardless of immigration status. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/sanders-democrats-will-pass-massive-stimulus-bill-if-party-flips-the-senate Sanders: Democrats will pass 'massive stimulus bill' if party flips the Senate 2020-10-22 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders: Democrats will pass 'massive stimulus bill' if party flips the Senate Thursday, October 22, 2020 Sen.Bernie Sanders(I-Vt.) pledged Thursday that Democrats will pass ahuge coronavirus relief package ifthey win the Senate in next month's elections. If the Democrats gain control of the Senate, the first order of business will be a massive stimulus bill to protect desperate working people throughout this country, Sanders said on Hill.TV's Rising. The remarks come as SpeakerNancy Pelosi(D-Calif.) and Treasury SecretarySteven Mnuchinpress on in their negotiationson COVID-19 aid. Pelosi has stuck to her position that a stimulus package must total at least $2.2 trillion, while theadministration has inched up to $1.8 trillion. Both sides have said progress has been made in the past week, though no final legislation has materialized. President Trumphas urged the two sides to go big, but disagreements have emerged over aid to state and local governments, which the president calls a slush fund to bail out what he says are poorly run Democratic localities. And Republicans in the Senate have expressed pessimism that they can get enough votes to pass abill that goes beyond $500 billion due to concerns in the conference over the ballooning national debt. Sanders said Senate Republicans' hesitation to go for anything larger than $500 billion is pathetic but that he too has concerns over a potential bill, saying a deal must include a boost to unemployment benefits and another round of stimulus checks. It's not just a number, 1.8 or 2.2 or whatever it is, it is what is in the bill. I am concerned about a slush fund that the Trump administration would have within that bill. I am very concerned that when we have millions of people who have lost their jobs, they desperately need that $600 supplement to their unemployment, they need that $1,200 check, they need health care, they need to be able to pay their rent, he said. So the devil is in the details in terms of what is in… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/sanders-progressives-will-work-to-rally-the-american-people-if-biden-wins Sanders: Progressives will work to 'rally the American people' if Biden wins 2020-10-22 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders: Progressives will work to 'rally the American people' if Biden wins Thursday, October 22, 2020 Sen.Bernie Sanders(I-Vt.)predicted that progressives would look to move Democratic presidential nomineeJoe Bidentoward theirpriorities if he wins the White House this November and Democrats sweep Congress. If you want a progressive agenda to come out of the United States Congress, we're going to have to rally the American people by the tens of millions to demand that we have a government that represents all of us and not just wealthy campaign contributors. We're going to have to correct and deal with a very corrupt election system where massive voter suppression that exists every single day right now, he said on Hill.TV's Rising Thursday. Sanders said Democrats should tackle legislation he plans to introduce to begin the process of moving toward Medicare for All, raising the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour, and a massive infrastructure plan. We have got to lay out an agenda that speaks to the struggles and the desperation of working-class Americans, he said. Sanders recognized that Biden, a well-known centrist steeped in old traditions of bipartisanship in Congress, does not share many of his progressive policies but argued his plans would still move the country forward. [I]f you look at Biden's economic proposals, they're not Bernie Sanders's proposals. Don't want to suggest they are. But they will raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour, equal pay for equal work, making it easier for workers to join unions, $2 trillion investment in combatting climate change and creating millions of good paying jobs in energy efficiency and sustainable energy, paid family and medical leave. No small things, he said. Sanders and other progressives have been on a campaign to persuade liberals who may be skeptical of Biden's centrist brand of politics to back the former vice president, with the Vermont lawmaker maintaining that the first step to moving the country in a more … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/sanders-democrats-will-pass-massive-stimulus-bill-if-party-flips-the-senate Sanders: Democrats will pass 'massive stimulus bill' if party flips the Senate 2020-10-22 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders: Democrats will pass 'massive stimulus bill' if party flips the Senate Thursday, October 22, 2020 Sen.Bernie Sanders(I-Vt.) pledged Thursday that Democrats will pass ahuge coronavirus relief package ifthey win the Senate in next month's elections. If the Democrats gain control of the Senate, the first order of business will be a massive stimulus bill to protect desperate working people throughout this country, Sanders said on Hill.TV's Rising. The remarks come as SpeakerNancy Pelosi(D-Calif.) and Treasury SecretarySteven Mnuchinpress on in their negotiationson COVID-19 aid. Pelosi has stuck to her position that a stimulus package must total at least $2.2 trillion, while theadministration has inched up to $1.8 trillion. Both sides have said progress has been made in the past week, though no final legislation has materialized. President Trumphas urged the two sides to go big, but disagreements have emerged over aid to state and local governments, which the president calls a slush fund to bail out what he says are poorly run Democratic localities. And Republicans in the Senate have expressed pessimism that they can get enough votes to pass abill that goes beyond $500 billion due to concerns in the conference over the ballooning national debt. Sanders said Senate Republicans' hesitation to go for anything larger than $500 billion is pathetic but that he too has concerns over a potential bill, saying a deal must include a boost to unemployment benefits and another round of stimulus checks. It's not just a number, 1.8 or 2.2 or whatever it is, it is what is in the bill. I am concerned about a slush fund that the Trump administration would have within that bill. I am very concerned that when we have millions of people who have lost their jobs, they desperately need that $600 supplement to their unemployment, they need that $1,200 check, they need health care, they need to be able to pay their rent, he said. So the devil is in the details in terms of what is in the bill. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/bernie-sanders-applauds-people-of-bolivia-for-year-long-fight-to-restore-democracy-in-wake-of-military-coup Bernie Sanders Applauds People of Bolivia for 'Year-Long Fight to Restore Democracy' in Wake of Military Coup 2020-10-20 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Bernie Sanders Applauds People of Bolivia for 'Year-Long Fight to Restore Democracy' in Wake of Military Coup Tuesday, October 20, 2020 Following socialist candidate Luis Arce's resounding victory in Bolivia's high-stakes and closely watched presidential election, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders on Monday applauded the people of the South American nation for persisting in their "difficult, year-long fight to restore democracy" in the wake of last year's military coup that ousted Evo Morales and installed a vicious right-wing regime. "The Bolivian people made their voices heard in yesterday's election," tweeted Sanders, who wasamong the firstmembers of Congress to condemn the military coup, which wasopenly applaudedby President Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers and abetted by the U.S.-dominated Organization of American States (OAS). "As minister of economy, Mr. Arce helped slash poverty and inequality," the Vermont senator added, referring to Arce's role in Morales' government. "I congratulate him on his victory and wish him well." Exit polls released Monday showed Arce with such a large lead in the contest that Carlos Mesa, Arce's closest competitor, was forced to concede defeat. "The results from the quick count are overwhelming and very clear,"saidMesa, who served as president of Bolivia from 2003 to 2005. "It's a result that we accept and it's a result that we believe, because of the difference between the first and second [finishers], will not be modified when we know the final results." U.S. Rep. Jess "Chuy" Garca (D-Ill.)joinedSanders on Monday in celebrating "the triumph of true democracy" in Bolivia and demanded "justice for those persecuted and killed under the ez regime," whichseized powerfollowing the ouster of Morales and promptly unleashedviolent military repressionagainst anti-coup demonstrators. AsThe Intercept's Glenn GreenwaldwroteMonday afternoon, "It looks as though the margin of victory delivered to [the Movement Toward Socialism party] by t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-senate-democrats-to-american-people-do-not-allow-trump-to-undermine-nov-3-election-results Sanders, Senate Democrats To American People: Do Not Allow Trump To Undermine Nov. 3 Election Results 2020-10-19 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Senate Democrats To American People: Do Not Allow Trump To Undermine Nov. 3 Election Results Monday, October 19, 2020 WASHINGTON, October 18 Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Senate Rules Committee Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) today released a report summarizing for the American people what to expect on Election Day and reinforcing the Democrats' call to encourage everyone to vote. The report follows the months-long effort by President Trump to undermine the election and his repeated refusal to commit to a peaceful transfer of power. With the general election already well underway in every state across the country, Sanders and Senate Democrats have a clear message for the American people: Vote and cast your ballot as early as possible. While expressing optimism that Election Day will go smoothly around the country, the jointly authored report outlines the possibility that in some states, the outcome might not be known on November 3. The last message from the report is to make absolutely clear that voter intimidation is illegal and that federal law prohibits coercing or threatening anyone in order to interfere with their right to vote. "The American people must be prepared for an election that is unprecedented in our history due to the enormous increase in mail-in ballots that have been, and will be, cast as a result of the pandemic, said Senator Sanders.No one should have to risk their health or their lives in order to vote, and that is why many millions are voting through mail-in ballots. One of the worst lies that Donald Trump is spreading is that there is a massive amount of voter fraud in this country.That is a total lie which no election official, Republican or Democrat, can support.What we are doing with this effort is ensuring that the American people understand that if American … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/leahy-and-sanders-seek-swift-release-of-liheap-heating-help Leahy and Sanders Seek Swift Release of LIHEAP Heating help 2020-10-19 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Leahy and Sanders Seek Swift Release of LIHEAP Heating help Monday, October 19, 2020 With winter around the corner and heating costs projected to increase this season, Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont) and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) joined a bipartisan coalition of 40 senators in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level possible under the current continuing resolution. The senators say federal LIHEAP funding is a crucial lifeline that assists low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes pay their energy bills and stay safe during the winter. Under a continuing Appropriations Committee resolution, HHS typically releases 90 percent of the $3.7 billion full-year appropriation. Leahy said: With the pandemic continuing to depress family incomes nationwide, and an early fall here in Vermont, it's vital that HHS act swiftly to release LIHEAP dollars to the states. As vice chairman of the Appropriations Committee I've fought year after year to support strong funding for LIHEAP because I know Vermonters rely on this help to keep warm. Any delay in sending these dollars to Vermont will result in Vermont families delaying filling their fuel tanks as nights get colder. I understand the urgency, and I hope the Administration does as well. Sanders said: As a result of this horrific health and economic crisis, Vermonters are hurting like they have never hurt before. It is critical that we get this home heating lifeline to Vermonters immediately. In the richest country on Earth, we have a moral responsibility to make sure that no one has to make the unacceptable choice between putting food on the table, paying for their prescription drugs, or heating their homes this winter. On the Appropriations Committee Leahy has long been an advocate for the LIHEAP program and has secured funding increases for the program over the past three years. The current app… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-senate-democrats-to-american-people-do-not-allow-trump-to-undermine-nov-3-election-results/ Sanders, Senate Democrats To American People: Do Not Allow Trump To Undermine Nov. 3 Election Results 2020-10-19 2020 2020-10 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, October 18 Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Senate Rules Committee Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) today released areportsummarizing for the American people what to expect on Election Day and reinforcing the Democrats' call to encourage everyone to vote. The report follows the months-long effort by President Trump to undermine the election and his repeated refusal to commit to a peaceful transfer of power. With the general election already well underway in every state across the country, Sanders and Senate Democrats have a clear message for the American people: Vote and cast your ballot as early as possible. While expressing optimism that Election Day will go smoothly around the country, the jointly authored report outlines the possibility that in some states, the outcome might not be known on November 3. The last message from the report is to make absolutely clear that voter intimidation is illegal and that federal law prohibits coercing or threatening anyone in order to interfere with their right to vote. The American people must be prepared for an election that is unprecedented in our history due to the enormous increase in mail-in ballots that have been, and will be, cast as a result of the pandemic,said Senator Sanders.No one should have to risk their health or their lives in order to vote, and that is why many millions are voting through mail-in ballots. One of the worst lies that Donald Trump is spreading is that there is a massive amount of voter fraud in this country.That is a total lie which no election official, Republican or Democrat, can support.What we are doing with this effort is ensuring that the American people understand that if American democracy means anything, it means that every vote must be countedno matter how long it takes. President Trump has for months now been laying the foundation to u… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/bernie-sanders-elizabeth-warren-demand-answers-from-amazon-over-employee-surveillance-allegations Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren demand answers from Amazon over employee surveillance allegations 2020-10-16 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren demand answers from Amazon over employee surveillance allegations Friday, October 16, 2020 By: Catherine Thorbecke, ABC News A coalition of Democratic senators sent a letter to Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, pressing the company for answers over allegations that it "unethically" tracks and monitors its employees to suppress efforts to form a union. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) implored Bezos to explain recent reports that the company was investing heavily in technology to track union organization efforts, specifically citing arecent article published by Vox News. "The fact that Amazon has decided to heavily invest in systems to retaliate against freedom of expression about unsafe and unhealthy working conditions, and to refer to organizing and workers' rights mobilization efforts as threats against the company equal to those posed by hate groups and terrorism, is unacceptable," the senators wrote. "Labor organizing campaigns are legally protected activity." Citing media reports, the senators accused Amazon of infiltrating private social media groups created by Amazon employees to track potential discussions of unionization, actively monitoring internal listservs related to employee activism, hiring intelligence analysts to track labor organization efforts and more. "Each of these reports is deeply troubling, and taken together, they suggest a pattern of significant abuse of workers and their rights," the lawmakers wrote to theworld's richest man. They added that "these actions are all the more shocking in the context that nearly 20,000 of your employees contracted the coronavirus," saying it is "deeply concerning that Amazon has prioritized tracking workers who would look to improve their working conditions over addressing the underlying health and safety concerns that those workers face." The senators demanded that Amazon respond to more than a dozen questions by … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/vermont-delegation-demands-postmaster-general-deliver-and-install-critical-mail-processing-machine-to-white-river-junction-facility Vermont Delegation Demands Postmaster General Deliver and Install Critical Mail Processing Machine to White River Junction Facility 2020-10-13 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Vermont Delegation Demands Postmaster General Deliver and Install Critical Mail Processing Machine to White River Junction Facility Tuesday, October 13, 2020 WASHINGTON Senator Bernie Sanders (I), Senator Patrick Leahy (D), and Representative Peter Welch (D) on Tuesday sent aletterto Postmaster General Louis DeJoy demanding the immediate delivery and installation of the new AFCS 200 cancellation machine at the White River Junction mail processing facility, a machine that is critical to the efficient handling of the mail. In the letter, Leahy, Sanders, and Welch wrote, While we have been promised for months that a new AFCS 200 cancellation machine will be installed, we have just learned that this will not occur until January of 2021 at the earliest. This timing is both unacceptable and another example of this administration's attempt to sabotage the Postal Service and the 2020 election." The cancellation machines at the White River Junction facility have been due to be replaced for several years now. USPS recently removed an AFCS (legacy system) cancellation machine from the facility, leaving the White River Junction center with justoneoperational cancellation machine. When that machine breaks down, as it did this past weekend, postal employees are forced to process mail by hand, which significantly delays the process. These employees are to be commended for their hard work and dedication and should be given every available resource to ensure the safe and timely processing of the mail, which includes a record number of mail-in ballots. Waiting until 2021 to get this new machine to Vermont will present undue harm to the hundreds of thousands of Vermonters who have been given the ability to vote by mail by November 3rd as well as Vermont's seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities who rely on the Postal Service for the delivery of their prescriptions, concluded the Vermont delegation. It will also further harm all those who will be separated from their families this holiday season if… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/no-confirmation-until-after-inauguration No Confirmation Until After Inauguration 2020-10-13 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy No Confirmation Until After Inauguration The last thing the Senate should be doing right now is considering an extreme right-wing Supreme Court nominee who would strip health care benefits from over 20 million Americans and take away protections for preexisting conditions. No confirmation until after inauguration. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/vermont-delegation-demands-postmaster-general-deliver-and-install-critical-mail-processing-machine-to-white-river-junction-facility/ Vermont Delegation Demands Postmaster General Deliver and Install Critical Mail Processing Machine to White River Junction Facility 2020-10-13 2020 2020-10 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Senator Bernie Sanders (I), Senator Patrick Leahy (D), and Representative Peter Welch (D) on Tuesday sent aletterto Postmaster General Louis DeJoy demanding the immediate delivery and installation of the new AFCS 200 cancellation machine at the White River Junction mail processing facility, a machine that is critical to the efficient handling of the mail. In the letter, Leahy, Sanders, and Welch wrote, While we have been promised for months that a new AFCS 200 cancellation machine will be installed, we have just learned that this will not occur until January of 2021 at the earliest. This timing is both unacceptable and another example of this administration's attempt to sabotage the Postal Service and the 2020 election. The cancellation machines at the White River Junction facility have been due to be replaced for several years now. USPS recently removed an AFCS (legacy system) cancellation machine from the facility, leaving the White River Junction center with justoneoperational cancellation machine. When that machine breaks down, as it did this past weekend, postal employees are forced to process mail by hand, which significantly delays the process. These employees are to be commended for their hard work and dedication and should be given every available resource to ensure the safe and timely processing of the mail, which includes a record number of mail-in ballots. Waiting until 2021 to get this new machine to Vermont will present undue harm to the hundreds of thousands of Vermonters who have been given the ability to vote by mail by November 3rd as well as Vermont's seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities who rely on the Postal Service for the delivery of their prescriptions, concluded the Vermont delegation. It will also further harm all those who will be separated from their families this holiday season if they are unable to rely on promise of the U.S. Postal Service to receive mail from loved ones a small but critically important way to reduce isolation, depression, and loneliness, par… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/donald-trump-is-either-a-tax-cheat-or-a-bad-businessmanlikely-both Donald Trump Is Either A Tax Cheat Or A Bad BusinessmanLikely Both 2020-10-10 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Donald Trump Is Either A Tax Cheat Or A Bad BusinessmanLikely Both Let's be clear: Donald Trump is either a tax cheat who pays less in income taxes than the average worker, or a bad businessman who has lost money year after yearlikely both. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/vermont-seniors-can-now-get-food-assistance-more-easily-thanks-to-the-new-3squaresvt-in-a-snap-program Vermont Seniors Can Now Get Food Assistance More Easily, Thanks to the New 3SquaresVT IN A SNAP Program 2020-10-02 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Vermont Seniors Can Now Get Food Assistance More Easily, Thanks to the New 3SquaresVT IN A SNAP Program Friday, October 2, 2020 BURLINGTON, October 2 Beginning October 1st, 2020, Vermont seniors applying for 3SquaresVT are able to use a simple application and benefit renewal process as part of the new 3SquaresVT IN A SNAP program. The easy to use application is available to individuals and households age 60 or older and persons with disabilities. 3SquaresVT IN A SNAP is an improvement to the State's food assistance program,saysKaty Davis, Community Health Initiatives Director at Hunger Free Vermont. Traditional applications can be lengthy to complete, and the benefit renewal process often burdensome, leaving many Vermonters' benefits to lapse. The new program will streamline applications and allow recipients to retain benefits for up to three years without additional paperwork. For too long, a complex application process has prevented older Vermonters from receiving benefits. With hunger on the rise as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress made important changes to the SNAP program, known locally as 3SquaresVT , that make it much easier for older Vermonters to access nutritious foods. In contrast to critical emergency food distribution efforts and invaluable contributions by the charitable food system, SNAP is one of the best, most sustainable food supports Vermonters can feel confident about. In the richest country in the history of the world, no one should ever have to worry about going to bed hungry. Period. But as so many people are struggling right now to put food on the table, I strongly urge older Vermonters to see if you qualify for 3SquaresVT,saidSenator Bernie Sanders, a long-time champion of nutrition assistance programs. We are dealing with the worst health crisis and economic crisis in our lifetimes. Today, as 29 million Americans are struggling with hunger and millions of seniors are trying to get by on fixed incomes, I want every Vermonter to know that I am… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/sanders-vermont-seniors-can-now-get-food-assistance-more-easily Sanders: Vermont seniors can now get food assistance more easily 2020-10-02 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders: Vermont seniors can now get food assistance more easily Friday, October 2, 2020 Beginning October 1, 2020, Vermont seniors applying for 3SquaresVT are able to use a simple application and benefit renewal process as part of the new 3SquaresVT IN A SNAP program. The easy to use application is available to individuals and households age 60 or older and persons with disabilities. 3SquaresVT IN A SNAP is an improvement to the State's food assistance program, says Katy Davis, Community Health Initiatives Director at Hunger Free Vermont. Traditional applications can be lengthy to complete, and the benefit renewal process often burdensome, leaving many Vermonters' benefits to lapse. The new program will streamline applications and allow recipients to retain benefits for up to three years without additional paperwork. For too long, a complex application process has prevented older Vermonters from receiving benefits. With hunger on the rise as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress made important changes to the SNAP program, known locally as 3SquaresVT , that make it much easier for older Vermonters to access nutritious foods. In contrast to critical emergency food distribution efforts and invaluable contributions by the charitable food system, SNAP is one of the best, most sustainable food supports Vermonters can feel confident about. In the richest country in the history of the world, no one should ever have to worry about going to bed hungry. Period. But as so many people are struggling right now to put food on the table, I strongly urge older Vermonters to see if you qualify for 3SquaresVT, said Senator Bernie Sanders, a long-time champion of nutrition assistance programs. We are dealing with the worst health crisis and economic crisis in our lifetimes. Today, as 29 million Americans are struggling with hunger and millions of seniors are trying to get by on fixed incomes, I want every Vermonter to know that I am continuing to fight to expand critically important anti-hung… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/vermont-seniors-can-now-get-food-assistance-more-easily-thanks-to-the-new-3squaresvt-in-a-snap-program/ Vermont Seniors Can Now Get Food Assistance More Easily, Thanks to the New 3SquaresVT IN A SNAP Program 2020-10-02 2020 2020-10 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy BURLINGTON, October 2 Beginning October 1st, 2020, Vermont seniors applying for 3SquaresVT are able to use a simple application and benefit renewal process as part of the new 3SquaresVT IN A SNAP program. The easy to use application is available to individuals and households age 60 or older and persons with disabilities. 3SquaresVT IN A SNAP is an improvement to the State's food assistance program,saysKaty Davis, Community Health Initiatives Director at Hunger Free Vermont. Traditional applications can be lengthy to complete, and the benefit renewal process often burdensome, leaving many Vermonters' benefits to lapse. The new program will streamline applications and allow recipients to retain benefits for up to three years without additional paperwork. For too long, a complex application process has prevented older Vermonters from receiving benefits. With hunger on the rise as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress made important changes to the SNAP program, known locally as 3SquaresVT , that make it much easier for older Vermonters to access nutritious foods. In contrast to critical emergency food distribution efforts and invaluable contributions by the charitable food system, SNAP is one of the best, most sustainable food supports Vermonters can feel confident about. In the richest country in the history of the world, no one should ever have to worry about going to bed hungry. Period. But as so many people are struggling right now to put food on the table, I strongly urge older Vermonters to see if you qualify for 3SquaresVT,saidSenator Bernie Sanders, a long-time champion of nutrition assistance programs. We are dealing with the worst health crisis and economic crisis in our lifetimes. Today, as 29 million Americans are struggling with hunger and millions of seniors are trying to get by on fixed incomes, I want every Vermonter to know that I am continuing to fight to expand critically important anti-hunger programs, like Meals on Wheels, school nutrition, and SNAP,Sanders continued. In additi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/are-you-ready-for-a-radical-idea Are You Ready For A Radical Idea? 2020-10-01 2020 2020-10 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Are You Ready For A Radical Idea? Are you ready for a radical idea? Billionaires in the United States should not be paying less in taxes than nurses, teachers, firefighters and truck drivers. It's time to tax the $845 billion in wealth gains 643 billionaires made during the pandemic and expand Medicare to all. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-statement-on-scotus-nomination Sanders Statement on Supreme Court Nomination 2020-09-26 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders Statement on Supreme Court Nomination Saturday, September 26, 2020 BURLINGTON, September 26 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement on President Trump's nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court: "President Trump and Senate Republicans have badly mismanaged a deadly pandemic for months. Now, in the midst of an unprecedented public health crisis, they are willing to ram through a Supreme Court nomineewithin dayswho will vote to destroy the Affordable Care Act, kick millions of Americans off their health care, and eliminate protections for millions more who have preexisting conditions. This is an absolute outrage. "The American people will not stand for this cynical effort to fill a Supreme Court vacancy, just days before an election, with someone who will roll back basic protections for women, workers, voters, people of color, the LGBT community, and our environment. I strongly oppose this nomination and we must fight as hard as we can to ensure that this nominee is not confirmed." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-statement-on-supreme-court-nomination Sanders Statement on Supreme Court Nomination 2020-09-26 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders Statement on Supreme Court Nomination Saturday, September 26, 2020 BURLINGTON, September 26 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement on President Trump's nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court: "President Trump and Senate Republicans have badly mismanaged a deadly pandemic for months. Now, in the midst of an unprecedented public health crisis, they are willing to ram through a Supreme Court nomineewithin dayswho will vote to destroy the Affordable Care Act, kick millions of Americans off their health care, and eliminate protections for millions more who have preexisting conditions. This is an absolute outrage. "The American people will not stand for this cynical effort to fill a Supreme Court vacancy, just days before an election, with someone who will roll back basic protections for women, workers, voters, people of color, the LGBT community, and our environment. I strongly oppose this nomination and we must fight as hard as we can to ensure that this nominee is not confirmed." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-statement-on-supreme-court-nomination/ Sanders Statement on Supreme Court Nomination 2020-09-26 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy BURLINGTON, September 26 Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement on President Trump's nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court: President Trump and Senate Republicans have badly mismanaged a deadly pandemic for months. Now, in the midst of an unprecedented public health crisis, they are willing to ram through a Supreme Court nomineewithin dayswho will vote to destroy the Affordable Care Act, kick millions of Americans off their health care, and eliminate protections for millions more who have preexisting conditions. This is an absolute outrage.The American people will not stand for this cynical effort to fill a Supreme Court vacancy, just days before an election, with someone who will roll back basic protections for women, workers, voters, people of color, the LGBT community, and our environment. I strongly oppose this nomination and we must fight as hard as we can to ensure that this nominee is not confirmed. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/must-watch-sanders-take-trump-threat-to-us-democracy-seriously Must Watch: Sanders: Take Trump Threat To U.S. Democracy Seriously 2020-09-24 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Must Watch: Sanders: Take Trump Threat To U.S. Democracy Seriously Thursday, September 24, 2020 Senator Bernie Sanders talks with Rachel Maddow about why Donald Trump's efforts to delegitimize the 2020 election should be taken seriously and the nightmare scenario he is most concerned about for Election Night.Watch here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/live-sens-gillibrand-and-sanders-talk-postalbanking-2020-09-24 LIVE: Sens. Gillibrand and Sanders Talk PostalBanking 2020-09-24 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy LIVE: Sens. Gillibrand and Sanders Talk PostalBanking Join me and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand as we introduce the Postal Banking Act. Together, we will guarantee basic banking services to allno outrageous fees or interest ratesall at your local post office. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/senate-republicans-brazen-hypocrisy-on-the-supreme-court Senate Republicans' Brazen Hypocrisy on the Supreme Court 2020-09-24 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Senate Republicans' Brazen Hypocrisy on the Supreme Court Here's what Senate Republicans said when they blocked President Obama's Supreme Court nominee. Do they have any integrity? The right thing to do for this vacancy is clear, and Senate Republicans know it. They've stated it clearer than I could. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/bolivias-left-could-win-an-upcoming-election-us-democrats-dont-want-a-repeat-of-last-years-crisis Bolivias Left Could Win an Upcoming Election. U.S. Democrats Dont Want a Repeat of Last Years Crisis. 2020-09-22 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy A year after staging an election mired in controversy, Bolivia may be on the verge of doing it all over again. Following multiple postponements by the country's caretaker regime, elections are slated for Oct. 18. Current polling shows a clear lead for Socialist presidential candidate Luis Arce over centrist former president Carlos Mesa and a slate of other candidates. If Arce wins at least 40 percent of the vote by a 10 percent margin over his nearest rival, he would avoid the possibility of a runoff. It would mark a dramatic reversal of political fortunes for the country's left after long-ruling former president Evo Morales wasforced to flee last November. At the time, Morales's opponents alleged the results of the October 2019 election had been manipulated to deliver him a margin of victory not actually achieved. Their case was buttressed by a report put out by the Organization of American States, an influential hemispheric body headquartered in Washington, that said evidence of electoral irregularities forced them to question the integrity of the results. Mass protests in the country and a police mutiny eventually prompted Morales to bow to pressure and leave for exile, and ushered in an interim government led by right-wing lawmaker Jeanine ez. Both liberals and conservatives abroadcheered this ostensible display of people powerat the time andscolded those who branded events in Bolivia a coup pointing, instead, to Morales's earlier refusal to heed the result of a 2016 referendum limiting his terms in power. The White House celebrated the fall of a leftist government. We are now one step closer to a completely democratic, prosperous, and free Western Hemisphere, declared President Trump. But things were perhaps not quite what they seemed. Aez,known to espouse racist, anti-Indigenous views, went on to preside over an interim regime that wheeled viciously against political opponents and Morales supporters. These included myriad reports of police brutality and murders of civilians by security forces. Fr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-dos-docenas-de-legisladores-piden-responsabilidad-de-la-oea-para-garantizar-elecciones-justas-en-bolivia Sanders, Dos Docenas de Legisladores Piden Responsabilidad de la OEA Para Garantizar Elecciones Justas en Bolivia 2020-09-22 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Dos Docenas de Legisladores Piden Responsabilidad de la OEA Para Garantizar Elecciones Justas en Bolivia Tuesday, September 22, 2020 (Read the version in English here.) El senador Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), la representante Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), el representante Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) y la representante Deb Haaland (DN.M.) lideran una carta bicameral enviada hoy al Secretario de Estado Mike Pompeo. En dicha carta, junto a dos docenas de miembros del Congreso, le piden al Departamento de Estado que lleve a cabo una revisin completa e independiente de la Organizacin de Estados Americanos (OEA) con respecto a sus acciones en noviembre pasado que contribuyeron a un importante deterioro respecto a derechos humanos y democracia en Bolivia. Los miembros del Congreso expresaron su "profunda preocupacin" por la "falta de responsabilidad y transparencia" de la OEA con respecto a las denuncias ampliamente refutadas de fraude electoral en Bolivia el ao pasado. El New York Times inform que estas afirmaciones iniciales de la OEA fueron "aprovechadas" para "intensificar las protestas, reunir apoyo internacional y expulsar al [presidente] Morales del poder con apoyo militar semanas despus". Las autoridades no electas, reconocidas rpidamente por el Secretario General de la OEA, han promovido una agenda racista, anti-indgena y desplegado militares para reprimir violentamente las protestas, resultando en la muerte y heridas de muchos civiles, escribieron los congresistas, citando un informe realizado por la Clnica Internacional de Derechos Humanos en la Facultad de Derecho de Harvard. Por muchos meses, la OEA se ha "negado a responder preguntas bsicas" de los miembros del Congreso sobre sus reclamos, a pesar del rol del Congreso en la apropiacin "de la mayor parte del presupuesto de la OEA", expresaron los legisladores. Dado que la OEA est preparada para tomar una determinacin sobre la libertad, la justicia y la integridad de las prximas elecciones en Bolivia bajo un gobierno represivo y no ele… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-two-dozen-lawmakers-call-for-oas-accountability-to-ensure-fair-elections-in-bolivia Sanders, Two Dozen Lawmakers Call for OAS Accountability to Ensure Fair Elections in Bolivia 2020-09-22 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Two Dozen Lawmakers Call for OAS Accountability to Ensure Fair Elections in Bolivia Tuesday, September 22, 2020 (Lase la versin en espaol aqu) WASHINGTON, September 22 In a bicameral letter sent to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo today, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), and Rep. Deb Haaland (D-N.M.) led two dozen members of Congress in calling on the State Department to pursue a full, independent review of the Organization of American States (OAS) regarding its actions last November that contributed to a major deterioration of human rights and democracy in Bolivia. The members of Congress expressed deep concern with the OAS's lack of accountability and transparency regarding the organization's widely refuted claims of electoral fraud in Bolivia last year.The New York Timesreportedthat these initial OAS claims were seized on to escalate protests, gather international support, and push [President] Morales from power with military support weeks later. The unelected authorities, quickly recognized by the OAS Secretary General, have promoted a racist, anti-indigenous agenda and deployed the military to violently repress protests, resulting in the killing and injury of many civilians,"wrote the lawmakers, citinga reportconducted by Harvard Law School's International Human Rights Clinic. For months, the OAS has refused to answer basic questions from legislators regarding its claims despite the role of Congress in appropriating the majority of the OAS's budget, continued the lawmakers. Given that the OAS is poised to make a determination of the freedom, fairness, and integrity of the upcoming elections in Bolivia under an unelected and repressive government, the members of Congress urge the administration to use its voice at the OAS to advocate for a thorough, independent assessment of the OAS's statements, and ensure that corrective measures are taken to ensure that future OAS electoral observation missions perform their functi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-dos-docenas-de-legisladores-piden-responsabilidad-de-la-oea-para-garantizar-elecciones-justas-en-bolivia/ Sanders, Dos Docenas de Legisladores Piden Responsabilidad de la OEA Para Garantizar Elecciones Justas en Bolivia 2020-09-22 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy (Read the version in Englishhere.) WASHINGTON, 22 deseptiembreEl senador Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), la representante Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), el representante Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) y la representante Deb Haaland (DN.M.) lideran una carta bicameral enviada hoy al Secretario de Estado Mike Pompeo. En dicha carta, junto a dos docenas de miembros del Congreso, le piden al Departamento de Estado que lleve a cabo una revisin completa e independiente de la Organizacin de Estados Americanos (OEA) con respecto a sus acciones en noviembre pasado que contribuyeron a un importante deterioro respecto a derechos humanos y democracia en Bolivia. Los miembros del Congreso expresaron su profunda preocupacin por la falta de responsabilidad y transparencia de la OEA con respecto a lasdenunciasampliamenterefutadasde fraude electoral en Bolivia el ao pasado. El New York Timesinformque estas afirmaciones iniciales de la OEA fueron aprovechadas para intensificar las protestas, reunir apoyo internacional y expulsar al [presidente] Morales del poder con apoyo militar semanas despus. Las autoridades no electas, reconocidas rpidamente por el Secretario General de la OEA, han promovido una agenda racista, anti-indgena y desplegado militares para reprimir violentamente las protestas, resultando en la muerte y heridas de muchos civiles, escribieron los congresistas, citando uninformerealizado por la Clnica Internacional de Derechos Humanos en la Facultad de Derecho de Harvard. Por muchos meses, la OEA se ha negado a responder preguntas bsicas de los miembros del Congreso sobre sus reclamos, a pesar del rol del Congreso en la apropiacin de la mayor parte del presupuesto de la OEA, expresaron los legisladores. Dado que la OEA est preparada para tomar una determinacin sobre la libertad, la justicia y la integridad de las prximas elecciones en Bolivia bajo un gobierno represivo y no electo, los legisladores instan a la administracin a usar su voz en la OEA para abogar por una evaluacin exhaustiva e independiente de las declaraciones de la OEA y asegu… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-two-dozen-lawmakers-call-for-oas-accountability-to-ensure-fair-elections-in-bolivia/ Sanders, Two Dozen Lawmakers Call for OAS Accountability to Ensure Fair Elections in Bolivia 2020-09-22 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy (Lase la versin en espaol aqu) WASHINGTON, September 22 In a bicameral letter sent to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo today, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), and Rep. Deb Haaland (D-N.M.) led two dozen members of Congress in calling on the State Department to pursue a full, independent review of the Organization of American States (OAS) regarding its actions last November that contributed to a major deterioration of human rights and democracy in Bolivia. The members of Congress expressed deep concern with the OAS's lack of accountability and transparency regarding the organization's widely refuted claims of electoral fraud in Bolivia last year. The New York Times reported that these initial OAS claims were seized on to escalate protests, gather international support, and push [President] Morales from power with military support weeks later. The unelected authorities, quickly recognized by the OAS Secretary General, have promoted a racist, anti-indigenous agenda and deployed the military to violently repress protests, resulting in the killing and injury of many civilians, wrote the lawmakers, citing a report conducted by Harvard Law School's International Human Rights Clinic. For months, the OAS has refused to answer basic questions from legislators regarding its claims despite the role of Congress in appropriating the majority of the OAS's budget, continued the lawmakers. Given that the OAS is poised to make a determination of the freedom, fairness, and integrity of the upcoming elections in Bolivia under an unelected and repressive government, the members of Congress urge the administration to use its voice at the OAS to advocate for a thorough, independent assessment of the OAS's statements, and ensure that corrective measures are taken to ensure that future OAS electoral observation missions perform their functions in an independent, impartial and professional manner. The Organization of American States' decision last year to declare Bolivia's election fraud… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-statement-on-passing-of-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg Sanders Statement on Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg 2020-09-18 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders Statement on Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Friday, September 18, 2020 BURLINGTON, September 18 Sen. Bernie Sanders issued the following statement on the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: "The passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a tremendous loss to our country. She was an extraordinary champion of justice and equal rights, and will be remembered as one of the great justices in modern American history. "Unfortunately, we've already heard tonight from Sen. McConnell that he has decided to go against Justice Ginsburg's dying wishes and violate his own past statements in order to bring a judge nominated by President Trump to the floor of the United States Senate. "That's in direct contradiction of his statement in 2016, when he said Supreme Court nominees should not be voted on during a presidential election year: Our view is this: Give the people a voice in filling this vacancy,' he said. McConnell is cementing a shameful legacy of brazen hypocrisy. "Thankfully not all Senate Republicans agree. "Just today, Sen. Lisa Murkowski came out against an appointment this close to an election. I would not vote to confirm a Supreme Court nominee,' she said. We are 50 some days away from an election.' In addition, several of McConnell's other colleagues have previously stated they're against confirming a new justice this close to an election. Sen. Chuck Grassley said in May, You can't have one rule for Democratic presidents and another rule for Republican presidents.' Sen. Susan Collins said, I think that's too close, I really do,' when asked by The New York Times about appointing a justice in October. "But no one has been clearer than Judiciary Committee Chair Sen. Lindsay Graham. He promised in 2018 that if an opening comes in the last year of President Trump's term, and the primary process has started, we'll wait to the next election.' "The right thing to do here is clear. The Republicans in the Senate know it, and many of them have stated it clear… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-statement-on-passing-of-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg/ Sanders Statement on Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg 2020-09-18 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy BURLINGTON, September 18 Sen. Bernie Sanders issued the following statement on the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: The passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a tremendous loss to our country. She was an extraordinary champion of justice and equal rights, and will be remembered as one of the great justices in modern American history. Unfortunately, we've already heard tonight from Sen. McConnell that he has decided to go against Justice Ginsburg's dying wishes and violate his own past statements in order to bring a judge nominated by President Trump to the floor of the United States Senate. That's in direct contradiction of his statement in 2016, when he said Supreme Court nominees should not be voted on during a presidential election year: Our view is this: Give the people a voice in filling this vacancy,' he said. McConnell is cementing a shameful legacy of brazen hypocrisy. Thankfully not all Senate Republicans agree. Just today, Sen. Lisa Murkowski came out against an appointment this close to an election. I would not vote to confirm a Supreme Court nominee,' she said. We are 50 some days away from an election.' In addition, several of McConnell's other colleagues have previously stated they're against confirming a new justice this close to an election. Sen. Chuck Grassley said in May, You can't have one rule for Democratic presidents and another rule for Republican presidents.' Sen. Susan Collins said, I think that's too close, I really do,' when asked by The New York Times about appointing a justice in October. But no one has been clearer than Judiciary Committee Chair Sen. Lindsay Graham. He promised in 2018 that if an opening comes in the last year of President Trump's term, and the primary process has started, we'll wait to the next election.' The right thing to do here is clear. The Republicans in the Senate know it, and many of them have stated it clearer than I could. We should let voters decide. Period. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/how-vermont-became-a-model-for-the-country-in-responding-to-the-coronavirus-pandemic How Vermont Became a 'Model for the Country' in Responding to the Coronavirus Pandemic 2020-09-17 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy How Vermont Became a 'Model for the Country' in Responding to the Coronavirus Pandemic By: Meredith Deliso Thursday, September 17, 2020 It's mid-September, and Dr. Mark Levine is feeling really good. Vermont, where he serves as the state'shealthcommissioner, has had the lowest rate of new COVID-19 cases and test positivity in the country for several weeks now. As of Wednesday, there were only three patients hospitalized in the state for the virus, and Vermont's last reported COVID-19 death was on July 28. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's foremost infectious disease expert, touted Vermont's COVID-19 response on Tuesday during a press briefing with Vermont Gov. Phil Scott, saying the state "should be the model for the country" on "opening up the economy in a safe and prudent way." But despite the state's success -- and also because of it -- Levine doesn't want Vermonters to let their guard down. "Just because we're in a good place -- we know that this virus is a formidable foe," the health commissioner told ABC News. As the fall approaches, bringing anticipated tourism to the state as well as concerns about a "twindemic" of COVID-19 and the flu, the state is continuing to follow its playbook for a cautious, data-driven reopening that continually stresses the basics of handwashing, physically distancing and avoiding congregate settings. It's a playbook that officials stress doesn't rely on the state's small size to provide any advantages. Vermont is one of the most rural states in the country, and one of the smallest by population -- though public health experts are quick to dismiss those as playing major parts in reducing the spread of COVID-19 in the state. "At first, nationwide, people thought that rural would protect you. But that myth was dispelled later on, particularly in the late spring and summer, when all the southern and western states had their surge," Levine said. "Here, we don't believe the rural nature has been protective by any means." "Rur… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/gillibrand-sanders-reintroduce-postal-banking-act-to-fund-us-postal-service Gillibrand, Sanders Reintroduce Postal Banking Act to Fund U.S. Postal Service 2020-09-17 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Gillibrand, Sanders Reintroduce Postal Banking Act to Fund U.S. Postal Service Thursday, September 17, 2020 WASHINGTON, September 17 Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) held a conversation on Facebook Live to announce the Postal Banking Act. The United States Postal Service (USPS) has faced repeated attacks by the Trump administration including denying emergency funding during the pandemic and putting postal workers at risk of losing their jobs, disrupting operations and services, and delaying mail delivery. The Postal Banking Act would re-establish postal banking to provide financial security to millions of Americans in low-income and rural communities and create approximately $9 billion in annual revenue and strengthen USPS. "It is absolutely unacceptable that communities all over America lack traditional banking services, said Senator Sanders."During the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, we need to make sure that everyone in America is able to receive the affordable banking services that they desperately need.No one in America should have to pay a 400 percent interest rate on a $375 loan from a payday lender.The time has come toput predatory lenders out of business and provide affordable banking options to all Americans through the United States Postal Service. And that is exactly what our legislation will do." "Being poor in America was expensive before the pandemic, and this unprecedented crisis has made it even harder for under-served communities to access the financial services they need. In addition, the administration's relentless attacks on the Postal Service and push for privatization is compounding the challenges faced by American families, said Senator Gillibrand. The USPS is the only institution that serves every community in the country, from inner cities to rural America. The Postal Banking Act would reinforce the Postal Service, provide critical revenue, and establish postal banking for the nearly 10 million Am… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-welch-introduce-bill-to-give-states-greater-control-over-reactor-shutdown-plans Sanders, Welch Introduce Bill to Give States Greater Control Over Reactor Shutdown Plans 2020-09-17 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Welch Introduce Bill to Give States Greater Control Over Reactor Shutdown Plans Thursday, September 17, 2020 WASHINGTON Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Representative Peter Welch (D-Vt.) introduced the Nuclear Plant Decommissioning Act of 2020 today, which gives states a meaningful role in the development and approval of reactor shutdown plans and post-shutdown license transfers.The legislation is co-led in the Senate by Sen. Duckworth (D-Ill.), Sen. Markey (D-Mass.) and Sen. Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and cosponsored by Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Sen. Durbin (D-Ill.), Sen. King (I-Me.), Sen. Warren (D-Mass.) and Rep. Engel (D-N.Y.) in the U.S. House. Communities experiencing the safety and economic impacts of nuclear plant decommissioning deserve dedicated economic relief and a role in shaping those decommissioning plans for nuclear reactors near them, especially in light of the coronavirus and climate change crises, Sanders said. This input is especially critical given the potential for non-operational plants to sit for decades before removal and decontamination. The Nuclear Plant Decommissioning Act of 2020 would transform a process that is weighted almost entirely toward the power plant licensees into one that strikes a reasonable balance between licensees and the impacted communities. Vermonters know first-hand that decommissioning a nuclear power plant has enormous economic and environmental impacts on states and neighboring communities, said Welch. It is essential that state and local leaders have a seat at the table throughout the decommissioning process. This commonsense legislation ensures the decommissioning process is transparent, inclusive and collaborative. The Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in Vernon was shuttered at the end of 2014 and ownership of the decommissioned plant was transferred in 2019. This bill would give affected states like Vermont an opportunity to weigh in on the new shutdown plan if there is a license transfer or other significant change to… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/live-sens-gillibrand-and-sanders-talk-postalbanking LIVE: Sens. Gillibrand and Sanders Talk PostalBanking 2020-09-17 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy LIVE: Sens. Gillibrand and Sanders Talk PostalBanking Join me and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand as we introduce the Postal Banking Act. Together, we will guarantee basic banking services to allno outrageous fees or interest ratesall at your local post office. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/gillibrand-sanders-reintroduce-postal-banking-act-to-fund-u-s-postal-service/ Gillibrand, Sanders Reintroduce Postal Banking Act to Fund U.S. Postal Service 2020-09-17 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, September 17 Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) held a conversation on Facebook Live to announce the Postal Banking Act. The United States Postal Service (USPS) has faced repeated attacks by the Trump administration including denying emergency funding during the pandemic and putting postal workers at risk of losing their jobs, disrupting operations and services, and delaying mail delivery. The Postal Banking Act would re-establish postal banking to provide financial security to millions of Americans in low-income and rural communities and create approximately $9 billion in annual revenue and strengthen USPS. It is absolutely unacceptable that communities all over America lack traditional banking services, said Senator Sanders. During the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, we need to make sure that everyone in America is able to receive the affordable banking services that they desperately need. No one in America should have to pay a 400 percent interest rate on a $375 loan from a payday lender. The time has come to put predatory lenders out of business and provide affordable banking options to all Americans through the United States Postal Service. And that is exactly what our legislation will do. Being poor in America was expensive before the pandemic, and this unprecedented crisis has made it even harder for under-served communities to access the financial services they need. In addition, the administration's relentless attacks on the Postal Service and push for privatization is compounding the challenges faced by American families, said Senator Gillibrand. The USPS is the only institution that serves every community in the country, from inner cities to rural America. The Postal Banking Act would reinforce the Postal Service, provide critical revenue, and establish postal banking for the nearly 10 million American households who lack access to basic financial services. I'm proud to reintroduce this legislation with my friend Senator Sanders, a… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-welch-introduce-bill-to-give-states-greater-control-over-reactor-shutdown-plans/ Sanders, Welch Introduce Bill to Give States Greater Control Over Reactor Shutdown Plans 2020-09-17 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Representative Peter Welch (D-Vt.) introduced the Nuclear Plant Decommissioning Act of 2020 today, which gives states a meaningful role in the development and approval of reactor shutdown plans and post-shutdown license transfers. The legislation is co-led in the Senate by Sen. Duckworth (D-Ill.), Sen. Markey (D-Mass.) and Sen. Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and cosponsored by Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Sen. Durbin (D-Ill.), Sen. King (I-Me.), Sen. Warren (D-Mass.) and Rep. Engel (D-N.Y.) in the U.S. House. Communities experiencing the safety and economic impacts of nuclear plant decommissioning deserve dedicated economic relief and a role in shaping those decommissioning plans for nuclear reactors near them, especially in light of the coronavirus and climate change crises, Sanders said. This input is especially critical given the potential for non-operational plants to sit for decades before removal and decontamination. The Nuclear Plant Decommissioning Act of 2020 would transform a process that is weighted almost entirely toward the power plant licensees into one that strikes a reasonable balance between licensees and the impacted communities. Vermonters know first-hand that decommissioning a nuclear power plant has enormous economic and environmental impacts on states and neighboring communities, said Welch. It is essential that state and local leaders have a seat at the table throughout the decommissioning process. This commonsense legislation ensures the decommissioning process is transparent, inclusive and collaborative. The Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in Vernon was shuttered at the end of 2014 and ownership of the decommissioned plant was transferred in 2019. This bill would give affected states like Vermont an opportunity to weigh in on the new shutdown plan if there is a license transfer or other significant change to the decommissioning plan. Sanders and Welch first introduced an early version of the Nuclear Decommissioning Act in 2014, shortly after the closu… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-schumer-call-for-special-committee-to-ensure-election-security Sanders, Schumer Call for Special Committee to Ensure Election Security 2020-09-16 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Schumer Call for Special Committee to Ensure Election Security Wednesday, September 16, 2020 WASHINGTONIn response to the disturbing rise in attacks on the fundamental security and legitimacy of our elections, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) requesting the formation of a specialbipartisancommittee to hear testimony from state and local officials, election experts, and others to reassure the American people that the election will go smoothly and reliably. "Nothing is more fundamental to our democracy than the integrity of our elections, Senators Schumer and Sanders wrote. Sadly, there are some who are systematically undermining public confidence in the voting process, and irresponsibly fanning suspicions and conspiracy theories about the legitimacy of election results. "With the election less than two months away the Senate should immediately establish a specialbipartisancommittee, with equal representation from both parties, thesenators continued."The function of that committee must be to hold hearings about what is being done around the country to make certain that our public institutions are prepared to conduct a smooth and reliable election which will be free from voter suppression and intimidation, that every vote will be counted and that there will be confidence in the ultimate outcome." The full lettercan be foundhere. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-schumer-call-for-special-committee-to-ensure-election-security/ Sanders, Schumer Call for Special Committee to Ensure Election Security 2020-09-16 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON In response to the disturbing rise in attacks on the fundamental security and legitimacy of our elections, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) requesting the formation of a special bipartisan committee to hear testimony from state and local officials, election experts, and others to reassure the American people that the election will go smoothly and reliably. Nothing is more fundamental to our democracy than the integrity of our elections, Senators Schumer and Sanders wrote. Sadly, there are some who are systematically undermining public confidence in the voting process, and irresponsibly fanning suspicions and conspiracy theories about the legitimacy of election results. With the election less than two months away the Senate should immediately establish a special bipartisan committee, with equal representation from both parties, the senators continued. The function of that committee must be to hold hearings about what is being done around the country to make certain that our public institutions are prepared to conduct a smooth and reliable election which will be free from voter suppression and intimidation, that every vote will be counted and that there will be confidence in the ultimate outcome. Nothing is more fundamental to our democracy than the integrity of our elections, Senators Schumer and Sanders wrote. Sadly, there are some who are systematically undermining public confidence in the voting process, and irresponsibly fanning suspicions and conspiracy theories about the legitimacy of election results. With the election less than two months away the Senate should immediately establish a specialbipartisancommittee, with equal representation from both parties, thesenators continued.The function of that committee must be to hold hearings about what is being done around the country to make certain that our public institutions are prepared to conduct a smooth and reliable election which will… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/floor-speech-on-the-republican-skinny-relief-bill Floor Speech on the Republican "Skinny" Relief Bill 2020-09-10 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Floor Speech on the Republican "Skinny" Relief Bill Thursday, September 10, 2020 Statement on the Republican Skinny Relief Bill Mr. President: Today, as a result of the horrific pandemic and economic meltdown, the American working-class is hurting like they have never hurt before. Tens of millions of our fellow citizens have lost their jobs. They have lost their incomes. They have lost their health insurance. They have depleted their life savings. They cannot afford to pay the rent. They cannot afford to put food on the table. And they are scared to death that any day now they will get a knock on the door from the sheriff evicting them from their homes and throwing them and their belongings out on the street. Mr. President. This is the United States of America, the richest country in the history of the world. No one should be going hungry. No one should have to live in fear of becoming homeless. No one should be denied the health care that they need, especially during the worst public health crisis in over a hundred years. But that is precisely what is going on all over America as we speak. Just the other day, National Public Radio released a survey on the unprecedented economic suffering facing the American people that should shock everyone in the United States Senate into action. And here is what that survey found: 46 percent of Americans over 150 million people are now experiencing serious financial problems. 41 percent of Americans over 134 million people - have used up all or most of their savings. 33 percent of American families have had someone in their household who has either lost a job, lost a business or has been furloughed during the pandemic. Mr. President. This is an unprecedented moment in American history and the Senate needs to take unprecedented action now to improve the lives of the American people. And yet, in the midst of all of this pain, what has the Republican Senate done over the last 5 months to address the economic suffering of the American pe… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/pass-the-relief-our-people-neednow Pass The Relief Our People NeedNow 2020-09-10 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Pass The Relief Our People NeedNow Instead of providing more corporate welfare to billionaires and large corporations, we need to provide more financial relief to the tens of millions of Americans who are hurting like they have never hurt before. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/sanders-presses-health-officials-on-vaccine-availability Sanders Presses Health Officials on Vaccine Availability 2020-09-09 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders Presses Health Officials on Vaccine Availability Wednesday, September 9, 2020 By:WCAX News Team;WCAX Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders Wednesday pressed federal health officials on whether Americans will have to pay for a vaccine once one has been approved by the FDA. The Senate Committee on Health, Education Labor and Pensions heard from advisers to the president's coronavirus response, including National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins and U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams. In response to a question from Sanders on the cost of a future vaccine, both said that cost would not be a barrier This is something I'm gonna be working very hard on. Other senators will as well. Will you join us in the effort to make sure that this vaccine will be distributed free of charge to all Americans? Sanders asked U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams. I want to give you a very direct answer. Yes. As surgeon general of the United States, I promise you we will use every federal tool that we have to make sure that cost is not an obstacle for people to receive the vaccine that is likely the most anticipated of our time, Adams responded. Both Adams and Collins also stressed that safety will not be compromised by the vaccine's accelerated timeline. They say if it doesn't work or isn't safe, it won't be used and any doses that have been produced will be destroyed. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/vermont-pride-week-perseveres-through-pandemic Vermont Pride Week Perseveres Through Pandemic 2020-09-08 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Vermont Pride Week Perseveres Through Pandemic By: Kayla Martin Tuesday, September 8, 2020 Monday kicked off the start of Pride Week in Vermont. The Pride Center Vermont, the organizers of the annual event, says the week is all about feeling heard, feeling seen, and coming together, and they wanted to make sure that the pandemic didn't silence them. Pride week will certainly look a lot different than it has in years past, but there is still fun to be had. Festivities range from a Women's Trivia Night Tuesday to a Rural Queer Crafternoon Wednesday and a live, drive-in drag show at a local theater. The Pride Center's Justin Marsh says the event is especially important this year because of feelings of isolation brought on by the Coronavirus. You can't cancel pride, so we knew we had to do something, and we to come together as a community, and so it's, it's really nice to still find ways that we can all connect, he said. Richard Elliott, whose drag name is Rhedd Rhumm, says the idea is to have a platform that enables everyone to leave their worries at the door. I want you to escape from whatever it is that you have to escape from for that 4 to 5 minutes. Because it is such a therapeutic thing to be able to watch somebody, just be enamored by them, smile, laugh, forget about the worries of the world, Elliott said. Taking the pandemic and safety precautions into consideration,Pride Week will consist of a combination of virtual and in-person events. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/senators-tell-trump-administration-to-stop-forcing-payroll-tax-deferral-on-federal-workers Senators tell Trump administration to stop forcing payroll tax deferral on federal workers 2020-09-08 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Top Senators urged the Trump administration on Tuesday to halt its plans to implement a mandatory payroll tax deferral for millions of federal employees, arguing that these workers should not be treated as political pawns. The issue stems from an order issued by President Trump in August, which allows participating employers to cease withholding their workers' payroll taxes until the end of the year. Private-sector employees may be able to opt out of the plan, but federal workersdo not appear to have a choice meaning they will see a slight boost to their pay now,then owe morein 2021. The forced nature of the president's order drew frustration from about two dozen lawmakers led by Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), who called it a payroll tax scheme and demanded answers in a sharply critical letter sent to the Treasury Department and the Office of Management and Budget, which are overseeing the deferral's implementation. We urge you to let federal workers and uniformed service members choose whether to defer their payroll tax obligations rather than forcing them to participate, Van Hollen wrote, along with Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine), Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and 19 other lawmakers, all of whom are Democrats. While some federal employees may want to defer their payroll tax payments, the lawmakers continued, unions representing federal workers have made clear that many others do not. Spokespeople for the two federal agencies did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The bipartisan rebuke is only the latest against Trump's payroll tax order, one of a series of actions he announced in August to circumvent a congressional stalemate over another round ofcoronavirusaid. In signing the directive, Trump promised he would boost workers' take-home pay and pledged hewould terminate the taxesAmericans accrue over the next four months so that they don't have to repay them in January. Weeks later, however, the president's vision appears to be in tatters. A wide swath … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/democrats-sound-alarm-on-possible-election-chaos Democrats Sound Alarm on Possible Election Chaos 2020-09-07 2020 2020-09 Independent Senate VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Democrats Sound Alarm on Possible Election Chaos By: Max Greenwood Monday, September 7, 2020 Democrats are bracing for potential chaos on Election Day, fearing that the combined force ofPresident Trump's warnings of voter fraud and the expected influx of absentee ballots will lead to a bitter and protracted fight over the election's results. The party has been concerned for months about Trump's efforts to sow doubt in mail-in and absentee voting amid the coronavirus pandemic. But two developments this week renewed and worsened those fears. A top Democratic digital firm warned of a potential red mirage on Election Night, in which in-person vote tallies show Trump in the lead until mail-in ballots counted after Nov. 3 swing the race in the direction of former Vice PresidentJoe Biden. And on Wednesday, Trump suggested that supporters attempt to vote twice by mail and in person to test the ability of election systems to detect fraud, prompting an outcry from state officials who warned that casting more than one ballot is illegal. Taken together, the concerns add up to what Democrats fear will be an election mired in confusion and potential uncertainty. I don't think people have fully grasped how difficult and challenging the Trump campaign is going to try to make the administration of this election, Guy Cecil, the chair of the largest Democratic super PAC, Priorities USA, told reporters in a video briefing this week. Democratic operatives and officials in some battleground states are already taking steps to reassure voters that their election systems are up to expectations. After Trump suggested this week that his supporters try to cast two ballots, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson released a statement emphasizing that the state's election system has already been stress-tested and includes protections to ensure that each person gets only one vote. North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein, a Democrat, called Trump's remarks on voting troubling, … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/bernie-sanders-tells-mcconnell-to-stop-worrying-about-billionaire-donors-pass-stimulus-act Bernie Sanders Tells McConnell to 'Stop Worrying' About Billionaire Donors, Pass Stimulus Act 2020-09-07 2020 2020-09 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Bernie Sanders Tells McConnell to 'Stop Worrying' About Billionaire Donors, Pass Stimulus Act Monday, September 7, 2020 By: James Walker;Newsweek Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) told Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to "stop worrying" about "billionaire campaign contributors" and allow the upper chamber to pass the $3 trillion HEROES Act relief bill. The former Democratic primary candidate called on the top Republican lawmaker to "respond to the needs of working families" and permit a vote on the bailout fund that passed the House in May this year. Sanders issued his rebuke of the Senate majority leader as talks over the details of the next coronavirus stimulus package continued to stall. "Today, I say to Mitch McConnell: Do your job. Let us pass the HEROES Act or legislation that is even better. But, for once in your life, stop worrying about your billionaire campaign contributors, and respond to the needs of working families." Why it Matters Negotiations over the next stimulus package have made little headway over the past month as GOP lawmakers, the Trump administration and top Democrats have remained split on the size of the next bailout fund. The Democratic-led House passed the $3.4 trillion HEROES Act in May, but the bill has not yet been voted on in the GOP-controlled Senate as Republican lawmakerseye a smaller fundcapped at no more than $1 trillion. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin have signaled that they are both still willing to thrash out a deal, but still appeared to be divided on the scale of the intervention needed to buoy U.S. households and the economy. Releasing a statement after a phone call with Mnuchin last week, Pelosi said: "Sadly, this phone call made clear that Democrats and the White House continue to have serious differences understanding the gravity of the situation that America's working families are facing." The speaker has indicated that her side would be willing to negotiate down the … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/3squaresvt-can-help-your-family-put-food-on-the-table 3SquaresVT Can Help Your Family Put Food on the Table 2020-08-31 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy 3SquaresVT Can Help Your Family Put Food on the Table Many Vermonters struggle to put food on the table. That has been especially true since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known in Vermont as 3SquaresVT, is the number one way Vermont families can get food help. The best part is, signing up doesn't take benefits away from others and doing so helps the local economy. Vermonters can learn more about the program and apply by contacting 2-1-1 or visiting https://dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/3SquaresVT 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/we-must-end-the-horrors-of-systemic-racism-and-police-brutality We Must End the Horrors of Systemic Racism and Police Brutality 2020-08-28 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy We Must End the Horrors of Systemic Racism and Police Brutality Vermonters: Racism exists here. Full stop. It is incumbent upon each of us to educate ourselves and actively work to create anti-racist communities. I thank each and every Vermonter who has shared their experience and who is doing the necessary work to truly make Vermont a welcoming place for all. The brutal shooting of Jacob Blake and the continued protests occurring in every corner of our country, including in Vermont, is a clear call for action. I stand with all who are demanding justice and an end to the horrors of systemic racism and police brutality. Congress must work to end the horrific violence perpetrated at alarming rates against Black Americans. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/we-must-pass-the-john-lewis-voting-rights-act We Must Pass The John Lewis Voting Rights Act 2020-08-26 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy We Must Pass The John Lewis Voting Rights Act One hundred years ago, women fought for the right to vote, and won. Today, as we celebrate this important milestone, we also recognize that women of color were intentionally excluded from this victory, despite their heroic efforts to help achieve it. This centennial is a reminder that we must redouble our efforts to fight voter suppression that silences far too many voices in our democracy, make election day a national holiday, and ensure everyone who wants to can vote by mail. And we must pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act to finally guarantee the right to vote to all. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/if-you-lose-youre-leaving-office-period If You Lose, You're Leaving Office. Period. 2020-08-25 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy If You Lose, You're Leaving Office. Period. What President Trump is saying is, "I cannot lose this election. If I win, great. If I lose, it's rigged. This is a major effort to undermine our democracy and our election system. We have got to make it clear to Donald Trump: If you lose, you're leaving office. Period. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/elizabeth-warren-bernie-sanders-and-other-top-democrats-demand-usps-board-reverse-chiefs-policy-changes Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders and Other Top Democrats Demand USPS Board Reverse Chiefs Policy Changes 2020-08-17 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders and Other Top Democrats Demand Usps Board Reverse Chief's Policy Changes By: Kevin Breuninger; CNBC Monday, August 17, 2020 Leading Democratic senators called for the U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors on Monday to reverse sweeping operational changes implemented by new Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and remove him if he doesn't comply. The cost-cutting measures put in place by DeJoy, a major donor to Republicans and committees supporting PresidentDonald Trump's reelection, have been blamed for reports of widespread mail delays. They are also raising fears about the Post Office's ability to handle an expected flood of mail-in ballots in the November election. Democrats have wondered aloud whether the changes are a political tactic to undermine USPS, a federal agency, in ways that could impact ballot-counting in the November race between Trump and presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden. Mr. DeJoy appears to be engaged in a partisan effort, with the support of President Trump, to delay and degrade mail service and undermine the mission of the United States Postal Service, said seven senators, led by Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York,in a letter to the USPS Board of Governors. The request ishardly the first entreaty from Congress to reverse DeJoy's overhaul of the Post Office. Members of both parties have called on the postmaster general to reel in his new policies, which reportedly include major cuts in overtime and crackdowns on making late trips to deliver mail. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.,said Sunday she is calling the House back from summer recessin order to vote on House Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney'sbillto block DeJoy's changes from taking effectuntil the coronavirus pandemic has ended. Trump, an aggressive critic of mail-in voting, denied that he is encouraging DeJoy to slow down the mail. I have encouraged everybody, speed up the mail,' he told r… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/bernie-sanders-elizabeth-warren-and-other-top-democrats-demand-usps-board-reverse-chiefs-policy-changes Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Other Top Democrats Demand USPS Board Reverse Chiefs Policy Changes 2020-08-17 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Other Top Democrats Demand USPS Board Reverse Chief's Policy Changes Monday, August 17, 2020 By:Kevin Breuninger;CNBC Leading Democratic senators called for the U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors on Monday to reverse sweeping operational changes implemented by new Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and remove him if he doesn't comply. The cost-cutting measures put in place by DeJoy, a major donor to Republicans and committees supporting PresidentDonald Trump's reelection, have been blamed for reports of widespread mail delays. They are also raising fears about the Post Office's ability to handle an expected flood of mail-in ballots in the November election. Democrats have wondered aloud whether the changes are a political tactic to undermine USPS, a federal agency, in ways that could impact ballot-counting in the November race between Trump and presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden. Mr. DeJoy appears to be engaged in a partisan effort, with the support of President Trump, to delay and degrade mail service and undermine the mission of the United States Postal Service, said seven senators, led by Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York,in a letter to the USPS Board of Governors. The request ishardly the first entreaty from Congress to reverse DeJoy's overhaul of the Post Office. Members of both parties have called on the postmaster general to reel in his new policies, which reportedly include major cuts in overtime and crackdowns on making late trips to deliver mail. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.,said Sunday she is calling the House back from summer recessin order to vote on House Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney'sbillto block DeJoy's changes from taking effectuntil the coronavirus pandemic has ended. Trump, an aggressive critic of mail-in voting, denied that he is encouraging DeJoy to slow down the mail. I have encouraged everybody, speed up the mail,' he told reporters outside th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/the-american-people-are-hurting The American People Are Hurting 2020-08-15 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy The American People Are Hurting The American people are hurting. Millions are unemployed and cannot pay their rent or put food on the table. I shouldn't have to say this, but here's a message to President Trump, Senator McConnell and my Republican colleagues: the American people desperately needed you to act months ago, before critical assistance lapsed. They cannot wait until September. Perhaps you should actually listen to the countless stories of those who are struggling in every corner of our country. But maybe you just don't give a damn. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/vermont-summer-meals-are-still-available Vermont Summer Meals Are Still Available 2020-08-14 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Vermont Summer Meals Are Still Available When Vermont schools closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, school meal programs quickly transitioned to finding new ways of providing free meals to children 18 and under. In summer months, free and nutritious meals are still available at hundreds of locations throughout Vermont, thanks to the federally-funded Vermont Summer Meals Program. For information on times and locations of meal program sites near you, text FOOD to 877877 or call 2-1-1. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/we-must-stand-with-the-gwichin-nation We Must Stand With The Gwich'in Nation 2020-08-14 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy We Must Stand With The Gwich'in Nation It is absurd that instead of demanding the Senate reconvene to pass a bill to provide immediate relief to millions of Americans, the Trump administration is moving forward with oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Opening up the refuge is nothing more than a massive handout to the hugely profitable oil and gas companies at the expense of our climate and indigenous peoples. We must stand with the Gwich'in Nation and aggressively transition away from fossil fuels toward sustainable energy like wind and solar. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-larson-call-for-strengthening-social-security-after-gao-study-examines-disability-wait-times Sanders, Larson Call for Strengthening Social Security After GAO Study Examines Disability Wait Times 2020-08-13 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Larson Call for Strengthening Social Security After GAO Study Examines Disability Wait Times Thursday, August 13, 2020 WASHINGTON, August 13 Today,Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Chairman John B. Larson (D-Conn.)responded to new findings from a Government Accountability Office (GAO)studythey commissioned which found that thousands of American die or go bankrupt waiting to receive their disability benefits each year. "It is absolutely unconscionable that thousands of Americans suffer and die every year waiting for a final decision to get the modest Social Security benefits they need to survive. People with disabilities trying to access their earned benefits are forced to wait years before they even get a hearing,said Sanders.This report shows not only how critical Social Security can be to Americans with disabilities, but how dire the backlog is. Our job now is to stop Trump's latest effort to defund Social Security. We must also increase benefits,make the filing process easier and eliminate these obscene wait lists of people trying, far too often in vain, to access their earned benefits." "On the eve of Social Security's 85thanniversary, people are relying on their Social Security benefits now more than ever. I appreciate GAO's efforts in conducting this study. It is unacceptable that thousands of severely disabled Americans are dying or filing for bankruptcy while waiting for their benefits. I'm proud that the House has passed a FY 2021 Labor-HHS Appropriations package that includes $50 million for the Social Security Administration to continue to reduce these harmful delays. However, Americans are now facing a new threat: President Trump is attempting to defund Social Security, by unilaterally deferring and pledging to terminate' the program's dedicated funding source if re-elected. This is a reprehensible move, especially in the midst of a pandemic. I'm proud to work with Ranking Member Sande… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-larson-call-for-strengthening-social-security-after-gao-study-examines-disability-wait-times/ Sanders, Larson Call for Strengthening Social Security After GAO Study Examines Disability Wait Times 2020-08-13 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, August 13 Today,Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Chairman John B. Larson (D-Conn.)responded to new findings from a Government Accountability Office (GAO)studythey commissioned which found that thousands of American die or go bankrupt waiting to receive their disability benefits each year. It is absolutely unconscionable that thousands of Americans suffer and die every year waiting for a final decision to get the modest Social Security benefits they need to survive. People with disabilities trying to access their earned benefits are forced to wait years before they even get a hearing,said Sanders.This report shows not only how critical Social Security can be to Americans with disabilities, but how dire the backlog is. Our job now is to stop Trump's latest effort to defund Social Security. We must also increase benefits,make the filing process easier and eliminate these obscene wait lists of people trying, far too often in vain, to access their earned benefits. On the eve of Social Security's 85thanniversary, people are relying on their Social Security benefits now more than ever. I appreciate GAO's efforts in conducting this study. It is unacceptable that thousands of severely disabled Americans are dying or filing for bankruptcy while waiting for their benefits. I'm proud that the House has passed a FY 2021 Labor-HHS Appropriations package that includes $50 million for the Social Security Administration to continue to reduce these harmful delays. However, Americans are now facing a new threat: President Trump is attempting to defund Social Security, by unilaterally deferring and pledging to terminate' the program's dedicated funding source if re-elected. This is a reprehensible move, especially in the midst of a pandemic. I'm proud to work with Ranking Member Sanders to strengthen the program for all Americans and fight against the Trump Administration's cruel move to undercut Social Security,said Larson. The study, So… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/we-must-protect-the-usps We Must Protect the USPS 2020-08-07 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy We Must Protect the USPS If we could bail out large corporations, please do not tell me that we cannot save the Postal Service. See Video on YouTube Tweet Copy Link 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-colleagues-introduce-tax-on-billionaire-wealth-gains-to-provide-health-care-for-all- Sanders, Colleagues Introduce Tax on Billionaire Wealth Gains to Provide Health Care for All 2020-08-06 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders, Colleagues Introduce Tax on Billionaire Wealth Gains to Provide Health Care for All Thursday, August 6, 2020 WASHINGTON, August 6 Today, Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced a 60-percent tax on the windfall wealth increases of billionaires during this pandemic in order to pay forall out-of-pocket medical expenses for every person in America for a year. The Make Billionaires Pay Act would tax the $731 billion in wealth accumulated by 467 billionairesthe richest 0.001% of Americaa from March 18th until August 5th, a period in which 5.4 million Americans recently lost their health insurance and 50 million applied for unemployment insurance. The funds from this emergency tax would be used to cover all necessary healthcare expenses of the uninsured and underinsured, including prescription drugs, for one year. "The legislation I am introducing today willtax theobscene wealth gains billionaires have made during this extraordinary crisis to guarantee healthcare as a right to all for an entire year,said Sanders."At a time of enormous economic pain and suffering, we have a fundamental choice to make.We can continue to allow the very rich to get much richer while everyone else gets poorer and poorer. Or we can tax the winnings a handful of billionaires made during the pandemic to improve the health and well-being of tens of millions of Americans. In my view, it is time for the Senate to act on behalf of the working class who are hurting like they have never hurt before, not the billionaire class who are doing phenomenally well and have never had it so good." "As more than 160,000 Americans have lost their lives and millions more have lost their jobs, it is unconscionable that the super-wealthy are getting even richer in the midst of this crisis,"said Markey."Despite overwhelming need, Republicans continue to look for any excuse under the guise of deficit reduction to cut vital support programs like jobless aid and health insuran… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-colleagues-introduce-tax-on-billionaire-wealth-gains-to-provide-health-care-for-all/ Sanders, Colleagues Introduce Tax on Billionaire Wealth Gains to Provide Health Care for All 2020-08-06 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, August 6 Today, Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced a 60-percent tax on the windfall wealth increases of billionaires during this pandemic in order to pay forall out-of-pocket medical expenses for every person in America for a year. Representative Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) introduced companion legislation in the House. The Make Billionaires Pay Act would tax the $731 billion in wealth accumulated by 467 billionairesthe richest 0.001% of Americaa from March 18th until August 5th, a period in which 5.4 million Americans recently lost their health insurance and 50 million applied for unemployment insurance. The funds from this emergency tax would be used to cover all necessary healthcare expenses of the uninsured and underinsured, including prescription drugs, for one year. The legislation I am introducing today willtax theobscene wealth gains billionaires have made during this extraordinary crisis to guarantee healthcare as a right to all for an entire year,said Sanders.At a time of enormous economic pain and suffering, we have a fundamental choice to make.We can continue to allow the very rich to get much richer while everyone else gets poorer and poorer. Or we can tax the winnings a handful of billionaires made during the pandemic to improve the health and well-being of tens of millions of Americans. In my view, it is time for the Senate to act on behalf of the working class who are hurting like they have never hurt before, not the billionaire class who are doing phenomenally well and have never had it so good. As more than 160,000 Americans have lost their lives and millions more have lost their jobs, it is unconscionable that the super-wealthy are getting even richer in the midst of this crisis,said Markey.Despite overwhelming need, Republicans continue to look for any excuse under the guise of deficit reduction to cut vital support programs like jobless aid and health insurance for the most vulnerable. The American people pay with their lives… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sanders-speech-do-nothing-republicans-abandon-working-class-in-pandemic_ Sanders Speech: Do-Nothing Republicans Abandon Working Class in Pandemic 2020-08-05 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sanders Speech: Do-Nothing Republicans Abandon Working Class in Pandemic Wednesday, August 5, 2020 WASHINGTON Today, on the floor of the U.S. Senate, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) lambasted the Republican legislative response to the coronavirus crisis, and denounced the shameful inaction of the Republican-controlled Senate. "What everybody should understand is that over two and a half months ago, the House did its job and responded to the enormous pain and suffering of the American people, by passing a $3.5 trillion economic relief package that would extend the $600 a week increase in unemployment benefits until January,said Sanders.The Republican bill slashes unemployment benefits by 43% for 30 million Americans who lost their jobs, it continues a $135 billion tax break to 43,000 millionaires primarily in the real estate and hedge fund industry." "In the midst of a pandemic, in the midst of an economic meltdown for working families,"said Sanders, we are currently witnessing what is likely the greatest transfer of wealth from the middle class and the poor to the very rich in the modern history of this country." The statement was carried live on the Senator's social media channels and can be viewed onTwitterorFacebook. The prepared remarks can be readhereand below: "Mr. President, as everyone knows, this country faces an extraordinary set of crises unprecedented in the modern history of this country. We are in the midst of the worst public health crisis in more than a hundred years. And the Senate has done nothing over the last two and a half months. Over the past four months, the coronavirus has infected nearly 5 million Americans and caused nearly 160,000 deaths. And the Senate is doing nothing. Incredibly, more Americans have been killed by the coronavirus than the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, 9-11, the Afghanistan War and the Iraq War - combined. And the Senate is doing nothing. We are in the midst of the worst economic downturn since the Great Depre… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-sanders-announces-3-million-in-federal-funds-for-affordable-housing-in-vermont Sen. Sanders Announces $3 Million in Federal Funds for Affordable Housing in Vermont 2020-08-05 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Sen. Sanders Announces $3 Million in Federal Funds for Affordable Housing in Vermont Wednesday, August 5, 2020 BURLINGTON, August 5 U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) announced Wednesday that Vermont will receive $3 million from the National Housing Trust Fund to build, preserve and rehabilitate affordable rental housing for extremely low-income families. This is the fifth year in a row that Vermont will receive a $3 million allocation from the trust fund, which Sanders helped create. Sanders first introduced legislation to create the National Housing Trust Fund in 2001, based on the success of the Vermont Housing and Conservation Trust Fund. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and funded through a small assessment on the government-sponsored housing agencies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the trust fund is the first new federal housing resource in more than a generation. It is also the first program exclusively targeted to help build housing that is affordable to people with the lowest incomes. "Unfortunately, it was very clear that we had an affordable housing crisis in our country before the COVID-19 pandemic, Sanders said. Now, millions of working families are struggling to pay their rent and mortgages and at risk of becoming homeless. As we respond to the current health and economic crisis, we cannot ignore the unsustainable rising cost of housing. Right now, the National Housing Trust Fund is the only federal program that provides funding to construct, preserve and rehabilitate affordable housing for our lowest-income families. It is time to substantially increase its funding to meet the enormous need in every corner of this country." In Vermont, the National Housing Trust Fund is administered by the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board. Executive Director Gus Seelig said, Since it was established five years ago, the National Housing Trust Fund has been instrumental in creating and rehabilitating 490 homes in 20 housing developments located in 13 t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/crisis-after-crisis-republicans-leave-working-classbehind Crisis After Crisis: Republicans Leave Working ClassBehind 2020-08-05 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Crisis After Crisis: Republicans Leave Working ClassBehind We are in the midst of the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. And the Republican-led Senate is doing nothing. Join me on the Senate floor to demand help for the working class who are hurting like they have never hurtbefore. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/video-audio/maybe-we-should-listen-to-our-teachers Maybe We Should Listen To Our Teachers 2020-08-05 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Maybe We Should Listen To Our Teachers Maybe, just maybe, Betsy DeVos and Donald Trump should listen to teachers and public health experts instead of threatening to cut funding for public schools. See Video on YouTube Tweet Copy Link 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sanders-speech-do-nothing-republicans-abandon-working-class-in-pandemic/ Sanders Speech: Do-Nothing Republicans Abandon Working Class in Pandemic 2020-08-05 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Today, on the floor of the U.S. Senate, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) lambasted the Republican legislative response to the coronavirus crisis, and denounced the shameful inaction of the Republican-controlled Senate. What everybody should understand is that over two and a half months ago, the House did its job and responded to the enormous pain and suffering of the American people, by passing a $3.5 trillion economic relief package that would extend the $600 a week increase in unemployment benefits until January,said Sanders.The Republican bill slashes unemployment benefits by 43% for 30 million Americans who lost their jobs, it continues a $135 billion tax break to 43,000 millionaires primarily in the real estate and hedge fund industry. In the midst of a pandemic, in the midst of an economic meltdown for working families,said Sanders, we are currently witnessing what is likely the greatest transfer of wealth from the middle class and the poor to the very rich in the modern history of this country. The statement was carried live on the Senator's social media channels and can be viewed onTwitterorFacebook. The prepared remarks can be readhereand below: Mr. President, as everyone knows, this country faces an extraordinary set of crises unprecedented in the modern history of this country. We are in the midst of the worst public health crisis in more than a hundred years. And the Senate has done nothing over the last two and a half months. Over the past four months, the coronavirus has infected nearly 5 million Americans and caused nearly 160,000 deaths. And the Senate is doing nothing. Incredibly, more Americans have been killed by the coronavirus than the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, 9-11, the Afghanistan War and the Iraq War combined. And the Senate is doing nothing. We are in the midst of the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. And the Senate is doing nothing. Since March, more than 30 million Americans have lost their jobs and last week the Senate allowed a … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/press-releases/sen-sanders-announces-3-million-in-federal-funds-for-affordable-housing-in-vermont/ Sen. Sanders Announces $3 Million in Federal Funds for Affordable Housing in Vermont 2020-08-05 2020 2020-08 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy BURLINGTON, August 5 U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) announced Wednesday that Vermont will receive $3 million from the National Housing Trust Fund to build, preserve and rehabilitate affordable rental housing for extremely low-income families. This is the fifth year in a row that Vermont will receive a $3 million allocation from the trust fund, which Sanders helped create. Sanders first introduced legislation to create the National Housing Trust Fund in 2001, based on the success of the Vermont Housing and Conservation Trust Fund. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and funded through a small assessment on the government-sponsored housing agencies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the trust fund is the first new federal housing resource in more than a generation. It is also the first program exclusively targeted to help build housing that is affordable to people with the lowest incomes. Unfortunately, it was very clear that we had an affordable housing crisis in our country before the COVID-19 pandemic, Sanders said. Now, millions of working families are struggling to pay their rent and mortgages and at risk of becoming homeless. As we respond to the current health and economic crisis, we cannot ignore the unsustainable rising cost of housing. Right now, the National Housing Trust Fund is the only federal program that provides funding to construct, preserve and rehabilitate affordable housing for our lowest-income families. It is time to substantially increase its funding to meet the enormous need in every corner of this country. In Vermont, the National Housing Trust Fund is administered by the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board. Executive Director Gus Seelig said, Since it was established five years ago, the National Housing Trust Fund has been instrumental in creating and rehabilitating 490 homes in 20 housing developments located in 13 towns around the state. Ten developments are complete, providing homes affordable to our most vulnerable households, including some that had be… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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