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

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580 rows where party = "Republican", state = "MS" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending

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chamber 2

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  • House 79

year 1

  • 2025 · 580 ✖

state 1

  • MS · 580 ✖

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  • Republican · 580 ✖
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.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/wicker-s-statement-on-the-44-million-awarded-to-mississippi-s-safe-streets-for-all Wicker's Statement on the $44 Million Awarded to Mississippi's Safe Streets for All 2025-12-24 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today released the following statement after five cities is Mississippi were awarded $44 million in roadway funding under the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program. These projects are possible because of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Senator Wicker helped negotiate as a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee. “Improved roadways lead to improved safety and increased commerce. I have continually advocated for these investments in Mississippi’s infrastructure. I am eager for these grants to be implemented across the state. These upgrades will provide safer, more convenient travel options for drivers and pedestrians alike.” The grants for Mississippi will support: 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1984 Ezell Applauds Return of Coast Guard Station Pascagoula to Full Operations 2025-12-23 2025 2025-12 Republican House MS Mike Ezell E000235 ezell.house.gov ezell https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, today welcomed the U.S. Coast Guard’s decision to return Coast Guard Station Pascagoula to full response operations, marking a major step forward for maritime security and economic activity along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The Coast Guard announced that, in conjunction with Assignment Year 2026, Station Pascagoula will transition from scheduled mission operations back to full response operations after capabilities were temporarily reduced in 2023 due to workforce shortages. “This is outstanding news for South Mississippi," Chairman Ezell said. “Coast Guard Station Pascagoula plays a critical role in protecting our maritime border, supporting search and rescue missions, and safeguarding the Port of Pascagoula. I’m grateful to see the Coast Guard fully restoring these operations and ensuring our Coast Guard men and women have the staffing they need to do their jobs. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I’ve been clear that readiness matters. Restoring full operations at Station Pascagoula improves safety for our mariners, strengthens national security, and protects one of Mississippi’s most important economic engines.” "After temporarily reducing capabilities at Station Pascagoula in 2023 due to severe workforce shortages, I am pleased to announce the Coast Guard will fully restore the unit’s operational capabilities and readiness in 2026," Adm. Kevin E. Lunday, Acting Commandant said. “Our strong recruiting performance has made this possible. Station Pascagoula is vital to securing our southern maritime border and supporting the Port of Pascagoula's $18 billion economic impact. This action directly supports our nation's security and economic prosperity." Strategically located on the Gulf Coast, Coast Guard Station Pascagoula conducts missions that deter and interdict illegal migration and illicit trafficking, while also protecting vital port infrastructure from physical and… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-wishes-mississippians-hope-love-peace-2025-christmas-message HYDE-SMITH WISHES MISSISSIPPIANS ‘HOPE, LOVE & PEACE’ IN 2025 CHRISTMAS MESSAGE 2025-12-22 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Issues 2025 Christmas Message WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issued her 2025 Christmas message, in which she encourages Mississippians to “slow down, take stock of our blessings, and remember the light that guides us to seek peace even when we face uncertainty.” Read Senator Hyde-Smith’s Christmas message below: Merry Christmas, Mississippi! This season reminds us of the simple, yet profound, gifts that we are given – love, peace, and hope. Christmas invites us to slow down, take stock of our blessings, and remember the light that guides us to seek peace even when we face uncertainty. Across Mississippi, I see that light every day: in neighbors lending a hand, in communities standing strong together in good times and bad, and in the unwavering spirit that makes the Magnolia State such a remarkable place to call home. As Christians, we also pause to reflect on the incredible gift God gave us through the birth of His Son. In Him, we find perfect love, enduring hope, and the promise of peace that the world cannot offer. His life teaches us to love others, as He first loved us. Christ’s example calls us to comfort the hurting, support the weary, and serve those in need. As we dwell on the wonders of this season, let’s remember to express gratitude for the men and women in uniform who are spending this season far from home and their families to protect the freedoms we hold dear. We are also thankful for our first responders and healthcare professionals who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe and healthy. My prayer for every Mississippian is that your Christmas is filled with hope, love, and peace. And may God bless you in the year ahead. From my family to yours, I wish you a blessed Christmas and a new year full of promise. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/chairman-wicker-applauds-james-mazol-s-confirmation-as-deputy-undersecretary-of-defense-for-research-and-engineering Chairman Wicker Applauds James Mazol’s Confirmation as Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering 2025-12-19 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, (R-Miss.) Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement on James Mazol’s confirmation to be the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. “I can think of no one better than James Mazol to assume these responsibilities. He has the knowledge, experience, and vision to advance the horizons of America’s defense technology. I was privileged to benefit from Mr. Mazol’s service on both my Commerce and Armed Services committee staffs, as well as in my personal office. His work ethic, brilliance, and integrity always stood out. The United States is safer with James Mazol in the role of Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. James has a sharp understanding of the threat environment the United States faces, particularly as it pertains to China’s advancements in critical technology areas. I look forward to partnering with him and his office to meet America’s defense needs.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/wicker-hyde-smith-congratulate-kruger-and-leary-confirmed-to-be-u-s-attorneys-for-mississippi Wicker, Hyde-Smith Congratulate Kruger and Leary, confirmed to be U.S. attorneys for Mississippi 2025-12-19 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today released the following statement on the confirmation of James “Baxter” Kruger of Jackson and Scott Leary of Water Valley to serve as the United States Attorneys for Mississippi’s southern and northern districts, respectively. “We are pleased to congratulate Baxter Kruger and Scott Leary for their confirmation to be United States Attorneys for Mississippi. With their legal and law enforcement experience, these men have developed deep knowledge of Mississippi precedent and have exhibited sound and fair judgment in their careers. As they take on these new roles, we are confident in their leadership. We trust they will oversee federal investigations and criminal prosecutions in Mississippi with professionalism and respect for the rule of law.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-gillibrand-applaud-passage-bill-support-victims-human-trafficking HYDE-SMITH, GILLIBRAND APPLAUD PASSAGE OF BILL TO SUPPORT VICTIMS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Lead Bill Sponsors Encourage President Trump to Sign ‘Trafficking Survivors Relief Act’ into Law WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) lauded unanimous Senate approval of their bipartisan legislation that would enable survivors of human trafficking to have nonviolent offenses that they were forced to commit vacated and expunged. The Senate passed the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act (S.2255/HR.4323) by unanimous consent late Thursday after being passed unanimously by the House earlier this month. It now goes to President Trump for his signature. “Human trafficking touches every corner of our country, often leaving survivors facing ongoing hardships even after escaping exploitation. The Trafficking Survivors Relief Act gives survivors a chance to clear their records of the non-violent federal offenses they were forced to commit as a direct result of being trafficked. Survivors should not spend the rest of their lives being punished for crimes that were tied to their exploitation,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “Providing true relief and a fresh start is essential to long-term healing, and I’m thrilled this legislation is on course to be signed into law.” “The passage of my Trafficking Survivors Relief Act through Congress is an enormous milestone in the effort to support victims of human trafficking and help them reestablish their lives,” said Senator Gillibrand, who has fought for this bill for nearly a decade. “This legislation will help shield trafficking survivors from further undue harm, protecting them from the threat of criminalization, prison sentences, and subsequent problems finding jobs and housing because of nonviolent offenses they committed under duress. I have been working to get this bill through Congress for almost ten years, and I am thrilled that it has now passed the House and Senate. I urge President Trump to sign it into law as soon as possible.” Gillibrand first introduced the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act with a bipartisan group of colleag… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/trump-signs-order-loosen-federal-restrictions-marijuana-its-still-illegal Trump signs order to loosen federal restrictions on marijuana, but it’s still illegal 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Jacob Fischler President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday to loosen federal restrictions on marijuana, which Trump said reflected the drug’s potential medical benefits while discouraging recreational use. The order moves cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III on the Federal Drug Administration’s list of controlled substances. Schedule I, the most restrictive category under federal law, indicates a high likelihood of abuse and no accepted medical value. Trump said the move reflected that cannabis could have medicinal value, even if abuse was still possible. The order “doesn't legalize marijuana in any way, shape or form and in no way sanctions its use as a recreational drug,” Trump said. “Just as the prescription painkillers may have legitimate uses, but can also do irreversible damage … it's never safe to use powerful controlled substances in recreational matters.” Still, the order marks a major step in the decades-long liberalization of cannabis policy. Since 2012, when Washington and Colorado voters legalized personal marijuana use, 22 other states have legalized at least some form of recreational use. Only 10 states still restrict both medicinal and recreational use. In a statement, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, a Democrat, praised Trump while calling for further reforms to bring federal law into harmony with states where the drug is legal. “I thank the President and am pleased that they are finally taking this step to begin the process to reschedule,” Polis wrote. “Colorado’s cannabis industry is the gold standard ensuring that products are safe and regulated. It’s good to see the federal government finally following suit, but it’s frustrating it’s taken this long and there is much more to do for a full descheduling,” President Joe Biden started the process for rescheduling the drug last year. Medical angle A group of administration officials and medical doctors flanked Trump during the Oval Office signing, with some speaking to the potential medical benefits of marijuana, includin… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/wicker-hyde-smith-congratulate-kruger-leary-confirmed-be-us-attorneys-mississippi WICKER, HYDE-SMITH CONGRATULATE KRUGER & LEARY, CONFIRMED TO BE U.S. ATTORNEYS FOR MISSISSIPPI 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today released the following statement on the confirmation of James “Baxter” Kruger of Jackson and Scott Leary of Water Valley to serve as the United States Attorneys for Mississippi’s southern and northern districts, respectively. “We are pleased to congratulate Baxter Kruger and Scott Leary for their confirmation to be United States Attorneys for Mississippi. With their legal and law enforcement experience, these men have developed deep knowledge of Mississippi precedent and have exhibited sound and fair judgment in their careers. As they take on these new roles, we are confident in their leadership. We trust they will oversee federal investigations and criminal prosecutions in Mississippi with professionalism and respect for the rule of law.” Kruger and Leary were confirmed late Thursday as part of a large tranche of nominees held up in the confirmation process. President Trump nominated the two Mississippians in July and both nominees were supported by Wicker and Hyde-Smith throughout the confirmation process. ### 1 2026-04-07T15:46:19Z 2026-04-07T20:19:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/chairman-wicker-applauds-payment-for-troops-to-assist-with-housing-costs Chairman Wicker Applauds Payment for Troops to Assist with Housing Costs 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today commended President Trump and Secretary Hegseth for using reconciliation funding from the One Big Beautiful Bill to address housing costs for service members. The Chairman released the following statement: “I commend President Trump’s swift action to implement the additional funding Congress provided to help offset housing costs for service members. This one-time payment, combined with an average 4.2 percent increase to the Basic Allowance for Housing and 3.8 percent military pay raise in 2026, will put real money in the pockets of our service members and their families, helping provide greater stability and improved housing options as they manage the unique demands of military life. This reflects a shared commitment across Congress and the Department to strengthen quality of life for our troops. Our military families deserve nothing less.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/chairman-wicker-issues-statement-following-briefing-on-lethal-kinetic-strikes-in-southcom-aor Chairman Wicker Issues Statement Following Briefing on Lethal Kinetic Strikes in SOUTHCOM AOR 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement: “After participating in the various briefings provided by the administration, I am confident that the strikes that have taken place thus far against narco-terrorists in the SOUTHCOM area of operations were conducted based on sound legal advice. Our military takes the use of force against combatants very seriously. Each strike has been preceded by a rigorous analysis of extensive intelligence, as well as a thorough legal review. There is no more competent or effective force than the U.S. military. These operations have been conducted in the same proficient and professional standard we have come to expect from these exceptional men and women. “Clearly previous methods to deter and disrupt narcotrafficking have not worked. We cannot sit idly by and simply hope things change. We must have a coherent economic, diplomatic, and military strategy to reduce influence of the cartels in our hemisphere. To that end, I agree with President Trump’s strategy outlined by Secretary Rubio, and I hope we can work with the administration to discuss that strategy much more aggressively with the American people. “When reports first surfaced about a secondary strike, my office immediately directed inquiries to the department to ascertain the veracity of these reports. I promised that SASC would take this matter seriously and conduct thorough oversight. We have done so. Both military and civilian Pentagon leaders have worked in good faith to provide answers to us without any delays. Today, I am satisfied with all the information I have received on this matter. “I have seen no evidence of war crimes. The fact is that our military is asked to make incredibly difficult decisions. Service members must do so based on the best available information and often under very tight timelines. In order to safeguard our country and protect our way of life, they undertake this responsibility with proficiency… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/wicker-capito-introduce-the-success-for-bead-act Wicker, Capito Introduce the SUCCESS for BEAD Act 2025-12-18 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss. and Senator Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.V. introduced the Supporting U.S. Critical Connectivity and Economic Strategy and Security for BEAD Act (SUCCESS for BEAD Act). This legislation would authorize states to use remaining funds from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program for projects that support state’s deployment plan by enhancing public safety, improving network resiliency, strengthening national security, and developing a qualified workforce for emerging technologies. The overarching goal is to advance digital infrastructure readiness and sustain U.S. leadership in innovation by providing clear guardrails for the eligible uses of the remaining funds. “This bill is the next phase of target broadband projects in America’s heartland. Reliable connectivity is necessary to improve public safety, national security, telehealth care, education, and economic development. The United States has seen success in developing AI and emerging technologies. These projects would help our rural Mississippi communities participate in these successes. Local leaders know best how to utilize these funds. We should give them the flexibility to ensure these federal investments provide adequate connection for every Mississippian as soon as possible,” said Senator Wicker. “West Virginians understand that strong, resilient broadband is essential to so many things. As states finalize their BEAD deployment plans, many will have remaining resources that can and should be put to work supporting long-term success of these networks. I’m glad to team up with Senator Wicker to introduce this legislation, which provides clear guidance so states can invest these leftover dollars responsibly in areas like network resiliency, national security, public safety, and more,” said Senator Capito. For full legislative text, click here. For a section by section of the SUCCESS for BEAD Act, click here. Background: As the National Information and Telecommunications Administration… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/cotton-industry-deploys-actions-ensure-survival Cotton industry deploys actions to ensure survival 2025-12-17 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper A sustainability campaign and expanding to new markets are just a couple ways cotton growers and organizations are trying to boost the industry. By Ron Smith, Contributing Writer, Farm Progress David Dunlow has grown cotton for 40 years, and he wants to continue. Dunlow farms with his son, William, in Northampton County, N.C. The current economic outlook for cotton, he said, is the worst he has experienced. First thing the industry needs is legislation to stop its fiscal bleeding. The cotton industry is responding and working to improve that grim outlook through several projects, initiatives and with legislation. Chad Brewer, vice president of Technical Services at the National Cotton Council, said the council is backing a bill that would incentivize companies to use U.S. cotton. “Mississippi Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith introduced the ‘Buying American Cotton Act,’” Brewer said. “The council and the cotton industry are putting a lot of effort behind that on Capitol Hill and in meetings with legislators.” He said the bill seeks to: Encourage the consumption of cotton that originated in the United States and products made from such cotton. Document the processing of such cotton through a trustworthy supply-chain tracing system, such as the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. If enacted into law, the bill would offer tax breaks and other incentives to companies that use U.S.-grown cotton. Plant, not plastic Brewer said the recently launched campaign called “Plant, not Plastic” encourages consumers to consider the effects microfibers have on the environment and on human health. “Cotton is a natural fiber, is biodegradable and does not accumulate in the food chain,” he said. “Microfibers, even if not ingested, get into water systems and into the food supply. ‘Plant, Not Plastic’ is creating public awareness around the tie between textiles and their role in creating microplastics.” Building markets The U.S. consumes roughly the equivalent of 19 million bales of cotton annually. “As producers, we want to grow that 1… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-votes-send-fy2026-defense-policy-bill-president-trump HYDE-SMITH VOTES TO SEND FY2026 DEFENSE POLICY BILL TO PRESIDENT TRUMP 2025-12-17 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today voted for final passage of a major defense policy bill that sets the stage for President Trump to accelerate his Peace Through Strength national security agenda. The Senate made the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) available for President Trump’s signature with a 77-20 vote for final passage of a bill that implements policy reforms and authorizes appropriations for defense and national security activities. “Our nation has always contended with new threats to our national security, but the scope of those threats escalates with every technological advance and the prospect of our adversaries getting their hands on those technologies. This NDAA bill, aligned with President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda, begins to pivot our military to meet these evolving threats,” Hyde-Smith said. The FY2026 NDAA (S.1071) authorizes Pentagon budgeting and acquisition reforms, additional shipbuilding funding, and a 3.8 percent pay raise for military members. It also authorizes funding for the nation’s nuclear weapons programs and military construction and family housing projects. Hyde-Smith serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee and its Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (MilCon-VA). The FY2026 MilCon-VA Appropriations Bill, which includes $60 million for Mississippi projects, became law in November as part of the continuing resolution to end the Schumer government shutdown. Efforts continue to reach an agreement to allow the Senate to pass the FY2026 Defense Appropriations Bill, which has been available for Senate consideration since December. This measure would provide actual funding to national defense projects in Mississippi. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/chairman-wicker-fy26-ndaa-recognizes-full-range-of-mississippi-defense-contributions Chairman Wicker: FY26 NDAA Recognizes Full Range of Mississippi Defense Contributions 2025-12-17 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper Click here to read the executive summary WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today praised the passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (FY26 NDAA). The annual bill sets policy for the U.S. military. This is first NDAA passed under Chairman Wicker’s leadership of the committee. “Not since the era of World War II has our nation faced an axis of aggressors across multiple theaters seeking to dismantle American influence. The bill we now send to the president’s desk is a reflection of that reality and an appropriate response. “In this NDAA, my colleagues and I have prioritized the structural rebuilding of the arsenal of democracy and returning the department to its warfighting mission. Crucially, it also contains the most sweeping upgrades to the Pentagon's business practices in 60 years—a watershed moment for our military. “The bill sets us on a path to modernize our defense capabilities and augment our drone manufacturing, shipbuilding efforts, and the development of innovative low-cost weapons. “Thanks to the partnership and bipartisan support from Ranking Member Reed, and that of all members who worked to improve this bill, our military will be better prepared to meet the challenges ahead.” The FY26 NDAA contains a number of Chairman Wicker’s national defense priorities. The legislation enables the United States to deter aggression from increasingly hostile nations like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. Service members will benefit from new weapons systems, state-of-the-art technology tools, and investments in ships, aircraft, and other vehicles. Notably, Chairman Wicker used this legislation to usher in the most significant acquisition reforms to Pentagon business practices in decades. These changes will allow the Department of Defense (DOD) to acquire military hardware and software more quickly, including by tapping into the defense startups driving national security technology innovation today. Every year… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/barrasso-bill-aims-improve-rescue-response-national-parks Barrasso bill aims to improve rescue response in national parks 2025-12-16 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Katie Klingsporn Wyoming’s U.S. Sen. John Barrasso is pushing legislation to upgrade emergency communications in national parks — a step he says would improve responses in far-flung areas of parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. “This bill improves the speed and accuracy of emergency responders in locating and assisting callers in need of emergency assistance,” Barrasso told members of the National Parks Subcommittee last week during a hearing on the bill. “These moments make a difference between visitors being able to receive quick care and continue their trip or facing more serious medical complications.” The legislation directs the U.S. Department of the Interior to develop a plan to upgrade National Park Service 911 call centers with next-generation 911 technology. Among other things, these upgrades would enable them to receive text messages, images and videos in addition to phone calls, enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies or rescues in the parks. Each year, rangers and emergency services respond to a wide range of calls — from lost hikers to car accidents and grizzly maulings — in the Wyoming parks’ combined 2.5 million acres. Outside park boundaries, the state’s emergency service providers also face steep challenges, namely achieving financial viability. Many patients, meantime, encounter a lack of uniformity and longer 911 response times in the state’s so-called frontier areas. Improving the availability of ground ambulance services to respond to 911 calls is a major priority in Wyoming’s recent application for federal Rural Health Transformation Project funds. Barrasso’s office did not respond to a WyoFile request for comment on the state’s broader EMS challenges by publication time. The bill from the prominent Wyoming Republican, who serves as Senate Majority Whip, joined a slate of federal proposals the subcommittee considered last week. With other bills related to the official name of North America’s highest mountain, an extra park fee charged to international… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-colleagues-call-health-agencies-protect-medical-residents-conscience-rights HYDE-SMITH, COLLEAGUES CALL ON HEALTH AGENCIES TO PROTECT MEDICAL RESIDENTS’ CONSCIENCE RIGHTS 2025-12-16 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Pro-Life Senators, House Members Challenge ‘Opt-Out’ Criteria for Medical Residents Who Oppose Abortions WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), chair of the Senate Pro-Life Caucus, joined fellow pro-life lawmakers in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to take immediate regulatory action to protect the conscience rights of medical residents enrolled in graduate medical education programs. In a letter sent to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, the group of Senate and House members strongly encourage HHS and CMS to address accreditation rules that pressure OB/GYN residents to participate in abortion training against their conscience. The lawmakers call for an opt-in approach that protects conscience rights while allowing training for those who choose it. “Returning training in induced abortion to an opt-in option for medical trainees would still allow for anyone who desired this training to easily access it but would prevent any physician who does not from being coerced into participating. Not only is this what our conscience laws are meant to prevent, but it would also increase the number of medical students willing to go into the specialty of OB/GYN – a critical need at a time when maternity healthcare deserts exist across the country. This would improve access to care for millions of American women,” the lawmakers wrote. “Because the current opt-out induced abortion training requirement is a clear violation of existing federal law, HHS and CMS should issue a rule to require any graduate medical education program to provide induced abortion as an opt-in only option in order to receive their federal GME funding and in order to receive CMS reimbursements,” the lawmakers added. U.S. Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) and U.S. Representative Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-N.C.) led the letter, which was also signed by U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Ted B… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/thompson-least-10b-additional-farm-aid-needed Thompson: At least $10B in additional farm aid needed 2025-12-16 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Lydia Johnson Congress needs to provide at least $10 billion in additional aid to farmers to supplement the $12 billion being provided by the Trump administration through its Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, says House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn “GT” Thompson. In an interview with Agri-Pulse on Tuesday, Thompson, R-Pa., said lawmakers need to provide payments to sectors such as dairy, timber and specialty crops. The administration’s program is largely targeted to row crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton and rice, although $1 billion has been set aside for other commodities. “I think it [Farmer Bridge Assistance Program payments] will open up opportunities for a lot of farmers and ranchers to get credit for next year, but it's not enough,” Thompson said. Thompson didn’t provide a timeline for moving a supplemental assistance package in Congress. Lawmakers have been looking at changes to USDA’s Section 32 authority which is funded through customs receipts. Under existing law, Congress couldn’t use Section 32 to spend more than $350 million on payments to farmers. “It's got to be really just enough to make the bridge sustainable to 2026, but not an overreach. We don't want to replace the market,” Thompson said of a supplemental package. Separately, Richard Fordyce, under secretary for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Production and Conservation Mission Area, told Agri-Pulse that the agency has no plan to look at providing additional payments. "USDA is where we are at, and probably will be as far as the level of support," he said, adding that he didn't have insight on what Congress might do. Deputy Ag Secretary Stephen Vaden was also pressed about the need for an additional farm aid package during an early December interview on Agri-Pulse Newsmakers. "Obviously if Congress passes a program, we will be happy to work with them on it to provide whatever technical assistance is needed and administer it in Trump time," Vaden said. "But right now we only have these authorities and the m… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/chairman-wicker-commends-president-trump-and-secretary-hegseth-for-prioritizing-reinstatement-and-discharge-upgrades-of-service-members-separated-for-refusing-covid-vaccine Chairman Wicker Commends President Trump and Secretary Hegseth for Prioritizing Reinstatement and Discharge Upgrades of Service Members Separated for Refusing COVID Vaccine 2025-12-16 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today commended President Trump and Secretary Hegseth on their continued efforts to prioritize reinstatement and military discharge upgrades of service members who were separated as a result of the misguided COVID-19 vaccine mandate. “As part of this year’s budget reconciliation legislation, we explicitly provided $50 million in funding for timely reinstatements and backpay for service members who were forced out and wish to serve again. Pursuant to President Trump’s executive order, Secretary Hegseth has directed a review of personnel records for these affected individuals, and we expect that backpay will be made soon.” “Americans who stood ready to defend this nation should never have faced career-ending consequences because of this unnecessary and divisive policy. I appreciate the department's commitment to correcting these injustices, restoring honor, and helping affected individuals return to duty if they so choose. Regardless of their decision to return to service, their records should be reviewed swiftly to ensure those eligible receive appropriate discharge upgrades and full access to the benefits they rightfully earned. “Under the Biden administration, the military departments hastily separated more than 8,000 troops for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine—during a recruiting crisis, no less. We owe these men and women the same speed and transparency in returning those to service who wish to return and reversing any harm done to their careers. The department’s effort to expedite reinstatements and restore lost compensation is a necessary and welcome step.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/wicker-applauds-hhs-dmd-announcement Wicker Applauds HHS DMD Announcement 2025-12-16 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today released the following statement applauding the Health and Human Services Department’s (HHS) announcement that Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Metachromatic Leukodystrophy have been added to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel for newborns. Click here to watch Senator Wicker’s remarks at the announcement. “Nearly 25 years ago, a Mississippian visited my office and told me his son had been diagnosed with DMD. That conversation kicked off decades of work. It has been among my greatest joys in Congress to help combat DMD and other muscular dystrophies. We have seen a direct relationship between increased research funding and longer lifespans for children diagnosed with these terrible diseases. We have also learned that earlier testing transforms lives. Including DMD in universal screening for newborns will be transformational. I will continue to bring awareness to DMD. I encourage every state to implement this life-changing screening.” In 2001, Senator Wicker introduced the Muscular Dystrophy Community Assistance, Research, and Education (MD-CARE Act), which directed federal research funding toward muscular dystrophies and focused research activities on finding cures. The disease causes a progressive loss of muscle strength, leading to mobility loss and serious heart and lungs problems. In the years since, Senator Wicker has worked across the aisle to update and expand the provisions in this law. To read more about how the MD-CARE Act has benefitted those with DMD, click here. Background: 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/chairman-wicker-announces-new-senate-armed-services-committee-staff-director Chairman Wicker Announces Senate Armed Services Committee Staff Director John Keast to Retire After Successful Career 2025-12-15 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today announced that his long-time staff director, John Keast, will leave government service to retire from the Senate and re-join the private sector. Additionally, Chairman Wicker announced Rick Berger has been tapped to lead the Senate Armed Services Committee staff. Keast originally joined Wicker’s team starting with his 1994 campaign in Mississippi. In 2006, after eleven years as Wicker’s chief of staff in the House, Keast joined Cornerstone Government Affairs in Washington, D.C, where he worked until he re-joined public service for Senator Wicker. Keast left Cornerstone to lead Wicker’s Commerce Committee staff in 2018. “Properly describing John Keast’s contribution to American security and prosperity would require reams of paper. His depth of knowledge and experience in national security and government affairs is unmatched. Suffice it to say that John has been my closest advisor and a key leader of my team for 18 of my 31 years in Congress,” said Senator Wicker. “I cannot thank John enough for leaving the private sector in 2018 to lead my committee staff at the Commerce Committee for four years and three more here at the Armed Services Committee. I look forward to seeing him in Mississippi more often.” Chairman Wicker announced Rick Berger, currently Policy and Budget Director, will serve as the Committee’s new Staff Director, effective immediately. Berger joined the committee as Budget Director in 2019 under then-Chairman Jim Inhofe. He is a native of New Jersey and a graduate of Boston University and George Washington University. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1975 Chairman Ezell Marks Keel Laying of First Austal-Built Offshore Patrol Cutter in Mobile 2025-12-12 2025 2025-12 Republican House MS Mike Ezell E000235 ezell.house.gov ezell https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper This week, Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS), Chairman of the House Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, joined U.S. Coast Guard and Austal USA leadership for the keel laying of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Pickering (OPC 919) — the first Heritage-class Offshore Patrol Cutter to be constructed at Austal USA’s Mobile shipyard. The ceremony marks the official authentication of the vessel’s keel and a major milestone in the multibillion-dollar construction program awarded to Austal USA in 2022. The contract, valued at up to $3.3 billion, authorizes the design and construction of up to 11 Offshore Patrol Cutters, strengthening the Coast Guard’s future fleet and supporting hundreds of Gulf Coast shipbuilding jobs. Rep. Ezell joined Admiral Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard; Dr. Meghan Seymour, the ship’s sponsor; Austal USA President Michelle Kruger; and industry partners for the event. “This program is vital to our national security and to the Coast Guard’s ability to meet its mission for decades to come,” Ezell said. “The men and women of the Coast Guard deserve modern, capable ships, and that’s exactly what we’re building here on the Gulf Coast. Today’s keel laying of the USCGC Pickering represents American workmanship, American jobs, and a stronger future for our maritime security. These vessels will serve on the front lines, often far from public view, but their impact on our national security cannot be overstated. I’m proud to support a program that strengthens our Coast Guard while investing directly in the Gulf Coast workforce.” “Austal USA is deeply committed to the United States Coast Guard and the Offshore Patrol Cutter program as a core priority of our shipbuilding efforts,” commented Austal USA President Michelle Kruger. “We are extremely grateful for the steadfast leadership of Chairman Ezell and Admiral Lunday in supporting the OPC program.” The keel laying signifies the official recognition of the ship’s start of construction. The USCGC Pickering is the fifth OPC in… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-backs-bill-prohibit-senators-being-paid-during-future-government-shutdowns Hyde-Smith backs bill to prohibit senators from being paid during future government shutdowns 2025-12-12 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Caleb Salers U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith is backing a bill that would prohibit her and her colleagues from receiving a paycheck during future government shutdowns. The Mississippi-based Republican serves on the Senate Rules Committee, which voted on Thursday to advance S.Res.526. The resolution, authored by Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), would withhold all senators’ pay during a government shutdown or lapse in appropriations for one or more federal agencies or departments. The resolution was introduced following a 43-day shutdown, the longest in U.S. history, that spanned the entire month of October and nearly one-half of November, as Congress failed to pass a bill to fund the government. During the shutdown, millions of federal workers, congressional staff, and government contractors went without compensation, and SNAP recipients went without receiving full benefits. However, members of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate alike were still compensated, as the Constitution’s 27th Amendment prohibits increases or decreases in member salaries until after the next general election. Hyde-Smith, blaming the shutdown on her colleague, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), argued that the congressional impasse lasted so long because its legislators didn’t feel the financial brunt of it like many of their constituents. “More than a few of my colleagues seemed a little too comfortable during the recent Schumer Shutdown. That’s understandable because they didn’t have any personal skin in the game,” Hyde-Smith, who is running for reelection in the 2026 midterms, said. “Senator Kennedy’s resolution would change that. This rules change would certainly make going without pay, like so many federal workers and our congressional staff did, less appealing for Senators.” To avoid conflicts with the 27th Amendment, Kennedy’s resolution would not take effect until the November 2026 general elections. Additionally, senators would receive missed pay when a partial or full government shutdown ends. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/republican-senators-express-support-trumps-meatpacking-inquiry Republican senators express support for Trump’s meatpacking inquiry 2025-12-12 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Ryan McCarthy WASHINGTON — Republican lawmakers have expressed various views on President Donald Trump's call to investigate meat companies over the rising price of beef. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) recently met with officials from the Trump administration to discuss the future of American beef along with Senators Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.). “It’s clear that the President and his team are listening to producers from across the country and are committed to taking action to strengthen the cattle market and bring down the price of fertilizer,” Hyde-Smith wrote on the social media platform X on Nov. 10. “The path forward we discussed will bring tremendous benefits to rural America, and I couldn’t be prouder to stand up for and represent the hardworking men and women who feed our nation.” Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD), who sits on the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, shared his support on X as well following the announcement by Trump on Nov. 9. “For years, I’ve been calling for DOJ to investigate the four large meat packing companies,” Rounds said on social media. “President Trump has started that ball rolling! As we know, consumers are paying high prices for beef at the grocery store while cow-calf operators are barely making ends meet. Most of the profit that’s made in between is going directly into the pockets of four companies who control over 80% of the meat packing market. Two of these big packers are foreign owned. Bringing in boxed beef from overseas was never going to solve this issue. To fix it, you have to get to the heart of the issue: investigate the packers and prevent noncompetitive practices in the market. This is a big step in the right direction. The next step is Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling.” In the House of Representatives, Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who has become more vocal in criticizing President Trump in recent months, shared a differing viewpoint from some of his fellow Republicans. “… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/west-virginia-senator-backs-bill-roll-back-biden-era-housing-efficiency-mandates West Virginia Senator backs bill to roll back Biden-era housing efficiency mandates 2025-12-12 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Amber Baker WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia is backing new legislation that would roll back Biden administration energy-efficiency mandates for federally financed housing, arguing the requirements are driving up construction costs and limiting access to affordable homes. Capito joined Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming and other Republican lawmakers in introducing the HOUSE Act, which would repeal a final determination by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Agriculture that requires new HUD- and USDA-financed housing to meet updated energy-efficiency standards. “Families in West Virginia deserve to have affordable housing,” Capito said in a statement. “The Green New Deal-style requirements created by the Biden administration have made home costs rise, making it extremely hard for many to buy their first home. I’m proud to join my colleagues in putting a stop to this overreach.” The legislation is co-sponsored by Sens. Dan Sullivan of Alaska, Pete Ricketts of Nebraska, Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma, John Hoeven of North Dakota, Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee, Bernie Moreno of Ohio, Deb Fischer of Nebraska, Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi and Todd Young of Indiana. Rep. Andy Biggs of Arizona has introduced companion legislation in the House. At issue are the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code standards for new residential and commercial construction. Supporters of the HOUSE Act say the updated rules can add up to $31,000 to the price of a new home, with projected energy savings not realized for decades. A regulatory analysis from the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Agriculture in 2023 estimated the changes would reduce new construction for Federal Housing Administration borrowers. The Biden administration adopted the standards in 2024, requiring federally financed single-family homes to meet the updated codes. Earlier this year, the Department… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-appeals-legitimate-cooperation-fix-unaffordable-fraud-plagued-obamacare HYDE-SMITH APPEALS FOR LEGITIMATE COOPERATION TO FIX UNAFFORDABLE, FRAUD-PLAGUED OBAMACARE 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Senate Fails to Advance Dueling Plans to Address Expiring Biden-era Affordable Care Act COVID Bonuses WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today appealed for legitimate and serious negotiations to help Americans afford healthcare insurance without continuing expensive COVID-era subsidies that prop up the fraud-plagued Affordable Care Act, otherwise known the ACA or Obamacare. Hyde-Smith made the appeal after the Senate failed to garner the sixty votes necessary to advance a Republican-led plan (Health Care Freedom for Patients Act of 2025, S.3386) or a Democratic plan (Schumer Three-Year Biden COVID-Era Subsidy Extension, S.3385) to again extend ACA subsidies that are costing taxpayers approximately $35 billion a year and fueling fraud in the program. Hyde-Smith supported the Republican plan and opposed the Schumer plan. “Democrats quietly admit that the system is failing and that the Affordable Care Act is anything but affordable. The responsible Republican plan I supported today would have begun to lower healthcare costs for American families and provide a window for us to work together to find better ways to provide healthcare insurance. I see that as a better option than just throwing more money – $83 billion, in fact – to continue a flawed program for another three years. Senator Schumer’s cynically partisan plan does nothing to help fix what ails the system, period,” Hyde-Smith said. “I know many Mississippians rely on Obamacare and the subsidies that Democrats alone passed to prop up the system, but we must do better. Escalating costs and growing evidence of fraud make the ACA unsupportable over the long term,” Hyde-Smith added. “We must find a workable alternative that provides good coverage without breaking the bank or profiting swindlers.” S.3386, sponsored by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), focused on redirecting power and tax dollars away from giant insurance companies and back to patients. It would: Send money to patients instead of insu… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-supports-resolution-withhold-senators-pay-during-govt-shutdowns HYDE-SMITH SUPPORTS RESOLUTION TO WITHHOLD SENATORS’ PAY DURING GOVT. SHUTDOWNS 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Senate Rules Committee Advances Measure to Make Future Government Shutdowns Less Appealing WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today supported a resolution that would keep Senators from receiving a paycheck during any full or partial government shutdown. Hyde-Smith serves on the Senate Rules Committee that voted Thursday to advance S.Res.526, a resolution authored by U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) that would withhold all Senators’ pay during a government shutdown or lapse in appropriations for one or more federal agencies or departments. “More than a few of my colleagues seemed a little too comfortable during the recent Schumer Shutdown. That’s understandable because they didn’t have any personal skin in the game. Senator Kennedy’s resolution would change that. This rules change would certainly make going without pay, like so many federal workers and our congressional staff did, less appealing for Senators,” Hyde-Smith said. During the historic 43-day Schumer Shutdown, members of Congress received pay pursuant to the 27th Amendment that prohibits increases or decreases in member salaries until after the next general election. In contrast, federal workers, congressional staff, and government contractors went unpaid. To avoid conflicts with the 27th Amendment, S.Res.526 would not take effect until the November 2026 general elections. Additionally, Senators would receive missed pay when a partial or full government shutdown ends. The resolution, which was approved on a voice vote, is now available for consideration by the full Senate. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-urges-bipartisan-effort-affordable-care-act-reforms Hyde-Smith urges bipartisan effort on Affordable Care Act reforms 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Magnolia State News U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) has called for renewed bipartisan negotiations to address the rising costs and persistent fraud in the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. Her remarks came after the Senate failed to pass either a Republican or Democratic plan to extend ACA subsidies, which currently cost taxpayers about $35 billion annually. Both the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act of 2025 (S.3386), led by Republicans, and the Schumer Three-Year Biden COVID-Era Subsidy Extension (S.3385), supported by Democrats, did not reach the required sixty votes to move forward. Hyde-Smith backed the Republican proposal and opposed the Democratic plan. “Democrats quietly admit that the system is failing and that the Affordable Care Act is anything but affordable. The responsible Republican plan I supported today would have begun to lower healthcare costs for American families and provide a window for us to work together to find better ways to provide healthcare insurance. I see that as a better option than just throwing more money – $83 billion, in fact – to continue a flawed program for another three years. Senator Schumer’s cynically partisan plan does nothing to help fix what ails the system, period,” Hyde-Smith said. “I know many Mississippians rely on Obamacare and the subsidies that Democrats alone passed to prop up the system, but we must do better. Escalating costs and growing evidence of fraud make the ACA unsupportable over the long term,” Hyde-Smith added. “We must find a workable alternative that provides good coverage without breaking the bank or profiting swindlers.” The Republican-backed S.3386, introduced by Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), aims to shift authority and funding away from large insurance companies toward patients. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1974 House Approves Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 as Part of Defense Bill 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Republican House MS Mike Ezell E000235 ezell.house.gov ezell https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper The U.S. House of Representatives today approved S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (NDAA), which includes Transportation and Infrastructure Committee legislation to strengthen, support, and authorize funding through fiscal year 2027 for the United States Coast Guard and its critical missions to safeguard the nation’s borders, facilitate maritime commerce, ensure maritime safety, protect the maritime domain, increase transparency within the Service, and confront Chinese expansion in the Pacific. The provisions included in the NDAA are based on the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 4275), which was introduced by Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA), Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell (R-MS), andCoast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Ranking Member Salud Carbajal (D-CA) and previously approved by the House of Representatives on July 23, 2025. The legislative text included in Division G (the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025) of the NDAA reflects changes made to the House passed, H.R. 4275 Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 during bicameral negotiations. “I’m grateful that the Coast Guard Authorization Act was included in this year’s NDAA. This legislation provides the men and women of the Coast Guard – one of our nation’s six armed services – with the resources they need to carry out their many missions vital to national security, the safety of Americans and mariners, and our economy,”said T&I Committee Chairman Graves. “The legislation also builds on the historic investments in modernizing the Coast Guard’s air and sea assets provided through the budget reconciliation process, and it supports the Administration’s vision to strengthen America’s maritime and shipbuilding capabilities.” “Today's passage of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 through the NDAA ensures the Coast Guard has the resou… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/push-more-farm-aid-even-12b-goes-out Push is on for more farm aid, even before $12B goes out 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Oliver Ward and Lydia Johnson Republican farm-state senators say row crop growers are likely to need additional aid beyond the Trump administration's newly announced $12 billion "bridge" payment program, and specialty crop producers say the package shortchanges them. While "$12 billion is a lot of money for anybody," Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., told Agri-Pulse that "in the absence of the ability to export what we produce, particularly when we, in many instances, have bumper crops,” Congress “very well may need to” issue more. “The need is evident,” Moran said. Other GOP senators indicated that they would be in favor of Congress taking steps to augment the administration’s Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program. Growers of U.S. row crops, which stand to receive some $11 billion of the $12 billion in assistance unveiled Monday, are facing “serious” economic hardship, Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., said. “We're hoping that we can come up with something. Not sure what it will be yet, but I will certainly support it,” she told Agri-Pulse. Montana Sen. Steve Daines said the $12 billion assistance package is “a good start.” The $12 billion assistance package brings the total amount of ad hoc support set aside for farmers since January 2025 to $42 billion, according to an American Farm Bureau Federation analysis. Only the Supplemental Disaster Relief program was larger, at $16.1 billion. Specialty crop producers are already worried that the $1 billion allocated to them won’t go far enough and that Congress will need to provide supplementary assistance. Kam Quarles, CEO at the National Potato Council, told Agri-Pulse he expects producers of around 300 different crops will soon be jockeying for a piece of the $1 billion. The $1 billion set aside falls short of recent efforts to help specialty crop producers, he said. A program created by the Biden administration last year – called the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops program – had more than $2 billion to distribute. Interested in more news on farm prog… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/senate-approves-mississippi-nominations-federal-bench Senate approves Mississippi nominations to federal bench 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By William Moore WASHINGTON, D.C. - After a delay of nearly two months, two Mississippi Supreme Court justices have been approved to become federal judges. The U.S. Senate approved Robert P. Chamberlin, of Hernando, and James Maxwell, of Oxford, Tuesday afternoon by identical 51-46 partisan votes. "It was completely along party lines," said Carl Tobias, the Williams Chair in Law at the University of Richmond. "It was all Republicans (voting in favor). I don't think they got any Democrat votes." The Chamberlin vote happened before lunch Tuesday, while Maxwell did not get his official nod until after 5 p.m. central time. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) said she was pleased that both men confirmed to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi. "(Chamberlin's) record on the bench in Mississippi as well as his community service make him very qualified to serve on the federal judiciary, which is why President Trump nominated him," Hyde-Smith said. "I congratulate him and wish him every success in continuing to serve the people of Mississippi." The junior Senator also praised Maxwell career in law. "As he has done on the Mississippi Supreme Court and throughout his career as a jurist, James will continue to exemplify a dedication to careful, principled jurisprudence and to upholding the rule of law," Hyde-Smith said. "I believe he will serve the Northern District of Mississippi and our nation with distinction." Trump nominated Chamberlain and Maxwell on Sept. 2 to fill the vacancies left in the Oxford and Aberdeen divisions when Judge Michael Mills took senior status in November 2021 and when Judge Sharion Aycock took senior status in April 2025. That left the district that covers the 37 counties on the north half of the state with a single active federal judge, Debra Brown of Greenville, and three senior status judges. But the two judicial nominations, as well as nominations for U.S. Attorney in both north and south Mississippi, were held up for weeks as political leverage be… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/us-congress-includes-update-south-pacific-tuna-treaty-ban-military-purchases-foreign-seafood-annual US Congress includes update to South Pacific Tuna Treaty, ban on military purchases of foreign seafood in annual defense funding bill 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Nathan Strout U.S. lawmakers are set to vote on a compromise version of the annual military funding bill – which includes major seafood provisions – as soon as 10 December. Congress has been late in passing the annual appropriations bills that funds the federal government, missing the 1 October deadline to have fiscal year 2026 spending in place and sending the government into a partial shutdown for over a month. Lawmakers have since passed a temporary spending bill to reopen the government in November and keep it open into January, allowing work to resume on the appropriations bills – including the annual defense spending bill (NDAA). With substantial differences remaining between the House- and Senate-passed versions of the bill, select lawmakers entered conference to draft a compromise version that can pass both bodies. On 8 December, the heads of the House and Senate Armed Services committees released the final texts. “We’re pleased to announce that the House and Senate Armed Services committees have reached a bipartisan, bicameral agreement on the FY26 NDAA that supports our servicemembers and strengthens our national defense. We’ve worked together to deliver the most significant acquisition reforms in a generation – cutting red tape, accelerating decision-making, and improving our ability to get modern capabilities into the hands of our troops on time and on budget,” the legislators said in a joint statement. Though some of the seafood provisions survived, others were left on the cutting room floor. Most notably, the Fighting Foreign Illegal Seafood Harvest (FISH) Act did not survive the final cut. The FISH Act would create a blacklist of vessels involved in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, banning them from U.S. waters. U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) has been pushing the legislation for years and, in 2025, was able to attach it as an amendment to the fiscal year 2025 defense appropriations bill. However, the provision was ultimately dropped during conference negotiations… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-wicker-statement-on-justices-chamberlin-and-maxwell-s-confirmation-to-the-u-s-district-court-for-the-northern-district-of-mississippi Sen. Wicker Statement on Justices Chamberlin and Maxwell’s Confirmation to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement after the Senate voted to confirm Justices Robert “Bobby” Chamberlin and James “Jimmy” Maxwell to be Judges on the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi. “Bobby Chamberlin and Jimmy Maxwell are dedicated public servants who have served Mississippi well for decades. As Mississippi Supreme Court Justices, they have upheld the Constitution, exercised sound judgment, and lived with integrity. They are highly respected by Mississippians who deal regularly with the court system. I am confident in Justices Chamberlin and Maxwell’s ability to administer the rule of law and serve Mississippians with honor as Federal Judges.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-praises-confirmation-oxfords-james-maxwell-serve-us-district-court HYDE-SMITH PRAISES CONFIRMATION OF OXFORD'S JAMES MAXWELL TO SERVE ON U.S. DISTRICT COURT 2025-12-09 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Maxwell’s Confirmation Represents Second Mississippi Trump Judicial Pick Confirmed on Tuesday WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issued the following statement marking the Senate confirmation of Mississippi Supreme Court Justice James D. Maxwell II of Oxford to serve as a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi: “I’m extremely pleased with the confirmation of Justice James Maxwell to serve as a U.S. District Court judge. As he has done on the Mississippi Supreme Court and throughout his career as a jurist, James will continue to exemplify a dedication to careful, principled jurisprudence and to upholding the rule of law. I believe he will serve the Northern District of Mississippi and our nation with distinction.” Maxwell was confirmed on a 51-46 vote. His elevation followed the confirmation Tuesday morning of Mississippi Supreme Court Justice Robert P. Chamberlin of Hernando to also serve on the court. President Trump nominated Maxwell and Chamberlin to be federal judges in August and the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced the nominees for Senate consideration in November following a September confirmation hearing for both Mississippi judges. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-votes-senate-confirm-chamberlin-us-district-court-judge HYDE-SMITH VOTES WITH SENATE TO CONFIRM CHAMBERLIN AS U.S. DISTRICT COURT JUDGE 2025-12-09 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Chamberlin Confirmation the First of Two Mississippi Judgeships the Senate Will Consider this Week WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issued the following statement regarding the 51-46 vote in the U.S. Senate to confirm Mississippi Supreme Court Justice Robert P. Chamberlin of Hernando to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi: “I’m pleased the Senate has confirmed Justice Chamberlin to serve on the U.S. District Court. His record on the bench in Mississippi as well as his community service make him very qualified to serve on the federal judiciary, which is why President Trump nominated him. I congratulate him and wish him every success in continuing to serve the people of Mississippi.” On Tuesday afternoon, the Senate also approved a procedural motion to move forward with the nomination of Mississippi Supreme Court Justice James D. Maxwell II of Oxford, who was also nominated in August for a seat the U.S. District Court on the Northern District of Mississippi. Maxwell’s Senate confirmation could occur this week. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/revitalize-rural-health-care-lifeline-communities Revitalize rural health care, a lifeline for communities 2025-12-09 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper The Washington Times Special Section: Revitalizing Rural America Revitalize rural health care, a lifeline for communities Commentary By U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss. OPINION: More than 70% of America’s land is rural, a vast stretch of forests, plains, farms, small towns, and open country that approximately 50 million people call home. In Mississippi, “rural” isn’t just geography — it’s identity. More than half of Mississippians live outside urban areas, in communities built on resilience, tradition, and an unshakable sense of belonging. But these same communities face challenges that threaten their very future, especially when it comes to healthcare. Across rural America, hospitals are closing, doctors are leaving, and a simple medical emergency can become a tragedy. In my hometown of Monticello, Miss., I’ve watched the local pharmacist step in as the de facto family doctor and seen neighbors face such long waits at overcrowded emergency rooms that many decide to seek care elsewhere or leave without care. As access to care disappears, the gap between rural and urban health outcomes keeps growing. Rural Americans tend to be older and face higher rates of chronic disease, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Cancer rates are rising too, with rural patients more likely to be diagnosed with later stages of colon and lung cancers. Access to oncologists and other specialists is often limited or nonexistent, which also contributes to higher mortality. This crisis has been decades in the making, but COVID-19 made it impossible to ignore. Rural communities like mine were hit hardest, exposing deep cracks in America’s public health system and raising urgent questions about how the federal government, particularly the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), can do better for rural America. Recognizing that need, I took action. In 2021, I began working to establish a CDC Office of Rural Health to help rural communities respond to the pandemic and build lasting public-he… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/us-senate-confirms-chamberlin-maxwell-federal-judgeship-mississippis-northern-district U.S. Senate confirms Chamberlin, Maxwell to federal judgeship in Mississippi’s Northern District 2025-12-09 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Caleb Salers A Trump-appointed judge has received a green light from the U.S. Senate to operate on the bench at the federal level in north Mississippi. The Senate voted 51-46 on Tuesday to approve Robert Chamberlin to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi. Chamberlin, a current member of the Mississippi Supreme Court, won an open seat for the post in 2016 and ran unopposed during the 2024 election cycle. He previously served as a circuit court judge for the 17th Circuit District and as a state senator representing DeSoto County, and was appointed by the commander-in-chief to hold a federal judgeship position back in August. “I’m pleased the Senate has confirmed Justice Chamberlin to serve on the U.S. District Court,” U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) said. “His record on the bench in Mississippi, as well as his community service, make him very qualified to serve on the federal judiciary, which is why President Trump nominated him. I congratulate him and wish him every success in continuing to serve the people of Mississippi.” On Tuesday, the Senate also approved the nomination of Mississippi Supreme Court Justice James Maxwell II. Like Chamberlin, Maxwell was appointed by President Donald Trump to serve in the same courthouse. Maxwell was appointed to the state’s high court in 2016 and won re-election later that year before running unopposed in 2024. Before reaching the state’s high court, he served as a judge on the Mississippi Court of Appeals and worked as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi. 1 2026-04-07T15:46:19Z 2026-04-07T20:19:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-renews-support-back-blue-act HYDE-SMITH RENEWS SUPPORT FOR ‘BACK THE BLUE ACT’ 2025-12-08 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Legislation Would Increase Penalties for Attacking Law Enforcement Officers WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) renewed her support for legislation to increase penalties for criminals who attack law enforcement officers, federal judges, or other federal public safety officers. Hyde-Smith is among 35 original cosponsors of the Back the Blue Act (S.3366), which was reintroduced by U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas). Hyde-Smith has supported this and other pro-law enforcement legislation since becoming a U.S. Senator. “The time is right for the Back the Blue Act, particularly as we witness more people expressing support for actively opposing and obstructing law enforcement actions,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “On the whole, our communities are improved and made safer because of the brave men and women who put their lives on the line for us. They deserve better than being made subjects to be attacked.” “Our law enforcement officers bravely risk their lives daily to protect our communities, and anyone who targets them should be met with the full force of the law, including the death penalty,” said Senator Cornyn. “America was built on the principles of law and order, and this legislation sends a clear message that targeted attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated, dangerous criminals will be held accountable, and our men and women in blue have our full and unwavering support.” Among other things, S.3366 would increase penalties for murdering or attempting to murder law enforcement, and create a new federal crime for killing or attempting to kill a federal judge, a federal law enforcement officer, or other federally funded public safety officer. The legislation also stipulates mandatory sentences, which some crimes are subject to the death penalty. The Back the Blue Act would also provide law enforcement officers with expanded self-defense and Second Amendment rights. Additional original cosponsors include U.S. Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Marsha Blackburn, (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-welcomes-farm-aid-plan-offering-bridge-payments-hard-hit-producers HYDE-SMITH WELCOMES FARM AID PLAN OFFERING BRIDGE PAYMENTS TO HARD-HIT PRODUCERS 2025-12-08 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Miss. Senator Calls on Congress to Act on Long-Term Solutions to Improve Ag Sector WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today welcomed a farm aid package she championed to help farmers in Mississippi and across the country overcome economic headwinds that threaten their futures. Hyde-Smith, as a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, has been a strong advocate for providing “bridge payments” to farmers to help them survive until farm safety net improvements made in the Working Families Tax Cut Act (One Big Beautiful Bill Act) go into effect next year. President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on Monday announced a $12 billion Farm Bridge Assistance Program, $11 billion of which is for row crop commodities like soybeans, rice, and cotton. “Too many of our farmers are operating on the brink of bankruptcy. Many will not be able to satisfy their current debt and be able to secure financing for next year’s crop without a strong form of federal bridge support to get them to next year. So, this aid package could not come soon enough,” Hyde-Smith said. “The Trump administration deserves credit for moving swiftly and decisively to use the resources Congress provided in the deal to end the government shutdown to make these resources available to combat what amounts to an economic disaster for our ag sector,” the Senator added. “I encourage producers in Mississippi and their lenders to look at the details of these bridge payments to determine what’s best for their continued operation.” Hyde-Smith said Congress should still be working on more long-term solutions to help the American agricultural sector complete globally while managing other economic headwinds like inflation and high input costs. “We still have important work ahead of us, and there are a lot of promising ideas for strengthening the ag sector over the long haul. I believe Congress can work on a package that includes innovative measures, like my Buying American Cotton Ac… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/immigration-raids-start-louisiana-mississippi-prepares-possible-operations Immigration raids start in Louisiana as Mississippi prepares for possible operations 2025-12-08 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Elise Catrion Gregg Immigration raids have begun in Louisiana, with the Associated Press reporting that enforcement operations could extend to southeastern Mississippi. Right now, L. Patricia Ice, legal project director for the Mississippi Immigrants Rights Alliance, says things seem quiet in Mississippi, but it's been stressful for the immigrant community since the start of this year. "All the immigrants that I speak to and that I know of, they're all worried about being detained," she told MPB. "Many of them are staying home; I've even told some to stay home as much as possible and to not go out, if you don't have to." Sabrina Boswell, coalition coordinator for the Immigrant Alliance for Justice and Equity of Mississippi, said the current raids have amplified those fears. "And when this news broke, we read the Associated Press article for it, and immediately it was like all the phones started going off, just all the organizations and the connections that we have in South Mississippi and New Orleans were reaching out," she said. While the Department of Homeland Security's operations are reportedly focused on the coast in Mississippi, both L. Patricia Ice and IAJE's operations manager, Lauren Lewis, told MPB they've heard of agents spotted in Ridgeland recently. Before the Sweeps The first week of December, IAJE held a solidarity fast to unite the community. Boswell said the headlines, along with that fast, have really galvanized people. She hopes that'll help people in Mississippi be ready and informed as operations continue. "We definitely had a chance to not only do the fast but get people plugged in that have always been asking — 'How can I help?'" A major focus of the fast was to educate people on their rights — for example, giving attendees cards to hand to officers if they're detained. "It has your rights and says basically if you can't communicate in English or would prefer to stay silent, what you would say to the officer," Lewis explained. "So, 'These are my rights, I would like a lawyer.… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/sen-cindy-hyde-smith-backs-bill-support-law-enforcement Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith backs bill in support of law enforcement 2025-12-08 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper VIDEO By Desmone Mathews WASHINGTON — Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith has renewed support for legislation to increase penalties for those who attack law enforcement officers, federal judges, or other federal public safety officers. Hyde-Smith is one of the original cosponsors of the Back the Blue Act. The bill would also increase penalties for murdering or attempting to murder law enforcement, and create a new federal crime for killing or attempting to kill a federal judge. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/trump-administration-announced-12-billion-aid-package-us-farmers Trump Administration Announced $12 Billion Aid Package For U.S. Farmers 2025-12-08 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Jesse Allen (Washington, DC) — On Monday, President Donald Trump announced a long rumored aid package for U.S. farmers totaling $12 billion. “This relief will provide much needed certainty to farmers as they get this year’s harvest to market and look ahead to next year’s crops, and it’ll help them continue their efforts to lower food prices for American families,” according to President Trump. “Farmers are an indispensable national asset, part of the backbone of America. I’ve always felt it so strongly. They’re so important.” During a round table at the White House on Monday afternoon, President Trump insisted the money was not in response to farmers being hit hard by his tariff policies, but rather due to the Biden administration’s bad policies. “Unfortunately, under sleepy Joe Biden, he’s a sleepy guy. Our farmers were crushed by the worst inflation in modern history and crippling restrictions on energy, water, and countless other necessities for farmers,” according to President Trump. President Trump also acknowledged that U.S. farmers don’t want aid, but rather, a level playing field to sell their crops. “You know, the interesting thing about the farmer, they don’t want aid, they want to just have a level playing field,” according to President Trump. “I’ve seen that more with farmers than anybody else, any other industry, right? We’ve seen it more with farmers where I’ve had meetings like this, primarily in the first term. And we did a great job, we turned it around. This is going to be the golden age. But the farmers don’t want aid, they want to have a level playing field. Because if they have a level playing field, they’ll do better than anybody else. They’re better than anybody else. Our product is incredible.” Of the $12 billion provided, up to $11 billion will be used for the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program according to USDA, which provides broad relief to United States row crop farmers who produce Barley, Chickpeas, Corn, Cotton, Lentils, Oats, Peanuts, Peas, Rice, Sorghum, Soybeans, Whea… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/sasc-chairman-roger-wicker-lauds-secretary-hegseth-s-drone-dominance-demand-signal-to-american-industry SASC Chairman Roger Wicker Lauds Secretary Hegseth’s Drone Dominance Demand Signal to American Industry 2025-12-08 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement: “Secretary Hegseth’s approach to buying hundreds of thousands of small drones for our military is exactly right. This summer, Chairman Rogers and I worked to ensure this was possible when we placed $2.5 billion in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to build a strong American drone industry. This initiative taps into America’s innovative defense industry, following President Trump’s industry-first approach in his Drone Dominance executive order.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/mississippi-sending-illegal-truckers-ice Mississippi sending illegal truckers to ICE 2025-12-05 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper 85 referred to the agency over last three months, Hyde-Smith tells colleagues John Gallagher WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., told colleagues that law enforcement is making it difficult for illegal truck drivers to operate in her state. “While some states look the other way, my home state of Mississippi has tried to rein in this abuse in the trucking industry,” Hyde-Smith said in Senate floor speech on Thursday. “Mississippi has taken decisive action and, in just the last three months alone, has identified 85 illegal drivers and referred them to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The state of Mississippi does not issue nondomiciled licenses and strictly enforces English language proficiency testing to keep our roads safe. My state is doing its part, but states cannot do this alone. The Federal Government must close these loopholes and enforce the law.” Hyde-Smith, who chairs the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (T-HUD) Appropriations Subcommittee, used the speech to urge taking up the FY2026 T-HUD Appropriations bill, in which Hyde-Smith included language codifying English proficiency requirements for truck drivers. “Across the country, we are seeing a disturbing rise in deadly accidents involving large commercial trucks driven by individuals who should have never been behind the wheel to begin with, often foreign nationals in the country illegally who exploited weaknesses in our commercial driver’s license or CDL system,” she said. “Sadly, incidents like this are becoming far too common, and we must ask why. The answer lies in failed policies.” Hyde-Smith blamed the Obama administration for weakening CDL polices and opening enforcement loopholes. “Inspectors were directed to issue citations rather than take unsafe commercial vehicle drivers completely off the road – a policy decision that has resulted in loss of life. Meanwhile, open border policies of prior administrations would have allowed illegal immigrants to enter the United States freely which, combined w… 1 2026-04-07T15:46:19Z 2026-04-07T20:19:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/open-house-magee-general-hospital-showcases-4-million-renovation Open house at Magee General Hospital showcases $4 million renovation 2025-12-05 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Video: New-look Magee hospital on display during Friday's open house. By Charles Herrington MAGEE, Miss. (WDAM) - Hospital administrators, medical staff and local leaders were celebrating a multi-million dollar renovation of Magee General Hospital. A ribbon-cutting and open house was held Friday to showcase all that was done with that $4 million project, which was funded by a federal grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration. “Sen. (Cindy) Hyde-Smith helped shepherd us through the process of receiving a HRSA grant,” said Gregg Gibbes, Magee General Hospital chief executive officer. “This hospital has certainly benefited from that. We do surgery every day here and for us to be able to have a newly-remodeled suite here is going to help create a lot of sustainability for us going forward.” The work included renovation of three surgical suites, new pre-operative and post-operative areas, a new patient registration area, and new conference room. Wayfinding throughout the hospital was also updated. “As we’re looking into the future, as we look at the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act,’ we’ve got the Rural Transformation Fund out there and we hope and believe there will be plenty of opportunity for other hospitals as well for us to other things here,” Gibbes said. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-seeks-action-improve-road-safety-commercial-drivers-license-crackdown HYDE-SMITH SEEKS ACTION TO IMPROVE ROAD SAFETY WITH COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE CRACKDOWN 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Hyde-Smith Says Recent Tragedies Underscore Need for Federal, State Attention to Illegal Immigrants Driving Commercial Vehicles VIDEO CLIP: Senator Hyde-Smith Addresses CDL Public Safety Issues. VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Delivers Speech on Abuse, Fraud in Issuing Commercial Driver’s Licenses Poses Critical Safety Issue for All Drivers. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), chair of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (T-HUD) Appropriations Subcommittee, today encouraged congressional action to improve highway safety by ensuring commercial drivers are in the country legally and are proficient in English. Hyde-Smith made the call in a Senate floor speech that cited tragic accidents in multiple states involving drivers issued Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) aided by systemic federal and state inattention to laws, regulations, and public safety. “Across the country, we are seeing a disturbing rise in deadly accidents involving large commercial trucks driven by individuals who should have never been behind the wheel to begin with – often foreign nationals in the country illegally who exploited weaknesses in our Commercial Driver’s License, or CDL, system,” Hyde-Smith said. “Sadly, incidents like these are becoming far too common, and we must ask why. The answer lies in failed policies. Under previous Democratic administrations, safety enforcement was weakened, loopholes were opened, and fraudulent CDL issuance went unchecked,” the Senator said. Hyde-Smith also commended President Trump, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for acting to stop undocumented immigrants from obtaining CDLs, including launching a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration audit of state CDL licensing practices and detaining illegal immigrants with CDLs. “Needless to say, seeing ICE and State law enforcement come together to make America’s roads safer is a step in the right direction,” Hyde-Smith said. “Republicans in the Senate and this Admin… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/miss-delegation-asks-us-trade-rep-protect-miss-forest-ag-products-trade-talks-eu MISS. DELEGATION ASKS U.S. TRADE REP. TO PROTECT MISS. FOREST, AG PRODUCTS IN TRADE TALKS WITH E.U. 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper United Congressional Delegation Outlines Harm in E.U. Deforestation Regime WASHINGTON, D.C. – A united Mississippi congressional delegation today encouraged the Trump administration to use ongoing trade talks to prioritize the protection of Mississippi forest and agricultural exports that could be harmed if the European Union (E.U.) implements deforestation regulations. U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), Trent Kelly (R-Miss.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), and Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) today issued a letter to the U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer that outlines how the EU Regulation on Deforestation-free Products (EUDR) will make it harder for Mississippi products to be exported to the E.U. market. “In Mississippi, forestry has a nearly $20 billion impact on the state’s economy, supporting 130,000 landowners and 84,000 jobs. As currently designed, the EUDR is a non-tariff trade barrier that introduces substantial uncertainty for landowners, manufacturers, and exporters in our state, and risks further depressing already strained log and wood-product markets, harming rural communities that depend on healthy, functioning timber economies,” the delegation wrote in a letter led by Hyde-Smith. The Mississippi lawmakers wrote that designating the United States as a “low-risk country” for deforestation does not negate the fact that EUDR data and verification requirements are unworkable in U.S. domestic timber production systems. “Regardless of risk level, exporters must still provide geolocation data and verifiable information showing that the product is deforestation-free. The system required to comply with this regulation does not fit the complex supply chain used by our domestic timber industry, and it will create significant administrative and cost burdens for businesses and landowners,” the delegation explained. The delegation also expressed concern that making imports contingent on declared future management of forested lands is… 1 2026-04-07T15:46:19Z 2026-04-07T20:19:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/mississippi-federal-delegation-unites-effort-protect-states-agriculture-forestry-exports-eu Mississippi federal delegation unites in effort to protect state’s agriculture, forestry exports from EU regulations 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper The new regulations are expected to negatively impact producers by installing barriers to the state’s exports. By Jeremy Pittari Mississippi’s federal delegation united Thursday in hopes of protecting the state’s forestry and agricultural industry, which could be impacted by deforestation regulations soon to be enforced by the European Union. Enforcement of these regulations is expected to go into effect next year and Mississippi officials say it could negatively impact the state’s multibillion dollar industry if concessions are not made. In a letter led by U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R) that was sent to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, all members of the state’s delegation outline that in Mississippi, forestry has a nearly $20 billion impact on the state’s economy, supporting 130,000 landowners and 84,000 jobs. “As currently designed, the EUDR is a non-tariff trade barrier that introduces substantial uncertainty for landowners, manufacturers, and exporters in our state, and risks further depressing already strained log and wood-product markets, harming rural communities that depend on healthy, functioning timber economies,” the officials write. The EU regulations were approved in 2023 in an effort to curb deforestation that can occur when harvesting agricultural goods and are expected to be enforced by December 30, 2026. In addition to focusing on wood products, the rule also focuses on products derived from cattle. Mississippi exports a number of products to the E.U. including wood, wood pellets, soybeans and sweet potatoes, the delegation reminded Greer. Joining Hyde-Smith in the letter were U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R) and Congressmen Bennie Thompson (D), Mike Ezell (R), Trent Kelly (R) and Michael Guest (R). The letter describes to Greer how enforcement of the EU Regulation of Deforestation-free products will install barriers in the exportation of Mississippi’s forestry products. In spite of this nation’s deforestation risk being designated a “low-risk,” the E.U.’s regulations concerni… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/senator-wicker-issues-statement-on-final-pentagon-office-of-inspector-general-report Senator Wicker Issues Statement on Final Pentagon Office of Inspector General Report 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement: “It is clear from the reports that the Secretary acted within his authority to communicate the information in question to other cabinet level officials. It is also clear to me that our senior leaders need more tools available to them to communicate classified information in real time and a variety of environments. I think we have some work to do in providing those tools to our national security leaders. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/commercial-drivers-license-system COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE SYSTEM 2025-12-04 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Congressional Record Vol. 171, No. 203 (Senate - December 4, 2025) PDF Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I rise to call attention to a critical safety issue that affects every American who travels our roads and highways. Across the country, we are seeing a disturbing rise in deadly accidents involving large commercial trucks driven by individuals who should have never been behind the wheel to begin with, often foreign nationals in the country illegally who exploited weaknesses in our commercial driver's license or CDL system. We have seen the video of the horrific crash in Florida where an undocumented immigrant driving an 18-wheeler made an illegal U-turn on the interstate, killing three Americans who should be with us here today. In mid-October, a semi-truck driver in California, in the United States illegally, with an immigration detainer notice, was accused of being intoxicated when he slammed into multiple vehicles, killing three people and injuring several more. Sadly, incidents like this are becoming far too common, and we must ask why. The answer lies in failed policies. Under previous Democratic administrations, safety enforcement was weakened, loopholes were opened, and fraudulent CDL issuance went unchecked. Under the Obama administration, inspectors were directed to issue citations rather than take unsafe commercial vehicle drivers completely off the road--a policy decision that has resulted in loss of life. Meanwhile, open border policies of prior administrations would have allowed illegal immigrants to enter the United States freely which, combined with lax Federal oversight, has let some States issue CDLs without proper language or competency testing. A Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration audit prompted by President Trump found that multiple States issued nondomiciled CDLs improperly to unqualified, often foreign drivers, even in some instances allowing them to keep licenses after their legal status expired. In the Florida case, the FMCSA investigation revea… 1 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/prudential-regulation-republican-senators-stress-need-tailoring-basel-iii-gsib-surcharge-proposals PRUDENTIAL REGULATION—Republican senators stress need for tailoring of Basel III, GSIB Surcharge proposals 2025-12-03 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Colleen M. Svelnis, J.D. The senators asked the regulatory agencies to reevaluate its proposals with an approach that takes into consideration the farmers, ranchers, and energy producers that utilize derivatives markets to hedge risk. A group of Republican senators have sent a letter to the heads of the federal banking agency regarding the agencies’ approach to the Basel III Endgame Proposal and the GSIB Surcharge Proposal. The lawmakers wrote that they are “encouraged” by the agencies’ approach to “emphasize safety and soundness without burdensome restrictions that hamper economic growth.” The letter—which was sent to Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision Michele Bowman, Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan Gould, and Acting Chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Travis Hill—discusses the need for a tailored approach that takes into consideration the farmers, ranchers, and energy producers that utilize derivatives markets to hedge risk. The letter was signed by Sens. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bill Haggerty (R-Tenn.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), and Katie Boyd Britt (R-Ala.). The Senators state that in the original proposal curtailing critical risk management tools for end-users in the original proposals was a “misguided approach, as these markets play a crucial role in stabilizing prices, giving businesses greater certainty, and insulating consumers from price swings.” They stress that parts of the original proposals, such as the credit valuation adjustment charge (CVA) for client clearing and the public listing requirement, “would make it more expensive for entities like farmer cooperatives to use derivatives markets.” The Senators close the letter by stressing that the bank capital proposals as originally drafted “would have had broad impacts on the ability of agriculture and energy producers to manage volatile commodity markets.” Moving forward, the legislators are asking the regulators to reevaluate the proposals and consider “th… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/wicker-colleagues-introduce-medical-foods-and-formulas-access-act Wicker, Colleagues Introduce Medical Foods and Formulas Access Act 2025-12-03 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., introduced the Medical Foods and Formulas Access Act. This legislation would require Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Federal Employee Health Benefit Program to cover specialized formulas, vitamins, individual amino acids, and other medically necessary foods prescribed by a physician for patients with specific gastrointestinal and inherited metabolic disorders. The legislation ensures state and federal protection for existing coverage. Joining Senator Wicker in introducing this legislation are Senators Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., and Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa., and Representatives John Rutherford, R-Florida., Debbie Dingell, D-Mich., and Jim McGovern, D-Mass. “It is crucial that Americans with digestive or inherited metabolic disorders have the nourishment they need. When medical food and formula is necessary, time is of the essence. Metabolic disorders are treatable with the right resources. This legislation would ensure medically necessary nutrition is covered by government health programs,” said Senator Wicker. “Babies and others who rely on specialized foods to keep them out of the hospital should be able to get the food they need to stay healthy,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Our common-sense bipartisan legislation cuts through the red tape and ensures those with medical conditions that limit the food they can eat can access the nutrition they need.” “Patients with cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease or other inherited disorders can get very sick without specialized foods. They may suffer problems like stunted growth or even death if their special nutritional needs aren’t met. Our bipartisan legislation would ensure government insurance plans provide coverage for the nutrition they need to thrive. It makes clear that medical nutrition is just as critical for certain patients as prescription drugs or other medical treatment are for others,” said Senator Grassley. “Rhode Islanders shouldn't have to worry abo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-supports-bill-offer-veterans-non-opioid-alternatives HYDE-SMITH SUPPORTS BILL TO OFFER VETERANS NON-OPIOID ALTERNATIVES 2025-12-02 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Cosponsors ‘NOPAIN for Veterans Act’ to Provide Pain Management Treatments Already Offered to Medicare Enrollees WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) on Monday cosponsored legislation to direct the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to give veterans greater access to non-opioid alternatives. The Non-Opioids Prevent Addiction in the Nation (NOPAIN) for Veterans Act (S.3209) would expand access for veterans by directing the VA to include FDA-approved non-opioid treatments in the VA National Formulary (VANF). The NOPAIN for Veterans Act would help put veterans on par with the care offered today to Medicare beneficiaries. “It’s important that veterans have access to more pain treatment options beyond being prescribed opioids, which too often lead to misuse, addiction, and loss of life. The NOPAIN for Veterans Act would allow veterans to use proven non-opioid alternatives, which is why I support it wholeheartedly,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. S.3209 was introduced by U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), who has worked to expand access to non-opioid alternatives in response to the recent opioid overdose epidemic. “Our veterans deserve the very best care we can provide, including safe and effective options to manage pain without exposing them to unnecessary risk,” Senator Capito said. “By ensuring FDA-approved non-opioid treatments are included on the VA National Formulary, our legislation will make these alternatives easier to prescribe and easier for veterans to access.” S.3209 would build on the NOPAIN Act passed by Congress in 2022, which expanded Medicare enrollee access to non-opioid alternatives for postoperative pain. While TRICARE traditionally follows the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services policies on these matters, the VA has not taken similar action to expand access to non-opioid treatments through the VANF. The VANF lists clinically reviewed products available for prescribing at all VA facilities, but any products or treatments not included on that formulary cannot… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/gillibrand-hyde-smith-statement-house-passage-their-legislation-support-victims-human-trafficking GILLIBRAND, HYDE-SMITH STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF THEIR LEGISLATION TO SUPPORT VICTIMS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING 2025-12-01 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today released the following statement on the House’s unanimous passage of the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act, which would enable survivors of human trafficking to have nonviolent offenses that they were forced to commit vacated and expunged: “We applaud the House’s passage of our Trafficking Survivors Relief Act, which represents a monumental step forward in supporting victims of human trafficking. This bill would help stop a vicious cycle that leaves trafficking survivors vulnerable to further exploitation, protecting those who escape their horrible circumstances from subsequently having to face criminal prosecution, imprisonment, and related problems finding employment and housing. We urge our Senate colleagues to pass this bill and get it to the president’s desk without delay.” Senator Gillibrand first introduced the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act with a bipartisan group of colleagues in 2016. She has reintroduced the bill in every subsequent Congress, most recently with Senator Hyde-Smith in July 2025. In addition to allowing survivors of human trafficking to have nonviolent criminal convictions or arrest records they incurred while being trafficked vacated and expunged, the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act (S.2255/HR.4323) would also: Allow for an individual’s status as a victim of trafficking to be a mitigating factor for courts to consider when imposing a prison sentence for violent crimes. Require U.S. attorneys to submit a report one year after enactment detailing the number of motions filed under the law. Ensure that grant funding provided by the Justice Department's Office for Victims of Crime and the Office on Violence Against Women can be used for legal representation for post-conviction relief activities. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/op-ed-state-cattle-industry-common-ground-coalition Op-Ed: State of the Cattle Industry, Common Ground Coalition 2025-12-01 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Op-Ed by Joe Goggins, Billings, MT There is nothing worse than hearing your name drug through the mud when you and others have poured countless hours into meaningful efforts to uplift our industry and try to create a better situation for our children and grandchildren. But sometimes silence—at the cost of ego in the name of letting those with influence do important work on behalf of us all—is worthwhile. While I have been silent and let the disgusting and false criticisms of myself, my friends, organizations I love, and an initiative I’m immensely proud of, slide from the lips of the uninformed and off my shoulders, things have indeed played out. Our President has finally demonstrated a better understanding of the rancher’s role in protein production, and I think brighter days are ahead for our great American cattle industry. Even so, those who scream for relevance and attention do so at the sacrifice of the fellowship and community that our great way of life is built on. They’re still clinging to the last dregs of controversy that have been stirred up over the last few weeks and it is finally time for me to share my perspectives on what has occurred and put some nonsense to bed. But first, a bit of background might be helpful. A few years ago, when cattle prices were crumbling under the weight of the COVID pandemic and the outlook for young people getting into or staying in farming and ranching was at its bleakest, important conversations were being held. At that point, I was already part of volunteer leadership of the Livestock Marketing Association, and we commissioned several listening sessions of producers all over the country to hear their troubles as well as their ideas. At the end of the day, if we don’t have producers raising cattle, we have no cattle to sell at auctions and so the producer’s plight is very much the marketer’s concern. We talked to people who proudly wore their membership affiliations to producer groups, breed associations, and others who had no affiliation at all. In the end, a chor… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/senators-praise-house-passing-bill-aiding-human-trafficking-survivors Senators praise House for passing bill aiding human trafficking survivors 2025-12-01 2025 2025-12 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Magnolia State News U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Cindy Hyde-Smith issued a joint statement following the House of Representatives’ unanimous approval of the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act. The legislation aims to allow survivors of human trafficking to have nonviolent offenses, which they were compelled to commit while being trafficked, vacated and expunged from their records. In their statement, the senators said: “We applaud the House’s passage of our Trafficking Survivors Relief Act, which represents a monumental step forward in supporting victims of human trafficking. This bill would help stop a vicious cycle that leaves trafficking survivors vulnerable to further exploitation, protecting those who escape their horrible circumstances from subsequently having to face criminal prosecution, imprisonment, and related problems finding employment and housing. We urge our Senate colleagues to pass this bill and get it to the president’s desk without delay.” Senator Gillibrand originally introduced the bill with bipartisan support in 2016 and has reintroduced it in every Congress since then. The most recent version was introduced with Senator Hyde-Smith in July 2025. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/why-it-so-expensive-give-birth-america Why is it so expensive to give birth in America? 2025-11-29 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper The United States is the most expensive country to give birth in the world, but new legislative efforts could change that By Natalia Galicza As a first-time mother, Charlene Covarrubias understood she had plenty to worry about over the course of her pregnancy: the brain fog, the emotional roller coaster from her body producing 100 to 1,000 times her usual concentration of hormones, the constant nausea that — contrary to its epithet — strikes not just in the morning, but any time of day. She had anticipated the mental and physical exhaustion of carrying a baby to term. What she didn’t realize was that the actual birth would cost her thousands of dollars. Covarrubias is 32 and lives with her husband in Salt Lake City, Utah. She’d started saving to have her first child through her employer’s insurance and Health Savings Account long before she hit 26 weeks of pregnancy in October. She knew that having a baby would be expensive, that it would be stressful figuring out where the delivery would take place — maybe the University of Utah hospital in Salt Lake City or the Redwood Health Center, a clinic also in Salt Lake City. But once the bills for standard prenatal care screenings and checkups started stacking up in her third trimester, some individual visits nearing $1,000, she started to worry about the cost of that fateful hospital delivery bill more than any unknown that still lingered in the months ahead. “I don’t know what ‘covered’ looks like, to be completely honest,” she says. “It’s going to be covered to a point, but I know it’s still going to be a big bill.” For the vast majority of people in the United States, it doesn’t just cost money to raise a child. It costs money to give birth. A lot of it. The Kaiser Family Foundation found that 19% of women are insured through Medicaid, which in most states covers prenatal care, ultrasounds, postpartum care and some delivery services. But the 72% of women who are insured through their employers, private coverage or Medicare are often still responsible for copays … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/common-ground-group-focuses-financing-young-ranchers-risk-protection-and-more Common Ground group focuses on financing young ranchers, risk protection and more 2025-11-27 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Carrie Stadheim A dozen cattle and beef industry spokesman got together in Washington, D.C., in October, to discuss with a group of Senators and Congressional representatives their ideas for restoring confidence in the cattle industry. Jake Parnell, a California cattleman, owner of Cattlemen’s Livestock Market and President and Chairman of the Board of Western Video Market told TSLN that Montana Senator Tim Sheehy, a Republican, invited the group to gather in D.C., and he believes Mississippi Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith was also instrumental in lining up the meeting. Other government officials present included: U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Sen. John Boozman (R-AR), Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE), Rep. Adam Gray (D-CA-13), Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY-At large), Sen. John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Rep. Barry Moore (R-AL-01), Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Sen. Jim Risch (R-ID), and Rep. Dave Taylor (R-OH-02). The meeting happened to coincide with the President’s social media comments that he intended to increase the under-tariff quota of Argentinian beef, and also USDA’s beef plan rollout. Although some of the Common Ground leaders were invited to join the president for an announcement, chose not to participate due to a lack of information about what would be announced. Parnell said he doesn’t think they “missed” an opportunity to take their message to the President. “The tweet, beef is too high, zapped the energy out of rural America, so much of the base has supported this president,” he said. “We all know foreign meat comes into our food chain, how you want to handle labeling and all that is a whole different discussion. And that’s not what really was on the top of our minds. It was more understand the fundamentals, understand what it takes today to produce an 800-pound calf,” he said. “And realize that a pound of choice meat cost about 12 minutes of labor 20 years ago. Same market conditions today. Twelve minutes of labor buys you about a pound… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/senators-wicker-britt-introduce-voting-bill-requiring-citizenship-proof Senators Wicker, Britt introduce voting bill requiring citizenship proof 2025-11-25 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper WXXV Staff Mississippi U.S. Senator Roger Wicker has signed on to a Senate Bill that would encourage states to require proof of American citizenship when registering to vote via mail. The ‘Citizen Ballot Protection Act’ was introduced by Senator Roger Wicker and Alabama Senator Katie Britt. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith also signed on as a co-sponsor of the bill. If passed, states could verify that those registering to vote by mail-in applications are indeed American citizens. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/11/chairman-wicker-commends-president-of-taiwan-for-defense-spending-increase-amid-chinese-threats Chairman Wicker Commends President of Taiwan for Defense Spending Increase Amid Chinese Threats 2025-11-25 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today commended Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te for his call to pass a special budget to boost defense spending. The Chairman released the following statement: 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/11/wicker-britt-introduce-the-citizen-ballot-protection-act Wicker, Britt Introduce the Citizen Ballot Protection Act 2025-11-25 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., joined Senator Katie Britt, R-Ala., in introducing the Citizen Ballot Protection Act. The bill would ensure States are able to better verify that only American citizens are voting in federal elections by codifying the ability of States to require that an applicant provide proof of American citizenship when registering to vote via mail-in application. “The right to vote is a sacred American value. For too long, cities across the U.S. have allowed noncitizens to vote in elections. Ensuring that United States citizens are the only people voting is a commonsense provision that will promote election integrity,” said Senator Wicker. “Voting in our country is a sacred right that must solely be limited to American citizens. To allow States to uphold this principle should be simple commonsense,” said Senator Britt. “It should not be controversial that States have the legal right to prevent noncitizens – including illegal aliens and o?cial representatives of foreign adversaries – from voting in State and Federal elections. Cities that allow noncitizens to vote in local elections disenfranchise hardworking American citizens, insult those American citizens who came to our country legally and took the time and e?ort to go through the citizenship process, and undermine faith in our entire electoral system – which is a cornerstone of our nation that we cannot allow to crumble. I’m proud to work with Representative Palmer and my Senate colleagues to ensure that we pass this legislation and stand up for the right of Americans – and only Americans – to vote in American elections.” Joining Senators Wicker and Britt in introducing this legislation are Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss, Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.V., Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., Ted Cruz R-Texas, Deb Fischer, R-Nebr., and John Boozman, R-Ark.,. Full text of the legislation can be found here. Background: In 2024, Washington, D.C., began to allow noncitizens who have been residents for more than 30… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/gulf-shrimpers-see-long-awaited-moment-federal-seafood-labeling-laws Gulf shrimpers see long-awaited moment on federal seafood labeling laws 2025-11-24 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper VIDEO By Justin Glowacki, McKenna Klamm, Michelle Pinto and RHCJC News GULFPORT — Mississippi commercial fishermen say years of pushing lawmakers for tougher import and labeling rules are finally translating into national policy proposals — including a federal bill from U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith that would require clearer labeling on seafood. The measure follows state-level reforms along the Gulf Coast and comes as shrimpers warn domestic producers are struggling to compete with cheaper, foreign imports. “We’ve certainly seen some attention the last couple of years,” said Ryan Bradley, executive director of Mississippi Commercial Fisheries United. “They’re hearing the alarm bells from not only our organization but many organizations all around the country about the dire straits that our seafood industry is in.” Bradley, a fifth-generation commercial fisherman, said fishermen have spent years urging officials to address uneven competition with foreign imports, market regulations and the loss of local access to natural resources. “Our seafood industry, all around the country, (is impacted) due to a number of issues — the globalization with the imports, the lack of young fishermen coming into these fisheries,” Bradley said. Blake Price, deputy director of the Southern Shrimp Alliance, said renewed attention comes only after the industry reached a breaking point. “It's very unfortunate that it’s taken the industry being on the brink of collapse for this awareness to be made,” Price said. “(But awareness) is greatly welcomed and long overdue.” State-level reforms lay groundwork for national policy push A major change this year came with Mississippi House Bill 602, which took effect on July 1 and requires restaurants, seafood markets and wholesalers to label seafood as either domestic or imported. Enforcement is split between the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources and the Department of Agriculture. “We’ve seen an increase in demand for our local wild-caught products,” Bradley said. Price said custom… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-issues-2025-thanksgiving-message HYDE-SMITH ISSUES 2025 THANKSGIVING MESSAGE 2025-11-24 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper ‘This American Holiday Gives Us a Chance to Pause and Notice the Good that Surrounds Us in Our Families, Our Communities, and in the Freedoms that Shape Our Lives.’ VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Issues 2025 Thanksgiving Message. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issues a message of gratitude to Mississippians with a hope that the Thanksgiving season “inspires us to live fully, to look for the good even when it’s hard to see, and to be grateful for the hope that carries us forward.” The following is Senator Hyde-Smith’s Thanksgiving message for Mississippi and the nation: In a way of saying thank you, I extend my warm wishes to everyone across Mississippi and our great nation as we gather with friends and loved ones this Thanksgiving. This American holiday gives us a chance to pause and notice the good that surrounds us in our families, our communities, and in the freedoms that shape our lives. These blessings remind us of who we are, what we stand for, and what we continue to work toward. Psalm 118 tells us, “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” It encourages us to look for the good in each day, not just in the moments that come easily. Today and every day, we hold deep gratitude for the brave men and women who serve our country, and for the first responders who stand ready in every community. Their dedication protects our way of life, and we honor the families who support them, especially when service keeps them apart during the holidays. Let us also keep close in our hearts those who are facing hard times -- walking through loss, illness, or loneliness. In the spirit of the season, may we choose generosity, offer kindness, and provide encouragement wherever it’s needed. These simple acts of care reflect the very best of the American spirit. My hope is that this season inspires us to live fully, to look for the good even when it’s hard to see, and to be grateful for the hope that carries us forward. Wishing you and your loved ones a Th… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/mayor-percy-bland-recaps-trip-washington-dc Mayor Percy Bland recaps trip to Washington DC 2025-11-24 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Bland said routine meetings like this are essential to the continued economic growth and infrastructural development of Meridian. VIDEO By Zack Rogers MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) - Mayor Bland made an annual trip to the nation’s capital this past week, alongside a few of Meridian’s city councilmen. He says the focus was to engage with legislative officials and federal agencies to secure resources and funding for the Queen City and its infrastructure. “We met with the entire delegation. We met with Senator Wicker, Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, Congressman Bennie Thompson, and our local congressman, Michael Guest. We also met with a congressman from the Gulf Coast, in regard to some of the major projects that we have on the table right now that’s in legislation. And it deals, again, with our water and sewer projects, our consent decree,” said Bland. “We also have a big cops grant, which is a two-million-dollar public safety grant, and we have some other major improvements that we’re doing inside and around the city to our medical district that we specifically met with them about. Bland says routine meetings like this are essential to utilize federal funding and ensure continued economic and infrastructural growth in and around Meridian. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/senator-hyde-smith-delivers-thanksgiving-message-focusing-gratitude Senator Hyde-Smith delivers Thanksgiving message focusing on gratitude 2025-11-24 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Magnolia State News U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) released a Thanksgiving message addressed to the people of Mississippi and the nation, emphasizing gratitude and community during the holiday season. In her statement, Hyde-Smith expressed appreciation for the opportunity to pause and reflect on positive aspects of life, including family, community, and freedoms. She said, “In a way of saying thank you, I extend my warm wishes to everyone across Mississippi and our great nation as we gather with friends and loved ones this Thanksgiving.” She highlighted the importance of recognizing blessings that shape American identity and values: “This American holiday gives us a chance to pause and notice the good that surrounds us in our families, our communities, and in the freedoms that shape our lives. These blessings remind us of who we are, what we stand for, and what we continue to work toward.” Referencing Psalm 118, Hyde-Smith added encouragement for seeking positivity each day: “Psalm 118 tells us, ‘This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.’ It encourages us to look for the good in each day, not just in the moments that come easily.” Hyde-Smith also acknowledged service members and first responders: “Today and every day, we hold deep gratitude for the brave men and women who serve our country, and for the first responders who stand ready in every community. Their dedication protects our way of life, and we honor the families who support them, especially when service keeps them apart during the holidays.” She encouraged compassion toward those experiencing hardship: “Let us also keep close in our hearts those who are facing hard times — walking through loss, illness, or loneliness.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1968 Ezell, Mullin Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Dredging Coordination in Ports Across Country 2025-11-21 2025 2025-11 Republican House MS Mike Ezell E000235 ezell.house.gov ezell https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Consumers across America rely on the nation’s maritime shipping industry. To maintain this essential logistics system and keep consumer prices low, Reps. Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced the bipartisan Dredging Coordination Improvement Act. As cargo and passenger ships increase in size, it’s become even more important for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to dredge shipping channels – the underwater excavation process that enables large cargo and passenger ships to safely traverse waterways that are too shallow. More than 400 ports and 25,000 miles of navigation channels need to be dredged on a regular basis to ensure shipping vessels can reach their destinations and deliver goods to consumers. The Army Corps ultimately decides which channels to prioritize for dredging, and while non-federal stakeholders, such as ports rely heavily on these projects, they are not always adequately consulted and can be left in the dark when there are foreseeable delays. Uncertainty around dredging timelines and project delays disrupt supply chains, costing ports, shipping companies – and ultimately consumers – hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. The Dredging Coordination Improvement Act would streamline coordination among stakeholders, particularly between the Army Corps and local partners, prioritize dredging to facilitate commerce and navigation, and increase transparency between the federal government and ports. “I’m proud to co-lead the Dredging Coordination Improvement Act because communities along the Gulf Coast deserve a system that works with them—not around them. By strengthening communication, prioritizing commercial navigation, and giving our local partners the information they need to plan ahead, this bill will help keep our waterways open, our economy moving, and our coastal communities strong,” Ezell said. “America’s maritime infrastructure and commercial shipping industry is essential to the economy here in the San Francisco Bay Area and across our entire country. Ports and c… 1 2026-04-07T15:46:19Z 2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/11/chairman-wicker-statement-on-ukraine Chairman Wicker Statement on Ukraine 2025-11-21 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement. “This so-called ‘peace plan’ has real problems, and I am highly skeptical it will achieve peace. Ukraine should not be forced to give up its lands to one of the world’s most flagrant war criminals in Vladimir Putin. The size and disposition of Ukraine’s armed forces is a sovereign choice for its government and people. And any assurances provided to Putin should not reward his malign behavior or undermine the security of the United States or allies. In particular, any suggestion that we can pursue arms control with a serial liar and killer like Putin should be treated with great skepticism.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/11/sen-wicker-statement-on-mississippi-nominees-favorably-reported-out-of-the-senate-judiciary-committee/991829bf-8e6a-456c-8226-1fae249a9586 Sen. Wicker Questions Nominee for Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard 2025-11-21 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper Click Here to Watch WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today participated in a Senate Commerce Committee hearing on the nomination hearing for Admiral Kevin Lunday to be the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. The transcript is lightly edited for clarity. “Admiral Lunday, the experience of serving in Junior Reserve Officer Training (JROTC) Corps programs has real benefits. A RAND Corporation study found that students who participate in JROTC have higher grades, better attendance rates, and are more likely to graduate from high school than other students. Mississippi was pleased to welcome the Coast Guard’s first JROTC program in the state at Clinton High School in 2023. This is in the heartland district of the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard is congressionally required to have a JROTC program in every district by December 1st of this year. In 2025, the Senate-passed Coast Guard Authorization Act included a provision directing the Coast Guard to expand JROTC to no fewer than 20 programs by the end of 2026. There are currently 14 programs. It shouldn’t be too difficult for you to get to 14 programs to 20 programs by the end of next year. Would you comment on that?” asked Senator Wicker. “The Junior ROTC programs are great programs, and I know the one at Clinton High School is one of our largest with the greatest participation of many others. I'm proud to tell you that we are ahead of schedule and establishing a Coast Guard Junior ROTC program in every one of the Coast Guard districts. And if confirmed by the Senate, I will work to complete the requirement by the end of 2026, as you describe it,” replied Admiral Lunday. “That's good to hear. It is a citizenship builder, for sure. Let’s move on to Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. It’s a real problem. Admiral Paparo commended the Coast Guard for its service in his area of the world in that regard. Do you believe the Coast Guard is serving U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific by combatting Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated fishing?” a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-cosponsors-bill-repeal-green-new-deal-mandates-add-home-prices HYDE-SMITH COSPONSORS BILL TO REPEAL GREEN NEW DEAL MANDATES THAT ADD TO HOME PRICES 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Hyde-Smith, Colleagues Move to Strike Biden-era Standards that Can Tag Another $31K to Building Homes WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), chair of the Senate appropriations subcommittee covering federal housing programs, this week cosponsored legislation to eliminate expensive Biden-era Green New Deal housing mandates that make new homes less affordable for buyers. The HOUSE Act (S.3178) would repeal the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Determination on energy efficiency standards for new construction of HUD- and USDA-financed housing. The bill targets 2024 mandates imposed by the Biden administration to force builders to use energy efficiency standards that can add as much as $31,000 to the price of new home. “There are many factors that make home prices out of reach for too many people in Mississippi and all over the country. Government regulations, no matter how well- or ill-advised, should not be compounding the problem, which is exactly what the Biden mandate is doing,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “The HOUSE Act is one step Congress can take to tackle out-of-reach home prices.” “Our nation is facing a housing affordability crisis,” said U.S. Senator John Barrasso M.D. (R-Wyo.), who introduced the bill. “Every day, American families are being priced out of the housing market. The Biden administration’s Green New Deal housing mandates make it even harder for young families to buy their first home. The HOUSE Act repeals these expensive mandates and gives Americans the tools they need to make their dream of owning a home a reality.” “Home affordability is one of the biggest concerns facing young and middle-class families in this country. First time buyers, young families, rural and lower income buyers are especially hard hit. Their biggest obstacle is saving for a downpayment – yet HUD’s Minimum Efficiency standards will unquestionably increase downpayment requirements. The HOUSE Act will help young families achieve t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/11/sen-wicker-statement-on-mississippi-nominees-favorably-reported-out-of-the-senate-judiciary-committee Sen. Wicker Statement on Mississippi Nominees Favorably Reported Out of the Senate Judiciary Committee 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today issued the following statement after four Mississippi nominees were favorably reported out of the Senate Judiciary Committee. The panel approved Mississippi Supreme Court Justices Robert Chamberlin and James Maxwell for positions on the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi. The committee also approved James ‘Baxter’ Kruger and Scott Leary, nominees for United States Attorney for Mississippi’s southern and northern districts, respectively. “I am pleased that President Trump’s nominations to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi and for the state’s U.S. Attorneys have passed the Senate Judiciary Committee. Justices Chamberlin and Maxwell and Messrs Kruger and Leary are highly-qualified individuals. They will uphold the law, defend the Constitution, and serve Mississippi well. I look forward to voting for their confirmations on the Senate floor.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-michael-guest-passage-hr-4071-combatting-international-drug Congressman Michael Guest on the Passage of H.R. 4071, the Combatting International Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling Partnership Act of 2025 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Republican House MS Michael Guest G000591 guest.house.gov guest https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 4071, the Combatting International Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling Partnership Act of 2025. U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations agents play a critical role in the homeland security mission. Every day, AMO agents conduct border operations to detect and disrupt the illegal flow of people, narcotics, and other dangerous or illicit contraband before it reaches our shores. This legislation authorizes AMO, and other designated CBP personnel, to continue and expand these successful bilateral agreements by providing training, building partner-nation capacity, and conducting joint operations that will increase interdictions and enhance regional security to save lives, strengthen our defenses, and make our nation safer. Joined by Representative Nellie Pou (NJ-09), Congressman Guest gained bipartisan supporters on this legislation which passed the U.S. House of Representatives. Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Andrew Garbarino expressed his support for the bill, stating, “As Air and Marine Operations carries out its border security mission, Congressman Guest’s legislation would help ensure these brave men and women have the necessary international partnerships to combat drug and human smuggling before this criminal activity ever makes its way to our borders. I was proud to help advance this legislation through the House Homeland Security Committee and through the House of Representatives, and I urge my Senate colleagues to do the same to help CBP in its important mission.” Congressman Guest stated, “I am honored to have introduced H.R. 4071 and to see it be approved in the House. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill and send it to the President’s desk. We will continue to work to secure our border and Make America Great Again.” Co-Sponsor Congresswoman Pou stated, “Drug trafficking and human smuggling remain grave problems facing our nation. Our bipartisan bill will provide vital clarity t… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:31:22Z
https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1963 Ezell: Democrat-Led Shutdown Finally Ends After Hurting Mississippi Families and Businesses 2025-11-12 2025 2025-11 Republican House MS Mike Ezell E000235 ezell.house.gov ezell https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement after voting to end the Democrat-led government shutdown: “After more than 40 days of unnecessary pain and uncertainty, Senate Democrats have finally agreed to reopen the government — something Republicans, President Trump, and millions of hardworking Americans have been demanding for weeks. I was happy to vote to reopen the government after the Democrats’ deranged shutdown that hurt Mississippi families, businesses, and federal workers lasted nearly 43 days. This shutdown came at a steep cost for Mississippi. Our state’s economy lost an estimated $82 million each week, nearly 26,000 federal workers went without pay, and more than 357,000 Mississippians — including 139,000 children — faced disruptions to SNAP benefits. Republicans passed a clean funding bill back in September to keep the government open and give time for responsible, bipartisan budget negotiations. Yet, Democrats chose politics over people — and nothing has changed because of their obstruction except the damage they caused. Now that this Democrat-led shutdown is finally over, it’s time to return to regular order, finish our appropriations bills, and restore stability for American families. That’s what House Republicans have been fighting for from the start.” 1 2026-04-07T15:46:19Z 2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-cruz-act-pressure-postal-service-do-more-fight-mail-theft HYDE-SMITH, CRUZ ACT TO PRESSURE POSTAL SERVICE TO DO MORE TO FIGHT MAIL THEFT 2025-11-10 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – With the upcoming holiday shopping season just over the horizon, U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today announced she has cosponsored legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) to pressure the U.S. Postal Service to do more to address mail thefts. The Upholding a Secure Postal System (USPS) Act (S.3107) would require the Comptroller General of the United States, who leads the Government Accountability Office, the investigative office for Congress, to submit a report to Congress on nationwide trends in mail theft and postal property. “We must get a better handle on protecting our postal system from shameless porch pirates and the brazen thieves who target USPS drop boxes. This legislation will force the Postal Service to truly assess losses and threats to the sanctity of our postal system, while also giving Congress a clearer path forward to combat this growing problem,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “Mail theft has become a growing concern for Texans who depend on a reliable postal service. I am committed to restoring trust in the USPS by addressing the widespread theft of mail, and this bill will bring us one step closer to achieving that goal,” Senator Cruz said. The USPS Act would require annual reports for five years that include measures the USPS has taken to combat theft and recommendations to the USPS and Congress on how to combat these issues. S.3107, which is also cosponsored by U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), has been referred to the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which has jurisdiction over postal service matters. The USPS estimates that at least 58 million packages worth up to $16 billion were stolen in 2024, affecting as many as 58 million victims nationwide. A 2023 report issued by the USPS Office of the Inspector General on the organization’s response to mail theft that, among other things, indicated a need for greater accountability among managers and supervisors and requiring postal inspectors to complete In-Servi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-honors-american-servicemembers-veterans-day-2025 HYDE-SMITH HONORS AMERICAN SERVICEMEMBERS ON VETERANS DAY 2025 2025-11-10 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Pays Tribute to Veterans and Their Families. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issued a statement in commemoration of Veterans Day, paying tribute to the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans and their families while urging Mississippians to continue showing their support year-round: “We commemorate Veterans Day to honor the profound sacrifices made by the brave men and women who served to defend our nation. Their courage, strength, and unwavering commitment, along with the sacrifices made by their families, are the foundation of the freedoms we cherish as Americans. “Here in Mississippi, our veterans and their families have made extraordinary contributions to protect our national interests both at home and abroad. According to the most recent census, more than 140,000 veterans call Mississippi home – a powerful reminder of the deep well of patriotism and service that runs through our state. “And we, as Americans, bear the duty to ensure our veterans receive the care, respect, and support they deserve. As a grateful nation, we must continue to remember, honor, and actively support our veterans. Not just today, every day.” Hyde-Smith also called on Mississippians to take part in National Warrior Call Day on Sunday, November 16, 2025, a national effort to reach out to veterans and servicemembers to strengthen connections and help reduce the mental health challenges many face after serving our nation. Hyde-Smith is an original cosponsor of the National Warrior Call Day Resolution (S.Res.392), which the Senate passed in September. “It’s a powerful opportunity to reach out to a veteran or servicemember, to check in, to listen, and to remind them they are not alone and will never be forgotten, because freedom is never free,” Hyde-Smith said. Finally, Hyde-Smith is an original cosponsor of the Senate resolution (S.Res.482) that designated the week of Nov. 3-7, 2025, as “National Veterans Small Business Week.” The measure highlights the important role … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/gop-senators-want-allow-direct-sales-state-inspected-meat-and-poultry-web GOP senators want to allow direct sales of state-inspected meat and poultry on the web 2025-11-07 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Dan Flynn State-inspected meat and poultry sold on the internet could soon be crossing state lines, as the federal government embraces “direct to consumer” sales. Direct-to-consumer sales are favored by the nascent “Food Freedom” movement for reducing food safety concerns. Many state and local statutes use the technique in scaling back food safety regulations for raw milk and various homemade products. Such a tactic hasn’t come up on the federal level until now. U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-MS, Roger Marshall, R-KS, and Tommy Tuberville R-AL, are sponsoring legislation to allow online direct-to-consumer meat and poultry sales for producers, processors and small meat markets. The bill would amend the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) and the Poultry Products Inspection Act (PPIA) to allow for the interstate sale of certain state-inspected meat and poultry products, while claiming to “preserve food safety standards.” “As we look at markets now and into the future, we should explore every opportunity to help family farms and ranches succeed.” Sen. Hyde-Smith said. “The DIRECT Act does just that. It would give meat and poultry producers a safe, straightforward way to sell to consumers directly by making federal regulations work for them, not against them.” “The last thing our livestock producers need is more red tape,” said Sen. Marshall. “Like many states, Kansas has strong meat inspection standards that already meet federal requirements. By creating a simple exemption, the DIRECT Act uplifts our ranchers by empowering them to sell their high-quality beef in innovative ways and across state lines.” By amending the retail exemption under federal meat and poultry inspection statutes, S.3099 would allow processors and butchers or other retailers to sell normal retail quantities — 300 pounds of beef, 100 pounds of pork, 27.5 pounds of lamb — of state-inspected meat online to consumers across state lines. The senators further claim that because DIRECT Act sales are conducted through e-commerce, they wou… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/trump-accuses-foreign-owned-meat-packers-inflating-us-beef-prices-and-calls-investigation Trump accuses foreign-owned meat-packers of inflating U.S. beef prices and calls for investigation 2025-11-07 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Darlene Superville and Steve Karnowski WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump accused foreign-owned meat-packers of driving up the price of beef in the United States and asked the Department of Justice to open an investigation. The Republican president announced the move on social media days after his party suffered losses in key elections in which the winning Democratic candidates focused relentlessly on the public’s concerns about the cost of living. But experts said it’s unlikely that an investigation would result in lower prices at grocery stores, and a trade group representing meat-packers said they’re not to blame. Trump did not present evidence for his claims, writing on social media that “I have asked the DOJ to immediately begin an investigation into the Meat Packing Companies who are driving up the price of Beef through Illicit Collusion, Price Fixing, and Price Manipulation.” He said he was taking the action to help ranchers, who were recently angered by his suggestion that the United States would buy Argentine beef to bring down stubbornly high prices for American consumers. “We will always protect our American Ranchers, and they are being blamed for what is being done by Majority Foreign Owned Meat Packers, who artificially inflate prices, and jeopardize the security of our Nation’s food supply,” Trump said. Why Beef Prices Have Climbed Beef prices have soared to record levels in part after drought and years of low prices led to the smallest U.S. herd size in decades. Trump’s tariffs on Brazil, a major beef exporter, have also curbed imports. Meanwhile, demand for beef remains strong. Prices are high because consumers want to eat it, and they’re willing and able to pay for it, said Glynn Tonsor, who leads the Meat Demand Monitor at Kansas State University. Tonsor said the ownership mix in the meatpacking industry has not changed significantly in the past four years. Concentration in the meatpacking business has been a longtime concern for farmers and politicians on both sides of the a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/11/chairman-wicker-issues-statement-on-secretary-hegseth-s-acquisition-reform-speech Chairman Wicker Issues Statement on Secretary Hegseth’s Acquisition Reform Speech 2025-11-07 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today commended Secretary Hegseth for his forward-looking speech on acquisition reform, which highlights key steps to modernize the procurement process and strengthen America’s defense industrial base. Secretary Hegseth’s remarks recognized Senator Wicker’s leading role in advancing reform through the FORGED Act, a bipartisan measure streamlining defense contracting and fostering innovation. The secretary also endorsed Wicker’s priorities: a “commercial first” procurement approach to leverage private-sector solutions; expanding the industrial base with new defense technology companies; and empowering acquisition personnel through portfolio management for more efficient capability delivery. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/firearm-access-during-shutdowns-act-introduced-house-and-senate-safeguard-key-firearm-services-amid “Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act” Introduced in House and Senate to Safeguard Key Firearm Services Amid Government Closures 2025-11-06 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Luke McCoy WASHINGTON, D.C. — A coordinated legislative push is underway in both chambers of Congress to ensure federal operations related to firearm background checks and export licensing continue without interruption during future government shutdowns. On October 30 and 31, 2025, lawmakers introduced companion bills in the Senate and House titled the Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act (S.3085 and H.R.5874, respectively). The bills, spearheaded by Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) and Representative Ben Cline (R-VA-6), aim to classify certain federal firearm-related functions as essential services during a lapse in government funding. If enacted, the legislation would prevent the shutdown of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Directorate of Enforcement Programs and Services, and key export licensing operations under the Department of Commerce and the Department of State. According to the bill language, these services would be deemed necessary for “the safety of human life or the protection of property,” a legal designation that allows continued operation under the Antideficiency Act during funding lapses. Employees responsible for carrying out these tasks would be designated as “excepted employees,” permitting them to work through a shutdown. Key Agencies Protected by the Bill: FBI’s NICS: Enables firearm dealers to run background checks on prospective buyers. ATF Enforcement Directorate: Processes firearms licensing and regulatory functions. Department of Commerce (BIS): Handles export licenses for firearm-related goods. Department of State (DDTC): Oversees defense trade controls, including firearms exports. The House bill (H.R.5874) boasts 26 Republican co-sponsors, including Reps. Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Nancy Mace (R-SC), and Wesley Hunt (R-TX). The Senate version (S.3085) is co-sponsored by 9 Republican senators, including Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Steve Daines (R-MT), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS). The Hous… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-praises-administration-adding-phosphate-us-critical-minerals-list HYDE-SMITH PRAISES ADMINISTRATION FOR ADDING PHOSPHATE TO U.S. CRITICAL MINERALS LIST 2025-11-06 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Miss. Senator Sought Inclusion of Key Fertilizer Ingredient to Stabilize Markets, Bring Production Home WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today praised the Trump administration and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum for adding phosphate, a critical fertilizer ingredient for Mississippi’s agricultural sector, to the 2025 Critical Minerals List. Hyde-Smith and other lawmakers in September asked Burgum to include phosphate on the important list after discovering it was not included on a draft critical minerals list issued by the U.S. Geological Survey this summer. The final 2025 Critical Minerals List, which will be formally published in the Federal Register on Friday, includes phosphate and retains potash. “Expensive fertilizer costs are a significant factor in the economic headwinds hitting Mississippi’s agricultural sector. Having both phosphate and potash on the Critical Minerals List should help stabilize supply chains and begin to reduce our dependence on foreign sources,” Hyde-Smith said. “This is smart and commonsense policy, and I praise the President and Secretary Burgum for ensuring these key fertilizer components made the list.” Hyde-Smith was among 19 Senators and 49 House members who, in September, asked Burgum to include both potash and phosphate on the final Critical Minerals List. They argued that doing so would help facilitate domestic phosphate production, strengthen supply chains, reduce reliance on countries like China, lower input prices for farmers, and safeguard American food security. “Phosphate, like potash, is indispensable to global food production and U.S. agriculture. It has no substitutes in farming, and disruptions in supply have immediate and far-reaching consequences for American producers, food prices, and national security,” the lawmakers wrote in September. “Farmers across the country are already experiencing the impacts of market volatility and supply pressures tied to phosphate availability.” Hyde-Smith has used her position on the Senate Agriculture … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-wicker-honor-delta-state-centennial-us-senate-resolution HYDE-SMITH, WICKER HONOR DELTA STATE CENTENNIAL WITH U.S. SENATE RESOLUTION 2025-11-06 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Miss. Senators Introduce Commemorative Resolution in Conjunction with University’s Celebration WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) today introduced a Senate resolution honoring the 100th anniversary of the founding of Delta State University in conjunction with the launch of the school’s year-long centennial celebration next week. The resolution (S.Res.489) remarks on the Mississippi Delta school’s launch in September 1925 as the Delta State Teachers College, its transformation into Delta State University in 1974, and its subsequent growth as a modern institution with a “commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs.” “It’s an honor to recognize Delta State University as it commemorates its history and looks ahead to an even brighter future,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “Delta State continues to be a cornerstone of opportunity for students, a source of pride for Cleveland, and a vital asset for the entire Mississippi Delta and our state.” “For the last century, Delta State has been an asset to the Magnolia State. Its alumni have been a boon to our workforce and a gift to the arts. In the next hundred years, I am confident Delta State will remain an engine of opportunity and excellence. I look forward to seeing its continued contributions and achievements,” Senator Wicker said. In addition to lauding traditional Delta State University degree programs, the resolution cites the school’s expansion into other fields through the Delta Music Institute, Commercial Aviation Department, and Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information. It also touches on the university’s role in the community and region, including its role in the designation of the Mississippi Delta National Heritage Area and attracting the Grammy Museum Mississippi to Cleveland. The resolution would put the U.S. Senate on record as commending Delta State University “for 100 years of service to the State of Mississippi and the Un… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/phosphate-added-critical-minerals-list-following-lawmaker-advocacy Phosphate added to critical minerals list following lawmaker advocacy 2025-11-06 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Hinds Today U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) has expressed support for the Trump administration and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum following the decision to add phosphate to the 2025 Critical Minerals List. Phosphate is an important fertilizer ingredient for Mississippi’s agricultural sector. Earlier this year, Hyde-Smith and other lawmakers urged Secretary Burgum to include phosphate on the list after it was left off a draft version released by the U.S. Geological Survey in the summer. The final list, which will be published in the Federal Register on Friday, now includes both phosphate and potash. “Expensive fertilizer costs are a significant factor in the economic headwinds hitting Mississippi’s agricultural sector. Having both phosphate and potash on the Critical Minerals List should help stabilize supply chains and begin to reduce our dependence on foreign sources,” Hyde-Smith said. “This is smart and commonsense policy, and I praise the President and Secretary Burgum for ensuring these key fertilizer components made the list.” In September, Hyde-Smith joined 18 other Senators and 49 House members in calling for both minerals’ inclusion. They argued that listing these minerals would encourage domestic production, strengthen supply chains, decrease reliance on countries such as China, lower input prices for farmers, and help protect American food security. “Phosphate, like potash, is indispensable to global food production and U.S. agriculture. It has no substitutes in farming, and disruptions in supply have immediate and far-reaching consequences for American producers, food prices, and national security,” wrote lawmakers in their September letter. “Farmers across the country are already experiencing the impacts of market volatility and supply pressures tied to phosphate availability.” Hyde-Smith serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee where she has opposed policies she believes negatively affect fertilizer availability or affordability for Mississippi farmers. The Critical Minerals List … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/11/chairman-wicker-leads-sasc-hearing-to-consider-four-senior-pentagon-nominations Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing to Consider Four Senior Pentagon Nominations 2025-11-06 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper Watch Video Here WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to consider the qualifications of four senior Department of Defense nominees. Mr. Alexander J. Velez-Green, nominated to be Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, Mr. Michael D. Payne, nominated to be Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation, Mr. Timothy D. Dill, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, and Mr. Maurice L. Todd, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness, all appeared before the committee. During his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker underscored the significance of each role and emphasized the statutory requirement mandating the department consult with the committee on policy matters, rather than simply informing its members after action is taken. Read Chairman Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered. I welcome our witnesses and their families, and I thank them for being here this morning.? We face a threat environment more dangerous than any since World War II and we face it together and the members of this panel will be very much involved in answering that call and I do appreciate them for standing forward and doing that. Mr. Timothy Dill has been nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. If confirmed, he will oversee nearly all of the department’s policies affecting careers and quality of life for our military and civilian workforce. He would play a key role in ensuring the department fosters a culture rooted in merit, a culture that recognizes excellence, supports families, and remains competitive with the civilian sector. President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have refocused the Pentagon on readiness and warfighting, eliminating policies such as DEI above merit and performance. I look forward to hearing Mr. Dill’s vision for strengthening the ways the department manages military and civilian personnel, rewards top performers, … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-marshall-drop-bill-allow-online-beef-poultry-sales-across-state-lines HYDE-SMITH, MARSHALL DROP BILL TO ALLOW ONLINE BEEF, POULTRY SALES ACROSS STATE LINES 2025-11-05 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper DIRECT Act Would Help Livestock Producers by Opening New Direct-to-Consumer Sales WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) has joined U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) in introducing legislation to create new opportunities for online direct-to-consumer meat and poultry sales for producers, processors, and small meat markets. The Direct Interstate Retail Exemption for Certain Transaction (DIRECT) Act (S.3099) would amend the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) and the Poultry Products Inspection Act (PPIA) to allow for the interstate internet sales of certain state-inspected meat and poultry, while also preserving food safety standards. “As we look at markets now and into the future, we should explore every opportunity to help family farms and ranches succeed. The DIRECT Act does just that. It would give meat and poultry producers a safe, straightforward way to sell to consumers directly by making federal regulations work for them, not against them,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “The last thing our livestock producers need is more red tape,” said Senator Marshall. “Like many states, Kansas has strong meat inspection standards that already meet federal requirements. By creating a simple exemption, the DIRECT Act uplifts our ranchers by empowering them to sell their high-quality beef in innovative ways and across state lines.” By amending the retail exemption under federal meat and poultry inspection statutes, S.3099 would allow processors and butchers or other retailers to sell normal retail quantities (300 lbs. of beef, 100 lbs. of pork, 27.5 lbs. of lamb) of state-inspected meat online to consumers across state lines. Because DIRECT Act sales are in e-commerce, sales would be traceable and could easily be recalled. Mississippi is among 27 states with state meat and poultry inspection (MPI) programs approved of “at least equal to” standards set under the FMIA and PPIA, and subject to USDA Food Safety Inspection Service to ensure safety protocols are met. However, current law restricts t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/11/wicker-combats-persecution-of-christians-in-china Wicker Combats Persecution of Christians in China 2025-11-05 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., joined multiple efforts in Congress to combat the rise of persecution against Christians in China. Wicker, along with Senators Ted Budd, R-N.C., and James Lankford, R-Okla., led a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging the State Department to address the mistreatment of Christians by the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Specifically, the letter urged the administration to impose sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights and Accountability Act on PRC officials responsible for religious freedom violations in China. Senator Wicker joined former Senator Ben Cardin, D-Md., in authoring the Global Magnitsky Human Rights and Accountability Act. Enacted into law in 2016, it grants the U.S. government the ability to sanction individuals for human rights abuse. Additionally, Wicker joined Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas., in a resolution condemning the PRC’s persecution of religious minority groups, including Christians. “The United States has led the world in religious freedom, standing against tyrannical regimes like the People’s Republic of China. We must speak the truth about the regime’s evil crackdown on Christians and other religious groups. We will not stop advocating for those living under the thumb of Xi Jinping’s oppression,” said Senator Wicker. Click here to read the letter to Secretary Rubio. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/11/chairman-wicker-leads-sasc-hearing-to-consider-three-senior-pentagon-nominations Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing to Consider Three Senior Pentagon Nominations 2025-11-04 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper Watch Video Here WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to consider the qualifications of three senior Pentagon nominees. Mr. Austin J. Dahmer, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans, and Forces; Mr. Robert P. Kadlec, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs; and Mr. Michael J. Borders, Jr., nominated to be Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Energy, Installations, and Environment, all appeared before the committee. Read Chairman Wicker’s opening statement as delivered. I welcome our witnesses and their families, some of whom I just had an opportunity to greet, and I thank them for being here this morning.? We face a threat environment more dangerous than any since World War II.?I say this at almost every hearing because it bears repeating.? In such challenging times, I’m grateful that these individuals have answered the call to serve. Let me just pause for a moment and say this morning we remember a long-time public servant who passed away during the night, former Vice President Richard Cheney, a man who repeatedly answered the call to serve. He was a White House Chief of Staff. He served as Secretary of Defense. He was elected to the House of Representatives some five times and ultimately to the vice presidency, serving in that role for eight consequential years. So, we are thinking today of his family and loved ones today as the committee meets. As to our business, I welcome our witnesses. And, first of all, Dr. Robert Kadlec has been nominated as Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Deterrence, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs. Last year, Congress created this position because we hoped to align the department’s fractured nuclear management structure. This is an incredibly important position, especially today. China and Russia are rapidly expanding their nuclear arsenals while our own mo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/rollins-border-cattle-remain-hold-us-battles-screwworm-threat Rollins: Border Cattle Remain on Hold as U.S. Battles Screwworm Threat 2025-11-03 2025 2025-11 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper An import lag for ground beef will likely look different than last year’s egg shortage. The difference comes down to biosecurity and market flexibility. Marion Kirkpatrick, Tony St. James, RFD-TV News Staff NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — When egg prices skyrocketed earlier this year, consumers had no substitutes — and the government had no easy fixes. But as beef prices stay near record highs and imported lean trimmings grow scarce, some are asking if the same market squeeze could happen again. With roughly 250,000 Mexican cattle stalled at the southern border due to the ongoing New World Screwworm outbreak, Rollins says the USDA is taking a “not yet” approach to reopening crossings until the risk is fully contained. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says that while cattle are waiting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border, now is not the right time— that is, as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) continues working to keep the New World Screwworm from crossing the southern border with those cattle from Mexico. “Just a few weeks ago, we had one that was identified 70 miles from the Texas border, so we, obviously, take this incredibly seriously,” Secretary Rollins said to the media last week at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis. “We released a five-point plan. I’ve been down to the border now, announcing a new sterile fly facility. So, we will continue the conversations. We are not there yet. Obviously, in Mexico, there are about 250,000 head of cattle waiting to move over, but I am not convinced yet that we have this under control.” However, without an agreement between ag leaders from the U.S. and Mexico to reopen cattle crossings at the border, and a significant drop in imports from Brazil due to President Donald Trump’s tariff-based trade strategy, which will be under review by the Supreme Court this week, a widening import gap has emerged. According to Steve Dittmer, Executive Vice President of the Agribusiness Freedom Foundation, ground beef has become the nation’s most versatile and affordabl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-colleagues-recommend-charlie-kirk-american-heroes-garden HYDE-SMITH, COLLEAGUES RECOMMEND CHARLIE KIRK FOR AMERICAN HEROES GARDEN 2025-10-31 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) is among 15 Senators who this week recommended the inclusion of Charlie Kirk, the fallen founder of Turning Point USA, in the National Garden of American Heroes. The lawmakers, led by U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), issued their recommendation in a letter to President Trump, citing Kirk’s historic contributions to the nation and American democracy. “Charlie Kirk has made significant contributions as a leader in civic education, grassroots organization, and public dialogue. Through his work, he has inspired countless young Americans to engage in civic life and to appreciate the responsibilities of citizenship,” the Senators wrote. “His efforts highlight the enduring importance of free expression, active participation, and leadership in strengthening our democracy.” “The inclusion of Mr. Kirk in the National Garden would not only honor his personal achievements but would also underscore the vital role that civic engagement plays in our national heritage,” the Senators continued. Erika Kirk, CEO & Board Chair, Turning Point USA, issued a statement endorsing the Senators’ effort. “My husband’s life was so incredible. Charlie forever changed the direction of this country, and he made it a better place for our children, young people, and families. Charlie’s legacy will be felt for generations to come,” Erika Kirk said. “My husband was a modern American Founding Father, and he deserves every honor and accolade this nation can bestow on him. I am grateful to Senator Cassidy and the 14 other senators who have nominated Charlie for this tremendous honor.” President Trump proposed the creation of a National Garden of American Heroes during his first term to honor “great figures of America’s history.” The garden is also designed to be part of the July 2026 celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In addition to Cassidy and Hyde-Smith, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Mike Lee (R-Uta… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-fellow-republican-senators-urge-trump-include-charlie-kirk-national-garden-american Hyde-Smith, fellow Republican Senators urge Trump to include Charlie Kirk in National Garden of American Heroes 2025-10-31 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper The National Garden is to feature statues of historical American figures who have contributed to the nation’s cultural, scientific, economic, and political heritage. By Frank Corder Mississippi U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R) has joined with 14 of her Senate colleagues in recommending the inclusion of Charlie Kirk, the assassinated founder of Turning Point USA, in the National Garden of American Heroes. The Senators said the inclusion of Kirk in the National Garden “would not only honor his personal achievements but would also underscore the vital role that civic engagement plays in our national heritage.” The National Garden of American Heroes supports the design and creation of statues of historical figures from America’s past who have contributed to the nation’s cultural, scientific, economic, and political heritage. The National Garden of American Heroes, proposed by President Donald Trump (R) during his first term, is set to open in July 2026 in celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In a letter to President Trump asking him to include the slain Turning Point USA founder, the Senators cited Kirk’s historic contributions to the nation. “Charlie Kirk has made significant contributions as a leader in civic education, grassroots organization, and public dialogue. Through his work, he has inspired countless young Americans to engage in civic life and to appreciate the responsibilities of citizenship,” the Senators wrote. “His efforts highlight the enduring importance of free expression, active participation, and leadership in strengthening our democracy.” In addition to Hyde-Smith, the letter was led by U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and also signed by U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/new-bill-requires-clearer-seafood-labeling-us New bill requires clearer seafood labeling in the U.S. 2025-10-31 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper U.S. Senator Hyde-Smith introduces the Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling Act to ensure that labels understandably include the country of origin and production method. By Marta Negrete U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, a Republican from Mississippi, introduced the Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling (LABEL) Act this week, whose purpose, according to the senator's public statement, is "to ensure all seafood, whether wild-caught or farm raised, is clearly labeled with its country of origin and method of production." According to Hyde-Smith's proposal, some imported seafood labels are currently printed in such small print that they go unnoticed, putting U.S. producers at a disadvantage compared to imported alternatives. The Senator's statement also highlighted that the LABEL Act aims to increase transparency for consumers and support the U.S. fishing industry, bringing consumers across the country the standard that is already being applied in Mississippi and Alabama, which have already passed similar legislation requiring clear labeling of all seafood sold in their states. Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville supported Hyde-Smith's bill "Mississippi's seafood industry is already battling a flood of cheap imports, much of which don't meet the same safety standards our domestic producers uphold," Senator Hyde-Smith said. "This bill would ensure American consumers know exactly where their seafood comes from, while giving our domestic fishermen and producers a fair chance to compete," she added. Hyde-Smith's Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling Act was supported by U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville, a Republican from Alabama, who joined her in introducing the measure. "American producers have been undercut by foreign producers dumping their low-quality seafood into our markets," said Senator Tuberville. "There's no better source for fish and seafood than Alabama ponds and the Gulf of America, and we want people to know where their food is coming from," he continued. "I'm proud to join Senator Hyde-Smith in … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/florida-south-carolina-republicans-introduce-bill-ensure-capitol-police-pay-during-shutdown Florida, South Carolina Republicans Introduce Bill To Ensure Capitol Police Pay During Shutdown 2025-10-30 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Jack Kaminsky In the midst of an ongoing government shutdown, a group of Republican Senators, led by Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Rick Scott (R-FL), introduced the Pay Our Capitol Police Act on Wednesday. The legislation is designed to guarantee paychecks for the brave men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police—including their essential civilian staff and contractors—who continue to work without pay due to the funding lapse. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) rebuked Senate Democrats, whom he blames for the government closure, which he and other Republicans have dubbed the “Schumer Shutdown.” “It is despicable that Democrats continue to drag the Schumer Shutdown on, gladly accepting their own paychecks while refusing to open the government or pay our hardworking federal law enforcement, including our Capitol Police,” Senator Rick Scott said in a statement. “I am proud to join my colleagues to ensure these law enforcement officers, who put their lives on the line every day… aren’t harmed by Democrats’ political games.” The introduction of the bill comes as Congress remains deadlocked over a funding resolution to reopen the government. Focus on Essential Law Enforcement Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), a primary sponsor of the bill, emphasized the vital role of the Capitol Police. “The United States Capitol Police performs an essential service to our nation, protecting our nation’s Capitol and all who serve within it,” he stated. “The Pay Our Capitol Police Act guarantees they receive the pay and support they have earned. These officers protect the American people and an institution of our democracy, and they should not have to miss paychecks because of political games in Washington.” The proposed legislation would ensure continued appropriations to pay Capitol Police personnel for active service and is designed to be automatic and retroactive to the start of the shutdown, remaining in effect until the next appropriations bill is passed. Cosponsors of the bill include a number of Republican Senators: Bill Cassidy (R-LA… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/ole-miss-jd-vance-and-erika-kirk-draw-crowd-10000-turning-point-usa-rally At Ole Miss, J.D. Vance and Erika Kirk draw crowd of 10,000 for Turning Point USA rally 2025-10-30 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Will Stribling OXFORD — Nearly 10,000 people packed the Sandy & John Black Pavilion at the University of Mississippi on Wednesday for a rally hosted by the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA. Vice President J.D. Vance headlined the event, stepping in as the main speaker following the assassination of founder Charlie Kirk last month. Students were prioritized, leaving adults in the general admission line unsure if they’d even make it inside. For Veronica, who traveled from Texas and attended Kirk’s memorial service in Phoenix, just being part of the moment mattered. “I’m happy to sit out here in the cold and not get in because that means that every single student wanted to get in,” Veronica said. For students in line like Southern Miss freshman Clark Piercy, the size and energy of the crowd indicated a growing movement and provided a sense of belonging. “It honestly kind of does speak out that people are getting more involved politically,” Piercy said. “To see this many people out here is very exciting for me.” Piercy added that Kirk’s assassination had hardened his political views and dedication to the Republican Party. He described seeing footage of the shooting on social media as traumatic and said it made him believe “there are people in our country that want to stop free speech.” The event also attracted many of Mississippi’s Republican statewide officials, including Gov. Tate Reeves, Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and Attorney General Lynn Fitch. U.S. Sens. Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith flew with Vice President Vance to attend. The Ole Miss event is the only stop on TPUSA’s “This Is the Turning Point Tour” where Vance is scheduled to appear, and U.S. Rep. Michael Guest said that distinction shows “how important Mississippi is to the conservative movement.” After the rally began, speakers looked out onto a sea of red “Make America Great Again” caps and blended praise for conservative policies with calls for religious revival. Charlie Kirk’s widow and Turning Point USA’s new CEO, Erik… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1955 Ezell Introduces Bill to Restore Flood Insurance Coverage for Homeowners Impacted by Shutdown 2025-10-29 2025 2025-10 Republican House MS Mike Ezell E000235 ezell.house.gov ezell https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) today introduced the NFIP Retroactive Renewal and Reauthorization Act, legislation to immediately restore the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and ensure that those who plan to renew are not punished due to the Democrat-led government shutdown. Because of the ongoing shutdown, NFIP has lapsed — meaning no new flood insurance policies can be issued or renewed. Now that the short grace period has expired, thousands of homeowners could face partial-risk assessments and higher rates unless Congress passes a retroactive extension. This lapse threatens tens of thousands of Mississippi families, delays home closings, and leaves homeowners uninsured in the middle of hurricane season. It also punishes families already struggling with rising premiums, potentially wiping out years of progress toward affordable coverage. Under FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0, many policyholders aren’t yet paying full-risk rates. Without a retroactive renewal, those partial-risk protections could be lost — forcing families to start over at drastically higher prices. “This shutdown is hurting real people — and coastal families are feeling it first,” Ezell said. “Because Washington Democrats refuse to do their job, Mississippi homeowners can’t renew their flood insurance policies, and families trying to buy or refinance a home are being left in limbo. My bill will fix that by restoring coverage retroactively and protecting families from the fallout of this political dysfunction. Mississippians shouldn’t lose their insurance or face higher costs because of a political stalemate in Washington. It’s time to reopen the government, restore flood coverage, and deliver the certainty our coastal communities deserve.” "As evidenced by the ongoing lapse of NFIP, a long-term reauthorization is necessary for sustainabilty of the program and affordability for its policyholders. This lapse now threatens the premium increase glidepath guaranteed to legacy NFIP policyholders who have played by the rules. Our analysis of FEMA d… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/farm-assistance-national-security-issue Farm Assistance is a “National Security Issue” 2025-10-29 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Chad Smith It’s a tough time for production agriculture in the U.S., especially in grain farming. Mississippi Republican Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith said things are heading in the wrong direction. "Well, you don’t have to talk to many farmers to quickly understand that we’re headed in a dark direction there, particularly on the row crop side of things. We all know it’s the input costs, the interest rates are through the roof, the crop prices aren’t what they need to be, and farm bankruptcies are soaring. There are many reasons for that, but this is a serious, serious thing. You are going to see producers literally go out of business if we don’t give them a bridge, a landline, right now.” The reason farmers need a bridge is that the One Big Beautiful Bill’s programs don’t start until next year. “Farmers can’t wait that long. They will not be able to meet their financial obligations, their current debt, and also while they’re trying to secure financing for next year’s crop without a bridge, and we’re going to have to get there. Last year, I would say a part of working on that, and we were successful, but I mean, it is like it was work. It was Major. It was a challenge. And that’s one of the times that you hit the Senate floor, and you’re going to the leaders, and then you have to run over to the House side and say, ‘This is not the way this is going to end. We have got to get this supplemental out the door.’ And we were able to do that, but it was touch-and-go. I mean, it’s one of those times when, you know, I’m so guilty of diving in neck deep, but there was so much anxiety with that because so much was at stake.” She calls the farm crisis a national security issue. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-backs-bill-boost-aviation-security HYDE-SMITH BACKS BILL TO BOOST AVIATION SECURITY 2025-10-29 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Miss. Senator Cosponsors SAFEGUARDS Act to End Diversion of Airport Security Funds WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), chair of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, today announced her support for legislation to ensure revenue already being collected from the flying public is used, as intended, to improve aviation and airport security. Hyde-Smith has cosponsored the Spending Aviation Fees for Equipment, Guaranteeing Upgraded and Advanced Risk Detection and Safety (SAFEGUARDS) Act (S.2378), which would end the diversion of 9/11 Passenger Security Fee (PSF) revenues for non-security uses and instead invest those funds in airport security. U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) authored the bipartisan SAFEGUARDS Act. “Diverting of 9/11 passenger fees from their intended use ultimately weakens airport security and diminishes the flying experience for passengers and airport workers alike. It’s time to make sure these fees are spent to enhance security at large and small airports,” said Hyde-Smith, who also serves on the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee. The $5.60 fee paid by each airline passenger for each one-way ticket is intended to be used to fund aviation security. However, more than $13 billion of the collected PSF charges have been diverted to non-security uses since 2014. To put that into context, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens millions of passengers and their luggage daily at 2,400 security lanes at 420 airports nationally. S.2378 would advance through technology upgrades for passenger and baggage screening, security technology upgrades, and aviation security personnel support. It would allocate $500 million in PSF revenue annually for checked bag explosive detection systems (EDS); and set aside $250 million annually for security checkpoint technology improvements. “Increased air travel, coupled with lack of investment in security checkpoints and aging systems, has resulted in outdated scree… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-introduces-label-act-require-clear-seafood-labeling HYDE-SMITH INTRODUCES ‘LABEL ACT’ TO REQUIRE CLEAR SEAFOOD LABELING 2025-10-29 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Offered During National Seafood Month, Hyde-Smith Bill Aims to Strengthen Transparency for Consumers, Support U.S. Seafood Industry WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) on Tuesday introduced the Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling (LABEL) Act, legislation to ensure all seafood, whether wild-caught or farm raised, is clearly labeled with its country of origin and method of production. The LABEL Act (S.3065) would require country of origin and production information to appear prominently on packaging or display materials, in a font size at least as large as the product name, so consumers can easily see and understand it when shopping. Currently, some imported seafood labels are printed so small they are easily overlooked, putting U.S. producers at a disadvantage when competing with imported alternatives. “Mississippi’s seafood industry is already battling a flood of cheap imports, much of which don’t meet the same safety standards our domestic producers uphold,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “This bill would ensure American consumers know exactly where their seafood comes from, while giving our domestic fishermen and producers a fair chance to compete.” U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) joined Hyde-Smith in introducing the measure. “American producers have been undercut by foreign producers dumping their low-quality seafood into our markets. There’s no better source for fish and seafood than Alabama ponds and the Gulf of America, and we want people to know where their food is coming from,” said Senator Tuberville. “I’m proud to join Senator Hyde-Smith in this legislation that bolsters American seafood production, promotes safe seafood consumption, and protects our domestic producers.” Mississippi and Alabama have already passed similar legislation requiring clear labeling of all seafood sold in their states. The LABEL Act would bring that same standard to consumers nationwide. Specifically, the LABEL Act would: Require the country-of-origin label for fish and shellfish to be print… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/mississippi-senator-pushes-national-seafood-labeling-bill Mississippi senator pushes national seafood labeling bill 2025-10-29 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper Video: The LABEL Act would require that all seafood be clearly labeled with its country of origin and method of production. By WLOX Staff BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) - U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith is pushing for a national seafood labeling bill. The Republican senator from Mississippi, along with U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, introduced the Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling (LABEL) Act. Hyde-Smith said the legislation would make sure all seafood, whether wild-caught or farm-raised, is labeled with its country of origin and method of production. “Mississippi’s seafood industry is already battling a flood of cheap imports, much of which don’t meet the same safety standards our domestic producers uphold,” Hyde-Smith said. “This bill would ensure American consumers know exactly where their seafood comes from, while giving our domestic fishermen and producers a fair chance to compete.” The LABEL Act would also require the label to be printed in a font size at least as large as the product name on packaging, displays, or bins. Supporters argue that this would stop producers from printing the label so small that consumers could easily miss it. “We want people to know where their food is coming from,” Tuberville said. If enacted, the LABEL Act would go into effect 180 days later. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/10/chairmen-of-senate-and-house-armed-services-committees-we-strongly-oppose-the-pentagon-s-decision-to-scale-back-the-u-s-troop-presence-in-romania Chairmen of Senate and House Armed Services Committees: We Strongly Oppose the Pentagon’s Decision to Scale Back the U.S. Troop Presence in Romania 2025-10-29 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Representative Mike Rogers (R-AL), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement expressing concern with the Pentagon’s announcement that it will discontinue the rotational U.S. brigade in Romania, which appears uncoordinated and directly at odds with the President’s strategy: “We strongly oppose the decision not to maintain the rotational U.S. brigade in Romania and the Pentagon’s process for its ongoing force posture review that may result in further drawdowns of U.S. forces from Eastern Europe. On March 19, we stated that we will not accept significant changes to our warfighting structure that are made without a rigorous interagency process, coordination with combatant commanders and the Joint Staff, and collaboration with Congress. Unfortunately, this appears to be exactly what is being attempted. Two weeks ago, President Trump stated that the United States would not be withdrawing U.S. forces in Europe, but instead “may move some around a little bit.” The President is right that U.S. force posture in Europe needs to be updated as NATO shoulders additional burdens and the character of warfare changes. But that update must be coordinated widely both within the U.S. government and with NATO. Romania has been a strong ally, making major investments to host U.S. forces and modernize the infrastructure that supports them. Romania has spent over 2% of GDP on its military for many years and has pledged to achieve 5% of GDP. These investments, alongside their contributions to NATO’s eastern defenses and Black Sea security, underscore Romania’s central role in the Alliance’s security. Notably, since 2016, Romania has hosted a U.S. Aegis Ashore missile defense detachment, accepting substantial political, military, and economic risk to field systems designed primarily for the defense of NATO allies rather than its own territory. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, our European a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hospital-fighting-status-change Hospital Fighting Status Change 2025-10-28 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Paul Keane MEADVILLE – Major changes could be coming to the Franklin County hospital if congressional or state changes aren’t made before Jan. 15, 2026. Franklin County Memorial Hospital leaders have been working with state and federal officials to try and get a decision from the Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to overturn a ruling from Jan. 15 of this year moving the facility from a Critical Access Hospital (CAH) to a Rural Emergency Hospital (REH). The designation would make a huge difference in the amount and kind of services the local hospital could offer to residents. The letter from CMS was part of the normal recertification for the hospital. The change in status seems to result from requirements that a CAH facility be located a certain number of miles away from similar services. In the Jan. 15, 2025 letter, Melissa Foreman, RN, CCM, CPHQ — the Acute and Continuing Care Branch Manager for the Center for Clinical Standards and Quality — stated the following: “During the recertification review, Franklin County Memorial Hospital is located less than 35 miles from King’s Daughters Medical Center in Brookhaven, of which there is not 15 miles of secondary roads available between the hospitals and therefore found to be noncompliant with the distance requirement to remain a CAH.” The letter also asks for documentation that would change the mileage requirements be submitted by Feb. 14. “If no documentation exists, your facility will need to convert to another provider type in the Medicare program by Jan. 15, 2026 to avoid termination of the Medicare provider agreement between Franklin County Memorial Hospital and the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.” In order to obtain or maintain a CAH designation, the facility must be located more than a 35-mile drive on primary roads (or, in the case of mountainous terrain or in areas with only secondary roads available a 15-mile drive) from a hospital or another CAH. To determine the driving distance, federal highways — including i… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/10/chairman-wicker-leads-sasc-hearing-to-consider-four-senior-pentagon-nominations Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing to Consider Four Senior Pentagon Nominations 2025-10-28 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Roger F. Wicker W000437 www.wicker.senate.gov wicker https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases scraper Watch Video Here WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to consider the qualifications of four nominees to serve in senior roles at the Pentagon. Mr. Marc J. Berkowitz, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy, Dr. Joseph S. Jewell, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology, Mr. James R. Caggy, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Mission Capabilities, and Mr. Brendan P. Rogers, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations and Environment, all appeared before the committee. In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker underscored the critical nature of these positions and their vital roles in advancing the Department of Defense’s mission. Read Chairman Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered. I welcome our witnesses today and thank them for being here. The American people need public servants to step up and help us deter our enemies. We face a threat environment more dangerous than any since World War II.? I say this at almost every hearing because it bears repeating. In such challenging times, I am grateful that these individuals have answered the call to serve. Space is an increasingly contested domain. Peer adversaries China and Russia have been rapidly advancing their capabilities to challenge U.S. dominance and disrupt our space-based assets. As these nations invest heavily in anti-satellite weapons and electronic warfare, the United States must move with urgency to stay ahead. Mr. Marc Berkowitz has been nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy. If confirmed, he will play a critical role in developing policy. That policy must ensure our space systems are not only modern and resilient but also fielded on timelines that match or outpace our adversaries. We simply cannot deter war with China if we do not have dominance in space.? Our national security depends on maintaining strategic advantage … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/usda-cattle-plan-agricultural-agency-unveils-plan-reinvigorate-cattle-industry USDA cattle plan: The agricultural agency unveils plan to reinvigorate cattle industry 2025-10-24 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Carrie Stadheim, Editor and Rachel Gabel, The Fence Post Assistant Editor The US Department of Agriculture revealed a plan on Oct. 22, 2025, to “fortify” the American beef industry, strengthen ranches, rebuild capacity and lower costs for consumers. The plan announcement comes on the heels of several attention-grabbing comments from President Trump including a statement to reporters on Oct. 16 that he had worked his “magic” to lower beef prices, and then a comment on Oct. 19 that he planned to “buy some beef from Argentina.” Agricultural members of social media platforms discussed little else for days on end – speculating on what kind of deal the president was actually inking, and how it would affect cattle prices. Meanwhile as heated discussions ensued, cattle futures took some hits with live cattle prices remaining strong as a whole, but smaller packages and “misfits” were reported to be slightly devalued when compared to recent months. According to USDA, Foot and Mouth disease is not active in Argentina, but it, along with many other countries are considered “free but subject to restrictions,” with the explanation from USDA below: “The regions listed under paragraph (a)(2) of this section have been declared free of foot-and-mouth disease by APHIS as provided in § 94.1(a) but supplement their national meat supply by the importation of fresh (chilled or frozen) meat of ruminants or swine from regions that APHIS considers to be affected with foot-and-mouth disease as provided in § 94.1(a); or have a common land border with regions considered to be affected with foot-and-mouth disease; or import ruminants or swine from regions considered to be affected with foot-and-mouth disease under conditions less restrictive than would be acceptable for importation into the United States. Thus, the meat may be commingled with the fresh (chilled or frozen) meat of animals from an affected region, resulting in an undue risk of introducing foot-and-mouth disease into the United States,” said the USDA import rule. Cattle… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/ted-cruz-eli-crane-lead-effort-require-only-citizens-vote Ted Cruz, Eli Crane Lead Effort to Require Only Citizens Vote 2025-10-23 2025 2025-10 Republican Senate MS Cindy Hyde-Smith H001079 www.hydesmith.senate.gov hydesmith https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom scraper By Fred Lucas A group of Republican lawmakers, led by Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas and Rep. Eli Crane of Arizona, is joining the effort to promote a rule to require proof of citizenship on federal voter registration forms. The lawmakers signed a public comment letter to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission in favor of a petition by America First Legal, a government watchdog group, seeking the proof of citizenship requirement for the voter registration forms, most commonly found at Department of Motor Vehicles locations. “Requiring documentary proof of citizenship is a simple, commonsense reform. Just as Americans are asked to show identification for far less consequential activities—boarding an airplane, opening a bank account, or even attending certain events—it is entirely reasonable to require proof of citizenship to participate in our elections,” the comment letter says. “This step would not burden eligible voters but would provide an essential check to ensure that only citizens are added to the voter rolls.” “Requiring documentary proof of citizenship will strengthen the integrity of our elections, safeguard the voices of American citizens, and ensure that every lawful vote is protected from being diluted by unlawful ballots,” the comment letter continues. The America First Legal petition to the Election Assistance Commission for proof of citizenship has drawn considerable reaction from politicians and has gained about 353,000 public comments. The petition follows President Donald Trump’s March Executive Order 14248, titled “Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections,” that, among other things, directs federal agencies to take action to prevent noncitizens from voting. Previously, Democrat lawmakers Sen. Alex Padilla of California and Rep. Joseph Morelle of New York signed a letter urging the commission to reject the proposal. “States already have multiple systems in place to ensure that only eligible Americans vote in elections; states already determine voters’ citizenship statuses w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z

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   [title] TEXT,
   [date] TEXT,
   [year] TEXT,
   [month] TEXT,
   [party] TEXT,
   [chamber] TEXT,
   [state] TEXT,
   [member_name] TEXT,
   [bioguide_id] TEXT,
   [domain] TEXT,
   [scraper] TEXT,
   [source] TEXT,
   [date_source] TEXT,
   [text] TEXT,
   [has_text] INTEGER,
   [collected_at] TEXT,
   [updated_at] TEXT
);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_date]
    ON [releases] ([date]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_year]
    ON [releases] ([year]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_party]
    ON [releases] ([party]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_chamber]
    ON [releases] ([chamber]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_state]
    ON [releases] ([state]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_bioguide_id]
    ON [releases] ([bioguide_id]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_has_text]
    ON [releases] ([has_text]);
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