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.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-the-senate-floor-murphy-highlights-dire-need-for-2000-stimulus-checks-to-help-struggling-americans-calls-on-senate-republicans-to-pass-legislation,"On The Senate Floor, Murphy Highlights Dire Need For $2,000 Stimulus Checks To Help Struggling Americans, Calls On Senate Republicans To Pass LegislationRead More",2020-12-29,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday took to the U.S. Senate floor to
highlight the dire need for bigger stimulus checks to help American families
struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic, and called on Senate Majority Leader
Mitch McConnell and his Republican colleagues to help pass legislation to
deliver $2,000 direct payment to working Americans. Millions
of families all across this nation, through no fault of their own, have lost
their jobs, have had their hours dramatically cut back. They had no savings,
because work doesn't pay in this country anymore. They spent everything they
earned, each month. And so when the economy collapsed, virtually overnight, in
the spring, they got desperatereally fast, Murphy said. Murphy continued: The only
thing that stands between the American people and a $2,000 emergency survival
check is 52 Senate Republicans. You got it? Understand? There's a bill pending
right now before the Senate that gives $2,000 to ordinary Americans. Yes, it
costs a lot of money. And maybe, down the line, we'll have to ask the
billionaires to pay for it. But the bill is here right now. The legislative
session expires in five days. President Trump says he'll sign it. And all that
matters right now is what these 52 people decide. The House passed the bill
with lots of Democratic and Republican support. The President supports the
idea. The only thing that can stop $2,000 payments to struggling Americans
right now is 52 Senate Republicans. Some
things in Washington aren't that simplebut this is, Murphy concluded. A full
transcript of Murphy's remarks can be found below: America
has 600 billionaires. Now, a
billion dollars doesn't sound like a lot of money these days. President Trump
just signed a bill begrudgingly that has $900 billion in it. But trust me, a
billion dollars is still a whole lot of money. It's actually so much money that
it's really hard to find words to describe what it looks like. But let me try. If
you're, for instance, one of the half a million Americans who make the minimum
wage in this nation, and you're lucky enough to work 40 hours a week, guess how
many years you would have to work in order to get a billion dollars? 500 years?
1,000 years? 10,000 years? No, you're not even close. If you make minimum wage
in America today, you would need to work for 75,000 years in order to make a
billion dollars. 75,000 years. Neanderthals were roaming the earth 75,000 years
ago. Those guys, if they made minimum wage, would have to work up until present
day every single day, and that is, of course, if they didn't spend a dime of
the money they made, in order to accrue a billion dollars. A billion
dollars is a bananas amount of money. And there are 600 people in America today
who make at least that amount of money, or have that amount of money to their
name. That's crazy. With a billion dollars, you are leading a life that frankly
none of us can really imagine. You've got private planes, you've got yachts,
you've got household staffs in the dozens. You've got enough money to make sure
that your children and your grandchildren, and your great-grandchildren and
your great-great-grandchildren never have to work a day of their lives.
Generations of your offspring can just live lives of indolent luxury, without a
care if they so choose. You know
where I was two days before Thanksgiving this year? I was at Hamden Middle
School, in my state. To help hand out free food for the unemployed, the poor,
and the disabled ahead of a long holiday weekend. Those long weekends can be
really hard. Especially the ones that fall at the end of the month, when the
SNAP benefits have long run out. I got there as darkness fell, but right at the
beginning of the event. And I noticed that down the hill from the round-about
at the school where they were handing out the food there was a usually empty
parking lot. And that night, at that moment, at the beginning of the event,
that parking lot was lit up by hundreds of sets of headlights, hundreds of cars
just sitting there idling in that parking lot. I asked
the organizer of the event what was going on in the parking lot. Was that some
other event happening that evening? Why all the cars? He told
me The cars started pulling into that lot hours ago. They got wind we were
handing out food and they got here early to make sure that they didn't get left
out. We have enough food for 300 people, and there were 300 cars in that lot
before I even got here.' That is
what has happened during this pandemic. Millions of families all across this
nation, through no fault of their own, have lost their jobs, have had their
hours dramatically cut back. They had no savings, because work doesn't pay in
this country anymore. They spent everything they earned, each month. And so
when the economy collapsed, virtually overnight, in the spring, they got
desperatereally fast. And I
want you to think about what it's really likeon an hour to hour basiswhen you
don't have enough money for food for your family. The decisions you have to
make every single day are practically animalistic. Do you make your kids go
hungry during the day, when they need the most energy, or do you skimp on
dinner and force your kids to go to bed with hunger pangs? There are hundreds
of thousands of mothers and fathers who, right now, as I am speaking, are
making that decision today. That's the reality of this pandemic. But
here's another reality. Those 600 billionaires in this country? As it turns
out, as a group, they lost nothingnothingduring this pandemic. No, exactly
the opposite. They got richer. The wealthiest 600 Americans, collectively,
added $1 trillion dollars to their bank accounts. Let me say it again, the
richest 600 Americans gained $1 trillion over the course of 2020. And let's
be clear, that's not money that grew in their money tree orchards. Yeah, we're
printing some more money these days, but wealth isn't far away from a zero sum
game still. And so when we allow for 600 people in the country to control 50%
of the nation's wealth, that's coming out of your pocket. 600
people, in a country of 328 million, isn't a lot of people. But you know what's
a smaller number than 600? 52. There are
52 Republicans in this chamber. 52 people who are going to have a decision to
make about what do in a country where millions are literally starving, as we
speak, while 600 billionaires count the $1 trillion dollars in additional
wealth that they have accumulated during the period of national calamity. The
question before these 52 Senate Republicans is simple. It's simple: should we
give $2,000 to low and middle income Americans, right now, to help them survive
this crisis? That's the decision Senate Republicans have to make, right now.
Time is running out. 600 billionaires got $1 trillion richer this year, and the
question before Senate Republicans is this: are you willing to spend an amount
equal to just half of that windfall to America's billionaires, to help 160
million Americans? Because
right now, the 52 Senate Republicans serving in this chamber are the only thing
standing in the way of $2,000 being sent to 160 million of our neediest
citizens. The House passed the bill authorizing the checks in a big bipartisan
vote. It is hard to get two-thirds of the House of Representatives to agree on
what time it is. But two-thirds of the House of Representatives voted for the
$2,000 checks. President
Trump supports the $2,000 checks. So he'll sign the bill if the Senate sends it
to him. We can vote on the House bill today. Like, in a matter of hours if
Senate Republicans agree. So why
isn't this happening? Why didn't Senator McConnell announce the schedule for
the vote on a $2,000 checks bill? Why didn't he agree to Senator Schumer's
request to bring it up for an immediate vote? Now a lot
of Republicans are saying they object to the payments because it costs too
much. And it's going to add too much to the deficit. Well frankly, spare me the
fake righteous indignation about the deficit all of a sudden. Three years ago,
these same deficit hawk Republicans passed a tax cut bill that before the
pandemic hit, had already added over $200 billion to the annual deficit. And
that was a tax cut where 80% of the benefits went to the richest 1% of
Americans. Warren Buffet wrote in his note to investors last year that the
deficit-financed tax cuts earned his empire $29 billion overnight. That
windfall, Buffet noted, did not come from anything we accomplished at
Berkshire.' So it's funnydeficits just didn't matter to the 52 when it was tax
cuts to the 600 richest people in America. But even
if this Congress wasn't ending in five days, and we had time to figure out how
to pay for it, you know how we can't pay for it? Cutting foreign aid. President
Trump has been talking a lot about foreign aid in the last week. Now, the money
we spend on foreign aid, all supported by Republicans and Democrats over the
years, all of it smart investments in our nation's security, that actually
wasn't in the COVID relief package. It was in the annual budget, as it always
is. It just so happens that this year, the COVID relief package and the annual
budget were passed together. But just
for argument's sake, let's say Trump got his way and every single dollar of
foreign aid was cut out of the budget. Would that pay for the $2,000 checks?
Not even close. President Trump apparently has an oversized impression of how
much money we spend on foreign aid. Because our annual foreign aid spending
doesn't even equal 10% of the cost of a one-time $2,000 payment to low and
middle income citizens. There's
also some speculationthat Senator McConnell isgoing to join
together the$2,000 payments with other muchmore controversial
measures,much more complicated measures,like the reform of our
internetliability laws.That is an invitation for thisentire
effort to fall apart.The House has finished voting.They have passed
the $2,000payment bill and sent it to us.They are not interested
intaking up anything else.If we start adding poison pillsto
the $2,000 payment bill, thatis just another way of tellingthe
American people that thisbody doesn't support $2,000payments. Listen,
being a billionaire must be crazy. I make a lot of money as a Senator, but even
I would have to work 7,500 years before my earnings equaled a billion dollars.
You know what was happening 7,500 years ago? The Stone Age. There
isn't a good reason to oppose giving Americans who aren't billionaires a measly
$2,000 check to help them put food on the table for their kids in this middle
of this once-in-a-lifetime crisis. There isn't a good reason to choose to make
moms and dads all across this country decide which two meals they'll feed their
kids each day, because three meals is not an option. $2,000 doesn't put dinner
on the table every night, but man, going to bed hungry when you're eleven, it
sucks. And even dealing with it every other night, instead of every single
nightno kid is going to turn that down. There are
52 of you. And in the next 24 to 48 hours, you get to decide. Do you protect
the billionaires? Or do you choose to feed that eleven year old kid? The only
thing that stands between the American people and a $2,000 emergency survival
check is 52 Senate Republicans. You got it? Understand? There's a bill pending
right now before the Senate that gives $2,000 to ordinary Americans. Yes, it
costs a lot of money. And maybe, down the line, we'll have to ask the
billionaires to pay for it. But the bill is here right now. The legislative
session expires in five days. President Trump says he'll sign it. And all that
matters right now is what these 52 people decide. The House passed the bill
with lots of Democratic and Republican support. The President supports the
idea. The only thing that can stop $2,000 payments to struggling Americans
right now is 52 Senate Republicans. Some
things in Washington aren't that simplebut this is. I yield the floor. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-votes-override-president-trump-s-veto-bipartisan-ndaa,Rep. Courtney Votes to Override President Trumps Veto of the Bipartisan NDAA,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Joe Courtney,C001069,courtney.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today,Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces,and the U.S. House of Representatives voted to override President Donald Trump's veto of the National Defense Authorization Act(NDAA)for FY 2021(H.R. 6395).The NDAAwas sent to the President's desk for signature with overwhelming bipartisan support from Congress following passageof the NDAA Conference Reportin the House by a margin of 335-78, and in the Senate by 84-13.As Chairman of theSeapowerSubcommittee, Courtney was a core conferee to the bipartisan panel charged with negotiating the final bill, and worked to ensure it included theSeapowerSubcommittee'sprovision to fully restore construction of the second Virginia-class submarine in 2021.  
	  
	I'm proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in voting tooverturnPresident Trump's reckless veto ofthebipartisan NDAA, and to ensure that Congress for the 60th year passes this measure, said ChairmanCourtney.This year's defense bill was sent tothe President'sdeskfor signature withoverwhelming supportfrom both the House and Senate. The 2021 NDAA is bipartisan,itsupports our servicemembers, their families, and veterans, andit strengthens our national defense and cybersecurity. It overturns the Trump Administration's anemic Navy budget that cut the Virginia-class two-per-year construction program that has been in place since 2011. This bill provides a pay raise to sailors and soldiers, and hazard pay for those serving in areas of imminent danger, it offersnew support to victims of Agent Orange, and more.The House came outin forceto override President Trump's feeble veto attempt, andtheSenateneeds tostandstrongandfollowsuit.  
	  
	The House voted to override President Trump's veto of the bipartisan NDAA by a margin of XXX-XXX. The Senate is expected to vote on overriding the President's veto on Tuesday, December 29th.  
	
Key provisions that Courtney championed in the 2021 NDAA  
	  Seapowerand Projection Forces Priorities  
	  
	As Chairman of theSeapowerand Projection Forces Subcommittee, Courtney has advocated for Navy, Air Force and maritime priorities important to Connecticut and the nation.  
	  Virginia Class Submarine The report authorizes $6.8 billion for the Virginia class submarine program, an increase of $2.6 billion over the budget request thatCourtney secured to restore a second submarine in 2021. The Trump Administration requested just one submarine in 2021, breaking the steady two a year build rate that has been in place since 2011 and undermining efforts to address looming shortfalls in the submarine fleet.  
	  Columbia-Class Ballistic Missile Submarines The report authorizes $4 billion to initiate construction of the new Columbia-class submarine. Last month, the Navy announced the award of $10.3 billion in contracting options for the first two submarines in the program to Electric Boat. The report also includes Courtney's provision to authorize incremental funding for these submarines within the National Sea Based Deterrence Fund, which will ensure the cost-effective and efficient construction of this important program.  
	  Submarine Workforce and Development Training Authorizes $20 million to support training programs to help support expansion of the skilled submarine workforce as the industrial base ramps up construction of new submarines. Courtney has strongly supported workforce development efforts in the region to support hiring at Electric Boat and the supply chain through programs like the Eastern Connecticut Manufacturing Pipeline.  
	  Long Range Strike Bomber The report fully supports the requested $2.8 billion for continued development of the B-21 Raider. Pratt & Whitney is a partner in the next-generation long range strike bomber program.  
	  KC-46APegasus The report authorizes $2.7 billion for 15 KC-46A tanker aircraft, which are powered by Pratt & Whitney engines. The agreement also mandates that the Secretary of the Air Force develop a complete, permanent solution to the KC-46 remote visual system (RVS) operation limitations, submitting the solution Congress no later than February 1, 2021.  
	  C-130H Modernization The measure continues Congressman Courtney's efforts to accelerate the modernization of the C-130H cargo aircraft fleet, like those flown by the Connecticut Air National Guard. In addition to fully supporting the efforts to upgrade and modernize the avionics of the fleet, the bill authorizes $134 million for additional upgrades for engines, propellers and other systems on the aircraft beyond the President's request.  
	  P-8 Poseidon The report authorizes $1.4 billion for 8 P-8Poseidonaircraft, the Navy's newest maritime, patrol and reconnaissance aircraft. This will bring the Navy closer to the warfighting requirement of 138 aircraft and ensure the continued modernization of the Navy Reserves' legacy P-3 fleet.  
	  KMAX Unmanned Helicopter The report authorizes $7 million to continue development of unmanned logistics capabilities with the CQ-24A helicopter manufactured by Bloomfield-based Kaman Aerospace.  
	  Navy Shipbuilding-- Overall, the report authorizes more than $22 billion to procure 9 new battle force ships, two more than the budget request, in. The budget requested one of the lowest levels of new ships in nearly a decade and did not include the long range shipbuilding plan required by law to provide insight into future plans to grow the fleet.Courtney pressed Defense Secretary MarkEsperon his failure to abide by the law in a hearing earlier this year. The final agreement also includes language Courtney authored to restrict some funding for the Office of Secretary of Defense until the 30-year shipbuilding plan is delivered, and prohibits the retirement of any Navy vessel until the Secretary of Defense provides a Navy force structure assessment.  
	  Recapitalization of our Domestic Sealift Capabilities The report includes several Courtney-led investments in the recapitalization of our domestic sealift and maritime response capabilities. These includes authorizing the purchase of additional used vessels to replace aging sealift ships but rejecting a Defense Department request to eliminate the requirement to initiate a domestic new build ship. The bill also authorizes a new Tanker Security Program to address the alarming gap in at-sea logistics, authorizes the fourth National Security Multi-Mission Vessel and authorizes a $180millionincrease in funding for the Maritime Security Program to address the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on our domestic shipping fleet.  
	
Additional Courtney priorities  
	  Rare Earth Minerals the report includes an amendment Courtney authored that requires the Secretary of Defense to prioritize the acquisition of strategic and critical materials from U.S. and allied sources ensuring the continued protection of our national defense supply chains. These types of minerals and materials are used in everything from cell phones to the joint strike fighter and a secured supply chain of these materials is of utmost importance to national security.  
	  Academic Partnerships for Undersea Research The report authorizes $10 million to support partnerships with academic institutions that conduct research on undersea unmanned warfare and energy technology, such as the National Institute for Undersea Vehicle Technology, a collaborative program between the University of Connecticut and the University of Rhode Island. During debate on the bill in the House, Courtney and Rep. James Langevin (D-RI) passed an amendment to increase funding for this effort from $5 million to $10 million.  
	  Joint Strike Fighter The report provides $8.7 billion for the procurement of 93 F-35s and includes additional flexibility to procure additional aircraft within the authorized amount if production savings are found and if prime suppliers remain on-schedule.  
	  UH-60Blackhawks The report authorizes nearly $1 billion for60UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters, an increase over the budget request, built by Sikorsky.  
	  CH-53KKing Stallion The report authorizes $800 million for procurement of 7 new Ch-53K Marine heavy-lift helicopters, built by Sikorsky.  
	  Combat Search and Rescue Helicopter The report supports the Administration's request for $909 million for procurement of 16 HH-60W Air Force search and rescue helicopters built by Sikorsky.  
	  VH-92A Presidential Helicopter The report supports the Administration's request for $589 million for procurement of 5 aircraft, which will be the next-generation presidential helicopter.  
	  Ukraine authorizes $250 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.  
	  DOD Impact Aid authorizes $50 million for the DOD supplemental impact aid program, which provides support to local school districts with high proportions of military children, including Groton public schools. This program is in addition to the primary Impact Aid program funded through the Department of Education, which does not fall within the jurisdiction of the House Armed Services Committee.  
	  Coast Guard Reauthorization the agreement includes the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act, bipartisan legislation to further strengthen our nation's Coast Guard by enhancing navigation and maritime safety, authorizing new family leave and child care policies, and increasing gender and racial diversity in the Coast Guard Academy in New London and across the ranks.  
	
Other Notable Provisions  
	  Renaming Confederate Military Installations The agreement includes an amendment that Courtney cosponsored that establishes an independent commission to make binding recommendations to the Secretary of Defense for the modification or removal of all names, symbols, displays, monuments, and paraphernalia that honor or commemorate the Confederate States of America or any person who served voluntarily with the Confederate States of America from all assets of the DoD.  
	  Limitations on Funds to Remove Active Duty Troops from Germany The agreement bars the Department from using any funds authorized by Congress to reduce the number of active duty troops stationed in Germany until DOD submits a report to Congress certifying that any reduction would not undermine the security of the U.S. or our allies in the region.  
	  BRAC The report does not authorize a base closing round.  
	  Military Pay Raise The report provides a 3.0% pay raise for the military, in line with a statutory requirement to keep pace with private sector wage growth.  
	  Agent Orange Exposure Benefits the report adds additional diseases to Section 1116(a)(2) of Title 38, USC including Parkinsonism, bladder cancer, and hypothyroidism to the list of diseases associated with exposure to certain herbicide agents. The report would also mandate that the Department of Veterans Affairs provide benefits to veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and later diagnosed with these afflictions.  
	  Climate Change Resiliency The agreement requires a report updating Congress on the implementation of provisions from the FY2020 NDAA related to installation master planning, updates to installation building codes, sea-level rise modeling, and climate assessment tools. The final agreement would also require DoD to submit a report on its greenhouse gas emission for the last 10 years.  
	  Pacific Deterrence Initiative the report authorizes a new Pacific Deterrence Initiative to reassure allies and partners of U.S. commitment to the region and to enhance congressional oversight of military activities throughout the area of responsibility.  
	  Defense Community Infrastructure Program Authorizes $50 million for the program, allowing DOD to help states and local governments fund off-base infrastructure projects that support operations and the base community. Infrastructure improvements could include transportation projects, schools, first responder facilities, and utility projects.


###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-overrides-ndaa-veto-himes-support,House Overrides NDAA Veto with Himes Support,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jim Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  Today, the United States House of Representatives overrode President Trump's veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA funds defense and related programs and is usually one of the largest pieces of legislation that Congress passes each year. This year, the bill includes $732 billion in discretionary spending for our national defense for FY 2021, including approximately $69 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO).
Connecticut is a leader in the defense industry and advanced manufacturing, said Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04). This bill ensures our armed forces remain unrivaled in the world, and that many of the technologies that secure that dominance are developed right here, supporting Connecticut companies and Connecticut workers.
The NDAA contains significant funds for Connecticut-based companies, employing thousands of workers. This includes:
 $8.7 billion for the procurement of 93 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters.
	$898 million for procurement of 60 UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters built by Sikorsky.
	$800 million for procurement of 7 new CH-53K Marine heavy-lift helicopters built by Sikorsky.
	$909 million for procurement of 16 HH-60W Air Force search and rescue helicopters built by Sikorsky.
	$589 million for procurement of 5 VH-92A aircraft, which will be the next-generation presidential helicopter.
	$6.8 billion for the Virginia class submarine program, an increase of $2.6 billion over the budget request, to restore a second submarine in 2021.
	$4 billion to initiate construction of the new Columbia-class submarine. The Navy recently announced the award of $10.3 billion in contracting options for the first two submarines in the program to Electric Boat.
	$2.8 billion for continued development of the B-21 Raider. Pratt & Whitney is a partner in the next-generation long range strike bomber program.
	$2.7 billion for 15 KC-46A tanker aircraft, which are powered by Pratt & Whitney engines.
	C-130H Modernization  $134 million for additional upgrades for engines, propellers and other systems on the aircraft.
	$7 million to continue development of the KMAX Unmanned Helicopter and unmanned logistics capabilities with the CQ-24A helicopter manufactured by Bloomfield-based Kaman Aerospace.
	$20millionto support training programs to help support expansion of the skilled submarine workforce.
	$10 million to support partnerships with academic institutions that conduct research on undersea unmanned warfare and energy technology, such as the National Institute for Undersea Vehicle Technology, a collaborative program between the University of Connecticut and the University of Rhode Island.
 In addition, the NDAA contains provisions that provide for a three percent pay raise for military personnel, invests in pandemic preparedness, increases diversity in the armed forces, and removes Confederate names from American military facilities.
For more information or with any questions, contact Patrick Malone at Patrick.malone@mail.house.gov.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=64B1A435-C23F-4C1F-AE1C-C129B3F22C51,House Overrides NDAA Veto with Himes Support,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC – Today, the United States House of Representatives overrode President Trump’s veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA funds defense and related programs and is usually one of the largest pieces of legislation that Congress passes each year. This year, the bill includes $732 billion in discretionary spending for our national defense for FY 2021, including approximately $69 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO).

“Connecticut is a leader in the defense industry and advanced manufacturing,” said Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04). “This bill ensures our armed forces remain unrivaled in the world, and that many of the technologies that secure that dominance are developed right here, supporting Connecticut companies and Connecticut workers.”

The NDAA contains significant funds for Connecticut-based companies, employing thousands of workers. This includes:

$8.7 billion for the procurement of 93 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters.

$898 million for procurement of 60 UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters built by Sikorsky.

$800 million for procurement of 7 new CH-53K Marine heavy-lift helicopters built by Sikorsky.

$909 million for procurement of 16 HH-60W Air Force search and rescue helicopters built by Sikorsky.

$589 million for procurement of 5 VH-92A aircraft, which will be the next-generation presidential helicopter.

$6.8 billion for the Virginia class submarine program, an increase of $2.6 billion over the budget request, to restore a second submarine in 2021.

$4 billion to initiate construction of the new Columbia-class submarine. The Navy recently announced the award of $10.3 billion in contracting options for the first two submarines in the program to Electric Boat.

$2.8 billion for continued development of the B-21 Raider. Pratt & Whitney is a partner in the next-generation long range strike bomber program.

$2.7 billion for 15 KC-46A tanker aircraft, which are powered by Pratt & Whitney engines.

C-130H Modernization – $134 million for additional upgrades for engines, propellers and other systems on the aircraft.

$7 million to continue development of the KMAX Unmanned Helicopter and unmanned logistics capabilities with the CQ-24A helicopter manufactured by Bloomfield-based Kaman Aerospace.

$20 million to support training programs to help support expansion of the skilled submarine workforce.

$10 million to support partnerships with academic institutions that conduct research on undersea unmanned warfare and energy technology, such as the National Institute for Undersea Vehicle Technology, a collaborative program between the University of Connecticut and the University of Rhode Island.

In addition, the NDAA contains provisions that provide for a three percent pay raise for military personnel, invests in pandemic preparedness, increases diversity in the armed forces, and removes Confederate names from American military facilities.

For more information or with any questions, contact Patrick Malone at Patrick.malone@mail.house.gov.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=1044049A-B60B-4D68-8E8A-6CBD25F14F27,Recursos de Coronavirus,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Incluye pagos de estímulo para familias de estatus mixto, tanto de forma prospectiva como retroactiva. Aunque esto no proporciona pagos en efectivo para todos los inmigrantes declarantes de impuestos, esto es una gran victoria.

Financiación de muros a nivel FY 20 (1.375b) y ninguna autoridad de transferencia específica de la pared, por lo que se aplica un límite del 10%.

Un pequeño aumentó a la financiación de CBP.

Los niveles de gasto de detención y de ICE han bajado desde el año 20. Camas de detención financiadas a 34K camas. Pero esto es dos veces el nivel de las camas actuales en uso- 17K en uso actualmente, mientras que se están siendo financiadas 34K.

No hay financiación para agentes fronterizos o agentes de seguridad de inmigración.

Incluye una extensión de un año del programa de ajuste Liberiano.

5 millones para el programa ATD dirigido por FEMA.

Aumenta la financiación de presentaciones de orientación legal.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-connecticut-innovator-detect-as-murphys-innovator-of-the-month,"Murphy Highlights Connecticut Innovator Detect As Murphys Innovator Of The Month""Read More",2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HARTFORDU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.)announced on Wednesday that innovator
Detect in Guilford has been named Innovator of the Month. Detect was founded in
July 2018 by New Haven native Dr. Jonathan Rothberg as part of the
Connecticut-based 4Catalyzer health technology incubator, which combines
cutting edge learning and molecular biology to reduce the cost and complexity
of life-saving medical devices. As public
health experts show that widespread testing of asymptomatic and symptomatic
individuals is essential to defeating COVID-19, Detect developed the Detect
COVID-19 test. This innovation is designed to be a lab-accurate, fast, and easy
molecular diagnostic COVID-19 test that does not require expensive lab
equipment to enable more extensive testing. At the
beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Detect COVID-19 test aimed to bring the
power of complex laboratory diagnostics to the places where people live, from
the point of care to in the home. They strive to solve complex health care
issues and accomplish public health goals outside the laboratory walls. Throughout
COVID-19, innovators across America and right here in Connecticut stepped up
through medical research and new strategies to help us combat this virus and
keep Americans safe. Detect has made huge strides to create fast and easy
at-home COVID-19 testing in a short amount of time. I am proud to highlight
their work, and grateful for their efforts to help us get ahead of
COVID-19,said
Murphy. To
protect the public's health, widespread, frequent testing is more important
than ever,said
Jonathan M. Rothberg, Ph.D., Founder and Chairman of Detect.The
Detect COVID-19 test combines the accuracy of a PCR test with the speed and
simplicity of an antigen test, without needing a lab or a prescription. Once
authorized, the Detect test will play a critical role in defeating this virus,
reopening the economy, and providing peace of mind to the millions of people
worried about their health and the well-being of their loved ones. We look
forward to continuing to develop and launch the Detect COVID-19 test from our
base of operations in Connecticut and are honored to have been named Innovator
of the Month by Senator Murphy. Detect
currently has approximately 70 employees in Connecticut. They currently are in
the middle of their clinical trials and their test is not yet authorized for
use by the FDA. Murphy
believes entrepreneurship and innovation are the building blocks for a strong
economy. In the U.S. Senate, he has introduced two bipartisan pieces of
legislation to incentivize angel investors to put more money into startup
companies  theAngel Tax Credit Actand
theHelping Angels Lead Our Startups
(HALOS) Act. Startup companies create an average of 2 million jobs
each year. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/hayes-applauds-appointment-miguel-cardona-secretary-education-biden-harris,HAYES APPLAUDS APPOINTMENT OF MIGUEL CARDONA AS SECRETARY OF EDUCATION IN  BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement extending her support and congratulations to Miguel Cardona, Connecticut's Education Commissioner, on his appointment to serve as Secretary of Education in the incoming administration:
It is with great support and enthusiasm I extend my warmest congratulations to Commissioner Cardona, said Congresswoman Hayes.
I am excited this vital role will be filled by a fellow educator from my home state. I am more than confident Commissioner Cardona will bring a distinctive ability to effectively address the current education challenges America's students and teachers are facing.
Commissioner Cardona has afull understanding of the need for full equity in education and his commitment to students and public education is a welcome shift, especially during these times.
I look forward to continuing to work with Commissioner Cardona in our shared values to strengthen our nation's education system.
###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 yearsand was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-delegation-delauro-larson-courtney-himes-hayes-secure-historic-vicories,"HOUSE DELEGATION, DELAURO, LARSON, COURTNEY, HIMES, HAYES, SECURE HISTORIC VICORIES FOR CT IN OMNIBUS SPENDING PACKAGE",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) secured historic investments for Connecticut in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending package and coronavirus relief deal. This legislation, which originated in the House and is expected to be signed into law, provides critical coronavirus relief, invests in the programs at the center of the country's health and economic crises, creates jobs in Connecticut, and supports working families.
The coronavirus pandemic has devastated so many Connecticut families and shuttered countless businesses, said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. From investments in Connecticut's schools and child care industry to food assistance for hard-working families to investments in our workforce and critical protections for our environment and natural resources, this bill creates opportunities and allows our communities to build back better. The coronavirus relief included in this package is a start, but we are committed to fighting for more relief to support families and help our businesses recover. I am grateful for Connecticut's strong delegation and our ability to unite and deliver real results for our state.
This year's omnibus spending package included many major victories for Connecticut, including a tax benefit for volunteer First Responders, a boost for Connecticut's defense manufacturing, funding for Hartford's federal courthouse, and research into crumbling foundations. It also included vital funding for COVID relief (including enhanced unemployment benefits and money for testing and vaccines), our public schools, food assistance programs, and energy assistance. These funding increases will help Connecticut families and communities during these difficult times, said Congressman John B. Larson. In the new year, the Connecticut Congressional Delegation, spearheaded by the new Appropriations Chair, our own Rosa DeLauro, will continue to work hard for the citizens of Connecticut.
I'm proud as always to work alongside my colleagues in the Connecticut delegation to bring back resources and funding to help Connecticut families and businesses, said Congressman Jim Himes. From environmental protection and economic development to investment in education and aid for working families, this bill reflects our Connecticut priorities and values. We will continue to work for our constituents in the new year with a new President and a new Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Connecticut's own Representative Rosa DeLauro, to bring even more support home.
Last night's omnibus spending package makes key investments in eastern Connecticut, and we've got the House's hard work to thank for it, said Congressman Courtney. Full restoration of the second Virginia-class submarine, support for homeowners impacted by crumbling foundations, critical support for K-12 schoolsthese are all provisions that the House demanded, and that we fought to advance throughout the year step-by-step. The final bill includes the House Seapower Subcommittee's top-target of restoring the second sub, it contains the House's higher levels of support for pyrrhotite research and for programs like CDBG, it authorizes the House's months-long effort to provide new Title I funding for K-12 schools to help keep teachers and students safe, and more. The House has continued to get the job done all year long, and it resulted in a final spending bill that will help families, workers, schools, and many others across our state.
From expanding child nutrition and SNAP benefits to combat food insecurity, to providing federal funding for Title I grants for Local Education Agencies, to increasing the maximum Pell Grant for students, this bill will provide desperately needed relief to Connecticut and invest in our communities, said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes. A realistic budget was critical heading into 2021 as we continue to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic and the challenges it has created. I am pleased to work with my colleagues in the Connecticut delegation to bring back critical funding to help the people of our state.
Among the many far-reaching investments, this spending bill:
 Provides Coronavirus Relief for Connecticut's families and businesses by restoring the enhanced federal unemployment insurance bump with an additional $300 per week and including $284 billion for a second round of PPP loans for businesses nationwide. The relief portion of this bill also provides $10 billion to support our nation's child care industry and $13 billion in emergency food assistance, including a temporary boost to the monthly food stamp benefit.
	Helps K-12 Schools and Higher Education Institutions Respond to COVID-19 with $54.3 billion for the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, and $22.7 billion for the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. These programs assist schools like the University of Connecticut, Mitchell College, Connecticut College, Eastern Connecticut State University, and community colleges and K-12 institutions throughout Connecticut with school facilities repairs and improvements like heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems, and more amid COVID-19.
	Protects Connecticut's environment and natural resources, investing $18.9 million in the cleanup of Plum Island and repealing a mandate that this natural treasure be sold.
	Invests in the revitalization of the Long Island Sound by including $30.4 million, an increase of $9.4 million over FY20 for the Long Island Sound. The Sound is a cultural and economic center for Connecticut, and the House delegation has been fighting tirelessly to restore its natural beauty and preserve it for future generations.
	Creates high-paying jobs, with $1.1 billion for 9 CH-53Ks, 2 more than requested in the President's fiscal year 2021 budget, $9.6 billion for purchase of 96 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, and $6.8 billion for the Virginia class submarine program (including restoration of funding for a second submarine) and $4.1 billion for Ohio Replacement. Connecticut's House delegation fought hard to secure these significant wins.
	Invests in Connecticut's infrastructure with $2 billion for Amtrak, equal to the 2020 enacted level and $1.1 billion above the President's budget request, and $700 million for Northeast Corridor Grants, equal to the 2020 enacted level and $375 million above the President's budget request.
	Supports volunteer first responders by making the Volunteer Responder Incentive Protection Act (VRIPA) permanent. VRIPA exempts from taxation the nominal recruitment and retention benefits volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel receive from their communities.
	Supports special needs students with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Special Education Grants. The bill provides $12.9 billion, an increase of $173 million over FY2020, to support students who need more specialized support and networks in schools across Connecticut and the country.
	Keeps our families safer after the horror of the shooting eight years ago at Sandy Hook Elementary that left 26 innocent people dead, forever changing our state. The Connecticut delegation stands as united as any in the country to fight against the gun lobby and call for commonsense gun-safety legislation to keep our children and communities safe. This bill contains $25 million of continued funding for the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institutes of Health to research gun violence, a vital first step.
	Provides energy assistance to Connecticut families, as families throughout Connecticut struggle with unemployment and other economic challenges during the pandemic. Many are struggling to pay utility bills. The spending package funds the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) with $3.8 billion, an increase of $10 million from FY 2020, to help keep Connecticut families warm.
	Restores the Federal Courthouse in Hartford, Connecticut, with $135.5 million in federal investments. This funding was included after Senate Republicans only included funding for the Federal Courthouse in Chattanooga, Tennessee, despite Hartford ranking first on the Federal Judiciary Courthouse Project Priorities list for the second year in a row. Failure to include funding for Hartford would have been the first time Congress overrode the Judiciary's recommendation.
	Funds Crumbling Foundations Research with $2 million to support continued research by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) into the effects of pyrrhotite on concrete aggregate, the same dollar amount the House voted to approve in July.
	Supports the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program by including the House's funding level of $3.5 billion for Community Development Block Grants, $50 million above the 2020 enacted level.
	Supports our region's submarine industrial base by fully funding the House Seapower Subcommittee's effort to restore construction of a second Virginia-class submarine with $2.6 billionmatching both the final NDAA and the House-passed defense funding billand by initiating construction on the first Columbia-class submarine.
 We are proud of these critical investments and know that in partnership with the Biden-Harrison Administration, Connecticut is poised to build back stronger in 2021, said the Connecticut House Delegation. These wins for our state foster hope for strong advancements for our children and families and position Connecticut as a leader in recovering and rebuilding.
The text of the spending package, H.R. 133, is available here.
A division-by-division summary of the appropriations provisions is here. A division-by-division summary of the coronavirus relief provisions is here. A division-by-division of the authorizing matters is here.
# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8DCC09AF-9F63-4BA3-89D6-8B38169E008C,HAYES APPLAUDS APPOINTMENT OF MIGUEL CARDONA AS SECRETARY OF EDUCATION IN  BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement extending her support and congratulations to Miguel Cardona, Connecticut’s Education Commissioner, on his appointment to serve as Secretary of Education in the incoming administration:

“It is with great support and enthusiasm I extend my warmest congratulations to Commissioner Cardona,” said Congresswoman Hayes.

“I am excited this vital role will be filled by a fellow educator from my home state. I am more than confident Commissioner Cardona will bring a distinctive ability to effectively address the current education challenges America’s students and teachers are facing.

“Commissioner Cardona has a full understanding of the need for full equity in education and his commitment to students and public education is a welcome shift, especially during these times.

“I look forward to continuing to work with Commissioner Cardona in our shared values to strengthen our nation’s education system.”

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FB31C42A-A6DB-47E7-8F09-73E66B350038,"HOUSE DELEGATION, DELAURO, LARSON, COURTNEY, HIMES, HAYES, SECURE HISTORIC VICORIES FOR CT IN OMNIBUS SPENDING PACKAGE",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) secured historic investments for Connecticut in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending package and coronavirus relief deal. This legislation, which originated in the House and is expected to be signed into law, provides critical coronavirus relief, invests in the programs at the center of the country’s health and economic crises, creates jobs in Connecticut, and supports working families.

“The coronavirus pandemic has devastated so many Connecticut families and shuttered countless businesses,” said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. “From investments in Connecticut’s schools and child care industry to food assistance for hard-working families to investments in our workforce and critical protections for our environment and natural resources, this bill creates opportunities and allows our communities to build back better. The coronavirus relief included in this package is a start, but we are committed to fighting for more relief to support families and help our businesses recover. I am grateful for Connecticut’s strong delegation and our ability to unite and deliver real results for our state.”

“This year’s omnibus spending package included many major victories for Connecticut, including a tax benefit for volunteer First Responders, a boost for Connecticut’s defense manufacturing, funding for Hartford’s federal courthouse, and research into crumbling foundations. It also included vital funding for COVID relief (including enhanced unemployment benefits and money for testing and vaccines), our public schools, food assistance programs, and energy assistance. These funding increases will help Connecticut families and communities during these difficult times,” said Congressman John B. Larson. “In the new year, the Connecticut Congressional Delegation, spearheaded by the new Appropriations Chair, our own Rosa DeLauro, will continue to work hard for the citizens of Connecticut.”

“I’m proud as always to work alongside my colleagues in the Connecticut delegation to bring back resources and funding to help Connecticut families and businesses,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “From environmental protection and economic development to investment in education and aid for working families, this bill reflects our Connecticut priorities and values. We will continue to work for our constituents in the new year with a new President and a new Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Connecticut’s own Representative Rosa DeLauro, to bring even more support home.”

“Last night’s omnibus spending package makes key investments in eastern Connecticut, and we’ve got the House’s hard work to thank for it,” said Congressman Courtney. “Full restoration of the second Virginia-class submarine, support for homeowners impacted by crumbling foundations, critical support for K-12 schools—these are all provisions that the House demanded, and that we fought to advance throughout the year step-by-step. The final bill includes the House Seapower Subcommittee’s top-target of restoring the second sub, it contains the House’s higher levels of support for pyrrhotite research and for programs like CDBG, it authorizes the House’s months-long effort to provide new Title I funding for K-12 schools to help keep teachers and students safe, and more. The House has continued to get the job done all year long, and it resulted in a final spending bill that will help families, workers, schools, and many others across our state.”

“From expanding child nutrition and SNAP benefits to combat food insecurity, to providing federal funding for Title I grants for Local Education Agencies, to increasing the maximum Pell Grant for students, this bill will provide desperately needed relief to Connecticut and invest in our communities,” said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes. “A realistic budget was critical heading into 2021 as we continue to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic and the challenges it has created. I am pleased to work with my colleagues in the Connecticut delegation to bring back critical funding to help the people of our state.”

Among the many far-reaching investments, this spending bill:

Provides Coronavirus Relief for Connecticut’s families and businesses by restoring the enhanced federal unemployment insurance bump with an additional $300 per week and including $284 billion for a second round of PPP loans for businesses nationwide. The relief portion of this bill also provides $10 billion to support our nation’s child care industry and $13 billion in emergency food assistance, including a temporary boost to the monthly food stamp benefit.

Helps K-12 Schools and Higher Education Institutions Respond to COVID-19 with $54.3 billion for the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, and $22.7 billion for the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. These programs assist schools like the University of Connecticut, Mitchell College, Connecticut College, Eastern Connecticut State University, and community colleges and K-12 institutions throughout Connecticut with school facilities repairs and improvements like heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems, and more amid COVID-19.

Protects Connecticut’s environment and natural resources, investing $18.9 million in the cleanup of Plum Island and repealing a mandate that this natural treasure be sold.

Invests in the revitalization of the Long Island Sound by including $30.4 million, an increase of $9.4 million over FY20 for the Long Island Sound. The Sound is a cultural and economic center for Connecticut, and the House delegation has been fighting tirelessly to restore its natural beauty and preserve it for future generations.

Creates high-paying jobs, with $1.1 billion for 9 CH-53Ks, 2 more than requested in the President’s fiscal year 2021 budget, $9.6 billion for purchase of 96 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, and $6.8 billion for the Virginia class submarine program (including restoration of funding for a second submarine) and $4.1 billion for Ohio Replacement. Connecticut’s House delegation fought hard to secure these significant wins.

Invests in Connecticut’s infrastructure with $2 billion for Amtrak, equal to the 2020 enacted level and $1.1 billion above the President’s budget request, and $700 million for Northeast Corridor Grants, equal to the 2020 enacted level and $375 million above the President’s budget request.

Supports volunteer first responders by making the Volunteer Responder Incentive Protection Act (VRIPA) permanent. VRIPA exempts from taxation the nominal recruitment and retention benefits volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel receive from their communities.

Supports special needs students with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Special Education Grants. The bill provides $12.9 billion, an increase of $173 million over FY2020, to support students who need more specialized support and networks in schools across Connecticut and the country.

Keeps our families safer after the horror of the shooting eight years ago at Sandy Hook Elementary that left 26 innocent people dead, forever changing our state. The Connecticut delegation stands as united as any in the country to fight against the gun lobby and call for commonsense gun-safety legislation to keep our children and communities safe. This bill contains $25 million of continued funding for the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institutes of Health to research gun violence, a vital first step.

Provides energy assistance to Connecticut families, as families throughout Connecticut struggle with unemployment and other economic challenges during the pandemic. Many are struggling to pay utility bills. The spending package funds the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) with $3.8 billion, an increase of $10 million from FY 2020, to help keep Connecticut families warm.

Restores the Federal Courthouse in Hartford, Connecticut, with $135.5 million in federal investments. This funding was included after Senate Republicans only included funding for the Federal Courthouse in Chattanooga, Tennessee, despite Hartford ranking first on the Federal Judiciary Courthouse Project Priorities list for the second year in a row. Failure to include funding for Hartford would have been the first time Congress overrode the Judiciary’s recommendation.

Funds Crumbling Foundations Research with $2 million to support continued research by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) into the effects of pyrrhotite on concrete aggregate, the same dollar amount the House voted to approve in July.

Supports the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program by including the House’s funding level of $3.5 billion for Community Development Block Grants, $50 million above the 2020 enacted level.

Supports our region’s submarine industrial base by fully funding the House Seapower Subcommittee’s effort to restore construction of a second Virginia-class submarine with $2.6 billion—matching both the final NDAA and the House-passed defense funding bill—and by initiating construction on the first Columbia-class submarine.

“We are proud of these critical investments and know that in partnership with the Biden-Harrison Administration, Connecticut is poised to build back stronger in 2021,” said the Connecticut House Delegation. “These wins for our state foster hope for strong advancements for our children and families and position Connecticut as a leader in recovering and rebuilding.”

The text of the spending package, H.R. 133, is available here.

A division-by-division summary of the appropriations provisions is here. A division-by-division summary of the coronavirus relief provisions is here. A division-by-division of the authorizing matters is here.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7340BE1D-6324-4CB2-B832-3EFC11ECE869,Intelligence Authorization with Himes Provisions Included in End of Year Package,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC— Last night, the House of Representatives passed the annual Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) as part of the end-of-year package that included government funding for the coming year and coronavirus-relief spending. The IAA authorizes the United States’ Intelligence Communities (IC) programs and budget. Several provisions included in the funding bill were adapted from initiatives and bills championed by Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04), who serves as the Chairman of the Strategic Technologies and Advanced Research (STAR) Subcommittee of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.

“As a member of the Intelligence Committee, I spend much of my time thinking about our national security and how to stay one step ahead of our geopolitical rivals,” said Himes. “The most recent Sunburst hack, which appears to originate from Russia, shows that we must always be vigilant because those who would harm us never rest. That’s why I am pleased that many proposals that will enhance our cybersecurity made it into the IAA.”

The bill includes:

A requirement that the Office of the Director of National Intelligence submit a report to Congress on research and development for scientific and technological advancements of foreign adversaries that impact the national security of the United States. And provide insight on cooperation/collaboration with allies

Authority for the Intelligence Community (IC) to establish relationships with academic institutions to enhance the skill set of the future IC workforce, in particular as it relates to science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics.

Adoption of several of the Cyberspace Solarium proposals, including how the IC interacts with the private sector and operators of critical infrastructure concerning foreign cybersecurity threats.

Contains language indicating that the IC should consolidate its artificial intelligence research and development activities and requires the DNI to identify such areas.

In October of this year, the STAR Subcommittee released a report, “Rightly Scaled, Carefully Open, Infinitely Agile: Reconfiguring to Win the Innovation Race in the Intelligence Community,” which examined the need for the United States Government to prioritize a strategic approach to the innovation and technology sector and made recommendations to enhance the IC’s approach to innovation.

“The Intelligence Authorization is a chance for us to show both friend and foe that we’re going to put the time and resources into cybersecurity and cyberdefense,” Himes continued. “The investment we make now will mean the difference between continued American dominance well into the 21st Century and beyond, or a world where we lose a step to our adversaries with potentially disastrous consequences.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ct-delegation-announces-victory-for-plum-island,CT Delegation Announces Victory For Plum IslandRead More,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONMembers
of the Connecticut Delegation, including U.S.
Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Richard
Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and U.S.
Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-3), John Larson (CT-1), and Joe Courtney (CT-2), today announced
that the omnibus budget package repeals a mandate thatPlum
Islandbe sold and $18.9
million will be allocated for cleanup. It's
taken years of work to get this done, but finally, we've stopped the
shortsighted plan to sell Plum Island to the highest bidder. Plum Island is so
important, both ecologically and historically, and I'm proud to stand with my
colleagues in the Connecticut and New York delegations who have worked
tirelessly with me to get this repeal across the finish line, said Murphy. Today
we can finally and fully celebrate preserving Plum Island. This exquisite
environmental treasure has been spared a headlong rush to sell to the highest
bidder. We will continue to fight to preserve this special gem from future
development. Plum Island is a unique environmental resource that is home to hundreds of species of wildlife and numerous
important historical sites that must be preserved for future generations
to enjoy. I thank Connecticut's environmental advocates, including Save the
Sound and The Nature Conservancy for their tireless work in this effort. I also
thank my colleagues from the New York and Connecticut delegations for their
partnership in securing this important provision, said
Blumenthal. This
is a tremendous victory for Plum Island and the people of Connecticut, and it
is in large part thanks to the hard work and advocacy of the local groups
fighting to protect this ecological treasure. Plum Island is home to a rare
natural ecosystem that should never be up for sale to the highest bidder.
Congress has an obligation to protect this island and its natural resources.
That is why as a leader on the House Appropriations Committee, and now the
Chair-elect, I fought to include this language in the fiscal year 2021 spending
bill to preserve Plum Island and prohibit the mandatory sale of this ecological
treasure. I urge my colleagues to join me in ensuring this rich environment is
protected well into the future, said DeLauro. The
House has successfully and unanimously passed our legislation to preserve Plum
Island for five years in a row, and the final negotiated omnibus spending
package released today will get the job done once and for all. Plum Island is
an ecological treasure, and for over a decade the Connecticut and New York
delegation members have been working across the aisle and across the Long
Island Sound to get this across the finish line. It's time to move forward and
pass this bipartisan deal that will protect Plum Island, and get more relief
out the door to thousands in eastern Connecticut who need it, said
Courtney Blocking
developers from buying up Plum Island is a big win for Connecticut and
conservation efforts. This win wouldn't have happened without the hard work of
local conservationists. I'm glad Plum Island will preserved for years to come,
said Larson. The fight
to preserve the island, located in Long Island Sound between Connecticut and
New York, began in 2008 when the federal government announced that that island
was slated for public sale as part of the planned relocation of the Plum Island
Animal Disease Center to Kansas. The island is home to numerous flora and fauna
that are essential to the region's ecosystem, including piping plovers, roseate
terns, and grey and harbor seals. The
provision, included in the omnibus package, is a modified version of
Blumenthal's Plum Island Conservation Act, cosponsored by Murphy, and the Plum
Island Preservation Act, cosponsored by DeLauro, Larson, and Courtney. With
passage of this provision, the GSA would be allowed to transfer government land
such as Plum Island to another federal agency, state or local government, or
private steward  allowing for appropriate and due consideration of all
stakeholders. The provision also requires that any future transfer must
incorporate the whole island as one unit, instead of a piecemeal approach.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-secures-key-funding-priorities-for-connecticut-congress-passes-budget-900-billion-covid-relief-package,"Murphy Secures Key Funding Priorities For Connecticut; Congress Passes Budget, $900 Billion COVID Relief PackageRead More",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S.Senate
Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after passage of
theCoronavirus Relief & Omnibus Agreement, which includes key funding
priorities and legislation Murphy authored to help Connecticut. Specifically,
the legislation repeals the mandate to sell Plum Island and includes $18.9
million to clean up the island, provides$700 million for Amtrak's
Northeast Corridor and an additional $1 billion in COVID relief funding to
Amtrak, provides $30.4 million in funding for the Long Island Sound Geographic
Program, and includes $135.5 million for construction of a new courthouse in
Hartford. The bill also includes the Mental
Health Parity Compliance Act of 2019,
legislation Murphy introduced with U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.)
that will provide federal and state health insurance regulators with additional
tools to monitor and assure compliance with mental health parity laws. I'm on
the Appropriations Committee to make sure that Connecticut's priorities are
included in the federal budget, and the bill we passed today is a clear win for
our state, said
Murphy. This funding package includes important money for testing and
vaccine distribution that will help us combat COVID-19, and direct cash
payments and small business assistance to help those in need. I'm also glad to
see funding in this bill that supports longstanding local priorities like
Amtrak, the Long Island Sound, and the new Coast Guard Museum, in addition to
language repealing the mandate to sell Plum Island and providing first-time
funding for the Hartford courthouse project. Finally, as we've seen mental
health issues spike throughout COVID-19, I'm also proud my bipartisan
legislation that cracks down on insurers who don't pay for mental health
treatment was included in this bill. Of course, there is a lot more work to do
and I look forward to getting back to work with President-elect Biden. The
Coronavirus Relief & Omnibus Agreement alsoincludes: 
An
additional $5 million in funding for the Coast Guard museum in New London; 
$30.4
million for the Long Island Sound Geographic program, a nearly 50% increase
from last year's levels; 
$109
million for magnet schools, an increase of $2 million from last year, as well
as a language repealing the only remaining prohibition on using federal funds
for transportation to carry out school desegregation efforts. This means more
flexibility for magnets as well as school districts more broadly to fund
efforts to increase school diversity; 
$25
million for gun violence research within the Centers for
DiseaseControland Prevention (CDC) and the National
Institutesof Health (NIH); 
$85
million for the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS)
Initiative grants to help strengthen background checks, a $6.7 million increase
from last year; 
$4.5
billion direct to states for COVID-19 vaccine distribution, monitoring, and
tracking, including a targeted investment of $300 million for high-risk and
underserved populations; 
Language
to phase down the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)extremely potent greenhouse
gases that are used in air conditioners and refrigeratorsby 85 percent over
the next 15 years; 
$5
million to conduct COVID-19 testing and vaccine distribution on Capitol Hill,
after Murphy
led a letter to Senate and House leadership calling for a comprehensive
testing plan for everyone who works in and around the Capitol; 
$13
billion to increase SNAP benefits by 15%, following a
letter Murphy co-led with Senator Merkley that called for the same increase
as well as language expanding SNAP to college students as Senator Murphy has
championed;  
$2
million for the Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and
Technology to partner with a university to study and develop a reliable and
cost-effective standard for testing for the presence of excessive pyrrhotite in
concrete, which is the root of the crumbling foundations problem plaguing
Connecticut; 
$10
million for Highlands Conservation Act, one of the most significant federal
investments of conservation funding inConnecticutthat allows state
andmunicipal land trusts to conserve thousands ofacres
ofland; and 
$5
billion towards aerospace and defense manufacturing in Connecticut that will
keep jobs and increase demand for Connecticut manufacturers, expand funds for
Workforce Development Programs, and authorize advanced payments to small and
medium aerospace and defense businesses. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-connecticut-education-commissioner-miguel-cardona-announced-as-president-elect-bidens-choice-for-secretary-of-education,Murphy Statement On Connecticut Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona Announced As President-Elect Bidens Choice For Secretary Of EducationRead More,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On Connecticut Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona Announced As President-Elect Biden's Choice For Secretary Of Education 
        
        December 22, 2020
      
        
          HARTFORDU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health,
Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, on Tuesday issued the following
statement following the announcement that President-elect Joe Biden will
nominate Connecticut Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona to be the next U.S.
Secretary of Education: Joe
Biden hit a home run. My friend Miguel Cardona is everything you would want in
a Secretary of Education. He's a great teacher, a fighter for educational
equity, and a consensus builder. These values will be essential to solving the
myriad of challenges facing him when he gets to Washington, including helping
our schools operate safely as we navigate out of the pandemic, addressing the
inequitiesthat have been exacerbated during the pandemic,and
undoing Betsy DeVos's disastrous attacks on public education. But, if
there's anyone who can rise to the occasion, it's
Miguel. I'm looking forward to welcoming him to Washington ahead of his
confirmation, said Murphy. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/hayes-votes-send-covid-19-emergency-relief-back-connecticut-fund-government,HAYES VOTES TO SEND COVID-19 EMERGENCY RELIEF BACK TO CONNECTICUT & FUND GOVERNMENT,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Tonight, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) voted in support of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, H.R. 133, bipartisan legislation that would provide emergency relief to Americans continuing to suffer from the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and a second package to fund the government through Fiscal Year 2021. The Senate will vote to pass both packages tonight, and the President is expected to sign the bill into law.
The bipartisan legislation combines over $900 billion in emergency COVID-19 relief to protect the lives and livelihoods of the American people with $1.4 billion in funding for the government through the annual appropriations process.
As a member of Congress we have a constitutional duty to fund the government while also dealing with concurrent crisis as they occur. American families are suffering right now from the COVID-19 pandemic. They are struggling to keep their lights on, put food on the tables, and navigate their way through a year of untold economic suffering, emotional hardship, and worst of all, loss of loved ones. Bills are due and it is unconscionable that Americans have had to wait months for relief, and critical federal programs that they rely on to be funded.
While I am frustrated that compromise has seemed elusive in recent months, and that this bill took so long to craft, I am grateful for the hope this bill brings to my constituents. This bipartisan package will help us continue to invest in testing and vaccine distribution, and will bring direct relief to American families, expand assistance to millions of workers who have lost their jobs, and help community members trying to keep their businesses open. This COVID-19 relief package will invest billions into public education and our child care system, ensuring that schools are able to open safely, and ensure child care centers can continue to operate. While more still needs to be done to help this country recover, this bill represents a major step forward for all Americans and an important step on the path to recovery.
I am pleased that part of the 2021 Appropriations package invests in key priorities for my district  from aggressively tackling the opioid crisis, investing in community health centers, disease research and mental health services, and helping students with learning disabilities. This bill will help to fight our nation's gun violence epidemic, protect the environment and combat climate change, and tackle food insecurity. I look forward to the President signing this legislation into law, and remain committed to working with the next Administration to ensure every resource possible is available to save lives and protect the vulnerable.
Among the provisions to combat the COVID-19 crisis inConsolidated Appropriations Act, are:
 Accelerating vaccine distribution and crushing the coronavirus: The package provides billions in urgently need funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as soon as possible, to implement a strong national testing and tracing strategy with billions reserved specifically for combating the disparities facing communities of color, and to support our heroic health care workers and providers.
	Direct payment checks: Provides a new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, also ensuring that mixed-status families receive payments.
	Strong support for small business: Includes critical funding and policy changes to help small businesses, including minority-owned businesses, and nonprofits recover from the pandemic. The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofits and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants, and includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions. The agreement also includes $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street.
	Education and child care: The agreement provides $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms, and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open.
	Rental assistance: Provides $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium.
	Enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits: Averts the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance benefits for millions and adds a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work.
 ###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 yearsand was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=C8ACE052-BE70-40D2-AC21-845FB4423195,HAYES VOTES TO SEND COVID-19 EMERGENCY RELIEF BACK TO CONNECTICUT & FUND GOVERNMENT,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Tonight, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) voted in support of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, H.R. 133, bipartisan legislation that would provide emergency relief to Americans continuing to suffer from the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and a second package to fund the government through Fiscal Year 2021. The Senate will vote to pass both packages tonight, and the President is expected to sign the bill into law.

The bipartisan legislation combines over $900 billion in emergency COVID-19 relief to protect the lives and livelihoods of the American people with $1.4 billion in funding for the government through the annual appropriations process.

“As a member of Congress we have a constitutional duty to fund the government while also dealing with concurrent crisis as they occur. American families are suffering right now from the COVID-19 pandemic. They are struggling to keep their lights on, put food on the tables, and navigate their way through a year of untold economic suffering, emotional hardship, and worst of all, loss of loved ones. Bills are due and it is unconscionable that Americans have had to wait months for relief, and critical federal programs that they rely on to be funded.

“While I am frustrated that compromise has seemed elusive in recent months, and that this bill took so long to craft, I am grateful for the hope this bill brings to my constituents. This bipartisan package will help us continue to invest in testing and vaccine distribution, and will bring direct relief to American families, expand assistance to millions of workers who have lost their jobs, and help community members trying to keep their businesses open. This COVID-19 relief package will invest billions into public education and our child care system, ensuring that schools are able to open safely, and ensure child care centers can continue to operate. While more still needs to be done to help this country recover, this bill represents a major step forward for all Americans and an important step on the path to recovery.

“I am pleased that part of the 2021 Appropriations package invests in key priorities for my district – from aggressively tackling the opioid crisis, investing in community health centers, disease research and mental health services, and helping students with learning disabilities. This bill will help to fight our nation’s gun violence epidemic, protect the environment and combat climate change, and tackle food insecurity. I look forward to the President signing this legislation into law, and remain committed to working with the next Administration to ensure every resource possible is available to save lives and protect the vulnerable.”

Among the provisions to combat the COVID-19 crisis in Consolidated Appropriations Act, are:

Accelerating vaccine distribution and crushing the coronavirus: The package provides billions in urgently need funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as soon as possible, to implement a strong national testing and tracing strategy with billions reserved specifically for combating the disparities facing communities of color, and to support our heroic health care workers and providers.

Direct payment checks: Provides a new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, also ensuring that mixed-status families receive payments.

Strong support for small business: Includes critical funding and policy changes to help small businesses, including minority-owned businesses, and nonprofits recover from the pandemic. The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofits and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants, and includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions. The agreement also includes $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street.

Education and child care: The agreement provides $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms, and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open.

Rental assistance: Provides $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium.

Enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits: Averts the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance benefits for millions and adds a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work.

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=52649D75-8717-4418-AC20-56FFD06805DF,Omnibus and Coronavirus Relief Package Information,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Friends,

After months of negotiations and compromise, Congress has passed a new round of Coronavirus relief. While this bill will provide much-needed aid to the American people, it is my sincere hope that we are able to provide more assistance in the new year with a new president.

At the beginning of the pandemic, my team and I worked to answer many of your frequently asked questions. I hope that this updated guide will help you and your neighbors understand the contents of Congress’s latest relief package.

Please sign-up for my newsletter, the CDC’s Subscription Service, and Governor Lamont’s news updates to receive the latest information about COVID-19 and governmental action.

Sincerely,

Jim

Table of Contents

Assistance for Individuals and Families

Assistance for Small Businesses and Non-Profits

Direct Payment Details

Housing Assistance Details

Quick Resources

Other Questions

Omnibus and Coronavirus Relief Package Overview

What assistance is available to individuals and families?

Direct Payments

Click here for answers regarding the Second Round of Economic Impact Payments

Provides for immediate, direct cash payments to lower-and middle-income Americans of $600 for each adult and $600 for each dependent under age 17, beginning to phase out at an annual income of $75,000 for an individual and $150,000 for a household.

Eligibility requirements mirror those under the CARES Act (e.g., you must have a work-eligible social security number)

Corrects CARES Act language to authorize $600 for each citizen in a “mixed-status” family. Mixed-status families, where a U.S. citizen files his or her taxes jointly with a non-citizen, were ineligible for Economic Impact Payments under the CARES Act. These families can also now claim the original CARES Act Economic Impact Payment on their 2020 return in 2021.

Unemployment

Boosts Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) by $300 for 11 weeks.

FPUC is a federally funded weekly plus-up that is available to anyone receiving at least $1 of unemployment insurance

Reports indicate that claimants can expect benefits by mid-January.

Extends Pandemic Unemployment Assistance extended for 11 weeks.

PUA makes individuals who do not qualify for regular unemployment compensation, like self-employed workers, independent contractors, and gig workers, eligible for assistance.

State labor agencies are waiting for official U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) guidance on details, however, USDOL has signaled these are expected to be continuous benefits for eligible claimants beginning on the day the CARES Act expired.

Extends Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation for 11 weeks.

PEUC allows states to provide 13 additional weeks of unemployment benefits to individuals who previously received unemployment benefits but exhausted those benefits.

Claimants who are currently receiving Extended Benefits (EB) will stay on that program until it is exhausted before potentially becoming eligible for the additional weeks of PEUC.

Provides an extra $100 (on top of $300) to “mixed earners” who earned income from both W-2 and non-W-2 jobs

Housing Assistance

Extends the CDC’s eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021

Provides $25 billion in rental relief funding

This money will be used to cover missed rent, utilities, and other costs accrued since the pandemic started

Funds will be funneled through a new program at the Treasury Department and intermediated by state and local agencies

To access the funds, renters will apply and state agencies will send payments directly to landlords

Landlords can also apply directly for assistance butwill be required to notify the tenant that they are doing so and obtain the tenant’s consent

To qualify, households must meet these qualifications:

Have a household income of no more than 80% of the area median income (AMI) as defined by the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development

have one or more members who can demonstrate a risk of homelessness or housing instability; AND

have one or more members who qualify for unemployment benefits or experienced financial hardship due, directly or indirectly, to the pandemic

Food Assistance

Increases SNAP’s monthly benefits for 6-months

Suspends work requirements for SNAP-eligible college students while work-study programs may not be operating during COVID emergency

Provides supplemental $400 million for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), which assists food banks

Provides an additional $13 million for Commodity Supplemental Food Program

Provides an additional $175 million for Meals on Wheels

What relief is available to small businesses and non-profits?

Paycheck Protection Program

Reopens the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) with another $284.5 billion in funding.

Note: On January 8, the SBA and Treasury Department announced that the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will re-open the week of January 11 for new borrowers and certain existing PPP borrowers: ""To promote access to capital, initially only community financial institutions will be able to make First Draw PPP Loans on Monday, January 11 and Second Draw PPP Loans on Wednesday, January 13. The PPP will open to all participating lenders shortly thereafter.""

Second Draw of PPP

The bill allows the hardest hit small businesses to obtain a second PPP loan. To qualify for another forgivable loan, an eligible business must have 300 or fewer employees and demonstrate at least a 25 percent reduction in gross revenues between comparable quarters in 2019 and 2020. Second draw loans are limited to $2 million.

Ensuring Access in All Communities

The bill includes set asides to ensure that PPP money will reach small businesses in all communities. $60 billion will be set aside for first and second draw loans to small businesses with 10 or fewer employees, or loans less than $250,000 to small businesses in low-income areas. $30 billion will also be set aside for small financial institutions like community banks and credit unions, as well as community financial institutions like community development financial institutions.

Expanded PPP Eligibility

Certain 501(6)c non-profits, Destination Marketing Organizations, and housing cooperatives with 300 or fewer employees can receive funding, as can news organizations with 500 or fewer employees

Supports Payroll Expenditures

Borrowers receive full loan forgiveness if they spend at least 60 percent of their PPP second draw loan on payroll costs over any time period between 8 weeks and 24 weeks.

PPP Expansion for Restaurants

Eligible employers can take out loans equal to 3.5 times payroll, instead of the normal 2.5 times

Forgiveness Changes

Forgivable expenses now include supplier costs on existing contracts and purchase orders, the costs for perishable goods at any time, costs relating to worker safety, and technology operations expenditures such as software expenses. The bill also streamlines the loan forgiveness process for loans of $150K or less.

Deductibility for Expenses Paid with PPP Loan Proceeds

The bill clarifies that expenses paid with forgiven PPP loans are indeed tax-deductible. In addition, the bill clarifies again that forgiven loans do not count as income.

What support is available for businesses beyond PPP?

Support for Live Venues, Theaters, Museums, and Zoos

The package creates a $15 billion Independent Live Venue Operators Fund to provide grants to eligible live venue operators, theatrical producers, live performing arts organization operators, museum operators, motion picture theatre operators, or talent representatives that have experienced significant revenue losses. It directs the SBA to make grants to eligible venues equal to the lesser of either 45 percent of their operating costs from calendar year 2019 or $10 million. Recipients could use these grants to support payroll costs, rent, utilities, and PPE costs. Venue operators who receive a grant through the Fund cannot receive additional PPP monies.

Targeted Economic Injury Disaster Loan Advance Program

The bill appropriates $20 billion for the EIDL Advance program only for businesses in low-income areas, which are areas with poverty rates greater than 20% and median family incomes are 80% of the average for the state. These grants provide an emergency advance of up to $10,000 to small businesses and private non-profits harmed by COVID-19. The advance does not need to be repaid, and may be used to keep employees on payroll, pay for sick leave, meet increased production costs due to supply chain disruptions, or pay business obligations, including debts, rent and mortgage payments.

Employee Retention Tax Credit Modifications

The relief package builds on the CARES Act's employee retention tax credit (ERTC). The modifications will:

Increase the credit rate from 50 percent to 70 percent of qualified wages;

Expand eligibility for the credit by reducing the required year-over-year gross receipts decline from 50 percent to 20 percent and provides a safe harbor allowing employers to use prior quarter gross receipts to determine eligibility;

Increase the limit on per-employee creditable wages from $10,000 for the year to $10,000 for each quarter;

Increase the 100-employee delineation for determining the relevant qualified wage base to employers with 500 or fewer employees;

Allow certain public instrumentalities to claim the credit;

Remove the 30-day wage limitation, allowing employers to, for example, claim the credit for bonus pay to essential workers;

Allows businesses with 500 or fewer employees to advance the credit at any point during the quarter based on wages paid in the same quarter in a previous year;

Provide rules to allow new employers who were not in existence for all or part of 2019 to be able to claim the credit; and

Retroactive to the passage of the CARES Act, the bill allows employers who receive Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans to qualify for the ERTC with respect to wages that are not paid for with forgiven PPP proceeds.

Please visit sba.gov/ppp or treasury.gov/cares for more information on SBA’s assistance to small businesses.

Direct Payments Details

Thank you to the hard-working staff on the House Committee on Ways & Means, who helped assemble answers to the following questions. For the latest information on the distribution of direct payments, please click here.

When and how will the additional economic impact payments (EIPs) be distributed?

The IRS has begun issuing payments to eligible individuals who either filed a federal income tax return for 2019, registered for the first round of payments through the IRS’s non-filer portal, or receive Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), or Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. When available, electronic direct deposit will be used in place of mailing a paper check.

Individuals who do not receive an advance payment automatically will be able to claim a credit for their EIP amount on their 2020 federal income tax return.

If my income was lower in 2020 than in 2019, how does that affect my EIP?

The payment amount is determined by your 2020 income. Economic Impact Payments are technically an advance payment of a new temporary tax credit that eligible taxpayers can claim on their 2020 return. Accordingly, many individuals and families will receive payment automatically in early 2021 based on their 2019 tax return information. For individuals and families who experienced a drop in income between 2019 and 2020, this amount may be less than what you are entitled to based on your 2020 income. Therefore, taxpayers can claim a credit on their 2020 federal income tax return for the difference between (a) the amount they are entitled to under law and (b) the amount they received as an advanced payment.

How large are the EIPs?

The size of your EIP depends on your adjusted gross income and family size. The maximum payment amount is $600 for each taxpayer ($1,200 for joint filers), and $600 per qualifying child. The payment is reduced by $5 for every $100 of income above the following thresholds: $150,000 for joint filers, $112,500 for a head of household filer, and $75,000 for single filers.

Does the phaseout apply to EIP amounts related to qualifying children?

Yes. The phaseout ($5 for every $100 of income in excess of the relevant thresholds) applies to the entire EIP amount, which includes the portion related to qualifying dependents.

Is there a limit on the number of qualifying children taken into account?

No.

Are EIPs subject to federal income tax?

No. The EIPs are federal income tax refunds and therefore are not subject to federal income tax.

Are non-filers eligible for payments?

Yes. Non-filers who are Social Security, SSI, RRB, and VA beneficiaries will be paid automatically by the IRS. Individuals who used the non-filer portal to receive their first EIP under the CARES Act will also be paid automatically. Individuals who believe they are eligible for an EIP but did not receive one in the first round mustfile a 2020 tax return to access their EIPs, even if they otherwise would not be required to file a tax return.

How will a person who has recently moved access the EIP?

If a person has provided direct deposit information on a 2019 income tax return that has been processed, the IRS will use that information to issue an electronic payment. Otherwise, generally, a person should look at the IRS's website for guidance on providing direct deposit information or a change of address to the IRS.

Will the payment affect my eligibility for other federal income-targeted programs (i.e. health insurance subsidies)?

No.

What are the identification requirements to receive an EIP?

A taxpayer must provide a Social Security number (SSN) in order to receive an EIP and must provide SSNs for any qualifying children in order to receive payment for those children. For couples filing jointly, at least one spouse must provide a valid SSN to receive their portion of the payment or credit.

Beyond the payment amount, how is this round of payments different from the first one?

Under the CARES Act, if one spouse did not provide a Social Security number (SSN), that family could not receive an EIP. The new legislation modified this requirement so that if only one spouse provides an SSN, that spouse will be entitled to receive their portion of the EIP as well as an amount for any qualifying children with SSNs. This change was also made retroactively to the CARES Act, so these families will be able to also claim a first round EIP on their 2020 tax return for eligible family members. In addition, advance payments made in the second round will not be subject to offset for past-due child support owed and are expressly exempt from garnishment.

I still haven't received my first Economic Impact Payment. What can I do?

Eligible individuals who did not receive an Economic Impact Payment – either the first or the second payment – will be able to claim their payment when they file their 2020 taxes in 2021. Many people, including recent college graduates, may be eligible to do so. People will see the Economic Impact Payments (EIP) referred to as the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR since the EIPs are an advance payment of the RRC.

How do I find out if the IRS is sending me a payment?

People can check the status of both their first and second payments by using the Get My Payment tool.

I am an H&R Block customer and haven't received my stimulus payment. Should I be concerned?

H&R Block is working to resolve the issue. If the IRS Get My Payment tool displays an account number a customer doesn’t recognize, that person should contact H&R Block at 1-800-HRBLOCK and 1-866-353-1266 for Emerald Card.

Housing Assistance Details

This information was compiled with the assistance of the House Financial Services Committee.

Is there an extension of the eviction moratorium?

Yes. The COVID-19 Stimulus Package extends the CDC’s eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021.

What assistance will the relief package make available to renters?

Eligible renters may receive assistance with rent and utility payments, unpaid rent or utility bills that have accumulated since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, and other housing expenses that were incurred due, directly or indirectly, to the pandemic. Eligible renters can also receive access services, such as case management and tenant-landlord mediation, to help them remain stably housed. A household may receive up to 12 months of assistance but may receive an additional three months of assistance only if it is necessary to ensure the household remains stably housed and funds are available.

How can renters (and property owners) apply for, and receive assistance?

Renters will apply for assistance with entities that state and local grantees select to administer the program. Once a renter qualifies for assistance, the administering entity would send the payment directly to the landlord. If a landlord declines to receive the assistance from the administering entity, a renter may instead receive a direct payment from the administering entity to make rental payments to their landlord themselves. Property owners could also assist renters to apply for rental assistance under the program or apply on behalf of the tenant, but will be required to notify the renter that assistance is being provided on their behalf and obtain their consent in the application.

Who would be eligible to receive emergency rental assistance?

Eligible households are defined as renter households who:

have a household income not more than 80 percent of the area median income (AMI);

have one or more household members who can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and

have one or more household members who qualify for unemployment benefits or experienced financial hardship due, directly or indirectly, to the pandemic.

Assistance would be prioritized for renter households with incomes that do not exceed 50 percent of AMI as well as renter households who are currently unemployed and have been unemployed for 90 days.

In determining household income, the administering entity must consider the household’s income for 2020 or the household’s monthly income at the time of application for assistance, which must be recertified every three months if the household is receiving ongoing rental assistance.

Quick Resources

CDC

Phone Number: 800-232-4636

Website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/

Connecticut Coronavirus News Portal

Website: https://portal.ct.gov/coronavirus

Coronavirus.gov

Website: https://www.coronavirus.gov/

U.S. Small Business Administration

Website: https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources

Internal Revenue Service

Website: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus

U.S. Department of Education

Website: https://www.ed.gov/coronavirus

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Website: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/coronavirus/

FEMA

Website: https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Website: https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/coronavirus/index.html

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Website: https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/mcm-issues/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19

U.S. Department of Labor

Website: https://www.dol.gov/coronavirus

U.S. Department of State

Website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/ea/covid-19-information.html

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid

Website: https://www.cms.gov/About-CMS/Agency-Information/Emergency/EPRO/Current-Emergencies/Current-Emergencies-page

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Website: https://www.dhs.gov/publication/notices-arrival-restrictions-coronavirus

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Website: https://www.publichealth.va.gov/n-coronavirus/index.asp

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Website: https://www.usda.gov/coronavirus

U.S. Customs and Immigration Services

Website: https://www.uscis.gov/about-us/uscis-response-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19

Social Security Administration

Website: https://www.ssa.gov/coronavirus/

Connecticut Department of Public Health

Phone Number: 860-509-8000

Website: https://portal.ct.gov/dph

Bridgeport

Phone Number: 203-332-3000

Website: https://www.bridgeportct.gov/coronavirus

Stamford

Website: https://www.stamfordct.gov/covid19

Norwalk

Website: https://www.norwalkct.org/1897/COVID-19-Novel-Coronavirus-2019

Darien

Website: http://www.darienct.gov/content/28025/28541/default.aspx

Easton

Website: https://www.eastonct.gov/

Fairfield

Website: https://fairfieldct.org/covid19

Greenwich

Website: https://www.greenwichct.gov/1621/Coronavirus-COVID-19

Monroe

Website: http://www.monroect.org/COVID-19

New Canaan

Website: https://www.newcanaan.info/alert_detail.php

Oxford

Website: https://www.oxford-ct.gov/

Ridgefield

Website: https://www.ridgefieldct.org/home/urgent-alerts/covid-19-updates

Shelton

Website: http://cityofshelton.org/corona-virus/

Trumbull

Website: https://www.trumbull-ct.gov/725/Novel-Coronavirus

Weston

Website: https://www.westonct.gov/home

Westport

Website: https://www.westportct.gov/residents/emergency-information-alerts/covid-19

Wilton

Website: https://www.wiltonct.org/node/1/new

Other Questions",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=79FA885F-1CF2-42E2-8C55-EE8D1FF96EF2,House Passes Coronavirus Relief Package with Himes Support,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC— Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) voted for the coronavirus relief package that has been the subject of long negotiations between the House and Senate. Previously, the House had passed its own version of a coronavirus relief package, the HEROES Act, on May 15, 220 days ago.

If you need assistance with access to unemployment services, stimulus payments, business aid, or any other federal program, please contact Congressman Himes’s offices at (202)225-5541 or (203)333-6600 or go online here.

“It was absolutely necessary to get this compromise done before Congress left for the year,” said Himes. “Families’ suffering and need have only gotten worse as this pandemic has dragged on. The final bill we came away with is not perfect, but it contains vital aid for individuals and small businesses without giving away the store to giant corporations.”

Notable provisions in the bill include:

Economic Impact (Direct) Payments (EIP):

Congress included EIP provisions that will provide one time payments of $600 per eligible adult and $600 per eligible dependent under the age of 17

Eligibility for this provision is the same as in the CARES Act:

All single taxpayers with an adjusted gross income up to $75,000 filing single or $150,000 filing jointly receive the full benefit.

The benefit tapers off until it is completely eliminated for those making more than $99,000 filing single/$198,000 filing jointly at a rate of 5%.

Requires a work-eligible social security number.

Unlike the CARES Act, “mixed-status families,” where one spouse is a citizen and the other is not, ARE eligible for payments for each citizen in the family. This change is retroactive, so mixed-status families will be able to claim the original EIP when they file their 2020 tax return in 2021.

Unemployment Insurance (UI):

The bill includes supplemented unemployment insurance for both “gig” and “non-gig” extended for 11 weeks (through March 14th).

Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation is extended for 11 weeks (through March 14th) at $300 per week. This means everyone who is receiving at least $1 in unemployment insurance per week – including those on PUA – will receive an additional $300.

Unemployment insurance under the bill will include an extra $100 (on top of $300) for “mixed earners” -- workers who earned income from both W-2 and non-W2 jobs.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

The PPP lending program is continued with $284.5 billion dollars in funding to provide forgivable loans to small businesses.

It includes set asides for smaller borrowers/underserved communities, including small businesses with fewer than 10 employees.

$15 billion is reserved for loans made by small community lenders (community banks/credit unions).

$15 billion has been designated for Community Development Financial Institutions and Minority Depository Institutions. The set aside exists to ensure money reaches low-income and underserved communities.

The bill will allow businesses that were especially hard hit by the pandemic to apply for a second PPP loan. To qualify a firm must have 300 or fewer employees AND had revenue loss of at least 25% in any quarter of 2020.

PPP is expanded to include 501(c)(6) non-profit organizations, includes simplified loan forgiveness for loans under $150,000, and changes the calculations for restaurants to allow them to take loans at 350% of payroll instead of 250%.

The administration of this provision should be very similar to the administration of the first round of PPP, and logistics and processes should become clearer over the coming days. Interested businesses should contact their financial institutions with questions about application or qualification for the program.

Rental Assistance:

The bill provides $25B in rental relief funding to eligible households in a program to be administered by states.

Eligible uses include rent, rental arrears, necessary utilities, and arrears of necessary utilities.

Renters will apply for the assistance and state agencies will send the payment directly to landlord. Landlords can also apply directly for assistance but will be required to notify the tenant that assistance is being provided on their behalf and obtain the tenant’s consent.

Eligible households are defined as renters who:

Have a household income not more than 80 percent of the area median income (AMI); have one or more household members who can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and have one or more household members who qualify for unemployment benefits or experienced financial hardship due, directly or indirectly, to the pandemic.

Food Aid:

The bill contains $13 billion in nutrition assistance including a 15% percent increase in Supplemental Assistance Nutrition Program (SNAP) benefits for 6 months, $400 million for the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), $4.6 billion to extend Pandemic EBT program (P-EBT) to child care facilities and schools to provide free and reduced-price meals to children who qualify, and $175 million for Meals on Wheels.

Other Provisions:

The bill contains $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms.

The bill includes $10 billion for childcare assistance to help get parents back to work and keep childcare providers open.

Transportation assistance including $14 billion for transit, $10 billion for state highways, and $2 billion for airports.

“We’re beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel as vaccination ramps up in Connecticut and across the country,” said Himes. “But the pandemic is not over. With thousands of people still dying every day and millions of our neighbors out of work and businesses shuttering at a fast pace, intervention is necessary to keep people in their homes, keep food on the table, keep the lights and heat on, and put us in a better position for a fast recovery.”

Again, if you need assistance with access to unemployment services, stimulus payment, business aid, or any other federal program, please contact Congressman Himes’s offices at (202)225-5541 or (203)333-6600 or go online here.

For more information or with any questions, please email Patrick Malone at Patrick.malone@mail.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-himes-bill-to-designate-weir-farm-southwest-connecticuts-first-national-historical-park-heads-to-the-presidents-desk,"Murphy, Blumenthal, Himes Bill To Designate Weir Farm Southwest Connecticuts First National Historical Park Heads To The Presidents DeskRead More",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and
U.S. Representative Jim Himes (CT-4) on Monday applauded the news that
their legislation to change the Weir Farm designation from Weir Farm National
Historic Site to Weir Farm National Historical Park is headed to President
Trump's desk. The change will better reflect Weir Farm's size and importance, while
improving recognition of the site and preserving its cultural landscape. Weir
Farm is only one of two congressionally-approved National Park Service sites in
Connecticut. It is also one of just two sites in the National Park Service
dedicated to visual arts. The legislation passed the U.S. House of
Representatives on Thursday and passed the U.S. Senate on Sunday. This
is great news. I wish more people in and around Connecticut knew about Weir
Farm, and designating it as a NationalHistorical Park will help ensure
that the park can expand all that it has to offer. Since its restoration in
2014, we've witnessed an uptick in visitors and more public programming
underscoring the importance of preserving art and culture. I'm proud to have
worked with Senator Blumenthal and Congressman Himes to get this across the
finish line,said Murphy. This
significant victory ensures the preservation of Connecticut's cultural
landscapeand artistic heritage. TheNational Historical Park
designation recognizes Weir Farmas more than just home of J. Alden Weir.
The new designation recognizesthe multiple historical homes, art studios,
and farm buildings that continue to be a destination that inspires generations
of artists. I am proud that Weir Farm will finally receive the designation it
deserves through the passage of this legislation, and will continue to support
efforts to preserve Connecticut's history. said Blumenthal.  Walking
through Weir Farm in any season is a quintessentially Connecticut experience, said
Himes. It's a beautiful, extensive site that gives visitors perspective
into an important period in American art, as well as a much-needed space to
reconnect with our natural world. While we work on large government
funding bills and coronavirus relief efforts in Congress, we must never forget
to sustain the arts, protect our natural spaces, and plan for a brighter
future. Americans will soon once again travel the country and explore its
National Parks. Elevating Weir Farm to the status it deserves will help draw
visitors and share the unique beauty and history of Southwest Connecticut. ""The
Friends of Weir Farm are proud to be part of the initiative, along with the
Weir Farm Art Alliance, and Senators Murphy and Blumenthal, as well as
Representative Himes, to propose the re-designation in the U.S. Senate and
House of Representatives to Weir Farm National Historical Park. We believe that
the passage of this bill with itsnew name truly represents the wide range
of cultural, historical and recreational resources that the park offers to the
public,"" Liz Castagna,
the Vice President of the Board of Friends of Weir Farms NHS. Weir
Farm's redesignation as a
National Historical Park will properly reflect
its acreage, number of historic themes and artists, natural and cultural
resources, and the national impact of the Weir Farm site. Weir Farm National
Historic Site has grown to approximately 75 acres since the original
designation in 1990. This expansion has allowed artists and historians to
better understand Weir's enduring artistic legacy. The redesignation will
reflect the increased visitation, collaboration with partners, and public
programming since the park was restored and reopened in 2014. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-congress-reaching-covid-19-relief-deal,Murphy Statement on Congress Reaching COVID-19 Relief DealRead More,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement on Congress Reaching COVID-19 Relief Deal 
        
        December 21, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTON U.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.)on Sunday released the following
statement after the Senate reached a deal on COVID-19 relief: For months,
Americans buckling under the weight of COVID-19 begged Congress for help. But up until a few days ago,
Mitch McConnell refused to even come to the negotiating table. It shouldn't
have taken until the last possible minute to fund the government and to provide
some measure of relief to those in need, said Murphy. While $900 billion in COVID-19 relief is not enough,
this package will help a lot of people in Connecticut and across the country.
This new funding will help small businesses keep their doors open. It will help
our schools operate safely. It will help those who have lost their
jobs.And it will help make sure that we're able to distribute the vaccine
as quickly as possible to people in our state. I will support it when it
reaches the Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=42A68ABB-229E-4BD3-8090-4D79319DAD4E,House Passes Himes Bill to Designate Weir Farm as National Historical Park,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC— Today, the United States House of Representatives passed a bill authored by Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) that would change the designation of Weir Farm in Wilton and Ridgefield from a National Historical Site to a National Historical Park.

The change will better represent Weir’s complex cultural, natural and recreational offerings to the public. This prestigious status will also reflect the increased visitation, collaboration with partners, and public programming since the park’s original designation.

“Walking through Weir Farm in any season is a quintessentially Connecticut experience,” said Himes. “It’s a beautiful, extensive site that gives visitors perspective into an important period in American art, as well as a much-needed space to reconnect with our natural world.”

""The Friends of Weir Farm are proud to be part of the initiative, along with the Weir Farm Art Alliance, and Congressman Himes, to propose the redesignation in the House of Representatives to Weir Farm National Historical Park,” said Liz Castagna, Vice President of Friends of Weir Farm. “We believe that the passage of the bill for this new name truly represents the wide range of cultural, historical and recreational resources that the park offers to the public.""

The Weir Farm National Historical Site Establishment Act of 1990, which made the farm Connecticut’s first national park, focused on preserving a limited part of the Weir property. Now, the vast holdings include more than 15 buildings spread out over nearly 75 acres including a vast collection of American art, orchards and landscapes, trails, gardens, miles of stone walls, and Weir Pond.

Since its designation as a Historic Site, many of the park’s landscapes and resources have been rehabilitated and restored to their original state, which inspired artists like Julian Alden Weir, Mahonri Mackintosh Young, and Charles Sperry Andrews.

“While we work on large government funding bills and coronavirus relief efforts in Congress, we must never forget to sustain the arts, protect our natural spaces, and plan for a brighter future,” continued Himes. “Americans will soon once again travel the country and explore its National Parks. Elevating Weir Farm to the status it deserves will help draw visitors and share the unique beauty and history of Southwest Connecticut.”

Passage of a Senate version led by Connecticut Senators Blumenthal and Murphy is expected as early as tomorrow.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=5C85A1F2-EC99-4773-875E-D2006433648F,"Congressman Jim Himes announces $722,653 in Assistance to Firefighters Grants for Southwest Connecticut Fire Departments",2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that four fire departments in Southwest Connecticut will receive Assistance To Firefighters Grants (AFG) totaling $722,654 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The grants, awarded to the Bridgeport, Fairfield, Oxford, and Shelton Fire Departments, will ensure Southwest Connecticut fire departments have the training and resources they need to provide life-saving services.

“Public investment in our fire departments will improve the safety of our community for years to come,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “The brave men and women who staff our fire departments deserve the most up-to-date equipment and training to save lives and keep themselves safe. I’m happy to see federal funding protecting the life and safety of Southwest Connecticut residents.”

“The department has seen record turnover and many of our newer Officers (Lieutenants and Captains) are new in their role,” said Chief Thode, Fire Chief of the Bridgeport Fire Department. “This grant will allow us to train our officers in everything from Firefighter safety, leadership, management skills even report writing. The continued support and advocacy of Congressman Himes allows Bridgeport Firefighters access to some of the top levels of training that they would not normally have access to. Along with Sen Blumenthal and Murphy, the Connecticut Fire Service is truly fortunate to have such an active and effective Federal Delegation.”

“The Fire Act Grant for these Automatic External Defibrillators and Cardiac Compression Devices ensures that wherever you are in Fairfield, you will never be more that 4 minutes away from the best pre hospital care possible,” said Denis McCarthy, Fire Chief of the Fairfield Fire Department. “Our Firefighters are trained and equipped to provide the absolute best chance of a positive outcome for those who suffer a trauma or medical emergency. We are grateful to Congressman Himes for his continued support of the Fire Act Grant program. In this case that support translates to saving lives.”

“The personal protective equipment provided by the AFG- S award will help to ensure that our 256 volunteer firefighters of the Shelton Fire Department will continue to be well protected as we adapt to all challenges placed upon America’s first responders,” said Francis T. Jones III, Fire Chief of the Shelton Fire Department. “Today’s, fire service requires an all hazard response team. As a team the Shelton Fire Department and Echo Hose Ambulance responds to fires, rescues, hazardous materials incidents, technical situations, natural disasters, and now pandemics. As we do each and every day our combined emergency services shall continue to meet these challenges to assist our community by the support of our elected local, state and federal leadership all working together to support America’s fist responders of Fire, EMS and Police.”

According to FEMA, the Assistance To Firefighters Grant works to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations. Click here to learn more about AFG.

Fire Department

AFG Grant Amount

Bridgeport

$601,727

Fairfield

$53,483

Oxford

$6,714

Shelton

$60,729

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-quigley-introduce-legislation-to-protect-presidential-records-enhance-presidential-transition-process-to-promote-accountability-and-national-security,"Murphy, Quigley Introduce Legislation To Protect Presidential Records, Enhance Presidential Transition Process To Promote Accountability And National SecurityRead More",2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONFollowing reports that the outgoing Trump administration is destroying presidential records and ignoring the law when using non-official electronic devices to conduct official business,U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.)on Thursday introducedthe Promoting Accountability and Security in Transition (PAST) Act, to clarify and enhance existing law with regards to presidential transition and presidential records.Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05)introduced the companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. It's been over a month since Joe Biden and Kamala Harris won the election, and President Trump still has yet to concede. Even more troubling are reports that his administration is destroying presidential records and refusing to share national security information with the transition,said Murphy.The American people see that the process is broken and that it is time for reform. Our legislation clarifies and enhances existing laws related to presidential transitions and presidential records by putting in safeguards and transparency to ensure the paper trail that documents the actions taken by this and future administrations cannot be swept under the rug with impunity. It also establishes real consequences for the destruction of Presidential Records for the first time. This should be a no-brainer for Republicans and Democrats who care about our country's national security and the peaceful transfer of power to support. This bill ensures that all presidential records are documented, archived, and preserved for the historical record,said Quigley, co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Transparency Caucus.It is imperative that we push for commonsense legislation like this to hold elected officials accountable for what they do and say, including on social media platforms. This is about building more government accountability and transparency not only for the outgoing administration but for every administration. This bill goes a long way toward pluggingsome of the holes in the Presidential Records Act that have placed historically valuable Presidential records at risk. The American public should not have to wait until a President has left office to learn of problems with that President's record keeping practices. This bill addresses that issue by tasking the Archivist and the Office of Administration with yearly inspectionsthat will identify problems while there is still an opportunity to correct them. Just as significantly, the bill ensures that complete copies of electronic messages will be preserved by requiring the preservation of the metadata -- the who, what, and when -- that is associated with the messages. As someone who has litigated for years over the failure of multiple administrations to comply with their obligations under the Presidential Records Act, I fully and enthusiastically endorse this bill, which protects our nation's history and our ability to learn from the past,said Anne Weismann, Founder and Executive Director, Campaign for Accountability, and former Chief Counsel and Chief FOIA Counsel, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). At a time when the nation's presidential records are in a state of unprecedented uncertainty during the Trump-Biden transition, Senator Murphy's PAST Act of 2020 is a timelybill that will provide stronger Congressionaloversightof the White House's compliance with the Presidential Records Act. We applaud Senator Murphy's leadership in protecting the public's right to know by requiring both the White House and the Archivist to prioritize proper preservation of presidential records,said Lisa Rosenberg, executive director of Open The Government. The Promoting Accountability and Security in Transitions Act of 2020 is an important and timely bill that will put in place strong requirements to ensure that the records, including digital communications, of every President are accounted for and properly secured as the property of the American public. The second key provision in the legislation, amending the Presidential Transition Act, will ensure that the President-elect and members of office staff designated by the President-elect will receive access to, at a minimum, summaries of national security information (including documents, videos, audio, and briefings) created by the previous administration in as soon as possible after the date of the general elections held to determine the electors of President and Vice President,said Patrice McDermott, Director, Government Information Watch. Other endorsements can be foundhere. Specifically,Promoting Accountability and Security in Transition Actincludes three parts: 1.Presidential Records Act, which: Requires the President to receive written guidance from the Archivist before destroying any records and make this guidance publicly available; Requires the Archivist to inspect White House records management, training, and standard operating procedures on a biannual basis; Allows judicial review of access restrictions to Presidential Records and allows a Congressional Committee Ranking Members to request exemptions to access restrictions after a President's term in office; Requires the Archivist to provide regulations for documenting records created on non-official electronic messaging accounts (e.g. WhatsApp), preserving social media messaging (e.g. Twitter), and narrow exemptions for using applications with automatic deleting functionalities (e.g. Signal, Confide); and Requires the President to prohibit White House staff from using non-official electronic messaging accounts that cannot be easily copied or forwarded to official accounts and all messaging accounts with automatic deleting functionalities. 2.Presidential Compensation and Libraries, which: Establishes consequences for former Presidents that destroy Presidential records, including restricting post-presidency salary and staff, prohibiting public funding for Presidential Library construction, and preventing presidential records from being entrusted to a Presidential Library or Museum regardless of whether public funds were used for construction; and Requires former Presidents to cover the entire cost of digitizing records for display in a Presidential Library. 3.Presidential Transitions Act, which: Ensures president-elects receive comprehensive and timely briefings on vital national security information during a transition; Requires the General Services Administrator to independently ascertain the President-elect within six calendar days of an election and provide sources to any plausible winning candidates to support continuity of government; and During a transition, requires the Archivist to work with the Federal Transition Coordination to monitor records preservation compliance and report any compliance issues to Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/hayes-led-bill-support-surviving-families-passes-house-end-year-veterans,HAYES LED BILL TO SUPPORT SURVIVING FAMILIES PASSES HOUSE IN END-OF-YEAR VETERANS’ PACKAGE,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, the House passed H.R. 7105, which includes bipartisan legislation sponsored by Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) to support Connecticut veterans and their families.
The package includes provisions from Congresswoman Hayes' Surviving Families Benefits Expansion Act, H.R. 8559, which will lower the age at which a surviving spouse may receive Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) at the point of remarriage. DIC is a tax-free monthly benefit paid to eligible survivors of military servicemembers who died in the line of duty, or survivors of servicemembers whose death resulted from a service-related injury or disease. Under current law, a surviving spouse under 57 years old who remarries cannot receive these critical benefits.
The bipartisan package also includes the Deborah Sampson Act, which Congresswoman Hayes cosponsored. The legislation will eliminate barriers to care and services many female veterans encounter and will help ensure the VA can address the needs of women veterans. This groundbreaking legislation will undoubtedly help improve the lives of countless veterans and their families.
Veterans in Connecticut and throughout the country have sacrificed so much for our nation. This historic legislation will ensure they receive the proper care and services from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and that their families receive the benefits they need, said Congresswoman Hayes. 
I applaud the bipartisan work that went into this package to strengthen our commitment to assist veterans and their families, and address overdue changes needed to support women veterans. I l will continue to dedicate my time in Congress to serving these heroes and their families, and look forward to President signing this legislation into law. 
###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 yearsand was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=1A366E6F-1E0C-4B4E-9798-C56D407111A3,HAYES LED BILL TO SUPPORT SURVIVING FAMILIES PASSES HOUSE IN END-OF-YEAR VETERANS’ PACKAGE,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the House passed H.R. 7105, which includes bipartisan legislation sponsored by Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) to support Connecticut veterans and their families.

The package includes provisions from Congresswoman Hayes’ Surviving Families Benefits Expansion Act, H.R. 8559, which will lower the age at which a surviving spouse may receive Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) at the point of remarriage. DIC is a tax-free monthly benefit paid to eligible survivors of military servicemembers who died in the line of duty, or survivors of servicemembers whose death resulted from a service-related injury or disease. Under current law, a surviving spouse under 57 years old who remarries cannot receive these critical benefits.

The bipartisan package also includes the Deborah Sampson Act, which Congresswoman Hayes cosponsored. The legislation will eliminate barriers to care and services many female veterans encounter and will help ensure the VA can address the needs of women veterans. This groundbreaking legislation will undoubtedly help improve the lives of countless veterans and their families.

“Veterans in Connecticut and throughout the country have sacrificed so much for our nation. This historic legislation will ensure they receive the proper care and services from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and that their families receive the benefits they need,” said Congresswoman Hayes.

“I applaud the bipartisan work that went into this package to strengthen our commitment to assist veterans and their families, and address overdue changes needed to support women veterans. I l will continue to dedicate my time in Congress to serving these heroes and their families, and look forward to President signing this legislation into law.”

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-meets-with-xavier-becerra-president-elect-bidens-nominee-to-lead-the-department-of-health-and-human-services,"Murphy Meets With Xavier Becerra, President-Elect Bidens Nominee To Lead The Department Of Health And Human ServicesRead More",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Meets With Xavier Becerra, President-Elect Biden's Nominee To Lead The Department Of Health And Human Services 
        
        December 16, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health,
Education, Labor and Pension Committee, on Wednesday met virtually with
President-elect Joe Biden's nominee to be Secretary of Health and Human
Services, Xavier Becerra. The two discussed the importance of a coordinated,
science-driven approach to tackling COVID-19. They also spoke about the need to
protect and expand the Affordable Care Act, improve access to mental health
services, and strengthen U.S. engagement as a leader on global health. I've
known Xavier Becerra a long time and I can't think of a better person to lead
HHS during this critical moment, said
Murphy. Xavier has been one of the leading defenders of the Affordable Care
Act, and I know he is committed to helping make sure that everyone in this
country has access to health care they can afford. He is a principled leader
who knows how to build consensus and bring people together. That is going to be
absolutely vital as we make our way out of the COVID-19 pandemic and navigate a
nationwide vaccination program. Murphy
continued: Xavier and I also talked about how we can address some of the
longstanding issues in our health system that COVID-19 has brought to the
forefront  access to comprehensive health coverage options and the serious
barriers people face when seeking mental health treatment. I look forward to
working with him and the Biden administration to tackle these issues. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/hayes-statement-8th-year-remembrance-sandy-hook-elementary-school-shooting,HAYES STATEMENT ON 8th YEAR OF REMEMBRANCE OF SANDY HOOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SHOOTING,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statementacknowledging the 8thyear of remembrance of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting:
Eight years removed, the pain and scars of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting have never left us. Today, we take time to pause and remember the 20 innocent children and 6 selfless educators whoselives were taken that day.
As a mother and educator, I cannot imagine losing my children, a student, or colleague in such a way. Those parents, siblings, and family members, who lost a loved one remind me to persevere and keep faith.Today we honor, remember, and reflect - tomorrow we get back to work ensuring our schools and communities remain safe.
My heart is with the Newtown community,today and every day. We are Connecticut strong.
###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8F522BF1-A13E-4A07-ADE2-AE65C08A0AD1,HAYES STATEMENT ON 8th YEAR OF REMEMBRANCE OF SANDY HOOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SHOOTING,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement acknowledging the 8th year of remembrance of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting:

“Eight years removed, the pain and scars of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting have never left us. Today, we take time to pause and remember the 20 innocent children and 6 selfless educators whose lives were taken that day.

“As a mother and educator, I cannot imagine losing my children, a student, or colleague in such a way. Those parents, siblings, and family members, who lost a loved one remind me to persevere and keep faith. Today we honor, remember, and reflect - tomorrow we get back to work ensuring our schools and communities remain safe.

“My heart is with the Newtown community, today and every day. We are Connecticut strong.”

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7C5D98BD-27C8-4286-8F2D-636C47E1CEA3,"Congressman Himes announces $500,000 grant to Oxford to prevent school shootings and improve campus security",2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that the Town of Oxford will receive a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Community Oriented Policing Services. The grant will create a Security Operations Center with three personnel monitoring the four campuses during schools hours. Additionally, the grant will also allow for a mass notification system that will allow schools to lockdown in seconds.

“After the heartbreaking mass shootings in Newtown, Parkland, Santa Fe and others, we must take additional security measures to keep our children safe,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “These new security protocols will keep intruders from entering any of the four Oxford schools. Additional resources for monitoring school campuses will also prevent bullying or illegal activities from taking place on campus. I’m glad federal dollars are going towards keep Oxford students safe.”

""I thank the Oxford Board of Education, Board of Finance, Board of Selectman, and of course Congressman Himes for prompt action to address this security upgrade to protect our school children. We will all continue to be vigilant to ensure and enhance school safety,"" said Selectman George Temple.

According to the Town of Oxford, these funds will be used for their school security project, which will include the implementation of a mass notification system as well as the development of a Security Operations Center. These enhancements, which complement additional ongoing security measures, will improve system-wide communication and monitoring capabilities within the Oxford school system. Students, parents, faculty, community leaders, and first responders will benefit from real-time information in emergency situations.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-the-8th-anniversary-of-sandy-hook,Murphy Statement On The 8th Anniversary Of Sandy HookRead More,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On The 8th Anniversary Of Sandy Hook 
        
        December 14, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Monday released the following statement
on the eighth anniversary of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary
School: It's
hard to describe the grief I feel today. Eight years after the tragic day, I'm
reminded how important it is to hold your loved ones closer and to be kinder to
the people around you,
said Murphy. But where there's grief, there's hope. I carry the memory of
those children with me every day as I fight in Congress to change our country's
broken gun laws. I continue to be inspired by the advocates in Newtown and
across this country who won't stop fighting to make this world a gentler, safer
place for our children and our communities. Murphy
continued: On this day, I encourage everyone to take time to do an act of
kindness in their communities. The arc of our fight to change the status quo is
long, but the progress we have made over the years shows the growing strength
of our movement. The advocates of change are so powerful in their cause that
they won't take no for an answer. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-senate-passage-of-fiscal-year-2021-defense-authorization-bill,Murphy Applauds Senate Passage Of Fiscal Year 2021 Defense Authorization BillRead More,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Applauds Senate Passage Of Fiscal Year 2021 Defense Authorization Bill 
        
        December 11, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction,
Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, on Friday applauded the final passage
of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The
legislation authorizes the appropriation of funds for the Department of Defense
and military construction that will help keep Connecticut families safe and
support the state's defense manufacturing jobs. Murphy worked across the aisle
to ensure bipartisan support on several key amendments that were included in
final passage, including the Murphy-Schumer authored Law Enforcement Identification Act, which requires federal law enforcement officers
and members of the armed forces to clearly identify themselves and their agency
or service while they are engaged in responding to civil disturbance in the
United States. As a
member of the Appropriations Committee, I'm proud to secure these wins for
Connecticut manufacturers and our national security. The bill also includes my
legislation to require federal law enforcement officers to identify themselves
and their agency when they are engaged in crowd control. The presence of
unidentified officers this past summer during peaceful protests for racial
justice should never be tolerated in this country, said Murphy. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-the-senate-floor-murphy-blasts-republicans-continued-efforts-to-overturn-2020-election-results-and-warns-of-the-dangerous-consequences-for-our-democracy,"On The Senate Floor, Murphy Blasts Republicans Continued Efforts To Overturn 2020 Election Results And Warns Of The Dangerous Consequences For Our DemocracyRead More",2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Friday took to the U.S. Senate Floor to
blast Republicans' continued efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election
results and warn of the dangerous consequences for our democracy. You
cannot, at the same time, love America and hate democracy. But as we speak, a
whole lot of flag-waving Republicans are nakedly trying to invalidate millions
of legal votes because that is the only way that they can make Donald Trump
president again. It is the only way they can make Donald Trump president again
because he didn't win. Our democracy, the citizens of this country, chose Joe
Biden to be President of the United States. He won the popular vote in a
landslide and he won the electoral college by a substantial margin, said Murphy. Murphy
continued: [T]here are way too many high profile Republicans who march
around the world giving speeches about the importance of protecting democracy
who are awfully silent when the attempted overthrow is happening in their own
country. Nobody can stay silent right now. It is
true this effort to overthrow the 2020 election is not going to bear fruit. And
so it is tempting to just work on the other things and to ignore this lawsuit
and these attempts because this time it won't be successful. But all of this
effort, supported by so many mainstream Republicans, it's setting a precedent,
and it's creating conditions that could easily overthrow the next election. And
if the Republican Party just allows for this assault on the 2020 election to
continue, no matter whether it ultimately is successful, then by 2022 or 2024,
I'm telling you, it might be too late to save our democracy, Murphy concluded. This week,
ahead of the upcoming Electoral College meeting, Texas Attorney General Ken
Paxton filed a lawsuit to overturn the 2020 presidential election results.
Attorneys General in 17 other states and 106 Republican members of Congress
support this dangerous lawsuit. A full
transcript of Murphy's remarks can be found below: Colleagues,
we're in the middle of a whole bunch of really important debates right now
about the National Defense Authorization Act, trying to avoid a shutdown by the
end of the day, and, of course, trying to find a path forward to authorize
funding to continue to combat this pandemic. But it is worth noting today that
an effort to overturn the 2020 election continues and, in many ways, is picking
up steam. And we need to talk about the consequences for the nation. Democracies
are really fragile things. Ours only continues because we make choices so that
it can remain. Our government really isn't the piece of paper upon which the
Constitution is written, our government, where voters, citizens, not kings, or
monarchs or oligarchs decide who governs, it's made possible by a series of
decisions that we make every single day to put the rule of law ahead of our own
political power, or the position of our political party. That is
the history of America. Our decision, the democracy, comes first. Not the
perpetuation of our own political power. Right now, the most serious attempt to
overthrow our democracy in the history of this country is underway. Those who
are pushing to make Donald Trump president for a second term, no matter the
outcome of the election, are engaged in a treachery against their nation. You
cannot, at the same time, love America and hate democracy. But as we speak, a
whole lot of flag-waving Republicans are nakedly trying to invalidate millions
of legal votes because that is the only way that they can make Donald Trump
president again. It is the only way they can make Donald Trump president again
because he didn't win. Our democracy, the citizens of this country, chose Joe
Biden to be President of the United States. He won the popular vote in a
landslide and he won the electoral college by a substantial margin. But now,
Republicans have decided, not all Republicans, but far too many, have decided
that if democracy can't keep Trump in power, then democracy ceases to have any
real purpose. Because to Republicans who are supporting these continued efforts
to invalidate the election, their loyalty is to Donald Trump. Not to the nation
or our system of government, their number one goal is to keep Trump in power.
And if that means throwing out the election, turning America into something
other than a democracy in which the voters get to choose their leaders, then so
be it. Here's
the latest. This lawsuit is supported by 106 House Republicans. That's more
than halfof the
Republicans who serve in the House of Representatives. It is supported,
apparently, by many Senate Republicans as well. This lawsuit is an attempt to
overthrow democracy. And you can laugh at it, you can scoff at it, you can
suggest that it has no chance to prevail if it reaches the nine supreme court
justices, but let's be clear about what it argues. And let's be clear about the
consequences for so many elected officials at the highest level of American
government supporting this lawsuit. What it
argues is that the votes in four states, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Wisconsin and
Michigan should be thrown out because Trump didn't win. And it asks for the
state legislatures controlled by Republicans to appoint electors instead. Now
there are a bunch of vague, unsourced claims about voter fraud in this lawsuit,
but there's not a shred of evidence for these claims. And all of the individual
lawsuits trying to allege voter fraud, trying to create contests about how laws
were modified regarding voting in these states have all lost. Importantly,
the lawsuit doesn't ask for another canvas or another count. It just asks for
the votes in these states to be disregarded. And for Republican politicians in
these states to make the choice instead. Now already in Pennsylvania, the
state's legislature's Republican leadership has expressed support for
appointing electors that would choose Donald Trump. Let me say that again. This
lawsuit says that in Pennsylvania, the state legislature should choose the
electors, not the people. And in Pennsylvania, the leadership of the Republican
Party in the legislature has expressed support for appointing electors that
will choose Donald Trump instead of Joe Biden despite the fact that Joe Biden
won the state of Pennsylvania by 80,000 votes. 80,000 votes. This isn't 500
votes like Florida in 2000. 80,000 votes. The
request of this lawsuit is clear. Throw out the votes in these four states that
Joe Biden won and just give the election to Donald Trump instead. Now some of
my Republican Senate colleagues, they send out pretty mealy mouthed statements
supporting the general right to count every legal vote and to contest illegal
votes. But that's not what this lawsuit is about. It just asked for the whole
vote to be thrown out. It asks for every vote in these states to be
disregarded. Other
Republicans who haven't signed on to this suit suggest that it won't succeed in
the Supreme Court, it's a sideshow, so why really care? Well, we have to care.
The majority of Republican members of Congress believe that Donald Trump should
be named president again despite the fact that he lost, and lost by a lot. It
wasn't close in the popular vote or the Electoral College. We should care
because this attempt to overthrow democracy, it won't be successful this time,
Joe Biden is going to be president, but it plainly shows us the direction that
the Republican Party is heading. And they control governments in a lot of
really important states and jurisdictions. The
majority of Republicans in the House of Representatives apparently believe that
if a Democrat wins an election, it's illegitimate by definition. There is no
evidence of fraud or stolen votes or vote rigging in the 2020 election. You can
be mad about the fact that states allow for mail-in voting, but Republican and
Democratic states allow for it. You can be angry that the majority of those
votes this year were cast in favor of Joe Biden in many of these states, but in
previous years, the majority of mail and votes have been favoring Republicans. But no
matter the lack of evidence about voter fraud, Republicans, including the
President, have just come to the conclusion that Democrats must have cheated
because Democrats are evil, and lots of people show up to Trump rallies and
there's just no way that all those people could have voted for Joe Biden
because Fox News and Newsmax and RT, they tell us that Trump is just so
popular. Now this
mindset won't win out this time. Joe Biden's going to be president. But what
about next time? What if the next presidential election is closer? What if 2024
comes down to just one state? It's a lot easier to steal one state. What if
these radical anti-Democrats get control of more secretary of state offices or
election boards and there's a close race for governor in 2022, or the US
Senate, and these same people who support the Texas lawsuit decide again, that
there's no way a Democrat could have won our state and so, by definition, it's
got to be fraudulent despite the lack of evidence. So let's just throw out the
result and choose aRepublican. I know
that this kind of sounds far-fetched, but this is exactly what this lawsuit is
asking for. It is asking for the vote to be thrown out in four states, Donald
Trump to be named president, regardless of the fact that he lost, with no
evidence of any voter fraud or illegal behavior. And there's the majority of
the US House of Representatives Republican caucus who supports this. So it
stands to reason that this one all of a sudden stopped being their position two
years ago, and four years ago. If this
happens and the voters' will is thrown out, not just in a presidential
election, but in a governor's race or a US Senate race or a congressional race,
then our country is no longer a democracy. If that happens, the American
experiment is done. It's over. And that's why this moment is so frightening, no
matter the fact that it's not going to be successful in an attempt to keep
Donald Trump barricaded in the White House. That's why more Republicans than
just a handful in this country need to be standing up to this lawsuit and this
claim that the votes should be thrown out. Because
you have a majority of Republicans in this country who believe that Joe Biden
won the election fraudulently when there's no evidence that that happened. And
that belief as it festers and it grows, this idea that if Democrats win, it has
to be because of fraud, it does eventually lead to the voters' will being
overturned. And that is the end of American democracy. Don't just assume that
this system is going to be around for another 240 years. This is a miracle that
we have held this together thus far. It is just a series of choices that we
make. The
Constitution itself is not strong enough, is not durable enough, without all of
us making a decision that even if we lose an election, even if that means that
temporarily our political power is lessened, that we accept the result. Because
what matters most in this country is what the voters choose, not how it affects
us. It's not enough to just punt here and say the president's got a right to
go to court, let's just see what happens.' Because when the overthrow of
Democracy is beginning and you're sitting on the sidelines, you're a
collaborator. And there
are way too many high profile Republicans who march around the world giving
speeches about the importance of protecting democracy who are awfully silent
when the attempted overthrow is happening in their own country. Nobody can stay
silent right now. There are
a lot of other important things happening in the Senate today. I'm engaged in
those as well. It is true this effort to overthrow the 2020 election is not
going to bear fruit. And so it is tempting to just work on the other things and
to ignore this lawsuit and these attempts because this time it won't be
successful. But all
of this effort, supported by so many mainstream Republicans, it's setting a
precedent, and it's creating conditions that could easily overthrow the next
election. And if the Republican Party just allows for this assault on the 2020
election to continue, no matter whether it ultimately is successful, then by
2022 or 2024, I'm telling you, it might be too late to save our democracy. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-leahy-menendez-van-hollen-wyden-statement-on-sentencing-of-walid-fitaihi-in-saudi-arabia,"Murphy, Leahy, Menendez, Van Hollen, Wyden Statement On Sentencing Of Walid Fitaihi In Saudi ArabiaRead More",2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy, Leahy, Menendez, Van Hollen, Wyden Statement On Sentencing Of Walid Fitaihi In Saudi Arabia 
        
        December 10, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), along with U.S. Senators Patrick Leahy
(D-Vt.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Chris
Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), on Thursday
released the following statement on the sentencing of an American citizen, Walid Fitaihi, in Saudi
Arabia: We are
appalled that Walid Fitaihi has been sentenced to six years in prison by a
Saudi court on politically motivated charges. We have repeatedly called for the
release of Dr. Fitaihi since his arrest in 2017, and supported Secretary
Pompeo's direct appeals to Saudi authorities to resolve his case.
Unfortunately, the Saudi government has ignored these bipartisan appeals,
despite clear implications for the U.S.-Saudi relationship, the senators said. The
senators continued: Fitaihi is a dual American-Saudi citizen who was
sentenced, in part, for the supposed crime of obtaining U.S. citizenship
without permission from the Saudi government. He was also sentenced for
offending foreign countries' with his peaceful speech on Twitter, where he
posted messages in support of democratic protests across the Arab world in
2011. The Saudi government should immediately release Dr. Fitaihi, lift the
travel ban on his family, and drop these baseless and politically motivated
charges. The persecution of American citizens, which also includes the ongoing
detention of Salah al Haidar and Bader al Ibrahim, is unacceptable. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B39218F6-8ABA-4E70-B767-995DFE9282A1,House Passes National Defense Authorization with Himes Support,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC – Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the conference report accompanying the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA funds defense and related programs and is usually one of the largest pieces of legislation that Congress passes each year. This year, the bill includes $732 billion in discretionary spending for our national defense for FY 2021, including approximately $69 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO).

“Providing funding for our troops and our national defense is one of our most important responsibilities in Congress,” said Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04). “This bill ensures the security of Americans, provides the investments in innovation and industry to keep us ahead of our rivals, and supports Connecticut workers. Finally, we honor our ideals by making our armed forces more diverse, more responsible to our veterans and soldiers, and more able to face future threats.”

Himes sponsored an amendment that was included in the bill that would increase Congressional oversight of foreign nationals investing in the United States.

“National security oversight is one of Congress’s most essential functions,” said Himes. “Defending against financial incursions is essential because any vulnerability can be exploited. This bipartisan amendment tightens our oversight mechanisms and closes loopholes, showing that Congress is acting in comprehensive defense of national interests.”

The NDAA also contains significant funds for Connecticut-based companies, employing thousands of workers. This includes:

$8.7 billion for the procurement of 93 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters.

$898 million for procurement of 60 UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters built by Sikorsky.

$800 million for procurement of 7 new CH-53K Marine heavy-lift helicopters built by Sikorsky.

$909 million for procurement of 16 HH-60W Air Force search and rescue helicopters built by Sikorsky.

$589 million for procurement of 5 VH-92A aircraft, which will be the next-generation presidential helicopter.

$6.8 billion for the Virginia class submarine program, an increase of $2.6 billion over the budget request to restore a second submarine in 2021.

$4 billion to initiate construction of the new Columbia-class submarine. The Navy recently announced the award of $10.3 billion in contracting options for the first two submarines in the program to Electric Boat.

$2.8 billion for continued development of the B-21 Raider. Pratt & Whitney is a partner in the next-generation long range strike bomber program.

$2.7 billion for 15 KC-46A tanker aircraft, which are powered by Pratt & Whitney engines.

C-130H Modernization – $134 million for additional upgrades for engines, propellers and other systems on the aircraft.

$7 million to continue development of the KMAX Unmanned Helicopter and unmanned logistics capabilities with the CQ-24A helicopter manufactured by Bloomfield-based Kaman Aerospace.

$20 million to support training programs to help support expansion of the skilled submarine workforce.

$10 million to support partnerships with academic institutions that conduct research on undersea unmanned warfare and energy technology, such as the National Institute for Undersea Vehicle Technology, a collaborative program between the University of Connecticut and the University of Rhode Island.

In addition, the NDAA contains provisions that provide for a three percent pay raise for military personnel, invests in pandemic preparedness, increases diversity in the armed forces, and removes Confederate names from American military facilities.

President Trump has made threats to veto the bill, at first because of the inclusion of the provision to remove Confederate names, and later because it did not include an unrelated provision that would remove protections that currently exist for social media platforms from being held liable for user-generated content. Congressman Himes stands ready to support our troops and military and override the President’s veto should he attempt to follow through on the threat.

For more information or with any questions, contact Patrick Malone at Patrick.malone@mail.house.gov.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-scott-applaud-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-address-challenges-posed-by-food-allergies,"Murphy, Blumenthal, Scott Applaud Passage Of Bipartisan Bill To Address Challenges Posed By Food AllergiesRead More",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONToday,U.S. Senators Chris
Murphy (D-Conn.)andTim Scott (R-S.C.)applauded the
Senate passage oftheFood
Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act.The
senators led seven of their senator colleagues, includingRichard Blumenthal
(D-Conn.), introducing this bill to addresses the growing
challenges posed by food allergies, which affect tens of millions of Americans.
The bill modernizes our nation's labeling laws by codifying sesame as a major
food allergen and calls for a comprehensive report on food allergies in the
United States that will assist future governmental and private-sector efforts
to monitor, study, and combat these allergies. Approximately 1.5 million
Americans are allergic to sesame. ""For
years, parents in Connecticut have told me about the challenges associated with
sesame allergiesabout how dangerous it is for them or their children to go to
a grocery store or eat in the school cafeteria and not know if their food might
hurt them. They helped me see it was inexcusable that federal law didn't
require sesame labeling on food products, like it does for other allergens.
That is why I was proud to work across the aisle with Republican Senator Tim
Scott to draft legislation to finally require sesame labeling, and I'm excited
to have it pass the Senate today. I look forward to this legislation passing in
the House and heading to the president's desk,""said Murphy. This is a
big win for kids with life-threatening sesame allergies  and an immense relief
for their parents. Over the years, I've heard from a number of Connecticut
residents about the terrifying near-death experiences they or their children
had with sesame because it was hiding in the food they ate. I've fought for
years in their name to ensure that this major allergen is marked clearly on
food, just as peanuts and dairy are. I urge my House colleagues and the
president to act swiftly in making this bill law, before this deadly allergy
takes another person's life. said Blumenthal. ""With
approximately 32 million Americans living with food allergies, it's important
for us to take targeted steps to address the growing challenges posed by food
allergiesandto protect those who are vulnerable,""said Scott.
Nationwide,caring for children with food allergies costs an average of
$25 billion annually,andcan pose extreme hardships on low  and
middle income families.I'm glad that this bipartisan legislationpassed
the Senateand hope that we can continue to make progress for Americans
affected by this issue."" 
The FASTER Act would:
 
Codify
sesame as a major food allergen under the FD&C Act, effective for products
introduced into interstate commerce on or after January 1, 2023; and  
Direct
HHS, within two years of enactment, to submit a report to Congress on
opportunities and challenges related to food allergy prevention, risk
reduction, cures, data collection, and diagnostic and therapeutic development. The
report would also discuss a potential framework for modifying the federal list
of major food allergens in the future. 
In addition to Murphy, Blumenthal, and Scott the bill was also cosponsored by
Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jeanne
Shaheen (D-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI).
A one-pager on the legislation can be foundhere.
The full version of the bill text can be accessedhere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-failed-passage-of-joint-resolutions-of-disapproval-on-trump-administrations-latest-proposed-arms-sale,Murphy Statement On Failed Passage Of Joint Resolutions Of Disapproval On Trump Administrations Latest Proposed Arms SaleRead More,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On Failed Passage Of Joint Resolutions Of Disapproval On Trump Administration's Latest Proposed Arms Sale 
        
        December 09, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign
Relations Committee, on Wednesday released the following statement after the
United States Senate failed to pass the bipartisan joint resolutions of
disapproval on the Trump administration's latest proposed arms sale to the
United Arab Emirates (UAE): Rushing through massive sales of Reaper drones and our most
advanced fighter jets to the Middle East just makes defense companies richer
and international security poorer. There is no doubt that the UAE's recent
normalization agreement with Israel is a big deal, and there is a level of arms
transfer that could make sense for an important partner in the region. But the
Emiratis' recent behavior in Yemen and Libya where U.S. weapons were misused
and given to radical militias, on top of their active and growing defense
relationships with China and Russia, should give everyone pause, said Murphy. Murphy
continued: While I am disappointed the Republican-controlled Senate
failed to block these sales, I am eager to work with the incoming
administration to take a closer look at each of these sales before any
transfers are completed. I also look forward to working with President-elect
Biden's team on reforms to the arms sale process to include greater scrutiny of
recipient government's past use of U.S. arms and potential human rights
concerns. Last
month, Murphy along with U.S.
Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), and Rand Paul (R-Ky.) announced
the introduction of four separate Joint Resolutions of Disapproval rejecting
the Trump administration's effort to provide the United Arab Emirates with
precedent-setting weapons systems. The bipartisan resolutions come after the
Trump administration formally notified Congress of its intention to sell over
$23 billion in Reaper drones, F-35 joint strike fighter jets, munitions, and
air-to-air missiles to the UAE. Murphy joined Crooked
Media's Pod Save the World and Yahoo
News' Skullduggery to discuss the sale last week. Earlier this year,
Murphy also welcomed
the Abraham Accords. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-the-floor-of-the-senate-murphy-speaks-in-support-of-resolutions-to-block-arms-sales-to-the-uae,"On The Floor Of The Senate, Murphy Speaks In Support Of Resolutions To Block Arms Sales To The UAERead More",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator
Chris Murphy
(D-Conn.) on
Wednesday blasted the Trump administration's proposed arms sales to the United
Arab Emirates (UAE) on the U.S. Senate floor ahead of the vote on his joint
resolutions of disapproval which seeks to block the sales. On the unprecedented nature of this
proposed arms sale, Murphy said: [O]n
this sale, in particular, the consultative process was really important.
Because this sale is as big and as hairy and as complicated as you get. We are,
for the first time, selling F-35s and MQ-9 Reaper drones into the heart of the
Middle East. We've never done it before. On the arms sale spiral in the Middle
East, Murphy said: Today
we may be selling the F-35s and the MQ-9s to the UAE, but the Saudis are going
to want it, the Qataris have already requested it,
and it just fuels Iran's interest in continuing to build up its own military
programming. On the UAE's failure to
comply with the arms embargo to Libya and violating our end-use violations,
Murphy said: We are talking
about selling the UAE the most lethal, most advanced armed drone technology in
the world today. And as we speak, UAE is in violation of the arms embargo to
Libya, fueling that civil war, specifically sending drones into that theater
I'm not here to say that we shouldn't be in the security business with UAE.
There are a lot of important common projects, but the question is, with a
country that is part of the problem more often than part of the solution in
Yemen, a country that is in existing violation of an arms embargo in Libya, a
country that has just within the last several years transferred our weapons to
Al Qaeda-aligned militiaswithout resolving those issues, is this the moment to
be selling for the first time ever F-35s, armed drones into the heart of the
Middle East? Murphy also discussed his
concerns about the UAE's active defense relationships with China and Russia: The UAE has pretty deep and
complicated defense relationships with China, Russia, and Chinese and Russian
companies. Query whether we can be absolutely certain that the technology
onboard those fighter jets, those drones are going to stay in the right hands.
There arguably is no other country on the list for the F-35s that does as much
business with China and Russia as the UAE does. On the impact pausing this
sale could have on the Abraham Accords, Murphy said: [T]here is no threat to the accords
between UAE and Israel unwinding if we simply press pause on this sale until
those questions are answered. I do want to be in business with the UAE. I think
they're an important defense partner. But I think there's far too much at stake
with the sale of these weapons right now to rush it through. And I don't think
there's any downside risk if we were to say not now, until we get all of our
T's crossed and all of our I's dotted. Last month, Murphy along with U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), and
Rand Paul (R-Ky.) announced
the introduction of four separate Joint Resolutions of Disapproval rejecting
the Trump administration's effort to provide the United Arab Emirates with
precedent-setting weapons systems. The bipartisan resolutions come after the
Trump administration formally notified Congress of its intention to sell over
$23 billion in Reaper drones, F-35 joint strike fighter jets, munitions, and
air-to-air missiles to the UAE. Murphy joined Crooked
Media's Pod Save the World and Yahoo
News' Skullduggery to discuss the sale last week. Earlier this year,
Murphy also welcomed
the Abraham Accords. A full transcript of
Murphy's remarks can be found below: Mr. President I'm on the floor today
to speak to resolutions upon which we will begin voting today regarding arms
sales proposed by the administration to the United Arab Emirates. And I'm on
the floor today to ask my colleagues to support these
resolutions of disapproval upon two grounds: One, the protection of
congressional prerogative, and two: a question of U.S. national security. First, let me cover the
question of congressional prerogative. We have traditionally debated arms sales
here on occasion, and the reason why we don't have constant debates in this
body on arms sales, the reason why we don't have resolutions on every sale that
is noticed by the administration is because we have built into our practice an
ability for the Senate to consult with the administration beforehand on a
bipartisan basis. Over the years since the
passage of the law allowing for Congress to have a role in the sale of arms to
foreign nations, administration after administration, Republicans and Democrats
has observed a period of consultation with Congress in which the administration
comes to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, comes to the House Foreign
Relations Committee, presents the reasons for the sale, and then addresses
concerns raised, often, in a bipartisan manner, by Republicans and Democrats.
Again, this has happened in both Democratic and Republican administrations with
Democratic and Republican congresses, and often that consultative process
results in issues that Congress has being resolved so that you never have to
have a vote on the Senate floor. Something different happened with this sale. The administration was so
desperate to rush through the sale before the end of their administration that
they blew through the consultation process. It just didn't happen. There was no
ability for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to weigh in on this
particular sale. It was rushed to notice, and our only option was to bring it
before the full Senate. Now, under any
circumstances, I would argue that the Senate should stand up for our right to
have a role. The reason that we built in this consultative process was because
the Senate was actually unhappy with the amount of input it had decades ago,
and was threatening to dramatically expand its oversight role on arms sales,
and instead, a deal was worked out in which the administration said they would
come for this consultation. Now, it appears that those consultations are no
longer the practice. That reduces our role as
a foreign policy making body. And remember, we have abdicated all sorts of
responsibilities over the years when it comes to what should be a co-equal
responsibility to set the broad direction of U.S. foreign policy with the
executive branch, this would be yet another chip away at Congress'
participation in the setting of U.S. national security policy. I'm not sure
we'll ever get it back. But on this sale, in
particular, the consultative process was really important. Because this sale is
as big, and as hairy, and
as complicated as you get. We are, for the first time, selling F-35s and MQ-9
Reaper drones into the heart of the Middle East. We've never done it before.
There are only 14 countries that currently operate the F-35, and almost all of
them are NATO allies. Turkey was on the list for a
period of time but because they ended up making a choice to go with the Russian
missile defense system, they were taken out of the program. So the partners
that remain are the ones that you would suspect: Britain, Italy, the
Netherlands, Australia, Denmark, Canada. There are even fewer
countries that we have sold Reaper drones to: Australia, France, Italy, the
Netherlands, Spain, UK, and India. This is the first time that we would sell
these incredibly lethal, incredibly complicated technologies into the heart of
the Middle East. A region that, arguably, is not in need of more weapons. What we risk doing here
is fueling an arms race. Today we may be selling the F-35s and the MQ-9s to the
UAE, but the Saudis are going to want it, the Qataris have already requested
it, and it just fuels Iran's interest in continuing to build up its own
military programming. But more specifically to
this sale, we have to ask
ourselves whether the UAE is ready for this technology or whether their
behavior over the past several years makes them an unworthy partner for this
set of highly complicated U.S. defense technology. I will stipulate, as I think
every member of this body will, that the UAE is often a very important ally of
the United States. There is an important cooperative relationship that exists
between the United States and the UAE, we share counterterrorism information
together, we were both involved in the fight against ISIS, we worked together
to counter Iranian influence in the region, and of course, the UAE's
recognition of Israel is good for the United States as well. But for as many places as we
cooperate with UAE, there are many points of division. And those points of
division often involve the use of U.S. military technology against the
interests of the United States. The UAE has been, for years, involved in a
civil war in Yemen that is terrible for U.S. national security interests. Now,
they may not be as involved as they were a couple years ago, but they are still
a barrier to peace. They still refuse to make humanitarian contributions to
help the situation on the ground. So far in 2020, $0 from the UAE put into the
UN appeal to try to fight off starvation and cholera inside Yemen. At one point, they took U.S.
equipment and they handed it to extremist militias inside Yemen. That's open
source reporting. The UAE copped to it when the
reporters asked them whether they had done it. They gave our equipment to
Salafist militias inside a theater of war. Other reports that they were
dropping American made TOW missiles out of the sky into areas of that country
that were controlled by Al Qaeda-aligned elements. And they are, right now, as we speak, in
violation of the Libya arms embargo. The UN panel of experts
came to the conclusion that the majority of arms transfers into Libya, to the
Haftar armed forces, were either from Jordan or the United Arab Emirates. The
panel found that the UAE was in repeated non-compliance with the arms embargo.' And guess what's on the list of the
weapons that the UAE was transferring into Libya in violation of a U.S.
supported arms embargo: armed drones. We are talking about selling the UAE the
most lethal, most advanced armed drone technology in the world today. And as we
speak, UAE is in violation of the arms embargo to Libya, fueling that Civil
War, specifically sending drones into that theater. And so, I'm not here to say that we
shouldn't be in the security business with UAE. There are a lot of important
common projects, but the question is, with a country that is part of the
problem more often than part of the solution in Yemen, a country that is in
existing violation of an arms embargo in Libya, a country that has just within
the last several years transferred our weapons to Al Qaeda-aligned
militiaswithout resolving those issues, is this the moment to be selling for
the first time ever F-35s, armed drones into the heart of the Middle East. One last caution. The countries that
I mentioned on this list are by and large, in business with the United States
and not with China and Russia. The UAE has pretty deep and complicated defense
relationships with China, Russia, and Chinese and Russian companies. Query
whether we can be absolutely certain that the technology onboard those fighter
jets, those drones are going to stay in the right hands. There arguably is no other country on
the list for the F-35s that does as much business with China and Russia as the
UAE does. In fact, as I mentioned, we pulled the F-35 program from Turkey,
because they are involved with Russia on a very complicated and important
ground defense system. And we're just learning about the nature of the
partnerships that the UAE has with the Chinese and the Russians. It stands to reason that this would
be one of the issues that a consultative process with Congress would resolve.
And it also stands to reason that we could probably come to a conclusion during
that consultative process. If the UAE really wants these weapons, wants to be
the first country in the heart of the Middle East to get the F-35 or the Reaper
drones, then I assume they would want to be able to assure Congress and the
administration that there's no chance of technology transfer into the wrong
hands. That's what the congressional consultative process would have gotten us,
but it didn't happen in this case. And so we are stuck with this vote, a means
for Congress to stand up for its right, to participate in this question of arms
sales. And believe me, my Republican colleagues are going to want that right.
When a Democratic administration comes into office, you're not going to want to
send a signal today, to the Biden administration, that they don't have to
consult with you as the majority party, potentially, in 2021. But if you vote
against these resolutions, then you're essentially saying: the Biden
administration doesn't need to consult with Congress either. They probably
will, because they want to do the right thing. But anybody who votes against
these resolutions is essentially endorsing an end around of Congress by any
administration, Republican or Democratic. But it's also important to say that
on a policy grounds, it's not time to do these sales. There are too many
outstanding questions about who the UAE transfers weapons to, what they're
doing in Libya, why they haven't been part of the solution in Yemen, and what
their relationship is with some of our most important adversaries around the
globe. Until we satisfy the answers to those questions we should not move
forward with this sale. And finally, there is no threat to
the accords, between UAE and Israel unwinding if we simply press pause on this
sale until those questions are answered. I do want to be in business with the
UAE. I think they're an important defense partner. But I think there's far too
much at stake with the sale of these weapons right now to rush it through. And
I don't think there's any downside risk if we were to say not now, until we get
all of our T's crossed and all of our I's dotted. Let's stand up for Congress's
prerogative on the sale of arms to foreign countries, let's slow down a process
that has been rushed, potentially to the great detriment of U.S. national
security. Let's support these resolutions of disapproval this afternoon. Thank you, Mr. President. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/hayes-statement-waterbury-police-officer-shot-during-call,HAYES STATEMENT ON WATERBURY POLICE OFFICER SHOT DURING CALL,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement after a Waterbury police officer was shot while responding to a stolen vehicle investigation:
I am heartbroken by the shooting of a Waterbury Police officer while responding to an emergency investigation. My thoughts are with him and his family during this incredibly difficult time.
I have been in contact with Police Chief, Fernando Spagnolo, to offer any assistance my office can provide during such a difficult time. As the wife of a police officer, I fully understand the risk that comes with the job, however these cowardly acts put our entire community at risk and further highlight the need to protect our officers. I pray for a speedy recovery for the officer.
###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2C6BC4A9-7E3C-4233-B3E0-9095D143D334,HAYES STATEMENT ON WATERBURY POLICE OFFICER SHOT DURING CALL,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement after a Waterbury police officer was shot while responding to a stolen vehicle investigation:

“I am heartbroken by the shooting of a Waterbury Police officer while responding to an emergency investigation. My thoughts are with him and his family during this incredibly difficult time.

“I have been in contact with Police Chief, Fernando Spagnolo, to offer any assistance my office can provide during such a difficult time. As the wife of a police officer, I fully understand the risk that comes with the job, however these cowardly acts put our entire community at risk and further highlight the need to protect our officers. I pray for a speedy recovery for the officer.”

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=62F1C1CF-F775-4EEC-8A5A-5A01D4D3D178,"Congressman Himes announces $4,690,100 grant to Stamford Hospital to assist in the cost of COVID-19 response",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that through Stamford Hospital, Stamford Health will receive a $4,690,100 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The grant will reimburse Stamford Hospital for their emergency response to COVID-19, including an alternative treatment site, drive through testing, designated staff, PPE and plexiglass for health care workers, as well as additional hospital beds, tents, and ventilators. Additionally, the grant will ensure the hospital can continue to effectively respond to the pandemic in the months ahead.

“Ensuring our health providers are well-funded is essential to combatting this pandemic and keeping our community safe,” said Himes. “When our community was hit hard in the first few months of this virus, organizations like Stamford Health were crucial in treating patients and saving lives. As we prepare for a surge in cases, it’s more important than ever that hospitals can handle all patients who need treatment. Additionally, health care workers are our community's heroes, so it is essential they have the protection they need to keep themselves safe.”

“The $4.69 million FEMA grant is very meaningful to Stamford Health,” said Kathleen Silard, President & CEO, Stamford Health. “Now more than ever, our healthcare system needs to be financially strong to care for the communities we serve. Stamford Health is well prepared to handle the rise of COVID-19 cases. We’ve also taken many steps to ensure the safety of our staff and patients as we continue to provide routine healthcare services. We are not out of the woods just yet, but I am hopeful for the future. We are deeply appreciative of the federal government, Congressman Himes and our US Senators who have provided critical assistance throughout this pandemic.”

According to Stamford Health, the award provides $4,690,100.70 in federal funding to Stamford Hospital for Emergency Protective Measures as a result of FEMA-DR-4500-CT (COVID-19 Pandemic Disaster Declaration). The total cost of Stamford Health’s response is $6,253,467, and the hospital is being reimbursed $4,690,100.70, which is 75% of the cost.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FC4ACAE9-CE51-490E-ACCB-64E665BA8836,"Himes, Lowey Applaud Inclusion of Byram River Project in WRDA",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Washington, DC – Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 (WRDA). The bill authorizes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to begin navigation, flood control, storm damage, and other water-related infrastructure projects. Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) and House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Nita Lowey (NY-17) supported the bill.

Included in WRDA is the authorization of the Byram River Basin Flood Risk Management project. The Byram River runs for approximately 14 miles through Lowey and Himes’ districts in Southeast New York and Southwest Connecticut. Because it is prone to damaging flooding, local and federal officials have called for years for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to look at ways to mitigate or prevent flooding. The plan approved as part of WRDA proposes removing and replacing two bridges in Port Chester, New York in order to reduce restrictions to river flow.

""Chairwoman Lowey and I are excited that this year’s WRDA authorizes the Byram River Basin Flood Risk Management project, because flooding has been a serious concern for homeowners and businesses alike in Greenwich for decades,” said Himes. “As we continue to see more frequent extreme weather events due to climate change, our coastal areas and rivers that are vulnerable to flooding need their infrastructure updated significantly. This plan will not only provide flood relief, but help efforts to restore the River's habitat to a more natural environment and improve resiliency for future storms.”

“Congressman Himes and I are pleased that flood prevention infrastructure along the river will be updated through the WRDA,” said Congresswoman Lowey. “Recent history has shown us the devastating impact the Byram River can have on our communities when it floods, and the effects of climate change could only worsen that impact. Authorizing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to begin flood mitigation projects on the Byram River is an important step in protecting our homes, businesses and environment.”

For more information or with any questions, contact Jane Richter at Jane.richter@mail.house.gov (Lowey) or Patrick Malone at Patrick.malone@mail.house.gov (Himes).

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-meets-with-antony-blinken-president-elect-bidens-nominee-for-secretary-of-state,"Murphy Meets With Antony Blinken, President-Elect Bidens Nominee For Secretary Of StateRead More",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Meets With Antony Blinken, President-Elect Biden's Nominee For Secretary Of State 
        
        December 07, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign
Relations Committee, on Monday met virtually with President-elect Joe Biden's
nominee for Secretary of State, Antony Blinken. The two discussed the need to
rebuild the U.S. Department of State, how the U.S. can revitalize diplomacy in
the post-Trump era, and restoring Congress's role in foreign policy. Murphy
released the following statement after their discussion: I've
said from the start that Tony Blinken is an A+ choice for Secretary of State
because of his experience and his willingness to make sure progressive ideas
are included in President-elect Biden's foreign policy agenda,said Murphy.Ive
been talking to Tony throughout the campaign and since the election
aboutmy belief that U.S. foreign policy has become too sclerotic. We have
become overly reliant on sanctions to punish our enemies and arm sales to
reward our partners, and we need to build a more effective toolkit to make
ourselves more competitive on the world stage. The State Department is going to
need a dramatic budget increase in order to do that. We had a good discussion
today about this, and the many pressing foreign policy issues we will face as
Trump leaves office. Murphy
continued:Repairing relationships abroad, rejoining international
agreements and tackling major global issues like climate change and trade will
be a Herculean task, and I know Tony can meet these challenges head on. I look
forward to continuing to work together to make sure our progressive ideas are
heard and that Congress plays a positive role in rebuilding an effective and
strategic foreign policy toolkit to meet the challenges we face today. Murphy also
raised the need to de-securitize relationships in the Middle Eastspecifically
focusing on the latest proposed arms sale to the United Arab Emirates; how the
United States can take a harder line with United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia
to end the war in Yemen; the need for a new Asia Pacific trade agreement to
effectively counter China; and the need for a coordinated, global response to
tackle COVID-19. Last month,
MurphypraisedBlinken's nomination for Secretary of State.
Murphy also joinedCrooked Media's Pod Save the WorldandYahoo New's Skullduggeryto discuss Blinken's
nomination. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-menendez-durbin-colleagues-introduce-senate-resolution-in-support-of-thailands-pro-democracy-movement,"Murphy, Menendez, Durbin, Colleagues Introduce Senate Resolution In Support Of Thailands Pro-Democracy MovementRead More",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONThis
past week, U.S. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a
member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee joinedU.S.
Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.),Dick Durbin (D-Ill.)and
six of their senate colleagues introducing a Senate Resolution to underscore
the United States' commitment to human rights, democracy and the rule of law in
Thailand. The senators' resolution follows recent demonstrations by
Thailand's pro-democracy movement, which have been met with violence and
repression by the country's monarchy and government. Joining
Murphy, Menendez and Durbin in introducing the resolution
wereSenatorsBen Cardin (D-Md.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Chris
Coons (D-Del.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.) Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.),and
TammyDuckworth (D-Ill.). Democracy at home and
abroad leads to more stability and security for all. The Thai government is at
a critical point right now in which they must refrain from using violence
against pro-democracy protestors. I'm glad to join my colleagues in sending a
clear message to our ally Thailand to respect the will of the people they
govern and dissuade them from declaring a military coup like they did in 2014,
said Murphy. At a time
when democracy is under assault from so many quarters it is critical that the
United States Senate stand with the democracy movement in Thailand, said
Menendez. Thailand's reformers are not seeking a revolution. They
are simply yearning for democratic changes to their country's political system,
for freedom of speech and assembly, and for Thailand to be a part of the
community of democratic nations. With this resolution, we are sending a clear
message of solidarity and support for freedom of speech and freedom of assembly
in Thailand, and urge all parties not to engage in needless violence or
harassment. The United States need to make clear to the Thai people and the
international community that our alliance and long-term partnership with
Thailand will continue to be based on shared interests and values, and mutual
respect for democracy, basic human rights and the rule of law. Thailand
has been an important American ally  one that stepped up to help its Burmese
neighbors in their struggle for democracy. Today the world is watching as
the Thai people raise their voices to reassert the same democratic aspirations
that we Americans hold so dear,Durbin said. As the people
of Thailand debate changes to their constitution, their political future should
be defined through peaceful dialogue, not violence, harassment, or
persecution. In particular, the voices of the many brave Thai students
and youthdeserveattention and respect. As a
Thai-American who fought to protect the right to peacefully protest here at
home, I know that both the long-standing, strong relationship between the U.S.
and Thailand as well as every individual's inalienable democratic rights are
critically important to uphold and defend,said Duckworth.Thailand
is a strong partner with the U.S.both in terms of our shared national security
priorities and economic relationsand the Thai people have a proud history of
democratic reform. I urge Thai leadership to listen to the people and respect
the democratic principles at the heart of the government they've worked so hard
to form. A copy of
the Senators' resolution can be foundHERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-sham-elections-in-venezuela,Murphy Statement On Sham Elections In VenezuelaRead More,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On Sham Elections In Venezuela 
        
        December 07, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S. Senator
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations
Committee, on Monday released the following statement on the sham elections in
Venezuela: To nobody's surprise, the
Maduro regime won the sham elections on Sunday in Venezuela. Nothing about
these elections were free and fair, and without any credible electoral path on
the horizon, I worry that the situation will continue to deteriorate as the
Trump administration's maximum pressure' campaign continues to deliver
nothing,
said Murphy. Freeing political prisoners and widening humanitarian access
must be top of mind for the international community as we push for meaningful
progress in Venezuela. We should also explore some sanctions relief in exchange
for a return to negotiations, rather than solely relying on feckless sanctions
that clearly aren't meeting U.S. national security objectives. The only way out
of this crisis is a negotiated solution, and the United States needs to commit
to diplomacy to achieve that goal. In January 2019, Murphy
and Ben Rhodes, former deputy national security advisor during the Obama
administration wrote a Washington Post op-ed making the case that
Democrats should stand for democracy in Venezuela. Later in 2019, Murphy also proposed an
oil-for-peace program for Venezuela as a means to address the food crisis
there and reverse the administration's disastrous miscalculations in a Univision
op-ed. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-in-the-new-york-times-dealbook-its-time-we-require-a-background-check-on-every-gun-purchase-in-america,Murphy In The New York Times' Dealbook: It's Time We Require A Background Check On Every Gun Purchase In AmericaRead More,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy In The New York Times' Dealbook: It's Time We Require A Background Check On Every Gun Purchase In America 
        
        December 04, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S. Senator
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.)on Fridaypublished an op-edas part
of the New York Times's Dealbook: How to Fix America in which hecalled for Congress to finally pass a universal
background checks bill. In 2019, MurphyintroducedtheBackground Check Expansion Actin the Senate
to expand the federal background checks to all gun sales.  ""This
epidemic of gun violence is a choice. We know how to reduce this carnage, but
we live with a policy paralysis caused by a small industry with outsized
political power. For the past 30 years, the gun lobby has successfully blocked
action to reduce gun violence. But thankfully, their power is quickly fading, and
Congress is closer than ever to passing lifesaving reforms, Murphy wrote. Murphy continued: There
is no single law change that will prevent every gun death or mass shooting. But
the data points to one particular intervention with an eye-popping return on
investment. Passing a national requirement that no gun be sold without the
purchaser passing a background check will save thousands of lives. States that
have already implemented universal background checks, including my home state
of Connecticut, have seensignificant drops in gun homicides. The good news is that a federal
universal background law is wildly popular. More than 90 percent of all
Americans support this approach, including85 percent of gun ownersandan overwhelming majorityof N.R.A. members. That makes universal background checks
more popular than baseball or apple pie (insome polls, at least). By making this simple and
urgently needed change in law, Congress can save thousands of lives,
Murphy concluded. Click here to read the full piece. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/us-foreign-policy-has-become-too-dependent-on-sanctions-to-punish-our-enemies-and-arms-sales-to-reward-our,US Foreign Policy Has Become Too Dependent On Sanctions To Punish Our Enemies And Arms Sales To Reward OurRead More,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations
Committee, joined Yahoo News's Skullduggery this week to discuss the
administration's proposed sale to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and
progressive foreign policy under the incoming Biden-Harris administration. On the proposed arms sale to the United
Arab Emirates, Murphy said: [W]e've
never sold this kind of technology into the region. That's the first thing to
think about here. Second is, ask yourself whether what the Middle East is
missing today is weaponized Reaper drones that can shoot Hellfire missiles with
zero risk of human life loss to the operator of that drone. What we know is
that the UAE has a really troubled history with respect to how they use U.S.
weapons. They've used our weapons to target and kill civilians inside Yemen.
Very recently, they transferred weapons we had sold them, equipment we had sold
them, to extremist militias inside Yemen. They're in violation of the
international arms embargo on Libya. And so there's a lot of bad behavior. Murphy continued: And the question is, why reward
the UAE with this massive unprecedented arms sale when we can't be sure how
they're going to use those weapons, or whether they're going to actually stay
in the hands of the UAE?' So that, in and of itself, I think is a reason to
press pause on the sale. But we also have to understand that it fuels a more
general arms race in the region. I mean, if we really care about Iran's
ballistic missile program, then why are we continuing to give Iran more reason
to build more effective and more powerful ballistic missiles by selling record
numbers of arms to Iran's enemies in the region, the Saudis and the Emiratis.
So this just makes no sense from a security standpoint. We should be in the
security business with the UAE, but we don't have to sell them this number of
arms and this serious a level of arms. On holding the Saudi's accountable in
the incoming administration and prospects for peace in Yemen, Murphy said: I've said from the beginning that we
should be suspending our arms sales to the Saudis until we have some degree of
accountability, at least a clear admission from the Saudis as to what happened
[with the murder of Jamal Khashoggi]. On Yemen, I certainly think that our arms
sale should be conditional on the Yemen war coming to a close or at least a
temporary peace deal being signed. But I actually think that it just takes
active U.S. participation at the secretary level, and we may be able to unlock
a peace agreement.Part of the problem over the last four years has been
that Tillerson and Pompeo have not been actively involved in trying to settle
that conflict. I think there's a peace deal there for the taking. And so if
Secretary Blinken gets directly involved, which I think he will, I think we can
come up with a resolution there that makes the Saudis and the Emiratis happy,
that gives the Houthis some role in the government while ending outright
hostilities. And so that's an issue where I just think we have to work harder
at it. On resetting the U.S.-Saudi
relationship, Murphy said: Don't
sell them arms until we have some amount of accountability. If [Mohamed bin
Salman] is going to be the leader of the nation, we should tell him that our
continued participation and security relationship with Saudi Arabia is
dependent on the way in which he uses those weapons. And let's watch what he
does in places like Syria and Yemen moving forward. On his hopes for progressive foreign
policy with the new administration, Murphy said: I know Tony well and he's been good
to keep in close contact with me over the course of the campaign. Obviously, I
worked very closely with him when he was Deputy Secretary of State. What I love
about Tony is that he's open to new ideas. He's an experienced diplomat. He's
been around for a long time. Murphy continued: I'm of the school that American
foreign policy has become a bit scleroticthat we've become way too dependent
on these arms sales to reward our friends and sanctions to punish our
adversaries. I think we've got to really develop a whole new toolkit that
largely exists outside of the Department of Defense; new tools that State and
USAID have in the propaganda space, the energy space, the anti-corruption
space. And so I'm hopeful that Blinken is going to come to Congress and say
listen, dramatically, plus up my non-military tools, my smart power tools, so
that I can actually go toe to toe with Russia and China' who, by and large, are
exerting influence outside of the deployment of brigades and missile systems.
So that's what I like about Tony and that's what I'm looking forward to: sort
of being able to rethink the American foreign policy toolkit outside of what we
give secretaries of states and Departments of Defense and presidents today. Click Here to Listen to the Skullduggery
Episode ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/hayes-statement-rep-rosa-delauro-being-elected-appropriations-committee,HAYES STATEMENT ON REP. ROSA DELAURO BEING ELECTED APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE CHAIRWOMAN,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement after the House Democratic Caucus elected Representative Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) to serve as the House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman in the 117th Congress:
Congratulations to our very own Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, who was elected chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee for the 117thCongress.
I know Congresswoman DeLauro will work on the committee to prioritize federal spending bills that provide adequate funding for health, education, childcare, infrastructure and other investments that stabilize families, improve communities and reflect our values.
She will be a tremendous chairwoman and I look forward to continuing to work together to bring much needed funding back to our state. Congratulations, Chairwoman, Connecticut is behind you.
###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 yearsand was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=605DAF66-C24B-44CD-88C7-77020E760EEB,HAYES STATEMENT ON REP. ROSA DELAURO BEING ELECTED APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE CHAIRWOMAN,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement after the House Democratic Caucus elected Representative Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) to serve as the House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman in the 117th Congress:

“Congratulations to our very own Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, who was elected chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee for the 117th Congress.

“I know Congresswoman DeLauro will work on the committee to prioritize federal spending bills that provide adequate funding for health, education, childcare, infrastructure and other investments that stabilize families, improve communities and reflect our values.

“She will be a tremendous chairwoman and I look forward to continuing to work together to bring much needed funding back to our state. Congratulations, Chairwoman, Connecticut is behind you.”

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-klobuchar-colleagues-encourage-national-institute-of-mental-health-to-prioritize-study-of-mental-health-of-children-and-young-adults-during-pandemic,"Murphy, Blumenthal, Klobuchar, Colleagues Encourage National Institute Of Mental Health To Prioritize Study Of Mental Health Of Children And Young Adults During PandemicRead More",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONThis
week, U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal
(D-Conn.) and 12 of their Senate colleagues joined U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar
(D-Minn.) urging the
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to prioritize efforts to study and
understand the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of children and
young adults. Recent reports have highlighted a substantial increase in anxiety and
depression among children and young adults since the beginning of the pandemicwith
one study finding that nearly one-third of high school students
surveyed reported feeling unhappy or depressed in recent months. Earlier this
month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data showing that the proportion of children's emergency room
visits related to mental health had increased significantly during the
pandemic. In the letter to NIMH, the Senators called on Director Joshua Gordon to provide information on current
steps the agency is taking to study this issue as well as encourage
prioritization of these efforts to better understand both the short-term and
long-term consequences of the pandemic on mental health in children and young
adults. The letter also asks if the agency has any specific initiatives
underway to study whether there is a connection between the increased reliance
on and use of social media platforms and mental health among teenagers and
young adults. No one is immune to the
stress that has accompanied the pandemic, and many aspects of this public
health crisis have been demonstrated to adversely affect the mental health of
children and young adults. Over 13 million people have had coronavirus in our
country, and studies have shown that children are more likely to report mental
health issues if they personally know someone infected with the coronavirus. A
record rate of 22 percent of children had an unemployed parent in the early
months of the pandemic, and research shows that children are more likely to
report mental health problems when a parent or guardian loses a job, the senators wrote. In addition to Murphy, Blumenthal, and Klobuchar,
the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Maggie Hassan
(D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.),
Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Tim Kaine
(D-Va.), Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Debbie
Stabenow (D-Mich.). The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
supports this letter. Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below. Dear Director
Gordon: We write to request
information about the efforts the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is
taking to study the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the mental health of
children and young adults and to encourage NIMH to prioritize these efforts to
improve the ability of policymakers to respond to this pressing matter. Recent reports have
highlighted the increased prevalence of anxiety and depression among children
and young adults as the current public health crisis persists. While this
pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health of many Americans, the impact
has been especially severe on teenagers, who rely on friendships and
connections while handling the pressure of high school. One recent study found
that nearly one-third of surveyed high school students reported feeling unhappy
or depressed in recent months, and more than a quarter of those students felt
disconnected from teachers, classmates, or their school community. Earlier this month, the
CDC released data showing that the proportion of children's emergency room
visits related to mental health had increased significantly during the pandemic
 increasing 31 percent for children between ages 12 and 17 from March to October
compared to the same period in 2019. There was also a 24 percent increase in
emergency room visits for children between ages 5 and 11. These troubling
findings only further highlight concerns about the psychological effects that
this pandemic is having on young people, and in particular on adolescents who
are members of historically disadvantaged populations. No one is immune to the
stress that has accompanied the pandemic, and many aspects of this public
health crisis have been demonstrated to adversely affect the mental health of
children and young adults. Over 13 million people have had coronavirus in our
country, and studies have shown that children are more likely to report mental
health issues if they personally know someone infected with the coronavirus. A
record rate of 22 percent of children had an unemployed parent in the early
months of the pandemic, and research shows that children are more likely to
report mental health problems when a parent or guardian loses a job. As the lead federal agency
for research on mental disorders, we respectfully request that you respond to
the following questions: 1.
What initiatives at NIMH are underway to research the mental
health impact of this pandemic on children and young adults, including both the
short-term and long-term consequences? a.
What steps is NIMH taking to ensure your studies cover a range of
communities and populations to account for the different backgrounds and
circumstances of children experiencing symptoms of mental health
disorders? b.
What systems are in place to ensure that these findings are shared
with relevant agencies, Congress, and the public to help inform the decisions
of policymakers? 2.
As social media and online platforms emerge as critical
communication tools during this pandemic, do you have any specific initiatives
underway to study the connection between the increased dependence on social
media and mental health for children and teenagers? If so, please
explain. 3.
Could additional resources be used to facilitate or improve or
accelerate the body of research on the intersection of the pandemic and
children's mental health? If so, please describe. We look forward to hearing
about your research initiatives to protect and improve the health of the
American people, including the mental health needs of the youngest members of
our society. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-congratulates-delauro-on-selection-to-serve-as-the-next-house-appropriations-chairwoman,Murphy Congratulates DeLauro On Selection To Serve As The Next House Appropriations ChairwomanRead More,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Congratulates DeLauro On Selection To Serve As The Next House Appropriations Chairwoman 
        
        December 03, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S. Senator
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate
AppropriationsCommittee, on Thursday congratulated U.S. Representative
Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) on being selected Chairwoman of the U.S. House of
Representatives Appropriations Committee for the117th U.S. Congress. ""Congresswoman DeLauro is a
tireless fighter for Connecticut and the conscience of the House. I'm thrilled that she will be
taking over as chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee, and I look forward
to working with her to continue to fund critical priorities on behalf of the
people of Connecticut,"" said Murphy. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-schumer-applaud-ndaa-inclusion-of-their-legislation-requiring-federal-law-enforcement-officers-to-clearly-identify-themselves-and-their-agencies,"Murphy, Schumer Applaud NDAA Inclusion Of Their Legislation Requiring Federal Law Enforcement Officers To Clearly Identify Themselves And Their AgenciesRead More",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy, Schumer Applaud NDAA Inclusion Of Their Legislation Requiring Federal Law Enforcement Officers To Clearly Identify Themselves And Their Agencies 
        
        December 03, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.)and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck
Schumer on Thursday applauded inclusion of the
Law Enforcement Identification Act, their
legislation that requires unidentified law enforcement officers and members of
the Armed Forces to clearly identify themselves and their agency or service
while they are engaged in crowd control or arresting individuals involved in
civil disobedience in the United States in the
final
FY2021 NDAA. Donald Trump tried to militarize our streets this year by
ordering unidentified federal law enforcement officers to intimidate peaceful
protestors. Regardless of political party, we all should have been appalled at
this massive abuse of power, and I'm glad that Republicans and Democrats agreed
it should never happen again by including the Law Enforcement Identification
Act, which I introduced earlier this year with Leader Schumer, in this year's
NDAA. Protestors are not the enemy, nor are our streets the battlefield, said Murphy. This year, millions of Americans watched in horror as the Trump
administration turned our streets into war zones. President Trump and Attorney
General Bill Barr deployed an army of unidentifiable federal officers in riot
gear to crackdown on peaceful demonstrators exercising their constitutional
rights across the country and treated American citizens like they were an
enemy. The legislation Sen. Murphy and I worked to include in the NDAA puts an
end to this abuse of power and ensures that federal law enforcement is
transparent, identifiable, and accountable, said Schumer.  Last
June as demonstrations against George Floyd's death grew, Attorney
General Barr ordered hundreds of heavily armed federal law enforcement officers
to Washington DC and cities across the country. In many circumstances,
these federal law enforcement officers wore no identify
insignia and refused to identify their affiliation
with law enforcement agencies. In addition to
the legislation, Murphy and Schumer also wrote President Trump demanding that he require all federal
officers engaged in riot control to identify themselves and what agency they
are with. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-discusses-future-of-the-iran-nuclear-deal-administrations-proposed-uae-arms-sale-and-progressive-foreign-policy-priorities-for-next-congress-on-pod-save-the-world,"Murphy Discusses Future Of The Iran Nuclear Deal, Administrations Proposed UAE Arms Sale, And Progressive Foreign Policy Priorities For Next Congress On Pod Save The WorldRead More",2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations
Committee, joinedPodSave
the Worldthis weekto discuss the assassination of a Iranian nuclear scientist and the
future of the Iran nuclear deal in the post-Trump era,the Trump
administration's rushed arms sale to the United Arab Emirates (UAE),
andhis progressive foreign policy goals for the new Congress and incoming
Biden-Harris administration. On the assassination of foreign
leaders andlong-term stability in the Middle East, Murphy said:There's a good reason why we don't
assassinate foreign leaders. Because when we engage in that kind of behavior,
it ultimately lends an authority to that kind of action that can ultimately
boomerang on the United States. There's a reason why we pressed the Israelis to
forego these kind of actions during the eight years of the Obama
administration. And if this is really about trying to
tie the hands of the Biden administration with respect to re-entering the
nuclear agreement, it's absolutely disastrous because there is no path to a
safer Middle East without our ability to restart at least some elements of that
agreement. And so we don't have all the full details, we have not been briefed
inside Congress about this, but if the United States had something to do with
this, it is going to accrue to the detriment of America's security  both in
the short run and in the long run. On the future of the Iran nuclear deal
in the post-Trump era, Murphy said:I don't think the dividing lines on this issue have
fundamentally changed over the last four years. I don't think that there are
Democrats that supported the JCPOA that now would draw a new line. I also don't
think there are a lot of converts to our side. I don't think there are likely
many Republicans that have changed their mind. They want all of these issues to
be litigated. The problem for Republicans is that
they have now had four years to test their theory of the case, right? Donald
Trump came in, obliterated the JCPOA, and articulated the Republican case,
which is that we should ramp up sanctions, sort of blow past the levels that
were in place prior to the JCPOA as a means of getting the Iranians to come to
the table on everything. And Mike Pompeo wrote down what everything was. He had
these 12 demands of the Iranians. He had four years to effectuate this policy.
And he didn't just fail, Pompeo failed miserably. Not only did he not get the
Iranians to the table on any of his 12 demands, the Iraniansgot closer to
a nuclear weapon. They're now two months away rather than 12 months away, they
started shooting American troops inside Iraq  something they weren't doing
when Donald Trump took over. Murphy added:And so while Republicans are going to
object to getting back into the deal, they really don't have a leg to stand on
because we've tried their way and it didn't work. So I think the support exists
certainly within Democratic party for Biden to re-enter the agreement. But
remember, there are two sides here. And the Iranians are also going to ask for
more. The Iranians are going to say well, we want reparations for all the
damage done to our economy once you've walked away.' And we shouldn't be
willing to agree to that, but we should also just understand that it's not just
the United States that's going to be driving a hard bargain if we're back at
the table with the Iraniansthey're going to be driving a hard bargain as
well.  On the Trump
administration'srushed arms sale tothe UAE and dangerous arms race
it is fueling across the Middle East, Murphy said:First, we all have to assume that
there was some invisible ink on the Abraham Accords and that when you reveal it
you find Reaper drones. And so I do think there will be a question as to
whether the UAE feels like it has to make good on its commitments if the United
States doesn't ultimately deliver all of the weapons in the sale. And by the
way, this is a dizzying array of lethal arms that we have never, ever been
willing to send into the Middle East. Why on earth does the Middle East
need Reaper drones, nevermind F-35s, especially when the recipient of these
drones has been regularly participating in the killing of civilians, either by
accident or on purpose inside of Yemen? So I think the briefing that we got
last night, I hope was equally disturbing for Republicans and Democrats. It was
crystal clear that the administration is rushing this sale through and has not
dotted I's and crossed T's, that the Emiratis have all sorts of commitments
they would need to make that they have not yet made in order to receive these
weapons. Murphy continued: And so without getting into the
details of how this sale is structured, it is likely that even if Congress
couldn't overturn this sale before the end of the year, there would be an awful
lot still to do under a Biden administration and that the Biden administration
may have some ability to hold back some of these weapons or place new
conditions on them. It's just impossible to get this large of a sale actually
done and completed before January 20.And my hope is that whether or not
this gets sort of officially noticed before Biden takes office, he'll take a
fresh look at whether there's wisdom in giving this level of arms to a country
that has a history of violating arms embargoes, transferring weapons to Salafist
militias inside the Middle East, and occasionally killing civilians with
weapons we've already given them. OnPresident-elect Joe Biden's
foreign policy and national securitynominees, Murphy said:I love everyone individually who has
been appointed to this team. I don't know all of them well, but those that I do
are smart, they're principled, and many of them are very open to these new
ideas. Specifically, I've talked to Tony Blinken at length about my belief that
we have become, as I said in that thread, sclerotic in the tools that we
deploy. Murphy also discussed his progressive
foreign policy goals in the new Congress and new administration:I mean, today, we essentially sell
weapons to our friends and we sanction our adversaries. And we are sort of left
with a really narrow set of options when we're trying to protect our interests
around the globe. So I've made the case that we should be doubling, at the very
least, the size of our smart power tools, right? Things like hard dollars to
use to make countries energy independent of Russia, real resources to combat
propaganda around the world, not just a couple extra dollars thrown to Twitter
threadsand I think this team is open to it. Would I like to see somebody on the
national security team that has not served in office before? Sure. I think it
serves every president to have some folks at the upper echelon of their
national security team,who come in as real outsiders. But the folks that
have been named so far, I think, are open to some of these new ideas. But I
will add that a lot of this is dependent upon Congress. The president plays the
cards that he has in his hand, and it's the budget that gives the president
cards. So long as Congress keeps approving budgets where we spend 20 times as much
money on defense and intelligence as we do on the State Department and USAID,
there's not much the president can do with that limited toolkit. Click here
to listen to the interview in full. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-murkowski-applaud-final-passage-of-save-our-seas-20,"Murphy, Murkowski Applaud Final Passage Of Save Our Seas 2.0Read More",2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy, Murkowski Applaud Final Passage Of Save Our Seas 2.0 
        
        December 02, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Chris Murphy
(D-Conn.) and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska)
applauded passage of Save Our Seas 2.0, legislation
to combat marine debris. Murphy and Murkowski are both cosponsors of the bill,
which was introduced and led by U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), U.S.
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) and U.S. Senator Bob Menendez
(D-New Jersey). The legislation includes a Murphy-Murkowski drafted provision
that allows for the establishment of a new Genius Prize to fund the development
of materials to replace single use plastic and innovations that remove and
prevent plastic waste. The amount of plastic flowing into our oceans poses a
huge problem. That's why I was proud to work with Senators Sullivan, Whitehouse
and Menendez on the bipartisan Save our Seas 2.0 Act, which will reduce
the amount of plastic in our oceans at home and abroad, said Senator
Murphy. I am also grateful the final bill includes language I drafted with
Senator Murkowski to allow for the establishment of a genius prize to clean up
marine debris and replace single-use plastics. There's more work to do, but
this bill is an important step in the right direction. Alaskans depend on healthy oceans and coastlines to
support the marine resources that so many of our communities depend on. Whether
it's for our fisheries, tourism, or subsistence activitiesmaintaining a
healthy marine environment is essential to our everyday lives. I applaud
Senator Sullivan for his leadership on legislation to eliminate plastic waste
polluting our oceans and am pleased by the Senate passage of Save Our Seas 2.0,
legislation that I cosponsored, said Senator Murkowski. The bill
includes a provision of mine with Senator Murphy to fund a new Genius Prize,
which would reward innovation and creative strategies to combat the growing
issue of marine debris. By creating incentives for the development of projects
to clean up our oceans and shorelines, as well as to replace or improve
single-use plastics, we are taking important steps to ensure healthier ocean
environments for generations to come."" 
Last year, Murphy voted to pass the related Save Our Seas 2.0: Enhanced Global Engagement to Combat
Marine Debris Act out of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee
and Murphy and Murkowski released the following statement after the legislation passed the Senate earlier this year. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-connecticut-innovator-azitra-inc-as-murphys-innovator-of-the-month,"Murphy Highlights Connecticut Innovator Azitra Inc. As Murphys Innovator Of The Month""Read More",2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Highlights Connecticut Innovator Azitra Inc. As Murphy's Innovator Of The Month"" 
        
        November 30, 2020
      
        
          HARTFORDU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced on Monday that innovator Azitra
Inc. in Branford has been named Innovator of the Month. Azitra was founded by
two graduate students at Yale University to combine synthetic biology tools
with microbes naturally found on the skin. They are a clinical-stage medical
dermatology company leveraging the power of the microbiome to address serious
skin diseases and conditions.Azitra is developing both therapeutic and
consumer products and currently has programs in development to treat cancer
therapy associated skin rashes, targeted orphan indications, atopic dermatitis
and overall skin appearance. Azitra
currently has 14 employees in Connecticut and will be adding more research
staff in 2021. They are planning to initiate two clinical trials in 2021 and
have developed innovative strategies for conducting them in the midst of the
COVID pandemic. Azitra expects continued growth during the next year as they
move their lead therapeutic product into clinical trials for cancer-therapy
associated rashes and continue to advance consumer programs focused on
improving skin appearance. Azitra
is a great model of innovation born right in Connecticut. Since 2014, they've
helped diversify the ways in which we treat skin diseases and conditions. Their
initiatives will impact the future of therapeutic research and I am proud to
highlight this important and growing company.said Murphy. ""We
are thankful for the support we have received from Connecticut, especially
during our recent move to Branford,"" said Jeanne Bertonis, Chief Operating Officer of Azitra.
""Azitra expects continued growth during the next year as we move our lead
therapeutic product into clinical trials for cancer-therapy associated skin
rashes and continue to advance our consumer programs focused on improving skin
appearance. Being located in Connecticut has given us great
opportunitiesand we are honored to have been named Innovator of the Month
by Senator Murphy."" Earlier
this year, Azitra formed a collaboration with Bayer AG to develop cutting-edge
skin products using engineered and wild-type bacteria for biotherapeutic,
over-the-counter and cosmetic applications. In addition, the company closed on
a $17 million Series B financing in October. The company says that being in
Connecticut has served them well and that they are excited to be recognized by
Murphy for their innovation. 
Murphy believes entrepreneurship and innovation are the building blocks for a
strong economy. In the U.S. Senate, he has introduced two bipartisan pieces of
legislation to incentivize angel investors to put more money into startup
companies  the Angel Tax Credit Act and the Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act.
Startup companies create an average of 2 million jobs each year. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-op-ed-in-hartford-courant-congress-needs-to-pass-a-covid-relief-bill-to-help-save-connecticuts-small-businesses,Murphy Op-Ed In Hartford Courant: Congress Needs To Pass A COVID Relief Bill To Help Save Connecticuts Small BusinessesRead More,2020-11-28,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Op-Ed In Hartford Courant: Congress Needs To Pass A COVID Relief Bill To Help Save Connecticut's Small Businesses 
        
        November 28, 2020
      
        
          HARTFORDU.S. Senator
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Saturday published an op-ed
in the Hartford Courant encouraging
people in Connecticut to supportsmall businesses on Small Business
Saturday, and renewed his call for Congress to pass a COVID-19 relief bill
aimed at helping small businesses stay afloat ahead of a harsh winter season.
The op-ed was inspired by a listening
session Murphy held with small business owners in Connecticut as
well as a small business walking tour in Middletown last week. Right now, small
businesses across our state are hanging on for dear life, doing everything they
can to keep their doors open and their employees on payroll. These businesses
are cornerstones of our communities, and they keep our state's economy running.
This is no exaggeration  over half of Connecticut workers are employed by
small businesses,Murphy wrote. If I could have had it
my way, Senate Republicans would have let us vote on the HEROES Act, which the
House of Representatives passed over 180 days ago, Murphy continued.
This comprehensive bill would increase the amount of forgivable loans
available to small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program, send
another $1,200 check to Americans, extend unemployment benefits, and provide
states with the resources they need to contain this virus and prepare a massive
vaccination campaign. And while we have our
work cut out for us in Washington, we can all do our part to support local
stores here in Connecticut. Today is Small Business Saturday, a day where we
celebrate, and spend money in, our small business retailers. So I encourage you
to safely support a small business in your community, Murphy added. Murphy concluded:The small
businesses that power our economy need help right now. And that help can come
from the government, in the form of a new stimulus bill, but it can also come
from consumers, who decide to spend their dollars this holiday season at locally
owned businesses. When it comes to supporting our local economy, we all have a
role to play. Click here
to read the op-ed in full. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-booker-democratic-senators-urge-robust-funding-for-state-and-local-governments-to-distribute-covid-19-vaccines,"Murphy, Blumenthal, Booker, Democratic Senators Urge Robust Funding For State And Local Governments To Distribute COVID-19 VaccinesRead More",2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONThis week, U.S. Senators
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and 14 of their
Senate colleagues joined a
letter led by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) urging congressional leaders to provide robust funding to
ensure the swift distribution of COVID-19 vaccines as a part of any upcoming
legislation to address the pandemic. With the recent news of at least one
COVID-19 vaccine possibly being available to be distributed within the next
month, many state and local governments lack the proper funding that is needed
to distribute the vaccine. According to arecent lettersent by the Association of State and
Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and the Association of Immunization
Managers (AIM) to congressional leaders, a minimum of $8.4 billion is needed to
distribute COVID-19 vaccines nationwide. Some experts even estimated that $10
billion is required in order to fundcommunity vaccination clinicsalone. For months, as states, territories,
Indian Tribes, and other localities have been responding to COVID-19 and
working tirelessly to keep their residents safe, they have also been preparing
to undertake one of the largest vaccination efforts in our nation's history,the
senators wrote. To accomplish this, jurisdictions must recruit and train
thousands of health care workers, modernize data systems and registries, stand
up vaccination sites, develop communications and educational materials, and
build and support the infrastructure needed to distribute multiple types and
doses of COVID-19 vaccines, among other activities. To ensure that jurisdictions
throughout the country are well-positioned to immediately, efficiently, and
equitably distribute COVID-19 vaccines as they become available, we
respectfully request that any upcoming legislation to address the pandemic
include robust funding for COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts,the
senators concluded. This letter was also signed by
SenatorsMichael Bennet (D-Col.), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jeanne Shaheen
(D-N.H.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Elizabeth Warren
(D-Mass.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tammy Duckworth
(D-Ill.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tammy Baldwin
(D-Wis.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Tom Carper (D-Del.). Full text of the letter is available here
and below. Dear Leader McConnell, Leader Schumer,
Speaker Pelosi, and Leader McCarthy: As Congress continues to work on
legislation to address the COVID-19 pandemic, we request that you include
robust funding for COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts. With at least one
COVID-19 vaccine candidate likely to be available before or around the new
year, this funding is urgently needed to ensure that Americans have swift
access to these vaccines. For months, as states, territories,
Indian Tribes, and other localities have been responding to COVID-19 and
working tirelessly to keep their residents safe, they have also been preparing
to undertake one of the largest vaccination efforts in our nation's history. To
accomplish this, jurisdictions must recruit and train thousands of health care
workers, modernize data systems and registries, stand up vaccination sites,
develop communications and educational materials, and build and support the
infrastructure needed to distribute multiple types and doses of COVID-19
vaccines, among other activities. In addition to facilitating vaccine
distribution, these activities are also important for building vaccine
confidence, particularly as recent data indicates that more than 40 percent of
Americans would not be willing to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The Department of Health and Human
Services intends to cover many of the costs associated with COVID-19 vaccines,
including the vaccines themselves and ancillary supplies, during the public
health emergency, and so far, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) has distributed $200 million to jurisdictions for COVID-19 vaccination
efforts and plans to distribute an additional $140 million, according to press
reports. Jurisdictions need significant additional funding to successfully
conduct the activities described above and in the interim COVID-19 vaccination
plans that they submitted to the CDC last month. In September, CDC Director
Robert Redfield acknowledged that the agency does not currently have the
resources needed for vaccine distribution and that, These jurisdictions are
not going to be able to put these plans in place without resources. Dedicated
funding for COVID-19 vaccine distribution is especially critical now as
jurisdictions are facing historic budget shortfalls amid the pandemic and
funding for health departments had been inadequate even before the COVID-19
pandemic began. Public health experts have estimated
that a bare minimum of $8.4 billion is needed for COVID19 vaccine distribution
efforts. This includes $3 billion for workforce training and recruitment; $1.2
billion for cold chain management; $1 billion for improvements to vaccination
infrastructure; $700 million for vaccine coverage, effectiveness, evaluation,
and safety reporting; and $500 million for communications efforts, including
building vaccine confidence, combatting misinformation, and conducting outreach
to priority populations. Other experts have estimated that $10 billion is
needed to fund community vaccination clinics alone. To ensure that jurisdictions
throughout the country are well-positioned to immediately, efficiently, and
equitably distribute COVID-19 vaccines as they become available, we
respectfully request that any upcoming legislation to address the pandemic
include robust funding for COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts. Thank you for
your serious consideration of this request, and we look forward to continuing
to work with you on this important issue. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-op-ed-in-nbc-any-further-delays-in-the-transfer-of-power-will-result-in-americans-continuing-to-pay-the-price-for-trumps-gross-mishandling-of-covid-19-after-he-leaves-office,Murphy Op-Ed In NBC: Any Further Delays In The Transfer Of Power Will Result In Americans Continuing To Pay The Price For Trump's Gross Mishandling Of COVID-19 After He Leaves OfficeRead More,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Op-Ed In NBC: Any Further Delays In The Transfer Of Power Will Result In Americans Continuing To Pay The Price For Trump's Gross Mishandling Of COVID-19 After He Leaves Office 
        
        November 24, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONAs the Trump administration
formally begins the presidential transition, three weeks after the presidential
election, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.),a member of the U.S. Senate Health Education, Labor and
Pensions (HELP) Committee, this week published anop-ed with NBC Newsexplaining
how the Trump administration's blockade of essential documents related to the
COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine distribution hampers the incoming Biden
administration's readiness to get control of the pandemic and successfully
distribute a vaccine. President
Donald Trump's refusal to concedeand begin the
orderly transition of government is not a laughing matter. With thepandemic raging
out of controland record numbers of people being diagnosed with Covid-19 each
day,a bumpy
handofffrom one administration to the next will likely get people
killed, Murphy began. He
continued: [W]e're far from out of the wood yet  because it's
entirely possible that Trump's plan is as unworkable as every other plan his
team has devised for pandemic response. For instance, nine months into this
pandemic, health care providers still don't have enough personal protective equipment,because
the president has been unable to put togethera plan to
produce and distribute enough PPE. What if his plan for vaccine distribution is
just as miserable as his plan for PPE production?"" We've
seen firsthand how Trump failed to manage the flow of critical supplies to
states in the early days of the pandemic. But duct tape, garbage bags and
donation drives won't be able to fix a vaccination plan that undermined by
Trump obstructionism. Come Jan. 20, the Biden administration is going to take
over  whether Trump acknowledges that fact or not. But by refusing to
immediately share details of the vaccine distribution plan with the incoming
administration, lives may have already been lost, Murphy concluded. Click here
to read the op-ed in full. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-hayes-led-letter-federal-emergency-management-agency-questioning,CONGRESSWOMAN HAYES LED LETTER TO THE FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY QUESTIONING GUIDANCE ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF COVID-19 RELATED EXPENSES,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today,Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) led a letter signed by 66 of her colleagues, toEmergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Peter T. Gaynor requesting further information and action regarding the definition of reimbursable COVID-19 expenses under the Stafford Act.
During such a dire time, it is critical we offer aid to state and local governments as they seek to implement measures to combat and prevent the spread of COVID-19. This letter seeks to gain additional information on how FEMA can provide proper guidance around eligibility for assistance, said Congresswoman Hayes.
Local disaster and public health officials in Connecticut and throughout the country need help to address the varied of issues presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially at a time when their resources are thinly stretched. I have requested that FEMA issue new clarifying guidance broadening what is considered an emergency protective measure, revert to the previous definition of a public facility, and work with Congress, HHS and the CDC to centralize the reimbursement process. These important changes will provide state and local governments with the support they need to serve their communities.
Text of the letter can be found below:
Dear Administrator Gaynor,
We write to you with concerns regarding the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) guidance on the process by which COVID-19 related expenses are deemed eligible for reimbursement under the Stafford Act and 44 CFR, the implementing regulation for the Stafford Act.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have had many conversations with FEMA and our local municipalities. In all these discussions, there has been a common sentiment regarding FEMA reimbursement for COVID related expenses. When COVID struck our nation, municipalities and local executives took immediate action and quickly began to work to combat the virus and prevent the spread. Municipalities installed necessary safety infrastructure and purchased emergency supplies, such as masks, plexiglass partitions, gloves and disinfectants. Cities and towns scheduled additional maintenance shifts for increased sanitizing and disinfecting at municipal buildings for essential workers. These costs & purchases were necessary in the fight against and prevention of contracting COVID and were consistent with the guidance issued in March 2020 by FEMA.
Unfortunately, after an administrative change at FEMA and subsequent guidance on September 1, 2020, many of these expenses were deemed ineligible for reimbursement, effective September 15, 2020. This change has left communities in our districts with mounting financial shortfalls, because they were following previous guidance disseminated by FEMA.
In speaking with local disaster and public health officials, there is also concern regarding the definition of an emergency protective measure and the newly restricted definition of a public facility. These new and restrictive definitions have unilaterally disqualified many purchases from eligibility and have severely hampered the ability of local leaders to make the necessary investments to best fight this pandemic. These officials note past precedent in interpreting regulation 44 CFR of the Stafford Act for prior major disaster declarations has never been this restrictive.
During conversations with local governments, they also noted that the lack of centralization during the reimbursement process has led to confusion and frustration. In addition to FEMA, agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can assist municipalities with the cost associated with COVID preparation and response. While this additional avenue for assistance is appreciated, the decentralized nature of this situation is not the most efficient solution.
With these issues in mind, we request that FEMA look to make the following improvements:
 Issue new clarifying guidance broadening what is considered an emergency protective measure, allowing for all pandemic prevention costs incurred before September 15, 2020 to be reimbursable, as well as reverting back to the previous definition of a public facility; and
	Work with Congress, HHS and CDC to centralize the reimbursement process.
 We appreciate your attention to this important and urgent matter and look forward to your prompt response.
###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=AC99CC0A-F038-4A35-B52B-CA6E7C537E57,CONGRESSWOMAN HAYES LED LETTER TO THE FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY QUESTIONING GUIDANCE ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF COVID-19 RELATED EXPENSES,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) led a letter signed by 66 of her colleagues, to Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Peter T. Gaynor requesting further information and action regarding the definition of reimbursable COVID-19 expenses under the Stafford Act.

“During such a dire time, it is critical we offer aid to state and local governments as they seek to implement measures to combat and prevent the spread of COVID-19. This letter seeks to gain additional information on how FEMA can provide proper guidance around eligibility for assistance,” said Congresswoman Hayes.

“Local disaster and public health officials in Connecticut and throughout the country need help to address the varied of issues presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially at a time when their resources are thinly stretched. I have requested that FEMA issue new clarifying guidance broadening what is considered an emergency protective measure, revert to the previous definition of a public facility, and work with Congress, HHS and the CDC to centralize the reimbursement process. These important changes will provide state and local governments with the support they need to serve their communities.”

Text of the letter can be found below:

Dear Administrator Gaynor,

We write to you with concerns regarding the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) guidance on the process by which COVID-19 related expenses are deemed eligible for reimbursement under the Stafford Act and 44 CFR, the implementing regulation for the Stafford Act.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have had many conversations with FEMA and our local municipalities. In all these discussions, there has been a common sentiment regarding FEMA reimbursement for COVID related expenses. When COVID struck our nation, municipalities and local executives took immediate action and quickly began to work to combat the virus and prevent the spread. Municipalities installed necessary safety infrastructure and purchased emergency supplies, such as masks, plexiglass partitions, gloves and disinfectants. Cities and towns scheduled additional maintenance shifts for increased sanitizing and disinfecting at municipal buildings for essential workers. These costs & purchases were necessary in the fight against and prevention of contracting COVID and were consistent with the guidance issued in March 2020 by FEMA.

Unfortunately, after an administrative change at FEMA and subsequent guidance on September 1, 2020, many of these expenses were deemed ineligible for reimbursement, effective September 15, 2020. This change has left communities in our districts with mounting financial shortfalls, because they were following previous guidance disseminated by FEMA.

In speaking with local disaster and public health officials, there is also concern regarding the definition of an “emergency protective measure” and the newly restricted definition of a “public facility.” These new and restrictive definitions have unilaterally disqualified many purchases from eligibility and have severely hampered the ability of local leaders to make the necessary investments to best fight this pandemic. These officials note past precedent in interpreting regulation 44 CFR of the Stafford Act for prior major disaster declarations has never been this restrictive.

During conversations with local governments, they also noted that the lack of centralization during the reimbursement process has led to confusion and frustration. In addition to FEMA, agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can assist municipalities with the cost associated with COVID preparation and response. While this additional avenue for assistance is appreciated, the decentralized nature of this situation is not the most efficient solution.

With these issues in mind, we request that FEMA look to make the following improvements:

Issue new clarifying guidance broadening what is considered an “emergency protective measure,” allowing for all pandemic prevention costs incurred before September 15, 2020 to be reimbursable, as well as reverting back to the previous definition of a “public facility”; and

Work with Congress, HHS and CDC to centralize the reimbursement process.

We appreciate your attention to this important and urgent matter and look forward to your prompt response.

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-menendez-senate-colleagues-make-bipartisan-call-for-saudi-government-to-release-wrongfully-detained-women-political-prisoners,"Murphy, Menendez, Senate Colleagues Make Bipartisan Call For Saudi Government To Release Wrongfully Detained Women Political PrisonersRead More",2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONFollowing
the conclusion of the G20 Summit, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.),
the top Democrat of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near
East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism and 8 of his senate
colleagues joined a bipartisan letter led by Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.),
Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, demanding the
immediate release of women political prisoners who remain unjustly detained in
Saudi Arabia. In the letter to Her Royal Highness Princess Reema bint Bandar
bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,
the Senators emphasized the heightened risk of contracting COVID-19 in
detention and echoed UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet's
call for governments to release prisoners detained solely for expressing
dissenting views. We call
for releasing these individuals on the merits of their cases, but today, we
also urge you to act quickly on health and humanitarian grounds, the
senators wrote. The rapid spread of COVID-19 is a threat to all people and
nations, but prison populations are at a heightened risk due to the inability
to practice social distancing, poor sanitation, and lack of adequate medical
care. We encourage the leaders of the Kingdom to seize this opportunity during
this global crisis by immediately releasing these individuals. In calling
for all prisoners of conscience to be released, the Senators specifically
highlighted the cases of Loujain al-Hathloul, Nouf Abdulaziz, Maya'a
al-Zahrani, Samar Badawi, and Nassima al-Sada, who remain arbitrarily detained
for acts of peaceful expression and activism in advancing women's and human
rights in Saudi Arabia. These
women have been wrongly detained simply for exercising their fundamental
rights, and justice demands they be released, the senators added. Joining
Murphy and Menendez in sending the letter were Senators Marco Rubio (R-Fla.),
Chris Coons (D-Conn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tim Kaine
(D-Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Ed Markey
(D-Mass.). Full text
of the resolution here.
Full text of the letter can be found here
and below. Your Royal
Highness: We write
to request that you urge political leadership in Riyadh to release women
political prisoners being unjustly detained in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
These extraordinary women peacefully worked to advance the cause of women's and
human rights in the Kingdom. We call
for releasing these individuals on the merits of their cases, but today, we
also urge you to act quickly on health and humanitarian grounds. The rapid
spread of COVID-19 is a threat to all people and nations, but prison
populations are at a heightened risk due to the inability to practice social
distancing, poor sanitation, and lack of adequate medical care. In
March 2020, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet,
called upon governments to release political prisoners and others detained
simply for expressing critical or dissenting views in order to slow the spread
of the virus and protect the health of both detainees and the broader
population. We encourage the leaders of the Kingdom to seize this opportunity
during this global crisis by immediately releasing these individuals. While we
are greatly concerned about all individuals detained for acts of peaceful
expression, we draw your attention to five women political prisoners in
particular, who remain in detention: In May
2018, Loujain al-Hathloul, a prominent women's rights activist who
campaigned against the driving ban and the male guardianship system, was
detained and held without charges or trial for ten months. She was
later charged with promoting women's rights in Saudi Arabia. Last year, the
U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention found that her imprisonment and
deprivation of liberty are arbitrary. She should never have been detained for
exercising her right to freedom of speech, and we urge the Kingdom to release
her. In a
continued crackdown on women's rights activists, writer and activist Nouf
Abdulaziz and fellow activist Maya'a al-Zahrani, were arrested and
detained in June 2018. Abdulaziz had written about women's rights and publicly
expressed solidarity with other female activists arrested in May of 2018, and
al-Zahrani had supported her. Both women have been held incommunicado in
detention. Two more women human rights defenders, Samar Badawi and Nassima
al-Sada, were subsequently detained in July 2018 for their peaceful
activism. These women should not have been arbitrarily imprisoned for
peacefully expressing their views and supporting human rights, and we call for
their immediate release. These
women have been wrongly detained simply for exercising their fundamental
rights, and justice demands they be released. Moreover, in the global fight
against the COVID-19 pandemic, protecting the health and safety of all people
is critical. Countries around the world have released prisoners, understanding
that these pressing times require urgent humanitarian relief. We urge the
leaders of the Kingdom to do the same and release Loujain al-Hathloul, Nouf
Abdulaziz, Maya'a al-Zahrani, Samar Badawi, Nassima al-Sada, and all other
prisoners of conscience unjustly detained. Thank you
for your urgent attention to this matter. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-the-nomination-of-antony-blinken-for-secretary-of-state,Murphy Statement On The Nomination Of Antony Blinken For Secretary Of StateRead More,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On The Nomination Of Antony Blinken For Secretary Of State 
        
        November 23, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign
Relations Committee, on Monday welcomed President-elect Joe Biden's nomination
of Tony Blinken for U.S. Secretary of State: ""Tony
Blinken is an A+ choice to be our nation's top diplomat. In the post-Trump era,
the job of repairing relationships with allies, rejoining international
agreements, and tackling the pressing global challengesfrom pandemic disease
to climate changewill be a Herculean task. Tony is uniquely ready to meet this
challenge. I have confidence he will be a partner with the progressive
community to make sure our ideas are included in the Biden administration's
foreign policy agenda. This nomination is good news for U.S. foreign policy and
our national security interests, and I look forward to continuing working with
Tony as we move the Biden agenda forward in Congress,""said Murphy. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-young-coons-caution-against-designating-houthis-in-yemen-as-terrorist-organization,"Murphy, Young, Coons Caution Against Designating Houthis In Yemen As Terrorist OrganizationRead More",2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy, Young, Coons Caution Against Designating Houthis In Yemen As Terrorist Organization 
        
        November 23, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) this week issued a
statement cautioning the Trump Administration against designating the Houthis
in Yemen as a Foreign Terrorist Organization: We
are concerned about the adverse consequences of designating the entire Houthi
movement in Yemen as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. We have reason to
believe that this designation would further destabilize the country, which is
already the home of Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, make it harder to
negotiate a peace agreement, and stop the important work of the many NGOs
providing lifesaving assistance in the country. This designation would almost
certainly prevent the critical delivery of food, medical supplies, and other
items necessary to combat both COVID-19 and famine. Yemen remains the world's
worst humanitarian disaster, one that on occasion has been exacerbated by
ill-advised policies in recent years. Creating new, additional obstacles to the
delivery of food and medical aid  during a global pandemic  is not in the
best interest of the United States, our regional allies and partners, or the
people of Yemen. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/hayes-supports-legislation-expand-apprenticeships-invest-workforce-training,"HAYES SUPPORTS LEGISLATION TO EXPAND APPRENTICESHIPS, INVEST IN WORKFORCE TRAINING",2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) voted in support of the National Apprenticeship Act Reauthorization of 2020, a bill investing more than $3.5 billion to create 1 million new Registered Apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship, and pre-apprenticeship positions over the next five years. Congresswoman Hayes is an original cosponsor of the bill and worked closely with fellow members of the House Committee on Education and Labor to develop it.
As Connecticut workers and businesses continue to suffer from the economic effects of COVID-19, Congress has taken this step to expand employment opportunities with jobs that will provide CT workers with living wages and long-term prospects through the National Apprenticeship Act.  said Congresswoman Hayes. 
Registered Apprenticeships have a proven track record of preparing workers for high-wage, high skill employment while simultaneously meeting the expanding needs of small businesses. Bolstering access to Registered Apprenticeships, particularly for COVID-19 impacted workers and traditionally underrepresented communities, will ensure there are qualified applicants for the job openings of tomorrow without assuming the debt associated with a four-year degree. 
By streamlining quality standards, strengthening coordination between employers and education institutions, and aligning employee skills with employers needs, this reauthorization of the National Apprenticeship Act will open the door to one million opportunities for Americans to gain in-demand skills and obtain well-paying jobs.
The bill governs the Registered Apprenticeships (RAs) system in the United States, the most successful federally authorized workforce development program. According to the Department of Labor, 94 percent of people who complete RAs are employed upon completion, earning an average starting wage of above $70,000 annually.
The reauthorization would save American taxpayers an estimated $10.6 billion in the form of increased tax revenues from higher worker pay and productivity and decreased spending on public-assistance programs and unemployment insurance.
###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 yearsand was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=BF50ED6F-FB87-4182-B8E6-7F2D559B9FE9,"HAYES SUPPORTS LEGISLATION TO EXPAND APPRENTICESHIPS, INVEST IN WORKFORCE TRAINING",2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) voted in support of the National Apprenticeship Act Reauthorization of 2020, a bill investing more than $3.5 billion to create 1 million new Registered Apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship, and pre-apprenticeship positions over the next five years. Congresswoman Hayes is an original cosponsor of the bill and worked closely with fellow members of the House Committee on Education and Labor to develop it.

“As Connecticut workers and businesses continue to suffer from the economic effects of COVID-19, Congress has taken this step to expand employment opportunities with jobs that will provide CT workers with living wages and long-term prospects through the National Apprenticeship Act. ” said Congresswoman Hayes. “

“Registered Apprenticeships have a proven track record of preparing workers for high-wage, high skill employment while simultaneously meeting the expanding needs of small businesses. Bolstering access to Registered Apprenticeships, particularly for COVID-19 impacted workers and traditionally underrepresented communities, will ensure there are qualified applicants for the job openings of tomorrow without assuming the debt associated with a four-year degree.

“By streamlining quality standards, strengthening coordination between employers and education institutions, and aligning employee skills with employers needs, this reauthorization of the National Apprenticeship Act will open the door to one million opportunities for Americans to gain in-demand skills and obtain well-paying jobs.”

The bill governs the Registered Apprenticeships (RAs) system in the United States, the most successful federally authorized workforce development program. According to the Department of Labor, 94 percent of people who complete RAs are employed upon completion, earning an average starting wage of above $70,000 annually.

The reauthorization would save American taxpayers an estimated $10.6 billion in the form of increased tax revenues from higher worker pay and productivity and decreased spending on public-assistance programs and unemployment insurance.

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-announces-legislation-to-end-corporal-punishment-in-schools,Murphy Announces Legislation To End Corporal Punishment In SchoolsRead More,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education,
Labor and Pensions Committee, on Thursday announced that he is introducing
Senate legislation that would eliminate the use of corporal punishment in
schools across America. The Protecting
Our Students in Schools Act provides a broader definition of corporal
punishment and prohibits the practice of corporal punishment in any school that
receives federal funding. The legislation would also establish
much-needed enforcement protections and a federal grant program to assist
states and school districts in improving the climate and culture of schools
across the country. Earlier this year, U.S. Representatives A. Donald
McEachin (VA-04) andSuzanne Bonamici (OR-01)introduced
companion legislation in the U.S. House of
Representatives. Corporal
punishment in the classroom is never acceptable and shouldn't be tolerated, said
Murphy. Kids go to
school to learn in a safe, nurturing environment, and we should never condone
students being hit as a means of discipline. It teaches children that violence
is an acceptable response, and creates a culture of fear inside schools that is
not conducive to learning. And unfortunately, physical punishment, like many
other forms of school discipline, is disproportionately used on
studentsof color and those with disabilities, making these reforms all
the more desperately needed. No evidence exists demonstrating that corporal punishment in
schools is an effective response to student behavior, and yet nearly 20 states
permit the sanctioned use of physical violence against students in the
classroom,said Congressman McEachin.The federal
government must eradicate thisdisgracefulpractice in our schools
that disproportionately impacts students of color and students with
disabilities.I am pleased to lead this critical legislation alongside my
colleagues, Representative SuzanneBonamici andSenator
ChrisMurphy,to ensure that all students in federally-funded schools
can flourish in a safe, healthyand high-quality learning environment. Schools
must be safe spaces for allstudentsto learn and reach their full
potential,said Congresswoman Bonamici.It
isunconscionablethat corporal punishment is still allowed in many
states, subjectingstudentsto physical harm that can cause
long-lasting damage to their physical, mental, and academic well-being. It is
especially troubling that corporal punishment has long been disproportionately
used against Blackstudentsandstudentswith disabilities.
I'm leading theProtectingOurStudents in SchoolsAct with
Rep. McEachin and Sen. Murphy to finallyendcorporal punishment
inourschools, andsupport practicessuch as positive
behavioral intervention supports (PBIS),that promotesafe and
positive learning environments. Protecting Our Students in Schools Act seeks to: 
Prohibit the practice of corporal punishment in any school that
receives federal funding; 
Establish a series of important and much-needed enforcement protections,
including a private right of action, the involvement of the attorney general
and the Office for Civil Rights, and a series of rigorous reporting
requirements for states and school districts; and  
Invest in states and school districts by establishing a grant
program to assist in efforts to improve school climate and culture by
implementing positive, proactive measures, including positive behavioral
interventions and supports, trauma-informed care, restorative justice
interventions, implicit bias training, and culturally responsive teaching to
reduce exclusionary and averse discipline practices. For
full text of the legislation click here. This
legislation is supported by the Education Trust, American Federation of
Teachers, Southern Poverty Law Center Action Fund,National Association Of
Secondary School Principals,the Intercultural Development Research
Association,Campaign for Youth Justice,the National PTA,Institute
on Violence, Abuse and Trauma, U.S. Alliance to End the Hitting of Children,
American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children, National Initiative to
End Corporal Punishment, Nollie Jenkins Family Center, Inc., the
NationalAssociation of PediatricNurse Practitioners, National
Partnership to End Interpersonal Violence,the Council for Exceptional
Children, the Southern Education Foundation, the Academy of Violence and Abuse. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-menendez-paul-unveil-joint-resolutions-of-disapproval-for-proposed-arms-package-to-uae,"Murphy, Menendez, Paul Unveil Joint Resolutions Of Disapproval For Proposed Arms Package To UaeRead More",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Bob
Menendez (D-N.J.), and Rand Paul (R-Ky.) this week announced the
introduction of four separate Joint Resolutions of Disapproval rejecting the
Trump administration's effort to provide the United Arab Emirates with a
precedent-setting aircraft and myriad other weapons systems. The bipartisan
resolutions come after the Trump administration formally notified Congress of
its intention to sell over $23 billion in Reaper drones and other munitions,
F-35 joint strike fighter jets, and air-to-air missiles to the UAE. In an effort to rush this sale of incredibly sophisticated
weaponry, the Trump administration circumvented the informal congressional
review process that grants the Congressional committees of jurisdiction time to
ensure proposed arms sales of this magnitude are consistent with U.S. values,
national security objectives, and the safety of our allies. The State
Department and Department of Defense also refused to respond to Congressional
inquiries as to how the Administration would deal with specific national
security risks inherent in the proposed sale, which is comprised of the world's most
advanced stealth fighter jet, over 14,000 more deadly bombs and munitions, and
the second-largest ever sale of U.S. drones to a single country.  I
support the normalization of relations between Israel and the United Arab
Emirates (UAE), but nothing in that agreement requires us to flood the region
with more weapons and facilitate a dangerous arms race, said Murphy.
The Emiratis are an important security partner, but their recent behavior
indicates that these weapons may be used in violation of U.S. and international
law. The UAE has violated past arms sales agreements, resulting in U.S. arms
ending up in the arms of dangerous militia groups, and they have failed to
comply with international law in Libya and Yemen. A sale this large and this
consequential should not happen in the waning days of a lame duck presidency,
and Congress must take steps to stop this dangerous transfer of weapons."" We
are introducing these bipartisan resolutions out of a shared understanding that
Congress must strongly assert its statutory authority over our nation's foreign
arms sales. As I tried to warn the Trump administration, circumventing deliberative
processes for considering a massive infusion of weapons to a country in a
volatile region with multiple ongoing conflicts is downright irresponsible, said
Menendez. There are a number of outstanding concerns as to how these sales
would impact the national security interests of both the United States and of
Israel. As a result, Congress is once again stepping in to serve as a check to
avoid putting profit over U.S. national security and that of our allies, and to
hopefully prevent a new arms race in the Middle East. Full
text of the Joint Resolutions of Disapprovals can be found here, here, here and here. The Arms Export Control Act of 1976 provides special procedures
through which lawmakers can introduce a joint resolution of disapproval against
a proposed arm sale. In the Senate, a resolution can bedischarged from
the Committee of jurisdiction, forcing a vote on the Senate floor. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-murray-beyer-scott-mceachin-unveil-bill-to-protect-students-from-dangerous-seclusion-and-restraint-practices,"Murphy, Murray, Beyer, Scott, McEachin Unveil Bill To Protect Students From Dangerous Seclusion And Restraint PracticesRead More",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) joined U.S.
Representatives Don Beyer (VA-08), Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03),
and Donald McEachin (VA-04) on Thursday in announcing the Keeping All
Students Safe Act to protect students from dangerous seclusion and
restraint discipline practices in school. Every
child should be safe and protected while in school. Sadly, that is not always
the case. The most current data from the Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC)
reveals that 101,990 students were subjected to seclusion or restraint during
the 2017-18 school year. Of the students restrained or secluded, 78 percent were
students with disabilities who were disproportionately students who identified
as Black/African American and boys. The Keeping
All Students Safe Act would make it illegal for any school receiving
federal taxpayer money to seclude children and would ban dangerous restraint
practices that restrict children's breathing, such as prone or supine
restraint. The bill would also prohibit schools from physically
restraining children, except when necessary to protect students and
staff. The bill would better equip school personnel with the training
they need to address school-expected behavior with evidence-based proactive
strategies, require states to monitor the law's implementation, and increase
transparency and oversight to prevent future abuse of students. Far too
many students, particularly those with disabilities and kids of color, are
subject to inhumane seclusion and restraint practices that have harmful effects
on their learning and experience in the classroom - often with traumatic and
sometimes fatal consequences.My colleagues and I are introducing
legislation to fix this problem. No taxpayer-funded school in America should
lock kids up alone in rooms or restrain them with abusive methods, said
Senator Chris Murphy.TheKeeping All Students Safe Act would
establish strong federal standards to keep students safe, while providing
school staff with alternatives to address disruptive behavior with evidence-based,
trauma-informed,proactive strategies and the resources to put those
alternatives into practice. The
practice of subjecting students to abusive discipline techniques happens far
too often, and disproportionately affects Black children and students with
disabilities. Many states have previously recognized the harm of seclusion and
inappropriate restraint in the classroom and banned these practices. Our bill
would enact nationwide protections that students across the country deserve, said
Congressman Don Beyer. The Keeping All Students Safe Act will
protect students from harmful discipline by creating minimum safety standards
for schools and by providing training and support to school personnel. Every
student deserves to feel safe at their school, and our bill would help
translate this important principle into law. Despite
evidence that seclusion and restraint practices make schools less safe,
thousands of students are still subjected to these disproven methods of
discipline. What's more, students of color and students with disabilities are
disproportionately impacted by these harmful practices. It's time we recognize
that a quality education cannot be achieved without a safe learning
environment, said Congressman Robert C. Bobby Scott. The Keeping
All Students Safe Act would establish nationwide requirements and provide
states and teachers the support they need to improve their schools' culture by
using only evidence-based interventions. Every
student deserves to be safe at school. But shockingly, schools are still
allowed to punish students by locking them in rooms or forcibly restraining
them in dangerous waysand students with disabilities and students of color
face the most harm. This is completely unacceptable, said Senator Patty
Murray. The Keeping All Students Safe Act will ban these harmful
tactics of seclusion and dangerous restraint and limit physical restraint,
making our schools safer and more supportive environments for all childrenno
matter their race or disability. I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing
this important legislation and I'll continue working to address the many
educational inequities that keep so many students from receiving a high-quality
education. For far
too long, our nation's students, particularly students of color and students
with disabilities, have been subjected to inappropriate and abusive seclusion
and restraint in the classroom,said Congressman Donald McEachin.
Not only are these dangerous policies ineffective at addressing student
behavior, but they can also cause significant emotional and physical trauma. We
must protect our students from these abusive techniques, and the Keeping All
Students Safe Act will put in place the standards and restrictions
necessary to ensure our children's health and safety. Every child deserves to
grow and prosper in a high-quality and healthy learning environment. To read
the Keeping All Students Safe Act bill text,clickhere. To read
the Keeping All Students Safe Act fact sheet, click here. To read
the Keeping All Students Safe Act section-by-section, click here. The Keeping
All Students Safe Act is endorsed by: This
legislation is supported by the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates
(COPAA), The Arc, National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), Autistic Self
Advocacy Network (ASAN), National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD),
National Center for Special Education in Charter Schools, Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD),
National Autism Association, SPAN Parent
Advocacy Network, Family Alliance to Stop Abuse and Neglect, National Parent
Teacher Association (National PTA), National Center for Parent Leadership,
Advocacy, and Community Empowerment (National PLACE), Autism Society of
America, Center for Public Representation, RespectAbility, Council of State
Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR), CommunicationFIRST,
National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), Disability Rights
Education & Defense Fund, Higher Education Consortium for Special Education
(HECSE), National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), Learning
Disabilities Association of America (LDA), National Association of State Directors
of Special Education (NASDSE), Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint,
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), and Bazelon Center. The Arc of Arizona,
The Arc of Maryland, The Arc of New Jersey, The Arc of Wisconsin, Parents Place
of Maryland, Family Voices NJ, Parents Reaching Out (NM),Access Livingand Parent Education
Advocacy Leadership Center (PEAL Center; PA). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-army-reversing-decision-on-other-than-honorable-discharges-for-veterans-with-mental-health-conditions-and-ptsd,Murphy Statement On Army Reversing Decision On Other-Than-Honorable Discharges For Veterans With Mental Health Conditions And PTSDRead More,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On Army Reversing Decision On Other-Than-Honorable Discharges For Veterans With Mental Health Conditions And PTSD 
        
        November 19, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris
Murphy (D-Conn.) on
Thursday applauded the news that the U.S. Army will reconsider thousands of
other-than-honorable (OTH) discharges to service members with post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions following a lawsuit
brought on by the Veterans Legal Services Clinic at Yale Law School: The
men and women who put their lives on the line for our country deserve our full
support and careincluding those who were given a bad-paper' discharge from
the military because of PTSD or other trauma. I'm thankful for the hardworking
advocates at the Veterans Legal Services Clinic for relentlessly fighting on
behalf of Connecticut's veterans, and for making sure that the VA complies with
the Honor Our Commitment Actmy legislation which requires the VA to provide
appropriate mental health care to our combat veterans. Yesterday's decision by
the Army will have a lasting impact on our veterans across the country for
generations, said
Murphy. TheHonor Our CommitmentActintroduced by Murphy requires the U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), for the first time, to provide mental and
behavioral health care to hundreds of thousands of at-risk combat veterans and
sexual assault victims who received OTH discharges. Before it became law in
2018, over 500,000 veterans were presumptively ineligible for any services from
the VA. Last year, following reports that the VA was continuing to deny
veterans with OTH discharges the services required under the Honor Our
Commitment Act, Murphy led a group of senators,
in sendinga letterto VA Secretary
Robert Wilkie demanding the VA comply with the law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-van-hollen-senate-democrats-press-pompeo-on-conflict-in-ethiopia,"Murphy, Van Hollen, Senate Democrats Press Pompeo On Conflict In EthiopiaRead More",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and 14 of his senate colleagues joined a
letter led by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) expressing their alarm at
the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia and urging U.S. Secretary Mike Pompeo to
directly engage with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. We write
to express our alarm at the deteriorating political and humanitarian situation
in Ethiopia. The conflict in Tigray poses serious risks to Ethiopia and the
broader region. We urge you to engage directly with Prime Minister Abiy and
continue pressing all parties to agree to an immediate ceasefire, the
de-escalation of tensions, protection of civilians, humanitarian access, and
respect for international humanitarian law, the senators began. They
continued: The
conflict has already resulted in hundreds dead and thousands displaced. there
is a risk this situation will spiral totally out of control, leading to heavy
casualties and destruction, as well as mass displacement within Ethiopia itself
and across borders. The ongoing
violence is precipitating a humanitarian crisis. More than 27,000 refugees have
crossed over into Sudan, with as many as 200,000 expected. The conflict
poses a direct threat to hundreds of American citizens, journalists, and aid
workers in the Tigray region and surrounding areas. We urge you to engage directly with
Prime Minister Abiy and continue pressing all parties to agree to an immediate
ceasefire, the de-escalation of tensions, protection of civilians, humanitarian
access, and respect for international humanitarian law. Once a ceasefire is
achieved, all parties must commit to addressing outstanding grievances through
a peaceful dialogue and work to stabilize Ethiopia's imperiled democratic
transition. the senators concluded. Joining
Murphy and Van Hollen in sending the letter by Senators Cory Booker
(D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.),
Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Mark Warner
(D-Va.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bob
Casey (D-Pa.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and Sherrod
Brown (D-Ohio). The
full text of the letter is available here
and below. Dear
Secretary Pompeo: We write
to express our alarm at the deteriorating political and humanitarian situation
in Ethiopia. The conflict in Tigray poses serious risks to Ethiopia and the
broader region. We urge you to engage directly with Prime Minister Abiy and
continue pressing all parties to agree to an immediate ceasefire, the
de-escalation of tensions, protection of civilians, humanitarian access, and
respect for international humanitarian law. Tensions
between the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and the federal government,
which had been escalating for months, erupted into military confrontation on
November 4th, after the government alleged that TPLF fighters attacked an
Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) position in Tigray. The conflict has
already resulted in hundreds dead and thousands displaced. Airports and roads
have been closed and phone and internet service to the Tigray region has been
cut, leaving families disconnected from their loved ones and seriously
hampering humanitarian response efforts. There is a shortage of fuel and some
shopping and banking services have halted, creating a cash shortage. On
November 13th, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights warned that there
is a risk this situation will spiral totally out of control, leading to heavy
casualties and destruction, as well as mass displacement within Ethiopia itself
and across borders. Reports indicate that bombs have struck non-military
targets, including a hydroelectric dama charge the government denies. Amnesty
International has confirmed that scores, and likely hundreds, of people were
stabbed or hacked to death in Mai-Kadra (May Cadera) town in the South West
Zone of Ethiopia's Tigray Region on the night of 9 November, a massacre some
witnesses attributed to the TPLF, which has denied involvement. A report from
Reuters indicates that Ethiopian police visited an office of the United
Nations' World Food Programme (WFP) with a list of purported TPLF operatives
embedded with various local and international organizations, raising concerns
that ethnic Tigrayans may be targeted by police. On
November 14th, the conflict escalated further as media reported TPLF forces
launched at least three rockets into Eritrea, striking the airport in capital
of Asmara. The next day, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Tibor
Nagy condemned the attack, describing it as an effort to internationalize the
conflict. The
ongoing violence is precipitating a humanitarian crisis. More than 27,000
refugees have crossed over into Sudan, with as many as 200,000 expected. The
United Nations is now working with the Government of Sudan to ensure that they
are granted refugee status and to establish a new refugee camp to accommodate
them. The Sudan Red Crescent Society has deployed medical staff and essential
medicines, and is conducting screenings for COVID-19. The U.N. is also working
to establish a humanitarian corridor in Ethiopia, but reports suggest that
humanitarian access to Tigray is currently constrained, with implications for
over 2 million people in need of aid there, including over 90,000 Eritrean
refugees. The conflict poses a direct threat to hundreds of American citizens,
journalists, and aid workers in the Tigray region and surrounding
areas.  We
appreciate your statements calling for de-escalation and the State Department's
responsiveness to inquiries from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. We
understand that the Department is engaged with the Government of Ethiopia, the
TPLF, neighboring countries, the African Union, and the United Nations. We urge
you to engage directly with Prime Minister Abiy and continue pressing all
parties to agree to an immediate ceasefire, the de-escalation of tensions,
protection of civilians, humanitarian access, and respect for international
humanitarian law. Once a ceasefire is achieved, all parties must commit to
addressing outstanding grievances through a peaceful dialogue and work to
stabilize Ethiopia's imperiled democratic transition. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7C1142F7-A348-405B-94C6-7E2001C809D9,"Congressman Himes announces $666,273 grant to Saint Joseph Parenting Center to promote healthy homes",2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that Saint Joseph Parenting Center in Stamford will receive a $666,273 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The grant will work to foster healthy homes through fatherhood courses and parenting resources.

“Giving parents the tools and training they need to create a stable home is a crucial first step to ensuring children grow up emotionally and physically healthy,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “During this pandemic, children are spending more time at home, making it important that parents foster a safe environment for their children’s intellectual and social education. I’m thrilled that Saint Joseph Parenting Center is receiving federal resources to promote healthy marriages and healthy families.”

“We are extremely grateful to receive the Fatherhood FIRE grant as it will bolster our existing 24/7 Dads Program. As a new awardee, this funding will enable us to promote and sustain healthy marriages, strengthen positive father-child engagement, and improve employment and economic stability” said SJPC Executive Director Rhonda R. Neal. “Servicing primarily Lower Fairfield County, Saint Joseph Parenting Center’s mission is to strengthen families that are at risk of child abuse and neglect by providing parent education and resource support. “Unfortunately, we have seen an increase in child abuse and neglect during the COVID-19 pandemic as parents struggle with job loss, the stress of working from home and having to care for children who cannot go to school during the day, and other issues. This grant will enable SJPC to empower more dads with the parenting education and economic support that they need during this challenging time – and beyond – in a safe and accessible way using our new virtual online platform.”

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, The Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood programs work to strengthen families, promote responsible parenting, and improve family economic stability. The program’s goal is to foster economically secure households and communities for the well-being and long-term success of children and families through building stronger relationships, marriages, father-child engagement, and families. Click here to learn more.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-support-north-end-families-and-fair-housing,Larson Statement in Support of North End Families and Fair Housing,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,John Larson,L000557,larson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement in support of families in the North End who have filed a fair housing lawsuit filed with Open Communities Alliance against the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD):
I stand in support of the families of the North End who have had to live in deplorable living conditions and then struggled to find safe, affordable housing after HUD failed to provide them with fair housing. No one should have to go through what these families have endured. I will continue to work with Mayor Bronin, residents, and community leaders to address these failures by HUD. This should never happen again in our community or in any other community across the country.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-supporting-north-end-hartford-residents-fair-housing-lawsuit-against-hud,Murphy Statement Supporting North End Hartford Residents Fair Housing Lawsuit Against HUDRead More,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement Supporting North End Hartford Residents' Fair Housing Lawsuit Against HUD 
        
        November 18, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Chris
Murphy (D-Conn.) on Wednesday issued the following statement after it was
announced that Open Community Alliance has filed a fair housing lawsuit against
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on behalf of ten
residents of Barbour Gardens Apartments, Infill I, and Clay Arsenal Renaissance
Apartments: I applaud the people of the North End of Hartford who
have raised their voices time and time again for safe and fair housing options.
Having toured these facilities and called on the Department of Housing and
Urban Development to end this cycle of poverty and neglect, it's clear to me that
the needs of the residents have not been met. I'll continue to work with our
Congressional delegation as well as state and local officials to make sure we
finally address these longstanding issues, said Murphy. Earlier this year, Murphy along
with U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), U.S. Representative John Larson
(CT-1) and Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin wrote
a letter to HUD calling on the department to improve current policies
regarding the oversight of Section 8 Housing as well as the promotion of fair
housing opportunities. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-the-administration-has-totally-dropped-the-ball-on-protecting-health-care-workers-and-the-pandemic-is-going-to-be-increasingly-deadly-because-of-it,Murphy: The Administration Has Totally Dropped The Ball On Protecting Health Care Workers & The Pandemic Is Going To Be Increasingly Deadly Because Of ItRead More,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONAs
COVID-19 cases across the country continue to climb, U.S. Senator Chris
Murphy (D-Conn.), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.),
and U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.) held a press call on Wednesday to
announce the Protect Our Heroes Act, new legislation to increase
production of critical personal protective equipment (PPE) and address the N-95
respirator shortage facing frontline health care workers. The
Protect Heroes Act would operationalize the Defense Production Act,
authorize $5 billion to bring additional PPE into our national stockpile,
authorize $1 billion for the Small Business Administration to provide grants to
small businesses so they can retool themselves to produce more of this
equipment, and require the federal government to provide more transparency on
the national supply chain. On the
current crisis that health care workers and hospitals are in dealing with
COVID-19, Murphy said:
Our emergency rooms and inpatient wings of hospitals are at a breaking point.
Today, there are 75,000 people hospitalized with COVID-19. It took around 90
days to go from zero cases in this country to a million cases, it took 10 days
to go from 9 million to 10 million. And without any plan in place from the
White House about how to adequately protect our first responders, this pandemic
is going to be increasingly deadly for the people that are on the frontlines in
our hospitals, in our health centers, at our testing sites. On the
Trump administration's failure to respond to health care workers' PPE needs and
how the Protect Our Heroes Act would address this issue, Murphy said: It is still the wild, wild west in
which every hospital in every state has to go out and create their own supply
chain. That's not how it should work in the middle of a national pandemic. And
so this legislation is critical because it approaches this crisis from a number
of different perspectives. Since the
start of the pandemic, Murphy has been outspoken in calling on the
administration to federalize the national supply chain. In April, Murphy,
Baldwin and Schumer announced the
Medical Supply Transparency and Delivery Act
(S. 3627/ H.R.6711), which would require the president to
utilize all available authorities under the Defense ProductionActto
mobilize a federal response to the pandemic through an equitable and
transparent process.46 Senate Democrats support their legislation as well
as AFL-CIO, SEIU, the National Nurses United, AFSCME, Get Us PPE, and US PIRG.
The legislation also was included in the House-passed COVID-19 relief package, the
HEROES Act but Majority Leader McConnell refuses to bring this legislation
before the Senate for a vote. A
full transcript of Murphy's opening remarks can be found below: Thank you
very much, leader Schumer. Thank you for leading the introduction of this
incredibly important piece of legislationlegislation that dovetails with a
bill introduced by the vast majority of members of our caucus over the summer
led by Senator Baldwin and myself. This legislation is absolutely critical
because, as leader Schumer mentioned, we are enduring a nightmare right now,
across the American health care system. Our
emergency rooms and inpatient wings of hospitals are at a breaking point. Today,
there are 75,000 people hospitalized with COVID-19. It took around 90 days to
go from zero cases in this country to a million cases. It took 10 days to go
from 9 million to 10 million. And without any plan in place from the White
House about how to adequately protect our first responders, this pandemic is
going to be increasingly deadly for the people that are on the frontlines in
our hospitals, in our health centers, at our testing sites. A recent
survey of nursing homes showed that 20% of all nursing homes still report a
shortage of PPE. A survey recently done by one of the big national nursing
organizations found that 80% of health care workers are still reusing single
use PPE. And I could list for you an endless series of stories about hospitals
that today are requiring nurses to reuse N-95 masks until they are physically
damaged or so dirty that they simply cannot be used any longer. The Trump
administration has totally dropped the ball on PPE production. They didn't
start ordering mass quantities of PPE until late March. And today, we have zero
visibility as to how this administration is purchasing PPE or managing the
private sector supply chain. My hospitals in Connecticut have no idea as to how
HHS and the White House are directing PPE supplies. And it is
still the wild, wild west in which every hospital in every state has to go out
and create their own supply chain. That's not how it should work in the middle
of a national pandemic. And so this legislation is critical because it approaches
this crisis from a number of different perspectives. First, as
leader Schumer mentioned, it authorizes certain actions by the administration
that they desperately need to takethe operation of the Defense Production Act.
And then it authorizes $5 billion to bring PPE into our national stockpile. And
then smartly authorizes a billion dollars for the SBA to provide grants to
small businesses so they can start to retool themselves to produce more of this
equipment. I have so
many small businesses, small manufacturers in Connecticut that want to start
producing PPE, but right now, they need help to do so because they aren't flush
with capital because of the general downturn in business. We have so many
small-medium sized manufacturers in this country who want to be part of the
solution, who want to start producing large numbers of PPE, they just need a
little bit of help from the federal government. And then
lastly, the bill requires the federal government to provide that transparency
that is lacking today, to release regular reports on what the need is and how
the plan is going to meet that need. Leader
Schumer will remember a phone call that the Democratic caucus had with the Task Force back
in the days when the Task Force was actually meeting and communicating to
the public and policy leaders. Five or six different members of the Senate
asked the Vice President and his Task Force what their plan was to meet the shortage of
PPE and testing equipment in this country. And over and over again, they
couldn't identify a specific targeted plan to fill the shortages in the time
that we needed in order to confront what was in the first wave of this virus. These
transparency provisions in this legislation will make sure that everybody has
visibility on what the scope of the problem is and what the proposed solution
is so that we can have accountability. That's really important for Congress,
but that's really important for the public as well. So I'm glad to be one of
the original introducers of this legislation and look forward to partnering
with my colleagues to push it forward."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=097EAEF9-7615-4528-B437-CD499F4E91FC,"Rep. Himes Announces $125,000 grant to Members Credit Union to increase Fairfield County residents’ access to the financial resources",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that Members Credit Union will receive a $125,000 grant from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund. Members Credit Union has received national recognition, including the Juntos Avanzamos (Together We Advance) designation in 2017, for it’s outreach to the Hispanic community. The grant will increase Fairfield County residents’ access to the Members Credit Union by placing an ATM in Stamford.

“Ensuring Connecticut residents have access to their financial institutions will make it easier for constituents to access resources and the financial tools needed during this time.” said Himes. “The pandemic has disproportionately hurt Hispanic Americans across the country, so it is especially important that Members Credit Union will use this grant for essential outreach. I look forward to working with Members Credit Union and other community organizations to combat the economic consequences of COVID-19.”

“Since becoming a Juntos Avanzamos credit union, our outreach in Stamford has exceeded our expectations,” said Kathy Chartier, President of the Members Credit Union. “We offer financial counseling and no cost/low cost financial savings and loan services to Hispanic immigrants, both documented and undocumented. We have learned that while we are meeting their counseling and borrowing needs it is difficult for them to use our transaction services. Many are paid in cash and it is difficult for them to come to our only location in Cos Cob to make their deposits. We received this grant for the purpose of placing a deposit taking ATM in an area of Stamford that is convenient for our immigrant and low income members, to make cash deposits into their Members Credit Union account and take full advantage of our services. We are grateful for this opportunity to better serve our Stamford members who depend on us to improve the quality of their financial lives.”

According to Members Credit Union, the organization was started in Greenwich in 1935 and became a community credit union in 2002. Click here to learn more about Members Credit Union.

According to the Department of Treasury, the CDFI Program Technical Assistance Grant will enable CDFIs to increase lending and investment activity in low-income and economically distressed communities across the nation. For the Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 funding round of the CDFI Program, 127 organizations received awards totaling $15.8 million. Click here to learn more about the CDFI Program Technical Assistance Grant.

##",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://himes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CEF90F15-BDAD-4122-88DD-A458FA266E3D,"Rep. Himes Announces $344,000 grant to Partnership to End Human Trafficking to combat human trafficking",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,James A. Himes,H001047,himes.house.gov,himes,https://himes.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that the Partnership to End Human Trafficking (PEHT) will receive a $344,005 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office For Victims of Crimes. The grant will allow PEHT to partner with community organizations to improve the identification of trafficked individuals and to expand comprehensive services to human-trafficking victims.

“Far too often, workers are lured to the U.S. by the promise of well-paying jobs and a better future, only to be coerced into unbearable conditions, including domestic servitude or prostitution rings,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “It’s horrific that this happens anywhere in the country, let alone in our own backyard. I’m glad that PEHT is receiving the federal resources needed to address the atrocity of human trafficking in Fairfield County.”

“PEHT is so excited to have received this grant award from the Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crimes to build capacity and to provide comprehensive services for victims of human trafficking in the Fairfield County Region of Connecticut” said Jamie Manirakiza, PEHT’s Executive Director. “We are currently opening a home for survivors of sex trafficking in the region, and this grant comes at an opportune time to increase our efforts in identification and response for victims of human trafficking in the community. Through this OVC award, we will work to collaborate with existing community partners to make a greater impact in Fairfield County, as we seek to come alongside survivors of this horrific crime. Furthermore, we believe that our two-year trauma-informed and survivor informed transitional home for adult women survivors of trafficking, will fill in a gap in services in Fairfield County for this vulnerable population.”

PEHT will partner with Love146, another anti-human trafficking non-profit, The Salvation Army Bloom Initiative to develop capacity to strengthen anti-human trafficking services through the provision of culturally appropriate, trauma-informed, comprehensive, and survivor-informed services in collaboration with local partners, develop a training plan with partners to increase victim identification in the Fairfield county region through outreach activities and targeted trainings, develop a strong referral network of anti-human trafficking service providers (including law enforcement and new and existing non-profit partners) that will meet the essential needs of each individual survivor; and constantly improve our service delivery through data collection and evaluation. Click here to learn more about PEHT.

##",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-press-facebook-to-take-immediate-action-to-combat-anti-muslim-bigotry-on-its-platform,"Murphy, Blumenthal Press Facebook To Take Immediate Action To Combat Anti-Muslim Bigotry On Its PlatformRead More",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) and 12 colleagues in a letter to
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg calling on the company to fully address the
problem of anti-Muslim bigotry on its platform, which has enabled offline
violence against Muslims in the United States and elsewhere around the world. Of particular concern is how
Facebook has addressed the targeting of mosques and Muslim community events by
armed protesters through the platform. In June 2019, Facebook responded to
concerns about these practices by creating a call to arms policy that
prohibits event pages that call for individuals to bring weapons to a location.
However, the Senators note that Facebook has not taken adequate steps to
enforce this policy, which should have barred an event page in Kenosha,
Wisconsin earlier this year, as well as a 2019 event page used to plan an armed
protest at the largest Muslim community convention in the country. Facebook is a
groundbreaking company that has revolutionized the way we communicate.
Unfortunately, the connectivity that can bring people together in many positive
ways also has been used to dehumanize and stoke violence against Muslims, Black
people, Latinos, immigrants, the Jewish community, Sikhs, Christians, women,
and other communities here and across the world,the senators wrote. We recognize that Facebook
has announced efforts to address its role in the distribution of anti-Muslim
content in some of these areas,the
senators wrote. Nevertheless, it is not clear that the company is
meaningfully better positioned to prevent further human rights abuses and
violence against Muslim minorities today. As members of Congress who
are deeply disturbed by the proliferation of this hate speech on your platform,
we urge you to do more. An independent civil rights
audit of Facebook from July 2020 highlighted disturbing examples of anti-Muslim
abuse on the platform ranging [f]rom the organization of events designed to
intimidate members of the Muslim community at gathering places, to the
prevalence of content demonizing Islam and Muslims, and the use of Facebook
Live during the Christchurch massacre These concerns have also prompted
current Facebook employees to write a letter demanding action on anti-Muslim
bigotry and calling for broader structural changes. In their letter, the Senators
urge Facebook to take a number of actions to address these issues including
collecting and publishing the data needed to understand the scope of the
problem, publishing readily available information to help the public evaluate
its response, and implementing a plan to ensure robust enforcement of its call
to arms policy. Murphy, Blumenthal and Coons
were joined on the letter by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Dick Durbin
(D-Ill.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.),
Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Amy
Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.),
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.). Groups supporting the letter
includeMuslim Advocates, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human
Rights, Center for American Progress, Human Rights Watch, Human Rights
Campaign, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Bend the Arc: Jewish Action, Free
Press, Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, Interfaith Alliance, Japanese
American Citizens League, MediaJustice, National Hispanic Media Coalition,
Shoulder to Shoulder, Sikh Coalition, and UltraViolet. Full
text of the letter ishereand
below. Dear Mr. Zuckerberg: We write to express our deep
concern regarding anti-Muslim bigotry on Facebook. An independent civil
rights audit of the company from July 2020 highlighted disturbing examples of
anti-Muslim abuse on the platform ranging [f]rom the organization of events
designed to intimidate members of the Muslim community at gathering places, to
the prevalence of content demonizing Islam and Muslims, and the use of Facebook
Live during the Christchurch massacre . . . . These concerns have
also prompted current Facebook employees to write a letter demanding action on
anti-Muslim bigotry and calling for broader structural changes. As members of
Congress who are committed to protecting the Muslim community, we urge you to
take immediate action to combat this bigotry on Facebook's platforms. Facebook is a groundbreaking
company that has revolutionized the way we communicate. Unfortunately, the
connectivity that can bring people together in many positive ways also has been
used to dehumanize and stoke violence against Muslims, Black people, Latinos,
immigrants, the Jewish community, Sikhs, Christians, women, and other
communities here and across the world. The enabling of hate speech and
violence against any group is not acceptable. We appreciate that Facebook
has taken certain steps to combat these problems. For instance, you
recently reversed a prior decision that had allowed content denying the
Holocaust, and you have altered your policies to ban blackface and certain
anti-Jewish stereotypes. But much more must be done to protect these
vulnerable communities. With regard to the Muslim community in
particular, the civil rights audit noted advocates' alarm that Muslims feel
under siege on Facebook and explained how attacks on Muslims present unique
considerations that require separate analysis and response compared to other
kinds of attacks. Yet, the auditors noted, Facebook has not yet
publicly studied or acknowledged the particular ways anti-Muslim bigotry
manifests on its platform. Of particular concern is how
Facebook has addressed the targeting of mosques and Muslim community events by
armed protesters through the platform. In June 2019, Facebook responded
to concerns about these practices by creating a call to arms policy that
prohibits event pages that call for individuals to bring weapons to
locations. Yet, in August 2019, when advocates reported to Facebook
that a militia group was using an event page to plan an armed protest at the
largest Muslim community convention in the country for the second year in a
row, it took Facebook more than a full day to remove the content, a delay that
Facebook acknowledged was too long and an enforcement misstep. Other recent events have
demonstrated how Facebook has not taken adequate steps to enforce this call to
arms policy. In August 2020, a group called the Kenosha Guard posted an
event page titled Armed Citizens to Protect Our Lives and Property, calling
for armed individuals to gather in Kenosha, Wisconsin, following the shooting
of Jacob Blake. Notwithstanding multiple reports by users that this page
violated Facebook policies, Facebook did not take the page down. An armed
17-year-old traveled from out of state to join this gathering, fatally shot two
protestors that night, and is charged with their murder. You stated that
the failure to take down the event page and the Kenosha Guard's group page was
largely an operational mistake because contract content moderators without
specialized training failed to detect that the pages violated a new militia
policy Facebook had established in August 2020. Your statement was
misleading as to the event page, however, because it did not mention that the
event page also violated the call to arms policy that had been in place for
over a year. Importantly, we understand that the contractors who review
user-reported content are not instructed to enforce a core component of the
call to arms policy. It is not apparent that Facebook ensures meaningful
enforcement of this policy, and that is not acceptable. As the Change the
Terms Coalition has explained, that isn't an operational mistake  that's a
design defect. We have similar concerns about
Facebook's efforts to ensure that the platform is not used to enable systematic
violence and discrimination against Muslims around the world. A United
Nations report concluded that the company played a determining role in
violence against Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, and Facebook has similarly
acknowledged that the platform was used to foment division and incite offline
violence against the Rohingya. Unfortunately, this is not an
isolated incident. According to a New York Times report published a month
after anti-Muslim violence erupted in Sri Lanka in March 2018, Facebook's
newsfeed played a central role in nearly every step from rumor to
killing, despite numerous attempts by Sri Lankan activists and
government officials to warn Facebook about potential outbreaks of
violence. In an especially horrific episode of anti-Muslim activity on
Facebook, in March 2019, a white nationalist gunman broadcasted his 17-minute
slaughter of 51 Muslims at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, for the
entire world to see using Facebook Live. Reports indicate that the
platform has also been used to support the internment of the Uyghurs in China
and other human rights violations against this population, that Facebook and
WhatsApp have been used to incite violence against Muslims in India, and that
Facebook has been used to promote hate and violence in other areas around the
world. The civil rights audit and
other reports have documented the shortcomings of Facebook that have led to
these results over the years. The United Nations explained in 2018 that
Facebook launched its Myanmar-specific services without content moderators who
spoke the necessary languages, without adequate technology, and without
sufficient transparency and coordination with local organizations. It
also documented how speech in clear violation of Facebook's policies remained
on the platform notwithstanding multiple reports, and how even after the speech
was taken down, re-posts continued to circulate months later. Furthermore,
the civil rights audit found that Facebook is not sufficiently attuned to how
its algorithms fuel extreme and polarizing content, and thereby may driv[e]
people toward self-reinforcing echo chambers of extremism, as seen in Myanmar
and Sri Lanka. Advocacy groups similarly detailed the extent and
persistence of anti-Muslim hate content on Facebook India in multiple reports
last year, concerns that have been amplified by recent allegations that some
high-ranking employees at Facebook India have enabled hate speech against
Muslims and others by applying the platform's content moderation policies in a
selective manner. We recognize that Facebook has
announced efforts to address its role in the distribution of anti-Muslim
content in some of these areas. These include, for instance, adding
country-specific staff and content moderators proficient in certain local
languages, investing in proactive detection technologies, strengthening local
fact-checking partnerships, and limiting the ability to reshare certain kinds
of messages. Nevertheless, it is not clear
that the company is meaningfully better positioned to prevent further human
rights abuses and violence against Muslim minorities today. In part, this
is because Facebook still does not collect the information needed to evaluate
the effectiveness of its responses. For instance, Facebook reported that
it took action on 22 million pieces of hate speech content in the second
quarter of 2020, up from over 9 million in the first quarter. It is
not apparent, however, whether this is a sign of an improving or worsening
problem, because this data lacks crucial context: Facebook does not
calculate or report on the overall prevalence of hate speech on the
platform. It is thus unclear how significant this increase is as a
proportion of total hate speech or whether takedowns are increasing only
because hate content on the platform is increasing. Facebook recognizes
that the statistic it reports only tells part of the story, and Facebook does
estimate prevalence in other contexts. Its failure to do so as to hate
speech is concerning. In addition, the civil rights
audit pointed out that for content that Facebook does remove, the company does
not collect data about which protected groups were the target of the removed
post. This prevents Facebook and the public from understanding the volume
of hate against a particular group, whether attacks against certain groups are
consistently not removed, and whether there are gaps in Facebook's policies that
result in perpetuating or increasing hate speech and attacks against particular
groups. It is difficult to understand how Facebook can effectively combat
hate speech without this information. There is also basic information
that Facebook has or could readily make available, but which it has
inexplicably declined to make public. For instance, while pointing to its
increases in country-specific staff and language-specific content moderators in
certain areas, Facebook has declined repeated requests from advocates to
provide detailed information about its country-specific staff or
language-specific content moderators across the world. Such information
is necessary to evaluate Facebook's suggestion that its additions are adequate
and to determine whether there are gaps in coverage in other regions that
should be addressed proactively before the next violent event. Facebook
similarly does not provide information about how the hate speech it has taken
down is disaggregated by language or country of origin, information that would
help identify volatile areas in need of further attention from content
moderators or others at Facebook. That is so even though Facebook has
conceded that [t]hese breakdowns are feasible for these count-based metrics
and that it recognize[s] the value in having different subpopulations of the
various metrics. The United Nations 2018 Myanmar report expressed
regret[] that Facebook did not provide country-specific data about hate
speech and deemed it essential that such information be
disclosed. Though these concerns have been
raised for years, Facebook thus far has not taken the steps required to
effectively address hate and violence targeting Muslims. In 2018,
Facebook acknowledged that it can and should do better after its platform
fueled violence in Myanmar and outlined steps it would take. In
2020, Facebook apologize[d] for the human rights impacts that resulted from
misuse of its platform in Sri Lanka and outlined more steps.
Despite these experiences, recent reporting suggests that today, Facebook is
contributing to the spread of hate speech and violence against ethnic and
religious groups in Ethiopia, where Facebook dominates the
internet. Meanwhile, it announced a call to arms policy to assuage
concerns but has failed to adequately enforce it. As members of Congress
who are deeply disturbed by the proliferation of this hate speech on your
platform, we urge you to do more. We believe Facebook must frankly and
openly detail the scope of the problem and take concerted and sustained actions
to address this problem fully. We respectfully request that you respond
to the questions below by December 16, 2020. As to each question, insofar
as Facebook will commit to taking action, please provide details of its plan
and expected timing. 1. Will Facebook commit to developing and implementing a plan to ensure robust
enforcement of its call to arms policy, including through proactive review of
event pages, content moderator review of user reports, and prioritization of
highly reported events? If not, why not? 2. Will Facebook commit to collecting and publishing data about the overall amount
and prevalence of hate content on the platform and whether hate content is
increasing on its platform? If so, please specify whether Facebook will
break down this data by country and language. If not, why not? 3. Will Facebook commit to collecting and publishing data about which groups were
the subject of the hate speech it removes and enforcement rates across
groups? If so, please specify the groups for which Facebook will provide
this information. If not, why not? 4. Will Facebook commit to collecting and publishing country-specific or
language-specific data on hate speech that is on or removed from the
platform? If not, why not? 5. Will Facebook publish detailed information about the number of country-specific
staff and language-specific content moderators it employs? If not, why
not? 6. Will Facebook commit to studying regularly its civil rights and human rights
impacts and making future human rights impact assessments or rights audits
public in their entirety? If not, why not? 7. Will Facebook commit to establishing and publishing criteria that must be met
for Facebook to expand or maintain usage of its services in markets at risk of
hate content fueling religious and/or ethnic violence to ensure Facebook does
not enable human rights violations? If so, please specify the outside
input that Facebook will solicit in developing these criteria. If not,
why not? 8. Will Facebook conduct an analysis of how it can better design its systems and
algorithms to not just identify and take down hate speech, but limit the reach
of this content and its ability to cause offline violence? If not, why
not? 9. Will Facebook commit to creating a working group led by a senior employee with
expertise in anti-Muslim bigotry specifically tasked with monitoring,
reviewing, and coordinating efforts to proactively remove anti-Muslim content
on the platform? If not, why not? Thank you for your
consideration of our views. We appreciate your prompt attention to this
matter. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-troop-withdrawal-from-iraq-and-afghanistan,Murphy Statement On Troop Withdrawal From Iraq And AfghanistanRead More,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On Troop Withdrawal From Iraq And Afghanistan 
        
        November 17, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), the top Democrat of the U.S. Senate Foreign
Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and
Counterterrorism, on Tuesday released a statement on the Pentagon's
confirmation that they will draw down troops in Iraq and Afghanistan before
President-elect Biden is inaugurated: I
support a swift and orderly drawdown of U.S. forces from Iraq and Afghanistan.
But it's important that we do this in the right way and in close coordination
with alliesnot on President Trump's political timeline. said Murphy. The Afghan government
is currently engaged in sensitive negotiations with the Taliban over the future
status of the country's political and social order, and we should use our
leverage to help them get the best deal possible. From Iran to Yemen to
Afghanistan, President Trump is apparently intent on implementing a series of
lame duck policy changes designed to constrain the options available to
President-elect Biden. These decisions should not be made until Biden takes
office so as to allow the people's choice to be Commander in Chief to determine
a path forward. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-every-day-president-trump-delays-this-transition-leaves-our-country-vulnerable,Murphy: Every Day President Trump Delays this Transition Leaves our Country VulnerableRead More,2020-11-16,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HARTFORDU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Friday joined U.S. Senator Richard
Blumenthal (D-Conn.) to call on President Trump to accept the free and
fair election results and concede the presidential race to President-elect Joe
Biden. Murphy and Blumenthal talked about how the president's refusal to
concede and begin the process of a peaceful transfer of power impacts the
ability of the incoming Biden administration to address pressing challenges on
national security and the COVID-19 pandemic. The senators also responded to the
steam explosion at the West Haven VA, which killed two people Friday morning. On
the explosion that killed two at the West Haven VA Friday morning, Murphy said: Our
hearts go out to those that have been affected. We know now, confirmed by the
VA, that there have been two deaths and our hearts are very heavy today for
those lives that have been lost. We're going to be doing everything we can to
work with the VA to make sure those families are taken care of, to make sure that others that have
been injured or affected are cared for, and to make sure that the VA community, which has experienced a loss today, has
everything that they need as well. On
President Trump's failure to concede, Murphy said: President-elect Biden won the election. There's
no question about it. And we need to get going with this transition. President
Trump may never concede. He may be interested in creating a grudge culture that
powers his political movement for years. But the Constitution is the Constitution,
and it says that there will be an orderly transition from one administration to
the next. Murphy
also highlighted the urgent need to begin the transition so that
President-elect Biden will be able to address the raging COVID-19 pandemic:
This virus is expanding. This virus is on the march at a pace that we have not
yet seen in 2020. And that commands us to make sure that President-elect Biden
is ready, on day one, to chart a new strategy on COVID response. Every day that
President-Elect Biden isn't allowed to have his people at HHS, at CDC, at NIH is another day that we
lose in terms of making sure that President-elect Biden is ready to go on day
one to beat this virus. A
full transcript of Murphy's opening remarks can be found below: Good
morning, everybody. Thanks for being here on a cold, rainy day. Senator
Blumenthal and I want to offer a few remarks, both on the tragedy this morning
in West Haven  but also on the ongoing transition. First,
let me say that we've been in touch with the VA this morning. I think both
Senator Blumenthal and I have offered our assistance in any way that we can.
Our hearts go out to those that have been affected. We know now, confirmed by
the VA, that there have been two deaths, and our hearts are very heavy today
for those lives that have been lost. We're
going to be doing everything we can to work with the VA to make sure those
families are taken care of. To make sure that others that have been injured or
affected are cared for, and to make sure that the VA community, which has
experienced a loss today, has everything that they need as well. We
are here today as well to talk about the ongoing transition. President Biden
won the election President-elect Biden won the election. There's no
question about it. And we need to get going with this transition. President
Trump may never concede. He may be interested in creating a grudge culture that
powers his political movement for years. But the constitution is the
constitution, and it says that there will be an orderly transition from one
administration to the next. The
United States is unique. We don't have kings or monarchs. We have regular
transitions from one leader to the next. And so it's important that those
transitions are as seamless as possible, because it is normally during
transitions of power that countries can face vulnerabilities. That adversaries
can attempt to take actions detrimental to the nation undergoing that
transition. Every
day that President Trump doesn't allow for this transition to happen is a day
that America is vulnerable from a national security perspective. But this
pandemic is raging largely out of control and unchecked in many parts of this
country. It took us 96 days to go from zero cases to a million cases. It took
us 14 days to go from 8 million cases to 9 million cases. It took us 10 days to
go from 9 million cases to 10 million cases in this country. This
virus is expanding. This virus is on the march at a pace that we have not yet
seen in 2020. And that commands us to make sure that President-elect Biden is
ready, on day one, to chart a new strategy on COVID response. Every day that
President-elect Biden isn't allowed to have his people at HHS, at CDC, at NIH
is another day that we lose in terms of making sure that President-elect Biden
is ready to go on day one to beat this virus. President
Trump has given up on fighting coronavirus. He's in full denial, even as this
crisis expands on a daily basis, even as the infection rages inside the White
House, even as news breaks today that 130 Secret Service officers have COVID.
And so given President Trump's complete disinterest in fighting the pandemic in
November and December, the final two months of his term, it's that much more
important that he begin to hand over the keys to President-elect Biden. But
it's also important from a broader national security perspective. You know, I
watch China and Russia very carefully. They are certainly contemplating taking
aggressive actions in Ukraine, or Hong Kong, or Taiwan, knowing that President
Trump is distracted right now, knowing that there are brand new hands on deck
at the Department of Defense, and knowing that President-elect Biden might have
trouble standing up a national security apparatus if he doesn't get the keys to
the White House until after his swearing-in. So
from a national security perspective, it's really important that Vice President
Biden start getting these briefings, start being able to have his people inside
the Department of Defense and inside the National Security Council so that he's
ready to protect America on day one, as well. So we are gonnabe
increasing our pressure on the GSA and on our Republican colleagues to let this
transition begin. There's
nothing stopping Congress from passing legislation that could overcome a veto
requiring GSA to begin the transition. If my Republican colleagues who are
beginning to talk about the importance of this transition beginning are
serious, then they should put their votes where their words are. We don't have
to stand by and let President Trump assault democracy like this. There's
no path to stay in power for Donald Trump. He didn't win. He lost by a big
margin. There was no widespread voter fraud. When the electoral college meets,
they are going to choose Joe Biden as the next president of the United States
and Donald Trump will leave the White House on swearing-in day one way or
another. But every day that this transition stalls is another day that COVID
wins  and it's another day that our adversaries have opportunity to take
advantage of this very, very messy transition. So with that, let me turn it
over to Senator Blumenthal. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-the-aca-is-still-at-risk-so-long-as-republicans-continue-to-pursue-this-case-in-court,"Murphy: The ACA Is Still At Risk, So Long As Republicans Continue To Pursue This Case In CourtRead More",2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONOn
the day the U.S. Supreme Court held oral arguments in the California v.
Texas lawsuit to dismantle the Affordable Care Act (ACA), U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health
Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined U.S. Senate Democratic
Leader Chuck Schumer, and HELP Committee colleagues U.S. Senator Bob Casey
(D-Pa.) and U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) to discuss the impact
overturning the ACA will have on the over
130 million Americans with pre-existing health conditions. On the
spike inCOVID-19 cases across the country, Murphy said: Senate Republicans have let the
country down as well. We need a robust comprehensive package of support that
gets money to schools, that gets money to
counties, to cities, to states, to health
care providers, to make sure that they have
everything they need in order to plan for more than one day at a time. And to
this day, Senate Republicans still do not take this pandemic seriously. They still cower behind President Trump, afraid to admit that
this is a worsening pandemic because they risk the ire of the President of the
United States.  Murphy reiterated that the Affordable Care Act is under threat
from today's court proceedings: The ACA is still at risk, so long as Republican Attorneys General and the Trump administration
are pursuing this case in court. And they will not give up. Republicans are not
going to give up just because they lose a case or two in the court system. This
is their holy grail, the dismantling of the ACA. We are in for a long, hard
fight. Murphy
also criticized Senate Republicans for slowing down the presidential transition
amid a pandemic: We will
have the right people leading coronavirus
response for the first time in a long time when Joe Biden assumes the White
House, but as this transition does not get
underway as Republicans continue to support the president's bogus claims of
voter fraud, it risks the Biden
administration not having the resources and the transition period that it needs in order to get an effective anti-coronavirus effort up
and running on day one. A full transcript of Murphy's remarks can be found below: First,
I was at hospital in suburban New
York, Stamford, Connecticut. And as I was on the way out, having met with their
leadership, the head of the purchasing department followed me to the door, she
wanted to have a private word with me. She said, I didn't want to say this in
front of everybody else. I didn't want to get anybody in trouble, but I have no idea how many
test kits I'm getting from day to day. I have no ability to plan beyond 48 hours, to get events set up
in the community to make sure that we're on the frontlines of this epidemic. I
can't do my job.' And she can't do her job because this administration has
completely failed us. Has botched the response to this pandemic.  And
Senate Republicans have let the country down as well. We need a robust
comprehensive package of support that gets money to schools, that gets money to
counties, to cities, to states, to health care providers, to make sure that they have everything they need in order to plan
for more than one day at a time. And to this day, Senate Republicans still do
not take this pandemic seriously. They still cower behind President Trump, afraid to admit that this
is a worsening pandemic because they risk the ire of the President of the
United States.  The
second point, I know Justice Roberts said some things at the hearing today that gave
people some hope that he may rule to keep the ACA in place, but he doesn't have
to be on the prevailing side. There are five justices on that court, three
appointed by the president, two that have ruled against the ACA in the past, to form a majority to
strike down the entirety of the ACA. The
ACA is still at risk so long as Republican Attorneys General and the Trump
administration are pursuing this case in court. And they will not give up.
Republicans are not going to give up just because they lose a case or two in
the court system. This is their holy grail, the dismantling of the ACA. We are
in for a long, hard fight. And then finally, Senator Schumer referenced the support
from Senate Republicans regarding these bogus lawsuits. Every
day that this transition doesn't start, it's harder for us to actually correct course in [January]. We will
have the right people at HHS, we will have the right people at the CDC. We will
have the right people leading coronavirus response for the first time in a long time when Joe
Biden assumes the White House, but as this transition does not get underway as Republicans
continue to support the president's bogus claims of voter fraud, it risks the Biden
administration not having the resources and the transition period that it needs
in order to get an effective anti-coronavirus effort up and running on day one. And so I would concur
in Senator Schumer's remarks that it is time for this transition to begin. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-the-president-and-congressional-republicans-refusal-to-accept-the-free-and-fair-election-results-is-an-assault-on-our-democracy,Murphy: The President And Congressional Republicans Refusal To Accept The Free And Fair Election Results Is An Assault On Our DemocracyRead More,2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday took to the U.S. Senate floor to
slam President Trump and Senate Republicans for their refusal to accept the
free and fair election results. On the
president's refusal to concede, Murphy said: He's not conceding because he believes that there's a
chance he can remain as president without having won the election so long as
congressional Republicans are willing to stick with him step by step by step. And so
far, there is no evidence that congressional Republicans are ever going to step
away from President Trump's delusional assault on democracy. Senator McConnell
said this week that the president is within his rights to fight the election.'
That is, of course, true. The president can keep filing frivolous legal
challenges if he wants, we're not going to stop him from doing that. But just
because he has the right to mount these legal challenges, that doesn't mean
that Republicans here have to support him in those efforts if they contravene
the interests of democracy and the interests of a smooth transition of power. On
Secretary Pompeo's comments that there would be a successful transition to a
second Trump administration, Murphy said: This isn't just for show. They are going to keep
pushing the bounds of democracy until somebody stops them. On the
long-term consequences of the Republican party's erosion of faith in our
elections, Murphy said:
In the middle of a pandemic that's killed going on 250,000 Americans, losing
faith in public institutions is deadly. The president is delusional. There was
no voter fraud. He lost. The American people by a large margin chose Joe Biden
as President of the United States. And this delusion is not a quaint sideshow.
It's an assault on our democracy that will have consequences for the future
viability of democracy, but also for the viability of public institutions to
meet crises, like the one that we stand in the middle of today. Murphy
concluded: The
president's behavior and the behavior of Republicans in Congress who support
him is dangerously unpatriotic. A
full transcript of Murphy's remarks can be found below: Thank you
Madam President. A
republican candidate in California by the name of Errol Webber lost his race
for congress by 72 points, and yet he is not conceding that he has lost. He
says I'm going to the Los Angeles County registrar's office to audit the vote
counting procedures. I will not concede, every legal vote needs to be counted.' Just up
the road in Maryland, a Republican candidate by the name of Kim Klacik lost by
40 points and she is refusing to concede. She retweeted a post from President
Trump in which he claimed that the election was stolen and she wrote, I beat
my opponent on day-of and in-person early voting along with absentee. However,
97,000 mail in ballots were found in his favor?' My
colleagues, there is an epidemic of delusion that is spreading out from the
White House and infecting the entire Republican party in the wake of this
election. And it presents a real threat to this country. President Trump didn't
win the election. Every single one of my colleagues knows this. And he didn't
just losehe lost by a pretty substantial margin. He lost by 4.3% of the
popular vote, likely around 70 electoral votes when all the counting is done. And,
while the results haven't been certified yet, this isn't the election in 2000.
There aren't any hanging chads, we're not arguing about 500 votes here or
there. In Michigan, the margin today is 148,000. In Nevada, the margin is
36,000. In Pennsylvania, it's 47,000. In Wisconsin, it's 20,000. In Georgia,
it's 12,000. In Arizona, it's 14,000. Thousands and thousands of votes are
these margins. Now
Hillary Clinton, in 2016, lost by less than the president did in Pennsylvania
and Michigan, and by about the same amount in Wisconsin, and she conceded the
day after the election. And this is important. And I think that we need to talk
about it here because it has real consequences for democracy and for national
security. Why hasn't the president conceded? Now, it's
not because there was voter fraud or because the election was stolen from him.
We're a week out and the president is still desperately searching for evidence
of fraud. He won't find it because it doesn't exist. It doesn't exist in
Pennsylvania or Michigan or Wisconsin or Georgia. The
president has empowered the Department of Justice (DOJ) to now go out and
launch investigations of voter fraud, despite a long standing precedent for the
DOJ to stay out of elections if their actions could be determinative. But the
president is so desperate to now fill in his mythology, his narrative, with
facts that he doesn't have, that he's sending the DOJ on this massive national
fishing expedition. He hasn't conceded, not because there is fraudthere hasn't
been. He's not conceding because he believes that there's a chance he can
remain as president without having won the election so long as congressional
Republicans are willing to stick with him step by step by step. And so
far, there is no evidence that congressional Republicans are ever going to step
away from President Trump's delusional assault on democracy. Senator McConnell
said this week that the president is within his rights to fight the election.'
That is, of course, true. The president can keep filing frivolous legal
challenges if he wants. We're not going to stop him from doing that. But just
because he has the right to mount these legal challenges, that doesn't mean
that Republicans here have to support him in those efforts if they contravene
the interests of democracy and the interests of a smooth transition of power. Today,
Republicans support the president's refusal to concede, they support his
lawsuits, they call on election officials, most recently in Georgia, who
refused to bend their knee to Trump to resign, and they endorse the president's
decision to refuse to begin the transition. This may
sort of seem like a sideshow now to the inevitability of a transfer of power,
but what's next? What if President Trump asks Republicans here to contest the
selection of electors? What if he gets the message from Republicans in Congress
that if you're willing to support all the steps he has taken since Tuesday,
that you will continue to support his efforts to try to remain in office
despite losing both the popular vote and the electoral college? That's
within his rights to ask you to support a contest of electors. But will you do
it? And what so far have we seen to suggest that there is an end to your
decision to put your allegiance to this president above an allegiance to the
country. The
Secretary of State was asked today if he thought there would be a smooth
transition of power from President Trump to the winner of the election, Vice
President and President-Elect Biden. And Secretary Pompeo said there will be a
smooth transition to a second Trump administration. Listen,
these guys aren't playing. This isn't just for show. They are going to keep
pushing the bounds of democracy until somebody stops them. It's logical to ask
if Republicans have been willing to support every conspiracy that the president
has engaged in over the last week, then why wouldn't they support the next set
of attacks on democracy that this president engages in? How far are Republicans
willing to go in their attacks against the decision of voters? Now for
the president, there's really no downside to what he is doing right now. Either
he steals the election, or he grows his political power. Because we learned in
the last 24 hours, that the president is raising money today online from his
supportersnot for a fund that is designed to strictly finance a recount
effortbut for a new political action committee that he has established that
will fund his political efforts over the next four years. The button you click
may give you the idea that you are supporting the president's recount, but in
fact, you are helping him to amass resources that will allow him to be a major
political presence for the next four years. And so either the president is
successful in continuing this assault on the transition of power, or he's able
to amass resources that help him into the future. There's
no downside for the president. There's a big downside for the rest of us.
There's a big downside for this country. In the short run, the country's
national security is threatened by a messy transition. This has been covered, I
think well today, but traditionally, the President-Elect would be able to start
getting briefings on national security threats, would start to get access to
classified information, would begin to be able to do background checks on
individuals that he would like to be part of his national security cabinet.
Traditionally, those are amongst the first confirmations that move through this
bodyare the president's national security team. All of that being delayed by a
president who refuses to begin a transition and a Republican Senate that
refuses to put pressure on the president to change his mind. But also,
in some ways more insidious, is the attack on the rule of law and the idea of
peaceful transition of power itself. The narrative that President Trump is
spreading and that congressional Republicans are facilitating right now that
the election was stolen or rigged, it isn't being written on a whiteboard
that's going to be neatly and tidily erased as soon as 2021 shows up. No, the
work that is being done right now by the Republican party to undermine faith in
our elections, it will have a very long, very long tail. And when
the American people, or a large percentage of them, lose faith in elections,
when they are told by leaders they trust that elections that are actually held
legitimately are illegitimate, then those individuals, of course, will
naturally lose faith in public institutions themselves. If all the people who
got elected were illegitimately chosen, then so must be the actions they take
once they are in office. Now, maybe
that's consistent with the general Republican project over the last several
decades. I've watched as Republicans have engaged in a withering assault on the
public sector, the whole idea from Republicans has been that government is
illegitimate by its very nature and can't do anything to help you or solve your
problems. But that idea, if it is in fact, the goal of my Republican
colleagues, to delegitimize public institutions by delegitimizing
electionsit's really dangerous for two reasons. One, don't
assume that democracy can survive this. If the 45% of the country that supports
Donald Trump doesn't really believe that elections are legitimate, I'm not sure
that democracy hangs around for another hundred years. But second, we are
living in a moment where it's really important for people to have faith in
public institutions. There is no way for us to turn the corner on this pandemic
unless people believe what leaders are telling them about how to conduct
themselves or about how we're going to administer a vaccine, or about why the
business around the corner from you is limiting the number of people who can
enter it. In the
middle of a pandemic that's killed going on 250,000 Americans, losing faith in
public institutions is deadly. The president is delusional. There was no voter
fraud. He lost. The American people by a large margin chose Joe Biden as
President of the United States. And this delusion is not a quaint sideshow.
It's an assault on our democracy that will have consequences for the future viability
of democracy, but also for the viability of public institutions to meet crises,
like the one that we stand in the middle of today. The
president's behavior and the behavior of Republicans in Congress who support
him is dangerously unpatriotic. When we arrive in a Senate, we swear an oath to
our country, not to our party. And right now, our president and congressional
Republicans are not living up to that oath. I yield
the floor. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-ahead-of-oral-arguments-in-supreme-court-case-to-dismantle-the-aca,Murphy Statement Ahead Of Oral Arguments In Supreme Court Case To Dismantle The ACARead More,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement Ahead Of Oral Arguments In Supreme Court Case To Dismantle The ACA 
        
        November 10, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health
Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, on Tuesday released a statement
as the Supreme Court hears oral arguments in the Affordable Care Act lawsuit
California v. Texas: Health care was on the ballot this year, and the American people
made their voices heard loud and clear. It's outrageous that even after defeat,
Trump is still brazenly moving forward with this continued assault on health
coverage for millions of families, said Murphy. I hope the Supreme Court understands the gravity
of the decision they have to make. Dismantling the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
will end protections for 130 million Americans with pre-existing conditions
during a global health pandemic,
including a million of my constituents in Connecticut. If Republicans get their
way and the ACA is overturned by the court, it will be a humanitarian
catastrophe. Murphy has been an outspoken
critical of the Republican lawsuit to overturn the Affordable Care Act. Last
month, Murphylauncheda
campaign to invite people across Connecticut to share their health care stories
and describe how they would be impacted if the ACA is overturned. The
Affordable Care Act made itillegalfor
insurance companies to deny coverage for the 133 million Americans with
pre-existing conditions.
Health experts warnthat, without the ACA, health insurers could classify COVID-19 as
a pre-existing condition and deny COVID-19 survivors health insuranceadding millions more peopleto the previously existing 133 million Americans with
pre-existing conditions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-2020-election,Murphy Statement On 2020 ElectionRead More,2020-11-07,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On 2020 Election 
        
        November 07, 2020
      
        
          HARTFORDU.S. Senator Chris
Murphy (D-Conn.) issued the following statement on the 2020 election: Joe Biden is a man for this
time, and I am thrilled the American people have spoken, and by decisive margin
chosen him as our next President. This is good news for democracy, our country,
and Connecticut, said Murphy. No
doubt, Donald Trump will not go away quietly, and now President-Elect Biden
begins the unenviable balancing act of beginning a transition while
simultaneously having to bat down frivolous legal and political challenges from
President Trump. But the people have spoken, and now the peaceful handover of
power must begin. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-joe-biden-is-going-to-be-the-next-president-of-the-united-states,Murphy: Joe Biden Is Going To Be The Next President Of The United StatesRead More,2020-11-06,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HARTFORDAs
the results of the presidential election continued to trickle in, U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Connecticut
Secretary of State Denise Merrill on Friday demanded that every vote be
counted in order to determine the next President of the United States. Murphy,
Blumenthal, and Merrill also urged the state to allow its voters to vote
by absentee in future elections without an excuse, citing the record number of absentee ballots this election across
Connecticut. On
Connecticut's smooth Election Day, Murphy said: We can be really proud of
what we did here in Connecticut. This was as difficult an election as we've
ever faced. We had a record number of people voting in the middle of pandemic
with one of the most heated presidential campaigns this country's ever seen,
and Secretary Merrill and election officials all across the state pulled it off
with aplomb. Murphy
continued: After this election, we need to make a major investment in
election infrastructure to make sure that Secretaries of State and election
officials don't have to scramble for the resources to make sure that every vote
is counted. On Donald
Trump's false claims of election fraud on Thursday, Murphy said: Last
night, Donald Trump said that these votes in Pennsylvania and Georgia were
found, that they were discovered. Totally untrue. Everyone knows that's untrue.
These were mail-in votes, that in some cases, elected officials were prohibited
from counting until Election Day or the day after. Murphy
continued: '[I]t is not coincidental that last night, President Trump
couldn't offer one iota of concrete evidence of mail-in voter fraud. And, of
course, he only seems to care about the security of mail-in voting in the
states where he's losing. He didn't talk last night about all the mail-in votes
including his cast in Florida. He didn't attack the mail-in voting system in
Iowa or Idaho. He seems very selective about where he cares about the security
of elections today. Murphy
also discussed how Joe Biden's election is good for Connecticut and this
country: [H]is election will be very good for Connecticut. Joe Biden's
going to focus on infrastructure and we badly need infrastructure money here in
Connecticut. Joe Biden is going to support rather than try to destroy the Affordable
Care Act and we have a quarter million people in this state who get their
insurance through the Affordable Care Act, and he's going to put people
in charge of government agencies that actually want government to work. From
the folks that work in that Housing and Urban Development Office, to the people
who run Social Security, to the people who are in charge of Medicare and
Medicaid, we're going to have people in these positions that actually want to
help us serve the people of Connecticut. That's a big change from the last four
years. A full
transcript of Murphy's remarks can be found below: Thank
you, Dick. Thank you Secretary of State Merrill. We can be really proud of what
we did here in Connecticut. This was as difficult an election as we've ever
faced. We had a record number of people voting in the middle of pandemic with
one of the most heated presidential campaigns this country's ever seen, and
Secretary Merrill and election officials all across the state pulled it off
with aplomb. Certainly
the federal funding helped. There would have been no way to build from scratch,
a system by which you could take in 600,000 absentee ballots without that
federal funding. And so Denise is right, we need to do more. After
this election, we need to make a major investment in election infrastructure to
make sure that Secretaries of State and election officials don't have to
scramble for the resources to make sure that every vote is counted. And let
me thank again, the election workers in Connecticut who did such a fantastic
job. I voted in person just down the street from here and I'm in awe of the
thousands of folks who stepped up and put themselves in, you know, a small bit
of health risk by being on the front lines of this election on Tuesday. Dick
covered the state of affairs well, so I won't belabor the points he made. Joe
Biden is going to be the next President of the United States and I think we
will know that for certain within the next several hours. He then will be faced
with a very difficult task. Joe Biden is going to have to start a transition,
while also fending off frivolous lawsuits from Donald Trump. He can do it but,
it's going to make this transition much more difficult. Donald
Trump was one of the most litigious individuals in the United States of America
before he ever set foot in the political ring. His reputation preceded him and
will continue. President Trump's going to litigate this election, I expect,
down to the last day. He's not going to win. He's not going to win because he's
making up a set of facts out of thin air. Last
night, Donald Trump said that these votes in Pennsylvania and Georgia were
found, that they were discovered. Totally untrue. Everyone knows that's untrue.
These were mail-in votes, that in some cases, elected officials were prohibited
from counting until Election Day or the day after. These votes weren't
discovered. They weren't found. These were legally cast votes. It just so
happens that in some states, these votes end up making it look as if the result
is changing. But of course, the result isn't changing because there is no
result until you've counted all the votes. In
Arizona, Joe Biden has a lead that has been shrinking as they have been
counting more votes. In Pennsylvania, Donald Trump had a lead that shrank and
disappeared as they counted more votes. There is no results until all the votes
have been counted. Second,
Donald Trump made it sound as if there is some grand coordinated conspiracy of
election officials in this country to rig this vote in [Vice] President
[Biden's] favor. That is simply not true. And it is
not coincidental that last night, President Trump couldn't offer one iota of
concrete evidence of mail-in voter fraud. And, of course, he only seems to care
about the security of mail-in voting in the states where he's losing. He didn't
talk last night about all the mail-in votes including his cast in Florida. He
didn't attack the mail-in voting system in Iowa or Idaho. He seems very
selective about where he cares about the security of elections today. So we are
going to have a result by the end of the day. It will clearly be Joe Biden's
decision as to when he declares victory, but he is going to declare victory.
And we will begin this process of transition. And his
election will be very good for Connecticut. Joe Biden's going to focus on
infrastructure and we badly need infrastructure money here in Connecticut. Joe
Biden is going to support rather than try to destroy the Affordable Care Act
and we have a quarter million people in this state who receive their insurance
through the Affordable Care Act, and he's going to put people in charge
of government agencies that actually want government to work. From the folks
that work in that Housing and Urban Development Office, to the people who run
Social Security, to the people who are in charge of Medicare and Medicaid,
we're going to have people in these positions that actually want to help us
serve the people of Connecticut. That's a big change from the last four years. So I feel
really good about what happened in Connecticut. I want to thank Secretary
Merrill for all the great work she did. I am prepared to attempt to double down
in the federal support for Connecticut's election infrastructure, and I'm
looking forward to waking up tomorrow and getting to work with Vice President
and now President-Elect Joe Biden to help rebuild this country to help restore
decency to our political dialogue, and to bring homes some dollars for
Connecticut. I'd be happy to answer any questions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-applaud-us-navy-announcement-that-electric-boat-will-begin-official-construction-of-columbia-class-submarines,"Murphy, Blumenthal Applaud U.S. Navy Announcement That Electric Boat Will Begin Official Construction Of Columbia-Class SubmarinesRead More",2020-11-05,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy, Blumenthal Applaud U.S. Navy Announcement That Electric Boat Will Begin Official Construction Of Columbia-Class Submarines 
        
        November 05, 2020
      
        
          HARTFORDU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations
Subcommittee on Military Construction, and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal
(D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, on
Thursday applauded the U.S. Navy's announcement exercising the contract option
of $9.47 billion for the first two Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines
to be assembled at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton: This landmark Columbia-class agreement opens a
historic new era in submarine construction at Electric Boat, said Murphy
and Blumenthal. The first two boats in this new class, it means major
opportunities for the hardworking men and women in Groton and throughout the
entire supply chain of manufacturers. Columbia-class submarines will help
provide a powerful deterrent through the 2080s, proudly built right here in
Connecticut. It will both strengthen our national security and create many
high-skilled jobs. This contract reflects significant support and investment on
the part of EB, its workers and Connecticut federal and state officials.
We look forward to maintaining Connecticut's role as a leading source of high
tech military weapons that keep America secure. Earlier
this year, Murphy and Blumenthal celebrated the preliminary awarding of this contract to
Electric Boat. The senators will be attending the press conference at Electric
Boat on Friday at 2 pm. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-we-dont-live-in-a-democracy-if-we-dont-have-a-commitment-to-count-all-the-votes,Murphy: We Don't Live In A Democracy If We Don't Have A Commitment To Count All The VotesRead More,2020-11-04,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HARTFORDU.S. Senator Chris Murphy
(D-Conn.) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Wednesday
held a media availability to discuss the 2020 election. In his remarks, Murphy
thanked the poll workers across Connecticut who showed up to ensure Election
Day went safely and smoothly, and reiterated the importance of counting every
single vote before determining the next President of the United States. Thanking the poll workers
across Connecticut, Murphy said: We had an event-free Election Day
yesterday in Connecticut. That's unfortunately rare in this state[A] real
credit to Denise Merrill and her team and clerks and registrars all across the
state who had to conduct an election with record turnout amidst very difficult
circumstances and seem to have pulled it off incredibly well. Murphy then went on to discuss the
importance of counting every single vote: [W]e
don't live in a democracy if we don't have a commitment to count all the
votesWhat separates a democracy from an autocracy is that we count all the
votes, we let the people decide who's going to lead this country. Murphy continued: Republicans
and Democrats should both be objecting to anything the president tries to do to
stop the counting of votes. And let's be clear: it was Republicans who made the
decision in most of these states to wait until today to count the votes. It was
Republican state legislatures in the Midwest that pushed off the counting of
mail-in votes until today. It was Republican county officials in Pennsylvania
that decided to not start counting mail-in votes yesterday and only start that
count today. So many Republicans in these states are responsible for the count
being delayed a day or two. Last
month, Murphy along with
U.S. Senators Amy
Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and
Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) joined Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer
(D-N.Y.)released a
report summarizing for the American people what to expect on Election Day
and reinforcing the Democrats' call to encourage everyone to vote. The report
follows the months-long effort by President Trump to undermine the election and
his repeated refusal to commit to a peaceful transfer of power. A full transcript of Murphy's remarks
can be found below: Thanks, everyone for
being here today. Let me add by just expressing my gratitude to all the poll
workers here in Connecticut. We had an event-free Election Day yesterday in
Connecticut. That's unfortunately rare in this state. It seems that every two
years we normally have one meltdown that's happening somewhere around the
state. That didn't happen yesterdaya real credit to Denise Merrill and her
team and clerks and registrars all across the state who had to conduct an
election with record turnout amidst very difficult circumstances and seem to
have pulled it off incredibly well. I voted just up the
street here, at my polling place in Hartford. You know, these poll workers,
they were putting their safety in jeopardy by being out there all day
yesterday. Polling places were safe, the lines were long, but a lot of
gratitude goes to the people who made a safe and efficient Election Day happen
here in Connecticut. My congratulations to the
winners here in Connecticut. You know, pretty impressive to have Democrats now
looking at a supermajority in the State Senate, and expanding their majority in
the State House by at least seven seats. You know, when your majorities get
big, it's hard to make them even bigger. And we had a lot of fantastic
candidates, many of them ran for the first time in 2018, come back and run
again in 2020, and prove victorious. And I think that speaks to the
sustainability of the movement in Connecticut. There is a lot of new people who
have gotten involved in politics since 2016 in Connecticut. Many of them won
last night and are going to be forces for good and forces for change in the
state for a long time. Turning to the federal
seat: we don't live in a democracy if we don't have a commitment to count all
the votes. What separates a democracy from an autocracy is that we count all
the votes, we let the people decide who's going to lead this country. When all
the votes are counted, it looks as if Joe Biden is going to be the winner.
Dick, I think, did a good summary of where things stand today. But once the
votes are counted, I don't think there's any way that Vice President Biden
won't have a majority of both the popular vote and the Electoral College vote.
And he may, by the end of the day tomorrow, have won in some surprising places
like Georgia, where the count is still open. But our commitment today
has to be to counting all of these votes. And Republicans and Democrats need to
come down hard on the president if he tries to cut off this count. Dick's
right; the courtroom doors are open to anybody, but that doesn't mean we need
to endorse the president trying to bring specious legal claims that seek to do
only one thing and one thing only, which is to stop the counting of
votes. And Republicans and
Democrats should both be objecting to anything the president tries to do to
stop the counting of votes. And let's be clear: it was Republicans who made the
decision in most of these states to wait until today to count the votes. It was
Republican state legislatures in the Midwest that pushed off the counting of
mail-in votes until today. It was Republican county officials in Pennsylvania
that decided to not start counting mail-in votes yesterday and only start that
count today. So many Republicans in these states are responsible for the count
being delayed a day or two. And so it's interesting
that Republicans have undergone this campaign to push the count off for 24 or 48
hours and then have a Republican president trying to shut that count down. I
don't think that's going to happen. I think these votes are all going to be
counted, and I believe that at the end of the day, Joe Biden is going to be
elected president. And that's good news for Connecticut. We're not here to declare
a winner, but we know if Joe Biden's president, that's good news for our state.
Joe Biden knows Connecticut, he cares about our state, he's going to work with
our governor to finally turn the corner on COVID. He's going to push for
infrastructure investments that will help us rebuild our transportation and
energy grid here in the state. He's going to lead on issues like gun
violence. Obviously, we don't have
all of the results in the United States Senate. It may come down to a couple of
special elections in Georgia in January. But no matter what happens in the
Senate, the election of Joe Biden, as it looks like will happen, is great news
for Connecticut. He's going to invest in Connecticut, he's going to help us
confront the pandemic in Connecticut, and he's going work closely with the
delegation on our priorities as well. So we'll be monitoring
the count throughout the day and throughout tomorrow. We'll be talking to our
colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make sure that we build bipartisan
support for counting every vote. And I think when all is said and done, perhaps
later today, perhaps tomorrow, we will be able to declare definitively who's
won this election, and it looks as if that will be the Vice President Joe
Biden. I'm happy to take questions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-trump-administrations-proposed-arms-sale-to-united-arab-emirates,Murphy Statement On Trump Administrations Proposed Arms Sale To United Arab EmiratesRead More,2020-10-31,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On Trump Administration's Proposed Arms Sale To United Arab Emirates 
        
        October 31, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.),
the top Democrat of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near
East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism, on Saturday released the
following statement on the Trump administration'sproposed saleof
F-35s to the United Arab Emirates: The
normalization of relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
relations was a historic step that can help the economic and security interests
of both countries. But nothing in that agreement requires us to flood the
Middle East with some of the world's most advanced weaponry, facilitating a
dangerous Middle East arms race that will make the region less stable and the
United States and our allies less safe, said Murphy.I have serious reservations about transferring our most
complex stealth technologywhich the Chinese have for years sought to stealto
the UAE, which has increasingly close cooperation with both the Chinese and
Russian militaries. We know the Emiratis have violated past end-use agreements
and allowed the weapons we've sold them to end up in the wrong hands, including
violent terrorist-affiliated militias. The UAE is an important U.S. partner, but their refusal to comply with
international law, from their violation of the Libya arms embargo to their
participation in human rights violations in Yemen, makes them a deeply
imperfect partner. The Trump administration has a lot of serious questions to
answer about why this sale furthers U.S. interests, and until they do Congress
should not approve the administration's proposed sale of F-35s to the
Emiratis. Earlier
this month, Murphywelcomedthe
president's announcement of normalized relations between Israel and the United
Arab Emirates and a pause on Israel's planned annexation of large parts of the
West Bank. Earlier this year, Murphy alsointroducedtwo
amendments in the National Defense Authorization Act to prohibit the use of
funds to support the Saudi-led coalition's military campaign in Yemen unless
the U.S. Secretary of Defense certifies that all members of the coalition are
in compliance with end-use agreements and that the U.S. Department of Defense
(DoD) has submitted to Congress the results of any investigations into
unauthorized third party transfers and taken corrective action. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-branford-branch-of-abcam-as-murphys-innovator-of-the-month,Murphy Highlights Branford Branch Of Abcam As Murphys Innovator Of The MonthRead More,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced on Friday that Abcam Inc. in
Branford has been named Innovator of the Month. Abcam is a global life
sciences company that identifies, develops and distributes high-quality
biological reagents and proteomic and cellular tools to the health care and
life science sectors for drug discovery, in vitro diagnostic, and
therapeutic applications. Abcam's Branford location, which is home to over 50
scientists, was founded as AxioMx in Connecticut in 2012. During the
COVID-19 pandemic, Abcam has been contributing to the research and development
efforts to understand and defeat COVID-19 by providing new and enhanced tools
rapidly to researchers around the globe. Just recently, Abcam announced their
participation in a leading United Kingdom consortium that is developing an
antibody cocktail to potentially treat COVID-19 which is currently screening
for promising antibody candidates as part of the program. ""We
need the brightest minds and most innovative companies working to solve
COVID-19, and I'm proud to say that Abcam's Connecticut workforce is part of
the solution,"" said
Murphy. ""Through their constant commitment to revolutionizing the way
research is done, Abcam Inc. has continued to help us in the fight against
COVID-19, and I am happy to highlight their efforts in Connecticut, the United
States, and across the globe. As it
relates to the current pandemic, Abcam has been applying its proprietary
technologies to activities such as recombinant antigen
expression, antibody discovery and development, bioinformatics, assay cascade,
screening and clinical assay development in projects and collaborations around
the world. In Branford, we are a lean research group based in the larger
organization, which allows us to take immediate advantage of both local and
global resources and guidance. Being located in CT, with support from the state
through several funding mechanisms, has been really helpful. We are pleased to
be recognized with this Innovation award from Senator Murphy. said Dr. Michael Weiner, Vice President of Molecular Sciences at
Abcam. Abcam
hopes to continue to use Connecticut's funding mechanisms to remain at the
forefront of biotech research. Being located in Branford has given the team
access to a lot of regional resources, including Yale University and its
scientific core facilities, the University of Connecticut, Jackson Labs, and a
plethora of local collaborative biotech talent. They hope to capitalize on this
as they search for new discoveries regarding COVID-19. Murphy
believes entrepreneurship and innovation are the building blocks for a strong
economy. In the U.S. Senate, he has introduced two bipartisan pieces of
legislation to incentivize angel investors to put more money into startup
companies  the Angel Tax Credit Act and the Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act. Startup companies create an average of 2 million jobs
each year. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-announce-ct-businesses-receiving-presidential-award-for-exports,"Murphy, Blumenthal Announce CT Businesses Receiving Presidential Award For ExportsRead More",2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy, Blumenthal Announce CT Businesses Receiving Presidential Award For Exports 
        
        October 29, 2020
      
        
          HARTFORDU.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) today,
announced that Prospect Machine Products and Connecticut Center for Advanced
Technology, Inc. have received, respectively, the President's E Award for
Exports and the President's E Award for Service to Exporters. Awarded
annually through the U.S. Department of Commerce, the President's E Award recognizes
persons, firms, or organizations which contribute significantly in the effort
to increase United States exports. This award is a testament
to the strength of Connecticut manufacturers. Prospect Machine Products and
Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, Inc. are bringing Connecticut
products and expertise to markets around the world, said Murphy. I commend these companies on their
impressive track record and will continue to advocate for expanding support of
U.S. global exports and Connecticut manufacturing. This landmark recognition
is hugely impressive and important. You have my congratulations and gratitude
for dramatically advancing exports and economic growth in our state. You're
putting Connecticut on the map, and putting people to work, through major job
creation. said Blumenthal. Exporting is an important part
of our sale, said Richard Laurenzi, Chairman / CEO of Prospect Machine
Products. Buyers and consumers in foreign markets want quality products made
in the United States, and we are honored to receive the E Award. We are a small
manufacturer, a family business founded in 1950, so this greatly appreciated
honor represents a milestone in our company's history. Theexporting of
Connecticut goods and services is thelife-blood of oureconomy said
Ron Angelo,Presidentand CEO of theConnecticut Center for
Advanced Technology (CCAT). It is a great honor for CCAT to berecognized
for its services to Connecticutexporters throughout our world-class
supply chain.Connecticut companies manufacturethemost
technically advanced products in theworld and areleading providers
of research and development and technology services. CCAT is proud to assist
thesecompanies inenhancing their technical capabilities to
competeon theglobal stage.Established in 2004, CCAT is a
leading provider of applied technology services and workforcetraining
throughout Connecticut's technologyecosystem. ThePresident's
EAwardestablished during WWII - is thehighest
recognition any U.S.entity can receivefor making a significant
contribution to theexpansion of U.S.exports. For
moreinformation about theEAwards and thebenefits
ofexporting, visitwww.export.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-delauro-applaud-production-contract-for-six-new-ch-53k-helicopters,"Murphy, Blumenthal, DeLauro Applaud Production Contract For Six New CH-53K HelicoptersRead More",2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy, Blumenthal, DeLauro Applaud Production Contract For Six New CH-53K Helicopters 
        
        October 29, 2020
      
        
          HARTFORDU.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) announced that Lockheed
Martin has signed a contract with the U.S. Navy for six new CH-53K King
Stallion helicopters. The aircraft is manufactured at the Sikorsky production
plant in Stratford, Connecticut. I'm glad to see the federal
government recognize the hard work of the men and women at Sikorsky by awarding
this contract to produce more CH-53Ks. This award ensures that the United
States government is providing valuable, more cost-efficient equipment to our
Marines and allies abroad, and it's a big win for Connecticut and U.S. national
security, said Murphy. This award is a victory for Connecticut, Sikorsky,
and our workforce, said Blumenthal. It is also a testament to the
tremendous skills and efficiency of the Stratford workers assembling this
aircraft who have made it more affordable. Adding six more CH-53K King Stallion
helicopters to the Marine fleet will strengthen our country's tactical
capabilities, while securing Sikorsky's presence in Connecticut for years to
come. As the leader in the fight that secured a guarantee
from Lockheed Martin that headquarters will remain in Stratford until at least
2032, I am thrilled to see this commitment bear fruit, said DeLauro.
The procurement of six new CH-53K helicopters signals a new era of technology
for our Marines and will help create jobs here at home. Supporting high-skill
job creation in Connecticut requires collaborative efforts that include both
government and private industry, and I am proud to support these critical
efforts. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/hayes-introduces-legislation-save-nearly-4-million-education-jobs-spur-economic,"HAYES INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO SAVE NEARLY 4 MILLION EDUCATION JOBS, SPUR ECONOMIC GROWTH IN THE WAKE OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) introduced the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020, legislation to save nearly 4 million education jobs, spur economic growth in the midst of an economic crisis, and help mitigate the impacts of students' learning loss as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Congresswoman Hayes was joined by the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Chairman Gregorio Kilili Sablan (Mariana Islands-at Large) and the Committee on Education and Labor Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03).
As a member of Congress with extensive classroom experience, I have seen firsthand how state and local budget cuts can decimate education funding. These cuts result in slashing essential programming, halting critical school construction and devastating cuts to the educator workforce. These job losses have long lasting impacts on the quality and efficacy of learning in our communities, and only further entrench growing disparities in our highest need districts, said Congresswoman Hayes.
We have lauded our teachers as heroes during these unprecedented times, as they have switched to virtual and hybrid learning to keep students safe during a global pandemic, and have recently returned to their classrooms, oftentimes with little assurance for their personal safety. It is time we make investments to protect educators from the massive job losses we are almost certain to experience as a result of this crisis. Teachers are essential to our society and protecting them should be non-negotiable.
Since February of this year, more K-12 jobs have been lost than nearly all of the local education jobs lost during the entire Great Recession. On top of that, states are facing a $555 billion budget shortfall over the next three years. Without sufficient funding from the federal government to support states and school districts during the recovery, experts estimate 1.4 million to 1.9 million education jobs will be lost over the next one to two years alone. Connecticut is expected to lose at least 9.6% of its education workforce  resulting in nearly four thousand critical job losses to the state's public education system. Many of these jobs include education support staff  the integral professionals that help to make schools supportive, welcoming, and safe environments for all students. These professionals help to provide mental health services for students, deliver nutritious meals and health care, transport students to school safely, clean and sanitize schools, teach the arts and music, and contribute to social and emotional learning. These jobs must be protected to ensure that schools remain the same robust and holistic centers of learning on the other side of this pandemic and recession.
The Save Education Jobs Act of 2020 would establish an Education Jobs Fund to stabilize the education workforce, delivering up to $261 billion to states and school districts over 10 years. 90 percent of the funding from this bill would go towards saving the jobs of teachers, school leaders, school psychologists, social workers, nurses, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, librarians, and more from inevitable budget cuts because of the COVID-19 crisis. Local school districts can also use funding to hire more teachers to meet the increased need during the unprecedented transition to hybrid or distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The remaining ten percent of the funding could be used to support teacher professional development, support educators, and provide mental health services  preventing further erosion of the workforce. The bill includes a provision to safeguard and promote equity  by ensuring continued funding for high poverty school districts. Not only does the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020 help to save jobs in the short term, it will help reduce the long-term economic impact of learning loss. Researchers estimate that by 2040, learning loss as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic for the current K-12 cohort will result in an earnings loss of $110 billion per year and will reduce overall gross domestic product by $173 billion to $271 billion per year. By helping save education jobs, this legislation will help schools reopen safely, prevent permanent learning loss, and prevent disparities in school districts from being further entrenched.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congresswoman Hayes has been fighting for increased resources for K-12 schools to ensure that students and teachers are safe. Congresswoman Hayes passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which included $13.5 billion in funding to support online learning, purchase computers and internet access, support educational and related services for children with disabilities, provide mental health services and sanitize school buildings. The CARES Act brought back $1.382 million for schools in Connecticut.
In June, Congresswoman Hayes led 111 of her colleagues in sending a letter to Congressional leadership strongly urging the inclusion of at least $305 billion in K-12 education stabilization funding as they negotiate upcoming coronavirus response legislation. In that letter, Congresswoman Hayes noted that states are experiencing, and will continue to experience, increased health care and unemployment related costs that will further put pressure on state education funding. Without federal support, the fallout from state budgets will have drastic consequences for education, particularly students' access to teachers.
Congresswoman Hayes also helped to pass the HEROES Act, which provides $915 billion in emergency funding for state and local governments, which are facing budget shortfalls that could lead to mass teacher layoffs and deep cuts to public education. The Heroes Act will save hundreds of thousands of jobs and help avert devastating cuts to funding for public education. The bill also invests more than $100 billion in direct emergency funding for students and schools to help continue delivering instruction, maintain school employment, and support teachers with professional development.
The Save Education Jobs Act is endorsed by: American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, American Federation of Teachers, American Federation of School Administrators, American Library Association, American Occupational Therapy Association, American Physical Therapy Association, American Psychological Association, American School Counselor Association, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, Association of University Centers on Disability, BellXcel and Sperling Center for Research and Innovation, Committee for Children, Council for Exceptional Children, Council of Administrators of Special Education, Council for Learning Disabilities, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Education Trust, EDGE Consulting Partners, Educators for Excellence, GLSEN, Higher Education Consortium for Special Education, International Society for Technology in Education, KaBOOM!, National Alliance of Specialized Instructional Support Personnel, National Association of Pupil Services Administrators, National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE), National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of School Psychologists, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Association of State Directors of Special Education, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, National Center for Special Education in Charter Schools, National Council for Languages and International Studies, National Education Association, National Science Teaching Association, National Superintendents Roundtable, Next100, PDK International, [Re]Build America's School Infrastructure Coalition (BASIC), San Diego Unified School District School Social Work Association of America, Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America), State Education Agency Directors of Arts Education, State Educational Technology Directors Association, Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children, and Teach Plus.
To read the bill text for the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020, click here.
To read a fact sheet for the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020, click here.
To read the section-by-section for the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020, click here.
###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 yearsand was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7C941238-2030-45BC-8E26-4F4DADC946A3,"HAYES INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO SAVE NEARLY 4 MILLION EDUCATION JOBS, SPUR ECONOMIC GROWTH IN THE WAKE OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) introduced the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020, legislation to save nearly 4 million education jobs, spur economic growth in the midst of an economic crisis, and help mitigate the impacts of students’ learning loss as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Congresswoman Hayes was joined by the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Chairman Gregorio Kilili Sablan (Mariana Islands-at Large) and the Committee on Education and Labor Chairman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03).

“As a member of Congress with extensive classroom experience, I have seen firsthand how state and local budget cuts can decimate education funding. These cuts result in slashing essential programming, halting critical school construction and devastating cuts to the educator workforce. These job losses have long lasting impacts on the quality and efficacy of learning in our communities, and only further entrench growing disparities in our highest need districts,” said Congresswoman Hayes.

“We have lauded our teachers as heroes during these unprecedented times, as they have switched to virtual and hybrid learning to keep students safe during a global pandemic, and have recently returned to their classrooms, oftentimes with little assurance for their personal safety. It is time we make investments to protect educators from the massive job losses we are almost certain to experience as a result of this crisis. Teachers are essential to our society and protecting them should be non-negotiable.”

Since February of this year, more K-12 jobs have been lost than nearly all of the local education jobs lost during the entire Great Recession. On top of that, states are facing a $555 billion budget shortfall over the next three years. Without sufficient funding from the federal government to support states and school districts during the recovery, experts estimate 1.4 million to 1.9 million education jobs will be lost over the next one to two years alone. Connecticut is expected to lose at least 9.6% of its education workforce – resulting in nearly four thousand critical job losses to the state’s public education system. Many of these jobs include education support staff – the integral professionals that help to make schools supportive, welcoming, and safe environments for all students. These professionals help to provide mental health services for students, deliver nutritious meals and health care, transport students to school safely, clean and sanitize schools, teach the arts and music, and contribute to social and emotional learning. These jobs must be protected to ensure that schools remain the same robust and holistic centers of learning on the other side of this pandemic and recession.

The Save Education Jobs Act of 2020 would establish an Education Jobs Fund to stabilize the education workforce, delivering up to $261 billion to states and school districts over 10 years. 90 percent of the funding from this bill would go towards saving the jobs of teachers, school leaders, school psychologists, social workers, nurses, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, librarians, and more from inevitable budget cuts because of the COVID-19 crisis. Local school districts can also use funding to hire more teachers to meet the increased need during the unprecedented transition to hybrid or distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The remaining ten percent of the funding could be used to support teacher professional development, support educators, and provide mental health services – preventing further erosion of the workforce. The bill includes a provision to safeguard and promote equity – by ensuring continued funding for high poverty school districts. Not only does the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020 help to save jobs in the short term, it will help reduce the long-term economic impact of learning loss. Researchers estimate that by 2040, learning loss as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic for the current K-12 cohort will result in an earnings loss of $110 billion per year and will reduce overall gross domestic product by $173 billion to $271 billion per year. By helping save education jobs, this legislation will help schools reopen safely, prevent permanent learning loss, and prevent disparities in school districts from being further entrenched.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congresswoman Hayes has been fighting for increased resources for K-12 schools to ensure that students and teachers are safe. Congresswoman Hayes passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which included $13.5 billion in funding to support online learning, purchase computers and internet access, support educational and related services for children with disabilities, provide mental health services and sanitize school buildings. The CARES Act brought back $1.382 million for schools in Connecticut.

In June, Congresswoman Hayes led 111 of her colleagues in sending a letter to Congressional leadership strongly urging the inclusion of at least $305 billion in K-12 education stabilization funding as they negotiate upcoming coronavirus response legislation. In that letter, Congresswoman Hayes noted that “states are experiencing, and will continue to experience, increased health care and unemployment related costs that will further put pressure on state education funding. Without federal support, the fallout from state budgets will have drastic consequences for education, particularly students’ access to teachers.”

Congresswoman Hayes also helped to pass the HEROES Act, which provides $915 billion in emergency funding for state and local governments, which are facing budget shortfalls that could lead to mass teacher layoffs and deep cuts to public education. The Heroes Act will save hundreds of thousands of jobs and help avert devastating cuts to funding for public education. The bill also invests more than $100 billion in direct emergency funding for students and schools to help continue delivering instruction, maintain school employment, and support teachers with professional development.

The Save Education Jobs Act is endorsed by: American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, American Federation of Teachers, American Federation of School Administrators, American Library Association, American Occupational Therapy Association, American Physical Therapy Association, American Psychological Association, American School Counselor Association, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, Association of University Centers on Disability, BellXcel and Sperling Center for Research and Innovation, Committee for Children, Council for Exceptional Children, Council of Administrators of Special Education, Council for Learning Disabilities, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Education Trust, EDGE Consulting Partners, Educators for Excellence, GLSEN, Higher Education Consortium for Special Education, International Society for Technology in Education, KaBOOM!, National Alliance of Specialized Instructional Support Personnel, National Association of Pupil Services Administrators, National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE), National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of School Psychologists, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Association of State Directors of Special Education, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, National Center for Special Education in Charter Schools, National Council for Languages and International Studies, National Education Association, National Science Teaching Association, National Superintendents Roundtable, Next100, PDK International, [Re]Build America’s School Infrastructure Coalition (BASIC), San Diego Unified School District School Social Work Association of America, Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America), State Education Agency Directors of Arts Education, State Educational Technology Directors Association, Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children, and Teach Plus.

To read the bill text for the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020, click here.

To read a fact sheet for the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020, click here.

To read the section-by-section for the Save Education Jobs Act of 2020, click here.

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-murphy-statement-on-usagms-repeal-of-firewall-regulation,Murphy Statement On USAGMS Repeal Of Firewall RegulationRead More,2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On USAGM'S Repeal Of Firewall Regulation 
        
        October 27, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S. Senator
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations
Committee, on Tuesday issued a statement on USAGM CEO Michael Pack's rescission
of the firewall regulation in the International Broadcasting Act: Whether Michael Pack wants
it there or not, Congress cemented the firewall at USAGM in legal statute to
protect broadcasters from the very outside political interference we're seeing
right before our eyes. America is a democracy, and the firewall that was
codified as part of the International Broadcasting Act is what distinguishes
USAGM-funded networks from state-sponsored propaganda we see in places like
Russia and China. We cannot allow the president's political appointees to
influence journalistic content and we must ensure the law remains on the side
of the journalistsnot Trump's political hacks, said Murphy. Earlier this
month, Murphy announced
legislation to protect journalists from political targeting. This
legislation comes afterreportsthat President
Trump's political appointees at the United States Global Agency for Media
(USAGM) launched a politically-motivated investigation into Voice of America's
White House Reporter Steve Herman. The
legislation: 
Amends
the United States International Broadcasting Act to explicitly protect USAGM
journalists from interference from U.S. government officials, including any
investigation into journalists' private political views; 
Requires
the CEO of the USAGM to protect its journalists from interference by government
agencies or officials, and to ensure that USAGM employees are judged on the
basis of their adherence to professional standards of broadcast journalism and
not on political views expressed in their private capacity; and 
Authorizes
the State Department Inspector General to investigate any potential
infringements to journalistic independence by United States Agency for Global
Media senior officials or other Federal officials, including informal and
formal attempts to influence the content of broadcasts or to exert pressure on
journalists. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-op-ed-in-cnn-the-american-people-need-to-know-the-facts-about-russias-interference-in-us-election,Murphy Op-Ed In CNN: The American People Need To Know The Facts About Russias Interference In Us ElectionRead More,2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Op-Ed In CNN: The American People Need To Know The Facts About Russia's Interference In Us Election 
        
        October 27, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONFollowing
the Trump administration's repeated attempts to distract from Russian
interference in the upcoming election, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.),
a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, this week published an
op-ed with CNN telling the American people the facts about Russia's
election interference. As a member of the Senate Foreign
Relations Committee, I havereviewed
a lot of both unclassifiedand
classified information detailing Russia's plan to disrupt the 2020 election, Murphy
wrote. On the administration's repeated attempts
to conflate Russia, Chinese, and Iranian efforts to interfere in our election,
Murphy wrote: [T]he White House, often with the help of political
appointees at the intelligence agencies, istrying
its best to cover up Russia's octopus-like disruption operation. Over and
over, public statements from the Office of the Director of National
Intelligence try toconflate
Russian election interference withIranian and Chinese efforts and
suggest that while Russia may prefer Trump, Iran and China back Biden. We saw
this false equivalencyunfold
just last week, when Director of National Intelligence Ratcliffe hastily
called a press conference, taking no questions, to disclose an Iranian effort
to contact and intimidate registered Democrats. Despite the fact that the
emails told voters to support Trump, DNI Ratcliffe tried to make the case that
the intent was to hurt Trump. It was just another effort by the administration
to try to clumsily lump Russian and Iranian and Chinese efforts all together. [T]he more Americans know
about Russia's intent and capability, the less likely Russia's desperate,
last-minute attempts at interference and disruption will be. Those who care
about the future of democracy will press the Administration to reveal what they
know, before it's too late, Murphy concluded. Click here
to read the op-ed in full. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/media/press-releases/hayes-sponsored-legislation-improve-mental-health-care-veterans-included-0,HAYES-SPONSORED LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE MENTAL HEALTH CARE FOR VETERANS INCLUDED IN LEGISLATION SIGNED BY THE PRESIDENT,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation introduced by Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05)to strengthen mental health care for veterans was signed into law by the President of the United States. The bipartisanVA Mental Health Staffing Actand provisions from theVA Mental Health Counseling Act were included in the CommanderJohn Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, Public Law 116-171.
TheCommander JSH Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Actis a comprehensive approach to bolster mental health care for veterans and address veteran suicide,said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes.Too many veterans, in Connecticut and across the country, do not have access to affordable and effective mental health care and this bill addresses that issue.
Social isolation and anxiety has worsened for many veterans and their families as a result ofthe Coronavirus pandemic. While this legislation ensures critical care and services that will support veterans, my hope is this law will serve as an indication to our veterans and service members that they are not alone. This legislation aims to reach every veteran, including those who live in rural and hard-to-reach areas.
With this legislation we are taking another step to provide veterans with greater and earlier access to mental health care and end veteran suicide.
###
Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 yearsand was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.
Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut's 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6F0E6A57-1E1E-44D3-9B67-73F3099378E1,HAYES-SPONSORED LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE MENTAL HEALTH CARE FOR VETERANS INCLUDED IN LEGISLATION SIGNED BY THE PRESIDENT,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Jahana Hayes,H001081,hayes.house.gov,hayes,https://hayes.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation introduced by Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) to strengthen mental health care for veterans was signed into law by the President of the United States. The bipartisan VA Mental Health Staffing Act and provisions from the VA Mental Health Counseling Act were included in the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, Public Law 116-171.

“The Commander JSH Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act is a comprehensive approach to bolster mental health care for veterans and address veteran suicide,” said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes. “Too many veterans, in Connecticut and across the country, do not have access to affordable and effective mental health care and this bill addresses that issue.

“Social isolation and anxiety has worsened for many veterans and their families as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. While this legislation ensures critical care and services that will support veterans, my hope is this law will serve as an indication to our veterans and service members that they are not alone. This legislation aims to reach every veteran, including those who live in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

“With this legislation we are taking another step to provide veterans with greater and earlier access to mental health care and end veteran suicide.”

###

Rep. Jahana Hayes has been a public school teacher in Connecticut for more than 15 years and was recognized in 2016 as the National Teacher of the Year.

Currently serving her first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Hayes sits on the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture and proudly represents Connecticut’s 5th District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-us-senate-vote-to-confirm-amy-coney-barrett-to-the-supreme-court-of-the-united-states,Murphy Statement On U.S. Senate Vote To Confirm Amy Coney Barrett To The Supreme Court Of The United StatesRead More,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy Statement On U.S. Senate Vote To Confirm Amy Coney Barrett To The Supreme Court Of The United States 
        
        October 26, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Monday released the following statement
after the United States Senate voted to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the
United States Supreme Court: Republicans just accomplished what they've been trying to do for
years: weaponize the courts to accomplish their hugely unpopular agenda that
they couldn't get done in Congress, said Murphy. The first stop is to take health care away from
millions of Americans in a case that will be seen by the Supreme Court in just
over two weeks. Judge Barrett will now be seated on the Court in time to hear
Trump and congressional Republicans' lawsuit to eradicate the Affordable Care
Act and end protections for 130 million Americans with pre-existing conditions,
creating a humanitarian catastrophe in the middle of a global health pandemic.
And next on the chopping block, it is clear, is a woman's right to choose, gun
violence prevention measures, and campaign finance reform. I am both infuriated
and devastated on behalf of our country. Murphy has
been an outspoken
critic of the decision to replace Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's seat on the
Supreme Court before the next president is inaugurated, and has continuously
emphasized the disastrous implications of confirming Judge Amy Coney Barrett.
Last week, Murphy addressed
Republicans' decision to ram through Judge Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation to
the United States Supreme Court, and push their unpopular agenda on health
care, guns, and campaign finance through the courts after they've failed
legislatively. Murphy launched
a campaign to invite people across Connecticut to share their health care
stories and describe how they would be impacted if the Republican lawsuit to
overturn the Affordable Care Act succeeded. Murphy took
to the U.S. Senate floor last month to discuss the health care implications of
her nomination. Murphy has also held numerous roundtables across Connecticut
discussing how Judge Barrett's confirmation would impact people's lives, and
has also been outspoken
on Judge Barrett's radical views around gun violence prevention. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/republicans-are-ramming-through-judge-barretts-confirmation-vote-so-they-can-finally-destroy-peoples-health-care,Republicans Are Ramming Through Judge Barretts Confirmation Vote So They Can Finally Destroy Peoples Health CareRead More,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health,
Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, along with Senators Richard Blumenthal
(D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Bob Casey
(D-Pa.), and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), and Protect Our Care's Chair Leslie Dach,
on Sunday highlighted what's at stake for health care and the Affordable
Care Act (ACA) ahead of the final Senate vote for Judge Amy Coney Barrett's
nomination to the Supreme Court. The
Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments inthe Republican lawsuit to
gut the ACA on November 10th, and Senate Republicans are rushing
through Judge Barrett's nomination so she can vote in their favor. On the press
call, Murphy discussed the catastrophic impact if the Republicans'
lawsuit succeeds, stripping millions of Americans of their health coverage in
the middle of a global pandemic made worse by this administration's failure to
protect the American people. Stressing
the fact that Republicans are relying on the courts to overturn the ACA after
they failed to do so legislatively, Murphy said: It is hysterical to watch
our Republican colleagues try to pretend that the confirmation of Amy Coney
Barrett is about anything other than their decade-long attempt to repeal the
Affordable Care Act. It's as if they think all of us have been asleep for 10
years. That we didn't watch while they tried to repeal all or part of the
Affordable Care Act 70 different times. Like we were looking the other way when
they tried to repeal the entirety of the Affordable Care Act 31 different
times. Murphy also
laid out how the Republicans' lawsuit to gut the ACAif successfulcould
impact Connecticut: There are going to be 23 million people in this country
who will likely lose their insurance in the middle of a pandemic that is on its
way to killing 300,000 Americans. In Connecticut alonewe're a small state, we
have about three and a half million people260,000 people in our state rely on
the Affordable Care Act for coverage. There's no way that the state government
or hospitals or health centers could pick up health insurance for a quarter of
a million people in our state. Murphy has
been an outspoken
critic of the decision to replace Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's seat on the
Supreme Court before the next president is inaugurated, and has continuously
emphasized the disastrous implications of confirming Judge Amy Coney Barrett.
Last week, Murphy addressed
Republicans' decision to ram through Judge Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation to
the United States Supreme Court, and push their unpopular agenda on health
care, guns, and campaign finance through the courts after they've failed
legislatively. Murphy launched
a campaign to invite people across Connecticut to share their health care
stories and describe how they would be impacted if the Republican lawsuit to
overturn the Affordable Care Act succeeded. Murphy took
to the U.S. Senate floor last month to discuss the health care implications of
her nomination. Murphy has also held numerous roundtables across Connecticut
discussing how Judge Barrett's confirmation would impact people's lives, and
has also been outspoken
on Judge Barrett's radical views around gun violence prevention. A full
transcript of Murphy's opening remarks can be found below: Well,
thanks for convening us, Leslie, I think my colleagues have covered this very
well. So I'll be relatively brief. It is hysterical to watch our Republican
colleagues try to pretend that the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett is about
anything other than their decade-long attempt to repeal the Affordable Care
Act. It's as
if they think all of us have been asleep for 10 years. That we didn't watch
while they tried to repeal all or part of the Affordable Care Act 70 different
times. Like we were looking the other way when they tried to repeal the
entirety of the Affordable Care Act 31 different times. Like we didn't see that
the moment when they had finally, finally failed in the summer of 2017 in their
legislative repeal efforts that they snuck a provision into the 2017 tax bill
that made the Affordable Care Act, all of a sudden, vulnerable to attack. That
we didn't notice, when a few months later, the Republican establishment, led by
20 Republican attorneys general, filed a lawsuit attacking the Affordable Care
[Act], surprise, based on that change made in the 2017 tax law. And that we
were looking the other direction when Donald Trump broke with precedent and
told his Justice Department lawyers to join that lawsuit. And let's
just be clear what this lawsuit that Amy Coney Barrett is being rushed on to
the court to hear asks. It doesn't ask, as Donald Trump would have you believe,
only part of the Affordable Care Act to be struck down. It doesn't leave the
protections in place for people with pre-existing conditions. No, it reads, 'Once
the individual mandate and guaranteed issue and community rating provisions are
invalidated, the remainder of the ACA should not be allowed to remain in
effect.' That is what the Trump administration, the entire Republican
establishment is asking. In a court case that is pending as we speak, before
the Supreme Court that Amy Coney Barrett will be able to rule on because we are
here, a week before the election, getting ready for a rare Sunday night vote,
because of the Republicans' 10-year desire to destroy people's health care. And let's
just remember what this means. This is going to happen in the middle of a
pandemic. There are going to be 23 million people in this country who will
likely lose their insurance in the middle of a pandemic that is on its way to
killing 300,000 Americans. In Connecticut alone, we're a small state - we have
about three and a half million people260,000 people in our state rely on the
Affordable Care Act for coverage. There's no way that the state government or
hospitals or health centers could pick up health insurance for a quarter of a
million people in our state. And on top of that, we have 70,000 people who have
been diagnosed with COVID, who will all have a pre-existing condition that will
allow insurers to deny them care. There are 8 million people all across the
country who have a COVID diagnosis, that they know about. That's 8 million
people on top of the 130 million that already have pre-existing conditions that
will be discriminated against because of that diagnosis. So it's
just really charming to listen to our Republican colleagues try to claim that
Amy Coney Barrett's nomination is about something other than the repeal of the
Affordable Care Act. We have been watching them chase and chase and chase and
chase this bus for a decade. And they are a couple days away from catching it.
The result is going to be a humanitarian disaster in this country in the middle
of a pandemic. And while it may be so late in the game that our chances are
slim to be able to stop it, their voters will remember in 10 days. And then we
will be left in January with the task of picking up the pieces. So
Leslie, thank you very much for bringing us together to talk about the just
tremendous, tremendously high stakes of this decision that the Senate is about
to make. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-lamont-himes-and-courtney-announce-over-144-million-in-federal-funding-for-rail-bridges,"Murphy, Blumenthal, Lamont, Himes, & Courtney Announce Over $144 Million In Federal Funding For Rail BridgesRead More",2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HARTFORDU.S.
Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard
Blumenthal (D-CT), Governor Ned Lamont, U.S. Representatives Jim Himes (CT-4),
and Joe Courtney (CT-2) today
announced that Connecticut has been awarded more than $144 million from the Federal-State
Partnership for State of Good Repair Grant Program to help fund the replacement
of the Walk Bridge in Norwalk and the Connecticut River Bridge between Old Lyme
and Old Saybrook. The U.S. Department of Transportation funding we
secured today is big deal for Connecticut. The Walk Bridge and the Connecticut
River Bridge are both over a century old, and they are major chokepoints on the
Northeast Corridoraffecting travel within our state and well beyond our borders.
Connecticut's economic competitiveness depends in large part on its connection
to Boston and New York. This funding represents a big step towards modernizing
the Northeast Corridor, and I will continue to work to protect and enhance
Connecticut's transportation infrastructure, said Murphy.

This $145 million grant will provide Connecticut with the urgently needed
funding to replace both the Walk Bridge and Connecticut River Bridge  vital
structures that have long outlived their intended lifespans. Rail passengers
along the Northeast Corridor deserve speedy and reliable service on Amtrak, New
Haven Line, and Shoreline East. I will continue to fight for every federal
dollar for Connecticut's rail and transportation infrastructure to help grow
our state's economy, said
Blumenthal. 
One of Connecticut's many strengths is the state's access to rail and the
major cities to our East and South. Fixing our aging bridges is about public
safety and speeding up our transportation system. Our Department of
Transportation will do a great job in making these improvements for our rail
passengers.Thank you to the Connecticut Congressional delegation for
their support of the state'sapplications, said Lamont. The Walk Bridge is a critical juncture for commerce
traveling along the East Coast. But, for too long, we've been trying to
accommodate a 21st Century economy with 19th Century technology. Securing these
funds has been a top priority of ours because we need critical infrastructure
investment to keep Connecticut thriving and competitive for years to come, said Himes. Today's
announcement of a long overdue modernization of the Old Saybrook bridge is
critical to ensure passenger safety and faster transit of rail service. As the
region knows, the existing structure has long outlived its life span. The
upgrade will also provide a shot in the arm to the building trades and I look
forward to working with Federal Rail to target local contractors and skilled
workers when the time comes to award this sizable contract, said Courtney. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), in
partnership with Amtrak, was awarded $79.7 million in federal funds to assist
with replacing the existing movable Norwalk (Walk) River Bridge, built in 1896,
with two independent two-track vertical lift rail bridges in Norwalk,
Connecticut, including supporting rehabilitation work on the bridge approach
embankments and retaining walls, installation of new catenary structures, and
signal system upgrades. Amtrak, in partnership with CTDOT was awarded $65.2
million in federal fund to assist with replacing the existing, 113-year-old
Connecticut River Bridge with a modern and resilient new moveable bridge
immediately to the south of the existing structure. The replacement bridge
would maintain the two-track configuration and existing channel location, and
provide a bascule moveable span with additional vertical clearance for maritime
traffic. Murphy, Blumenthal and Himes sent a letter
in support of funding for the Walk Bridge. Murphy, Blumenthal and Courtney sent a letter
in support of funding for the Connecticut River Bridge. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-urge-va-to-follow-through-on-promises-to-end-veteran-suicide-epidemic,"Murphy, Blumenthal Urge VA To Follow Through On Promises To End Veteran Suicide EpidemicRead More",2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Murphy, Blumenthal Urge VA To Follow Through On Promises To End Veteran Suicide Epidemic 
        
          
             Following historic signing of veteran suicide prevention bill, Senators raise alarm over Administration's refusal to fully implement provisions under President Trump's Executive Order to expand critical mental health resources to nation's heroes 
          
        October 23, 2020
      
        
          WASHINGTON Following the
signing of the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care
Improvement Actthis
week, U.S. Senators Chris Murphy
(D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal
(D-Conn.) joined Senator Jon Tester
(D-Mon.) and 28
of their colleagues in a push for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
to follow through on authorities under President Donald Trump'sExecutive Order (EO) 13822to
increase veterans' access to mental health care. The senators also urged the
Administration to aggressively implement critical provisions and new
authorities under the law to provide more veterans with the mental health
resources they need and earned. More than 6,000 veterans
die by suicide annually, and each loss of life is immeasurable,the
senatorswrote to VA Secretary Robert Wilkie.Congress
has done its part by providing consistent and robust resources for VA's mental
health budget and developing and passing comprehensive veterans' mental health
care legislation, most recently theCommander
John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act. Hopefully
the issuance of EO 13822 was more than a hollow press opportunity by the
Administration, and we can expect it to do right by our nation's military and
veterans by fully implementing the EO and all laws passed by Congress focused
on mental health and suicide prevention. In parallel with Congress'
effort to end the veteran suicide epidemic, President Donald Trump signed EO
13822 on January 9, 2018, promising to make significant changes to improve the
transition experience and connect servicemembers to mental health resources.
Howeveralmost three years after the EO was signedVA failed to complete
critical authorities under this order. The senators highlighted,At the EO signing, Secretary
Shulkin stated this expanded mental health care benefit would be available by
March 9, 2018. However, almost three years later, the Department has not
increased access to mental health care, leaving up to 60 percent of newly
transitioned servicemembers without access to life-saving care. Also troubling,
the Joint Action Plan for implementing EO 13822 contains no references or
commitments to providing transitioning servicemembers with this one year of
mental health care. When can veterans expect to receive access to the essential
mental health care promised to them by the Trump Administration? The full text of the letter can
be foundhere. 























###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-warren-khanna-and-133-democratic-lawmakers-to-senate-and-house-leadership-we-must-take-bold-and-comprehensive-action-to-prevent-the-next-pandemic,"Murphy, Blumenthal, Warren, Khanna, And 133 Democratic Lawmakers To Senate And House Leadership: We Must Take Bold And Comprehensive Action To Prevent The Next PandemicRead More",2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senators
Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Ro Khanna (D-Calif.),
and 133 Senate and House lawmakers in sending a letter
to House and Senate leadership urging them to prioritize the development of
comprehensive policy plans to prevent and mitigate the impact of future
pandemics. In the letter, the lawmakers outline the steps necessary to prevent
future pandemics while also noting that Congress must act to provide relief to
Americans suffering from the current economic downturn and public health
emergency. As the United States continues
to weather the disastrous COVID-19 pandemic, we write to ask that Congress take
action to learn from the mistakes of our nation's preparation and response and
lay the groundwork to prevent and mitigate future pandemics. The current
Administration's response has exposed serious flaws in the country's ability to
combat large scale public health challenges, wrote the lawmakers. In
addition to passing a robust package to address the current crisis, we must
take bold and comprehensive steps now to ensure the nation is better prepared
for the next pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has
wreaked havoc on communities across the country and has devastated the nation's
economy. Currently, the United States leads the world with more than eight million confirmed cases
and 220,000 dead, out of over one million worldwide. Millions are out
of work and struggling to make ends meet. It is clear that pandemics are
already rapidly accelerating: animal-to-human outbreak prevalence grew six-fold from
1980 to 2010, and experts predict they will become even more common in
the future. It is imperative Congress take bold and comprehensive steps now to
prevent and mitigate future pandemics. Specifically: 
 Congress must invest in domestic programs, systems, and
     supply chains that will help improve Americans' health outcomes, combat
     the spread of new disease, and ramp up public health capacity during
     global health emergencies. This includes robust investments in state, local, and
     tribal public health departments; improvements to the Strategic National
     Stockpile; and the development of support systems, such as affordable
     housing, that reduce chronic health conditions and boost health
     outcomes.  
 Congress must support global public health efforts to
     identify and mitigate the spread of new diseases before they become global
     pandemics.
     This includes ensuring the Administration protects the public by
     fulfilling its international commitments to organizations such as the
     World Health Organization; investing in global surveillance programs, like
     USAID, to identify emerging disease threats; and combating antimicrobial
     resistance.  
 Congress must create 250,000 permanent, high-paying
     public health jobs to rebuild our depleted public health workforce and
     ensure the rapid deployment of contact tracers and other support workers
     during future pandemics. These workers should be trained in key public health
     initiatives, such as contact tracing and disease surveillance, and should
     be prepared to deploy to their communities in public health emergencies.
     Congress must ensure these workers have access to health and safety
     protections, can unionize, receive universal paid sick leave and family
     leave, and have access to health insurance and childcare services.  
 Congress must address the systemic racism embedded in
     our health care system and pass legislation ensuring that health care
     treatments, pandemic countermeasures, vaccines, and primary disease
     prevention measures are accessible for all. This includes ensuring
     that everyone in America has access to high-quality health care, mental
     health and substance use disorder treatment, and primary disease
     prevention measures; eliminating race and socioeconomic disparities in
     health care access; addressing the social determinants of health; and
     requiring companies that receive federal funding to produce pandemic
     countermeasures offer their products at reasonable prices.  
 Congress must halt the environmental degradation
     increasing the likelihood of global pandemics. This includes combating
     climate change, protecting and restoring land and inland water areas to
     their natural state, and preventing dangerous practices contributing to
     the spread of zoonotic diseases with pandemic potential. The letter was signed by Sen.
Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Sen. Angus King (I-Maine.), Sen. Edward J. Markey
(D-Mass.), Sen. Michael F. Bennet (D-Colo.), Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Sen.
Cory A. Booker (D-N.J.), Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Sen. Bernard Sanders
(I-Vt.), Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Sen. Tina
Smith (D-Minn.), Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.), Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Sen.
Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio.). The letter was
also signed by Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.),
Rep. Max Rose (D-N.Y.), Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.), Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay
(D-Mo.), Rep. Ral M. Grijalva (D-Ariz.), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Rep.
Andy Levin (D-Mich.), Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas.), Rep. David N. Cicilline
(D-R.I.), Rep. Adriano Espailla (D-N.Y.), Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), Rep. Paul
Tonko (D-N.Y.), Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Rep. Jerrold Nadler
(D-N.Y.), Rep. Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.), Rep. Mark
DeSaulnier (D-Calif.), Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), Rep. Daniel T. Kildee
(D-Mich.), Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Rep.
Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), Rep. Susan Davis (D-Calif.), Rep. Judy Chu
(D-Calif.), Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.), Rep. Grace F. Napolitano (D-Calif.),
Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (D. Pa.), Rep. Mark Pocan (D- Wis.), Rep. Donna Shalala
(D-Fla.), Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio.), Rep. Joe Courtney (D-Conn.), Rep.
Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.), Rep. Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), Rep. Alan Lowenthal
(D-Calif.), Rep. Grace Meng (D-N.Y.), Rep. Nydia M. Velzquez (D-N.Y.), Rep.
Susan Wild (D-Pa.), Rep. Julia Brownley (D-Calif.), Rep. James P. McGovern
(D-Mass.), Rep. Ted Deutch (D-Fla.), Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Rep. Joseph D. Morelle
(D-N.Y.), Rep. Mike Doyle (D-Pa.), Rep. Henry C. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Jr.,
Rep. Brendan F. Boyle (D-Pa.), Rep. William R. Keating (D-Mass.), Rep. Yvette
D. Clarke (D-N.Y.), Rep. Brenda L. Lawrence (D-Mich.), Rep. Jamie Raskin
(D-Md.), Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.), Rep. Joseph
P. Kennedy III (D-Mass.), Rep. Darren Soto (D-Fla.), Rep. Juan Vargas
(D-Calif.), Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (D-Va.), Rep. Jackie Speier (D-Calif.),
Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio.), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Rep. Suzanne
Bonamici (D-Ore.), Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-Miss.), Rep. Stephen F. Lynch
(D-Mass.), Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney (D-N.Y.), Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee
(D-Texas.), Rep. Denny Heck (D-Wash.), Rep. Andr Carson (D-Ind.), Rep. Chellie
Pingree (D-Maine.), Rep. Danny K. Davis (D-Ill.), Rep. Henry Cuellar
(D-Texas.), Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.), Rep. Betty McCollum (D-Minn.),
Rep. Deb Haaland (D-N.M.), Rep. Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Rep. Bill Foster (D-Ill.),
Rep. Lori Trahan (D-Mass.), Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-Calif.), Rep. Nanette Diaz
Barragn (D-Calif.), Rep. Al Green (D-Texas.), Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.), Rep.
Tim Ryan (D-Ohio.), Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas.), Rep. Donald M. Payne
(D-N.Y.), Jr., Rep. Jess G. ""Chuy"" Garca (D-Ill.), Rep. Karen Bass
(D-Calif.), Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Rep.
David E. Price (D-N.C.), Rep. Peter A. Defazio (D-Ore.), Rep. Albio Sires
(D-N.J.), Rep. Val B. Demings (D-Fla.), Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II (D-Mo.), Rep.
Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), Rep. Robin L. Kelly
(D-Ill.), Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Ma.), Rep. Alma S. Adams. Ph.D
(D-N.C.), Rep. Jos E. Serrano (D-N.Y.), Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), Rep.
Bradley S. Schneider (D-Ill.), Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), Rep. Katherine Clark
(D-Mass.), Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-La.), Rep. J. Luis Correa (D-Calif.), Rep.
Alcee L. Hastings (D-Fla.), Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Rep. Linda Sanchez
(D-Calif.), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Rep. Donald S. Beyer Jr.
(D-Va.), Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Rep.
Derek Kilmer (D-Wash.), Rep. Ami Bera, M.D. (D-Calif.), Rep. Jahana Hayes
(D-Conn.), Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-Texas.), Rep. Ted W. Lieu (D-Calif.), Rep.
Ann Kirkpatrick (D-Ariz.), Rep. Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (D-Northern
Mariana Islands.), Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-Texas.), Rep. Tom Malinowski
(D-N.J.), Rep. Scott Peters (D-Calif.), Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z